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THE PRAIRIE PILOT; or, THE PHANTUM SPY.

BY BUFFALO BILL.

 

 

’ //4 ;

 

EXAmmG THE CREVICES IN THE WALL 0F ROCKY PRAIRIE PILOT FOUND ONE THAT IDOKED INTO
THE ADJOINING CAVERN.

 

 

 

   

  
    
   
  
  
  
     
  
  
   
    
  
   
  
 
 
 
 
   
   
  
  
   
   
   
   
  
  
   
  
  
 

 

   

2 The Prairie Pilot.

 

‘ I ' The‘Prairie Pilot;

PHANTOM SPY.

THE
BY BUFFALO BILL,
AUTHOR or “KANSAS KING,” ETC., ETC.

CHAPTER I.
THE PHANTOM SPY.

” DEVILS alive! is the man mad?"

"I guess not; Prairie Pilot ain’t no man to
go magi; he sees somethin’ as he’s goin’ to run

own.

” You bet! The Pilot’s on a trail; but what
in tamation is it?"

As the third speaker spoke, there suddenly

 

 

" dashed out of the shadow of the timber into the

broad moonli ht, a horseman, who, with a decp-
toned “ hoop- al” urged his steed into a full run
out upon the rolling prairie, which Spread for
miles in his front.

The three speakers had been seated around a
camp-fire. in the shelter of a matte, or “timber
island." for out on the Western plains.

Their comrade, who had suddenly caused
them to spring to their feet, and give vent to the

conversation which opens this chapter, had been ‘

pacing to and fro in moody silence, a few yards
from the fire, like a sentinel on guard. and at
every turn in his walk he would hesitate mo-
mentarily. and glance fir out over the. moonlit
prairie, as if on the alert for approaching dau-

er.
8 Suddenly, with a half-cry, as though of alarm,
he had bounded toward where stood his steed,
read saddled, and the next moment, without a
wor to his companions, had shot forth upon the
prairie like an arrow from the bow. .

“ Ho, tellers! better git onto yer pins, for
there’s sumethin’ in the wind when yer see P).-
rarie Pilot strike a trail like that,” cried Yankee
am. who, with his two companions. Bravo Bob
and Scalp-lock Dive, had been quietly smoking
around the camp-fire, and telling stories of des-
perate adventure they had known in their wild
and reckless liVes.

At the call of Yankee Sam a score of men
sprung to their feet and grasped their fire-arms,
and instantly the encampment was a scene of
excitemen

“ Well, m after the Pilot. for he sha'n’t play
alone hand it there’s any danger ahead,” and
Bravo Bob started‘ for his horse, when a loud
cry from Snlp~lock Dave caused him to come
to a sudden halt.

“ Holy Halifax! look a-yonds-rl” .

Every eye was turned out upon the prairie,
and like one voice a dozen exclaimed:

“ The Phantom Spy 1”

Far out upon the prairie, and plainly visible
in the moonlight, was what appeared to be a
specter horse and rider, for the steed was as
whitoss snow, and with a long flowing mune
and tail. _

The rider on his back was dressed 1n a loose
robe of a woman. for it fluttered only upon one
side of the animal, as he sped along swiftly over
the prairie.

 

 

A long white vail floated far out behind, and
apparently encircled the rider’s head like a tur-
hnn, while motionless in the saddle—if saddle
there was on the horse—she seemed to urge her
steed on by a. mere exertion of her will.

Behind the phantom-looking horse and rider,
and some hundred lengths away, rode the man
whom his comrades called Prairie Pilot, and
who had so suddenly dashed from the timber.

That he was urging his horse to the utmost,
was evident; and, though mounted upon the
swiflest steed on the plains, that he was not
gaining upon the phantom horse and rider was
also evident.

For an instant the pursuer and pursued were
visible to every eye in the encampment; then
they disappeared from view over a roll in the
prairie.

At their disappearance a sigh of relief seemed
to come from scouts, traders and teamstors
alike, for Weird stories were told of the Phan-
tom Spy, the white horse and rider, which,
when once found on the trail of a wagon-train,
was certain to bring bloodshed and ruin upon it
before it reached the destination for which it
was moving.

All in that train had heard of the Phantom
Spy, and all felt a superstitious nwe at the mere
mention of the name.

0in the night before, around the camp fire,
the weird steed and rider had been the subject
of conversation, and Prairie Pilot. the chief
guide and scout of the traders’ train, wending
its way toward the frontier settlements had de~
clared that he would follow the Phantom to the
bitter end. '

All knew Prairie Pilot to be one of the most
daring scouts on the plains. and they felt that
he would keep his word if he went to his own
death i n the attempt to solve the mystery.

“ I guesses as how you'll let the Pilot play a
lone hand now, Bravo Bob?" said Scalp-lock
Dave, as the young man paused, when the
Phantom Spy was discovered to he the game of
the man who had won the sobriquet of Prairie
Pilot, on account of his perfect knowledge of
the prairies and mountains of the West.

“I thought you knew me better than that,
Dave,” said the young man, whose reckless na-
ture had caused his companions to dub him
Bravo Bob, for there were few things that the
handsome and youthful scout dare not do.

A moment after Bravo Bob also dashed out
upon the trail of the Prairie Pilot and the Phan-
tom Spy. ‘

“ Wal, them as want tcr kin go n-trailin’ ar-
ter'sperets and spooks; but, as for Dave Dorsey.
he wants to save the little ha’r he has,” and
Scalp-lock Dave tenderly ran his fingers through
the bunch of hair growing upon the top of his
head, looking like an island in a lake, with the
rest of his skull perfectly bald.

“I’m with ver, pard; I ain’t no hunter for
ghostises. and I ain t lost no spook nor speret, so
I ain’t a-lookin’ fer none.

“The Pilot hired us for hunters across the
plains, an’ it’s our dooty to stand by this hour
train till it sits whar it’s a‘ oin’; so as the Pilot
and Bob’s oflf on the trail a a speret gal. why.
we’s jist got to do double doot , an’ I’m of
opinion we’d better set a watch an turn in.”

“w”

 

 

 

    
   
         
    

   
        
   
   

   
    
 

 
      

 

 

 

The Prairie Pilot. 7 3

This opinion of Yankee Sam seemed to meet
with general assent from the traders and team—
sters, and after a guard was set, they all re-
turned to their blankets; yet, strive as they
would, their dreams would turn on the two
during men who had gone forth in pursuit of
the Phantom Spy.

CHAPTER II.
RUN DOWN.

LIKE the very wind the Phantom Spy and
the Prairie Pilot were home over the prairie by
their fleet steeds, the pursued steadily gaining
upon the pursuer.

“ Come, Racer, you must mend your pace, or
yonder fleet animal will run you out of sight,”
cried Prairie Pilot, and encouraged by his Inas-
ter’s voice, the noble steed bounded forward
with renewed exertion, and steadily began to
gain upon the phantom horse and rider.

Presently the white form turned and glanced
behind, as though hearing the nearer approach
of the pursuer, and at once a ghostly-looking
arm was seen to rise and fall in quick succes-
sion several times, and the sound of a sharp
blow each time reached the ears of Prairie Pilot,
who exclaimed:

“They are human, Racer, and you are driv-
ing the Phantom hard. On, on, old fellow, and
we will yet solve the mysteryl”

With tremendous exertions both steeds then
rushed on, at an almost incredible pace, and
Bravo Bob, nearly a mile in their rear, felt
that he was being distanced, although his horse
was remarkably swift and possessed good bot—
tom.

In vain did the flying, snow-white steed strain
every muscle; sharp and quick fell the blows of
the whip to urge him on; but to no avail, tor
Racer’s blood was up, and the cruel spur was
kept constantly urging him on. The Prairie
Pilot felt that the game was in his own hands,
and a gleam of pleasure flashed in his dark eyes,
for he felt that he was about to solve the mys-
tery of that so—called phantom horse and rider,
which for three years had elude all pursuit,
and had become aterror upon the prairies.

Who or what it could be, none knew; but cer—
tain it was, that when a. party of scouts, or
hunters, or wagon-train, or settlement on the
border, behold the weird horse and rider, ruin
and bloodshed were sure to follow, until the ap-
parition had been called the Phantom Spy, ever
dogging the steps of those where booty was to
be gained.

Regarding the strange steed and rider. the
Prairie Pilot had had his own view.=, which he
kept to himself, and twice before he had Seen
and chased the apparition, but without result
in his favor, as he was not then mounted upon
his matchless Racer, the fleetest steed on the
plains.

Now it was different, for Racer was in su-

perb condition and he determined to overtake
the fugitive if he drove his own noble animal
to death.
‘ True, he could have ended the chase sooner,
perhaps, .by resorting to his rifle; but he would
not fire upon awoman. No, he must depend
upon Racer.

And nobly did his fleet animal respond to his

 

 

master's urging, and foot by foot drew nearer
the chase, until onlya score of lengths sepa-
rated them.

Then, suddenly, the white steed went down,
and his rider was thrown thirty feet in front,
and lay white and motionless, as though dead,
while the animal sprung nimbly to his feet, un-
hurt by his fall on the soft prairie sward.

With an iron hand Prairle Pilot drew Racer
back upon his haunches, and springing to the
ground, rushed to the side of the fallen rider.

“Yes, it is a woman—nay,a mere girl. I
hope she is not dead,” he cried, earnestly, at the
same time laying his hand over her breast.

“No, she is merely stunned; I can soon re-
vive her,” and unslinging his canteen from his
saddle, he began to bathe her face and hands,
at the same time gazing in admiration upon her.

“ How beautiful she is, and scarcely over six-
teenl Who can she be?”

Indeed she was beautiful, with her wealth of
brewn hair, and graceful, delicate form, clad in
a robe of pure white, worn loose and flowing,
as if the better to keep up the weird character
she played.

The face was lovely, bronzed by exposure, and
every feature perfect, while the eyelids were
fringed with the longest dark lashes; the feet
were small, and incased in white canvas boots;
upon her tiny hands she wore buckskin gloves,
and her head was encircled by a white veil of
lightest material. '

A moment or two Prairie Pilot rubbed her
hands briskly, and bathed her face; then the
eyes slowly opened and rested with a store upon
the man who bent over her.

“ You have run me down, sir, at last,” she
said, in a stern voice for a girl, and in a tone of
sarcasm.

“ I regret your fall, miss. ‘ I hope you are not
hurt?” replied Prairie Pilot, politely.

“ I was Inerer stunned—ha! there is Specter,
and unhurt,” and rising quickly, she called'to
her steed, which, with a low neigh, trotted to
her side. ~

Gently she patted the faithful animal, and
then abruptly turning to the man before her,
she said;

“ Who are you, sir?”

“Men call me the Prairie Pilot,” quietly re-
sponded the scout.

The girl started her face flushed in the bright
moonlight, and lEI' lustrous, dark-blue eyes
turned full upon her captor, and there was ad-
miration in the lance. for he was six feet tall,
as straight as a mute, and with a form denoting
great strength and activity, while his every
motion was graceful. .

He was clad in a handsome suit of dressed _
buckskin, ‘skillfully worked with beads and
quills; his fringed leggings were stuck in the
tops of cavalry boots, the heels of which were
armed with huge silver spurs of the Mexican
pattern. .

His face was shaded by a broad sombrero, en-
circled by a. silver cord, and a heavy, silken
heard, of dark brown, concealed his lower fea-
tures and fell down to his belt; but the face
Was exceedingly handsome—the brow broad
and high, and the eyes bright, full of intense
feeling, and fearless, while the expressions

 

4 The Prairie Pilot.

 

resting thereon were courage and stem deter-
mination.

His hair, the same color as his board, was
wavy, and hung far down his back, giving him
a rather dashing appearance.

A repeating-rifle hung at his back, and in his
Eel; were three revolvers and a large bowie-

m a.
From the handsome man before her, the mai-
den’s eyes turned upon the splendid animal,
uietly cropping the short prairie grass, and pa-
tiently awaiting his master.
never saw, with his long, gaunt body, muscular
Limbs, glossy black hide, arching neck and small
ad

9 .

Brightly glittered the moonlight upon the sil-
ver-beSpangled Mexican saddle and bridle, and
the young girl observed that the rifle, revolvers
and knife of the scout were mounted with the
same precious metal.

Often before she had heard of the Prairie Pi-
lot, a man‘ who had passed half a. score of ears
upon the border, and coming from none new
where.

His name none knew, other than that men
called him Prairie Pilot, scout, guide, and hun-
ter, and in an encounter those who knew him
shunned him.

“ I have heard of the man they call Prairie
Pilot. I feel my capture less keenly, when I
know who it is that has taken me," said the
young girl, after a quick, but careful scrutiny
of horse and rider.

“You are complimentary, miss; but may I
ask who is my fair prisoner?” _

“Like yourself, I have a name given me on
tho lains; I am called the Phantom Spy.”

hat I knew. It was to solve the mystery
, r of your masquerade I followed you.”
‘ ‘ And now that you have run me down, what
isyour intention regarding me?" I .
‘ To release you. upon one condition—"
“ And that is—l” '
“I have noticed that after you are discovered
upon" the trail of a train, a band of robbers,
under the lead of the Hermit Chief. invariably
make an attack: are you their spy 2’"
“You had a condition, I believe. for my re-
lease.” evasivelv replied the girl.
* “Yes; promise me that you will not report
« ,the train from which I chased you, and you

2" I shall go free.”

“If I refuse to promise —what then?”_

_“ I will see that you do not, by retaining you
as a risoner."

“ will promise you in good faith.”

“ Ve well. Cm I aid you to mount?”

“No,’ and with a bound the girl was on the
back of her steed, when she continued:

.“I thank you, Prairie Pilot, and before I go
I would give you aword of warning; keep away
from yonder range of hills, for men live there
who seek your li e.” . O

“I know it, there dwells the Hermit Chief
and his band.’

“Then heed my warning. FareWell.”

With a word to her steed, the animal bound-
ed away, heading in the direction of a rangeof
hills, some six miles distant, and behind which
the moon was slowly sinking from Sight, and
leaving the prairie in gloom and darkness, With

A finer steed she~

 

the Prairie Pilot standing erect and motionless,

gazing after the rapidly-receding form of the:

weird—looking horse and rider.

 

CHAPTER III.
BRAVO 303’s ADVENTURE.

WHEN morning broke over the prairie the
encampment was astir, and Yankee Sam eager-
ly scanned the landscape for some sign of Prai-
rie Pilot or Bravo Bob.

But, nothing was visible, far or near, and
preparations for breakfast were carried brisk-
ly on, for it was the intention of the traders to
flush rapidly ahead under the guidance of Yan-

ee Sam and Scalp-lock Dave. though they great-
ly regretted the absence of Prairie Pilot and his
righthand man, Bravo Bob.

Suddenly Scalp-lock Dave uttered a cry of
pleasure, and over a roll of the prairie were
visible two horsemen approaching the matte at
a rapid gallop.

“The Pilot and Bob,” cried several voices.

“Hold on, fellers: you is only half right.
Yes, yonder comes Bravo Bob, but it ain’t the
Pilot with him, but another feller; an’ he‘s a
priz’ner, too, or my name ain’t Sam Sloan.”

The truth of Yankee Sam’s remark was at
once evident, for one of the riders was recog-
niz‘ed now by all as Bravo Bob, while the other
was a much smaller man than the Pilot, and
had a short black beard, while his hands seem-
ed tied behind him, and his horse was led by the
scout.

A few moments more and the two horsemen
darted up and were welcomed with a loud shout,
to which Bravo Bob responded with a wild war-
whoop that made the echoes ring through the
timber.

“ Well, ole hoss, what hev ye to tell us?” cried
Scalp-lock Dave, eagerly.

“ Considerable, comrades; but first, take this
robber and tie him to yonder tree, until we have
time to sit on his case,“ and then changing his
manner into the frontier way of speaking, which
he often used. Bravo Bob continued:

“ Yer see, I follered close onto the trail of the
Phantom and the Pilot—as class as I c’u’d; but

.the’r bosses fairly flew, an’ I was left a. long

way behind; but I prest the trail hard, and ar-
ter an hour came up with the traces of a tumble,
so I got down an’ s’arclied the ground, and bless
yer, 1 seed whar the Phantom’s hoss had pitched
into a prairie—dog hole, and tossed his rider a
long way ahead.

“ Wall, here is whar the Pilot overhauled the
Phantom, for ther’ was marks all round. and
then the trail of the white boss branched oif to-
ward the hills, and nrter considerable trouble I
found whar the Pilot had circled round and
ag in struck the Phantom’s trail, and followed it.

“Wall. I prest on, too, an’ arter a while the
moon went down an’ I couldn’t see the trail,
but I Went on, an’ suddenly heard a pistol-shot,
an] then another, an’ then one of the Pilot's war-
cries.

“Then, you bet, I made ole Iron Heart is
over the grass, an’ I was a-dashin’ inter t a
timber, when I run inter that thar varmint
ag’in‘ the tree. ‘

“,Wall, We clinched, an’ arter attainable to ther

 

 

 

»

l

The Prairie Pilot. 5

 

ground an’ along tussle, I choked him still, an'
tied him: then I caught his boss an’ waited fer
him to come to his senses.

“I hadn’t long to wait, an’ by some pointed
argument, with my bowie, I got out of ther fel—
ler that the Pilot had gone on inter the hills,
with more company than he wan ted jist then.

“So I concluded to jest make this teller come
back to camp with me, an’ when day broke I
recognized him as the very dcvil who kilt Abe
Homer two years ago, and was sentenced to be
hung, but got away; but he can’t get away
now,” and Bravo Bob spoke with bitter deter-
mination.

“Does yer b’lieve the Pilot’s passed in his
checks, Bob?” asked Yankee Sam, very seri-
ouslv.

“I don’t know what to think; but I’m goin’
to find out.” ’

“ How so, pard’é”

“Why, as soon as we try and hang yonder
villain, you had better press on with the train
to the posts. I am going to return to the hills
and look up the Pilot.”

“ It’s mighty risky. Bob.”

“ Yes, but Prairie Pilot would do the same for
me, or you, or any one in need of help. I’m goin’,
boys, if I 0 under.”

“ Wall, know yer, Bob, so I won’t argue to
turn yer back from yer purpus: but I hates to
see yer go alone,” said Yankee Sum.

“ An’ so does I, pard,” put in Scalp~lock
Dave.

“Anyhow,” he continued, “ we’ll run ther
train on to thcr posts, an’ of yer don’t put in an
appearance soon arter, we’ll return with some
boys an’ look yer up, or git some ha‘r.”

“ Thank you, my lriends,” replied Bravo Bob,
again resuming his natural way of speaking;
“ thank you. Now let us to work and try this
fellow, whom I recognize as the murderer of
Abe Homer—”

“ And I as one of the band of the Hermit
Chief, who two years ago attacked a. train 1 was
driving in, and plundered it, atter killing a
dozen good fellryws and wounding me; but I got
away from the evils,” said a tall teamster, ap-
proaching, whip in hand.

All eyes were at once turned upon the pris-
oner, whose face was the index of his evil heart,
and at once it was decided that he should be
hung, and that immediately.

In vain was it that Bravo Bob questioned the
robber, regarding the fate of Prairie Pilot. and
of the whereabouts of his band; he would an—
swer nothing—only beg piteously for his life.

But he begged for mercy to those who felt no
mercy, for the band of the Hermit Chief had for
years been the terror of the border, and they
Were determined to make an example of the
prisoner then in their power.

Amid the pits-nus cries of the doomed wretch
arope was quickly thrown over the limb of u
tree, and the noose fitted around the neck of the
struggling wretch.

“ Hoist him up!” was the stern order from
Bravo Bob, and a dozen men, who held the
other end of the rope, quickly drew him into the
a

ir.
The and of the rope was then made fast, and

quickly the train was in motion, filing out

/

 

across the prairie, and leaving the timber-island
alone with its ghastly spectacle.

A short distance from the motto Bravo Bob
bid his companions farewell, and, amid a
shower of good wishes for luck, branched ofl
alone upon the trail of the Prairie Pilot.

 

CHAPTER IV.
A PRISONER.

WHEN Prairie Pilot saw the young girl disap-
pear i'u the distance, be quickly mounted Racer
and moved off at a rapid gallop’ toward the
range of hills.

After a. ride of some moments he changed his
course, going parallel with the bills for some dis-
tance, and riding slowly, while he cautiously
scanned the ground by the lingering light of the
moon.

Then he came to a halt, dismounted, and said,
in a. low tone:

“Downl Rncerl”

Instantly the intelligent animal dropped upon
the ground and lay flat upon his side, the scout ‘
also throwing himself at full length upon the
prairie.

Not long had he been in his recumbent posi—
tion when there was heard the sound of hoof-
strokes, and soon after the white horse and fair
rider appeared in sight, riding in an easy center
toward the hills.

Without observing the scent and his horse.
the maiden passed by within ‘thirty yards of
them, when a neigh from Specter caused her to
quicken her pace, as though her flight and cap-
ture had made her nervous of danger.

Hardly had she been lost sight of in the loom
when a word from Prairie Pilot brought cer
again upon his feet, and, miunting in haste, he ,
set out on the trail of the strange girl.

Keeping the white form just in sight, and
knowing that he wusinvisible to her, in his dark
clothes, Prairie Pilot continued on until the
darkness grew deeper and deeper as they drew
nearer the shadow of the hills. which now loom-
ed boldly up, not half a mile distant.

As though perfectly acquainted with the sur-
roundings, the maiden directed her course to the
left, toward a bold and rugged bill. which ter-
minated so abruptly upon the prairie that it
formed a cliff. ‘

Around the base of this precipitous hill the
ghostly horse and rider wound, andawere lost to
the sight of the scout.

“ It is certain that I cannot follow her further
to-night, without making m presence known,
so I had better go into camp in the foot-hills un-
til the morning, and then strike her trail, for I
am determined to track out this den of robbers.”

So saying, the wout rode in under the shadow
of the hill, and finding a suitable and secluded
gulch in which to camp, he dismounted. and
leaving the faithful Racer standing patiently
awaiting, he moved around cautious] in
search of some dried brush, for he was eter-
ngiined to have a warm supper after his hard
rx e.

He succeeded in finding some dry sticks. and
had just kindled a small blaze, when there came
a whirr through the air, a blow upon his head,
and he was hurled backward several paces,

 

6 The, Prairie Pilot.

 

{iis arms pinioned to his side by the noose of a
asso.

Though thus taken at a disadvantage, Prairie
Pilot managed to get his hand upon his revolver,
and a tall form rushing toward him, fell dead,
shot through the heart by the scout.

But before he could free himsolf from the
noose, strong as he was, there flushed forth two
shots from the dark underbrush. and Prairie
Pilot staggered hack and fell his full length upon
the ground. while with discordant yells half a
dozen dark forms bounded out from the covert
that had concealed them.

Their sudden rush startled Racer, who, doubt
less seeing that he could render his master no
service, turned quickly, and with a wild neigh
dashed away in the direction in which he had
come.

But the scout had not been killed by the shot,
only stunned momentarily, bv the bullet grab
ing his temple, and as his assailants rushed upon
him, they found that they had caught a Tartar,
and only by their united strength, and by a
most desperate struggle. were they enabled to
securely bind their formidable prisoner.

The re built by the scout hull, in the mean
time, blazed brightly up, and Pruirio Pilot found
himself the prisoner of half a score of as hard u
looking set of villains as he had ever seen on the
border. ,

A closer scrutiny Of them, and he knew that
he was in the hands of the robber-band of the
Hermit Chief, Mid that no mercy would be
shown him he well knew, for often had he
trailed one of the Bandit Brotherhood to his
death, and fearlessly waged war against the bold
renegades who spread terror along the frontier.

Presently a horseman rode up to the spot, and
after a few words with several of the men, dis-
mounted and approach -d the scout.

He was a man of striking appearance. clad
in a suit consisting of buckskin leggings, top
boots, :1. military coat, and Mexican sombrero,
while he wore a. sword and a pair of revolvers
in his belt.

His face was exceedingly handsome, with its
bronzed skin, dark hair and mustache. and
bright 9 es; though there was a. certain bold and
reckless ook stamped upon every feature.

His hair was worn long, and his mustache was
curled up at either end, while his whole “ make-
up ” was that of a. border exquisite.

He seemed scarcely more than twenty years
of age, and was well mounted upon a dark bay
mustang, large. wiry and vicious looking."

Prairie Pilot had before seen the man, and in
several engagements had endeavored to cut
short his career of crime, but S itan seemed to
always look after his own, and the young ban-
dit leader had escaped.

In this man the scout recognized the field chief
of the bandits, Captain Ralph, the lieutenant of
the Hermit Chief.

“Are you not the man they call Prairie
Pilot?" asked Captain Ralph.

“ I mm; are you not the man they call Captain
Ralph. the murderer and horse-thief!" coolly re-
plied Prairie Pilot.

“Hold. Sir Scout. or I will cut you down
Edgere you stand,” angrily cried the young ban-

1 .

 

“ Cutting throats is your trade. youngster.”

“ Do you dare me, and in my power, fellow?”

“You dare not unbind me and meet me as
man to man, although men say you are no cow-
ard,” sneeringly returned the scout.

For an instant Captain Ralph seemed about
to strike the scout With his sword; but then. as
if changing his mind, he sheathed his weapon,
and said. quietly: -

“Your pluck will be tried, sir, ere the Her-
mit Chief is done with you. Come. boys; lead
him on to the stronghold, but blindfold him
first. Isuppose it would be useless to attempt
to capture his horse. I would give a cool thou-
sand for that animal.”

“No, Captain Ralph, there are not horses
enough in the band to run down that steed.
Shall we take the prisoner at once to the chief?”
asked one of the men, who seemed to be an un-
der officer.

“No; father is not at all well, and Ido not
wish to disturb him. Put the prisoner in the
cliff cave.”

So saying, Captain Ralph rode away, and a
few moments after Prairie Pilot was blindfold—
cd, and then mounted upon a mustang, after
which the party set off on a trail leading still
further into the range of hills.

 

CHAPTER V.
THE TWO CAPTIVEs.

THE position chosen by the wary old chief of
the bandits, for a. stronghold. was certainly a
most desirable one, for it was under the shelter
of a mountain, and upon a level plateau, com-
prising half a hundred acres.

From this plateau, where were built the log
huts of the band, a narrow and steep pathway
led down into a. fertile valley half a. mile below
where were herded the horses and cattle stolen
from the settlements, and which. at a. moment‘s
warning of approaching danger could be driven
into the pens on the hillside above.

Through the plateau ran acousiderable moun-
tain stream, which formed a fall, and plunged
into the valley below, the rot of the waters
being audible for miles away.

The cliff or mountain which protected the
camp on the north, rose to a. hight of three huu‘
dred feet, and in bygone times some convulsion
of nature had split it in twain, leaving a. chasm
not more than twenty feet wide, running back
through the hill for half a mile.

Large pieces of rock had fallen down into this
chasm, and becoming wedged there near the
bottom, formed a kind of tunnel or cave. which
led back through the hill into the valley beyond,
and formed thereby a means of escape for the
bandits, should their camp be. attacked and
carried.

Having no use for this tunnel, unless in case
of retreat, the bandits had turned the cave into
a storehouse for their plunder. and a prison for
their captives.

Into this place, in‘ one of the small caves,
Prairie Pilot was taken, and by the light of a
torch he saw that there was a. rude cot there,
with a blanket upon it.

Worn out, he threw himself upon the cot; and
after removing his bonds, and placing irons upon

The Prairie Pilot, 7

 

his feet, which were connected with a chain
leading through a fissure in the rocks, his guards
left him to his melancholy reflections.

As soon as he was alone Praire Pilot at once
set about some plan of escape, but soon realiz-
ing that escape was impossible, he philosophi—
cally ave it up, for the present, and threw
himse f down to rest.

When he awoke it was broad daylight, and
glancing around him he at once realized his per-
ilous situation.

But he had only a moment for reflection, be-
fore a form darkened the entrance to the cav-
ern, and a man stood before him.

At a glance the scout saw that he was a Ger-
man, and his remarkable costume brought a
smile to the captive’s face. and no wonder, for
the soldier, the Indian, the Mexican, hunter and
citizen had contributed to the wardrobe.

“Vell, vat you luff, mine frint? lsh it so fun-
ny to have to die, dot you feel goat?”

“ Oh, no, Dutchy; but you have no objection
to my smiling, and who could help it, when
looking at you?"

“ Vol, mine Gott in Himmel, vat ish de mat-
ter mit mineself dat you laffi” angrily replied
the German.

“ Do not let your angry passions rise. my ban-
dit scarecrow, but give me the breakfast. I see
you have brought me.”

“It is etter ash vat I should give yer,” re-
plied the erman, setting down a platter upon
which was a tin cup of coffee, some bread, and
jerked buffalo-meat.

“ I am glad to hear it, Dutchy; but we will
not quarrel, for I want you for a partner in a
little enterprise in which there is gold to be
made.”

The German held up his finger in warning,
and with a ludicrously knowing look and wink,
turned and left the cave.

With a relish the scout dispatched his break-
fast, and then walked as far as his chain would
allow him, toward the entrance of the cavern.

From his position he could see the steep walls
of the chasm, rising hundreds of feet above
him, and their summit crowned with a growth
of small trees.

“ If I only had some friend to aid me, I could
soon get out of this. Perhaps I can trust the
Dutchman—vhu—l”

The scent suddenly started, and seemed all
attention, for a strange sound reached his car,
a strange sound for that lonely cavern and ban-
dit camp.

The sound was that of voices—not the voices
of rude men, but the soft tones of women.

Approaching cautiously the crevice throuzh
which the sound came, the scout heard a voice
in conversation he at once recognized as that of
the Phantom Spyz

Listening attentively, he heard her say:

“I think, lady, there is a better chance now
of your escape than before, for though I could
have trusted Dutch, he is not quick-witted
enough for the danger he would have had to
meet.”

“ Then you have some one you can trust more
fully?” asked a sad, sweet voice, which thrilled
Prairie Pilot to his very heart.

“‘ Yes, and it is accident that he is here. Had

 

be taken my warning, he would not now have .
been in his present deadly periL"

“ He is in danger, then?”

“ Yes, fearful danger, for he is a prisoner to
our band, and I know that my father will have
him shot, for he has done our hand much
harm.”

“ To whom do you referl” asked the same
sweet voice.

“ To one whom men call the Prairie Pilot, one
of the most daring scouts on the frontier."

“I have heard of him at the fort, and also in
the settlement. He seems to be greatly admired
by the soldiers and settlers, and feared by the
Indians and renegades.”

“ Yes, and they have cause to fear him, for
he is a. deadly foe. Lust night, lady, he captured
me on the prairie, and nobly released me, on
condition that I would not let the band know
where his train was.

“ I promised: he believed me and let me go!
But, although I warned him away from these
bills, he must have struck my trail and follow-
ed me, coming right into an ambush of 0
men, placed as an outer guard.

“ He was captured, after killing one of our
men, and fighting bravely, and is now a prison-
er, confined in a cave near this, awaiting the
recovery of my father, the Hermit Chief, who
will certainly condemn him to death.”

h.“ 1:700r man! How sincerely do I feel for
mu.

“God bless her!” ejaculated the scout: and
then he continued; “ Eavesdroppers do some-
times hear good of themselves as well as evil.”

“ Yes; but I am determined that he shall not
die, it I can-‘help it,” resolutely responded the
Phantom Spy. -

“ You are a noble girl. How I wish I could
take you away from this awful bandit camp.”

“Lady, all I love in the world are here. I
have no other home than these wild hills, no
other companions than these reckless, cruel
men around me, and whose deeds I loathe. Did
I not loathe them, I would not now endeavor
to restore you to those you love and who love

on. x

“ I believe you, kind girlzbut my poor father!
how he must suffer to be in ignorance of my
fate. and believe me dead."

“You shall soon be free, ifIcan make you so, ,
lady: so cheer up and eat the breakfast I have
brought you. This afternoon my father wishes
to see you, to question you regarding the move-
ments of the soldiers. I will conduct you to
him, and I beg that you will notanger him with
your proud spirit."

“ I will try to do asyou wish, sweet girl, and
your words give me hope that are long I may
escape; but please do not leave the Prairie Pilot
to his fate.”

“ Trust me, lady,” replied the Phantom Spy,
and the scout heard her walk away, and feeling
that his fellow captive was alone be determined
in some way to communicate with her.

CHAPTER VI.
FRIENDS IN NEED. ‘
CAREFULLY examining the crevices in the
wall of rock, Prairie Pilot was enabled to find
one that looked into the adjoining cavern.

 

 

 

‘.
.l
4

l

 

s The Prairie Pilot.

The first thing that he observed was the gen-
erally comfortable appearance of the little cave,
for it had a carpet on the rock floor, a chair, a
table, upon which was the remnant of a good
breakfast, and a cot, with some pretensions to
neatness and comfort.

U n the side of the cot sat the occupant—a
mai on of perhaps eighteen.

Her form was clad in a close-fitting riding
habit of dark-gray cloth, and there was an ele-
gance and grace about her figure that at once
Won the admiration of the scout.

Presentllyoa wealth of golden hair was thrown
back, the wed head was raised, and Prairie
Pilot beheld a vision of beauty in the lovely
face, and large blue e as gazing sadly and wist-
fully out into the day ight at t e mouth of the

cave.

H  l"

The tones of the scout were soft and kind; but
they startled the maiden, and she sprung to her

cat.
“I, am here: like yourself I am a prison-

“ Indeedl yes, I see from whence comes your
voice now. Are you the Prairie Pilot?" said the
maiden, in cautious tones.

“ So men call me. Ashort while since I over-
heard your conversation with the young girl
who visited you. When she returns, beg her to
visit mivacavern, and perhaps we can arrange
some p n of escape together. Now I cannot
so more; but keep up a brave heart, and all
w: come out well.”

The scout spoke hopefully and the maiden felt
really cheerful, for she believed that her fellow-
frisoner could, though a captive himself, aid her

n her dire distress.

Throwing himself again upon his cot, the
scout be an to plot and plan some- means of es-
cape. S owly the hours passed away, and again
he heard voices in the adjoining cave.

Rising, he went the length of his chain toward
the entrance of his prison, and a. moment after
there confronted him two forms, the fair cap.
tive and thaPhantom Spy—the latter no longer
attired in her ghostly robe, but in a neatly-fit-
ting dress of dark cloth.

“Ah, scout! I warned you, and you Would not
heedme," exclaimed the young girl, in a sad

_ voice.

“ True; but if I heeded every warning of dan-
ger, I would soon fear to move from the settle-
ments.” and the scout turned his earnest admir-
lng‘gaze full upon the ca tive maiden.

heir eyes met, and t e maiden felt that if
there was a man on earth she could trust it was
the Prairie Pilot. and with evident admiration

. she lanced at his splendid form and handsome,

fear ass face.

“ We must not linger here: but hasten to my
father, who would see you. lady; when We
come back I will see you, sir.”

So saying the young girl led her companion
away through the chasm, while the scout threw
himself upon the ground and gazed far above
him to the summit of the other well of the

- gulch.

Presently a step was heard approaching. and
the German again appeared with the prisoner’s
evening meal.

 

“ Well, Dutchy, what have you to tempt my
appetite?" _

‘ Vel, I hash some good dinner for you, mine
frint; to young missis she cook it mit her own

ty fingers.’

“ indeed! The young ladyr is the daughter of
the Hermit Chief, is she not ’

“ Dat ish so, an’ her brother, Captain Raluf,
ish to son mit te ole man.”

“ Captain Ralph her brother?”

“yes; he ish te tuyvil, but she pe an angel

a . -

“She is a fine girl, Dutchy: but, tell me,
what are they going to do with me?"

“ Hang you mit to neck.”

“ When ” and the scout spoke with perfect
calmness.

“ Mine Gottl vot, you no scared?”

“A threatened man lives long, Dutchy; but
when am I to be hung?”

“As soon as to Hermit Chief say so; but I
must go avay now; I see you to-morrow.”

The scout made no reply, and the German
walked away, Prairie Pilot making no effort to
detain him, for he had made a discovery that
deeply interested him.

As he lay in the mouth of the cavern. his eyes
ever and anon glancin toward the ribbon of
blue sky above, be sud enly caught sight of a
human face peering cautiously own into the
chasm.

Narrowly watchin it, he soon saw the form
of a. man come in ful view, and he almost gave
vent to one of his wild, ringing war-cries, for he
recognized in the cautious stranger none other
than Bravo Bob !"

Ere he could discover whether Bob had seen
him or not, there came the sound of footsteps,
and the two maidens returned, the eyes of the
captive being red with tears, for she had just
had a stormy interview with the Hermit Chief,
who told her it was his intention to hold her a
prisoner until her father, Colonel Radclifl, paid
a heavy ransom for her.

Ruth knew that her father was not a. rich
man. and that if he paid the sum demanded, it
would beggar him, and she appealed to the
mercy of the old chief, who, an invalid, re-
clined upon his cot in one of the rooms of his
cabin. and kept his fierce eyes constantly upon
the face of the maiden.

“ Girl, what is your name? Tell me that, and
I will know whether your father is wealthy
enough to pay my price. for I know the limit of
every settler’s and officer’s purse on this border.”

“ My name I decline to give you, sir; but you
will find my father able to resent most bitterly
the insult of his daughter’s capture,” proudly
replied Ruth Radcliff.

“Nonsense; my men captured you within a
mile of the settlement. You should not have
ventured so far on horseback, girl, withoutcom-
pany; but I have you now andIintend to make
money out of your capture.”

“Is there no hope for me. sir? At the fort
are two of your men, condemned to death: will
you exchange me for them?"

“Curse the men! What care I for them? If
they die, there are others to fill their place.

“ There are soldiers on the frontier, girl, and
scouts, and settlers, and Indians; but I, the Her-

The Prairie Pilot. 9

 

mit Chief, am ruler, and this whole border shall
find it so.

“ lone, take the. maiden back and to-morrow I
will send out spies to find out who she is.”

The Hermit Chief waved his hand, and his
dau hter, whom he had addressed as lone, turn-
ed Silently and sadly away, leading Ruth Rad-
clifl? with her, back to her lonely prison.

When away from the presence of the Her-
mit Chief, the proud spirit of Ruth broke down,
and she burst into tears; but Ione cheered her
all' in her power, and when they reached the
spot where the scout lay, his unrasted supper
by his side, she had gained her usual compo.
sure.

“ I trust your visit to the chief has resulted in
good to you, lad y," quietly said the scout.

“ No, sir; he demands a ransom impossible for
my father to pay; but this noble young girl bids
me hope.”

“ Yes, there is hope for you: but I must leave
you now; and lady, you need not return imme-
diately to your cave. If not tonight, I will see
you to—morrow.”

With a wave of her hand the young girl
walked rapidly awn , leaving Ruth Radclifi‘
still standing near the spot where the Prairie
Pilot lay at full length, his eyes gazing earnest-
ly toward the summit of the chasm.

CHAPTER. VII.
TAKING DESPERATE CHANCES.

AFTER the departure of lone, the Phantom
Spy the scout said, quietly:

" The daughter of the old Hermit Chief seems
inclined to aid us, but I would rather not have
her do so, for two reasons—”

“ And those are?” asked Ruth Radcliff.

“First, it will be at great risk to herself, if
she aids us, and second, I desire to wage a bitter
war against this band, and do not wish to feel
that I owe a kindness to the chief‘s daughter
that must stay my hand.”

“ How noble she seems, to have for her com-

anions a band of robbers. What terrible fate
ed her to such a life?” asked Ruth, feelingly.

“Iknnw not, and it is a sad thing that she

has in father and brother chiefs of a band of
outlaws. Strange as it seems, I feel that I have
met her brother and herself before, but where
my memory fails. Their faces haunt me with
some memory of the past. Were I to see their
father, perha s I could then recall all; but the
Hermit Chie has been the ruler of his band
only, his youn son being the leader in all their
raids and don y encounters.
- “Who, or what they are, none know; but,
certain it is, the outlaws are held well in hand,
and never have I known an instance of where
one, even with promise of hislife, ever betrayed
the Brotherhood.”

Dee ly interested in the words of the scout,
Ruth lstcned attentively, and then said:

“I have now met the father and daughter
and a remarkable pair they are. The son
have never seen; but, sir, if you do not accept
aid from the maiden, how can you manage to

escape?"

“ ' will take the chances without her. Lady,
see'therel” and the scout pointed far up the
chasm wall to where was visible Bravo Bob,

 

 

quietly seated in the shelter of a niche in the
me 5.

“ guard of the bandits. Perhaps I'd better
not linger here—”

“No; it is Bravo Bob. the best friend I have”
in the world. He has struck my trail and fol-
lowed me here—to rescue me.”

“Alone 1’”

“ Doubtless. I know of none who would have
dared to come with him—at least any that he
could have found thus soon. Seel he has thrown
something down to me. Will you pick it up,
please, lady, for I am in irons, you see?"

Quickly Ruth stepped forward and took up
the object that had fallen from above—a. piece
of paper wrapped around a small stone.

Taking it, the Prairie Pilot read aloud, writ‘
ten in lead—pencil, in a bold, legible hand:

“ A greeting to you from above, old fellow; sorry
to see you in durance vile, but glad to see you are
not in the land of silence.

“ I arrli ed this afternoon, having trailed you, and
by a flank movement reached in present position.

“The train has made tracks or the posts. under
the guidance of Scalp-lock and Yankee.

“ have discovered that the rear end of this chasm
is guarded by two sentinels—there milst be a tunnel
through. as they could never have reached their
present stand Without a day’s journey around.

“ Find out the cave if you can: at dark I will move I
on the two guards. and you shall be free.

“I met a party of soldiers on the prairie looking _
for the dau liter of Colonel Radclifl, the new coups
mandant of he upper posts.

“ By the description given me of her, I recognize
her in the lady near you. ,

“Your position shows you to be in irons, so when
it is dark I will lower you a. file and one of my pis-
tols, and then you must press on through the cave
to the outer entrance.

“If I discover anything of importance, will oom-
municate again. Boa"

“ He certainly is a true friend, and brave
man,” said Ruth, when the scout had read all.

“None truer or braver, Miss Radcliif, for such, '
I believe, is your name?”

“Yes, sir; my father arrived at his new com-
mand only a week ago, and it was while riding
to the settlement, half a mile from the fort, to
see an old schoolmate, that I was ca tured,
when little dreaming of danger,” rep led the
maiden. '

Hearing an approaching footstep Ruth
rapidly ran into her cave, and the Prairie »Pilot
was alone. -

A moment after Ione, the girl spy, appeared,
and said, pleasantly:

“Though you put your own head into the
noose, Prairie Pilot. I do not intend to let it
remain there: hutI c not act ton' ht as the
whole hand are at pre. nt in the st ghold.

“ To-morrow at daylight my brother gOeS ofl.‘
on a raid with his men, and you will he allow-
ed to live until his return, when, if you do not
gccept certain terms oflerod you, you have to

re.
“ There is dishonor in those terms, doubt-
less?” .

“Yes; but life is sweet.”

The scout smiled and remained silent, and
Ione continued:

“ When my brother has gone I can act with
less fear of detection; to-night I can do nothing;
but, as I had an opportunity to rescue from my

 

i,
- z
i.

 

“93,-. 

ti

 

 

 

 

10 The Prairie Pilot.

 

father’s room your belt of arms, I did so. I
will leave them in the care of the lady in the
next cave.”

Prairie Pilot’s eyes fairly flushed with delight
as Ioue threw back a scrape which hung from
her shoulders. and displayed his unerring rifle
and belt, containing his revolvers, knife and
cartridge pouches; but he said, quietly:

“1 thank you from my heart, fair girl; you
have done me a kindness I shall one day recip-
rocate.”

“ I do not wish to see a brave man die like a
dog,” responded Ione, as she walked away, and
disappeared in the cavern which was the prison
of Ruth Radcliff.

A moment after the young girl again passed
the scout, and was soon lost to sight in the
gloom, for night was coming on apace and dark-
ness already filled the chasm.

But, for up, outlined against the bright sky,
still tinged with the rosy hues of sunset, stood
Bravo Bob, his eagle eye watching every move
of his enemies, and taking in every chance in his
favor.

An hour passed and darkness rested upon all;
but the quick ear of Prairie Pilot caught a. sound
Which he seemed to at once recogniz‘, for he
called in a low tone to Ruth, who, the next mo-

«. ment stood by his side.

“Miss Radclifl. I heard a sound a ainst the
wall yonder; will you kindly see if ravo Bob
has not lowered us is promised aid?"

Ruth went to the other side of the chasm. and

‘ feeling in the darkness, her hand soon touched a

small string, bearing a weight on the end.

A moment after she held in her hand a pistol
and a file, and uploosiug them, she found also a
sli of paper.

see she bore to the scout; but he cried,
quickly:

“ Back to your cave! quick: I"

Not a moment too soon did Ruth escape, for
the next moment a flickering light was seen, an l
two men approached, bearing a lantern.

Turning it full upon the recumbent scout, the
man who held the lantern said, harshly:

“ You prefer to lie on hard rocks to your cot,
do you?"

“A man who is condemned to die wishes to
breathe all the pure air he can,” quickly ro-
sponded the scout.

“You take it coolly," replied the other man.

“My conscience is not blackened, as is yours,
with crimes of robbery and murder.”

“Go on, my hearty: you can have your say l”

“Come, Pete, let us see if the girl is all safe,
and then go and relieve the boys," said the first
speaker, and they movd on to the next cave.

Flashing the light into the face of Ruth, who
sprung halt-up, as if from a sound sleep. they
laughed at her supposed fright, and walked on
through the tunnel of caverns.

A moment after Ruth was by the side of
the scout, who drew from his pocket 21
match, and lighting it, read the slip of paper
that bad descended with the file and pistol.

“There are but two guards, and they will doubt-
less be relieved at dark; Mm 1 will act.

“Find your way out, as soon as you have Freed
yourself of your irons, to the mouth of the chasm,
and I will meet you there,"

 

“Brave fellow; now, Miss Radcliff, hope,
brightens for us; but you must return to our
cot, and as soon as I have gotten rid of my Irons
I will come for you.

“ In the mean time I will file these irons off
my‘ ankles.”

be cool, confident manner of Prairie Pilot
gave Ruth every hope, and throwing herself
upon the cot, she waited in breathless silence
and suspense.

A short while and again a light flashed into
the cavern, and two men stood there, but not
the two who had before passed by.

“Wide awake, my beauty? You’ll dim those
pretty eyes if you lose your sleep,” said one of
the bandits; but, whether in a kind or unkind
tone Ruth could not tell. .

Another glance into the cave of the scout, a
jeering remark from one of them, and they
passed on toward the camp.

An hour later, and Prairie Pilot stood beside
Ruth, :1 man no longer in irons.

“ Come, Miss Radcliff, I am ready now; give
me my arms, which the fair spy left here, and
we will depart at once.”

Ruth could hardly refrain from a. cry of joy,
and the next moment they bud departed from
the cave. and started forth upon their desperate
chance of escape.

CHAPTER VIII.
BRAVO BOB AT WORK.

WHEN Bravo Bob lowered the package to
Prairie Pilot, by the aid of a string made by
cutting his blanket into strips, he drew up the
line when he felt it relieved of its burden, and
at once began to descend the other slope of the
hill-range.

After a walk of a mile he came to a small
valley, thickly overgrown with grass, and
through which trickled a stream of clear water.

Here, unsaddlerl and picketed out. were two
steeds. One was the property of Bravo Bob,
the other none other than Racer, whom the
guide had caught running loose upon the prai-
rie, and who, recognizing him, instantly trotted
u

 

p to him.

“ Well, old fellow, you have had a rich feast
and good rest—now to work l" said Bravo Bob
kindly, and he at once set to work to saddle an
bridle the steeds.

Giving them a drink from the cool spring, he
then mounted his own horse, and followed by
Racer, rode along round the edge of the valley.

.After a short ride be halted at the foot of the
hill leading up to the rear side of the chasm.
and hitching the two animals, ascended cau-
tiously the steep path, until, in the moonlight,
he discovered the bold face of the cliff, and the
fissure that he knew was the cut-in dividing the.
mountain in twain. .

“ Plow I must be cautious, or I’ll have to use
my 1111“. and that might spoil all!” he muttered;
and throwing himself 11 on the ground he
wormed along like a snake, slowly and noise-
lesslv drawing nearer to a large bowlder, where
he knew, from his observation taken in the
daytime, the tw0 guards were stationed.

It was fully an hour before he drew near the
b0wlder, against which stood the form of a man

 

The Prairie Pilot. 11

 

azing at the moon as it rose above the distant
Eilltops. ’

At his feet. close against the rock, lay a. muf-
fled form—the other guard—wrapped in sleep,
doubtless.

Bravo Bob was now within twenty feet of the
guards, and the moonlight shining full in his
handsome face showed that it was marred by a
look of stern determination.

“ It is a pity—and a dirty job; but I must do
it.
“If he was an Indian,I would not hesitate;
still, Prairie Pilot must not- die f"

So saying, Bravo Boh arose quickly and
silently to his feet; his knife was held in his
upraised right hand, and then glittered likea
wheel of diamonds in the moonlight, as it was
hurled with unerring and terrible force at the
silent and unsuspecting guard.

Fair and deadly it struck him in the neck,
crunching through bone and muscle, and send—
ing the strong man quickly to the ground.

With two mighty bounds Bravo Bob threw
himself upon the half-awake and recumbent
guard, and a. clutch of iron was upon his
throat.

“Struggle one instant and you shall die,” he
sternly cried in the bandit’s car, while with his
other he held a pistol to his head.

“You hold the winning hand, ard,” said the
man, as Bravo Bob released his c utch upon his
throat.

“Yes, and I intend to win the game. Your
comrade lies there, dead, as you see, and ou
shall quickly follow him if you are not wil ing
to do as I ask you.”

“ You want me to betray my comrades—4’

“Nol I wish you to lead me, singly, into
their camp. Are you afraid of a single man?"

“No, and if you are willing to take the
chances, come on; but you must be crazy."

“I am not crazy; I only have a duty to per-
form.

“ Lead me to the spot I desire, and back here,
and I ask no more.

“Then I will spare your life: attempt to be-
tray me, and you shall die."

“ When am I to be free?"

“Upon my return to this spot; I will then
bind you and leave you here for the morning
guard to find you—or—”

“ Or what—?”

“I will carry you with me a few miles and
release you in time to return here by daylight;
and then you can tell what lie you please,
about being attacked, your comrade being
killed, and you beating back the enemy single-
handed.”

“ ‘»A drowning man catches at a straw,’ my
old Sunday—school teacher used to say, when
urging me to catch at religion as a means of
salvation, so I will accept your terms,” discon-
solatcly replied the bandit, Whose whole man—
ner and conversation proved that he had seen
better days are he entered upon a life of crime.

Searching his prisoner to see that he had no
arms secreted about his person, and drawing his
knife from the stiffening neck of the other
guard, Bravo Bob securely bound his captive’s
hands, and holding firmly onto his arm, bade
him proceed.

 

The bandit at once led off, and approaching
the cut in the cliff, entered it, and moved to id-
ly on in the darkness, for ever and anon t ey
would have to pass through a rocky tunnel.

After a walk of ten minutes they came to
where a large mass of rock had fallen, forming
a huge cavern beneath.

When about to enter into the darkness of. this,
from the indistinct light that penetrated down
into the canyon, a stern voice suddenly cried:

“Hold! on your lives, halt!”

Both Bravo Bob and his prisoner were mo—
mentarily startled by the sudden challenge; but
the former cried quickly:

“ The Prairie Pilot—4100p -la l”

“ Bob, old fellow, a moment more and I would

have called in your checks; but who have you

here?” and, springing forward, out of the dark-
ness of the cavern, Prairie Pilot confronted his
friend. ’

“This is one of the guards at the mouth of
the canyon—”

“ And the other is—”

“In the devil’s employ; but come, we have
no time to tarry—where is your fellow-cap-
Live?

“ Here l—Miss Radcliff, this is my friend
Bravo Bob, the best scout on the plains,” an
at the introduction Ruth came forward and
clasping the hand of Bravo Bob, said feelingly:

“And to whom we, in a great measure, owe
our escape."

“ Now, Bob, we’ll be off. Come.” ,.

Again the bandit led the way, his captor by
his side. and in a few moments more they came
out at the front of the cliff.

At the sight of the dead guard Ruth shuddered,
and drew closer to the Prairie Pilot, while Bra.-
vo Bob said quickly:

“ Now, my man, you have done your part of
our contract—will you have us bind you and
leave you here, or carry you with us a few miles
and turn you loose?”

“The latter would look best for me—i'or if I
am suspected by my comrades my life is not
worth 24 pesos.”

“All right; come on.”

Again Bravo Bob led the way, the Prairie Pi-
lot quietly taking Ruth up in his strong arms
and carrying her down the steep and rocky hill-
side, for, retarded as she was, by her long skirt,
and wearing light shoes, she could not have
easily walked. ‘

“Miss Radcliff can ride your horse, Bob,
while we walk,” said Prairie Pilot, as they’
reached the foot of the hill.

“Not so bad as that, comrade, for I have the
Racer with me.” ‘

The delight of Prairie Pilot was unbounded,
and the next moment he stood beside his gab. -
lant steed and warmly patted his neck, while
the faithful animal seemed overjoyed and whin-
nied in a low, hfafpxiy tone.

“Miss Radcli , can give you a seat behin
me, for Racer can easily do double duty,” sai
Prairie Pilot, and raising Ruth to her seat, he
the next moment sprung into the saddle, and
Bravo Bob having mounted, with his prisoner
behind him, the party set of! at a slowtrot
through the force . ~

A ride of several miles brought them to a

 

 

 

 

l
.
f

18

The Prairie Pilot.

 

valley, and here the prisoner was told to dis-
mount and return to his post, which he gladly
did, thanking Bob kindly for his life. and the
next moment disappearing in the gloom of the
timber.

“ Now, Bravo, it is a hundred miles to the
fort, and we must push on rapidly, for both the
Racer and your horse can stand it—if Miss R’ld-
cliff can?"

" I can stand any fatigue to once more reach
home,” earnestly replied Ruth, and at a rapid
pace the two animals were urged forward in
gitfiirfflight from the bandit camp of the Hermit

e .

 

CHAPTER IX.
Tun RETURN.

BLUE WATER settlement was a bevy of pleas
ant prairie farms, with a fort on the river, and
within easy call. in case of danger from Indians
on the war-path, and marauding bands of out-
laws, who often raided upon the pioneer settlers
of the far frontier.

The settlement acknowledged as its head a
wealthy settler by the name of Amos Arling-
ton, a man of fifty years of age and a. genial
gentleman.

Once Amos Arlington had been a wealthy
planter in Arkansas, but the death of his wife,
when) he loved almost to idolatrv, caused him
to dispose of his plantation, and leaving his
on] child, a daughter of eight years of age,
with his sister, he emigrated to the for West and

settled upon the place he dwelt in at the time
of the opening of this story.

Around him had gathered other settlers, until
they formed a pleasant community, and near
them was the fort, with a hundred soldiers and
a dozen officers, several of Whom had their
wives with them.

Thenommandant of the fort, and one ordered
there a week before this story opens, was Col-
onel Arthur Radclifl. a man under forty years
of age, although his daughter, Ruth, was eight-
een years of age.

Colonel Radcliff was a dashing, handsome
man, a severe, almost cruel disciplinarian, who
had passed his military life mostly in forts on

’ the Atlantic board.

The coming of the colonel and his beautiful
daughter to the outpost was a happy event fur
those stationed there. and doubly glad were
the younger oflicers and gallauts of the settle—

! ment,when they learned that Ida Arlington,:tlie

daughter of the settler, came with them, the
two maidens having been schoolmates, and of
course delighted that they would still be near
each other, for they were the best of friends.

Under the care of Colonel Radcliff, Ida had
come West, and was lovingly welcomed by the
father, and warmly greeted by all.

It was when riding over to see her friend Ida,
that Ruth Radcliff had suddenly ridden upon a
small party of bandit scouts, and had been car-
ried off to the stronghold. /

When she did not return at night, her father
rode over to the Arlington homestead, and
learned with horror that she had not been
there. "
A At once the alarm was spread, and the self

 

tlers and soldiers joined in the search; but morn-
iug1 came and no tidings were had of the missing
gir .
Then a scout discovered the strange trail of
the bandit party, and with it was mingled the
hoof-tracks of Ruth’s horse, and it was known
that she was captured.

But by whom?

That was the vexing question, and in almost
despair her father headed a scouting party, and
followed the trail.

But, after half a day’s journey it was lost on
the prairie by fresher and larger trails, and they
knew not which way to go.

At length they took the trail leading south-
ward, and came upon a hunting-party of In-
dians, whom the impetuous colonel at once at-
tacked.

After the loss of two soldiers and a dozen of
the red-skins, it was discovered that they were
not the guilty kidnappers, and in despair Colo-
nel Radclifl ordered a return to the fort, hoping
against hope that his daughter might have re-
turned, or been discovered by some of the other
parties who had gone forth in search of the miss-
ing maiden.

But, after an absence of several days, the
sorrowing father found that no trace of cor
Ruth could be found, and almost heart-bro '91:,
he could do no more than to again send forth
spies and scouts, offering a large reward for any
tidings of the maiden.

The evening of the fourth day since the dis-
appearance of Ruth was approaching, and with
nervous tread, hands clasped behind him, and
head bent down, Colonel Radclifl? was pacing to
and fro in front of his quarters, when a wild
shout startled him from his reverie.

Glancing quickly up he saw two horsemen
approaching him at a gallop, and behind the
one mounted upon a superb black horse he
caught sight of a girlish form and long flutter-
ing skirt.

Tottering forward, for hewas weak from very
joy, he caught in his outstretched arms his re-
stored daughter, who, with a flood of joyous
tears, laid her head upon her father’s breast.

A few words then told all. and Prairie Pilot
and Bravo Bob having dismounted, were pre-
sented to the colonel by the happy Ruth.

“I have heard of you. sir, ere I came West,
and often since I have been on the border—you
are a Scout, I beliew?” and the colonel graSped.
the hand of Prairie Pilot.

“1 am, sir.”

“ And I have much to thank you for, and you,
too my friend, more than I can ever repay; but
still, I can give you a position with me, sir, and
your companion, too.

“ Will you accept the position of chief of
scouts for this post?"

“ Colonel Rarlcliif, I did but my duty. sir,
toward your daughter. I deserve no thanks or
reward for it. I am a scout, a guide, a hunter,
anything that men choose to cal me, and so is
my friend, Bravo Bob.

“As you offer me a position with you, I ac-
cept it, but as no reward for my services. Yet
Bob here must be second to me in rank, for to
him is due the greater praise, if to any one.”

“You shall both remain with me, for I am

 fl“ "

r—‘e‘r-

The Prairie Pilot. l3

 

not pleased with either of the scouts or guides
now at the post—at least there are none of them
fit for leaders, and I came hither for work.”
Thus it was decided, and Prairie Pilot and
Bravo Bob at Once were installed in their new
quarters, greatly to the pleasure of all at the
fort, and also of the settlers, who were glad to
feel that two such famous scouts were to be in
their midst, for afar ofl? was echoing the rum-
ble of an Indian war, which the attack of
Colonel Radclif’f a few days before upon an in-
nocent band—at least innocent of the charge of
laidnapping Ruth—had done much to kindle into
a

me.

Then again the Hermit Chief and his outlaw
band were beginning to grow daily more bold
and troublesome, and the settlers, as well as the
soldiers, were preparing for stirring times.

With the greatest joy Ida. Arlington welcomed
her friend back, and the two maidens held a
long talk together over the adventures of Ruth,
who told Ida. how noble and brave was the
Prairie Pilot. '

“He certainly is the handsomest man I ever
saw, not excepting my splendid Rafael,” said
Ida. '
“ He is, indeed, and Bravo Bob is a splendid
fellow, too. If it were not for Rafael Randolph
I believe you would love him, Ida—~”

“ As you do his friend, Prairie Pilot, eh i”

“ Nonsense, Ida,” and Ruth’s face turned
crimson.

“ Well, I predict that it will not be ‘nonsense,
Ida.’ and that you will love the scout as dearly
as he loves you—”

“Loves me?”

“ Yes; how could he help it? But, I declare,
Ruth, how strange it is that we two, who were
belles in New York, should slight the city
beaux and find men to love on the frontier of
the far West I” ‘

“ Strange, but true, Ida.”

“ Hal you admit it, then?”

“ I admit that I never saw a man who held
the influence over me which the Prairie Pilot
does. and vet I do not even know his name.”

“ Well, I hope true love will run smooth in
both cases, and that you can marry your here
next fall, when I do Rafael.”

“ What! do you intend to marry so soon,
Ida?”

“Yes; I have told my father all, and when
Rafael visits us in a mouth or two, as he said he
would, and proves all I hope of him, we will be
married.”

1).“ Vichy, it is only a few weeks since you met
im—

“Yes, but you remember he saved my life,
when that Indian chief seized me and bore me
away from camp, when I refused to become
Mrs. Big.Bear-with-tbe—long-claw.”

“ True, he saved your life, and is a handsome
fellow, and though apparently a little wild,
seemed to be a. good 6 low, Eat, do you know
him, 'or aught of him i”

“Ruth, he says he is the son of awealthy
trader in Texas, and, fond oil a life on the

lains, is his father’s business agent out here.

e traveled two weeks together, you know,
coming West, and I feel that 1 know Rafael

' thomughly.’ Certain it is that I love him."

 

“ I hope you will find him all you believe him
to he, Ida—hut—but—J’

“ Ruth, what do you know of the Prairie
Pilot?”

“ Nothing,” and as she replied, Ruth Radcliif’s
face became crimson, for she felt that the tables
had been turned upon her, when she was moral-
izing with Ida upon loving a young man who
had joined their caravan by accident, for Rafa-
el Randolph had been riding along over the
prairie one night when there suddenly flitted by
him two dark forms.

A cry, a woman’s voice, sent him in chase,
and aftera desperate encounter with a huge In-
dian chief of the Sioux, he had slain him and
rescued Ida Arlington from his power, for, a
hunter for the train going West, he had seen
and loved the maiden, whom he had seized and
borne away with him.

From that night Rafael Randolph continued
on with the train, until it neared Blue Water
setflomen t, when he left, taking asouthern trail,
and promising before long to see the beautiful
girl whom he had rescued from a fearful fate,
and who had promised to become his wife.

Thus it was that both Ruth and Ida had met
with a strange and thrilling adventure, and
both learned to love the men who had. rescued
them from their danger.

CHAPTER X.
PRAIRIE PILOT AT BAY.

THE hope of the maidens, “that their true
love would run smooth ," was certainly not
realized in the case of nth. for her father,
Colonel Radclifl', was a keen-sigh (1 man, and
it took him a very short while to iscover not
only that Prairie Pilot loved his daughter with
all the strength of his strong nature, but also
that she returned that love; for, a deep reader
of human nature, the colonel read Ruth’s secret,
while others only suspected it.

True, the scout was a gentleman, and certain-
ly a thoroughly educated one, and his manners
were as polished as those of any society beau;
but then, over his life hung a mystery, and his '
real name was not even known at the fort.

On entering upon his duties as chief of scouts
Prairie Pilot at once set to work to discipline
his force, and soon had under his command as
brave and efiicient a set of hunters, guides and
scouts as any fort could desire, and his services
to the commandant soon became invaluable.

But then, he had been engaged to scout,
not to make love, and Colonel Radcliif could
not forgive him the oifense of . loving his
daughter.

Upon the part of Prairie Pilot, he seemed ever
on the lookout to serve the interests of the fort
and settlement, and though he now and then
passed a leisure hour with Ruth, he never neg-
lected a single duty, and day and night seemed
constantly in the saddle.

Seeming to realize fully the danger ahead,-f0r
rumors of Indian troubles were upon every ’
breeze, Prairie Pilot urged Colonel Radclifl to
strengthen his defenses, and also to organize the ’
settlers into a kind of military reserve, while
they also strengthened their own houses for a
state of sielg: in case of attack. ‘ ,

Colonel dclifl’ acted promptly upon all the

 

 

51L 4}}sz -

.
I

t
a

 

14 The Prairie Pilot.

 

suggestions of Prairie Pilot, for he had perfect
confidence in him; but between the two there
seemed to exist a restraint, noticeable from their
first meeting upon the part of the scout.

At length, Colonel Radcliff heard a rumor in
circulation that Prairie Pilot and Ruth were
destined to make a match, and this so angered
him that he forbade Ruth to see the scout alone
a am.

g’l‘his command the colonel believed was
obeyed, until one afternoon he beheld the two
lovers quietly walking together upon the river-
bank.

This so infuriated the father that be seized
Ruth by the shoulder and rudely bade her go
to her quarters, and then, turning to the scout,
said angrily: ,

" I’ve a mind, sir, to lay my sword over your
shoulders for your presuming to—”

“ I advise you not to attempt it, Colonel Rad-
clifi’, for I am not always a patient man,” was

‘ the cool interruption of the scout.

In a frenzy of rage, Colonel Radclilf drew his
sword. and, unheeding the cry of Ruth for him
to forbear, he raised the weapon as though to
strike the scout.

Instantly it was seized, dragged violently
from his hand and hurled into the river, where
it sunk from sight.

“Hol hol the guard I" yelled the maddened
officer, and two soldiers, on duty is short dis-
tance away, ran rapidly toward him.

“Behold yonder mutineerl Take him pris-
onerl" ,

The soldiers advanced in surpriso to obey
when the stern, ringing voice of the scout caused
them to halt:

“ Hold! men, if you advance on me you peril
your lives 1”

“ Father—oh, father! be noble, be generous!
for you are forgetting yoursvlf. That man
saved me from a terrible fatel" cried Ruth,
seizing the arm of her parent, who was wild
with rage.

But he heeded her not, and throwing her

roughly aside, cried in loud tones:

“Attentionl Shoot that man down in his

tracks I”

The soldiers hesitated, and loud the order rung
out: .

“ Do you hear? Shoot him down like a dog!”
- The Prairie Pilot, after hurling the sword of
his commander into the river, had folded his
arms upon his broad breast, and stood calm and
quiet: his eagle eye ranging from Colonel Rad-
clifll to the two soldiers, and then falling upon
Ruth, while his face wore an expression rather
of sorrow than anger.

At the colonel’s order to; the soldiers, his arms
dropped from across his breast, and his right

hand rested upon the butt of a revolver, while

his eyes flashed fire.

At the second order to the troopers they
raised their guns as if to obey, when suddenly
the revoIVer of Prairie Pilot leaped from its
holster, two rapid reports followed, and the two
unfortunate men fell dead in their tracks.

For an instant there fell upon all a silence of
death, and then came a cry of alarm from the
fort, and Ruth rushed toward Prairie Pilot.

“You have killed them, but it was to save

 

your own life. Fly now while you can. You-
der iS your horse; fly while you can! For my
sake go I”

“i will go, for it were certain death to re-
main. Ruth, we shall meet again. Farewell.”

So saving the scout gave a shrill call, and
quickly Racer dashed to his side, for he had been
feasting himself upon the luxuriant grass that
grew upon the river-bank.

Colonel Radclifl’ rushed forward as if to de-
tain him, but with a bound Prairie Pilot was in
his saddle—a wave of his hand to Ruth. and
with the speed of a bird he was away and soon
lost to sight in the timber.

Frenzied by what had happened, Colonel Radv
cliff was almost beside himself, and loudly or—
dered men to start in pursuit and bring back
Prairie Pilot dead or alive.

Though surprised at the order, it was prompt-
ly obeyed, and a score of fleet horsemen started
in rapid pursuit, an Indian warrior, one of the
scout’s own men, striking the trail and leading
the troopers in full chase of a man whom. an
hour before, all in the fort looked upon and re-
spected next to Colonel Radclifl? himself.

CHAPTER XI.
EXILED.

LATE at night. following the day of the flight
of Prairie Pilot, the pursuing s Hadron returned.
completely used up, and the o oer in Command
presented himself before Colonel Radclifl and
reported that it was impossible to overtake the
scout, who had penetrated the hostile Indian
country, and to follow him with the small force
be had would have been madness.

Still angry after the occurrence of the day,
Colonel Radcliif paced to and fro in moody si-
lence for awhile, and then said:

“By Heaven! he shall not escape me; I will
either have that man or he will be killed by the
Indians-”

“ What is his crime, sir?” ventured Captain
Claude Ashland, the young and gallant officer
who had gone in pursuit of the scout, and who,
by the way, was over head and ears in love
with Ruth himself.

“ Crime, Captain Ashlandl His crime is that
he has dared to love my daughter.”

The captain winced, and his face flushed, as
he muttered to himself:

“I thought as much, and the fair Ruth has
dared to return it.”

But he said aloud:

“ I heard something about his killing two sol-
diers. sir.”

“Yes, he shot down two troopers in cold
blood, after he had jerked my sword from my
hand and threw it into the river.”

“ A queer way to win the consent of a parent
to love his daughter,” thought Captain Ashland,
but he said:

“ Indeed, sir! What motive could he have
had for such an act?”

“ Motive! Molfi'e, sir? I’ll tell you. As a
scout, the hanger-on of a fort, he dared to love
Ruth, and meeting him with her, I threatened
to lay my sword upon him, when, egadl he ad-
vised me not to do so.

, “I disre arded his advice, and the result was
as I relate . Then I called the guard, and two

 

4..

The Prairie Pilot. 15

 

troopers coming to my aid, I bade them seize
the mntineer; but be warned them off, and I
ordered them to shoot him down, and before
they could obey, by heaven! he shot the pair
of them through the brain, killing them in-
stantly.”

Now Claude Ashland was a fine fellow and a
humane man and his sympathy went out for
the poor soldiers. and then for the scout, whom
be greatly admired; next he felt for poor Ruth,
whom he dearly loved, although he knew his
love was hopeless.

But for Colonel Radclifl he felt no sympathy
whatever, and his mental decision was—“ It
served him right.”

Claude Ashland left the room, and seeking his
own quarters, his mess were soon in possession
of the facts, and Colonel Radclifl? was univer-
sally condemned for his action in the unfortu-
nate affair, and the cool courage of the scout
spoken off in terms of admiration.

With the early dawn of the following day
Bravo Bob arrived at the fort, having been off
for several days on a scouting expedition, and
into his ears was poured the tale of horror.

Now Bravo Bob was somewhat inclined to
profanit , when aroused, and be commenced a
string 0 oaths that fairly frightened those who
had told him of the affair.

After somewhat cooling ofl? he boldly sought
the quarters of his commander, who at the time
was enjoying in moody silence, his breakfast,
Ruth With red and swollen eyes seated opposite

him.

“ Colonel Radclifl’, as you have driven my
comrade from the camp, have come to tender
my resignation as scout also,” abruptly said Bob,
as he was ushered into the breakfast-room.

“The departure of Prairie Pilot should in no
way urge your leaving, Bravo Bob,” replied the
colonel, blandly, for he did not care to lose his
two best men, and wished to retain him as his
chief of scouts, if in his power.

“ It does interest me, sir, so much that I leave
the post within the hon r.”

“if you remain, Bob, you will be the chief
of scouts, in place of the traitor and mur-
derer—”

“ Hold! Colonel Radcliifl Do not call Prairie
Pilot a traitor and a murderer. He is as true as
steel to friend or foe, and in killing the two
troopers he but defended his own life, which any
man may do.

“ No, sir, I do not care to be chief of scouts at
this post.”

“ But where will you go, for all around us the
Indians are on the war-Ipath, and hostilities
must soon commence here. ’

“True, sir; but I am not afraid of the red-
skius, and besides I will be near at hand, and
where I can give you warning, for I will scout
for the settlement, for evary true man is needed

. now "

“You speak the truth, and I am glad we
shall not wholly lose your services. If you need
a friend at any time come to me; but, as for
Your mutinous comrade, I have arranged that

is race shall soon be run out.”

“ How so, Colonel Radcliff!"

“ Here, sir, read this,” and the ofllcer banded
Bravo Bob 9. paper, who took it, and read:

 

“ BLUE Warns. MILITARY Pas-1;}
“ July 3m, 1853,
“Spaial Order No. 36.

“ It is hereb ordered that one Prairie Pilot,a scout
and guide on he plains and in the mountains on the
Western frontier, is from this day an exile from all
the forts, military posts, trading stations and settle-
ments under my command along the border. and
that should he enter any of the above-named, his
life shall be the forfeit.

“ Also, it is ordered, that any settler, soldier, scout,
hunter, or Indians friendly to the whites harboring
or aidilng said Prairie Pilot shall be dealt with most
severe .

“ Alsg, for the head of Prairie Pilot, dead or alive,
is oflered the sum of one thousand dtllara

“ By order of Aarnua RADCIM,
“ Colonel Commanding."

“This ought to catch him, or starve him, colo-
nel,” said Bravo Bob, with half a sneer upon his
handsome face.

“That order is not all, scout, for I intend to
dispatch scouts up and down the frontier to all
other posts, with a special request from me that
other commanding officers will issue like
orders.”

“ That ought to get him, colonel.” replied
Bravo Bob, and if Colonel Radclifl saw the
sneer upon the scout’s face he said nothing
about it; but Ruth saw it, and also read there a
look of confidence in the powers of Prairie Pilot
to evade all attempts to capture him, and, it
gave her hope. '

After a few more moments of conversation
Bravo Bob saluted the colonel, bowed politely
to Ruth, and left the room.

Half an hour after, he left the fort, carrying
with him his own traps and those left by Prairie
Pilot, the exiled scout.

CHAPTER XII.
THE HEBM'IT cm.

This morning after the flight of the prisoners
from the bandit stronghold the camp was early
asti r, and the relief-guard sent to the outer end
of the chasm, which being a secret entrance
was nevar considered worthy of a large force to
Watch and protect it.

Upon arriving at the place all was at onceex-
citement. for the dead body of one of the ards ,
was discovered, while his companion, pa 0 and
weary-looking, paced nervously to and fro, his
rifle in hand.

“What means this?” asked Captain Ralph,
who was leaving the stronghold by the chasm
passage, accompanied by half a hundred of his
men, whom he was leadinglin chase of the train
of which the Prairie Pilot ad been the guide.

“ l t means, Captain Ralph, that I was attack-
ed here last night, and r Watson slain; but
after a sharp skirmish managed to drive of
in fees."

“Who were they—Indians or whites?"

“ They were white men. After Watson was
killed I retreated into yonder gulch. and they
kept me there for fully half an hour, when at
last they retreated.”

“ Why did you not summon aid, sir!”

“ How could I, captain? Watson was killed
in the first charge and I was forced back into
the gulch i’besides, I thought you would hear
the firing.

“No, the roar of the fall doubtless drowned

 

 

 

 

  r 

 

16 The Prairie Pilot.

 

the sound. What do you say, sir?” he contin-
ued, turning to a horseman who dashed up,
having just come through a tunnel way.
_ “’:I‘he Prairie Pilot and the girl have escaped,
Mr.
“A thousand furiesl Is this so?”
“Xes, sir; they are notin their caves, and the

' rifle and arms of the scout are also gone.”

“ Then there is a traitor in camp. Martin,
this looks black for you,” and the young leader
looked suspiciously at the guard, who turned
deadlv ale.

“We 1, we must not linger here, but strike
the trail of the scout. Down the hill there,
some of vou, and see if you can find any traces
of their flight.”

Half a dozen men obeyed the order and soon
returned to report that the fresh tracks of two
horses were visible, and that the trail led up the
valley.

“I is as I ex acted. Antoniol”

“ Well, senor?’ and a dark‘faced, black-eyed
Mexican rode forward and saluted.

“ Take this man, Martin, back to the Hermit
Chief. and relate the particulars as you know

them.”

“Yes, senor.”

“ Also any that I have gone on the trail of the
prisoners,‘and if I find I cannot OVertake them,
will then branch of! after the train.”

“ Yes, senor,” and again saluting his leader,
Antonio disarmed the unfortunate guard, and
marched him away, while Captain Ral h and
his men started in rapid pursuit of the rairie
Pilot and Ruth.

Through the long chasm the guard Was led
by Antonio, the man who had brought the in-
formation to Captain Ralph of the esca e of the
prisoners, until the plateau was reache , and an
excited crowd were there gathered, discussing
the flight of the daring scout.

Observing that their comrade, Martin, was
a prisoner, for his hands were bound, many
questions were asked by the bandits; but in si-
lence Antonio continued on his way across the
plateau, to where, in a clump of trees, stood a

urge and comfortable-looking log cabin.

Around the house were growing a number
of fragrant flowers, and around the columns
that so ported the piazza, running the full length
of the ront, were vines, entwined so as to form

.a shady arbor.

A wide hallway ran through the house, which
had four rooms in it, those on the right side be-
ing used for sleeping, and the two on the left
of the hallway were a kitchen and dining-room.

For that out-of—the—way place, and the home
of a bandit chief, the house was a most com-
fortable one, and neatly furnished, while its
whole aspect roved that a woman’s hand gov-
erned the out w household.

From the piazza in front a view of the plateau
could be seen, with the waters rushing over

{the (all, the cabins of the band. and the valleys

below, all together making a picturesque scene.

the piazza, seated in a large and easy
cha , was a striking-looking man, enga ed in
ginning restlesst over the scene laid out efore

His form was large and commanding, his com-
Plexion dark, his eyes black and fiery, and his

 

hair and beard long, and as white as snow,
though his general appearance scarcely indies;
ted that he was more than sixty years of age.

Though venerable-looking, there was not that
halo in his face which frequently comes with old
age and white hair; but, instead, a stern look
haunted the mouth, and a restless, cruel glitter
trembled in the eyes.

He was dressed in a blue blouse suit, and
hanging upon one arm of the chair was a belt
containing two revolvers and a. knife.

Upon the other arm of the chair was a broad
straw hat encircled by a old cord.

Upon the little finger of is left hand glittered
a. single diamond of great value, and around his
neck hung a huge chain of massive gold,
attiched to a large hunting-case watch of costly
ma e.

Altogether he was a. remarkable-looking man,
and none need look to him for mercy were his
inclinations against clemency.

“Ionel” he suddenly called out, in a stern,
rin ing voice.

“ es, father,” and the young girl, already
known to the reader, came forth upon the
piazza from one of the inner rooms.

“ 1 wish you would mount Specter and make
a circuit on the prairie and see if there is any
trace of that train, to which the Prairie Pilot
belonged, for I have more confidence in you
than in all my scouts, whites and red-skins."

“Shall I go at once, father?”

“Yes—curse that fellow, I would give a. good
deal to know how he escaped. I wish I had had
him shot, yesterday.”

And thus the old Hermit Chief went on mut-
tering imprecations against Prairie Pilot for
half an hour before the news had been brought
him of the escape of the scout and Ruth.

A few moments more and lens dashed by on
her White steed, and once more clad in her

ghostly costume, which looked weird even in,

the bright light of the sun.

“Yes, she is true to me, and so is Ralph; but
who else can I trust?

“I am getting along in years now, and must
soon give up this outlaw life, and then in some
foreign capital I will luxuriate on the gold I
have won.

“Gold I have in vast quantities, but not yet
enough—no, not enough! I must have more,
and then I can live like a prince. Like a prince,
did I say? Like a king, I mean, for am I not
king here?

“ And that girl—who can she be?

“ I certainly have seen her face before, and
last night I saw it in my dreams, over and over
again.

“ She is a proud and fearless creature, too, for
I could not intimidate her.

“And she must be the daughter of some one
high in authority, or else she would have given
her name; but curse that scout! I would give a
score of lives for his single one.” and thus the
old chief muttered on, running from one subject
to another, until suddenly he descried Antonio
and the bound guard approaching. ‘

“ Well, who have we here? Ah! Antonio, the
man I sent after Ralph with the news of the
escape. Well, Antonio, what has Martin been
doing that you have him bound!” '

"~

The Prairie Pilot. 1’?

 

 

“ Senor chief, the senor captain bade me bring
the guard back and tell you that his companion
on duty last night was killed, and—”

“ eak, scoundrel, and uDSWer for y‘ourself !"
yelled) the infuriated old chief.

In trembling tones the frightened bandit told
the same story which he had related to Captain
Ralph, and when he had finished he saw that
there was no hope for him in this life.

“ Antonio, bind that traitor to yonder post
—therel Now summon the people in front of
my cabin, and we will get rid of one man who
would betray us.”

CHAPTER XIII.
AN OUTLAW EXECUTION.

ANTONIO, the Mexican, was a sub-officer under
the Hermit Chief, and commanded the strong-
hold defenses; hence he was willing that Martin
should be executed, so as to turn the tide of
wrath from himself.

He therefore at once departed to obey the
orders of his chief, and, left alone with the old
man, the doomed bandit implored for mercy,
and made a full confession of the facts of the

case.

But the old Hermit Chief cruelly laughed in
his face, and sneered forth:

“How did he get his arms from this cabin?
tell me that, sir traitor?”

“I know not, chief, I have told you the whole
truth.”

But in vain the man pleaded, for the Hermit
Chief knew no such word as mercy, and the
people of the stronghold beginning to assemble,

or Martin cease his entreaties, and tried to

ecome calm and indifferent to his fate.

Soon all were assembled, a motley group of
men, women and children, among whom were
Americans, Irish, Mexicans, Germans, negroes
and Indians.

With the women were a few miserable-look-
ing whites, some of them captives, perhaps,
dragged down to a life of crime. and a few who
had followed their evil husbands into outlawry;
but the most of the females were Indian squnws.

In high glee, for they reveled in bloodshed,
the wild crowd came together, and with eager
looks feasted their appetites for the horrible
upon the pale, but now calm, face of the doomed
guard.

“ Antonio, pick out your men, and when I
Eve’the signal let that traitor meet his just

be 7

“Yes, senor.”

The condemned man was then led to one side,
and placed with his back toward the cliff, the
crowd forming three sides of a hollow square
with that promptness and discipline which fre-
quent experience in a like deadly drill had
tan ht them.

“ ow. traitor. beg for your life." called out
the old Hermit Chief, still comfortably seated
in his easy-chair. .

“I will not give you the pleasure of hearing
me beg for the life which I have made a curse
to myself.” firmly res nded the outlaw.

“Hal he has pluc , then. Antonio, watch
my signal.”

“ Yes, senor.” - ‘

Erect and defiant stood the condemned man,

 

his eyes gazing as it were far into the past, and
his face brave and stern.

Raising his hands, the old chief glanced first
at the half-dozen riflemen. selected as the exe-
cutioners, and then upon the victim. ,

Then with a loud clap his hands came to-
gether, and a volley of firearms followed.

Without a moan or a word. Martin, the out-
law guard, fell dead, just as lone dashed rapid—
ly u , her horse covered with sweat and foam.

“ hat means this execution, father?” she
said, hastily.

“Why have you returned so soon, lone?” eva-
sivelv answered the chief.

“I was chased back by a band of mounted
Sioux—1’ .

“ Hal how many, girl?”

“About half a hundred.”

“No need for us to fear them. but-”

“Father, why has Marlin been executed? He
was one of the best men in the band.”

“ So I believed him: but he proved a traitor
and aided the prisdnars to escape,” and the chief
told Ione of the occurrence on the outpost, and
the death of the other guard.

“Still he might have been innocent," urged
the maiden.

“No, he ‘ stole the scout’s arms from my
room—" '

“What! have you forgotten you made me a
present of those weapons?” and Ione’s face turn-
ed pale. '

“ By Heaven! you are right, girl. Still, I am
confident that the guard was a traitor." '

“ I do not believe it; the escape of Prairie
Pilot was certainly most mysterious: but I do
not believe one person in this camp aided him,”
and Ione entered the cabin, feeling sad at the
thought that her having taken the scout-’8 arms
to him had caused the execution of a man who
was doubtless guiltless of the crime of which _he
was charged.

Though for years the occupant of an outlaw
camp, lone was not evil at heart, for she hardly
knew the enormities committed bv the band,
and believed rather what the old chief told
her. that he and his men were a persecuted set.

Thus believing, and feeling that her father
knew best, Ione did all she could for the good of

the band, and in her spectral masquerade was.

wont to spy out the movements of trains and
find out t e strength of settlements, believing
that it was a just war that was waged.

As she dgrew older she had her misgivings,
and won! frequently converse with her brother
Ralph upon the subject; but he was wont to say:

“ We were once for different, Ione, when we
were mere children: but I can not remember all
the past. '

“Our father is kind to us, and he he‘s been
driven from civilization—why, I know not, so
let us do all we can to cheer him. 1-

“ He will not last long, for he is failing, and
I fear some crime rests heavy upon him.

“ When he is gone we will give up this wild,
outlaw life, and together seek a home whens we
are unknown, and can live in quiet, respected
by those around us.” ‘

This conversation would cheer lone, and. some-
how, Ralph would feel better after it r

to
though he was a stern leader, and a 

l

 

 

i

 

' profane terms. for the

1 8 The. Prairie Pilot.

fearless fellow, be had never been cruel, and
seemed' to shun acts of cruelty.

Of late he had been strangely remiss in lead-
ing raids, and his men wondered at the change
coming over their youthful leader.

Still, he was a severe disciplinarian, and knew
that his lawless hand must be ruled with a hand
of iron, or they would bring ruin upon them-
selves, and therefore there was no unbending of
his nature toward his followers, who feared
him almost as much as they did his grim old

ather.

CHAPTER XIV.
A STAR’I‘LING sunrnisn.

TRUE to his promise, Rafael Randolph, the

lover of Ida Arlington, appeared in the Blue
Water settlement, and was presented-to his
ex ectant father-in-law.
, 1d Amos Arlington thought him a little
wild-looking, perhaps. but was soon won
over by the genial and frank manner of the
young man, and gave his consent for Ida to
marry him when he should next visit the set-
tlement, which would be in two weeks, for
Rafael Randolph had business, he said,
which would call him East about that
time, and Wished to take with him his young
bride.

The two weeks rolled quickly away to the
happy ,Ida', who was aided in her prepara
tions for the momentous event by her friend,
Ruth Radcliif, who passed a great deal of

her time in the settlement, for she'likcd

not her father's moody manner, she told her
friend.

Perhaps, too, she was anxious to see
Bravo Bob often also, and learn from him if
he had any news of Prairie Pilot, from
whom no one had heard since his flight from
the fort,

But, though Bravo Bob was an untiring
scout, and notwithstanding the presence of
hostile Indians raidin through the country,
he was continually gomg off alone on scout-
‘in expeditions, he could never tell her any-
thing about his comrade.

He had even gone to the distant posts

« where the traders train had safely arrived,
~ hoping to find Prairie Pilot there; but, no;
‘ all that had been heard of the famous scout

there was the brand of exile that had been
assed against him, and which both Scalp-
ock Dave and Yankee Sign condemned in

am 2

“ He weren’t the fol or to be branded likea

. maddog, an’ was a sight better man than the

feller that did it.”

It was a sad disappointment to Ruth when
no news could be gained of her lover; but
she would not yield to the general belief, that
he had been ki lcd b the Indians or outlaws,
but hoped against lope that she would see

him again.

 

Again, wounded or captive Indians would
report that a white horseman was wont to
dog them by night, and frequently ride upon
their camps, pouring upon them a destruc-
tive fire from a many-shooting rifle; but that
they never saw him in the daytime, and he
knew not his haunts.

That this strange horseman was Prairie
Pilot not only Ruth, but Bravo Bob, felt con-
fidcnt, and they were the more convinced of
it when on several occasions an arrow had
been fired into the inclosure of the fort, con-
taining a notice, or warning, of some move of
the C11ndians or outlaws, and written in a bold
han .

Neither Ruth nor Bravo Bob had ever seen
Prairie Pilot’s writing, but they were assured
that they came from him.

What Colonel Radclifl thought, none
know; but, certain it is, that when he hced<
cd not the first silent messenger of warning,
and disaster befcll a squadron of his troopers,
hc afterward had full confidence in the
Others, and acted accordingly—the result of
which was that serious trouble was often
averted.

I’romptly at the end of the two weeks
Rafael Randolph again appeared in the Blue
Water settlement, splendidly mounted and
armed, and handsomely attired in a suit of
dark—blue cloth.

He found a warm greeting from both Ida
and her father, and a cordial welcome from
Ruth, who had begun to like the young man
more than she at first supposed she would.

Bravo Bob also took a fancy to the young
trader, and the two were constantly together
during the day that was to usher in the wed-
ding-evening.

To the marriage of his daughter Amos Ar-
lington had invited the ofiiccrs and ladies of
the fort, and a number of his friends among
the settlers, so that his capacious cabin was
filled to overflowing.

At length the expectant bride and groom
entered the parlor, Bravo Bob and Ruth Rad-
cliif having consented to act as “ best man "
and bridesmaid.

lda was dressed in a. neat traveling-suit,
and looked perfectly lovely and happy, while

’Ruth was also bccomingly attired, and tried

to appear joyful, but a sad look haunted her
beautiful eyes.

The groom, whose handsome appearance
was the admiration of all, was attired in his
well-fitting dark suit, and yet his face was
strangely stern and pale for one on the eve
of marriage.

Bravo Bob, in a handsome new suit of
buckskin, also came in for his share of
admiration, and remarked that if he were
to draw lots for either Ruth or Ida, he
would be perfectly happy with whichever

a; u Va 1

The Prairie Pilot.

19

 

One he won-41nd so other young gallants
thought, while they greatly envied Rafael
Randolph.

As for Colonel Radcliff, a dark scowl rest-
ed upon his face, and in his heart he cursod
Rafael Randolph, for he also had loved the
beautiful Ida, and had hoped to one day make
her his wife.

Within the cabin all seemed brightness and
joy—without, the wind howled mournfully,
and a dark storm was rolling up from the
eastward.

While the marriage ceremony was being
performed by the chaplain of the fort, a
horseman rode cautiously into the settlement,
and glanced in upon the bright scene enacted
at Amos Arlington's.

Suddenly he started visibly, and sprung
to the ground, walking rapidly toward the
cabin.

Entering the door he forced himself through
the surprised crowd, and called out in a voice
clear and ringing:

“ I-Ioldl This marriage is a sacrilegel That
man 2'3 Captain Ralph, the young ch'wf of the
(m tlwms ./ ”

A wild cry from Ida, a bitter imprccation
from Rafael Randolph, and cries of surprise
mingled with expressions of sorrow filled the
room.

Then, above all, was heard the clear voice
of Bravo Bob:

“ Prairie Pilot, by the gods above!”

“Yes, and God knows I regret I was not
here sooner to save that poor girl— Hold!
Ralph, the outlaw, you cannot get away.
Move one step and you shall die,” and the
revolver of the scout covered the breast of
the young man, who, pale as death, folded
his arms and stood in silence.

“0h, say he is not an outlaw, and I will
bless you! Tell me he is not such as you
say,” implored Ida, clasping her hands and
gazing imploringly into the scouts face.

“ lie is what 1 say, poor girl, and. Colonel
.Radclifi, if you will place him under arrest
you shall have proof of my words within the
week.”

“Ay, I will put him under arrest, and you
also," and Colonel Radclifi called to his
officers present to rally round him.

“Back! back, I say, or, before God, some
of you shall die!” and, with a revolver in
each hand, Prairie Pilot backed from the
room, sprung out of the cabin, and the next
moment had flung himself upon his steed
and was flying away like the wind, leaving
behind him a scene of wildest tumult.

CHAPTER XV.
AN UNWELCOME DISCOVERY. '
SEVERAL days passed after the unfortunate
marriage, which had bound poor Ida Arling-

 

 

ton to an outlaw, and still the sad afiair was
the general theme of conversation among the
soldiers and settlers, and the maiden was
pitied by all. ‘

But, true to her love, Ida Arlington
refused to believe the charge against her -
husband, and though he was held as a pris<
oner in the fort, she dail visited him, eon-
vcying with her delicacies made with her
own hands.

In her sorrow Ruth gave her her full sym-
pathy, and did all she could to cheer her;
but, in her heart, she felt that Rafael Ran-
dolph was none other than Captain Ralph,
the young leader of the outlaw band, who
acknowledged the Hermit Chief as its ruling
spirit.

Though the evil tidings had been brou ht
by the Prairie Pilot, Colonel Iiadclifl -
lieved every word of it. and a. hope arose in
his heart that Ida might yet become his wife,
when her sorrowing for her bandit-lover was
over.

A week had nearly gone by since the im-
prisonment of Captain Ralph, and Colonel
Radcliff was moodily pacing to and fro, as
was his wont, in front of his quarters.

Presently, an officer approached him, ac-
companied by a man, who led a horse by the
row.

" Well, Ashland, who have you there?"

“ The bearer of private dispatches to you,
colonel.”

“ Yis, sur; I‘m afthur having a letther for ‘
yer honor, sur; an’ it’s moighty important I
was tould to say," replied the man, who was
an odd-looking but shrewd fellow, that look-
ed as if he could take care of himself in a
tight place. ‘ \ .

Taking from an inner pocket of his well.
worn suit a large envelope heavily sealed, he
handed it to Colonel Radclifi, who hastily
broke the seal and glanced at the contents.

Instantly his face turned deadly pale, and
the young officer asked, quickly:

“ Are there ill tidings, colonel ?”

“No, Ashland, no; my man, I will accom-
pany you; and; captain, you will command
until my return.” -

” Are you oing to venture out of the fort
alone, sir? Slall I not order an escort for
you?” -

“ No, captain. I am only going a short
distance and will soon return.‘

So saying, Colonel Radclifi told his orderly
to bring his horse, and ten minutes after,
rode away from the fort, the strange mes-
senger leading the way.

For two miles or more, the Irish mes-
senger directed the way, until he came to a
path which led under a. bluff overhanging the
river.

“ You will be afther flndin g him there. Bur,

 

20 The Prairie Pilot.

4

 

under the big tree,” and the Irishman came
to a halt. '

Without a word in reply Colonel Radclifl
rode on, and soon discovered a tall form
standing beneath the shadow of an overhang-
..ing tree.

t was the Hermit Chief, and his face was
cold and stern.

“Well, Arthur, you have come?” said the
deep tones of the old outlaw chief.

“ Yes, I have come; but in God’s name
What do you here?” replied Colonel Radclilf,
glancing suspicioust around.

“ We are alone, Arthur; you need fear no
intrusion. You came without an escort?”

’ 4: Yes."

“It is well—it will avoid trouble should
they meet my men.”

“Your men? what mean you?”

“ I mean. Arthur, that changes have come
to both of us since last We met. You are
the commandant on this border, while I
film—.3!

“ What?” asked the officer, as the other
paused.

“ le Hermit Chief!”

, “ Good God! are you that monster? Have
you come to that?”

“ Steady, boy, steadyl Your tongue has
slipped its leash and goes galloping wildly.

“Yes, after I left the States, you know
why, I had to plot and counterplot to keep
from starving; so I came West, and circum-
stances made me a robber-chief.”

“A fit termination to your guilty acts of
years ago; but why did you seek me here? is
not the bond between us severed?"

“ No, Arthur, and it can never be,” some-
what sadly said the Hermit Chief, and then
he continued firmly:

W I came not here to ask gold of you, but
to demand the release of my lieutenant. now
your prisoner, for when I learned of his cap-
ture,» then it was that I heard that Arthur

, Radclifl? was the new commander of this new

frontier post.”

” Yes, and a short While ago you held in
you power my daughter Ruth.”

“Hal now I recall the resemblance that so
haunted me. Yes, she was captured by
some of In men, and rescued by that arch-
flend, the rairie Pilot; but, Arthur, I must
have Ralph Randolph—J

“ What! is the outlaw prisoner in my
power that youth?” cried Colonel Radcliff,
1n surprise.

“Yes; do you think that I would allow
thait,prize to slip through my fingers? Oh,
no ’

“ And the girl—”

“Is at m cabin. The two believe them-
selvesm c ildren—" .

"My 0d! when will your villainies ena?"

 

. passe... . _ . . ..

“ In the grave.”

The deep voice of’the Hermit Chief was
almost reproachful as he uttered these words.

After an instant of silence, Colonel Rad-
cliif said:

“ And you desire the release of Ralph
Randolph ‘2”

“ I demand it! You cannot hang;r him."

“ I would not wish his blood on my hands.
I have been wild, perhaps, and through your
influence have been guilty of acts Iwould
not recall; but I am not wicked enough to
take his life, if in my power to save him.
Yet, how can it be done?”

“ Easily. He was married to a young
girl that really loves him. Keep less strict
guard over him and she will get him out.”

“ It shall be done. Now our business
ends, I suppose?”

“ No; '1 must ask you to be less persever-
ing in your attacks on my band—at least,
while 1 command it, which will not be
long.”

“ Thank God for that! Now our interview
ends—”

“Not quite! I desire you to witness one
of our outlaw executions.”

“ Indeed! Who is your victim now?"
sneeringly asked the officer.

“ One for whom you seem to have a dead.
ly hatred. men tell me. We heard where he
had his retreat, and I sent men there, who
luckily caught him while he was fishing, and
unsuspecting of danger; but his splendid
horse, repeating-rifle and belt of arms they
did not find.”

“ To whom do you refer?” somewhat imv
patiently asked Cplonel Radclifl.

“ To the Prairie Pilot!”

CHAPTER XVI.
ON THE vanrs OF DEATH.
WHEN the Hermit Chief made known who

was his prisoner, Colonel Radcliff started, 1

and an exclamation of surprised pleasure es-
caped his lips. I

“ I thought it would be pleasant news to-
you; but darkness is coming on, and if you
wish to see the Prairie Pilot hanged we must
hasten."

“ I will go, for I Wish that man out of the
way. True, he has done me only kindnesses,
but if he lives I fear that Ruth will become
his wife in spite of all that I can do. And I
am glad to have the affair taken 01f of my
hands.”

“ Doubtless; but come.”

Leading the we , the Hermit Chief as-
cended the hill to t 2 top of the bluff, Where

were visible in the gloom fully two-score of

men, standing in ominous silence.

The Prairie Pilot. 21

v~

 

“ I will not be seen by your men; I will
remain here in the shadow of this tree,” said
Colonel Radcliff, halting.

“As you please; when the show is over,
you know the way home, and we will await
ltalph here. This note given to him will ex-

lain.”
p " I will see that he gets the note, and will
do all I can to efiect his escape, Farewell.”

The Hermit Chief half held out his hand,
but withdrew it instantly with a bitter laugh
and walked toward the group standing some
hundred yards away.

In the midst of that group was Prairie Pi—
lot, his face pale and stem, his form erect,
his eyes flaslnng defiance upon his foes.

As the Hermit Chief had said, he had been
surprised while fishing in the river for his
evening meal, and when armed with only
one revolver and knife.

But he made a brave resistance, and it was
only after a desperate struggle that he was
secured ~

That his retreat was not far away his cap-
tors knew; but search as they might, no trace
of it could be found, and they were com-
pelled to come away with their prisoner
without having found his famous steed, or
secured his famous rifle and belt of arms.

When the Hermit Chief advanced there
was a noose around the neck of Prairie
Pilot, and the rope that was to drag him
up to an ignominious death was thrown al-
ready across the limb of a tree above his
head

Thus far the Hermit Chief had not seen
his prisoner, his capture having been re-
ported to him while he was waiting for
the coming of Colonel Radclifi. and with
some curiosity he walked forward, and
gazed into the noble, handsome face of the
scout.

Involuntarily an exclamation of surprise
arose to his lips; but it was checked by
the manner of Prairie Pilot, whose eyes
flashed fire, and face became livid, while
every vein on his forehead stood out like
cords.

Startled by his emotion, the chief stepped
back. and sternly ordered:

“String him up, and quickly, too, or the
devil may yet aid in his escape I"

A dozen men seized the end of the rope,
and running off with it, the splendid form of
Prairie Pilot was the next moment dangling
in the air, the handsome face black with rage
and pain.

Quickly the end of the rope was made fast
to a small sapling, and a cheer broke from
the crowd of bandits as they felt that at last
their untiring enemy was beyond doing them
further injury. .

But as the cheer ended, a rapid rattle of

 

rifle-shots came from over the blufi, and sev-
eral outlaws fell dead in their tracks.

Instantly there was the wildest excitement,
and mounting in hot haste, while, believing
that they were attacked by a body of troops,
they dashed 01? at full speed, the Hermit
Chief at their head.

As they disappeared in the gloom of the
timber, a horseman rode by like the wind,
his steed springing over the dead bodies of
the outlaws, and his knee brushing against
the swaying body of Prairie Pilot—the
horseman was Colonel Arthur Radclifl, '
riding with all speed toward the fort, and
leaving the ghastly scene behind hin.

CH PTER XVII.
COLONEL ADCLIrr’s STRATEGY.

WITH a feeling at his heart which he
could not account for, a sensation of joy that
the hanging of the Prairie Pilot had been
shifted from his conscience, and a joy that
the scout was no longer an obstacle to some
ambitious idea he had for Ruth, Colonel
Radclifi stood watchin g the outlaw execution
of the brave man whom he had exiled from
the border.

The sudden firing caused him hastily to
spring into his saddle, and with surprise at
the sudden and unexpected attack, he dashed
away, for he did not care to be caught in
such company.

His path led him by the hanging scout,
and he shuddered as the body swung against ‘
him and the staring eyes looked down into
his own.

“God in heaven! I can never forget that
look," he cried, and he buried his 5 ms
deep into the sides of his horse and rush on.

how and then he heard a shot behind him,
back by the bluff ; but he soon felt safe, and
in ten minutes more drew up at the gate of
the fort.

It was quite dark by the time he arrived,
but the sentinel recognized his voice, and
quickly opened the gate. ‘

Riding up to his quarters, he threw his
rein to his orderly. and entered the cabin,
where sat Ruth and Ida, the latter weepin
bitterly. ’

“Miss Ida. I would like to see your for a.
moment. Will you come with me into my
office?” he said, kindly.

In surprise Ida arose, and entering the
room, the colonel motioned her td a seat.

“Miss Ida, I wished to see you alone,
because I am going to place myself in your
power, as it were.”

Ida made no reply, only looked up with
surprise, and the colonel continued:

‘ “ You certainly were most unfortunate in
bestowing your love upon one who so grossly

 

7 deceived youwbut marriage is a lottery, and

 

 

22 The Prairie Pilot.

 

it is only after we enter upon it that we find
out whether we have drawn a prize or a blank.

“But it is not my intention to moralize,
but to act. Though you refused my love, I
feel no ill-Will, Ida, as I will prove.

“That you love, with your Whole heart,
your outlaw husband—”

“He is no outlaw, Colonel RadcliIf—"

“Alas, [know all that he is, Ida; but we
will not argue that point; yet, certain it is,
that if he remains here, he will have to die
an ignomiuious death, and I wish to save
him. ’

“You, Colonel Arthur Radclilf, wish to
save the life of one whom you say you know
to be an outlaw chief?”

“We will do much for those we love, lda;
but I do Wish, for your sake, to save Captain
Ralph, as he is called—are you brave enough
to elfect his escape?"

“0h, try me, and I will bless you.“

“I will try you. His horse is at your
father’s, is he not?" '

“Yes, sir." _

“Veryr well; now you can remain in this
room, after I leave, and in yonder closet you
will find one of my cloaks and a slouch hat
—earry them in some Way to the prisoner,
and when you hear me talking; with the
sentinel outside the guard~house, both of you
leave and come hither; when it gets later, I
will walk with you out of the inclosure,
passing you by the sentinel, who will think
your companion one of the olfieers seeing

on home.”

“Ohl Colonel Radcliff, how can I thank
you for this kindness?”

“By keeping my part in the affair an
inviolate secret; but here. give this to your
husband. It is a note from the old lIennit
Chief.”

Ida turned a shade paler. and held forth
her hand for the note, which the oliicer
handed to her.

"‘Now, Miss Ida, I will leave you. Be
brave, be cool, and all will go well."

With a beating heart Ida seized the hat
and cloak, and concealing them under her
dress, she walked quickly to the guard-house,
located in an isolated portion of the stockade
inclosure, and guarded by a single sentinel,
who, recognizing her, permitted her to enter,
for such had been the colonel’s orders.

“ Well, Stockton, how is your prisoner?"
said Colonel Radclifif, approaching the senti~
nel, a few moments after the maiden had en-
tered the smell cabin.

“ All right, sir.”

“ Stockton, what sound is that I hear in
the timber?”

“ I hear no sound, sir,” replied the guard.

“ Your ears are dull; come around here
out of the wind and listen.” ‘

 

 

The sentinel at once obeyed, and after lis-
tening awhile, said:

“ It‘s from the settlement, sir—the settlers
are having a good time, l guess.”

“ Yes, the sound must come from the set-
tlement. Good-night, Stockton.” and Col-
onel Radclifi walked away, for when he came
round in front of the guardhouse, he beheld
two forms some distance away hurrying to-
ward his quarters.

An hour later. and Colonel Radclii‘f was
walking moodily back from the stoekade
gate, while Ida and the escaped prisoner
were hurrying rapidly toward the settlement.

As he reached his quarters. the relief guard
approached, and in their midst was the senti-
nel, Stockton, his face White and scared.

“ What is it, sergeant?"

“ The prisoner has escaped, sir.”

“ “:1! when (lid this happen?”

“ I do not know; I looked in when I re-
lieved the guard just now, and the guard-
house was empty,” said the sergeant.

“ Why. it is not an hour since I was there
——-was he within then, Stockton?"

“ Yes, sir, I heard him speak to the lady,
Whom I passed in, just before you came up,
sir.”

“By Heaven! I have it—I called Stock-
ton from his post for a moment or two, and
they doubtless took that opportunity to es-
cape, aud a short While since I passed the
lady, and a person I supposed to be some es-
cort from the settlement, out of the gate.

“Release Stockton, sergeant. for it is my
fault and not his. Send Captain Ashland to
me at once."

So saying, Colonel Radclifl' entered his
quarters, and a few moments after the young
captain arrived. '

“Ashlund, through a blunder of mine. it
seems that the prisoner, Captain Ralph, has
escaped, and I wish you to take your com-
pany and go in pursuit. If you do not find
him at the settlement, you had better return,
for I do not wish you far away in these
times."

The young officer obeyed his orders, and
two hours after returned to report that ida
was at home, but that no trace of the pris-
oner could be found.

Colonel Radcliff appeared to be annoyed
at his blunder, which had allowed his pris-
oner to escape; but, at heart, he rejoiced
over the success of his strategy and the
able manner in which Ida had carried it
out.

 

CHAPTER XVIII.
FRIEan TO THE FRONT.
WHEN Prairie Pilot stood before his cap-
tors, bound hand and foot. and with the
haugman’s noose around his neck, he at last

x

The Prairie Pilot. 23

 

felt that his doom had come, for he saw no
possible means of escape.

Ere he expected, he was suddenly drawn
bodily into the air, and all seemed dark be-
fore him; but the rope was so twisted that
the slip-knot got under his chin, and, still
clinging to life, he pressed his chin with such
force upon it, as to prevent its slipping down
and clicking him.

Still, his strength would soon give way,
and also he was strangled considerably by
the pressure of the rope on the veins of his
neck.

Just at this moment he heard the rattle of
rifle-shots, and a few loud yells, and a mo-
ment after his eyes met those of Colonel
Radclifi, rushing by.

Then a darkness came over him—there
was a roaring in his ears; his strength fail-
ed; the noose tightened around his neck, and
he knew no more.

When he again opened his eyes, it was
some moments before he could collect his
senses, and he then saw that he lay with his
feet toward a bright fire, and kneeling upon
each side of him were two forms—the one a
maiden, the other a man, while two more
forms stood erect beside the tire.

The glassy film over his eyes soon passed
away, and he first recognized Bravo Bob,
who was briskly rubbing his neck; then his
gaze fell upon the maiden—it was Ione, the

’hantom Spy!”

With surprise he then turned his eyes upon
the men at the fire; one was Yankee Sam,
the other Scalp-lock Dave.

With a violent effort he suddenly raised
himself from his recumbent position, while
Bravo Bob warmly ejaculated. “ Thank God!”

"Yes, and you, too, I have to thank—
for you have saved my life; now I remem-
ber all,” said Prairie I’ilot, speaking with
some difficulty, for his throat pained him so-
verely.

“ You must not talk, old fellow. yet awhile;
but listen and I will tell you all,” and Bravo
Bob offered the scout a flask of liquor, from
which he took a good draught, and then si~
lently offered his hand to Sam, Dave, and
the maiden.

“You see,” began Bravo Bob, “I am upon
a heavy trail, and tracking it up, I sudden] y
met with Yankee and Dave, here, who were
on their way to the fort to offer for service
in the Indian war.

“Of course we were all glad to meet each
other, and I proposed we‘ should follow the
trail together, which we did.

“ We had not gone far before we ran upon
this young lady, whom I at once recognized
as the Phantom Spy, and before she could

ct away, I lassoed her horse, and we made
or prisoner.

“ Well, we rode on up the river, the
trail growing fresher, and just about dark
we heard a cheer, and a moment after
came upon a sight that made us wild with
rage.

“That sight was the best man on these
prairies hanging by the neck, and a score of
outlaw cutthroats dancing around him.

“We didn’t stop to count noses, but let
in lively with our rifles and revolvers, and,
hang me, if the whole party didn’t make
tracks.

“ While the scare was upon them we dash-
ed in, cut you down, and here you are as
good as new, after a short rest.”

“Yes, to you I owe my life, my friends;
but where are we, Bob?”

"About five miles from the fort—in the
Antelope valley.”

“ You have crossed the river then, and are
in the hill country?"

” Yas; we did not like to camp near your
friends, the outlaws."

“ A wise conclusion; but, Bob, you must
do me another favor."

“ Name it, Prairie Pilot.”

“ Give this maiden into my charge; now
I cannot tell you why."

“i will,” ‘

“Thank you; now let us camp here for
the night, and in the morning, Sam, you and
Dave can go on to the fort; but I am going
to beg that you will not mention having seen
me, my rescue from death, or that you know
anything about me.”

“I'll be as quiet as a church on week- '
da s, you bet; but I’m all—fired glad yer ain‘t
a ead man, 1 is,” said Yankee Sam, while
Scalp—lock Dave re lied:

“ An’ so is I. Y on see, pard, the times is
dull now for guides, so we just struck over
to the fort to raise lnjun ha’r for the soldiers,
but it‘s a darnalion shame that sich a man as
you be is hunted like a dog; but you’ll ever
find me yer friend,” ,

“I know it, Dave, and some day I hope
to prove how I appreciate the friendship of
yourself and Sam.”

Feeling that they would have a better
chance to safe] reach the fort in the dark-
ness, Yankee am and Scalp-lock Dave ex-
pressed their determination to at once set
out; so, bidding farewell to Prairie Pilot
and his companions, they mounted their
horses and rode away. ,

“ Now let us go to my retreat, Bob.
Though I could trust Sam and Dave, I could

\not let them know that secret—”

“Can you trust the girl?” asked Bravo
Bob, in a whisper. »

“With my life. Come.”

A few moments more, and the trio were on

 

their way, Prairie Pilot having accepted

 

 

The Prairie Pilot.

 

 
   

 

Ione’s invitation to a seat with her on Spec-
ter, and which the noble animal seemed to
care little for.

CHAPTER XIX.
THE PRAIRIE “FIGHT.

THREE weeks passed after the hanging of
Prairie Pilot b the outlaws, and the escape
of Captain . alph. Daily matters Were
becoming more complicated upon the border,
for the Indians had taken to the war-path
alourr the whole line, and the settlements were
hour y in fear of an attack.

Squadrons of cavalry frequently scouted
through the hills and upon the prairies, and
often returned with accounts of hard-fought
battles with bands of red-skins, and a gloom
fell upon all.

With untiring zeal and undannted courage

.Colonel Radclid met every danger and ever-
came it, and Captain Ashland daily won
golden laurels for his fearless attacks against
the Indians.

Of the escape of Captain Ralph, little was
said after Ida boldly admitted that she had
been the means of his escape, taking advan»
tage of the colonel’s talk with the sentinel to
leave the uard-house.

Since his leaving the fort nothing had been
heard of the young outlaw chief; but his band
were daily on the war-path against the settle-
ment, led on by the old Hermit Chief, who
suddenl seemed to have gained new vigor
and hen th.

Whether Captain Ralph had returned to
the stronghold. or given up the life of an
outlaw, the scouts and spies could not dis-
cover.

Upon comparatively friendly terms with
the hostile tribes of Indians, the Hermit Chief
could raid along the border with impunity,

. well knowin that the line of forts were kept

busy with t eir red foes, and with almost

savage ferocity he brought ruin upon many a

settler’s home, and left manya ghastly corpse
behind his deadly trail.

The troops commanded by Colonel Radclilf
and the settlers of Blue W'ater settlement, the
Hermit Chief seemed ever to shun, and on
several occasions had his whole band fallen

ack before a small squadron, under the gal-
ant Ashlaud, until the, troopers of the fort
began to believe that they were invincible,
and put on airs accordingly.

At the request of the officers of the fort and
the settlers, Bravo Bob had become chief of
scouts, and with Yankee Sam and Scalp-lock
Dave for his “bowers,” he had organized a
most formidable band of bold spirits, that
were sudden death to Indians and outlaws
whenever the met them.

Frequently rave Bob would leave the fort

 

' at night, alone, and not return till near day-

litrht.

DWhere he went none knew, but certain it

is that he always had gained some impor-
tant information in those solitary scouting
trips. .
Soon rumors began to come that the outlaw
band had a deadly foe upon their trail—one
who seemed to dog them only by night, when
in their camp they would suddenly be aroused
by the ring of a rifle, and the doom of some
one of the guards around the encampment
was sealed.

So frequently had these midnight attacks
of their mysterious foe occurred that a
number of bandits had fallen, and a nervous
dread of sudden death seemed to pervade
their ranks.

Who this mysterious enemy could be none
kne ', and as the Indians also had heard his
rifle‘s (loath-knell, and felt his vengeance, a
superstitious horror seemed to fall upon red-
skin and outlaw alike.

From settlement to settlement, from fort
to fort, flew the news of his deadly hunt for
human game, until around the mess-tables,
at the hearth-stone and in the camp his deeds
were the subject of conversation and all
wondered who the terrible slayer could
be.

Many believed him to be the Prairie Pilot,
but as no one could tell aught of that famous
scout since the night he exposed Captain
Ralph, it was doubted by numbers, for he
was supposed to have been killed.

Upon the subject of the mysterious avenger
there were four persons who usually kept
silent, and seldom expressed an opinion.

These four were Ruth Radcliff, Bravo
Bob, Yankee Sam and Scalp—lock Dave—a
quartettc who, if they had a secret, knew
well how to keep it.

Early in the month of September a horse
man was seen coming across the prairie at
full speed, a hundred Indians at his back,
and endeavoring to see who could gain the
honor of raising his hair.

Out from the fort dashed Bravo Bob and
his score of scouts, hunters and guides, and
the Indians were checked by a Well-aimed
volley of rifle-bullets

While the horseman continued on toward
the fort, Bravo Bob went into line of battle
and commenced an open prairie-fight with
the red-skins, and bein. supported b a
squadron of troopers, un er the gallant sh-
land, an animated combat at once he an.

Though the Indians put on a be] front,
and their chief handled them well, the were
soon put to flight, and with wild ye ls the
victorious whites followed them to return an
hour after with many a gory scalp as a were
trophy.

  

 

 

The Prairie Pilot. 23

 

CHAPTER XX.
AN OUTLaw’s LETTER.

TEE horseman who had not deemed it his
duty to join in the fight against his pursuers,
rode on to the fort and begged to see 001-
onel Radcliif.

He was sent to the quarters of the com-
mandant, who beheld in him the same man
who had before brought him a message from
the old llermit Chief, and his face turned
a shade paler as he held forth his hand for
the letter the messenger drew from his
pocket.

As he was turning to enter his room, the
son of Erin spoke up, briskly:

“ Yer honor’s pardon, but I’ve had a sharp
race and a big scare for my skulp, an’ a. wee
bit of whisky would be after preventing the
courage of ould Ireland from oozing elane
out of me boots, yer honor‘s honor.”

“ Orderly, give the man a dram and some
food,” said the colonel, and he ascended to
the house-top on which was a look-out, from
which he had a fine View of the prairie and
the preparations for battle.

Glancing keenly at the combatants, he
then broke the seal of his letter, and read:

“ OUTLAW S'moxanonn, September 15th, -.

“ ARTHUR:—
“I write to inform you that the Prairie Pilot is not

dead.

“ True, I had him hu ; but you remember we
were attacked—I believe then by your trOOps; so I
gave orders for 9. hasty retreat.

“ Finding we were not pursued, I returned to the
spot we had fled from, to find that the scout had
been cut down.

“ All was silent around there, and no trace of who
had been the attacking party.

“ Still I believed the scout to be dead; and when
shortly before midnight Ralph arrived—thanks to
your kindness—we at once departed for the strong-

old.

“Arriving here. a grief fell upon me for lone
was missing; having left—so my lieutenant told
me—to follow our trail and endeavor to rescue her
brother.

“I have sent spies and scouts everywhere on
the border, but no tidi of her can be aiued;
and I fear she has been ' led and scalped y the
red-skins.

“It I was certain of it, Iwould leave the border,
for upon her coming or age, or death, you know,
ban 5 atortune.

“ 5 this Indian war has stopped emigrating west-
ward, you know, I have to raid on the settlements.
for we must make a living; but on will admit that
I have let you and your dist ct severely alone
—nay, we have not struck back again when your
men under that dashing young Ashiand, have hit us

ha. .

“ As for Ralph, he is no longer the gallant chief he
was—and will not lead the men 11 n raids: indeed,
he even 0 poses raiding; so I’ve en to the saddle
again. I elievo the girl he married so sl ly, and
your kindness in saving his neck. have ma 9 a tool
of him—as it it were not right to divxde the riches
of this world equally.

“ Now, to another cross which I have to bear, add-
edto the cessation of Western emigration, the loss
of Ions, and help of Ralph; there is a deadly foe
upon the trail of my band, hunting us to (Ir-am.

 

“ Night after night we feel his deadly stroke, and
ra idly our ranks are thinned by this monster. ‘
. ‘More yet, it is none other than the Prairie
Pilot-—the man I hoped and believed was in his
rave.

“The fellow is too quick for us, try as we can to
get him; and now I have set my whole band to no-
turning the compliment and hunting him.

“1“ But it does no good-they hunt im and he find:
em.

“ More than a score of times he could have killed

me; but he refrains from so doing, keeping me, I

suppose, for a kind of dessert, after he has made

soup;meat of the whole band; a relishing thought,

ver .

“ Now I wish to propose to you to draw our dogs
of war 03 my trail and I will pledge myse f tocatch
antd hang Prairie i’ilot ere autumn tinges the for-
es s.

“ I fpropose this, as his haunts are in your vicinity;
and rxendly as I am with the Indians, I can soon
run the Pilot aground, it no little misunderstanding
occurs between your men and mine. /

“ What say you?

“ Return answer b bearer.

“ Yours in a cation, as men call me,
" Tan Ham Omar."

When he had finished reading the above
letter, Colonel lladclifi wrote on it with a
lead-penal, simply:

“I am glad to feel that the Prairie Pilot is not

dead. From the first I treated him unjustly, and it
Is my intention to recall the brand of exile against
him. His gallant services against the Indians and
outlaws shall win him a pardon for shooting down
the two troopers: forIam more to blame in that
matter than was the scout.
I “With you 1 wish no quarrel, and it is not becom-
ing in me to advise you: but against all other out
laws on this border I intend to wage a relentless
war. ARTHUR.”

Calling his orderly, he sealed the en:
velope, and bade him g1ve it to the messen-
ger, and tell him to return with it as soon as
his horse was snfliciently rested to travel.

Then Colonel Radchfl? called Ruth, and
together they watched the battle out upon
the prairie.

_._._.

CHAPTER XXI.
THE SECRET RETREAT.

THOUGH there was considerable stir in the
fort and settlement over the battle that had
just been fought, there was a calm resting
upon the scene of combat, as the outlaw
courier rode slowly from the stockade, and
started upon his return to the stronghold in
the hills.

As he rode along many e es were watch-
ing him from the fort an settlement, and
were surprised to see him suddenly put spurs
to his horse and dash away at full speed.

The cause of this sudden move on the part
of the outlaw was soon evident, when over
a distant roll of the prairie a horseman dash—
ed into view.

.“The Prairie Pilot! The Prairie Pilot!"
yelled a dozen voices, and also recognizing
that his game was the outlaw courier, Col- .
onel Radciifi, from his house—top, where he

w

 

 

28

still sat, enjoying the balmy afternoon, call-
ed out:

“ After him, Bob! Afterhim, and tell him
to spare that messenger. ”

Bravo Bob sprung into his saddle, and
calling to Yankee Sam and Scalp—lock Dave
to follow, he dashed out upon the prairie.

In the mean time Prairie Pilot, having
urged Racer into a sweeping gallop, was
rapidly overhauling the outlaw, swift as was
his long, wiry steed.

Presently the outlaw turned in his saddle
and opened fire with his rifle upon his pur-
suers.

Instantly Racer came to a sudden halt, up
went the glittering rifle of Prairie Pilot—a
puff of smoke, and ere the report reached the
ears of the lockers-on, the outlaw reeled and
fell from his saddle.

A moment after Prairie Pilot dismounted
and stood beside the man he had slain.

A short while he remained there, and
then springing into his saddle once more,
rode slowly toward Bravo Bob and the two

uides Who were approaching.

“Hello, old fellow, you have finished one
of the colonel‘s couriers,” cried Bravo Bob,
as he rode up.

“I have killed an outlaw, Bob, and made
a discovery; now I will not tell you what it
is, but I desire you, Sam and Dave, to come
to the retreat tonight, and come prepared
for work.

“ Also, say to Colonel Radcliff that I will
myself return him the dispatches I have cap-
tured, and that he need have no fear.

“ Remember, I shall expect you to-
ni ht.”

o saying, Prairie Pilot waved his hand to
Yankee and Scalp-lock, who just then rode
up, and dashed away across the prairie.
While Bravo Bob and his comrades returned
to the fort, the former makino‘ his report to
Colonel Radcliff, who seemed considerably
disturbed thereby.

Shortly after nightfall Bravo Bob, Yankee
Sam and Scalp-lock Dave rode from the
Stockade, going upon a scout, they said.

A gallop of an hour brought them to the
foothills, and, as if thoroueg acquainted
with the way to the secret retreat of Prairie
Pilot, Bravo Bob rode rapidly on until he
came to a small stream running through a
deep gorge.

Into this the scouts urged their horses for
a quarter of a mile, when it emptied into a
alarger stream, which ran swiftly through
hi h and precipitous banks.

hough the water of this stream came up
to the saddle-girths, Bravo Bob rode boldly
in. and going with the current, continued on
until the creek was overhung on each side
by lofty bluffs, and reared through its nar-

The Prairie Pilot.

 

l

 

row banks, forming shallow, but foaming
rapids.

But the horses held their footing, although
Yankee Sam and Scalp—lock Dave several
times thought they were gone.

After ten minutes’ hard battling with the
stream, Bravo Bob disappeared in what

seemed the very wall of rock; but his com-

rades soon beheld a small and narrow chasm,
into which they quickly followed their
leader. '

To their surprise they found themselves in
a small but fertile valley, with high hills
overhanging it upon all sides, and a. growth
of trees sheltering it.

Beneath the hoofs of their horses was a
carpet of velvet grass, and near the opening
toward the river bubbled up a spring of clear
water.

“Wal, this is a off-shoot 0’ Paradise, I
guesses, from thcr way it looks tor-night,”
said Yankee Sam.

“You bet; ther‘ must be angels round
hour.” put in Scalp-lock Dave, and Bravo
Bob felt that he had hit the truth pretty well,
for he knew of one not far away, who was an
angel in his eyes.

“ Comrades, i am glad you are pleased with
my home; you are welcome.”

At the stern, deep voice breaking upon
their cars, all started; but the next moment
Prairie Pilot stepped out from the shadow of
a tree and greeted them.

“Come with me to my cabin, and in the
mean time give your steeds a feast,” contin-
ued Prairie Pilot, and the horses were at
once turned loose to graze, while all four men
walked up through the timber toward a small
cabin, through the open door of which
streamed a bright light.

The cabin was built of rough logs, had two
rooms, a spacious fire-place in one, which
seemed to be used as the sleeping apartment
of the scout, and the kitchen and dining-
room combined, for there were culinary
utensils around, a table was set outwith a
tempting supper of coffee, bread, buffalo-
steaks and fish thereon, while in one cor-
ner of the room was a rude bed, above
which hung a rifle, several revolvers and a
knife.

Before the fire, watching the broilin-g of a
steak, was lone, once known as the Phantom
Spy, and though she bowed pleasantly to
Yankee Sam and Scalp-lock Dave, she held
forth her hand to Bravo Bob, while a blush
stole over her beautiful face.

“ N ow, comrades, we will have some sup-
per. and then I will tell you my plan for
playing a bold game, but one which I think
will be successful, for you know that I have
causé to hate the outlaws, and I am deter~
mined to hunt them to the bitter end.”

The Prairie Pilot. 2'7

 

CHAPTER XXII.
A BOLD VENTURE.

THE second day after the three scouts
sought the secret retreat of Prairie Pilot, the
old Hermit Chief was pacingr nervously up
and down the piazza of his cabin home.

Suddenly he discovered Antonio approach-
ing on foot, while by his side was a horse—
man. mounted upon a wiry-looking steed.

The appearance of the horseman us he
rode up attracted the attention of the Her-
niit Chief, for he was a superbilooking speci-
men of manhood, well formed, and with a
dark, handsome face.

His mustache was dark and exceedingly
long, his hair hungr far down upon his
shoulders, while his eyes were black and
piercing.

lie was dressed in buckskin, and was well
armed.

“ Who have you there, Antonio?”

“ A courier to see you, chief.”

“Hal Come up here, my man. From
whence do you come?”

“From the fort at Blue Water settlement,
sir; this letter will explain all," and the
courier placed in the. hands of the Hermit
Chief a sealed envelope, which he seized,
broke open, and read half-aloud, so that the
contents were audible:

“ BLUE WATER Pos'r. September 16.
“To THE Hnnmr CHIEF:—

“ Your Irish courier having come to grief, I return
this by one of my own scouts.

“To come to any arrangement regarding: a truce
between us I must see you in person, so that a

contract, which I will then explain, elm be signed.
not; only by myself, but also by you and Captain

1.

"[I) have reason to believe that Ione is in the
power of the arties who cut down the Prairie Pilot
and that she is concealed somewhere in the neigh-
borhood of this fort.

“Asl follow the bearer of this, he will conduct
you to a spot not far from your stronghold, where
we can meet and talk unrestrained.

“ With me, I shall have but two persons, and you
can bring a like number, if you so desire; but I
would prefer notto be seen by any one else than
Captain Rat )h and yourself, and you must see the
propriety o my wish. ARTHUR.”

“ When didyou leave Blue Water, scout?”
asked the Hermit Chief.

“Before day this morning, sir.”

“And how far from here is the place of
rendezvous appointed by your colonel?"

“ About five miles; you can easily go there
and back before dark, sir.”

“ Oh, yes. He has three men with him,
has he ‘2"

“No, sir; there are but four of us, inclu-
ding myself.”

“ You know the contents of this letter, do
you?” .

“ I just heard you read it, sir.” v

“ Indeed? I am absent-minded; but tell
me what befell poor Irish?”

 

“Your courier was killed, sir; he was
chased toward the fort by a band of a bun-
dred Indians, and a battle followed, for a.
party of scouts and troopers went out to his
rescue.”

“Aha! well, I will go with you, and at
once.”

So saying, the Hermit Chief entered his
cabin, and in twenty minutes after came out,
ready for riding.

A moment after, two fine horses were led
round by a negro servant, and Captain Ralph
also coming out, the party mounted and
rode off, the scout from the fort leading the
way.

After a ride of five miles the trail crossed
% small prairie and led into apiece of tim-

er.

Into the matte the three rode; but, hardly
had the shadow of the timber fallen upon
them, when the scout suddenly seized the
bridlerein of the Hermit Chief, and lev-
eled a revolver at his head, while he hissed
forth:

“Move one inch, and I will kill you!"

The old chief turned deadly pale, and
roared out:

“ Shoot the traitor down, Ralph!”

“Pardon me, I am in the same trap as
yourself,” recklessly replied the young chief
—and he spoke the truth, for Bravo Bob
held a pistol to his head, while Yankee Sam
had seized his bridle-rein.

“Scalp-lock, just relieve these gentlemen
of their weapons,” said the courier scout.

“ Who are you?” yelled the Hermit Chief,
livid with rage, as Scalp-lock took his Wea-
pons from him; but his question was to the
man who had led him into the trap.

“ Men call me the Prairie Pilot!"

The answer came low, but distinct, and a
tremor shook the frame of the old Chief,
while Captain Ralph turned a quick glance
upon the famous scout.

“Now, comrades, ‘you know what to do
with the prisoners, and as soon as we have
exfichanged suits once more, Bob, we must be
0 '7’

So saying, Prairie Pilot—who, having
shaved 011‘ 1115 magnificent heard, was hardly
recognizable—retired with Bravo Bob to a
clump of bushes, and-the two soon reappear-
ed in their proper attire.

Having received their prisoners, the whole
party then mounted and set forth at a
rapid allop, Bravo Bob riding the White
iteed, pecter, which Ione had presented to

1m.

Taking the trail toward the Blue Water
settlement, they pushed on rapidly, and after
a short rest during the night, drew near the
fort toward daybreak.

Herc Prairie Pilot bade his companions

y‘.

3.... 1 fl...“ ..

«Mm—1.». an—W‘ a.

'r
r
x
y,
,5

 

28 I The Prairie Pilot.

 

farewell, and, while he continued on toward
the fort, Bravo Bob and the remainder of the
party branched off for the secret retreat in
the hills.

 

CHAPTER XXIII.
'rur; ATTACK. '

“THE Prairie Pilot would see you, sir.”

“By Heavenl the Prairie Pilot,” cried
Colonel Radclifi, springing up from the table

Where he was breakfasting with Ruth, who
turned deadly pale at the news brought by
the orderly.

It was true; the Prairie Pilot had boldly
ridden into the fort, and dismounted before
the head-quarters of the man who had exiled
him from the border, and offered a reward
for his head, dead or alive.

Dismayed at the fearlessncss of the famous
scout, the denizens of the fort stood around
gazing upon the intrepid man, and wonder—
ing what would come next in their frontier
drama.

“ Scout, you are bold to thus place your-
self in my power,” said Colonel Itadelifi',
quietly, greatly to Ruth’s surprise.

“I have not done so without a purpose,

' sir; will you hear what I have to say ‘5" calm-
ly said Prairie Pilot.

“Assuredly; come in.”

“Colonel Radclilf, I have come to tell
on that the man I killed in front of your
'ort was an outlaw, and against all such I

wage a deadly war. Upon him I found com-
munieations, the contents of which you well
kn’Ow.

“Actin upon them I bade Bravo Bob,
Yankee am and Scalp-lock Dave meet
me at my retreat in the hills, and with—
out telling them the contents of the let-
ter I had, I arranged with them a plan for
the capture of the Hermit Chief and Captain
Ralpll—"

“ It cannot be done, scout."

“Pardon me, colonel; it has been done.”

“ What! those two men have been cap-
tured by you?" cried the oiiicer, in evident
alarm.

“ Yes, sir, they are now prisoners in my re-
,”treat, under the guard of the three scouts I
before mentioned. But listen, Colonel Rad-
clifl, until you hear all.

“To ct the old Chief and his son in my
poiver, Wrote him an answer to his note,
purporting to come from you, andhas I am
a good penman, I imitated your writing, and
the bait took, the two outlaws leaving their
stronghold in my company, whom they
believed to be one of your scouts, for I went
there in disguise.

“ Expecting to meet you they were unsus-

‘ picious until they were made prisoners.
“ Now, colonel, that the two chiefs are out

 

of danger of death, for I have m own rea-
sons for desiring them to live, will start
within the hour with a squadron to attack
the robber stronghold, and will pledge my-
self to lead your troopers into their camp be-
fore they are discovered.

“ Upon my return I would have you and
your daughter accompany me to my retreat,
for I have a story to tell in which not only
yourself, but Miss Ruth are deeply inter-
ested."

“ Scout, I believe you in all that you have
told me, and I will trust you; but first, let
me say that I remove the brand of exile
against you, and freely do I ask you to for-
give in unkindncss of the past.”

“Al is forgiven, colonel. Now will yow
let me have the troopers ?”

“Yes; Ashland shall accompany you
with a picked company of seventy-five
men.”

“ That number will be sufficient, sir."

“I will at once give the order. In the
mean time go into the other room, and Ruth
will give you some breakfast.”

Gladly the Prairie Pilot obeyed the last
order. Again meeting ltuth gave him a good
appetite for his meal, served as it was by the
fairy fingers of the lovely maiden.

An hour after the squadron rode from the
fort, Captain Ashlaud and Prairie Pilot
galloping side by side to the delight of all,
for the ofliccrs and men were rejoiced to
see the scout once more in favor at head-
quarters.

After a long. hard ride the hills wherein
was the bandit stronghold loomed up before
the anxious troopers, who, just at midnight,
halted at the foot of the hill, where Bravo
Bob had left the horses the night he had aid-
ed Prairie Pilot and Ruth to escape.

“Follow me slowly up the hill; I will go
first,” and the scout ran on afoot.

Creeping cautiously up the steep hillside,
he soon came in view of the mouth of the
tunnel, before which was pacing to and fro
the dark form of a guard.

The moon, on the wane, was just rising
above the tree-tops of the mountain, and
shed a bright light upon the sentinel.

In his hand the Prairie I’ilot carried a
bow and arrow, and quietly fitting the latter
to the string, he raised the weapon, took a
quick aim, and the outlaw guard fell dead,
pierced through the heart.

Springing forward, he was confronted b
a tall form, just rising from his blanket-be ,
alarmed by the fall of his companion.

In an instant Prairie Pilot was upon him,
and then followed the death-rattle in the
throat of the outlaw, for the seout's knife
had cut deep into his heart.

A moment after, Captain Ashland and his

1

 

 

____-__.7 .W Hw-‘ , .~__T..

 

 

 

The Prairie Pilot.

29

 

troopers arrived, and again mounting Racer,
Prairie Pilot led the way into the tunnel
through the chasm.

Like a huge, lon‘g snake the line filed, un-
til soon they came out upon the plateau—the
interior of the stronghold had been gained
without an alarm.

Then long and loud, fierce and thrilling,
rung out the war-cries of the troops and
scouts, and the attack began.

In dismay the bandits rushed from their
cabins, to be shot down mercilessly, and,
with their leaders gone, they became panic-
stricken, and fled for their lives.

An hour of carnage and the fight was over
—the stronghold was won.

Leaving a proper force to garrison the
place and secure the horses, stock and booty
of the outlaws, also to look after the wound-
ed, Captain Ashland atonee started upon his
return with the bandit prisoners, guarded by
some twenty troopers.

Returning with him was Prairie Pilot, who
carried a large tin box which he had taken
from the cabin of the 01d Hermit Chief.

 

CHAPTER XXIV.
PRAIRIE rrLor’s sronr.

IN the cabin home of Prairie Pilot, the
second evening after the fall of the outlaw
stronghold, were gathered several persons,
bending over a form reclining upon the
scout’s rude cot.

The recumbent figure was the old Hermit
' Chief, and his face was pallid, his brow damp
with the approach of death, for an ugly
wound in his side was dripping out his sands
of life

Bending over him were Bravo Bob, Scalp-
lock Dave, Yankee Sam, Captain Ralph, and
Ione—the two latter with pale, saddened
faces. ,

“ Yes, you have done for me; I have not
long” to live, and your cursed bullet has
ruined my every dream of the future,”
groaned the Hermit Chief, turning his burn—
ing e es upon Yankee Sam, who replied:

“ ’m sorry, pard, durned if I ain’t; but
yer was about making tracks, yer know, so I
let yer have the contents of ole Heart-seeker,
an’ she’s a weapon as don’t say fail often.
I’m as sorry as tho’ it wur my own mother-
in-law, durned if I ain’t. ”

“Well, as you have given me my death-
wound, curse you, go to the fort and tell
Colonel Radcliff I would see him, and quick,
or it will be too late.”

Yankee Sam started qgiekly to obey, but
at the door started back, or on the threshold
stood Prairie Pilot, Colonel Radcliff, Amos
Arlington, his daughter Ida, and Ruth, who
had just arrived. ,

 

“ Hal the Hermit Chief ill?” cried the
scout, catching sight of the recumbent form

“ He’s done for, pard—he went to slip, an’
I gi’n him a pill from ole Heart-seeker, an’ it
done the biz.”

Prairie Pilot sprung past Yankee Sam, and
with an exclamation of horror Colonel Rad—
eliff rushed forward, crying: “ My God!
has it at last come to this? Would to
Heaven I had been spared this sad scene.”

“Arthur, thank God you have come, for
I would see you ere 1 die—oh, God! this
bullet is burning up my very vitals.”

“Be calm, sir; your talking causes you
greater sufiering; what you would say, I
can say for you, and if I err You can speak,"
said the stern, deep voice of ’rairie Pilot.

“W110 are you that dares to say he knows
aught of me?”

“ Listen, and you shall hear, for I have a.
story to tell that‘interests nearly all present.

“ Will you hear me, chief?"

“Yes; but my life is ebbing fast, and——” .

“ I will not linger in’ my recital,” and in
his deep, clear tones, Prairie Pilot began his
story, his piercing eyes bent upon the old

‘ Hermit Chief.

“Eighteen years ago, there lived on a
plantation home in a southwestern State,
3 gentleman by the name of Herbert Lyn-

on.

“ His family consisted at that time of his
Wife and two sons, the elder, named after his
father, twelve years of age, and the youngest
a mere infant of three years.

“ Into the neighborhood there came a. phy-
sifcian; a widower,With a son of twenty years
0 age.

“ Commencing to practice his profession,
the physician was soon doing well, for he
was generally very popular. ‘

“Among his most intimate friends, were
Mr. Iayndon and his wife, who respected'and
regar ed him most highly, and through the
Influence of the plantar, the son got an ap-
pointment in the army.

“Other than to say that the youth was a
good soldier, though a little wild, and
ran off and married a young school-girl,
Ihave nothing more now to relate of the
son; but of the father I have much to tell.

“When Mrs. Lyndon gave birth to a little
girl, the man I speak of was the attendant
physician, and doubtless his skill saved
her life. Better had it been had she died
then, for; ere she recovered her former good
health, her husband sickened and died sud-
denl .

“ It was a terrible blow to the loving wife;
but, in all her sorrow; and troubles, her phy-
sician was her devoted friend, and so kind
did he seem, and so noble. that in a little
more than one year after the death of her

 

< “Fr...

 

 

 

 

k

n

u
‘0

. . - xiv-res;

80

The Prairie Pilot.

 

husband, she married the man,whcm she had
really learned to love.

“ Shortly after his mother’s second mar-
riage, Herbert, the eldest son. was sent to
Europe to finish his education, his step-f ather
so desiring. 'r'vt’f

“Several years passed away, and one night.
an attack was made on the gentle lIerhert by
an assassin; but the would-be murderer had
not calculated his victim's remarkable
strength, and was made a prisoner by the
man he would have slain,

“ With surprise, the young man discovered
his intended murderer to be an American, a
wild boy, the son of his late father’s planta—
tion overseer.

“Inquiry caused the truth to come out—
the young man had been hired to kill ller-
bert Lyndon, his employer being the man he
had loved next to his owu father.

“To escape being handed over to the
authorities, the young man confessed all,
and at once Herbert Lyndon set sail for
America, accompanied by his intended
assassin.

“Arriving at home a terrible blow fell
upon him, for he found his mother dead. and
stepfather gone, carrying with him his little
brother and infant sister.

“None could tell where the physician had
gone; but the sudden death of his wife
caused suspicion to rest upon him of foul-
play, and he had feared detection and tied.

“Herbert Lyndon at once had the bodies
of his parents exhumed, and a scientific ex-
amination discovered that they had both
,been poisoned.”

“Oh, God, have mercy! have mercy on
me!” groaned the old, gray-haired Chief;
but after a short pause the Prairie Pilot
continued:

“The cause of this double, and intended
treble murder, was then evident. for the will
of Herbert Lyndon left all of his vast Wealth
to his wife, and in case of her death, to his
children.

“The three children had also inherited a
lar‘ e fortune from their grandfather. and his
wil was, that, in case of the death of any of
the children, those remaining should have
the share of the deceased equally divided
amono‘ them, and that they should claim
their i’ortnne, only when the youngest of the
children should become of age.

“By his murders. the cruel step-father
hoped to possess the Wife‘s property, and
then the wealth of the two children, the boy
and the girl, whom he intended to ‘mold to
his wishes.

“Fearing punishment for his crimes, the
guilty man fled, carrying with him the boy
and the girl. v

“Infuriated against his stepfather, Her-

lg.

 

«Id-At)
bert Lyndon swore revenge, and commenced
to seek the guilty man, to punish him, and
gain possession of his brother and sister.

“For two years Herbert Lyndon tracked
him from place to place, to at last find that
he had been one of a train of emigrants going
\Vcst, who had all been supposed to be mur-
dered by the indians.

“Mourning the loss of all he held dear,
and tired of a life in the cities, Herbert
Lyndon became a prairie-hunter, and for
years has passed his life upon the prairies
and in the mountains of this far Western
country.

“A strange fatality seemed to direct his
life in this, for by so becoming he found out
that the wagon-train, in which were those he
sought and whom he had believed murdered,
had fallen, not by the Indians, but by the
bold plan of one man, who, with a few des-
peradoes, had killed all the emigrants and
plundered them.

“ That man was the step-father of Herbert
Lyndon, and from the attack on the train he
became an outlaw.

“ Locating himself in the mountains,
and gathering around him a bold set of
rcnegades, he waged a relentless war for
plunder.

" In this outlaw camp he brought up the
boy and girl whose parents he had murdered,
and if they, under his training, did wrolrg to
many, they cannot be condemned for so
doing. for their supposed father led or drove
them on.

“ Now my story is ended. and in that man
you behold the author of all these crimes; t'rt
me you we Herbert Lyndon.

“ Doctor Roger ltadclitf, have I spoken the
truth?" and Prairie Pilot laid his hand on
that of the old white-haired Chief.

But he started, while a general murmur
ran round the room—for Roger RadclifI was
dead.

Quietly, with the voice of his accuser ring-
ing in his cars, he had passed from life'into
eternity.

CHAPTER XXV.
CONCLUSION.

IN the little valley, where Prairie Pilot
had his home, Roger Radclill' was consigned
to his last resting—place; and above his re-
mains was erected by his son, Colonel Rad-
clilf, a white board, with the following sim-
ple inscription:

“ROGER RADCLIFF, M. D.
“Died September 20th, 1844."

The surprise and delight of Ralph and
Ione knew no bounds at having found a.

 

v '7‘"

._ wv,_..~*. 

V

The Prairie Pilot. 3!

 

loving brother in the Prairie Pilot; but the
maiden had heard all before from the lips of
the scout.

Colonel Radclifl, though pained to the heart
at the evil course of his father, warmly eon-
g’ratulated Herbert Lyndon, Ralph and lone,
and again and again begged the scout to
forgive and forget the past, adding:

“To atone for my crime toward you,
whom my father has so bitterly injured, 1
give you one whom I love more than all else
in the world, for that your hearts are one I
well know. Come, Ruth; if Herbert will
have you, I give my full consent for you to
be his wife.”

Herbert Lyndon drew the blushing maiden
toward him, while he said softly:

“You have already promised me, have
you not, Ruth?”

“Yes; even when an unknown scent I
loved you with my whole heart,” was the
prompt answer

Now that ,Amos Arlington was aware of
the strange circumstances that had made
Ralph Lyndon an outlaw chief, he gladly
forgave him the past, for lie knew that. the
young man would lead a far (lilferent life in
the future; and the decision of her father rc~
joiced Ida, for she had never ceased to love
her dashing, handsome husband, outlaw
though he was.

“ There is one little outlaw I would like
to trail to the altar,” said Bravo Bob rueful-
ly glancing toward lone Lyndon, who held
down her head, while her elder brother re-
plied:

“Her heart is already in the fetters of
love, I am certain, Bob, and I freely give my
consent,for you are a noble fellow,and though
a little wild once, you have reformed now,
and must return to your Kentucky home,
and show them what a lovely wife you found
on the border—and more! tell them that she
is an heiress, for lone is a very rich y“ "r
lady, I assure you.” and Herbert Ly: .12
drew his beautiful sister ailectionately to-
ward him.

Yankee Sam and Scalp-lock Dave, having
been pledged to secrecy regarding all that
had transpired, and presented with a hand-
some present in gold, by their old comrade,
the Prairie Pilot, the whole party left the re-
treat and its strange secret behind them, and
set out for the fort, where they fortunately
arrived without adventure.

Until the close of the Indian war Colonel
Radclifi determined to remain commandant
at the Blue Water post, and Prairie Pilot
and Bravo Bob would not desert him; but
when the hatchet was at last buried, he re-
si ned his commission, and, accompanied by
his daughter, Prairie Pilot, Ralph and his

lovely bride, Bravo Bob and lone, he started

 

eastward, Yankee Sam and Scalp-lock Dave
escorting the party to the border of civiliza-
tion, and there bidding them farewell, for
they would not give up their life upon the
prairies of the West, even to witness the
wedded happiness of their old comrade, Her-
bert Lyndon, once known as the Prairie
Pilot.
THE END.

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