T = v KA AN, aS WA 72 THE SCALPLESS HUNTER, 4, FRANK STARR. & CO.,41 PLATT STREET, NEW YORK. New England News Uo., boston, Mass. EN ee ee Oe CE CON Te v MYSTERY OF EARTH, AIR AND WATER! the coming issue (No. 63) of that rapid succession of brilliant and ‘ful Border, Forest and Indian Stories— Frank Starr's American Novels, fout Tuesday, April 18), we shall give a strange, wild, weird story by a writer noted for his originality of invention and his skill in manipulat- ing character, viz. : BALD-HEAD, THE HUNTER: OR, BY OLL COOMES. A man who walks on the water is here made a verity. He does this in away amazing to white friend and red foe, but how, the story feasibly ex- plains, ; ae ; It is a very strange series of events, seemingly supernatural, yet all very natural. The oak that talks is another feature of the story, yet is no “mystery after the reader knows how it was done / 2 th foes visible and invisible, make every, phen of this ro- mance a story of itself. It will add another to the quite long list of inootialatty good things ‘which Frank Starr has added to the popular literature of the country. _ For sale by all newsdealers; or sent, POST-PAID, to any address, on re- Pak ae Ree Oe, CENTS. ane STARR & CO., Publishers, 41 Platt Street, New York. “THE SPIRIT OF THE LAKE. | oods, on a trail beset with danger, and the hot, fierce strug- » ~ bag “THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; OR, THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. A TALE OF THE MIAMI. BY HARRY HAZARD. NEW YORK FRANK STARR & CO., PUBLISHERS, os a1 Platt Street. Jot Peete pam abi ve Entered according to Act of Congress, 1n the year 1871, by FRANK STARR & CO., ‘In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. ‘a (Wo. 62.) 3 zit Sxsuaemnwn oe ee hi i i i _ whose clearer tones proclaimed the white man. _ arms were of unusual length, and with every movement, the_ : muscles worked and quivered like some intricate but ee THE SCALPLESS HUNTER ; OR, THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. CHAPTER I. A FEARFUL ORDEAL, Yr hunter abruptly paused and craned his head forward, peering eagerly through the forest. Then he slowly crouched to the ground, until almost prostrate, and listened with intent acuteness. = To an uneducated ear naught would have been audible save the faint rustling of the summer breeze among the leaf-laden boughs of the forest trees; and the monotonous hum of the “> insects that are never still throughout the day; with the oc- casional rat-tat-tat of the woodpecker, and the harsh, discord- ant screech of the blue-jay. This was alla novice in woodcraft could have heard, but the hunter was not such. He could plainly distinguish more —the sounds of human voices, of Indians, mingled with ene And as he listened, it was plain that the words which — met his ear were far from pleasing, for a deep flush of rage reddened his bronzed cheek, and the great veins stood out upon his temples like whipcord, while his massive jaws gritted together as with anger. As the hunter slowly arose erect, it was no common form that he thus displayed. But little if any above the mean — hight, he was of a wondrously powerful build. Broad shoul- | dered and deep chested, with round body and compact waist; — swelling hips, long, muscular thighs and well-knit joints. His | eo ea THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; Ob, His dress was that of the frontierman, and with the usual weapons: rifle, knife and hatchet. His features were rather large and plain, but there seemed to be an imprint of habitual good-humor and geniality still lin- gering upon them, that served te redeem the face from abso- lute ugliness. Of dark complexion, with heavy beard and mustache that had not known the razor for years; and long, slightly curling locks of jetty blackness completed the picture. At that time, and to any one living for leagues around, this description would have proclaimed the hunter to be none other than Caleb Rose. The hunter arose from his crouching position and cast a quick glance at his rifle, assuring himself that the priming was dry and in good order. Then, after loosening the long knife and heavy hatchet, he stooped forward and slowly ad- vanced with stealthy footsteps that awvke no ¢choes, and | scarcely seemed to leave their imprint upon the decaying | leaves that covered the moist earth as with a carpet. ‘Pausing beside a clump of thickly matted bushes and vines, - Rose cautiously parted the umbrageous foliage until he could peer through a small opening, out into a little glade where now stood the authors of the yoices that had so unexpectedly interrupted hig journey. The flush deepened upon his brow, and the deadly glitter ~ in his keen black eyes told that they were no friends of his whom he was thus eavesdropping. Let us look on with him, and listen to the words of the strangers. They were five in number: one white man and four In- - dians. The dress and paint of the latter proclaimed them to be members of the then powerful and numerous Miamis. “ Well, Lean Bear,” said the white man, addressing one of — & the savages who appeared to be a sort of chief or leader, _ from the deference and respect shown him by the others, “ you know now what it is I want, and what I will give you if you succeed. And besides, there will be guns and powder and furs enough in the cabin to pay you twice over for the trouble and danger.” “ Lean Bear knows,” responded the savage, in the ae common to the Miami Confederacy and its allies. “ But why does not the Slim Face strike his foe with his own hand ¢” THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. i1 A slight flush passed over the pale features of the white man at this query, and his eyes drooped. “ Because the settlers know that le is my enemy, and if I should do so, some of them would scent it out. They do not jook upon me now with any too much favor, and would be only too glad of an excuse for putting me out of the way. I have work yet to do, and must keep on good terms with them until all is ready for the grand blow. Then when I say the word, my red brothers will be tired with slaying; the scalps of their enemies will fill their lodges so full, that a pappoose would grow white-haired before he could count them all. And blood will flow so plentiful that you can paddle your canoe a whole sun without finding land ” At this florid description a delighted grunt of satisfaction broke from the red-men, thai served to drown the start given by the concealed hunter, who clutched his rifle with a firmer grip and glowered out upon the quintette of scoundrels. But with a powerful effort he restrained his passion, and listened with eager interest. “ Now listen,” resumed the white man, “ and don’t let my ~ words fall to the ground. I will give you a new rifle apiece, with powder and ball for six moons; a keg of fire-water and ~a new blanket for yourself. In return for all = what do I ask? A trifle. “T ask you to kill one of my enemies, but he is your own as well; the man who has caused so much grief and wailing among your lodges, and who often boasts of the scalps that once belonged to the brave Miamis, that now hang in his cabin. I ask you to kill him, and take his squaw captive and hold her safe until I come to pay you. Then I will take her away, or else live with you and teach your braves how the whites skins fight. You know the man I mean ?” “ The Gray Bull!” “Yes, or as we call him, Caleb Rose— ’St !” This exclamation was called forth by a sudden rustling among the bushes, followed by a sharp crack and floundering. The concealed hunter had incautiously leaned forward in his -engerness to hear the name, and the bush in his hand had broken short off, thus causing him to fall at full ee — MS - the shrubbery. Ae ana et RNR ETE THE SCALPHKESS HUNTER ; OR, The savages seemed to divine the truth by instinct, and Lean Bear, with a shout of direction to his braves, drew his hatchet and sprung forward toward the still agitated bushes. The other three Indians also advanced, but spread out so as to surround the chunp; while the white man, called by the eu- phonious title of Slim Face, prepared his rifle for use. With a wild yell, Lean Bear dashed aside the vines and Jeaped full upon the back of Rose, who was stooping to re- cover the rifle that had fallen from his grasp Although taken thus at a great disadvantage, the hunter displayed his. enor- mous strength by twisting from the sinewy arms that encircled him, and then grasping the chief around the waist, raised him bodily from the ground and hurled him with fearful violence against the trunk of a tree, ten feet distant. Then drawing hatchet and knife, he bounded forward to meet his foes, with a defiant shout, not pausing to count the odds that were against him. He rushed upon one of the In- | dians, who raised one arm to ward off the coming blow, but without success. The limb fell broken and helpless, while the steel hatchet - clove down through flesh and bone, almost separating the cloven crown in twain. But ere the hunter could turn around, the other two were upon “him, and his legs knocked from beneath him. This fact in all probability saved his life, for the rifle of the renegade rung out upon the air, and the bullet that would otherwise have pierced his brain, only creased the top of his head, stunning bim for the moment. And ere his conscious- ness returned, Caleb Ruse was securely bound, a prisoner in the hands of his most bitter and deadly foes. By this time the Miami chief was able to stagger to his feet, and glared wildly around upon the scene, still shaken and con- _ fused by the terrible shock he had received: As he noted the bound form of the hunter, a fierce yell of anger broke from his lips, and he darted forward with drawn knife to wreak a bloody revenge for his ignominious defeat. But in this he was frustrated, for a time at least, and the _ White renegade stepped between him and the captive. Mo- _ tioning Lean Bear back, authoritatively, he said in a tone of command : Sa NeASE y THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. 18 “No, not yet; you shall not touch him now, chief.” “He must die !” snarled the savage, still advancing, his eyes glittering with a lurid light, and fingers twitching convul- _. sively. “ And so_he shall,” hastily interposed the renegade. “ By your hand, too, if you say so; only I wish to speak a few words with him first. Then you may do as you will with him, provided you put him out of my way effectually.” “JT will wait, if Slim Face speaks true; but if not—” and there was a significant menace in the pause that could not be misinterpreted. “ Spare your threats, Bear,” somewhat haughtily responded the renegade, “ for they are not needed. He is as much in my j ‘way as in yours, and I hate him far more deeply than you possibly can do. He shall never leave this place alive, if I - have to kill him myself!” he added, vindictively, turning once more toward the prisoner, who lay unconscious xt his feet. He was appxrently not far from the samme age as Rose, some two-score years. Apparently, for he might be half a _ decade upon either side of that age, so far as looks were con- 7 cerned. — In hight he was fully six feet, and of a rather slight but ; 4 E symmetrical and active build. His face was smoothly shorn, 4 and rather “long favored,” of clear, boyish compJexion. His features were regularly chiseled, and taken all in all he was what is termed handsome, by very many. His ‘hair was |} of a deep dark auburn tinge, slightly waving and very profuse. His eyes were large and of a dark blue, that in repose wore a - peculiar, hard, stony look ; but when excited, they gleamed _»..with a white, sieelish light ‘that told he was an enemy to be “dreaded. After afew moments, Caleb Rose uttered a low groan, and opening his eyes strove to arise. But he fell back again and glanced wonderingly around him, as if in doubt as to what had really occurred. When the ghastly form of the dead Miami met his eyes, Rose seemed to fully realize his position, and a grim smile shot athwart his blood-stained features. But this Changed to a bitter scowl as the white renegade stepped before hin. and were triumphantly down into his face, 14 THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; OR, “Francis Brissot !” : : “Correct ! are not you glad to see me, my dear Rose?” - sneered the renegade. “Cast off these cords and I will show you how glad!” bit- terly hissed the hunter, writhing with rage and straining every nerve with endeavor to burst asunder his bonds. “ Set me upon my feet and give me my rifle—knife—or hatchet, and I'll meet you all. Or if you fear to do that, arm yourself how you will, and leaye me only my two ‘bare hands—they whipped you once until you yelped for mercy like a pitiful cur, and they can do it again!” raged the prisoner. “Bab! my good fellow,’ sneered Brissot, although his cheek turned scarlet at the taunt, “you are crazy. But still, were my life my own, I would ask for nothing better. I have work to do first, and you must wait. “ You have been very curious to know what my business was here, of Jate, aud now I will tell you, especially as I do not fear your ever abusing my confidence, by disclosirg the secret to any other. .You may know—or you may not—that there is going to be another war soon, between my country and yours, and T am here as a sort of spy, to work for the inter- ests of France. To find out our friends, gain over the In- dians, and such like. “But in addition to this, I have a little job of a private na- ture, that also concerns you and yours. I told your wife—my _ old-time sweetheart—that I had forgotten the past; but I lied. I have not forgotten—nor forgiven—her rejecting my suit in your favor. That I,a French gentleman, should be cast aside for a rough, uncouth boor like you! “And then you struck me; that was one other item that _ could not easily be ignored. I swore to have revenge, and now the time has come when I can strike. Until now, my hands have been bound. “You were eavesdropping, I know, but still you may not have heard,all my plans, so I will repeat them. You, I will turn over to my friend here, Lean Bear, an old acquaintance of yours, also, I believe. Doubtless he will treat you with the utmost consider ation; at any rate, I will pay him enough for = dome-kon 5°. =: “Then next, the chief will make your cabin a friendly visit, Se pts THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. and invite your wife to favor his town with a short residence. _ The little ones could not stand so long a journey, and so he __-will leave them behind to keep house, only preserving a lock of their hair as a remembrance, to keep the mother from feel- ing lonely. “In a month or so I will find time to visit her, and renew my suit. I don’t suppose you will feel able to attend the wed- _ ding, but rest assured, we will think of you, all the same. Then when I get tired—you know I am fond of change—no doubt I can find some one of my dusky friends kind enough to take her off my hands. “ There—I believe that is all, and I hope you will feel at ease, now you know your family is so well provided for, Have you any message tu send them, or any other arrangements to suggest before I bid you good-by? I see our friend the chief is getting impatient,” concluded Brissot, tauntingly, compla- cently filling his pipe and igniting it. Caleb Rose didn’t speak, but he glared in horrible fury at the renegade who had spoken such biting words. s. - _ “Ugh!” grunted Lean Bear, impatiently, “my brother's tongue is like a squaw’s—all talk. His name is not good; he should be called the Jaybird.” “Wait one moment, chief, and then you may work your. will. You can kill him, but I can make him suffer worse than a thousand deaths. So then,” he added, turning to the un- fortunate hunter, “ you have nothing to say ?—not one word to send to your wife? Not one word of congratulation for me? Remember that your beloved Esther will call me hus- band by this time next month.” : >. “Never! never, you cursed dog! Before that she would kill herself, or more likely, send you to your master !” foamed the bound hunter, striving desperately to free himself, to ec ia huge glee of the red-skins, _ “So you can speak—but time passes. Look around you, Caleb Rose, and take your Jast glance at the forest and upon the sun, for in Jess than ten minutes you die/ But Jet this thought console you. Your family are well provided for, and the fair Esther will scarcely realize the loss of one husband a ere she finds another.” : “Taugh on, you devil, laugh on! : “As ae nie it deuce ; Sipe one 16 THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; OR, “much matter; as well go under at one time as another. But my wife and little ones will not suffer. God will not allow them to become your victims,” solemnly said Caleb Rose. “Tf that thought comforts you any, hold onto it, my friend. And now, chief, do what you will with him; only make a sure job of it. And then when you have done the rest, your reward shall be on hand,” and then shouldering his rifle, Fran- cis Brissot strode swiftly away through the woods. The captive hunter made one more strenuous effort to free himself, but in vain. The hickory bark only tore and lacer- ated his flesh, without yielding an atom. Casting one quick, searching glance around upon the faces of his grim captors, Caleb Rose gave himself up for lost. Lit- tle hope of mercy from them; and a slight quive: ran over his frame at the thought of such a sudden end to all his hopes and plans for the future. Then he resigned himself to the inevitable, and resolved to die, since die he must, like a brave — and true hunter, without gratifying his enemies by sign or groan of suffering. - After a momentary consultation with his braves, Lean Bear stepped forward and addressed Rose in the Miami dialect, well knowing the proficiency of the hunter in that language. “ White Bull! I have a few words to speak in your ear be- fore sending your spirit upon its long journey, but I will not keep you long waiting. You are a man,and soam I. What need to hide my words under a cloud? “Listen! You are brave. Your feet have trod the war- trail for many mcons. Your rifle is true and your arm strong, while your feet are like a feather. They leave no trail. -. “ You have taken many scalps, and you have killed more of my brothers than I can count on both my hands. It is good. The Great Spirit willed it so. “But now you are my prisoner, and your scalp is mine You must die, and I have sworn by the Manitou that you - should not be able to make war upon the red-men after death. eet T only killed you, it would be there, like it has been here upon earth. You would be a great scout and fighter. “Listen, and mark well my words. If a braye man is Killed he lives again in the spirit world, and is the same there as bere. But if his scalp is taken before death, then the heart i THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION, 17 i of a dog enters his body and he is a slave to wait upon those _ who died with their scalps still undefiled. Does my brother hear, and understand my words?” slowly uttered the chief, _ with placid countenance, but with his eyes dancing and glitter- ing with demoniac mirth. The captive scout but too well comprehended him, and al- _ though the blood seemed to stagnate and curdle in his veins, not a quiver or a tremor outwardly betrayed this fact. And his voice was as clear snd as firm as ever, when he spoke. “Tam not a fool, red-skin, and think I may say that I un- derstand your meaning, though you took a roundabout trail to reach it. Work your will upon me, while you can, if that will do you any good. But you are sadly ignorant and show bad teaching in your ideas. When a man dies he does not awake _ until the day of judgment; then he is rewarded according to _ his works here below, upon earth. In either way he will not - think of roving about, gun in hand, bent upon death and blood- shed. But work your will, red-skin, work your will,’ calmly replied the hunter. : “My brother speaks as he has been taught, and so do I. But I have made a vow, and it must be kept. Are you — ready ?” coldly replied tea Bear, drawing his scalping-knife | and deliberately testing it with his thumb. ; _ “As much so as I ever will be. Look, red-skins, and see how a white man can die !” proudly responded Rose, clenching his teeth and bracing every nerve to endure the fearful ordeal. Slowly and deliberately Lean Bear stooped over the bound form of the settler, and gathered up the masses of long, waving hair in one hand, while the other brandished the glittering ._ knife before his victim’s eyes. The keen black orbs gazed at the instrument of torture with steady composure, and only a paler shade crept over his bronzed face. 4 murmur of mingled wonder and admiration was uncon- sciously extorted from the lips of the red-skins as they beheld this proof of courage. Even Lean Bear, great and intense as was his hatred for the settler, appeared to relent, and he said : “White Bull, you are very brave! A chief can take no ~ pleasure in torturing such enemies as you are. I am sorry now that I made that vow, But it must not be broken. Only I will be quick 18 THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; OR, Even as he spoke the Miami chief dextrously encircled the head of the settler with the keen knife, that emiited a horrible grating sound as it touched the bone. Caleb Rose shot one lurid glare at the face of his tormentor, and a slight hiss sounded as the air filled his chest, through the tightly clenched teeth. ~ The chief bent over, and catching the severed skin between his teeth, tore it loose. Then ,one vigorous jerk completed the sickening task, and the hunter was scalped alive! His lips parted and the pent-up breath rushed forth in a faint sigh, while his limbs relaxed, and he lay like one dead. Another exclamation broke from the savages, and they crowded around the body. To make assurance doubly sure, Lean Bear pressed his _ knife to the very hilt in the hunter’s breast, and then his weap- ons and clothes were distributed among the quartette. The hunter’s heart was still and his breath did not issue. Then the savages glided silently away from the spot with one more glance toward the motionless body of their once dangerous foe. - Hour after hour passed, and the sun slowly sunk beneath the horizon. The moon arose and looked down upon the little glade where the tragedy had been enacted, faintly reveal- ing the ghastly form of the ScaLpLess HUNTER. The cold dew began to fall as the hours fled. Was it.fancy, or did the nude body of the unfortunate settler move? Was it the moving of the forest trees above, or did a faint gasp issue from those colorless lips ? And then a strange sight was witnessed by the radiant moon. Caleb Rose slowly struggled to a sitting position and glared vacantly around him. Then, as he sunk back, a feeble groan broke from his lips, drawn forth by the exquisite pain that thrilled his brain. An- other hour passed, and all through it he lay unconscious—so aoe ‘still and motionless that it seemed like ‘death. - But it was not so. “He was not yet todie. It was ordatiat that he should live on until he had wreaked a fearful retribu- tion upon his enemies. When the morning sun arose, the Scalpless Hunter was gethy and painfully dragging himself along seed the THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. 19 woods toward his cabin. His head was bound up with cool- ing leaves, and the knife-thrust tightly bandaged. We will pass over the succeeding events as briefly as possi- ble, consistent with lucidity, to hasten on with our story. Caleb Rose succeeded in reaching bis home, and told his story in a few brief words, when the fainted. His wife sent. her eldest son—a lad of ten yearss—to the neighbors with the ' momentous tidings, and did what she could for her husband. Before night of that day, a half-score of true and trusty border- men were concealed within the cabin, and when the expected attack came, the savages were defeuted and routed with fear- ful slaugliter. Then Caleb Rose was removed to the block- house, where he lingered between life and death for many months, All search for Francis Brissot proved in vain. He had fled far from the spot of the tragedy, and nothing could be learned of him. The war soon after broke out and raged with desolating fury over the Jand. And through it all the Scalpless Hunter was being slowly nursed back to life by his devoted wife, and even then brooding over future revenge. . Maturing the plans that were destined to win him undying fame among his friends and enemies, alike. CHAPTER II. THE WOODLAND ENCOUNTER. Tam quick, sharp report of a rifle echoed through the forest, closely followed by the sound of human voices in loud. outcry. There could be no mistaking the latter. None other than an Indian, thirsting for blood, with all his worst passions fully aroused, could have emitted as — ee yell. Across a narrow strip of clear ground, sped as actors of this scene; the competitors in this race of life or death. One white sak and nearly half a dozen others, wae dusky skin — : proclaimed their race. gs | | q Wy | Pee Ss THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; OR, Scarce fifty yards separated them, and although each one exerted himself to the utmost, the space had remained rela- tively the same for several miles. But it seemed as though the end must come speedily, for the great drops of cold sweat stood thickly upon the fugitive’s brow, and his breath came hot and heavy, while those in pursuit had scarcely—to speak technically—turned a hair, The dense wood and tangled undergrowth was not the most favorable for rapid flight, but to this circumstance the hunter had undoubtedly owed his life, more than once during his terrible race. Hidden full half the time from the eyes of his enemies, it was impossible for them to gain any thing like a fair shot at the fugitive. Neither could they pause to secure an aim, and the “few scattering shots that were discharged after the white man, either hurtled wide of the mark, or spent their force upon the jutervening tree-trunks. But now the crisis had come. In stern despair the hunter abruptly turned and leaped be- hind the trunk of a huge forest-tree, at the same time half raising his rifle. The movement had been well-timed, for as _ he sprung aside the bound had carried him beyond range of his enemies’ vision, who came rushing heedlessly onward, still uttering their short, yelping crics, like the hound upon a breast- high scent. Ag the dusky forms dashed out into full view, spread out into a line as if to guard against their anticipated victim’s doubling upon them, the hunter threw forward his heavy rifle, and as the double sights drew full upon the shaven crown of the leading savage, a clear, whip-like report rung: out, blended - with a half-stifled yell of agony as its target sprung high into the air. Then falling with a dull, heavy thud to the ground, _ the stricken savage gave one sbudder, clutching blindly at the leaves and mossy earth in the agony of his death-throes. _As with one accord the survivors paused and uttered a cry of wonder. The desperate hunter shifted his grasp from the - butt to the rifle-barrel, and stood awai'ing the onset with stern, ‘defiant despair written upon his handsome features. Then a sharp yell of rage and vengeance broke from the savages, and they sprung forward toward the tree whose trunk — ‘was still wreathed with the light, fleecy smbke that heralded ie THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. ot the fatal shot. Was it an echo that seemed to answer their cries, causing tbe red-skins to pause again as if in dismay ? No, for it was & cry unlike theirs. So deep and full—more like the rour of the Forest King than the yelping cry ef the jackal. : , it was a sound that told of death. A sound that was con-~ nected with many a striking tale rehearsed around the camp- fires of the Miamis; the voice of him who had caused much grief and wailing among their lodges; who had robbed = a lodge of its master. The echo had not yet died away when a rifle spoke, and another savage pealed forth his death-yell. Thena dark form lightly dropped from the overhanging boughs of a forest- tree staniing midway between the enemies, and darted forward upon the affrighted Miamis. Casting off the stupor that had enchained them, the savages turned to flee, never once dreaming of resistance: The voice of their scourge had cowed them effectually. And the panting hunter stood in amazement. The rescue was so unexpected and providential, that he could aenr realize that he was saved. Then he began hurriedly reloading his rifle, still in doubt as to whether it might not yet be needed, for in the brief glimpse he had obtained of the last comer, he could not determine whether he was white or red, friend or foe. Just as he rammed home the bullet, the hunter heard a faint, far-away yell, and for a moment stood undecided whether to advance or retreat. But then the thought that perhaps his rescuer had been ~ drawn into some trouble, decided him, and so, priming the rifle, he advanced rapidly along the broad and distinct trail left by the chase. He could not repress an exclamation of wonder as he noted what enormous leaps the pursuer had given upon the trail, and felt a-still stronger feeling of curi- osity as tv who his unknown friend might be. “45 At perbaps a quarter of a mile from the spot where he made his despairing stand, the young man paused with an exclamation of horror. There upon the ground before him stretched sae body of a dead savage. : How he had met nie: death was vanes for es = bea THE SCALPLESS HUNTER ; OR, crushed like an egg-shell, apparently with the heavy rifle-butt of the strange hunter. The young man paused with a shud- der and stood leaning upon his rifle for some minutes. __ There was a sad, half-pained expression upon his features that told he was not entirely hardened to such sights. It was _ a form well worth scanning, and as he is destined to play no mean part in this record, a word of description may not be amiss. _ He seemed scarcely more than twenty years of age, rather above the medium hight, robustly built and evidencing great mauscular strength and activity. His eye was black and fiery, and at times—as now—with « slightly melancholy expression. _ His cheek, guiltless of beard, was bronzed and thin, a finely- chiseled nose of the Roman type, full chin, and with bold, high forehead. His hair was long and jetty black, with but a faint wave. He seemed of a hasty, passionate 1emperament, and his thin but deeply red lips quivered and colored with every pass- ing emotion. __ His dress was of the general type worn by bordermen, but of.unusually fine materials. His hunting-shirt was of a deep green, fringed at the skirts that descended midway his thighs and fastened across the breast with loops of green cord. A belt of polished black Jeather girded -his waist, in which was thrust a long-bladed knife. A powder-horn and bullet-pouch - hung by his side, the former ingeniously covered with figures left in relief, while the rest was thickly scraped to reveal the _ powder within, His short, heavy rifle was richly ornamented, with very large caliber, while from the inner shirt of satiny. fawn-skin peeped the shining butts of a brace of small pistols. Upon his feet he wore half-boots, or high gaiters, of soft leather. At this juncture the young man was interrupted in his meditations by the sound of approaching footsteps, and instinc- tively sprung behind a tree. But this precaution was needless, as a deep, full and not unpleasant voice called out : ~ “No use of that, youngster, for if I had been an enemy, you ever would have heard me in this world, and a friend is not 80 common in these parts that one need hide from them.” _ The cheek of the young man slightly flushed as he advanced anc extended his hand. The other slowly accepted it, and for mee ent | the two men so strangely met in the ce THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. ) gazed searchingly into each other's eyes, as though striving to read there what the tongue might choose to conceal. “ Well, stranger,” at last said the elder hunter, “I don’t know who you may be, but if those eyes tell the truth, youwre-of the right sort. I thought I knew everybody in these parts, but I can’t place you, for the life o’ me!” “No great wonder,” laughed the young man, “for I am a perfect artes here, and only passing through the country _ upon business.” “ Business, you say?” exclaimed the other, suspiciously, closely eying the young hunter. “This is a queer time and place for such as you seem to be, to travel around upon busi- ness. May I ask what is the nature of it ?” “My friend,” responded the hunter, bis cheek flushing sharply, “you have just done me a great service, and I am very thankful for it. If I could satisfy qar curiosity, I would do so; but I am not a free agent, and— “ Hold on, ‘attanger, for just one minute,” slowly interrupted the scout. “I ama plain, ignorant backwoodsman, and I | don’t go in for tricks on travelers or any underhanded work. -If I have an enemy I give him fair warning, and then let the best man win. You know how matters stand in the country —you wouldn't be a man if ycu didn’t—and know as well that whoever ain’t for one party must be for tother, as a matter of course. “ Now, maybe you're for my side, and maybe you're not, but whichever it is, just spit it ont flatfooted. If you're — against me, why I'll give you four and twenty hours the start, — when [ will be on your trail ; but if friends, why so munch the — better. But if you attempt to fool me, beware! for li hunt you down if it.takes a lifetime!” cautioned the scout. “But if I do not choose to make you my confidante ?” “Then I'll do it myself. Hold on, don’t get. your back up without better cause. Listen to me until I finish. You _ say you're here on business. Very well. You are a soldier — —you can’t conceal that—and if I mistake not, an officer What business can a soldier have here ? _ “Only that of a spy, or else acting as:an agent to buy over .ae Indians, or to find out which way they lean ow say which one of these you. are, but T have my pabions —— 84 THE SCALPLUSS HUNTER; On, - opinion, and if you are what I think, may the good Lord have _. mercy upon you, for Caleb Rose will not!” sternly cried the hunter. _“ This is indeed a tempest in a teapot, my friend)’ cried the younger man, with a pleasant laugh. “ But you show your hand too plainly. Now supposing I was a French spy, what would be easier than to say I was an English officer? The Svalpless Hunter is by far too well known by both friend and foe, for one to make a mistake when his name is spoken.” “Tt seems that you do know me; now who are you? and what is your business here ?” “My name is Jesse Burdett, and I am a lieutenant in Ham- mond’s Rangers. This packet will explain my mission here,” and as he spoke, the young ranger handed Rose a sealed paper. “So—so,” muttered the Scalpless Hunter, hastily scanning _ the contents of the missive. “The General trusts you, and I guess I can, also. Do you know what this package means ?” © “JY have an idea. I was to apply to you for aid and assis- _ tance, if necessary, to ascertain the number of warriors and - disposition of the Miami Confederacy, and also learn what I could about one Francis Brissot.” — “What!” exclaimed the scout, his whole face glowing with fury and rage at mention of the man’s name who had caused his frightful mutilation. “One who calls himself Francis Brissot, a French Canadian, who claims that he can bring all the Indians of the North- west over to our side. Do you know him?” “Do I know him? Young man, look at this,” said Rose, removing his closely-fitting cap and bending his scalpless head toward Burdett. “ That is his work! Now do you ask if I know the devil ?” hoarsely added the scout. ‘The young ranger could not repress a shudder as he glanced at the scarred and fleshless skull, and his voice trembled as he asked: — “ And he did that? Then what sort cf a man is he ?” Il tell you in two words. He is a Frenchman and In- dian. He has done us more damage than any two other men, hee ean go and fembouals our leaders, making them THE YOUNG RANGER's MISSION. ce believe he is one of their best friends!” bitterly hissed the borderer. “ How Jong since he did this wrong to you ?” “Nearly four years ; and for over three I have been hunt- ing him night and day. But the time will come—it must. come! I could not rest in my grave if I had not revenge upon the hound! He has almost run the length of his halter. But where is he now ?” “T do not know. He said that I would find a friend in one of the Miami chiefs—Lean Bear, I believe—who would entertain me until he should arrive. He will not be long be-. hind me—at least, so he said.” “T can’t. see through it, nohow,” slowly mused the Scalp- less Hunter. “He must have known that an English officer would not be safe one hour in (hat crowd, for although Lean Bear’s party have not come .out for either side openly, he is not idle, for all that. Z/zs carrion is one of his gang. Have you ever had any fuss with him—Brissot, I mean ?” “Who—Brissot? Nu, not exactly,” hesitated Burdett. : “Come, my yound friend, if you expect me to help you un- - ravel this muss, you must be plain with,me. There 7% some- thing, so out with it at once.” “Well then, the only thing I can imagine is this. We both have been paying considerable attention to the same lady, and I have good reason to believe that she favors me, before him.” “The imp—I ‘knew it!” muttered Rose. “That accounts for it, then. He wants to get you out of the way, and your meeting with me is just the luckiest thing that could have — happened. But now look here; what do you intend to do ~ about it?” “To tell the truth, I scareely know. Are you sure there 18. no mistake ?” “There is none in what I tell you. The main thing that puzzles me is what that cursed renegade can be after. And where has he been hiding all this time ?” : “T can’t say, I’m sure, but of one thing I am confident, 5 es And that is if I ever chance to meet with this Francis Brissot, © there will be one villain less in the world!” angrily cried the young ranger. : soe “You say that? then we will work together. But mind Brescaahe ena opto iia ee " 5 Stennis SS oseee OO THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; oR, this: It is by my hand that he must fall; I must wipe. out the score that I have so long laid up against him. But I will help you, and you must help me. Together we will be sure to find him.” : f “ But how—and where ?” “ How long has he been with the army ?” “Off and on for nearly a year, to my knowledge,” was the - prompt reply. “Well then, all is plain enough. He is hatching up some big plan of deviltry, and he'll need help. Although he is a big dog among the red-skins, this Lean Bear is his right hand and he’ll be sure to visit him before long. We can wait until he does, and then it will go hard but what we bag him. Alive, mind you, for I would not shoot him if I had the chance. have had a dozen chances for that, but I have sworn he should suffer the same toriure he put upon me, and. if I live, so he shall!” “Very well; I'm with you, and will be guided by your ad- vice alone. My leave of absence is discretionary with me. And if you think we can catch him, I'll stay and see it out.” “JT know we can. But now let’s attend to our game,” and as he spoke, the old scout bent over and dextrously removed the ornamented trophy from the head of the Miami. The young ranger gave a slight shudder of disgust, and averted his head. The Scalpless Hunter noticed this action, but did not speak, and then led the way back toward the scene of the woodland encounter. He served ihe second one. _ shot, in the same manner, and then turned toward Burdett, _ baying : “Young man, there’s your game; lift its hair.” “Never!” “Then I will. I know it is not work fit for a white man, and I once felt just as you do about it. Even now I don’t take any but those of Miamis. They scalped me, and I- _ only serve them the same “Pretty good work, anyhow,” he added, as he arose from the disgusting operation, “three out of five. The others ran toc fa for me.. I can’t travel now like I could once; this favor ere,” tapping his breast, “has stopped that. I sometimes ik it will be the death of me yet.” | ‘THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. — 20% Securing the recking trophies to his belt, the scout picked up the weapons of the slain and flung them upon his shoulder, saying: “ Now, my lad—beg aes but it don’t come natural in me to call you any thing else ; no offense, I hope ?” “Not the slightest,” laughed Jesse, * All right, then. But come, and I'll introduce you to my house out here in the woods, ‘You must be tired and hungry. Anyhow, I know I am’ “And soam J. But I ieharetien! that you were a married man, Mr. Rose ?” “ So I was ; but I'll tell you about it when we're at a place where we can rest. And while I think of it, please don’t call me mister any more. It don’t sound right. Rose, or Caleb, or scout, are just as well, and shorter to speak. Ought to be careful of your breath out here; don’t know when it may all be needed.” Burdett promised to remember, with a laugh, and then they struck out through the woods For several miles the two hunters proceeded without taking any unusual precautions to conceal their trail, until the banks of a broad, shallow creek was reached. “ Now, my boy,” said Rose, entering the water, “ do just as you see me, and step in my tracks. We're nearing my home, and as in such times as these, there is no telling where the outlying red-skins may or may not be, a little precaution will do no harm. It has kept my secret for years, and many’s the — time I have Jain and laughed fill my sides ached, at the bafiled — varmints as they skittered all around me, trying to pick up the lost scent; and I all the time looking out and muking up mouths at them,” chuckled the Scalpless Hunter. “Then you don’t live in a house ?” queried Jesse, a little curiously, for he had heard so much regarding the ee hunter, that he longed to know more. “No, lad, not of mortal making. But you re soon see, Look yonder—at the ciiff. It is there I make my home.” “Oh, a cave !” ae “QGorrect. Now do just as I do, and mind not to make a misstep, for it might be your death, or else lead to the finding — of my den, according to where you might chance to be.” : ' 28 THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; OR, The hunter proceeded cautiously toward the foot of the towering cliff, that rose almost directly from the bed of the creek. Stepping from the water upon a coarse, rocky shale that covered the ground, the Scalpless Hunter led the way by a winding course up the very face of the almost perpendicular rock, closely followed by Burdett. After ascending perhaps a score feet, Caleb Rose whispered to Jesse in a guarded tone. “ See this cord, boy? Well, that is all T have to guide my steps of a dark night when I gouporcome down. Careful— don’t pull too hard.” The string alluded to was small, and gray like the rock, and could not be distinguished from the level. At every turn it was fastened to some point, thns furnishing a plain clue, as Rose had explained. The entrance to the cave—or “den ”—was peculiar, and until one was close upon it, could not be seen. A sort of “ dashboard” ran up in front, and from below seemed to meet the face of the cliff above, or rather could not be told from the rest. From above the rock paepnetes so as to act as a roof over the narrow ledge. Over this “ dashboard,” the Scalpless Hunter drew himself, and casting down his load of weapons, turned to observe his young companion, who was some fect below. Suddenly a wild, thrilling yell echoed through the air, and rung with a strange alarm throngh the hearts of the two hunters. The old scout glanced downward at the forest level below, and beheld nearly a score of painted savages rush down to the bank of the creek, aud then level their weapons upward at the form of the now motionless young ranger, whose nerves appeared shaken by this unexpected danger. Rose could see his form tremble and his bronzed cheek turn pale, while one hand loosened its grasp upon the rock, and his head slightly moved as if to glance below. “ For God's sake, boy, don’t look down!” cried the scout, leaning over the escarpment. “If you do, it’s death! Look at me and climb for your lite.” The sound of a friendly voice appeared to banish the mo- mentary sensation of fear and dizziness, and Burdett one more resumed his ascent, just as a volley of rifle-~shots were THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. heard behind him. One grazed the cheek of the Scalpless Hunter, but be heeded it not. He saw the young ranger pause and totter, while a tiny jet of crimson sprung from his head. A moment’s delay would lave now proved fatal, and only the most desperate courage could have availed aught. The hissing bullets were now pattering all around the two hunters, and arrows hurtled by, but Caleb Rose did not hesi- tate an instant. Dropping his rifle, he grasped the “ dash- board” with one hand, and leaned far over the fearful abyss. Burdett relaxed his hold, and uttered a faint groan, and one foot slipped from its resting place. But then an iron grip was fastened upon his arm, and with a violent exertion of that strength and dexterity which had gained him such wide-spread celebrity, the Scalpless Hunter drew the helpless form of the young ranger out of the very jaws of death, into the cave. An involuntary cry of admiration rung upward, extorted from the lips of the ‘savages by this daring feat, and a faint smile curled the shaven lip of Rose as he wiped his damp brow. For a brief instant he sa. down upon the ground and pressed one hand tightly upon his heart, while a spasm distorted his features. But quickly recovering, he grasped his rifle and sprung to the entrance. The savages were still sending up a flight of arrows, but ne heeded not them, and took a quick, deadly aim. He was not a man to throw away a shot, and his se- lected target leaped high into the air, falling forward into the creek, with a faint yell of agony. Like a covey of affrighted quails, the remaining Tatlin “3 bounded at top speed for cover, and ere Rose could grasp — another rifle, not a living form remained in view. With a grim smile the Scalpless “Flanges turned toward his senseless companion. A look of deep concern overspread his face as he beheld s the blood-covered head, and with a muttered exclamation he stooped and parted the matted hair. But then as he saw that — it was after all merely a scalp wound, his fears were relieved, a and he proceeded to bathe the hurt with whisky taken from. a A pocket flask. _ Jesse Burdett ‘uttered a groan of} pain, and opened, bis eyes THE SCALPLESS HUNTER; OR, CHAPTER TLL. AN AERIAL FLIGHT. Tur cave was of apparently small capacity, being of an irregular circle in form, and from two to a dozen feet in hight. The sides were jagged and broken, and from the numerous pomts hung various furs and a large collection of ‘weapons, the majority of which had evidently once belonged to the red-skins. Besides these there were two haunches of dried venison, and various cooking utensils, evidencing that it was used as a home by the Scalpless Hunter, as well as a refuge from his enemies. In one corner lay a pile of skins and furs; this, together with several blocks of stone, completed the furniture of the cave. There were no signs of fire, although the cook- ing utensils showed frequent usage, “Jesse Burdett uttered a faint groan and opened his eyes, ‘with a wondering stare. He glanced around him as if dazed, ‘of blood, together with the rough but kindly face bending over him served to recall his recollection, and he arose to a sitting posture, muttering : “The Indians—I was shot and falling ! You must have saved my life—fgr the second time in one day,” he added, gratefully, grasping the rough, horny palm of the Scalpless - Hunter. “Well, I don’t know but what TI did save you, for a tum- ble down fiat place couldn’t be much less. than death, to say nothing of the red-skins,” laughed Rose. “But where are they—gone ?” _ “No, I guess not, but they might as well be so far as get- ting at us is concerned. Don’t be uneasy, lad, for let them ‘owl as much as they please, they can't git in here unless we tell them they may come. A ten-year old boy could keep to the entrance. He peered cautiously forth, but for a moment i abate rot and then raised one hand to his head. The pain, and sight» hole tribe at bay in our place,” said the old scout, advanc- 3 dis sha the du tic THE YOUNG RANGER’S MISSION. 8h discern aught save the dead body that still floated in the shallow creek, round and round in an eddy. But then through the forest trees he could now and then catch a glimpse of a dusky form darting from tree to tree, as if in momentary an- — ticipation of a shot from the cave. “ Well?” asked the young ranger as the scout returned. “Tt is well, so far, at any rate. They’re there, and I guess mean to stay there, waiting for another chance at one of us, Good shot, one of ’em is, for a red-skin.