NEW YORK: IMITH, LUBLIGHERS +. K x) S f can Youth ir 7 fh fo the Anti tad dssued Weekly. By subscription $2.50 per year. Entered as Second-class Matter at the N. Y. Post Office, by STREET & SMITH, 70-5 Seventh Avenue, N.Y. Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1907, tn the Office of the Librarian of Congress, Washington, D. C. ONL £59. j e ae CHAPTER I. THE DISMAY OF DUNCAN DITSON. It was a heart-breaking game for Duncan Ditson.. '_Ditson sat in the Yale stand and suffered the most excruciating mental anguish as he saw the game turn against Columbia in the eighth inning, when the Yale freshmen fell on Larkin Harvester, the great fresh- man pitcher of the visitors, and hammered him for four runs, which tied the score, Up to this point it had looked like Columbia’s game beyond a question. Harvester had pitched brilliantly, * _ holding Yale Umpty-ten down to a few scattering hits and permitting no runs. | The four runs secured by Columbia were obtained in the first inning, with Bill Toleman doing the pitch- : ing for the home team and Dick Merriwell on first base. It was not Toleman’s fault, however, that the ‘}\. lads from New York had made those four tallies. P _ Bill had started in to pitch a good game, but behind } 2 ; t py NEW YORK, June 8, 1907. Dick Mecriwells THE CAMPERS AT _ By BURT L. STANDISH. the bat Brad Buckhart performed some of the most Price Five Cents. Respite; | LAKE CALMFACE. amazing and dismaying teats. The Texan gave an exhibition that\astonished his friends and bewildered | the Yale spectators. At the very outset he dodged the first ball pitched by Toleman. To him the ball had looked as large as a man’s head, and apparently it came humming from Toleman’s hand with the speed of a cannon ball. _ This was merely the first of Buckhart’s erratic acts. He followed by crossing signals with Toleman, by ~ overthrowing second base to catch a runner, and finally by hurling the ball straight down at his feet when he ~ should have lined it to one of the bases. , Naturally enough the Yale pitcher grew excited and angry. He fancied that Buckhart was trying to “throw him down,” and he made this conviction known to Merriwell. . ; ‘This was a natural belief on Toleman’s part, con-_ sidering the fact that he and Brad had never been on friendly terms. Toleman had belonged to the so- called anti-Merriwell set, formed from a large por- tion of the freshman class that had united to oppose the active in his opposition ‘to Dick, but leadership of Dick Merriwell. sa a time he seemed. to Nestle ws from participation in this move- ment, although he held himself aloof from the Mer- riwellites. Next to Merriwell himself Toleman was regarded as the best pitcher in the class. _He was sorely needed by the freshman team, but stubbornly declined to join it... Nevertheless, tise by pitching for the varsity team when those players he succeeded in keeping in. prac- wished to get batting practise. . short time before the Columbia game Dick Mer- had been riwell’s right shoulder tathertseriously in- jured..., This accident to the pitcher on whom Yale relied filled every one with apprehension and dismay, for it was known that Columbia had a strong team, with a pitcher who had a brilliant record and was said to be Merriwell’s equal, if not his superior. It would not do to put Sam Kates in against Co- lumbia. The team had no confidence in Kates’ qualifi- cations to hold down a nine made up of clever bat- ters. What was to be done? At the point when this question was perplexing } every one Toleman astonished his enemies and _ dis- mayed his supposed-to-be friends by volunteering to He convinced Captain Jones and Manager Robinson that go into the Columbia game and do his level best. he was in earnest, and, at Dick’s solicitation, they de- cided to give Bill a trial on the slab. That Toleman might have acquitted himself credit- ably, even brilliantly, had he been properly supported behind the bat is very likely, but the behavior of Buck- hart quickly took the heart out of Bill, who finally announced that he could pitch no: longer and was transferred. to first, while Merriwell, in spite of his bad shoulder, went onto the slab. It did not take Dick long to discover that there was something radically wrong with the Texan back-stop. _ To begin with, Buckhart crossed signals with him, and ‘a had a passed ball that nearly let in a run, Dick immediatley called Brad and talked to him. In his conversation the Texan appeared rational and _ perfectly normal, yet he himself admitted that there was something the matter. | “T can’t catch, partner,” he said. “I’m just locoed, that’s. what. You'd better send me to the bench. You've got to use some one else behind the pan.” hy Now arose a most perplexing question. Unfortu- nately there was not another person. on the team who had shown an oe to 0: Sha ogntibins with Dick the pitcher’s box. The team had been to rely Merriwell in 1 i compellec almost wholly on Buckhart. There was Tole- man announced that he had tried to become a catcher very little time for discussion, but before developing into a pitcher, and offered to go under the bat. .In this cepted. offer although he ap- desperate extremity Bill’s was He went behind the bat, and, ac- yeared somewhat nervous at first, put up an astonish- clever exhibition. very, careful at first in pitching to this unfamiliar catcher, and at no his’ wonderful which was a curve that invariably Of course Dick Merriwell had to be stage of the game was he able to use “combination ball,’ deceived the eye of an unfamiliar catcher, as well as the eye of the batter. Thus was Merriwell forced to rely wholly on head- work, fine control, good speed, and the ordinary curves which are known and used by almost every pitcher. It before under such But one clean hit was made off him, and not another run could Columbia get. put Dick on his mettle, and never restraint had he pitched as clever a game. Nevertheless, as inning after inning sligped. away and Larkin Harvester, the Columbia slabman, con- Duncan Ditson chuckled to himself, feeling he was wholly responsible tinued to hold Yale down, softly for visiting team, and it seemed a sure thing that he was the situation. Duncan had wagered money on the a winner. Merriwell started the bingling with a beautiful hit, and, inspired Toleman, Bigelow, and Fitch L traced him to the — tise ee aare ee} . 3 PR ay BIAS a tg he nig ity teed seek 5d TIP sLOPr nearest railroad-station, seven miles from here, where I followed his example and set out Finally I learned The boat told me the party came from _ he left the train. - to search for him in that vicinity. - that a party of college men were camping here. | fat boy asleep in the | That made me think I was hot on the he fellow I’m New Haven. - trail, In case you are fooling me and th after is here, hidden somewhere about, let me tell you — that you are fooling yourself more than any one else, a traitor who did his level best If he’s got something coming from me, That’s all I have to and you are protecting to bring about the defeat of his own class team, I do find him, _ and he'll get it good and proper. ee Say.” The Texan stepped forward. a *“Just allow me to ask one question, stranger,’ he Hr said. | ie Harvester looked Brad over with a most annoying ? * smile. y “You did put up a rotten game behind the bat, didn’t te you?” he said. “Ask as many questions as you like— and I’ll answer them if I see fit.” “Was I the party doped by this traitor ?”’ “Why, really you ought to know whether you were doped or not. ings?” This was said in a derisive manner that was decidedly and Texan long to punch the insolent stranger. Couldn’t you tell by your own feel- aor a irritating, made the oo “T opine you've said enough to settle that point im said Brad, holding himself in check, al- though inwardly he was boiling at the thought of what -had been ‘done to him. 7 solid, I have tion.” my mind,” “However, just to make it one more question to fire in your direc- “Let it come,” purred Harvester invitingly. “As I _ said before, I'll answer if I see fit.’ “What was the “Now that’s most remarkable,” was the laughing answer, “but, don’t you know, I quite forgot to ask his name—and I was not introduced to him. We met and became acquainted wholly by chance.” e name of this yere treacherous gent 2” “Certain that was odd,” growled the angry Texan. “Mebbe you have fergot what he looks hike. Can't you describe him?’ “Well, he’s neither unusually tall nor unusually short, he’s neither very dark nor very light, he wears 3 ‘no beard, has a medium-sized nose, well-set eyes, mouth not unusual, chin neither aly Nets nor recedes, and he wears good tailor-made clothes.” " “A description that might fit a hundred. Yale ¢ iment WEEKLY. 23 picked out at random,” said Dick. “Can’t’ you be somewhat more definite?” “T think that will have to stand you,” for I wish to deal with him personally returned Har- vester. . “I’m looking the young gentleman, and Twouldn’t be any satisfaction to me to learn you had kicked I'll attend to that. However, if you take the trouble to learn who left New Haven hur- riedly on the 5:30 for Springfield and got off at- Med- field, I feel certain you'll have the man spotted beyond question. packing out of him. however, that I shall Sorry if I’ve troubled you. Think [ll go back and see if I can pick up the trail of the light-fingered traitor. I have great hopes, run across him first. I bid. you good day.” They would have detained him for the purpose of questioning him still further, but he sprang imto the boat, aroused the fat boy with a sharp poke, resumed his seat in the stern, and promised the hoy another dol- lar if he landed him on the opposite side of the lake in less than forty minutes. | The Harvard men, as well as the Yale party, ex- pressed indignation over the surprising revelation that: one of the Yale team had been drugged by a classmate in order to enable Columbia to win the game. “Hanging is too good for such a sneak!” cried Sparkfair. “When we get at you Elis we’re going to trim you beautifully, but we’ll do it on the square.” “Oh,” said Dick, “I do not believe any man on the Columbia team knew about that crooked work.” “Unless it was Larkin Harvester, brother of the man in that boat,” said Toleman. : “And I don’t believe he knew,” declared Merriwell. “Brad, you understand now what made you put up such a rotten exhibition that Jones was compelled to send you to the bench.” “Didn’t I ask to go to the bench?” cried the Texan. “Didn’t I know I was all to the bad. And I opine I sure know the name of the onery coyote who did the dirty work, though he must have soaked the dope . into me on Friday night, and it seems a whole lot queer I didn’t, feel it before the game started. Oh, _yes, I know the gent! When meet up with him next ; [’'m going to mount him instanter and soak the spurs to him good and plenty. You hear me gently and sweetly warble!” mA CHAPTER XII. FOR THE TRAITOR, The visit of Quinn Harvester and the ‘Sade and more than irritating information yd had im ene ee ee ee 24 TIP TOP parted provided topics for conversation and tion. Not knowing of a drug that could be adminis- tered afd produce such a singular result so many hours after it was taken, Steele was inclined to doubt | the veracity but Brad _s, ‘that he was now satisfied that he had been “locoed.”’ of Quinn Harvester; insisted “I certain behaved like a Texas steer that had been feeding on loco-weed,” he said, “and I reckon I felt the way a locoed steer fees. big the ball looked sometimes and how small it looked other times. Then the distance from the plate to sec- ond base seemed about twice as far as it ought to be, which led me to throw clean into center field. There was something the matter with me, but I got over it all right last night, and I’m feeling a*plenty normal to- day. I’m going to investigate this business some. Mebbe I won't be able to prove anything against the gent who handed me the medicine, but wait—wait!” _. His way of admonishing them to wait was fraught with deep significance. Cobb went out to the nearest farmhouse and re- turned with a pail of really fresh eggs. The firkin containing the bad eggs was placed out behind the Harvard tefit, the lads from Cambridge declaring their intention of making Mr. Seaver take them back at the ’ - purchase price or of ret&rning them to him in a man- ner that would be likely to be annoying to James, to say he very least, and might seriously alter both the appearance and odor of his wearing apparel, which they noted had a scent, of the stable. ( Pll never forget how Mr. Seaver had ical to visit the camp on further supplies and to bring some fresh milk. If his milk should. prove to be of the same degree of fresh- ness as the eggs it seemed probable to several of the boys that the cow from which the lacteal fluid had been obtained must have long ago departed this life. _ True to his promise, Seaver appeared, driving over in an old. buggy which creaked loudly, and thus an- nounced its approach long before it was seen. When it was seen at last the boys found two persons, instead of one, seated in it, and the person at Mr. Seaver’s side _ produced a stir of excitement among the Yale lads im- _ mediately he was recognized. | | It was Duncan Ditson, Kec “Hello!” cried Dunc cheerfully, as he leaped from a pleasant and friendly smile on his face. “Heard. there-wWete some Yale men over here, and |that is what brought me rowgd. How are you, Merriwell, old chap! Howdy, Buckhar Ase there is Toleman; ‘WEEKLY. specula- Sunday afternoon, to learn if his party needed any laughed, the wagon-seat to the ground and strode forward with , also! What . old man! Tucker and Claxton Yea 10°} oO Delighted, Suppose you brought the glad to see you, Bill. a fine little party! Steele I see L 7 your car yonder. bunch up here in her?’ At this point he checked himself, realizing that the ] Yale nien, who had gathered in a semicircle, were re- garding him with grim silence, while the Harvard crowd, assembled slightly to the rear, seemed to have something ominous in their aspect. The look of wrath on the face of Brad Buckhart was decidedly awe-inspiring, and Duncan observed that Dick Merriwell hold the had extended a restraining hand to Texan in check. Suddenly smitten by the knowledge of his treachery toward these lads and particularly toward Buckhart, Ditson turned pale. Was it possible they had learned something of the truth? No, no; how could that: be, for had they not left New Haven shortly after the game? It must be that they were surprised and an- noyed by his unexpected appearance among them, and, maintaining their past prejudice, were unwilling to If this were the case, he would soon overcome that. He had gall enough’ to force himself upon them whether they wanted him or not, believing he could overcome their feeling of dislike and finally bring them to accept him. If he could get in with Merriwell’s party and return to New Haven in their society, should it by any chance become sus- give him welcome. pected that he had concerned himself in any treachery against his class team, he could deny the imputation with indignation and point to the fact that these fel- lews were now his particular friends and associates. “Of course you are surprised to see me, boys,” he. with an effort at a free-and-easy air. “I You see business brought me up here. Left New Haven don't; wonder. Had to take Sunday for it, too. on the 5:30 after the game Saturday. at Medfield. Did think of going back to-day, but guess I can stop’over and return to-morrow.” Gradually his voice sank and faltered, for the omi- nous and forbidding aspect of the campers had not altered. Indeed, if anythin still more ominous on hearing his unsuspecting an-. nouncement that he had left the city on the 5:30 Ac- commodation and had dropped off at Medfield. Brad Buckhart tried to shake off Dick’s detaining hand. | “Let me go, pard!” he muttered. Dropped off g, their appearance became | ~~ “The onery var- fF —_ A _— oo Fe Bek ach ES ~. hurriedly filled his pockets with eggs we are free to confess. — tered, nated. THbo? mint has convicted himself out of his own mouth. I’ve got to show him up a whole lot!” But while Merriwell was restraining his friend Dale Sparkfair had hurried to the rear of the Harvard tent, returning with the firkin which contained the ancient hen-fruit. “Hold chap, old his eyes dancing with mischief, the fellow in conversation, Merriwell, ’ urged Spark, while we get round behind him and cut off his retreat. What’s the use to punch him? “We had better make an eggs-ample of him.” Dick caught the meaning of the pun and nearly laughed outright. Still restraining Brad, he spoke to Ditson, while Sparkfair, giving his Harvard friends the signal to follow, circled the unsuspecting youth and Put- ting down the firkin and removing the cover, Spark cut him off from retreat along the wood road. ges, motioning for Randall, Cutting, Benson, and Swan to do, the same. By this time Dick was saying: ) SEAT Se z 3 4° « Yes, Ditson, your appearance here did surprise us, Still, we fancied you might be in this vicinity.” “You did?” you to think that?” cried the surprised fellow. “We have lately received a brief call from an ac- quaintance of yours who is looking for you with great earnestness and a yearning desire to lay hands on you. I regret to say that he applied some very harsh names to you, besides making charges against your character of a most odious nature.”’ “Thats roared Brad, unable to restrain himself longer. straight goods, you low-bred coyote!” . The gent allowed that you doped me so I put up that rot ten exhibition of baseball. There certain is something coming to you!’ “Indeed there is,’’ behind Dunc. - delay.” Saying which he let fly an egg with such accuracy that it struck the “fellow behind the ear, broke, spat- ran in a sticky mass down Ditson’s neck and nearly overcame him. with the horrible stench it ema- 5 ‘WEEKLY. “What led called Sparkfair cheerily, from | “And herevis where you get it without | CHAPTER -XIITI. WE PONIES AM EN 'T,;. This was the signal for a volley of eggs, many of which flew past the tars of the crouching youth, al- though not a few struck and broke upon his person. With a yell of dismay, Duncan turned and fled to- ward the shore. . s 1? “Come on!” shouted Sparkfair, gaily leading the pursuit and sending an egg spinning after the fugitive with fine aim, planting it fairly in the middle of Dit- son’s back. Swan caught up the firkin, which still contained a generous supply of eggs, and followed the others, who were in hot pursuit of Dunc. The Yale crowd followed Swan, all highly amused, and everyone feeling that the wretched sneak was getting no more than he deserved. a Even Buckhart confessed that this was better than thumping Ditson or assaulting him in any other man- Old John Cobb and Jim Seaver followed the boys at a safe ner. The air was pervaded by a dreadful odor. distance, commenting on the fate which had befallen Ditson. 3 7 “TI guess it was a mighty good thing for you, Jim, that ye brought that feller with ye,” snickered old John. “You soaked them fellers with them eggs, and they was intendin’ to soak you. ‘Stead of that, they’re soakin’ that chap.” ; Snarling, gasping, fear-stricken and yet enraged, Duncan fled to the water's edge and attempted to launch the boat which old John had pulled high upon the shore. Failing in this and with the Harvard lads right upon him and pelting him mercilessly, he wheeled. and fled again, wiping a sticky, slimy, foul mass of broken eggs from his face and eyes. He was com- pletely bedaubed and plastered with the stuff. His clothes were covered, his hands were dripping, his face © was smooched and smeared, and his hair was matted and dripping. He gasped for breath, feeling faint and 3 sick from the frightful odor. , 3 Aftér running a short distance’ along the i he found himself cut off by three of the Harvard chaps | who had hastened to get ahead of him to prevent his escape in that direction. They forced him to turn A yer en cs Ne pA - ha eel a eas 26 TIP TOP WEEKLY. back, holding his crooked left arm lifted to protect his face as he dashed past two of his tormentors who were waiting for him to retreat. Once more reaching the landing on the point, Dunc espied a canoe. Catching this, he dragged it across the sand and launched it, flinging himself headlong into the bottom. This movement caused the light craft to shoot out some distance from the shore, and the rain ot eggs suddenly ceased. Although Dune was not aware of it, the Harvard boys had run out of ammunition. There were no more eggs for them to throw. Finally finding the canoe had stopped, Ditson sat up, and cast a fierce, revengeful, yet fearsome look to- ward the point, on which stood the young campers. some one called. You have no paddle. Use your hands to paddle her back. You can’t get away.” “Come back with that canoe,’’ “The eggs are all gone. Instead of obeying this command, Ditson cursed them bitterly and tried to paddle away with his hands. In leaning over the side of the frail craft he made a _ miscalculation, and, _ from beneath him. _ Nearly exhausted from his recent efforts, like a flash, the canoe shot out the wretched fellow started to swim ashore when he rose. In a moment he uttered a cry of pain and shouted: “Help! help! Cramps! I-—-I—can’t-— Down he went. | _ Seized by the deadly cramps, Ditson fancied he was doomed to drown before the very eyes of those heart- Indeed he did take in a large quantity of Ss water before Merriwell and Buckhart reached him. T hese two chaps had plunged in as quickly as possible . less fellows. “after realizing that Dune was really drowning before them. Dick got hold of Ditson by diving and bring- ‘ing him to the surface, and, with Brad’s aid, Dune was oe brought ashore tore dead than alive, ; “AR. hour later} when Ditson. had somewhat recoy- é ered, Mr. Seaver took him away, He held his head age like one overcome with shame as the wagon dis- anpented into the woods. eiapark ane a EE ROE ER a ek Te “Sunday < at Cedar Point had proved far more ‘excit- | ing Sa: a ‘one had fancied it would be. ‘On Me: oe day morning all the boys were out early for fish, and That day was one of friendly There a fine catch was made. rivalry between the Yale and Harvard men. was jumping, running, wrestling, and swimming- matches. There was also a canoe-race between Mer- riwell and Cutting, at the finish of which Dick, who had been taught to wield a paddle by Old Joe Crow- ‘foot, demonstrated his superior ability by leaving his tival hopelessly behind. That night there was story- telling, song-singing, and joking by the light of the Another morning of fine fishing and an-— When the time came for breaking camp every one was sorry. camp-fires. other day of sport and contests followed. There was very little work for the Yale party. They left everything to old John, the faithful, who was well paid for his services.and who could be trusted to do his duty. each other that when next they met it would be on the Dick and Dale shook hands, reminding — diamond, Harvard freshmen against Yale freshmen, and for pitchers Dale against Dick. | It was ten o’clock that evening when Dick, Brad, and Tommy reached their rooms. Jones and Bigelow were there to welcome them and ask a hundred questions. | Finally Bouncer said: ‘ no “Dune Ditson got back from a little outing yester- | day. He must have had a fine time, for he RE back a pair of black eyes and a broken nose.’ - “Whoop!” shouted Brad, “I opine the gent met up with Mr, Harvester after we saw him last.” THE END, The | Next Number (583) will Contain : Dik Mrinal’ Disadvantages : THE FIRST GAME WITH HARVARD. The Harvard Pitcher—-Sparkfair Sings—-One Who Waited : in Vain—Conquered by the Tempter—Consuming Fire—Wasted Wine—The Intruder—Heart-beats— Harvard ’s Hot Start—Jack Spratt Repeats—Blighted af Hopes—Mistaken Judgment. i FIP. FOP. TERMS TO TIP TOP WEEKLY MAIL SUBSCRIBERS. (Postage Free.) Single Copies or Back Numbers, 5c. Each. 65e. | B- MONTHG wc sneesstecssvscccdees o | ¢ j 85e. 2 copies one year’........... A ANONTHB: 505 . sped cuss Sipass cues | PP THONTNSS 02 ic des ties cetaneacus -1.25 | 1 copy two years... How to Send Money—By post-office or express money order, registered letter, bank check or draft, at our risk. At your own risk if sent by currency, coin, or postage stamps in ordinary letter. Receipts—Receipt of your remittance is acknowledged by proper change of number on your label. If not correct you have not been properly credited, and should let us know at once. STREET & SMITH’S TIP TOP WEEKLY, 79-89 Seventh Avenue, New York City. TIP ‘TOP ‘ROLL OF HONOR. Following the suggestion of Mr. Burt L. Standish, that appeared in his letter to Tip Top readers in No. 480, the following loyal Tip Toppers have won for themselves a place on our Honor Roll for their efforts to increase the circulation of the Kinz of Weeklies. Get in line boys and girls and strive to have your name at the head of the list, Frank E. Gerhin, David Rossman, Calvin Keisler, Jos. Stahl, Newark, N. J. Harvey Baker, Manitoba, Canada. Howard T. Furbush, Maryland. R. E. Bonile, New York State. Lauri A. Gren, Michigan. Harry Apeler, Long Island, N. Y. Wm. H. Shacklett, Ohio. The names of other enthusiastic Tip Toppers will be added from time to time. Send in the result of your efforts to push the circula- tion of your favorite weekly and win a place on the Roll of Honor. - So. Dakota. APPLAUSE. | Owing to the number of fet letters recetved, the editor’ of Tip Top cannot undertake to secure their publication under six weeks, Those _who contribute to this department must not expect to see Ae before ‘that time. ; par Advertisements—A limited number of acceptable ad- vertisements will be inserted in the columns of TIP TOP WEEKLY, ‘at the rate of 50 cents per line, of about ten words each, nothing less than four lines taken. Remit by stamps, check or money order to the publishers, é ‘ Being an interested reader of “Tip Top” ever since No. I left your press, and having never heard an objection of any sort from my beloved parents, who always liked to see me read clean, instructive literature, I take the greatest of pleasure in writing my first letter to the Apnlause page of “Tip Top.” Having seen the editor’s gomment, in this week’s “Tip Top,” i heartily agree with him, in his item “A Word With Our _ Readers”—on page 27—that “Tip Top” is not only entertaining ‘and instructive, but is the most, brilliant of all publications— clean, interesting, and, at times, overflowing with humor. It ‘is a ‘publication that I have never been ashamed to read, and / also, WEEKLY, \ ye my should never be ‘sincerely, wish you sticcess, need to be advertised as necessary that each reader afraid to let my children read. I ‘arid know that “Tip Top” does not “the best of weeklies”; itis onl} speak to his or her friends about “Tip Top” so as to excel in circulation all other books placed together. Yours truly, Frep C. Fiscuer, Jr. Bronx, New York City, N. Y. It is ‘indeed pleasant to receive such a manly letter from one of our esteemed old’ readers. We believe there are thousands just like Fred, who will heartily echo the sentiments he em- bodies in his letter. And it’makes us very happy to know of the great army of young men to whom “good old ‘Tip Top’ ” has been a help and an inspiration in the fierce battle of life that must be won or lost individually by every boy who breathes. (A letter from Virginia.) I wish to express my appreciation of “Tip Top.” doubtedly the greatest weekly published. been told this many times before, but it can do no harm to keep a good thing going. I have read “Tip Top” from No. r to the present number, and have induced at least twenty boys and a few girls to think my way in regard to “Tip Top.” They are now confirmed Tip Toppers, and swear by “Tip Top” forever. Wishing Burt L. Standish and Street & Smith many mote such successes as “Tjp Top,” I remain, a Tip Topper forever. EDGAR OVERSTREET. Many thanks. “Tip Top” has friends galore in Old Virginia. | What do you think of Dick’s new chum, Claxton? He seems to be rounding out into a splendid specimen of young Dixie manhood, and we certainly have reason to expect great things of him in the near_ future. It is un- Of course you have \ (A letter from New York) \ I write to put my two cents’ worth in. “Tip Top” is the best every way and ever will be; so is Burt L. But, so far as the cover goes, it wouldn't make any difference to me whether it had a cover or not, so long as I saw “Tip Top” on it, al- though the covers are fine. But any boy who is ashamed to let anybody see a “Tip Top” on the dining-room table ought to be shot. Would like to hear from the old Fardale bunch. - It’s. the “best ever was,” and I love it because it’s so. Let Brad yell for me. W. J. Dwyer. Undoubtedly, here is a lad as straightforward and candid as they make them. “Tip Top” to him means his weekly treat of good, interesting, and instructive reading. We would feel safe in guaranteeing that it has been of vast assistance to ‘him in many periods of perplexity. W. J., write again, won’t you? I have been reading “Tip Top” for many years, and like it better than any other weekly of its kind. “Tip Top” was at first a very small paper, but in its later life you have not only increased its size and stories, but covers until it has the largest weekly circulation of any paper — of its kind in America. I think it truly deserves the title of the “king of weeklies.” I do all I can to increase the circulation, by lending / and giving it to my friends. Next to “Tip Top,” all I can to increase its circulation, also. I think, stands the Medal bpses: Ido I have every one pub- lished in ten-cent form—fifty-three in all. - Hoping you will publish this letter in your Applause column, . {1 am, an admirer of “Tip Top,” MELBOURNE Hart. Baltimore, Md. ~ Thank you for your kind words, We trust you will continue to enjoy the stories of the immortal Merriwells, and lose no opportunity of spreading “Tip Top” gospel around — your neighborhood. Lots of boys do not know the great treat — ‘they are missing each week, and the oe the light shines for.) them the better. Melbourne. (A letter from Silsioteania’ After reading “Tip Top” No. 566, I turned, as ae to a Applause column, at the top of which found that you woul like to hear what the readers of your’ ideal publication thi Se Nee Ieee a Pe ed 28 TIP TOP WEEKLY. of the new cover. Well, I, for one, think it is a great improve- ment and well worthy of Street & Smith. I was never ashamed for people to see that which, to me, is the “king of weeklies” laying on our family table, but now I can honestly say that I am proud, yes, proud, for them to see it there. Although a girl, I am just as eager to get new readers as are my brothers. Im fact, I have succeeded in getting more sub- scribers than either of them. I have presented several copies to gentlemen friends of mine who smoked cigarettes, and have ‘had the satisfaction of seeing their fingers grow less yellow every day. Hoping to see this in print, I am, believe me, a very well- wisher of Burt L. and Street & Smith, Grace E. WIKE. This is a part of the great satisfaction that comes to us from publishing a paper founded on a firm principle. Words of praise from delighted readers are as balm of Gilead to the hearts of those who from week to week labor faithfully to give the youth of America the magazine so prized. We thank Miss Grace most cordially for her honest letter of commendation. (A letter from Washington.) As this is my first letter to “Tip Top,” I will relate the story connecting “Tip Top” and myself. My brother started the fever, then my father and I took it up. ‘I have organized a “Tip Top” club, and influenced thirteen boys to read it, and expect to get more. Please send me a catalogue of the Medal Library, es which I enclose a stamp. I hope this will pass by the door of waste- basket the terrible) Will close, with three anda half cheers for Burt L. and S. & S. ENRY DEMERS. The catalogue has been forwarded to Henry, who will find it filled with the most alluring titles of juvenile stories ever grouped together. We hope he will enjoy those he orders to the full, If sent’ by mail, these books cost four cents more apiece, so that, if ordering any quantity, your news-dealer can get them for you at the published price. (A letter from Missouri.) May I have a little space in your Applause column of the “Tip Top’? I wish to settle an argument, Twelve girls of our neighborhood have formed a sewing-club. We meet once a week, and, while the others sew, one of us teads “Tip Top” aloud: After we have finished it, we all talk about it. We always read the Applause column. by readers or just “made up” by the publishers. All of us did not agree, so I decided to write and find out. We settled it by saying if this letter was published the other letters must be from readers. “Tip Top” is the best out. I'll allow that no one can beat Burt L. writing that kind of books. Brad is my favorite of them all. to no one, not even the mighty Richard himself. _ doing finely. I am a very old reader of “Tip. Top,” and think there is nothing better. Have you any more “Tip Top” albums? ‘If so, how can I get one? I am afraid I will never see this ‘in print if I don’t close, so I must say “good-by.” Wishing untold success to” author, publishers, and readers, I am, yours i “Tip Top,” ANNABELL LEE. _ We are surprised that you. should write in this strain, for we ate repeatedly affirmed that every one of the letters published Chester is in the back of “Tip Top,’ both Applause and Questions and _ Answers department of Professor Fourmen, is a genuine, bona- ~ fide letter received by mail from the party signing. And they are only a small percentage” of those we receive which are crowded out. We used to give the street address as an evi- dence of their genuine character, but somé persons abused this iviJege, and we were reluctantly forced to withdraw it,’ But- vevery eas is on piss in ae office, where sake may be seen. paeenareneitony, At the last meeting an’ argument arose as to whether the. Applause letters were written — In my estimation, he holds second place — 5 i wouldn’t believe me, they thought of the cover changes you had made on the weekly. Well, for myself, I think it is a change for the good of the book; a very great change. [ have induced my news-dealer here to order all the Merri- wells in the Medal Library. I have read “Tip Top” for about three years, and have read all the Merriwells in the Medal Library down to .No, 320. I also read The Popular Magazine, and think Mr. Standish’s. story was fine. I have just moved here from Clarendon, Texas, several boys to read it, and 1 am going to do the same here. Well, I guess I have said enough for one time. Yours for larger circulation, Ricwarp C. DAILy. We thank our young friend for the deep interest he shows 1 “Tip Top,” and hope he will always be ready and willing to take off his coat and work for the building up of that bulwark of readers which is the pride and strength of the little maga- zine, (A letter from Ohio.) Have been an ardent reader of “Tip Top” lication. Amid all star and is a diamond in the rough; not only this, but in future years it may be classed as a standard, in so much as it is the finest builder of character that was ever written. Indeed, Mr. Standish deserves great credit for undertaking such a great work, truly a specimen which can be imitated by no other American writer, for it has a special “ring” of its own. The author takes Frank Merriwell in his school- days, and shows the gradual development of mind as well as body during trials — of daring, courage, and temptation, until at the day of gradua- tion at Yale, he is the most beloved and best known of any collegé man in America. “Tip Tops” I most admire are Frank Merriwell’s years at Yale. The eminent writer of this weekly pictures the baseball and football-games so vividly and realistic. that the admirer involuntarily imagines himself on the field viewing the games. Again expressing my sincere admiration for such a true, genuine, and unexcelled writer, and wishing him, Messrs. Street- & Smith, as well as all loyal “Tip Top” ad- mirers a long and prosperous life, I think it about time to “ring off.” Have very largely increased “Tip Top’s” throughout this section, and expect to do even better in the future. Pardon me for taking up so much space. With a final . cheer for Frank Merriwell, Jr., 1 remain, very truly yours, Wma. H. SHAcKLETT. since its first pub- We want your name on our Honor Roll, and feel gratified — that we have so stanch an admirer in southwestern Ohio. The — editor once resided in your beautiful town. nd As I do not want to take up too much space in the Applause — however, getting in — column, I will cut my letter short, first, three rousing cheers for good old wT; ip Top,” the king of all books. TI am an old-time reader, and am pleased to say that I have tried my best to introduce “Tip Top” among my friends. — Thus far, I have succeeded in petting five boys to read them. Here are their names: John Meehan, Edward Lambe, Henry | Braun, Louis Dicke, and David Liftin. Hoping that this will . not succeed in reaching the waste-basket, I close, with hearty ood wishes for Burt Lj Street & Smith, and dear old AD op.” I remain, an ardent admirer, WALTER Pansons. New York City, Nia, P, S—I think your changing to a magazine cover is a very good turn. You are doing good work, and we commend your course, Keep on, and ere long you will land in the Honor Roll. As I am a very ardent reader of “Tip Top,” please put the - following in your Applause column: _ One summer day I had just finished reading) a weekly when up came a pal of mine. . Now, as I was thirsting for more reading-matter and dise. a drink, I asked him for a loan of some weeklies. He said “T only have Frank Merriwells, but I will lend you some. The are fine.” Now, as I never had nerd of “Frank Merriwells,” I thought he had the name wrong. I told him the name of my book, bu he I wouldn’t let jhite have ‘it - beeaas thought he eae to ee it, where I got circulation ce Aa z y ie ¢ 4 on Js - . S those other weeklies it shines as a bright © | Lee Oe The next week when I went to buy my library, I was in- formed that it was no longer published. I asked the news- dealer if he sold any good weeklies. He said: “Yes, ‘Tip Top’ is the best I have.’ Here I was convinced of my error. So I bought one and read it. My pal and me became friends, and formed a club of thirty-two members, and all of them read “Tip Top.” I like all the characters. What has become of the “Farnham Hall” boys. Three cheers for the boys and all the loyal Tip Toppers, not forgetting ‘Street & Smith, Prof, Four- men, and Burt L. Hoping this hops over the waste-basket, I remain, A TroLitey Dopcer. Brooklyn, N. Y¥. The Farnham Hall boys are temporarily out of the race, but we may hear more of them later, when Frank’s work is taken up again, (A letter from Long Island, N. Y.) I have been a constant reader of “Tip Top” for aver a year. The first copy that I read came into my hands in a very pecu- liar way. I was on my way to visit a friend. When I entered the car, I sat in a seat near the door. A young man leaving the train left in his seat “Tip Top’ No. 507. I thought it would be no harm to read it, and I did. eager to read another. As soon as I arrived home I showed it to some of my friends, and now three of my companions are as much interested as I am. The characters I like best are Frank and Dick Merriwell and Old Joe Crowfoot. Hoping this letter will be fortunate enough to “jump” the waste-basket, and wishing success to Burt L., and with three cheers to Street & Smith, I remain, a constant Tip Topper, THoMAsS PRESTON. That was a lucky day for you, Thomas, and you have much to thank that unknown young man for. Perhaps he did it pur- posely; it may have heen his way of doing missionary work for his favorite weekly. Suppose you retyrn the favor by lending back numbers and getting still other lads interested. We, the undersigned, are all readers of the famous “Tip Top would like to see a character from Kentucky in either the old, middle, or new flock, that is, either in Frank’s, at Farn- ham Hall, or Dick’s crowd. We all would like to see Ted Smart, Gardner, Jolliby, Tubbs, “Billy” Bradley, and Big Bob at Yale again, or, at least, in the old flock. Hoping to see a Kentucky character in the “Tip Top Weekly’ in due time, we beg to remain always, Tue Tie Top Cranxs or Owenssoro, Ky. Owensboro, Ky. The “undersigned” forgot to sign their names. However, we will put their modest, request before the author. Kentucky is a mighty fine State. We've always thought so, because, for one by thing, we are proud, to say it is the State within whose borders ’ we first saw the light of day away back in the slave-days of the fifties. ; (A letter from Maine.) I thank you very much for -those postals. They were fine. I shall show them to every one I see. I read last week’s Dick Merriwell, and it was the best I have read yet. It was rather sad, though. I was hoping Ellis Preston would live and make friends with Dick. He was not so much of a coward as they thought him to be. I can say all your books are fine. I could add lots more words, but they wouldn’t mean as much to me as that little word “Fine.” I shall continue to buy them as long as I have “a nickel in my pocket.” Well, I will now close, wishing you great success. Yours very truly, Etne, M. Towne. And we trust that the young lady of Maine will continue to enjoy the “good old ‘Tip Top’” for many years to come; also, _ that she may never know the time when she regrets the small expense attached to such wonderful results. ; a It is useless for me to voice the sentiment of thousands of publications of the world; but I honestly believe that Burt L. Oh, my! wasn’t I | Weekly,” and we and many others whose names are /omitted ° others, and say that “Tip Top” is preeminent among the weekly has done more for the coming men of America than any other _ author has, is, or will do. Here’s hoping that he lives to see WEEKLY, ) 29 the glorious weekly for which he writes twofold its present circulation. Now to the Doris and June question. I am a Dorisite, and I hope to see Doris win the gentleman she loves, Richard Merriwell. Dick would not be true to himself, neither would he be true to Doris, if he should choose some other girl. Let us hear more of our “Queen Doris,” lately. Some wish to see Hal D. march to the hymeneal altar with Doris. Certainly they do not wish to see her marry her cousin. I am going to cut this out, trusting that I will see it in print. Here’s three cheers and a tiger for the publishers and author of the best weekly publication in existence. I remain, sincerely and devotedly, ‘ A Louisiana LASSIE. - Coushatta, La. It’s all June here It is very nice of this fair reader away down in Dixie to send such bountiful good wishes. However, you cannet coax us to hazard a guess. We are leaving all matrimonial entan- glements to the talented author, ‘Having been a constant reader of the greatest weekly in the world, “Tip Top,” I take great pleasure in writing to you what I think of it. Of all the writers of novels, magazines, news- papers, or books on chivalry, I think that Burt L. Standish is about the best I have ever read, barring none. In my neigh- borhood there are many boys who read other books, but since I have let them have my back numbers, they have reformed, and there is now a great demand for “Tip Top,” and I am trying to gain my place on the Honor Roll. I would like you to send me a catalogue of the “Tip Top,” and also the price of the numbers from 1 to 150. I like the way in which you portray the different characters. I think some of the boys who shoot craps and loaf on the corners would do better to read these books instead of being in the street all the time. — Of all the characters, I like Dick Merriwell, Frank, Brad, Bart, “June,” Doris, which, by the way, I think ought to be heard from, Barbara Midhurst, and last, but not least, Chester Arlington, son of the great “D.” Roscoe Arlington. Hoping that you will excuse my scrawl and that my epistle will not reach my hated foe, the “waste-basket,” I remain, yours as a great “Tip Top” reader, F, W. PENALVER, | New York City, N. Y. We refer you to the outside cover-page for all information concerning the early stories in “Tip Top.” Depend upon it, we appreciate your efforts, and believe you will soon land in the Honor Roll. Well, as I can’t keep still any longer, I thought I would write — to the Applause. Have been reading this “good old weekly” for I can well remem- Used to be a heavy © seven years, and think it the “best ever.” ber the first day I read a “Tip Top.” cigarette-smoker, but have quit now for good, owing a lot of, thanks to Burt L. and “Tip Top.” of “Tip Top” as much as [I can, and have loaned out my com- plete file. Have induced a great number of friends to read this “grand old weekly.” Of the characters, I like Dick the best, — and think he is the “real thing.” would he, a close second. — ; 1 when he was Dick’s worst enemy. He is having some “hot old times” down in old Mexico, and is bound to make out good © under Frank’s guidance. Of Frank’s friends, Bart comes first; | then Jack Diamond, Bruce, Carson, and the rest of the old flock. Frank’s school is great. Dale is a corker, and his friends © are all right, Joe being the wonder among them. Sorry Dale had to go to Harvard, when he was so set on going to Yale. Hope Mrs. Merriwell and Frank Merriwell, Jr., are all well, and I can hardly wait until the times comes for tim to enter Fardale. Of the girls, I love June best, with Madge a close second; and, as for Doris, I think she’s one of the sweetest little girls I’ve ever known. Hoping this letter is not too long and escapes the waste-basket, I remain, with three good hearty cheers for “Tip Top,” Burt L., and S. & S., yours, rie A WaARM-HEARTED SOUTHERNER. — ‘New, Orleans, La. | We can only say “Thank you” to this tried and true ‘and wonder how he likes our Southerner, Claxton, _ = I try to help the circulation i Frank is great, and if more — of us would follow in his footsteps what a glorious world it — Of Dick’s friends, I like Brad the best, with Chet — I all the time did have a liking for Chet, even — Pror. Fourmen: As | have been a reader of “Tip Top” for a long time, and have done all I can to pie its circulation, I take the liberty to write you a letter. Kindly tell me what is good to rub the arm with after pee a game. 2, Do you think an electric medical battery is good? 3.1 go to school from g A. M, until 2:30 P. M. At night I work’ in an office from 6 P. M. until 2 A. M. I get six hours’ sleep before school and two hours after school. Do you think that is all right? 4. I go in swimming every day. How long should I stay in at one time? A VererAn Tip TOPPER. Brooklyn, N. Y. 1. Use. arnica. 2. Never use an electric medical battery unless advised to by a reputable physician. - 3. An unbroken rest is always the best, but ifs you find that no ill effects result from your present habits, it would do you no harm to continue this mode of living. I judge that this ar- rangement is only temporary, and that you are an ambitious boy who is trying to get an education so that you can take up a more profitable occupation later on. I wish you success in your undertaking. 4. Never stay in the water more than five minutes at a time while swimming. f - 4s 7 (A letter from Iowa.) -Pror. Fourmen: My measurements are as follows: Age, 12 years; weight, 91 pounds; height, 4 feet 8 inches; neck, 11 inches; biceps, normal, 7 inches; expanded, 8% inches ; ‘chest, normal, 27 inches; Senda: 29% inches; calves, 10 inches; waist, 26 inches ; thigh, 16 inches. HARVEY CRAMLET. Play baseball as much as you can this summer, and make it a point to stay in the open air as much as possible. Pror. Fourmen: I am/17 years of age; weight, 150 pounds; height, 5 feet 10 inches; neck, 15 inches; chest, 36 inches; ex- panded, 38 inches ; biceps, 10 inches; expanded, 12 inches; waist, 31 inches; thigh, 18 inches; calf, 15 inches. i. W. SAGER. Milwaukee, Wis. - Use a Whitely exerciser and a wtist-machine and you will notice a marked improvement in, the course of a few months. b 4 (A letter from Pennsylvania.) Pror. FourMEN: Being a true Tip Topper, I take the liberty _ to ask you a few questions concerning my condition. My meas- urements are as Rca Height, 5 feet 9 inches; meck, 1334 - inches; biceps, normal, 934 inches; "expanded, II inches; chest, normal, 33% inches; expanded, 364 inches; waist, “inches : forearm, 10° inches; wrists, 64 inches; thighs, 19% inches; calves, 13% inches; ankles, 934 inches, JACK. You should take regular exercise with Indian clubs and dumb- _ bells, in\ such a manner as I have instructed, others in this Ene sant a 9 sone nett: hee aes avoid , mal, 29 inches; expanded, 3114 inches; can I increase my height? the use of all stimulants like tea, coffee, and tobacco, and give Play baseball and indulge in outdoor sports. Eat only plain food. up all bad habits, Keep in the open air as much as possible. 4 (A letter from Ilinois.) Pror. FourMEN: Being an old reader of the “Tip Top,” I take the liberty of asking you about my measurements. Age, 18 years; height, 5 feet 5 inches 5 neck, 15 inches; biceps, normal, 10 inches ; expanded,., 11% inches ; chest, normal, 33 inches; ex- panded, 36 inches; waist, 28 inches. I am a lineman’s helper and get plenty of outdoor exercise. What other exercise do I need? Am anxious to be a strong man. Jack Monarcu. Fifteen minutes in the morning with dumb-bells, followed by a bath and rub-down, will make a new man of you. ; ‘ (A letter from New York.) t Pror, FourMEN: I have read “Tip Top” from No. 1 to date, and would like to have your judgment on my way of living. | am 17 years old; weight, 110 pounds; height, 5 feet 734 inches; chest, normal, 30 inches; expanded, 33 inches; waist, 26% inches; thigh, 17 inches; forearm, 1814 inches; calf, 13 inches ; neck, ’ 13 inches. go for an hour’s spin on my wheel before breakfast. I go to. bed at nine and get up at\five in the winter and four-thirty in the summer. go to gymnasium four times a week. I am catcher on our baseball-team and right half on our football- a 1. Do I go to the gymnasium too much? How are my measurements? 3. How - I become heavier aad stronger? 4. Do I get sleep enough? , 5. After I leave gymnasium class I feel , tired and worn out. W bg is that? Frank M. Swan. “+, No. Go more if you can spare the time. 7 fad 3. You should be careful of your diet. 4. Yes. : 5. Do not exercise too violently. a team. Pror, FouRMEN : ‘Having read “Ti ip Top” for some time, I take A . the liberty to give you my measurements and ask a few ques- — height, 4 feet 9% inches; chest, nor- 4 How tions. I am 14 years old; waist, 25 inches. Can a fellow with short legs run better in sprints or long-distance runs? How long, morning and > night, should I exercise, and in the exercise should I include a run? Does water make a fellow také on weight or not? ITs ie medical battery good for me, and, if it is, hey shall I take it? Brooklyn, N. Y. li Pika The only way to find out whether you are a better pnitalee ; than a long-distance runner is to try both. There are no arti- ficial means of incregsing one’s height. Exercise fifteen minutes — in the morning and fifteen minutes qt night. Include a short run in your training. Water-drinking frequently has the effect of increasing a person’s weight. Never use a medical ba ery except under the advice of a reputable physician. I exercise every morning for thirty minutes, then I oa ra fended, 32 inches; _ the chest and shoulders? not drink tea or coffee or use igtoxi¢ants, Lie Sor Pror. Fourmen: I submit for your examination my measure- ments: Age; 17 years ; weight, 128%% pounds; height, 5 feet 9 imches; neck, 13% inches; chest, normal, 3214 inches; expanded, 35 inches; forearm, 9 inches; biceps, normal, 9 inches; expanded, 10% inches; thighs,.20% inches; calves, 13% inches. What can I do to improve my physique? I am good at long- disté ance running. Am not weak, considering my build. Butte, Mont. To get a full development of all the parts of the body there is nothing to equal regular work in an up-to-date gymnasium. (A letter from New York.) PRorF. Four MEN: As I am a reader of I woul id ask you a few questions. Age, 6% inches; weight, 115 pounds; chest, waist, 28 inches; inches; thigh, 17 inches; forearm, 9% mal, 914 inches; flexed, 10% inches. A True BLuE “Tip Top,” I thought 16 years; height, 5 feet normal, 31 inches; ex- neck, I3 inches; calf, 12 inches; upper. arm, nor- Trp Topper. Train to take on more weight. Pror. FourMEN: Being a constant reader and admirer of your far-famed “Tip Top” and Medal Libraries, I take the liberty of asking you a few questions. My measurements are: Age, 15 years; height, 5 feet 10 inches; weight, 137% pounds; neck, 14% inches; chest, norinal, 35 inches; expanded, 36 inches; forearm, 1014 inches; biceps, normal, 1014 inches; expanded, 12 inches; waist, 32% inches; thighs, 18!4 inches; calves, 134 inches. Butte, Mont. BUFF. You should join a well-equipped gymnasium and take a gen- eral course of exercise. In a few months you would be able to determine just what branch of athletics you were cut out for. _ Pror. Fourmen: Being a constant reader of “Tip Top,” I would like to ask you a few questions. While walking to work one morning, I had a severe pain near my heart, and to ease it I had to walk more slowly. This gave ‘me a great surprise, as | never before had pains in the region of my heart. Can you tell’ what this came from?- What is a good exercisé to enlarge R. O. H. Trasarr. Brooklyn, N. Y. Have your family physician examine you to see if there is anything the mattter with your heart. Indian clubs will enlarge your chest and shoulders, but do not indulge in any exercises until you have consulted a doctor. \ ’ Pror. FourMEN: Being an ardent admirer and constant reader of “Tip Top,” I take ‘the liberty of consulting you about my measurements. Age, 19 years; height, 5 feet 6 inches; weight, to5 pounds; chest, normal, 31 inches; expanded, 33 inches. I do I used tobacco for I started to train. Following is my the past two years until deadly WEEKLY. ar On arising, breathe deeply durnb-bells, ten minutes; Whitely exetciser, five minutes; wrist machine, five minutes; chin the bar six times. Evening exercise: Punch the bag, ten minutes; swing clubs, ten minutes. After this, a mile run, followed by a shower-bath and rub-down. Breathe deeply five minutes before retiring. Are there any defects in my measurements? If so, how may I remedy them? What is your opinion of the course I.am following? Do you think it is too heavy for a beginner? I am short-winded; also a little bit heavy, caused from inhaling tobacco smoke. Puc. Chicago, Ill. All your training is being handicapped by your use of the cigarette. Give up tobacco and you will improve as a course of exercise: Mortting exercise: five minutes; exercise with result of your exercises. Pror. Fourmen: Being a constant reader of the “Tip Top” and an ardent admirer of ‘Frank and Dick, I would like to ask you about my measurements. Age, 15 years; height, 5 feet; chest, normal, 30 inches; inflated, 33 inches; neck, 1254 inches; biceps, 8 inches; wrists, 6/2 inches; calves, 12 inches. I am a good long-distance runner “but whenever I run a long-distance race and am coming in for the last lap, I have not the necessary speed to win. It is not through exhaustion that I can’t go any faster. I would like you to tell me how to get speedier, and also can a boy be able to go just as fast as a born Sprinter? New York, N. Y. Aw Arprent READER. It might be that you have not paid enough attention to your preliminary training. A sprinter must get into proper condition with as much care as an athlete who enters any other athletic contest. (A letter froni North Carolina.) Pror. FourmEN:*I am 17 years old and weigh 136 pounds. I get up every morning at five- thirty o'clock and take a long run. LI.play baseball and football, and am very good at fimning. I am a pitcher, and my forearm gets sore after a game. How could I make my shoulders broader? Harry ARCHBELL. Rest your arm for a while and bathe it with atnica. The shoulder-exercise, as given in the United States Army setting-up exercises, will broaden your shoulders. <= “GOLDEN HOURS.” Boys, have you any old numbers of Golden Hours? Will pay liberally for Nos. t to 23 to;complete my files. If you have any of these numbers, write. me. Address WILLIAMS, Station ‘‘O,” Box 24, New York Citv. games, will be declared the winners. N. J., and the ‘‘Athletes” cap. Is this not worth working for, boys ? Tip Top Baseball Tournament Is Now Open. uf DON’T FAIL TO SEND IN YOUR COUPON AT ONCE. a The two teams which, at the end of the season, have the highest average—the members of P 3 which play the greatest number of games, score the most runs and. have lost the least number of LP Of the two winning teams, the one having the higher ,“«© average will be declared the Tip Top Championship Team of the All-American ks Baseball Tournament for 1907, and will receive a handsome pennant bearing an appropriate device. The two successful clubs in 1906 were the ‘“Unions” of Hawthorne, ‘Sg of Circleville, O. Each winning team will receive a full _ equipment for nine. members, consisting of trousers, shirt, stockings, shoes and Uy “& Po _No notice taken of any score not entered ona coupon. Coupons must * be properly made out. One coupon sor, each game. | 4 eh . Never has Burt L. Standish written such interestin flow appearing in this weekly. Mr. Standish has a worl entertain them. Boys, astonish you. Do not fail to buy this library. THE TIP TOP WEEKLY tales of the adventures of the Menriwell brothers, Frank and Dick, as are -wide circle of friends and he is putting forth his best efforts to amuse and you have no idea of whata grand feast he is preparing for you. PRICE FIVE CENTS PER COPY ~& Issued Every Friday Handsome Colored Covers Tip Tor’s. stories are going to For sale by all newsdealers, or sent, postpaid, by the pub- lishers upon receipt of price in money or postage stamps Here are 564—Frank Merriwell’s Talisman; Cocheta. §65—Frank Merriwell’s Would Be Bad. g66—Frank Merriwell’s Intrusion; or, Warner, the Man Who Won. 667—Frank Merriwell’s Bluff; or, The Lost Sefiorita of Sonora. §68—Dick Merriwell’s Regret ; or, The Friend He Never Knew. (§69—Dick Merriwell’s Silent Work; or, Hand for a Foe. 570—Dick Merriwell’s Arm; or, The Trick that Fooled the Tricksters. §71—Dick Merriwell’s Skill; or, The Prince of the Pistol. or, The Charm of Horse; or, The Boy Who A Helping they can be obtained from this office direct. the Latest Titles If you. want any back numbers of our libraries and cannot procure them from your newsdealers, STREET & SMITH, Publishers, 79 Seventh Avenue, NEW YORK 572—Dick Merriwell’s Cad. 573—Dick Merriwell’s System; or, The Way to Win. 574—Dick Merriwell’s Salvation; or, The Traitor on the Team. Magnetism; or, The Curing of a 575—Dick Merriwell’s eae ; or, Tracing the Traitor. 576—Dick Merriwell’s Party; or, Springtime’s Youthful Fancy. 577—~Dick Merriwell’s Backers; or,. The Man Behind the Bat. 578—Dick Merriwell’s Coach; or, Pride and Prejudice. 579—Dick Merriwell’s Bingle; or, A Hit in Time. 5: 580—Dick Merriwell’s Hurdling; or, The Star and the Satellites. 581—Dick Merriwell’s Best Work; or, Hard Proposition. Up Against a Postage staimps taken the same as money. A Gold Mine for Our ir Boys | of gold dollars, that the Columns all these letters entering into the com or decide to take advantage of our second great o an autnor whom the right away, everyone who competes influence your boy pards to read them regularly. $i. 00 in Gold for the Best Letter. SECOND GRAND LETTER COMPETITION We received so many one reds of really excellent letters from readers of the ROUGH RIDER WERKLY in response to our first offer Sommittee awarding the twenty leading which, however, was finally done, the names printed, and the rewards sent forward. And we also hope that every one who participated in the first contest will Tell us what, in your mind, a cracking good story of RANCH AND RANGE LIFE should be, and whether these stories by, Mr. Ned Taylor fill the bill. We believe they stand ina class wy reper and from many a Western cattle State we daily receive letters full of praise and enthusiasm for the work of « OUR COWBOY AUTHOR which letters are written by those entirely familiar with life on the prairie ranches, and who would laugh to scorn stories by knew never could have ridden a buckin Even if you fail to secure one of the twenty leading Let us know in what way these tales of the Wild West appeal to you, and what you have done to “The competition is open from April 1 until October 1, 1907, when the prizes will be awarded, full name and address of every winner being published in the ROUGH RIDER WEEKLY. Here are the prizes: | $5.00 in Gold for Each of the Three Next Best Letters. ; : $2.50 in Gold for Each of the Six Next Best Letters. St $1.00 in Gold for Each of the Ten Next Best Letters. The letter should not be longer than 250 words and should be plainly addressed to ‘Manager of Rough Rider Letter Competition,” care of Street & Smith. Now, boys, jump in and resolve to win a ‘cash prize. STREET & SMITH, Publishers, 79-89 Seventh Avenue, NEW YORK CITY rizes had considerable difficulty in carrying out their work; From time to time weshall print in our Chat bronco. Make up your mind to try for these golden prizes rizes, we expect to send a splendid consolation offering to ret. => Ss Z SS eS eS" Uae dud SS A bd — eS i ES) & \s Z SS RX May Be Secured ECEKECKEXKEKEKS How the Early mies one LIP TOP WEEKLY O .THE boys who take interest in the adventures of Frank Merriwell and want to read everything that was written about him, we desire to say that numbers 1 to 325 of the TIP TOP WEEKLY con- taining his early adventures are entirely out of stock and will not be reprinted. These numbers, however, were published in the Medal Library beginning with No. 150 ohate is erieithed “Frank Merriwell’s Schooldays. > We give herewith a complete list of all the Merriwell stories that have been pub- lished in book form up to the time of writing We will send a complete catalogue of the Medal Library, which is just full of good things for boys, on receipt of a one-cent stamp to cover postage. MEDAL LIBRARY MEDAL LIBRARY 150—Frank 167—Frank 178—Frank 184—F rank 189—F rank 193—Frank Frank 201—F rank 205—Frank 209—F rank 213—Frank 217—Frank 225—Frank 229—F rank 233—Frank 237—Frank 240—F rank 244—F rank 247—F rank 251—Frank 254—Frank 258—Frank 262—F rank 267—Frank 271—Frank 276—F rank 280—F rank Frank 288—F rank 292—F rank 296—Frank 300—Frank AT 10 CENTS Merriwell’s Schooldays, Merriwell’s Chums, Merriwell’s Foes. Merriwell’s Trip West. Merriwell Down South. Merriwell’s Bravery. Merriwell’s Hunting Tour. Merriwell in Europe. Merriwell at Yale. | Merriwell’s Sports Afield. Merriwell’s Races. Merriwell’s Bicycle Tour. Merriwell’s Courage. Merriwell’s Daring. Merriwell’s Athletes. Merriwell’s Skill. Merriwell’s Champions. Merriwell’s Return to Yale. Merriwell’s Secret. Merriwell’s Danger. Merriwell’s Loyalty. Merriwell in Camp. Merriwell’s Vacation. Merriwell’s Cruise. Merriwell’s Chase. Merriwell in Maine. Merriwell’s Struggle. Merriwell’s First Job. Merriwell’s Opportunity. Merriwell’s Hard Luck. Merriwell’s Protégé. Merriwell on the Road. 304—F rank 308—Frank 312—Frank 316—Frank 320—F rank 324—F rank 328—Frank 3 336—Frank 340—Frank 344—Frank 348—Frank 352—Frank |] 356—Frank 359—Frank 362—Frank 365—Frank 368—Frank 371—Frank 374—F rank 377—Frank NEW MEDAL LIBRARY AT 15 CENTS. (Increased Size) 380— Frank 383—Frank 386—Frank 389—F rank 392—Frank 395—Frank 398—F rank < Merriwell’s AT 10 CENTS Own Company. Fame. Merriwell’s Merriwell’s Merriwell’s College Chums. Merriwell’s Problem. Merriwell’s Fortune. Merriwell’s New Comedian. Merriwell’s Prosperity. Stage Hit. Merriwell’s Great Scheme. Merriwell in England. Merriwell on the Boulevards. Merriwell’s Duel. Merriwell’s: Double Shot. Merriwell’s Baseball Victories. Merriwell’s Confidence. Merriwell’s Auto. Merriwell’s Fun. Merriwell’s Generosity. Merriwell’s Tricks. Merriwell’s Temptation. Merriwell on Top. Merriwell’s Luck. Merriwell’s Mascot. Merriwell’s Reward. Merriwell’s Phantom. Merriwell’s Faith. Merriwell’s Victories. Merriwell’s Iron Nerve. "STREET & SMITH, Publishers, NEW YORK ah dag we DPDRDHBAID SAN ALY Q Sd GLY SS Lhe A say NX sy SS S\ ZAP LV [IVF LAT OY