COPYRIGHT. 1879. BY BEAch & ADAMS.

lid—1045.7

Published Every
Month.

 

l

I The Fighting Trapper;

iKit Carson to the Rescue.
‘ BY CAPT. J. F. c. ADAMS.

CHAPTER I.
run TRAVELER.

Tin: noonday sun was pouringr its full tide of

, fiery rays upon the broad rolling prairie; the
lblazing air was quiverin with the intense
heat of a summerda ; t 9 blue sky was not

necked by a single coud. Away, as far as

the eye could reach, the glisteni‘iaifs plain

Wed in regular monotonous sw ,unre-

 

 

ENTERED As SKCHND CLASS MATTER AT THE Nicw Ynnx. N. Y.. l’os'r ()rmmc.

M. J. IVI‘IIRS & (1L. Publishers.
‘(JAMES SULLIVAN. l’lQOI’Rll-ZTOIU.
379 Pearl Street. New York.

lieved, save here and there by some stunted
tree or jagged rock; only now and then an
emerald grove of" trees met the eye like a re-
freshing oasis in the desert. The earth long
had been scorched by the withering rays.
Only at intervals the sparse blades of buffalo
grass were to be seen. It seemed as if the
whole face of nature was blasted by some
deadly Sirocco.

The section of country to which we refer is
now comprehended in what is termed Ne-
braska territory. That portion in the neigh-
borhood of the Rocky mountains, termed the
“ Black Hills,”is the one of which we shall
more particularly Sfiak. Until recently it was
rarely visited by w ’tes, except by a few trap-
pers and hunters. ow and then some ad-
venturous man pierced its wilds wi" u"lee

 

59 I’

1
n

li'e-brnary, 1901.

10 Cents a Copy. 
I

 .  Lxxxl._

dal‘in spirits, but only at rare mm m
The ndians held nearly undispu

of this territory, which was, in f but a.
great hunting ground. Herd: of “bloc,
numbering tens of thousands, thundered 0"
its vast bosom; innumerable droves of hone!
galloped in unrestrained freedom over it
while in the plentiful stream. the beam
otter flourished with little fear of mm
from the white man. The whole North—m
was the unexplored paradise oftheebww

of the continent.
The only whites who trod this WV.

the daring trap rs and hunters, who, D
deed, difl'ered littfgin their custom. end I'-
from the save esthemselvea. Th M
travoled in b ' numbering from or in.
j) a dozen; now and then an occultflo u

 

 

 

 

 

 

  
 
   
  

2

l'he Fighting Trapper.

 

E

_‘===.=n

 

fearless spirit might be found who braved
the perils .of the wilderness alone, and jour-
neyed hundreds of miles with his peltries, with
no companion but his horse and faithful rifle.

Although the prairie pres anted as cheerless
nnd barren an appearance at this time as the
desert, yet there were seas ms when it seemed
another country—when it was but one roman-
tic ocean of verdure and roses, and the air was
heavy with the perfumes of millions of wild
flowers that bloomed and lived in the genial
sunshine. For mile alter mile the ground
was covered with the thick velvet of green, in
which the most varied animal life grew in
myriads. -

About noon of tie sufi‘ocating day a horse-
man was travelling over the prairie. He and
his animal were the only signs of life that met
the eye, and they together might have been
easily mistaken for some stationery object, so
slow and tedious was their course. The rider
was a Ioung man of not over twenty-five
years 0 age, whose well-pro ortioned frame
showed that, although in a pmbability a
strange' in those parts, he yet was no ordinary
hunter. He was attired in the usual hunting-
frock and leggins, and wore a closely fitting
cap of IV. At his waist the handles of two
knives protruded, and a long polished rifle
rested across the saddle in front of him. His
black hair, escaping from his cap, hung loose-
ly upon his shoulders, giving him at times a
strange and picturesque wildness. His com-
plexion was considerably bronzed from con-
stant exposure to all kinds of weather. His ha-
zel eyes were now gazing vacantly at the hori-
zon, and his mind was lost in a deep wonder-
ing that nearly excluded all external objects
from his view. His horse, a diminutive speci-
men of the Canadian breed, although capable of
bearing much fatigue, now gave palpable signs
of weariness. His dappled haunches glisten-
ing in the sun's fiery rays like polished ebony,
while the foam and froth was constantly dri -
ping from beneath the saddle, as he patien y
and slowly plodded forward. His hoofs clamp-
ing upon the hardened earth, the dry crackin
of the saddle, and the hurried breathing o
the animal, were the only sounds that disturb-
ed the oppressive stillness that held reign.
Such an appearance did George Summerfield
present as he was journeyin over the prairie.

"Heavens!" exclaimed %e, collecting his
thoughts and gazing about him, “whenwill
this horrid scene change? Here I have been
travelling since daylight, over this dreadful
ocean of earth, and not a solitary island ‘ 7
yet appeared. I am half tortured to death
with thirst, while poor Ned here is suffering
still more. Have patience, Ned," he added,
fondly patting the horse upon the neck, who
was indeed suffering more than his master.

“Curses on those infernal fellows," mut-
tered he. “ I doubt whether I shall ever see
their ugly faces again, and a precious pretty
scrape I am in. Two or three thousand of
miles from home, with no neighbors but the
cowardly Indians, who, I doubt not, would be

lad to make my acquaintance. But who shall
fblame but myself for this? Heavens! what
a fate this would be, out on this baking prairie
to be tortured to death by this consuming
thirst. God avert such a terrible death!”

The horse stopped now and then to pluck
the yellow blades of grass, and at last turned
to lick the froth from his steaming sides. Sum-
merfield restrained him.

“Don’t do that, Ned, though God knows
that you are suffering! It will only aggravate
your thirst the more. "

The animal ceased, and his rider rose in his
stirrups and anxiously swept the horizon. It
was growing late in the afternoon, and he
began to be alarmed for himself. He felt sure
that he should die unless he soon discovered
water. Suddenly, as he gazed to the right, his
eye flashed, and he started. ‘

“Thank heaven, there’s a sail in this infer-
nal ocean, and close at hand, tool" he ex-
claimed, as his eye rested upon the mellow
outlines of a grove of trees in the distance.

.“What could have revented me from see-
ing those trees before They must have been
in sightfor the last half hour, while Ned and I
have almost given up in despair. Relief is
clone at hand."

Summerfield, although site an experienced
hunter, had. however. sadly miscalculated the
distance. The trees were full twice as far as
they a‘ peered. In his impatient haste to
~, reach m, the time seemed interminable.

«Distance is ssdeceptive upon the prairie as

.ri,‘
- 4

 

upon the sea ; as it takes a true sailor to cal~
culate it upon the one, so it requires an expe-
rienced hunter to measure it upon the other.

It was full an hour before he approached
near enough to distinguish the branches of' the
different trees ; and as he saw their fresh and
blooming appearance, he felt sure that such a
thing could not exist unless the roots were
well supplied with water.

“And yet," he muttered, as the sickening
thought presented itself, “ suppose that I
should be disappointed, what a death awaits
me! I never could leave the spot, and poor
Ned would die immediately."

As he rapidly approac ed the place, his
anxiety became fearfully intenso. He listened
to hear the noise of running water, and when
he heard it not, despite himself, an awful
doubt would enter his mind. His horse's in-
stinct, however, was infallible ; and, as the lat-
ter quickened his ace and ascended the swell
upon the edge of e grove, a bright, rkling
stream of water was seen gushing slowly? along
within a few feet of him.

With a shout, he rang from his horse, and
they simultaneously eaped into the refreshing
element. As he quafl‘ed the cool, refreshing
fluid, he was fairly delirious with joy. It
seemed that a death by drowning was the
greatest bliss that a mortal could be given,
and he covered himself with the limpid water,
and was really insane with his excess of pleas- ‘
ure. .

Summer-field, however, soon satisfied his de-
sires, and, like an ordinary human being,
laughed at his own ridiculous manifestations.

“ Hold on, Ned," said he, “it won't do for
you to drink so much at first. It is dangerous,
and you must be restrained.”

So saying, he ‘led his horse from the water,
upon the swell, and holding his rein, gazed out
upon the prairie. The sun was new low in the
heavens, and the air was becoming cooler and
more tolerable. He saw no sign of animal life,
and was about to turn to the grove, when the
sharp crack of a rifle burst from the green
spot, and a bullet whizzed within a half-inch
of his eyes!

“Heavens! That was a close rub!" ejacu-
lated Summerfield, cocking his rifle and gazing
toward the grove in the hope of seeing his
enemy. But no form was visible, and he be- '
gan to feel rather uneasy in his situation. After
waiting a few moments, be lowered his rifle,
and at the same instant another was dis-
charged, and, as a slight pufl‘ of wind struck

'his face, one of his black curls dropped to his

feet, severed by the leaden messenger. He
turned quickly, and saw a thin wreath of smoke
slowly rising from the edge of the ve.

“ There's a venture, at any rate A". said he,
hastily discharging his ride at the paint where
he an posed was his hidden foe.

As lie commenced re-loading, he saw the un-
derwood become agitated, and the next instant
a large, powerfully built man stepped forth in
full new. Summerfield gazed at him with mixed
wonder and admiration. His form was one
of the most noble and commanding that he
had ever seen. His small eyes glistening be-
neath his shaggy, projecting brows, seemed
ever restless with excitement. His jetty black
beard, although long and uncombed, had yet
an appearance of harmony with the rest of is
dress. As he moved, the swelling ridges of
muscles showed what terrible strength was
concentrated in his frame. Yet he Was grace-
ful, and, when occasion required, was as light-
ning-like in his movements as the famished
panther. His line Roman nose, and small,
restless gray eyes, would have shown any one
his temperament.

His dress was similar to Summerfield's, save
that it ap cared to be made more for strength
and dare ility. In his left hand, he held a
long, formidable-looking rifle, whose. barrel
glistened and shone in the sun's departing rays
as he slowly changed its position. The handle
of a finely-carved scalping-knife was visible,
and, take him all in all, the hunter was a man
whose ill-will was dangerous to any mortal.

“ It seems to me," said Summerfield, “ that
you are rather reckless with your shots. You
made me win]: rather suddenly a short time
since. "

"Wal, stranger, I ain‘t a feller what makes
many mis-shots." '

* " ill on allow me to inquire your objectin
thus sending your shots so close to me ?" ‘

U Wal, stranger, that hyer’s the manner I
generally says ‘ How d'you do?’ when I come

 

across folks what I doesn’t know."

 

" A rather peculiar fashion of "

“ It's the one I allers uses, an what I al‘un
ea'oulate to. What mouoht your handle be.
strange "

“Summerfleld—George Sunmerfleld is my
name. I suppose you will have no objections
to giving me yours?"

“ How come you to be trampin' out in these
parts ?"

“I left the States some weeks ago in com.
pany with three others, with the intention ct
accompanying them upon a trapping e di-
tion. Yesterday, in the excitement of a 3:“,
I lost them altogether, and have not seen a
sign of them since."

“ Yer a green one. no mistake, in these
parts."

“ I have been here bq'ore, and am not an inex~
perienced hunter, a though I am young. I
have been in several brushes with Indians, and
trust that I am not what, upon further ac.
quaintance, you will term green. But, my good
friend, allow me again to inquire your name?"

“ I’m known in these parts by the name m
Vie Vannoven.”

“ I have heard you spoken of as a great

hunter and trapper that—"

“Thar, that‘ll do. Just hold on with that
stud."

“Why, Mr. —"

“ Hold on agin," exclaimed the hunter, with
an angry gesture. “I don't own that last
handle. Jus please to drop it altogether when
I’m spoken to, and never mind aboutstufin
me with that other stufil It goes agin my
stummick altogether.”

“Well, Vic, then, I have heard of you be-
fore, and assure on that I am gladto meet
you. I don't fee entirely safe in this section
with no companion but my horse. I supposl
that you are alone?"

“I hain’t got no cha s hangin' round me,
but Polly, here, is we a dozen. When she
barks she bites ; and I’ve got Porky'pine out
here that sleeps with me every night, and II.
three makes as big acompany as I wants."

" Then I suppose you would rather be freed
from my society ?”

“’Wal, Somefield, ef yer death on redskins,
and that Polly of yourn’ll drop one withoutyer
touchin it, and of yer ain't afraid of itten'_yer
h‘ar lifted, and don't mind sleepin out in a
snow-storm, and ain't womanish, why Lyer's a
feller what'll stick to you. "

“Then we are friends henceforth. Now
thatI have your compan , I do not feel the
loss of my friends so muc although, if possi-
ble, I must soon see them."

“ Whar was it that you left 'em ?" _

u I have no idea ; but, judging from the (lib
tancevthat Ihave travelled, I should su pose it
somewhere in the neighborhood 0 forty

es.”

“What kind of lookin' place mought it be
whar you seen 'em last ?" g

“ I remember that it was at the junction of
two streams, near a large grove of timber-J

“Iknows the spot. an now in party em
tain that yer green ,- coz why, you've been
trampin' your old hoes to death to find ‘em,
and they hain’t been more'n a dozen miles ed
neither." ' _

“Why, how can that be, when I have trav-
elled a much greater distance 7"

“ Ooz you've been trampin' all ’rmmd it with-
out comin' to the pint, and of yer’d had yet
eyes open you’d have seen it too."

" Can we reach them to night, then ?"

“ We’ll see ; but don’t let us stand here talk-
in’ when yer hose is wanderin’ ofl‘.” .

Summerfleld turned and saw that his animal
had strayed quite a distance down the stream.
tempted by the luxuriant grass that lined it!
edges. He gave him but a word, when he re-
turned and remained but a short distancbp

while he himself rejoined the hunter, and ‘0' - ,

gether they entered the grove. After Wed’
ing a short distance, they came upon 8 1103‘”
of Vannoven, which was contean Pluck“?
the grass with which the grove was carpeted

“Hyer, Porkypine, is a {ener- what wants to
cultivate yer acquaintance. "

The horse raised his head, and seemed fl
fully understand that he was addressed- , .

“ Somefield, it's a gittin’ ' h onto feedm
time, and I s' so you wouldnt  hell“!l 1
Team to me 1; yer rags must set meanbelo
you’ve been washin’ 'em with 5110!! Pm, mm
the hunter, with a half-mischievous. and half-
oontemptuous o

with

man of 1:1; I«ivzvuntenanco 
"-Thatwasaoolishpieoo W ,”W_.

‘

.61 5-” ‘45 <

 

 

 

..

  
   
 

 

 
  
 

 

The Fighting Trapper.

 

 

 

 

|ho women which he had manifested about
the water ; "but," added he, “I was perfectly
insane with the thirst that was burning me up.
Heavens! I never wish such an experience

" Waghl you’ll be lucky ef you don't. Why,
you, I've seen the time when Ihad to chaw all
the bullets Ihad to save my carcass, after go-
ln' fur days without seein’ a drop. There are
some spots on this perarie whar, at times,
you've got to make a long tramp afore you git
eight of it. Howsumever, I never manage to
lose my reckonin’ now-a-days, and either Pork-
ypine or me knows whar to find it. "

The shades of night were now rapidly set-
ting over the prairie, and the grove had already
become dark and gloomy. Vannoven com-
menced making preparations for a fire, while
Summerfield returned to picket his horse for
the night. This done, he again returned to
his newly-made friend. He had a bright fire
burning and crackling, and yet so concealed
and screened that it could not be seen from
on point in the grove, until directly upon it.
A uge piece of meat was spitting and fry
ing over the blaze, while the hunter was 're—
clining upon the ground and leisurely watch-
ing it. As Summerfield approached, he arose,
and removing the meat, severed it into two
equal portions, and tossing him one, remarked :

“ That’s the last of one of the finest bufliers
I eve“ 'irop ed."

hummerheld, like a true hunter, relished the
steaming meat, and devoured it without the
least ceremony or further preparation. This
hearty meal was partaken in silence.

The hunter arose, and scattering the brands,
so a; to extinguish the fire, again seated him-
self upon the ground.

“ Do you not fear the approach of an enemy
during the night?" asked Summerfield.

“Not much. I’d like to see the red what
could git near me while‘ I’s 'sleep, without
Porky smellin’ him ; and me and Porky has no
secrets," added the hunter, with pride.

‘Do you generally wander alone over this
dangerous country?"

“ I don‘t know what you mean by alone ; but
if you mean fellers, why I kintell you, I hain't
had much company fur the last ten year.”

" May I be allowed to inquire your reasons
for leading such a strange life '1’" asked Sum—
merfield, beginning to feel an interest in him.

" It would take too long. Not now, " he re-
turned, relapsing into a thoughtful silence,
which Summerfield thought it best not to dis-
tub.

CHAPTER 11
ran axons-sworn.

A mums:- night settled slowly over the
prairie. The air seemed to possess an unnat-
ural brilliancy and clearness, and the countless
millions of stars glittered in glorious splendor.
The Pleiades, Orion, and other constellations,
blazed in wondrous strength and brightness,
and the whole canopy of heaven had a gorge-
ous magnificence that was indeed Wonderful.

Nothing but the almost inaudible murmur-
ing of the streamlet, as it rippled over its bed,
could be heard, save now and then the dull
stamp of the horses as they changed their po-
sition. At intervals, a ' t gush or breath of
wind moved the tree-tops, and gently swayed
the branches, and then everything relapsed
again into the usual deep silence.

Summerfield lay on his back, gazing in rapt
wonder and admiration upon the angled
vault above him. He saw the conste _ trons
slowly circle through the heavens, and watched

their progress through the openings in the‘

tree-tops, until their swaying confused him,
and he let his mind wander off upon a sort of
dreamy, aimless journey, forgetting for a time
his situation and new-made friend.

But occasionally there were stronger and
more fitful pufi‘s, repeated at shorter intervals ;
and upon gazing upward through the branches,
he observed that the stars were gradually be-
coming obscured, while heavy clouds were
rolling tumultuoust through the heavens. Al-
though the heat of the day had been suffoca-
ting, it was now uncomfortably chilly, and was
growing more so each moment.

Suddenly, several faint flashes illumined the
sky, and presently the rumbling peals reverbe-
ntod overhead.

-“Thisis oin' to be a reg'lar mortar,” re-
‘uuter. Quietly.

    
 

 

“That's certain. See how the branches are
swaying! There it comes !"

As he spoke, the sky opened like one sheet
of fire, and almost simultaneously with’it came
a crash of thunder that made the prairie trem-
ble' for miles around. Its awful voice, slowly
rolling away through the heavens, sounded
like the rumbling of chariot wheels ; and when
the plain was lightened up and shone out with
sudden and vivid distinctness, the falling rain

glittered like the spears of an innumerable ar-
my. Again and again, with a palling rapidity,
came the terrific bursts of under, and the
rain rattled like hailstones through the branch-
es overhead. Summerfield had never before
witnessed such an awful storm, and for awhile
was overcome by feelings of awe and sublimity.
He was about to speak, when the sky flamed
out again in one blaze of shattered fire, and the
trapper yelled to him :

“lKiver up and snooze, or you mought git
wet "

He wisely took the warning, and was not
long in stowing himself away in his impenetra-
ble blanket Thus he lay and listened to the
storm, which was raging at its greatest height.
Huge spouts of rain were shooting down
through the trees like the rattle of musketry,
while the bellowing thunder resembled the can-
nonading of some mighty army. As it paused,
at intervals, the roar of the brook, now a rush-
ing torrent, could be distinctly heard, and the
wind made mournful music through the limbs,
bending with water.

The fall of the rain lasted but a short time,
and Summerfield uncovered his face and gazed
around him. All was of an inky blackness save
when the lightnin darted through the grove.
Then the wet trun s glistened coldly, and the
water shone with a glittering light; and when
some gust of wind, stronger than usual, sway-
ed the trees, they sent down for a second a
perfect deluge of water.

The storm was as short as it was fierce. In
a half hour more not a drop of water was fall-
ing, and only a faint flash of lightning could
be seen at intervals. Summerfield, now that
the deafening tumult around him had ceased,
fell into a deep and dreamless sleep. This had
lasted about an hour, when he was aroused by
feeling a jerk at his blanket. He looked
around, but saw nothing in the darkness.

“ What’s the matter '1’” he asked, in a whisper.

“-—shl keep quiet," returned the hunter, in
the same tone.

“ Any trouble ?"

" I’m 'fraid so. Injins ai' about, purty sure."

“What! in the grove here '1’" ‘

“ Yas, cuss it, yes; you ain’t scar't, are you?
I thort I’d let you know my ’spishions, ’cause
of I didn’t, you mought get into a muss with-
out knowin’ it Thax' goes Porky, again!"

As he spoke, Summerfield heard his horse
give a faint whinny and a stamp that con-
vinced him that the trapper’s suspicions were
well grounded.

“ Just keep docile new," admonished the
trapper, as he stole away.

He crept carefully over the moist earth, and
in a few minutes reached his horse.

“ What’s up, Porky?" he asked, rising and
placing his head close to his ear as he spoke.
The animal gave another whinny, and, dark
as it was, Vannoven saw a body glide out of
sightin the darkness. Quick as thought, he
sprang behind a tree, and demanded, in a loud
and imperative tone :

“ White or red ?"

In a second came the answer :

“ White. If that ain’t Vic Vannoven. then
skin mel",

“ That you, Jim ?" queried the hunter, in
turn, as the familiar voice struck his ear.
“ Come out here and show your carcass."

The next minute the two hunters met with
genuine and unfeigned pleasure.

"What the dickens yer doin’ here '1’" de-
manded Vic, good-humoredly.

“And what you doin’ here '1’" asked the oth-
er, in turn.

“Why don’t an ax me, Jim Wandsught,
what I‘m allers oin’ in these parts. Yer know
well 'nough. I’ve been tramping ’round, and
happened to drop down hyer to-day, and seein’
as how thar’s gwine _to be a reg‘lar ring-tail-
roarer of a storm, why, thinks I, ‘Ole Vic,
yer 6. better stick hyer till it's over ;' and so I
squatted till you come a nosiu' ’round."

“ Wal,. me ’n Sam an' 'nother nigger war
out when we seen the blow gettin' ready, and

made tracks for this place, but war catched
store we got to it. How-uneven that didn't

 

matter, as we tom! on till we got pulx
near here, when I ’oluded to take clock
things afore comin’ here ; ccz, you know. that
mought be reds about. I didn't know what to
make of yer hoss, coz he smelt me afar. 1 did
him, though I smelt sunkthi‘n' that I war pm
sure war you, Vic, and it warn’t no 'fum to
brag on neither, I can tell yer. I ’clud ll
how thar war signs ’bout, and war just gwine
back to let 'em know it, when you com.
round. "

“ Didn't yer have anybody with yer 'copl
Sam an' tuther chap ?"

“Yes; thar war a chap what called himsell
Summerfield—one 0' these from the States that
don’t know nothin'."

" That's what I thort He come 'round here
’while ago, and bein' kindy clever, I let 'im
sleep in my bed with me.”

, “In your bed? Waghl waghl" ‘

“ Yas ; in my bed. Don't yer know nothin',
Jim? In the woods hyer, I mean ; that's my
bed. He’s green!"

" Yes ; he wanted to come so bad that I
couldn't help it, 'cause I's ‘fraid he mought
boo-hoo himself to death of I‘lei‘t him behind.
He’s a greeny ; no mistake."

These compliments to Summerfield were
spoken in a tone loud enough for himrto hear,
and, as may be suppoeed, there was not much
danger of his trying to impress his compan-
ions with any exalted ideas of his own prow-'
ess and knowledge of border life after that

Jim and Vic conversed for a few moments
more, when the former started out to bring in
his companions. They were snu 1y ensconced
in the thicket, and soon joined %i0 and Sum-
merfield, to the seeming satisfaction of all. It
was a leasant reunion after a day of exhaust-
ing ri ' A fire was soon rekindled, around
which gathered to dry their soaked gar.
ments and to warm their chilled limbs.

Let us, before proceeding farther with our
story, refer more particularly to those collected
there in that picturesque group—each relating
his story of news and adventure.

George Summerfield, of —, Missouri, has
been referred to, and with a remark or two we
will let him pass. He was the son of wealthy
parents who died in his childhood, leaving him

with no relation except a sister a few years
younger than himself. Naturally of a re
careless disposition, he had only entered
logo to gratify a wish that his father had ex-
pressed upon his deathbed. After graduation

e returned home, and spent a year in doing
nothin in particular but reading and hunt-
ing. -T 0 next ear he s nt in travelling With
his sister over e Atlantic states, and returned
home again without any definite object in
view. ne morning at breakfast, he told lib
sister that he should take a tram amo the
Indians, just for the fun of the g. ni‘hn
he hurried to Independence, gave a trapper a
hundred dollars to emit him to accom
him, and the next y'was out on the pram
half gelled to death on an old pack-horse! Ho
determined to brave it out hire a hero, how-
ever—and he did. He was gone about nine
months, and was given a good taste of wild
adventure on the northern trapping grounds.

After this, he remained at home for five or
six months, when he determined to make one
more Journey to the plains. And for this he
was wrse enough to make some reparation.
He purchased his own horse, and took Seth
Potter along with him. At Inde endenco he
selected his own trapper-Jim andaught—
a selection that he never regretted. As ht
be supposed, his sister opposed his entire 0-
termmation ; but he succeeded in gaining he:
consent, and with a light heart he bid good-b
to his native state, and turned his face tow
the great rairies of the Far West.

Victor annoven was both a trapper and
guide, although for the last year or two he had
not served in the latter ca acity, and preferred
to be only the former. eat of his life had
been spent upon the prairies. He said he had
no brothers. sisters, or parents, or if he had
them, did not know them. For a number cl
years he had made most of his trapping jour-
neys with no companion but his horse.
or twice he and Wandaught had gone in com-
pany, but he generally ‘preferred to be alone.
and sometimes he won! be gone for two can

at a time. He was generally reserved on db- ' ‘

tant toward strangers, and his nature was
never understood until a long compani

had gained his friendship. As we intend, ‘
make a companion other, we shall 
dicquisition at present upon Iii-many m

   
 
 

* .

   
 
 
 
   

 

 
 

4

The Fighting Trapper.

 

 

L

Ind virtues, and leave them to develop them-
selves as our acquaintance with him pro-
grosses.
. Jim Wandaug'st, a trayper, born in St. Jo-
seph, Missouri, was new about thirty years of
age. He was rather below the medium stat-
‘ure. with a fine, compact frame, as agile and
powerful as the panther. He always wore a
cap that came down to his eyebrows, and fitted
so closely that, at a short distance, it might
easily be supposed that he had no covering at
all upon his head. His eyes were of a. light
gray, and their power was so famous that
many of his acquaintances termed him “Eagle
Eyes.” His hair was of dark grizzled color,
and so short that it was rarely seen except
when his cap was removed. No beard graced
his face, except a long, yellow tuft upon his
chin, the rest being as smooth as an infant’s.
His nose was slightly Roman, and rather
‘ small ; he had a fine set of teeth, which were
Always visible, as he ever were a smile, or a
half-smile rather; for he possessed the pecu-
liarity that many persons have, of using but
one side of their mouths when they wish'to
indulge in a silent laugh. He was good-na-
tured, always communicative, and rarely taking
‘ofi'enco at a slight or intended insult. He had
experienced an incredible number of hair-
breadth escapes and wild adventures, and his
fund ol‘ anecdote was exhaustless. He was
frank, open-hearted, and a man that could
never be a hypocrite. He possessed a rifle of
exactly his own length, from which he was
never known to be separated, and whose quali-
ties he could never laud too highly. There
were many points of resemblance between him
and Vannoven. He did not possess the great
strength and majestic form of the latter, but
was more fleet of foot, and his nature lay more
upon the surface ; it could be seen at once.
Seth Potter, as the reader has probably sur-
mised, was a companion of Summer-field, whose
father had adopted and reared him. He was
over six feet in height, very lank and cadaver-
ous, and with a form excessively crooked. His
‘ head and neck projected forward, and when he
stood, as was his custom, with his arms folded
behind him, his knees bent backward, so that
his legs had the appearance of half-strung
bows, his whole body resembling the letter S.
His features were rather pleasant than other—
wise, having a mild, blue eye, and an ingenu-
ous, half-comical expression. His nose was
very long, and his prominent cheek-bones pre-
vented every one except himself from suppos-
ing he had a right to lay claim to any good
looks. His hair was long and yellow, his
limbs long and bony, and his whole appear-
ance that of a wiry, nervous, and ungainly
person; yet there were few men of the West
who could get over so much ground in so little
dine. Give him rough, uneven surface, and
. there was not an Indian but what he could
easily overtake—provided his wind lasted.
Sam Rodzol had been Wandaught’s compan-
ion for a year or two, and was as different in
every respect as could possible be imagined.
He was somewhat taller, had fiery red hair,
whiskers of the same hue, that grew in patches
on his cicatrized face; an eye that glittered
like a coiled black snake underneath his shag-
gy eyebrows. He was taciturn and sullen, often
tofusin to answer a direct question. The
sight 0 one eye had been destroyed, and, be-
ing of a milk-white color, and always half
open, it rendered his appearance more repul-
sive than it would have otherwise been. He
had a habit of leering with his one eye, and of
always contracting his brows, that gave one
the idea that he possessed a hidden, deceitful
nature. ‘Whatever might be his character, it
was plain that it possessed not half the good
qualities of either Vannoven or Wandaught.

——

CHAPTEBIIL
A BAD onuuornn

As the bright rays of the approaching sun
forced the foliage of the - grove, the trappers
were estir and making preparations for the
journey that was before them. Vannovon had
gated around the trees in order to see whether
. ere were any signs of savages ; and, finding
nothing to arouse his suspicions, had returned
and reported the state of afi‘airs to the rest.

One of the’number had kindled a fire, and u,

o huge piece of bufl‘alo was soon roasted. In
a fowmmutel this was devoured. endthe huntr

 

ers, placing their different loads upon these
animals, started forth.

The storm of the preceding night had
wrought a wonderful change in the face of na-
ture upon the prairies. Where, the day be-
fore, nothing but a few black blades were seen,
was now visible the velvety prairie grass, and
in some places the wild flowers had loaded the
air with perfume. It was an immense field of
verdure.

As the destination of the five hunters was
the same, it was agreed by all to keep company
for a few days at least. The eccentric Vanno-
ven had made up his mind to trap alone, and

he was fully determined that none should»

share his company. Summer-field, with his
companions, were on their way north toward
the trapping grounds, and from Vannoven he
learned that they would trap within forty or
fifty miles of him. Yet, as we have said, he
would accept of no company, and assured the
rest that he should part with them in three or
four days at the most.

For most of the day the ride was over the
peculiar rolling prairie which prevails so much
in the Far West. This has an almost painful
sameness and monotony for any one save those
who, for years, have been accustomed to it.
Seth expressed his indignation every few mo-
ments, but little heed was paid to him by the
rest, and the company moved patiently and
quietly onward.

About the middle of the afternoon, Wan-
daught, who was riding considerably in ad-
vance of the rest, suddenly halted and raised
his hand above his head. The sign was un-
derstood by the rest, and, without speaking,
they reined up their animals and waited for
further communication. In a moment he low-
ered his hand and started forward, the rest do-
ing the same. "All, however, new proceeded
more slowly and with greater caution than be-
fore.

He had gone about a mile or so farther,
when he again halted, raised his hand as be-
fore, and waited for the others to come up.

" What’s the word ?" asked Vannoven.

“ Sign," returned Wandaught.

“What?” b

“Kioways, and a ig p ."

“Which way!" arty

“East, and comin this way too.”

“Close on us '1’"

“ Not very. They've bin round all the utter-
noon."

“Seen us ?"

“ Guess not, but we'll have to show our-
selves purty soon. Thar’s 'bout forty or fifty
on ’qm, and they're goin’ 'bout as fast as we
are. ‘

“I s'pose we’ll have to get into another
muss," exclaimed Seth, indignantly.

“You needn’t be afeard, Crooked Pegs."
sneered Redzel, “that shootin’ iron would
scare all of em to death, providin’ yer didn’t
lose it.”

“I can tell you, if you were among them

on would find there was no danger of my los-
mg it, nor of the bullet losing the mark
either,” retorted Seth, stung to the quick by
the contemptuous remarks of Redzel.

"Come," interposed Summer-field, “this is
child’s play."

“Mr. Greeney, wait till yer axed to put in
your blah,” said Redzel, and then to Seth,
“ How d’yer manage, gawky, to wobble bent
on them pegs ?"

“ Very easy, I s'pose, as you may yet man-

age to see."

“Come, don't give me none yer talk," ex-
claimed the trappir.

“ Bah! I’d ' o to know whether you
mink."

Further utterance was cut short by a crash-
ing blow directly in the mouth of Seth. Ho
staggered back a. pace or two, when as he
tested the blood he clubbed his rifle, and be-
fore even his assailant divined his intention,
brought a murderous blow upon the head of
Redzel that felled him like an ox. Summer-
fleld sprang forward to interfere, as he saw
the bloody track of Seth’s rifle ; but in spite
of him, his assailant arose and leaped toward
Seth. The blood was streamin down his
face, adding a ghastly intensity to ' assion,

while Seth stood quivering and perfee y white
with rage. ,

"Let them have it on " said Wendeught,
Viewing
“it may" 1 lo onghtonguma
“ es, ' a re 00 on
scratch, why, I says, lot 'oxn doot." added Ven-
WYOI. -

stepping back and comp

 

' m

"This is a. fine state of afl‘airs," exclaimed
Summerfield, bitterly. “ We are even now
discovered by our enemies, and these two
fools must employ their time in using their
strength upon each other. If I can prevent“
I shall.”

He seemed as excited as the two combat
ants, and approached them with a determined
air. Stepping forward, he placed his foot
upon the breast of Seth, who was under, and
almost throttled by his adversary, and concen-
trating his strength, gave a powerful jerk.
The two separated, and, yielding to an im-
pulse, he flung Itedzel a dozen feet from him.
The latter sprang to his feet, and, like a. demon,
leaped toward him. Vannoven‘ and Wan-
daught, however, seized and held him.

“ Come, Sam," said the latter, “ you’ve done
’bout enough. You’re makin’ a fool of your-
self."

“ Let me alone ; I’ll have the blood of both
of ’em, I swear. They shall both die !"

“ Come, come, that’s plenty, now.”

But the infuriated man heeded no advice,
but catching a rifle, cooking it, and raised it
to his shoulder. Wandaught just knocked the
barrel upward as it was discharged, and the
bullet passed so close to Summerfield’s head
that he involuntarily started. He said noth-
ing, but caught Seth, who was again start-
ing for him.

Redzel, seeing that he was prevented from
doing harm, gave vent to an oath, and sprang
upon his horse.

“Remember, ou’ll hear of me aginl” said
he to Summerfie d and Seth, as he struck hul
horse into a gallop across the plain;

“ Yes, and I reckon you’ll hear of me about
that time 1" returned Seth.

The four stood and watched him as he con--
tinued galloping away. Once or twice he
turned his head and made a. threatening geo-
ture, but said nothing. His body continued
rising and falling and growing less, until i!
was but antrembling atom in the distance, and
finally it faded from view altogether.

“There goes a dangerous enemy!” said
Summerfield, as he turned and mounted hi!
animal.

“ That’s so," said Wandaught. “ Sam'll D-
member you as long as he lives.”

“ Yes, and I’ll remember him,” replied Seth.
furiously.

“I’m sorry it’s happened," said Vic ; "but
Sam has no one to blame but himself for it."

“ The precious fool ought to have been shot
long ago," added Summerfield. "If he ever
has a chance to revenge himself upon us, he
will most certainly do it. I expected, when I
came across him at Independence, that we
should have trouble'with him. I wonder how
Jim ever got along with him so lon ."

afl‘xI allers had to yumor him, and bear a good
De " ‘
“Wal, we're likely to have trouble from oth-
er ones," added Vannoven, with a significant
emphasis, looking at the same time in the div
rection in which the signs of danger had been
seen. .‘

It was now growing late in the afternoon.
and after a few minutes’ consultation. it we:
decided to move forward a mile or two, where
Wandaught said was a small stream of water.
It was necessary to proceed with the utmost
caution, as it was more than probable that they
had already been seen by the Indians, and the
peril was indeed imminent. _

The quarrel of Seth and Rcdzel had its ef-
fect upon Summerfield ; yet Jim and We seemed
to have entirely forgotten that such a thing had
occurred. They rode together, and now and
then exchanged a word in an undertone, and
were wholly occupied with the safety of the
company.

The company reached the. stream spoken of;
and commenced making preparations for
ing the night. The spot possessed little ad-
vantage, though a great _many disadvanta-
ges. It was in a depresswn in the plain.
which formed a sort of broastwork around
them ; and yet there was not the smallest tree
to afford them e chance to conceal themselves.
The open prairie bounded them on all sides.
and in case they were attacked by the we!
party, it can be seen that their chance was
poor indeed.

Justasthey halted, thesunsunk belowthe /

horizon, and darkness commenced settling
over the earth. The four animals of the trap-
erswero pioketed efew yards . the bedo!

minute 'enoticeo! ear:th
olefoohontbatfilieofionwhihflmfi

 

 

‘3’ 1%

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

_/s...

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Fighting Trapper.

5

 

Jazz: ,
sermlned that Jim and Vic should act sentinel
through the night. In answer to Summen
field’s inquiries, Vic informed him that the
Kioways were not far distant, and that in all
probability they would be attacked before the
morning dawned.

There was no danger to be apprehended be-
fore late in the night, and Jim kindled a fire
without hesitation for the purpose of cooking
their supper. This done, they partook of it
leisurely, and extinguished it, and then began
14) make preparations in earnest. Vic passed
s short distance down stream, while Jim went
out on the prairie and reclined upon the

ound; and, at Summerfield’s earnest request,

9 was allowed to go a short distance in the
opposite direction. Thus Seth lay down se-
curely guarded upon all sides.

CHAPTER IV.
an: user “or. non mu.

1'! must have been considerably past mid—
night before the slightest sign of danger was
heard. Summerfield had fallen into a sort of
half-asleep and half-awake state, when the
nerves are painfully sensitive, when he heard
a peculiar whistle from Vannoven. It was
slight, yet full of warning. He was about to
start to waken Seth, when Wandaught touched
him.

“——sh l" he whispered. ‘{ I've woke Seth.
Thar’ll be sumthin’ dun shortly."

“Indians?”

“Yaas ; they've been creepin' around for the
last two hours. Thar ar about twenty or thirty
only, and they tried to come down stream
first; but they found they couldn’t get past
file animals, and they’re comin’ up from be-

ow."

"Well, what is going to be done ?" '

" Vic is down thar, and ’11 let us know how
matters ar goiu’ ’long. We ain’t sartin of thar
number, but they can’t be over twenty-five.
If they’re less, I ca’culate there’ll be sum fun
here, for we ain’t gwine to show sich a num-
Der our heels."

" Suppose there are more ?"

“ We must mount and make tracks. We’ll
move out to where Seth is, and wait for signals
from Vic. If he says that that are too many,
we'll get on the bosses and wait for him ; but if
he wants to show fight we’ll wait for sarcom-
fiances to develop themselves. Move still.”

80 saying, Wandaught commenced walking
in a very prone position, while Summerfield
followed with the silence of death. In a few
seconds they reached Seth, when there came
s suppressed whistle from Vic.

“ They’re close on to us, " whispered Jim.

In a second or two the same signal was re-
peated twice in succession.

“ He’s goin’ to show fightl
ready.”

As he uttered these words, the rifle of Van-
noven cracked, and they heard him yell :

“Give ’m blazes—the sneakin’ devils,” and
the shouts and howls of the savages mingled
with those of the hunter. At the same instant
Wandaught leaped forward, followed by Seth
and Summerfield, who in a few moments were
in about as hot water a.) any one could wish.
It was so dark that the Indians could only be
seen when directly upon them ; then they ap-
peared like shadowy demons darting to and

o in agony. There was constantly the reports
of rifles, and sometimes by the lurid flashes
the hideously-distorted features of the com-
batants could be seen; then again all would
be struggling furiously in the impenetrable
night.

Summerfleld, when he rushed blindly into
the fight, came so violently in collision with a
gigantic Indian that the rebound threw him
backward ,upon the ground, and before he
could use his swarthy enemy was upon him.
There is no 5011“ Of what his fate would have
been had not Seth come to his aid at the crit-
icalnoment. Clubbing his rifle, he brought
so terrible a blow upon thesavage’s head that
m. skull Was literally shattered to pieces.
The Indian rolled to the ground without a
struggle. Summerfield sprang to his feet and
mingled in the fierce afl’ray.

The contest was as short as it was terrible.
The assailants had not counted upon such are-
seption, and could not stand before the fury of
the hoppers. They had expected to find them
d Iqu' guard, and hoped to scaly them with-

See that you're

 

out any serious trouble ; but they found their
fatal mistake when half their number were
slain, and, setting up a mingled howl of rage
and disappointment, broke and fled in wild
confusion.

“ What’s the Engins? Whar's the Engins ?"
demanded Seth, darting about fairly wild with
excitement.

“ Most of 'em gone to — , ’ (naming a terrible
place) answered Vic.

“ Wagh! waghl that's what this chap calls
fun," laughed Wandaught.

“ Blast it! it’s through too soon. Why, it’s
done before it commences,” said Seth, panting
with a perfect fever.

“You needn't be disapinted, for you’ll see
nough of this ’fore you see the States agin, 1
can tell yer. ”

“ Anybody hurt '1’"

“ I never gits hurt in such a scrimmage as
this,” returned Vic.

“Nor me neither. How is it with you,
Somcfield ?”

“ I have hardly a scratch worth mentioning.
I have had some rather rough usage, but I be-
lieve am more fortunate than any of you in
escaping.”

“ We’ve all got some scratches, but nothin'
worth speakin’ on, less it's Seth here.”

“ Oh, I ain’t hurt much, though I felt more'n
one knife.”

“Well, what shall be done ?” asked Sum-
merfield. “ Shall we build a fire?"

“ We can’t build a fire, that‘s sartin, and I
opine that we hadn’t better wait till mornin’.
Them wasn’t all the redskins that or about
these parts. They thought as how these fellers
here would be 'nough ; but I guess they've
found thar mistake, and now they’ll come down
in a perfect swarm, and I reckon we’ll find
rather hot quarters here. My idee is to mount
bosses while night is hyer, and leave for other
parts."

“ That’s the talk,” added Vannoven. “ You
fellers just go bring the animals round. while
me and Jim lifts hair.”

As Summerfield had no desire to assist in
the disgusting operation, he willingly went for
the horses. He feared that they had left dur-
ing the confusion, but they were all used to such
scenes, and had not moved. Taking Vonne-
ven’s animal, the others followed until he came
to where the two hunters were busy at their
revolting work. They were joking roughly
as the stooped, and, seizing the prostrate
forms y the tuft upon the head, ran the keen
point around it, and jerked it rudely ofl’.

“ Your horses are ready. "

“Yes, I see. Ain’t that beautiful '1’" asked

Wandaught, holding up several scalps. Sum-
merfield made no reply ; for, although he felt a
sickening sensation at the sight of the scalps,
he thought it best not to express his opinion ;
but he could not help recoiling when, on ac-
count of the darkness, they were held so close
to his face as to nearly touch it.

“ Oh, you needn’t be squeamish,” added
Jim. “ You've got to git used to sich things.
I should think you’d travelled enough in these
parts to know the way to handle wild beasts."

“Now, Vic, you lead the way," said Wan-
daught, as they all mounted.

Without re lying, the hunter moved forward,
and the rest allowed. They had gone a mile
or so, when the faint streaks of gray in the
east showed that the day was close at hand;
and, for this reason, it was necessary that haste
should be made, as in all probability the re-
maining savages were in the neighborhood. In
the course of an hour or so, the sun appeared
in the horizon, and the prairie was lighted
up by the broad blaze of light. Summerfield
glanced anxiously around, but saw no savages,
and congratulated himself upon his fortunate
escape. His hopes, however, were doomed to
disappointment. Before he had time to speak,
he was electrified by hearing Wandaught ex-
claim :

“Blow me to cinders, ef yonder ain’t the
whole lot!” ‘

Turning their eyes toward the south, they
saw as many as a hundred mounted Indians
rapidly galloping toward them. They were
coming without any regard to order, and their
number appeared much greater—so great that
the four hunters concluded at once that their
only hope of safety lay in their horses, and

'that, could they not distance their pursuers,

there was little chance of ultimate esca e."
‘, That's a long run for us I” said Wan ught,
“ Shall we separate, or keep together !"
Thesavages were coming from the southeast.

 

3

and the trap are changed their direction so as
to move in fine same—toward the northwest;
Vannoven took the lead, and his horse spran
away, seemingly conscious of the threatens
danger.

It was now to both the pursuers end
the pursued t at victory must rest with the
horse which showed the best s eod and endu-
rance. Vannoven‘s animal ha been in such
races before, and was never overtaken by an-
other, and he himself was certain of finally
distancing his enemies. Wandaught had
twice come up to a foe with his, and had never
been deceived with him. Seth's animal was
similar to Summerfield's, and they both had
some fears of their holding out in a very long
run. Summcrfield knew that, for a short time,
he could leave anibehind him, but he had good
reason to fear the ottom of the Indian animals.

Vannoven and Wandau ht's steeds started
off on asteadygallop—suc as they were on-
pable of continuing for many hours, while
Summerflcld and Seth judged it prudent to
save the strength of theirs, and consequently
they gradually fell some distance behind the
former. This had been continued but a short
time when they saw that their speed must be
increased, for the Indians were perceptibly
gaining. Loosing the reins, they shortly came
up beside the two old hunters, who seemed to
feel no concern at all about the state of things.
Nothing was said for some time, when Wan- ‘
dau ht remarked: .

“ hey‘re gainin', Heigh !"

The latter exclamation was to his horse,
which instantly thrust its head forward, and
increased its awkward but rapid gait. Van-
noven’s imitated him without any command.
and the other two did the same.

The race now began to assume a serious char-
acter to all parties. Far behind could be seen
the picturesque and fantastic figures of the In-
dinns, slowly but steadily and surely gaining
upon the trappers. Vannoven's animal was
lumbering along on a sort of half trot and
canter, With his nose pointing directly ahead ,
and his thin tail projecting in such a manner
that it was nearly a straight line ffom it to bk
ears. Vic himself sat composedly inhis seat.
with his eye fixed vacantly u on the ground a,
few yards ahead, his 1efthan loosely holding
the rein, while his right rested leisurely u on
his side. He seemed as though he was if
asleep, while his horse was rtmning at his own
pleasure. A foot or two behindhim was Wan-
daught, whose appearance was nearly the
same. He seemed, however, more conscious
of the situation, and now and then cast hur-
ried glances behind. His horse travelled the
same as Vannoven's, and kept about the some
distance from him. Summerfield felt the most
anxiety of an ; not that he was possessed of
less courage, ut because he had good reason.
He well knew that his animal was not one that
could hear such travelling for a long time.
Sooner or later he must break, and his heart
throbbed painfully as he even now saw unmis-
takable signs of woarincss. He, however, re-
mained calm, devoting his whole attention to
the management of his noble boast. Now and
thsn he found it necessary to draw the rein, as
he plunged too impetuously forward. He,
however, maintained his position between
Wandaught and Vannoven, neither gaining
nor losing ground. Seth said nothing to any
one excepting his own horse, which he was
constantly admonishing to travclalittle faster,
to kee steady, and not let himself be ever-
taken y the me iless savages. He was sev-
eral feet at the right of Vannoven, and also
held his own ground well. In fact, when mat.
ters had thus come to the pinch, his horse be-
gan to show that he really possessed ualitios
equal if not superior to the rest. T us the
four moved regularly and swiftly forward.

Steadin the distance lessened between the
gursuers and pursued. The savages felt confl'p

ent of success, and now and then gave vens
to fierce, exultant yells. All at once Wen.
daught gazed behind him and exclaimed :

“ Thar it comes! look out !" ,

At the same instant several red tongues 00
fire shot from the foremost Indians, and their
rifles burst upon the air. The distance, how-
ever, was too great, and their ballsflew wide
of the mark.

“Now,” said Vannoven, "s‘posen we try
our hand, Jim 1’" '

“ Hyergoes," he answered.

The two suddenly wheeled their horses half
round, and, raising their guns, took squish
aim. and fired.

\

 
 

 
 
 
   
  
  
  
   
 
  

   

I

6

The Fighting Trapper.

 

n;

=:===

 

"Whoop!" yelled Vic and Jim in concert,
as they saw plainly that their shots had taken
fatal effect; for, strange as it may seem, two
savages, mortally wounded, reeled and pitched
from their horses at the instant the pieces were
discharged. The infuriated Indians, giving
Vent to their demoniac howls, fired again and
dashed forward. The two trappers deliberately
loaded, and again wheeled and discharged
their pieces, and with the same deadly efl‘ect.
They were used to such business and under-
dood it too well ever to waste a bullet. The
redskins, without returning the fire, pressed
forward more determinedly than before, bent
upon overtaking the whites at all events.'

“Heigh l” exclaimed Jim, “ we've got tolet
our hosses do their best!"

As he spoke, his horse and Vannoven’s
simultaneously leaped forward, increasing their
gait ve greatly indeed. Seth’s did the same,
while t e speed of Summerfield‘s remained
unchanged. The latter saw this, and, hesita-
Imgamoment, suddenly turned to the left, and
urged his horse into a full run.

“ Good-by all!" he said, cheerfully. "Look
out for yourselves, I’m in a tight place, and
can’t kee with you 1"

He smiled pleasantly as they looked won-
deringlyoat him, and warned back Seth, who
turned follow. The three saw that his move-
ment was the wisest course, and they lost no
time in idle Words, but kept upon their own

way.

“Now, Ned," said Summerfield, “do your
bestfor awhile. Our safety depends upon you ;
and if you only show the rascally savages your
true mettle, we’ll give them the slip yet. What
do on say, Ned?" ‘

ed said “I will," as plainly as an animal
devoid of reason can, and so increased his
speed that his rider saw with a thrill of he s
that he was distancing the savages. When e
changed his direction he had faint hopes that
the Indians would not follow him. He was,
however, sadly mistaken. As he gazed back
he could see at least a dozen in full chase.

Mile after mile flow under the feet of the
pursuer and pursued. For a half hour, Sum-
merfield distanCed his foes; then for a time
the space separating him from them remained
unchanged, but now he saw too plainly that his
animal was iving out! The savages were
gaining rapi y and surely. Nobly and pain-
fully, however, did his animal struggle for his
master.

“0 God!" exclaimed Summerfield, “am I
destined to die upon this friendless prairie?
Is there no avenue of escape! Save, Lord, or
I perish l"

Several times he thought of surrendering
without further efl‘ort; but he too well know
the consequences of such a course, and still
clung tenaciously to the faint hope that yet re-
mained.

Suddenly he saw that he was saved? Directa
ly ahead of him, he detected the white tops of
a number of emigrant wagons. It was the
Oregon trail they were pursuing across the con-
tinent, and he well knew that strong and
friendly arms were there. Although far ahead,
he dcspaired not of reaching them, but urged
his horse again forward. Soon he could see
the dark forms of the animals and men of thé

‘ and he raised a shout—a shout that
reached both friends and foes. The latter re-
turned it, and fired their guns at him; and
seeing that their rey had passed safely beyond
their reach, they halted, paused a moment, and

gslloped away.

_.

CHAPTER V.
rnr: EMXOBANTB.

Tm}: are times when it seems that Provi-
dence interposes directly in our behalf. We
are sometimes almost tempted to believe that
the days of miracles have not yet gone from
earth, and are assured that hardly aperson lives
who cannot point to some day when the hand
of his Creator was made visible—when he felt
that something more than mere circumstances
governed his destiny.

When a man is brought so near death as to

' of life, and is then saved, he is certainly

‘in the best frame of mind to believe thus ; and
. If ever a fervent prayer of thanks ascended to

this savin Power, It did from George Sum-
merfleld’s cart as he rode forward toward the
emigrant train. He could not but believe his
m was miraculous.

 

His friends roved to be a company on their
way to the ' ds of Ore on. As may be sup-
posed, they evinced no 'ttle surprise at our
hero’s appearance among them, and over-
whelmed him with questions and congratula-
tions, all of which he pleasantly replied to, as
his almost exhausted horse slowly made his
way toward the centre of their train. They
numbered about a hundred, all told, and were
well provided for the sufferings and dangers
before them.

“ Rather a narrow escape," suggested one of
their number, looking up in Summerfield’s face
with a quiet smile.

“ Yes,” returned he, “ rather narrower than
I care about experiencing again.”

“How far have you been coming at this
rate!"

“ I can hardly tell. I suppose over a dozen
miles. Had you been a mile or two farther, I
should never have reached you."

“ What isthe prospect of their gathering for
an attack on us, now that they have discovered
our train ?"

“ Very certain," answered Summerfield.
"There are over one hundred Kioways in the
baud, out on the war-path, and you may ex-
pect them down upon you this very night.”

This alarming piece of intelligence was soon
communicated through the company, but they
Ill proved themselves men and women. There
was a knitting of brows and compression of
tips that showed the terrible determination
upon the part of the men; and though there
was more thanone blanched cheek and quiver-
ing heart among the women, yet nothing of
fear was said, and when Summerfleld cheer-
ingly remarked that whatever afl‘ray there
might be, it would be a short and decided re-

ulse of the Indians, there seemed something
'ke cheerfulness to again pervade the com-

pany.

Our hero felt nearly furnished, and yielded to
their urgent solicitations to eat. The company
having concluded to halt for the night, he dis-
mounted, and seating himself upon the ground,
waited for his food. He was wearywith his long
race, and the repose of security was not un-
welcome to his spirits. He was at length
aroused from his half sleep by a sweet voice
bending over him.

“ Your food, sir!"

The young man sprang to his feet, as if the
word “ Indian" had been whispered in his ear.
There stood before him a very beautiful girl
of eighteen, bearing in her hands a platter, on
which steamed a savory repast. Instantly the
blood shot to his heart like a thunderbolt;
then it rebounded and spread over his face like
a sunset glow. He was confused, and trem-
blineg took the proffered dish. His eyes met
those of his fair purveyor, to find them strug-
gling like his own, to find some other object
upon which to rest, yet, like the charmed
bird, unable to look away. Italics a moment
of mutual surprise and emb sssment ' but
why so, did neither know.

“ Can I do anything more for you ?" she at
length asked, hesitatingly.

“ Oh-ah—yes—as I was going to observe. I
think so, too," he replied, not knowing to what
words he was giving utterance. He saw a quiet
blush and’smile upon the face before him, that
disclosed the beautiful teeth she possessed, and
convinced him that he was making a fool of
himself.

“ If you wish anything, sir, just speak to
this gentleman. "

“ Excuse me!" he added, blushing and stam-
mering like a boy. “ I misunderstood you. I
believe you spoke of the weather. Rather
pleasant, I think. Don‘t know but what we
shall have a storm, however. "

"I observed that if you wished anything,
you had only to speak to the gentleman at

and, " she answered, with a halfdcoquettish
expression.

“Thank you, thank you, I will. My mind
was so busy that I did not head your remark.
Excuse me, will you ?"

“0h, certainly, sir. I supposed you were
deeply meditating upon something,” she re-
turned, turning and walking away.

“ Hal ha! ha!" laughed the friend referred
to, who had been curiously gazing at this in-
terview, “ I do behave now that you were
struck. But you ain’t the first one, old boy;
and I spose it won't do you no good, for she’s

at enough fellers' hangin' on her hps. But

lame me," he added, sobering down, “I be-
lieve you're good enough lookin' to out many
chap you're a mind to.

 

Summerfleld, as he saw that ho had be.
observed, blushed deeply, and at the last [0‘
mark he felt a throb of pain. He hoped that
the man would go away ; but, on the contrary,
he walked closer, and added:

“Don’t blame you much, for she is a fine
gal, no mistake.”

“ Yes—don’t you think we're going to have
a storm?"

“ Ha! ha! ha! why, you're green.”

“ I confess," returned Summerfleld, recons-
ing himself, “that I was struck with her up
pearance, and was foolish enough, I suppose,
to show it. " (However, this latter fact was {A
from not pleasing him.)

“Wall, as I said, I don't blame you much.
for there are a great many fellers who've get
themselves in the same fix."

“May I inquire her name i"

“I spose so. ”

“ Well, what is it, then ?"

“ Miss Vennond."

“ What is her given name i"

“ I spose that was given to her.”

“ No ; I mean her other name.”

“ She hasn't got it et ; though I shouldn't
wonder if it should be Summerfield one of
these days."

“ Fudge i don't you understand me ?"

“ Yas, me and Viola both understand yer
feelin‘s, and I must say that I am sorry for
you," returned the imperturbable fellow with
a great ' “ Any more questions ?” he
asked, deliberately seating himself by Summer-
field's' side, and giving him a inch upon his
arm. Summerfield thought it est to preserve
his good humor, .and so he asked :

“ Where are her parents ?"

" Her mother is dead, and her father emi-
grated to Oregon some years ago, and she is on
her way to 'ine him. S’pose you wouldn’t
mind seeing er agin ?"

“Well, yes; I should be glad to," replied
Summerfield, with a poor attempt to conceal
his anxiety.

“ Wal, come along, and I'll give you an in-
troduc." ,

Thus speaking, he arose and walked toward
the main body, followed by our hero. A few
steps brought them to where the females wens
some seated and some occupied. All except
Miss Vennond arose, and busied themselves
with something. She was about to follow
their example when Summerfield's companion
spoke.

“Hold on a minute, Viley ; here's a fellas
what wants to get acquainted Mr. Summer-
field, this gal is Miss Vennond. Now, go to
work," he added, turning and walking rapidly

away.

Summerfield bowed .‘ow, and blushed deep-
ly. There was a slight flush upon the face of
Miss Vennond, as she spoke:

“ Pray take a seat, that is, such an humble
one as we can offer.”

Summerfield looked up, expecting his com-
panion to make some further observation ; but
as their eyes met,.each changed their direc-
tion, and they were silent. He nervously
rumbled his cap, but could think of nothing
that would be appropriate. To his relief, she
asked : '

“ Have you travelled much in this cozmtry '1’”

“ Well, considerable," he replied, changing

osition as though he experienced infinite re-
lief thereby. “ I passed over this country some
years ago with a company of trappers, and am
now going over the ground again."

Here came another vexatious pause.

“I have heard," commenced Viola, “ that
an attack from the Indians is apprehended,
and believe that vou brought the informa.
tion."

“Yes ; I was certainly sorry enough to in.
part such intelligence. ‘Forewamed, for.
armed,’ you know."

“ Certainly. And I heard, too, that you
narrowly escaped capture. Do tell me all about
it." I

'Summerfield, now relieved of all restraint.
gave a modest recitation of his adventure.
certainly thrilled him as he noticed the interest
manifested by his fair listener, and perhaps he
dwelt rather longer than was necessary upo-
thsfi niamtion. When he had concluded. she
a e :

“ And you do not know what became 0‘ ’0‘
com anions?”

“ 0; but I do not fear for them. They
were all well mounted, and wit-boat do“).
affected their aca e.”

"Oh! this wean must hetesriblo. In

‘ ‘

 

 

    

 

 

  
 
 

 

The Fighting Trapper.

7

 

7::

i have prayed that we might be saved from an
encounter! YetI feel, and know, that awful
scenes will be enacted before another day
dawns upon us. "

“I trust that we shall not have much trou-
ole,” returned Summerfield, hopefully. “I
am confident that your force is able to repel
them, and think it will be done in a short
time."

At this juncture, one of the females ap-
proached, and, a ologizing to Summer-field,
whispered a word in his listener's ear, and then
mixed away. Immediately Viola arose, and
m :
“You will have to excuse me, Mr. Summer-
‘field. My presence is demanded, and I cannot
refuse."

“Certainly. You must pardon me for de-
taining you thus long. But the minutes have
seemed as seconds, and I little dreamt that it
was thus late."

“No apology is necessary, for I labored
under the same mistake. Pleasure made me
forget time."

Summerfield arose, and added:

“As the evening is so close at hand, I sup-
pose that we shall not see each other till mom-

“ —If then," said she, gazing into his face.

“ Oh ! I see I am more hopeful than you are.
fit any rate, I will only bid you a short good-

y. ll
She extended her hand, and as he took it he
felt that it was in a perfect quiver.

“ Good-by, then Miss——-"

” Viola, I think, is better."

“ Well, good-by, Viola, and God be with
you." He felt his pressure returned, and
heard l. 3r low reply. Ah ! that pressure sealed
the business with both. As for Viola, she
wondered at her forwardness, and yet did not
to at it, and Summerfield confesscd to him-
sel'frthat his heart was lost—lost beyond re-
covery.

CHAPTER VI.
use Nronr ATTACK.

Ar last the darkness settled over the prairie,
and the emigrants commenced their prepara-
tions for the attack that each knew would be
made ere another sun should dawn upon them.
The wagons were arranged in the form of a
circle around another which held the females,
and within this circle .the animals were placed,
to prevent a stampede during the confusion.
There were some thirty or forty men, most of
whom were connected by ties of blood, and
most of whom had son. ethng more than their
own lives at stake. They had wives and chil-
dren whose fate dependei upon the issue of
the coming contest, and th are was a resolution
shown by its own fearful calmness, by the com-

ressed brows and set teeth, by the forms gli-
Sing silently back and forth, that they would
either die or conquer.

As soon as it was fairly dark the sentinels
took their statiom. These numbered all the
men, who placed themselves around the out-
side circle, where they stood with fingers on
the trigger, waiting and expecting the slight-
est sound or movement to be a signal from
Iheir deadliest foes. Tao night was intensely
dark, so that an enemy might approach within
a few feet without being discovered by the eye
of the keenest hunter. Smnmerfield took the
point from which he judged the onslaught
would most probably be made, and brought
the most subtle powers of his being into pla ,
in surmising the course that would most pro -
ably be pursued. He formed his conclusions,
which in the end proved correct.

Several times he was upon the point of dart-
ing to the wagon containing the females, for
the purpose of reassuring them, but prudence
restrained him, and he remained at his post.
116‘ did not know but that the Indians were
waiting for some such negligence upon the
Kart of the Sentinels to commence the contest.

‘hey had done such things more than once be-
fore.

Summerfield’s nearest friend was a few yards
off, and of course invisible in the darkness.
Several times they exchanged a word or two,
but it was agreed, after a while, to remain si-
lent, as their situations might be betrayed to
the savages by the slightest inadvertency on
their part.

In about an hour the darkness seemed to les-
un, so that ohiecte could be dietinguished a

 

few feet distant. Summer-field had remained
listening intently during this time, but hearin
no sound of danger, he as about to risk a wor
with his friend, when he fancied he heard a
noise as if of some one gliding upon the ground.
He peered forward, and was certain that he saw
a human form flat upon the earth. He waited
a moment, and then saw it hitch forward, toward
the next wagon. Hardly knowing what to make
of this he stepped forward toward it, when it
suddenly leaped to its feet and sprang away.
He would have fired had he been certain that it
was a savage, but he feared that it was one of
the emigrants, who had adopted this ruse to
see whether a proper watch was kept. How-
ever, as it was, he concluded to give the signal
of danger, and accordingly, placing his hand
to his mouth he gave two short, trembling
sounds, loud enough to be heard by all, and
his surprise was great upon hearing it return-
ed by several, thus showing that he was not
the only one who had detected danger. He
determined to speak to his neighbor.

“ Say, friend, have you heard—"

The rest of the sentence was drowned in a
thousand terrific yells and shrieks, that sent
the blood shivering back to his heart! Then
came the deafening crash of fire-arms, the
whizzing of bullets. and shouts as though a
legion of demons were struggling for life. He
saw shadowy forms springing and leaping
around him, and in a second he was in the
midst of the fiercest fight that he eVer Witness-
ed. Some half a hundred Indians had made a
rush, expecting to carry everything before
them, but were received at the very muzzle of
the rifle. The savages were determined to
break through the circle and drive off the
horses, and slau hter the women and children,
and the whites inwardly swore that not one
should accomplish this unless it was over their
dead bodies. At the first second the gims
were discharged, and drawing their knives,
the two parties fought like tigers. Summer-
field felt fired by the contest, and in a wild
mustacy of excitement he leaped forward, and
in an instant was grappled in with a powerful,
swarthy savage. Together they rolled to the
earth, the savage desperately endeavoring to
wrench the rifle from Summerfield, who,
strangely enough, had not yet discharged it.

Numbers rushed over the prostrate, writh—
ing bodies, but noticed them not. Before
they were aware of it, they had risen to their
feet, and still continued twisting and striving
for the rifle. One hand of the savage was
closed around the barrel at about half the dis-
tance from the muzzle to the breach, and the
other was upon. the stock, while Summcrfield‘s
right was upon the lock and his left upon the
end of the barrel. Quick as lightning he thrust
his left hand forward, forcing the muzzle in
the face of the savage, and raising the ham-
mer. the rifle discharged its contents through
the head of the savage!

At this very instant the Indians made a
break and rushed into the circle, and now in-
deed commenced the struggle“of life and death!
The whites well knew their situation, and as
fiercely and madly rushed they among them ;
thus in a moment they were driven tumultu-
ously back with half thoir number either dead
or in their death agonms upon the ground.
But this was not accomplished until the second
wagon had been reached and its inmates scat-
tered! Thinking that all hoye was gone,
many of the women and children rushed out,
and in the confusion several were slain and
captured, and among the latter was Viola Ven-
nondl Summer-field had an instinctive know-
ledge or presentiment that she was in danger,
and sprang toward the wagon. Just as he
reached it, he heard his name called in fren-
zied accents, and turned to rush in the direc-
tion from which it came, when he felt that he
was shot, and, as his brain reeled, he fell to
the earth.

When he recovered, the noise of the battle
had entirely ceased, and in its place he heard
the means and strug les of the dying around
him. As he arose to 's feet, he found that he
had been severely wounded in the side, but in
the state of his feelings he felt but little pain.
Several fires had been kindled; the wounded
were placed beside them and guarded and
watched by their mourning friends. Summer-
field passed hurriedly around the circle, and in
answer to his anxious inquiries was told that
Viola, with several others, had been carried
away by the Indians. It is true that this was
what he had expected, yet he felt nearly over-
come by the intelligence.

 

 

 

He examined his own wound, and foundthet
it was necessary to attend to it immodiately.
The others were all occupied, and, without
seeking assistance, he bandaged it as well on
possible under the circumstances, and then
passed among the others to see what assistance

9 could render.

At last the morning broke and showedtho
full horrors of the night’s events, yet Summers
field was lad to find it was not so bad as ho
had feare It was found that but five of the
emigrants had died, while nearly allof the
rest were wounded, yet none mortally. Two
females, besides Viola, had been carried away.
Nearly twenty savages lay stark dead around.
showing how dreadful and fearful the contest
had been. A few of the animals had been
killed, yet not enough to seriously disable the
company. A large grave was dug, into which
the five bodies were placed and coveredu
when preparations were made to resume tbs;
mournful march.

The bodies of the Indians were left lying
above ground, where, in the clear air, they
might preserve their form and every feature for
many a long month, and about noon the trail
set out upon their gloomy march.

Summerfield debated long whether to ee-
company them or not, but at last decidedto
leave them. The distance to Oregon was
great, and there was, in fact, nothing to draw
him thither, while he experienced a desire to
not leave the neighborhood in which he an
posed Viola to be. He believed that the tri
which had captured her was at no great dis-
tance, and that it was in his power to rescue
her. Accordingly he bade his friends adieu,
and changed his direction more to the north,
hoping to intercept or come upon Vannoveu
and the rest.

A lover—especially a young one—rarelypoe-
sesses more reason and foresight than he
should, and it was not at all strange that Sumo
merfield should indulge in some wild and
improbable speculations, and form wilder and
more improbable determinations. As soon as
he was free from the caravan, he reined hie
horse into a slow walk, rested his arms 11
his sides, and commenced meditating. 3
not to be denied that heurs flew past, yet
found him undecided. Night drew slowl on.
yet there was nothing in sight but the en so,

oundloss prairie.

Casting a glance around the darkening horlo
zon, and seeing nothin but the monotonous
roll of the plum, be h ted, dismounted, and
prepared for his comfortlcss rest. First, he
turned his horse loose, cautioning him to re-
main within hailing distance, and then spread
his blanket upon the earth. Then he looked
at it a moment, and lying down upon one edge
and coiling himself up, took hold of it with
his hand, and rolling over several times, he
was so completely wrapped up that nothhozfi
but his head was visible. His wound so pain
him that he was compelled to lie in a certain
position to secure a comfortable slee .

'For a long time he lay, giving f scope to
1113 airy imagination, and forming new and
even wilder determinations, until, feeling the
drowsiness of slumber coming over him, be

invoked the watchfulness of Heaven, and wn '

soon oblivious to all external things.

He had slept probably an hour or so, when.
from some cause unknown to himself, he
awoke. _ lie supposed he must have chan all
his positlon during sleep so as to pain in
wound, and thus cause him to be disturbed;
and, after lying quietly a few moments, he
again fell asleep. A few minutes after, he
again awoke in a (perfect shiver of terror, just
as he had reache the culminating oint of a
horrible dream. Although believing is wound
was the cause of it, still he ex erienced a
culiar dread, that led him to w his bl at
more closely around him, and prevent himself

from looking out to see whether there we.

any cause for alarm.

He lay quietly, endeavoring to fall esle
when his heart leaped as he heard, not far
the sound of footstepsl
might be his horse; but he was too we ee-
quamted with his step to be deceived. He was
confident that human beings were around him.
It was they who had awaked him.

For a moment he hardly breathed, listening
so. intently. Then, as a faint hope that he
might not have been discovered began to

ring up, heafelt some one
b anket, and as it came off, e looked up M
saw a number of dusky forms around hint; .-

“Eh. white! dog! am!" said one. am

At first he then ht it, J -\

ull rudely at hi! “

\;.
\q.
.

 
   
 
 
  
  

 

8

The Fighting Trapper.

 

_..r

his bony fingers upon his arm like rods 01
Iron, and actually lifting him to his feet. Sum-
lierfield said nothing, but suffered himself to
50 led silently away.

CHAPTER VII.
osr'rrvrrr.

Paula! Summerfield's state of mind may
be imagined, as the overwhelming sense of
his con ition came upon him. His dejection
Ind melancholy were painful, and he had,
In fact, been suddenly hurled from his nin re-
gions of bliss to the chilling reality of woe—
. transition from hope to despair.

His captors jerked him rudely forward. giv-
ing vent at intervals ,to fierce and malignant
curses and threats in broken English ; and
their expressions of hate and intended venge-
ance were so constant, that he realized too
well the fate intended for him. One of them
had secured his horse, although all were
mounted. He was placed upon one of the In-
dian beasts, and with a wary enemy upon
oitlmr side, they broke into a canter and
struck toward the southwest.

The savages who had thus come upon and
captured Summer-field, belonged to the Pawnee
tribe, and were a portion of a war party. They
numbered but five, who had voluntarily sepa-
rated themselves from the main body during
the do , and were returning toward home,
when t ey discovered a solitary horseman pro-
ceeding leisurely over the prairie. At first they
were disposed to shoot him down. but. as he
did not appear to know that he was observed,
they concluded to capture him by strutagem,
if ossible. Accordingly, they kept him in
lig t until night, when they set rapidly for-
ward, and late in the night, came directly upon
him, sleeping upon the earth. One or two
proposed to tomahawk and scalp him as he lay
asleep; but, after a short consultation, it was
determined to capture and reserve him for the
torture. This was successfully accomplished,
Ind they set out to reach their tribe.

The captors journeyed forward, after a time,
without exchanging words, save now and then
to utter some warning threat to Summerfield,
when they judged that there was danger of his
not fully realizing the pleasures that were in
Itore for him; yet their glances seemed to grow
more baleful and demoniac at every stop, and

,the captive concluded that, if there were ever

devils incarnate, they were now beside him.
The continued in nearly a due northwest di-
rection, sometimes, however, proceeding more
to the north, until noon, when they halted for
I few minutes. This was only to breathe their
horses, for they partook of no food, and were
Ihortl en mule again. In the afternoon they
forde several streams of considerable size,
and reached a. country of a _much wilder and
more romantic appearance than what they had
passed through heretofore. Summer-field had
never been so for north, and oven in his pros-

' ent situation he could not help admiring the

enchanting scenery around him. He believed
that he was far beyond the trapping grounds
of the whites, and where no human execpt the
savage had trod, and where but few of them
even wandered. At.first he had hoped that
they would remain in the neighborhood where
he bclicved Vic and Seth to be, but he was
now Well satisfied that there was no hope for
him on that ground; that what efforts might
be made for his escape, must be made sole]
by himself, and what success crowned them,
must rest upon his own endeavors.

Just as the sun was setting, they reached
the Indian village. It was composed of some

thirty or forty rough wigwams or lodges, ar-

ranged so as to form a rough, irregular street.
As soon as the savages came in sight of it,
they uttered three long echoing yells, which in
a moment were returned by a. hundred lusty
throats within the village. They then rode
forward and entered it, and were surrounded
lay a multitude of women and children,jab—
beling and screaming like wild beasts. Sum-
merficld the dragged mercilessly, from his
horse, and, 3. though they could nothpr ob.

serving his condition, yet he was subjected to ‘

all manner of barbarities. The women jerked
and pushed him, the children belabored him

' with sticks, and pulled his hair from his head

by the roots. He was nearly stripped, and un-
derwent all indignities possible. At first be
. disposed to resist these liberties. but he

 

saw that it was utterly useless, and made no
effort or attempt. His captors had left him
with the women and children, and gone on to
the extremity of the village and joined the rest
of the warriors. Snmmcrfield hoped that they
would, after a while, take pity upon his condi-
tion and let him remain. But he was mis-
taken. The evidences which he gave of suf-
fering only increased their fiendish delight, and
they continued to torment him with greater de-
termination. He sank to the earth, but was im-
mediater overrun with children, who scream-
ed with plensure. He saw that he would be
killed shortly should he remain thus, and
sprang to his feet. hurling his tormentors madly
from him. He felt the fever increasing in his
veins, and already his vision was becoming
strange and dizzy. It appeared as though he
were dreaming, the ground seemed rising and
turning, and he reeled like a drunken man.
Several times a true sense of his situation and
condition flashed across him, and then all was
lost in one wild, wonderful illusion. He was
raving mad!

The young savages paused a moment as they
saw the unearthly light that gleamcd in his
eye, but in an instant they sprang upon him
again. As quick as lightning he leaped for-
ward, bearing a half-grown boy to the earth,
clutched him by the feet, and swinging him-
self clezm around, dashed li's head against the
earth, crushing the skull, and scattering the
brains in every direction! Then, giving vent
to a half shriek and yell, darted away with the
swiftness of the panther.

This latter movement had been seen by sev-
eral warriors, and they instantly rushed after
him. Summerfield's unnatural strength lasted
but a few moments, and he had gone but a
short distance when he stumbled, fell, and was
unable to rise. In a moment his pursuers
were upon him, and had raised him to his feet.

Summerfield stared idiotically at them. Per-
haps at that moment they understood his con-
dition, and their ny hearts wore touched
with pity. They g zed at him a moment, and
listened to his wild, incoherent raving, and
seemed to understand that his senses were
gone. They consulted a second or two before
returning. One proposed to brain him on the
spot; but the others determined to take him
back, doctor him until he had fully recovered,
and then carry out their favorite idea of put-
ting him to the torture. Accordingly, laying
firmly hold upon him, they led him‘ slowly
toward the village. The young savages came
swarming toward him, and several sprang at
him, determined to fully avenge the death of
their companion. The men, however, kept
them back, and restrained the demonstrations
made bythe infuriated squaws. These latter,
too, when they were made acquainted with the
captive‘s condition, seemed to feel a degree of
pity, and checked their cries and threats.
Summcrfiold was led to the extremity of the
village, to an odd, strange-looking lodge,
where dwelt the “medicine woman” of the
tribe. Here he was left in charge of the old
woman, and most of the rest, in )bedience to
her commands, left for their several homes.

The medicine woman watched and attended
Summerfield with the kindness and assiduity
of a mother. As she placed him upon the soft
bed of skins, he had a lucid moment, and re-
alized his condition ; yet he judged it prudent
to conceal the fact that he had regained hi?
senses, and still affect delirium.

The lodge consisted of but a single room—
largc, square, and with one opening for ingress
and egress. It was hung around with many
diiferent kinds of skins, and with many Indian
garments. At one side, over a small, smoul-
dering fire, was suspended a common kettle,
with the contents of which she busied herself
as Summerfield was thus taking his scrutini-
zing survey of the interior. He gazed with a
strange fascination upon her repugnant fea-
tures, but his mind finally became drowsy and
wandering, and at last he dropped off into the
realm of dreams.

He slept until midnight, when, his fever in-
creasing, in a torment of thirst he awoke. The
medicine woman detected the movement as he
raised himself upon his elbow, and shuflied
quickly up to him.

“Waterl water!" demanded Summcrfield.

She gently forced him back upon his bed,

and in answer to his wish, poured from the,

kettle a steaming fluid which she placed to his
lips. Ho swallowed the contents eagerly. It
was bitter, and so hot that it fairly made him
writhe with pain. It. however. was an ant»

 

dyne, and in a moment so uieted his norm
Slat he sunk into a peacef dreamlese slum-
er.

We need not record the story of his convao
lcscence. His wound healed readily, and the
potent herbs of the medicine woman drove
the consuming fever from his system. In a
few days he was able to sit and partake of
nourishment, and in somewhat over a month.
he had entirely regained his health. As soon
as he was able, he busied himself in doing
small chores for his mistress-such as carrvm, ' g,
water, building her fire, and the other jobs-
that he saw was needed. He often anticipated
her desire, and sometimes took the vessel
pleasantly from her hand and hastened away
to accomplish her wish. This, of course, had.
its effect. She could not help bein pleased
(although she seemed to take pal-tic ar sins
to conceal it) at this exhibition of good, will
and obedience.

This woman, as has been stated, was the
medicine woman of the tribe, which position
she had held for some half dozen years. Pre-
vious to this, her husband had been the medi-
cine man for a great number of years. The
couple were never blessed with children, but
were cheerfully supported and sup lied with
food by the warriors of the tribe. amen any
were wounded in battle, they were brought to
this lodge, and remained until they either re-
covered or died, and those stricken down by
sickness received the same treatment that Sumw
merfield did. From long association with her
husband, this woman came, in time, to )sselzs
as good a knowledge of medicine as did 0, and
upon his demise the tribe unanimously da-
clared that she should fill his place. This was
not unexpected upon her part, for she knew
that none were as capable as herself. She was:
self-willed, and exercised considerable influ-
ence over the rest. None (lurst ever thwart:
her wishes. She beat the children when she
chose, and railed at the warriors and squeal
whenever the whim took possession of her, and
really was their queen.

One day, some two months after Summer:
field‘s capture, a couple of warriors came to
the lodge of the medicine woman, and de-
manded him for the torture. The only answer
she gave was a tremendous thwack over their
heads with a heavy stick, and the assurance
that he belonged to her, and she should keep
him. This was so unexpected that they ven-
tured to demur, which so enraged her that she
nearly cracked the skull of one of them, and
bade them never enter her lodge again. The
savages, much crest— fallen, slunk away and im-
parted the discouraging fact to the others that:
they were cheated of their intended prey.
There was considerable murmuring and rcmon-v
strance, but it was useless. The wish of the
medicine woman was law, and none durst.
cross her path.

Summerficld had been a witness of this in-
terview, and had learned enough of the Indian,
tongue to understand it. How it thrilled him
to the very heart when he saw that the terri-
ble torture had been averted! How he loved
the old decrepit womanl He felt like kneel—
ing at her feet and kissing her garments. But.
be checked his tumultuous feelings and en-
deavo."ed to exhibit no traces of the wild
pleasure that filled him. From the first, it.
was her intention to preserve his life and save
him from the others. She was getting old, and
felt the heavy hand of time upon her. She winh-
ed some one to fill the place of a son, and
determined to adopt the paleface. She moul‘t’
that he should be a son and a 611th [she
would have all claim upon him, and her right»
should not be interfered with by the others.

One day, late in the autumn, a war party.
which had been absent nearly a week, return-v
ed with a prisoner, and Summerfield learned.
that he was to be burned at the stake that af-
ternoon. This fact was communicatcdto bun.
by the medicine woman, who further inform—
ed him that she should be present, and We
him also permission to attend. He hit no
desire, however, to witness the torture 01' fl hu-
man being, and he felt that it would be safer
to keep away from the savages at such a tune.
Accordingly he feigned sickness, and remain-
ed within the lodge during the afternoon. He
could hear the wild, frenzied shouts and
shrieks of the tormentors, and thanked God.
fervently that he had been saved such a fate.
Toward nigll, the tumult ceased and the med-'-
icine woman returned.

Summerfield awoke at an early hour, antic
yielding to an impulse, arose and walked out!

 

 

 

 

 

    
  
   
   
 
 
  

 

 

  
   

l

 

 

u

The Fighting Trapper.

‘ 9

3

 

to In onpodto extremity of the village, to the

lace‘ where the wretch had been burned.

ere he saw a sight that made him shudder.
The savage had been bound to a small tree,
ands huge ile of fagots placed around him.
These hid {icon fired and had burned nearly
every particle of flesh from his body. Be-
low the knees, the bones were white and glis—
tening, Without a particle of flesh, while in
different parts of the body were clinging a few
crisped cindersl The ashes still contained
live coals, and the smell of burning flesh
filled the air. As he stood gazing at it, sev-
eral bones dropped to the earth, and, sick at
heart, he turned and sought his lodge.

A short distance from the village, flowed a
stream of chsidemble size, which was a trib-
utary of the Yellowstone. Summerfield had
determined that this should be the route of
escape. Some night he would set himself
afloat upon it, and conceal himself until his
enemies had given over all hopes of capturing
him, and then reach the trapping grounds of
the whites, discover Vic, and return with him
to the States. The following spring he fixed
upon as the period to make the attempt

But he was compelled to see the 5 ring and
summer months pass away without t a slight-
est chancc being given ; and, to make matters
worse, in the autumn the tribe gathered their
efllects together and moved farther to the
westward. This migratory life is led by most
of the savages of the far west, who change
their abode at any moment the whim takes
them. They will sometimes wander for a hun-
dred miles before deciding upon a place to
form a village ; and perhaps alter remaining a
few months, again take up their goods and
wander ofl" again. Like the Arabs of the des-
ert, they journey from place to place and call
no spot their permanent home.

Another winter dragged wearin by, and
Summerfield's chances seemed no better than
before. Sometimes the thought would come
over him that he should never escape, but live
and die among these savages; and then he
would resolve to make the trial at all hazards.
He would have a chance, and the worst result
could be but death, which would be no worse
than his resent moée of existence. But pru-
dence w ispered in his ear to wait, and the
time would soon come.

And during all this time he had not forget-
ten Viola. Many along and otherwise weari-
some hour had been passed in thinking solely
of her. He admitted that he loved her, and
something seemed to tell him that his ardent
passion was returned. He wondered what
tribe held her, and whether she was yet living
and unharmed. He sometimes thought and
believed that she was not many miles distant,
and the thought that he was securely fettered
was maddening ahnost to do oration.

And then again Summerfiol ceased his anx-
ious hopes, and reflected of his gentle sister,
far away in the States. Ere this she must have
known that he was either dead or a prisoner
ammig the savages. His fate seemed cruel in-
deed.

In the rin , ho was again awakened and

turned incarnotlger dirrtction. The tribe gathered
their effects together and made a long journey
to the southeast In fact this was carried
so 1hr that they located themselves directly in
the trapping ground of the whites. Summer-
field believed that the time for action had now
arrived, and determined that, in two weeks at
the most, his fate should be decided.

 

CHAPTEBVIII.
VIOLA'I ourrvrrr.

As has been recorded, the savages, during
their night attack upon the emigrant train,
succeeded in breaking through the line of
wagons, and reaching the one that held the
females, scattering its terrified inmates. Viola,
lea ing to the ground, was immediatel seized
in he arms of a powerful savage and home
rapidly away. She screamed and struggled
desperately, but it was useless, and in a few
moments was carried beyond the reach of
friends. She was placed upon a large, powerful
horse, and the company rode m‘pidlg forward
until morning, when they halts iola was

rised to see that no other captives were
wi her, when she felt certain that several
had been taken. She learned shortly, how-
... first the «man: had separated—the

 

other keeping them. Her own party numbered
some thirty.

Her captors journeyed forward most of the
day, and in the afternoon reached the Indian
village, which was somewhat smaller than the
one belonging to the Pawnee tribe. She found
that she was among the Crows, a great and ex-
tensive tribe, now inhabiting Minnesota. As
a general thing, for a number of years past,
they have been friendly to the whites, although
now and then a war party, fllmhed with thee:-
citement of battle, has been known to attack
bodies of emigrants; and it has often been
found that they have retained prisoners for
years. Their grounds are so far to the north
that but few opportunities are afforded for re-
covering any prisoner that they may chance to
hold.

There was much commotion among the In-
dians when it was known that a pale-faced
captive was among them. The squaws gath—
ered around, and there was more than one
baleful glance of jealousy at the fair face of
Viola. Her meek beauty and loveliuess exci-
ted the admiration, and at that moment she
was not conscious what a wild passion she had
awakened in the heart of more than on. sav-
age. She was taken to the lodge of the chief,
and given to understand that, for the future,
she was to consider this her home.

Viola felt that she was beyond the reach of
friends, and it was vain to look for succor.
Hope was gone, but she despaired not. She
determined to do her utmost to gain the good-
will of the chief, and beseech him to return
her to her friends. She behaved that she
could eventually prevail upon him to do this.

The chief of this portion of the tribe—for
it was but a portion~was a middle-aged man,
much beloved by his subjects, and one who
wielded an all-powerful influence. The royal
lod e situated near the centre, was much su-
perior to the others. It contained several
rooms, and was furnished with all the luxuries
that ever graced the savage life. The choicest
a artment was given to Viola. She thanked

e chief kindly, and accepted it with plans-

ure.
Viola busied herself in arranging the glitter-
ingbeads, and making small trinkets for the
two children of the chief. This pleased them
greatly, and in time they evinced a genuine
affection and love for her. They were both
boys, one adozen, and the other some ten years
or' ago. Their father often sat and grimly smiled
as they gathered around her with their child-
ishupleadings and thanks, while the mother
we (1 sometimes pause and utter some kind
word to her. Thus the winter passed and the
spring came. Viola had fixed upon this sea-
son as the period to snpplicate the chief to re-
turn her to the whites, when a strange circum-
stance occurred. There was considerable
trouble among the neighboring tribes, and
several bloody battles had been fought. In
one case a party of Crows had attacked and
nearly exterminated a small company of emi-
grants. In this attack they would have been
most signally repulsed had they not been as-
sisted and \ed by a white man! He seemed
perfectly b; side himself with fury, and urged
on the savages as long as there was a chance
to slaughter. Some half-Mozen esca ed only
by flight, after being pursued a great ' tance.
This white man had signified his intention to
remain and live with the Indians, and had re-
turned with them. When they wero told of
his great strength and prowess, they nearly
wore ipped him as a superior being, and his
influence was nearly“?!un to that of the chief.
The next day after ’ arrival, he married one
of the squaws and erected himself a lodge.
Viola had been told of his arrival, and her
first impulse was to seek him; but when the
chief communicated to her the circumstances,
plain sense told her to shun such a dangerous
and evil-minded man. She endeavored to
avoid meeting him, and for two weeks suc-
ceeded. But matters could not remain always
thus. Intelligence of her presence was com-
municated to the white man, and be deter-
mined at once to see her.

It was a pleasant day in spring that she was
seated in the chieftain's lodge, playing with
one of his children. Both the man and woman
were gone, and she was alone with the boy,
who was full of sport. Suddenly the door
was darkened. She looked up and saw the
veritable white man before her. He wasstamL
ing in the door, gazing curiously, with a half
gun at her. She started, and felt her heart
shrinkulheobservod hisv'ulzar Barn She

. “:6”. .v h K .. ,,
3». ,‘- ‘-.'m.,‘ .v‘i'k" Wu" ..  i 0- “a

 

nodded slightly, when, without heading has,
he remarked :

“ Rather warm dc. , this," at the same tlm.
liftihg his cap and rushing the matted hair
from his forehead.

"Yes," returned Viola.
h and take a seat?"

He stopped heavily in and seated himself
upon a rude stool, near the door. Then he
threw one leg over the other, whistlod art of
a song, then hummed it, and conclu ed by
ejecting a mouthful of tobacco-juice in the
face of the boy, and making a jump toward
him. Frightened and screaming with pain
the lad ran from the lodge as rapidly cabin
feet could carry him.

“ Waghl wagh l waghl " laughed the white.
loaning back and sla ping his knee with his
hand. Rather scar-t, guess. Wanted to get
'im out of the way, so could talk with you.
and ‘cluded to take a 'riginal way to do it.

Viola was justly indignant at what. she had
witnessed, and felt like rising and lsavin him
also ; but again something seemed to to he:
to remain and be civil to him.

“ So thov’ve got you, hev they 1’" ho
queried

“ Yes ; I have been a prisoner some tims' l

“ Yeah, like it much? '

“I am treated very kindly, although. of
course, I should prefer to be with my own
kindred"

“Yeah. Wal, being we're both white, pr
loastways I pretend to be, we mought as well 330
acquainted. My name is Sam Red-Id."

“ Viola Vennond is mine."

“Yeah. Dunno as I ever heard it. hen
the States?"

“ Yes ; from Kentucky."

“Yeah. Wal, I'm from the States, too, and
hev tram ed around considerable; but I got
among a ct of —— rascals, and ’cluded as how
redskins were as Ygood as any, and so I've took
up vgith 'em. on ’quaintad with any trap-
pers "

" There was a man by the name of Summers
field, who joined—"

“ What namois that?"

“ Summerfleld—George Summcrfleld, I be-

" Won‘t you step

lievc, who was with us a day or two, although ;

I did not see him after we were attacked.”
Viola was about to say more, but paused as
$9 saw the 1ffeiilrful contortion of Redzell'jzfeoo.
me owe emotion was stirring
soul. }Suddenly he spoke : W
“Ba , gal, do you see that 'ar mark?” As
he sai this, he turned his face toward her and
pointed to the cicatrized wound that Both had
won.
“ Yes, " faltered Viola.
“ Wal, that chap done it!’
"What! Summerfleld?"

“He didn’t himself; but he's the cause of

it, and done what's as bad, and I‘ve sworn that.
of that fellor’s livin’, he’s ot to pa for it’
Yas, sir-onel" and he clone ed his spu-
modically and fiercely struck his knee. He
continued muttering a few moments. and than
an embarrassing pause to Viola followed. At ‘
last, to change the subject, she asked:

“Did I understand you, Mr. Redzel, to so
this; you intended to spend your life with thg
hi 6 I.

“I don’t know what you «mien-stood, but
that's what I said, and what I intend to do, too.
As long as whites live, why Sam Rodzel Ain't
goin' to live with 'em."

“I suppose that you have great cause I. i

provocation. "

“ That’s so, "

"I would think you not to address me
than," said she, provoked at his coarse m
on y.

"Whow! how than, has P

" Any way but that.”my W

“ M is: Vennond do?”

“Yes, sir." .

“Oh! no. Vily, Vily; that's it, that's 1‘
Shoot my old hide, Vi] , of on ain’t good

lookin'. That's the fact. ' An he arose and ‘ 

patted her cheek. ,
“Mr. Redzel, I would thank you very much
to treat me as the savages do," said she, vi”
cutting indignation, tuning and seating has.
self away from '
“Wal, now,
1': just in fun.”
“I don't care about mch fun a. flat."
“Yeah. I wouldn’t one either.“
"And I wouldpreferto be slow."

«we. blast e,bealcne then!‘ a“? 

“hem-eunuch

x

- ".~ i flat-i193?

Vily, you ain‘t mad,   a,

    

V10

m

.116 Fighting Trapper.

 

 

r m

 

At thigfiuncture the chief entered, and Viola
related that had occurred. He Was ro-
voked, and assured her that it should not ap-

n again. She seized the present opportuni-

to rees her suit.

y not send me away, and thus be rid of
the trouble I cause?"

The chief was perfectly taken aback at 
He gazed at her, as if doubting her senses.
She repeated the question.

“Oh! Mascanagh cannot spare the white
maiden."

“Why not? She does no good, and how
did he do before they robbed her of her
friends ?"

“No, no; she is a part of his household.
Mascanagh cannot spare her. "

“ 0 Mascanagh! the white maiden has
wrought for you, and been pleased with your
smile and disheartened with your frown. She
has done all that she can to soften your heart,
and will you not now restore her to her home ?
Oh! do not refuse me thisl"

The chief seemed affected, and shook his
head. Viola sank on her knees before him.

“ O Mascanagh, refuse me not this I”

“Arise,” said he, lifting her to her feet,
“ and I will talk with thee."

Viola’s heart throbbed at this, and she raised
her streaming eyes to his.

“The way is long," said he, “ and who will
guide thee?"

“ Can you not ?”

,“ I cannot leave my tribe.”

“Surely there are many who would.”

“Viola,” said the chief, in a thrilling, ear-
nest whisper, “ had better remain with Mas-
eanagh. Many warriors love her, and should
she leave with any they would kill her. The
white man loves her and would make her
his sguaw. She has no friend but Masca-

h.
ImThis was a truth which had never crossed
her mind before. She had never dreamed
that she had awakened a passion in the breast
of an savage, much less in the heart of Red-
zel ; ut now that her suspicions were aroused,
she recollected many thin s which went to
strengthen the remark of a chief. She re-
membered many strange glances that had been
given her, and many strung actions upon the
part of several warriors.

“Cannot Viola be returned?" she asked,

mournfnlly.

“I will see," returned the chief. “Say no
more about it, Mascanagh will do what he
can for. the white maiden. Let her wai "

“Thank you! thank you!" exclaimed she,
fervently.

The chief arose and passed out, and shortly
on red with his wife. The boy returned soon
vi inflamed eyes, and the mother, enraged,
demanded that the white man should be
punished The chief said nothing, but he
an er was great. Viola consoled the child,
an succeeded in pacifying the parents. She
urged them to let the insult pass for this occa-
sion. She saw that, should a collision occur,
it would be a terrible one between the chief
and Redzel. At last they consented to over-
look the insult, but Mascanagh affirmed that
the white man's blood should pay for the repe-
tition of a similar act.

Meanwhile Viola waited and hoped. She
saw too plainly that half a score of savages
watched her every movement, and Redzel
dogged her steps whenever she left her lodge.
She felt alarmed at the state of affairs, and
earnestly hoped and prayed that she might be
delivered fi'om the fate that seemed impending.

 

CHAPTER Ix.
, IIOAPI urn run ’rnnrns or A near.

‘ Summtn, by long and seemingly cheer-
ful obedience to the medicine woman’s veriest
whims, succeeded in convincing her that he
meditated no hope of escape, and was willing
to reside with her tribe for life. Several times
she had hinted that there might be opportunity
offer, but he stated that, as he had no friends
among the whites, he cared not to avail him-
self of it ; and thus, as we have said, she came
to believe, in time, that he was contented with
his lot. Thus he gained considerable liberty
for himself, and was often absent for a long
time from the village without exciting any ap—
prehensions upon her part.

One morning he arose. and taking one of the

 

medicine woman's rifles, told her that he be-
lieved he should spend the day in hunting.
She made no objection, but admonished him
to be on hand before evening. He promised
obedience, and, throwing the gun over his
shoulder, stepped lightly forth. The hour was
so early that, as he gazed about him, he saw
that the village was not yet astir.

But he was seen. There happened, by
merest chance, to be a warrior who observed
him leaving the village. This savage was his
greatest enemy, and had abused him upon
more than one occasion. Seizin his rifle, he
stealtth and silently followed ummerfield,
who dreamed of no pursuer.

When he left the village, he had no thought
of attempting an escape, but intended to gain
still more of the old woman’s confidence by his
punctual obedience. He had wandered but a
mile or so, when the thought suddenly flashed
upon him that the proper moment had arrived
to make the attempt! The wild hope thus sud-
denly awakened completely overcame him.
With a heart throbbing painfully, he seated
himself upon the earth and gave way to his
emotion. In a few moments he mastered it,
and began calmly reflecting upon the chances
that favored him. He possessed a trusty rifle,
and was well supplied With ammunition. This
was his only weapon, yet it was sufficient to
answer all purposes. And when would another
more favorable opportunity be given him?
What was to hinder him now? Could there be
a better combination of circumstances in his
favor? He would make the attempt. He would
have a day and mght before there would be
danger of pursuit, and in that time he could
place a lon distance between himself and his
enemies. es, he would make the trial at
all hazards.

He had just formed this determination and
arisen to his feet, when he heard a step beside
him, andlooking up, saw the form of an Indian,
whom he recognized as his deadliest enemy.
He affected no surprise, but gazed at him as
though his appearance at this particular mo-
ment was a matter of course. He could not
avoid, however, noticing the devilish grin that
was on his face.

“Eh! very brave, gone to run away! eh!"
said the savage, halting and gazing into his

ce.

Now that Summerfleld. had formed the de-
termination, he had also determined that
nothing should stand in the way of the at-
tempt. Besides, he remembered the indigni-
ties that he had received at the hands of this
savage, and he made u his mind that they
were finished. He sho d sufl'er no more.

“Who said I was going to run away?” he
demanded.

“ Eh, you run away i"

" Who said so, I say?" ‘

“Me say so! me say so!"

" Then suppose I tell you, you lie 1"

“What’s that? what’s that '1’" demanded the
savage, not fully comprehending him.

“ Nothing, only ou’re a terrible liar.”

“Me scalp you me scalp youl" shouted
“ta; Indian, his eyes glistening like a basi-

s.

“ I don’t know about that, my copper-colored
fi-iend ; it takes two to make such a bargain."

“ Give me gun!" said he, reaching for Sum-
merfield’s rifle.

“No, I thank you. I ain’t such a fool as
that- II

The savage was growing furious. He saw
that his demands were refused, and he received
in turn insult for insult.

“ Yourun away ?" he asked.

"Well, yes, old copperhead, that's my in-
tention. Any objections? I find I am losing
time in alavering with you, and if you have
got an ' g to say, wh out with it most
mighty quick." Summe eld leaned very gra-
ciously on his gun, and grinnedin the savage’l
face.

“ Give me gun!" he again demanded.

“ Well, take it, then," said Summer-field,
teaching it toward him.

The savage stepped forward, but as his hand
touched it it was withdrawn, and Summerfield,
to console him in his disappointment, placed
his thumb on his nose, shut one eye, and
twirled his fingers in a tantalizing manner.
This was too much for the infuriated savage.
With a whoop of rage, he jerked out his knife
and sprang upon him. But Summerfield knew
that this movement would follow, and was
prepar d for it. Seizing his rifle b .the bar-
rel. h swung it quickly around head.

 

the stock down withan em
upon the skull of the savage. This done, he
again rested it upon the earth, folded his arms
over the muzzle, and gazed oomplacently at
his fallen enemy.
“ Come, old chap, how lo are an going
to lie there?” he asked at lasng y

The only answer was several painful twitter

of the limbs.

“Ill give you a minute, and if you don't
come to time, why you’re whipped. Do you
understand?”

Several struggles as before were the only
answer.

“ Well, old fellow, you’re whipped, and
whip ed about as nicely as you ever were in
your ' e, I reckon," said Summerfleld.

The savage still remained uncdnscious, for
he had given him a wound that would keep
him insensible for along time.

“ Being it’s you, suppose I relieve you of the
extra weight of these trinkets.” So saying,
Summerfield took a couple of knives from his
waist, rifle, and all his ammunition, thus leaving
him entirely unarmed, and supplying himself
as well as he could wish.

“There! when you come to, just give my
compliments to the folks at home, and reserve
my good wishes for yourself. Good-by."

He sprang away, for he realized fully that his
time was incalculably precious. The Indian
would shortly recover, return, and the pursuit
would be commenced. Capture would be cer.
tain death. The medicine woman’s inter-
ference would avail nothing, and should she
be convinced that her prisoner was endeavor-
ing to leave her, she would not resist the
demands of the tribe. .

He started ofi' likes frightened animal The
ground seemed to fly from under him, and he
hardly paused for breath ‘mtil the sun was.
high in the heavens. Then he found himself
upon the banks of a swift flowing stream It
was some twenty yards wide, and appeared
veg deep. The water was exceedingly clear
an limpid, and the white pebbles could be
seen glistening upon the bottom for along dis-
tance. He hesitated about entering it, for it
was icy cold, and it seemed nearly im ible
to stem the strong current. At le , how-
ever, he ventured, and resolutely p ed in.
It sent the shiver through his frame, at he
breasted it manfully and succeeded in soon
reaching the opposite bank. He judged it was
now past noon, and concluded to rest awhile
and dry his garments. His ammunition was
still dig and ready to use ; but he was startled
to fin that he had lost one of his rifles.
Though bound to his back upon entering the
water, one had slipped out and fallen to the
bottom without his knowledge.

Hardly a half hour was spent in refit. W116!)
he hastened on again. He travelled by the
sun, keeping in a southerl direction, and
carefully guarding against e tendency that
persons in his situation are subjected to {that
is, of journeying in a circle. Several times
he found that he had unconsciously changed
his direction; the utmost watehfulness was
necessary to guard a ainst a mistake that
might be fatal. He 'u ed that he could not
be far from the Blac Hills, and that he must

be ve near, if not directly upon the trapping '

groun of the whites. This fact nervede
with hope, and gave him confidence in the
chances before him.

As the sun had nearly reached the horizon,
he came upon the banks of another stream of
considerable size. This, he saw, ran from the
direction he wished to follow. Instead of
crossing, be determined to keep slang its
banks. There would thus be no danger of
travelling in a wrong direction, and a_certainry
of going south. The stream had its risein
the southern part of the Black Hills, and,
after flowing northward, united wit}. the
Sweetwater, and eventually joined the turbid
waters of the great Missouri. The journeying
here was comparatively easy also.

Ere night came upon him nature on an to
show itself. He was not only fatigued ut m-
tensely hungry, and felt that he must be“
food of some kind before he slept. Shims“!
enough, he had not come across any 8111116.
and it seemed that the country contained none.
But fortune favored him, for, all at once. he
stumbled upon a large bed of comma!” T11“!
is a species of fruit found in the river bottoms
of this section. It so closely resembles the
common radish, both in form and taste. that It
is often mistaken for it, and some have gone so
fares to assert that it isreallytbesarnefrun

‘ l

 e as.“

 

 

 

‘ .

9 ma. ...-.n

 

.I

 

W .

Ewing wild. It is more healthy and nutri-
us. and is robably a difl‘erent vegetable.

Having f y satisfied the cravings of hunger,
and as darkness had already commenced, he
Edged it prudent to look for a resting4place.

rdcring the stream were a number of large
oottonwoods, and selecting one of these, he as-
cended it. The branches were large and full,
and passing out upon one, he secured him-
self in such a position that he deemed no move-
ment of hisown could dislodge him. His rifle
rested upon the limb above him, and his posi-
tion was as really comfortable as it was pos-
sible to make it.

Resting thus pleasantly, it was not lon b -
fore the drowsiness of sleep came over ' .
Although he heard the clear, ringing yell of a
panther in the distance, he did not let it (he
turb his repose, but resolutely closed his eyes,
and was soon in the realm of sleep.

Toward midnight he had a startling dream
It seemed that he was running, Without arms
of any kind, and was pursued bya gigantic sav-
age, who gained rapidly upon him at every
stop. He strove, in an agony of terror to es—
cape, but at last in despair, sank to the earth.
As the savage sprang upon him, he endeavored
to scream, and—awoke, and found that he was

He clutched desperately at the limbs.
but it availed nothing, and gliding swiftly
through the branches he struck the earth. The
distance was short, and he was not hurt in the
least by the fell. He found, however, that he
was in a cold sweat of fear, and quickly as-
ccnded the tree again. The moon had risen,
and he could distinctly discern objects at a com
Iiderable distance.

He was provoked at this mishap, yet it was
the most rovidential circumstance that could
have be on him. Like many other misfor-
tunes, it was a disguised blessing. He had
been in the tree but a few moments when he
was stunned by hearing a twig break, and gaz-
ing downward, he saw, stealthily moving for-
ward upon his trail, the being of his dream!
A swarthy, powerful savage was coming direct-
] toward the tree! His head was bent, and

ummerfield \ all knew that he was seeking
his life.

There was no ime for hesitl- ‘ion. The sav-
age was upon Summerfield’ I trail, and the
bright moon enabled him to follow it rapidly
and surely. He did not deeu. he was so near
the object of his search, hit still was using
customary caution. The breaking of the twig
was a strange accident. The whole truth
flashed across Summerfield at once, and reach-
ing up and taking his rifle. he took a nick
but sure aim at the savage and fired! here
was that cry of agony, the leap in the air, and
he lay a quivering corpse beneath the tree.

“God grant that there are no more!" ex-
claimed the fugitive, hastily reloading.

H9 waited in fearful expectation a long time,
but 9'1 none others appeared, he concluded
that this must be the only one upon his track.
titer an hour or so, he descended to examine
the body. He was gratified to find that it did
not belong to the tribe he had left. It was prob-
ably some solitary hunter who had accidentally
come upon his trail, and with characteristic
cunnin judged it to be a white man’s, and
had to owed it for the purpose of slaying him.
Summerfield found that the bullet had entered
at the top of the head and passed out through
the back; of course he was stone dead, and
stark and stifi‘. Summerfield forced the fingers
apart, and took the rifle, his powder horn, his
bullet pouch, and his scalping’ knife. This
done, he ascended the tree, determined to
either bury the body in the morning, or care-
fully cover it with twigs and leaves.

Both rifles were loaded, and carefully ex-
tending them upon two branches overhead, he
arranged his position no that he might sleep
mthout danger of falling, and patiently waited
for the gentle goddess to come. He had lain
a half hour thus, ’and had reached that state
when one is neither asleep nor awake, when
he was startled by that long, indescribable
bwl of the wolf! It was a long way off, but in
a moment more there was another chorus,
nearer, and still increased by a great number,
In a short time came an answering how] from
nearly the opposite quarter, then another from
a ditferent point, and in twenty minutes it
seeured that the whole country was alive and
swarming with them! He supposed that a
number had scented his trail and that of the
savage, and had given these signals to the oth-
ers in the neighborhood. At any rate he knew
that the: were all centric; toward the tree,

 

The Fighting Trapper.

and would be there in an unpleasantly short
time.

They were hot the common prairie wolf, but
the real mountain wolf—an animal as much
fiercer and more courageous than the former
as is the bear to the common dog. At this
season of the year they were nearly famished,
and would hesitate to attack nothing. They
generally united in great numbers, and no_sm-
gle body could withstand their determined
onslaughts. Incredible as it may seem, instan~
ces have occurred in which the grizzly bear
has been overcome by their persistent and
prolonged attacks.

In a few moments he saw the lank form of a
large, gaunt wolf, and in an incredibly short
s ace of time the ground beneath the tree was
alive with them. They came from every di-
rection, and their numbers seemed exhaustless.
The foremost scouting the bod of the savage,
sprang upon it and tore it in s eds in an m-
stant. Soon there was nothin left but the
glistening bones, and they 8 ' snarled and
fought over these, scattering them in every di-
rection.

Then they turned their horrid, bloody jaws
up to Summerfield, as if to ask him to de-
scend. .

“ Yes, I suppose yo would hke to taste my
precious carcass," sai he. “No doubt In-
dian meat has whetted your appetite some-
what. but I think rather too much of myself to
mingle in your society. You must really ex-
cuse me. " .

The wolves were leapin and plungm up«
ward, fairly crazed by e taste of b 00d.
The moon was so bright that Summerficld
could discern their movements plainly. He
saw one large fellow become wounded by
the claw of another in the struggle. A small
quantity of blood issued from the wound, and
in a twmkling he was pounced upon b a score
of others, who tore him limb from lim !

“What a pit you wouldn’t all do that!”
said Summerfie d as he witnessed it.

As he had two rifles and plenty of ammuni-
tion, he determined to do it for them. He
fired at random. A sharp yelp told the_result,
and the snapping of jaws and growhngs of
hate betokened his fate. Summerfield waited
a moment, until he judged that this had been
devoured, and then discharged the second :1-
fie among them. All were instantly engaged
in the repast over the fallen one. Again he
fired, and again the same result. Their epile-
tites seemed insatiate. Summerfield re y
wondered whether the last wolf would not
still demand food after he had hel ed to eat
all the rest! Such a thing seeme probable
indeed.

He had just loaded his own rifle and placed
it above him for use, when it slipped .and fell
to the ground. The greedy animals immedi-
ately sprang upon it and clawed it as though it
were another victim. Summerfield immedi-
ately fired to withdraw their attention, lest
they should injure it. This practice he kept
up for nearly an hour, until he judged that he
must have slain over twenty. His powder was
now getting low, and be deemed it best to pre-
serve it for future use, Accordingly, reload-
ing it, he placed his gun above him and
engaged himself in azing down upon the
strange sightbelow. T eiractionsafi'ordedhim
amusement for a time, but soon they began to
alarm him. Some were leaping upward so fu-
riously that they caught at the lowermost
limbs, and there really was danger of their re-
maining upon them. All at once, Summers
field saw that one had actually reached and
was upon the limb! As quick as lightning he
caught his rifle and sent the bullet crashing
through his head. The brute rolled to the
ground, where, of course, he met the fate of
his companions.

Our hero judged it best to fire at intervals,
when there was a probability of the wolves
becoming too clamorous and furious. Eve
now and then he could see numbers approac
and join the main body, until nothing could
be seen but their dark, struggling bodies. As
the moon, at intervals, was veiled by some
passing cloud, their forms darkened, and re-
sembled some hideous denizens of the lower
regions. And then again, as their tawny hides,
flashing eyes, and glistening teeth, came to
view, their appearance was, if possible, more
horrid and terrific than before. Summerfiold
felt that his was certainly a strange situation.
He knew not where a single human being ex-
ce thiuiself was. He was alone in the For

est. driven to}: tree by a horde of famished

 

11-

wolves, and in the middle of the ht was
compelled to keep watch to save h' hon
one of the most crrible deaths that could b0-

Despite his fearful position and the terrific
noises around him, he began to |give way to 0
heavy drowsiness! He starts with term
when he foundit ' ' gu n him, andetron
to the utmost to ake it o ; but. strangen- it
may seem, he failed. He kept moving fl'fll
limb to limb, until it seemed thathiutrength
was entirely gone, and then, with a and want
of foresight, concluded to seat himself can-
fortably and watch the yelping wolves beneath
him! What might be expech followed-4b.
result that had nearl been fatal. In ten inb-
utos he was sound eeip!

Slowly, gradually, an surely, he commenced
' ‘ l The motion increased, and still he
slept! A limb brushedhis face and he awoke!
He felt himself slippin , sliding, sinking, sink-
lug, sinking, so horrib y! He screamed and
clutched like a madman at the frail '
but they lided like fiery serpents through
blistered ands! The wolves grew more furi-
ous and crazy! He yelled, and clinched and.
struck out like a drowning man! Still he sunk
lower, lower, lower, and it seemed he would
never reach the ground! Oh, the concentrated
horror of those interminable seconds! The
agony of a lifetime may be compressed into a
single moment! Summerfield felt like a writh-
in body of fire.

%ut soon he assed below the limbs! There
was an indescri able dizzy gliding though air,
and he struck directly upon the back of a
wolf! At the same instant, he gave a yell—so
awful, so agonized, that it sounded far above
the combined howls of the animals! His sud-
denfall and terrific scream startled, for one
moment, those directly around him, and they
darted a few yards away. It was his moment
of respite from a horrible death, and with a
full realization of his appalling situation ho
sprang iépward with the energy of d ' .
His han s grasped the low sweepingeml
above him. The wolves returned to their
prize quickly, but their very eagerness thwart-
ed their purpose, for, leaping from different
directions at the same moment they came incoln
lision and dropped to the ground in a contorth
shrieking mass. How recious was that mo-
ment! The power of ummerfield‘s muscular
arms was exerted to its utmost, and he had
succeeded in gaining his position on a lower
limb, when one of the brutes by a de ernte leap
fastened his fangs upon the man's cot. The
creature did not let go its hold. Maddenedet
this incredible tenacity, Summerfield shook
his limb desperately, and the wolf fell—his
ppisoned claws cutting to the bone of the as-

e, and stripping the moccasin from hlslecclb
ated foot!

Oowering and quiverin like an aspen, he
ascended to the topmost ' b, and clung till
the morning. He drew a deep breath, and
saw that the wolves were departing; one by
one they took themselves away, until none
were left. He waited a long time, and then
tremblineg descended. As he stepped to the
earth, the pain of his mangled foot causedhim
to drop as if shot. The nails of the well.
from their having clawed the putrid carcasses
of animals, had a peculiar poison upon them.
This caused his foot and ankle to swell enor-
mously. After a few moments. however. he
was able to stand upon it, and limped around
and picked up his nfies. His own was twang
yards from the tree! They were both co
erany scratched and disfigured, but not really
injured. Taking) these up, and his tattere
moccasin, bedab led with blood, he hobbled
to the brook, where he sat and bathed his
wound in the cooling fluid. There wasepoin-
ful smart at first, but he soon found it relieved
it, and continued his bathing until the swell'

she

 

had considerably dimini Then he cons
and thought upon the best course left for his
to pursue.

But one course remained, and that was to
pursue his journey as rapidly as possible into
the Black Hills, in whose fasmesses he could
find safety and, perchance, might meet with
some adventurous trapper. Should he be dis-
appointedin this, however, he could pursue
his way cautiously to the east, leaving Me
Providence to direct his steps. With as much
speed as his swollen limb would ermit. he
started on his way, first crossing e stream.
Tarrying on its opposite bank for a supply 6!
commotes, he was startled at hearing voicel-
He crept close into the heavy mass of rank.

—

    

12

The Fighting Trapper.

 

L r“

 

grass lining the bank of the stream, and then
peered cautiously out. Within a dozen yards
of him he saw three Indians following his trail.
He saw them leave the stream and go toward
the tree, where he heard them a long time in
conversation. Then they returned to the
stream and held another earnest consultation,
when they started rapidly on the back track!
They had thus given up all hope of recapturing
him, and he was safe from farther pursuit.

The explanation of their movement was
this. They had followed the trail of the fugi-
tive with much difficulty, yet with unerr'mg
certainty, to the point where it was lost in the
numerous tracks of the wolves, Here they
saw had been some fatal occurrence very re-
cently. They observed the bones of the
wolves scattered around, and, at the base of
the tree, discovered the skull and some of the
bones of the savage. This they supposed to
be the remains of Summerfield, and, of course,
nothing was left for them to do but to return
with that intelligence. Thus deeply are the
most direct providenccs often veiled. Sum-
merfield understood the meaning of the pro-
ceedings of the savages, and in the gratitude
of his heart he knelt upon the earth and offer-
ed up his fervent thanks to the preserving
Power that was thus watching over him. With
the knowledge that there was no pursuit came
a sense of conscious security, and he regarded
his ultimate escape as certain at that moment
as though he were in his native state. I

For two days he pressed on slowly. His
limb still pained him, but did not delay his
escape. During the afternoon of the second
day, when he had penetrated far into the depths
of the hills, he came suddenly upon the body
of a savage, but recently killed. There was
the bloody track of the bullet through the
breast, the scalp had been ripped off, and the
body shipped d! nearly every shred of dress.
It lay flat on the back, each hmb extended
wide, and the insects of corruption were
“ready at their work. He did not like this.
It roved that Indians were around, and com-
pefied him to exercise his utmost care. A
canon of the mountain now opened before
him, through which flowed a stream of consid-
erable size. Upon the banks of this he de-
tected infallible signs of beavers. There were
numerous tracks on the shore, and he was con-
fident that n. dam was not far ofl’. Examining
this bank closely, he came upon a lace dug
in it, and feeling carefully a few inc es under
the water, his hand touched the trap! There
were whites, then, not far ofl'. ThankHeavenl
He could hardly constrain his feelings from
giving vent in a shout.

He' roceeded up stream to find them. As
he ed on, he thought he heard a whistle.
Following the direction indicated, he could
soon distinguish a tune—yes, it was that melody
of the West, the “Arkansas Traveller!” Still
cautiously moving on, he came upon the
whistler. A tall, lank man, with his side
toward him, with a hat resembling a bee-
hive, and his arms folded over the muzzle of
his rifle, was contentedly whistling this melody.
Summerfield gazed a moment in speechless
astonishment Those ffightfully bent legs
could belong to but one person. Seth Potter
was standing before him!

.—

OHAPTEB X.
in: alnrrxe or rarnsns.

1'03 3 time, Summerfield was at a loss how
to proceed. Joy at this fortunate turn of af-
fairs completel upset his ideas fora moment.
At last he stro e hastily forward and laid his
hand upon the arm of Seth. I

“How are you, old friend?" said he, famil-
iarly, his face aglow with pleasure. The indi-
vidual addressed, without changing his pos-
ture. stopped whistling a second with the re-
mark: ‘ ~

“Wait a minute. Ijust got to the turn of
this tune,” and proceeded deliberately to finish
the “turn” of it ; then “ turned " himself,
.lo‘oked a moment in the face of the person be-
fore him ; stopped whistling ; dropped his
gun; stepped ack a pace or two, then Jump-
ad forward.

“ y thunder, it's him ! It's him! It’s
!I

And cafe ' Summerfield’s hand, he shook
zenl'pulled squeezed and twisted it, until

h1th wnthed with pain-

 

" For Heaven's sake, Seth‘, don't kill me!
You have hold of my hand.”

“ Yas, sir ; it's him! It’s him! Whoop!
I’d like to know where, in the name of all
that’s curus, you’ve come from? Why, sir, if I
hadn’t just squeezed your hand, I’d believe I
seen a ghost.”

Summerfield smiled. and at last broke into.
loud laugh.

“I’ll be darned if it ain't enough to set a
fellow crazy. Why, man alive, Vic and me
have been one winter trapping here, gone back
to Independence, come back here agin, and
just as we're going to tramp agin, you come
along. If that ain’t funny, why, that’s all."

“Where’s Vic and Jim 'x’" asked Summer.
field.

“Where’s Jim? He got killed at the same
time you did. You mind that great chase when
we lost you. Wal, the Engins got so close
they hit Jim's horse and tumbled him over.
Howsumever, that didn’t make no difference.
Jim kept on, jogging along as fast as before.
I told him to jump on my animal, ‘cause
you know there ain’t no hosses that I can’t out-
run. Jim wouldn’t do it, and bimeby he got
a piece of lead that throwcd him in his tracks.
That was the last of poor Jim. Jim was a
good chap." .

“ Where’s Vic? He’s alive, you say!"

“ Yas, yas ; he’s up in the ‘ Hole.’ He’ll be
down pretty soon. We’d better wait till he
comes. Let’s set down on this stone."

“ Ain’t there savages in this neighborhood ?”
asked Summerfield, as they seated them-
selves.

“Yas, a few; but they don't know we’re
about. We manage to keep the traps close.
Vic had a tussle with one down yonder yester-
day. He’d found out we’re about here, and
we seen his tracks where he’d been for two or
three days nosin’ around. He’s after our hair,
but lost his own."

“I believe Icame upon him a short time
since.”

“ Yas ; well, let's hear about your capers the
last year or two ; I want to know where you
come from, though them Engin fixens you
got on shows pretty near." A

Summerfield thereu n proceeded to give I
short, rapid sketch of is evperience from the
time of his falling into the hands of the Indi-
ans up to the present moment. He was often
interrupted by Seth. who was much excited
with his narration. When he had finished,
Seth asked :

“Do you remember Redzel, George—that
feller I had such a fight with?”

“ I don't think there is much danger of my
over forgetting him.”

"Well, sir, he’s up among the Crow Indi-
ans. Vic seen him, last winter, with a lot.
He's jined them—gone with ’em, and I ca’cu—
late as how that’s one reason why there’s been
so many murders ’mong the emigrants this
season.”

“The fiend! Do you think he has had a
hand in it ?”

“ He’s had more than a hand in it—he has
had both hands.”

“ Well, his disposition is evil enoug ."

“ Heigh! there comes Vic. Wait a moment,
and just keep shady."

Summerfield saw the well-remembered form
of the hunter approaching, and shrinking be-
hind Seth, veiled his face as much as possible.
In a moment Seth said, in a loud tone :

“ Come here, Vic ; here’s a redskin I catched
at our traps. I’ve been trying to get his top-
knot of, but can’t manage him. Quick, I
want your help I”

“Just jump out the way and let me puts
piece 0’ lead through his head. ’Twont take
me long to settle the job for him.”

Seth sprang away, and the movement had
nigh been fatal. Vic was in the very act of
raising his rifle to his shoulder, when Sum-
mer-field threw up his hands with a clear ring-,
ing laugh. To have seen the trapper‘s a pear-
ance then! His expression of comic won-
der cannot be described. He stood a second,
then dropped his rifle, took the cap from his
head, shaded his eyes, and steeping slightly,
peered forward in mute astonishment. At this

oint, Seth commenced jumping and dancing,
ung his hat upon the ground, and went to
Item ing it, exclaiming at intervals :

" bath; the first time I ever got Vic. He’ll
have to give in now l"

Vic's eyes seemed to grow lighter and larger
each moment. He still stood in his prone po-
dtion. seemingly bereft of all. reason. Seth

 

continued going up and down, his legs flying
in every direction, until his foot came suddenly
in contact with a stone, throwing him heels
over head. The state of affairs was becoming
embarrassing to Sammerficld, and, steppillo
forward, he said :

“ Vic, don’t you remember me ?"

“ I guess so. Is’t you, Somefield ?” 1.0
gasped. 4
“ Why, certainly. How are you ?”

And the two grasped and shook hands so
only friends can. Seth approached, spread
his feet far apart, placed his hands in the pock-
ets which he had rigged in his dress, threw
his hat on the back of his head, and locker!
on.
“ You appeared to not know me, " said Sum -
merfield, pleasantly,

“Of course I knowed yer, but, bears and
buflers, who thort you’s him ? 1’s sartin it’s n
spirit I’s lookin’ at. Wagh! wagh! wagh!”

And the trapper threw his head back and
laughed—laughed till the big drops tumbled
down his cheeks.

“_ Vic, you’re a fool, " remarked Seth gravely.

He paid no attention to this, but ceased
laughing, stooped, picked up his gun, and

.{1 _

sai .

“ Somefield, this yer‘s the greatest time this
beaver ever seed."
. “ So I see,” returned Summer-field. “But
it seems to me that we have enjoyed this mix
priss long. Suppose we hunt up your lodgings
and return.”

As they proceeded, he continued :

“ Vic, is Wandaught dead ?”

“ There it is! Don’t you believe me!" de-
manded Seth.

“ Well, no ; I have some doubts about you!
respect for truth,” replied he, with a smile.

Seth gave vent to a “ Hump'h l” strode on,
and Summerfield looked to Vie for the answer.

“ Yas," said he. “ Jim went under a long
time ago, and died hard. Did‘ Crooked Pegs
tell you ‘P”

“ He said that he was ldlled in that chose,
where I left. you. "

“ How ?"

“ First, his horse was shot, and then he was.‘

“ Yes ; Crooked Pegs told the truth for one.
I guess he’ll be sick for it. "

“ Here, no personalities exce t on busi-

ness,” said Seth, taming his head alf around. .

“ Wagh! wagh! Just look at them pe s 0'
his. Did you know, Somefield, that he a or!
ties ’em round his neck when he goes to sleep!
Took me and J im—took me a half day to ontio
’em once.”

“ Shut up! Thunderation l" exclaimed Seth.

Summerfield had taken little interest in this
badinage and mille , but had been reflecting
upon the death of andaught.

“Vic,” said he, “tell me the particulars of
Jim’s death.”

“ Thar ain't much particlers,” said he, throv l-
ing aside his frivohty. “ His hose got hit a
little while after you left, and then next thing
he got hit, and saying good-bye, keeled over.
He wanted me to lift his h’ar to save it from
the devils, but they’re comin’ so all-firedly, I
hadn’t time. I hated to refuse Jim. 'cauu
Jim war a good feller, but I had to. He tun -
bled around hard until they come up, when
that’s some tall howlin’ and screamm’ over
him. We had to work to git ourselves 09'
and kept up the run till night.”

“ Despite himself, a tear crept to Summer-
field’s eye at this rude narration of the deat‘t
of one who had been his friend. ‘In his shor‘.
acquaintance, he had formed a strong friendship
for Wandaught, who ossessed better qualitiel
of head an heart than are generally fount'
among those of his class.

“ It was a great loss to you," remarked he,
thoughtfully. ~

“ Yas ; great loss," returned Vic.

There was something in the tone in which
this was uttered that startled Summerfield.
Had he seen the expression upon the speaker’l
face, perhaps he would have been startled still
more. But he did not, and continued :

“ I regret his death more than it scorned I
ever could. But, of course, there is no use of
regretting it. He has been dead a long time,
and I suppose both of you have come to regard
it with feelings that time has softened.

“Yes,” replied both, in that puzzling tone
again. Summerfield looked up, but. as they
were before him, he could not see the expreg.
sion 11 on their countenances. But at that in.
stant ooln'ng befind them, he observed .
hunter at some

mg.

' tunes, who was approach.

 

 

 

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“Ad‘-

. 2.».

.4439...  . .

6 .

 

 

 

.._._.‘._...,..._... ......._...-... ..

The Fighting Trapper.

13

 

" Who is that?" he asked, as the man drew

near.

“Lfeller what jined :1s a few days ago, re-
turned Vic.

“Isn’t that Wandaught ?" he asked, exci-
tedly.

"Spose he's come to life, too i" said Seth,
with a laugh.

Summerfield watched the stranger as they
neared each other, and was soon convinced
that he had not been mistaken. It was Wan-
daught. He said nothing, however, until they
were together, when he stepned out with :

“How are you, Jim ?"

The hunter hesitated a moment, but did not
evince as much surprise as either Seth or Vic.
He looked until he was sure of the person, and
then returned the salutation. Summerfield ex-
tended his hand, but it was not taken.

“ Why, what does that mean ?" he asked.

“ Didn’t you know I never shook paws in my
life ? I can’t do it. But, ole beaver, I can tell
you that Jim Wandaught is blasted glad to see

011‘!)

At this point the questions commenced. Sum-
menfield gave a short history of his principal-
experiences since they had parted, and learned
from Wandaught that neither he nor his horse
had been wounded in the chase mentioned.
Vie, all this time, stood gazing very compla-
cently upon them, giving vent now and then to
I loud gufl'aw, and finally bursting into a full
’augh. Seth had commenced whistling the
"Arkansas Traveller," but found great diffi-
culty in keeping his mouth in shape. Finally
he gave a and joined Vic. They enjoyed the
‘loke huge y. . ~ ‘

Nearly half an hour was passed in laughing,
explaining, and railing pleasantly at each other.
At last afi'airs were adjusted, and they came to
a sort of understanding. It was then deter-
mined to return to the “Hole,” or their lodg-
ing lace. This was certainly a stran e place.

tor walking some two or three undred
yards, they reached a spot where the pebbles
extended uite a distance from the stream, as
though it (1 once been the bed of some great
basin.

“ Now tread soft, and don‘t stir the gravel,“
said Vic, leading the way. Wandaught fol-
lowed next, walking as carefully, and then
came Seth, who, after touching his feet, seem-
ed to think it necessary to make a downward
bend of his knee at each step, throwing up
each arm at the same time. Going a few rods,
an abru t turn was made, when V‘ic halted be-
fore a large flat stone. Both he and Wan-
daught gazed cautiously around them a mo-
ment, when the former stooped and lifted the
stone, and disa peared beneath it. Wandaught
and Seth did t e same, and Summerfield sup-
posed that it was intended for him to follow
suit; so, without hesitation, he raised it and
s rang down some six or eight feet. .The stone
0 osed after him, and he found himself in inky
blackness.

“ Where under the sun are we ?" he asked.
groping about.

“ Down here," was the enlightened reply.

‘ - Ishould think—confound it ! ” he exclaim-
ed as he pitched over somebody at his feet.
He arose, and was about to speak, when his
nose came violently incollision with one of his
companions.

“ Come, don’t but me that way," laughed
W andaught.

“ How do you expect I am going to get
around here? I’ll knock my brains out pretty
soon," said Sumtnerfield, feeling blindly
or )und with his hands. Judging it best to
nc tmove until he understood his precise situa-
tiun, he seated himself upon the earth and
quietly waited for one of them to produce a
light. In a few minutes, Wandaught succeed~
e in getting some smoky substance lighted,
which threw its oily rays upon the faces of the
hunters. Summerfleld gazed about, and saw
a dingy and singular looking place. It was an
apartment some eight or nine feet wide, and
about a dozen feet in length, with unavamge
height of eight or nine feet. Connected with
this was another of about half its size. The
whole was so regularly constructed as to show
that, although Nature might have assisted, she
never had made it.

“ Well, if this doesn't beat all," said Sum-
mcrfield, in unfaigned astonishment. “ Did
you dig this out yourself, Vic ?"

" No, sir. This war hero ’fore you or I seed
daylight." and, being in a communicative
mood, be seated himself upon a bundle of furs,
end said '

' l. 5-, .

 

" About ten years ago, up at Fort Hall, I
feller, called Stumpy Bill, got into a muss with
a Seminole what blowed thunder through his
carcass, and then left. There didn’t nobody
appear to care nothin‘ about it, and so I nussed
him; but, I see he'd have to go under. The
redskin’s lead had gone clean through him.
Bill knowed he’d have to go, and the night
afore, he called me to him and told me about
this place. He said a feller had told him of it,
what happened to find it by chance once. He
said the redskins didn’t know nothing ’bout it.
and as there war plenty beaver here, it was a
mighty nice place. I’d been in this neighbor.
hood once or twice, and hadn’t much trouble it
find it. As he called it the ‘ Hole,‘ I 'cluded to
do the same. That ar war why I went alone fur
the last nine or ten year. Two or three time:
I thought 0' takin’ some feller, but put it off,
till these fellers joined me, when I brought ’em
to it. I hain’t changed it any, but left it the
same as I found it."

“ Is there not danger of your retreat being
discovered?"

“ Nary danger. I got chased by a lot of the
devils once, and ducked inter here orful quick,
and, skin me, of a couple of the all-fired fools
didn‘t squat themselves right square on the
stone up thar and go to jabberin'. '

“ You see," said Seth, who had seated him-
self upon a quantity of furs, “ they don‘t think
of looking in the ground for a house, and—"

“Just shut up that meat trap," said Vic.

“Rather a narrow escape,” suggested Sum-
merfield.

“ Not so narrow as I had once, for a red devil
did git in here once while I’s tendin' to my
traps. I come back, and wa'nt thinkin' o' n0<
thin', when, just as I lifted the stone, bang went
somethin’ through my cap—see, thar‘s the hole.
Wal, you’d better behave I dropped that stone
as quick as if ’twere hot. Thmks I. who's
down thar? Some feller's gone inter the wrong
bed, and it’s time he’s gitten’ out. 002 why?
This feller wants to git inl I know‘d as how
thar wa’nt but one, for if thar war, I‘d got all
their lead. So I just slips up to the stone thar,
and goes to groanin’ orful, makin’ b'lieve I’s
hit. Then I floundered ’bout like a sick
grizzly, and then fetched a mighty long grant,
and scratched and kicked the stones ; then gets
up soft, without makin' no noise, cocks Polly,
steps back and lays low, waiten for sarcum-
stances to dewelop themselves. Putty soon I
seed the stone move a little ; then it war still
for an hour or so ; then his noddle jumped out
and duckedin Tom I could draw trigger. In a
little while I seed the stone move a , and his
noddle come out mighty slow, lookin' just like
atappin' snorkle. He didn't see me, and kept
slidin' out. Just then I blazes away, and the
gravel-stones flew. I ran up and found him
gone under, the stone war on his back, an’ his
legs hangin’ down in the Hole. I lifted his
h'ar, and pitched him into the creek. That's
it hangin’ up thar.”

Summerfield arose, and, with curiosity, un-
twisted some long black hair from the tooth of
a beaver, that was driven into the flinty earth.
It was covered with dust, the hair was stiff and
wiry, and as he took it down the dried skin at-
tached to it rattled like coarse paper.

As it was now late in the afternoon, Vic re-
marked that he would pass out and see to the
traps. Accordingly he ascended and disap-
peared, and Summerfield proceeded to examine
more closely the curious apartment in which
he found himself. He turned to speak to Wan-
daught, but saw that he was stretched out and
sound asleep, while Seth was in the other apart-
ment with another light. -

The examination showed him but little that
he had not already observed. The walls were
hard and gravelly, and there was little danger
of their crumbling or falling in. In one cor-
ner was a large pile of beaver skins, while sev-
eral others were extended upon the ground,
forming rude but warm and comfortable mat-

tresses.

Summerfield (1 into the other apart-
ment where Se was preparing the evening
meal.

“Do you cook here ?" he asked, gazing at
some ashes in one corner. ,

“ Certainly—where would we?”

“Where does the smoke go ?"

“ There’s a hole up there, under a stone, that
lets it all out."

“But ain't there danger of the smoke being
seen ?"

“ We never have a fire except on dark
nights. at '

 

"Well, I must say this is the most fabulous
place I ever stumbled upon." ‘
flIW'I‘is funny. Made me open my eyes at
St." ¢

In a short time Vic returned, when Wan.
daught was awakened, and they sat down to
their meal. Not one forgot what had been the
custom of Summerfield on such occasions, and
with respectful solemnity, the three bowed
their heads while be invoked God’s blessing
upon the humble food before them. It was
certainly a pleasing sight to see these bronzed
and hardened trap are thus showing theirs.-
gard for the sacre truths of which they knew
so little.

The meal consisted simply of the tail of the
beaver. This really, when properly cooked, is
a delicious article of food, and much superior
to many dishes in vogue in civilized society.
At times it is the principal food of the trap-

er.

P The meal was enlivened by jokes and re-
marks, and after its close a long time was
spent in conversation and story-telling. Sull-
merfield again gave his own adventures, not
omitting any particulars except that which re-
ferred to Viola. Vic related several

episodes of his life, with which neither Wanp
daught nor Seth was familiar; and WC!!!
daught, in turn, recounted some exciting Id.
ventures which we will not transcribe at thil
point. At a late hour they all lay down, and
all were soon wrapped in repose.

.—

OHAPTER XI.
in Nicosia! nu) our or :1.

Tim morning after Summerfield's arrival,
one of the cold spells so common in that re-
gion commenced. There was a constant {all
of rain, and it required their utmost endeavors
to prevent it entering the “Hole.” The
Platte—for they were upon it—was swelled to
a rushing, thundering torrent, which rose above
its banks in a few moments, and carried every
trap awn . This, in itself, was not much of I
loss, as ey had more, and could easily eon-i
struct as many as were needed The storm
showed them that the spring had now set in,
and the trapping season was over. All agreed
that, as soon as the rain abated, they would
leave their quarters and start for the States.

Abouta quarter of a mile a the stream
their horses were picketed, and visited by Beth
each day. At the head waters of a creek
about fifty miles from the Platte, was the
war-ground of the Snakes, Cbeyennes, Crows:
and several other tribes, and our friends were
liable at any moment to receive a visit from
them ; so that, as may be supposed, their situ-
ation was not the safest one in the world.

One eold, drizzly afternoon, Seth, with the
consent of the rest, built a fire for the purpose
of cooking a meal. It was the worst time that
could have been chosen, as the smoke ascend-
ed very slowly through the orifice, and could
be distinctly seen by any one who chanced to
be in the neighborhood. In fact, the smoke
filled both a artments, so as to nearly suffocate
Summerfiel , and he besought them to extin-
guish it ; but, as it did not disturb the others,
they only laughed at his dilemma. The three,
however, resolved to have a whifi of air and
passed out, taking their way toward the stream.
Vic evidently did not feel at his ease about
the smoke and kept his eyesabout him. They
had hardly reached the stream when they were
startled by hearing the firing of guns and the
yells of Indians!

“ They’ve got Seth!" exclaimed Vic, dart.
ing away.

" The devil l" exclaimed Wandnught, follow-

gummerfield sprang after them, and in a mo-
ment discerned several dusky forms lea
and firing into the openin from which
had emerged A second a r, V’annoven
Wandaught discharged their pieces, andh‘zlth
yells of defiance, sprang in among them. ore

was a sudden clinching, and amid the with ,

ings of several shadowy forms, a bright etc!
flame would burst, and now and then s lads
would gleam on high, as the combatants cloud
in their deathly struggles. Summer-field, It
first bewildered, soon gained an idea of the
state of things, and rushed forward. When

he reached them, he saw several for!" dart,

sway, and not an Indian remained
the confusion. Seth had Invested. not

 

:1 _


11
-1

 

A the least. It seemed that the savages had
calculated u n discovering all within the
“Hole,” an had commenced an indiscrimi-
nate firing into it. Fortunately, Seth was in the
larther apartment, and was untouched. Sin-
garly enough, not a person had been slain.
. ere had been some sharp blows and cuts
interchanged, but none of a fatal character.
The Indians numbered not over half-a-dozen,
and were easily repulsed.

“ I calculate these quarters are getting rather
hot," remarked Seth, after they had descended
vd attended to their wounds.

“Yes; I should think a visit from half-a—
dozen Indians was a gentle hint that our re-
treat was disputed," added Summer-field.

“ Cuss it!” growled Vic. “They've found
- out this place, and they’ll burn us out ef we
don't leave blasted soon. I spose trappin’ here’s
done with."

“Yes; we‘ve got to move traps-that’s a
pinted fact," added Wandaught.

“Wal, boys. what's the word ?” asked Seth.
“ I'm deuced sorry we're found out, but there’s
no use of growling. We can’t help ourselves,
and the question is, when you're going to
leave?”

“ We’ve got to go to-night. There'll be ten
thousand devils down here by daylight, and
we’ll lose all the skins we’ve cotched in ten
I minutes.”

"Shouldn't wonder if we did lose our skins,"
returned Seth.

“We’ve got to leave to-night, Seth. You'd
better go up stream and fotch down the bosses,
and we’ll pack the skins.”

Seth quickly departed for the animals. Van-
noven and Wandaught bound the furs into
two large bundles, which were so closely

teased that they seemed as solid as wood.

In about half an hour Seth returned, riding
upon a horse, and followed by five others. Two
of these were pack-horses, while the other
spare one had been reserved in case of acci-
dentror necessity. It thus came most oppor-
timely to Summerfield. The furs were brought
out and strapped upon the two animals of bur-
den. Then Vio carefully deposited the stone
in its former position, remarking :

“ I spose I’ll never go down there agin, but
A hope most blastedly the devils won’t find
you, and I ken snooze in there yet.”

They all now mounted their animals, Vic
taking the lead. The darkness upon the moun-
tains was intense, and their progress was ne—
cessarily slow over the broken fragments of
rocks and down the wild declivities of the
mountain. A fierce equinoctial storm com<
menced, and raged furiously through the night.

i It was the grand combination of rain, thunder,
and lightning. that ushered in the spring. Peal
after pcal burst like the sharp crack of a piece
of ordnance, and now and then the white-
tongued lightning darted like an arrowy ser-
pent through the forest branches. Once or
twice the lurid bolts shivered the trees to
splinters above, and there appeared a continual
play of ’fire.around the mountain top. The
supercharged earth would often return its
fiery element to the clouds, and then receive
it back again. as though heaven and earth were
mutually sporting with the most subtile and

‘ terrific power they possessed. The scene was
indescribany grand.

But all this was favorable to the fugitives,
and they plodded along unmurmuringly—all
save Seth, who swore alternately, in his quaint
style, first at his horse, then at the elements,
then at his companions, who would not hear
his complaints, nor appreciate his jokes. The
weary night were on, and the storm began to
abate. The booming of the thunder died
away into sullen roars, and then, at length,
ceasedto vex the stillness of the hills. The
W had penetrated far into the mountains.

0 heavy storm must have washed away
every evidence of their trail. A feeling of
comparative security prevailed. Suddenly
~‘Vic-—who all the while had kept the lead—
came to a halt, ordering the others to do the
lame, and to dismount. This order somewhat
mystified the party, when he curtly added:

“We’re goin’ to spend the rest of this night
here. Stay where you are until I do for the
horses" With this he started of, leading
Pox-cu line, and all the other animals follow-
ing c ose. After a brief absence he returned.

“Now, boys," said he, “stick fast to me.”

And, kneeling on the earth, he commenced
crawling carefully forward, followed by his
companions, who soon saw by the inky black-

ness. and dry, hard rock, over which they‘

 

The Fighting Trapper.

were passing, that they were in some sort of a
cave. After going twenty or thirty feet, Vic
halted and struck a light, and in ten minutes
more had a cheerful fire burning.

“Boys,” said he, as he noticed the wonder
on Summerfield’s face (Wandaught was never
known to exhibit it), “ this is another of Vic's
‘holes.’ Cae’late we can stay here awhile."

This was agreeable news. The men all en-
joyed the fire, until, at last, overcome by
fatigue, they fell asleep.

Summerfield was awakened by the coldness,
which his dampened clothes gave him. All
the rest were up and busy. Seth was prepa-
ring the meal; Vic had gone out to see the
animals and to bring in the furs. This was
soon done, and the meal eaten. Vic told how
he had discovered this cave while hunting one
day, and knew of several others, equally good
and convenient, to which he could resortin
case that retreat was discovered by savages.

“You fellers," said he, “I want to stay
here, while I go out huntin'. We must git

some buflier meat. " . _
So saying, he shouldered his rifle and started

out upon the most eventful hunt that he was
destined to ever engage in. He little dreamed
of the game in store for him. _

 

CHAPTERXII.
VIOLA.

Leno and hopefully Viola waited, until it
seemed waiting and hoping against hope. The
old chief promised that, when it was possible,
he should send her with a suitable escort to
Fort Leavenworth, where she should be given
up to the whites without a ransom. '

It seemed hard for the old chief to give up
the white maiden. He experienced a genuine
affection, and she had grown to be as a child of
his own ; yet he was not selfish, and resolved
that his promise should be fulfilled, The power
of his white rival had become nearly as great
as his own, and it was a matter of difficulty for
him to choose from his warriors two in whom
he might place implicit faith. Viola was re-
garded by more than Redzel with envy. Many
savages, indeed, had determined that, before
another of their number should obtain posses-
sion of her, she should be tomahawked. Yet
this wasa secret feeling, and never evinced it-
self openly. Redzel did not dream that eyes
other than his own regarded her with passion,
and behaved that his only obstacle was with
the object itself. He had fully made up his
mind that, could he not gain possession of
her by gentle means, he would by threats and
force. But, swiftly and unconsciously, the
summer fled, and almost before Viola was
aware, winter was upon her. In answer to her
inquiry, the chief assured her that it would be
madness for her to attempt to reach Fort Leav-
enworth before the spring opened. The truth
of this she was compelled to admit, although
it seemed inviting misery and death to remain.
She determinedto spend the winter almost en-
tirely within the lodge, and, as soon as the
spring commenced, compel Mascanagh to ful-
fil his promise. The winter was mild, and

assed by without suffering among the tribe.
ufi‘alo were numerous, and the village always
was well supplied.

It was at the close of one of the dreary days
of early spring. Viola had spent most of the
day in sitting within the lodge, and listening to
the blustering weather without. The rain had
been falling for nearly a week, and now rattled
against the lodge with a mournful monotony.
Often the fierce gusts would sweep madly
against it, shaking it to the very foundation.
Mascanagh was busy in constructing and try-
ing a bow, while his squaw was preparing the
evening meal. The two children were playing
around their father, while Viola was seated in
a corner, gazing listlessly at them. She follow-
ed their motions mechanically, but her thoughts
were far away. She was indulging in a sort of
day-dream, permitting her mind to wander
whither it pleased. Often she would find her-
self surmising of Summerfield. Was he liv-
ing ’1’ Was he a prisoner or free? Was he in
the States, and, if so, did his thoughts ever
wander out upon the prairie! 'The thought
thrilled Viola, and she dismissed it. Although
memory gave her pleasure, doubt would
interpose and drive it away. Yet often, indeed,
she nurtured the thought, and many along
and dreary/hour it had been her only com-

amen.

foot touched her garment.

 

V..—

n— =3

Itwasalo time since she had scanned-
zel, and she fe t no fears of him. She believ-
ed he had given over all hopes of ob ' '
her. On several occasions she had receive
dark and meaning looks from the warriors.
yet, in her innocence she suspected nothing;

at she knew that more than one squaw re:
garded her with a perfectly furious hate, and
her womanly Instincts taught her to avoid them.

Then, as usual, her thoughts finally settled
upon her father, and her probable chances of
escaping to him. Five ears had passed since
she had seen him, and er heart sickened as
she reflected upon the time that must neces-
sarily elapse before she could hope again to
meet him. She knew not whether he was in
Oregon, or had returned to his native home.
He might be a prisoner for aught she knew,
or, what was as 1probable, he in: ht have been
slain long since y the implacab e enemies of
the white. :»

Thus musing, night came on, and she re-
tiredto her couch of “furs to sleep the sleep
of innocence, and to dream the dreams of the
hopeful dependant on God’s providence. Sleep
floated over her with its drowsy wings, and
the night deepened. Suddenly she awakened,
alarmed and fully conscious. She had not
been dreaming, and could not divine the
cause. It seemed as though some soft, but
my hand, had glided over her face and recalled
her to consciouess. The room was Without
a ray of light. At first she had determined to
rise and secure a light, but she then concluded
that there were no grounds for fear. and again
abandoned herself to sleep. 

When nearly asleep, and exceedingly ner-
V0118, her ear caught the noise of a footstepl
A fearful suspicion flashed upon her. She felt
certain that Redzel was in her room! The
very thought sickened her and brought the
cold drops to her brow. She moved uneasily
to prevent his approach, and concentrated her
burning thoughts upon the course left for her
to pursue. It seemed that the fevered leap-
ing of her heart would betray her suspicion,
and, pressing her hand to her bosom, she in-
voked the aid of Heaven in this extremity.

At first she determined to scream, but she
thought the consequences of this would be in-
stantly fatal. Then she reflected that, as the
door was Within her reach, to silently open it
and steal out. Rising to the sitting position,
she reached her hand upward and gave a gen— -
tle push. ' The rough board door opened out-
ward and was never fastened, but it yielded
not. She tried again, and with the same re-
sult. Finally, placing both hands upon it, sh!
exerted her full strength and found it had
been secured. It required her utmost power.
to keep herself from swooning when she learn.
ed this; but, with a frightful calmness, She
sank back again and listened. In a moment
she knew the footsteps were approaching!
She did not move or speak, but waited. S 9
could hear his hurried, husky breath, 38 hi8
There was then
an awful pause, broken only by the fevered
breath of both. Viola tried to move, but it
seemed some horrible nightmare palsied her.
Suddenly she felt arough handlplaced upon
her face, and passing over her features. 'lhen
again it was withdrawn, and there was another
terrible moment, and, as she again heardn '
movement, her strength returned. She drew
along breath as though awakening, and mov-
ing slightly, heard a muttered curse and rep
treating footsteps. She felt she was saved for
a few moments. In a few seconds she found
that there was but one course left, and that
was to alarm Mascanagh.

She believed that the instant Redzel know
his presence was known to her, he would
forward and kill her. In the darkness there
was a chance to escape. 'l‘hjs she determined
upon. Drawing her breath, she utteredth.
agonized words : n .

“Help! help! murder! murder! and m-
stantly darted from her couch.

“By—l there’s no help for yer!” nub
tered Redzel, springing forward and b ‘
his knife in the spot where he 8135086115116
lay, then leaping like a panther ough the
entrance and out of the lodge. In an instant
Mascanagh was in the room, and demanded:

“What’s the matter? What’s the matter?”

Viola endeavored to answer, but the temfli'
strain 11 on her nerves caused her to sink into
a dea y swoon. When she recovered, “I.
chief and his squaw were bending anxi
over her. In answer to their inquiries,
pointed silently to the door. In truth. 0‘

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15:59. {fi‘w__i

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‘hsd suspectedfthe true facts of'the occurrence,

and only asked whether she had been harmed
Their swat-thy features brightened up1 with
genuine pleasure as she assured them s e was
uninjured ; but the murderons rent in the soft
fur showed how narrowly she had escaped.
No one doubted who the assassin was. Viola
had heard his voice, and was assured.

“ 0 Mascanagh l" exclaimed Viola, clasping
his knees, “ ou Want to kill Viola. You prom-
ised to send er to her home, and you keep
her to be murdered 1 She will soon die !"

The old chief was visibly affected. He un-
dasped her hands gently, and replied :

“ Mascanagh does what he says he will.
The white maiden shall be sent to her friends."

“ But when, when ?" eagerly demanded Vi-

ela.

“ When she wishes to go."

“ Will you, Mascanagh? Will you ?"

The chief bowed his head.

“ Let me go this night, then. Yes, this very
heart"

“ But the storm rages, and the maiden will
be lost in the dark forest. "

“I care not for the storm," exclaimed she,
frantically. “0 God! I have suffered death
'once. Let me get away from him 1"

Her fears and those of Mascanagh seemed to
point at that night as the moment of escape,
since Rethel would be sure to keep within his
cabin to relieve himselfof suspicion. The chief
passed out, and was gone a full hour, much to
the alarm of his squaw and of Viola, who both
feared that he had gone to seek the white man.
But his return solved all doubts, and made a
stirin the lodge. Viola was to fly that very
night. Two trusty warriors, with three fleet
horses, were secured, and even then waited
the maiden’s coming to begin their Journey
to the East. She was carefully clad in a warm
dress of soft leather. A fine blanket was thrown
over her shoulders. On her feet the squaw
placed a pair of exquisitely worked moccasins.
Her limbs were incascd in leggings of fawn
skin, ornamented with beads and orcupine
quills. On her head was a cap 0 the some
beautiful materials. Thus equipped, she looked
like a very forest queen—as beautiful as a
lymph, and as imposing as a prophetess.

It now only remained to say “ good-by!” It
was a painful leave-taking. «

-‘ God bless you, Mascanagh ; good-by,”
sobbed Viola, pressing his hand and averting

' her face.

“Good-by to the pale-faced maiden. Mas-
canagh will see her again in the great Hunting
Ground. The Great Spirit will let her enter
there. No other pale-face shall see it. Good-
. !"

And yet Mascanogh was a man. Within that
savage bosom throbbed a heart of humanity.
He who had never quailed in the hour of bat-
tle—he who had seen the mangled remains of
more than one brother without shedding a
Bar—he who had closed the eyes of a dying
shild and wept not—bowed his head and wept.
Yet it was but for a moment. As if ashamed
of his weakness, he mised his head and stood

roudly firm, to await her motions. Viola then
Eade farewell to her mistress. They faltered
a few words, and embracing each other, sobbed
like children. The two boys, for fear of con-
sequences, had been sent away and were new
asleep. Viola,. taking a light, entered their
room. They lay with their arms clasped
around each other's neck, locked in dreamless
slumber. Viola stooped and kissed each dusky
cheek, and dropping a silent tear in their
faces, departed. _ . I

” Good-by again!" said she, smiling faintly,
Is Mascanagh, taking her hand, led her _out
into the darkness, where she was given into
the keeping of the guides. The chief touched
his lips reverently to her forehead, pressed her
hand to his heart with a fervor quite unusual
foraredman unused to emotions-of tender—
ness, and saying, almost in a whisper, “The
Great Spirit hover over thee like a good bird!”
left her.

The rain was still falling, and the darkness
was thick and impenetrable. Viola clung to
the arm of one of her guides, who conducted

her safely forward, and in a. few moments she

heard the faint whinny and stamp of a horse.
She was assisted u on the back of this, and
handed the rein. he savages then mounted
theirs and started forward Viola’s animal
needed no guidance, as he followed the others
as closely as possible. \

As the savages moved forward, they heard
SI. mwennzueiahofahorsenearthem. and

 

The Fighting Trappg“:

spoke to each other of it. But as the darkness
was so heavy that they could barely distinguish
the heads of their own animals, of course they
detected nothing. Several times after, they
heard it, and once or twice there were other
steps than Viola's animal behind them. This
awakened their suspicious, and finally led to
the belief that some one was following them.
They could not divine how their intentions
had been discovered, but were convinced that
it must be the white man behind them. This
occasioned considerable fear ; for, although
the savages were considered as among the best
warriors of the tribe, yet Redzel held an un-
bounded influence over them. They had often,
with the others, bent to his will, and although
numberin two, they yet feared him.

Throug that long, stormy night, the party
kept slowly and silently forward. The instinct
of the horses was their only guide as they
moved through the gloomy shadows of the
mighty forest. Viola cou dnever catch the
forms of her guides, and could only hear the
hum of their voices or the dull tramp of their
animals. Once or twice they spoke to her,
but as she felt in no communicative mood, she
did not endeavor to continue the conversation.
She was securely and comfortably clothed, and
the chilling storm had no effect upon her other
than that of gloominess.

At last the rain ceased, and a dull, leaden
gray in the east proclaimed that the day was
at hand. In a short time, the travellers could
discern each other’s forms, and in about an
hour the savages came to a halt and dismount-
ed for the purpose of resting their animals.
One of them patted the steaming sides of his
own and approached Viola's. As he did so, he
started back with an exclamation of surprise.
His companion arose at this, and the two ex-
amined the animal more minutely. A few
minutes sufficed to show them that a miserable
horse had been substituted for the one they
had taken. They were too cunning to suppose
this the result of chance. They knew that
the horse had been substituted by some cun-
ning hand at the moment when they had
gone to the Iodge for the maiden. This, taken
with the footsteps they had heard during the
night, convinced them very nearly of the true
state of things. To satisfy themselves, one
of them took the back track for a considerable
distance, but detected nothing suspicious.
However, for all this, neither doubted but what
they were pursued.

After considerable difliculty. a fire was
started, and a piece of meat cooked. Viola
partook sparing , and, as she began to enter-
tain a suspicion of danger, from the actions
of the Indians, urged them to pursue their
journey. She saw that her own horse was
inferior to the others, and felt some alarm
at it, but believed that they would not be
overtaken should they keep moving steadily
forward.

Their course was in nearly an eastern direc-
tion, inclining slightly to the south, and would
necessarily lead them through the wild regions
of that spur of the Rocky Mountains, called
the Black Hills. The village was at no great
distance west, and early in the day Viola saw
the blue heads of the clith in the sky, and in
some places the white snow-covered caps for
up in the heavens. Lower down, the moun-
tain presented a grand, rugged appearance as
they approached it. Great, ponderous masses
of rocks came out to view, with their outlines

sharply defiled, and terrific rents and yawns

could be discerned in the sides of the moun.
tam, while cedars and pines, and old forest
trees, centuries in growth, towered high upon
the sides.

It was nearly evening when they reached the
base, where it was concluded to camp for the
night. There was some danger of molestation
from wandering hordes of savages, but the two
guides exercised the utmost caution, and it
would have indeed been difilcult for a person
to come upon them unawares. They had cho-
sen a well-protected spot, and their horses
were picketed near at hand, so that they might
be reached in case of danger. Durmg the
preparation of the evening meal, one of the In-
dians remained at a short distance as sentinel,
and with characteristic caution, one kept guard
during the night. The two arranged a pleas-
ant couch with their blankets, and upon it Vi-
ola slept sweetly and peacefully till morning.
When she awoke it was broad day, and their
morning meal was waiting. The storm had
abated, and the genial sun was shining down
upon them. while 919 1110103.! of hundreds 01

 

w“skiers around told that the gloomy reign at
winter wad 0V9,"-

They had ,gst commenced eating, when
some noise was heard- The savages sprang to
their feet and seized than rifles. One started
out to discover the cause, when the burly form
of Itedzel appeared directly upon them. Nei-
ther party spoke for a moment, while Viola was
speechless wlth amazement and terror. Bed-
zel seemed to enjoy the consternation his ap-
pearance had caused, and after surve ' then
alltha moment, exclaimed with a laug and
ea :

“Wal, I guess you didn’t expect to see this
chap in these parts, did er?"

“ I did not,’ returned iola, white and trem-
bling with indignation; " and nobody wished.
to see you, I can assure you."

“Wal, now, on don’t say, my beauty; but
ole Sam wante to see yer.”

“ Si does the white man follow the maid-
en ?" a ed one of the Indians.

“To catch her ole copperskin, and I'll be
cussed if he don't git her too.”

“ Get who?" demanded Viola, quivering with
rage.

“ Why, my little Vily,” said he, with a horrid
grin that disfigured his repulsive face. Then
he approached and endeavored to put her
cheek familiarly, but she sprang to her feet as
though stung b a serpent.

“Don't touo me, foul monster!" she u:-
claimed, springing back.

“Whewl” he whistled, raising his hands.
“ that’s purty. That makes you look fine."

There was, indeed, a wild beauty in her up»
pearance as she stood with flashing eyes and
scornful lip gazing upon him. Her slight form
was proudly erect, and its faultless simmers
was r ught out in every motion. 8 e stoo
a few eet fr6m Redzel, resting on one foot,
while on her blanched face there was a calm-
ness and determination that were frightful
Her shawl was at her feet, and her wondrom
beauty completely awed the guilty hunter for a
moment. It was vice and virtue brought face
to face.

" Set d'own, Vily. Set down! 1 won't‘lhrt
yerl"

But she moved not until he had retreated
several steps, when she again seated herself.
All this time the two savages remained mute
spectators to the scene, each afraid to interfere.
It was plain that what violence Redzel might
attempt would not meet with opposition from
them.

“ Why don't you kill that villain?" demand-
ed Viola of them. “ He is not fit to live. "

Her words seemed to arouse them somewhat,
but they made no answer, and only gazed up-
on her with stoical indifference.

“Kill him, I say! Kill him!" she added.
frantically.

“Say, gal,” interposed Redzel, “yer mought
as well shot up, for them ole copper-skin-
duren’t do nothing, and you‘ve got to talk with
me. "

“Talk with you," repeated she, scornf ,
and gazing contemptuously at him. “ T
with you. May Heaven forgive me for ever
being guilty of it."
dlj‘f‘kfiraps it wolilild1 be best fur yer to think

‘ orent ,” re 'e Redze with a moanmg'
shake of 's hegd. 1,

“What a villain!" muttered Viola to hu-
self, yct loud enough for him to hear.

I j‘ Won‘t you let me set thar too ?" asked he,
rising and approaching. As quick as lightning
she again darted away, and he fell back again.

“ Wal," said he, confidently, “yer can be an
cantankerous as yer please now, but you‘ve got
to come to it sooner nor yer think. Jest"-
member that." '

“ God grant that life may leave me before
that time comes."

“Yer needn’t call on God. He don’t can
nothin' ’bout yer, and of he did, I reckon It.
wouldn't undertake to hinder me."

Viola gazed as if she expected a thunderbolt
to strike him for this blasphemy. '

“ Foul wretch," said she, “ that sin must be
answered for." .

“Waghl waghl wagh !" laughed he, "don't
talk to me 'bout sin; don’t know what 'tis|
guess I never done i " Viola was about to
speak, but he added: ’

“ Vily, yer mought as well give up
capers. "I‘aint no use. Yer in my hands.
the dociler yer er the better it'll be fbr yer." t

“I am‘not in your hands, and I wamdyou to
not imagine so. You have attempted—
wasabauttoretertohisattemptedn

 

=16

The Fighting Trapper.

 

But something checked her, and she deemed
“ best to conceal her knowledge of that occur-
lence, so far as it related to himself.

Redzel's thick lip curled with a contemptu-
ous grin, and he contented himself for a few
momentsin glaring like a mid beast at her.
Then, suddenly rising, he exclaimed, in a.
commanding tone, accompanied by a furious
qesticulation.

" Say, copperskins, you just make tracks for
hum. Yer ain’t wanted here. Tell yer boss
that Sam Redzel tuk care of this gal."

Viola heard this command with indignant
scorn. She did not dream that the savages
would heed it, and they did not move, in fact.

“I would tell them again,” said she, sarcas-

cally.

“ Say, chaps, if yer ain’t gone in two seconds,
I’ll shoot you both,” repeated he, growing
ghastly with rage. The two Indians arose
without a word, mounted and rode away!
Thismovement, so surprising and unexpected,
completely paralyzed Viola. She could hardly
credit her senses. It seemed impossible that
she was alone and in the power of Redzel.
But, the two cowardly wretches were gone,
and he was gleaming upon her with a de'
maniac smile of satisfaction.

The time for scorn and indifference had

(1. Entreaty was the only resource left.

e was now in Redzel's power, indeed.

“What will you have with me now?” she
asked.

“Waghl why don’t you flare up as you
done just now? Why don’t on call me all
kinds of names? Waghl wag l"

“ Oh, whyam I thus persecuted?" she ex-
claimed, burying her face, and sobbing aloud.
“What have I done, that I should be followed
like a beast of rey ?"

“No use, a ; you can't come that game.
Yer oughter one it afore." '

“ Have I ever harmed you ?" asked she, look-

Ing 

" ot as I knows on.”

“ Why do you seek to harm me, then?”

"‘ I don‘t."

“ My life was sought," she continued, “ and
I have tried to escape the danger that threat”
ened me, and would you take me back there
gain ?I’

“No; I ain't particular whar I takes yer.
Yer can go home for all I cares, but, yer see,
I’m gain with yer."

“ Will you then permit me to go on?" she
asked, eagerly.

“ Didn’t I say so I”

“1" Oh, thankyoul thank you! Let us start,
en.”

“ Waghl changed your tune a little!
The ht you would after a while."

Vio pretended to not hear this insult, and
apgmac ed her horse to mount. Redch step-
pe forward, but she was too quick, and leapc‘d

' on‘his back in an instant.

" Now we'll soon reach Fort Leavenworth,"
said she, pleasantly, with a'forccd smile. The
hunter muttered something unintelligible to
her as he mounted his beast and set forward.

Viola noticed the direction taken, and saw_

that he was really proceeding on his way to-
ward her destination. As she gazed back and
saw, in the distance, the two savages gallop.

leisurely along, she felt an almost irresist-
m e impulse to turn and urge her horse toward
them. But she saw that such a thing would

'be madness, as her animal was much inferior

to Redzel’s, and she could not hope to es-
cthe him. Suddenly, a strange idea struck

l‘I think you might exchange horses with
lie," said she, pleasantly. “ I’m heartily tired
of riding this miserable beast."

\“ Is yer hoss 'bout tuckered out ?” he asked.

I“ Just look and see whether he isn't," was
her meaning answer.

, “ Walnnine isn't," said Redzel, riding up
beside her, “ and so I’ll just take yer up on
nine, and we’ll go faster. "

"Oh, no! don't! I am sure minecancany

. me. I would not load yours more.”

“ Yer needn't be afraid of that. Yer don’t
weigh ’nough to make him feel it."
“Please don't," pleaded Viola, as she read

his determination in his eyes.
“Oh. yes I” he replied, not heeding her sup- 1

Iicau'on.

“DON'T! nos'rl nos'rl I pray of on."

But he reached out and placed is rough
arm around her and endeavored to lift her
tour her seat. His touch seemed to fill Viola

“9|  and in her struggles she struck him

 

full in the face. Her screams frightened the
horses and se arated them for a moment,
causing Redze to loose his hold. But, giving
vent to a horrid oath, he jerked his horse’s head
around, and, mad with the pain Viola had given
him, he reached out and struck her! The
blow was not severe, but it sent a twinge of
pain through her ; and, as he again placed his
arm around her, she uttered a wild, unearthly
scream, that echoed far up the mountain side.
But, instead of checking Redzel, it only spur-
red him on. He swore that her resistance
should avail nothing, and concentrating his
strength, he was just lifting her to his horse,
when he was startled by a commanding voice :

“Hello, there! Thunder and blastnation,
drop that gal mighty quick."

Redzel did drop her as though a bullet
had struck him, and azing quickly around,
he saw, not twenty fee distant, Vic Vannoven
and Seth Potter, gazing at him. A bolt from
Heaven could not have amazed him more.
The latter stood with one foot advanced, his
rifle cocked, and a rigid determination stamp-
ed upon his countenance. His conical hat
was thrown back 11 on his head, and his Closed
teeth showed that e was in no trifling mood.
Vic stood in as threatening an attitude, with
the muzzle of his rifle pointed toward Rcdzel,
and his finger upon the tri ger. Seth had re-
peated the command, and sic added :

“'Come here, little one, that cuss shan't hurt
yer. ’

CHAPTER XIII.
“on re rrcn roux.

For: some minutes, the attics gazed at each
other in silence. It took dzel some time to
realize that his two enemies were before him,
and that his intended prey had escaped him.
Viola was first to break the silence.

“Save me! Oh, save me 1” she exclaimed,
rushing toward Vannoven.

“ You shan't be hurt, my little 'un," said he,
gently pushing her behind him, and still keep-
ing his eye steadily upon Redzel. The latter,
when he saw this movement, gave utterance
to an oath, and forced his animal forward, in-
tending to pass by the hunter and seize her ;
but Seth caught the horse by the bit and
threw him back upon his haunches, nearly dis-
lodging Redzel in the act.

“ Sam Redzel, you‘re cotched," said Vic,
calmly. “If you touch that creetur, I‘ll blow
your ugly carcass to—”

“ I’ll have her, or my name ain’t Redzel,”
he exclaimed fairly livid with rage.

“ I calculate as how there’ll be somebody else
to say something about that," replied Seth ner-
vously fingering the hammer of his rifle. He
trembled with some emotion, but not with fear.

“Wagh ! that you, Crooked Pegs ?" v

“It's pretty sartin it's the chap that gave
you a fine dressing once."

Itedzcl turned to Vic.

“ See here, Vic,” said he, lowering his tone,
" you’n I never had no trouble, not at all ;
but that gappin’ fool has got to squar' ’counts
with me some time ; but, Vic, I don’t think: it
best fur you and me to git into a squabble. "

" Do yer ’spose I'm afeard on yer? " asked
Vic, contemptuously.

“ Mebbe not ; but then 'taint best; there’s
more nor me. "-

“ I know what you mean. You’ve jined the
red-skins, and want us to know you’ve got ’em
to yer back."

" That‘s the talk, ’zactly."

" And do you 'spose, Sam, you're goin' to
come that game over us? Ef you gets this
creetur, it‘ll be arter me and this chap are out
the way. She’s goin’ back with us. I don‘t
care about puttin’ a piece oilead through yer.
but it wont take many more yer tricks to make
me do it."

“ It wouldn’t go hard for me to draw head on
him," said Seth, stepping about as though his
rifle burned his hands.

" Vic, are you in airnest? Does yer mean
sure what yer says i’" said Redzel, in a subdued
tone.

“ Just 'speriment a little, and see whether I
doesn't.”

“Vic, if yer don’t let me have that gal, J‘H
burn you and that fool in less nor a week."

" And, ef you touch ‘ that gal,‘ I’ll shoot yer
in less nor a minute.” .

“ Ill brim a thcusand Crows down here,

 

""' I

and we'll foller yer to the Missip , of we don't
.cotch yer before, and I swar you both burn!

“ Sam Redzel," said Vannoven, with start-
ling cahnness, "we’ve talked long 'nouglhflm‘
of you say much more you wont get the c ance.
It won’t take much for me to bring you off that
hoss a little quicker than you‘d like.”

Redzel knew enough of the hunter's nature
to comprehend that this was no idle threat.
Yet he still believed he could awe him into
fear by threats, and a declaration of his inten-
tions in case he persisted in protecting Viola.

“ I jes wanted yer to know what I’ll do, that

all. You won’t be the furst whites I've led
the copperskins aginst."

“ Vic, " said Seth, raising his rifle excitedly,
“ ef you’ll say the word, I’ll stop that talk thun-
derin soon 1"

“ 0, let the cuss go. Sam," said he, tum-
ing, “I jes want‘yer to understand what I’ll
do at you say much more. You’ve got an ac-
count to settle with me, and after yer done with
this chap, I‘ll settle it. Ef yer wants to get off,
you’d better be movin'."

“ I’ll go, but—" ameaning shake of the head
told the rest.

Vannoven surveyed him as he turned, and.
as an idea struck him, he called out:

“ Hold on a minute."

Redzel checked his horse and'whueied him
around. He expected that Vic had changedhis
mind, and intended to give him Viola. But
he was somewhat mini-prised to see both him and
Seth standing with air rifles pointed toward
him.
“ I'll give yer two seconds," said the former,
to get off that hoss and make tracks. Ef you
ain’t 011‘ then, you’ll be helped ofl‘."

Redzel comprehended this command, and,
without endangering his life by testing its
earnestness, he slid o and walked silently away.

“ That'll be this little one‘s," said Vic, " but
don't touch him till Sam's out of sight. Keep
ygr peeper peeled, or he'll turn and pick you-
0 l1

Redzel walked slowly a short distance, then
suddenly turned, bringing his rifle to his shoul-
der, expecting to find them unprepared ; but.
this motion of his had been antici ated, andhe
knew better than to fire. He re uctantly low-
ered his piece and increased his gait. Vic and
Seth watched him,unti1 he was barely visible
upon the rairie. The latter then approached
his anim which had hard] stirred since he

had been left. As Seth took his bridle, he gazed. I

again toward Redzel. He saw that he was
standing and watching his motions. He saw
his arms move, then a red tongue of fire flash-
ed apparently from his face, a blue jet ot’
smoke curled slowly upward, and in an in-
stant the faint report of his rifle was heard. It.
was a foolish venture, however, for the dis-
tance was great, and the bullet sped wide of
its mark.

Seth, at this point, led the animal to her.
The one which she had ridden was allowed to
wander off, as he was not needed. Seth we!
impressed and affected by the beauty before
his eyes, and seemed extremely anxious to
make an impression in turn. Lifting his hat,
and making a very humble how, he said :

“Miss—I don’t know yer name—allow me
—-allow me to be so condescending as to assist
you to get on—to mount this solidungulous
quadruped."

‘fBeavers! who’d a thort yer could talk
Dutch ?“ exclaimed Vic, ooening his eyes with
wonder.

“Mr. Vannoven, that ere’s the language of
cultivated society," returned Seth, scornfully.
and with an air of extreme condescension.

“ He’s a little green—kinder soft," said Vic,
to Viola, who had mounted, and was uniting
their movements with a pleasant smile. Seth
turned, and seeing her, said:

“ So, you’ve ascended. I guess we'll go on.
then, toward our far distant destination. '

“ May I ask where that is ?" queried she.

“Not fur," returned Vic. ‘ We've a couple
more chaps a ways of.”

“ But, mean, are you on your way to tho
States ?"

“ Yes; we're on our way than”

" Thank Heaven again! Then I shall see
home, after all.”

Vic now started forward, followed by Viola'l.
animal, while Seth walked by its side. It was
necessary to proceed with great caution, as the
way was difficult, while the mountains con...
tained enemies, both amma' land human. Seth.
conceiving that c capital opportunity was now-
given to make or impression. availed bin“

   

 

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17‘

 

91::

a! It, and grew exceedingly loquacious, ex a~
tilting upon everything that came into is
head. Several times he asked Viola for her
history, but did not give her a chance to speak
a dozen words before he interrupted, and rat-
tled away again :

“You see, Miss I-don’t-know-younname,
this is a wonderful country in these particular,
necessitous arts. There isn't an inch but
whatI’ve tro den and examined. Mr. Vannoven
that, ahead, I brought out here when he‘s a
boy, and teachcd him how to overcome, sud-
due, and conquer the aboriginals of this coun-

We are on our journey to reach and con-
verse with two other personagcs, whom both of
each I touched also, likewise. One follow—
Wandaught—are a fine one, and you will ad-
mire and appreciate; but the other are fool-
ish, exceedingly, indeed." He was becoming
jealous. “He thinks and esteems, and esti-
mates himself admirably handsome, and—and
—end so forth ; but he ain’t. I would not no-
tice him, not at all, if I was not you. You
will see at once, immediately, when you first see
him, that he is the one what thinks he's some-
thing more than the rest of these. He ain’t
smart neither, by no means, not at all, nor—"

" Shet that blab, or you’ll make the little
the wish she war with Sam agin," cried Vic.

“Oh! I am Very much amused," returned
Viola. She was indeed amused, and listened
with becoming gravity to her loquacious com-
panion. Seth curled his lip with proud scorn,
as he remarked :

“You must excuse his manners. He ain’t
never been among cultivated persons, and in-
asmuch as he cannot appreciate the good
breeding evinced forth in others, I find it
sometimes occasionally at times quite difficult
and—and—quito difficult to listen in silence,
without not disapproving him for his conduct
at times upon such occasions. How did you

‘- say you escaped from the Engine?"

“ It was through the kindness of an Indian
chief, whose good-will—”

"Vic, Mr. Vannoven, I should have observ-
ed, is rather peculiar, and' funny, at times, up-
on certain seasons, in his general compartment
and behavior also. But, however, notwith-
standing, in spite of this, you will perhaps,
without doubt, not find no trouble with him.
That young chap will be the only one that you
will not like. "

Thus Seth rattled on, till Vic suddenly halt-
0d and raised his hand as a signal for the oth—
ers to stop.

t
—_

CHAPTER XIV.
A sunrnxsa.

Arm Vic and Seth had left the cavern,
Snmmerfield and Waudaught. remained inside,
arranging things so, as to make their stay more
comfortable. The cavern extended some thirty
feet back, gradually enlarging and widening
from the entrance, until it terminated in an
apartment of considerable size. Here, in one
corner, their furs were placed. so as to form,
with their blankets, several easy and comfort-
able couches. There was no escape for the
smoke save through the entrance, which, of
course, wasslow enough. Yet, for all this, 110‘
one found any difficulty of respiration when a
bright, crackling fire burned hour after hour
within the apartment.

In the absence of Seth, Wandaught acted
the part of cock, and soon had a steaming
meal prepared. This was devoured without
much ceremony, and in the afternoon of the
day it was concluded to venture forth in the
mountains, agreeing to be absent but an hour
or two. After emerging from the mouth of
their rude abode, they halted for a moment to
decide upon the best course to pursue.

“ Perhaps we should separate at this point,"
vmked bummerfield.

" WILD. I'm Wfllin’.” returned Wandaught.

“ But we must agree upon some signal. One
cl us might get into difficulty and need the
assistance of the other. Su pose we agree
upon firing a gun as the sic of distress ‘2”

“ That won’t do. Thar mought some hear
the shooter as we wouldn’t want. Ef I wants
to see you, I’ll give the whistle you've heard
me give, and ef you wants me you kin do the
some. I'll know what it means. and be on
hand in less not no time."

“ hat is Marbluosl, then ; and let us now

 

With this, the two started forward, their di-
rections diverging considerably at the com-
mencement. Wandaught's face was toward the
mountain top, while Summcrfield proceeded
in nearly a direct line ahead. It was his in-
tention to visit the cafion of the Platte. He
had been near it several times, but had had no
opportunity of giving it more than a passing
g ance. It was at no great distance, and its
thunder could be plainly heard at the cavern.

Pressing cautiously forward, he reached the
canon in the course of a half hour, and ly-
ing down upon it, he felt am 1y repaid for the
danger he had passed through to reach it.

The waters of the Platte are as clear as crys-
tal, and it sweeps swiftly and silently along
over its bed of gravel and pebbles, until it
reaches the Black Hills. Here its volume is
suddenly compressed into a narrow tunnel-like
passage, and thunders along with inconceiva-
ble Velocity. On either side, huge walls of red
sandstone and siliceous limestone rise, and in
some places are so close as to nearly touch.
The waters of the cafion are ve deep, and as
they are hurled along)through e jagged pas—
sage, in some laces ecome one mass of boil-
ing, surging 0am. At several oints, Sum-
merfield saw the thick mist arising from the
commotion, and where he stood the spray was
scattered plenfifufly over him. Then at some
places the walls retreat, and the emerald wa-
ters lose their froth and foam, and glide in
swift silence along, like a river of molten glass.
Soon this becomes agitated, and in a short dis-
tance becomes as wild and tumultuous as be-
fore. Thus, for more than two miles, the
Platte makes its way throu h the Black Hills,
when it reaches a natural lied again, and ex-
panding, moves forward the same as before.
Its egress from the mountains is but a short
distance above the celebrated Warm Spring.

Summerfield remained at this wonderful
spot until he saw the ni ht was not far dis-
tant. Then he proceeds leisurely toward the
cavern, keeping, however, a cautious lookout
for danger.

He had nearly reached the cavern, when he
heard the whistle of Wandaught. He halted
to ascertain its direction, and heard it again,
given something like the tones of a warning.
This sufficed to put him on the guard as he set
out toward it. It sounded directly above him,
and at no great distance. As he worked his
way up, he returned it at intervals, and the
two thus kept an understanding of their rela-
tive position. After going about a quarter-of a
mile, he passed around a rock and came upon
Wandaught, standing with his rifle ready
cocked in his hand.

“ What‘s the matter!” asked Summerfield
in a whis er.

“—sh. I want to show yer a sight."

“ Well, let’s see it. "

“Now be powerful keerful, for it's a sight
that‘ll make you open your peepers.”

Thus saying, the hunter sank upon his knees
and commenced creeping stealtth forward.
Summcrlicld did the same, wondering what it
all meant. Wandaught passed but a short dis-
tance in this manner, when he arose silently to
his feet. motioning for Summcrfield to remain
still. It was now quite dark, and objects were
growing indistinct in the shade of the forest.
In a few seconds, Wundaught turned and mo-
tioned for Summerfield to stand beside him.

“ —shl be keerfull” said he, as he arose to
his fcet.

Thus speaking, he arted the undergrowth,
and stepped back for ‘ummerfield to look. As
he gazed, he saw, a short distance ofl‘, a large

the burning, and around it, extended upon the ,

ground, a score of savages, painted and arrayed
in their war costume. He counted over twenty
before he withdrew. Wandaught turned, and
the two retreated as silently as they came.
The forest had become now sombre and
gloomy, and it was quite difficult to make their
way over the twisted roots and irregular masses
of stone. Several times they stumbled, and,
when at a short distance 'only from the Indian
encampment, by a sad misstep, Summerfield

itched forward upon his face and dischar ed
his rifle by the concussion. Almost sim ta-
neously there arose a series of wild whoops
and yells, and the savages plunged toward
them in pursuit.

“Make for the rocks, " said Wandaught. dis-
appearing like a shot in the darkness. Sum-
merfield sprang up, but found he had sprained
his ankle severely, and concluded it the safer
plan to remain where he was. Creeping seve-
ral feet, he lay down” under the bee of a rock.

 

with his face turned upward. In this position,
he saw five dusky forms of his enemies lea
past within as many feet of him. He hardg
dared to breathe until certain there were no
more in the imnmdiate nei hborhood. Then
he arose and limped pa' y and slowly for-
ward. Often he paused and sank to the earth
as he fancied the approach of a fee. Once,
he believed he was seen, and gave up in d air,
but it was only his imagination, and at
after two hours of mental and bodily suffering.
he reached the cavern and crept anxiously in.
This, to his surprise and consternation, was
empty, and it was plain had not been visited
since his departure. He expected certainly to-
find Wandaught there, and probably Seth and
Vannoven. The absence of the three was un-
accountable. The former, he behaved, was
captured by the Indians, and perhaps scalped
and slain. Under this impression, he com-
menced starting a fire. In doin so, he struck
a body and stumbled over it. Tinnhn' ' 3 it one
of the bundles of furs that had been dis laced,
he paid no attention to it, but kindled 6 fire.
As it blazed up, he turned to replace it, but
started as he saw that it was the body of Wan-
daught.

“ Why. Jim, what's the matter?" asked Sumo
merfield, anxiously.

There was no answer save a deep, heavy
breath, and he repeated the question. Failing
to receive an answer again, he turned him over
on his face, and saw a scene that thrilled him
with horror. The hunter a cared literally
cut and hewed to pieces. ‘s dress was in
shreds, and the flinty floor was covered and
clotted with blood. He slowly opened his
eyes, and closing them, murmured some
that was unintelligible to Summerfleld. The
latter took his hand and found his pulse strong
and steady, as though the system were lufl‘er-
ing‘no pain or torture.

his was too much for Jim. [He suddenly
doubled u , and fairly screamed with laughter.
“ Oh, you re a great doctor. Didn’t know if I
was alive or dead. Why didn't you ut a coal
of fire under my nose. That woul 'a told if
I war playing cssum," he kindly added. "I"
hurt some, eorge, but nothin' to make me
sick of grub. Most of this blood on my cars
cass come off the red-skins."

I had an orful tussle with a couple, and it
wa'nt fur from here neither. I's thinkin'aa
how I’d giv 'em the slip sorter nice like, when
a couple pounced slam on to me. It took me
by s’prise first, but I give one a dig that made
‘im see stars and thunder. I thort t'other
would run when I done this, but he stuck to
me like mad. He's the hardest redskin I ever
had held on. We pulled and pushed and
bit and scratched and tore and dug andfit,
till we blowed like ba’rs. I didn‘t know, once,
but what old J im’d have tc give under ', but I
come the back action over him and got 'hn
down and my knife into his hide. Wal, sir, I
had to set down and blow awhile afore I could
git 'nough gumption to lift his ha‘r; but arter
awhile I done it, and tugged for hum. I found-
I had one or two ugly cuts, sud felt kind 0'
squeamish when I crawled in here. Arte!
bl-.'win’ awhile, I heard you come in. 1's aguiner
to speak but felt sorter weak, and thort I'd let
you find out fur yourself. Howsumi ver, I wa'nt

as bad as 'I pertended, and could "o throwod,

yer when I let you turn me over. "d got a
good deal 0' the redskins on me, and thought
as how it wouldn't hurt you much of '. should
skeet you considerable.”

“I wonder what has become of Vic and b‘eth ?"

“ They’re all right. Guess they steered clear
0' the devils. " .

“You think, then, they did not amount"
them i" i

“ Can’t tell, you know ; but if they have.
guess they’re kicking yet."

Thus most of the night was spent in con
versing and surmising. Wandaught recount-
ed several adventures, and Summerfield 18am
ed much of his former life, although the trap-
per, as usual with his class gave but a very
meagre idea of it. At last they stretched them-
selves out with the intention of sleeping. But
in a few minutes afterward, Vic's well-known
voice was heard at the entrance.

“ Hallo, in thar? Anybodyl’bout ?"

“ Nobody here i" returned andaught.

“ You and Summerfield come out here.“

Wandaught passed out, followed closely by
Summerfield. They saw Vic standing by his

own home, while Seth was assisting. a female ‘

to alight. The face of the latter was turned
so as to conceal her features, and Sunni
in a whisper : ’ ,

 

'x
u

   

1.8

The Fighting Trapper.

 

 

 3:: —- —=
" WEB!“ did you come 301055 that P913011?" n In course he will Sam's , ch, what wan't no use. He had a couple 0’ the parties!
“ Sam Redzel had her. ” He'll such the mofinmin, hosses I ever set eyes on, an’ ofl'ered me one

At this moment Seth approached with her.
Bummerfield started and turned pale. He
looked again. Could it he possible? Yes;
there was no mistake. It was Viola. She
recognized him at the same moment.

“ Why, Viola, is this you?" he said, stepping
forward and taking her trembling hand within
his trembling own.

“ Whose surprise is the greatest 'f‘ asked she,
with a deep blush.

“ Where is it you have come from 7’"

“ These two friends rescued me andbrought
me a willing prisoner here. You remember
my capture—or don’t you?” she asked, in a
lower tone.

“I guess I haven’t forgotten it," returned
linm’merfield, with a smile.

“Well. I have been a prisoner ever since
then. The chief, however, promised me my
freedom, and I was on my way to obtain it,
when a man named Redzel, drove my two
Indian guides home, and took charge of me
himself, and was with me but a short time
when these two good companions of yours
rescued me from him."

This reminded Summerfield that he ought
filo explain to the others the circumstances of
their acquaintance. During the conversation,
Vic and Wandaught had busied themselves
with talking, gazing, however, at intervals to-
ward them, while Seth was nearly stupefied
with wonder. He so far forgot the politeness
and good breeding he had endeavored to evince
thus far, as to throw his hat back from his fore-
head, drop his gun, run both hands in his
'pockets, and, spreading his feet apart, gaze in
silent consternation at them. At last he com-
prehended that the two were old acquaint-
ances, that he had made a fool of himself in
striving to prejudice Viola against Summer—
(ield, and with a muttered “ Humph !" turned
and strode sway.

Beckoning to the hunters they approached,
when George freely told them of his prior
relations with the young lady, and strove to
express his thanks for her delivery. But the
honest Vic would hear of no thanks, and at
once led the way into their retreat. Seth
brought up the rear—the picture of comical
Inqpisitivoness and mortification;

The two hunters, although unused to female

‘ moiety, were considerate and kind—hearted,

and showed their good intention in every word
and nwvoment. There was considerable re-
straint but it was more self-imposed than oth-
erwise. Vic, with the rough gallantry of his
nature, spread his blanket upon the rock, and
depositing several furs with it remarked :

""1‘har, Miss Vennond, that’s yours as long
as we stay here, and of a feller touches it-I’ll
i---I’ll—jes see how you like it. ”

" Oh, thank you! thank you," replied she,
seating herself upon it. “It is exquisite, but
wouldn‘t you ,as lief call me what you did be-
fore you learned my name ?"

“ Yes, and a good ’eal ratherer too.
little one, you like it, does yer ?”

“ It couldn’t be better, I am sure.

“ That’s good, and sounds jest like yer. "

The others had seated themselves upon the
opposite side of the cavern. Summerfield,
seeing that Vic was engaged with Viola, com-
menced a conversation with Wandaught, while
Seth sat apart in dignified scorn. As it was
growing late in the day, Vic turned to him and
observed :

“ Hadn’t we better have some feed—sunk-
thin’ to eat, I mean ?” asked Vic turning to
Seth.

“I s‘pose so," he returned curtly, stroking
the yellow tuft on his chin, and gazing in an
opposite direction.

“ Wal, why don’t you git it, then '1’"

“ That ain’t my business, I rather ca'clate,”
he returned, stroking more vigorously, and
darting a glance at Viola, to see its effect upon
her,

“ No, Vic,” interrupted Wandaught, “ you
how he tumbles off his hoss and boo—"

“ Did ycu say you wanted supper ?"

“ I re! hnr guess I did?" .

“ Obi I didn‘t understand you. Shall we
cook our game ?"

“Yes, an' be quick."

He passed outside, where he usually cooked
the food, and during his absence a general
conversation ensued. Vic related the partic-
ulars of his rescuing Viola.

“ Do you believe he will attempt to cap-
ture us, and search these mountains with a
band of Grows at his back."

So, my

a

does what he says.
fur a month with a lot 0' 'Crows at his back,
an’ ’fore he gits us, thar’ll be a lot more of
crows and buzzards at him,” said Vic, with a
meaning look.

“ His power is unbounded,” obserVed Viola.
“ In trut , I believe in case of a rupture among
the Indians, he would have as many adherents
as Mascanagh. The chief sent a couple of his
most loyal warriors with me, and at a word
from Redzel they turned. and left me in his
power. ”

“Did he misuse you ‘1’" asked Summerfi'eld.

“ He struck me once, that was alll”

All three started as though some one had
struck them. ‘

“ Strike yer, did you say ?" asked Wandaught
simultaneously with Summerfield.

“ I struck him at first," returned Viola, with
a laugh.

“ I hope he will come, then!” said Summer-
field, com ressing his lips with passion.

“Why, oys, and my little one,” remarked
Wandaught, starting up, “yer don’t know Sam
Redzel as I dnes. I come across him in Louis-
ville, some years ago. He war walkin’ the street
with me one day, when an ole feller stumbled
aginst ’im—jest happened to, you know. I
cotched Sam, or he’d tumbled, and hung fast to
keep ’im from hurtin' the ole man. I seen he
eyed him orful close, but I didn’t think he’d do

all over the place, when some one found the ole
chap had been murdered. I had my ideas about
it, but didn’t say nothin’ till we got out on the
prairie, when I axed Sam if he didn’t do it. I
thort he’d tear me to ieces; but that night,
when he got asleep, I card ’im say ’nough to
let me know that he’d done it, sure. I found
out, too, that that wan’t the only time. I
heard ’im talkin’ once about some woman he’d
killed. Howsumever, I didn’t let ’im know,
arter that, that I thought he’s had. I yumered
’im and got along as nobody else couldn’t. He
told me that he used to live in Philadelphy or
some place out that, and gittin’ sick of it, went
to trappin’; but he used to be so skeerish when
he got in the States, that I know’d sunkthin’
else made 'im leave. One night he come to
me in Independence, a good many years ago,
in a great hurry, and told me he wanted
to start fur trappin’ ground right off. He
wouldn’t wait even till mornin’, but wanted
me to start that hour. I axed him what’s up,
and he wouldn’t tell nothin', and said ef I
didn’t go, he’d start himself. I hadn’t been
in long with my furs, and it wasn’t time to
start agin fur two or three months. So I told
’im I couldn’t do it. He was mighty mad first,
but kinder laughed putty soon, and told me
he’s goin’ to start, and axed me of thar war
anybody axin’ about ’im, to keep mum. He
tole me whar to find ’im when I got out here,
and went off in a big hurry. The next mornin’,
sure, I seen two fellers pokin’ round and in-
quirin’ alter a. feller that seemed mighty like
Sam. They had some papers stuck up that
folks said told about Sam, and said if any-
body’d cotch ’im, they’d get a pile. These
chaps, with brass stars, looked through every
house in the place, but it wan’t no use. Sam
warn’t thar, and they didn’t arrest nothin‘ but
the attention of the women, which they say
is all them does want ar out East. Thar war a
good many what had seen Sam about with me,
and I got pulled and hauled by them ossifers,
as they call ’em, but in course I didn’t know
nothin’ ’bout Sam, and tole 'em so, and they
had to go back without ’im.

“When the time come, I picked up my fix‘
ens and started for the trappin’ grounds, and
sure enough I found Sam out here. When I
tole ’im what a fuss had been made about ’im,
he seemed to be mad 'nough to shoot me. He
staid the season with me, an’ went back agin
to Independence, but he didn’t suck thar long.
I tried to get rid of ’im, but he allars jined me
up ’mongst the Delawares, arter I got well out
on the perarie. One day Summerfield, here,
met me an’ told me as how he'd heard ,I’s a
trapper, an’ wanted to know what I’d an ’im ef
I’d let ’im and a friend go ’long with me once.

[ tole ’im I didn‘t care bout such company, as
thar war a heap o’ trouble, but the reason I
didn’t want ’im war cause I know’d of he had
any sperit, he an’ Sam would be at it. He
said, howsumever, he’d pay me a e, an’
stuck an’ hung so, that I tole ’im I 411 ’t care,
jest to git red on 'im. The next mormu he
come round to what I’s hangin’ out, and had

 

that crooked-legged gawk with ’im. I told ’im
Iguea he’dbetterstaywhsrhs war,butit

nothin'. The next mornin’ thar’s a mighty fuss _

 

jes like"em ; but I tolo ’im thar wan't nothln'
goin’ likevBusterr He give me a bushel of the
best baccy I ever seed. and kinder got inter
’fections. We started one fine mornin'. an'
struck north to git out the way of Sam, for I
know'd of he jined us thar’d be a muss, sure;
but, skin me—I didn’t say that—cf we didn‘t
come ’cross him the next day. As soon as I
had a chance, I tole Summerfield to be keer-
ful, coz he’s a b‘ar when his dander was up. I
didn’t think 0' tellin' Crooked Pegs, coz he
didn’t look as though he'd hurt a beaver ; but I
soon found out he’s the one I orter told; fur yer
remember, boys, the squabble he and Sam got
into. I didn’t think Crooked Pegs. had much
spunk till then, but he doubled Sam up as he
never war before. "

At this point Seth entered, healing a steam-
ing piece of meat. The choicest portion was
given to Viola, of course. Seth had lost his
amusing affectation and was himself again. The
rude meal was enlivened by pleasant conver-
sation, and far into the day, the parties sat
and were unmindful of the lapse of time. .

Then the three men dropped, as if by acci-
dent from the little circle, leaving the loved
and beloved together. Was there any mistak-
ing of their relations to one another? Untutor-
ed as were Vic and Jim, they still know enough
of heart life to read in the eyes. in the words,
in the exquisite gentleness of George and
Viola, that their friendship was of a holy na-
ture, and the rough men were as respectful
and considerate as women. The_ lovers were
at last alone together; most trying but most
blissful moment!

They commenced a commonplace conver-
sation, which terminated in what might be ex-
pected We might record it, but it has al-
ways been a question with us whether it is
right to transcribe a conversation which should
never be heard by a third party. There is a
sacredness and interest about it that can never
be felt by the readeruand man would regard
with disinterestedness wha were words
fraught with hope and happiness  the hearers.
Summerfield spoke of the feelings she had
awakened when he first met her ; of the many
hours he had spent in thinkingbof her alone;
how his love had never slum cred, but in-
creased steadily and surely until the present
time, and ended by offering her the pure un-
divided love of his heart. And Viola, after a
few minutes of silence, too full of bliss to pre-
vent her speaking, told Summerfield the same
story that she had listened to. She confessed
that she had loved him from the first; and
prayed for and hoped to meet him, and yet
was often frightened when her own nature
told her of the deep passion that she was
nourishing ; she had striven to forget it, but
could not, and finally ended by accepting and
returning his love. '

Then Summerfield spoke of his distant home,
of his adored sister, and declared that, were
she living, he would only need Viola’s pres-
ence to complete his happiness; and she re-
lated her own history, and stated that, when
certain of the fate of her father, and with his
consent, if living, Summerfield might consider
her as belonging to him. This was followed
by plans, and questions, and answers, that
need not be referred to. It seemed that they
had not said much, when Vic and Wandaught
returned, evidently to discuss matters of im-
portance.

“ Boys, the question is, what we're going to
do ? How long we’re going to stay here? Now
Sam Redzel ’ll be here afore we could git out
o’ sight the mountains, and he’ll hunt a week
fur us of he thinks we’re 'bout. It won't do
for us to start now, fur ef we did he’d be arts:
us, and we’d lose all our furs, sure, if he
didn’t fetch us. We’ve got to stay here till
we make him think we ain’t here. He’ll wait,
a long while ’fore he gives us up, and we've
got to keep mighty close. Ef anything turns
up so that any of yer are treed in here, I’ll
show yer the way yer can give ’em the slip and
git ofl‘ cl’ar ef you works right. "

Here the speaker arose, and approac '
Viola, lifted a loose rock, disclosing a dar
rent in the flinty floor.

“ This." said he, “ goes down a few feet and
then turns off, and arter goin’ under some
stones and bushes, you come out behind a big
stone, a purty good distance from whar we
come in. I don’t know how it got here, but I
s’pose some fellers have been here and used it
like they did the ‘Hole.’ I staid here one
winter when I’s trappin’, and found a god
many qua'r thing- scratched up that, In,

‘ , ' . .

his“
1

 

*17‘

 

The Fighting Trapper.

19

 

u:
toothed as if some feller mought hev made 'em
Ii his knife."

“Where are they? Perhaps they may af-
ford some clue to a strange history," asked
Bummerfield.

“ Right over my little ono's head."

Summerfield seized a brand and approached
the spot indicated. As he raised the torch, he
saw a number of rude letters scratched over
quite a space, and after considerable difficulty
[he managed to trace the words :

“ Alvarado Gentillino, C. M. Harrison, F.
Holmes, 1828. Got drove in here by Iujins, and
after two days they tried to burn us out. At
night we dug out and got away. " .

" That explains it, " said Summeifleld, after
he had read it aloud. “A couple of fellows
were compelled to make that passage for them-
selves, and, after digging it, have recorded the.
‘fact there."

“I thort as how that place wa‘nt allers thar.
’Wal, you see, it mought be of some use to yei
at some time. I happened to see the stone
loose one day, an' arter lookin’ round found
what it war. We], as I’s sayin’," he resumed,
“ we‘ve got to stay here some time, though
p’raps we kin go to-morrer, pervided Sam
ain’t about. Me an' Jim ’1] look ’round and
see of that’s any sign, an’ of thar isn't by to»
morrer we’ll be off."

This all acknowledged, was the best plan to
be pursued, and, without more words, Vic left
the cave. The animals, Seth stated, were in as
secure a place as were their owners, bein .in
a gap between two huge walls of rock, w ich
was only approached by a rough, irregular
footpath '

Vannoven had not been gone more than a
couple of hours, when he returned.

“ See nary thing ?” asked Wandaught, care-

ssl

y.
“ Yes, sir ; I’ve seen ’nough I reckon. Sam
Bedzel ain't half a mile off, an' he’s got over
twenty Crows with ’im, an' that’s devil in his
eyes. I seen ’em comin’, an’ waited till they
stopped, when I counted ’em.- They’re all
I daubed with war-paint, and are goin’ to give
this ole mountain an overhaulin'. I'm afraid,

boys, we’ll have to close in with 'em.”

“ Do you know how they intend to proceed ?”

. asked Summerfield.

1‘, ‘ “I s'pose they’ll hunt one by one till we’re

' found, when they'll come down on us.”

l " This yer‘d be fun," said Wandaught, play-

i mg idly with his knife, “sf it wa'nt fur this

' little one. In course it won’t do to get in a
scrimmage now. We’ve got tokeep sly and git
sfi‘ of we can.

“ Heaven grant that we may escape that
man,” said Viola, fervently. “ Suppose he
gets me again, George 1" added she, in a husky
whisper, looking in his eyes.

“He will not get you,” returned he, with em-
phasis. _

“No,” said she, after a second, With solemn
slowness, “ he will never obtain me alive."

“Please don’t feel thus," added Summer-
deld, alarmed at her manner. “You are safe
with us certainly, dear Viola." . _

Don’t be skeeit,” said Vic, noticing her ap—
pearance. “Sam Redzel won’t git his hands

‘ on yer as long as we’re ’bout  Iguess we'll
7 he ’bout awhile too. " '

" i “ Iam sure I am safe with you ; it was but a
' momentary fear,” returned Viola, much affected
) v ,st this exhibition of good will. .

' . “ I‘ll be darned if I won't blow every Engm
to thunder and lightning,” exclaimed oath, ex-
citedly, and forgetting himselfentirely, “before
they shall hurt you." This remark produced a
smile from all. .

” That’s sol” he added shaking his head and
bringing his clenched hand down upon his
knee. “ And if you don't believe it, Just wait
till the chance comes. "

“I don’t doubt it, Seth,” replied Summer-
field, “neither do I doubt the willingness of
every one here to defend Viola evan unto

p deat .”

“That's the talk!" exclaimed Vic.
dn’t skeert now, little one, are you ?"

“ No, no ; I feel no concern for myself ; but
I fear that some of you will have to suffer. I

.have a dread that one at least among us will
{all by the hands of that man or his follow-

“ And what of it ?" queried Waudaught.
" I'm sure I wouldn’t feel squeamish ef I knowed
Itwar g’wine to be me. We’ve all at to go
under some time, and what’s the 0d when it
is? Tharain’t nobody, ’cept ’raps them here,
that would or! much over mi Wandaught,

 

 

“You _

 

and of I had my choice, I wouldn't keer a be.
ver skin when I gits throwed in my tracks."

“That's my ides," added Vic ; “ I s'pects
some these times the varmins will get Vic, and I
don’t stop to think or care about the time. El
I's sure my little one 'd git home all right, I
wouldn’t feel sorry of the Enjins should wipe
me out ; but when they go at the business, in
course I can't help tryin’ to do them the same
favor, and I'm thinkin’ when Vic does go un-
der there’ll be some tall kickin’ and fightin’.”

“I don't know as I am particularly anxious
about giving up the host,” remarked Seth ;
“ and, come to think, '11 be blasted ef I want
to yet awhile. There is a gal—a lady, I mean—
down in Louisville that would die of she should
learn Seth Potter was no moreJ’ The fellow
heaved a great sigh after he had delivered him-
self of this, and looked at Viola. It was his
last attem t to produce an “ impression" upon
her. He elieved that if she entertained any
passion for him, this remark would call it
forth. She caught his glance and replied :

“ I hope you will see her, Seth—for you do!
serve to—and make her heart glad. "

“ I hope so,” he replied, solemnly.

“ Wal, that ain’t none of these gals to care
fur me," said Vie.

“Nor me nuther,” added Wandaught.

“ There is one who always will,” said Viola,
earnestly.

“ I believe that," said Vic, with feeling.

Several times one of the hunters crept to
the mouth of the cave to look out for danger.
Late in the afternoon Wandaught detected an
Indian 9. long way off, but none of them came
near enough to awaken any apprehension.

After a long time night settled over the
mountains. All felt that another day was to
dawn upon them. A faint moon had arisen,
which rendered the ponderous faces of the
rocks visible, and their gloomy shadows more
gloomy than before. Seth set out to visit the
animals, but he proceeded with extreme caution
and spent a half hour in passing the hundred
yards. He was fully armed with his rifle and
a couple of knives, for he deemed it highly
probable that he should encounter some ene-
my before returning. He reached the spot,

however, without detecting anything suspi-'

cious, and passed down among the horses.
They all knew him and manifested no fear at
his approach. He patted each one, and seeing
that they were provided for during the night,
was about to turn and ascend, when one of
them gave a snort of alarm. As Seth stood in
a sort of yawn or rent, it was perfectly dark
around him, while above he could see the
blue piece of sky and the edges of the rocks
clearly defined aga‘ st it. As he gazed up, he
saw the head of an ndian above peering down
upon him. He watched a moment, and saw
it gradually slide into view until fully one half
of his body stood in bold relief against the

The Indian remained motionless a moment,
save that he kept his head swaying like a
snake’s about to dart upon his prey. He then
bounded lightly down. Seth crouched so as to
keep him against the sky, and waited his a
proach. Then he arose like a cat, and clutc -
ing the savage by the throat, pressed his knife
to the hilt in his body. There was a spas-
modic quiver and struggle ; then all was over.

“ Thar ! cuss you !" exclaimed Seth, “ I wish
I could serve you all like that.”

Seizing the body, he canied it a short dis-
tance, then threw it. down between two rocks,
and covered it with stones, so as to conceal it
from what others were roaming in the neigh-
borhood. He then proceeded as cautiously
back to the cavern, and, in answer to the in-
quiries, stated that he had seen nothing alarm-
ing, But when Viola was sleeping, he told
the others the whole circumstance.

 

CHAPTER XV.
no! coinrass AND sirens.

IN the morning following, a long and earnest
consultation was held. As usual, the opinion
and will of Vic wore the law of the rest. He
stated that none need expect Sam to leave un-
til he had searched every spot likely to con-
tain them ; that is, every spot liker tic-contain
them in that section. He was now exploring
the valley, and in the course of the day either
he or some of the savages would be above.
The only way to escape discovery mi by strut:

 

again. If they could effectually mislead them
until night. they might ch e their hiding.
place to some distant part 0 the mountain,
and finally bafle him.

“ But," said Vic, “it am the hardest thing
fur me tor sneak hound tryin' to kee out the
way 0' that cuss and his redskins. WEghl I‘m
itchin’ ter hev some fun.”

“ So‘m I, " added Wandaught, “ but in course
we've got ter keep kinder low 'long as that's
somebody else in the matter.”

Vic said, “ In course," and, then proceeded,
“ Two or three of us must 't out 0 here soon
an’ make tracks in some 0 er parts 11 above,
so as to make them b’lieve we ain't own in
these arts, and ef they don’t find this place
by nig t, we'll give ’em the slip.”

“I'll be darned if we won't!" exclaimed
Seth, excitedly. -

H Vic, yer allers war some on plannin'," said
Wandaught, admiringl , “an’ Iain’t afeard but
what we’ll git out sqdar’ with our little
one."

s :hWell, who is going with you, Vic ?" asked

e .

After a short conversation, it was decided ,
that Wandaught and Seth should accompan
him, while Summerfleld should remain with
Viola. They expected to return before them
was any probability of their retreat being dis-
covered. But, even should the savages come
upon it in their absence, there was little cause

to fear. It will be remembered that only one
could enter at a time, and one person with a
{rusty rifle might effectually dispute the pas
sage of a hundred or a thousand. .y

This decided u on, the three. with
warnings from an promises to Viola, made
their way from the cavern, and began cau-
tiously ascending the mountain. Summerflold
and Viola followed them out and watched their
movements in til they were lost to view among
the wild regions above them. Summerfleld
then re-entered the cave and made pre
tions for resistance in case an attack sho be
made before the rest should return. In a few
minutes Viola came in and seated hersolf upon
her accustomed seat, and watched his move-
ments.

“What does that mean '1‘" she asked, as ho
carried one of the bundles of furs and deposited
it a number of feet nearer the entrance.

"-Can you not comprehend, dearest P" he re-
turned, with a smile.

“ Yes; I suppose you intend it as a means
of defence. But do you think we shall be db
covered '1’"

“ No ; but such a thing might occur, and, of
course, we should be prepared for any emer-_
gency. I do not think the others will be ab- '
sent long, and there is hardly a shadow of prob-
ability that there will be any savages from
the valley below before they return."

“ George," said she, after a moment’s deep
thought, “ I don’t know ‘how it is, but I have
not felt easy, since I have known that Redzel
was pursuing us. I have heard it said that
persons are sometimes given a shadowy n
prehension of what is about to transpire. l 0
not believe in presentiments that I often hear
spoken of ; but if there is such a thing as I
presenti‘ment, I have had one for the last day
or two." V '

“ A presentiment of what?”

‘ “ 0f the death of—”

“ Great heaven 1 what is that?"

At that instant, with fearful distinctness,
came the sharp crack of half a dozen rifles, ao-
compaiued by a number of wild whoops of
agony and of defiance. They were distant, and
yet the stillness of the region rendered them as
audible as if but a few rods away..

For a few seconds, they remained as motion-
less as two statues ; once they heard the dis-
charge of a single gun, and now and then
could distinguish several faint shouts. Again
they heard a number of yells repeated, and in
a moment there was the hurried tramp of some
one approaching at a rapid rate. Summerfleld
cocked his rifle and bent his eye to the mini ‘
row entrance of daylight. The tramp contin
ued, and in a moment he saw the twisted men- ,
bers of Seth suddenly halt before it. Then the
cave was darkened, as he wedged his body rap-
idly in. .

“ Quick, George, for God’s sake! there's for»
ty after me, and Sam’s among 'em,” he on-
claimed, plun 'ng in. ,

Summerflelg1 rolled the bundle of fun hi-
ther ahead, and rested his rifle on it.

“Goodl” said Seth, “they'll be here ll 0
minute."

0

0

£0

The Fighting Trapper.

 

C

" Where's Jim and Vic '1’"

" Don’t know ; guess they're kickin' round.
We all three run into a nest of ’em ’fore we
'lnowed it. I seen Jim jump square over one
of ‘om and go down a place a hundred feet
deep. Lord a’mightyl I seen stars, tool"

" Did they pursue you ?"

“Yes, yes ; here's‘the devils now! Look.”

A number of moccasined feet and naked
.183 could now be seen flitting before the en-
trance, and a triumphant shout of cxultation
told the savage joy of those .outside.

“Shun t I crack some of .18!!! legs ?" asked
teth, placing his finger on the trigger.

“ No ; don't crack anything but a head. and
[W11 have enough of them too."

At this moment one of the forms stooped and
be horrid face of Sam Redzel was visible.

“ Hallo, in thar l" he bawled.

“ Helloah! back agin. How you like it ?"

“ That ou, Crooked Legs ?"

“ It's e feller that walloped you most
thunderineg once."

"And what's goin' to get sizzled, cuss yer
Iver. Hallo, Somefield, you thar too ?"

“ I am here, Sam Redzel, as you will proba-
tly find."

“And me too." added Summerfield, imita-
ting the voice of Vannoven.

“Bah!” laughed Redzel, “ you can’t come
that, ole hose. Vic Vannoven and Jim Wan-
vlought '11 never cross my path agin."

“ And you can't come that, 018 woman fight-
u',” retorted Seth. “ Vic and Jim are kicken, I
guess you'll find."

Seth sighted his rifle and took aim at the
face of Redzel. Summerfield saw the move-
ment. and drew back for him to fire ; but just
I! the finger pressed the trigger, and while
Brdzel was giving utterance to an insulting
command, he placed his hand beneath the
hammer.

“George Summerfield," continued Seth, as
to dropped his gun and gazed in his eyes,
"you hindered me from killing that devil, just
now. Don’t ever try it again. If you (10,.de1
9\oot you as mm as there is a God m heaven!"

“ Seth, what’s the matter ?"

“ Don't do it again,- that‘s all!" and he calm-
ly resumed his gun and raised the hammer

At that instant a warrior's body was visible
at the entrance. Seth fired, and a howl that
made their ears tingle with horror, told his
“to. As his companions stooped to draw him
away, Seth jerked Summerfield‘s rifle from his
hand and killed another Indian.

‘The [yells of rage that followed the death of
these two Indians were absolutely deafening.
Tho bodies were withdrawn in a moment, and
when the clamor had abated Seth called out :

" Sam Redzel, I shot them two. I thought
the first one might be you, but it wasn't ; you
are very careful to keep your «precious hide
out of existence. Why don‘t you show yourself?”

“ Bah! you think I’m a fool, don’t you ?"

"Of course. I've always had that opinion
Iince I licked you so easy. "

At this instant, there was the discharge of a
mber of rifles, and their bullets rattled
hrmlessly against the sides of the cavern.

“Try again," called out Seth, “ you might

I hit the rocks again. ”

At that moment they heard the discharge of
two pieces. apparently at some distance. This
was followed by an excited conversation
among those upon the outside.

“ By thunder and lightning, but especially
the lightning!" exclaimed Seth, joyously,
looking rand to Viola, “ if that ain’. Jim and
Vic, then m a sinner, sure."

“ Whoopl’fl he yelled, “ thought Jim and
Vic wouldn't cross your path any more. How

‘ doyou'like the fun, old prison bird ?'

There was no reply, but he rapid mum~
Ming and the hum of voices continued. In a
zoment they heard the treading of departing

et.
aéia‘What does that mean ?" asked Summer-

“ They have sent 03 a lot to fight the boys,
and the rest staid here to—"

'- Hallo, in that. Is Summerfield thar ?"

“ I am here. What have you to say ?"
he“ '1. s’pose yer got that gal- that? I want
r.
“ Well, get her, and you can have her.‘
"I’Diell you what I’ll do, Summerfield. E!

 , {:11 gives up that gal and don’t help Crooked

oz me'n him have got ter settle an ac-

“ V count—I'll let yer OE and promise yer, yer
- I'han'tbehurt.”

. "W we  both defend her ‘minst

 

you as long as we are able, and I will assist
Seth toshoot you at the first opportunity."

“That‘s the talk!" exclaimed Seth.

“ Then look out," thundered Redml, with a
fearful oath. “ We’ll see how you like smoke."

There was a commotion among the assail-
ants. Soon several commenced pushing brush
and sticks into the entrance with poles, keep-
ing their bodies concealed. Seth succeeded,
however, in breaking the arms of a couple
of savages, who unconsciously exposed them.

“ What are they going to do ?" asked Viola,
in a whisper. .

“ Burn us out," returned Summer-field, with
a smile. “ That is, if they can,” he added, as
he pointed backward toward the outlet that
had before saved three human beings.

“Seth,” said Summerfield, as he witnessed
these preparations, “it will assist us, I think,
if we make Redzel behave that we are alarm-
ed at the present turn of things, and have no
thought of eluding him."

“Don't know but what it would. Good
idea. You do the talking, as you’ll be the
{Imiost likely to touch that tender heart 01

8."

“Say, Sam!"

“Wal, what’s up?"

“ That's a mean trick, I think. If I couldn’t
dislodge a foe, I wouldn‘t burn him out."

“,Bah! you wouldn’t, eh? Wal, I Would.
Do you give up ?"

“ Of course not, and do not intend to ei-
ther.”

“ Wal, smoke then. I give yer the choice I
done a while ago. Ef yer ain’t a mind to
{Julie it, why you kin take what you can't

6 pl”

While he was speaking, a savage stooped to
light the fagots. As quick as thought he leap—
ed to his feet and fell in the agonies of death.
Seth had shot him through the neck. Another
ventured more warily, but Summerfield caught
a glimpse of him as he was in the very act of
applying the torch, and sent a bullet through
his abdomen. As the Indian disappeared from
view, the dry twigs flared up into a blaze and
ignited the rest. He had succeeded although
it had cost .him his life. In a few moments
the whole entrance was in a blaze , but, con-
trary to the expectations of all, the smoke pass-
ed wtward, not a particle entering the cave!
This was unaccountable to Summerfield. who
expected that some smoke, at least, would
enter ; but, as he felt a draft of air from behind,
he turned and saw that Viola had displaced
the stone that covered the outlet, and there
was a constant rush of air inward. She
smiled as she saw the expression of surprise
upon his countenance, butneither spoke.

The Indians, not content with simply start-
ing the fire at the entrance, were continually
making efforts to push it farther inward; but
this was a perilous task, as they were compell-
edto stand directly before the entrance, and
either Summerfield or Seth would catch the
outlines of their forms, and fire, and never
miss. But their continued attempts were par-
tially crowned with success, for quantities of
the burning embers would yield to those in
front and be pressed considerably backward.
Still there was no immediate danger from this.
Their respiration was free, and as yet they
experienced no inconvenience from the heat.

“Seth, it won't do to make an attempt to
leave here before night, will it '1’"

“Of course not. It wasn’t far from night
when I got chased in here. In two hours it
will be as dark as a pocket. They will keep

the fire going all night, until Sam concludes,

we are purty nigh used 11 , and then they will
crawl in and haul us out ' e roasted potatoes.
I hain't noticed where this hole comes out, but
it can’t be a great distance 011', and I can tell
you, George, you mustn’t think you’re half
through the danger yet."

“ Of course I don’t; but I can't help feeling
pretty joyous now and then, when I think of
the discomflture that Sam will experience
when he finds we are gone. No doubt, " added
Summerfleld, with a look at the embers, “the
nest will be warm but the bird will be flown."

Both watched the entrance incessantly. The
slightest exposure of their savage foe was sure
to result fatally to them. Thus over two hours,
unconsciously to Summertield in his excite-
ment, passed away, and during that time seven
Indians had fallen by the hands of 'Seth and
himself.

“ George,” said he, turning suddenly toward
him, “doyou know it is as darkaspitch? We
can talk alfout leaving now. Viola, see here a
minute. " '

 

4

As she approached, he continued:

“ These fellows will has that fire ' for
two or three hours yet, an our chance get.
ting away is in these two or three hours. They,
in all probability, have no idea of our eluding
them by going out a back door, ani all that is
needed is caution and self-reliance. This un-
derground passage opens a few yards dis-
tant, and near enough to be fatal to us if the
slightest mistake is made. Before going, I
think it best for one of usto examine the pea»
sage in order to be sure of the course to. pub
sue. I will do it, I guess ; and, George, keep
blazing away while I am gone. "

So saying, he let himself down the opening.
He sank to his chin only, when stoopirg, com-
menced crawling on his knees.

In a few moments, the head of Seth rose to
new.

‘ 21‘s a'll right," said he anticipating» their
question. “It goes about thirty feet, all the
way under rocks. and comes out behind one.
where there isn’t any chance of a savage being
stationed. The way is clear. and all we have
got to do is to be quick and silent I will go
first, you next, and let Viola follow. Letme see
We have everything we can take, have we not '3'

“ Yes ; but Vicwill have to lose, his firs ;but
if I ever reach the States he shall receive their
full value. "

“ That will make him madder than an '
else, but it can't be helped. Are you
ready ?" ‘

Each signified consent. and he again stoop
ed from view. \

“ Come on," came his faint and muflled
voice, and Summerfield 8 down.

“Now, dear Viola," sai he, “keep close to
me, and be careful and hopeful. "

With this he also disappeared, and in a sec-
ond called for her to £0 ow She did so with-
out any hesitation, and commenced gropinfi
through a dark damp and crumbling passage 0
earth and gravel.

In a few moments Summerfield asked her to
pause. Then she heard a movement and again
groped on. A few seconds after the was lifted
to her feet, and found herself stun'din above
ground. The chilly night air was ilowing
against her, and she could just discern the out-
lines of Summerfield and Seth, so deep was the
darkness. A short distance off she could hear
the voices of the savages, and above the black
forms of the rocks could see the reddcncd glare
of the flames that their enemies had kindled
for their destruction.

“ Here, George,” said Seth, “ take my hand.
It won't do to get separated.” .

Summerfield did so, and in turn took Viola I,
and the three commenced moving slowly an
cautiously forward. Seth was a few feet in ad-
vance, and was obliged to feel every foot of his
way. Once or twice he paused upon the very
edge of some awful precipice that yawned at
his feet, and, without speaking to the others.
changed his direction so as to avoid it. Thus

they moved along for nearly a half-hour, when.

Seth, whose powers of visron were sometimes
wonderful, saw, ,but a few yards ahead, two
forms rise apparently from out the very earth!
He halted as quick as thought, and sank noise-
lessly to the earth, almost simultaneously with
Summerfield and Viola. Without a word. the
two unloosed their rifles, and held them on
the cock, ready to be discharged at the first
necessity. The forms continued to approach.
when, suddenly, they halted almost upon them.
and one spoke in an undertone ;

“That you, boys ?" _

All three rose to their feet at these words, for
it was Vic who had uttered them. ~

“ Took us some time to find yer," remarked
Wandaught.

“ Why, how did you know we were here ?"
asked Viola, nearly overcome with wonder and
Joy.

“Why, my little one, didn't you spose we
could see that at light off yonder, and didn't
you spose we know’d you’d crawl out the fusi-
chance? We’ve been watchiu’ re'ind ever sin
dark for yer. "

“But,” said Summerfleld, suddenly, “th
can we do without horses? Our own animal!
are too close to the savage! to obtain.” ,

“ They is, am they? Wal, I rather guess not
Do you spose we’re green ?"

Summerfield did not understand fully WM
he meant, but, without saying anything more.
he followed them. They proceeded more rap-
idly now, as the way was ' better known.
short distance travelled, and as! reached I
spot where stood their hum. were then

 

.
v'.
\

i

,

‘_~..

 

 

 

 

 

    
 

i_

and seemed waiting impatiently for their ri-
ers

“Well, if this doesn’t beat all 7" exclaimed
Bummerfield. in admiration.

“ In course, " remarked Vic to Viola, “ we
wan‘t goin’ to come to look for yer till we’d got
the basses. So Jim, he sneaked up about dark
and fetched 'em 011'. We brought 'em out
here, and then commenced lookin’ fur ye. We
lhought we wouldn't come onto you when
you's too close to the devils—the Engins—
cause yer mought think we belonged to ’em
too, and thus hurt our feelin’s, and p’raps our
hides, too. Jest let me boost you up.”

In five minutes, every one was mounted and
on their way. Vannoven took the lead, Wan-
deught was next, and was followed by Seth,
while Summerfield and Viola came last. Thus
they again resumed their homeward journey,
and with it the perils and suffering that not
even V in or Wandaught anticipated.

 

CHAPTER XVI.
rnxonr.

Two or three hours of rough and dangerous
riding, their horses plunging and pitching
over rocks, gullies, and gorges, brought the
fugitives to the base of the mountain. The
night was still of an inky blackness, and
the air cool and bracing. During the journey
down the mountain, Vic and Wandaught, as
might be ex acted, exchanged not a word.
Seth now an
occasion, although far different, so forcibly rc-
minded him of a previous one, that he was
less loquacious than usual. Besides, he had
several gelling wounds, which prevented too
joiyous a flow of spirits. Summerfield remain-
e close to Viola, admonishing her when, some
unusual obstruction was in the path, and en—
livening her with some cheering remark when
the riding would permit.

Suddenly Vic and Wandaught halted. As
thekrest came up around them, the former

e :

“ We’re now on perarie, and that‘s good
hampin'. We've got the best bosses of the
devils—redskins, I mean—and I propose that
we let ‘em went."

“I second that motion, eslpecially if this
horse is willin’," said Seth. “ e's been pran-
cing as though he kinder itched to be off, and I
itch too."

“ Then I s'pose you've got the itch," retort-
ed Wandaught.

- 0 no, not at all ; I didn’t mean that." ,

“ My little one,” said Vic, good-humoredly,
" are you afraid to ride fast ?”

‘4 I can ride as fast as my animal can go."

“flood. All ready. (‘ome on."

As he thus spoke, his horse broke into a gal.
lop, as did also the others. Their beasts were
magnificent ones, and chafed w1th anger under
the restraint impofied uP011 them- wa9dau8hty
with characteristic cunning and foresrght, had
selected the fieetest and most powerful of the
number, and the easy canter upon the 1evol

' 'e, in the bracing night car, only awoke

e slumbering fire within their veins. It was
almost impossible to curb them,_ and almost
unconsciously, to the riders, their gallop was
increased into nearly a run. _ _

“ Ohl this is delicious I" remarked Viom
to Summerfield. “After being cramped for
two or three days in that narrow cavern, it
sends the thrill through one to fly over the
ground like this.” D .

“ It is glorious,” he added. “ Doesn’t it give
you an overflow of spirits?" .

“ It does indeed. It seems I could ride for
many hours thus.”

“ How does it afl‘ect that resentiment ?" he
asked, lowering his voice to a jestin undertone.

“Don’t refer to that," she quic y returned,
in a deep whisper.

Hour after hour they thus galloped forward
over the level prairie. They were crossing the
northern part of what is known as the Great
American Desert. They might be said, in fact,
to be in another country, so different was it
from the regiOn they had just left. The air
they found continually growmg warmer as they
receded from the mountains, while the earth
beneath them was dry and hardened, as thou h
the sun had blazed uninterruptedlyu on it or
my a day. It was evident that . e fierce
storms of thunder, lightning, and ram, which
a“, m experienced, although but a few miles
Enact didnotreach this section. The stunted

 

The Fighting Trapper. .

prairie grass brushed their horses’ sides as they
went through it, and now and then the endo-
oating dust arose from their hoofs.

Soon it began to grow light ahead of them,
and rapidly increased until the sun appeared,
and the day was upon them. Vic and Wan-
daught reined in, and in a few moments they
all came to a halt.

“I rather ca’culate as how thar'll be some
tall swearin’ in a little while u that way,” said
Wandaught, jerking his hand ack of them.

“Wouldn't I like to hear that feller when he
crawls in and finds there ain't nobody there ,
and when he don't find his horses, thunder,
won’t he ri and tear!" added Seth.

The exh' arating ride had had its efi'ect upon
all. Even Vic’s eyes sparkled with genuine,
healthy humor, and Summerfield felt disposed
to be funnier than usual.

“How does thisset on your stummick, my
little one ?" asked Vic, as he surveyed he'
glowing form with unfeigned admiration.

“O Viol I am nearly crazy with pleasure.
I never enjoyed such a ride. Doesn‘t it make
your heart jump ?" I _

“ Yas ; that’s an orful thumpm’ in here when
I think what a sweet little chicken we've got
with us. Blastnation, Jim l did you ever see
such a birdy 'x’" asked Vic, turning w1th a happy
grin toward him. _

“No, sir; ef you and me war young, V10
and as purty as Sam Redzel, we mought make
Gnome stop ’round."

This sally was greeted with a hearty laugh,

. h which ‘Viola could not help joining. The
, crimson glow on her face deepened, and she
then made some remark, yet the '

made an effort tglpout, but she could not resist
the feeling that experienced.

“You ought to be ashamed of yourselves,"
said she, glancing at Vic and Wandaught, and
yet she admitted to herself that, next to Sum-
mertleld, their admiration would gratify her
more than an other one she could imagme.

“ Come," 8 e continued, “let us go on."

“‘No; we’ll stop a while to let our hosses
rest, " returned V10, springing from his. At
this they all dismounted, and, removing their
saddles, lot the horses crop the buffalo grass,
that was quite luxuriant. Before Summerfield
had turned his loose, Vic approached Viola’s to
unfasten the saddle for her. Unloosening the

' , he pulled it‘ partly ofl‘, and-then resting
it on the side of the animal, turned his face
and asked, in an undertone :

“Yer ain't mad at old Vie, am yer, my little
one ?"

“ I don’t know,” she returned, shaln'ng her
head. " You mustn‘t talk so. "

“Wal, blast it. you am a sweet, purt , little
thing, an’ I 'est said so, kase it war so.’

Viola re y behaved the rough but kindly
trapper feared he had ofl‘ended her. She ap-

oached closer to him, and placing her white

d upon his ponderous shoulder, gazed into
his twinkling orbs as though she would read
his very soul. She saw one or two of the
others were noticing her, and Seth had made
an excuse to pass near her in order to hear her
words. But her voice was so low that it
reached no cars but those she intended it
should.

“Vic, I love you as though you were my
father, and I know you will never ofi‘end me.”

The hardy old trapper winced, and felt as
uncomfortable as if a rifle-ball had struck him.
Viola waited amoment, expecting him to speak,
but seein that some strong emotion was at work
in him, 8 e turned and approached the others.

The day had now so far advanced that the
prairie was visible for many miles. Away the
faint swells stretched as far as the eye could
reach, and before them the horizon closed
down upon the level prairie, as though it were
the ocean. Behind them rose the gigantic
chain of the Rocky Mountains, veiled in a
thin, bluish haze, that softened their jagged
:utlines and wrapped them in a soft s lender.
And many miles in the distance rose 9 sharp

oint called the Peak. Several clouds were
Scaling near its summit, which made the top
resemble a white cloud in the sky. There was
a majestic grandeur in the whole scene, as
much in the vast, undulating, and withered
prairie as in the mighty chain of the mean-
tains that extended for thousands of miles
over the continent. _ ‘

As the sun rose in the the air became
milder and pleasant, so that Seth relinquished
his idea of starting a fire. . There was no food
to céok, mdonone needed the warmth of it.

“ We ort tor have a bite," said Vic, ” for it
never sets well to ride for without it. How-
sumever, I could go far two or three months.

I

‘ knows what it mought be." ‘ ‘ ;
“Int '

 

8.1

31.11;} s'pose my little 'un ort to have mu
“1 can stand it, Mr. Vic, as long as ye!
can," she returned, with spirit.

This made the hunter laugh again as thong!
he would kill himself. He had admired hs'
beauty and appearance before, and now he to
spected her spirit.

The men had seated themselves it n thc
ground, and Summerfield spread his lankv
for Viola. ,

“ There," said he, “ rest yourself, for I Ins
pect we shall have a long ride. "

“ I hope so," she returned. Then, turning
her face toward Vic and Wandaught, id :

” Come, while we are idling away
here, I want you to tell me about the troutll'
you had with Redzel’s men."

“ It wa’nt much,” returned Vic, “but 1110’)
Jim made bigger fools of ourselves than we
ever did al‘oro. We knowed thar war troub-
ble ’bout, and yet, fur all that, we run our
noses right into it. We orter bin blowed M
blazes fur it. The fust thing I knowed i
didn't know nothin' in pcrtic'ler, 'cept as 10'
we'd walked squar into a thunderin' big nest
of ‘em. They rose right up ’m'ong us, and
commenced crackin' away. I seen Jim throw
a back spring and go over inter some place

,whar I knowed he war all right, and I smashed

a couple of red devils’ faces and got into cover
with only two or three holes in my carcass.
Crooked Pegs, thar, was gappin' 'long ahind
us, and when he seed the trouble you orbs:
seed him slide. Wal, then—waghl waghl
wagh," and the trapper leaned his head back
and laughed, while Seth looked at him as
though he would like to annihilate him. A
broad grin illuminated Wandau ht's counte-
nance also, and Summerfleld an Viola could
not resist smiling at the exquisite drollery 0'
the scene.

“I never thort he could use his legs as he
did then. The way he straddled over the
ground would have scart a ' zly. I couldn’t
see nothin‘ else of 'im but Effect; but they
saved in There wa’nt one that could come
nigh him, and so he got down to the Hole and
give ’em the slip arter all."

As the speaker finished, he turned toward
Seth, and, seeing his expression, brunt into an»
other fit of unrestrained laughter.

“I can’t see what that’s to laugh at," sail
the latter, indignantly.

“Wal, we does," said Wandaught, letting
them. “ Why don’t you laugh yourselfl"

“ Some folks don’t know what manners is. '

\remarked Seth, with a meaning emphasis, on.

looking ofl‘ upon the rairie.

“ And some chaps ws as what—" .

“ Darn! I think it’s time we started,” I!-
claimed the persecuted fellow, suddenly spring-
ing to his feet.

“ So do I," added Summerlleld, rising,
3261's out of sympathy for Seth than anything

“And I have been thinking so ever since we
halted," joined Viola. .

After a few more indulgencles in laughter.
the two trappers slowly arose and made prepa-
rations for starting. The horses had not wan
dared far, and in a few moments were brougl‘
up, re-saddled and mounted. The line of march
was the same as before, with the exception that
Wandaught rode four or live hundred yards in
advance, for the purpose of keeping a lookout
for danger. Seth and- Vic rode side by side,
just ahead of Viola and Summerfield, who kept
up a continual conversation.

The travellers continued uninterrupr
upon their 'ourney until nearly noon. The,
horses were ept upon a rapid, easy walk. as it
was necessary to preserve their strength for
any contingenc that might arise.

All at once, ummerfleld, while replying b
a remark of Viola's, saw Wandaught suddenlv
halt and raise his hand above his head. _
. “ What does that mean?" she asked.

“ Something is wrong, I fear."

Vic and Seth had rained up their
and the four stood waiting the movements
Wandaught. .

“ What is the matter ?" asked Vick of Vic.

“Jim sees sunkthin’, andis waitin' till

The four now set and gazed alien
Wandaught, who, for full ten minutes, no. .
make a movement. Then he rose to his“
and standin‘SIupon the back of his animal, ' -.
a moment end. Then he resented himsell 1

and turning his head motioned for  9

to come u

“‘SignlpdskedVb. ‘ - , 

slim! '

   

l

1',

  

 

S: f

.The Fighting Trapper.

7 I m

 

‘Il "

This was all unintelligible to Viola, but the
u: understood it, and Summerlleld explained
ll to her. There were Indians on their track.

They now started slowly forward. After a
while Wandaught stated that the party ap-
proaching did not number over half-a-dozen,
ad was no war party. In a short time, Viola
could see them nearing her, in their picturesque
costumes. They appeared to fear no harm,
and approached with such an air of confidence
.1! security as to disarm all suspicion of ev il in-
tention upon their part. In explanation of this,
Vic re lied they belonged to a friendly tribe. ~

“ t tribe ?” asked Summerfield.

" The Sioux.”

“ What are the Sioux doing in this section?”
queried Summerfleld.

“ They often tote around here after bufliers,
and to tgit sight of things. Hello, Jim’s gab-
bin' wi ’em."

The savages had come up, and were now
holding a acnversation with Wandanght. In a
moment the two parties were together. The
Indians had halted, hoping to effect a barter
with the whites. Summerfield saw that they
had a (iluantity of buffalo meat, and with a few
tnfles' eufiurchased sufficient to make a good
meal for their party.

As there was notfing to detain them longer,
the party set forward again. Viola suffered
considerably from thirst during the day, as the
water in the_ American Desert is exceedingly
scarce. In truth, in some places the stranger
would perish from thirst. Quite a number of
streams, however, cross the upper part of it,
and none of the company really experienced
any danger on account of it.

About noon they reached a narrow stream
that had once been a river. Its banks were
white, and the sun had cut them into great
curling cakes of mud. A short distance down
they came upon myriads of tracks of ham
showing that a drove of them had uenched
their thirst at this small strea‘m. ' 8 water
was fresh. In many places the tiny springs
bubbled up through the silver sand, imparting
a delicious coldness to it. '

Choosing a suitable place, the party dis-
mounted and made preparations for quite a
lengthy halt. Wandaught started a fire from
the bufi‘alo grass and a few dried sticks that
la scattered along the stream, bro ht down
a long time before, when its volume ad been
swollen to a torrent. With these, after consid-
erable difiiculty, he succeeded in cooking the
meal that Summerfleld had purchased of the
Sioux. A good, substantial dinner followed
While eating, all kept up a running conversa-

tion except Vic, who a peared sullen and dis-
pleased at something t at had occurred. This
grew so marked at length, that Viola ap-

roached him, when he was sitting apart by
himself, and ed him his trouble. At first
he refused to answer, but, being pressed, re-
plied loud enough for all to hear.

" I’ve bin thinkin’ as how them skins hev
all gone to the devil—”

“ Don't talk that way, Vic.”

" Wal, gone to—gone then. 'Nuther tramp’s
good for uuthin‘ '

Summerfield approached mm. mm a smile.

“ What was the value of all your furs, Vic '1’"

“Kit Cheatum promised me two or three
hundred dollars for ’em if I’d take ’em to West-
port for him. "

“Will you sell them to me ?” '

“ Sell ’em to you ?" re eated the trapper,

, staring at him as though 3 thought he had
lost his senses.

“Yes; sell them to me, I mean. I want to
buy them."

“See here, ole coon, ef you want to pick
a muss, I’m ready fur ye," said Vic, rising to
his feet and approaching Summerfield.

“Why, what’s the matter, Vic? Can’t you
make a bargain? I want to buy your furs,
that is all.” Summerfield, seeing that he had,
better exphin himself, continued : “ See here,
my old friend, you and Wandaught have made
every exertion in your power to save my life
and that of Viola. Whether you succeed
further mattr‘s not. I have already incurred
a debt which 1 never expect to repay ; and, as
a moiety of the payment, as a slight token of
the gratitude I feel for you, I shall place five
hundred dollars into your hands as soon as I
can communicate with home, upon our arrival
in Independence. " I

“No, you don‘t; you can’t come that, it

- “would be ate ' '," returned Vic, resolutely

shaking his head. ,
- “ Stealing I" exclaimed Summerfield. “Why, -

 

I took your furs and let the Indianashoot into
them until they were riddled and completely
mined, and now, because I ofi‘er to pay for
what I did, you call it stealing. 0 Vic l”

“ Of course,” joined in Viola, “ you ought to
receive payment for them."

,“Sartin, Vic, you’re kinder green," added
Wandaught.

Still the honest trapper suspected the truth—
that he was only making it as a screen to an
act which his heart prompted He continued
sbnlting his head.

“ Just let me get an idea into that thunder-
Ing old head," said Seth, stepping forward.
He spread his feet apart, and raising the broad
palm of his left hand before him, and dropping
the index finger of his right hand into it, com-
menced : '

“ You see,” here the eaker frowned learn-
edly, and raised and let '3 finger fall upon his
palm to give more emphasis to his words,
“ you see here’s the poin ”

“ What, that ar a pint?” interrupted Vic,
pointing to Seth’s monstrous finger.

“ Wait a minute," said Seth, as the others
laughed, “ wait a minute. You see, this is the
way of it. You got some furs (a fall of the
finger) ; these furs you’put in a cave (another
fall of the finger); you went away and left
them there (fall of the finger) ; you get into a
muss with E 'ns (fall of the finger); steal
their horses ( all of the finger) ; therefore,
therefore, I say George owes you just five hun-
dred dollars” (a triumphant flourish and fall
of the finger at the last sentence).

“ That so?” asked the hunter of himself,
scratching his head and thoroughly puzzled
at the explanation.

“ Of course, it’s so. Plain as day. You see
you just got the furs (here the hands drop-
ped, and the speaker commenced going over
the grounds rapidly), got into a muss with the
Engms ; therefore, Summerfield owes you five
hundred dollars."

“That’s the fact," returned the hunter,
ashamed to appear ignorant.

“ And as Summerfield was present," contin-
ued Seth, “when they were destroyed, you,
therefore, owe me two hundred dollars."

V10 raised his head and foot at this, and
gave Seth a tremendous kick, saying :

“Thar ’tis, then I"

This put the whole party into the best of
spirits. Vannoven agreed to accept the sum
offered, and Summerfield promised Wandaught
as liberal a remuneration.

As the stream afi'orded a 'good camping
ground, it was decided to remain in their pres-
ent position until morning. Accordingly prep-
arations were made for spending the night,
and, keeping 3. 00d look out, they seated
themselves upon e earth in sociable conver-
sation.

 

OEAPTERXVII.
. run nunsrsc rnunrn.

Snonrnr after this it was concluded best to
turn in for the night. Wandau t agreed to
perform the duty of sentinel, an taking his
rifle, he passed a short distance, so as to be be-

ond the light of the fire. Vannoven rolled

'mself in his blanket, like a huge turtle in his
shell, and in a few minutes was unconscious to
outer things. Summerfield, at Vic’s request,
lay with his back to his, in order to preserve
the warmth of their bodies and in this osi-
tion, with the exception of Seth and an-
daught, the company were soon sound asleep.

Summerfield was roused irom a sound re-
freshing sleep by feeling Seth’s elbow thrust
several times rather forcibly in his back.

“ What you at ?” he demanded, imitated at
being thus disturbed.

“ Say, George, I want to ask y-u somethin ."

“ Well, if you want to keep your head who 6,
don’t speak to me again.”

“Well, that's a darned fine way to talk, I
should think,” indignantly retorted Seth, p0-
king his head from under the blanket, and
glaring at the swell where Summerfield lay.
“ Keep your feet on your own side,” he added,
giving one a kick. Then, as he sunk back
again, continued:

‘ ‘ Some folks are mighty particular how others
speak to them, but like to talk to themselves.
I am always willing to hear what has got to be
said, for my part.” . \

At this point Summerfield dropped to sleep,
which lasted five minutes, possibly six, when
there was a flounder from Seth that startled

 

 

himasthoughabnflalohadhllenupcnhh.

“S’pose you are mad at that movement.
ain't you ?” said Seth, as he felt Summerfleld
movin . The latter, finding that no sleep
could e gained thus, arose, and, smothering
his wrath, passed to the other side of the fire,
where, in twenty minutes, he was sound eel
 despite the philosophking of his comp
pamon.

A half hour, he again felt some one touch
him, and started up, determinedtc corn Seth
to cease disturbing him ; but inste of en-
countA ring him, he saw Wandaught leaning
over him.

" Come, it’s time to git up.”

“ Is it morning? I suppose so. That eon-
founded fellow has spoiled this night’s rest."

“No, ’taint mornin', but it’s just the same.‘

“ What’s the matter?"

Wandaught pointed toward the west

Summerfield looked in that direction, and saw
the horizon lighted up for a long distance, as
though the sun were rising This he knew
could not be a fact, as it was there he had seen
it sink upon the day before. Still he did not
understand the cause. .

“ What does that mean ?” he asked.

Wandaught made no reply, but snufled the
air, which was stro ly tainted. -

“ Isthe prairie on e ?" asked Summerfield
springing to his feet.

“ That’s it. You’ve got it at last.”

At this point, Seth approached, and in a mo-
ment there was a movement of Vannoven'l
bundle, and he cre t forth. He walked slowly
up to the others, eeping his face turned to-
ward the light, which was growing strong!
every moment.

“I've smelt that ever sin’ noon," said he,
l‘but I didn't think Sam Redzel war such a
fool to burn the perarie when he found we war
on it, though I s’pose he felt mad ’nough when
he knowd we’d gone off with the best of his
hosses."

“ Why, is that his work '2" questioned Sum-
merfield in astonishment.

“ In course, don‘t you know nothin' ?"

" How soon will it be here ?"

“ Couple of hours. "

“ Well, I should think it near time some m
vision were made against i "

“ Sc sh’d I. Jim, s’pose we ‘fire’?"

By " fire" he meant setting fire to the gran
around them—a precaution that all understood.
and one which, as our readers are aware, is in-
variably adopted at such times. The two trap-
pers approached the smouldering fire, and seiz-
ing a brand, each went a few feet east of the
lodge where Viola lay, and twisting several
bunches of the grass into compact masses,
stooped and blew them into a blaze. This com~
municated readily with the rest, and in a few
minutes there was a broad wave of flame ex-
panding, cracking and flying with the wind
from them. Durmgthis proceeding, Seth had
secured the horses, which exhibited some
signs of making a stampede, and Summerfield
called Viola. At first she felt some natural
alarm at the unusual aspect of the heavens, but
soon understood that there was no personal
danger.

There is a terrific sublimity in a burnin
prairie. The tumultuous ocean of the an
flame that surges forward like a tornado, out-
stripping the fieetest race-horse; the pointed
spears of fire that twist and twirl in dazzling
gyrations; the unearthly reflection and glare
upon the clouds above ; the infuriated tramp
and bellowing of the bufi‘aloes ; the thundering
tread of the snorting horses ; the hissings and
writhings of the scorching serpents, and the
sharp crackling and roaring of the fire itself;
All these are fearful exhibitions of some tre-
mendous Power, and are scenes which no pen
can describe.

The fugitives rode close in the blackened
track of the fire they had kindled. The grass
was so thin and dry that the flames merel
flashed over them ; yet the ground was heat»
and in many places there were little twists of
flame that snapped and crackled, and the
horses would sometimes leap with pain as they
trod upon a burning twig or root. Once or
twice enormous snakes were seen, half burned
in two, and lashing the ground in agony ; and
the situation of the fugitives at least was a
strange one ——riding as they were, between two
mighty volumes of fire. ,

When they had gone about half a mile, they
halted, determined to wait till the morning.
As they turned their faces backward, they sew
that the fire was less than a mile distant.
There was, if possible. a more awful subhmiq

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

l.
f,

The Fighting Trapper.

23»

 

 

 

_..,..i-.,... V ,

in fl penance. The revolving spouts of
smoke ?nd flame could be plainly seen, and
overhead were millions of sparks and cinders
that seemed to shoot upward, and when their
Cores was spent, slowly float in mid-air. The
unusual disturbance of the atmosphere had
mated a strong wind, which at times would
Dice part of the flames to the earth and hold
Item still a moment, and raise them up and
drive them like chaff before it.

All had wheeled their animals round, and
stood facing the approaching element, like
wild beasts at bay. Not a word was spoken,
so complete was the spell that bound each
tongue. Once Summerfield turned toward Vi-
ola, whose animal stood beside his. The lurid
reflection of the.powerful light lit up her coun-
tenance with an unearthly and almost ghastly

. brightness. Her bosom was swelling and heav-

ing with excitement, and throu h her thin, part-
ed lips he thought he could ear the fevered
breath come and go. ‘32:! dark ayegeraflash.

as the wind ' ner on. ' g esses
$323. shoulders, there was, indeed a wild
sublimity in her loveliness. The horse with
his arched neck, dilated nostrils, and glaring
eyes, harmonized,well with his rider. _

As Summerfleld was gazing ether in rapt
admiration, his ear detected a noise resend-ling
the distant roll of thunder. He listened in-
tently, thinking perhaps it might be the fire,
but the sound was so difl'erent, he was soon
satisfied that it was not ; and although it might
be mistaken for thunder, yet it had a different
sound. There was a peculiar, indescribable
noise that might be compared to a trembhng
wave of thunder, and which, at last, Summer-
fleld was convinced was the .tramping of myr.
iads of feet upon the prairie. He turned to
Vie and Wandcnght, but saw that they had no
ticed it, and were cc. uversing about it.

“ What is that ‘1’" he asked of the former.

“A drove of builders," he replied. ”

" Will they not trampse us to death?

“P’ra s so."

With  consolatory mnark, the two trap.
para dismounted, calling on Seth to see that
their horses were restrained from fleeing in
their absence. They then gathered a number
of burning twigs and sticks together, and blew
them into a bright blaze. When this was fin-
ished the thundering clatter of crackling hoofs
upon the prairie had grown rapidly louder and
nearer, until all knew that they were compara-
tively close at hand. The trappers waited a
moment, and then, when they could discern
the dark forms, fired into them, then seized
several brands of fire and hurled them toward
the a preaching bodies. Onward they came,
not checked in the least, but the strutagem of
the hunters had saved the lives of the fugi-
tives. At the point where the buffalo had fallen
(for it could not have been othermse) the herd
divided into two great diverging bodies. These
plunged on as irresistibly as before, but left
the spot in which 2:; friends were standing

c 0 en and e.

pellewgya artisan e sight—this herd of a hundred
thousand bufllfioes lungmg past them. On
each side, before an behind, they surged for-
ward like a vast sea, their ponderous heads and
backs ressed close together, andsmking and
rising Eke the heaving water. _The_ir hoofs gave
torth a peculiar, crackling neise, like the rapid
discharge of musketry, save that it was fainter
and more continuous. Their long, pomted
heme resembled the presented spears of an
army, and their tails lashed the air as though
in torment. Now and then a sharp bellow
would tell of some unfortunate one cred and
trampled to death in an instant, an at inter.
vals a huge body would be forced above the
others, or would leap up and in a moment fall
back and mingle again with the dark sea of
bodies. . .

Thus, for an hour, swept this mighty herd
along. The dust from their boots was nearly
suffocating, and dimmed the glare of the fire so
much at times that it was scarcely visible.
When they had finally disappeared, the trap-
pets remounted their animals, and the com-

moved slowly forward in their track. Be-
 them, the fire had spent its force, and was
now visible far ahead and upon each hand, but
was raging more fiercely toward the south.
Vannoven informed them that this conflagra-
tion had not extended over much surface, and
would travel but a short distance forth er. This
section being rarely visfied by storms, was
peculiarl liarble to be overrun with fire. The
ass, although stunted and sparse, was always
and burned readily; yet, as has been
Iho'wn. a fire originating here was not hkely to

 

extend to a very great distance, but was merc-
ly a local one.

The fugitives had gone some two or three
miles, when they saw that morning had dawn-
ed. A halt was made, and they breakfasted
upon a portion of the bufialo that still re-
mained.

Ever since the flight of the buffaloes, Seth's
horse had manifested an uneasiness and terror
that rendered him almost unmanageable. Seth
coaxed and railed him, but as it did no good,
began to fear the cons uences.

“Whoa, darn you i” e ejaculated, giving
him a yank that threw him upon his haunches.

“What’s the use acting this way ? 'Twon’t
do you no good,” he commenced, in a persua-
sive tone, as the animal grew more doc e, and
began prancing gayly around.

“ That’s a mce horse. Whoa! whoa! nice
horse,” and he patted the animal kindly upon
the neck. Perhaps the beast had discovered
for the first time that he was not carrying his
Indian rider, and he was determined at all
events that the one upon his back should be
dislodged.

“ Skin me, ef he ain’t scarf,” remarked Wan-
dau% contemptuonsly.

“ o's scart? Whoa, nice horse. WHOA!”
he exclaimed, as the animal commenced
whirling around like a top. Summerfield
sprang to the earth and caught his head, or
there is no telling what would have been the
result.

“By thunder! of I don't kill that darned
infernal thin I" exclaimed Seth, furiously,
springing to e earth, and holding him by the
bridle. Then, gathering his strength, he
made a maddened kick at the animal, which
wheeled around at that instant, as he divined
his intention. The consequence was, the
whole force of the kick was lost in air, and, in-
stead of being spent upon the horse, it lifted
Seth from his other foot and let him drop upon
his back. Summerfleld :prang and caught the
animal again, or he woul have escaped. Seth’s
discomfiture was greeted with a hearty laugh,
which enraged him only the more ; and, as he
arose, he commenced clawing blindly around
in search of something with which to strike
the horse; but nothing, save a long, charred
stick, rewarded him. This, however, he
clutched eagerly, and running up, struck such
a blow that it broke in his hand, and the horse
esca ed him again.

“ , then, ye blasted, bloated skinflint, low,
greasy beast, I mean 1” and with this, he threw
the cudgel after the flying beast. In vain Vic
uttered his horse-call whistle; the infuriated
animal s ed away over the plains, and, ere
long his cm was lost in the distance.

“Now yer in a retty flx, Crooked Pegs!”
exclaimed Vic. “ What are to become on ye,
far as sure as shootin’ Sam Bedzel ’ill be down
hyer in less nor two hours. You’ll have to set-
tle accounts, then, sure." ‘

“I kin whip Sam Redzel any day. Jist let
him come on!" shouted Seth, fairly beside
himself with fury, as his long arms beat the
air. “ I kin lick the whole on ye. Jist jum
hyer if ye wants accounts squared l" and Se
began to “peel.” This was too much for the
company, The laughed until tears stood in
their eyes. Se spreading his legs wide apart
like two long braces to an old house, thrust
his hands into his pockets and scowled furious-
ly. Even Viola was convulsed, but she too
strongly commiserated his case to refrain
from condolence. Ap reaching him she laid
her hand on his shoul er, looking full in his
face. Soon the thunder-cloud began to dis.
sipate, and ere Vic and Wandaught had re-
covered their equanimnity, Seth's face was like
a full round sun of smiles.

Thus good humor was restored, although
there was no forgetting that Seth was in a bad
predicament

CHAPTER XVIII.
reason, no so an.

Answer: Seth had been deprived of his an-
imal, the party determined that no time should
be lost in plodding upon the way, as hereto-
fore; and, instead of adhering to the general
wish to tarry there for the night, Vic informed
them that they should not halt again until
dark. They spent no more than fifteen min.
utes in eating their meal, and Seth mounting
behind Summerfield, they struck their horses
into a brisk gallop. Seth would ride about an
hour with each, and thus they succeeded in get

 

.— .—
4— _

7d

ting over ground about as rapidly as tho-’-
he ossessed a horse of his own.

e prairie passed over in the afternoon"
mostly of the rolling kind, and was much better
watered than the portion over which the flu
had raged. In some places it was well tint
pared, and resembled another country, which,
in fact, was the ease, for they had passed the
confines of the Great American Desert, and
were again upon the billowy, fertile prairie.

The company continued moving forward.
and, as Vic ad declared was his intention. did
not draw rein until it was dark around They
then halted upon a small stream, fringed by a
number of cottonwoods, and in a short time
Viola's rude tent was erected, as it had been
the night before. After partaking of the even-
ing meal, she retired, and Summer-field, Seth
and Wandaught stretched themselves before the
crackling fire ; Vannoven remained on duty as
sentinel much of the night. Seth strove to
engage Wandaught in conversation, but he was
more reserved than usual, and in a short time

 

the three wra ped their blankets around than _

and sunk to eep.

Vannoven had strong icion thathiscomv
pany would be visite be ore morning, and.
instead of remaining in one position, be con-
tinued walkin around the camp at intervals
all night, on e alert, for the slightest sign of
danger. But the company were undistur' bed.
and at an early hour ey arose refreshed. and
made hasty preparations for resuming their
Journey.

There was a sudden and unexpected e c
in the weather durin the, forenoon of
day. Theair was s ' tainted with a mo
smell, and the conflagfation of the prairie
created a great distur ance in the atmosphere.
There were short but strong gusts of Wind at
intervals, and a sudden turn to cold that was
wonderful. In two hours it was as if they had.
passed from a tvo ical into a frigid climate, .
and, to make the c ange more wonderful still.
a snow-storm commenced at noon! Huge
flakes were blown almost horizontally against
the travellers, and were whirled around, their
heads until they were perfeetky blinded in the
white mist. In twenty minutes more, not a

article of snow was in the air, and hardly I

e visible upon the gicund. Seth conclud-

ed that “ things had got out of order ; shouldn't

wonder if that blasted hoss was tie cause of
it all."

After the cessation of the snow-squall, the
air seemed to possess an unwanted brilliancy.
and Objects could be seen at nearly double the
distance they could before. As the fugitives
were now in dangerous territory, Vic rode quite
a distance ahead, while Wandaught, ss-
ing a keener vision, remained about e same
distance behind I

They had not journe ed over a mile thus.
ahen Wandaught sud enly rode up amen.

em.

“ Danger ?" asked Summerflcld.

“Yes, sir, thar is! Thar's a lot of redsklns
follerin' usl"

Vie, who had also returned among them,
exchanged a meaning glance with the speaker
at these words. Every one was silent a few
seconds, when Wandaught said :

" Thar’s no use of hiding the matter, boys.
Sam Redzel and his whole pack: have been qfter us
ever Isin’ we left the maintains, and they’re in sign
m ’I

All turned their eyes instinctively at these
words, and sure enough, far behind them could
be discerned a number of moving cks in
the distance. Had a shot struck V ola, she
could not have been more startled than she
was at this intelligence. She had ceased en-
tirely to fear Redzel, and this sudden con-
sciousness that at this moment he was so user.
was almost a revulsion from hope to des air.
A short consultation or council of war was geld. ,
Had Seth his horse they would have feared
nothing; as it was, the course decided upon
was to run at all events. This determined.
Seth mounted behind Wandaught, and the
fugitives struck their horses into a full gallop
gar the prairie. New commenced a run for

e.

From the very commencement it was evident
that the pursuers had the advantage. All were
well mounted upon equally good horses, while
the additional weight of Seth embarrassed
the progress of the fugitives. IIe changed
from one to another, until, as a last resort,
Summerfleld gave up his horse to him, and
mounted Viola’s, holding her in front of him.

“ What will be the end of this i" asked she.
as she felt Summcrfleld’s arm nass around h-

24

I

A

 

quivering term and drew her fervently to him.
“Heaven only knows. They gain upon us
flhzaph mile, and sooner or later we must

'hey conversed together and at intervals
Summerfield would glance behind him, and
every time he did this he was compelled to ad-
mit that the pursuers were gaining at a rate
that was fearftu certain and rapid.

“‘I‘har’s our only chance, boys l" called on
Vic, pointing in a southeast direction.

As Summerfield turned his eyes in that direc-
tion, he saw, several miles distant, a huge,
dark rock, that some freak of nature had raised
seemingly out of the prairie itself. It was of
great size, very irregular in its outline, broad
at the base, perfectly perpendicqu upon one
side, while upon the other it was inclined like
a very steep plain. It was one of those strange
refuges that are found in some parts of the
Far West. Upon the prairie, many miles from
the slightest elevation, these piles of rock are
found, whose construction is a source of won-
derment to the curious. Some of them are
so admirably adapted for defence as to com-
ps] the belief that they were erected at some
remote period for that purpose. What is
equally strange, is that they are often found
in sections where the slightest pebble is un-
known for miles.

It may a pear improbable that the refuge in
question 9 ould be discovered at the precise
moment it was needed, but it was not chance
that brought them upon it. Both trappers
knew of its existence, and had shaped their
course in the morning so as to pass it. They
well knew its value.

As Vic spoke, Summerfield comprehended
his meaning, and said to Viola :

“That is fortunate, certainly. We can make
a stand upon that rock against an army."

At this instant they heard the faint shout of
their pursuers.

“I fear nothing," he added, “we can an-
nihilate the whole company from, that stand-
point.”

Viola made no reply, for her heart was too
full for any.

When within a couple of miles of the rock,
Seth's horse suddenly stumbled, throwing him
several yards over his head. He was not in-
ured much, and turned to remount his animal.

ut he was still down, and in spite of his ut-
most efi‘orts, could not be made to regain his
feet. Summerfield c ed to Seth to hurry, as
every second was precious. He still endeavored
to raise him, but finding it utterly useless,
' turned, and striking into his own cantor, was

soon up to the others. '

And thus thev continued their ' ht. ‘The
pursuers saw eir misfortune, an divined
> their intention in hastening toward the rock,
and strained to the utmost to over-take them
before it could be accomplished. , Seth ran as
he never ran before, and the others rode as
they never rode before. Redzel's exulting
shouts could be heard, and several shots were
sent from his com any.

At last the fugitives thundered their panting
horses up to the rock.

“Jump, and up with youl” exclaimed Vic,

' ' g from his horse, and, with charac-
teristic foresight, carrying the buffalo meal
vith him. Summerfield grasped Viola’s half-
hinting fcrm, and, with almost superhuman
strength, bounded up the steep face of the
rock, followed by the panting Seth. Vic was
directly behind them, and Wandaught came
leisurely up in the rear. As they reached the
top, a score of bullets rattled ofi‘ splinters of
rocks around them, yet fortunately touched
none. The rock was surmounted by a per-
fectly horizontal cap, circular in form, and
about thirty feet in diameter. Around the
edge of this were piled a number of stones,
open onl on the side by which the fugitives
had reac ed it.

On dashed Redzel’ with nearly forty shriek-
ing savages. They intended to follow the fu-
gitives and capture them by absolute force,
and made an impetuous rush up the steep; but
the rapid, deadly discharge of the rifles from
above told too fearftu upon them. The fore-
most yore shot through and rolled like logs,
In their agony, to the ground. " Several, with in-
lane frenzy, made their way to the top, and there
not their fate. Seth clove the head of one
nearly in twain with his clubbed rifle, while
Vic, concentrating the terrible strength of his
hams into his arm, struck a savage a. blow that
cracked his skull like a cannon shot, and sent
¥m spinning £qu a dozen feet through the 
, naught: caught another, and, with a light-

t

‘  dust-’1’ 'n

 

 

The Fighting Trapper.

ning-like movement, run his knife to the hilt
in his body, and then grasping him around
the waist, sent him headlong to the ground.
There was but one avenue of approach, there
was but one vulnerable point, which was now
invulnerable, and the savages could stand this l
terrific resistance but a short time. Breaking l
in complete bewilderment, they fled wildly ‘
back, and at a few hundred yards distance
gathered together to hold a consultation over 
the best means of dislodging the fugitives and
avenging the death of‘ their comrades.

“Whoop!” shouted Vic, giving way to his
feelings, “ that ar’s the tallest kind 0’ fun."

“Pity they stopped so soon,” added Wan-
daught, complacently wiping his brow.

“There was some excitement in that, I al-
low," said Seth, as be seated himself near the
latter.

“ I guess they were taught one lesson not to
be forgotten very soon," said Summerfield. “I
imagine they will consider somewhat before
they make another such a rush. But where
was Redzel all this time? I saw nothing of
him."

“ He took precious care of his old hide," re-
plied Seth. “ I saw him standing at the bottom,
yelling like all fury for the others to go up, but
was very careful not to attempt it himself."

“ It’s qua’r he can’t be knocked over. I
move that we pick him 011' the next chance we
git, and then we’ll be done with his bother-
mi. ’1

“My sentiments exactly; It ought to been
done long ago.”

“ Look at them," said Summerfield. “ They
are hatching some new scheme, I warrant."

The trappers kept an open eye upon the
movements of Redzel, and were ready for any
manifestation upon his part. Summ erfield
seated himself beside Viola and conversed
cheerineg with her. assuring her that there
was no probability of the Indians making 0
successful attack.

It was now quite late in the afternoon. The
weather seemed to grow colder again, and the
savages made preparations for encamp'mg upon
the ground. The horses, which the fugitives
had left at the base of the rock, had been cap-
tured, and of course they retained their own,
so that they had little fear of an escape being
attempted before morning. ‘

Vic had a quantity of the buffalo meat cook-.
ed, as was his invariable custom, and of this
they partook sparingly. Viola retained her
portion without tasting it. She knew not how
soon they would suffer for it. Water could
not be obtained, and this simple fact occasion-
ed more alarm than did all the others com-
bined. _

Gradually the night closed around them : the
savages lighted their watch-fires at difl‘erent
points, so as to surround the fugitives. Al-
though the weather through the day had been
singularly variable, and the heavens were full
of ‘ straggling clouds, yet a moon arose late
in the evening, and the prairie was bathed at
intervals in its full flood of light.

Four fires were blazing at as many points
around the rock, at a considerable distance,
and about these could be discerned the shadowy
forms of the savages stretched upon the earth, or
passing between them. Once or twice Vic and
Wandaught succeeded in picking one of these
011‘; but the distance was too great and the
aim too uncertain to spend many shots in the
attempt, and they contented themselves with
merely keeping a watch to prevent an ap-
proach. Each trapper, with Seth and Sum-
mer-field, took it upon himself to watch one of
the fires through the night.

“Here, boys, what does this mean?” sud-
denly asked Seth, in a suppressed voice, turn.
ing around and pointing out upon the prairie.
Wandaught approached, and peered cautiously
over a moment, then stepping back, said, in a
low, but joyful whisper :

“ Thar’s three or four sneakin’ up to git them
carcasses down thar. Let's wait till they git
close, and then blaze into ’em."

Several dark forms could be seen stealthily.
silently, and slowly approaching the rock.
Wandaught remained in an immovable posi-
tion, gazing upon them with as much zest as
would a hunter upon his prey.

“Now, boys!” said he, in a husky, almost
inaudible whisper.

All sprang noiselessly to his side, srll as
silently sighted their rifles. Then there was
a simultaneous crack. A wild, deathly bowl
of agony pierced the air and rolled far over the
prairie. Severalfarms could be seen clutching

 

 

theearthin their death struggles. Pourin-

 

m-

dians were stretched full len th 11 ‘9
ground. One lay flat upon hisiack, ' limbs
extended in the rigidity of death ; another.
upon his side, with his arm beneath his head.
as though he were quietly sleeping, while I
third was doubled up like a twisted knot. All
were dead.

That was a night never to be forgotten

the fugitives. Not one slept. Viola, although
she feigned sleep, did not close an eye. New
and then they would exchange a word or two
in on undertone, that rendered the silence only
the more oppressive, and once in a while, per-
haps, Summerfield and Seth would change
their positions for a few seconds. Several
times the former approached Viola, and gazed
down into her sweet face with a look of tender-
ness, mingled with pity that so frail and bean.
tiful a being should be doomed to suc ‘r
tortures, both of body and soul. \

Toward midnight, another change in th e .
weather took place. Huge clouds continue 1
flying through the heavens, until the moon wcs
nearly obscured. A black, threatening mars
of vapor overspread the sky, and in a few m« k 
ments 3. hail—storm commcncedl This lasté d
but a short time, yet an incredible quantity of
enormous hailstones fell like bullets upon the
rock and prairie. This was a most timely god‘
send, and came near convincing Summer-field
that Providence does sometimes step aside f‘c
favor his erring children ; but when his mird
was about to turn, he received a stunning crat k
from one that changed the nature of his
thoughts entirely. Seth was fortunate enough
to be struck by a con Is that set him dancir 3
like a madman for a ew moments. He, how-
ever, in obedience to Summerfield‘s suggestio: r,
collected all that could be found, and preser '-
ed them until they should melt into water, in e
large hollow in the rock.

Again the storm passed and the struggling
uncertain I'ght of the moon was seen at inter-
vals through the sweeping clouds. Summer-
field peered downward and saw that the Indian:
bodies were gone; They had been taken away
during the darkness of the storm.

Slowly and painfully the night wore away,
and at last the welcome light of morning illn-
mined the prairie. The watch-fires slumbered,
and the Indians congregated again into one
body and held another consultation. Redzel
was in the costume of a savage, and could
only be distinguished from the others when
he was comparatively near the fugitives. He
generally managed to keep himself moving
among the others, so that it was about impor-
sible for them to gain a shot at him.

Wandaught remained on duty while Vic
turned and distributed the morning meal. All
felt considerable hunger and partook heartily.

“ Est away, my little one, ” said he, noticing
that Viola hesitated, “ no matter of ’tis tlw
last. We wont die that way. "

“ How then? by thirst?” she questioned

“ No ; nor that way either. "

Summerfield and Seth locked to him for an
explanation, and he answered :

“ That’s nobody goin' to set roostin’ up here
like we just have, ’nother night. Ef we're
here when it gets dark agin, afore it gets light
sgin we're goin' to be down thar," he said.
with a meaning gesture.

“Do you mean that, instead of waiting for
them to attack you, on will attack them i"
asked Viola, amused, in spite of herself, at h’s
manner.

‘ That’s the talk, my little one.
like it '1’"

“ Well enough, for I suppose it must come N
that sooner or later ; but it seems a mad ven
ture for four of you to rush among nearly ter-
times that number. "

“ I’ve ventcored greater things than that is
my da ."

“ But, " remarked Summerfield, "I can
help thinking they will make a final effort,
and the crisis will come sooner than you antioi

ate.”

“ P’raps so!” returned Vic, vigorously chew.
ing a huge piece of bufi’alo meat.

“Ill be darned if I don’t ache mightily,‘
observed Seth, as if a new thought had struck
him. “ This lopping around so on these stone!
don’t agree with my constitution—”

“It didn’t once!” interrupted Vic, with a
sly twinkle.

“ I'd like to git 011', if possible, without fight
ing ; but I have come to the conclusion that i
can’t be helped; and being it can’t be helped,
why the sooner it is done the better. Thm'l
my sentiments." V

At this point. Vannoven rose “denounced

How'd you

.1

«in.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A.

 

 

 

   

 

\‘~ "

The Fighting Trapper.

‘ 25

 

r 1L

places with Wundaught, who seated himself
and commenced eating with a cheerful coun-
tenance.

“I suppose you are aware," said Summer-
deld, “ that Vic intends to attack those fel-
lows to-night, if we remain here till that time ?"

“ Yes, I heerd you talkin', and have come to
that c’lusion myself."

“ Do you not think, Jim, they will attack us
before t at time '2"

“ No, sdr ; they won‘t do no such thing.
They got ’nough of that yist’day, and ’1] now
try to starve us out."

“ Ah!" exclaimed Seth, his eyes lighting up
at this intelligence. .

“ That's their idea, and the only way we kin
help it is to tumble dewn thar and make a scat-
terin' among ’em."

The pointed remarks of Wandaught made
each thoughtful for a time. Seth sathcross-
legged, gazing mechanically at each piece of
meat that entered his month, which operation
was so spirited that he seemed as if continually
bowing to himself. Summerfield sat apart With
Viola.

“Here, Jim, you're wanted this way; you
too, Somefield," called Vic from his lookout.

“ What's up ?" asked Wandaught.

“ They want to hold a gabble, I b’leve.”

" Oh, I see. Here, George, you must do the

Redzel was standing a short distance ofl‘,
holding a fluttering rag, fastened to a stick, as
a signal that he wished to make some commu-
nication with those above. Summeifield saw
that he held his rifle in one hand. ’

“ Make him drop that before you hear him,“
said Seth. . I

“I guess there is no danger,” said Summer-
Ileld, hesitatingly.

“ Make him drop it," added Vic, in a man
nor that said there was hno need of qutestion

the re riet of sue a requiremen
mg“ Seepherie, Itedzel," spoke Summerfield
stepping out to view. “ What do you mean
by retaining that rifle ?" .

“ Retainin’ that rifle?" he repeated, holding
it out at arm’s length, and gazing contemptu
oust at it. “ Retainin’ that rifle 3' Don‘
mean nothin', of course.”

" Well, then, for the appearances of things
place it a few feet from you upon the ground
I hold no arms, and it is no more than just to
require the same thing of you."

“ Never mind that. I was just going to ask
"—I’

“ Redzel, do you intend to hold that rifle
while you speak ?"

“ 1n course I does. As I's sayin'——"

“ Then I shall hold no communication with

u," returned Summer-field, stepping back

In view. _

“ Wal, I’ll doot then, bein' it's you," said
Bedzcl, hastily muttering an oath at the same
time that did not escape the ears of those
above. , Summerfield looked down again, and
saw that he had laid it at his feet.

“ Step ten feet away from that," called he to
him

“ D——d pertin'lar I" replied he, sullenly
moving three or four feet from it.. Summer-
flald noticed these auspicious manifestations.
tut concluded to listen to the communication.

“Well,” said he, “I am now ready to-heur
what you have to say."

“ Fast, I want to know whether you mean
to stick it out ?" r

“ If you know more than n. fool you wouldn‘t
asked that question, Itedzel."

“ Next, I want to know how long you think
0' stickin’ thar ‘f”

“That depends on circumstances—just as
the notion takes the rest. Perhaps we will
descend and give you a cell during the day.

' Perhaps not until to-morrow.”

“ Yas, do ; we’d be glad to' see you.”

“ Hardly as glad, I suppose, as your friends
mat spent part of the night where on are
now standing,” said Summerfield, wit a cut-
Ling sarcasm,

Bedzel winced, in spite of himself, beneath
ms pointed thrust, but rallied quickly.

H We’d be glad to see you, anyhow; don't
miss comin’."

“You needn‘t fear; Seth, here, wants to
mgke a closer acquaintance with you. He
says he would like the fun of thrashing you

lm’l
.g’l‘his brought an oath from Redzel, too fear-
ful to transcribe in this place. He replied : .
“I'll give him the chance, and you, too, if
want it" .
“But this has nothingtr do wrth the bud.

 

uses on hand. Have you anything more to
ask or give '1’"

“ I'll just state my intentions, that’s all.
You've got that gal up thar, and I hain't chased
her this fur fur nothin‘. I didn’t bring a lot of
friends to the mountains, and then foller her
out here for nothin'. I‘m bound to have her,
and if you don't come down from thar, we’ll
starve you down. Ef you're a mind to give her
and Crooked Pegs up, I’ll say nothin' to the
rest; but of you don't, I‘ll do what I said. That's
an."

“ Provided, Redzel, you can. There is no
use in bandying words. I will not enlarge
upon your virtues, Sam. What if Wandaught
did save your neck from the hangman several
times ; what if he kept your cowardly hair
from your ‘friends '; of course, if he under-
takes to protect an innocent being from as foul
a wretch as ever breathed, 0 course, I say,
you ought to hunt hm down ' e a dog. This,
you know, is just. 1 will not say anything,
Sam, except I am pretty firmly convinced that
you have no sense, or you would never come
here to prate as you are now doing."

“Then you don‘t agree to what I offer ?"
questioned Redzel, eagerly, moving stealtth
nearer his rifle.

“Never ask again, for you always will be
told NO X " replied Summerfield, stepping quick-
ly and quietly back from view.

“By thunder ?" exclaimed Seth, in a half
whisper, “you missed getting a hole through
you that time by a close rub."

“That’s so," added Vic, “ if and stood ’no—
ther second you’d ’Ve tumbled ack. That fel-
ler meant sunkthin’ by bringin’ his shooter with
him. Sam’ll do anything, and the manner a
thing the sooner. "

“ He has got to be shot afore he’s out of our
way," said Wandaught. “He’d follow Sum-
mer-field and Viola to the States 61" they should
git away from him now, and stick 'em both
some night. I’m sorry, but I'm sure now, to
git out of his way, we’ve got to git him out of
our way fust."

Nothing worth recording transpired through
the day. No attack was made, and it was plain
that Redzel intended to follow out his throat
to the very letter. The savages remained at a
good distance, some reclining upon the ground,
others lounging leisurely about, and all dis-
posed to enjoy themselves as best they might.
In the afternoon, Vic and Wandaught com-
menced firing at the Indians, and succeeded
m picking ofl‘ several. Seth saw one leap and
grasp the air, that he was certain was Redzel ;

but Wandaught assured him that it was not ;'

and the savages ‘finding how much they were
exposed withdrew well beyond their reach,
The weather remained cold and windy, and
finally a raw, gloomy night settled over the
prairie. .

Redzel, feeling confident that no attempt
would be made to escape during the night,
had but one fire kindled ; yet, with customary
caution, a number of the Indians rowled
around the rock to see that the fugitives en-
deavored to carry out no plan they might have
concerted. All but Summerfield took their
stations again. He, seeing that his resence
was not needed, seated himself besi e Viola.
While conversing with her, he noticed that the
two hunters were talking together in a low and
earnest tone. When they ceased, Vannoven
stood a few moments buried in deep thought,
and then facing around, said :

2" Boys, we‘ve a chance, and it’s time to take
itl

 

CHAPTERXIX.
rarnuns inn somnrnruo moan

8mm and Seth gazed up in aston
ishment. They knew that some new and un-
expected scheme had been decided upon from
his manner, and that immediate action had
been determined. Wandaught commenced
walking slowly and cautioisly around the edge
of the rock, scrutinizing every foot of ground
that was possible.

“Yas, boys.” said Vic, "thar’s anew idea
'rnund, We’ve got neighbors not far ofl‘, be-
sides these chaps down here. Jist stand up
here and you kin see."

As he spoke, he arose and pointed‘out upon
the prairie. It was so dark that they could
just follow the line of his finger ; and follow-
ing this they saw, far away, a small, bright fire
burning, appearing in the distance but a small
brand or pomt of flame ; yet they knew it was

\

 

L...“—

the camp-fire of some body of persons, («$0
rays from it came over the plain, like 0
moon’s light upon the water. After g '
steadily at thisa moment or two, the turn
their eyes toward the fire of Redzel, w 'ch was
in a slightly different direction. Several forms
were visible around this, stretched, in apparent
slepp, upon the earth, but all else was shrouded
in e impenetrable darkness.

“ Do yer see that, little one ?" asked Vie.

“Yes, very distinctly," she returned.

“ Wal, let’s squat agm, and I’ll tell yer what's
to be done. "

And doing this, he proceeded :

“ That fire off that b'longs to either red-
skins or whites, and I opine to the whites, cc:
of they war Engins, these down here would've
found ’em out by this time ; but of they war.
whites, they’d lct 'em go, fur they've got that
hands full now. Jim says they’re white, too,
and the idea is this—one of us can git away
from here easy enough, and we must git out
than and bring 'em down here. and we’ll have
some tall times here toomorrer. As Crooked
Pegs, here, am so good in gittin’ over the
ground, I think he's the chap to go."

“ Them’s my sentiments exactly 1" respond,-
ed Seth, enthusiastically, starting up as though
he were to go the next moment. '

“ Wait ; set down," said Vic, “that's no
need of bein' in a h . Now, asyou're goin',
we’ll fix up matters. on kin git away from
here easy 'nough, but in course you've got to-
be sly ‘hout it. Wal, hyer's what yer to do :
When you git outside of these things, dig like V
mad fur the camp. I guess you kin see it from
the ground, but ef you can‘t, don't matter,
'cause you know which way to go, and kin see
it after tram in' a little. When you t thar,
of they're w 'te, bring 'em down ; they’rs
red, in course, let 'em go. J ist 'fore you start
back with ’em throw some of the fire up, so
we‘ll know all is right, and you've started ; and
when you git out close by, jist give that whis-
tle of yo , to let us know you're 'bout ; we'll
be 'spectin yer then."

While Vic was speaking, Seth stood panting
like a restrained hound, so anxious seemed he
to be 011‘ upon his way. As the trapper paused
he started off like an arrow.

“ H’yeri" called Vic, impatiently, “what's
the matter? You don't want yer shooter. Jint
see that yer knives are all right, and then dig.
You’d better not go down that, as they mought
be lookin’ for some of us, but jist drop over-
by J im."

“ Now, Seth, be careful," said Viola, imprew
sively placing her hand upon his shoulder.

“ Don't be afraid for me," he returned cheer-
fully.

" And be cautious in approaching the stran-
gers. whoever thev may be,’ added Summer-field.

“ Ei’ these chaps down here should happen
to catch you," said Wandaught, earnestly, as
Seth stood by his side, “ jist raise an all-tired
yell, and we’ll be down thar and bring an and
to this both erin’."

Seth paused a second, waiting for what else
was to be said, and then, uttering a quick
“ good-by," leaped rigidly and fearlessly over-
and disappeared. andaught gazed down
after him and saw him rise unhurt and steal
noiselessly away in the darkness ; and as the
fugitives listened a long time, and heard no
unwontcd commotion among the savages be-
low, they know that Seth was safely upon his
way toward the distant camp-Ste.

As has been said, Redzel and the Indian!
had little fear of the fugitives attomptin a
flight, and, in fact, abandoned nearly all 510
precaution they had taken heretofore to prevent
it. Consequently Seth had not much difficulty
in eluding them, although he passed several
times in close proximity to one or two Indians.
But, in twenty minutes from starting, he was
out upon the prairie, bounding over it. like a
shot from a cannon. He had been so confined
and cramped for the last few hours that he
felt a luxury in running and leaping again at
freedom, and the enjoyment was delicious.
He tried his usual cantor, then a peculiar trot
original with himself, and then wheeling sud-
denly around without checking his speed in
the least, continuinghin running backward, lift»
mg his heels as though he were going up hiil.
This, however, was dangerous, for, striking
some obstruction, he well nigh dislocated his
neck in a fall that followed. He felt an almcist
ungovernable desire to give several shouts or

ells, but had enough prudence to restrain
iiinsclf ; but his antics were too wild and way-
ward to be described here.

In the course of halfan hour. how» as near \ 

 

so

The’ Fighting Trapper.

 

r1

 

she camp-me as he durst appromh. It was.

burning vigorously, but he could not detect a
single being around it. He discerned several
bundles, or imagined he did, partly in its light,
but he could not make out a single one He
made a complete circle around the camp and
even then had not seen a human being. This
ed him considerably. Plunging his hands
to his Eket, spreading his feet apart, and
dropping ' head, he commenced ruminating
spon the wisest course to follow. Before he
had formed any conclusion, he was startled by
the commanding question :

“ White or red ?"

“White—white as gun-fiintsl” he returned,
Instantly approaching the ‘irs. As he did so, a
so le'of‘ orms came from opposite directions
in e darkness, and stood around him. One
was a large, massive, loose-jointed, bony speci-
men, full six feet in height, who held 8. mon-
strous rifle in one hand, and a huge piece or
tobacco in the other, from which he twisted
a prodigious mouthful as unconcernedly as
thou h he saw no one before him. Seth gazed
won eringly at his gigantic frame, and, with
his instinctive knowledge of human nature,
rightly concluded that he was an honest-
hearted hunter and trapper; and, as he noticed
his ponderous shoulders and great swelling
chest, he felt he had already gained a valuable
ally. He had large innocent eyes. a broad
but pleasant mouth, a homely nose, and a few
straggling, yellow hairs upon his unshaven
face. He was an individual, as he termed
simself, “ extensively laid out."

The other was aman of about the medium
size, with a smooth, cheerful face, bright,

‘ pleasant eyes, and a peculiar ease and grace-

fulness of motion that made his impression al-
ways favorable at first. Seth also noticed
another person, who had risen to the sitting
position as the others had gathered around,
and he observed, too. that he himself was re-
garded with interest and no evidence of mis-
trust.

“ We]. friend," said the second mentioned
individual, “ what's the story ’9"

“ Well, uite a considerable one. In the first
place, I  introduce myself. I am Seth Pot-
ter, Esq, and was born some years since in the
town of Lubec, state of Maine. I am a dele-

te, or, more properly, a committee, elected

y a unammous vote, without a dissenting
voice, to confer with you, and that is my busi-
ness at present. The truth is this, friends,

on have all seen that big rock some miles ofi‘,
havn’t you ?”

“Yes,” returned they, interested in his nar-
ration. v

“ Well, three or four days ago, me and three
other gentlemen got chased by Engins, and
were drove up there, where we have been ever
since. There's thirty or forty of them, camped
around that rock, led on by a white devil.
They have tried to get up among us two or
three times, but can’t come it, and have made
up their minds to starve us out. They have
got our horses, so we can‘t run away, and, you
see, We’re in a scrape. Well, we’d concluded
to do something mighty despirit, when one of
our chaps happened to set eyes upon your fire
here, and made up his mind you were white,
and nominated me, on account of my superior

qualities, to visit you, and I’m here for that

purpose’

“Didn't I tell yer, Jake,” said the smaller
person, addressing the larger, “there’s sunk-
thin‘ wrong up that way, just afore dark ?”

“ Y—a-s, b'lcve yer did say sunk‘in' or other
'bout it," replied the Hoosier, discharging a
mouthful of tobacco-juice in the fire, thereby
blacking a large quantity of the glowing em-

hers.

During Seth’s narration, a third person had
arisen to his feet, a finely-formed, middle-aged
man, with a melancholy expression upon his
countenance, who regarded Seth with much
interest.

“ W51, friend," continued the smaller man,
addressing Seth, “you’re in trouble, and in

' course, we’re bound to be in it too. We are

«ready to go with yer, ain't we, boys '2"

" Y-a-s !' drawled the larger man, taking an-
:other chew

“ Will you go with us?” asked Seth of the
nan‘who had not as yet spoken.

“ Of course," he returned, in a softened
voice; “ It would be criminal not to assist

: I lriends when hard pressed, as you say you

“ Well, s'pose we tramp, then!”
With this the four started, after replenishing

" hinandvisithmtbeiranimls, whiohwere

them, and was as loquacious as usual as long
as there was no probability of his being over-
heard by any of his enemies.

In the meantime, Wandaught and the others
had kept their eyes continually upon the dis-
tant campfire. Viola stood beside him, also
watching it. Suddenly he turned to her, and
asked :

“ Vily, are yer peepers good ?"

“ Why, yes; I believe so," she answered.
“Why did you ask that question '1’"

“ Wal, I want yer to watch that fire, to see
whether yer don’t see nothin'."

She kept her eyes upon it, as also did Sum-
merfield and Vic most of the time. A long
time after, Wandaught asked:

“ Have any of you see nothin‘ 't"

“I have discerned the fire, that is all?” an-
swered Viola.

“ That is all I have seen," said Summerfield.

“ I hain’t seep nothin’ more nor that,” Van-
noven also added.

“ Wal, ole Jim’s peepers am the best, then,"
said Wandaught, pleasantly, “fur I've seen
Crooked Pegs throw a piece of fire up into the
air three times, and none of you hain’t seen
nothin’ of it."

All admitted that the power of Wandaught’s
keen orbs was wonderful. Vic said he “ allers
knowed he could see jist as fur as he’s a mind
to, " and Summerfield who had heretofore had
some doubts of their being superior to his own,
freely admitted their superiority.

An hour after, when there was a deathly
stillness over the prairie, the fugitives heard
the suppressed signal of Seth. Wandaught
returned it, and a few minutes after he and
Summerfield saw several dark forms at the base
of the rock.

“All right!" whispered Wandaught.

An instant after, Seth with two or three
bounds stood among them ; then came the
Hoosier, who appeared to absolutely take but
one straddle to reach the top ; then the elder-
ly one, who clambered noiselesst up, and fi-
nally the smaller person, who came up as nim-
bly and quickly as a panther.

“ Wal, friends,” said the latter, cheerfully,
as he stood among them, “ we’re here to help

er. "

“And we're most mighty glad you‘ve come,"
said Vic, approaching and extending his hand.

As the person addressed took his hand, he
looked closely at him, and asked :

“ Ain’t this Vic Vannoven ?"

“ That‘s my handle, but you’ve got the best
of me. I don’t know yours."

“ Now, don’t yer '3" asked the stranger, in a
clear, half feminine voice, and with a suppress-
ed laugh.

Vic bent forward, and scrutinized his fea-
tures as closely as he could in the darkness.

“ I’ve heard that voice," he repeated, slow
1y. Yes, skin me," he exclaimed, starting
back. “ Is that you, Krr CARSON ?"

“ That‘s my name," he returned, enjoying
the start of wonder among the others.

“What! are you Kit Carson '1’” asked Seth,
hardly behaving his senses.

“ Yes ; that’s my name, I b'lieve."

“Darncd if I hain’t read about you in the
newspa ers. Guy! I didn't think I’d ever see
you. hey say you're something uncommon. "
“ Let me make you ’quainted with my
friends,” said Carson. “This feller is Jake
Gavin, from Illinois ; and thisisa friend that’s
goin' backto the States."

Vannoven grasped each of their hands and
returned the cordial pressure, and in turn in-
troduced his own company. i

“ I s’pose you know this chap." said he, al-
luding to Seth, “ so I'll pass him. Do you
know Jim Wandaught, Kit ?"

“ I b'lieve not. "

“ Wal, this at him. He's a good beaver, but
wont shake paws."

Wandaught returned the salutation of each,
and then resumed his place as sentinel.

“ This are George Somefield."

“ Glad to see you !” said Carson, taking his
hand. Summerfield felt honored, indeed, as
he grasped the soft palm of the most renowned
Indian lighter the world ever produced. He
answered him gracefully, and then shook hands
with the Hoosier, who gave a brief “ How’r

er '1’" and with the other man, who seemed
'ttle disposed to converse.

“ How do you do ?" said Seth, approaching
Carson, determined to enjoy the privilege the
others had. Carson answered him good-hu-
moredly, and shook his hand warmly. \

 

picketed ‘but a short distance off. Seth led.

 

Vic turned to introduce Viola. bin she had
withdrawn to her nook.

“ Wal, Vic, what's to be done 2” asked Cass
son, turning toward him.

“We’re treed, you see, Kit?"

" You four fellers treed by a few Nd-
skins !” repeated Carson, with sarcasm in 11'!
tone. '

“ We wouldn't’ve beenif we war alone ; but,
you see, a woman's in the matter," answered
Vic, ointing toward Viola.

“ h, that‘s it!" said Carson, loweringhis
voice, with his natural gallantryhand gazing
toward her.

" You see,” said Vic, speaking confidentially;
“ we’re bound to take care of her. We got her
away from that cussed white snake, and he’s
been follerin’ us a week to git her. Efwe’d bin
alone, we'd 've blowed him to blazes 'fore this,
but we darsen’t leave her to do it, the wfi
things stand now. But, bein' you’re here, we
drop down on ’em in the mornin', and she’ll
be the tallest kind 0’ fun. " .

“ How long yer been here ?"

“ This ar the second night."

“ Don't you want sunkthin' revivin' like r

“ Wouldn’t mind it, that's a fact. "

“ Here, Jake !" called Carson. “ A little spe-
rits is wantin’."

The Hoosier approached and produced from
some unseen pocket a capacious flash of bran-
dy, which he handed to Vic. He took several
swallows, and passed it to Wandaught, who,
in turn, handed it to the others. Seth took a
rather large quantity, for it was a long time
since he had tasted spirits. Summerfield ap-
proached Viola, and compelled her to take a
small quantity, for he knew she needed it as
well as himself. After this it was returned to
;he owner with its contents seemingly undimin-
lshed.

Carson. Vic. and Wandaught, remained on
duty during the night, while the others dis-
posed themselves as est they could. '

Nothing of note occurred during the night.
Redzel kept his fire burnin brightly, and
when some Indian approache and replenished
it, he seemed to be the only living object in
the neighborhood, so still and gloomy was
everything around. The camp-fire of Canon
could be' seen until near morning, when it
died out. He and Vic remained in earnest
conversation the whole night, interrupted now
and then by quiet draughts from the friendly
flask that had served them once before. They
were old acquaintances and friends, and enjoy-
ed each other’s society as only two genuine
trappers can. Vannoven seemed to have an-
tirely lost all antipathy to the companionship
of his fellow-beings that he evinced when we
first made his acquaintance. The prospect ot
the next day’s occurrences, added to the efl'ecta
of the flask referred to, made another person
of him.

Wandaught acted strangely. He sat at some
distance from them, hardly moving or speak.-
ing through the whole night. He refused“,
partake of the brandy, and seemed to wish
that he might be left entirely to himself.

Finally morning dawned upon them, end
there was a movement among the Indians Ls-
low. But as they beheld the forms upon the
rock, they concluded that all was right, and
sunk back again into a sort of half sluggish
indifferent slumber. Redzel was not seen.

Summcrfield was the first to arise Ea
greeted Wandaught warmly, but receiving in
reply, approached and laid his hand familiarly
on his shoulder. The trapper turned and mur-
tered a good morning, then lay down upon the
spot where Summerfield had spent the night
and in a few moments was asleep. Summer-
field passed on and greeted Vic and Carson
each of whom returned his salutation with
much friendliness and pleasure.

A few minutes after, the Hoosier slowly
arose, and deliberately stretched his great .
body, with a yawn that sounded like the groan
of some dying animal. His next movement ‘
was to place his hand in his pocket for his old
friend the flask. Not finding it there
started, with the exclamation:

“ Whar‘s my gun?"

Hearing a laugh from Vic, he tanned is that
direction, and received it from him. He mu-
ifested no ill nature at having been de rived
of it, but merely took a strong pull, rildacing
itin his capacious pocket, he stepp tc the
wall, and leaning lazily over it, gazed dcvln

A few moments after, Summer-field fell a
hand laid u n his shoulder, and looking up,
saw the mi dle-aged man spoken of standing
hyhisside. Therewassdesthlypahss-

m ’

 

v

Ic-

 

 

 

 

 

. nagsuifi‘w'

 

 

  
   
   

 

 

The Fighting Tapes.

Ia.‘.1.»“‘

 

m.

up his features, and his whole system was
hrribly convulsed by emotion.

"What is her name ?" he asked, pointing
lain uivering finger toward the' sleeping form
of rola

“Viola Vennond," returned Summer-field.

“O God! so I thought," he added, turning

etpaler, as if fainting. Summerfield sprang
ard and caught him.

“ What is the meaning of this? What is she
is y‘u '1’" asked he, eagerly.

-‘ an is my daughter I" he returned, recover-
ing himself.

"How is this?" asked Summerfleld, hardly
knowing what he said.

“Why plain enough. I am her father."

At this point Viola awoke.

“Ask her to come here," said the man, in a

pleasing tone, at the same time turning his .

ack toward her.

“Viola, step this way a moment," called
Inmmerfield. She tripped lightly forward,
her radiant form all aglow with pleasure.

“Let me introduce you to your father."

" What is that?"

Snmmerfield made no reply, for her father
had turned his face toward her. Viola's face
flushing a moment as she gazed bewilderineg
into his face, and the next instant she sprang
forward and was clasped in his arms. Their
joy was too great for utterance, and their mu-
tual sobs were all that was heard. Summer-
neld turned away, not wishing to interfere
with or interrupt such a scene. The others,
who had witnessed it, comprehended its mean-
ing, and showed their participation in their
pleasure by a respectful silence.

“ Gosh a’mighty! what’s the matter?" ques-
tioned Seth, starting up and gaping wonder-
ineg at them.

“The little one is dead, and he‘s tryin' to
revive her," replied Vic, gravely.

“ Here, you, you can't do her any good that
way,” said Seth, earnestly, striving to separate
them. But Summerfield pulled him quietly to
one side and admonished him to st them
alone.

As the father released the daughter, the
others removed their gaze, and permitted them
to seat themselves without being interrupted
by any rude stars of theirs. They remained
seated full an hour, engaged in earnest, thrill-
ing conversation. Viola related the whole
particulars of her life since their mutual sepa-
ration up to the present moment, not omitting
a single particular that she could recall. And
the father stated the principal incidents of his.
He had remained in Oregon a number of years,
succeeding better than he anticipated, until he
determined to send for his daughter to come
to him. He had sent for her, and hearing
nothing of her for a long time, made up his
mind to visit the States himself. When about
to start, he felt such a desire to leave the new
country he was in, and spend the remainder
of his days in his native state, that he dispos-
ed of his possessions and sot out with that in-
tention. He accompanied a number of emi~
grants returning, discouraged and gloomy, to
their homes again. They proceeded so slowly.
that he could hardly restrain his impatience,
and gladly joined a couple of trappers who
overtook them one day. He had been with
them but three days when he discovered his
long lost daughter. A short time more was
spent in conversation, when the father arose
and addressed the others.

“ My friends, you will pardon this exhibition
of feeling which I have given, when I explain
it. Little did I drearr last night, when I
reached this spot, that had found my long-
lost daughtnr, whom I had not seen for years.
However, such was the fact, and a short time
since, for the first time. I was made aware 01
It. I have not concealed the heavenly, the
perfect joy which it has given me. She has
told me the whole circumstances 'of the noble
mterest‘you have manifested in her behalf, I
cannot thank you now as I should, but I will
snare you, Mr. Vannoven, Mr. Potter, and the
Hand who lies sleeping there, that, when we
reach the States again, I will manifest my
gratitude in n more substantial way than b
bare naked thanks. And, Mr. Sumuu-rfich ,
from the- depths of my OVt‘l'fiowing hcnrt. I
thank you deeply, earnestly and fervently;
for, to you four, under lleavcn, is the preser~
vation of my daughter owing. I see that you

‘ meditate some immediate action. Let it not

be delayed longer, and let me aesist you in car.
rying it out. Pray, say nothing," he added,
as Summer-field and Vic were about to speak.
“ I appreciate everythin g you have. done, and

 

do notwish you to depreciate it, as seems your
intention."

“But let me say,"pe:sisted Summerfleld,
" that I deserve no thanks. I have done
nothing. These three others have saved my
life and your daughter’s also."

“ See here, Someneld," interrupted Vic, “et
you tell 'nuthor such Whopper as that, I'll
patch you headfust over fur the varmints down

an"

“ I understand it all," said Mr. Vennond,
smiling at these remarks.

“I'll do’tl" added Vie, with a threatening
motion of his head.

"It seems to me," observed Seth, “that
it‘s getting time to do something. The En-
gins down below, and Mr. Redzel, will get out
of patience."

“ Mr. who ?" asked Vennond, with a start.

“ Mr. Sam Redzel, the gentleman that's
trying to cut me and Mr. Summer-field out of
your daughter's afi'ections."

“He is the one who has pursued her thus
far, and to whom she has referred, without
mentioning his name ?"

“ The same.”

“ I understand everything now. It was not
all love and passion that has led him to fol-
low you thus far. It was vindictive hatred,
revenge I"

“What do you mean, father?" asked Viola,
earnestly. ,

“ Never mind, darling. It is not a story for
your ears. At any rate not until Sam Redzel,
your mortal enemy, is dead. But go on, friends.

at is the intention, Carson?"

“ We're goin' to make a rush down among
Dem—ll

“ Hallo! up thnr!" came the voice of Red-
zel at this moment. Carson paused, and Vic
gazed down to see what was wanting.

“ Whar's Jim Wandaught '1’" he asked.

f “ He's here. What do you want to know
or ?"

“I want to talk with him a moment."

Accordingly Summerficld stooped and gen-
tly awoke Wandaught, and communicated the
intelligence to hi"

 

CHAPTER XX. ’
“is passaurrunnr's runrrnmsur.

As soon as Wandaught understood what was
wanted, he sprang without hesitation upon the
wall, his line muscular form standing out in
relief against the sky. Seth, out of curiosity,
looked over, and seeing that Rodzel held his
rifle in his hand, whispered :

“Jim, make him drop that gun before you
talk to him."

“ You’d better do’t," added Vic.

“ SartainLy, friend, don’t stand the. "joined
Carson, and Summertleld also said :

“ For Heaven's sake, Wandaught, don' run
into such danger as that."

But Wandaught, instead of receiving these
friendly warnings as he would at any other
time, appeared s ' htly touched and displeas-
ed that all shoul offer advice to him, and,
without following their entrenties, simply re-
turned : “ Sam won't do nothin' mean to me."

The others said nothing more, and the trap-
per turned his face toward Redzol, and de-
manded :

“ Wal, Sam, what you want of me '3"

“ Jim, I wants to ax one favor. "

“Wal, out with it; ifI kin give it, I will."

“ In the fust place, me and you are old
friends, ain't wc'. ’

“In course, and I hope we allers will be."

“We've been together considerable “t”

“ That's a fact, and I‘ve done you some good
turns, hain't I?"

“ Yeah ; and I‘ve allers felt good 'eal of grat-
ertude fur it. " .

“ Glad to hear it."

“ And I don't want to quarrel with yer, Jim,
nuther." -

“Nor me with you; but what's yer favor
you’ve been talkin,‘ 'bout ?"

“ Wal, Jim, bein’ you‘n me are such fast
friends, I want to ask yer if you won’t do yer
best to put that gal and Crooked Pegs in my
hands! Cuss it! I'm tired of waitin' ; I
mought as well had her the last two, three days
and nights I’ve been here."

There was a suppressed laugh from those
behind Wandaught when they heard this. He
answered:

“ Ban]. I want tar as ym sac fiver."

..‘.."H.‘ :2 :—
WIH. 

 

=

uWal, what is it, my ole friend i"

" I don't want yer to ever ax me that egll.’

“ Why don't yer want that ax'd ?"

“ 'Cause it won‘t do no good."

" What, won’t yer t me that little favor?

“ Why, Sam, wo d it be the right thing?”

“ Ar’ yer goin' tor grant it ?” he intomptel.
impetuously.

“ I told you no, for if I did—"

Wandaught's words were interrupted at thk
point by the sharp crack of a rifle, and, pin-
cing his hand to his breast, he stepped qt!
atly down, saying :

“ I’m done for, boys!"

As they saw the deathl hastliness of his
face,‘ and the crimson blo gribbling through
his fingers, th understood all. Summer-tie“.
sprang forwar ' and, catching him in hisarml.
asked what he knew was the truth :

“ My Godl Wandaught, are you shot?"

“ Yas ; I’ve got my 18M. shot ; but don‘t
make any fuss over it. It can’t be helped.”

And the trapper, refusing all assistanm
seated himself upon his blanket, and roolln
ing a second, finally lay down with one hand
beneath his head, as though he were sleeping.
During the movement, a sharp cloud of pain
brushed over his features, and his hand was
displaced from the wound in his breast. A
streaming gush of blood bubbled out when it
was removed, and he vainly endeavored to
stay it. Vennond and Summcrfield sprsne
forward and did their best to assist him.

The two closed hands, and each turned their
heads. Vannoven never saw him 133min inth‘l
world. He stepped away, caref W
his face, but his herculean strength and
could not conceal his terrible emotion.

“ And now, Vily, a good-by to you. I have
died for you, but I would die agm a hundred
times for such a dear, sweet, little cruttun. .
Once in a while think of old Wandaught, when
he's gone, and when you git up above ext
see me the fust one. Good-by."

“ Good-b . Ohl—"

She coul say no more, but returned an
strong grasp of the rough hand that held hem.
Her eyes were full of scalding, blinding team
Site felt the pressure suddenly increase. andl
she: cleared her vision, she gazed into Wan.-
du ught‘s eyes. And thus, with their eyes upon
each other, without the slightest stir, except
from one or two sobbing around, or a were
from any one, the soul of the trapper departed.-

Depurted, we fondly believe, for a bower
region than it left. Had Jim Wandaughtbeol
as are generally those of his class—had he db
ferrcd calling upon his Maker until the
eleventh hour, we might doubt it. But it was
not thus with him. Little did he know of God
and his attributes, as we understand him ; news,
since a mere child had he visited a house (1‘
worship ; yet, in the great wilderness, with no
human being near. he had seen and felt an in-
visible Pchr, and his simple heart had gone
11 in earnest adoration. In the silent mid.
night hour he had lain and watched the gov-
geous constellations of Heaven, and felt tht
the same Power hold them in theirplaces. In
the wild perils of his life, something told him
that his preservation was due to no strength
of his own ; and the memory of a 
mother, that had told him, away back in the.
sinless days of childhood, of a wonderful»-
gion of happiness that he might visit at some
time, had never been forgotten. His hand had
more than once been restrained by no will of
his own, and the gentle voice of conscience
was ever heard. And we repeat, that we be:
lieve his irit is at this moment withinthat
glorious c 'me.

Summerticld and Vennond were the 
ones beside Viola who saw him die. She did
not realize it, and looked up inquirineg to her
father, as she saw how filmy and glassy Wan-
daught's eyes had become.

“ He is dead, " he answered softly.

Then she‘gently lifted his head from her
lap, and Summerield and her father carried
the inanimate form to the wall, and there do-
positin him tenderly upon his blanket, covert
ed his orm with another, and, without speak
biz, turned to Carson and Vannoven to sea
w at was to be done next. The latter had
choked back his grief, and there was a terrible
calmness upon his features. _ ; ‘

“ Sam Redzel must pa for that," her-spud. ‘7 .
lnatone that wasan from-deepm -r
He then turned to Carson and convened in; U
half-whi r for a moment. and it was evidefln
from th appearance that they had w
u on the course to erase. ‘ '

pins-tug fit: them? path «1de with NI u

 

 

 

    

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“flaws . r'r‘
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-38

L...

folded over the muzzle of his rifle, gazing
stoically at the covering of Wandaught Sud-
denly he turned around and spoke :

“Boys, I’ve one favor to ask of you. Jim
wasmy friend Sam ltedzel has killed him,
and swore thathe'll have my life too. The first
chance on see to shoot that viper, let me
know. {let me do it, and that will be all I

All-promised that his wish should be grati-
fled. 0n the side of the wall toward the sav-
ages were several orifices that were large
enough to admit the barrel of a rifle, yet they
were so irregular, and the wall was of such
thickness, that the position of the gun could
be raised but slightly. They had been con-
structed, it seemed, for the purpose of firing
upon an enemy at some distance. As the sav-
ages were now congregated, they stood before
this, and at the very point where a shot could
be made to reach them. The Hoosier placed
himself before one of the apertures and gazed
intently upon them. It was hardly five min-
utes before he turned and exclaimed:

“ Ha'r’s yer chance 1"

Seth sprang forward and peered through.
There, directly before his vision, he saw Sam

' Bedzel standing and pointing toward the rock,

and gesticulatiug madly, as though giving di-
rections to his savage allies. With hardly the
slightest quiver, he pushed his rifle through,
an dro ping upon his knee, took deliberate
aim at e villain's breast. Every breath was
held as his finger pressed the trigger. Seth flred
uickly, and waited to see its effect. His nerves,
spite of his forced calmness, were somewhat
unsteady, and the shot was not as good as he
e cted. .
at it was mortal! As the smoke cleared
away, he saw Reclzel stagger a moment, fling
his arms wildly above him, and, with a half
howl and shriek, and an awful oath, pitch for-
ward upon his face! He saw this, as did the
others, and, with a calmness that was certainly
airtight, to say the least, he drew his rifle
to and turning to Vannoven, said, in tones
scarcely loud enough to be heard :

“I've killed him! What are you going to
do next?" .

“ We’re goin' to kill the rest,” returned Vic.
" sen we imbibe, friend."

e Hoosier produced his exhaustless flask,
and each took a. long draught. Vannoven then
stepped to the opposite side, and, with the as-
sistance of Carson, -rolle l a large stone from its

6. This done, he spoke:

“ We must hop down thar and make a rush.
See that yer knives and shootin" irons are
re My." _ _

signified their readiness, and, without
more words. Vic dropped silently to the earth.
Then came Carson, followed by Gavin, Van-
nond, Seth, and Summerfield. The latter
paused a moment to speak to Viola. He as.
uni-ed her that the deciding blow had been
given in the death of Redzel, and they were
going to but finish the work, and that there

v ,was no fears of the result. He then leaped

over.
The leadership, by mutual consent, had been
"van to Carson. He stood as calm and col-
Fe‘cted as though he were no avenger! Gazing
around upon each, he spoke in that low musical
voice of his.

“ See that all is right. Blaze away as soon
Is you see ’em. Now !"

As he uttered the last word, he bounded
sway, and almost simultaneously six human
forms shot around the rock, six, rifles were
discharged, and as many savages rolled writh-
ing in their own blood! Then, like as many
crazed animals, they bounded over the inter-
vening ground, and in an instant were among
their enemies raging like lions over their prey.
. The battle was short, but so terrible that no
pen can describe it. The savages, instead of
withdrawing upon the fall of their leader, main-
tained their ground with determined obsti-
uacy ; and, at the moment the six whites
burst upon them, were preparing for another
ettempt to dislodge the fugitives. The on-
slaught of the latter was so sudden that it was
fatal. They were thrown into ccnfirsion, yet,
in spite of it, made a bold stand, and struggled

_ with the fury of desperation.

And thus it was contested, and thus it was
gained. No earthly power could have with—
stood that charge of the whites. Seth Potter
was so insane with excitement that he could

ver recall the slightest incident of the fight
after hearing the command of Kit Carson. He

(1 a savage the first one, and slew him as
Ewould an infant, then sprang into the air

The Fighting Trapper.

with a yell, and brandishing his rifle over his
head, leaped upon another and bore him to the
ground. Thus he fought, impelled by the un-
controllable passion that was burning him up.

Vannoven and Summerfield remained side by
slde, and fought with more coolness than any,
yet there was a fierceness about their move-
ments that never before possessed them.

The Hoosier went at it like some ponderous
machine, working wildly from the excess of
pc wer that was driving him forward. He
seemed to push instead of strike, and pull in-
stead of jerk, yet no obstruction or impediment
could avail against his irresistible strength.
He appeared actually at times to crush anr'
break the Indians in two! And all the time
his huge jaw continued regularly closing upon
an enormous mouthful of tobacco, and once or
twice he ejected large quantities of juice in the
face of his struggling Victim!

Vic Vannoven, for the time being, was a de-
mon in his fury The first blow he made, he
drove his knife through and through the body
of an Indian ; and, as it slipped from his grasp,
he wheeled around and brought a blow with
such force in the face of another, that it was

'absolutely'erushed to a jelly! A terrific kick
sent another a dozen feet, doubled up like a
knot in his agony ; and as he drew his other
knife. he plunged delirioust at the others.
His simple grasp appliared suflicient to mash
the very bones of ' enemies, and not a
lavage could stand for an instant before the
raging madman.

And yet Kit Carson, the small, gcntlemanly
agent at Santa Fe, performed more incredible
wonders than this! There was not the wild
lmpetuosity in his movements that character-
ized those of Vannoven ; but there was an in-
conceivable celerity and quickness, more fatal
in in its results than his. He fought with a
knife in either hand, leaping in every direction
with an agility that was astonishing, and un-
equalled by the others.

There is a feat that is sometimes performed

by the trappers in the West upon horseback,
yet few indeed are those who ever acquire the
necessary dexterity to accomplish it. The
trapper, in making his charge, takes a knife
in each hand, and, lowering his head, urges
his horse directly between two savages, and in
the passage slays them both! Very few in-
deed can do this, and yet Kit Carson did it on
foot? At two separate times he slew tso of
his enemies at the same instant.

Such terrible slaughter could not last long.
In a few moments the remaining savages broke
\nd fled. Eight only were able to avail them-
selves of this resource, and it availed yet no-
thing. As they leaped away, they were fol-
lowed by Carson, the Hoom‘er, and Vannoven,
who slaughtered them as they ran!-

Ssmmerfield, Venuond and Seth halted and
drew breath as they saw not an Indian upon
his feet. All were stretched before them,
either dead or dvinzl .

When the had rented, Summerfield arose
and gazed r his companions ; but the pur-
suit of the Indians had carried  beyond
his sight, and he proposed to the others to
await their return upon the rock. As they
were starting, Seth said :

“ Boys, I don’t see that Redzel around here.
Can't be he’s run ofl‘ with the others. and if
he hasn’t, where is he "

They examined each form. and true enough
indeed was it that Redzel was gone! All were
puzzled to account for this. Seth, in his opin-
ion of the villain, really believed the Evil One
had assisted him bodily away. Summerfield,
indeed, feared that Redzel had escaped, and
that all trouble with him was not yet over.

Full of these feelings, the three approached
the rock. Viola stood waiting them, and had
witnessed all of the fearful contest. She had
seen the fight of the savages and the pursuit,
and knew that none of her friends had been
slain. Yet the awful groans that reached her
ears, and the terrible scenes she saw, prevent-
ed anything like a joyous feeling. She indeed
was glad that the savages had been routed,
but mourned deeply that it was accomplished
by annihilation only.

As Summerficld passed around the rock, he
recoiled with shivering horror at the sight that
met his gaze. There, stretched upon the earth,
lay the still gasping form of Bedzel! He was
bleeding profusely from the Wound that Seth
had given him. He had stopped the flow with
his hand until he reached the rock, against
which he crept! hoping to die without being
seen by any one. Singularly enough, his

 

 

————
L Ln

wound was nearly in the same place as Wen-
daught’s, varying enough only to prolong his
torture. His hands and clothes were dabbled
in his blood, and there was a ghastly horror in
his appearance that was awful!

As his rolling eyes met those of the others,
a sudden pang of the acutest torture shotc‘ver
his features. All feelings of hatred or revenge
were driven from the hearts of the obsemuw
as they gazed upon this sickening spectacle.
Summerfield felt for the miserable wretch, and
approached and asked, in a sympathising

ne :

“ Can I do anything for you, Redzel ?"

He made a strong effort to speak, but his
mouth was too full of blood, and only a gur—
gling moan escaped him. He, however, mo-
tioned feebly with his left hand for Summer-
field to remove his right, which was lying be-
neath him. He raised him tenderly, and as
he tpulled the hand forth, the dying wreteh,
ga enng his strength, strudk savagely at the
breast of his friend, passing so close as to cut
his garment I~ Seeing that he had failed, he fell
back, with a half-uttered oath that sent the
blood from his mouth in every direction, and
gave up in despair.

“ Kill the infernal snake l" exclaimed Seth.
clubbing his rifle, and raising it to brain him
upon the spot. Summerfield caught his arm.

“ You are saved that trouble. He is dead I“

“ He is with his Maker, " said Venuond, sol-
:mnly. .“We have nothing more to do with

m. H

' They then ascended the rock, where Viola
was anxiously awaiting them. She had seen.
Redzel crawlin painfully toward, and had
known, althoug she could not witness, that
he had died near her.

As they reached the top of the rock, they
looked out, and faraway could see Vannoven
returning. But he was alone, on horseback,
and leading four others. This occasioned
much wonderment, and none could account
for it, except by the supposition that Carson
and his companion were returning at some
distance behind. But when Vic reined up be-
neath them, no other person was in sight.

“Where’s Carson and Gavin?" asked Sum»
merfield, looking down upon him.

“Half way to Independence by this tune.
Kit came ’cross some fellers, who said he war
wanted most blastedly out thar, and he ’cluded
to start without waitin' for us. "

In the attack there had been a stampede of
the animals belonging to the Indians, and
they were flying over the prairie in every di-
rection. The Hoosier secured a couple, upon
which he and Carson continued their pursuit.
Vic also secured one, upon which he was ena-
bled to capture several others, and with which,
as has been shown, he returned.

“ Well, " continued Summerfield, “ how soon
shall we leave ?"

“ Right off."
fir‘;We must bury Wandaught. you know,
s ." I

At this Vic dismounted, and, securin his
animals, ascended the rook. The form 0% the
dead trapper was then lifted and borne gently
down, followed by Viola. After a few minutes
consultation, it was determined to bury him
within a few feet of where he had been slain.
Accordingly all set to work, and with much
labor, scooped out a grave sufliciently deep to
contain him. Into this he was placed, and,
while the others bowed their heads in sorrow
and reverence, Summerfield knelt and uttered a
petition to high Heaven. This done, they
commenced covering his body, and, as in e
few minutes it was hid from.their sight, not
one could repress the tears that rose tohls
eyes. Not a word was spoken as the earth
was packed over him, and when finished they
turned toward Vannoven.

“Now git on," said ‘he, “and let's leave
this place. "

“Waits minute," said Summerfield, “let
us give Redzel a burial also. We shall never
regret it. "

As he spoke, he passed around the base cl
the rock, and the others instinctively followed.
Vic gave a perceptible start when he saw the
frightful appearance the dead body presented.
All set to work vigorously, and in a short time
another grave was dug, into which Venuond

and Summerfield deposited the form of Red- ‘

zel. Neither Seth nor Vic would touch it.

And now occurred ,a most singular and um
accountable circumstance. Just as they step-
ped back to throw tbs earth again into the
grave, all were-startle by hearing the any;
warning of the rattlesnake

 

4,. w—ogmn. “'1‘ v

 

 

 

 

 

“Jump. boys," called Vic, "thar he comes I"

All sprang away, and as they gazed back they
law a’ monstrous rattlesnake, nearly black in
ts hue, and whose swelling body seemed
covered with glittering scales, slowly gliding
from beneath the rock, and, with head erect,
approaching them! . All ran a short distance,
and stood ready to shoot the reptile, and yet
pausing through some peculiar feeling that
took possession of them. What was their hor-
ror at seeing the animal, instead of coming
nearer, suddenly dart into the grave of Red-
zel and coil himself around the body! They
approached him, and he gave a warning rattle
again, rearing his head in rage; but, without
waiting, the others fired, sending several bul-
lets through its neck and head. The contor-
tious of the snake, though terrible, did not
remove his body, and when he gasped out his
life he was still lying upon the breast of
Bedzel.

“Bury them together," said Seth, “ they‘re
good companions." -

“The idea is too horrible," replied Sum-
merfleld, placing the point of his rifle beneath
the reptile and flinging him forth. The ani-
mal was dead, yet there was an involuntary
motion in several parts of the body, and, as if
to add unearthly horror to the scene, Seth nf-
firmed that it resembled Redul’s dying move-
ments! ’

This unpleasant duty finished, the com-
pany now made ready to take their leave of a

place that had been so prolific with misery to -

them. No prayer was, said over Redzel, for
Bummerileld felt that it would have been
mockery to attempt it. \ ‘

It was now near noon, and, without waiting
to partake of'any food, the company were
soon em route for the States. Vie had found a
good quantity of meat among the savages,
which he has .ated not to ropnste to the
use of his friends, so that era was nothing
- to fear in that direction. ‘ I

When they departed, they turned then
backs upon a heart-sickening scene. . _Scatter-V
ed over a large surface of the prairie, were
lyingover a score of bodies, cut and man led
in every conceivable manner! There ey
were to lie until torn asunder by fierce animals,
in until they had rotted beneath the blnzmp

In and chilly weather!

‘ QHAPTER XXI.
,rss'coxsuuuarrom ‘

_WHA'r more is' to be said? To all good sto-
nes there is a happy end—says the proverb.

 

J

Perhaps it is so : at least, we shall not

so it
is not so, even if by saying this we claim that
our story is a good one. For, what could come
out of these perils, these races for life, these
episodes of hunter's life, and of heart‘life, it
not a happy consummation?
A few episodes, and all is told

“Viola, do you remember a little talk we
once had, under not quite so favorable circum-
stances ‘2‘"

“Oh! yes, we had a great many pleasant
chats, for all our situation was not as we might
have wished, " she replied, blushing slightly,
and pretending not to comprehend him.

“ That is true; but I refer to that one in the
cave. " ‘

“ When we made our way out. I don’t think
it was very pleasant."

“ No, no; you little witch. I mean when we
were all alone, and I asked you whether you
would be my wife, and you said you would
some day. Don’t remember that, I suppose ?"

“ Let me‘ see,” she repeated slowly and re-
flectively, as though ' endeavoring to call up
some forgotten circumstance, and yet unable
to repress a smile at Summerfield‘s quizzical
appearance. Ah! there was no danger of her
forgetting that conversation. He waited a
second, and then catching her impulsively in
his arms, he added: ’

“ You remember well enough; but it doesn't
make much difl‘erence whether you do or not.
I do, and, of course, will hold you to your
promise.” ‘ 44

Then releasing her, and imprinting a warm
kiss upon a warmer cheek, he continued, in an
earnest tone : ‘

“Viola, your father has givén me his con-
sent, and you'have. Today I shall leave for
home, and if I findmy sister alive and well——
as God grant I may—I shall visit your home
and claim you at once. At any rate, you shah
soon hear from me." '

At this point, the little foolish creature went,

to crying. In a few moments, however, she
looked up, more beautiful than ever, and
smiling through her sparkling tears, asked:
“ You will come, will you ?"
“I guess so, ” returned Summerfield, giving
another burning kiss, which was returned.
Shortiy afl-er. they were joined by Vsnnond,
who understood everything, and la hcd and
joked them greatly, wondering w t had
grieved Viola so much, and made gummerfield
so aglow with pleasure. And Viola tuned to
ut and couldn’t to says her life, and at last

laughng bade them good-by
to: hasten: muesli. they

0 Q ,0 O

I In the morning, Snmmerficld, socom ed,
by his sister, set out for Louisiana, and%‘:
_ ed the residence of Viola the next day. HM
might be supposed, she and Marian We“~
ardent friends at once. There wash 
deal of unimportant talk, as there always
such times, and at last the great wedding day;
was fixed b Marian and Viola. f ‘ .
And of t 1e wedding it is perhaps uselenfr'
oak. Hundreds of others are daily 
p ace which are as much as was this one. Th.
nuptials were celebrated at Viola's residem
Vic Vannoven, the hardy trapper, and Beth tbs
eccbntrie fellow, were two 1m ortant perm:
ages who were present. The omer, 'Bt 
was embarrassed by the gorgeous splendor .
the scene; but the others understood hit
nature, and succeeded in making him io'el 
fectly at home. He grew very loqnacioun.
declaring that Viola “ war as party as a young-
beuver," and Summerfield, “ real, than
allcrs thought he's a blasted fine chap.” Rel)-
ably the excellent wine had some effect 
him, for, before the company broke up, ( :K)
Seth's suggestion, he performed for the to“)?
puny a genuine Sioux war dance, 
omittin ssingle howl or yell. and ended" ‘ ‘
matter y hugging Viola somewhat 
fashion of a grizzly bear, and kissing her ‘ ' '
His performance created much merflmepfl‘wty
they all knew his rough but generous unto”,
Seth never remembered that he  5
once entertained a tender feeling forV
but joined in the “proceedings with a
and heartiness equ to the trapper. Ea w
outed some marvellous gyrations in the t '
he undertook, and showered his con

H.755“;

occurre to mar the pleasure of the o ‘-
no mistake." ‘
noven has consented to give up» his trap

film i
have too many w toe upon them,  *7
trouble. He starts upon his journey ifii‘
time this concluding, chapter reachssihom.
gummerfleld has informed

and he

am in pri-

tions 11 on every one he spoke to.
except an inadvertent remark of Venn
that, “6th war thar, thar'd beats“
' This brought a tear to.
than one eye. * . »'
Summerfleld has just informed us that ~
life after one more Eur-nay. He says the
overland mail is spoiling these >
there is not enough of beaver to 
weeks, so that if our readers wish to know
whereabouts, they may conclude that, by, H a
is somewhat: up figugéhe Becky moon
ursumg' ' exci ‘ an ul- ' »
the 
in tobein newspapers. »
re8 as soon:- podbk to DO 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    

 

 

 

 

      
     
     
 
   

 

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HANDBOOK OF W INTER SPORTS, "I
EMBRACING:
, ICE-SKATING, ROLLER-SKATING, RINK‘BALL, I ‘ ~
g ~ ' CURLING, AMERICAN, FOOTBALL, $9 7
. ’ \ L
  AND ICE—BOATING,
E ‘: Together with the Special Code of Rules for Prize Skating of the
 Skating Congress_ and Records of Matches at BasepBaJl and
Cricket on the Ice. Edited. by Henry Chadwick.

 

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v'Il 1.47,)"
 W1“ :‘v, A .;¢ are,

‘3. “1.0!! V .

. , BEADLE’SrDIMEitIlBRARY.

\ Published Every Wednesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Ten Cents. No Double Numbers

 

BY JOSEPH E. BADGER. JR.

Ll m Old Sobersides the Detective oi! St. Louis.
on: White-Horse \ heeler, the Revenue Detective.
'18 The Double Edgel Detective.
N7 Maverick Mark. the Man from Nowhere.
as Silky Steele, tiie Stay-in Sport.
881T e otter-S orts Nl-ck-Tie Part .
as High- ater ark; or. Silver-Tips d.
see Rims. Rob, the Ran e Cham ioti.
‘ E5 The C wbov Chief s Sure~S 0t.
3 848 The Rival Red-Hat Sports.
-; 87 Curiéoltiid. the Cheyenne Sport.
.‘ 8‘] The t Hand Detective.
it this The Soft Hand‘s Clutch.
Dan Duntt the Soft~Hand Sport.
'l‘ue Frisco Detective‘s Thug-Tangle.
“.89 8am Cary, the River 5 art. I ;
‘U Tile Dead Sport‘s Don le.
17! Prince John, Detective S eclal.
763 Dandy Don, the Denver etectlve.
154 the Man from Texas; or, Dangerfield. the
Doctor Detective.
» 744 Swae stakes Sam, the Silver Sport.
726 The Secret Six‘ or, 0.d Halcyon.
719 The Man of Silk.
g Bantam Bob. the Beauty from Butte.
Kent Kasson, the Preacher Sport.
686 Bob Breeze, the Rounder Dotective.
675 Steel Surry, the Sport fr. m Sunrise,
668 Solemn Saul's Luck Strtak
661 The Geh'l‘here Sharp.
651 Silvmtip St—ve, the Sky Scraper from Siskiyou.
645 Gopher Gabe, the Unseen Detective.
' 686 Dandy Darling, Detective.
627 Mossback Mosr‘, the Mounlaineer.
017 The Grip Sack Sharp’s Even up.
591 Blg Bandy, the Brigadier of Brimstone Butte.
583 Sandy ~.amls, the Sharp from Snap City.
576 Silver-Tongued Sid: or. Grip Sack Sharp's Sweep.
564 The Grip-Sack Sharp; or. The Seraphs ol'Sodoni.
6w Grip-Sack Sid. the Sample Sport.
647 Ilie Buried Detective; or, 5:1 l’s Six Sensations.
541 Major Magnet, the Mun of Nerve.
585 Dandv Dutch. the Decorator from Dead-Lift
523‘ Dandy Andy, the Diamond Detective.
514 Gabe Guru). the Gi‘izzllvufrom Ginseng.
504 Solemn Saul. the Sad an from San Saba.
4% Rattlepate Rob; or. The Roundhead’s Reprisal
£8 The Thor: u Iibl‘ed Sport.
474 Daddy Dent -I‘}yt-, the Desnot o! Dew Drop.
466 0d Rough and Ready, the Sage of Sundown
458 Dutch Dan. the Pilgrim from Spitzenbt-rg.
445 A Cool Hand: or. Pistol Johnny‘s Picnic.
(38 Oklahoma. Nick.
338 Laughinl.y Leo; or. Sam‘s Dandy Pard.
‘26 The Ghost Detective: or. The Secret. Service Spy.
416 Monte Jim. the Black Sheep of Bismarck.
'09 [Lb Roy Ranch: or, The lmps of Pan Handle.
(03 The Nameless Sport.
895 Be-rdly mm, the Duke of Derringers.
88? D rk Durg. the Ishmael oi? the Hills.
m Captain Crisp, the Man with a Record.
W A Royal Flusu: or, Dan Brown's lsig Game.
W Jumping Jerry, the Gamecock from Sundown.
855 Storm Steve. the Mad Athlete.
351 Nor‘ est Nick. the Border Detective.
'845 Masked Mark. the Mounted Detective.
839 Spread Eagle Sam. the Hercules Hide Hunter.
831 Otiispa Charley. the Gold Nugget Sport.
817 Frank Lightl’oot, the Miner Detective.
292 Moke Hui-liar, the Boss Roustabout.
all Pistol Johnny; or. One Man in a Thousand.
$6 Sleek Sam, the Devil of the Min'es.
257 Death Trap Dig ‘ngs: or. A Man ‘Way Back
249 Elephant Tom. 0 Duranco.
£41 Spitfire Saul. King of the Rustlers.
233 The Old Hoy of Tombstone.
20] Pirate of the Placers: or, do uin‘s Death Hunt
180 Old ‘49: or. The Amazon of A zona.
170 Sweet William. the Trapper Detective.
165 Joaquin. the Terrible '
I54 Joaquin, the Saddle King.
141 Equinox Tom, the Buli§ of Red Rock.
119 Alabama Joe: or. The azoo Man-Hunters.
1% Dan Brown of Denver: or. The Detective.
as Big George: or. The Five Outlaw Brothers.
71 Captain Cool Blade: or. Mississippi Man Shark-
“ The Boy Jockey; or, Honesty vs. Crookedness.
l0 Jack Rabbit, the Prairie Sport.

BY \VM. G. PATTEN.

I10 Hie-E e, the Thug‘s Terror.

M Old ght-Hawk, the Crook Shadower.

768 The Prin e of New York Crooks.

756 Old Burke, the Madison Square Detective.

7a Double-voice Dan‘s Double Disgutse.

715 Double-Voice Dan on Deck.

W Double-Voice Dan, the Always-on-Deck Detective

I] a Double-Voice Dan, the Go-it Alone Detectiye,
576

 

 

- .M N_-“. ‘.

The Sparkler Sharp.

Hurricane Hal, the Cowboy Hotspur-
669 Old True Blue, the Trusty.
m The Giant Sport; or, Sold to Satan.
656 Old Plug Ugly. the Rough and Ready.
648 Gold Glove Gld the Man of GrlD.
641 Aztec Jack, the est-rt Nomad.
681 Colonel Con], the Santa Fe Slial‘ll
, 602 Ca tain Nameless. the Mountain MW“?!-
1 M71 Olr Dismal, the Range Detective.
l . ‘ “5 Butler Harry, the Cowboy SPOT”-

BY GEORGE C. JENKSs

910 The Arizona Detective.
39‘ bllvel‘Sam. the Shasta Sport.
80 The Silver Sport’s Double.
($8 The Race-Course Detective.
; g; The Hayseed Detective.
‘ , Ca tail) Corden, the Twister Detective
’ . 755 W (I Pvte the BronchoBuster Detective.
.  725 Fonrless Sam. the Grand Combination Detective.
, “719 Boston Bob, the S on; Detective.
Janntv Joe. the ockey Detective.
Mad Sharp. the.Rustler
558 Rube Rocket, the Tent Detective.
I“ Death-Grip. the Tenderfoot Detect".
‘~‘l' Thol miner Detective.
f 7 l ’ .lhl ’1

  
      

’_"..‘
“a '."’s.

 

 

lIY WILLIAM II. EYSTEB.

916 Two Dead-Square Sports.

902 Soft Velvet, the Man trom Sandrock.

691 Genteel Jim, Sport~atrLarge.

881 The Clubman-Crook's Cat‘s-paw.

867 The Frisco Sport.

852 Tile Stranger S ort's Shake—up.

828 Kirk King. lli“ an from Kirby.

818 Gentleman Dave, the Dead Game Sport

783 The King-Pin ’l‘ramn.

767 The Sport of rilver Bend.

718 Use e Bedrock‘s Big Bounce.

707 The Rival Rovars.

687 Double Cinch Dan, the Sport With a Charm.
677 Mr. Jacksnn, the Gent from Jayblru.

559 Gilt-Edge J ohnn ; or, Roldan and His Rovers.
650 Luck Lester's one Hand.

634 Old andcart's Big Dump.

62:2 The All Around Sports.

608 Desert; Alf, the Man With the Cougar.

590 Gentle Jack, the High Roller from Humbug.
578 Seven Shot Steve, the Sport with a Smile.
566 The Dude Detective.

558 Hurrah Harry, the Hi h Horse from Halcyon.
549 Belshazzar Brick, the all“? of Blue Blazes.
5‘33 Oregon, the Sport With aScar.

50% The Dude from Denver.

478 Plnnacie Pete; or. The Fool from Way Back.
450 Major Sunshine, the Man of Three Lives.
429 Hair Trigger Tom of Red licnd.

402 Snapshot. Sam; or, The Angels‘ Flat Racket.
306 The Piper Detective; or, The Gilt Edge Gang.
37.") Royal George, the Three iii ()ne.

"" Tllr e Handsome S orts; or, The Combination.
333 Derringer Dick. the inn with the Drop.

26‘; Magic Mike "to Man of Frills.

2:20 Captain Cu‘steeve: or, The Littlc Sport.

2 The Two Cool Sports; or, (ici'tin oi’ the Gulch.
182 Hands Up; or, The Knights of the Canyon.

160 Soft Hand. Sharp: or, Th I Man with the Sand.
145 Pistol Paras; or, The Silent Sport from Cinnabar

BY NED IIUN'I‘LINB.

857 Long Tom. the Privateer.

63:3 The Sea Spy.

621 The Red Privateer; or, The Midshipman Rover.
581 Fire Feather, the Buccaneer King.

517 15111?th Bill it First Trail.

36 Tombstone Dick, the Train Pilot.

1‘32 Saul Sabbcrday. the idiot S iy.

111 The Smugiz‘l-r Captain: or,’ he Skipper‘s Crime.
. The Sea Bandit; or, The Queen of the Isle.

10 The White Wizard; or, The Seminole Prophet.

IIY JACKSON IINOK—“ 01d Hawk.”

838 Old Grips Still Hunt.

827 Detective \Illlllt‘ll s Web.

77 The Butler Detective; or, Old Grip's Grip

77‘) The Showman Dore live.

762 Old Grip. the De'eotivo.

740 Capt in Clew, the Fighting Detective.

732 The Hurricane Detectivv.

643 Casllemalne, the Silent Sitter.

616 Magnus. the Weird Detective.

606 The Drop Detective.

595 \Vellborn. the Upper Crust Detective.

582 Jor'lm. the DetectiveExpert.

574 Old Falcon ‘s Double.

561 The Thug King' or, The Falcon Detective‘s Foe.
548 Falconbridge. 1 e Sphinx Detective.

536 Old Falcon s Foe: or, The Delective's Swell Job.
515 Short-Stop Ma 6. the Diamond Field Detective.
509 Old Falcon, t e Thunderbolt Detective.

501 S rlngsteel Steve, the Retired Detective.

494 T o Detective‘s S y.

485 Rowlock. the Hnr r Detective.

477 Dead-arm Brandt.

467 Mainwaring. the Salamander.

462 The Cincus Detective.

451 Gi'iplock. the Rocket Pete lve.

444 The Magic Detective; or, ’1‘ e Hidden Bond.

424 Hawk Heron‘s De lity. .

886 Hawk Heron. the talcon Detective.

    

..

a.

i..
.L

BY J. 3. CONVDRICK.

752 The Sus ect S ort of Daisy Drift.

6% Ducats ion, t is Nabob Sport Detective.

612 Sherit! Stillwood. the Regulator of Raspberry.
598 The Dominie Detective.

591 Duke Daniels, the Society Detective.

580 Shadowing a. Shadow.

565 PrinCo Paul. the Postman Detectivo.

557 The Mountain Graybeards: or, Riddles‘ Riddle.
519 Old Riddles, the Rock Ranger

499 Twilight Charlie, the oad Sport.

473 Gilbert of Gotham. the Steel-arm Detective.
45:! Rainbow Rob, the Tulip from Texas.

436 Kentucky J can, the S ort from Yellow Pine.
422 Blue Grass Burt. the old Star Deteczive.

890 The Giant Cupid: or Cibuta John‘s Jubilee.

BY EDWARD WILLETT.

483 Flush Fred. the River Sim .

368 The Canyon Kins: or. a P no on his Head.

348 Dan Dillon. Klnxz of Crosscut.

337 Old Gabe. the Mountain Tramp.

927 Terrapin Dick, the Williwood 1 etectlve.

315 Flush Fred’s Double; or. The Squatters’ League
808 Hemlock Hank, Tough and True.

SN l. czar Lem: or. Lif - in the Pine Woods.

269 Flush Fred‘s lt‘ull Hand,

274 Flush Fred, the Mississippi Sport.

248 Montana Not, the Lion of Last Chance Camp.
222 lhli the Blizzard: or. Red Jack‘s Crime.

2209 Buck Farley. the Bonanza Prince.

129 Mississippi Mose; or, a Strong Man's Sacrifice.

BY CAPTAIN MAYNE REID.

W The White Squaw.

$34 The Hunter's Feast. ,

21x The Wild Huntress; or, The Squatter.

:00 The Rifle Rangers; or. Adventures in Mexico.
74 The Captain of the Rifles: or, The Lake ueen.
65 The Specter Barque.AA Tale of the PM: o.

lll'l‘hefialpflunteu. Bomsnoeotthol’lalns.

1.63.9“ . .wtilxl pg.) r.

 

BY (10L. PREN'I‘ISS INGRAIIAI.

911 The Blue Blockader; or, The Coast Greyhound.

906 The Cuban Cruiser.

854 Too Ocean Gipsy.

834 The Wild Steer Riders; or, Texas Jack’s Tm

810 The Rival Monte Cristos.

305 The Last. of the Plrntes; or, Doom Driven.

801 The Water \Volvrs’ Detective; or, Tram lb
Grave Ghouls.

791 The Coast-Raiders Death-Chase,

748 Arizona Charlie, the Crack-snot. Detective.

704 Invisible lvan. the Wizard Dctectlve.

685 The Red-skin Sea Rover.

679 Rrvcllo, the Pirate Cruiser; or, The Rival Royal-

672 The Red Rapier: or, The Sea Rover's m.

662 The Jew Dr tective: or, The Beautiful Cour“.

640 The Rev r‘s Ret ibution.

635 The Ex Buccanel r: or, The Stigma of Sin.

625 Red Wings; or. The Gold Seekers of the Helium,

615 The Three liccnneers.

610 The Red Flag Rovt r: or.White Wings of them

605 The Shadow Silver Ship.

600 The Silver Ship: or, The Sea. Scouts of“

593 The Sea Rebel: or. Red Rovers 01’ the Revolution.

597 Conrad, the Sailor Spy; or. True Heartaol' ‘26.

581 The Olitiawed Skipper; or, The GantJet Runner. .

560 The Man from Mexico. ',

553 Mad: Monte, the lilutincer; or, The Brandedm

516 Th Doomed Wlialrr: or, The Life Wreck I ~

530 The Savazes of the Sea. \

5:34 The Sea Chaser; or, The Pirate Noble. ‘-’

510 E1 Moro, th ‘ Corsair Commodore. ‘

493 The Scouts ol’ the 58:1. '

457 The Sea Insurgent: or. The Conspirator 80-.

446 Ocean Ogre, the Outcast Corsair.

43.": The One-Armed Buccaneer. .

430 Tile Fatal Frigate; or, Rivals in Love and. W“

890 The New Monte L‘rlsto.

393 The Convict Caption. ‘ ‘

377 Afloat and Ashore: or. The Corsair Comm . »

369 The Coast Corsair: or. The Siren oi’ the Sea.

364 The Sea Fugitive: or. The Queen of the m ‘

341 The Sea Desperado,

8‘36 The Magic Snip; or. Sandy Hook Freebooteu.

825 The Gentleman Birate; or. The Casco Hen-“I. 
318 The lndian uuccaneer: or, '1 he Red Rovers. . L‘
307 Tile Phantom l‘iratc; or. The Water Wolves. ll

2'55 The Pirate Priest: or. The Gambler‘s Wm
m6 ,ueen ileleli, lllt' Amazon of the Over

235 d Lightning tin~ Man of Chance.

234 Black Board. the Buccaneer.

221' The Specter Yacht; or, A Brother‘s Crime.

210 Buccaneer Bess. the Lioness ot the Sea.

1’05 The Galnbl *r Pirate; or, Lady of the Lagoon.
198 The Skeleton Schooner; or. The Skimmer.

184 The Scarlet Schooner: or. The Sea Nomads.
104 Montezuma. the Merciless.

103 Merle, the Mntineer; or, The Red AW

IIY PHILIP S. WARNE.

803 Dan Dirk Kins; of No Man‘s Land. V‘
583 Captain Adair. the Cattle-King. .- ~
567 Captain Midnight, the Man of Craft.
544 The Back to Back Pards.
5% The Chum ion Three.
50! Bareback luck, the Centaur of the Plan
472 Six Foot Si: or, The Man to “ Tie To."
481 California Kit. the Always an Hand. .
404 Silver Sid; or. A “ Daisy “ Bluff.
880 Ticcr Dick‘s Pied e: or, The Golden Serpent ,
359 Yellow Jack. the estizo. . . i
338 Jack Sands. the Boss of the Town. ‘ ‘_ ,»
299 Three of a Kind; or, Dick. Desnard and the“
251 Tiger Dick vs. iron Dt-slpnrd. 
207 Old Ilurd Head: or, W ilrlwlnd and his Inn. '.
171 Tiger Dick, the Man of the Iron Heart.
114 The Gentleman from Pike.
80 A Man or Nerve' or, Caliban the Dwarf.
54 Always on Hand: or. The Foot-Hills Sport. ;
29 Tiger Dick. Faro Kin : or The Cashier's m .
4 The Kidnapper: or, he N’orthwesl. Shanzhll. -.

BY CAPTAIN MARK WILTON.

323 Hotspur Hugh; or. The Banded Brothel.
811 Heavy Hand: or, The Marked Men. . '
305 Silver-Plated Sol, the Montana Rover.

291 Horseshoe Hank, the Man of Big Luck.

985 Lightning Bolt. the Canyon Terror.

270 Texa ' Chick. the Southwest Detective.

271 Stonetist. of Big Nu et Bend. _'
of Horse-Thieval- ‘ '

266 Leopard Luke the iii ‘
263 iron-Armed Abe, the unchback Dem .‘
258 Bullet Head, the Colorado Bravo. ‘ .

237 Lon Haired Max; or, The Black Le .

227 Buc shot Ben, the Man-Hunter of Ida 10.

2323 Canyon Dave, the Man of the Mountain.

219 The. Scorpion Brothers; or, Mad Tom’s

202 Cactus Jack. the Giant Guide.

194 Don Sombrero. the California Road Gent. i

176 Lady Jaguar. the Robber Queen. _ 
BY OLD COOMES. '

619 Kit Bandy & Co , the Border Detectivel. f i
143 One-Armed All. the Giant Hunter. f
99 The Giant Riflemuti: or. Wild Camp Life. "3..

43 Dakota Dan. the Reckless Ranger.

BY con. Tnomas n. mons'nmr. .--.;_

236 Champion Sam; or. The Monsrchsof the an.
150 El Ru lo Bravo, King of the Swordsman.

BY DR. NOEL DUNBAII.
919 The Sea Scout: or. The Patriot Privan
696 The King of Crooks.
858 Number One. the Dead-set Detective.
850 The Planter Detective. '
730 anebDespat-d.‘ tlfil Gilmbler'fiDueal‘s‘t. > -
604 The etect ve it see: or. e mm
500 The True-Heart Pards. « I,

1 new Issue every Wednesday . ; v
Beadle" Dime Library is for sale  .
New-dealers, ten cents per copy. or lent M ,
receipt or twelve cents ew' . -

    
  

 

 

Each Number
Complete.

 

 

Ten Cents a

Copy.

“J
J

 

lie
. ME

 

 

 

\ Hiram.

 

 

984 hurtan Bill’s Life name; or " The D ' i

A Three. By qol. P. Ingraham.r oomed I
9Buffalo Bill’s Relentless Trail. 13’ r:

' Prentiss Ingraham. y Clone]
3'The.Dnad Shot Four; or, M' P nil; f

Plains.,liy'(:ol. W. F. m iy.)v a 0 fhe

mingle Bill's Invincibles; or. The Sable Simil-

OWerr’s Sublime Sacrifice.

’W_Euffalo Bill's Blue Belt Brigade; or. Sun-

flower Sam of Shasta. By (:91. P. Ingraham.

,fi;.Bmiq Bill’s Volunteer Vigilantos;< ‘or, The

' Mysterious Man in Blue. By Col. ~1‘. Ingra-

V limo. ' .

W flalo Iiill ht Bay; or; The Gold Seeker’s

00m. By Col. P. Ingraha-m.. '

Buffalo Bill‘s Block Game; or. The Mounted

gainer); of the Overland. By Col. 1’. ingrai-

" arm 1 ' ' 

Boomers of the Big Horn.
ham. , . . ‘ a V
Buffalo Bill‘s Bluff; 0;. 'vDusky
snort. By 001. P.’ lngruham. V
W Buffalo Bill'S'Quandnry; or. Velvet Bill's
I}. , Vowr By Cpl. Prentls; Ingraham. -
WBHfialo Bill‘ and the Surgeon Scout: or, Go,
.wnn-go. the Redskin Riden By Col. P. In;
~graham « , M r ,
18:11?an Bill‘s'League; or, Red Butterfly. 13y
- . . “1301. :Prentiss Ingraham. :
 ammo“ Bill's Tangled Trail; on, Gentleman
halo. ‘the‘Man of Many Masks. By Col. P.
meridian».~ 2 ~ ‘
Buffalo Bill's Rough Riders; or. Texas Jack’s
V’Bhiu’jpfihooters. By col. Prentiss Ingraham.
alo Bill's Secret Ally; or, The 'Texan’s
* Double. By Col. Prentiss lngraham.
‘ Buffalo Bill's Life-Stalker or; The Pledged
1 Three. By L‘ol. P. Ingraham. -
t m The Three Bills; Buffalo Bill. Wild Bill and
Band-Box Bill; or, The Bravo in Broadcloth.
By Coir P. mgraham. ’ * w i
'3 Buffalo Bili'n uckskin Braves; or, The Card
«Qua-m I! bust a-‘ne. By Col. P. Ingraham.
Buffalo Bill‘s Road Agent Round-Up; or, The
Mysterious Masked Man in Black. By Col.
_ ,P. Inzruham. I ‘
W-Buflalo Bill's Death-Charm: or. The Man
, ‘ With the Scar. Hy Col. Prentiss Ingraham.
557 Buffalo Bill's Royal Flush; or, The Pony Bi-
5 , rder’s neatthun. 'By Col. Prentiss Ingra-

By Col. P. Ingra-

‘ Dick. the
. \ '

 BuffaloBillfs Double Dilemma; or. The Great
Scout's Big Three. By Col. P. Ingraham.
M Buffalo Bill's Redskin Ruse; or. Texas Jack's

' Death Shot. By Col. ,Prentiu Ingrahum.
The Rimbh King Dead-Shot; or.'Texas Jack's
, Proxy. By Buffalo Bill. V .

‘ v ‘4 Buffalo Bill‘s nys in Blue: or. The Brimstone
-:~‘L_.Band’s Blot—nu . By'Coi. i". Ingraham.-. 'b
“i ’ ‘. mural.) Burs sharp-Shooters; or."1‘he Surgeon

lean: to the Rescue. By Col. P. Ingraham.
z .

v

 

 

ten-
'ceipt of

obohonoao
00000000.

 

 

 

 

'820 White Beaver's Still Hunt;

By 001. P. Ingra~:‘

;' ‘THE 15qu .,L1

price. . I  I V i

82:: Buffalo Bill's first Bower: or. Miintohello the
Gold King. 1y Col. Prentiss Ingraliam.
or, The Miner
Marauder‘s Death-Track. By Buffalo Bill.
SIG Buffalo Bill's Rm Trail; or. The Road-Rider
Renegmle’s,nun Down. By Col. P. Ingrahain.
812 Buffalo Bill‘s Death~Knell¢ or, The lied llnnd
Riders of the Rockies, By C01. P. Ingraham.
07 Will Bill. the Willi West Duelist; or. The (ilrl
Mascot of MoonligllL Mine. liy Jjui'lalu Bill.
807 “’ilil lliil.‘ the \i'iid “Wat Iiuuiist; or, The Girl
' Gramle Ralph, the Cowboy Chief. By Buf-
. 1310 Bill.
794» Buffalo Bill’s W'lnning Hand: or. The Masked
' \Voman of the Colorado Canyon. By Col. P.
Ingraham.
757 Buffalo Bill’s Dead Shol;or,'l‘hoSkeleton Scout
‘ of the Colorado. By-Col. Prentiss Ingraham.
781 Buffalo Bill's Brand; or, The Brimstone
Brotherhood. By Col. Prentiss Ingrahain.
777 Buffalo Bill's Shy-Shadower; or, The Masked
Men at Grand Canyon. By Col. P. Ingraham.
773 Buffalo Bill's Ban; or, Cody to the Rescue.
13y Leon,Lewis. ‘
769 Buffalo Bill‘s Sweepstake; or, The Wipe-out
. at Last Chance. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham.
765 Buffalo Bill’s ~Dozen: or. Silk Ribbon. Sam.
By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. '

761 Buffalo Bill's Mascot: or. The Death Valley
‘Vlctlm'No. 13. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham.
71573131111310 Bill's Double; or, The Desnerado De-

, .tectiv . By Col. Prentiss ‘Ingrullam.
750 Buffalo Bill's Big Four; or,‘Custer's Shadow.
By Col. rentiss lngmham.

743 Buffalo Bill’s Flush Hand; or. Texas. Jack‘s
‘ Brawl-1.7: By Col. Prentiss lngraham. H
739 Buffalo Bill's Blind; or, The Masked Driver

or Death’s Canyon. By Col. Prentiss Ingra-
‘ham. I . 
735 Buffalo Bill and His‘ Merry Men; or. The
‘ Robin Hood Rivals; By Col. Prentiss Ingya-
ham. . \ .
731 Buffalo Bill's Beagles: or,
By Col., Prentiss Ingraham.
727 Buffalo Bill‘s Body'Guunl; or, The
of the Hills. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham.

Silk Lasso Sam.

722 Buffalo Bill on‘the Wm- Path; or, Silk Lasso

am. the Will-o'-the-Wisp. By Col. P. In-

graham.

716 Buffalo Bill’s Scout Shallowers: or. Emer-
ald Ed of Devil’s“ Acre. By Col; P. lngraham.

710 Buffalo Bill Baffled; or, The.'-Deaerter Des-
p'erado's Defiance. By Col. P. Ingraham.

697 Buffalo Bill's Buckskin Brotherhood; or,
Opening Up a Lost 'l‘mli. 13y Col. P. In-
g'mhnm. ' '

601 Buffalo Bill‘s Blind Trail; on The Daughter
of the Regiment. By Col. Prentiss‘ Ingraham.

882 Buffalo Bill’s Secret Service Trail. By major
Dangerfield Burr.

007 Buffalro‘IBill’n Swoop'. or, the King of the
Mines.. Dy Col. Prentiss Ingraham.

6§8 The Cowboy Clan; or, The Tigress of Texan.

' By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham.

» .

0

cents per copy, or‘sent by mail,

.

Still Hunt ‘

 

BRARY is; for sale. by all Newsdealers,
pro-paid; on re"
. / 

The Lasso King's League: or, The Tigers of
Texas. By Colonel Prentiss Ingraham.
Buck Taylor, the Saddle King. Buffalo Bill‘s
Chief of Scouts. By Col. 1”. Ingraham.
Buffalo Bill‘s Bonanza; or. Tho. Knights of
the Silver Circle. By Col. P. Ingraham. ‘
The Gillil Kina': or. Montebeilo, the Magnifi-
cent. lly Buffalo Bill.

Buffalo Bill's Daring- Role; or. Daredeath
Dick, Kng of the Cowboys. By Leon Lewis.
The Dead Shot Nine: or, My Yards of the
Plains. liy Buffalo Bill.

Buffalo Bill's First Trail; or. VVlll Cody. the
Ponyy‘Express Rider. By Ned Buntline.

Rod Renard. the Indian Detective: or. The
Gold Buzzards of Colorado. By Buffalo Bill.
The One-Armed Pard: or. Red Retribution in
Borde land. By Buffalo Bill. '

The hard rothers: or, White Beaver’s
Trail. By Bu alo Bill. .
White Beaver. the Exile of the Platte: or.
gulWronged Mu'n’s Red. Trail. By Buffalo

Buffalo Bill‘s Grip: or. Oath-bound to Custer.
By Col. Prentiss Ingraham.
Buffalo Bill’s Pledge; or. The League of
Three. I By Col. 1". lngr am. ‘ ,
“'ild Bill, the Whirlwind of the West. By
Buffalo Bill. _
Texas Jack. the Prairie Rattler; or, The
Queen ofvthe Wild Riders. By Buffalo Bill.
The Pilgrim Shar ; or, The Soldier’s Sweet-
heart. By Buffao Bill. Government Scout
and Guide, ‘ ’ w ,
Wild Bill's Gold Trail:' or. The Desperate
Dozen. By Col. P. Ingmham.
Wild .Bill’s Trump Card: or. The Indian
Heiress. By Col. Prentiss Ingrnham.
Wild Bill. the Pistol Dead Shot; or.'D&gger
Don’s Double. By Col. Prentiss Ingraham.
Buffalo Bill. Chief of Scouts; or, The Doomed
Dozen. By Dr. Frank Powell. ‘ -
Buffalo Bill's Strange Par-d; or, Dashing
DDangg. the Hotspur of the Hills. By Major
. rr. i

92 Buffalo Bill. the ,Burkskln King: or, The
gmuzon of the West. By Major Dangerfield
urr. . , ~ .
83 Gold Bullet‘ Sport; or. The Knights of the
Overland. By Buffalo Bill.
Death Trailer, the Chief» of Scouts; or. Life
and Love in a, Frontier Fort. By Buffalo

319
30,4
243

"189

475
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168
158
117

52

NEW ISSUES TO COME.

The Long-Haired Pards; or. The‘ Tartarsof
the Plains. By Joseph E. Badger, Jr.

986 Iron Wrist. the Swordmaster. BY Col. Thou.
Hoyer Monstery. ‘ '

987 Shadrach,'the Sport Detective; or. The Secret
seven. By John \V. O bon.

985

B

988 Rocky Mountain Bob. the California Outlaw.
By Albert W. Aiken.

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