t aa | Prvaidle | i VY ‘The edna succession of splendid stories of border, Indian and hunter’ fe which hav6 followed one another in FRANK STARR'S AMERICAN NOVELS, | as given theseries great prominence in the trade, and great interest with 1e public that knows a good thing when it is submitted to its attention. Tn the coming issue, number 76, to be out. on Tuesday, October 17th, an: ‘her capital thing is added to the list in the exciting and deeply interes ig tale of the Arapano country, viz.: ROLLO, THE BOY RANGER: "he Shadow of of the Settlements. ' BY OLL COOMES. farly days in Towa were not unlike early days in Ohio and Kentucky, ten homes were hewn out of the forest with rifles and scalping-knives. hat is now a beautiful land, blossoming in grain-fields and dotted with wns, only two generations ago was the trainping-ground of the relent- 8 savage! ‘he history of one of the frontier posts is involved in this admirable ry. The Boy Ranger is amystery—coming and going in astrange man- °, Whose identity is never even suspected by the reader until the wild d tragic denouement, which illustrates the often proven fact in border ‘story, that the worst enemies of the hardy settlers were the renegade ites, who, dropping out of civilized life, become more savage than the rbarous Indian. dd Tumult, the Boricr Scout, isa glorious character, who, himself, little esses the interest there is for him in the denouement of a story which ll make the reader wish for more from the same hand. 7RANK STARR’s AMERICAN NOVELS are sold by all newsdealers ; or sent st-paid, to any address, on receipt of price—TuN CENTS. FRANK STARR & CO., Publishers, 41 Platt Street, New York. wv } THE MAD MINER; OR, THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. a BY HARRY HAZARD, ~ (87) it ars A, NEW YORE FRANK STARR & CO., PUBLISHERS, 41 Platt Street. Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1871, by FRANK STARR & CO.,, In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. (Wo, 71.) THE MAD MINER; OR, THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. CHAPTER I. THE CONSULTATION. “Wert, boys, what-do you think of this life, anyhow ?” asked Ira Tampkin, taking the well-blackened stump of a pipe from his mouth, and knocking the ashes from it upon his thumb-nail, and glancing quickly around over the little party of his comrades. “Think of it? Why, what should we think of it? What do you mean?” asked Sam Carson, looking half stupidly at Tampkin from his small, dull eyes. “ Wal, I kin tell ye what JI think,” broke in the eldest of the little band, Sabe Sollars. “I think it’s’ jest bully—fust chop—an’ who shed know better ’n old ‘ Big Head’ Pap he was a trapper afore me, an’ As dad the same, an’ thar’s no tellin’ how fur back it didn’t go, ef so be thar was any Sol- larses afore them. I consait it runs in the fambly. I’ve bin one fer nigh onto fifty y’ars, now, man an’ boy, an’ Marsh thar, he’ll keep it up a’rter me. Eh, boy ?” “Bet ye!” grunted the “boy ” addressed, a huge, muscular son of Anak, who looked as if he could indeed do as he so often boasted: “ take a bull buffler by the horns an’ rastle him blind !” “Yes, you may well think so, seving you have never led any other life. But I sav ’tis only fit for dogs, or—” “Eh! dy’ hyar thet, lectle’un? Unly fit fer dogs, when we say ’tis fit fer ws ?” exclaimed the old trapper, nodding at Marsh, who deliberately reared aloft his gigantic frame and strode toward Tampkin. 10 THE MAD MINER; OR, “ Hold on, friends—don’t be so touchy. Wait until I have finished, and then if you are not.convinced that I tell the truth, Tl apologize, and—admit that it is fit for you two,” added Tra, pacifically, but with a covert sneer in his last words that, fortunately for him, escaped the comprehension of the two men. “Which is it, pap ?”? quoth Marsh, the young giant, stretch- ing out a pair of huge paws that would have shamed a full- grown grizzly. “ Squat, sonny, an hyar him out. Iyreckon he means all right enough. ’Tanyrate. thar’s plenty o time a’terwards,” slowly replied the old man, keenly eying the first speaker. Marsh obeyed his father, and resuming his seat, stolidly be- gan filling his pipe from a plug of “ nigger-head.” “ Well, as I was saying when you two hot-bloods let your angry passions rise, the life of a trapper—and more especially a “hired hand ”—is not fit for white men to follow. You know how it is yourself, just as well as I do, if not better. ‘Who in the world does harder or more dangerous work for the amount of pay we’ get, than us poor devils? Not one Even the ‘poor nigger’ in the slave States leads an easier life than we do. “ At any rate, when they are sick, they are attended to, and should they kick the bucket, are buried. While we—if one gets hauled over the coals, it’s lie down in your tracks, ‘and if the deyil has a mortgage on you, he finds but little trouble in getting his due. “ T know that you say niggers are slaves, while we are free men. Zhat is worth something. I say—bah!/ The hired trapper is the veriest slave that. treads the footstool. “ The life of a trapper does not average three years, and what do we get for this self-murder? If very lucky, our wages, that we slave like dogs fora year. Itis gone in a month, with the best of us. You say there is no need of this. I say that it can not be avoided. ‘“A man living a life of constant toil and danger for many months, when he can not say with certainty in the morning that his scalp will be his own at night, would de were he not to keep his spirits up with stimulants of some kind. AndI ask you, who ought to know by this time, how much chance, — does & _he gets the we \ ‘3 ets pusine what Solla “ 4 was Tha goo! kee old ( ou & +h be THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. bE haye does « poor devil stand of holding ontd his money? When truth, he gets among the traders and gamblers, to say nothing of idded the women—deur creatures—where is he ? that, _ “ L ask you, old man, as you say you have followed the two business a lifetime, how much money have you laid up from | what you have made?” added the orator, appealing to Sabe tech. | Sollars. fall- | “Eh—me? Wal, I cain’t say, jestly... You see I niver was much o’ a hand at savin’ things. An’ fer why shed 1? all | “Thar’s on’y me an’ the cub yander, an’ ef I don’t peg out Is” + soon—which I must, in course 0’ natur’—why in co’se_he’ll keep his old dad from starvin’, Eh, sonny ?” hesitated the be- old trapper. “Mighty right I will, pap,” uttered the ‘cub.’ “ But youll ur outlast me yet. Thar hain’t another sech a tough old cuss on ly .? the peraytic as you be, ef I do say it!” uw 4 “Paps you're right, lad; deed, I consait I may say you °, : de right,” muttered the veteran, while a gleam of pride lighted r up his swart and wrinkled visage. j “Wal, what is all this cussin’ an’ discussin’ abeout, any- ry § heow?, Darned ef I kin make eout head nor tail tew it!’ | muttered Lemuel Long, a worthy representative of way down é> East, or to be more definite, Connecticut. [ “Ts wuss'n a Injun powwow, a durned sight!” muttered _. Asaph Comp. : “Wait until I finish, and then see if you say so,” replied | Tampkin, taking a fresh start. “TI have said that a trapper’s i life is fit for no man, and now I will tell you the one that I : think 7s. | “Who would hunt miserable pelts when they can pick up gold by the handfuls? And that is just what I propose do- ing, if you fellows will join me.” “What! go to Californy ?” interrupted Comp. “ Why, the | hull kentry is ramsacked over an’ chuck full o’ fellers what | can’t make thar grub. Git out! You can’t green this chicken ! Nary time! Wolf!” “ Who said any thing about going to California?” hotly re- torted Tampkin, darting a fiery glance at the trapper, who gave no signs of noting it, unless by a quickened pulling at A his short black pipe. “I know what that is as well as you 12 THE MAD MINER; OR, and rifle 2 e ) Now, © do: But what I mean is this. If you fellows will join me, | « TE and swear to keep the secret, I will tell you where you can | jittle w lay your hands upon enough of the “yellow dirt,” to make dians- each one of us rich for life,” slowly uttered Tampkin, em- «WN phasizing each word, and then pausing to observe the effect was P of his speech. know It was sufficient to satisfy even him. The group sat in from silence, but the quick glances that ran from one to another of “a the men, told how fully they were aroused. Por Ira Tampkin sat as if totally unconcerned, softly whistling it is a tune, but from beneath his shaggy, pent-house eyebrows, the for keen black orbs were jealously wutching the effect of the _ gol thunderbolt he had dropped in their midst. Sam Carson was the the'fitst to speak. ““ You talk in riddles to-day, Ira Tampkin, and perhaps you # “7 had better solve them for us, as they are beyond my compre- hension, at least. But listen for a moment. You are a g stranger to us, or nearly so, although you joined our band nearly a year since. You may be all. right, or may be all { wrong—” ‘'« What do you mean by all wrong ?” hastily interrupted the ' person addressed. “If you mean to insinuate—” “There—there—don’t get your back up without cause is — given you for doing so,” coolly rejoined Carson, as Tampkin laid a hand upon the haft of a knife, in a threatening manner. “Keep your bravado for those who fear it. But I meant to insinuate nothing. If I had any thing to say against you, it would be in plain words, open and aboveboard, not in hints. “ What I meant was this. If you have such a secret ac you say, and it is a thing that an honest man can enter, why tell it, if you feel so disposed. But if-there is any thing un- derhanded about it, it would be better to let the matter drop at once. And now, as I have said my say, I will go out of hearing, if you wish to tell the boys your secret,” added the imperturbable trapper, rising from his seat. “ No, Sam, stay,” hastily rejoined Tampkin,- “J£ we go into ‘the job, we will need your skill and rifle, too; for [ plainly admit that it will be a venture not free from danger. But even so; What is that more than we live through eve: ; day of‘our ‘lives? “A: trapper carries his life in one b in me, OU ean make 1, em- effect at in -E-of Wy ling the the vas On fy ~~ D THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 1 and rifle in the. other; and a few months are all we need. Now, comrades, your answer. “Tf I show you a gold-mine, or rather placer, where but little work is required, the main trouble being from the In- dians—will you join me?” he added, anxiously. “Wal, that depends,” quoth Long Lem, as the Yankee was popularly known, from his extreme hight. “ Heow many knows of this ’ere mine, an’ what dew yeou ixpect as pay from each one of us as j’ines ye ?” “There is not a man living—” hesitating a little at the word, as if it choked him—*“ who knows of it but me, unless it is the Indians. They do, of course, as I can testify. As for the rest, all I ask is an equal share with the rest when the gold is divided. I amno hog, that I should want all,” replied the trapper. “Jt ‘pears all on the square,” ‘muttered Sabe Sollars. “What d’ you say, sonny ?” “ Tsay yas, an? fer one, Pll sw’ar to whativer he axes,” grunted Marsh. In short, there was not a single dissenting voice, and the party took the required oath. Then Tampkin resumed : “T thought you would be convinced, and I am glad to see that I was not mistaken in you. I know what you are, and that I can depend upon your skill and courage. For I tell you plainly that it is no job for a faint heart, and that lives may be lost; most probably will. . But even so, is it not the same in trapping, and that too without the reward? Still, if any wish to retreat, they must say so nowy, and there will be no harm done,” he added, glancing around upon the faces of his comrades; then after a slight pause he continued: “Good! Now listen. When the ‘ gold-fever’ broke out in ’49, I was one of the first to flock to California, expecting, in my credulity, to pick up the nuggets by handfuls. And I don’t know but that in my dreams of enormous wealth, I half-resolved to pay off the entire national debt, and thus record my name along side of Washington, as the second father of my country,’ with a half-sneer. “At any rate, if not quite so foolish, I was not much better. But I was soon undeceived. A few months slaving in the mines fully cured me, as it also did my partner, and after st THE MAD MINER; OR, scarving to within sight of death’s door, we raised a couple we Wy o¢ horses and took the overland route for the States. gates “We finally reached the South Pass, where we were dis- a cuvered and chased for several hours by the Indians, but i thanks to our good horses and a‘dark night coming on, we phe f shook them off and covered our trail in a rocky creek. . Losing our whereabouts—for we were both new to the plains—on the an thrd day afterward, we found ourselves in a rocky, hilly country, and stopping at noon beside a creek, to refresh our- 5 Soe selves and horses, we found signs of gold in abundance. as “In a very short time we satisfied ourselves that we were, | ae in reality, ina vast gold-placer, where in a short time we gu eould enrich ourselves for life with the yellow dust and ‘scales,’ 4 “ Well, to make a long story short, one afternoon we were v surprised by a party of Sioux warriors, who killed my partner ; P and badly wounded me. But I managed to elude them in a i deep ravine or cafion, where I remained hid until well enough to travel, “The Indians still hovered around, and I had no chance to get.at our buried gold. But I feared to be discovered if I waited any longer, and stealing a horse from their crowd, I finally succeeded in reaching the settlements,” concluded 4 Tampkin, Ei “Tt has been a long time since,” slowly observed Carson. “Why have you not availed yourself of this wealth be- fore ?” ee “For a good reason. I could not doso without help, and if I found men daring enough to venture, I feared to trast them with my life and the secret. Until I found your band, I had but little hopes of ever revisiting the place—at least, not until the Indians were more peaceable.” : “ But why didn’t ye tell us afore?” asked Sabe Sollars. “Simply because I did not know how far you might be trusted. Your courage I did not doubt, for I had seen it tested,” returned the trapper. “Well, there is plenty of time. We have but just come in, , and need a little rest, anyhow,” said Carson. I “Yes ; a week or so—not more. Then if any of you feel like going back to the old work, afier we have got our pile, Couple € dig. 8, but n, we sing 1 the hilly our- "Te, we nd THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 15 we will be back before the season sets in—by October, at latest. Besides, we must pick up a few more men,” added Tampkin. “ Why, ain’t we a-plenty? Too many hands might spile the porridge,” interrupted the Yankee, covetously. “ Never fear, my friend, but what there will be enough for all. If not I promise to give you my share,” laughed Ira, greatly pleased at the smcoth working of his plans. “If any of you know a trusty man, or even two, that can be depended upon, I wish you would secure him. We’ ought to have twenty, but fifteen will do. But it is growing late, and I guess we had better be getting back to the Post.” The party introduced to the reader was composed of eight men, who had but recently returned from their winter’s trap- ping expedition, and who were now stopping at Fort Union, near the mouth of the Yellowstone river. Jontrary to their usual custom, they had not proceeded te the “ lower settlements ” to iniulge in a grand spree, and we have seen their reasons for not doing so. Leaving the Post, they had joined Tampkin at a little dis- tance, who made known to them his great secret, which he had hinted at more thap once, during their sojourn together. His words, now that the time bad come for disclosing it, were well chosen, and thoroughly dazzled the majority of the little party, as we have seen, and they fell in with his humor readily. Separating, they entered the fort, as if they had merely been out for an idle stroll. It would never do for their plans to get wind. : Should it do so, there were plenty of desperate, unscrupu- lous characters in the vicinity, who would not hesitate to dog them, and share in their good fortune, even if force became necessary. Then the place would be a secret no longer. Ira Tampkin, now that he had secured these seven men upon whom he knew he could depend, ran mentally over a list of others he had met at the fort. Of them all, he knew only one—and him merely by sight—tbat he believed he couid trust. : This man he resolved to sound, and if possible, induce him to join them. This was a person whom the trapper had at 16 THE MAD MINER ; OR, first evinced considerable curiosity regarding, if close watching and covert inquiries concerning him, might be regarded as such, It did not take long for the trapper to leain all regarding his character, habits.and. disposition, that could be picked up there, which, as the person was a new-comer, was not a great ~ deal and far from being satisfactory. That he appeared to have plenty of money, was temperate —a fact sufficiently to be noted among the wild and dissipated congregation at. the Post—and his only business, so far as could be ascertained, was trying to learn the fate of one Con- stant Pouvicr, and if alive, his whereabouts, That he was no coward was plainly demonstrated upon one occasion, when he politely declined to drink with Len Stavoy, a noted desperado, on plea of being a teetotaler, The bully in- sulted him, and was as promptly knocked down for his pains. , ; An impromptu duel was' the result, in which the desperado received a shattered arm, which in all probability, would put an end to his fighting for some time, if not forever. This much Tampkin had learned, after being questioned upon the subject of the lost man, by the youth, who gave his name as Chester Strong. Tampkin had not heard of him, and closely questioned Strong as to who and what he was, as also Chester’s motive in hunting for him. The answers returned seemed plain and straightforward at the time, but were very vague and unsatisfactory when the trapper came to analyze them. If Tampkin appeared to be interested in Strong, there was one person present at the Post who was equally as much 80 with himself and his movements. Wherever he chanced to go, there, dogging him like a shadow, was the dusky figure of an Indian. The first time Tampkin fairly met the gaze of the savage, the blood left his face, and he glared at the dusky counte- nance in wild alarm, or at least. an expression that one might have easily interpreted as that emotion. There seemed something strangely familiar in those keen black eyes, that compelled his own to droop ; but then, with an impatient oath at his own credulity, he banished the fear, THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 17 Watching idea, whatever it might have been, and walked up to the irded man. ’ Placing a hand upon his shoulder, Tampkin gazed search- ae ingly at him for a moment, then turned away with a sneer ked up upon his handsome face. Y great | As he entered the Post, after divulging his plans to his ; comrades, Tampkin pideeucied directly sto the office of the Perate agert, whom he knew slightly. pated 4 “Any thing I can do for you, Tampkin ?” asked a tall, ar ag | portly man, the Indian agent of the Post. Con- “Only answer a question or two. Where is that Chester Strong ?” one “You mean the young fellow who took the wind out of voy, Stavoy’s sails ?” ; in- “ Yes. ” hig ‘i “ He left with his rifle a short time since for a walk, I be. i lieve. You haven’t any news of his man, have you ?” do “ No—how should I ?” ut kh “Tt would be a mercy if he could find some one who did. This cross-questioning of his is gettingto be a perfect nuisance.” d “Wonder why he seems so anxious ?” 3 “J can’t say. Probably some relation. But was that all you intended to ask me ?” “No. Who is that queer-looking red-skin yonder? Him with the striped blanket and straw hat without a brim, I mean.” “Oh, that’s only Bruno, a half-witted Sioux. At least he claims them for his people, but he must be a half-breed at least, for I never knew an Indian of full blood to have such a heavy beard and mustache. But why? Has he been an- noying you, too ?” “Well, yes, some would call it that. Ido. He has been i dogging me ever since I came in. What character does he | bear? If a rogue or a thief, I will soon put a stopper on his | capers.” | “Oh, there is nothing wrong about him-—only that ‘one | habit. Every person who comes in has to undergo the same, ee ty | as though the poor devil was looking for some one he can not | find. He watches them all, like a cat does a mouse. But I reckon it’s only curiosity. 18 THE MAD MINER; OR, “Tf he was what you think, we would soon get shut of him. And you may rely upon it. the man who insults or in- jures him may as well order a wooden overcoat, for the Da- cotahs would take the war-path to a man to avenge his wrongs. He is a sort of prophet or medicine-man of theirs, I believe. At any rate, they obey him far better than they would their head chief,” returned Cravens, thoughtfully. “Well, if that is the case, I shall not trouble him, unless he begins it. But then, prophet or no prophet, he will get as good as he sends, if not with added interest,” laughed Tamp- kin, turning away, as if greatly relieved from some secret but deep anxiety. ye that evening Chester Strong returned to the Post, and was immediately sought out by Tampkin. After a few idle remarks, the trapper suddenly exclaimed, as if the idea had just occurred to him : “ By the way, Strong, I have been thinking over what you asked me the other day. It seems to me that I have heard the name before. What was it? . I forget.” “Constant Pouvier—a Frenchman by birth. Can you tell me any thing about him ?” eagerly cried the young man. “ Pouvier—Pouvier—«ihere have I heard that name before? Can it be— Jad he any relatives living in the West 2” “ His wife—-or widow, I fear—and daughter, live at St. ‘Joseph, Missouri,” replied Strong. “What! on Water street ?” “ Yes—why, do you know them?” asked the young man, curiously. “Slightly,” calmly replied Tampkin. “I have not seen them for a couple of years, at the very least. The child, An- nette, must be quite a beauty now, unless she has changed greatly since that time.” “Indeed she is—as lovely as an angel !” was the enthusi- astic reply. “ Ah-ha! the wind sets in that direction, does it ?” laughed the trapper, but a close observer might have noticed a slight uneasiness beneath the mask. “ Am I to congratulate you? But pardon me,” he added, as the youth flushed up. “TI for- got that I am comparatively a stranger to you, although being an old friend of the family.” eae 4 THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 19 hut of age “Never mind; no harm done. But I understood you to 3 a- say that you did not know Mr. Pouvier ?” Jie gs. ; “Nor did I. But I did the family, after his departure. Ewe - But now—to change the subject—are you intending to make their a visit out here of any length—if I may ask ?” “ Until I can find out something regarding Pouvier, or else nes become convinced that he is really dead.” zo “ Well, I am glad of it, although I don’t. see much chance a ) of your success.. But listen to me fora moment. I am think- but ing of making up a party to go and explore Wind River Moun- tains, and the country surrounding them, and I should like aa you to join us, if only as a sight-seer.. You would be amply e repaid for your trouble, and ‘then itis as likely a place as any ad for you to find out the truth regarding your man. Will yeu join us ?” 2 i “ Explore it—what do you mean?” asked Chester, keenly eying the trapper. “I can trust you? ‘You will keep my secret if you don’t feel inclined to accept my offer?” “Yes. But if you doubt me, don’t say any thing-more about it. I should rather not hear it.” “T don’t doubt you—if I did, I should never ‘have said this much. Well then, I suspect there is gold to be found there; indeed, I may say I am sure of it!” “ How long do you expect to be gone ?” _ About six months. Not longer. . But if you desire, you can return at any time. There are always trains going back | and forth by the South Pass.” | After some little discussion Chester Strong decided to make one of the party, and then Tampkin revealed the whole truth regarding the gold-placer. Before they parted, the subject was thoroughly understood. é This delight of gol trifling Gol CHAPTER II. ferous : A BRUSH WITH THE CHEYENNES. aes i: Time rolls on and the scene of our tale changes to the , os vicinity of the Sweetwater. It is nearly midsummer. The ¢ was day is clear and pleasant. com Upon the extreme summit of an exceedingly high and steep of peak, reclines the form of a man. min ; Ever and anon he raises his head and slowly, carefully | r sweeps the horizon and intervening country, with a keen the glance. Then with a half-petulant exclamation, he sinks of back, apparently in deep thought, with his gaze fixed upon the i valley below him. ef The observer, had there been such an one, would have been 8 strongly attracted by the frank, open countenance, and have ¥ instinctively felt a warming of the heart toward the youth ; 2 for young he plainly was. In features he was by no means handsome when judged by regularity of outline, but the face attracted all who loved honor and manliness. In form he was above the medium hight, and of an active, athletic build, whose native grace was not entirely disguised by the rough, soiled attire that he wore. ' In a word, the dreamer, or watcher, as might be, was | Chester Strong, and following the direction of his eyes, that were now riveted upon the valley, one could see the forms of perhaps a dozen men, who from their motions and attitudes, appeared to be delving in the ground. And such was the case. They were the trappers first introduced, together with sev- eral others, now turned gold-diggers. Ira Tampkin’s plan had thus far been successfully carried out. They had left the fort singly or in pairs, and left behind them the impression that they had started for the lower set- tlements. But instead, they met at the appointed rendezvous, from thence journeying rapidly to the golden valley, or placer. THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 21 This they had reached with but little difficulty, and to their delight, found that Tampkin had rot overestimated the amount of gold there was at hand, lying ready to enrich them, for a trifling amount of labor. Gold in grains, scales and nuggets lay at their feet. Auri- ferous quartz was piled up on every hand. Countless wealth awaited them, and day by day their golden hoard jncreased, with no perceptible diminution of the placer’s thickness. But they were far from being at ease. It seemed that life was tenfold more precious, now that they were so rapidly be- coming rich, than when they toiled the wild, precarious life of a trapper. One coustant bugbear danced before their mind’s eye—Jndians. That the red-men were well acquainted with the placer, they could not doubt. Upon every hand: they saw evidence of this, besides Tanipkin’s story. And they knew that, once discovered, the must strenuous efforts would be made to destroy the daring band of gold- seekers, for fear, should they be allowed to escape, the tidings would spread, thus bringing a rush to that section, the same as there had been across the continent: to California. ' This the whites well knew, and woth night and day a watch was kept, in order to guard against surprise. As yet they had not been molested, but their vigilance did not relax in the least. The stake was too great to be lost by such carelessness. : To watch was Chester sae s duty upon the day in question. ‘The sun had mounted meaty to the meridian, when his gaze became fixed upon a point where a deep cafion debouched into the level open valley. A shade of anxiety was upon his features, when he at length discovered a small party of horse- men, and could distinguish them as Indians. A large stone lay at Chester’s side. This he rolled over until he held it poised upon the escarpment of the hill, his eyes still turned toward the distant savages. For a moment he paused, and then the frown deepened as he saw the intruders still approach. Then he released his. grasp, and the bowlder started upon its mission. Slowly revolving at first, then extending its leaps at every aeieeninasinieeseteaienicicaCcsnil aia werner atin 22 THE MAD MINER; OR, sounded, instant, the missile crashed its way lown the steep hillside, | into the sending up a cloud of mingled leaves and dust in its wake, Then until it paused far out from the base of the hill. Tampsi 'The gold-diggers ceased their labor and looked up. lets hut Chester Strong had attached a large red silk handkerchief fore it, to the muzzle of his gun, and then waved it to and fro. Then yells © he elevated it once, twice. Finally he shut and opened it until he counted seven, flee fr Now, his friends knew as much as he did. i made The color meant Indians. The elevation meant west. The woun last signal told them the number of the enemy. 3 Chester waited until fully assured that unless the red-sking | as hé Wi should change their course, they would pass through the vul- | after ley, when he rapidly descended the hill, aud in a few minutes - joined his comrades, who had seized their weapons and were said hastening to the mouth of the pass leading into the valley ~ “F from the west. } the Here they ensconced themselves in a dense thicket of un- dergrowth, interminglsd with small trees, and anxiously await- ed the coming of their foes. By this means they fully com- Ef manded the only entrance from that direction, and would fe have the advantage of each man’s choosing his target, at not more than a score of yards’ distance. : y This volley, added to the surprise, they thought, would in- i sure the destruction of the intruders. The pass or defile § would admit of only one horseman passing at a time, so that should any of the foe attempt a flight, the miners felt confi- dent they could pick them off with their pistols before any _ of them could escape. Hence they were in high glee, for with but one or two ex- ceptions, the miners considered the red-men as lawful game as a wolf or a bear, Not a word was spoken or a direction given. Each man knew his duty and what was to be done, too well for that. All-—every- man must go down, not one be allowed to escape. For if so, he would speedily return with others, to avenge their comrades’ fate. Eack rifle was cocked with a faint, muffled click, as the reg: ular tramp of horses’ hoofs came echoing through the defile, dispelling all doubt upon the subject. Nearer and nearer 1% lIside, vake, chief ‘hen l it Se THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 23 sounded, until the foremost savage passed from the defile out into the valley, and paused for his comrades. Then as they stood in a crowd, the loud, clear tones of Ira Tampkin called out the signal, and a withering storm of bul- lets hurtled from the ambush. The savages melted from be- fore it, making the surrounding cliffs echo with their horrible yells of agony and death. Two of the seven alone retained their seats, and turned to flee from the massacre. One of them fell before his horse made its second leap; the other vanished through the defile, wounded, though alive. “ After him, boys—after the red devil!” yelled Tampkin, as he caught a horse, and leaping upon his back, shot madly after the fugitive, closely followed by two more of the miners. “Jeeminy criminy! but I hope they'll grup the critter !” said old Sollars, as he coolly divested his “ meat” of ils scalp. “Fer ef they don’t, then the suddenter we cl’ar ont from hyar, the tighter I'll feel my wool fit on my noddle !” “ Reck’n !” grunted Marsh, as he wiped out his rifle. “ Durned nasty scrape, cub; these hyar fellers is Cheyennes Ef they gets i on it at. the big. town, *twon’t ve no place fer us no more.” “Nary time. Hellow dad—look hyar!” eeteba tha _ young trapper, as he pulled one of the dead men from under 4 horse that had been killed, at the same time turning him over so that the veteran could see his face. “ Leg-in-the-water, by all thet’s bad!” exclaimed Sabe, anx- iously adding, “ Who throwed him, boy 2” Marsh tapped the butt of his own rifle sini Get y. “Then pray the good Lord ’at it don’t never git out! Ef it shed—” ca “ What ?” . “Then it’s 600d by cub! The peraries nor the mountings nor the wuds o’ the hull West wouldn’t be big enough to hide your karkidge from the eyes as will be a’ter ye! A dozen imps, keen oat cunnin’ as the big wolf, would foller ye day in an day out, till they holed ye. You mought kill one, two, three—hafe a dozen; but jest so long as thar’s one on ’em left: fit to smash grass, he’ll be a’ter you, an’ when ye meet, the quickest trigger takes the persimmings !” 24 THE MAD MINER; OR, “ What d’ you mean, dad ?” “You've see’d the band led by Otunnee?” (The Crow.) “ He was one,’ nodding toward the dead brave. “They is all lations, both in blood an’ by vow. Thar oath is as I telled ye, an’ they means it—every doggoned word on it! You've heerd me tell bout old Pen Brown? Wal, he wiped out one 0’ the fellers as b’longed to the band, in a sort o’ drunken squabble, like, an’ from thet day he was a spotted man. “A friendly red told him what’s up, an’ he was on the look-out. Afore a month he hed bin shot twicct, an’ though he rubbed the cusses both out, t’others kep’ up the hunt so cluss, thet he went e’ena’most crazy. “Once he led a wheen o’ men, prime fellers, to try an’ clean the gang out, as he’d got all thar names. They was drawed into a ’bushment, an’ on’y one ’sides Pen got cl’ar. “Mother feller was wiped out afore a week, an’ Brown, he hed to leave the plains at last, an’ went to St Louey. Even that didn’t save him, for he was penned one mornin’, axed, an’ his ha’r lifted. “ Tt was did by one o’ the gang, a brother to the one ’at he'd fust killed. The devil hes boasted of it often, an’ showed the pelt. Now do you hunt out the bullit an’ throw it away. Don’t leave any sign, fer thar’s no tellin’ what mought hap- pin,” earnestly added the father. “Wagh! See—it’s gone!” said Marsh, pointing to the perforated skull. “So much the better then. Ef you lifts the ha’r, change the cut of it, less they mought see it,” cautioned the old trap- per as he turned away, shaking his head with a superstitious foreboding that he could not dispel. Long before their comrades returned, the gold-seekers had dragged the dead .bodies to a sort of pit close by, and casting them into it, piled dirt and rocks upon them. Then effacing ull signs of the massacre, they retired to their quarters, as it was too late to think of resuming work. Chester Strong returned to his look-out, where he was to remain until nightfall. ‘The others proceeded to a narrow defile that extended but a few yards, then ended at the base of a towering precipice, so perpendicular that no human being could scale it unaided. i Tts fa tain } sway’ cut v terva ted | ¥ asce nar pas pel as ot row.) They elled u've one ken the igh so " neve what A the: and ; beiu ty A Po: lea de St dk tic an- ng of ot of > still ) the ured * den | nts, rer, he st es THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 35, They were sitting at a little distance from the spot of car- Qage, at the base of a hill, unbound and unharmed. At the first deadly volley from the ambushed red-skins, a small party had sprung from the covert, ani darting into the melée, liad Singled them out and bore them from the spot of death to Where they now were, Oue man remained with them, while the remainder dashed back to participate in the massacre and pillage. ‘That man Never lifted a hand or a weapon against the whites, beyond What he had already done. And yet he was an Indian, or at least, a half-breed. .Like the rest, hé was painted and plumed, wearing the scalp-lock and bearing weapons. Unlike them, he wore a long, flowing beurd of jetty blackness, intermingled with gray threads, It was the strange savage noticed by Ira Tampkin at the Post, and known as Bruno, the Sioux. That he was the leader of the Indians was plain, from the great respect and deference shown him by the braves. These two women were those whom we have heard Chester Strong and Ira Tampkin refer to, as Mrs. Pouvier and her daughter Annette. A few words may be necessary to explain their preSehce here, as well as their connection with the young Inan. In 1849, when the gold-fever was raging at its hight, Con- stant Pouvier left his family in St. Joseph, and started for thé gold-mines of California, hoping to gain an ‘independence by a quicker process than thatvof selling groceries. He wrote that he had done so—that he had succeeded be- yond his most sanguine expectations, and would soon be with them once more, with enough to keep them in luxury for the remainder of their lives. That was all. They knew not whether he had started, or whether he had - been murdered in the mines for his gold. Whether he had taken the overland route, fallen ill on the way or been killed by savages, or whether he had sailed and met with ship- wreck. Only, they never heard from him again. He was lost be- yond a doubt. i As time passed on, they were forced to believe that he’ was indeed dead. Still, at times, they would hope against hope. 86 THE MAD MINER; OR, Chester Strong had known Annette long, and had learned St tolove her. Avowing this sentiment, they were betrothed; | bush but with one proviso. than The condition was this. If after one year’s search, nothing | look was heard of the missing father, the young couple were to be | bee married. ing. But during this time Chester Strong was to maintain a | : system of inquiries, was to visit all the trading- posts, hunt buc out trappers and such men who passed their lives in the > ere frontier, to see if any clue could be gained as to his fate. lor The name was an uncommon one. He had been a man that once seen, would not be readily forgotten, and thus some- th thing might be learned to settle definitely the painful suspense vi naturally felt by the mother and daughter. If at the end of fe a year, he’ had. strictly fulfilled his portion of the contract, | then Chester was to claim’ his fair reward. ) b It was upon his first excursion that he had met with Ira | t Tampkin, and was induced to join the party of gold-hun- 1 ters. : Several months after his departure, Mrs Pouvier took a ( sudden resolve to visit California, and inquire at the place he 3 had dated his letters from, hoping that something might be learned regarding his fate, or if living, his whereabouts. = Joining an emigrant-train, they had started, little dreaming of what lay before them. Until this day they had progressed finely, on their journey But now—alas! The reverse was doubly bitter to them. CHAPTER VY. BURIED ALIVE, Arter leaving the scene of the murder, Tampkin has- tened onward, keeping a good look-out upon every side, and carrying ‘his rifle in a position ready for instant use, He muttered broken sentences, although seemingly unconscious of | speaking aloud; but no‘clue could be gathered fromhis words _ as to the subject of his thoughts. earned rthed ; thing to be ain a | hunt the man me- ‘nse | of THE ThAPPER’S SECRET. 37 Suddenly he paused and crouched behind the cover of a ‘bush. It was near the corner of a little knoll, at little more than amile from the spot where he had shot Crazy Tom. His looks did not indicate alarm or indecision, as would have been the case, had it been an enemy that he heard approach- Ing, Then the bushes parted, and a magnificent black-tailed buck stood just upon the crest of the swell, with head proudly erect and antlers almost touching its haunches, as it tremu- lously snuffed the tainted air. Tampkin quickly raised his rifle, and as the bead drew upon the animal’s throat, the trigger was pulled, and with one con- vulsive bound the deer fell in a quivering heap almost at the feet of his slayer. “Luck seeins to favor me this morning,” he muttered, as he bent over his game, and cutting its throat, placed it in a better position for bleeding. “ First him and now this. Just what I wanted to go down the hole with. Ugh! I don’t like the job, but it must be done. Can it be that I was deceived ? Cursed if I don’t believe I’m going crazy, to start and trem- _ ble at the sight of every face I meet ! “Well, this job over, and then to take up the handsome _ widow, and I will leave this cursed country for Europe, where I can live and enjoy my fair bride and my wealth, in quiet- ness.” ) As he thus mused, Tampkin was not idle, put using his knife with the dexterity of a professional hunter, he soon had the hide from the deer’s body. Then he hung up the body out of the reach of wolves, and slinging the hide over his shoulder, started off at right angles with the course he had been pursuing. : He was now going directly away from the. den, and using the utmost precautions, crouching under cover of a bush or slinking behind some bowlder, as though fearful of being ob- served and followed. For over a mile he proceeded in thismanner. Then crouch- ing down behind an overhanging rock, he listened for a few moments in breathless silence. Apparently reassured, he drew a knife, and began cutting the skin into strips, then knotting them together, thus form- 1 2 88 THE MAD MINER; OR, ing a long and strong rope. This done, he once more started forward, but only for a few yards. : Kneeling down upon the ground, he rolled aside a large bowlder by the exertion of bis utmost strength. That action revealed a small hole, whose depth could only be conjectured, and the sides of which sloped rapidly away from each other, much Jike the mouth of a cistern. Tampkin dropped in a small stone, and listening eagerly as if bounded from point to point, thus showing that the depth was not very considerable. Gathering a large bunch of grass that tufted the hillside, fie wound it into a tight cord, and holding it at arm’s length, down the cavity, quickly lighted it. When once the blaze | had fairly caught, Tainpkin allowed it to drop from his hand, anxiously peering after it as it slowly sailed around and around until it rested upon the bottom of the cavity. Its faint flicker- ing rays but imperfectly lighted up the spot, and rendered the surrounding gloom of still more intense blackness, from very contrast. “Then the air 7s pure! I may have been deceived after all. And if I have!” muttered Tampkin, as he hastily se- cured the deer-skin rope to the bowlder he had just rolled aside, and then dropping the free end through the aperture, after attaching a stone to its extremity. He knew from the dull thud that the rope Was more than long enough to answer his purpose, and then resuming his rifle, he started upon a circle around the vicinity, using great caution, and apparently satisfying himself that there was no danger to be apprehended from any intruder. What was his mission that he used such precautions to avert discovery ? Then Tampkin once more stood beside the hole, and lay- ing aside his rifle, he grasped the rope and carefully lowered himself, feet first, into the cavity. The knots he had tied facilitated his descent, and he reached the bottom in safety. Taking the bunch of “ caugh-wood” that was secured at his belt, he struck a match, and then when the torch was fairly ignited he raised it over his head and began searching the floor of the cavern. Owing to the stooping position he had assumed, the trapper’s featur - from the s Al ever} — erevi torcl to c f pau ten: 4 he fre y) arted large ction red, her, erly pth de, th, 28 d, 1d r- 1e y THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 89 features were not visible in the gloom, but if one might judge from the hoarse, half-stifled growls that issued from his lips, the search was any thing but satisfactory. Around and around the chamber he circled, peering into @very nook and cranny. He entered a low, dark, tunnel-like - erevice fora few feet, but then returning, he threw down the torch with a bitter curse, and grasping the rope, commenced to climb it. As he climbed, his face was uplifted, and he suddenly paused, while a wild look of horror rested upon his coun- tenance, now ashen pale. At the hole above him he beheld a human fuce | Was it fancy, or was it really the face of the man whom he had shot and buried but a short time ago? His body trembled as if with the ague, and he nearly fell from his perch to the rocky floor beneath. Then a wild peal of. demoniac laughter rung in his ear, sounding from the surface above. And he heard some words, also, but‘in his terror, could not comprehend their meaning. When Tampkin opened his eyes, he saw that the face was gone, and then he felt the rope to which he was clinging, vibrate with short, quick jerks. Fearfully he peered upward, and to his intense horror, saw that his view of the sky above was slowly being cut off! That the hole by which only he could emerge into the outer world, was being closed up ! He tried to shriek, but in vain. , Then that face again appeared, and sent down another blooa- curdling laugh ; then the bowlder was turned once more and fell with a sudden clang, over the crevice ! At the sudden jerk, Tampkin felt his grip slip, and then he fell in a senseless heap at the bottom of the pit. He did not hear the maniacal shriek of laughter above, nor the rattle of stones that were being heaped upon his living grave, but lay there in a deep swoon. How long he remained there, he never knew, but at length ~ his consciousness returned, and as he started to his feet in a bewildered manner, the cold rawhide rope touched his face. Then the trapper recalled it all, although at first it seemed ore like a horrible dream than the dread reality; but one 40 THE MAD MINER; OR, glance at the spot where the hole should be, banished all such doubts. Not yet willing to abandon all hope, Tampkin seized the rope and nimbly ascended it, until his head and shoulders touched the bowlder around which it was secured. In vain he swung himself to and fro, seeking for a foot- hold from whence he could apply his great strength to the bowlder, for this alone, he thought, barred him from the outer world. But bis efforts were fruitless, and with every fleeting mo- ment he was growing weaker and his grasp upon the rope less secure. Then fearing lest he should again be dashed to the bottom, Tampkin descended and sunk to the floor, breathless, panting, and hopeless. He felt that his doom was sealed.. That he now occupied the tomb where he was to meet a horrible, lingering death ; a death of starvation. In his despair he tore his hair and beat his head against the rocky floor, uttering the most horrible curses and blasphe- mies that mind could conceive, intermingled with grotesque prayers and appeals for mercy. He raved and shricked for mercy, making fearful confes- sions, that if true, amply proved him deserving the death that threatened him, horrible as it was. In such manner did he pass hours, until at Jength he could raise his voice no louder than a husky whisper, and he laid. back as helpless as an infant. Then, oblivion came upon him, and for a time he slept But it was not a sleep of. peace and repose. Even then he would roll and toss from side to side, throw- ing his arms wildly about, as if doing battle with some hated enemy. His voice, too, was raised at times in incoherent mutterings, that all tended toward one oe oecae crimes the most abhor: rent and heinous. Of robbery—murder—and still others. Names too were pronounced, sometimes in whispers, or yelled out in wild, piere- ing shrieks. When he once more aroused himself, Tampkin was more cal ha ro in th ne = Oo I such d the Iderg foot- . the uter mo- ope THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 41 calm and collected. It seemed as f the fearful tortures he had undergone while asleep, had cliared his brain of all ter- ror, and in a manner reconciled him to his fate; for he sat in ‘silence, with head bowed upon his knees, buried in deep thought, or else the apathy of extreme despair. Then he arose and groped around the pit until the extin- guished torch touched his hand. This he secured, and strik- ing a match, he soon had it burning with a clear hut faint glow, and once more made the circuit of the cave. A small piece of dried wood was eagerly picked up, and secured upon his person, for upon it might depend his life. A light was as necessary to him then as breath itself. 'Hereached the low, narrow tunnel already alluded to, and entered. Thrusting the lighted torch before him with one hand, while the other clutched his bare knife, Tampkin slowly and painfully writhed his way through the narrow passage. At times he would be forced to exhaust his breath and drag himself along with his hands, by main force, until the clothes were torn from his person and the blood trickled from the severe scratches and abrasions that the jagged points of rock inflicted upon his body. Nothing but the energy of despair could have carried him safely through the first hundred yards of the passage. But then his task proved more easy, and hope began to revive as the tunnel enlarged, and he could see no indications of its com- ing to an end. The torch burned down to his hand, and then Tampkin placed it upon his knife-point, and still crawled on. Then it gave one flicker and died out. He reclined at full Jength and lay still, completely ex- hausted by the terrible toil he had undergone. He feared to ignite the other piece of wood, lest he should be left without any means of light, in an extremity, and once more he advanced. Slowly and fearfully he crept along, thoroughly exploring inch by inch of the ground upon both sides, top and bottom, before he ventured to proceed, lest he should be precipitated into some yawning pit or dangerous place. At a few yards further, his outstretched hands failed to touch the side walls. He elevated them, slowly and cautiously 42 ‘tHE MAD MINER; OR, rising erect until his arm was stretched to its utmost tension, and still he did not touch the roof. He uttered an exclamation of astonishment, and the echoes of his voice resounded all about him, changed to such a variety of tones that he shrunk back affrighted. But this emotion did not last long, for he knew that he was now standing upon the confines of an abrupt enlargement or sort of chamber in the bowels of the earth. Perhaps he was upon the verge of freedom! But nothing could be done without a light, and Tampkin resolved to ignite his last torch, trusting to either find another, or else gain the | outer world once more before the light should fail him. Without much difficulty the piece of wood was set ablaze, and by its light, Tampkin saw that he was in a large chamber, that appeared to have been excavated by human. art, although he found no direct proof that such was the case. As he walked around, the light of the diminutive torch was flashed back from glittering masses of quartz and smaller par- ticles that Tampkin knew was gold. Several of these small nuggets had fallen to the ground at the base of the walls, and were picked up by the adventurer. He felt not the slightest doubt but that he was in a portion of an ancient deserted mine, the workers of which had probably long since passed back to the earth in which they, toiled. But Tampkin had no thoughts to spare for them. ‘He only knew that in such a case there must be an exit from the mine in some manner, if he was only fortunate enough to choose the right tunnel, of which there were some half a dozen, running toward all points of the compass. What pleased him the most, however, was the sight of a good-sized pile of leaves, moss and small sticks that lay in a little nook. Glad, not alone because from it he could replenish his torch, but because he saw that the cave had been tenanted at. no very dis- tant day, cither by man or beast. For some of the leaves that composed the bed, were not entirely withered, and still retained their dark-green color. It might-be a man, or was more likely, some wild beast, who might make their appearance at any moment. And although Tampkin was armed only with a knife--a THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 43 lension, keen, heavy bowie —he would gladly have hailed such an ad Yent, and run the risk of a death-grapple so that he could ascertain the proper tunnel by which to seek an exit. For nearly an hour he waited, hoping that the owner of the bed would appear, for Tampkin knew that he stood a echoes variety i was better chance of victory in the cave where he stood, than did nt or he meet the foe ina tunnel, perhaps at a point where he thine would be obliged to maintain a crouching position. 18 But at length his patience exhausted itself, and ,securing suite several sticks to act as torches, Tampkin boldly entered one the — of the tunnels. = For a couple of hundred feet, he managed to crawl along, Ss but then his progress was checked ;, the roof hung too low ber, | to admit the passage of his body any further in that di- igh rection. ) With the greatest difficulty Tampkin wormed his way back, yas / at one time fearing that he was inextricably. wedged.in. At an every moment the pain became greater, as if the roof of. the tunnel was slowly pressing downward. at But then he managed to gain the cavern once more, where ? he sunk down, completely worn out with his Herculean 4 struggles. y y Had an enemy appeared then,his fate would have been sealed. Breathless and panting, he could not have lifted a finger in self-defense. The fearful struggles he had saikomagecaes both hodily and ' mentally, were beginning to.tell upon his iron frame, Still he resisted the feeling of despair that. assailed him, and rose to his feet. When he failed, it would be all at once, and forever. Renewing his torch, Tampkin set to work. Two more tunnels were explored, with the same result. Still he did not despair of finding the right one, and en- tered the fourth. It extended only a few yards, and then was ploeked ab- ruptly up, as if the earth had fallen down from above. He was about retreating, when the torchlight revealed something that gleamed white in its rays, Extending one hand Tampkin touched it, but then drew back with a convulsive shudder. 44 THE MAD MINER; OR, He recognizud the peculiar feeling of bones, still firm and hard, though perfectly dry and smooth. Composing his repugnance, Tampkin began removing the earth, pulling it beneath his body, as he was enabled to do by the hight of the passage. Ina few minutes he had disenterred the remains sufficiently to see that it was the skeleton of a man. A wild, exultant gleam of joy momentarily lighted up the -trapper’s haggard countenance, until he presented a striking resemblance to those ancient pietures of the ghoul at his mid- night feasts. But the emotion soon vanished, and turning, the trapper speedily regained the cave. This time he did not pause for rest, but approached the Then ledge, @ called bh gon’s) $I The bring } - that th tHe witho stanc! shoul Sa in 1 next channel at once. Scarcely had he entered it, when he suddenly paused and bent his ear to the ground, as if listening intently. A cold perspiration broke out upon his brow, but he re- mained silent. He had caught the sound of footsteps slowly ap- proaching him / CO HAC PTH VL, THE DHATH-TRAIL. Iv was afternoon when Sam Carson awoke from the deep slumber into which he had fallen, and with a sudden start he sat erect and stared around him. He was greatly astonished to note that Crazy Tom had van- ished, but thought he must still be within the cavern, as it seemed but a moment since he had beheld him sitting buried deep in a reverie. Arising, Sam soon satisfied himself that the stranger was not in the apartment, and then with an anxious mind, he pro- ceeded to the entrance. He could not repress an exclamation of surprise as he noted the position of the sun, now past the meridian, and saw that his slumber must have lasted for hours, instead of moments. | to b E } the ces arc be Ww tm and ing the do by | ciently P the iking | Mmid- 7 bper the ind j re- p= THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. : 45 Then he saw that the rope-ladder was suspended from the ledge, and instantly realized the truth. The stranger who Called himself Crazy Tom, had left the den during his (Car- _ Son’s) sleep. ‘The miner’s first impulse was to follow upon his trail and bring him back, but as he returned for his rifle, Carson saw that this would not answer. He could not leave the cave during his comrades’ ‘absence, Without leaving the ladder down, and this, under the circum- Stances, he dared not do, for fear other eyes than friendly ones Should observe it. So he was reluctantly forced to remain inactive, cursing in no measured terms his stupidity, if it did not turn out to be worse, in allowing the stranger to escape. But nothing out of the way occurred, and toward nightfall the hunting-party returned, having met with more or less suc- Cess, reporting that so far as they knew, all was peaceful around the neighborhood. One of their party, however, did not return, and the miners began to grow uneasy, as night settled down upon the earth, without any signs of Ira Tampkin. Until after midnight they remained awake, anxiously list- ening for the expected signal, but it did not salute their ex- - pectant ears. They were not idle meanwhile, but oo several small fires, they cut the meat procured by the day’s hunt into strips, and cured it sufficient to insure i's not spoiling before the task could be done more thoroughly. Day came again, and Tampkin was still absent. As before they all departed upon their hunt, excepting the look-out and one man who remained at the cave den. Carson struck off alone, and wandered aimlessly along, his mind deeply exercised by the strange disappearance of both Tampkin and Crazy Tom. Somehow he could not divest his mind of the idea that in this fact, at least, there was some connection between the two. Although a quiet, unobtrusive sort of man, Carson possessed: a fair share of curiosity, and this was now deeply excited. He had noted the sudden start given by Tampkin when he 46 THE MAD MINER; OR, first beheld the stranger’s countenance, aud had. partly caught the sentence—a sentence that contained a name—that. the trapper had unconsciously muttered. Then, too, he had closely observed their subsequent actions and looks until he thought that he possessed a clue—faint, yet still a clue—to the mystery that.enveloped the two; that a dark and dreadful crime had been committed. Tt was with mind occupied with such thoughts that Sam Carson sought diligently for a trail. He little cared which one it was—whether of Tampkin, or the stranger’s imprint, for he felt assured that. the one would eventually lead him to the other, both ending in a scene of blood. Before long Carson struck a trail that he conjectured to. be that of the lunatic, Crazy Tom, and slowly, foot by foot, he traced it up,; his head craned forward, trailed rifle, his eyes, now glittering with an unusual brilliancy, at every few yards glancing rapidly around him in every direction. His slow, lithe movements resembled those of a sleuth. hound ona half-cold scent. Without pausing or faltering, Carson followed the devious > and apparently aimless wanderings of the frail, until suddenly he stopped. The trail bad been obliterated, though he could still see traces of where the earth had been displaced, either in a death- grapple, or— Further conjecture was useless. Carson’s gaze alighted upon a rock that was stained with a crimson blotch. He knew that it came from the veins of a man or beast, for there was no mistaking that dull-red color for aught else than blood. Carson advanced and examined the rock; then uttered a cry of surprise. He saw faintly defined upon the soft, moist eurth the broken outlines of a human form, and knew that a deed of bloodshed had been committed—that the victim had been buried ! But who had removed the body? Had he recovered and crawled away himself, or had the murderer removed the corpse 10 a more secure and secret place ? Carson looked beyond the hollow, and could see where a pody had passed over the ground, leaving a broad and dis tinct pioot Se out use alo! ( dis ah a THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. A? caught tinct trail, which was sprinkled at intervals with drops of atthe” blood. ; Scarcely knowing what to expect, Carson resolved to trace Ctiong out the mystery, and holding his rifle in readiness for instant If, yur use in case it should become necessary, he carefully advanced lata) along the trail. Close beside the wood “ spoor,” the keen-eyed trapper could Sam | ‘distinguish the faintly-defined footprints of a man. ' These he carefully studied, but could only determine that or. | they were made by a moccasined foot, and upon the previous uld day, as the night’s dew had fallen upon and almost obliterated of them, : But whether the wearer was an Indian or a white man, he be, | could not say. It was a commonly-made moccasin, and the he foot had been planted in a true line, neither diverging to the es, A left or right, in or out, at the toe. Is i As he rose a little knoll, a couple of buzzards flapped heavily from the ground, and then sailed in slow circles about t the trapper’s bead, as if indignant at being driven from their feast. 3S His heart beat faster for a moment, as his eyes beheld a / shapeless mass of bones and flesh lying upon the ground be- fore him; but then Carson breathed a sigh of relief as he dis- covered that it was nothing more than the remains of a deer. Both parties had evidently been here fora spell, for the footprints of one were scattered in every direction, and the side of one bowlder was smeared with a gory stain, while a little pool of coagulated blood stood at its base. One glance showed the miner these features, and then he once more proceeded along the trail of death. “The trail ran now in a direct line, but Carson saw that the pauses of the man who had left the broad track had been more frequent and of longer duration. By this he concluded that whoever it was had dragged him- self along of his own accord, and Carson began to feel a still more intense interest in the novel adventure. He reached the spot where the foo‘man had sat down un- der a huge bowlder, and here he found several strips of deer- skin, small and ragged, though evidently cut with a sharp knife. \ 48 THE MAD MINER; OR, But over this he did not puzzle his brain, fecling assured that when he reached the termination of the double trail, all mystery would be solved. Once more he paused, and this time for a longer period. He saw a good-sized pile of rocks and bowlders, heaped upon each. other, and each one of them was marked more or less with sanguineous stains and blotches. Carson thought that one point which had puzzled him would now be cleared up, and he began to remove the stones. One by one he roll them aside, and as he stooped over the last one, he uttered an exclamation of surprise. Engircling the rock, Carson beheld a twisted rope of raw deer-skin, and when, with some difficulty, he rolled it aside, he saw that the rope extended down into a cavity, or a small, irregularly shaped hole. Drawing upon the rope, it yielded easily, and after a time Carson pulled it entirely forth, with a stone of several pounds’ weight attached to its extremity. ~The miner sat down and pondered over the case, but could throw no light upon it. It was an unfathomable mystery to him. As he arose once more, with the intention of descending the hole, Carson’s eyes caught the broad trail leading away from the spot, and after a momentary hesitation, he resolved to trace it up to the end before investigating the secret of the cave. It led him in a nearly direct course along the side of the ridge, for some distance, then around its base over a rocky shale; but the blood-stains still directed the eyes of the trapper. © Again he paused, with a start and a half-stifled cry. The death-trail was at an end! He saw now who it was he had been following. Against a huge bowlder, there reclined the still and ghastly forin of a man; the stiffened and distorted features of which he had little difficulty in recognizing as those of the mysterious stran- ger who had called himself “ Crazy Tom.” Carson faltered but for a moment, and then sprung forward to assure himself if life was really extinct. His hand sought the left treast of the murdered man, but t | he felt shud Ye UL pierce plun to p y vel pit cu 10 h a assured Tail] » all Period, | upon or legg | him ‘Ones, r the Taw ide, all, me ds’ ld Ke) L oe THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 49 he felt no heart-throb, and hastily withdrew his hand with a shudder, wiping it upon his garments. He had placed it upon a cold mass of coagulated blood. Upon examination, Carson found that a rifle-ball had pierced the unfortunate heing’s breast, and that a knife had been plunged deep into his back: either of which seemed enough to produce instant death. _ Despite the awe that filled his breast, Carson deeply mar- veled at the murderous endurance and determination exhi- bited by the man in dragging himself so far under the cir- cumstances, and it served to still further increase his anxiety to solve the mystery that shrouded the entire circumstance. A rifle was stil] clasped in the dead man’s hands, and to his great surprise, Carson recognized it as the one belonging to Ira Tampkin, and the same that he had carried when he left the den upon the preceding day. Instinctively glancing in the direction that the muzzle pointed, the trapper noted a hole in the side of the cliff, upon a level with the bottom, apparently extending in for some distance, as he could not see the end of it, from where he stood. Determined to satisfy his curiosity as far as lay in bis power, Sam approached the entrance and carefully examined it. The rocky shale that surrounded it, and paved the interior, was beaten down and somewhat worn as if by passing foot- steps, but the prints were not plain enough for him to ascer- tain what had caused them; whether it was only the result of the elements, or that the cave was the habitual resort of some wild animal. But nevertheless he resolved to explore the cave, and see if by some chance he could not discover some clue to Tampkin’s disappearance. So placing his knife in a position ready to his hand, and grasping his rifle, he entered the cave-tunnel, and proceeded for some little distance, when the intense gloom forced him back to procure a light. He had to search for some time before he could find a suitable piece of wood, and as he returned to the entrance, Carson fancied he saw a dusky form disappear into the hole, but whether of man or beast, he could not tell. 50 THE MAD MINER; OR, After carefully inspecting the shale, however, the mine concluded that he was mistaken, and once more proceeded cautiously upon his exploration. The passage that Carson had entered was nearly round, and sufficiently high to allow a man’s body to rise erect, provided he was upon his knees, so that the miner had but little diffl- culty in proceeding. Once or twice he thought he could distinguish, a print, like the foot-mark of a man, upon the bottom, but as he held the torch to it, he found he was either mistaken, or else the bright — glare was a hindrance, rather than a help. Carson’s mind was far from easy regarding the result of his mad enterprise, and more than once he was strongly tempted to drop the torch and retreat ere the worst should come of the foolish adventure. He knew not but that any moment might bring with it the death-shot from an enemy’s rifle, and the rays of the torch he carried would only serve to guide the missile more surely, Still he would not retreat. His curiosity had been fully aroused, and he was not the man to retreat from a myth, or abandon his purpose because of some fancied danger. But then Carson suddenly paused, and bending his head, listened intently, almost stilling his heart’s pulsation. He heard a confused noise as of a deadly struggle going on, and then the sounds of -a human voice raised in mortal agony or extreme fear. Tt sounded near, but muffled and unearthly. But that Car- son knewresulted from the position underground, The miner did not pause long; only to satisfy himself that the noise proceeded from defore him,,and then grasping his rifle tightly, he advanced as rapidly as possible, under the circumstances. The shrieks now sounded wilder and more loudly, but they were not alone. Mingled with the tones of the man’s voice, Carson could distinguish the hoarse growls and roars of. some wild beast. This dispelled any doubt that he might have felt as to what he was about to meet. He knew that a human being was in mortal danger, and did not pause to reason as to whether it was a friend or an enemy, but hastened onward. A proud gat be W ment of THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. o1 A broad glare now shone ahead of him, and Carson saw the miner that be was near a cave or subterranean chamber-like enlarge- -TOCeeded ment of the tunnel. . / fle réached the entrance, and between his position and a und, and | a or of fire, he beheld a man struggling desperately with WOVIc @ Jarge bear. e eo Carson dropped his torch and sprung forward, cocking his _ tifle) The beast did not observe his approach, but the man at, like did, and called out despairingly : . Id the “ Help, Carson—for the love of God, help !” bright 4 Carson recognized the voice of Ira Tampkin, and with one swift leap he was beside the combatants, and thrusting the f hig muzzle of his rifle almost against the bear’s ear, he pulled the pted trigger. > of At the muffled report, the grizzly monster gave a wild, hoarse yell, and then the antagonists fell to the ground together. the A Carson drew his knife and plunged it several times into the he beast’s body, but there was no need of so doing. The shot had been instantaneously fatal. ly When convinced that the grizzly was indeed dead, Sam or turned toward Tampkin, who had swooned away from pain and loss of blood, as soon as he realized he was saved. The trapper was badly torn and scratched by the bear’s claws, presenting a fearful sight, but so far as Carson could ascertain by a hasty examination, there was no serious cause for fearing they would prove fatal. Fortunately, Carson’s canteen was partially full of water, and pouring a portion of its contents down the trapper’s throat, he bathed his face with the rest. : Still the wounded man did not revive, and secing the necessity of gaining the fresh outer air, Sam managed to sling Tampkin upon his back. Being incumbered also with his rifle, Carson thought there would be no difficulty in traversing the tunnel in the dark, more especially as he found it pers fectly free from obstacles in approaching the cave-chamber. So he entered the passage, and crouching low down upon | his stomach, began his toilsome journey. It was excessively difficult as well as painful, but Carson knew that unless he did assume this position, Tampkin’s head might come in contact with the jagged points of quartz, { 52 THE MAD MINER; OR, and thus finish the work begun by the conflict with the bear. Notwithstanding he made allowance for the difficulty he labored under, and the slowness with which he advanced, it seemed to Carson that the passage was longer now than when he had before traversed it. Still, he did not doubt but what all was right, and perse- veredé All at once he felt the bottom of the tunnel give way, and tottering for a moment, upon the crumbling edge, striving frantically to preserve his balance, he was precipitated down- ward, headlong into what seemed an unfathomable abyss ! CHAPTER, Villx THE THUNDERBOLT. Tuat same day was destined to be an eventful one for more than one of the gold-seekers, notwithstanding the con- fidence they felt, in sallying out upon their day’s hunt, of their security for the present. It is with only two of them that we have particularly to deal, for the time being. Upon leaving the den, Chester Strong proceeded for a short distance alone, but then noticing Asaph Comp striding along at a little distance, the young man hastened his steps so as to overtake the taciturn hunter. Although at first Chester had felt somewhat. repelled by the cold, almost disagreeable demeanor of Comp, as he grew to know him better, this aversion was changed to a cordial, steadfast friendship upon his part. The old fellow, too, appeared attracted by the genial good- nature of Strong, whe seemed desirous of acquiring his friend- ship, and almost unconsciously he thawed toward the youth, who could always gain a word from hin, or at least a grunt, where the others would not be noticed. : “Well, uncle Asa, suppose we double teams to day ?” “ Hough !” Eo w Fxactl in your Vv know you gee that’s Comp then led caused. th “ Say; \ if you ¢ Comp £ would | the wa “ Kh “ Jt the se =O “wy man, help “ “ out *. Jes att m ‘tee 9 = the he it en e- 7. \. THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 58 Exactly,” laughed Chesters “I suppose that means yes, in your vocabulary. At any rate I will take it so, and I know you are too sparing of words to contradict me. You See that’s where I’ve got the dead wood on you.” Comp glanced at Chester with a half-smile, nodded, and then led the way once more with long, swinging strides, that Caused the young man to ply his legs nimbly to keep pace. “Say, uncle, IT wouldn’t believe you were what, you seem, if you only had a hook nose instead of a pug.” Then, as Comp glanced toward him, Chester added: “But for that, I would almost swear you were the Wandering Jew himself, by the way your legs travel!” “ AHumph !” “Just so. But what do you think of our chance of seeing the settlements again ?” For reply, Comp snapped his fingers, twice. “Well, that’s better than one snap, anyhow. . But come, man, speak out. Do you think that Indian will return with help to avenge his comrades’ death ?” eu, : a “Bravo! ‘You are improving fast; one whole word with- out choking. Come, I will make an orator of you yet!” jested Strong. Comp suddenly paused, and leaning upon bis rifle, deliber- ately stared Chester in the face; then opened and shut his mouth twice. At the third essay, he uttered : “ Young feller, I like you a heap. You're sorter. ticklish on top, but b’low thet, I kin see the raal stuff. You, laugh an’ joke, but you ain’t over an’ above easy ’bout this affa’r,” slowly spcke Comp, and then as Strong was about to speak, he waved a hand to check him, and continued : “JT don’t mean thet you're afeard. Not a tall. I know you've grit, car through. But I say ag’in that you ain’t easy in your own mind, an’ I don’t blame you a mite, durned ef Ido! You're young, an’ mayhap thar’s a p'ar o’ bright eyes thet'll look fer you to come back ag’in. An’ now I gay thet ef it 2s so, the sooner you pack up your duds an’ mosey back to the settlements the better. It’s goin’ to be rough times out hyar, an’ ’tain’t all on us as’ll kerry back all our own ha’r. 80 you'd better do as I tell y> to.” 54 THE MAD MINER; OR, “J don’t know what I’ve said or done, Conrp, to make you talk in’ that manner to me,” rather hotly rejoined’ Chester. “Or why you think I am a man to desert my comrades, just because a little danger threatens.” “Don’t mistake me, boy, nor put another meanin’ to my words. J fell you thar’s thet to come thet ary man mought turn his back to, without his bein’ thought a mite the wus on. You're young, an’ life must be sweet. Besides thar’s others as live in your welfar’, an’ you should think o’ them. “Tt ain’t the reds thet I mean, alone, but I told you, lad, thar’s a doom a-hangin’ over all thet stays hyar. Ef you ax me how I know, or what it is, I cain’t tell ye. But it’s the Lord’s truth !” solemnly responded the old trapper. “Tt may be so, for I have had a prescntiment myself,” slowly replied Strong. “But for all that, I must stay. It looks too much like cowardice to leave just now, when every arm may be needed.” “Hough! Je’s travel!” prunted Cop, resuming his old manner, and again leading the way. But his words had not been without their effect upon the young man’s mind, and had impressed him more deeply than he would care to admit, even to himself. Without being exactly superstitious, Strong was a partial believer in omens and forewarnings, and as he had half ad- mitted, he had been impressed by a dim premonition of an impending misfortune, although what shape it would assume, he could not tell. The sweet face and bright eyes of Annette had haunted him more incessantly of late, and it seemed as if there was a sad, wistful expression upon her features, that he had never voted before, and that appeared to be epee his sissistance or return. Let him try as he might to banish such ideas, they would return again with renewed force. He blamed himself in no measured terms for his folly, but it did no good. Just then he was aroused from his musings by the abrupt halting of his companion. “Well, what is it, uncle?” “ Grizzly,” grunted Comp, nodding toward the ground be- fore them. : CO exat sign alth sinc if ste th THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 55 Chester stooped: over the huge footprint with keen curiosity, examining each detail intently, for as yet this was the only sign he had met of “ Old Ephraim,” in his native fastnesses, although he had spent more than one day in hunting for one, since he had taken up the search for Constant Pouvier. “Uncle Asaph, we must bag this fellow !” “ Sartin !” and trailing his rifle, Comp broke into a swift, steady “lope,” alongside the fresh, deeply-defined trail left by the huge monster. Tt ran along the bottom of the valley, and it required but a slight degree of skill to follow it, the huge paws and long claws having torn the soft earth or displaced the smaller stones. The two hunters had not followed the track half a mile, when Comp again paused, and bending forward, listened ea- gerly. Chester did the same, and even his comparatively unprac- ticed ear caught a slight crackling sound that seemed like the breaking of twigs. Then Asaph motioned for the youth to remain where he was, while he advanced to reconnoiter, and ascertain the cause of the disturbance. Chester watched him anxiously,.as the old trapper glided noiselessly along upon his stomach, heading toward a huge pile of rocky bowlders that intervened between them and the suspicious sounds. Reaching them, and carefully inspecting his rifle, Comp cautiously peered over the top of one of the bowlders, for a moment, and then crouching down, beckoned for his comrade to approach. This Strong did, but with less caution than was exactly prudent, but then, as he peered over the barricade, Chester saw that their game was indeed before them. Sitting erect upon its haunches, was the grizzly bear, de- liberately pulling down the limbs of .a service-tree, and paw- ing the berries into his capacious mouth, crunching them with all the delight and gusto of an epicure. “ Now, lad, it ain’t no fool o’ a job as we've got afore us, ef you make a mistake. Better a dozent reds than him ef he’s hurt an’ sets his peepers onto ary one on us,” cautioned Comp. 56 TH MAD MINER; OR, Ge’s broadside toward us. You draw a good bead on that leetle bar’ spot jest ahind his fo’ paw, when he raises it. Then mount the rocks an’ fodder up like the devil beatin’ tan-bark !” “ But you ?” \ “Ef you miss, Pll spot ’im. No time to fool—be keerful !” hurriedly added Asaph. 5 Ries é t Chester noiselessly elevated his rifle, and as bruin elevated his paw, the double sight drew full upon the dingy patch, and the trigger was pulled. A. wild roar of mingled rage and pain followed, and Strong sprung nimbly up the pile of rock, as directed. Then came a shot from Comp, and as the young man cast a hasty glance downward, he saw his comrade leaning on his rifle, laughing heartily. He knew then that there was no further danger, and hastily descended, not however without a little chagrin at his need- less precaution. Comp greeted him with another chuckle. “Wal, lad, you air some on the climb. A pine squirrel couldn’t tetch ye! But never mind—it’s jest what I’d ’a’ did in your place.” z Upon examination they found that Chester’s missile had been true to its aim, and Comp acknowledged that his shot had been useless, although he had seen so much of what a grizzly bear could do, even when death-stricken, that he had deemed it best to err upon the right side. Highly gratified at their success, the two hunters at once proceeded to skin the beast, intending to convey the hide and as much of the choicer portions of the meat as they could manage, to the cave, and then return for the remainder. A few moments sufficed to remove the hide, and then Comp rose erect, the better to sharpen his knife, and at the same time take a survey of the premises. He glanced keenly aroun’, and then as he turned to the bear again, his gaze suddenly became fixed. Still keeping his face immovable, he uttered a low, warning hiss and thrust his knife back into its sheath. “What is it?” whispered Chester. “ Thar’s a wheen o° reds, jest beyant yander rise |” What 1” \ / A « An to the 2 Cnes somew! «mp ef the) “ W wy They your dow! C) of 1 the yell ing tes THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 5) bead on « An hay oe ee us! Retch me my rifle, but keep. cluss aises it to the ground,” muttered Comp. A beatin’ Chester did as directed and then clutched his own weapon, _ Somewhat perturbed. “'Thar’s over a dozent o’ them. We must break fer it, an’ rtayy | ef they foller us too cluss, 1 runnin’ fight. Be you ready ?” “ Whenever you are.” vated § “Then make a split fer the cave, as straight as you can put. ahd a They don’t know how many we be yit. Off with ye, an’ do your durndest !” muttered Asaph, as he suddeniy crouched low rong ‘ down and broke into a keen run. Chester was not far behind him in this action, and ag a pile cast of rocks screened them for a moment from the enemies’ view, hig 4 the two hunters had gained quite a little start, ere the wild yells that resounded from behind them told of their ruse be- ing discovered, and that nothing remained for it now but a ily @) : ’ od- test of speed and endurance. : But the miners were hardy and swift of foot, and the ‘al knowledge that they were fleeing for life, did not impede ‘d their activity. They sped onward in sullen silence, but the savages kept up a series of frightful yells and hoots, as if they thought to 1 _ _ terrify the fugitives into halting. Occasionally a rifle would crack, and the bullet would be heard by the miners as it hissed wickedly past them; or an arrow would hurtle through the air, but as if they had charmed lives, the missiles did not injure either of them. Nearly one half of the distance intervening between the den and the spot where the enemy had been first sighted, had been traversed, when Comp uttered a stifled cry, and tottering | forward a few paces, he sunk to the ground, the blood gurg- } ling from his mouth in a frothy stream. be i Chester saw this and whirled around, facing’ ‘his pursuers with a howl of wild rage, and as his rifle rose to his cheek, the spiteful crack was mingled with the thrilling death-shriek of a savage. f As if an echo to his shot, two more reports were heard from a clump of bushes not far distant in his rear, and with yells of dismay the savages crouched down behind such cover as they could find on the spur of the moment. 58 THE MAD MINER; OR, Chester was astounded at this event, and turned toward 1h? bushes, for this sudden diversion had most assuredly saved his life. A hat was waved in signal for him to, flee, but, loth to abandon his comrade, Strong stooped down and felt for some indication of life; but poor, ill-fated Asaph Comp was already dead ! Several shots from the red-skins now warned Chester of his folly and the risk he was running, and he sprung toward the friendly clump of bushes, his left. arm swinging helplessly by his side. But for the moment he did not heed this, and as he disap- peared, two more. shots were heard; then he found himself be- side Sabe and Marsh Sollars. “Come, young feller—’tain’t healthy hyar. Le’s travel!” cried the old trapper, and then as they saw he was wounded they grasped him by either shoulder, and again resumed their flight. Fortunately for them the Indians did not certainly know the force that opposed them, and were wary about advancing, using every precantion to avoid another of the death-dealing shots. Favored by the formation of the valley, long before the enemy had discovered their flight, the three white men had disappeared, gaining such an advantage as rendered pursuit vain. 2 In a short time they reached the foot of the cliff in safety, and the watching miners promptly lowered the ladder for their ascent. Seeing that Chester was almost fainting from fatigue and loss of blood, and totally unable to mount of his own accord, Marsh raised him upon his massive shoulders as though he was a child, and nimbly scaled the cliff. When he sat Chester upon his feet, the latter reeled and. would have fallen, but for the friendly hands that conducted him to a pile of furs and skins, where he sunk down in a deathlike swoon. The miners had been alarmed at the sounds of the surprise and chase, and had all arrived safely at the den, with the three exceptions: Asaph Comp, who had been shot through the lune was 10" Upo arm he pall, figatw the w sb a jov nN nece the J pal th jit Yard tho ved his loth to r some lready of his l the ly by isap- f be- a] [? led ( cir Ww VS a? | THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 59 the lungs; Ira Tampkin and Sam Carson, the fate of whom Was now a source of deep anxiety to the survivers. Upon examination it was found that Chester Strong’s left arm had been terribly shattered at the elbow-joint by a rifle- ball, and although the hemorrhage was checked by a tight ligature above the wound, grave fears were entertained for — the ultimate result. The man left on guard at the entrance now called out in a Jow tone that the Indiaus were in sight. The miners rushed to the entrance, but not forgetting the necessary precautions, and found that he had indeed spoken the truth. In the valley at but a short distance were fully a score of paint-bedaubed savages, apparently endeavoring to follow up the trail. left upon the rocky shale, by the miners in their flight. Every few moments one of their number would utter a little yell and stoop over some sign. The adventurers knew but too well what this meant, The savages were following up. the bloody traces left by Chester Strong. Although the rocky shingle had received no impression from the “mdecastied foot, this fact would betray them. Be- sides, might not there be some similar telltale blotches upon the fuce of the cliff? The savages had approached to within a score yards of. the base of the cliff, and knowing that little short of a miracle. could save them from discovery now, the miners were pre- paring to salute their visitors, when one of the latter suddenly uttered a yell of alarm and caution, at the same time darting behind a good sized bowlder. His keen eyes had noted the glitter caused by the rays of the sun flashing upon the bright muzzle of a rifle as it was moved in the cave entrance. His comrades quickly imitated his example, but not so rap- idly as to entirely escape the volley that was hastily discharged by the miners. When the smoke arose upon the still air, two stark forms were lying upon their backs in full view, while another one was just being dragged by tne hecls behind a covert, he be- ing either deal or badly wounded. THE MAD MINER; OK, CHAPTER .V Li. THE HALF-BREED AGAIN, “Aun of a sudden he felt the bottom of the tunnel give way, and tottering fora moment upon the crumbling edge, striving frantically to preserve his balance, he was precipitated downward, headlong, into what seemed an unfathomable abyss !” Such was the last glimpse we had of Sam Carsen, who, as the reader will remember, was striving desperately to regain the outer world, bearing the senseless form of Ira Tampkin upon his back, fearing that unless he should do so speedily, his comrade would. die. But he had made a sad mistake. When he saw the immi- nent danger his comrade was in from the enraged bear, Car- son had sprung forward to the rescue without pausing to note the shape or the exact position of the passage by which he had entered. Thus, in his haste he had, as he thought, entered the right one, but which was, in reality, the one next to it upon the left hand. : As he had only the sense of feeling, therefore, to depend upon, he had no idea of the error, and had unconsciously ap- proached so close to the edge of a sink or shaft in the tunnel, tbat it had given way beneath the pressure, and the two men were precipitated headlong to its bottom. Fortunately there were no rocks upon the surface, and they : alighted upon a bed of somewhat soft and sticky mud, 3ut as Tampkin fell heavily upon Carson’s head and shoul- ders, the latter was partially stunned and almost suffocated ere he could extricate the upper portion of his person from its perilous position, The cold, damp air however, soon dispelled this feeling of faintness, and Carson bent forward to examine the condition of Tampkin, and ascertain if he still lived. As his hand touched the trapper’s face, a groan broke from the sense frame. Overjo gan 10 ch kin, Whi had he Then were re! ita as he \ jiving Wh the g rapid O71 tore) A nite as J alo vt ve re, od le THE TRAPPER’S SECRRT. 61 the senseless man and a faint shudder crept over his frame. Overjoyed at, these manifestations of recovery, Carson. be- gan to chafe and gently slap the face and. hands of Ira Tamp- kin, which, aided by the sudden change of atmosphere, soon had the ‘effeet of arousing him from, his swoon. Then followed.a series of mutual explanations, while they were recruiting strength to attempt an escape from their prison. Itvappeared that. the sound of footsteps: heard. by. Tampkin as he had. fairly entered the right road to;escape from. his living: tomb, were made by the, grizzly bear. When he caught sight of the two fiery eyes reflecting back the glare of: his torch, the trapper had instantly retreated as rapidly as lay in his power. Once more regaining the cave-chamber, Tampkin. cast his torch; into! the dry mass of moss and_ leaves, that. instantly ig- nited and flashed up with a brilliant blaze, rendering the vault as bright as noonday: He knew that courage and promptitude of action could alone save him, and pressed close to the wall at the side of the, passage. The bear, paused when half-way through the opening, amazed at the bright and unusual glare, and ‘Tampkin dealt a vicious stroke at the beast’s shoulders, hoping to;-divide the spine, when the game would be in his own hands. But he miscalculated, and. only inflicted a painful flesh wound. ; Bruin instantly turned upon him, and in striving to elude a deadly: blow dealt at his head by the strong fore-paw of the bear, the trapper was forced to spring out from. the wall. For a few momen!s he managed to elude a death-grapple, but one foot slipped, and ere he could recover himself; the maddened beast had him in his grasp. Still he fought with the energy of despair, as his knife-arm — was still free, bu: was fast succumbing when he saw the wel- come form of Sam Carson, who turned the tide of affairs, as already detailed, and not a moment‘too soon. The two miners now began to examine their position, and for a time they despaired of ever. emerging from the hole alive, but then a close search showed that upon one side there 62 THE MAD MINER; OR, were several jagged points of rock or quartz, and they be: lieved that by these they could scale the hight. How far this was they could only surmise, nor yet tell upon which side was the right hole by which to regain’ the cave- chamber. But knowing the folly of wondering how it was all to end without action, Tampkin crouched against one side of the pit and Carson mounted upon his shoulder. Assisted by Sam’s pulling upon such projecting points of rock as he could find, Ira rose erect under his burden. Then using the utmost caution, the miner clung to the points and began scaling the side still higher, carefully grop- ing both before and upon either side as he crept along. In a very few minutes he uttered a low, eager cry of joy: “T have found it, Tampkin—hurrah !” “But are you sure it is the right one?” anxiously queried the trapper, in a tone of doubting. ~ “Yes, I can feel the place where we slipped down.” “How is it—can I climb it ?” “Wait. Throw me up your shirt. Here—where you hear my voice. No—just a little higher—there! AJ] right! with them both tied together, I guess it will reach you.” Strippivg off his heavy flannel shirt, Carson tied the two firmly together, and by leaning downward, the rude rope was lowered so that Tampkin could grasp it, and then in an- other minute the two men were retracing their way along the passage that had so well-nigh led them to death. As they emerged into ‘the cave chamber, they uttered a simultaneous cry of joy, for they could still discern a faint glow of fire among the ashes left by the grizzly’s bed, and feeling around the floor, the miners soon found material for torches. These were speedily ignited, and after a careful examina- tion they found the right passage, marked by the blood spilled at the entrance, and in a few moments were once more out in the open air. Tampkin suddeiily started: back with a cry of horror, and stood with outstretched finger pointing’ at the ghastly corpse of the murdered stranger, whose glazed and. staring eyes seemed to be riveted upon his every movement. - gentir tered wc wor! cray him feat pol tur ey be: upon cave- end > pit of the Op- THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 43 His form trembled and. his teeth chattered violently, pre- senting a revolting picture of terrified guilt. Then he fal- tered, in a husky voice that sounded forced and unnatural : “My God! how came he here ?” “The man who murdered and buried him, did not do his work well. He was not killed outright, and managed to crawl to this place. Do you know who skot and stabbed him?” slowly said Carson, keenly scrutinizing the trapper’s features as he spoke. But if he expected to see any signs of guilt, he was disap- pointed, for Tampkin, after the first start, schooled his fea- tures to their usual inscrutable look of calmhess as he replied : “Yes, I did it—in self-defense. The fellow was crazy, and I suppose mistook me for some enemy, for he shot at and narrowly missed me, from an ambush behind a rock. Then as he plunged at me with a knife, I was forced to shoot him. I went up to him as he fell, to see if I could do noth- ing for him, when he made a vicious thrust at my heart, and in my anger at this venomousness, I stabbed him. “Then as I had no time to spare, I buried him in‘a hol- low, thinking him dead. But he must have recovered and fol- lowed on my tracks, for I am confident that it was he who closed the hole in the hill, for I heard his laugh. But why did he come here ?” volubly uttered Ira, “T found him as you see. His rifle points toward the cave entrance. He was watching for you, doubtless, fearing that you would succeed in finding the way out, perhaps,” slowly responded Carson. “Tt must be so,’ mused Tampkin. “We must have had strong cause to kill you, or rather the one whom he mistook you for, seeing that you do not know him, to endure all that exertion, suffering as he must have done,” suspiciously added Carson, keenly eying the hard countenance of the trapper. “T can not understand it. But I suppose it was a mere crazy freak.” i “No, I don’t think so. There was too much method in the whole affair for that.” “ Well, I don’t know. But see—it ig my rifle that he holds !” 64 THE MAD MINER; OR, “Yes, Take it and let’s go. Itis Jate and we had best get back to the den as soon as possible. There is no telling what may have happened since our absence. At any rate, not much use in hunting further to-day.” “T shot a buck, but you say it is gone.” “Yes. Come on; you must be nearly starved,” and the two miners started off at a rapid pace toward the cave, intend- ing to procure the necessary implements and return, or send assistance to bury the remains of the ill-fated stranger. All appeared quiet in the valley, and they strode along, using but little precaution, not thinking of danger, when, us they reached a point about a half-mile from their destination, several dusky, half-nude forms darted upon them from behind a pile of rocks, and before they had time to realize the truth, or attempt the slightest resistance, both were hurled heavily to the ground and disarmed. They saw at a glance that they had been captured by In- dians, and set up a series of loud shouts to give the alarm in case their comrades were unaware of the presence of the un- welcome visitors, and if possible, to bring assistance. ~ But this was speedily checked by a powerful squeeze at their throats, and then they were securely bound. An Indian now came forward and addressed them : “ You may as well take matters quietly, for the more dis- turbance you create, the worse treatment you will receive. Your comrades know of your presence here, and are safely penned up in their cave—at least, such of them as are not killed.” These words were spoken in remarkably pure English to proceed from the lips of an Indian, and Carson stared at his captor in utter surprise, while Tampkin muttered as if’ un- consciously : “That devil of a half-breed, by—” “Yes, I am he whom you call Bruno, the half-breed Sioux, or Ptardootah, the Red Otter, if you prefer it. And T assure you, that the presence of no one would give me half the pleasure as does that of Mr.— How is it you call yourself, now ?” added the savage, ironically. “Who are you?” faltered Tampkin, seeming strangely ex- cited or agitated, as he scanned the face that was bowed close a to his with | ot then with defe dea" sulci ené to ‘of tr THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 65 _ to his own, and then turning from the glittering black eyes, With a convulsive shudder. “JY have told you—a half-breed,” curtly replied Bruno; then turning away, he entered into an earnest conversation With his comrades, who appeared to regard him with unusual deference. The miners, who both slightly understood the dialect, en- deavored to catch the meaning of the council, but without success. After a short time their legs were freed sufliciently to enable them to walk forward, a few inches at a step, and they were led up to within a short distance of the cliff, and allowed to stand in a position where they were in full view of such of thelr friends as might be upon watch at the cave en- trance. ‘Then Bruno, the half-breed, hailed the besieged, keeping well covered behind a bowlder, and after a short pause, the voice of Sabe Sollars was heard in reply : “What the devil do ’e want ?” “You see we have two of your friends here, prisoners. I am coming out to have a talk with you, and if you should happen to do me any injury, your comrades will pay the forfeit,” returned Bruno, as he deliberately rose up from his cover and stepped out in full view of the hill retreat. “Stop right thar, you dirty red nigger you!” yelled Sabe. “Ef you move a fut nearder, Vl plug ye like a water- million !” “Don’t shoot, Sabe—for God’s sake don’t shoot!” cried out Tampkin, in agony of apprehension, “The red devils’ liave got us covered with a-dozen rifles !” “ Yes, *tis true what he says,” rejoined the half breed, lean- ing upon his rifle, and coolly surveying the face of the cliff, his eyes resting finally upon the narrow ledge from behind which he could distinguish a number of dark muzzles pointed toward him. “Now listen to reason. You are penned up, and must sooner or later succumb, if only from the effects of thirst and hunger. So what is the use of an idle resistance? It can but end in one way, and—” “Now jest you stop yer jaw, you dirty white nigger, ‘less 66 THE MAD MINER; OR, yon kin shoot off yer mouth to better puppuss ’n thet,” ex: claimed Sabe, angrily. ‘“ An’ the sooner ye git up and git, — the better itll be fer yer health. Ef you don’t scatter afore I count six, durned ef I don’t drop you like a deadfall !” “ You may repent of this when it is too late,” said the savage, as he turned away ; “ unless you surrender before noon to-morrow, these men will Gie at the stake, where you can have the pleasure of being. an eye-witness,” but he did not add these last words until once more under cover, or his re- ply might have been more prompt than agreeable. It was now quite late in the afternoon, and the captives were taken out of sight of the den, and again bound, Night set in, and although the Indians ate heartily, the miners were neglected, their hunger being augmented by the savory smell of the broiling meat, The moon was in the full, and slowly arose in the uncloud- ed heavens, revealing objects upon the earth below. with al- most the distinctness of the noonday sun. With the exception of two Indians who were left as guard over the captives, the red-men had vanished, most. probably being stationed around the den, to prevent any of the miners from escaping, should they become desperate enough to attempt so doing. The captives were lying in the shade cast by a towering mass of rocks, owing to a change in the moon’s position. With an effort, Carson managed to touch his comrade with his foot, and then, as Tampkin glanced at him inquiringly, he whispered : “Hush! Don’t start or move, for God’s sake! I’ve nearly worked my hands free, and then I’ll set yours loose.” Great as was his joy, the trapper managed to control his feelings, and waited, with hope renewed within his heart at this unlooked-for tidings. The fact was, Carson had been thrown down, upon the rocky shale, and although his position was any thing but com- fortable or easy, the sharp points that pierced his body were hailed as a source of joy, for by this means he hoped to escape the fearful doom that threatened him. By dint of perseverance and great caution, he had gained a, position where the skin cord that bound his wrists rested wpon 2 to sav lacera Bu chan W trifle rade grea The i gra on m sti fi THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. Upon a sharp rock, and managed to move his shoulders so as to saw the thongs asunder, although not without fearfully lacerating his flesh. c But this he did not heed, when the prize in view was a Chance for freedom. _ When his hands were once free, Carson worked around, a trifle at a time, until he could reach the hands of his com- rade and then, after nearly an hour's time, owing to the great disadvantages he labored under, be untied the last knot. Then he whispered : “Manage to unfasten your feet, and then when I touch you, grab a rock, and take the one with the red shirt. Knock him on the head, and if you have time, snatch his weapons, Then make for the canon where you escaped before. Under- stand ?” ; “Good! We can hide there until doomsday, The ‘ cof- fin’ is big enough for two.” All was silence around in the valley. It, did not seem pos- sible that a number of men, intent upon bloodshed and death, were lying in such close proximity to each other, only await- ing the chance that either was too cautious to give, in order to begin their work. All was mute, save the never silent hum of the summer in- sects. The two guards were sitting a short distance apart, both engaged in smcking the soothing pipe, apparently unaware of the plot that was developing so near them. Their rifles leaned against their shoulders, and one of them was idly toying with a revolver, that had been taken from one of the miners, who were now lying in readiness to make a bold stroke for freedom. Then Carson gave the signal agreed upon, and when an- swered, whispered “ Now,” and sprung like a panther upon his guard, clutching his throat with one hand, while the other, holding a heavy, jagged rock, dealt fast, furious blows upon the doomed red-skin’s bare head, But, Tampkin wasn’t so successful. The Indian whom he. had seized partially evaded the blow, and pealing forth the thrilling war-cry of his tribe, grappled with his desperate foe. 3 68 THE MAD MINER; OR, As Tampkin repeated the blow with fatal effeot, and sprung to his feet, grasping the red-skin’s rifle, he heard the rushing tramp of many feet and the report of rifles. Carson bad possessed himself of the rifle, knife and revol- ver, and shouting to his comrade to flee, he’ turned and bounded away at the top of his speed. Tampkin followed his example, but unfortunately ere he had run two score of yards, lis foot caught against some protuberance, and tripping, he was hurled heavily to the ground. : Before he could arise to resume his flight, several of the enemy were upon him, and after a brief but fierce struggle, he was overpowered and beaten senseless by the enraged sav- ages, although his life was spared, for the present, in order that he might meet with an adequate fate in reward for his deeds. The remainder of the red-skins at once dashed on in pur- suit of the fleeing miner, who ran as he had never run before, knowing that he fled for life. CHAPTER Ix. A STROKE FOR FREEDOM. WE left the two captives, mother and daughter, helpless in the hands of the. half-breed Sioux and his band of merciless savages, at the scene of the massacre, near the foot of the Sweetwater. How then did he come here, at the Golden Valley, and where were his prisoners? A fact easily explained. Leaving the spot of death, the savages, loaded with plunder, traveled slowly along as if making for their secret fastnesses, but in reality pursuing a very roundabout course, intending to gain a favorable position among the foot-hills and then destroy their trail, fearing lest a body of soldiers or others should chance upon the remains of the wagon-trails, and start in pursuit of the marauding party, for revenge. Ye wo as the D md by Cheyen! But aroused } iw Cheye! > one m Jeisuré kin. TET as sc had tal 1 } . bre! ant eit | Sprung Tushing 1 re vol- ed and ere he some ° the —_ f the Sgle, Say- rder ' hig ur. af re, THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 69 It would never answer for their identity to be suspected, 4s the Dacotahs were ostensibly at peace with the pale-faces, ind by this ruse, they expected to cast the onus upon the heyennes, or the Arrapahocs. i But they finally struck a triple trail, and their ctriosity aroused, it was determined to investigate the matter. It was in truth the one first made by the little band of Cheyennes, who had been ambushed by the gold-seckers, the Sne made by the flight and pursuit, and then the one more leisurely left by the baffled miners returning, led by Ira Tamp- kin. The main body pausing, a squad was sent forward to act as scouts, and spy out the lay of the land. These it was who had surprised Asaph Comp and Chester Strong, with such fa- tal results. A settled resolve seemed to possess the mind of the half- breed as he closely scanned tle features of the slain miner, and he vowed he would not retreat further until he had either killed or captured every member of the venturous party. ; This vow was gladly hailed by the Sioux, as they were eager for scalps and thirsted to avenge the death of their com- rades. Bruno led his captives to a spot but a short distance from the cliff den, and stationed a trusty brave over them as an especial guard, while he advanced to reconnoiter the position of his foes, and if possible devise some means by which they might be taken. His actions toward the two miners since their capture had been strange and contradictory, and they were sorely puzzled to interpret its meaning. At times ‘he would be very attentive and watchful to sup- ply their most trifling wants, and appeared to take genuine pleasure in rendering their situation as comfortable as could be, under the circ:msfances: in fine, acting more like a lover than a brutal captor. Then again he would not seem to notice them, or if he did, it was generally with a dull, stupid glare; or if a gleam of intelligence did shine in his eyes, he would appear to take great delight in tormenting them with menacing looks and signs. 71 8 43) THE MAD MINER; OR, jl ; ‘ous \” how Altogether he was an enigma that they could not under Vy as he | stand, take him how they might. ee he Just before nightfall, Bruno came and stood before them Mons woul There was an expression of stern malignity upon his features, “ which and a wickedly vicious glitter in his eye. Bind he It was plainly evident that he was in his worst mood now,| ‘°*"” nettie as and that they need expect but little mercy, should the fancy As th! take him to exert his power. rved } “ Why do you tremble when I look at you? Can you read ie low, what is passing in my mind now?” he uttered, in a deep voice . seem that betrayed a deadly resolve so. plainly as to cause the two phe’ captives to tremble, despite their resolution. sg, Dut “ No—how should we ?” faltered Mrs. Pouvier. Pat a “T believe you lie; but I will tell you, that there may be An * no doubt. ‘You heard the firing some time since ?” it the “ Yes—what was it ?” ) “semap “Some gold-miners killed; that is all.” acu? “Some— My God! can it be? Mother, Chester was 0 mining somewhere near here!” gasped Annette. Fro “What place is this? What part of the country, I Can mean ?” asked the elder woman, striving in vain to steady her str’ voice. “Those hills yonder are called the Wind River Mountains,” replied Bruno. ¥ The poor girl uttered a low wail, and bowed her head in ! mute despair. : “They were white men—:gold-seekers, did you say ?” “Yes. Do you know any of them’? Was he a tall, dark man, whose hair is turning gray before its time, and who has a wicked eye?—and like a rattlesnakes?” eagerly cried Bruno. “No. He was young and handsome, with brown hair and blue eyes.” “ Chester Strong ?” “Yes—my God! is he here ?” “Yes, lie is here, and I intend to kill him!: But first I must torture him until I drive him ecrazy,as they did me. He loves this girl—I can see it in her face. In the morning I intend to burn you both at the stake, out in full view of the place where he is hiding, Ah! it will be. glorious—glori- 1Ot under: 0 re them, features, od how, le fancy U Tead P Voice 1e two 'Y be Wag I ler THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 71 is!” howled the half-breed, his eyes g glowing with a maniacal joy as he hissed forth the bitter threat. Then he turned abruptly away, as if fearful that his pas- §ions would wholly overpower him, and cause him to do that for which he would be sorry when too late. Without another Word, he turned away, leaving Mrs. Pouvier to console An- hette as best she might. As the night fell. and slowly wore on, those two women, nerved by the thought of their great peril, consulted together in low, guarded tones, striving to form some plan of! escape. | It seemed hopeless, yet still they did not despair. They might escape, vr they might be killed in attempting it, but the worst that could befall was preferable to the’ doom that awaited them here. And it needed that knowledge to spur them on; without it they would have shrunk in horror from: so “esperate an ate tempt, knowing nothin of their whereabouts, the lay of the country, nor of the enemies they might meet. ; One thing alone was in their favor. They were not bound. From their first captivity their limbs had been left free, from some crazy whim of the half-breed, but who had ordered: a strict guard kept on their every movement. So. they waited in painful suspense, watching for a chance to make a bold stroke for liberty. And at length it came, in this manner. Suddenly a loud uproar broke upon the stilbair ; the shricks and yells, the confused trampling of many feet, the reports of rifles and muskets, all mingled together.» The two. captive miners had broken bonds, as heretufore described. At the alarm, the savage who was guarding the two. women grasped his rifle ani sprung to his feet, his eyes glowing and his nostrils dilating like those of a hound upon a breast-high scent. The captives, though greatly alarmed, still retained their resolution and presence of mind. Then a swiftly-fleeing form dashed past them, at not more than a score yards distance, and in the clear moonlight, the dress and color of a white man was plainly perceptible. In truth it was none other than Sam Carson, fleeing for dear life. The Indian threw up his rifle and fired, with a quick aim. But as the fugitive still dashed on, with unabated. speed, the THE MAD MINER; 0%, savage uttered a wild whoop and darted after him, totully forgetful of the charge he had abandoned. “ Now, Annette—now is our time! Before he misses us— quick! Follow me and tread lightly, for your life !” muttered Mrs. Pouvier, in an agitated tone, as she arose and darted around the rock; then together they sped along, unknowing whither they were going or what lay before them—only that they were leaving the confusion behind them. Once indeed they made a narrow escape from discovery and recapture. They heard the rapid tread of footsteps before them, and caught a glimpse of a dusky form approaching through the moonlight, just in time to crouch down beside’a huge bowl- der, whose dense shade enveloped them as with a blanket. The savage—for such they could see he was, as he strode along in the bright rays of the moon—approached, and then suddenly paused. His keen ear had caught the sound of their dresses rustling as they shrunk still further back. As he crouched forward then, peering keenly around him, he could have touched either of the women by simply out- stretching his hand. One foot fairly rested upon the hem of Mrs. Pouvier’s dress. oF Fortunately they were self-possessed eneough not to stir or attempt a flight. And then there came a short, startling whoop from the direction they had come. Then the savage advanced, unsuspecting the presence of thove whom he had been so close to. For a moment the fugitives remained silent, their forms trembling like leaves, with the reaction, so great and imminent had seemed their peril. Then they arose and contfnued their flight. © They knew that their only hope of escape lay in gaining such a distance - as to elear the valley before their flight should be discovered, as then Bruno would search every inch of the ground but what he would effect their recapture. Suddenly there came the cat-like footfalls of’ some person just behind them, and ere the women could dart aside, they were discovered. With a low, hoarse growl the stranger sprung upon them, and clutching one in either hand, bore them to the ground, effectually checking all outcry. for | evel his mat of his Ta ae .~ my @m | totally igs ttered larted — Wing that very and the w]- ode THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 3 CHA P-TER OXF THE MINER’S COFFIN. BrrorEe Sam Carson had started upon his desperate race for life, he had his plans all formed and course marked out, ’ every detail of which was decided upon. This was owing to his perfect knowledge of the surrounding ground, and infor- mation that he had gleaned from Ira Tampkin. It will be remembered that the latter, on telling the story of how he had discovered the golden valley, had adverted to his narrow escape from the Indians, who had killed his com- rade, This he had accomplished by taking refuge in a deep - cafion, where he had remained hidden, though a keen ‘search was made for him by the savages. Since then, during a hunt, he had shown Carson the very spot, neither of them dreaming that its services would so soon be called into requisition. This spot Carson had inspected so thoroughly that he knew he could find it even in the night- time, and it was toward it that he now turaed his steps. He soon found that the rifle was an incumbrance, and being too closely pressed to throw away a single chance, he abandoned the weapon. Should he be forced into a struggle for life, he would still have the confiscated knife and pistol. Noted for his fleetness of foot and great endurance, he now put his powers into full play, knowing that the longer lead he could obtain, would be just so much more in his favor, and althongh somewhat faint from need of food and the trials he had so lately undergone, he fully retained his advantage. The moon shone down too brightly for Carson to elude his foes by concealing himself, as yet, and he sped onward toward the spot he had first selected. They were rapidly nearing the cafion, and as each man noted this fact, he increased his ef- forts; one to maintain his lead, the others to lessen the dis- ‘tance that intervened between them. When within a hundred yards of the ravine, Carson stag- gered as a sharp repcrt rung out, and a severe twinge in the side told that at least one of the missiles had found its mark. TA THE MAD MINER}; OR, The savages uttered a little yell of joy as they noted this, but then the miner sprung forward with renewed speed, and with a defiant shout, plunged down the precipitous bank. The Indians separated, one going above, another below, while the rest followed directly in his track, so as to intercept the fugitive whichever way he ‘might turn. When Carson reached the bottom of the cafion, his pursuers were just leaving the plain above. He did not pause for breath, but hastened as quickly as was consistent with silence over bowlders and through the tangled undergrowth, toward a pile of rocks, half concealed beneath bushes and clustering vines. The latter he parted, and a flat rock was lifted upon edge There was thus revealed a curious cavity, considerably Jarger than a man’s body. One end of it ran beneath a huge bowl- der that was balanced upon end. The sides and bottom were formed of what seemed solid rock; the whole presenting: the appearance of a rude coffin. Into this Carson crept, feet foremost, and then sata low- ered the flat rock, while the matted vines fell back into their original positions. The stone entirely covered the opening, but from the cracks beneath, plenty of fresh air could be ob- tained for breathing. The tramp of the Indians now met his ear, as they ap proached, and the miner awaited the result. in breathless sus- pense, dreading lest’ some of them knew of the euche. He could hear the low tones as they signaled to each other, and their catlike footfalls; then one of the savages stepped upon the flat stone that covered his head and shoulders ! Not a half-dozen inches separated the foes! Oarson held his breath lest it should betray him, and trembled ag he heard the loud throbbings of his heart, for fear it should also meet their ears. Suddenly there came .a dull cracking—then a dewfening crash, followed by a series of yells from the Ducotahs, that effectually drowned the faint outery of the miner. He felt a stinging pain throughout his limbs, and dust with timy parti- cles of stone filled his eyes. The Indian, it appeared, had inadvertently leaned against the upright bowlder, and from its being so nicely poised, the . | | | | DI jm) as fol sic | this, |; and elow, ‘cept werg for nee ard ing THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. "5 impulse had caused it to fall over. Carson had experienced a severe shock, but as soon as he recovered from that, he found that he was still free and uninjured, although the rocky sides of his “ coffin” had been considerably shattered. He listened anxiously enough for sounds of his foes, and then to his great joy they appeared to draw away from the spot. An hour passed without any thing being heard of them, and then completely worn out by the toils and hardships he had undergone, Carson dropped off into a heavy slumber. ‘When he awoke, the sun’s rays were pouring down into the cafion, and it was high noon. For a time he listened intently, but heard nothing to excite his suspicions. With a heartfelt sigh of relief, he strove to throw off the stone that covered his head. But it did not give an atom! ° Again and again he tried, while cold thrills of horror crept over his heart. Butin vain. It wasimmovable! The huge bowlder had fallen upon it! With a cry of terror he tried to draw up his feet. He could not move them—he was buried alive ! He writhed until it seemed as though he would pull his feet from their sockets, and he could feel the hot blood flow from the lacerated flesh. He wildly struck at the sides of his rocky coffin with his knife; showers of tiny sparks was the only result. Now the pain slowly crept up his limbs; his feet were be- numbed. He uttered wild shouts and shrieks for help, al- though, if heard, none could reply save those who would be no more merciful than the rock that was slowly but surely crushing him to death. He held his breath to listen if his appeals had been heard. All was silent save a faint crushing sound. It was the grad- ual settling of the bowlder that was to be his tombstone ! Then he uttered a sharp moan, and fainted. The bones of his feet were being crushed ! a Ah! it was a horrible fate—a fate so full of agony! To be crushed alive, while the eye could behold the glorious sun, and clear blue sky, flecked with light, fleecy clouds of pure whiteness—with the beautiful trees robed in living green, growing among the gray, moss-covered rocks. To see the birds darting and circling around their nests upon the rugged %6 THE MAD MINER; OR, sides of the caifion. To see all this life and beauty, and to know that a few fleeting moments of life were all that await- ed him. To be cut off just in the prime of life, when it is most highly prized, and by such a dreadful doom—ah ! it was horrible beyond comprehension ! When consciousness again returned, Carson felt that death had crawled up beyond his knees. Already he experienced a difficulty in breathing, and it seemed as though a mountain’s weight was pressing upon him. He knew that the end was nigh ! Only one arm was free ; the other was pressed beneath his body, beyond his power to relieve it. He was composed and calm now, for he knew that death was inevitable, and he could no longer struggle against it. He took a long, yearning view of the loveliness before him, ‘rinking in the glories of the sun and earth and the beautiful It was the last look, with mortal eyes, for him. en, with great difficulty, he removed the revolver from elt. It was his only friend now. He closed his eyes «ld breathed a short but fervent prayer that the Most High would forgive the manifold sins of his rough and eventful life, together with the one he was about to commit. He cocked the revolver and placed its culd muzzle against his temple. And with the report his spirit passed from the casket of clay it had tenanted so long. The mighty rock might crush and mangle the form. {t could no longer harm the man. The trapper was dead. OH A PALER eal THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. Custer Srrone suffered fearful tortures with his shattered arm, shrieking out in his agony, or else faintly moaning as his strength failed him. A man was forced to remain beside him to restrain his struggles under the delirium, and after a cons' amp’ man ¥ wot be cou inf wa wi ta Sa THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. of! consultation, the miners, guided by Sube Sollars, decided io amputate the limb, as the only hope of saving the young man’s life. Perhaps had Chester been conscious of their intention, he would have preferred to run the risk of death, rather than be so mutilated, but upon the whole, it was the best they could do. The member had been so fearfully mangled that inflammation would have set in, and then in the situation he was forced to occupy, there could have been but one result. The operation was rudely enough performed, but Nat Cross, who bad been a littie of every thing in his day, managed to take up the arter ies, when he pronounced the patient beyond danger. As if to confirm this, the young man dropped off into a heavy slumber, that lasted for honrs. We have seen how the knowledge of Carson and Tampkin’s capture was received by their comrades, and the bold answer given to the threats of the Sioux half-breed.. They well knew what fate awaited them did they surrender after the loss ex- perienced by the savages, and resolved to hold out to the last. “T tell you what it is, boys,” said Sabe Sollars, “ we’re in a durned purty hobble now, an’ thar’s on’y one way to gil out o’ it, as I kin see.” “ And that ?” “Ts this hyar. When night comes, one on us must try to slip out o’ hyar an’ putt lickety-split fer Laramie, ’less he he runs on help afore, tell the ossifer, what is boss, bout this place, an’ git him to send help in ’turn fer the secret.” “But how can it be done? The reds will watch us so close.” “Cain’t he helped. Must try. Ef one gits wiped out, then another must take the job. Tl go fer the fust one,” firmly responded Sabe. “No,” said Marsh, “we'll draw straws. You shain’t hev all the resk, dad.” ‘ This was finally decided upon, and a tag from a buck-skin shirt was cut for each man besides Chester. In one of these, a knot was tied. To whom this fel], the task was allotted. Sabe had his eyes bound, and then Cross held them up one by one, while the trapper mentioned a name. SS Se THE MAD MINER; OR, The one with the knot fell (o Marsh Sollars, who appeared overjoyed at the decision, and quickly made his preparations. If he succeeded in passing the enemy, he was to give the ery of the night-hawk, twice in succession. A short time after dark, the wild cry of the wounded guard reached the ears of the besieged, and as the savages leaped to their feet in confusion, a volley was fired by the miners, doing considerable damage. This was too favorable an op- portunity to be lost. With a hasty Word of parting, the. giant descended the rope in safety, and rapidly glided away in the dense shadows. The besieged waited in. painful suspense for the concerted signal. Of the entire party, the old trapper appeared the least perturbed, but a close observer would have noted the frequent pauses he made in drawing at the pipe, and slight bending of the head that told how keenly he was listening. The sounds uttered out upon the flight of Carson died away, and the minutes passed rapidly. ‘Then came the wel- come cry and the repetition. Their messenger was safe, as yet, and the beseiged breathed more freely. The night wore on drearily, but still it passed, as did the succeeding day. Nothing further was seen or heard of. the captives, and the miners were ignorant whether they were dead or yet alive. And again night came. It was nearly midnight, and a party of the miners were upon guard, while the others slept. Then a wild tumult arose from without. A series of demoniacal yells, accompanied by a rattling volley of firearms. “ Jeerusalem pancakes!” cried Sabe Sollars, springing to . bis feet, “them ’s Cheyennes, by the ’tarnal! It’s dog eat dog, now !” . The case was easily comprehended. The war-cry told them that. The Cheyennes, returning for revenge, had discovered the Sioux. The tuwult of a mortal struggle told the rest. For a moment the miners were exultant, but then reflection subdued this feeling. In what were they to be the gainers by this unexpected event? Perhaps the Sioux would be de- feated, but then the Cheyennes remained, and what was the choice between the two ? Simply this: that the latter were most probably ignorant THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. "9 of the den. But as an offset, they, if, as’ stspectéd, the fugi tive Indian had collected. the party, would know that white men, not Dacotahs, had committed the’ deed, and for these pale-faces would they search. Meanwhile the sounds of conflict continued. It could not be determined by the whites which one of the bands was triumphing, for the whoops and cries were so mingled to- gether and the strife did not appear to recede. “ Why cain’t we pull off the boys now, while them fellers is busy ?” excitedly cried Sabe. “Will it be safe ?” “Safe be durned! §h’ll we lose two good men, an’ kum- arades at thet, fer fear o’ a bit o’ danger? I’m goin’—who follers ?” He dropped. down the ladder and nimbly descended it, closely followed by his comrades, who little recked the danger they might encounter; they only remembered there was a chance of saving the lives of their unfortunate comrades. In a very few moments they were clear of the defile, and while they crouched down in the darkness, Sabe Sollars set up the signal they had invariably made use of when entering the cave —the yelp of the coyote, followed by the: caw of the carrion crow. Twice this was repeated, and then it was answered, but faintly as though the voice belonged toa dying man. Then they distinguished : “Tf you are white men, for God’s sake, help me!” “Tt’s Ira Tampkin, by the ’tarnal !” “ Come—come, hasten! The Indians may come back at any moment !” “Lead on, old man,” whispered Nat Cross. “Its him— Td swear it.” “My God! was I wrong?” groaned the voice, in bitter anguish. “ Must I die here—die like a dog ?” “Sh!” hissed Sabe, as he glided up behind the tree’ to which Tampkin was bound. “ We're hyar an’ ’ll sot ye free ef so be it kin be did. Whar’s Carson ?” “Look out—I am wounded; my last pill, I fear. If you cut the cords I will fall, and the noise might bring back the Indians,” muttered Tampkin. THE MAD MINER; OR, “TIL hold ye; but Sam ?” “Has escaped. He ran last night. They caught me, but he got clear.” “ Sartin ?” “JT saw no scalp, and heard them say so. But see,” he added, pointing to a dark object lying close by, “take him, too.” “Him? Why, it’s thet cussed half-breed !” “ He is a friend. But take him along, or we will be dis- covered yet,” muttered Tampkin, and then his head drooped forward as if he was dead. Two of the men lifted Tampkin, while others attended to the half-breed, and in a score more moments the little party were safe within their den, without being discovered. After the two men were. placed upon blankets, Nat Cross proceeded to inspect their wounds, while Sabe returned to the cave-entrance and listened intently for a moment. To his delight he found that the Cheyennes had-been thie victors. The uproar and confusion continued through the night, and from the careless manner in which the Cheyennes exposed themselves before the den, it was evident they little suspected the proximity of foes. At about noon of the day succeeding, Ira Tampkin recovered his consciousness and related his story. It seems that Bruno, determined to sate his vengeance, when aware that his men must be defeated, had drawn near and plunged a knife deep into Tampkin’s breast. At nearly the same moment a random bullet struck the half-breed down at the trapper’s feet. And then the trapper asked for Chester Strong. He was replied to by the young man, whose fever had sub- sided. After turning his head slightly so that he could see Chester, Tampkin spoke : “You have been seeking Constant Pouvier—do you still wish to know his fate ?” “But you said you knew nothing of him.” “Yes, but I lied. I knew him well—ah, so well! Listen. It was he who was my partner in California; it was he who acevmpanied me here, and shared my secret of the gold placer. ’ a= THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. 81 “ But the Indians killed him !” 2 “No, it was not they—it was I! _ Seoul” “Yes; I will tell you why,” said’ Tampkin, lis voice gain- ing strength as he proceeded. ‘“ We made a moderate fortune apiece, but I was not satisfied, and persuaded him to take the overland route. But at the time I believe I was honest in doing so. It was only as-we rode on day by day that the plan of murdering him gained upon my mind. I could not understand why it was, for I respected, almost loved him, but my accursed lust of gold drove me to it. “Well, we found this placer, and then: murdered him. I cast his body into a deep pit, after rifling his body. I found the receipt for his gold lodged in San Francisco, together with’ letters and a portrait of his wife.’ I spent hours in gazing at it, and the insane idea grew upon me that’ I would ‘seek her out and make her my wife. “ Horrible was it not? ‘But I believe’ T-was crazy then; upon no other grounds can I account’ for''my actions. My father died in an insane asylum. “T buried the papers, gold—all, and then the Indians came upon me. They are there yet. My share I give to you; the other is Hers. You will find them in the cafion some two hundred feet ‘south-east of the three springs, under a stone marked with a cross.. I intended taking them with me when T left, but now—you see—they will be of no service where I am going,” concluded the trapper, with a ghastly humor that made Chester shudder. “ But Pouvier—did you never—” “T thought Itold you. He ds not dead! { explored the cave—let me see, when? Ah, my memory fails me! » But he is not there. Then I thought Crazy Tom was him, and I shot him-—shot him 1”? “Not dead? Then where is he?” eagerly cried Chester, striving to arise, but sinking back with a groan of agony. “T told you. See, he is Constant Pouvier—he who killed me—the half-breed Sioux !” “ Who calls my name ?” uttered a deep voice, and Chester, turning, beheld the faintly defined form of the Sioux sitting up and staring around him as if bewildered. a THE MAD MINER; OR, “My God! who are you ?” “Me? Why who should I be but Constant Pouvier ? Where are you Frazier—Frazier, I say.” “ Well?” marmured Tampkin. “Tt is not well! Why does my head burn go, and where are we ?” ° : “Oh, see, Strong, I did not deceive you—he zs the man !” “ Now you fellers lie down and be quiet,” ordered Nat Cross, and pushing the wounded men back upon their couches, he carefully inspected their hurts and bandaged them anew. Tampkin, or Frazier as Pouvier had called him, sunk into a deep, lethargic slumber, from which he never awakened in this life. The other two appeared to be rapidly: recruit- ing. / Before noon of the day succeeding their night. attack, the Cheyennes left the valley. When darkness fell, Sabe Sollars ventured forth upon a scout, and soon returned with the joy- ful tidings that their enemies had indeed left the valley. At early dawn they were startled by a loud hail from. the defile below, and the tones of Marsh. Sollars were recognized. With him he had, to the great surprise of all, two women, evidently white. The reader must imagine the meeting between Chester and the girl he loved so well, for our pen can not describe it. Pouvier was still asleep, and it was not considered prudent to awaken him. But gently as possible Chester broke the glad tidings to the wife, and finally convinced her of, the truth, by producing the papers designated by Ira Tampkin. Suddenly there was heard a low, gasping cry of surprise, and Pouvier struggled to a sitting position, outstretching his arms, crying: “ Emilie—my wife--how came you here ?” Then they were locked in a close embrace, father, husband, mother and wife. The rough miners turned aside with tear- dimmed eyes. The fast-glazing eyes of Ira Tampkin, the trapper, slowly opened and gazed at the group. Then a spasm contorted his fetaures, a peculiar sound gurgled up in his throat, aud he fell back, dead. y ES A aes THE TRAPPER’S SECRET. CHAPTER XII. CONCLUSION. As heii comrade did not return, search was made for him, and Some one proposing the “ Midnight Cafion,” as the most likely spot for Carson to have sought refuge, they proceeded thither. Their grief and horror was great as.they stood beside the “ coffin rock,” and saw that its name was indeed well bestowed ; that it contained all the earthly remains of their loyed com- rade. ; There was but his head and shoulders visible, and these were covered with a blanket, then earth and stones heaped over the spot. They knew that the huge bowlder could not be re- moved, that stood there as a monument for the brave, whole- souled trapper, Samuel Carson. Their after-life at the placer was uneventful enough, and in a month’s time, the wounded men were strong enough to travel by slow stages, when the little band of gold-seekers took up their route for Fort Laramie. Constant Pouvier was but partially recovered from the hal- lucinations he had for so long labored under, and would fre- quently have relapses, when he would imagine himself Bruno, the half-breed Sioux. Indeed he appeared to have two lives, and to be two entirely different personages. When in one phase, he knew nothing of what had occurred in the other. Hence it was that the story of his adventures had to be merely guessed at. Whether the trials he had undergone in the cave down which he had been cast by his false friend, had turned his brain, or whether it was from some injury re- ceived in the fall, none could tell. Chester, however, entertained sanguine hopes that he would be entirely cured, in the course of time. The party reached St. Joseph in safety, but a ay after, Pouvier was taken violently ill with brain fever, and for weeks hovered between life and death. 84 THE MAD MINER; OR, But finally he rallied, and to the great joy of the watchers, it was found that his mind was once more restored to its right balance. All memory of his past life, of Bruno the half-breed, was obliterated from his mind. As they dared not revert fo the past, nor ask him concern- ing his adventures, the last few years of his life are still locked in mystery. Of course, as the reader has all along been confident, An- nette Pouvier changed her. name for the more common one of Mrs. Strong, and although her husband has only one arm with which to protect her, she declares that that one is far more valuable than any other person’s vo, and, for want of contrary evidence, we.are forced to believe her. Of the other characters, but little need be said. Sabe Sollars is stili alive, and has not yet become depen- dent upon the “ cub” for a living, seeming still good for an- other decade or two. Marsh, we believe, still plies his calling of trapper, although he has settled upon his wife—a buxom backwoods lassie— enough money to be called wealthy ; but he can not break off old habits. The others have scattered far and wide, only themselves know where. : The gold placer was for some years kept a secret, but in the summer of ’67 a prospecting party under the auspices of the celebrated Dr. Leonard, reopened the mines, finding numerous indications of where Tampkin’s party had been at work. This section is now known as the “ Sweetwater Mines.” As to who or what the unfortunate being who called him- self “Crazy Tom,” really was, nothing was ever Jearned. His previous life is still shrouded in inscrutable mystery. | No. 2 Frank Starr’s Song Pook. The Best Minstrel and Comic Songs of the Day almericai Star Publications. 1—The Wood Rangers. 2—The Patriot Scouts. 8—Peleg Smit! 4—The ‘Backwoodsmen. 5—T'he Phantom Chief. 6—The Prairie Trail. T—The Black Scout. 8—Westward Bound. inga, the Cheyenne. 10—Witen of.the W; allowish. re he Y¥« ong pce ¥ the Sterm Man of the Prairies. 5—The Red Foe. 16—Lew Wetzel, the Scout. 1—Kit. Carson, the Gnide. 18—Kill-B’ar, the Guide. 19—Buck Buekram. ae eepe Ben, -Old Lite, the InJlian-F ighter. The Prairie Pirates. Red Claw. the One- eyed ‘Trapper. 25— Che Free Trappers. 26—The B rder Scout. 27—'The Bandit Hermit. 28—Keen Eye, the Ranger. 29—Old Sol, the Giant Trappe 30--Nick Guarl. the Dwarf Guide, the Mountain Trapper. + Specter Spy. 8—Toai Hawk, the Trailer. nhe KR ver Rifles, Renegade ¢ ‘hief. mb Cones, 37 - White Slayer, the Avenger. Songster. zer Soug Fifteen-Cent 1—-The Twin Sisters. 2—The Betrayed Bride. 3—The Broker's Ward. 4—Forced Vows. 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Moccasin. 49—Mad Anthony's Scouts, 50-—The Miner Rangers 51--The Cannibal Chief. 52—The Skeleton Scout, 53—Thorn path, the Trailer, 54—The Black Rider 5b--Green Jacket. the Gunmaker. 56—The Valley Scout. 57—The Black Dwatt. 58—Silent Shot, the Slayer. 59—Iron Hand. the Tory Chief, 60—The Man-tiunie rs 61--The Three Tra pers. 62—The Scalpless Hunter. 68—Bald Head, the Hunter. 64—The Haunted Hunter. 65—The Wood Witch. 66—Cloud wood. 67—Rainbolt, the Ranger. 68—The Indian Scout. 69—The Phantom Hunter. 70—Tahle, the Trailer, 1—The Mad Miner. 72—Weptonomah. ‘738—The Secret Slayer. 74—The Phantom Trail. 3—Johnny Roach’s New Variety Song- ster. 4—-Bob Harrison’s Song and Joke Book. 5-—Dick Weaver’s Keno Songster. 12--The Maniac Bride. 13--The Betrothed Jewess. 14--The Adopted Daughter. 15—The Wronged Wife. 16—The Fair Schemer. t*.Trne as Steel. The Aunt’s Plot. Milrose, eee 21 22- othe Planter’s Ward. For sale by all Newsdeaicrs ; or sent, post-paid, to any address, on receipt of | OI IT Fe ee FRANK STARR & Co, Publishers, 41 Platt St, W. Y. 122222523332.5302288004 Te