Copyrighted, 1889, by Bun“ AND Alum. Entered at ch. Po“ omen It New York. N. Y., In Second Clua Mlfl Manor. March )3, 1899.

 

.. P bl'shed Week! b Be dle and Adams
N0:  ase'erag. u I No. 93 wszMySI-q g3“: YORK. ’ Fl‘zréeeztl.  XXII

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WITH A BUDDEN AND UNEXPECTED HOVEHENT NATHAN BLOB SPRUNG OVER. THE TABLE AND OUT
03‘ m ROOH‘

V

 

I . ' ' Denver Doll’s Mine.

 

Denver Doll’s Mine;

LITTLE BILL’S BIG Loss.

, 0

BY EDWARD 'L. WHEELER,

auruoa or “ munwoon DICK 7’ NOVELS,“ ROSE-
sun ROB” NOVELS, “DENVER DOLL”
NOVELS, ETC., ETC.

CHAPTER I.
ONE WAY TO LOSE A MINE.

“ YAS, they any old Nathan Blob is comin’
for town, tonight, bag an’ baggage, fetchin‘
along his swag wi’ which to bu up a monopoly
over ther minin’ interests, eer in Freshet
Flats!"

The speaker was a black~bearded, roughly-
dressed man, who formed one of a party of half
a. dozen persons that were seated in Fisk’s gro-
cery store, one rainy Se tember evening, in the
young mining-camp of eshet Flats.

Fisk’s grocery was the onlly store in the camp,
and consequently was a p ace of rendezvous,
nightly, for characters that did not frequent the
1istunello, the chief saloon and gaming den of

wn.

The speaker was Jim Fisk, the proprietor of
the grocery—a man who had followed 11 min-
ing life since ’49, and who was noted as ‘ squar’
from the word go." v

01’ course occasionally some one would insinu-
ate that Fisk’s character was not spotless; but

, then, a man never existed in a rough Western
mining-camp, whom some one had not some-—
thing to say against, and Jim generally backed
up any insults with the free use of a sixeshooter,
which he knew firetty well how to handle, as
did his daughter anni.

His audience, to-nig t, was ,with one excep-
tion, composed of roughly-attired and bearded
men, like himself, who were plainly veterans in
the mines, and who were not afraid to use the
weapons‘they wore in their belts.

The exception was a well-sh (1 young man,
dressed in citizen’s attire, with a display of jaw-
elry, and the air of one who was born to easy
circumstances.

His hair was jet-black, and a mustache of the
same color ornamented his lip.

Qt face, he was dark-complexioned, and of
sinister expression; a cynical smile almost con-
stantly hovered about his mouth.

The words of Jim Fisk had been addressed to
this individual, more particularly.

"I suppose ordinary mortals will stand no
show when the monopoly magnate comes 1” this
sport said. , ,

“ I‘leckon you’re right, unless you can rope
him in with a skin game, La Force.”

To w. ch the young man showed two gleam-
ing whi rows of teeth in his sardonic smile.

‘The boys tell me the ownership of Denver
Doll’s Drift is likely to change hands 1" Fisk went
on in uiringly. ,“ How is it?”

“ I udge that’s about the size of it,” La Force

 

re'oined. “Those who dance must pa the
dler. Heard how we ran it in to corral ”

“No. I simply heard that Dolly had been
taken in and done for.”

“ Well, you see, last evening Doll came into
the Satanello, where I and Ben Blye were play-
ing eucher—that is, we were playing ofl“ Ben
losin all the time and I winni eavily, in
antiCipation of picking up a snap. his Denver
Doll stood looking on, an’ when Blye nit, two
hundred out, she was gal enough to a ow she
coulid beat the man who put the spots on the
car 5.

“ I allowed she couldn’t, and first you know
we were at it, hundred dollars a side. She was
a good player, and had sharp eyes, but I knew
several points—El Pee) skin game-that she
didn’t, and as a natural consequence, I won
twenty successive games. That made her mad,
and she wanted to borrow swag to smble on.
No one responded, so I agreed to end her a.
thousand for twenty—four hours, and take a
mortgage on the mine. She agreed, and Paque,
the lawyer, fixed up a light mortgage which
makes the Drift mine, if Denver Doll don’t
come to time at eleven o’clock tonight.”

" And you won the other thousand?”

“Of course. The man or woman does not
live that can beat me at cards l”

And the s rt spoke with emphasis enough to
denote that e believed what he said.

Denver Doll’s Drift was the only quartz mine
yet opened at Frsshat Flats, and was already de-
velo into one of the best-pa ing leads in that
section of Arizona. All the ot er claims at the .
Flats were moderate paying placer or surface
mines, and promised speedin to play out. Nor
had diligent prospecting discovered another view
of quartz in the hills about the Flats, that guar-
anteed to pay for the labor of opening.

Therefore the future prospects of the'camp
depended mainly upon Denver Doll's Drift, and
the, noted young queen of Western detectives
was considered as being the destined richest per-
son in that part of the territory.

But, now, according to the statement ofJean-
La Force, her p were poor unless she
could raise a. thousand dollars before eleven
o’clock, that night.

This she could have done, only that her young
protege, Little Bill, had gone East, several
weeks before, for machinery, taking all buta
couple of thousand dollars of their available
funds with him.

It was already time for his return, but there
was no knowing exactly what day he would put
in an appearance. _

Thus was the loss of her available cash liable
to ut the girl sport in trouble, asthere was

ably not a man at the-Flats, aside from
gin La Force and Ben Blye, who could raise a
thousand dollars to meet a sudden emergency
unless it was Jim Fisk—and that personage and
the detective queen were not exactly on good
terms, for the reason that she had refused to
sell him a share in the Drift.

“ I’m bettin’ the mine is yourn," Fisk re-
marked. “1 0 inc if the gal is really broke,
that she won’t nd no one hyer who can help
her out." , _

“ That’s what I concluded, when I lent the

 

 

r 7

Denver Doll’s Mine.

1

 

money for so short a time,” La Force chuckled.
“ The mine is worth a hundred thousand, if a.
cent. Pretty good investment, eh i"

“ Yas; but I wouldn‘t like to be in your
skin, if you take the mine away from her!” an
old grav~haired miner said, who was known as
Uncle Job, from the fact that he was noted for
his patient disposition.

“ Why not?” La Force demanded.

“ Beca’se ye don’t half know that aire gal, I
tell ye. She’s a big-hearted ’un, an’ squar’ as a
corner, but she ain’t one ’twnll he run over.”

“ Pshaw! Would you for a moment imagine
that I could be intimidated by a woman?"
scorniully.

“ Wull, wait an’ see. Ef re rt don’t lie, you
wouldn’t be the furst galoot sfig’s made knuckle
under. Orter go up around Boise City, of ye
wanter get her edigree.”

“ Humph! I’ I run chances against her chew-
in’ off my ear. Ef you’re so much struck on the
gal, old man, why don’t ou ut up for her?" 4

“ Wish to the Lord ha the ducats, an’ I
would 2” Old Job replied, promptly and heartily.
“ I’m blowed cf 1 don’t feel like a fightin’cock,
when I‘hear a teller brag about beatin’ a gal out
0’ her money by a skin game? E! I hadn’t nigh
seventy year on my head, I’d like to lick sech a

galoot before each meal time, jest as an appev

tizer.”
f La Force flushed angrily, and sprung to his
cat.

“ Mebbe you‘d like to try it on, now!” he
cried, savagely. “ I’ve a mind to flatten your
nose for you, you old loafer!” _

“Be keerful, bo eel Don’t ye tech me, at I
am old or by the oly Moses, I’ll l‘arn ye bet-
ter!” the miner cried, also rising. “ I don’t
want to pick bones along wi’ each as you. but
I’m hanged at ye’ll git advantage on ’count of
my ears!”

“ hat! you dare to talk back to me, you old
fossil? Why, I have to learn you better man-
ners!” the gambler cried, and he strutted up to
Old J oh to slap him across the mouth: but quick
as lightning the old fellow ducked his head, and
catching La Force by the leg, jerked him don!)
upon the floor.

He then stood aloof, and calmly waited for
the gambler to arise, which he did instantly, the
back of his immaculate white duck coat consid-
erahl soiled.

“ urses be on you! I’ll have your life for
this!’ he roared. ‘ I’ll show you who is the
best man in Freshet Flats!”

He leaped upon the miner with the agility at
a pgither, and both went to the floor, La Force
on p.

The next instant he seized Old Job by the
throat, and proceeded to choke him to death, the
others crowding around and looking on with
up revel.

a Force was counted a bad man at the Flats,
and had not yet met his equal as a fighter or
card sharp.

In all probability he would have been permit~
ted to accomplish his murderous pu had
not the door of the store opened, at t is junc-
ture, and a stranger walked in.

Comprehending the situation, this new—comer
uttered a yell, and leaping forward, jerked the

 

gambler 03 from his victim, throwing him back
upon the floor, when be planted one foot upon
his breast, and leveled a revolver at his head.

“There, you infernal whelp, lay there!” he
cried, sternly. “ What d’ye mean by assaulting
a man old enough to be your grandfather?"

“ Who the deuce are you?” La Force gasped,
both Enraged and terrified. “ Let me up, curse
you!

“ Not yet, my fine fellow. When the old gent
says you can get up, I’ll let you up. If he wants
me to pin you to the floor, I’ll throw my knife
through you!”

The speaker was a dashing‘looking frontiers-
man of some five—and—twenty years, with a fine
face and figure—the former somewhat tanned
by exposure, and the latter attired in a service-
a le civilian’s suit, with high top-boots upon his
feet, a slouch sombrero upon his head, and a.
belt around his waist, which contained a revol-
ver and knife in addition to the one he held in
hand.

His face was strikingly handsome, with pearly
teeth, penetrating brown eyes, a tawny mus-
tache, and a. head of brown hair that rippled to
his shoulders like a veil.

“ What shall I do with the tough?” he asked.
“Just sing out his doom, and I’ll execute it just
so sure as my name is Arizona Alf!”

All hands started, and looked surprised.

It was not an unfamiliar title. Down from
the nor’western part of the territory had now
and then come some miner’s cam fire yarn,
about the dare-devil pranks of a rec 'lees ranger
called Arizona Alf—a man said to fear neither
man, beast, nor devil, and who was a terror to
evil-doers.

“ Oh, yes, it’s me!” he went on; “it's me,
you bet! and I reckon some of you have heard
of such a galoot. But, I say, pap—what shall
I do with this rampant rooster what was a-
shettin’ ofl yer throttle?”

“Let him go," Old Job re lied. “I orter
know’d better than to try an defend myself.
I’m too old ter tackle sich cattle as him I”

“ Better just give me permission to put a head.
through him, so that he can‘t hurt you in the
future.” '

“ No! I want no murder on my soul,” Job an-
swered. ” Let him go. He will do better, I
hope.”

‘You bet I will!” La Force retorted. “I’ll
finish you next time.”

“ You dare to touch him, and I’ll make you
wish ou’d never been born," Arizona Alf cau-
tion , removing his foot, so that the gambler
could arise.

“Curse on, I’m not afraid of you!” La Force
cried. “ f you want to fight, squeal out.”

“I am not the y to take the ofl'ensive.
If you particularly desire to get mangled, I’ve
no doubt the avenger of .103qu Mnrletecan
accommodate you.“ _

La Force grew suddenly white.

“ You?” be gasped— ' .

“Am the only survivin relative of ill-lated
Joaquin. and have the hood of vengeance in
my veins. There are living yet several of
Joaquin's enemies, or their families, and they
are mine.”

' “ Well, if you’re that sort of a pilgrim, I

 

 

V‘

 _ . ' Denver Doll’- Mine.

 

opine you've come to the right camp to g:
l nchedl" Jim Fisk declared, seeing that,
orce was rather weakening.

“ The rope was never made that will lynch
me,” Alf retorted. coolly. “ Besides that, there
is not s uare inches enough of man in the camp
to ban e me. If you think there is, and have

ot the stuff to back it, just trot out your man.
am ready at all times to conquer conceit by
the most approved methods."

Here was a bold challenge, and every man in
the room knew it, but none of them seemed dis-
posed to take it up.

La Force had by degrees got around to the
other side of the stove, and was apparently in-
disposed so far as tackling the Arizonian was
concerned.

“ Your challenge is that of a bully, and not
worthy of notice,” Fisk said. “ Let me. tell
you, however. that if you propose to remain in
this camp, you will have to exhibit less brag-
gadocio, or you’ll get planted."

“ It you think so, why don’t you trot out one
of your planters?" Arizona Alf demanded.

“ Fight with nature's weapons, and I’ll give a
is v lessons,” La Force answered.

He had heard enough of Alf to fear to tackle
hi n with knife or pistol.

For himself, he was a trained pugilist. No
man in Freshet Flats had yet been able to tap
him on the nose, and there were some fellows
among the hardy miners, who had a deal of
science in the flstic art.

Ariznna Alf baked the challenger over for a
moment, critically,.and noted two facts. La
Force was trimly, compactly, and muscularly
built—then, his every natural movement de-
noted a quickness that is especially desirable to
a boxer; but these facts did not in the least dis-
concert the Arizonian. v

“ Consider me your pupil, then,” he answered,
“and let’s get at the lessons!”

La Force threw of! his coat and vest in an
instant, and rollei up his sleeves. Alf leaned
agginst the counter, making no move to dis-
ro e.

A ring was hastily chalked out on the floor,
and when the gambler si nified his readiness,
the two athletes confronte each other.

Resolve leamed in each eye—it was plainly
destined to a battle of two masters.

 

CHAPTER II.
ms: LON]: aonnm AND A SCIENTIFIC “ sar ~10."

“ Ham!”

Sharp and stem rung out the challenge,
soundin above the noise occasioned by the
coach-w eels, as the clumsy vehicle tore along
down through a deep mountain gulch, drawn
by six good horses.

Not only did Buck Bradley, the driver, hear
the challenge, but he saw a person standing in
the trail just ahead, with a rifle leveled toward
the coach.

“ Halt, or I'll fire!” came the command again,
and so sternly, that the veteran Jehu jerked
his horses back upon their haunches.

The road—agent, who was dressed in good
clothes, including top-boots and a plumed

 

 

slouch hat, and a mask upon the smooth face,
advanced, keeping his rifle ready for instant
use.

“Get down from ofl your box l" he ordered,
addressing Bradley.

Buck had confronted these oflicious gents of
the road more than once during his career, and
had learned that it was safest to obey their
commands; so he leaped to the ground, and
awaited further orders.

“ Tell your passengers to pile out!" the bandit
next ordered.

Bradley flung open the coach door.

“ Dust out, you passengers!” he cried. “ Thar's
a feller out heer wi’a sixteen-shot batter as
wants to see ye. No monkeyin’, now, nor kic in’,
but pile right out!”

Following this significant hint, three men
growlineg clambered out of the coach.

One was a short, broad-shouldered man, with
a tremendous stomach and a fat face, of rather
sour, disagreeable appearance.

The next was a “Swell,” in a checkered suit,
fresh kids, soft hat, and eyeglass—a milk-com-
plexioned party, with attenuated legs, a hooked
nose, and flaxen side-whiskers.

The third and last to leave the stage was a
bouncing negro, as black as jet, who evidently
belong to the old gent of the big corporositv.

The trio halted in line as they left the coach,
and their strong contrast of appearance pro-
voked a dry laugh from the road-agent, who had
now drawn a revolver and slung his rifle to his

ack. ,

“ Well, this is a healthy-looking haul, I must
remarkl” he said. “Best you can score up,
driver? Get in a line, theme—that’s right, now.
Nothing like order, you know. Throw up your
hands, every mother’s son of you!”

“Vot dorduyfel you means?” the fat party
demanded. ' “ Dis vas von oudragel”

“ You bet!” the road~agent averred. “I am
Red Star. the road—runner, and I want your
money. Hands up, if you don‘t want to get
salivatedl”

The command was obeyed.

Nathan Blob, the wealthy Jew, sputtered and
cursed furiously, but the negro and the swell
were too much frightened to speak; and, as
Jehu Bradley had no money, he did not care so
much.

Red Star was not long in effectually disarm-
ing all hands and flinging their weapons into the
bushes beside the trail.

” Now, then!” he said, holding forth his but.
“just you toss out your money! Idon’t rare
for jewelry—dust the simple apondulicks. And
remember, I‘m only borrowing this fora few
days,,when it will be returned to you, cent for
centl’

“Guess you’re runnin’ a new racket, then,"
Buck declared, with a chuckle. “ Road»agents
don’t generally do bisness on that plan.”

“ All are not alike, sir. Comel pass out,
gents!”

“ Py tam, dish ish von pig mldrugel” old Blob
cried. “ I but! no moniuh. gift you no
monishl”

“ You lie, you old gold grabber! You’re not
the man to travel without money, and don’t on
target it. I know who you are, BIohsy—so ust

 
    

..
27'

 
 
   

 

i.

 

 

i
v

 

 

we»... ,

 

.. KW»: n  A '

 

 

 

 

Denver Doll's Kine. I ‘ i

 

you pan out, or I‘ll put a buzzer in your noddle
that’ll be worse‘n tho’ a mule had kicked you!”

Blob showered invectives upon the road~agent
fraternity, and swore dire vengeance on them,
windin up by dropping a pocketbook into Red
Star: at, and then scrambling back into the
coac .

“You can go, tool” Red Star said to the

negro. “Who are you, dandy, and what-are
you going to contribute?"
I “My name is Apollo Snap, and I have noth-
ing to givel” the swell faintly articulated.
“ Please let me off for I have “nothing to
s are" ,

“Well dash me, if you ain’t a cool one.
Lookee here, baby, you shell out, or I’ll blow
the muzzle oif from you!”

“ The what?” Apollo demanded.

“ Yer muzzle —- you’re frontispiece — your
mug. None 0’ your sniveling now, but give
me your pocketbook, before I drop you.”

looking more frightened than before, the
swell obeyed, and then hastened to seek the pro-
tection of the coach.

“ Reckon that will do, now i” Red Star said,
giving a shrill whistle, which bron ht a hand—
some saddle-horse to his side. “ on can tell
the citizens of Freshet Flats that Red Star
sends his kindest regards!"

The next instant he was in the saddle and
flying down the gulch.

Bradley , then mechanically mounted the
“ hearse,’ and followed on toward Freshet
Flats, highly elated that the first stage-robbery
on that trail had been attended by no blood-

shed

 

At Jim Fisk’s grooery, in Freshet Flats, the
excntement was intense and, yet, the silence
profound, as the two athletes stood confronting
each other.

The following instant, however, the silence
was broken by a sudden and resounding whack,
which, struck the gambler on the forehead,
causing him to stagger back.

it was a shoulder blow which the Avenger of
Joaquin had struck, and would have lifted any
ordinary man all” his feet.

“Curse you, I was of! my guard, then i” the
gambler yelled.'coming to time with an effort.

“That’s not my fault " Alt replied, good-
naturedly. “ If you don t want to get a sun-
downer, ou’d better be on your guard, then.”

For a ew minutes they indulged in a little
sparring, then, as suddenly as a thunder-clap.
a blow from the iron fist of the Avenger can ht
La Force under the nose and sent him sninmng
backward. '

Directly behind him was a large drum wood-
st0ve, in which was a hot fire.

The capacious door chanced to be open, and
as he staggered and tell backward, the gum-
bler’s hes plunged into the opening of the fiery
furnace.

A cry of horror went up. K

The torceof his fall knocked over the stove,
by which his head escaped from the fiery pit,
but not until the head was in a blue.

For an instanttbe spectators seemed stu fled
~all except Arizona Alf, who with almost

nan,-

 

lightnin quickness, pulled off his jacket and
wrap ft over the unfortunate’s head.

But, though the flames were smothered quick-
ly, the better part of La Force‘s hair had keen
sin ed down to the very scalp. ,

owls of pain escaped him, but as there was
a prospect that the shanty would catch fire, he
was dragged out of doors, where several sym-
pathizars proceeded to dress his wounds.

Arizona Alf, after reviewing the operations
for a few minutes, turned and sauntered away.

CHAPTER III.
minivan DOLL AFLOAT.

A'r midnight Fréshet Flats’ principal ming
den, the Satsnello, usually held its argest
crowd, and tonight was no exception to the
rule.

The room was overflowing in every part, and
various games were going on, while drunken
revelry prevailed: but one of the sorriest-look-
ing objects in the room was Jean I A: Force, who
presided behind the bar, with head bandaged in
every part exoept his face, and an expression of
ugl ill-humor upon that.

he Satanello u as jointly owned by him and
a fellow named Blye, who was engaged in at
tending to the games.

Few of the audience made any audible re
marks about La Force’s misfortune, for a couple
of cocked revolveis lay on the shelf back of the
bar, and they knew he was in a capital humor
to use them at slight provocation.

Although every person in the room was watch-
ing some game or other, or engaged in conver-
sation, it might have been noticed that they of-
ten glanced at the clock behind the bar and
then toward the door.

When La Force looked at the clock a devilish
smile of triumph would pass over his face.

At eleven o’clock Denver Doll was to have re-
deemed her mortgage.

It was now after tw elve, and it was distinctly
stated in the agreement that only two hours’
grace should be given, under any circumstances.

The crowd in the Satanello were to a man ac—
quainted with the facts, and hence their mani-
i est interest.

A quarter of one came. But fifteen minutes
did Denver Doll now have, to redeem her mine.

If one o'clock struck, and she had not ap-

eared, it was at La Force’s option whether to
at her redeem the Drift property or not.

“A thousand dollars to a cent that’Denver
Doll’s Mine is mine !” he cried, from behind the
bar. as fiVe minutes to one came, and the detec-
tive queen had not shown herself. “ All that
wants to take the bet, step up!”

Ev1dently no one in the mom was’flusb with
their stamps.

Four minutes to one!

 

Peter Paque, the only lawyer in.the camp,
mounted one end of t e bar,hold-1ug slegal-
looking document in his band. _

He was a pinched, shriveled-up little man,
with the sharp features and eneml a ar-
ance of a scamp;mid’twas sci or him athe
was not at all scrupulous as tohow hemade
money.

“ Gents, at one o’clock, I foreclose the mort-
gage held by Jean La Force, against the Denver

   
 

C . Denver Doll’s fline.

 

Doll Mine. The full extent of grace will have
expired, with the striking of yonder clock, and
I do announce to you all that the mortgage is
lawfully foreclosed. Enough said 1"

Two minutes lacking of one o’clock!

The games had stopped.

Every man stood facing the bar, with strange,
eager expressions of countenance, their gaze
riveted upon the face of the clock, toward
which the finger of J ean La Force pointed, like
a menace. ,

. Dead silence reigned, only the low tick of th
time-piece breaking the silence. \

One minute to one! >

What an eternity to some—what a loss to
others might the striking of the clock signify?

Tick! tick! tick! tick!

It scarcely seemed that a muscle of the hu—
man beings in the room, stirred, so absorbed
were they—even the expressions of the motley
array of faces was changed into a sort of anx-
ious pallor.

Ting!

It was over!

The hour one struck, and according to con-
tract, Denver Doll’s:Drlfs belonged to Jean La
Force. '

Hark!

Every ear turns toward the door—every face
expresses eagerness, and some disappointment,
combined with eagerness—all but one.

That face expresses malicious exultance.

It is the face of J can Ls. Force.

But why the eagerness? .

A furious clutter of a horse’s boots is heard ap-
proaching. '

The horse dashes up to the door.

Some one leaps 01!.

The door is burst open.

Denver Doll, the queen of detectives, and hand—
somest girl sport in the West, enters with arush.

“ I redeem that mortgage!” she cries, with a
glance at the clock.

“ Young woman, you are just one minute too
late,” the voice or Peter Paque replies. “ The
mortgage is already foreclosed. The Drift be—
longs to Mr. Jean La Force, and all the courts
of law in Christendom cannot take it away
from him.”

v “ Do you refuse to aces is back the money
borrows and return 'me t e paper?” the girl
ilremanded, turning her flashing eyes upon La

ores.

“Most assuredly,” he answered, with a mock-
ing smile.

“Then, may the curse of Denver Doll rest
upon you and that mine, until it is restored to
me!" she cried, backing toward the door.

“ Stop that girl l?’ La Force cried; and a’ dozen
of his admirers in an instant took the detective
queen into custody, and disarmed her.

She struggled, but it was no use. -

Mun though she might appear in her jaunty
with! male attire, she was still a weak woman
as compared with the hardened miners who

 seized hold of her.
 In the strugglwher sombrero fell to the floor,

'and her beautiful hair was tossed into wild con-
' fusion, which, if anything, made her more beau~
titnl than ever, with her cheeks flushed and eyes
dancing with indignation.

 

“ Release me!” she cried. “ What is the mean-
ing of this assault?"

‘Jest be quiet, if you please i" La Force said.
with a wicked chuckle. “ You raised the money,
and got here too late to redeem the mine. Sup-

osin’ you jest explain t ) us law-abidin’ citizens
0w and where you raised the swag!"

“I will explain nothing!” she retorted. “ I
defy the whole of you! You are a pack of ruf-
fians; and if that mine is not given back to me,
this town shall know whats wronged Woman
can do l”

" I guess no one ain’t skeart of you i" La Force
growled. “ Ef you don’t tell where you made a
raise of the swag, why we’ll hold ye till we find,
out. Mebbe there has been a stage robbery, or
somethin’ of the kind, since money ain’t picked
up so orful easy I”

A close observer might have noticed that Doll
winced percoptihly; but none of the crowd pro-
bably noted the fact. ,

It indeed was she who had to ped the stage,
that night, and so boldly reliev the passengers
of their cash under the name of Red Star. But,
how did Ls. Force divine the secret? And why
did he order her arrest?

It would not belong are the stage would arrive;
then her identification as Red Star was almost a
certainty.

The thought fairly maddened her and making
another sudden and desperate struggle for liberty
she succeeded in breaking away. and a boun
carried her through a window, taking the glass
and cram-bars of the sash with her.

In an instant, all was the wildest excitement,
and the rough men of Freshet Flats poured from
:hialseloon, weapons in hand and yelling venge—

u y.

Across the gulch, in which the Flats were
situatel, sped the detective queen like a fright
ened fox.

The drizzlincgl rain and deep darkness hid her
from view, an it was literal y useless to follow
—— et Jean La Force led the pursuit.

con they came to Rapid Creek,‘e. furious
mountain torrent that whirled through a deep
but narrow channel, on its southward course.

No bridge spanned the stream, and only a

very expert leaper could reach the other side;

yet beyond the stream, and above its angry
roar, they heard Denver Doll’s defiant yell.

Had she leaped the stream?

If so, it was something that no man in the
party could do, and the detective queen was
safe, so fares the immediate present was con-
cerned. ,

La Force knew this, and growlineg ordered
the men back to the saloon, satisfied that it was
useless to attempt further pursuit. .

But, had be known it, he was deceived, as re-
gards Denver Doll being on the further side of
the stream, for she was not. On reaching its
edge, and realizing that she could not ‘get
across, she ran on down 'the shore, and after
proceeding for a little way, out back in a cir-
cuitous we into the camp.

“Theyt ink I leaped the creek, but they’ll
find out better are long.” she muttered, grimly.
“ I wonder will they Visit in shanty?" ,

Her abode wason the outs irts of the camp
and thither she made her we , taking care not

 

s;

     

 

.. .W aw. (‘.~A.v/t* ,

 

 

 

I w. aw. (madame) ,

 

 

 

 

Denver Doll’s Mine. 7

 

to up roach too close, until she was satisfied
that Force and his followers had returned to
the Satanello.

She then approached the shanty, when to her
surprise she perceived that the door was 0 u,
an a man was standing on the three old
smoking a. cigar.

CHAPTER IV.
A GIANT smnowna.

A GLANCE convinced her that he was a
stmnger, and a handsome one in the bargain;
and as there was nothing icularly hostile
in his demeanor, she ooncln ed to advance and
find out what he was doing there.

He stopped from the doorway as she ap-
proached, and tipped his sombrero politely.

“ Excuse me, but rhaps I have been tres~
passing," he said. “ happened along here, and
finding the door 0 n, and no one apparently at
home, I conclud I’d better play watchdog

I unLll some one did come."

“ Thank you. I must have for otten to lock
the door when I went away,” responded,
re ardiug him curiously. v
;V:Will you step inside. until the rain slacks
u

“ If you think p per, yes. Will you favor
the with your name first?"

“”Denver Doll is what I am generally called,

1r.

“ Indeed! I have then heard of you frequent—
lllq and am glad to meet you. I am Arizona

{—9. name perhaps, not familiar to you.”

“I have also heard of you. You are mlled
the Avenger of Joaquin?”

“Exactl ”

y.

They then entered the rude dwellin _, and
Doll closed the door, seating herself near-It.

“ You will excuse me for not strikingali ht,”
she said, “as I am sought for b a gang 0 ruf-
fians, and do not want them to ow I am here.
If they do come, I'll give them a warm recep-
tion before they shall capture me."

“Then count on me as your assistant. But
how is this? I have heard that you were one of
the rominent citizens.”

“ ossibéy rominent, from the fact that Idid
ownfart t equartz mine, but hardly popular
‘-—-w1 h ghe rough element."

r‘fg’o say you did own the mine' , or a part
0 1

"' Yes. If you like, I will explain.”

And she proceeded to narrate, in a straight—
forgard manner, what is elread y known to the
res er.

Arizona Alf listened without speaking until

“ I am so to hear this,” he said. “From
all accounts I ve ever heard of you1 you have
hitherto borne an unimpeachahle record; but I
fear, as you say, that you are outlawed, so far
as this town is concerned. .. What do you pro-
pose to do, in regard to the mine!"

“ Eeht for it to the bitter and!” Doll cried
resolu 1y. “ It the Drift can’t do me an good
through one minute’s loss of time, it shal never
do any one also any good, and you can bet high

, she had finished. ‘

unit»

at; *

“ Bravo! I heartily admire your grit. If
you ever need a friend, don’t forget that the
Avenger of Joaquin Muriete has a heart that
beats warmly for the weak and downtrodden,
and a hand that can grip like steel: 1—”

Just then there came a loud knock upon the
door—a knock that must have been given by a,
ponderous fist, for it made the door rattle on its
hinges.

Denver Doll looked at Arizona Alt, whom she
could see just through the gloom, and motioned
silence. A

In a moment came the powerful knock
again, and following it, a coarse, blatant voice
cried out:

“ Open up thar, cuss ye, or I’ll tumble yer
door down! Ye needn’t purtend thar ain’t no
one tohum, ’cause I know a darned sightbet-
ter. Heerd yer squawkers a—goin’ a minit ago.”

Denver Doll tip-teed over to where Arizona
Alf was seated.

“ Do you think it’s some of La Force’s gang?”
she asked, in a Whig?

“ I don’t know. nds more like some half-
drunken hullwhacker from out of town.”

Just then there came a furious kick at the
door that made it spring inward. -

“ Aire ye goin’ ter open 1” the hoarse voice
roared.

Doll drew a. revolver and cocked it.

“ Better ask who he is and then you can judge
better what to do,” Arizona . Al: suggested.
“ He may not be the (party you expect.” ' I

“Who are you, an what do you want?” sh
demanded, sternly.

“Ef ye don’t-open up yer ranch 'I’ll cussed
soon show yel” was the savage responSe. “ I’m
Sunflower Sam, right down from Cinnamon
Gulch, an’ of ye don’t open I’ll show ye how to
smile. I’m wet ter the skin, an’ want shelter
till I kin et a bite-then I'm gone.”

Not oil? or guard by any means, Denver Doll
unbarred the door and carefully opened it, hold-
ing her revolver ready for instant use.

The sight of the applicant for admission satis-
fied her that he was a stranger.

And a typical Western stranger, to boot. r

If giants prevailed in ancient times, this‘being
seemed to proved that the race was not yet ex-
tinct.

He was very nearly seven feet in "light, and
largely proportioned otherwise. His face was _
massive and rather grotesque in appearance, _
with a huge mouth, and large nose with a plain
inclination toward the g. A goatee of about
fifty bristled hairs of ery red ornamented his
chin, while his eyes were little, peering and cun-
ning. r
His attire, however, was that of the usual

slouchy hullwhacker, consisting or any cor~
duroy trowsers thrust into a pair 0 top-
hoots, and equally greasy and rugged shirt,

open at the throat, and a much-worn plug hat
upon his cranium that had evadently been used
as a ter- st for much pistohpractice, judging by
the num .r of holes in it.

A belt around his waist contained timeshares-
piswls, each one of a diflemnt pattern.

The moment Doll opened the door he grinned
andzgwiad obsequiously.

a

 

.N‘“'

 

 

8' Denver Doll’s mine.

»_. wry-w,”

 

“ Thou art one so oung and fair—-
By me life, I rec ’ed a man lived here!"
he said, with profound reverence.
“ Fair lady, behold in me.
Sunflower Sam‘l on a spree;
I'm bound to have a ‘amboree,
In honor o’ the Wild ejee l"

And then the giant turned his back, and ex-
hibited a huge cloth imitation of a sunflower,
which was sewed to his shirt.

Denver Doll burst into a merry laugh, while
Arizona Alf came to the door to see what was
the matter.

“ Why, Sammy, where’s your stockings and
knee-breechesi” Doll asked. “ You are not com-
plete as an aesthete."

“ True. I have been neglectful, fair Queen 0’
the Muses, in not adorning my shins wi’ them
tags, but then I am so much more aesthetic than
brother Oscar that it is hardly worth mention-
ing. Can I come in?"

“ What do you want?”

“If you hava no bear meat or yanked veni-
son, I can, on a pinch, put up, wi’ a leetle whisk
made wi’ sunflower tea, miss.

“ Better invite him in, rather than make him
an enemy," Arizona said, in a low tone. “ If I
glistng not, the man is worthy of good band-

ng.

“ Well, come in.”

“ An’ my dorg'i‘”

“ Of course."

The sesthete gave a whistle with his enormous
mouth, followin which a. mule of the scrawuiest
character and s so made its appearance around
the end of the shanty.

“That's my dor l’ Sunflower Sam explained,
surveying the an mal with pride, “an’ me an’
him allus sails together through. this briuy vale
of tears."

“ You don’t expect to bring that beast in—
doors?” Denver Doll exclaimed.

“ Bet I do, of I come in l” Samuel grinned.
“ Jurisprudence aire jest as much of an aesthete
as I am, au’ we allus slee together. dines to-
gether, fights together, rinks together an‘
communes together. Any one as misuses uris-
prudence, misuses me, an’ thar‘s goin’ to be
trouble when we gits mad."

“ Well, come along in; but, mind—there may
be a fight hereabouts tin-night, and we shall ex-
pect on to stand with us.”

“ at I will! Great blizzards an’ blisters! Ye
just orter see the fight when my dander gits riz.”

And with these words the giant entered the
shanty, the burro following him, and lying
down in one corner.

At Arisona Alf’s siggestion, Denver Doll now
lit a lamp, while the unfl0wer became seated.

“ Now then gal, of ye can trot out a gallon o’
bu ~juice, with a little yanked venison to wash
it wn with, at won’t take long to nerve me fer
flghtin' anything from a grizzly to a rhinoser-
eons, an’ don't ya forget it. You shall see what

r the Second can do in the way 0’ makin'
the furmfly.” '

“ Grub you can have. but nary bug,” Doll
replied. “ I don’t keep the stud around my
shanty." V

“ 1 Well, now, then, couldn’t ye give me a
bottle 0’ water wi' a bumble-bee or wassup in it

/

as

 

—somethin’ to get up an irritation when it goes
down my muzz e!"

“Guess not, unless perchance you can use a
cactus burr.”

“ Humphl I’ve used ’em already: but they
don’t lacerate one’s gullet enuif as they go down
like bug-juice does. Brother?”

And he cast a glance at Arizona Alf.

“No. Why do you ask?"

“Oh, didn’t know. Looks like as of he was
from good fightin’-stock.”

He then relapsed into silence and proceeded
to devour the meat and bread boll set before
him, occasionally tossm a piece to the watch-
ful burro, who would up 3' catch it in his mouth.

When he finished eating, Sunflower Sam took
his weapons frOm his belt, examined them care-
fully, then produced a psalm~book, and began
to slug a hgmn in aloud voice. '

Neither 011 nor Arizona Alf cared to ouse
his anger hy interrupting him, but bot felt
positive that his blatant veice would attract at-
tention to the shanty.

And they were not wrong.

The huge, self-styled aesthete had not finished
his hymn when the sound of a number of rush-
ing feet was heard approachin

“ To arms! the enemy is comln l" Denver Doll
cried, dashing out the light an seizing her re-
volvers. “ Ready when they burst in the door
or windows to give ’em all they can hold!"

“ All ready 1” Arizona announced, calufillv.

“ Hyer tool” SunflOWer assented. “ the
bu’st the door I’ll sick my dor on ’em, an’ he’ 1
kick ’em so high they won’t now themselves
when. they git back. ’

CHAPTER V.
DENVER DOLL’s BLOW-OUT.
A MOMENT later the mob halted before the
shanty, and as a loud kick came against the
door, the voice of Jean La Force was heard to

 

cry out:
‘ Open up! Curse yon, open u , or we'll tear
the shebang down over your 31”

No answer was given to the order, and for a
minute all was silence, both in and outside.

“ Come! Aire ye goin’ to open up?" the voice
of the mbler again cried. “ Ye needn’t think
we dong: know ye’re there, fer we do. Be lively,
or down goes the door I"

“ If you break in here, J eau La Force, you’ll
find this the liveliest nest of hornets you ever
aroused 1" Denver Doll warned. “ We’re armed
to the teeth, and we’ll make iyou wade through
your own blood heforeyou ta 6 us!"

“ Oh! will we?" was the savage retort.

Then followed another silence. The gambler
and his gang were evidently consulting.

“ 1f that is La Force, thegambler,” whispered
Arizona Alf, to the detective queen, “ you’d
better not mention that I am here, as it would
only strengthen his desire to capture us."

“ You know him, then?"

“Rather, he knews me."

" Ahl then it was you who spoiled his
beauty?”

“ I so pose I was the indirect cause.”

Just t on some heavy'obJect struck the door
—-evidently an improwsed battering-ram..but
the door only shook and failed to yield.

 

 

 

 

 

Denver Doll’s Mine. 9‘

 

Denver Doll smiled.

“ I’m thinking they’ll need reinforcements be—
fore they stave in that door," she said. “ it Was
made to be unlocked.”

“I’m afraid that persistent applications of a
heavy ram would fetch it!" was Arizona’s opin-
ion. “ It won’t do to be 011' ard.”

The shutters'that covered t a two square win-
dows, were not more vulnerable than’ the door;
consequently, the attack was continued upon
the entrance.

Each fresh assault was accompanied by a
pandemonihm of yells and curses, and each as-
sault made the barrier spring more and more.

“ Is there any way of getting out of here, ex-
cept by the door or windows?” Arizona asked.

‘ None!” Doll replied, “except— Hal listen!”

The attack outside had ceased, and the vmce
of La Force, the gambler was heard.

” Ef we can’t get low out any other way
boys, we kin burn the shebang. We’ll see e
we’re goin’ to be pestered with she road-
agents!"

Denver Doll laughed, sarcasticall , as she
heard the words, which caused ho Arizona
and Sunflower Sam to eye her, in amazement.

“ Don‘t see much to larf about!” Sam re-
marked, gruifly. “ I kin stand sum things, but
gigbeiu‘ roasted ain’t what it’s cracked up to

“ Ohl there’s nothing like getting used to it,”
Doll assured. “ But, that is not necessary.”
As she spoke, she stooped and pulled upon a
ringfiin the floor, which raised a trap—door.
ow, then, get down there, as uickly and
as. 1(inletly as possible,” she comman ed, “ and I
w:

follow on.”
Arizona I obeyed, but Sunflower Sam de-
marred.

“I can’t take Juri rudence down thar with
me! an’ ye can bet I on’t budge an inch with-
out him. Go ’lang wi’ ye, an’ alter ye're one,
J uris an’ I wull make our exit by the rent

wa ."

‘yAs you like ” Doll said, knowing the roughs
would not be likely to harm the giant.

She then followed Arizona Alf into the cellar,
and closed the trap after her.

In five minutes more flames were licking the
sides of the shanty, despite the rain, audits de—
struction-was a certainty, when, suddenly, and
evidently before the fire had neirated to the
interior, there was a terri c explosion, that
literally blew the shanty to atoms; for, in truth,
the wholh structure was blown upward from its
foundation, in a hundred diiferent sections, and
with the debris went heavenward no less a hu-
man spectacle than Sunflower Sam, seated
astride his superannuated mule, Jurisprudence!

The mule and its rider, however, ware only
lifted by the era tion a matter of ten feet above
terra-firma, an dropped among the startled
spectators, while the various parts of the shanty
landed at some distance from its former site.

Neither the aesthete nor his “ dorg ” were much
the worse for the explosion. evidently, for the
animal brayed loudly on striking the ground,
and Sunflower tude a ludicrously grinning
countenance toward the astounded crowd of
flying rufflans.

 

“howd’y’ do? 'Didn‘t expect me to arriveso»

suddint, I reckon?"

“No, I should remark not,” Jean La Force
growled. “What caused the explosionl Who
Breuypu? Where’s the accursed minx, Denver

0

“ One at a time, capt’n—one at a time. The
he losion war excited by powder, sir— simply
pow er. Dunno whar it was nor how she went
ofl. My name is Sunflower Sam, the pocket
edition of Oscar, the aesthete. Can’t say where
Denver Doll is; s’pose likely she went up in the
same blaze o’ glory that did, an’ hain’t come
down yet. Any other questions you want to
as

“ Don’t ye be so , you overgrown lout.
or 'l’ll soon show you I l have no shenannigan.
Just you tell me where the gal is, or I’ll bore a
hole thr’u' your skull!” '

“I tell ye I hain't no idea whar she is, unless
she’s 11 to the moon, blast yer unaesthetic pro-
file!” am fired back, “ an’ what’s more, I don’t
want no more 0' er sass, or I’ll step over and
punch er head er ye. That sire a1 se’d she
was goin’ ter hide in the cellar, an’ told herl
was a-oomin’ out to save ittin’ roasted; bu
'est afore l was qfiite rea y, I got a lift tha

ellped me along. h, Jurisprudence, old boy?"
he animal brayed loudly, as if fully cogni-
zant of what its master was saying, and at the
same time quickly reaching out one of its hind
hoo gave a miner a dig in the stomach that
doub ed him up like a jack-knife.

A howl of laughter went up from the specta-
tors, as the untortunate‘man hobbled mm a»
Ivar-d the heart of the camp, lpwllng ll 6 a
oon.

“ Tell ye w’at, that’s a power 0’ music ’bout
us aesthetic twins when we git a-goln l” Sun-
flower Sam announced. “ G’lang, urispru—
dencel We’ll try some new lodging-house, and
see at we’ll get bounced again."

And the animal struck off into a lively center
toward the heart of the camp.

Jean 1.4 Force and his pals, and such of the
other citizens as had collected at the spot, soon
followed, satisfied that Denver Doll must have
certainly perished by the' explosion, or in its
ru 8. ~

 

In the mean‘ time the stage had arrived and
disgorged its trio of passengers, and the sus-
picmns of La Force were verified by the report
of old Nathan Blob. Apollo Snap, and the
negro, who bore the pious cognomen of Muse.

The excitement was therefore intense until

Force returned to announce that Denver
Doll had been blown to atoms, which greatly
added to the Jew’s anger.

“Py dam!” he vociferated, “ dot vimmens
mit pants on, she sdeals mine monish, nfid all
she pe plowed oop, so ish my monishl” ‘.

On the following morning Jean

, armed with his legal document, and acme

nied by a deputy sheriff and a posse of his own,
repaired to the Drift oilice, and demanded the
surrender of the mine from Joe Banker, the
superintendent. ’

At first Banker proteeted, but finally made

_ ‘ Good-evening, teller-citizens!” he saluted; , a surrender, and posted a notice that all men

"is

 

 

e

who had been employed there were henceforth
discharged.

’Mos‘t al of theseemployees were honest work-
ingmen, W cm Denver Doll and Little Bill had
specially selected to serve them, and the blow
tell upon them with unwelcome , forcepabut
there was. tic-present help for. it, as the gambler
set-his ownaclique to workl with orders that half
should work the mine by day and half by
night. in order thatthere should-be no chance
for any one elss to gain possession.

The old J 9317, Nathan Blob, sought out Jean
Le Force, and made him an offer for the mine.
but the wily gambler said “nay,” and Blob &
00. Were consequently disappnnted—for it ap-
peared that the ewe] really was a partner of
the Jew. > »

Blob accordingly em loyed several men to
prospect along the foot— ills for another good
place to sink a drift. _ .

During. the day Arizona Alt was :1 am in the
camp, and ran across Sunflower am, who
staged back with a cry, as though he had met
a ost; y _

‘ Dry UK. you fooli” the Avenger of Jo uin
Mariette reathedr sternly. .“Not a war to
2 . any onevthat, I was in that shanty last night!’.’

“Upon my aesthetic soul, no!’ the giant nod-
ded. ,, “ But how, in the name 0’ the seedy sun-
flowerso’ Sorrocco, did ye escape?”

“By an under round tunnel, or passage,
which the girl h secretly built. But not a
word of this either.”

“ De nd on me. And the gal—where is she?”

“Ba e, in a placewhere au‘ rmy could, not
take her, excgpt at her wxll. eep this also a
secret. To-morrow you will know more. How
did on sees. 23”

“ ol .da ales .o’ Damascus! thr’u’ the aerial
fluid 0’ seven, toybe. sure!" the giant grinned.
“_ Sublime and beautiful was the picture—like a
hen-hawk ,whizzin'; aloft on an autumnal breeze.
Ye see, I war jest goin’ to leave the lace when
the explosion gi’n us a lift—mehn Jurispru-
dence—an‘ no gazelle ner toybelloon ever went
scootin’ inter the atmospheric . eetheria more
graceful] than:did I an' the dorg. An’ when
we kiln own, right side up wi’ care, no Oscar
evyer created a bigger sensation than us 83+
thetic twins." ‘ ‘

fArizona Alf. scarcely smiled,‘hut looked the
sestheteover. keenly.

“See here!" he said,giimly,v“you have got
alar amount of ii for a man whose appear-
ance s so rough. hat racket are you up to,
anyhow” V ,

' be out grinned. ‘

’ “I; oh’tnnderstand on,” he said. “Iam

‘ simply an aesthete. No eception whatever-no

deco tion whatever." '

‘ “ \are; something in disguise,“,thaAven-

._ gar averred. “But mind what I- told you-—
90? mum about the fire."

And with this caution he turned away.

 

shat day and night passed without further in—

c ent. . .

- But when another morning dawned, Freshet

' . Flats wasthrown into consternation. the cause
of Which was a number of flaring pastors, stuck

Denver new: Mine.

 

 

 

up in eligible places about the camp, which read
as follows: ,

“'Orncs or Drama Dunn’s AGENTS.

“ PROOLAMATION. ,
“ To All Whom It May 00nurn:~— ‘ ,

‘f This is to ca fly that I, the uncle , dram not

dead, but on the contrary as live as 9. Vin: érsou
could well be, surrounded bye company of rave,
self-sacrificing fellows. who are willing to'avenge a.
woman's wrongs, the wrmgs that you, the people
of Freshet Flats,»have inflicted upon me.
“I ambled with Jean La Force and lost. I bor-
rower? money of him and gambled ain—he taking
a mortzaie on my mine. payable 1n twentylonr
hours, wit two hours‘ grace. I arrived with the
money one minute after the time was up. but he re—
fusedto give up the mortgage. This was the first
outrage. ' \v

“ I was next arrested. charged ith obtaining the
money by robbery. but I coca ed and fled to my
shanty, where I was surrounds by an ugly ang of
mtfians, headed by the mbler roman, La orce.

“The shanty was fir , and i must have perished
but for a secret Ichanced to know. Phenix~like,i
arose frommy ashes. to have. reyen§e

“About the Sta 8 robbery, Idid t
desperate need 0 money to redeem the mortgage.
I promise-d the sengers they should receive ac]:
cent for cent. w at I borrowed. and so rhe shall, at
any hour there shall be an election of t e people,
who will give me back my mine and rights-«I pay-
ing La Forco what I owe him.

‘ I appoint the 20th histant for the election, when
the meior vote shall say if I shall return or not. I
will be u  on that day!

I
1

CHAPTER VI.
A neon)er 01m;an ELECTION.

‘ Dl'stNVER DOLL alive, after that fearful explo-
sxon. '
What would be the next wonder?

.As for the young woman roadragent’s propo-,

sition, the opinion seemed about evenly divided.
The honest element of the campreadily saw the
fairness of the proposal, for the girl had been a-
favorite among theirc . , and they regarded
La Force’s not as des ice is. to say the least. A

Therefore, severe of the most :, influential
miners, set about making a quiet canvass, in or-
der that they might determine what the result
of an election would be.

On the other hand, he Force had a large num-
ber of pals, who were literally bound 'torstsnd

by him in any emergency, and, this fact gave ’

assurance that there would be a. very close, if
melt a: bloody contest, before the matter was de-
c1 er .

Old Nathan Blob was  the side of the“ re—,
turn ” party, for he foresaw in such. an act a pos‘
sibility of getting back his money.

Since. Jean _La Force was proprietor of the
Denver Doll Mme, it was generally understood
that the spot whereon Denver Doll‘s shanty had
stood also belonged to him. . .

And so construing, Nathan Blob foresaw that

it was an all ible site to build himsall' a house on,

where'ggon e met La Force in the street and
ecoos him. ,
“ Mine frient, dey drils me you owns der blocs,-

vere der shanty vas plowed upl”,he interrogated, I

folding his arms above his mammoth stomach.

 

1e job; through,

Dmnn Don,
“ Uhlequ the Red stars." r v

 

 

 

 

    

 

ts xflit,
"We

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

m“

Denver Doll’s Mine. 1;!

 

Jean La Force closed one eye reflectively. It
had not yet occurred to him, until this, that he
might lay claim to the lot.

“ Well, what of it?" he demanded.

“ Vot you dukes vor id? I was a poor man, so
helh mo, und I yes anxious to py von leedle
place cheeh to build me a house on. ’

“ What do you want of a house?"

“For mine self, for mine frient, Snap, und
mine”peautiful daughter, Christine, vot arrive
soon.

“ Ohl got a gal, eh? *Well, you can have the
site for two thousand. Dirt cheap. Fork over,
and it’s yours 1”

“Oh! no! dot ish too t’in, Misder La Force.
Der must some habers made oud, you knows,
to make er t'ing safe, so nopody vus can come
und take id avay from me.”

“ Well, I reckon not!” a youthful voice cried,
and Little Bill Bethe], Denver Doll’s boy pard,
stepped foerard. “ Don‘t you buy a Gent‘s
worth 0’ real estate from this skinflint, the
gfii’hler, or you’ll get sucked in. I own that
s: .

“ You?" La Force rmred.

“ You?" gasped the Jew.

“ You bet! I —« inderwidually. I, Billiam
Bethel. Esq.” And the comical—looking boy—
man made a wry face, and thrust his thumbs in
under his arm-pits.

“ You cusSed young rat. I’ve a mind to wring
yer neck I" LaForce roared. “ And if you don’t

'enp yourself quiet ’round this camp, now, you’ll
get your throat cut 1” La Force growled, striding
uwa .

“ ’¥hat feller's a reg’lar snappin’ snake,” Little
Bill said to the Jew. “ He’s mean enough to
steal the eyebrows otf’m a dead jack. Glad I
happened along to save ye from gittin’ salivated.
Just ’rived in town. an’ heerd the rumpus ’bout
my urd, Doll. Ever see her!”

“ es. py tam! and if I ever see dot son-of-a
gun ag’in, I plow her prams outside in.” '

“Oh, you're the old Waterloo she struck in
the stage, eh? Ha, ha, ha! Spry gal is Denver

. Doll. ’Spect she’ll marry my dad one 0‘ these

days, w’ot’s a lord, duke or duchess over in Eng-
land. Don't sheer about yer rocks, tho’, Blobsy;
they'll be all right, and you’ll git ’em when
Dol y glts her mine back. So you see it’s to
your interest to buckle in and cast ten or eleven
votes for her.”

“ Yesh, I dinks dot ish so—dot is it she gifl me
pack my monish.” '

“ Don’t worry about that. You git in your
work. and I’ll be responsible.”

“ You—dot leedle snibes like you?”

“ Bet your head on it! I‘ve got the rocks, if I
am short. young. sweet an’ tender. ‘Ask an
galoot 1f Little Bill ain't gota fat pocketble
and bank acrount." ‘

“Ish dot so! Vol, I van glad to hear id. I
s’poso. you huff some monish to lend?”

“ Nary a cent. Blobsy—nary a red! It don’t
pay. Besides, I want to save u , so when I’m
elected President, I can pay the National
debt out o’ my own pocket, and take a mort-

‘ gage on the United States. But, I tell you how

you want ter work it for Doll-baby. There’s
gom" to be a big vote for La Force, an’ we shall
have to buckle in our level best to get a major-

:32: w

 

itY. See? Well, now, let me pertically button-
hole yer, an' remind you to sling out a five or a
saw-buck, here an’ there, to buy up votes for my
part], an’ so win. If ye don’t, yer rocks is gone
up the flume, shure’s there’s power in a mule’s
hoof.”

“ But, vy do dot? I pays out monish—dot ish
gone. I get puck udder monish, und sdill I was
oud of pocket.” ‘ '

“ Well. go it to suit yourself, but of ye ex-
pect to live ion in Freshet Flats, you better
vote for Denver oll.”

And with this bit of advice Little Bill turned
importantly away, leaving Nathan Blob in
rather an uncertain state of mind as to whether
he would ever get his mone back or not.

Among the workers in enver Doll’s cause.
was the Avenger, Arizona Alf, who was here,
there and everywhere, and seeming to have a
plenty of money, he was not afraid to spend it
where it would do the most good.

A meeting of the partisans of both parties
was held at La Force’s Satanello, and a form of
election and votes arranged, and officers and a.
referee chosen. ,

Sunflower Sam. and Ben Blye were selected
to have charge of the polls, while a miner,
newly arrived, named Hawkins, was to act as
referee, in case of any dlsputes.

The rules stated that any person above ten
years of age should be permitted to vote. ‘ .

The polls were to open. that night, at mid-
night, and close at six o'clock in the mornin .
This was arranged so that there should be lit 6
phance, on either side, to smuggle in extra bal-

ots. ' -
During the afternoon and evening, the excite-
ment waxed hot. "

The cunvas had been prosecuted so thorough-
ly, that it was. known nearly to a man how the,
Vote was going, and it looked as if there were
close chances of being a tie. . .

As the evening passed away, the excutement
increased. The one street was in a lure of
light caused by numerous bonfires, an a mot-
ley mass of human beings surged to and fro ut-
tering discordant shouts, many of the crowd, of
course, being intoxicated. ,

In front of the Satanello wasa dry-goods box,
upon which Jean La Force stood, with a hand-.
ful of money in his grasp. while he gesticulated
wildly, and made loud but careful offers for
votes in his behalf.

Just across the street was another similar .
stand, close to a. campfire, and this was occu-
pied by Arizona Alf and Little Bill, who took
turns at offering money for votes—for as La.
Force had set the ball a—rolling, it was no more
than fair that they should “invest” as well as

e.

“ Ten dollars—ten dollars for the man who,
will vote: for Denver Doll!” the Armenian/cried. ‘
in stentorian tones. “ Where’s the man— I',Ahl‘
here he comes; ten dollars, old gent. when you ‘
cast your vote for right and honesty.”

It was Nathan Bl .

“ That man votes for me 1” La Force roared
from across thestreet. . , ,

“ You lie! He’s goin‘to vote for the gal who\
Will give him his money back!” Arizona yelled
hack. ’ , , -

“a,

 

 

 

12 Denver Doll’s Mine.

 

“ Bahi1 Come over here and I’ll pummel your

nose oflE.

“ Hal hal Better let one lesson be enough,
old boy.” -

“You’re a coward and a sneak!” La Force
shouted, throwing down his pistols and leaping
to the ground. “ You dassen’t fight.”

Not a word responded the Avenger of Joaquin,
but throwin his weapons to the ground he also
leaped from is box, and advanced toward the
gambler, in whose face and eyes the rancor in
his breast was vividly expressed.

“ Bully fer Arizona!” screeched Little Bill,
flopping his arms to his side and crewing like a
rooster. “ He's the stuff, is that pil rim, an’ [’ll
betadollar to a half that he pr» ishes of]? the
card cuckoo like achunk o’ stove-polish. Sail in,
Arizma, au’ ef I see ary galoot attempt any
zhindy tricks I’ll plug him in his equator, you

at.

Neither of the antagonists paid any attention
to the youngster, but advanced deliberately,
each watching the other like a hawk.

It was man festly the intention of the gambler
to clinch with the Avenger; but that in lividual
comprehended the purpose and gut as La Force

made a leoparddike spring, A f’s iron-like flst
aauzht him in under the chin, and landed him
neatly on his back.

A portion of the crowd cheered, and Little
Bill crowed a sin.

“ Yip! yipl ooray! That’s the kind of a roos-
ter we keep in our flock! That’s how Denver
D )ll’s men strike. Reg’lar old burro hit, that
was! Bet a dollar to a cent his nibs hasn’t got
a sound molar in his bread- trap l”

With an eflfort La Force arose, and staggered
to his box.

“ That’s enou h i” he gasped, spitting out blood
by the mouthfu .

“ Sure it will answer for the present?” Ari-
zona demanded.

“I said enough i” was the tart answer.

“ Oh! don’t disturb him!” yelled Little Bill.
“ Don’t ye see he’s no hog? He knows when he’s
stuck l”

The Avenger lauglhed quietly, and went back

V to his business on t 6 box.

An hour passed, and it was near to mid-
ni ht.

’ oticeahly, now, there were many rough and
grizzled stran ers in the street, the majority of
whom looked ike miners.

Bfirizona discovered this, and mentioned it to

l

The boy looked anxious.

“ Looks like a clean beat!” he muttered. “ See

how La Force is occasionally shuttin’ off a tri-
umphant grin. Jeminy, I wish—"

He failed to mention what, however.

A stand had been erected down the street,
'and ww occupied big the three officers, Sun-
flower Sum, Ben lye, and Hawkins, the
referee.

All voters were to form in line, in single file,
the foremost near the polls, and the last at the
end up the street.

As they passed the stand, Arizona Alf and
"La Force were to patrol either side of the line
with repeating idea, to make sure that' no man
got back to t e rear to vote again, and the

 

order was “ Death,” to whosoever should at-
tempt it.

By a quarter of twelve, the heterogeneous gang
was formed in line, the rear end extending
some distance up the street; and in this line was
every man, woman and boy of over ten years,
except those on duty, and every one was armed
with a slip of paper, containing the name of his
or her choice- ‘ Denver Doll,” or “ Jean La
Force.”

At sharp twelve the referee fired off a pistol,
which was the signal to march, and the line bu-
gan to slowly move forward.

But, though it moved slowly, there was a
perfect pandemonium of sounds, principal
among which were the asseverations of various
boozy miners, as for Whom' the were goin to
cast:I their votes, interlarded' wit characte stic
oat 5.

Above the din could be heard the screeching
voice of Little Bill.

“ Jog along thar, ye skunks, and cast yer votes
for Denver Doll, the best and squares!) gal that
ever buckled on a garter, by gum! Cheer,

ards, an’ remember you’re solid fer a job when

oil gits control a ’in, fer we’re goin‘ ter b’ild a
crusher, an’ raise t under in general.” to which
announcement seemingly little or no attention
was paid.

One by one the crowd cast their votes, and
there was even greater excitement beyond the
polls than before them—the excitement born of
desire to know what the result would be.

Probably some of the gang would have at-
tempted to make a break for the rear of the
line but for the vigilance of Arizona Alf and La
Force-for be it said to the credit of the latter,
he seemed determined that everything should go
off on the square, evidently well satisfied that he
would win the day.

As soon as the last one in the line had passed,
the officers and referee cast their votes, and the
poll was closed.

The crowd quickly surrounded the stand
again, when the counting of the votes began,

Referee Hawkins standing over the two officers ~

Wit/i]! drawn revolvers, to see that it was done
fair . ‘ '

Best’s were made on every hand, on each can—
didate, and thousands of dollars promised to
change hands on the result.

At last the last vote was counted, and the two
men said something low to Hawkins, who ad-
vanced to the front of the platform.

In an instant a. dead silence reigned—a
myriad of gleaming eyes watched the man
ca erly.

‘ Gentlemen,” he said, " the votes, by fair
count, entitle Denver Doll to remain outlaw,
and Jean La Force to keep the mine. Ten votes
did the business."

“Ach, mine Got! Don I vas and yeast amid-
der thousand dollars. I vill nefler vote for dot
vimmens again.” shrieked Nathan Blob, above
the din of cheers that followed. ’

CHAPTER VII.
DOLL MEANS BUSINESS.
FIWE pass over two weeks in the history of the
ate.
The result of the election was not entirely

.51.

 

 

  

s, a. my; =:

9,

 


a

 

 

Denver Doll's time. I i3

 

unexpected to, Arizona and Little Bill, but it
fall with almost withering force upon the
miners who had in a measure regained their
hoEes of being restored to work in the Drift.
irtle Bill was around among them, however,
like a sunbeam of encouragement, and his in-
variable expression was-—
“Cheer up, tellers; the end is not yet. I've
a few dollars in the Drift, an’ outside too, an’

, {e knows I an’ Doll allers war squar’ with ye.

e kineat my ears of! of thar ain’t a change,
afore long 1” ‘ '

Many of the men thanked the lad heartily,
for they had a strong attachment for him, but
some were morose and gloomy, and seemed in-
clined to rebel.

The La Force gang were naturally in their
element, and glorying in the fact that they had

won the election, they likewise appeared to con— ‘

sider that .they had won the town, and ro-
ceeded to boss it, literally, according to t eir
own liking.

Jean La Force was pronounced mayor, with
ower to act in all cases—which very natural-
yr made him more oficious and insolent than

ever.

The La Force gang worked day and night in
the Drift, and the deeper and larger grew the
excavation, the more gold was discovered, and
the more men were required to mine it, so. that
before the end of two weeks, all of Denver
Doll’s former employees were working for the
gambler prince, as he now might well have
been called.

In some respects, Ls. Force was a keen di'
plomat, and he foresaw strength by joining
the disappointed element to his 0wn party, at
good wages—for, reasoned be, there was no
telling when or in what shape, he might hear
from the road-agent queen.

He had caused a large reward to be oflered
for her capture, and notices to this effect were
posted at every approach to the town.

Arizona Alf still lounged about the camp,
having stuck up a shanty for his own conven—
ience: and he devoted the most of his time in
sauntering about the streets, varying the mo-
notony with an occasional game of cards, by
which he seldom lost anything.

Little Bill dodged about, here and there,
keeping an eye out, but saying little.

He knew that he was watched secretly, by

Force’s orders, and that the ambler only
wanted some reasonable excuse to ock him up,
and thus put him out of the way of doing any

r misohief.

Nathan Blob had purchased the site of Dan-
ver Doll‘s ill-fated abode, and erected thereon a
large, and, for a mining-camp, comfortable
dwelling.

His aughter. Christie, had arrived, and
strange to any, did not betray any signs of be-
ing a Jewess, beyond the fact that she pos-
sessed a brunette complexion, and liquid black
eyes.

She was very handsome. both in face and
figure, and dressed richly,” well she might,
considering her parent's reputed wealth.

She and the snob, Apollo Snap, were seen out
for a gallop, every pleasant morning, and it be-
came quite apparent that the Englishman—for

.r:.

such he was—was courting her, and that, too,
with thopaternal Blob’s hearty approvaL

Miss Christine, however, was the least bit of
a coquette, and she had been but a. few days in
the camp, ere she saw the handsome face and
figure of Arizona Alf, and through another ac-
guaintance managed to get an introduction to

1m.

After that, it might have been noticed that
the intimacy grow

The Avengier managed to get out for his
morning wal , about the time Miss Christine
and her escort tOUk their gallop, and it Was al‘
most a certainty for them tomeet, and exchange
greetings.

This seemed to highly displease the English-
man, and, one morning, he made it his business
to encounter the sport upon the street. '

“ Aw! I say—See beah !” pausing and glaring
at his imaginary rival; " you are the fellah
that resumes to make advances to Miss Blohl"

“ kon l’m the mutton 1” Alt laughed, fold-
ing his arms, and eying the “blood” sarcasti-
cally. “ Why?”

“ Well, my deah fellow, I demand an apology
from you, and a promise that you will heali-
after cease your attentions in that direction."

“ An a-what—ogy i” the sport asked. .

“ An apology. sir—an apolog l”

“ Ha! ha! ha! What gall! at d’ye mean,
you pup? I apologizeto a snob of your com-
plexion! Why, you better go set yourself up

or a clothing store man’kin.” ‘

“ Sir-Fri If you do not apologize, I shall
publicly chastise you with this!" Snap declared,
producing a'small harmless riding-whip, from
under his coat.

At sight of it Joaquin’s Avenger laughed '

heartily, as did several bystanders who had
come up
H W
served.
“ But it will leave the sting of an insult l" was
the reply.
m;;0hl it will? Well, strike out. I’ll dare you

The suitor of the handsome Jewem was evi-
dently dead in earnest, for he raised the wbi
and struck the Arizoniam a cut upon the nee '
that left its red mark; but, had be counted the

cost beforehand, he probably would have held “ y‘

his anger in check. ,
A few feet away was a roadside "swale"

filled with greenish water, and tenanted by ~ I

frogs. .

Searcer had the blow fallen, when the stal-
wart Arizonian, seizing the swell. raised him
above his head, as though hehad been an infant,

and buried him forward, head-foremost, into the,

nasty ditch. .

A cheer went up from the spectators, which in.
creased into a bowl of derision, as Snap Scram-
bled out of his berth, a most disgusted and piti—
able object.

He paused for an instant and shook his list at ‘

his foe, and than trotted away toward the Blob
residence, like some whip _
ed by hisses and cat-calls from the bystanders,
which was all that was seen of Apollo Snap that
day, and, the ridiculous incident became the

 

town’s

all, that wouldn‘t kill a flea!”_Alf ob— ‘

ped school-boy, follow- '

-W‘ "b. .‘,,,

 

   
 

 

  

Denver Doll's Mine.

 

Nothing had been heard from Denver ,Doll
since the proclamation; ’

This silence was not reassuring to the people of
Freshet Flats. The rufiian element went armed
to the teeth, and even Jean La Force appeared
nervous and watchful, and to have less confi-
dence in himself than usual.

When or how the blow was to come was a mys-
tery that worked the community into a state of

, feverish expectancy. Every man became watch—
ful and anxious.

Little Bill, though watched narrowly, showed
no signs of having any knowledge or the where-
abouts of Denver Doll, nor of her forthcoming
moves. _ ’

Probably there were onlytwo persons in the
camp who knew that Arizona All was acqiiaint‘
ed with the whereabouts of the road—agent queen,
and these were Bill and the aesthetic giant, Sun-
flower Sam, who had started a little three-card
monte table on a vacant lot, and was living of!
hiyiroflts, which were not small.

e was something of an unreadable mystery,
this same giant, and was so regarded by eVery
one—the general opinion being that he was not
what he appeared.

One dark evening the stage came whirling
down into the town during a violent thunder-
storm, and unloaded a dozen passengers in front
of the new shanty hotel whic a party of specu-
lators had hastily erected and opened as a place
of refu e for travelers.

Hard y had the stage halted when Budd Har-
ris. the new driver, arose on his seat and yelled:

“ Road-agents! road-agents! Denver Doll and
her gang halted us a mile back, an’ cleaned us
out 0’ about two thousand dollars. Hyar’s a let-
ter to the mayor, Jean La Force!”

The letter was promptly taken to the gambler
at the Satanelio, and he was requested to read it
for the benefit of the crowd. _

Accordingly be mounted the bar and read, in
aloud voice, the appended epistle:

“ Omen or Dmna Dom.
“Jam Iii Fence:—

“Sm:-According to m promise. after being de-
feated in my attempt to 0 thin my rights through a
vote of the people. I will to-night begin my cam-
paign by stoppin the incoming stage. and heipin
myself to such va uahles as might conduce 'o enric
the camp of Fresher. Flats. From each person who
pans out will be required his name and future ad—
dress, and this will be attached to his valuables,
subject to safe-keeping and restoration—in case I
am given back my mi 112-.

“By avote of my band, we shall persist in this
course against you and your people, and if you
fill§e an attack upon us, weiarc amply prepared for

a .

“ There is but one way to break us u -—drive Jean
La Force and his ruinin gang from i e town, and
give me back my mine, and the war is ended.

“Danvan Donn."

. But Jean La Force considered his star still
considerably in the ascen'dant. _
'The letter created a sensation, of course, and
on being questioned the robbed passengers all
corroborated what the girl had stated.
Their names and addresses had been taken,
and written in a book by a masked man. who
L owes evidently the lieutenant of Denver Doll.
0! the band that had surrounded the stnge,
there were fully fifty, all masked, dreSsed in

 

picturesque red corduroy, withslouch hats and
buckskin leggings, while each man was armed
with a Winchester rifle, and revolvers.

Some influential speculators were on the
coach, and on arriving at the Flats, they club-
bed together and made up a purse of five hun—
dred dollars, which they offered for her cap-
ture.

This, with La Force’s offer, made a thousand
dollars on Denver Doll’s head.

Her letter was posted up in a conspicuous
place in the Satanello, and left for public in-
spection. *-

The following morning, Little Bill met Ari-
zona Alf. .

“Didn’t I tell on she was a boss?” he said,
triumphantly. “ t will be a blizzardons day
when Doll-baby gits left. Reg’lar- ole pawn-
shop she’s runnin’. Like to see her. D’ye think
she‘ll ever get the Drift back!”

' Arizona shook his head doubtfully.

“ Don’t know,” he answered. “La Force is
getting his feet planted firmer and flrme!‘ every
day. It will take big odds to root him out.
or lose my guess. The girl is plucky, though!"

That night the Satanello was more than un—
usually full, and the same might have been said
of some of its habitues. Gambling in every
form was at its hight, and the scene was at once
exciting and hilarious.

During the evening a striking looking person—
age entered the saloon, who gradually attracted
attention. Of medium, well-rounded stature,
and graceful carriage, he possessed a clean-
shnven but dusky countenance, excepting a
heavy mustache, and his hair, long and straight,
hung well down his shoulders. Over his eyes he
wore a pair of impenetrable green goggles.

His attire was a rich and costly suit, such as
is usually worn by a Mexican naboh, the trim-
mings alone being of immense value. Astifl?
sombrero was worn upon his head and a sash of
satin about his waist. Upon the fingers of each
hand were four magnificent diamond rings.

This striking man paused first at La orce’s
table, and looked on a few moments, and then
sauntered on.

“ Did you ever see that fellow—do you know
him?” La Force asked, addressing a ystander,
who, from his rough appearance and long white
beard, looked like a ’49er.

“ Oh, es,” the man ans wered. “ That is
Senor Co ra,the famous Spanish—Mexican poker-
player. Rich as Croesus, and never met his equal
at poker i"

“ Humphl I wouldn’t mind taking the con-
ceit out of him if that’s the case; I‘m some on
poker, myself. Just mention to him that the
ghampion would like to make it interesting for.

iml
‘ At which the old man chuckled softly/as he
sauntered oi! to convey the challenge. \

Senor Cobra soon came back. »

“ You sent for me, senor?" he interrogated.

“ I did!" La Force responded sharIply. “ I
understand you are great on poker. am the
man who knews no egual in these parts. Would
you like to tackle me ’

Cobra glue vent to a. funny laugh.

“ I mig t,” he said. “ What amount?”

“ Ohl a hundred dollars a side '"

    
   
   
  
 

 

 

I .
i

 

 

 

 

 

Denver Doll‘s Mine: ' f 15

 

“ I never sit down, senor, for less than a thou-
sand " Cobra smiled. 4
“ hl well. All the same; a thousand it shall

‘ be. Be seated and put up!”

 

CHAPTER VIII.
swan. cosua’s CLEVEB RUSE, AND BNAP'S
SECOND MISFOBTUNE.

THE invitation tendered the man from Mexico
was promptly accepted, and he took from a roll
of American money a thousand-dollar note, and
laid it upon the table.

He ” meant business," evidently, and Jean La
Force knew he had not picked up a flat.

This Senor Cobra had a notoriety. It was
said of him that so lucky was he in Mexico, and
so many of the Mexican nabobs had be cleaned
out, that it had become necessary for him to
disappear over the borders, and that until re-
cent y his operations had been confined to that
Monaco of America. Del Norte.

Noted for abundant riches,'and equally for
charity, he wasa rsonage to inspire awe in
any rough assem lags, inasmuch as he was

known to have killed more than his allotted one.

man.

From a drawer at his end of the table, Jean
La Force counted out a thousand dollars in gold
coin, and stacked it alongside Cobra's wager.
Then the game began, the table surrounded by
many interested s tators, anion whom was
Little Bill Bethel, is sharp, wease —like counte-
nance aglow with excitement.

“ At it ag’in, are ye, buddy ?” he said, ad—
dressing La Force. “ Jest like yer gall to buck
yer brains out ag’in’an ’arth uake. Bet a her—
rin ye. don’t know the sort 0 stulf ye’r' playin’
wit . Besides. ye never hev luck when I’m
around. I’m a reg’lar Joner. Take keer, don't
feel fer the 9., I’ve got one, too, an’a self—
cocker iii/the ai‘gain.”

“ Well, you shut u , or I’ll fix you!” was the
savage retort of La orce. ’

The game was played, and won by Senor
Coblra, who raked in the stakes with a faint
smi e.

“ Another thousand, senor i" he asked, quietly.

“ Not by a devilish sight,” La Force growled.
“ The stake is too heavy. If you’ll play for five
dollars I game I’ll tr you.”

“Since I was so ucky as to win, I suppose I
am in duty bound to accommodate,” Cobra re—
sponded, pleasantly. “ .”

They then lplayed for a couple of hours, Cobra
losing steadi y.

The interest had abated, in consequence of the
smallness of the stakes, and the room was clear-
ed of all but half a dozen professional gamblers
who rented tables, and a score of roughbearded
pilgrims of the pick and shove], who had made
their appearance in the camp that evening.

It was after midnight when Senor Cobra
threw up his hand.

“ I am tired of cards.” he said. “ Let’s try a
different game. Jean Le Force, you are my
prisoner 1”

La Force glared about him, only to roeive

I that the other gamblers and the berten or were

covered by the weapons of the rough-looking
miners. ‘
“ Trapped!” he gasped.

 

“ Exactly,” was the mocking answer; “ George,
lock the doors."

One of the men obeyed.

“ Now, then,” Cobra continued, “ bind to.
gether the wrists of each prisoner.”

This order was also obeyed. La Force being
first served. He was fairly livid with re e, but
under that venomous glance of the man '0 cards,
dared not give an alarm.

As scan as the binding process was com hated
the man George stood guard over La orce,
while Cobra proceeded to “ go through" the
pockets of the prisoners and their money-draw-
ers.

The result of this search was put in a leatth
sack: then Cobra approached La Force again.

“ What wealth I have sedured ’heer ri htfully
belongs to me, for it came from the ver
Doll mine.” he said. “ You’ll probabl be will—
ing to acknowledge that ,you are one cred, La
Force. Do you know me?’ '

And of]! came the giggige: and fierce false
mustache, and the race 0 nver Doll was re
vealed, looking (prettier than ever, it appeared,
with the dusky ye upon it. ‘ -

“The devil! La Force gasped, for he was too
surprised to say more. ’

“ You will find me equal to one, if you don’t
give me back the mine!’1 was the stern reply.
“‘I mean business, and this is but the begin—
uing.

At a signal her hand made their exit through
a rear door, and giving La Force a stinging slap
in the face she followed. 1

Before the gamblers could make their cries
for help heard the road-agents were far away.

Mr. Apollo Snap, after his unoeremonious
bath in therollywog puddle, sought the Blob
residence a managed to get to his room with-
out being seen, where in due time, and with the
aid of soap, water and another outfit be we-
ceeded in making himself look as g as new.

He then straightforward hied himselfto the
presence of the paternal Blob, and to him un-
folded a most pitiful tale of his mishaps, in-
cluding the revelation of Miss Christie’s Open
flirtation with the stalwart Arinonian.

“ I Vll see apoud dot,” Blob blustered, angrily.
“Christie! Christie!" 1

Christie, in response to the call, came in from I

an adjoining room.

“ Christie, vot ish dot vot Mr. Snap vas dells
me apond you makin’ flirdations mit anodder
renew, girl?” the old men demanded, adjusting .
his spectacles. “ Dot veller he draws Mr. Snap
iu von ditch, und spiles his clothingsl"

“ Oh! you mean Mr. Arizona? Why, he’s
my new mash. papa!" the pretty Jewess eon-
fessed, her eyes twinkling. “ Did he really
baptize Mr. Sin 9 How comical!” v

“ Comical? \ our mash? Py tam] I mash
you uf I hear some more such nonsense like ‘dot.
Don'd you know you vos der betrothed wife of.
my friend. Mr. Snap? ‘ .

‘ Well, I should smile not! Who told you?” 1

“ I uml Mr. Snap dells ourselves. You lab to
marry him, and keep der monile in der .tamily.
See?” .

“ I marryr that jumping-jack? Why, papa, I j
wouldn’t give the snap of my finger for such a

» 9
r x

O

,WM.W‘ «A N...

 

 

i6

spitz poodle as he is! If I can't have Arizona, I
won’t have no one—that’s all. There now!” and
the imperious beauty flounced out of the room
in high dudgeon, slamming the door behind her.

Snap looked dubious.

Blob looked ditto.

l “lMy case is quashed!” the former said hope—
ess v.

9 Not py a long shot!” Blob decided. “ I
dells you vot you do. You shallenge de veller
to fight mit a duel, und you use a sword I gif
you. All you bait to do is to prick him mit der
and of it, nnd he vas a goner. It vas coated
mit deadly poison."

“.Aw, excellent! I understand the foils as
every English gentleman does. It is, you know,
a part of our education; so, I will challenge
the beastly American at once. But, supposing
I can’t getachance to prick him? He might
give me a death-wound.’ "

“ Nonsense! These Vestern shackasses onl
vas know how to fight mit a pistol. You lic
him so easy as rollin ofl.’ a log, of you is quick
mit a sword."

Bemured, Apollo went to his room, and
penned an insulting challenge, which he sent to
Arimna A". It was to meet the challeu er in
a duel with swords in front of the Satanel o the
following morning.

In ashort time the answer came back, and
was an acceptance.

The following morning was one of sensations.
The news of the bold raid upon the Satanello
was in every month, and was an absorbing
topic for every one; but this was in a measure
forgotten when at sunrise the news got abroad
that a duel was to take place in front of the
Satanello.

A crowd immediately collected, and expecta-
tion ran high, for the names of the contestants
had not leaked out.

Shortly after sunrise, Apollo Snap made his
appearance, carrying a pair of swords, which
he placed in the ring that had been formed.

He was flashilv dressed, and was accompanied
by big Nathan Blob, who evidently pro sed to
act as master of ceremonies, for be or orad the
crowd to clear away to the sides of the
street.

Shortly afterward Arizona Alf came saun-
tering leisurely up, the pictureof healthy indif-
ference, as he puffed away at a cigar.

“ Well, are you ready for the funeral?" he
asked, rolling up the sleeves of his jacket. “ If
so, let s proceed, for I've not had my breakfast

yet.”
A rl ple of laughter came from the crowd.
The andsome sport evidently did not have
much anticipation of a trip to the next world—-
at least, not until after meal hours.
“ I am ready!" Snap responded. “ I could
get but’two swords, and one is rusty and hardly
t (or use. We will toss up for the choice.
Here is a copper; which will you take, heads
up, or tails 11')!" .
“ Heads!" Arizona cried. “Toss ’im up!”
The coin spun upward and dropped to the
ground—tails up.
“ I will give the advantage to yon, by taking
the rusty blade,” Snap announced, seizing it,
rather eagerly.

h.

 

- M‘W‘Fu-ea-

Denver Doll's mind.

“ I presume you would rather have it!” Ari-
zona averred, so sarcastically that both Snap
and Blob looked somewhat surprised.

On examining his weapon, Arizona saw to his
satisfaction that its edge was as keen as could he
wished. ,

The next instant the two confronted each
other.

As he expected, the Avenger found that his
antagonist understood the swordsman‘s art;
nevertheless, he was but a child before the Ari-
zonian, who drove him back, step by step,
forcing him to take the defensive, and giving
him no chance to et in a blow.

It was an excxting moment, and every one
watched eagerly and breathlemly.

But it was a. contest that was destined to be
brogght to a sudden close, and a disastrous one
for nap, for, by an ex rt movement, Arizona
tore the sword from h s opponent’s grasp, and
sent it flying across the street! 7 ,

With a howl of actual terror, Apollo turned
and ran like a deer!

For mere sport Arizona followed, and chased
the En lishman half-way to the Blob residence,
great by cheers from the crowd.

Poor Snap managed to reach the door, and
there, from sheer fright, fell in a faint, while
Arizona sauntered leisurer back toward the
hotel. ,

CHAPTER IX.
AN UNEXPECTED APPEARANCE.

THAT afternoon as the sun was declining, wan-
dering through a desolate Rocky Mountain
gulch, some miles from Freshet Flats, was an old
man, who seemed to be tottering on the edge of
the grave. Y

He must have been full seventy years of age,
for his hair and sweepiu beard were as white
as snow, and, as he hobb ed along with the aid
of a stalk he trembled in every joint.

He had evidently journeyed long and far for
his garments were more tatters, and his s oes
worn in holes. Hat he had none.

Every now and then he would pausewearily,
to gaze at the sun and his desolate surround-
ings; then he would trudge faithfully on again.

Finally, however, he stopped with a start. A
svgeet, musical voice came to his ears from just
a ea .
He could distinguish no words. but the voice,
in itself, seemed to impress him strangely.

With renewed courage he hobbled on, and
presently came to where a beautiful young girl
was seated upon a bowlder, engaged in weaving
a wreath of wild flowers. She was clad in male
Bttire, and, needless to say, this girl was Denver

011.

She did not know of human approach evident‘
ly, until she heard a glad cry, and saw the old
man standing near her.

Then she, too, gave a start. and her face sud-
denly became stern in expression.

“ My child! my child I” the old man cried, tot-
tering forward, with outstretched hands.

” St'ipl I am not your child,” she protested,
a pained expression upon her face. “ You
have! no longer a claim upon me, inhuman fa-

er ’

“ Don’t! don't!" be gasped. “ Will you not

 

 

\

welcome me. after I have patiently searched for
you so long?"

“ Welcome you back?" she cried. “ You, the
murderer of nay—ll,

“ Sto 1 stop! As Heaven is my judge, I am
not ui by!”

“ ot guilty—you tell me this? Did you not,
when I was a happy girl, in a ha y home,
oppose my marriage to Walter alraven,
because his father and you had been enemies?
Did you not threaten me—did you not, at the
bridal altar, have my husband shot down dead
by some unknown assassin?”

“ No! no! God hear me witness, no!"

“ Stop! do not perjure yourself further. I
was satisfied of your guilt—am now—and swore
to leave my home forever, and never to recog-
nize on as a father of mine, until I have ample
proo of your innocence!"

"I can prove in innocence—only kiss your
broken-hearted fat or, my child, and say that
you ,will give me time to prove how unjust you
are.

“ You have the remainder of your life to ex:
onerate yourself in. When you prove yourself
guiltless, I will receive you with open arms.
Until then, go your way.”

It evidently required a great amount of will
power to speak as resolutely as, she did, but
there was no expression upon her face to show
that anything would cause her to relent.

The old man bowed his head in silent grief for
a few minutes; then he looked up, and said:

“ You are cruel, but perhaps fit to yourself.
Will you tell me if I am on t right way to
Freshet Flats!”

“ You are. Why are on going there?”

“ It matters not. have business there.
Good-by, my child!” and with a sob he hobbled

on.

Denver Doll arose, and gazed after him until
he was out of sight, as if tempted to call him
back; then her oath came vividly to mind—the
scene where she knelt at the altar beside her
youthful husband, and she shrunk back.

“ No! I must not be weak. I never dreamed
of seeing him again, and somehow his faithful
Search for me impresses me more than I can ex-
press. Why goes he to Freshet Flats? Does he
expect to prove his innocence there? He is my
father, and there are many pitfalls in Freshet
Flats. I can but feel a daughter’s interest in
his welfare and will keep a watch that he is not
harmed. 15erhaps he may be innocent after all!
Who can say?”

And tears actually filled the flashing eyes.

CHAPTER X.
A menu: AND an anvnur.

Tns'r day passed, without any further inci-
dent, worthy of special mention, and night once
more fell over the rude little mining-camp of
Freshet Flats.

Early in the evening, as he sat in the office of
the shanty hotel, ‘a boy entered and handed
Arizona a letter, and hastily departed.

An eager flush mounted the Avmger’s cheeks,
and he tore open the envelope. after ' giving a
hasty glance at the chiroginphy upon it.

The letter was in a woman’s graceful hand,
and ran as follows:

 

Denver Doll’s Mine. 1’?

“Dun Ma. Aiuzonsz~

“Your affectionate note just received, and read
with feelings of grateful pleasure—that. too, when
I find myself in dire trouhle, which I will explain
when We. meet. In answer to yLur declz; ration of
affection for me. I have only to say that my ac‘miia-
tion for you surpasses lhat- I have. ever cherished for
any other man. I positively despise the man, Snap;
but, if you will meet me. as soon as you get this, at

the big coxtonwood tree on the bank of the creek, I

I can tell you much more, and something import-
ant, too. Yours, faithfully,
“Camus.” ‘

Arizona put the letter in his pocket, his eyes
sparkling with satisfaction.

“She is my ideal of womanhood,” he mused.
“ Why shouldn’t I keep up this intimacy and
marry her?”

He left the hotel, and strode with elastic step
across the Flats to the great tree that stood up
on the shore of the roaring creek.

Christie was there seated upon a bowlder,
under the dark shadows of the overhanging
branches, and gave a glad cry as he approached.

“Iam so lad you came!” she said im tu-y
8 » Po

ously. “ Do you see that?” and she pointed
to a neatly-wrapped bundle lying upon the
ground.

“ Yes, What is it!”

“ The best of my worldly effects done up,
ready for a journey l"

“ A journey?”

“ Yes. I am going to leave home."

“ What for?”

“Necessity compels me. I overheard a plot
between my father and Snap, to look me up in
a room, and keep me on bread and water until
I consented to marry the latter.”

“ The deuce!"

“ Yes, and I just packed up a few things and
here I am. I will not marry Snap. I’ll fly to
the further end of the earth first. After re—
ceiving your kind letter, I felt that perhaps you
could protect me, until—until—”

“ Our marriage?”

“ Yes, love,” and she threw her arms around
his neck and hug him.

“ Well, I shou d be a brute, if I wouldn’tl'f
Arizona exclaimed. “ Let me think a moment.
Theyfwil’l be likely to discover your flight."

‘ es.

“ Well, I have a plan. You have heard of
Denver Doll i"

u  yes."

“Well, she isa warm friend of mine, and I
know where her stronghold is. I will take you
there, and you will have a pleasant home and
companion until I get ready to leave this place.
Remain quietly here until I return. Do not be
alarmed if I should be detained an hour.”

“All right. But hurry, please.”

He kissed her then, and strode away.

s

He was not more than out of hearing, when a ’ I

man stepped from behind the tree and con-
fronted ‘ ristie.

“’Sh! don‘t bealai'medl” he said. “I heard
you was goingto Denver Doll's retreat, and want-
ed to tell you something. After you get there
if you can come back and guide me there, I’ll

ive you two thousand dollars. I am Jean La
orce. ’Sh! now mind, mum’s the word. I do

‘ not urge you to do it—you may desire to do it

w

mimw‘v-deflwkuwean was...“ megawargsmi...  

 

 

 

'is ‘

Denver Doll’s Mine. l

 

for revenge. Then, the cash is yours. Keep
.your own counsel, and rememberi ’

Tue next instant he was gone, leaving the
Jewess in a state of wonderment.

“I will keep my own counsel!” she mused.
“ Arizona may not turn out what he seems; then
I can take advantage of J can La Force’s otter.
This Denver Doll may be a flame of Arizona’s——
he spoke of her as a very warm friend of his.
In that case—welll”

Sue did not finish, but a compression of the
lips showed that the venom of jealousy had al-
ready gained root in her heart.

Arizona soon came back, leadin

“ We’re all right!" he signi ed.
now, and let’s be OR."

two horses.
“ Mount

A few hours after Arizona and his bride pros-
pective were leaving the camp. Nathan Blohwns
sitting alone in his office, which was built adJom-
iug his residence, when the door opened, and the
aesthetic iant, Sunflower Sam, entered.

“How y do, NathanT’he saluted, familiarly,
closing the door, and helping himself to a chair.
“ Nice weather we’re havin’.”

“ Ish dot so?" the old Jew
stony stare. [ vas not aware o

i you dolls me.”

“ Eh—ye wasn’t? Darn me, what kind of a
man aire you?”

“ A shendlemans, sir.”

4 Sam burst into a terrific guflaw, and fairly
shook with laughter u'ntil the windows rattled.

“ Why, thunderation. Nat, how long ye bin
affected wi’ that disease?" -

“ All mine lite, sir. Who you vas und Vat you
want?”

“Phew! don’t know me?"

runted, with a
dot fact ondil

“'No, sir.”
" Don’t reckernise the aesthetic out o’ my
mug?"

‘.‘ Py tam, I never see youl"

“ Git eout. Why, I know you. As fer me, I
am known as Sun ower Sam, the second Wilde
Oscar. Had another name once. I’m an
aa:thete.”

“ V’ot ish dot?”

“ Well, it’s half-way between a what-is-it and
a polar bear, wi' a little giraffe mixed in. Reck—
ernise yer own 'fotygraifl”

“ You ish von pig fool. Tell me v’ot you vant,

. und get right away and, gwick, or I drow you
down der steps."

The old Jew was evidently getting his ire
aroused, but it apparently did not concern the
aesthete, fonhe chuckled, good-naturedly.

“ Well, I’ll tall you,” ha said. “ Ther primeval
cause 0‘ my Wish}, Natty, dear, is for the un-
scrupulous pnrposo of gathering in some rootsof-

‘ evil—otherwise swag-alias money. Presummg
that you would know me, I ventured tow rumi-

, note that yeou would be glad tew pan out, on
the account of old scores."

“ Old‘ scores! V’ot der Satans you means?
You vas a lunatic. I heifer knows you in mine
‘lite, so help me.”

“ Wa—al, ’r’aps ye don’t reckornise me. I

v uster live in Denver, un’ was known b the
name 0’ Pea-knuckle Pete. from the fact t at I
utter play the game often.”

£1;

“Veil, v’ot of dot? I heifer heard cfl’ you.
V’y should I pay you monish’i"

»“ Slmfly because at will he to yer interest to
do so. hold an important secret of yours. It
is the death-bed confession of a man yer once
made yer tool l”

“ You lie!" Bob cried, leaping to his feet.

mit mine monish oud.”

“ Nary a time, shaenyi Shall I go on and tell
ye a leetle story all about—"

“ Sdopl sdop!” the Jew gasped, turning ale.
“Der vos no need of dot. Vot you vant to cop
your mouth shut ?"

“ Spondulics, on course. Ye see, I’m studyin'
aesthetic culture, wi’ a view 0’ goin’ on ther
stage—me an’ my dorg, Jurisprudence. So at
needs shavin’s to eddicate us. Then, too, thar’s
another party in the field, who’s on the scent,
an‘ would pay well fer what tongue I’ve got.
Savvy?”

“ I understand vot you mean.
dollar do you?"

“ Well, I reckon that might answer for about
a month. Don’t wanter be hard on yew at first,
’ca’se et‘s a poor bank as suspends at ther first
run. So shell out.”

Without a word, the Jew took a plethoric wad
of bills from his pocket and counted out the de-
sired sum. .

“There you vas,” he said. “ Now I shall eg-
spect dot you vil keeb your mouth shut.”

“ Closer than the jaws o’ a steel-trap," the
giant grinned, aridng. “ Guess I will go now,
an’ skirmish for my side pardner Juris ru-
dence. Wuss’n a billy-goat, that 035. ats
tin cans, pick-axes, an’ anything that's digesti-
ble in the shape 0’ food.“

Then, with another smile that even Oscar
Wilde must have pronounced sublime, the giant
took his de arture.

Nathan lob sat in his chair an instant after-
ward, a greenish glitter in his eyes.

“ Dot man was angerous,” he muttered. “ If
{:3 v’as found deadt, no one knows who kills

[1].

'Seizing a piece of paper, he hastily wrote sev-
eral words upon it, and put it in his pocket;
then he glided out.

i It was now deep dusk, but a short distance
away he distinguished a man’s figure moving
toward the business portion of the town.

Like a sleuth the Jew was at once in pursuit,
the wind and the rush and roar of the creek
wholl y silencing his‘footstegs. _

The nearer ie approac‘ ed his victim, the
denser seemed to grow the night mist, so that
even when he wished to strike the fatal blow.
he could barely distinguish the form in front of

him.

“Therel dot settle-s youl" the Jew gritted,
kneeling beside his victim. “ Ouohl 0h. mine
Got! I have made a pig mistake. 'As I lift, it
ish Snap! Holy Mosesl vot'vill I do? I half
proken my own nose. Snap! Snap! Open
your eyes, you fool, and dell: me you vasn’t hurt

Vil a t'ousand

at’ail!"
But Snap was st all recall.
Nathan Blob nelt there for some minutes,

nearly dumtounded by the terrible mistake he
had made.

 

.. «4"

“ You ish an imboster. who tries for to sheat me '

.u p. a.“ a... 1.3-2...

. at,  .

"Nana-«Kw -. _,

..,,..

r~1VWAn w ;,

5

 

as“; «Mama. to. 1:. _,

, fishnw no  .. .;

 

 

‘ the pocket, was kept constantly

 

fienver ‘Doll’s Mine. ' \19‘

 

. “It vas too bad,” he muttered, at last. “I

nefler had no more chance to make money off
from poor Snap. Oh! veil, such was life. I
must leaf him here and let him pe found. I vil
fix dis paper on him, und fix der crime on dot
Arizona sharp l" .

From his pocket he took the paper he had in-
dited at the ofiice, and pinned it upon the breast
of the dead man. -

The message was:

“ Revenge is sweet!
“ Anizoru Aw, Joaquin’s Avenger."

“Dot vil fix him so he flirt niit Christie no
more I” the old wretch muttered. as he skurried
away. .

 

From of! a rock gulch there branched a deep,
dark ravine, bare y wide enough to admit of the
passage of two horses abreast. The walls arose
perpendicularly to a great hight, and from this
fissure poured a noisy brook.

Probably not one hunter or pr tor in a
score would have thought of ~w ing up the
stream into this forbidding ravine; yet had they
done so they would, eventually, have debouched
into a little mountain-locked pocket, the bottom
of which covered about an acre’s area.

Here were a number of skin lodges of commo-
dious sine and aboriginal decoration.

It had evidently, some time in the past, been
an Indian encampment, but was now the ren-
dezvous of Denver Doll and her road-a gents, and
aretreat better adapted to their life could hardly
have been found. ,

There were both use and water for their
poli'ses, and game in t e outer gulch was plenti-

u . » .
The mouth of the ravine, where it opened into
ed by two
of the band, so that a surprise was out of the
question.

The largest of the lodges was built on a raised

latform of logs, with awnings around it, mak—
ing it a pleasant lace to sit on asunuy day.

The evening ing damn, however, Denver
Doll was inside her commodious lodge, seated by
crude table, when her lieutenant, George, made
his a pearance.

' “ xcuse me, captain, but there are two par-
ties halted in the ravine, who seek entrance to
the pocket. Iawait your orders.” '

:: gho arelthey, lieutenant!” «

ne 0 i em is the dashin rt Arizona
Alf. The other is a woman.” 8 Spa ’

“.Well and good. Bring them here.”

Fifteen minutes later Arizona and Miss Chris-
tie entered the road-agent queen’s lodge.”

f‘ Excuse _me, lady,” the sport said; “ this is
Miss _Christie, 3 friend of mine. I found her
laboring under the persecutions inflicted by a
tyrannical father. and ventured,~on the strength
of our acquaintance, to bring her here for a few
days’ protection."

“You were uite right. Arizona. Whenever
in need, on now you are welcome to my
camp. iss Christie, I am .glad to have you
come- ' It Won’t seem quite so lonely to have
another Woman in camp. Mr. Arizona here,
is one 01 my best friends, and Lany of his so-

(

 

quain’tances are welcome to my hospitality, I’m
sure.

“Ag; of my friends, you mean,” Arizona
laugh . “Some of my acquaintances might
not be worthy of a welcome here. I will leave
Miss Chrisde in your care 90w, and drop around
again to-inorrow night, perhaps. A word in
private, if you lease, fair captain,” and he led
the way to the 0g veranda, where Denver Doll
followed him. , ‘

Christie’s eyes were afire in an instant, and 1
her cheeks burniu with jealousy, she stole to
the door, pulled as1de the curtain slightly, and
watched them, as they stood conversing in sub«
dued tones.

What thefy said she could not bear, but when
Arizona Al turned to depart, he raised his hat
gracefully to the fair road—queen-—which Chris-
tie remembered, with a jealous pang, he had not
done to her. Perhaps he had forgotten it, but
he had not forgotten to be extra polite iii the
girl outlaw. '

“Idon’t believe I love him. after all,” she
mused, angrily, “and I don’t believe I shall stay
here at al. don"t like this Denver Doll—~l
don't like her. She is too bewitching. Two
thousand dollars? That‘s more money than papa
ever gave me at once, and more than that mean
snob, Snap, would give me. No, indeed! I
won’t forget Mr, La Force’s ( flier.”

Denver Dull soon rte—entered the lodge, and
endeavored to entertain her guest, but found it
a diflicult job, as Miss Christie “as both cynical
and contrary, and inclined to hold herself aloof;
so, after several vain attempts, Doll showed her »'
to another compartment of thy lodge, and bade
her good-night. ,

“ If she is Arizona’s choice," she mused, “ I’ll
bet there’ll be hair-pulling after the honey-
moon. She is a snake-iu-the-grass, or I’m mie
taken. But, however that may be, it’s none of
my business.”

And with this conclusion, she lay down for
the night.

 

CHAPTER XI.
ARIZONA’S ENTRANCE AND EXIT.

ARIZONA ALF went back to Freshet Flats, and
to his room, at the hotel, where he passed the
remainder of the night in slumber. .

Early in the morning, however, he heard
loud cries outside, and looking out of the
window saw a large crowd collected in front
oftglae tavern, all of whom appeared much ex-
cx . .

“ I wonder what’s the wrinkle?” he muttered,
hastily dressing himself. “ Can Denver Dull
have been paying another visit?"

As soon as dressed, he left the ronm; but as he
stepped into the hall, he was suddenly pounced
upon log a. couple of powerful men, and tripped
to the cor, w ere he was bound hand and foot,
in spite 00 his struggles. _ ,

He was then dragged down the stairs, and out
upon the veranda in front of the hotel, where he
was planted upon his feet. . ’

Then, for the first time, he saw the lifeless
form of Apollo Snap, which had been foundand
laid upon the veranda.

The paper was still pinned upon his breast,
and as his eyes fell upon it, Arizona Alf under-

‘ ‘ WfimmmWWMlLfingfiw»Manda-ammunl .35.;

Jam.‘ "as:  .

 

       

so

stood why he was arrested, and his face flushed
with indignation.
“ D’ye see that?” Jean La Force cried, apv
proaching him, and leering evilly into his face.
‘ Ye see that, don’t ye? Yer cussed neck‘s go-
in’ to pay fer that job, or I hain’t got no say
about the matter."
“ I understand the paper intimates that I
committed that murder!" Arizona cried, “ but
I swear I did not do the job. nor do I know who
did. Some enemy has evidently taken this

method of gettin revenged upon me.”
“ Perhaps I di it!” the gambler sneered, sav-

ely.

“I shouldn’t wonder!" was the fearless re—
tort. “ You are none too good to commit any
crime." v

,‘ “Well, you‘ll find out. Weren’t in camp,
last night, I suppose. Nevertheless, you got
back time among to committhis crime. I know
w re you went, also. Did you find the fair
Denver Doll well i”

Arizona‘s lips compressed, and a steely glitter
entered his eyes, but he did not answer.

“Gents!” La Force went on, “there is no
need of having any trial in this case, as it is as
plain as the nose on your face that this felier is
guilty of the murder, aside from the domain
note 0’ braggadocio he left upon the corpse.
believe ye all know, full well, that Arizona an’
Snap were declared enemies! I have instituted
careful inquiries, an‘ can’t find as Snap had an
enemy in the world, aside from this chap.
What evidence d’ye want more conclusive, that
he murdered the harmless young Engiisheri
Then, thar’s another p’int: last night, he eloped
wi’ Blnb’s gal, an” tuk her to the stronghol of
Denver Doll. I overheard the plot, mysolf.
Likely Snap interfered, an’ thus got stuck! ’

A murmur of approval ran through the
crowd. It was evident that they fully believed
in the guilt of J on uin’s Avenger.

Arizona Alf spo e not; indeed, he did not see
any use of speaking. His face was a truth pale,
and his features were set hard, and stern. He
was aware that a terrible trap had sprung on
him, and there was Very little hope for his es-
cape from it.

‘ You see, feller-citizensi” La Force went on,
.“ I don’t say ali'this out 0’ personal spite, for I
really feel sorry for the poor cuss; but lam
your mayor, an'et’s my bizness to speak for
you, the people. It’s a clear case, an’ 1 opiue
we can’t do no better than put the border code
inter eifect. His neck ain’t better‘n hundreds
of others as has received the noose, an’ I motion
we girlt the matter through, in becomin’ shape!”

“ o! no! sdop! I brodesta ud dot! Don’t

ou vas hang him. nadil he ells me Where I
ads my daughter!” exclaimed Nathan Blob.

Arizona smiled mockingiy, for the first time.

“ You want her back, eh?” he questioned.

“Dunder, yeshl Oi! I lose mine Christie, I

go crazy mit der lunatic asylum. I—I—I—“
And the ponderous Jew paused, for want of
power of utterance.
“Well, let me tell you!” Arizona answered.
When the noose shirs around my gullet
your daughter will be a corpse. That's all!”
"Stop! stopi don’d hang him!” Blob yelled,

. ...__.._

Denver Do 1’: Mine.

ened out of his'wits. “ I pay you monish not
to hang him, until I vas get mine Christie
back."

“ I propose," su gested a newly arrived, well-
dressed, and fine- ooking gentleman, “ that we
don’t hang this man, simply on circumstantial
evidence; but, on the other hand, that we give
him a chance for his life by turning state’s-evi-
dence, and delivering up this pack of road-
agents. How does it strike you, gents?"

A loud murmur of approval went up from
the crowd.

“ That’s more like it!" anumber cried.

“ You bet!" chimed in others. “ Give every
dog a show !”

La Force looked disappointed.

“Wei, we’ll hev to see about it," he growled.
“I aln’t in favor o’ givin’ a murderer no show
at all. I All in favor o the motion suggested sing
on

A shout pealed forth that was almost unani-
mous.

“ S’pose we‘ll have to give him a chance,
then,” the gambler announced, with an oath.
“ Arizona Alf, you‘ve got tiii sunset to make up
yer mind whether you‘ll accept the noose or lead
an armed party to Denver Doll’s‘retreat !”

The Avenger answered not. A faint smile
hovered upon his lips; otherwise his features
were immovable, and their expression was hard
to interpret.

"’ The next thino is a good, strong room to
store the cuss ini”lI4a Force said.

“ I bat! got shust der ding!" Blob cried. “ I
fixed it up ast night on burpose toshut up mine
Christie in, so she don‘d vould esca
fetch der brisoner, and I dakes care 0
pet!

“ Reckon you’ll have to give bail for his safe
keeping, old gent,” one miner interposed, and
the sentiment was generally echoed.

“ Vei, den, I if der mayor a t’ousand dollar
for security," lob said. “ Pring along der
brisoner.”

Arizona’s feet were unloosened, and with a re—
volver pressed to either temple, he was forced
to walk to the Blub residence, and into a room
upstairs, the windows of which had been bar-
red like a prison.

Here his hands and feet were doubly bound,
and the door was locked upon him.

Old Nathan. in his office, paid the thousand
dollars to La Force, and the crowd de arted.

Not long after, the Jew entered 3 house,
locked the doors, and ascended to the room
tiivlvhere Arizona was half reclining upon the

our.

“ Veil, how you veel?" he chuckled. “ Don’d
like id, somedimes, eh?" '

“ Oh, it does very well,” Arizona retorted.

“ ,But you vas foolln’ apoud mine shiid, Chris
tie.‘

“ Nary a time. If I swing she swings.”
"S’posin‘ she get free?"

“ Impossible.”

“ Vel, den, you gif up the road-agents to deu'
shustice.”

" I hope to never breathe again if I do i"

“ Vot! You hang first?”

“ You bet."

. Yust
him, you

 

frantically, as he danced up and down, fright-

Blob put up his hands in horror.

 

.3”.

:3.-. M

 

“ You vas crazy!" he declared. “You don‘d
know vhot on says.”

“ Queer, f I don’t!" Arizona returned. “ One
thing is patent—it will be a cold day that I be-
tray Denver Doll. The girl is doing right. She
should have her own; and I don‘t blame her for
raising thunder till she gets it. As for myself.
I am innocent of the murder, and I’ll die game
before I'll make another the tool by which I
purchase my liberty.”

The speech seemed to have some little im-
pression upon the Jew, for he was silent for sev-
eral minutes.

“ Den you vas like mine schild?" he finally
asked.

fl Yes.”

“ Und she likes on?"

“ I flatter my‘ f she does.”

“ Vel, she alvays vas a headstrong girl. I
don’d know vot vil pecome mit her. Now, sup~
posin’ I vas to gif Em your liberty—vould you
gif ire pack my so la and neffer bodder us no
more?”

“ No, I would not. More, I would not accept
my liberty at your hands."

“ Den you vil die like von dog, und I vil run
der risks of recoverin' my Christie.” ,

“ So be it l" was the calm response.

In a. rage the Jew turned to leave the room.
when, to his horror, he found himself confronted
by no less a personage than Denver Doll.
who held a pair of six-shooters leveled full
upon him.

” Halt, Mister Israel!” she commanded. “ It
you stir, except when directed, or utter a peep,
I’ll put, a bu let right through your big corpo-
rosit !

“ beg! don’d shoot! I do yust vat you dells
me—only don’d shoot!”

“ Very well. Unbind that man!”

" Py shimminyl vot you mean? He escape
den 1"

“ Exactly! Unhind him i"

“ But, my dear young vimmens, 03 he escape
I lose so mooch as a t’ousand dollars!”

“Do you hear me? Unbind him, I say!” the
road-agent queen cried, so sharply that Blob
jumped to do her bidding. _

In a few seconds Arizona Alf was free of his
bonds and stoodorect.

“ Now, then, Blobsy, dish over what cash you
have about your person and we will leave you i"
Doll ordered. “ No hesitation, or—pop, and
over you go!” ,

In despair, the Jew handed over his well-filled
pookethook. which Doll accepted in a very
matter-of-tact way.

"Now. the key to this room, please," she said.

" Voti You ain‘t goin’ to lock me 00p!”

“ J ust that. Shollout!”

The ugly chambers of the revolvers glared so
menacineg at the Jew that he obe ed.

In a moment more be was lock in his own
prison room, while Doll and Arizona were en.
route out of Freshet Flats, by the underground
passage, the secret of which was known only to
them. . ’ ‘

The passage came out in a clump of bushes
at the edge of the creek, and had probahlv at

Denver Doll's Mine. ‘ i 2!

A

Once outside of it, the two adventurers bad
no difficulty in skulking out of sight of the
town without discovery, whom, in a little hid-
den bear’s cave in the mountainside, the hand-
some horse of the queen of the road was so-
crefed.

“ You have saved my life!” Arizona re-
marked. “ How can I ever repay you 2”

“No pay is needed. I count on asaman
who would be willing to do me a avor, were I
in need. Therefore, I do not care even to be
thanked. Will you return to the retreat?”

“ No; not if I can find a disguise in your half-
way den here?”

“ Yonder, beneath that bowlder, are a num-
ber belonging to my men. I will wait here un-
til dark. I have a new racket on foo ”
Arizona was but a few minutes in disguising
himself, after Which be set out for the mining-
camp equipped as a prospector.

Just about sunset that night, no less a person-
age than Nathan Blob mi ht have been seen
tearing madly along towar the Satanello, with
his but 01!, and pufling and panting like a por-
poxse.

A crowd had collected by the time he reached
the gambling—house, and stared at him in aston-
ishment.

“What in thunder is the matter?” La Force
demanded, savagely. “Has the cuss escaped?”

“ Yes! yes! Gif me my t’onsand dollar—git
me mine t’ousand dollar! I ain‘t aflord to lose
dot l” the Jew spluttered.

"I’vea mind to give you a bullet through
your cussed head i" the gambler vociferated.
“ How did he escape? Out with it i”

“Vy, dot vimniens, Denver Doll, she got in
mit der house, und say, 011’ I don’d was set him
free she put you bullet throu h me. I was
’traid she vould, so I had to o it. Den dei
robbed me und look me mit der room in, and
just at end.”

“ his is a thunderin’ note!” La Force shouted,
as he started with a number of others to visit
the Jew’s house. There they found that the
Jew had not lied.

Poor Blob! '

The losses of cash he had sustained that day
nearlly broke his heart, and he mourned inces-
sant y.

CHAPTER XII.
A are scans.

THAT night, as usual. the nighiifiang of miners
descended into Denver Dolls 'ne, while the
day gang were brought up, and weuded their
waly honieward. ’

his mine, like the general run of minesrof its
class, descended on a gradual slant from _its
mcuth, and a rude car was made, together with
accompanying track, for hauli the debm as
well as the precious ore out of t e bowe  the
earth, the power being furnished by a s mug of
burros.

The miners, therefore, used the car as a means
of transportation in and out of the tunnel.

At the mouth of the Drift was a little office,

 

some previous period been a subterranean "wa-
tel-course. ,

from which the laborers received their pay.
. Jean In Force at in this office during the

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22 ‘ I Denver Doll’- mm.

 

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evening engaged in smoking and chatting with
his right-hand man, Ben E ye, when there came
a rap at the door.

Opening it, he beheld to his astonishment, the
night gang, who had gone in a couple of hours
before, huddled together like a flock of sheep,
and bearing every appearance of having ex-
perienced a severe fright.

“ What the mischief is the matter? Why are
you all out here!” the gambler demanded
angrily, it occurring to him that they might
have organized a strike.

The miners exchanged glances; then one old
gray-bearded veteran, named Uncle Eph Paine,
advanced and said:

*“You’ll excuse us, boss, but we all allow we
don’t hear to work in the mines any longer—
especially of nights."

“ Why not? What the thunder-ls got into
you, ray?”

“ aal, ye see, we’ve most all seen sum purty
hard scrapes, but we allow we don’t keer about
workin’ whar thar’s ghosts.”

“ Ghost: 1""

“Yes, you bet! Leave it to the boys of we
didn’t all see the reg’lar, bona- de ghost, right
in the mine, an’ at pointed a she eton finger at us,
rattled its bones, and perlitely invited us to skip.
We skipped.”

La Force laughed.

‘“ Why, ’ you Clinlall idiots, you’re crazy!
There’s no each thing as ghosts l” v

“ There is," Uhcle Eph declared. “ Ef ye
don‘t believe it, 0 an’ see fer yerself. We’ll all
dare ye to go! h, boys?”

The “ boys " gave a chorus of assent.

 

If there was one thing La Force prided him-

self on more than another, aside from card-play-
ing, it was for bravery. No matter though he
got whipped in a “scrimmage,” he or ued that
it did not lessen his courage in the' east, and
many of his encounters went to show that this
was the case.
‘ To be dared by his own employees to enter a
dark, forbidding underground chamber, where
they claimed to have seen a ghost, was some-
thing he had not expected, and for the moment
he did not know hardly what to say or do.

To not accept the challen 9 would certainly
show him up in a coward y light, to his dis-
credit, and would also have the effect to lessen
the lchances of getting the men to go back to
wor .

“ Pshawi I'd just like the fun of such a thing,
to show you what a pack of idiots ou are,” he
exclaimed, with'a forced laugh. “ nd me one
of your lights, and I‘ll go down and see what
lump of rock has frightened you.”

Uncle Eph chu , led as he handed over his own

lam .

' “get you’ll come back wi’ yer ha’r standin’
on endg’ he remarked. Shall We let ye down in
the car, hose?" < '

“No! I’ll walk down the incline and back.
You fellows can consider yerselvosdocked for
time, while I‘m gone."

1 Putting on a bold front he entered the month
of the drift, and strode down the track, appar-
ently as fearless. as a lion. - -- /

 

In lively anticipation of the result, the miners
gathered about the mouth of the mine and wait-
ed Efficiently.

is footsteps were soon inaudible, and the
light died out. leaving blank darkness behind
1m.

Two—three—five minutes elapsed—then a
sound, like the smothered report of a pistol,
reached the heariu of the watchers. This was
followed by severe others.

"‘ He's havin’ a skirmish wi’ the host!" Uncle
Eph averred. “ Wonder how heli es ’eml”

Two minutes later Jean La Force came run-
ning up the drift, puflng and panh'ng like a
frightened runaway horse.

His lantern and hat were‘ gone, and his face
was near as white as the immaculate bosom 0
his shirt. '

He didn’t speak until he reached the office,
where he sunk down on the steps from sheer ex-
haustion.

“ Waal, did ye see that ghost?" queried Uncle
Eph, with a malicious grin.

“ See it?—of course I saw it, you fool. Why,
cuss my bOOts, I hadn’t hardly got into the ac-
cursed hole before I See’d it acomin’ for me. I
drew my revolvers an’ let drive, but the more I
fired the faster it came fer me, until I was
obliged to turn an' run. Boys, what the deuce
is it

“' That’s what I wenter know before we go
on ag’in,” one of the miners answered. “ ’Tain’t
pleasant to have a. spook fer a gang boss.”

“ Curse it, thar’s no each thing as hosts,
boys. It‘s some one fixed up—a plot of enver
Doll‘s, maybe, to get possession of the mine.”

“ You count yerself a good pistolrshot, don’t
ye, boss?"

“ Of course 1”

“ Well, how (2’ e account fer a human swal-
lerin’ six bullets

La Force looked grim.

“Cursed if I know,” he returned. “Jest ye
go home, out come back in the morning, and go
to work. Not a word of this to the other gang.’
I’ll give ’em night tour to-morrow night.“

This was more than agreeable, for the men
were eager to learn how the other gang would
succeed with his ghostship.

So, for the remainder of that-night, the vicin-
ity of the mine was deserted.

If Jean La Force had depended on keeping
the matter hushed up, he was great] disap-
pointed, for the following morning t e town
was alive with the report that DenVer Doll’s
Drift was haunted by a genuine ghost, that had
scared of! even the boss himself.

. Great excitement prevailed, and the street
was alive with curious people who discussed
the probabilities and improbabilities of super-
natural visitations.

The day gang flatly refused to go to Work un-
til the matter was cleared up, and La Force‘s
threats and entreatiee had no effect. .

“ I’ll give a hundred dollars to the five men
who will go into the mine and solve the mat-
ter!” he cried. (“My opinion is that a trick is
being played on usl” ,

“ yars one as ain’t skeert. I’m ready. pan-
out yer others!” roared Sunflower Sam.
“ Never uee’d the ghost yet as could skeer me.”

I wvr..‘.$mfil‘bflmmwqu I 1.1m“, ,. ,

“L.

;.
,2
.
‘.
9:
é'
,.
a
.
7.

 

 

 

 

 

1,

~ 5.9».—

Denver Doll’s Mine; I i 23

And the giant aesthete appeared to mean just
what he sai .. ,

Four more men soon Volunteered after the
aesthete gave the impetus. *

" Fork over your lucre, now,” Sam said, “ and
we’re 011’. Cash before delivery, in this case.”

Realizing the necessity of getting his men to
work, La Force did not object, but promptly
handed out the cash, andthe five adventurers
started into the mine. * ,

The descent down the drift was made in quick
order, and they found themselves in the cham-
ber of the mine where the gangs had been at
work. Although they had brought lanterns
along, they ha ‘ ot lighted them, preferring to
see if his ghosts ip would make himself mani-
fest through the Stygian gloom.

They stood for some minutes, with their re—
volvers ready for use, but nothing of the spook--
ish order appeared to their vision.

Then, at a word from Sunflower Sam, they
shot the slides upon their lanterns, and the
chamber was illuminated in every part.

“ Nary a' host here!” the aesthete declared.
“Still we w‘ 1 make a clam search, an’ see that
thar ain’t no hidin’~places."

A thorough search deVeloped the fact that.
there was no place where a human ghost could
hide, nor was there any sign of any super-
natural being to be found.

The explorers therefore ' left the mine, and
delivered their report. Consequently, the day
gang went to work, and were not frightened
out, as the night gang had been.

A guard was also stationed at the mouth of
the mine to, prevent the possibility of any hu-
man agency gaining access and playing the
freak of the previous night.

CHAPTER XIII.
A'REMARKABLE INTERRUPTION,
’ THAT day, as Arizona was loungingr in, his
miner’s disguise upon the veranda of the shanty
hotel, he saw an old, age-frosted pilgrim hob-
bling along down thevstreet, with the aid of a.
stalf. /
It was the same man whom Denver Doll had
met in the gulch, who had called her his daugh«

 

ter. 4
The Arizonian’s keen eyes glittered, as the
old man came nearer, end his teeth went to-

gether with so distinct a click, thnt he turned to

see if the sound had been noticed by a. red-
whiskered pilgrim who sat on the veranda, but
a little way on. . ‘

The lgrim, however, eVldently was absorbed
in log a newspaper.

“At last!” Arizona Alf muttered, in under
his breath. “11' I am not greatly in error, here
is my lastvictim but one, in avenging poor J oa-
quin! Ah! how 1 have wiped them out, though,
the dogsl” ,. ,

The old man slowly drew near the hotel, his
every mavement denoting {sameness and fa»

ti . . r
gll‘lhe steps leading to the veranda of the hotel
seemed to havean inviting aspect to him, for
he paused. looked at them, and than hobbled to-
ward them; - - .
Arizona was by his side, in an instant, and

 

' caught him gently by the arm. - >

‘ “ Excuse me, pard,” he said, “ but you look
worn out. Let me be] you to a seat.”

And he assisted old euben Morse to his own
chair upon the veranda, and going into the bar,
brou ht him out a glass of brandy.

“ hankeel thankeel” theold man murmured.
“ Mebbe that will help me to a little more
strength, tho’ I seldom use it.”

After he had partaken of the stimulant, he
did, in truth, seem to be somewhat revived,
and when the Avenger came back and seated
himself near by, he said: r

“ Well, I must thankee again, stranger. I’m
getting to be an old man, an’ I ortn’t be joggin’
around the country the way I am. S’pose this
is Freshet Flat-s, eh?”

“Yes, this is Freshet Flats.

“ No.
{rind 9’ think I’ll meet an old friend, here, per-

la . ’ "

Going further!”

I think I’ll tarry here, a-iew days, I ;

“Indeed? That will be good. What is the 7

name?”

“Me? Oh! I’m Reuben Morse, formerly of 1

Denver, but new, from nowhere in particu.
lar.”

might be able to help you to find him.” , §
“ That’s so. M ueh obleeged, but ye see, I
don’t know exactly vs but he might be called
hynrahouts.
every place he goes.
he called hisself Sunflower Se [11.” ,
“ Ah, then he is here. He has a shanty and a;

“Aha! but I mean your friend's name? I .

He ginerally has a new name for ,,
Last time I heard 0’ him, ,1

claim down the gulch, but I believe he‘s 01$ ,for -

a hunt to-day, and won’t be home till dark. 1f . I ‘y

you like, since you’re so old, I’ll show you where
he lives, to—night.”

“ You are very kind, sir.
an acquaintance so friendly. 1 will accept of
your offer, and in the moan time I think I’ll hire
a room in the hotel, and rest until it is time to

0.

5‘ Certainly.
with me.”o

And the Avenger led the we
and had the best bedroom p ced at the ol
Wanderer’s convenience.

I will secure one for you. Come

It is seldom I meet I

w,

into the hoteli 

“ I can afford to do this,” he, said. “My re. 

ward will come to-night. I know i"

Night came on, and about sunset, old Reuben .;
Morse appeared upon the veranda, where Ari- 

lama once more sat smoking a cigar.

“ Well, my good friend,” the old man said, “ 1 
Rel much rested, and am ready to go in search ;.

of my'old friend.”

“Don’t he in a hurry,” the Avenger re~ ,'

sponded. “Take a seat. Sunflower Sam, I

dare say, won’t be back until moon-up, and ’ '

we'll start in good season to catch him at home.
I so pose you are an old veteran in mining.

here?"

“ Oh, it looks like a lively town,_Wi‘ promise 0’ 1 .-_ 4
to]! ye, boy, _

growth!” was the answer. . “ But I
California used to bathe boss mineral State, an

W‘th do you think of our Lilliputian Eldorado, 

ibis at, for thatmatter."  j

“ hl then you’ve roughed it there?”

“Ah, yes, for a, number of
mining life pretty Well, o’er ar." , / \ ,-

“ I suppose they used, to [have some pretty
rough timesover there?’ - , .. _

.  gr.

'sfis 1,434.... l.‘ J. ‘

 . meow—ism, firming-“J

ears-i. Know the 

  sag... ab:

r Mi:

*  wrest... ~

  

 

24 Denver Doll’- Mine.

 

“ Reokon as how they did. S’pose ye might
o’ heard 0’ that footpad, Joaquin Muriete. He
war a tough customer, an' made himself a ter-
ror. But I tell ya we roped him in at last, an’
put an end to his serous.”

“ I have heard of his tragic fate.” the Avenger
said, averting his face to conceal its revengeful
expression. “ I presume there’s few living who
had a hand in entrapping him, and bringing him
to his death?”

"Well, I reckon not. I guess I’m about the
only one—though I didn’t take no direct part.
l've hearn tell that thar‘s some chap what is
a-killiu’ 0!! all who knew an :thing about the job,
no matter whether they hal any hand in it or
not. He must be a cussed fool. Joaquin Muri-
cte was a. red-handed assassin and no Justice
could give him his just deserts, I tell you! ’

Arizona did not reply, but, to conceal his agi-
tation, arose and entered the hotel.

There was a dark, malignant expression upon
his face, and his eyes gleamed wildly. It was a
remarkable change that came over him—a
change, as it were, from the (locility of a lamb
to the rage of a lion.

He kept himself aloof from the wanderer, un-
til it was quite dusky, and the moon bid fair to
pop up from behind the horizon: then, he went
out upon the veranda.

“ Well, I gnem we’ll walk down to your
friend’s shant , now,” he remarked, “ and see if
he‘s returned rom the hunt. Are you ready?”

“ Yes, I’m ready, tbankeel” was the reply.

They descended into the street, and Arizona
led the way across the Flats, toward the Rapid
Creek, which, now swollen by the recent rains in
the mountains, roared loudly.

In due time they reached the big tree, where
the Avenger had met Christie Bob. Here they
paused, and Arizona faced his victim.

The tree was far enough from the camp that
aloud cry Would not be likely to attract atten-
tion.

“ Why do you stop here?” Old Rowen asked,
gazing at the swifth rushing waters.

“ For a purpose,” was the stern reply. Ren-
ben Morse, do you know whyVI have brought
you here?”

“ No. Why?” asked the old man, quickly.

“ To fulfill a long made! oath!” was the an-
swer.

“I am Joaquin’s Avenger, and you are the
one of two that remain before my vengeance is
complete. I do not indand to strike you down
like a dog, on account of your age, but give you
a show for your life."

“ I am too old to flght;'have merczeuipon me.
I never did any one a. wrong—ind . , I did
not.

“It matters not!” was the stern reply. “I
swore to avenge Joaquin’s rle'ith. and nothing
can keep me from mv purpose. You must fight
or I will strike you down i”

,“ Will you?” V ,

It was not the old man who said this: it was
lileuver Doll who leaped forward through the
3 mm. x

“ The devil!" escaped Arizona’s lips. “ What
brings you he 9?" , / ‘

To defend my old father, sir. against the
attack of a vampire!” was the stinging retort.

“I thought on a man, Arizona Alf, but you
are a cowar and a coyote! If there’s an fight-
ing to be done, allow me to inform you t at I ’ll
take a hand in it myself!”

Arizona Alf did not answer for a moment, for
he was too much surprised. He had had no idea
of Reuben Morse being the father of Denver
Doll, or of being in any way related to her.

And, too, the words uttered by the queen of the
road—agents stung him to the quick, for he real
imd that she was’dend in earnest. and regarded
him as a man of little more account than a typi-
cal ruflian of the mines.

“ You probably do not understand this mat~
ter!” he finally said. “ If this man is your
father, he was concerned in the killing of Jon-
quin Muriete in California some years ago, and
as I registered an oath to kill every individual
who was concerned in Joe uin’s death, I am
sorry of this, for your sake, at I cannot break
my vow for any person’s sake.”

“ But, I rather opine you will care, if you at-
tempt to harma hair of his head. I have ot
the drop on you, and you know the style 0 a
girl I am too well, I dare say. If you demand
satisfaction, I ain’t afraid to meet you, even
though I am but a girl. You shall never touch
my father."

“ You are foolish!" the Avenger said. “ I
never could bring myself down to fight a
woman. nor do I want to fight you. met us
adjourn this affair until some other tim ."

“ Not much! It has got to be settled to-ni ht.
You have got to promise upon your hope 0 nu
after life, that you Will never attempt to harm
my father.”

‘ I shall promise nothing of the kind."

“Then, sir, vou and I shall settle this here
and now!” Doll declared, with stem resolution
in her line face.

The moon had just up red over the moun-
tain crest, and shot a me low ray of light over
the girl‘s determined face. .

“My child! my child! do not quarrel with
this terrible man. Let him kill me, and have
done With it!" Old Reuben cried in tremulous
tones.

“Silence!” was the quick reply. " I am not
afraid of him. I have not been a wandering
outcast for nothing. What have you to say,
Sir Avenger?"

“ I believe it is unnecessary to say much!”
the Arizonian replied, his tones cynical and cut-
tin . v

‘gYou choose to represent your father. whom
it is my purpose to slay. I «shoot break my
vow—consequently, you must .take the conse—
quences, or ."

They then crept toward each other, their
hands holding the instrument of death in a firm
clutch .

Eye to eye, face to face, they drew nearer to
each other. then, when nearly within arm's
length. began to move around on uard, watch-
ing each other with lynx-like nteniuty, and
studying for an opportunity to leap forward

and strike a telling blow, without incurring one '

in return.
A spectator, familiar with the peculiar style

 

 

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“ All’s fair?" Doll said, intarrogatively.

“ All’s fair!” was the re 1y.

The next instant the lade Denver Doll had
held, struck the left side of the Avenger.

Arizona endeavored to leap forward at her,
but could not. He staggered, then fell to the
ground, with a faint groan.

Doll sprung forward and said:

“ You will not die. I simply aimed with the
intent to lay you out. By the time you will have
recovered, my father and I Will be far from
here, I trust.”

“ Will you? Well, perhaps you may be!” a
hoarse voxce exclaimed, in her ear, and turning
she beheld Jean La. Force but a, few steps awa ,
holding a pair of revolvers leveled at her. “ a
but my beauteous road-agent, I happen to have
the drop on on, now!”

“ And, 01 chestnuts, I’ve got a couple 0’ pops
p’intin' straight at your area!" another voice
cried, and out from behind the tree scooted
Little IBill, a gleaming pair of self-cookers in his
grasp

La Force gave a startled glance around, and
instantly comprehended that he was in bad
company, and there was little show for him; so
he dropped his weapons, and ran like a deer to-
ward the camp. .

“ Don’t flre, Bill!” Doll cried. “There’ll be
an alarm quick enough I”

“ 0h! jest let me plug him in the spine, fer
luck, Dollbabyl"

“No! I say 1" she warned. “See that these
men are both properly cared for, because I
must get out of this quickly. Did you get the
machinery?”

, “ Yes. It’s on the road.”

“ Good. We‘ll be ready for it, when it comes,
I fancy. I’m 01!, now.”

And before more could be said, she was speed-
ing away, up the bank of the stream.

he was not wrong.

While Bill was dashing some water into the
faces of the two men—for Arizona had also
fainted—Jean Ia Force came running 'up, with
half a dozen others.

“ Where’s the gal?” he roared.

“ Dunno l" Bill replied, daruutlessly. “ She
told me to take care 0’ these tellers, an’ then

skipfi.”
‘ ich direction, you cussed little imp of
Satan?’

“ Down-stream!” Bill lled,with a placidity
that was unpardouable.

“ Darn ye, you‘re the cause 0’ her escape!"
the mbler yelled, and he gave the boy a terri-
ble low hesxde the head, that sent him spin-
mu to the ground, deprived of his senses.

‘ ow, boys, some 0’ you take the two chaps
back to camp, an’ the rest 0’ us will give
Chggtterlet’ la here in:

em an a hull 0’ us bin
in,” one of the gang {suggested » J
‘ Then come along."

They rushed away down the stream like a
pack of hounds on the scent of game. v

They were hardly out of hearing when Arizona
Alf recovered from his faint, and raising upon
his elbow, took in his surroundings.

I' I‘m not rounded to the death, it seems,” he
muttered. If I can walk I must get away

“ WWW. the”... "www- ~ ’

25

from here. There's old Morse lying there like a

.log," but I’ll not kill him now because the girl

was merciful to me. Hello! the kid'is here too!
The roughs must have been here, and gone in
pursuit of Denver Doll. I must get away before
they return, or it will be all up with me, I '
allow."

He found, upon experimenting, that he could
stand upon his feet, which convinced him that
his wound was not exactly dangerous.

After arisin and gaining his e uilibrium
fully, he found imself able to walk s owly, and
thus managed to get away from the vicinit of
the old tree, where he had near] reee ved
the fate he came there to accomp ish for an-
other.

Shortly after his departure, Little Bill recov-
ered. and scooted away toward the camp“

“ Reckon I’m in luck that they didn’t chuck
me into the creek!” he muttered. “Guess I
better lie low till La Force moules his temper.”

He had hardly gone, when Reuben awakened
from his faint and gazed wonderingly around
him.

“ Can it have been a horrid dream?” he asked.
“No! yonder are the lights of the camp. Oh!
where are they? What has become of my
child? Can the Avenger have murdered her,
and cast her into the stream? No! something
tells me she has escaped. 1 will go back to the
camp, and if she is not there, 1 shall be satisfied
that she is safe.”

And he, too, hobbled away from the vicinity
of the tree.

When La Force and his gang came back from
their fruitless search, accordingly, they found
no one.

“ Cuss me of the gal hasn‘t got more lives than
a cat 1” the gambler exclaimed. “ But never
mind! I’ll trap her yet!”

And the unsuccessful party went back to the
Satancllo.

 

CHAPTER XIV.
A nooun’s END. -

As Uncle Reuben did not find Arizona Alf,
he felt assured of Doll’s safety, and put up at
the hotel for the night.

On the following morning he went forth upon
the street, and almost the first man he met was
_Su111flower Sam, and the two shook hands famil-
iar v. -

“You see I came, an’ hev been waitin’ fer ye.
Writ ye at Mottsville, but got no ans'er," the
giant exclaimed.

“ ’Ca’se I started soon arter you. Lost my
horse back a piece, and had to hoof it. Any
news?" ’

Samuel winked. ..

“ Call me a crosseyed Oscar. ef thar ain’tl”
he afiirmed, softly. “ As I told ye, that game
arriv’. It’s beer, an’ all that remains is to cor-
ral it? extort a confession, an‘ then has it. D’ye
savv

Morse nodded.

“Isee, Isee. Youaresure?”

“ As a sermon. See that roost?” and he indi-
cated the Blob residence. ~

“Y n

 

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Have you made up your mind to extort the con-
fessionl"

H Yes."

“ If he refuses?"

“I'll kill him by inches?”

The old man spoke with a vim that was indis-
putable. ‘

“ I have suffered enough through that man,”
he went on, “ and I moan to put the matter to
the test, since, through you, I have learned the
truth.”

“ Have you seen your child i"

“ I met her in the mountains, and again last
night.”

“ Then you know that she is an outlaw?”

“ Great Heaven! no!”

Sunflower Sam went on and explained the
case as well as he knew how.

“ My poor child,” Reuben Morse groaned,
when he was done. “ I am the innocent cause
of all this. But there may be a brighter lining
yet to liven up these clouds. that would you
advise?”

“ That you visit Blob at once, and come down
to business. About the time I think all’s ready,
I'll drop in and arrest him.”

They talked for a while lon er, and then the
withete made his way tower the hotel, while
Reuben Morse sought the chic-9 of the Jew.

Blob was in, engaged in counting some
money, and looked up in surprise at the bare«
headed old man, whom it was plain he did not
reco nize.

“ el, vot you vant?" he demanded, as Reuben
helped himself to a seat. “ I but! no monish to
git to beggars today."

“ No one has asked you for aims, Nathan Blob,”
was the stern answer. “ We’ve business more
important to transact. Do you recognize me?”

‘ I t’ink I do!" was the reply. “ You are
Reuben Morse, don’d it?”

“I am Reuben Mirsc. Do you remember. a
number of months agoanearly two years now—
an event that happened?"

“ Oh, yesh—I understand now. Your girl,
she go to get married, und some von shoots her
husband!"

‘1‘"Exactly. Do you remember what follow-

“ Shimminy, yes! Your daughter she ac so
you of! doin’ der business, und clear oud. ot
was had.”

“ Yes: a happy home Was broken up, and father
and child went adrift on the world. Do you
know who committed the murder?"

“ No; I know noddlnks apout dot.”

“ Well, you see, this man who was killed was
adored by another. and he had once been be—
trothed to her. The girl was a Jewish maiden,
and when Walraven’s engagement to my daugh-
ter became known, the Jewish family were furi—
ous, and swore he should regret the dis race his
chan e of choice had reflected upon t e Jew’s
dang ter. The girl's father, therefore, with his

* plenty of old, hired a worthless vagabon'l to
assassinate alraven at the altar. You, Nathan
Blob, are the man who hired the deed done! This
tee] died, and left a confession later of what
otherwise might have been a life mystery!”

“ You lie! you lie l—id vas all a lie!"

N “ No, it is not! The man who received the se-

 

em. we;

cret is in this camp—a detective at that: I do
not proggse to let you escape. Sit down to that
table. ail to obey me, and I will put an end to
you as sure as I am a desperate man!”

Nathan Blob knew better than to disobey, so
he sat down at the table again, where he had
been seated on Morse’s entrance.

“ Vot you vants?” the Jew roared. “ I hafl
no time to fool mit you. You vas a grazy luna-
tic, und I don’t vant you here."

“I dare say not. You'll find out how crazy I
am. Get a piece of paper, and write out a con-
fession.”

“A vet?” ,

“A confession. Mind, no trifling! , Write
out the confession, stating that Reuben Morse is
innocent of any conspiracy or attem t to mur-
der one Walter Walraven. and that t e murder
was committed by you, through an accomplice,
for sake of revenge.”

“ You (links I ’f mineself avay like dot?” the
Jew howled. “ ell, I guess you must dink I
vas a foo .” I

“ So you are, to think I w111 tolerate any more
trifling."

“ I o yoost vot you say."

“ Then go ahead 1"

Seizing a pen, the Israelite began writln
slowly, and at the end of twenty minutes hande
the confession to Reuben Morse.

It was penned in a scrawling hand, and read
as follows, in very crude English as to ortho-
graphy, but explicit enough in meaning:

“ Fansnm Furs, Sept. -.
“This shall certify that I, the subscriber. wish to
vindicate one Reuben Morse from all blame about the
death of one Walter Walraven. because he dldn‘t
do the deed. It was done by another man, who was
hired by me. I got my revenge on that son-of—n-
gun. bet your life. NATHAN Bwa.”

“That will answer,” Morse assented. “ It
will heal the breach between my daughter and
myself, and perhaps there may be some happi-
gessmyet for our lives. I will bid you good-

3V

At this junclure the door opened, and Sun-
flower Sam entered, jingling a pair of hand-
cufls in his graspb

“Nattie, old y, you’re my meat!" he said,
with an awful smile. ” Sorry to have to act
against so generous a friend, but you see the fact
is, I'm an ofllcer of the law—me an’ my dorg,
J urispudence—an’ it becomes my duty to in—
form you that I have a warrant for your arrest
for being a party to a murder!"

“ Ish dot so? Vel, yonst tell mine Christie I
leave all to her. if I die!” And with a sudden
and unexpected movement, he sprung over the
table and out of the door.

Up the gulch he ran with wonderful speed for
a man of his avoirdupois, and behind him sped
the giant.

“ Stop, durn ye. in the nameyof the law!” Sam
thundered, “ or I’ll put a bullet through you
quicker‘n a cat can say catechism I”

But Blob paused not. He was making a life
run of it: but it was to his sorrow.

Sam stopgad for a moment and his pistol
gleemed in t a sunlight—then there was a sham

     

 

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report, and the Jew dropped like a log, never to
rise again.

The detective‘s unerring shot had done the
work for the old rogue.

The tragedy created considerable excitement
for an hour or so, but when Sunflower Sam ex-

lained, and showed the badge of his profession,

lob‘s death was regarded as little more than an
every-day occurrence, and his big. body was
“planted” by the side of that of his own vie
tim, Apollo Snap. '

CHAPTER XV.
LITTLE BILL’s BIG nose.

SINCE the escape of Denver Doll Little Bill had
kept himself pretty closely in hiding, for he
knew that, should he expose himself, he would
be seized for abetting the girl road-agent’s escape.

Today, however, he ventured forth upon the
street, and almost the first man he encountered
was J can La Force, who was unusuallly savage,
over dissipation and gambling losses the pre
vious night.

“ Oho! so Pve got you, you youn rascal, have
I?” he cried. clutching the urchin y the shoul-
der. “ Yen‘re the very rooster I want. D’ye
know‘what I’m goin’ to do?"

And he changed his hold and caught Bill by
one of his rather large ears.

“ Ouch! Let up now!” the boy yelled. “ Ef
you don’t I’ll be your last sickness.’

At a wink from La Force one of his cronies
came up and seized Bill’s hands from behind.

“ See here! that ain’t no fair!” the boy pro—
tested. “ You fellers ain’t afeard of a little
chap like me, I hope?”

“Course not; but ’3 nothin’ like makin‘
sure of an eel afore ye s in him!" the gambler
assumed, as he drew his knife and felt at its

edge.

“Now, younlier, I’ll tell you jest what’s
what. You tell me where the al, Denver Dell,
has got her stronghold, or 0 come one if yer

rs!

Little Bill shuddered. He doubted not that
the brute would do as he had threatened, for
there was certainly evil enough in his depraved
heart to commit any crime.

“ I don’t know, sir. She don’t let me know
where she ban out. That’s honest Injunl"

“ Git eoutl ell me, lsay.”

“ I don’t know i”

“D’ye hear? No hangin’ back. Spill out, or
oi! comes yersousel”  ,

“ I‘ve told you I didn’t know. You’d better
not hurt me, Jean La Force.”

“ And why not?" «

“ Because ou’ll get payed back, two ter one i”

The gamb er uttered a hoarse, evil laugh, that
betrayed all the roman instincts of his nature.

“ Then ye won’t tell where Denver Doll can be
found?" he repeated.

“ No!” Bill replied. with heroic pluck. “ Hang
you, I wouldn’t if I knew i”

The next instant there was a shrill scream of
pain, and the boy darted toward the hotel,
while La Force stood holding the severed car.

No effort was made to apprehend La Force—-
indeed. few in Freehet Flats would have dared
tackle him.

And he seemed sullenly guilty over his brutal

as

 

crime, for he skulked about, here and there. and
drank heavily, so that by noon he was fairly
stupefied with liquor, and staggered away to-
ward his usual napping place under the shade of
the tree by the creek, where he lay down and
was soon oblivious of everything.

Little Bill did not remain uiet long, but was
soon out on the street again, is mind fully made
up to have revenge.

It did not take him long to learn the where~
abouts of his enemy, and he crept over to the
tree, only to perceive that the gambler was ly—
ing there in the shade, sleeping oif the effects of
the liquor he had drank.

Going back to the camp, the youthful avenger
procured a lasso and some cords, after which he
returned to the tree.

Setting to work with the caution of a fox. he
succeeded in binding the gambler’s hands and
feet, without amusing him.

He next got the noose of the lasso about his
neck, under the chin, and threw the other end
up over a limb of the handy tree.

Seizing hold of it, he braced himself against
the tree, and pulling with all his might, suc-
geeded in raising La. Force to an upright pos-

ure.

The strain of the rope about his llet pretty
effectually sobered that person, an he glared at
his tormentor ferociously.

“Curse you I” be gasped.

“ Same to you 1” Bill retorted, with a diaboli-
cal grin, which was a mixture of pain and satis~
faction. “ How d’ye like yer change 0’ base,
Jeany? I’m goin’ ter pull ye up on yer tip-
toes, an’ let ye see ef ye can stan’ on yer
toes like a ballet gal," and he suited action
to the word, by pullin the gambler u , so
that only just the tips 0 his toes touche the
ground.

A more painful position could hardly have
been chosen, for it was a direct muscular strain,
and unless he maintained his balance, the noose
about his throat would tighten, and strangle

in).

As soon as he had got the lariat fastened, Lit-
tle Bill stood off and squinted at his victim, spec-
ulatively.

“ Thar! I reckon you’ll do, for the present.
Ef ye git tired. ye might try stendin’ first on
one foot, and then on t’other. I’m goin’ over to
the howtel, now, to lay down. Ef ye want me
afore I come back,  you whistle. Da! dal
cuckoo! trel la! is!

And with a provoking laugh, the, young
avenger strutth away, apparently forgetting
his own irguries in his triumph over his enemy.

As La orce could not make himself heard,
Bill went to the hotel and lay down for awhile,
with the intention of returnin later: but that
was made unnecessary. La. orce had not been
long in his torturing dilemma, when a woman
came down the bank of the stream and released
him. by cutting his bonds and the lasso. .

She was none other than Christine Blob, the.
J ew’s daughter, but she was a sorryvlooking ob-
ject. Her face was he ard and scratched,
and her clothing torn an soded. She looked
as if she had had a week’s tramp through the
mountains. 7

“ Thank thunder you came!” Ia Force growl-

 

 

 

 

 

  
 
 

a,

 

 

28 Denver Doll’s Minee

 

ed. “ I should ’a’ given out soon. So you’re
back eh i”

H es."

“ To betray the gang?"

“ When I see the cash. I’ve been lost for over
twenty—four hours. But I’m ready, when the
money is.”

They couversed for a while—then went into
the camp.

La Force told her of her father’s fate, but she
seemed very little concerned about the matter.

A keen jud e of human character, it did not
take long for Force to arrive at the conclu-
sion that she was losing her reason.

The gang who were of]? to—day were men
whom the gambler most counted on as his faith—
ful followers, and he therefore hurriedly armed
and equipped them for the raid upon Denver
Doll’s stronghold, knowing that he could depend
upon them to fight for his interests.

He paid over to Christie the sum of two
thousand dollars, which she accepted in good
faith, little suspecting that it was counterfeit.

Then, wall mounted, the party rode out of the
camp, doubting not that they would come back
victorious. ,

Oh they rode until, right ahead of them, a
stern voice cried:

“ Halt! Live men advance no further!"

“ Charge!” La ,Force yelled, setting his spurs
into his horse and dashing forward.

One rifle cracked, and the gambler bent for-
ward in his saddle, with the wailing cry of

“' Charge l" ,

The one shot was all that was fired, no fur-
ther opposition being raised.

The invaders reached the pocket only to make
an unexpected discovery.

Jean La Force lay forward upon his horse’s
neck—dead.

He had been shot through the temple by the
unseen guard.

Nor was this all the discovery.

A charge down into the camp developed the
(fact that there was no one to charge upon.

The lodges were empty, and the road-agents

' were gone!

Taking their dead leader with them, the un-
successful party turned back for Freshet Flats,
bitterly cursing Christine for leading them on a
wild-goose chase.

But the now half-demented girl scarcely no-
ticed it; her gaze wandered constantly about
her, as if in search of some one.

It was Arizona Alf she was looking for!

 

CHAPTER, XVI.
Tm: MINE owns rrs QUEEN AGAIN.

THAT morning the day-gang had gone to
their work in the wine as usual.

As soon as they reached the chamber a torch
wasi nited, and then each miner's lamp was
li h thereby. '

boy were all thus busied in procuring their
lights when they heard an ominous click! click!

~ as of the cooking 01 weapons, and gazing around

them in surprise, it needed but one glance to
satisfy them that they were prisoners.

, A score and a half of armed men surrounded“

 

them, and held them covered at the muzzles of
as many repeating rifles.

They were all masked except one, that one
being the dauntless Denver Doll, who stood with
a triumphant smile, watching the astonishment
of the miners.

“Gentlemen,” she said, “ you are-my pris-
oners. Come forward, one by one, and lay
your weapons at my feet.”

She spoke pleasantly, yet steruly.

The men exchanged glances; then Doll’s for-
mer superintendent said:

“ We might as well come to Limerick at first
aslast, fellers. Here goes my barkers.” And
he threw down his weapons.

The other miners followed his example.

“ You are a. sensible set,” Doll decided, look-
ing them over, “ and I see myou are nearly all
my old employees. I am g] of that, because,
henceforth, I am going to boss this mine, and
Jean La Force’s power in Freshet Flats is at an
end. D’ye see these men?”

” Yas,” Banker answered, acting as spokes-
man for the others.

“ well, they are all honest, hard-working
miners from the upper country, who are goin'
to stand by me and help me get back my rights.
We’ve got the mine, and are going to keep it;
I allow you won’t hinder us. Then there will
be no opposition from any one but La Force,
and what few roughs he can collect. And if
they get the mine away from us, they’re wel-
come to it.”

: lg’hat do you propose to do with us?” Banker

as e .

“That rests with yourselves to decide. If
you swear allegiance to me, you will still con-
tinue to work here under pay from me. If you
refuse to back me, something else will have tobe
done.”

“ Well, for my art, I’d rather work for you
than for Jean a Force,” Banker declared.
“ The others can do as they please.” ,

The miners held a low consultation among
themselves which lasted for several minutes—
then one of them said:

“I allow, miss, that we’re all the same way
0' thinkin’ as Banker, au’ we'll stick by ye as
long as ye try to hold the mine. Slime o' the
boys—the new ’uns—lost money through you.
though." '

“Everything shall be made right—every dol-
lar returned as I promised in my groclamation;
and, too, your wages increased. on can go to
Work now, while I go up into camp and see
how the land lays."

After carefully disguising herself, so that she
closely resembled one of the miners, she as-
cended the incline, passed the guards, who had
previously been brought over to her side, and
entered the town.

Here she lounged about during the better part
of the day, and had the satisfaction of seein
La Force and his pals start ed for her deser
mountain stronghold.

“ Now then, is my chance !” she said; “ when
La Force returns, he’ll be surprised.”

She hurried back to the mine. and half an
'hour later had marshaled her fifty armed men
out upon the Flats at the mouth of the mine,
where they began cheering iustily,

Lu]

 

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“ Hurrahl hurrah for Denver Dolll Long
ma she live i” was the cry that went up, and it
h the effect to startle what citizens remained
in the camp.

They cbl ected in a huddle near the Satanello,
but did not ofler to approach the month of the
Drift, probably fearing that they would be fired
u

pon.

Accordingly, Doll gave Joe Banker instruc-
tions, and he went forward, carrying a flag of
truce.

Several of the business-men advanced a few
steps to meet him.

“ Well. what’s topay now?" one of them asked.

“The price of order brought out of chaos,”
Banker replied. “Denver Doll and her men
surprised us in the mine, and has recaptured it.
She declares her intention of holding her rights,
no matter what objections any one may have,
and we, her former employees, believe it right
that she shall have back the mine, and therefore
have volunteered to support her cause. She de-
sires to know in what light she is to consider the
citizens—as enemies or as friends. If they ac-
cept of her as a citizen, as before, all well and

ood. It not, she will defend her mineto the-

gitter end."

“ On the part of what citizens are in cam
‘ust now, I am of the oginion that I can bespe
l’or her a welcome, it s 3 has ceased her unlaw-
ful raids. What she can expect from La Force
and his gang, she must be the judge. If you
will wait, I will secure the sentiment of the
crowd " said Jim Fisk, the groceryman. He
came back a few moments later and announced:

“The majority is in favor of receiving her
back but there’s some balky ones and possibly
Blye, La Force’s partner, is
offering a hundred dollars per man who will
stand up for the gambler, and it’s likely to
have some effect. When La Force returns
there will be an attack, and then, if you are
readi. the matter can soon be settled as to who
will old the mine, and who won’t.”

Banker returned to the mine and informed
the girl chief of the result of his pa‘rley. ,

" It’s all right!” she said. “ You see that the
boys are ready to fight at aminstant‘s notice.”

During the remainder of the afternoon, several
reinforcements came in from the camp. among
whom were Reuben Morse, Sunflower Sam and
Little Bill.

The matter of the mystery coneernin Walter
Walraven‘s murder was then clear up to
Doll’s entire satisfaction, and she Welcomed her
aged father with a great warmth of affec-
tion. '

“Lookee hyer, Dollbabyl” Little Bill inter-
posed. “Don‘t be too kerfectionate on the old
gent,or ye won’t hev any left for my daddy
duke. over the briny puddle."

“You keep still, or I‘ll cut your other ear
of?!" Doll warned, laughingly.

‘ By early moonlight. the party whom La Force
had led so valiantly from the camp, returned,
bearing their dead leader.

“ Now look out fer it!” Doll cried. “Some
one’s is gone case, an’ I reckon it’s La Force.”

Half an hour later a mes-ienger was sent out
from camp, with the news that no attack would
be made.

 

‘ :

Denver Doll ’3 Mine. A 29

Blye could not vail n his pals to run
the risk of their 1%; pan

 

Little more remains to be told.

The death of La Force and restoration of
Denver Doll literally put an end to ruflianism
at Freshet ll‘lats and it became a peaceable
town as long as Doll remained there. Accord—
ing to her proclamation every man who had
been robbed was repaid to his entire satisfac-
tion and there was no stigma attachin éto the
Red Stars who had helped Denver Dol regain
her propert and her good name.

Arizona If, and Christie. were found, in the
mountains, lying side by side—dead! , '

The latter had evidently killed the Avenger

'and then killed herself.

Reuben Morse died, soon after being restored
to his child; and n0w, rich in purse and strong
in purpose, she arranged to leave her mine under
the management of Sunflower Sam and Banker,
while she set out in pursuit of her too long do-
serted calling of detective.

THE END.

 

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148 Nut, the Trapper and Indian Fighter.

149 The Elk llomong‘or, The Giant Broth-n.
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150 The Boy Multanf-iiunter; or, Enuialie, the Bountiful
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151 Frank Yates, the Young Trapper; or, Mountain Kate's
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152 Wild Raven, the Scout. By Oil Coomol.

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By P-ul J. Prescott.
By '1‘. c.

154 The Champion Texan Rider; or, Red Buffalo and the
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155 Dusky Dick’s Doom. By Jon. E. Badger, Jr.
156 Frank Bell, the Boy Spy. By Oll Coomea.
15’? Nick Doyle. the Gold Hunter. By P. H. Myers.

158 Kidnnnped Dick: or, The Fate of the Emily. By J. Sm:-
ley Hendernon.

159 Sam’a Long Trnil. By,W. J. Hamilton.

160 Iinnk Triplet’n Vow. By Hurry‘l‘lunrd.

161 The Mad Skipper. By R. Starbuck.

162 The Trapper- King. By Mnj. Mnx Mnrtine.

163 Simon Kenton, Hunter. By Emeraon Rodmnn.

184 The Boy Chief; or, Frank Bull’s Compact. By Oll Coomer.
135 The Trader Traitor. By .1. Stanley Henderson.
166 GM June’s Clcw. By Mrs. Orrin James.

By W. J. Hamilton.

168 The Specter Buy. By Maj. Lewin W. Comm.

189 Lank Lute, the Old Colorado Hunter. By E. W. Archer.
170 The White Wolf. By Edward‘yl'illctt.

if] The Swamp Guide. By W. N. McNeil.

112 The Yankee Paddler. By C. Dunning Clark.

178 The Scout and ill! Young Chum. By Wuren St. John.
174 Blacksmith Tom’n Musk. By Goo. D. Gilbert.
175 The Buckukin Rider. By Guy Greenwood. '

176 The Equation-’5 Surprise. By Mrs. H. J. Thomas.
17’? Four Fellow Scouts. By .1. Stanley Henderson.
178 Old Kit. and Ilia Comrades. By 109. E. Badger, Jr.
179 Uncle Grill’n Dinguisc. By llnrry annrd.

180 The Marked Miner. By Lieut. Col. aneltine.
181 The Mid lilmtrcu. By Capt. Bruin Adnml.
182 The Dwarf Decoy. By Mmo 0. Rollo.

183 Job Dean’s Tactics. By Ingnldnby Korth.

1,84 Yankee Eph’a Dilemma. By J. R. Worse-tor.
185 The Vl'ily Witch’u Ward. By Edwin E. Ewing.
186 Frank, the Farrier. By .7. Stanley Honduran.

18’? Diana, the Fair Mountnlueer. By Capt. F. Whittaker.
188 Jack’s Snare. By Mrs. Ann E. Porter.

189 Sam, the Swamp Scout. By W. J. Hamilton.

190 The Dawhing Trooper. By Frederlek Dewey.

By Jmnea L. Bowen.

192 Sandy Bill, of Texas. By Edward Willett.

198 flurry Winkle’s Long Chane. By Wm. R. Eynter.
194 Greener Onto, the Shadow Swamp 'l‘rniler. By F. Dewey.
195 The Runner Detective. By Harry qunrd.

196 Gypsy Mac, the Mountain Witch. By. C. D. Clark.
192' The Branded Captain. By W. J. Hnmlllon.
198 old Croanfire’u Origin. By Capt. Charles Howard.
199 Zebra Zack, the Tcxan. By W. J. Hamilton.

900 The Numeleu Hunter. By George W. Robinson,
201 The Yankee Captives. By Edward Willett.
202 Teddy’u Long Trail. By Edward 5. Ellis.

208 Old Hunk. ihe lien-alt. By Edward W Archer.
204- Gooaehend's Belt Shot. By Jul. E. Badger. Jr.
205 The Dutohmnn'u Dread. By Cupi.ChM.iioW:rd.
206 Kit Burt’u Maak. By W. J. Hamilton.

307 Eagle-Eyed Tim. By C. Dunnng Clark.

205’ The Village Sport. By Jnméi L. Bowen.

209 But-k Burt‘s Pluck. By Edward Willet.

, £10 The Tell-Tale Bullet. By J. Stanley Hendemn.

/ £11 The Boy Surveyor. By W. J. Hamilton.

 

n

218 Yankee Drover Swipe!» By Sealln Robina.
218 Sliver City Tom. By June: 1.. Bowen.

214 Nick, tho Detective. By Edwin Emomn.

215 Hunting Rider Roy. By Albert W. Allan.

9116 The Dakotu Dutchman. By Mnj. Max Martino.
31'? Yankee Josh”, tn. Rover. By B. H. Bellmnp, M. D.
318 New York Ned in Culil'orniu. By W. J. Hamilton.
219 Kentucky Kate’s Shot. By Edward Willstt.
820 Trina Frank‘s Rival. By Paul I. Pmcoit.
231 Doctor Bug, Dumtlve. By Lewi- le Swift.

222 Sly Sam’s Snare. By Louis Lezrund, M. p.

228 (Did Nancy’s ‘Wnrd. By Lieut. Col. Enrolling.
224 thflepnte, the Nuhob. By Scott R. Sherwood.

22b let-Huwk Bill; or. The New York Sportlmen’l Claw.
By . .l. Hunllwn.

226 The Masked Maniac. By Mom 0. Rolfe.

227 Barney’s Bold Brunt. By JnmuL. Bowen.

228 The Deadwood Sports. By Llent. 8.6. taming.

2214 Hans Schmidt, In; or, The Ditgniied Yum. By W. J.
Hamilton.

280 Lone Star’s Sure Shot. By Harry Haznrd.

281 Mark Morgan‘s Musk. By Capt. Charla: Howard.

282 Billy Broom’n First Cruise. By H. Minor Klnpp.

233 The Girl Rifle-Shot. By W. J. Hamilton.

284 Old Kyle’u Long Tramp. By Henry J. Thom“.

235 old Bill Syce’u Pledge. By Edward Wiliett. I

986 The 0n-the-Wlng Beneath-e. By“. S. Ellh.l

287 The/Dolphln'n Young Skipper. By Roger Skrlmck.

238 Josh's Boy Paras. By s. G. Lansing.

239 Lee Dukiu’s Dingulnc. By Mao 0. Rollo.

340 During Diek‘a Race. By Arthur L. Meat".

24! Uncle Ephe‘a Boys. By J. Sanity Bundrrm.

242 ’chlist Bob Sir-red. By Capt. R. M. Hawthorne. ‘

843 {final-Light Joe; or, Brave. the Canine Scout. By Charle-

. : ey.

244 1:61. Baker’s Last Le-p. By 1. Benton Shields, u. s, A.

245 North Woods Nat. By W. J. Hamilton.

248 ’{zhrEmG-irl Chic“ of, Dolly”: Droll Dlmuiso. By J. M.
e -

34? Denver Dick, tho Rattler: or, The Minor: of Dendwood
Gulch By Hurry Hazard.

248 Black Jim’n Doom; or, Elly Bowlogu’l Range. By Lient.
Col. Hmltine.

249 Morgan. the Sen Roux; on“: shrewd Scotchmnn’lSchome.
liy John S. Wnrnor. I

250 Zach’n Ghon, T‘p; or, The Haunwd-Homflnvoc. By
George Analog-m. v

251 Kyd’l Bold Game; or, Thu Death-Tull Myutery.‘ By
Paul Biblm.

252 Eur-elm Snm’l Shot; or, Fort Binkley'l Specter Riders.
By George Gleason.

258 grafzy Crazy Slack; or, Tho French Fugitive. By Harry

aw .

254 The F htl k Th Droll D l: ’ Di .
BY Edwigd S'n In?“ or; or. e or yl may

255 The Hunger"! Fir-rt Cruise; or, The Yankee Tu Almmi.
By John S. Wilmer.

250 Rob Go ’I Crew or The Bo a of Lo 1- Cam . B
John NonfeReudy Magrch'il. y x“ p y

$5? Town "I Foot Pacer; or. Searching for " Uncle Janinh.”
By W. 3. Hamilton. Ready March 16.

258 Doc Bell’n Pluck; or, The F‘renchmnn’n Fm. By Capt.
Chn. Howard. Randy March is.

559 Rocky Mountain Burt: or, Harry, the Farrier-’1 Son.
By Edward Willow. Rudy Much 30.

860 Reekleu Rhlph’s Rink; or, This Tell-Tull: Claw. By
James L. Bowen. Ready April 5. ,

261 Gold Nugget Dick: or. TWO 30W Good Luck. By Tom
l’. Morgan. Randy April 13.
Buidle’o Boy’l Library in for uh by Ill Newsdnlen, in
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11-93de Dick, the Prince of the Road. By E L. Wheeler.
IEnnr-un hlu _; or, The Red Right Hand. By Bumlo Bill.
Line Flying nnhec. Bv Col. l’renllu Inmham.
he Double Daggers. By Edward 1.. Whaler.
'l‘hc 'l‘wo Detectlvcn. By Albert \V. Aiken.
"he ’rnlrlc l’ilot. fig llullnlo Bill.
"he liuil’alo Demon. 3- Edward L. Wheeler.
‘ “no the Boy Guido. lly Oll Coon-en.
lied ride. the Boy Scout. By " Texan Jack.”
Ruflalo Ben. l‘rlnceanhe Pistol. By E. L.Wheelrr.
“nigh Boy. the Buy linccnurer. By C l. Prentiss lngmhnm.
o‘ the N ilt. By T. (7. Hnrbnuzll.
Yellowstone nck. By Jnuph E. Badger, 51-,
Wild Ivnu the Boy Claude Duvul. lly E. l..\Vheeler.
Diamond irks or. The Myliery of (he Yellowswne. Bv
Colonel Prentlu lugruhnm. '
Keen-Knife, Prince of the Prulri . By Oil Cmmr-I.
-Ire on Sol, Nick W ' l’ py. ByJ. F. C. Ademl.
Jog, h.Fm' the Detecli‘ . ll . L. “'llm-ler. .
mono Jack, the Yuuuu Murbmger. l'-\' 'lll Coomes.
Roaring Ralph Roekn'ood. By llnrry St. George.
$1.116 ill’ohy C‘lowniully Fman Film.
6 an on , uer‘ or. cudwuod Dirk‘ .
Edward L. Wheeler. ' 8 3mm“ By
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The Dumb Soy. By 0]] Cor-met. .
h'flln- Rube. 15y llnrry Sr. Gum .
1 t1 Avril-Incite. the Annihilator. By  L. “'heeler.
'— "y the Great Shut. of lhe “‘mt. By J. F. C. Adnme.
'l‘ he Boy znnmln. Bi er Starbuck.
cl: Darling. thePonv Expreu Rider. By Cnpt. F. “'lliltnker.
Bob Woolf. the Bard-er Ruflnn. Bv Edwnrd L. Whoelrr.
Nightingale Nat. By T. C. llnrhnurh.
“in? olnn. Iha Rnnrl Agent. By Jose h E. Bridger, Jr.
(iv-II I 011, the Musk-d Terror. By E. Wheeler.
Burt Bunker. the Tru'flm. B - wrge E. Lunlle.
The Boy Kille- nr, e Underground Cnlnp. By A. C. lrom.
The “'hlte Bu nlo. By Genrgr E. Laeulla.
Jim “indium. Jr. Bv Edvard L. Wheeler.
Ned liuzcl, the liar Trapper. lly Capt. J. F. C. Adams.
Ilendlv E e, the Unknown Smut. Br Ilufl‘ah» Bill.
Nick “'11 lilo-’1 Pet. lly Curl. J. l“. C. Adams.
Deadwood lliek‘u Euzicn. lly Edwurd L. Wheeler.
grillllioII-(der King]; 33' I(")llll Conmeu.
e or a or, an v I ia's Sm] . By Hnrr Si. Geo e.
The White ndlnn. lly Curt. J.  C. Adumny “3
Buckhorn Bill. By Edwin! L. Wheeler.
The Shadow Skin. By Col. Prenlln lngrnhnm.
The lied Brotherhood. By J. Humilu
Dandy Jack; or, The Outlaw 0f the Oregon 'l'ruil. By T. C.
Harbnuzh.
Hurricane Bill. B ' Jouph E. Badger, Jr. ,
mule "Ind: or. A lie for I Life. By W. .l. Hemillon.
l Potent-leather Joe. By Philip S. Wnrne.
The Border Robin Hood. By Bullish: Bill.
58 Gold Ride, the Sharplhooher. By Edward 1.. Wheeler.
54 (Did le’n Dublin or, AGreenlIorn in the “'ouds. By Capt.
J. F. C. Admin.
55 licluwnre Dick, the Young Rang" Shy. By Oll Coomen.
66 Mud ’l‘om “ e-(crn. By W. .l. Hmnilhuu.
5? Dcndwood lllck on Dot-k. By Edward L. Wheeler.
58 llawkeye Ilnrry, the Young Trapper. By Oll Comm.
59 The Bo ' Duelist. By Col. Premier lngruhmn.
80 Abe Co 1, the Crow-Kl ler. Br Alherl \‘i’. Allen.
“I Corduroy Chm-lie. the hay Brm'o. By Edward L. Wheeler.
62 Will Sonar-n. the Boy Detective. By Chm. Morris.
.18 Sol 9! er. the Glen 'i‘rnpoer. By A. W. Aiken.
64 Ronehu Rob. By Edward L. Wheeler.
65 Li htnln Joe. Bv Ce Lulu J. F. C. Adnmu.
66 In line not, the W Jinwk. By T. c. unrbmgh.
67 Rollo, the Bay Ranger. By Oll Coomu.
68 1Cyl. the Girl Miner; or, Rmbud Rub on Hand. By Edward
L. Whaler. .
“9 Detective Dick: or. The Hero ln Rem. By Chxrlen Morril. .
?0 Sure Shot Seth. (he Boy Rifloumn. BvOll Conrad.
71 Sit-In Sam; or,The Adventurel of: i‘rieudleu Boy. By I.
Alex-rider Patien.
72 The Lion ofthe Sen. By Albert W. Alton.
78 Photon-IE1! Phll.the Boy Sleuth; or, Roubud Rolfe Reeppenr-
«nu. By . L. Wheeler.
74 Picayune Pete: or, Niwdeum. the Dog Deter-lire. lly
Chnrlu Mnrrll.
75 [.land .Iln; nr,’l‘he Pal. of the Family. By Breccbrldge
Hornyug (Jack Hark-way).
7“ Witch-Eye, the Shldnw. By Edward L. Wheeler.
ff luck [he‘d Eye. the Buy Surugglur. Bv Col. P. logruhun.
‘fl‘ endwood Dick's Dev or. By Ed. l1. Wheeler-
?” The Black Muelunnr. Hy Cl‘l’l- May!" ‘1'“-

 

 

 

   
 

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. 30 0111 Front , the Guide. Br T. C. Hurbnuxh.

Seo Viper. By Col. l’reullu lnmhnm.
89 Seth Jones; or. The Cnptlvcs «r the Frnnlirr. By E. S. King.
$8 Cunnil- Chet. the Counurfalter (Thief. Br E. L. wheeler.
84 The nun-h Page. By Cnpi. Fwdenl‘k wmmker.
35 The Boy Khan. 8 Edi-mi 5.51m .

6 wk Hark-way in ew York. By Bumbridge Helllyng.
8? 0 Hum:- Captain. By 001. Pronnu Inng

 

3’! Deadwood Dick in Ltlulville. By Edward 1.. Wheeler.
89 Bill Bldrlon Trapper. ‘By Edit-rd S. Ellis.
90 ’l‘lppy. the 'i‘exun. By (reorze Gleason.
l Muntuug Sam, Ih» King ol the Plains. By .105. E. Hedger, Jr.
92 The (Ioeun Bloodhound. By Suuuel W. name.
93 Phil Hardy the lines Buy. By Charles Morris.
94 Deadwood ilk-k an Detective. By E. L. Wheeler,
95 Buck Buukrum. B ' Cupiulu J. F. C. Adam.
96 Gilt-Edged Dick. y Eduard 1.. Wheeler.
9? The Bluok Steed ofthe l‘ruiricu. B: James L. Bowen.
98 The lien Serpent. By June Lewis,
99 liIlnaIIIzB Bill. ihv: Mun Trucker. By E. L. “’healer.
100 NM. Todd; or, The Fate of lhe Sioux Captive. By E. S. Ellis.
10! Bar-ill]: navy; the Ynunr Benr Killer. By Hurry St. George
102 The 1 allow Chief. By (lupt. Mnyu Reid.
103 Chip, the Girl Sport. Byvllldwnrd L. 'heeler..
104 Tl 1: Black Schooner. lly Roger Sturlmck.
105 llund-ome llnrry, the Brawl-ck Dewcxlve. By C. Morris.
10“ SightJlnwk Kit. By Juliepll E. Budger. Jr.
107 JIIUL' llovle‘n 1.0de. Ily Edward L. Wheeler.
103 Hook ' “ourllnin Kit. By T. C. Harhnugh.
109 The lrundmi linud. By Frank Dnlnnnl.
110 The ill-cud Rider. Hy George W. Bruwne.
111 Boul- llolr. 1h. King ..1 “mum-eke. By Edward L. Wheeler.
9 The llelpleu “Ind. By Capt. Mayne Reid.
8 Sour-Foe: Saul, llIeSlientiluukr. B OIICoomen.
4 Play Paul. llie Mountain Boy. BY ‘. C. Hurbnugzh.
5 "on wood Di k’n Double. By Edward L. Wheeler.
6 Joint; Collin. Ski wr. By Capt. F. Whittaker.
7 Film-v Frank, 0 ulnrndo. 8y “Bull'nlo Bill."
11:; Will Wildfire, [he Thoroughbred. By vireuarru.
119 illlundo Bill; or, szdwood chii‘l Home Bun. By Edward

.. \\ hr-e er.

 

 

l
l
l
1
1
1

120 opller Girl. the Boy Trnpyer. By T. C. Hnrbnugh.

121 Ilurry Artur-trout, the Clpllin of the Club. By Bruce-
Irridgr iivln_\'ll§. (Jack Hawkewny.)

12% The Hunted lluuier. By PAW-rd S. Ellll.

123 fiolld Sum, [he [lay Rand-Agent. By Edwurd L. Wheeler.

I24 .lrulzc Lynch. J r. By T. C. Hnrhnugh.

125 The l.nud i'lraleu. By Cupi..\13\yllv Reid.

126 Blue llluzcn: Or, The Brenk 0’ buy Boy: of Rocky Ber. By
Frank Dun-nut. .

127 Tony Fox. lllr Farrel. By Edward L. \theler.

123 “1qu lie-u. “’ill \l‘ildfire'n Racer. 8v Charla: Marlin.

129 Euglt‘ it'll. the my Drum“. lly Oll Gnomes.

180 Gold 'l'rilrlt-r. the Sport. B\ 'i‘. C. Harbluxgh.

131 A Grunt; of Gold; or, 0 \dwond Dich'. Bl): Strum. By
Edward L. “'lleeler. '

182 Dainty Lance, the icy 3/... 331. E. Budgerulr.

188 “'lld-nre. the Ball at me .‘..md. By Frank Dunroul.

134 Mike Merry, the liurbor Police Boy. By Charles Motrin.

135 Deadwood Dick of Dendwood. By E. 1.. Wheeler.

18“ (ild Rube, the Hunter. By Cnpl. linrnllton Holmes.

1137 Dnudy Rock, the Man from Tenn. By G. Wetdo Browne.

188 Bob Roche“. tile Boy Dodger. By Chin. Morrll.

189 The. Black Giant; or, Dn‘mly Linea in Jeopardy. By Jog,
E. Badger, Jr.

140 Cnpl-uln Arizona. By Philip S. “'nme.

141 New York Nell, the Boy—Girl Detective. By 15.1.. Wheeler

142 thile Texas, (he Ynunz Mullenger. By 0” Coomel.

143 ilvudly Daub; or, Fighting Fire with Fire. By Jon. E.
Badger. Jr.

144 Little Grit. llle Wild Rider. By Col. Premier ingrnhsm.

145 The Tiger of'l'nmt. By Geo. “'nldo Browne.

146 The Cattle King. By Funk Dumonl.

14? Hobby Sic-k oi‘Nevndg. By Edward L. Wheeler.

148 Thunderbolt Torn. By Hurry St. George. .

149 Bob Rooken, the Brink Runner. By ('hurlel Maui.

150 The Mad Miner. By G. Weld.) Browns.

151 The Ben Trailer. By Cr\l.Prex}llu manhun-

152 Dandy Berke: nr, The Tigenul’lligh Pine. By W. R. Eyster.

13:3 “'ild Frank, the Buckskin Brno. ByE. L. Whaler.

154 The Boy Trailer-II. By Jon. E. BI-lgcr, Jr.

155 Gold Plume, the lloy Bandit By Col. Premise ingrahnm.

1““ WW“ “'lldflre in the “'oods. By C. Blunts.

157 Ned Temple, the Border Bay. By T.C.Herhuu,-:h.

lulled Every “Tillie-day.
Brudle’n Pocket Librnry in fur sale by ull Nr-“Ntieaiul'l. live
cent! per copy, or rent by mail on receipl. oi nix Nuls rat-h.
BEADLE AND ADAMS. l‘ul'lEslIor-u,
98 William Street New York.

 

 

'vBEADLE’S POCKET LIBRARY.

Published Every Wednesday. Each Issue Complete and Sold at the Uniform Price of Five Cents.

 

158 Deadwood Dick’s Doom. By E. L. Wheeler.
15!! Patent-Leather Joe‘s Defeat. By Philip. S. Warns.
160 linil'ula Billy, the Boy llullwhncker, By Col. 1’. lngruham.
161 Bob Rot-lac“, the Cruciunmu. By Cilnriea Morris.
16% Littlejlurrhunm, Llh' lioy Cnpialn. Ry Oil Contact.
168 Deadwood Dick‘s Dream. By E. L. Wheeler.
18} Tornado Tom. By T. (f. llarhnugh.
r 165 Buffalo Bill’s Bet. By Cnl. Prentiss Ingraham.
166 Will Wildfire “'inn and Loans. By Charles Morrll.
167 Dandy Roek’a Pledge. By Gaul-go W. Browne.
168 Deadwood Dick’n “flu-ii. By Edward 1.. Wheeler.
169 The Boy Champion. By Edward Willa”.
170 Bob lloekett’e Fight for Life. By Ci m-les Morris.
171 Frank Morton, the Boy llemulus. By Oil Coomen.
172 The Yankee Ranger. By Edwin Emerson.
1715 Dick Dingle, Scout. By Edward S.’ Ellis.
174 Dandy Rock’s Scheme. By G. W. Browne.
175 Tho Arab Di teotiive. By Edward L. thler.
176 lVlll Wildfire’s Pluck. By Charles Moms.
17'? The Boy Commander. By Col. Prentiss lngraham.
'l'?8 Tim Maniac lluntcr. By Burton Saxe.
179 Dainty Lance; or, The Mystic Marksman. By J. E. Badger
180 The Boy Gold-Hunter. By T. C. Hartmugh.
181- The Scapegrnce Fan. By Charles Morris.
182 The Dark-Skinned Shout. By Liani. to]. Hawliine.
183 Jabez Dart, Detective. By Oll Gnomes.
184 Featherweight, the Boy Spy. By Edward Willoil.
185 Binon Bill, the Overland Prince. By Col, Prentiss Ingraham
186 Dainty Lance and liis l’urd. By Jim-pl! E. Badger, Jr. '
18? The Trapped Tiger King. By Charla» Morris.
18-8 The Ventriloquint Detective. By Edward 1.. Wheeler.
189 Old Rocky’s Boys. By Maj. Sam. S. Hall. ‘ _
190 film Einmidnn, Scout. By Jlunrl L. flown.
liil Dandy lwok’u Rival. By Goo. Waldo Browne.»
192 Hickory linrry. By Harry St. George.
193 Detective Joan Grim. By Edward L. Wheeler.
194 Prospect Pete, the Rn} Miner. By Oll Gnomes.
1,95 The Tender-foot. Trailer. By T. C. liarlmugh.
1913 The Dandy Detective. By Charles Morris.
19’? Roy, the Young Cattle King. By Col. Prentiss lngraham.
1 9S Ebony Dan’s Musk. By Frank Dumoni.
199 Dictionary Nut, Detective. ’ By T. C. Harhauzll.
900. The Twin Horsemen. 'By Cnpi. Fraderlrk Whittaker.
$01 Dandy Dnrke‘a l’arda. By Wm. R. Eyaier.
£02 Tom, the Texan Tiger. By on Coomos.
203 Ham the Oflice Boy. By Charles Morris.
204 The Young Cowboy. By Col. l’renilm- inm‘aham.
205 The Frontier Decorative. By Edward L. Wheeler.
206 “finite Light (ms; or, The Boy Ally. By T. C. Harhmgl).
202' Kenim‘k Talbot’n “and. By Cajxi. Mark Will/on.
208 Trooper Tom’s Cantle Mystery. By Oll Coomec.
209 The Memnger-Boy Detective. Bv Charles Moi-re.
530 The "ancillka affine Milieu. By Jase]le E. Badger, Jr.
211 Little Giant and "in Band. By Philip S. Warue.
212 The Jlmtown Sport. By Edward L. Wheeler.
218 The P1114230 mile. By C. Dunning Clark»
314 Dandy Dove, of Shanta. By T. C. llsrbaugh.
215 During Dan, the Ranger; or, The Denver Deu'clive. By Oll
' Carmel. ' ' i .
218 The Cowboy Captain. By Col. mm. lam-ham
fl" Bold Head of the Roekieu. By Maj. Sam. 3. Hall.
[218 The. Minor Sport. By Edward L. Wheeler.
219 Back, the Defective. By Albert W. Aiken.
220 Crock-Slim. Frank. ’ By Cluirles Mun-l.-
221 Merle the Mlddy. By Col. Prentiss ingralmm.
232 Rosebud Ben’l Bays. By 0" Cum“?!-
222:; Gold Com-nth: Watt-blimp. By'T- (‘1 HMhnunh.
294 Frlnky Fergus, the New York Boy. By G. L. Aiken.

 

225 Dick "row. the Miner’I Son. By Edward L. Wheeler.

226 Dakota Dick in Chic-ago. By Charles Morril.

22? Merle, the Bay Cruiser. By Calfl’rrnms lngrahom.

228 The Preacher Detective. By Oil Canines.

229 Old Ilickory’n Grit. By John J. Muslin“.

280 Three Boy Sports. By Capt. Fredrrick “'hiiinkcr. .

231 Sierra Ram, ille Drier-live. By Edward L. Whrrler.

232 Merle Mantc’a Treasure. By Col. l’nmlia! [am-alum.

238 Rooky Rover Kit. By Ensign C. D. Warren.

234 Baldy, the Miner Chief. By Capt. J. F. C. Adaml.

285 Jack Stun-9’s Curiae. By Roger Slurhuck- ’

236 Sierra Sam’s Double. By Edward L. Wheeler.

23'? Newsboy Ned, Detective. By Clmrlel Morris.

2838 Merle Monte’s ScavSoroper. By Col. Prentiss Ingrahln.

239 Ben’l Bia- Boom. By Capt. Mark Wilton.

240 Sharp Shoot Mike. By Oll Canines.

241 Sierra Sam’s Sentence. By Edward L. Wheeler.

2,42 The Denver Dent-tire. By T. C. Harbarigh.

248 Dutch Jan’s Dilemma. By Maj. L. W. Canon.

244 Merle Monte’s Dlnguise. By Chi. Prentlislngrahun.

245 Baldy’a Boy Partner. By Edward S. Ellis.

246 Detective Keen’n Apprentice. By Charla: Morrlu.

247 The Girl Sport. liy Edward  Wheeler.

248 Giant George's Pal-d. By Buckskin Sam.

249 Rnth llnll’“ “'lld Ride. By T. C. Harluumh.

250 Merle Moute’a Pardon. By Cul. Prcnlils ifizmhnm.

251 Tile Deai'Dett-ctlve. By Edward \Villelt.

252 Denver Doll’s Device. By Edward L, \i‘hrele’r.

253 The lioy Tenderfaoh lly “apt. Mark \‘l‘mnn.

2E4 “luck “Ill! Ben. By MAJ. Lewis W. Carson.

255 Jolly Jim. Detective. By Clrarlrthlm-rli.

256 Merle Monte’u Lust. Cruile. By Col. Prrnilsa ilizruhnm.

25? The Boy Chief offlocky Pan. By Mai. E. L St. Vraln.

258 Denver Doll an Detentlvo. By E. L. Vi‘ia-rlrr.

259 Little Foxeye, (he Cwlm'mln Spy. By Oil Comma.

260 Fklt. the Chin Buy. By Edward \l‘illeit.

28] Blade. the Spun, or, The Giant oi ClearGrlt Camp. liy T-
C. ilurbauzh. ,.

262 Billy, the Boy Rover: or, Terror Tnm oi'l‘exrus. By Col. P.
Ingmlmm.

2078 Hunter linb’I Buoy; 9?. Lige, the nghbllouw Keeper.
By Cap . J. F. C. Admin. , .y

264 Denver Doll’a Partner; or, Big linoluliin. the Sport. By
E. L. Wheeler.

265 Billy, the Ru gn¥c Boy; or, The Young Railroad Dc-
uaciive. By Char m A orriu.

236 Guy’u Boy ChumL or, The Fareai. Wall's lllllll. By Capt.
Comswck.

26? Giant George’s Rove e; or The Boys of “Slip U
Mine." By Buckskin Sunny" ' p

268 Dendfilmt Dandy; or, The Rio Grande Marauders. By
Cul- Pranlisl lnurnhnm.

289 The Quartzvillc lions: or, Daring David “mire. , 12y
Edward Widen.

2'“) Denver Doll’n Mine; or. Little Bill’I'Blg Lou. By E.
1. Wheeler. Ready Mnrah l5. '

271 Ebony Jilll’i Terror; or, Ranger Rainholi’s Russ. By
Oil Comm-I. Randy March 92.

2'39 Kit, the Girl Detective; or. Dandy Dash in California. By
T. C. llarhaugh. Ready Much ‘19.

278 The Girl Rider; or. Nimble Ned’s Surprise.
Badger, Jr. Ready April 5.

274 Dear] Shot. Dandy’n Double: or, Benito, the Boy Paul,
liy.(ltv1. P. lngmhnm. andy April 1‘).

275 Fred. ihe Ocean Waii: or. The Old sailor“ Protexe. By‘
Charles Murrll. Ready April 19.

Insured Every W'ednelui ny.

Bendie'n Pocket. Library is for sale by all Newadsnlm, an
cents per copy, or sent by mall on receipt at six cents each.

BEADLE AND Alums. i’ublilhen.
98 William Street, New York.

By Jon. E,