anYouth 5 CENTS a EC We ‘ es ae: i NJ: i JN a STREET & SMITH. ——~PUBLISHERS. YEW YORK. THE CROWD CHASED THE RUNNER AS HE: DASHED AWAY JIN THE RACE AGAINST T/ME. = * jal coca ile OI PRE = issued Weekly. By subscription $2.50 per year. Entered as Second-class Matter at the N. Y. Post Office, by STREET & SMITH, 79-89 Seventh Ave., iv. i. | Copyright, 1909, dy STREET & SMITH, No. 707. NEW YORK, October 30, 1909. Price Five Cents. Dick Merriwells Gambol; OG ‘ SPORT AT THE COUNTY FAIR. By BURT L, STANDISH. CHAPTER I. THE CROOK AND THE COUNTRYMAN. Ree | From all directions country people, dressed for the occasion, came pouring into town and headed for the -_fence-inclosed grounds where the county fair was being - held. The most of these people came in farm wagons, buggies, or such rigs as are common in rural districts. Few really smart turnouts were to be seen, and nearly all of those who arrived by automobile were sight- seers to whom the crowd was of even more interest than the events or exhibits upon the fair grounds. The day was fine, the sun bright, the air clear and crisp with an autumn tang, and we wane appeared .in the best of spirits. The ticket sellers outside the broad gates were hustling to make change fast enough to keep the crowd ‘moving briskly. A booming, clashing, blatant band within the inclosure was ripping forth music of a sort ’ _ intended to quicken the blood, hurry the step, and fill the heart with expectation of lively doings, Behind the stables, over at the far side of the grounds, where a bit of swampy woods crowded close to the fence, two industrious young fellows had re- _ moved a loose board and were doing a thriving busi- ness by admitting, at the modest charge of fifteen cents each, such people as they could quietly lure thither, — who thus saved thirty-five cents on the regular entrance fee. These chaps took turns at gathering up patrons, one of them remaining on guard near the opening in the fence, while the other hurried forth into town to col- lect a new bunch of economical individuals who wished — ‘to attend the fair and entertained few scruples about | defrauding the organization, as long as they could save a few cents for their own pockets. At a corner, some distance from the point where a street led to the fair ground gates, one of these indus- trious fellows ventured to make proposals to two clear- eyed, bronzed young men who wore sweaters, loose- fitting suits, and soft hats, with the brims pushed up flaringly from their faces./ “Going to the fair, fellows?” was the cautious, mysterious inquiry. “Well, if you be, there ain’t no ‘need of coughing up half a dollar to git inside. T’ show yer another way that’s jest as easy, and only charge yer fifteen cents apiece. You'll save seven cents out of the dollar it would cost yer both, and that go a long way toward buying peanuts and lemonade and seeing the shows on the Midway. Economy : wealth, and a penny saved i is a pee: a ee ‘ TEP: ‘FOP One of the chaps thus accosted laughed outright, saying to his companion: “Well, now, what do you know about this, pard?” With a pair of keen, dark, magnetic eyes the other took the measure of the person who had stopped them and saw a narrow-shouldered, soiled, cigarette-suck- ing, shifty-eyed youth who looked like a henroost rob- _ ber. | . “It is true,” he said quietly, “that a penny saved is a penny earned. ; sometimes have a decided inclina- tion to economize.’ | ‘h Thus encouraged, the foxy-looking fellow winked, and grinned, and jerked his, thumb over ne shoulder, pave in a low tone? “Test foller me in a minute, and I’ll show yer how to git inside the fair grounds for thirty cents the both of yer. No use paying more. I see one of my old customers of last year coming down the street, and I _ don’t want to lose him. May as well pick him up and take him along with you fellers.” A tall countryman, with long corn-colored chin whiskers, was approaching. He carried a whip and wore his trousers tucked into the legs of high boots which bore traces of the farmyard. 99 “Kindly explain this matter a bit farther,” invited the young man with the strange dark eyes. “How does. it happen that you can pass us onto the fair grounds for such a trifling admission fee? Are you connected with the fair?” “Not exactly. Newer you mind that. inside jest the same.’ I'll git you “How can you do it?” persisted he of the dark eyes doubtingly. entrance,” “Not much,” chuckled the other. “I’ve got a little private entrance of my own down on the back side of the grounds behind the barns, and me and my pal is running it for our own special benefit make no se create to you, as oe) s you save thirty- five cents apiece.” “But isn’t it dangerous? Isn’t there a chance that we'll be detected and kicked off the grounds?” “Not a bit of it. There’s always a bunch hanging otices it when a few more come away from the stables an went over to them. ns le by our own private entrance, which is hid by some alder bushes, a ET ai “You can’t take us in by the regular That don’t round the stables to look at the trotters, and nobody | All you have to do- is step walk right out into the back yard e stables, Giciiedes | round the corner, sort of | palette the horses, ane shear saunter off WEEKLY. Sete in any direction you wish. It’s dead easy, and there ain’t no chance of being ketched.” The approaching man had halted near by and was % looking at the speaker inquiringly. i is “Hi, Mr. Stebbens,”’ saluted the foxy young rascal. as “Be you economizing this year? Be you looking for —'! | a chance to save money same’s last year?” re “Well,” said the farmer, scratching at the roots of | his corn-colored whiskers, “if Zeke Stebbens hadn't allus looked out to economize and saved money when — he could, he wouldn’t own one of the best farms in his town to-day. Be ce runnin’ the same private entrance you was a-runnin’ last year?” “sure.” . ) “Well, I dunno,” said Stebbens, eying the two young — men in sweaters, “I dunno but [’ll patronize yer again. I’ve allus said fifty cents was too much to charge for admission to the fair grounds. I’ve allus held that it 3 was robbery of the public. I’ve allus claimed thata quarter would be a plenty, and even fifteen cents would be sufficient to carry on the runnin’ expenses, takin’ into consideration all that’s made off privileges sold to them fellers on the Midway. “*Sides that, I’ve got sort of a grudge against em for lettin’ sech sharpers operate. | Why, last year, arter I’d saved thirty-five cents gittin’ inside, I was stuck oe a dollar by a feller that was sellin’ gold watch chains te and five-dollar gold pieces sealed in envelopes, and only us charging one plunk. I watched the critter, for’ I’m — purty shrewd and suspicious as a rule; but, by Jinks, I seen him sell five fellers envelopes that really had» watch chains and five-dollar gold pieces in ’em! He — sold the fust five, and then he stopped and invited the purchasys s to rip open their envelopes and ‘make sure. they’d gut just what they was lookin’ for. One feller stood right side of me, and I saw him open his en- — velope. The watch chain was there, and so was the — five- dollar gold pieces, by Jiminy! He let me look at, it. "Twas the eal thing. Ginuine United States money. “Then the feller what was doing business asked ihent’ purchasers if they was satisfied, and when they said they was, he explained that he was goin’ to do a little better by the rest of the crowd, seein’s he was feelin’. purty gay and generous. I thought he’d been takin’ too much jag juice, the way he acted. eee hed, and integrity he’d hand ’em out, each and every one, a fine Brazilian diamond scarf pin. | “TI was one of the fust among the crowd that fit and ‘I. clawed to hand him‘up their dollars. I seen him taking ca gold watch chains and five-dollar gold pieces, and puttin’ ’em into envelopes, and sellin’ the envelopes, and handin’ em over right and left like chain lightning let loose. It didn’t take no time to count off twenty, and then he stopped and wouldn’t pass out another one. “But one man in the crowd got suspicious and tore open his envelope, sly and sneakin’, to look inside, The watch chain was right there, and so was the five-dollar gold piece. The feller that was runnin’ the show caught sight of the man that had looked into his en- fee tims ¥ 4%, a x ¥ * a. velope, and he hollered and pointed him out and said oA that that man didn’t git no gold scarf pin. Then he » asked him why he was so ’tarnal foolish, and the feller answered that he wanted to make sure he wa’n't being cheated. And then the feller that was handin’ out the wealth he asked would t’other one show what he’d found in his envelope, and was it jest as represented. The man in the crowd he owned right up that ‘twas precisely as represented, the watch chain and the five- dollar gold piece being there. “All the while I’d been feelin’ my envelope. I could feel the chain, and down in one corner was a piece of money. It was a cinch, and I didn’t propose to lose ‘that Brazilian diamond pin, you bet yer life, “The crowd was jest clamoring to buy some more of them envelopes and a-holdin’ up their dollars right under the man’s nose. He seemed sorter reluctant, but -arter a while he laughed, good-natured, and said as long’s he’d started in that way he wa’n’a goin’ to slight nobody. You should ’a seen him slam in the watch ’em out, gatherin’ dollars right and left. He kept would insist on seeing that everybody's envelope was sealed before he handed out any scarf pins. he required everybody to have an even dollar ready in his fist, as he couldn’t stop to make change when things _ was rushin’ that fashion.~ I’ll bate he took in over a hundred dollars in less’n five minutes. , “Test as things was beginning to slack up a bit, a man with a runaway horse came boltin’ right into the crowd, and it’s a wonder somebody wa’n’t killed. The crowd scattered to git out of the way, and when that horse ‘was ketched and quieted nobody could find anything of the féller who'd been sellin’ watch; chains and gold money. He'd sorter ev aporated. He was gone. TIP TOP chains and the money and seal the envelopes and hand cautioning people not to open their envelopes, as he | Likewise, _ “Didn’t seem to make much difference as long’s. we WEEKLY. ay had our envelopes; but what'd you s’pose we found in- side them envelopes? Brass chains! The very cheap- est kind, that didn’t cost more’n five cents apiece, if they did that! And the five-dollar gold pieces was { nothing but new-made cents! If we could ’a ketched — 4 that rascal then, I’ll bate we’d pulled him plumb to 4 pieces. There wouldn’t ’a been a grease spot left of | him when we got done with him. “So you see,” concluded Mr. Stebbens sadly, “arter economizing by savin’ thirty-five cents on admission to the grounds, I got soaked jest erbout ninety-five cents by one of them rascals on the Midway. If I patronize you again this year, son, I’m still goin’ to be a hull quarter of a dollar behind the game, and that’s purty tough in these hard times.” | One of the two young men laughed outright. “Anybody who tries to. buy five-dollar gold pieces at a discount is a eee) certain to be stung,” he ob- served. “Well, come on,” urged the foxy-faced chap, “I don’t seem to be picking up anybody else jest now, so I'll lead you fellers down to our private entrance and let yer in.” we “T think you may excuse us,” said the youth with the — dark eyes. “It seems to me there’s a chance of getting into trouble, and, therefore, I believe we will pay the - regular admission fee and enter in a legitimate — manner.” | His companion nodded. Sneers at their lack of nerve failed to move them, and, as they departed, the fellow of the foxy face, re eretful over the loss of thirty cents, took Mr. Steb- bens in tow. | i CHAPTER S 7 HE WILD MAN.’ The two young men in sweaters and eflne were Dick Merriwell and Brad Buckhart, who, at Dick’s suggestion, had run out here for a little gambol at the’ fair. As they mingled with the stream of hurhan beings flowing toward the gate of the fair grounds Buckhart laughingly observed : “Tt certain seems to meas if Mr. Stebbens got ica what was coming to him last year. He economized. by cheating the fair people out of fifty cents, and then got stung for a dollar by a crooked faker.” “I can hardly feel a throb of sympathy for Steb bens,” said Dick. “He’s simply a sample of hosts of eeople you ll see oes eeongs to re own: ales ms i eT ok ele 4 TEP EOP for he asserted he owned a good farm, he could well afford to pay the regular price of admission. But even if he could not afford it, he would be none the less dishonest at heart when he sneaked in through a hole in the fence. It really gives me a feeling of satisfac- tioa when such men get beaten by sharpers.”’ Having purchased tickets and passed inside the grounds, Merriwell inquired where he could find some official of the fair. A man who heard him spoke up and stated that he was one of the committee in charge of the grounds, ; Immediately Dick notified this man of the fact that rascals were making money by charging an insignificant sum to admit people thr ough a hole in a fence, behind f < _ the stables. “Tl look up a constable right away,” “and see to it that the business is stopped. those scoundrels we'll arrest them.” “You have my best wishes,” smiled Dick, as he and Brad turned toward’ a section of the inclosure given over to booths, tent shows, and fakers. This was called the “Midway.” “T always enjoy tehing a peep at this feature of the _ average country fair,” said Dick, as they entered the long lane between the booths and tents. That lane was thronged with people. Hand in hand, youthful couples wandered up and down, chewing gum or eating peanuts and popcorn, Pink lemonade and “golden orangeade” could be purchased at five cents a ; glass at many of the booths. All kinds of catchpenny games were in full blast. Racks of hideous canes lured desirous one to cast rings at them. Wheels of fortune whirled and spun. Perspiring men, eager to display said the man, If we catch sledges and grunted loudly as they banged away at the striking machines. Fake gypsy fortune tellers pleaded with those saathe to.enter their tiny tents and learn what the stars held in store for them. . Everywhere blatant barkers were ae to atrac attention. ‘One was announcing that the tent: behind him. con- ined “the seventh wonder of the world, that astound- g marvel of modern times, the cow with five legs.” WEEKLY. their powers to the surrounding crowd, wielded huge Elis hext-< loor neighbor was claiming that the exhibit ance before the crowned heads of royal potentates, and had been imported into America at tremendous ex- pense.” These girls danced within the tent every fif- : teen minutes, and the show was by long odds the best- — patronized exhibition upon the Midway. : Dick and Brad passed on, not a little repulsed by the gaping crowd of men and boys who gathered thickly around to stare at the dancing girls. yapped a “Right this way, ladies and gents!” swarthy individual with a heavy black mustache— “rioht this way to see the only genuine, original wild man, captured in the heart of Borneo! This wonder-_ ful creature, half human, half beast, belongs to a race. of bloodthirsty cannibals, and he's the only real wild 3 man ever preserved in captivity. He eats no cooked food, but lives wholly on raw flesh. Four times a day we feed him young chickens, and he eats ’em alive— he eats ‘em alive, feathers Don’t fail to see : i KKiko—Kiko, the marvelous wild Borneo! Only ten cents, a dime, the tenth part of a dollar! Here’s where you get your tickets, everybody! Right this way! Walk up, push up, crowd up, tumble up, any way to get up; if you can’t get up throw your — money up! Kiko! Kiko! He eats ’em alive!’ “Hold on, pard,” chuckled Buckhart ; “we're out for fun. We're here for a little gambol. Let’s have a look at the wild man of Borneo.” . “i “All right,” agreed Dick. “Anything goes, Brad.” A line of eager ticket purchasers were pushing past the stand of the barker and ticket seller, who hurried them along as he gathered in their dimes and handed. out slips of Pete beats which would admit them to. behold the “wild man. “Move along, everybody!” he cried. “Don’t ibe the way! Give ’em a chance! cohdaad kaa wants to. see Kiko, the wild man. Hustle up! Be lively!” . He was making change with both hands as. he talked. . 3 “Directly in front of Dick was a middle-aged - woman with a. ten- dollar bill, which she handed up to the ticket seller. ( With amazing rapidity the man slipped down a ticket and counted off the change, mainly in dollar bills with some loose silver, all of which he thrust into: the Me woman’s s hands) nes eed ce Meta | on, seni, ONE: on!” and all! man of he urged, © Hert wild man. “Wait a moment,” cried Dick rharely- he gave you the wrong change.” } | “What's that? What's that?” ) “What's the matter with The lady’s elaring fiercely at Dick. Never made a mistake in nity life. If you’re going in here hand up your p you? change is right. } ~~ money and move.” ’ But Dick’s words had caused the woman to stop and count her change. ! Merriwell had seen the dishonest ticket seller palm > a bill, after counting out the night sum. “Oh, it’s a dollar short,” said the woman. “There’s only eight dollars and ninety cents here. There should ‘ be another dollar.” oe “You've got the right change, madam,” rasped the : ticket man. “I gave you the proper amount. If, you haven’t got it now you've dropped a dollar. Move on, “LT say!” He snarled the final command in such a fierce way a that the woman was almost terrified into obeying him. Mee “Stay right where you are, madam,” urged Dick. “TT saw this man hold back a bill. Don’t let him beat you out of a dollar.” “T know he gave me the wrong change,’ have it here in my hand just as he passed it to me.” The man in the ticket booth was furious. -“T'll wring your neck, you meddling young fool" he hissed, again glaring at Dick. “Why,” said Buckhart, “the gent is really savage, isn’t he?” “He won’t harm any one,” said Dick. “If he doesn’t 7 give the lady her money it will be a simple matter to call an officer. We'll have him arrested, and that will prevent him from cheating any one else to-day, at least. - Although Merriwell. spoke “tone of voice, the man-suddenly realized that he meant business. Not for an instant did Dick flinch beneath the - rascal’s eye. Indeed, he met the fellow’s gaze with such an air of calm assurance and determination that the scoundrel found it impossible to look into those deep, piercing black orbs. Of a sudden he weakened, saying: Pla “Oh, well, in order to prevent a disturbance [Il »make the lady a present of a dollar. Here it is, madam. Now move on.” | mo “T opined he’d come off his perch,” chuckled Buck- mart Fis calmly, in an ordinary a. | TIP TOP WEEKLY. 5 said the woman, “for I haven’t put a cent into my purse. , I the whip. song Kiko has ever learned. He will now dance for. “You might find that quite as difficult as cheating 4 a lady right under my nose,” returned the Yale youth serenely. Within the tent the spectators crowded around a high iron grating that inclosed a pit, in which crouched a half-naked black man, whose long, shaggy, matted hair fell in a tangled mass about his shoulders and over his face. The proprietor of the show, a slim, ; sallow person, with thin lips and cold, steely eyes, was telling a preposterous yarn about the capture of the wild man. According to his statement, Kiko had slain two of his would-be captors with his bare hands ere he was taken and subdued. “I, ladies and gents,” said the'man proudly, “am the only person who has ever been able to do anything with this creature, Who is, according to the testimony of eminent scientists, by nature half beast and half human. For me Kiko will do a few simple tricks. I wouldn't | crowd too near the cage. Don’t seek to annoy him, — for he is extremely dangerous when aroused, and his strength is something marvelous. Only a week ago, while on exhibition, he was enraged by a person who °— persisted in throwing peanut shells at him, and after a time, with a terrible roar, he leaped at the grating. and nearly bent the bars double before I could drive Dy him back with this whip.” : As he spoke he cracked the lash of a wicked-looking — whip which he held in his hand, and immediately the _ wild man snarled and growled like a beast. : “Be still, Kiko!” ordered the creature’s master. “Good Kiko—good boy. Now, I want you to perform for the mer and gentlemen. I want you to sing, Kiko, Sing, sir.’ Squatting on his haunches, the wild man lifted Bey head and sent up a doleful, wailing sound which re: sembled the howling of a sick pe “That will do. That’s enough,” cried the man with ‘ “That, ladies and gentlemen, is the only you. Dance, Kiko—dance, boy.” The whip cracked again, and, rising halt erect, the creature in the pit did an awkward, shambling dance — which caused many of the spectators to laugh. ne “What do you think of Kika, pard?” asked Brad in a low tone. “He’s a decidedly poor fake,” replied Dick. “I A pected to see something better in the way of deception. It’s really. amazing that people can be fooled so oan . “What is he?” / sid eke “Just an ordinary aun: man, ‘that’ Sali eee ~ “Do you suppose he really eats live chicke 1s ? TIP FOr “There’s no telling what some creatures will do for money. Hi, Kiko—Kiko, look here!” oe Dick pressed close to the grating, snapping his fin- gers as he called to the being in the pit. The wild man looked up instantly, and Merriwell caught his eye. “Hey, there! Stop that!” shouted the man with the whip. ‘None of that! Don’t annoy him! Get back! If he should spring at you, he’d get your hand before you could jerk it away. Get back, young man!” But Dick did not move. Instead of that, as if turned to stone, he remained with hand outstretched, gazing at the eyes which he could see through that mat of tangled hair. A hush fell upon the spectators, for they fancied that something of an unusual nature was about to take place. . The man with the whip started toward Dick, push- ing aside those in his path. He did not push aside Buckhart, however. “Oh, don’t get excited, mister,” said the Texan. _ “Nobody is going to hurt your wild man. My pard wants to look at him quiet and peaceful for a few moments, that’s all.” “I won’t have meddlers here!” declared the show- man fiercely. . _ “T can’t see,” said a spectator, “that the young feller ‘is doing anything to kick up such a rumpus about.” “Kiko,” called Dick softly, “come here.” Slowly the wild man mounted from the bottom of the pit to the iron railing. i ; “Go back, Kiko—go back!” flourishing his whip. The wild man paid no attention to this command. | As the captive approached the grating Merriwell reached through and made a few movements with both hands, after whleh he stepped back and spoke to the _ showman. - “That's all, sir,” he said. go on with your exhibition. Kiko can perform.” The man with the whip scowled. “Well, you keep back now,” he said. “I won’t have none of that business. Kiko, show the ladies and gen- tleman how a dog barks.” ' But the wild man made no sound or movement. Angrily the showman repeated his command. When “the second order was not obeyed he rushed through the ¢ grating with the whip and gave the ene a cut ; a an lash. : cried the showman, “T’m quite satisfied. Now, Show us all the tricks WEEKLY. “You'll not abuse that poor wretch while I’m here, at least.” “He’s got to mind me. “Try something else.” “Kiko, sing once more for the ladies and gentle- men. Sing now, and sing loud.” The wild man’s lips remained sealed. “Perhaps,” said Merriwell, “he might obey me.” “No, he won't. He won’t mind any one but me.” “There can be no harm in trying. Kiko, I don't like that song you sang. I’d much prefer to have you sing something else. Just to prove that you can sing, you might give us the chorus of ‘John Brown’s Body.’ Try it, Kiko.” ; ‘To the amazement of the spectators and the con- sternation of the showman, the wild man sang some- — what discordantly : He never refuses.” “John Brown’s body lies a-moldering in de grave, John Brown’s body lies a-moldering in de grave, John Brown’s body lies a- emoldermg in de grave, But his soul goes a-marching on.’ “Well, what do you know about that!’ roared a big a. ‘man. “I thought the critter couldn’t talk.” icy ae So Brad pushed back the showman, who saan made an effort to reach Merriwell. $ “Oh, yes,” said Dick, “he can talk very well, indeed. 4 Can’t you, Kiko?” Cie “Yes, san,” was the answer. “Ah can talk wells © anybody, sah.’ “That hair mattress you’re wearing on your head must be tincomfortable, Kiko,” said Dick. “Take it off.” tithe late the captive thrust his black fingers into “ that mass of long hair and gave a pull which produced a most amazing change in his appearance. For the : hair formed a wig, and when this was removed the close-clipped, wooly head of a negro was exposed. | “Ladies and gentlemen,’ laughed Merriwell, “you see before you Kiko, the wild man of Borneo, cap- tured somewhere in the United States and made to per- form some very simple and foolish feats in order to deceive credulous people.” “Fraud!” “Cheat!” * “Humbug!” | is “Fake!” Shouts like these rose from every side. In a mo- © ment the crowd within the tent was in a tumult. Fé “Give us back our money!” cried several. 5 ee _ “Let me get at the cheats!” roared a. big man. “Let me get hold of that rascal with the whip!” TLP: “TOP Immediately half the men in the tent seemed fiercely eager to lay hands on the proprietor of the show. With a gasp of dismay, the fellow butted his way through the crowd, leaped to the side of the tent, stopped, jerked up the canvas, and crawled out beneath it, hastened in this by two or three vigorous kicks administered by those able to reach him in that manner, but unable to 4 get their hands on him. ay Out by the exit rushed a number of angry spectators, shouting their indignation. Others seized the tent and began pulling it down over their own heads. Women shrieked and men shouted. Naturally this uproar created great excitement among those on the Midway who did not know what it was all about. a. a “The wild man has broken loose!’ was the cry. | ~~ “Look out for the wild man!” ‘| ‘There was a great scampering of timid persons a taking to their heels. A certain part of the crowd | flocked around the spot where the tent had stood a 4 short time before, for it was already down and being demolished by the exasperated ones who realized how they had been defrauded and lured into paying money to see a fake wild man. The black-mustached ticket seller beheld his compan- '_ ion in rascality as the latter scrambled out from beneath | the tent and took flight. Without delay the barker “gathered up the money before him, thrust it into: his pocket, and also skedaddled. | _.. Out of the ruck of the riot Buckhart and Merriwell _ made their way with some difficulty, finally getting clear of the mob. eer a al on the bum in a tik It was sure enough crooked _ from start to finish.” | “Yes,” said Dick, “it was a fraud on the public, like the most of the shows hereabouts, and the fact that it was\run by such a cheap pair of rascals led me into showing the game up. Kiko was an easy subject to hypnotize, and I had no trouble in handling him. stroll along, Brad, and see if there’s any more sport to be found.” CHAPTER III. THE STRIKING MACHINE, “Hi, there!” called a familiar voice. the ’tarnal row over that way?” Jt was Mr. Zeke Stebbens who made the inquiry. _/ “Here’s. our economical friend, aa : bere Buckhart. WEEKLY. j Z »“Pard,” laughed Brad, “you certainly put that show Let’s : “What's all ; ee ree like mee ed ene pace Soe : AE a 5 tn et Oita / “Why, hello,” grinned the farmer, scratching at the roots of his straw-colored whiskers. “How be ye? I swan, it was kinder lucky you fellers didn’t try to git in by the back way. But, say, what’s all that racket about over yonder?” “They have caught a faker up to his tricks and put him out of business,” explained Dick. 4 “Waal, by Jiminy, I’m glad of it!” exulted Mr. Steb- a bens. ‘Them critters ought to be put out of business, | a-cheatin’ and a-robbin’ us honest folks. Kinder — a thought mebbe there was a riot goin’ on, and cal’lated I'd better keep out of the way. Uster be a time when I’d mix right into any sort of a fracas at a fair or a dance or a huskin’ bee, but I’m a-gettin’ a lettle too old to enjoy it now. Say, I come mighty nigh gittin’ ketched a-comin’ in by that back entrance. I'd jest » gut through and was a-sa’ntering past the stables when — a man with a badge grabbed me and wanted ter know how I come inside the grounds. I tole him ‘twas none of his business. He tole. me they was somebody © a-lettin’ folks inside illegally and there was a-goi’ to be trouble. I told him that didn’t consarn mé no- o how, and he could go to grass. But I sorter kept watch, | and next time they was a man come through the fence the constable nabbed him and hollered. He was an- — swered by some men outside the fence, and there was a great hullabaloo, you bate. Seems the fair folks heard somehow “bout that business, and they sent ‘a. couple of men right onto the outside to ketch the fellers at it, and one on the inside to nab anybody that might come through. Nigh as I can find out, they didi’ Ri ketch them fellers, though they chased ’em into the woods.. I guess that puts an end to it jest the same, and next year, if I.come to the fair, ['ll have to pay the reg’lar admission at the gate,’’ . ‘He uttered these final words in such a sad, renretial manner ‘that Buckhart shouted with laughter. yc “It’s a shame,” said Dick soberly, “that an honest | man who wishes to economize should be compelled to pay the regular admission at the gate.” } “?°Tis ruther tough,” agreed Mr. Stebbens, failing to recognize the sarcasm in Dick’s words and tone. “Perhaps you'll find some way to climb over the fence next year, Mr. Stebbens. Let’s hope for the best. I’m rather surprised to see you wasting your time here on the Midway. I fancied you'd be par ticularly, interested in the rang. on the track and in tural Ses Really, sir, this no place for an. TIP TOP laughed Ezekiel Stebl “T allus take I can see hosses, “He! he!” dens. in this part of the fair fust. oxen, and sheep, and pigs every day in the year; by golly, it’s only about once in twelve months that I can see these here curiosities. Oh, bimeby, arter ‘I’ve made the rounds here, I’ll watch the racing a while. I’m lookin’ for a chance to git a good seegar cheap. I’m goin’ to sport a leetle, and I feel jest like smokin’ a seegar.” “Right this way—right this way, everybody!” cried the proprietor of a striking machine. “Every time you send the indicator up to two thousand pounds you get a fine cigar! If you ring the bell, gents, you get a five- dollar bill!” “There’s your chance, Mr. Stebbens,” » “A fine cigar if you pound the indicator up to two and but, said Dick. thousand pounds.” “Yep, I know. blamed: thing.” “You have three chances for a dime,” “That’s an opportunity to win three cigars. for ten cents out to be cheap enough to suit you.” “But you can’t do it. They ain’t one man in twenty that can pound the old thing up to two thousand ‘pounds, and they ain’t one in a thousand ever rings the bell.” “Let's watch them try it.” Mr. Stebbens followed the Yale youths, who moved up into the little crowd around the striking machine. A husky-looking young countryman had handed over his dime, pulled off his coat, seized one of the heavy, _lond-handled sledges. “I’m going to bust the old machine,” he declared boastfully. “So you git five dollars if you ring the _ bell up there, do yer?’ “Yes, sir,” answered the proprietor promptly. “Every time you make the gong ring you get one of Uncle Sam’s beautiful green lithographs with a hand- some capital V upon the corner. Go ahead, young man, and ring her.” ; ‘The fellbw spat on his Hands, grasped the handle of the sledge, squared himself for a tremendous effort, and got into action. Swinging the sledge through the air, he brought it down with a tremendous thump upon ~ the striking machine. Up popped the indicator and registered five hundred and twenty-five pounds. The crowd shouted with amusement. The striker glared at the indicator in amazed re- sentiment. “What's the matter with the old thing?” he de- But it costs ten cents to hit. the said Dick. Three SSS eg a NT is" lp aaa ae es WEEKLY. “T know I can strike more’n that. There’s manded. something wrong with it. It’s crooked.” “No, sitr—no, sir, on my honor,” declared the pro- prietor. “It’s absolutely fair and square. You didn’t hit the machine properly. Be sure to strike it fairly in the centre with the head of your sledge. If you strike upon the edge of the ring you lose the effect of your blow. You have two more trials. Hurry up, sir, there are others waiting. Show us what you can do now.” “Well, here goes,” said the striker, as he again squared himself and wielded the huge wooden sledge. “Nine hundred pounds!” cried the man with the “You're doing better—much better. Once more, please. Don’t waste valuable time.” But the fellow’s third effort, into which he put all the strength at his command, failed to drive the indi- cator quite up to the nine-hundred-pound mark. _ Some of the striker’s acquaintances in the crowd joshed him over his poor performance. “By hocus!” he cried warmly; “T’ll go it with any- body here! I'll tackle anybody in this bunch!” “Be careful, young man, be careful,” warned the proprietor. “A thousand pounds is easy enough to make, and at least twenty men to-day have driven the indicator up above two thousand pounds.’’ A slim, puny-looking chap stepped out and handed over a dime. The crowd laughed derisively, thinking such a weak-appearing fellow would put up a pitiful exhibition. To their surprise, the first. blow delivered by the slender fellow sent the indicator up to eighteen hundted pounds. “What do you think of that!’ was the cry. Without a word, the slender chap struck again, and — this time the, indicator registered twenty- -one hundred pounds. “One cigar, sir,” said the proprietor cere “You have another chance.” Again the indicator’ was driven up. to twenty- two hundred pounds. “Two cigars—two fine Havana perfectos,”’ said the striking-machine man, as he handed them over.from “Gentlemeny that shows there’s no deception about it. That proves it’s all fair, and square, and honorable. Who’s the next?” es The winner thrust one of the cigars into his pocket and lighted the other., When he had taken a whiff — or two the owner of the striking machine asked him _ how he liked it. ce “Fine,” was the answer. “It’s an elegant smoke.” “Waal, dog any ‘cats!” muttered Ezekiel Stebbens, machine. an open cigar box. LIP TOR surveying the last. performer with a contemptuous eye.. weak-looking critter like that can pound I orter ring the “If a puny, her up to twenty-one hundred pounds, bell. I guess [ll try it once.” Producing an old wallet, he unstrapped it, fished in one of the compartments, and finally produced a silver dime, which he quickly handed over to the strik- ing-machine man. “Hold on, hold on,” objected the latter. “This ten- cent piece is plugged. It won't pass.” “Sho!” said Mr. Stebbens, looking at the money in evident surprise. “You don’t say! Is that the dime I handed yer? Waal, I declare if somebody ain't worked a plugged ten-cent piece onto me! I’m losin all confidence in human nater.”’ Sadly he took back the dime and substituted a good one. Having done this, he removed his coat, request- ing Dick to hold the garment. “You jest watch me bust this old machine,” he whis- pered. “I’m goin’ to git three cigars, anyhow, and I cal’late I'll carry Off that five-dollar bill.” But his first effort with the sledge, greatly to his amazement and disgust, simply lifted the indicator to ‘the eight-hundred-pound, mark. “Didn’t hit it jest ment that time, I guess,”’ tered. “Here goes again.’ Bang!—up went the indicator to twelve bitarud “Mighty funny,” growled Mr. Stebbens. » “I'll bate I can break that feller who won the cigars plumb in two with one hand. There must be something wrong with this old machine.” a “The trouble is with you, sir,” prietor. “You're not as strong as you used to be. then, you have another chance. Fly at i Mr. Stebbens’ third effort barely lifted the indica- tor to seven hundred, “Tt’s a fraud!” he rasped, flinging down the sledge. “It’s another consarned skin game!” The spectators shouted with amusement over his chagrin. “Just to show you how absojitely simple it is to win cigars,” “Tl strike myself.” he mut- declared the pro- But, said the proprietor, With a long, free, easy swing, he brought the head of the sledge down upon the exact centre of the ring, and once more the indicator shot up to twenty-one hun- dred pounds. Ezekiel Stebbens put on his coat. ‘I might ‘a’ bought two good five-cent seegars with ” he muttered regretfully. opposite the striking machine was that money ~ Almost Mirkctly a tent, in front of which a barker was telling the crowd — ? ae ee ee eee WEERLY. \ he said, that all who passed inside would behold the wonderful performances of Marvel, the strong man. “Marvel, the strong man,” wonder of three continents! ing the strength of twenty men combined! see him lift and hold at arm’s length, above his head, the dumbbells , weighing two thousand pounds! You will see a huge block of granite broken upon his chest with the blow of a sledgehammer! In an open test Marvel has pitted his strength against three span of heavy draught horses and pulled them off their feet! He is the Samson of the twentieth century! Whether or not his wonderful power lies in his hair, it is an undisputed fact that he does possess the strength of fabled giants and mythical gods!” At this point, a man with tremendous shoulders he cried. “Marvel, the A human being possess-— You will and huge arms stépped out upon the platform beside the speaker. This man wore his coarse, straight hair so long that it fell upon his shoulders. He folded those massive arms across a mighty-chest and struck a pose, while the barker frothed and howled and shrieked for everybody to behold the “human wonder.” “Mister,?’ said one of the crowd around the striking machine, addressing the proprietor, “why don’t you git that feller over here to see what he can do?” : As if the words had reached his ears, the barker cried : “Tf Marvel should wield the sledge upon the strik- ing machine yonder, and exert his full strength, he would wreck the machine With a single blow.” “Oh, I don’t know about that,” bridled the proprie- tor of the striking machine. Dm willing to let him try it. If he can ring the gong he gets the five-dollar William.” ‘The barker laughed. “It would be a shame to take the money,” he said. Howev er, just to show you that Marvel is really all I claim him to be, he will strike once and only once, Go ahead, Marvel.” The strong man descended from the platform with great dignity and walked heavily across to the striking machine. Brushing back his; long hair, he pon up- the wooden sledge. “T don’t want to spoil your business, my friend,” — “and so I'll strike with one hand.” 3 Swinging the sledge backward and forward a few times, he whirled it over his head and brought it down upon the machine. fe Clang! The indicator flew to the very apex > ° * ? blaze and whose fists were clinched, ready to adminster further chastisement to the ruffian. Buckhart was on hand prepared to stand by his com- rade. “y A crowd gathered almost instantly. | ; “You miserable brute!” cried Dick. “You ought to be shot! Gentlemen, I discovered this creature mal- — Pres a weak and defenseless child in that wagon.” Lynch the critter!” cried a voice which Dick recog- nized as that of Zeke Stebbens. “Somebody git” as 1alter, and we'll hang him to a limb!” | Milo lifted himself to one knee, apparently afraid. to rise lest the furious young man should knock him down again, | 3 “It’s not true!” Alberto, quick.” he panted. “Where is Alberto? come here, Your father wants you. (Come ry ¥ tween the curtains. He was given no time to use a weapon, He was fol- The pale face of the frightened child appeared be fe “Tell these I wasn’t hurting . “Come out, Alberto,” ordered Milo. people that I wasn’t hurting you. you, was 1?” ‘ “Nun-no,” faltered little Alberto—“oh,. no, you wouldn’t hurt me, Papa Milo.” “T never hurt you in my life, did I?” “No, Papa Milo.” . “There!” snarled the gypsy, rising and springing backward to get beyond Dick’s reach, “What do you ~ think about it now? This fellow he comes and attacks me in my wagon.” “THe’s the same feller that broke up a show, gents,” cried a bullet-headed man. ; _ “Him and his pal is going round making trouble on | roar _ the Midway.” Le “That's right,” good money to run their pugnacious-appearing, came from another. “Folks pay their business here unmolested, >» and they have a right to do so. ' Immediately a clamor of voices rose from the crowd, for it seemed that there was a decided division of opin- |. ions and sympathy. A portion of the gathering stood by Dick, while others were against him. burst into the crowd. demanded the taller man, a red-headed, square-shouldered individual. ‘There’s complaints that some fellers is kicking up a disturbance here on the Midway.” Two men, wearing badges, “What's the row here?” _ + “Them’s the ones, Mr. Constable,” said the bullet- ~ headed man, pointing at Dick and Brad. ‘“They’ve _ been meddling with the business of honest, folks what’s _ paid for-the privilege of carrying on their affairs here iy: day.” , “Officer, ” abusing a child. The man should be arrested, and the child should be taken away and put in some institu- tion.” ae “He’s my own little Speak up, ~~ “It’s a lie!” iad Milo again, ‘boy. He will tell you if I ever hurt him. Alberto. Did your father ever hurt you?” 3 “Never,” said the terrified child. “Waal, I guess that is satisfactory, headed constable. busines’. _ business and let folks alone. yourselves lodged in the cooler in short order.” 9 said the red- “T’ye heard about enough of this ‘i Dick’ s indignation was boundless, but he gave Buck- A art a warning glance, for the Texan was on the point c) of the law, Not relishing the idea of being arrested, the Yale TIP TOP said Dick, “we just discovered this eypsy You two chaps want to go on about your If you don’t, you'll find. of openly expressing his opinion of such a Soares WEEKLY. 13 youth decided to move on, and he gave Buckhart the signal, | Behind them the crowd cheered and jeered as they moved away. CHAPTER V. THE EDUCATED DOG. Buckhart was boiling. “What sort of a country is this yere?’”’ he growled savagely. “I was aware some that crooks could pay for protection in big cities, but 1 never before opined it was that way in the country. I certain longed to give those gents with the shiny badges a bit of my opinion.” “Tt would have been useless,’ said Dick. “The child was so terrified he dared not tell the truth, and it’s” likely we guid have been arrested had Milo de- manded it,’ “We came here for a little gambol, partner, but our sport is taking on features a-plenty disagreeable. I swear, I hate to feel that we’re being run off this yere : lane of infamy. I’d like a bunch of boys from the — Bar-Z. Why, we'd just begin at one end of this oufit, o and’ wipe it clean off the map.” Sine “We must admit that we’ve had some fun. My great regret is Over leaving that child in the hands of those — gypsies,” | “Maybe children aren’t stolen by gypsies nowadays, but all the same I’m banking that Alberto doesn’t be- long to the people who have got him.” Arriving at) the far end of the Midway, their at- tention was attracted by a barker who was urging people to enter a tent to see “the wonderful educated dog.” “Ladies and gentlemen,” cried the barker, “did Su ever see a dog that could laugh, and cry, and sing, and talk? If you never have, you haven’t seen Rex, the king of all canine creatures! Rex is on exhibition in this little tent! He will astound you! He will bewilder — you! He will send you away wondering if dogs really have souls! Not only does Rex talk, but he reasons! In proof of which, before your very eyes he will di some sums in mathematics! This is the most astounc ing exhibition of brute intelligence in the whole wide world! Get your tickets at the entrance and pass in- side! Your money back, on demand, if you find t show has been misrepresented in any particular! What could you ask fairer than that? If Rex, the wond , ful educated dog, does not laugh, and cry, and sin and talk, and solye sums in addition and subtraction = _ fefore your very eyes, you are invited—nay, requested © to demand the return of your money! Ten cents admits you to this wonderful performance!’ “Let’s look the educated dog over some, pard,” suggested Brad. Dick agreed, and they entered the tent. Upon a small platform at one side stood a man in shiny black clothes, who was talking to the crowd that pressed around. ‘There were no seats, and the spec- tators were packed closely together in front of the platform. “Ladies and gentlemen,” the man in black was say- ing, “there was a time when the possession of reason- ing powers was denied to the lower order of animals, and claimed to be the heritage of man alone. It was acknowledged that many animals, such as horses and dogs, possessed a wonderful amount of instinct; but the admission that they might have reasoning ability seemed likewise an admission that they might have _ souls. This, by the great mass of people, was regarded as entirely beyond possibility. Yet, you and I, and every one of us, perhaps, have witnessed occasions of sagacity upon the part of dumb animals which seemed to prove conclusively that they could think and reason. It is no unusual occurrence for dogs to save human beings from drowning. They have often been known to warn their masters in times of great peril. That they laugh, and cry, and love, and hate, is beyond dis- ‘pute. There is no affection so sincere, genuine, and un- selfish as that of a dog for its master. I could tell you hundreds of instances of the wonderful intelligence of Rex, the educated dog; but you might doubt me, _ and therefore, I will content myself with proving to your satisfaction that he is all and more than I claim for him. Rex, come out!” At this call a handsome, shaggy Saint Bernard ‘slowly and gravely appeared from behind a canvas screen, He was a splendid-looking animal, although not as large as many of his kind. Walking to)the side of his master, he looked the people over with calm, serene eyes, in which there seemed something almost “human. “This,” said the man in black proudly, “is Rex, the . of all canine animals. Rex, bow to the ladies a He: aah shake hands with any one ake wishes,” said the exhibitor, Several of those nearest the platform put out their ands, and the dog gave his paw in return, TIP |tOr ' ladies? Immediately Rex’s lips parted, and he revealed his. bad manners, my feelings to scold you, but I’ve tried to teach you etter manners, and I’m afraid I’ll have to deprive you a of your supper as punishment for, this behavior.” eB WEEKLY. a “That ain’t nothing,” entered. “I’ve got a little brindle pup that'll do that. He'll jump through a hoop and Stand on his head, too.” The dog’s master regarded the speaker with evident amusement. “Even a poodle or a pug may be taught such tricks,” “T, Professor Peterson, make no claim You will observe although I know he admitted. that Rex is a trick dog or acrobat. that he is an animal of dignity, and, he might be taught any of those silly manceuvres, I would not hurt his feelings by compelling him to go through such performances. Nor would an exhibition of that sort prove that Rex possessed more than ordi- nary canine intelligence.” “All right,” with your show, professor. made some monstrous big claims about this yere dog, and if you can’t back it up I’m goin’ to ask for my money back, jest as sure’s my name is Zeke Stebbens.” “T thought that was our friend, Mr. Stebbens, Dick,” laughed Brad softly. “If ever these people had fo re-. turn the price of admission they will have to give it back to him.” Professor Peterson paid no further heed to Steb- bens. Addressing the dog, he commanded: © “Sit down, Rex.” The animal obeyed. . “You will notice that there are several very hand- some ladies in the audience. Would you smile for the Now smile your prettiest.” said the man in the crowd. “Go ahead Your man outside has teeth in what seemed to be a modest smile. this, looking directly at a pretty country girl a few Following feet away, the dog slowly, and deliberately, winked his — right eye. “Here, here, sir!” cried the professor. You musn’t be so forward. However, I see that the lady is laughing at you. by Jove, you're laughing yourself!” “No flirting! For Rex had opened his mouth and seemed to be : laughing heartily. A faint, gurgling sound came from — the dog’s throat. * “Dear me!’ said the professor. Rex. I hate to reprove you. “T’m afraid that’s In an instant the dog ceased to “laugh.” With a sad and mournful countenance, he began crying in a. way that was quite as effective as his laughter. “You're sorry, are you?” said his master. ‘ declared a man who had just » You might cause offense. | And, .. It hurts — “There, ere ee Sy Sst Hae BAAS: need ge oaks TIP. TOP there, my boy. Cheer up. tite, and I wouldn’t be so cruel as to deprive you of Let me wipe the tears from You have a healthy appe- yok tes ore Se eae your regular evening meal. your eyes.” With a soiled handkerchief he made a pretense of oe Spoaiarrne ge Sees ee sin pean, Ve wiping the dog’s eyes, and immediately Rex cheered up. “T ain’t seen northing very wonderful yet,’ com- plained Mr. Stebbens, pressing toward the platform. —“T ain’t heared him do no talkin’. dog performin’ sums in mathematics? ‘That’s what I want ter see.” “You shall, promised Professor Peterson, as he placed a small blackboard upon an easel at the rear of the platform. “One and all you will now behold ‘a most astounding exhibition of canine in- At the request of any one I will mark two numbers on this board, one beneath the other, and Rex ‘} ~~ will add them, providing the sum of the numbers does Ha Beyond twenty his education has sir—you shall,” }. _ telligence. not exceed twenty. not yet extended, although in time I doubt not he will be able to add any sum, no matter how complex and Of course, not having hands with which chalk, it is necessary to supply him } how great. i he can hold the ait with the proper means of indicating the answers to the _ problems. To do this, I have these tablets of wood Be marked with the Arabic numerals, from one to twenty. _ That Rex may more easily handle them, each tablet is supplied with a leather loop or strap.” As he spoke the man exhibited the marked tablets and placed them in a row upon the platform. The dog stood at one end of the blackboard, _ apparently. looking on with interest. With the wooden tablets arranged, Professor Peter- son again asked that some one in the audience should give two numbers, the sum of which would not amount to more than twenty. gtk , “All right, suh,”’ piped up Mr. Stebbens, “let him add six and eleving.” yt said the professor, swiftly making a large Ms There we have this sum in addition for 3) > “and eleven. _ Rex to solve. f hh eleven had been placed. in proper position be- ieath the six, and under it a straight line was drawn, -’ “Now, Rex,’ ’ said the professor, taking a look at “You see them, sir. What's the How ’bout your "figure six on the blackboard with a piece of chalk—_ son in the tent is aware that the vocal organs of a dog ae WEEKLY. I tL ing the leather strap in his teeth and holding the tab- let so that the spectators might see the figures upon it. There was a sudden clapping of hands. % The professor put down the answer upon the black- board, smiling as he cried: “Six and eleven are seventeen. No faltering about that, hesitation whatever.” That’s correct, Rex. ladies and gentlemen. No a “Waal, I’ll be dished if that ain’t purty good!’’ said Mr. Stebbens, as the dog’s master carefully returned the tablet to its place in the line and erased the figures upon the blackboard. Following this various others in the audience gave sums for the dog to add, and“each time the animal picked up the right tablet. This was followed by sums in substraction, at which, with the larger amount never more than twenty, the dog seemed equally proficient. “What do you think about that, pard?’” whispered Buckhart in Dick’s ear. “He’s a_ well-trained. dog,” answered Merriwell cautiously, ‘You'll notice that the professor always. invites Rex to pick up the tablet before the dog does so, and I have observed that his invitations are worded __ with certain care and method. When he requested Rex. to subtract three from twenty he did so in the same | language he used when asking for the answer in addi-. tion to the sums six and eleven, which, doubtless ,was. __ the signal for the dog to pick up the tablet bearing the — number seventeen. You will also observe that those — numbers are laid out in regular order. If they were altered or disarranged I faney the dog would be baffled” “By the great horn spoon, I reckon you've hit, it, pard!” chuckled Brad ‘“‘All the ape it’s right clever, and there's no particular harm in it.’ * “My friends,” said the professor, “I presume you are all satisfied that this dog can do the things w hich Sy we claim he can do.” “Hold. on! hold on!” piped Ezekiel Stebbens. “You ain’t goin’ to wind this business up yet. That feller outside said the dog could talk, and, by yunipes, I want | ter hear him\do it! If he can’t talk I’m goin’ ter get my money back, you bet your boots!” The professor smiled wearily. “We have said that Rex could talk,” he said, rabbing : his hands together. “Of course every intelligent per-_ o are so constructed as to restrict the animal greatly i in its range of sounds. We have not claimed that Rex can. carry on an extended conversation. There are a few a EPO PP. words which he can pronounce, and you shall now hear him do so.” Placing a chair near the centre of the platform, the man seated himself upon it. The dog stepped into position at the professor’s left and sat down. “Now, Rex,’ on the dog’s head, [I want you to say how-de-do to the ladies and gentle- men. Be: still,“ everybody. Be quiet. Now, Rex, speak up.” The dog opened his mouth, and from his throat is- sued sounds which greatly resembled the salutation, “how-de-do.” — “By George!” breathed Buckhart; “there’s no faking about that. I expected it would be a trick.” “Silence !"" urged Professor Peterson, holding up his hand. “If Rex should meet you on the highway and politely greet you with a how-de-do you would be sur- _ prised, and doubtless you would fancy your ears had _ deceived you. As I before remarked, the range of his conversation is limited. Still, there are a few more words he can say. Beyond those few it is impossible for him to go on account of the structure of his vocal cords.” . “Oh, forget it,” said the dog. you can.” Professor Peterson nearly fell off his chair. “Wh-what’s that?” he gasped, staring in amazement at Rex. “Who said that?” “T did, of course,” yawned the dog. tired, professor.” _ The man in black was amazed, there could be no doubt about that. The crowd applauded oe while the dog grinned. “Great pun’kin pie!” shouted Ezekiel Stebbens. by “That beats all creation!” “Oh, go chase yourself, you old hayseed,” advised _ Rex. “I didn’t get onto these grounds by crawling through the fence.” _ “Thutteration!” spluttered Mr. Stebbens, in confu- sion. “How’d he know wee that?” +» “The police are onto wae ’ said Rex. going to pinch you, too.” pir 4 Professor Peterson was on his feet. He had re- treated a short distance, and now stood staring at the dog, his face pale and his hands trembling a bit. * “The devil is in the beast!” he cried. 3 “That's better then having whisky in me,’ and your breath makes me sick, professor.” , The eroee surged and ae At Dick’ . elbow a “T want you to do a little talking. “T can talk as well as \ “Vou make me “They are ’ said Rex; Pl WEEKLY. said the man in black, putting his hand | side, ready to stand by him. ered what he was doing. The fellow was opening a small hand satchel carried by a woman who was so interested in the’dog that she had forgotten everything else. Just as the sneak thief abstracted a purse from that satchel, Dick seized him by the wrists and cried: “Here’s a pickpocket! I’ve got him with the goods!” Several women uttered screams, and those in the im- mediate vicinity of Merriwell and the sneak thief pushed away as the rascal made a desperate and furious effort to break from Dick’s grasp. “Leggo!” cried the fellow. “Leggo! Hear, Rex, take him!” ; ry With a foar, the dog leaped from the platform straight at Merriwell. CHAPTER VI. iM A SUBSTITUTE. = ~ DICK AS = In order to defend himself, Dick was compelled to release the pickpocket. Shooting out his hand, the Yale ie youth clutched at the collar of the dog, at the same _ time dodging to one side. Grasping the animal’s collar, he gave the creature an onward snap, which, combined — with the force of its spring, carried it flying through — the air clean across the tent. . ems “Took out for your dog, Professor Peterson,” he cried, “or I’ll have to kill him!’ i “Here, Rex—here, sir!” shouted the man upon the platform. — E His voice was heard above the general uproar, for . the frightened crowd in the tent were scrambling, and screaming, and endeavoring to get out. For a moment it seemed as if the tent would be torn down Dick had turned to face the Saint Bernard, and ca doubtless the dog would have leaped at him again only for the shouted command of its owner. Reluctantly the animal abandoned the attack and returned to the plat- form. The pickpocket had made good his escape. “Don’t tear the tent down!” cried Professor Peteter., son. ‘“There’s no danger | Pass out quietly every- — body!” te Buckhart had not been able to render his companion — any assistance. Nevertheless, he was there at Dick’s stant: ne sn SA Sea aa “There seems to be something doing wherever we go, partner,” he observed, with something like a sup- x pressed chuckle. . “And I fancy,” said Dick, “it’s about time for us. to shake the dust of the Midway from our feet. I have a premonition we'll get up against those gentlemen who wear the badges, unless we move lively.”’ He lifted the canvas at the back of the tent, and they both slipped out from beneath it. Behind them they On ee en - a <£ — " $-- X .the thoroughly perplexed master of the educated dog f As they were approaching the race course, Buckhart : scratched his head, observing: b. “Tf that was ventriloquism/ I’ll admit that Professér F «Peterson has got the world skinned in that line. I 9 opine he was the one who did the talking for the dog. ee “No, he didn’t,” said Dick. f “Hey? What's that? He didn’t?” $e “No.” f “Then who did?” Ve “T did,” laughed Dick. “You?” shouted Brad. “Why, pard, you can’t G “Yes, L can. You know my brother is a clever ven- triloquist, and he used to have lots of sport at it. I have practiced ventriloquism for a long time now. At fitst I couldn't seem to make any progress whatever. Frank told me how it was done, but it seemed impossi- ble to catch the knack. Finally I got onto it bit by bit. That was an excellent opportunity to experiment. The -¢rowd was perfectly still, listening for the dog to speak. The attention of every one was centred on the animal. I saw Rex open his mouth, and therefore I did my _ best to make it appear that he was talking. It worked even better than I fancied it would.” 4 “Well, may I be hanged!” muttered Brad, + “T hope not,” laughed Dick. Suddenly the Texan slapped his leg and burst into a shout of laughter, as the genuinely humorous features of the affair dawned suddenly upon him. “Whoop!” he cried. “You sure had Professor Peter- son staggered, pard. No wonder he.gasped and turned _ ghastly. It must have seemed as if the devil himself had taken possession .of the dog and our economical friend, Mr. Stebbens, was certainly upset a-plenty. ‘ Say, pard, that was a lark. That was fun. But why do you suppose the dog obeyed that sneak thief and tried to chaw you up?” “Tam satisfied that the pickpocket was working in collusion with the people who were giving the dog _ show. It was part of the game to get a big crowd into the tent, let the dog attract the attention of every one, and then have the pickpocket get in‘ his work. As a rule, these crooked fakers and showmen who follow ‘up country fairs stand together and will back one an- i other 1 up as far as they dare. If the pickpocket had not TIP TOP WEEKLY. left a tumultuous and excited gathering of people,“and, of standees that lined the course and seized Merriwell entered in a foot race?” 17, been well known to Peterson and familiar with the dog, the latter would not have obeyed the fellow’s com- mand.” “T reckon you've figured it out proper and correct, Dick,” nodded the Texan. “I sure never saw such a bunch of crooks as we found lined up along that Mid- way, and I judge the kid who was selling jackknives gave it to us straight when he stated we'd angered that We had ’em roaring, and it’s due “4 time for us to hit the high places.” “My only regret,’’ said Dick soberly, “is over leav- | ing that unfortunate child in the hands of the so-called 4 gypsies.” "So-called, pard? Don't you allow they were real gypsies ?”’ “Possibly, although I’m not sure about it. ,We may as well take in the races now and get what fn we can out of them.” : “I’m some afraid it will be right tame and uninter- esting,” said Brad. The track was a half-mile course, laid out in the: form of an oval. The grand stand, gay with flags, was packed with people. There were also long lines of free seats, which were filled, and the Yale lads found them-— selves looking in vain for a place to sit down. The racing proved to be of an interesting nature to those who cared for that form of sport. Merriwell and Buckhart watched the termination of a heat in the 2:20 class, and saw it fought out,to a hot fin- ish under the wire by three horses, a spectacle which caused the people in the stand and on the open seats to roar their delight. Suddenly some one came pushing through the crowd | bunch a-plenty. with both hands. “Oh, I say, Dick,” cried a familiar voice, luck! You're the fellow to fill Darrell’s place. on, quick.” It was Tommy Tucker. : “You here, Tucker?” exclaimed Dick, in surprise. “How does that happen?” s “Oh, I came with Darrell and the rest of the bunch. Hello, Buckhart! Say, Dick, Hal has turned his ankle and can’t run. He’s lame.” fe sen é run?” ; “No.’ * “T don’t think I cadeeMet, Tommy. ‘Was Darrell “this is Come He was ies to ru , _ Come on over to the He’s there, along with “Didn’t you know about it? a half mile here against time. dressing room under the stand. TIP’ TOP WEEKLY. Bigelow, Jones, and some others. He’s mighty sore over his hard luck. I was on the way to the judges’ stand to tell them the race against time was off.’ Spluttering and excited, the little chap drew them through the crowd and hurried them toward the dress- ing room beneath the stand. There they found Hal Darrell, darkly frowning over a swollen ankle, while a number of disappointed Yale men stood around and offered consolation. “Hi!” cried Tommy. cae sa