J All readers of the renowned Tip Top stories should beware of base imitations, A placed upon the market under catch names very similar to Frank Merriwel, “ and intended to deceive. IDEAL PUBLICATION FOR THE AMERICAN YOUTH issued Weekly. By Subscription $2.50 per year. Entered as Second Class Matter at New York Post Office by STREET & SMITH, 79-89 Seventh Ave., N. ¥. _ No. 497. | eg Price, Five Cents. «Put up your dukes, Merriwell!” cried Rioden, threateningly. «You're said to be a great scrapper, but I'll agree ter knock your block off in less dan t’ree minutes. SeéT””® height, 5 feet 1114 inches; inches; calf, 14% inches. PHYSICAL CULTURE DEPARTMENT. Edited by PROF. FOURMEN. Owing to the large number of letters now awaiting answers, which are being constantly added to each day, it will be necessary to condense some of them, retaining only the more important questions. Correspon- dents are requested to make their letters as brief as possible, in order that all may be answered in due time. Pror. FourMEN: As a true friend of Tip Top, I will send in a few of my measurements. I am 16 years old, 5 feet 6 inches high and weigh 97 pounds. Neck, 12'% inches; shoulders, across back, 1614 inches; chest, normal, 30 inches; expanded, 32 inches; waist, 2614 inches; hips, 29 inches; thighs, 18 inches; calves, 1214 inches; ankles, 9 inches; wrists, 6 inches. 1. How are my measurements? 2. What are my weak points? Please tell me how to strengthen myself. 3. How can I gain weight? I play baseball a good deal. As I am tall and slim, I can cover ground very fast; but I cannot keep it up, as I take a pain below my heart. 4. What causes it? 5. How can I acquire speed in pitching? Hoping to see this and your answers in Tip Top, I remain, and always will remain, one of Tre Tor’s many ad- mirers, Geo. BLINKHORN, JR. Covington, Ky. 1. Your measurements are not very good for your age. 2. You evidently require a thorough course of training. I would advise that you join a gymnasium, if possible. 3. See answer to other correspondents in this issue for advice in gaining weight. 4. Take deep-breathing exercises and be careful not to overeat. ‘The pain you experience is probably due ‘to a torpid liver. Get the stomach, the liver and the general system in good order, and you will probably not be bothered by the pain in future. 5. Constant practice is the only method by which you can increase your speed in pitching. Pror. FourmMEN: Having read your weekly for some time, I take the liberty of asking a few questions, I am 15 years 5 months old; 5 feet 6:inches tall; weight, 132% pounds; arm, down, 914 inches; up, 11 inches; forearm, 104 inches; neck, 1444 inches; chest, normal, 32/4 inches; deflated, 31% inches; inflated, 3514 inches; waist, 31 inches; thigh, 20 inches; calf, 14% inches. 1. How are my measurements? 2. Name my weak and strong points, if any. 3. My ankles are very weak and pain me at times. What can I do to strengthen them? [ remain, A “Tie Top” ADMIRER. Valparaiso, Ind. 1. Your measurements are excellent for your age, and very much above the average of a fifteen-year-old boy. 2. You haven’t a single weak point; all your measurements are above criticism. Your particular strong points are your height, weight, chest, thighs and calves. 3. One of the best methods of strengthening the ankles is a very simple one. Thrust the toes of one foot through the handle of a flatiron and lift it off the floor a number of times, then shift to «the other foot. Practice this daily, and in a short while your ankle will become strong. : Pror. FourMEN: Being a reader of Trp Top since it was pub- lished, I wish to give my measurements and see what you think of them. I am 17 years 2 months of age; weight, 172 pounds; chest, normal, 35 inches; expanded, 3914 inches; waist, 28 inches; hips, 36 inches; across shoulders, ‘191% inches; wrists, 7% inches; biceps, right, normal, 111%4 inches; flexed, 1234 inches; left, normal, 1144 inches; flexed, 124 inches; forearm, right, 10% inches; left, 10/4 inches; thigh, 20 I am a senior at the Brooklyn Boys High School, and up to this time have not entered in school ath- letics. What sports do you think I would be best fitted for? I play almost every game that there is. I play center on the basket-ball team; put the shot and run the distances on the track “team. I remain, yours in health, B. R. O. _ Brooklyn, N. Y Your measurements are excellent, and you appear to be a well- developed specimen of American youth. Your height, weight and chest are particularly good. judge as to what sports you are best fitted for, as you know your capabilities. I should think, however, you would make a good shot putter and long-distance’ runner. You would also make a good football player. ‘ Pror. FourmMEN: | would be obliged if. you would give me your opinion of my measurements. Age, 1814 years; weight, 118 pounds; height, 5 feet 4% inches; neck, 13/2 inches; chest, nor- mal, 31 inches; expanded, 33 inches; waist, 26 inches; shoulders, across, 1614 inches; hips, 28 inches; calves, 12 inches; ankle, 734 inches. and heavier? 2. When I exercise on the bars I get rather dizzy. What exercises would help the trouble? 3. What are my weak points, and how can I strengthen them? 4. How can I secure a more perfect physique? Thanking you in advance, I remain, Port Huron, Mich. SKINNY WELFED. 1. Your weight is just right for your height and age. | 2, The dizziness you mention may be caused by indigestion or exercising too soon after eating, or you may exercise too vio- lently in beginning. 3. You are not very well developed for your age, and should take a thorough course of physical training. 4. I would advise that you secure a copy of “Frank Merri- well’s Book of Athletic Development,” published by Street & Smith, and follow the directions contained therein. Pror. FourMEN: I would like to ask a few questions concern- ing my measurements, which are as follows and are taken stripped: Height, 5 feet 514 inches; weight, 132 pounds; age, 18 years; neck, 141%4 inches; chest, contracted, 32 inches; nor- mal, 36 inches; expanded, 40 inches; waist, 28 inches; hips, 33% inches; thighs, 20 inches; calves, 1334 inches; ankles, 9 inches; wrist, 7 inches; forearms, 1034 inches; biceps, normal, 1014 inches; expanded, 12% inches; around shoulders, 43 inches; reach, 70 inches. 1. How are my measurements? 2. What are my strong points? 3. What are my weak points? 4. How does — my age, weight and height agree? the Trp Top soon, yours truly, Epwarp WADDELL. 1108 Buttonwood Street, Philadelphia, Pa. 1. All are excellent. 2. All your measurements aré strong ones, particularly yout chest, which is unusually good. 3. You have none. 4. Your age, height and weight are in exact accordance, and you are very symmetrically built. : Pror. FourmMEN: Please answer the following questions, in the Tie Tor. I am 16 years 9 months old; 5 feet 8 inches tall: chest, normal, 32 inches; expanded, 34 inches; biceps, normal Of course you are the best 1. What should I weigh, and how could I become taller Hoping to see this appear in inches; flexed, ro inches; waist, 28 inches; neck, 13 inches; wrists, 614 inches; width across shoulders, 17 inches; weig 125 pounds. 1. How are my measurements? 2. How should I weigh? 3. How can I gain more weight? Hoping to see this in print, with answers, at an early date, I remain, a: ever, an admirer of the Tip Tor WEEKLY, S. Week Malone, N. Y. 1. Very good, for your age. 2. You should weigh about one hundred and forty pounds. 3. Eat plentifully all the wholesome food your appetite na rally craves. Bacon, cereals, eggs, butter, potatoes and milk flesh producers. Get plenty of sleep; nine hours each night not too much. Drink a couple of glasses of hot water or m each morning on rising and again before going to bed. slowly and masticate well the food. Avoid late hours and do smoke cigarettes. * Issued Weekly. By Subscription $2.50 per year. Entered as Second-ciass Matter at the N. Y. Post Office, by STREET & SMITH, 79-89 Seventh Avenue, N.Y. Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1905, tn the Office of the Librarian of Congress, Washington, Dit: No. 497, DICK MERRI NEW YORK, October 21, 1905. Price Five Cents. Cents. WELL'S “DUKES”; OR, % ’ His Fight With Himself. By BURT L. STANDISH. CHAPTER I. A DISAPPOINTED FELLOW. _ There was a great uproar on Fardale Field, for the a home team had defeated White Academy in the last few minutes of an exciting football game. The wild _ cheering of the Fardale boys drowned the music of the cadet band.” Across the field surged the crowd, eager to congratulate the victors and wring the hands of _ the two heroes of the game, Earl Gardner and Dick Merriwell. _ Almost ready to explode with dismay and disap- pointment over the unexpected result of the contest, Vance Silkley made a rush for the gate and was among “Hold on, Vance,” said a voice. “Don’t be ‘in oe such a rush.” | “Hello!” exclaimed Silkley. “Is it you, Jasper?” The huge chap who had seized him nodded and © grinned. He was accompanied by a slender, hard-faced — youth, whose eyes were cold and steely. ee “You're here, too, are you, Grody, old man?’ said Vance. “What did you think of that game?’ ae “Oh, it made me tired!” answered Grody, his lips | curling disgustedly. ‘White should have buried Far- dale easily. They were a lot of chumps to let them- | selves be tricked in that simple manner. Why, I knew Merriwell had passed the ball to the other half-back— I knew he was going to do it when the play started. Ay team that can be fooled with that old os ee trick is about ten years behind the times.” __ ees right, q nie jee: et the ‘ew ® 2 TtP,. Lre low. “Why, the way White started in I thought she was going to smash Fardale to pieces in the first half. She had the weight and the ability, but those chaps lack brains. .They’re a lot of numskulls! I suppose after the way the game turned out there’s no chance for us at Fardale?” 7 Silkley shook his head. “I’m afraid there was no chance, anyhow,” he con- _ fessed. “Merriwell is obstinate as a mule. He has a lot of Sunday-school notions about professionalism, and says he’d rather lose every game with a non-pro- fessional team behind him than win with a single professional player backing him.” “Ha! ha!” laughed Grody, harshly. “I’ve heard that sort of talk before, but it makes me sick. There isn’t a school or a college in the country that won’t use so-called professionals, in case it can be done with safety. . They all put up the same holler about pro- fessionalism, but to the last one of them they’re tainted with it. Iknow! Harvard and Yale are tarred with the same stick. Any man can play on their teams who is not known to be a professional. But the moment there is danger that the fact will be exposed, then they make a virtuous mouth, and the poor devil gets it in the neck. Why, look here! Men from five different colleges came to me at Georgetown and offered me in- ducements. Yale had her scout in the bunch, and her inducements were the best. JI went there, though I didn’t fancy I could pass the entrance exams. I passed them all right, just the same. It wasn’t anything of that sort that kept me from Yale. Some of the other colleges were sore because they couldn’t get me, and so Hogan was notified that there would be trouble in case I played with Yale. I was turned down, and, be- tween us right here, Hogan hasn’t got so much to say himself.” , ; “Between us right er said Bencher, “I'll guaran- a that a rigid investigation of this fellow -Merri- _ -well’s career would turn up some black spots. He’s “pretty young, but he’s played baseball from coast to coast, and I'll wager he’s lined his pocket doing it. _ They all do. Proving it against some of them isn’t so easy, though. As far as I’m concerned, I don’t have _ to take pay, but I made a slip by going part of a sea- son with a New England League baseball team, and that fixed me. here, Silkley ee “Not the slightest,” said Vance, shaking his head. \ As I said before, Merriwell is obstinate as a mule. I ( mn t think he od have kg yeu a show if he'd lost So you think there’s no chance for us WEERLY. “Then we'll have to take up with some of the other offers we have received,” said Grody. “I’m for get- — ting out of this towri in a hurry.” “Can’t get out to-night, fellows,” said Silkley. “Those White chaps have got to make a twenty-mile drive in order to get home. The late train out of Far- dale has been discontinued. Prof. Gunn is using his in- fluence to have it put on again, but it doesn’t look as if he'll succeed.” : “Well, it’s another night for us in this hole. I know where we could buck the tiger if we had the coin, but I’m pretty nearly busted myself. What are you going to do this evening, Silkley? ae you get off and come into town?” “Perhaps I can. I'll try it. I’d like to see you fellows and have a chat before you leave. Where’ll I find you?’ | “Why, almost anywhere,” said Bencher. time do you think you could get around?” “Eight o’clock, perhaps.” | “Well, we'll be in Dickey’s cigar store at eight. You know where that is.’ “I should say I did!” grinned Silkley. “They tell me there’s something doing upstairs in that joint.” “Yes, that’s where the tiger gambols,” grinned Grody. “I know, for the beast gave me the full length of its claws last night.” “You must be an easy mark!” exclaimed Silkley. “Oh, I don’t know. They say it’s a square game. I had a chance, and I needed to make'a stake.” “Now you need to worse than ever.” “That’s right. But nothing venture, nothing have, you know. _ will cost Gogs school just so much more to have me.’ , “You seem to be sure of landing Saw aS It’s getting pretty late for you ‘to start in.’ “Oh, I'll land. I’d had it all fixed now if you hadn’t coaxed us to oe) up here with the idea that — Fardale might want us.’ , “I’m sore about that,’ declared Silkley.. “I cer-— tainly thought Merriwell would have horse sense , enough to give you a show.” | * “Hear those fellows still cheering back there,” bid: Bencher, as another great roar came from the football | field. “I don’t blame them much, to tell the truth, for, until Merriwell got into the game, it certainly did seem a sure thing that they were defeated. He was lame, too, but he turned the tide. He must be a good cap- tain, for I never saw such a change come over a team. The whole bunch had their tails dragging when he went into the game. Instantly their heads eae up it i “What Pitas) OF the air, and they played like a new team. All the same, there didn’t seem to be much chance, for the game was practically over. I had my watch in my hand, and there was less than five minutes more of _ playing time.” “Oh, that’s the way v itt him, according to what I hear,’ said Silkley, in mild disgust. “He always has the luck to jump in and turn the tide and cover himself with glory. Well, I’m going to the academy. See you at eight. So long.” : Silkley waved . his hand and sauntered toward the academy. CHAPTER II. ARLINGTON SPOILS RIODEN’S GAME. Silkley was not the only disappointed cadet. In fact, | his disappointment was not nearly so great as that ex- _ perienced by Rioden and his particular set of the plebe class. These fellows left the ground almost directly _ behind Silkley and saw him joined by Bencher and _Grody. “Der only t’ing dat would give me any satisfaction now,” growled Rioden, “would be ter knock der block off’n dat sneak!’’ * “Shinin’ scissors!” exclaimed Snack Tait. “Why - didn’t he wait to congratulate his friend Merriwell ?” _ “T have an idea,” said Colson, “that he slipped a ‘ cog in trying to get on the soft side of Dick Merri- eh well. i ef Sh!” hissed Orrin Hoke. “We can hear what they’ re saying. Senta: is kicking. He isn’t over- joyed by any means.’ _ They caught part of the conversation between Vance and his companions. Other people were leaving the ground, and so it happened that Silkley did not notice that his late associates were close on his heels. + _ “Say,” muttered Rioden, “I’d like ter know who dem two chaps are!” “Silkley is going to meet them in town to-night,” said Colson, in a low tone. - “Mebbe he’ll meet me somewhere,” from Rob. Re oe er. exclaimed Tait. came grimly vard the village. He chose to make a short cut, in- WEEKLY. 3 ‘Don’t for-° id of following the ah. There was a path ‘ across a field and through a narrow point of woods, and this path he took. A thin moon hung in the western sky, and the air was chill and piercing. Even the stars had an icy glitter. _ Unsuspicious ‘of an ambush, shadow of the timber. Suddenly, without the slightest warning, two per- | sons sprang out from opposite sides of the path and fell upon him. He was crushed to the ground in a twinkling. Then he felt a hand going through his pockets, and a moment later a voice filled with satis- faction exclaimed : “T’ve got der popgun! he’ll make trouble wit’ it!’ “So it’s you, Rioden!” grated Silkley, for once los- ing his usual coolness and self-assurance. | “Yer bet yer sweet life it’s me!’ returned the big Silkley entered the Dere ain’t no danger dat plebe. “I’ve got yer now, and I’ve got yer dead ter rights!” | Silkley’s two assailants proceeded to drag him out into the pale moonlight. panion with interest. “So it’s you, Colson!” he cried. “Surely,” answered Cal Colson, coolly. “What are you going to do with me?” “Let Rioden answer that.” “T’m goin’ to beat you up, you sneak!” cried Rob. “I’m goin’ to change der plan of your mug! See?’ “Oh, you can both do that,” acknowledged Silkley. “You've taken my pistol away, but I'll have another .one, and then I’ll keep my w ord to you, Rioden!”’ “Dat don’t phase me a bit.” He surveyed Rioden’s com- i } “Vou make a mistake,” declared Colson. “I’m not— going to have any hand in beating you up. It will be a square fight between you and.Rioden. If you've got any sand, you'll fight.” “Well, now you know well enough that I won’t have — any show with Rioden. He’s a scrapper, and he can hammer me in a fist fight.” “Hear der mut squeal!’ sneered Rob. ter death! His teeth are chattering!” “You're a liar,” declared Vance, in his mildest, calm- e est, quietest tone. N Then Rioden struck him and knocked him down. “He’s scart — “T wouldn’t hit him again if I were in your place,’ said a voice that made the big plebe and Colson ae “Tf you do, you'll be sorry!” It A fourth person had appeared on the scene. ae out Ee me shadows, ‘his, hands i in his Poe The moonlight was sufficient for them to recognize him. “Chester Arlington!’’ exclaimed Colson. “That’s my name,” nodded the newcomer, coolly. “What are you doing here?” rasped Rioden, angrily. “I didn’t suppose you was hangin’ rotund Fardale no more.” “Tm not,” said Chester. “Just dropped into town to-day to see the football game, and I took a fancy to stay over to-night. I strolled out this way for a little walk and heard you fellows planning to ambush Silkley. Therefore, I simply stepped in here and waited. You know you can hammer Silkley up, Rio- den, and we all know it; but you won’t do it.” “W’at makes yer t’ink so?” fiercely demanded Rob. “I don’t think; I know. If you put the weight of your hand on Silkley again, I'll go straight to old Gunn and tell him all about it. I heard you plotting to am- bush Vance, and I fancy my evidence would be enough ‘to turn you out of Fardale. If you’re anxious to get your walking papers, go ahead with your little game.” “W’ats dis?” snarled Rob. ‘“‘Youse turnin’ against me? Why, I was der best backer you had when you was in der school! I stood behind youse in every- ting!” “That’s all right,” said Chester. “I needed you then. I don’t ‘need you now. You're useless to me, and therefore you don’t count. As long as I needed you, it made no difference to me if you were a common, ( lowbred chap; but now that I have no use for you, I | _- wotildn’t wipe my feet on you. Silkley has some sense comes to cheapness.” Rioden gasped with astonishment and anger. _ “Say, I don’t take dat off’n anybody ! See? Mebbe I won’t do nuttin’ to Silkley ; but you bet yer life w’at I meant ter do ter him I'll do ter youse! I’m goin’ ter smash der everlastin’ packin’ out of youse! So pull _ off your/coat.” Chester laughed in the fellow’s face, still keeping his hands in his pockets. “T wouldn’t try it if I were you, Rioden,” he said. “Tf you lift your hand to touch me, you'll get hurt.” “Oh, will 1?” sneered Rob, as he took a step for- ward. : / He stopped instantly. Chester’s hands carne out of his pockets, and the dim moonlight glittered on something clutched in his _ fingers. “You took Silkdley’s s revolver away from him, ington; “but I still have mine.” o ” said TIP TOP WEEKLY. of decency and refinement; but you’re the limit when it. “Well, wouldn’t that jar you?” grated the big plebe. a “Sorgething will jar you if you take another step in ae this direction! I shall have proof that it was a case of self-defense. And I fancy lots of chaps at Fardale Academy will be glad to get rid of you. Now come on!” But the bully did not dare. He was afraid of no one armed with the weapons nature provided, but the sight of a pistol was enough to hold him in check if he fancied the one who had it meant business. % ; : About Chester Arlington there was a decided air j of business. oe | “Tt’s a good t’ing fer youse dat you’ve got it,” rasped Z Rob; “but sometime I’ll meet yer when yer haven't! See? I won’t fergit yer, either!” | . “You're a big gas bag, Rioden,” said Chet. “In your low strata of existence you’ve had sticcess in intimidat- ing people. You try to scare them with threats. Now I’m not going to.threaten you, but I’m going to warn you for your own benefit. Don’t ever attempt to molest me in any manner, for no chap ever gets the best of — Chester Arlington without living to regret it!” : “How about Merriwell?” “There’s plenty of time in his case. I think I made him regret it once, for I caused him to be expelled in AS As yt ~ Po or) OAPA ~ -_~ ~~ Os disgrace from Fardale. Now he’s back and tem- a porarily on top of the heap. But I’m not done with him! There’s plenty of time to even up our score. As ; for you, you're really not worth wasting time upon. Give Silkley his shooting iron! Hand it over and be lively about it!) Then take a sneak, both of you!” n Colson had felt like “taking a sneak” for some time. te ; The situation was decidedly unpleasant to him, and im- Bs mediately he urged his companion to comply with Ar- aT lington’s command, : zt “All right,’ muttered Rob, sullenly. Then he threw Silkley’s pistol on the ground and started away. “Stop!” The word came like a shot from Arlington’s lips, and, in spite of himself, the big plebe halted in his tracks and half turned. Chester’s weapon was leveled at Rob. “Pick up that revolver!’ said Arlington, in a tone of voice that implied the danger of refusing. ‘A moment Rioden hesitated. Then he slowly turned back and picked up the weapon. | “Hand it to Silkley!’” He did so. — a “Now,” said Chester, “you may fade away as soon as you please.” 7 : ; | ba Se bees fe ee eS PR ey =e, Sor SLOP Waa. Without another word, Rioden and Colson melted into the shadows of the woods and were gone. CHAPTER III. A FELLOW WHO NEVER QUITS. “T’m much obliged to you, Arlington,” said Silkley. “Don’t mention it,” smiled Chester. “It’s all right. I assure you it gave me unspeakable satisfaction to tell that cheap loafer just what I thought of him. It was galling to me to have much of anything to do with _ him in the first place; but necessity makes strange bed- - fellows, you know. With the rising tide of sentiment against me at Fardale, I needed a scrapper like Rioden, and so I used him. The big thug fancied I had ac- cepted him as an equal and after I was compelled to go out of the school one of the things I regretted was that I had found no opportunity to tell him my real opinion of him. I’m a gentleman and ‘the son of a gentleman, and fellows like Rioden are always offensive tome. Still, in this world gentlemen sometimes have to soil their fingers by shaking hands with such cheap . a dogs. I believe in policy.” _ This was quite true, but Arlington did not believe that honesty was always the best policy. In spite of himself, Silkley felt warmed toward Ches- ter, for it seemed that Arlington was inclined to ac- cept him on his own level, or nearly as an equal, at least. \ “Funny thing that I should happen to take a stroll over this way to-night,” said Chet. “I can’t help it, but somehow I have a sneaking feeling for the old school. I know I shouldn’t have after what happened to me there. At first I fancied I hated Fardale and everyone here; but, to give it to you straight, old man, I’m homesick. Going into town, aren’t you?” “Yes. Come on.” _ Chet slipped his arm through Silkley’s in a friendly fashion, and they set off slowly. ~ “Yes, I’m homesick,” Arlington confessed ; “but don’t think for a moment that anything could induce me to come back here with that miserable whelp, Mer- riwell, in the school. I’d die of homesickness before Td come! I couldn’t stand it to see him on top of the ( eap again and carrying things along just as he pleases. I came over here to-day to get a line on Fardale’s play- . I wanted to see what he’d been able to do with team. umble Merriwell and his bunch to the dust before I’m through with them this fall.” | Silkley was surprised. That interests me just now, for I propose to’ “How are you going to do that?” he asked. Chet laughed. “Why, I fancied you, like all the others, entertained an idea that I was down and out when Merriwell re- turned and I was expelled.” “It looked that way,” admitted Vance. “You don’t. know me, my dear fellow,” chuckled Chester. “I’m not the chap to be downed so easily. I am compelled to admit that Merriwell got even with me for his own disgrace; but that doesn’t end it. Not on your life! One thing anyone who knows me will admit is that I’m a stayer. If you ask him, I think Merriwell himself will acknowledge that an Arlington never quits. He may have bad luck and get it in the neck for a time, but presently he pops up again and hammers away on the old line.” “I don’t see what you can do now,” wonderingly. The path had nous them to a highway, and this: they entered, after vaulting the roadside fence. Again Chet took his comapnion’s arm. “T don’t suppose you do see,” he said. “Look*here, Silkley, old man, I saw you talking to Merriwell to- day. What are you doing? Are you planning to be- come one of his poodle dogs? Are you going to crawl around after him and lick his shoes?” *T have no idea of doing anything of the sort.” “Then what is your g game? Be honest with me, and I’ll be honest with you.” “It’s a go. I'll tell you my game. I’ve found that Merriwell is the most popular fellow in Fardale, while Rioden is the most unpopular. Like you, I became dis- gusted with Rioden on account of his ignorance, cheap- - ness,and low breeding. He's the leader of our class, and he’ll remain so as long as he can keep the fellows in fear of him. He orders everyone about just as if they were common chaps and he a high cockalorum. 1. stood for it as long as I could. At last I had to kick over the traces. Merriwell will down Rioden in the end. When this happens Rioden will find himself ob- literated, while some ‘one else will become leader of the fourth class. The moment Rioden’s power is ~ broken the whole class will turn from him in complete _ revolt. that will be my opportunity. “Tn the meantime, I thought it well enough to get on © agreeable terms with Merriwell, but I had a motive be- hind it. That’s why I tried to induce Merriwell to_ give two of my friends a chance on the Fardale eleven. They’re both in town, and I’m going to meet them this evening. paeeee Merriwell ote ce: meee upris said Silkley, They'll want a leader exactly his opposite, and » TIP. TOP WEEKLY. and on the level, I had a sneaking notion that he wouldn’t object if he could gain a point through ques- tionable means, in case there was no possibility of ex- posure. My friends are called professionals, although this comes through the foolish rule that makes any fel- low a professional who tries to help himself by accept- ing remuneration for taking part in athletics. I stated the situation plainly to Merriwell, telling him Bencher and Grody were here and would enter Fardale in case the inducements were right. They might go elsewhere. Several other schools want them. Now you know as well as I that a good percentage of the teams playing ~ against Fardale are tainted with professionalism. There’s no reason in the world why Fardale should not fight them with their own weapons; but I could not make Merriwell see it in that light.” Chester laughed in his knowing way. “Why,” he said, “that fellow is sp conceited he thinks he can win against any team just through his own ability and influence. Let him get it in the neck good and solid and he’d change his ideas. I bet you’d see him reaching out for backers, whether they were pro- fessionals or not. It’s his confidence in himself, his conceit, that keeps him from doing so. Besides that, Silkley, I don’t think he trusts you. He’s shrewd. He don’t propose to be trapped and exposed. He must have fancied you had a knife up your sleeve. You see if he had accepted your offer, he would have placed himself in your power to some extent, and he’s shrewd enough not to let anyone get a hold on him.” It was impossible for Arlington to credit Merriwell - with purely honorable motives. In fact, he was a fel- low who could not believe anyone would be strictly honest and upright purely from principle. “J suppose you’re right,” nodded Silkley; “and, to tell the truth, I did have a sneaking notion that I might _ get a little grip on him that way.” “T doubt if you ever will. As long as you remain in Fardale you will find Merriwell a king-pin there, and he’ll be clever enough to cover his tracks in case he Goes anything that might injure him. If I under- stand you, you'll get sick of this business after a while and wish yourself out of the school.” “But you confessed that you were homesick.” ee cs Fardale with Merriwell here. Who are your friends? to at aid. range matters.”’ But not homesick enough to come back to “Sure thing.” “You are certain they would materially garcia the Fardale eleven?” “They'd be two of the fastest and strongest men on the team.” “Another reason, possibly, why Merriwell didn’t want them is that he doesn’t want anyone who is likely to prove superior to himself. Look here, Silkley, I want to meet your friends. I think I can tell them the school to get into. IJ think I can land them in the. school. Merriwell and his bunch a run for their money.” “Oh, ho!” cried Vance, beginning to see a ray of light. “So that’s your game, is it? What school do | you mean?” “Fairport,” was the answer. “You’ve entered Fairport ?” “Correct.” “Do you expect to play on the eleven?” ‘Do 1? Ask me! You bet I’ll play on the eleven! That thing is settled. Ill do better than that, old man. Look here, I befriended you to-night, didn’t I?” “T should say you did.” ‘ “Can I trust you ye a secret?” “Certainly you can,” earnestly answered Sitkley. d “You can depend on it that anything you tell me as a secret will be held as a sacred confidence by me.” “That’s enough, old man. It’s this way at Fairport: The captain selected for the team is ill and may not ‘ practice this term. Some one else must act as captain ~ of the team until he does appear. Ihave the inside © track, and I’ll bet you something and give you the odds | that ’'m the man that will captain the Fairport eleven this fall.” Silkley was astonished. . “Well, you certainly are getting on!” he cried. “That’s a way I have,” retorted Chester, proudly. “And I want you to understand that we’re going to have the hottest team that Fairport ever produced. — Already I’ve pulled in a couple of rattling good men to strengthen it, and I’m looking for others. That’s why I want to meet your friends. I think we can ar- “You shall meet them!’ exclaimed Vance. “By Jove! This is fine! Merriwell wouldn’t take them, eh? Well, he may have the pleasure of going up against them on another team.” “There’s just one drawback,” ‘said Chet. met your friends?” “No. . rs a S doesn't denow them at all? ae cali ous “Has he I’ve entered it myself, and we’re going to give | Lats Shae PNK: “You're sure he hasn’t even seen them?” “No.” “Good! They can come into Fairport under aliases. If they get out of Fardale without being seen by Mer- riwell and play on the Fairport team under fictitious names, there is no reason why he should tumble to the truth and make trouble by complaining against them. _ Let’s see, you didn’t know Bing Turner, did you?’ *~ “No,” xe ' “Of course not. He was here at Fardale, but he didn’t come back this year. He’s a good football man, _ though Merriwell never gave him much of a show. _ We have him over at Fairport. I’m looking after an- other Fardale“man. ae know Leon Haughton?” “T know who he is.’ “Well, he’s a corker! He’s one of the fastest end men Fardale ever had, but he couldn’t get along with Merriwell, and you see for yourself that he wasn’t given any show on the team. That’s another reason why I came over here to-day. I wanted to talk with Haughton, and I’m going to meet him to-night. He and I have had some trouble in the past; but I know _ he’s sore on Merriwell, and I hope to induce him to leave Fardale and come over to Fairport.” “Well, you certainly do mean business!” cried Silk- ley. _ “T do for a fact,” nodded Chet. CHAPTER IV. THE MEETING AT DICKEY’S _ It happened that Arlington had made arrangements to meet Haughton at Dickey’s cigar store. He was pleased when he learned that Silkley was also to meet his friends there. The village clock was striking eight when Bencher and Grody entered the store and pur- chased cigars. THey took some little time about this business, seeming rather particular as to the weed they bought. They were lighting up when Vance and Ches- terentered. Silkley introduced renee _ “Glad to know you,” said Chet, hearty friendliness, as he shook hands with ae friend Silkley has been telling me about you.” “Ves,” nodded Vance, ‘and Arlington is exactly the chap you want to meet, He was a student here at Far- dale, but he’s over at Fairport now, and he’s on the football team there. The regular captain of that team ill, and Arlington, will be captain of the team until with an air of “My WEEKLY. “T don’t think anything will happen,” smiled. Ches- ter, ina confident manner. ‘That matter is as good as ettled. I’m making up the team, and I’m going to have a rip-snorter. Ill have a bunch that can walk all over this Fardale crowd.” “T hope you do,” said Bencher. “It would give me pleasure to see Fardale trimmed to a whisper.”’ At this point a medium-sized man, who seemed to be somewhat past middle age and looked like a sailor, lurched against the door casing as he entered. His hat was pulled over his eyes, and he seemed to be in a somewhat intoxicated condition. “Avast there!” he exclaimed, in a hoarse “There’s a heavy sea on. Put your helm over and bring her up into the wind!’ “Close that door behind you!” cried Dickey. said the newcomer. ‘You seem to be ‘in command of this craft. Let me introduce myself. Cap’n, I’m Cap’n Squall. You ought to remember me. I’ve been here before, unless I’ve lost my bearings.” “I don’t seem to recall you, Cap’n Squall,” said Dickey. : “Why, isn’t this Cap’n Dickey’s place? Of course it is. I know you. Give us your flipper.” “Look out!’ exclaimed Dickey, as the sailor lurched up against the cigar case and extended his hand a across it. “You will be through that glass in-a minute.” “Tf I smash her I’ll pay for her,” declared Cap’n Squall. ‘‘Perhaps you think I can’t pay. Well, take a look at this. That’s the profits of my last voyage. — Onions did it—good American onions, shipped from New York to Bermuda and shipped back again from Bermuda to New York as Bermuda onions.” He displayed the roll of bills. | Dickey’s eyes glittered a little as he saw the money. He was a covetous chap, and in a room over that store — some of his handy assistants had occasionally relieved — visitors of similar rolls. ’ “Well, you seem to have hit it lucky, cap’n,” he said,. with a sudden cordiality. “I congratulate you.” “You remember me now, mate ?”’ said the visitor, giving his hat a yank and pulling it still further down over his left eye. “I knew you would.” “Oh, yes, I remember you very well,” said Dickey, although he could not recollect that he Bae previously ’ set eyes on the man. . “Tt’s been some time since I struck this port,” said — Cap’n Squall. “Give us a cigar. Give everybody a cigar. Have a smoke on me, gents. I’m fh ,.8 and r out to spend my money.” : Now it happened that DE was a Fgh sie only tone. “Ay, ay, sir!” decline your invitation to smoke. _ sponging off anyone. Unless I can spend as much as TAPS TOF who had observed the sailor’s roll of money with greedy eyes. Chester Arlington took notice of it, and mentally he said: “It’s a shame for an old duffer like him to have such a roll. He has a fancy bun on now. Two or three more drinks would fix him, and it would be easy to re- lieve him of his cash. I need it in my business.” Since leaving Fardale Chester had found himself cut off from his usual supply of money. Reverses in D. Roscoe Arlington’s fortunes had made it absolutely necessary for him to economize, and Chet felt himself the sufferer by this economy. Immediately Chester smiled on Cap’n Squall in the most agreeable manner. “Why, sure we'll smoke on you, captain,” he said, politely. “We’re charmed. But you must let me recip- rocate.” “Jim Blaine is dead, and so is reciprocity. None of _my friends can spend their money to-night. good. My money is the only good money in port.” “Oh, well, if that’s the case,” said Chet, with an air of dignity, as he lifted one open hand, “‘we’ll have to I couldn’t think of the next man, I take no favors.” “You're all right, my son—you’re all right!” roared Cais n Squall, giving Chet a slap on the shoulder. “T like your style! You ought to be a seaman yourself. Til guarantee you’d command your own vessel in a short time; and it’s the life to live. Give me the open sea and a good vessel under me and I’m a king.” Then in a hoarse voice, which seemed a trifle husky _ from the effect of drink, the strange old sailor roared - forth the following song: : “When the mad waves leap and the sea runs high, - On the deck of my ship I stand, And I laugh at the wind and the reeling sky | And bid farewell to the land; I reef her down when the wild winds roar And she leaps from wave to wave; Give me such a life forever more, — ‘And give me a sailor’s grave!” Arlington led the upplatibe. i “Great, cap’n—great!” he cried. ‘ Silkley pulled at Chester’s sleeve. “What are you doing?” he asked. 3 in letting this drunk butt in?” ¥ Soom " a . Chet, with a smile, “He has the It’s no’ “What’s your WEEKLY. “But he can pay the bills, and it won’t cost piles else a cent. If he drops that roll it won’t hurt him.” “Shall we go up now?” “No. I want to wait for Haughton.” “Can’t you fix it so Haughton can join us upstairs?” “That’s a good idea,” said Chester. Immediately he turned and had some words with Dan Dickey. “It’s all right,” he nodded, again turning to his com- panions. “Dickey knows Haughton, and he'll send him up. Come on, Cap’n Squall. we can sit down and be comfortable. us?” “Why, certainly, mate,” said the sailor. “My pins are a trifle unsteady. This land breez@doesn’t agree — with me. Set your course, and I’ll follow.” Dickey stepped out at the front door and glanced around. Then he returned, saying that everything was all right, permitted them to step in behind a high pile of cigar boxes at the back of the room and opened a door : beyond. They passed through this door and mounted a Hight de of stairs to the gambling den overhead. CHAPTER V. WHERE BOYS GO WRONG. The larger room was carpeted and comfortably furnished — There were two rooms over Dickey’s store. with big leather chairs. At one end of the room was a_ roulette table. At the other end were two baize-cov- ered card tables. In the center of the room was still another table, littered with books and papers. A stranger must have been astonished had he investigated the nature of these books and periodicals, for there were many religious volumes, numerous scientific books, a number on travel and only.a few novels. Of. the periodicals there were various current magazines, two or three New York newspapers, the Christian Ferald and Zion’s Advocate. Strange literature indeed for a gambling joint! vn < _ The smaller of the two rooms had a bare far ied floor, a few comfortable chairs, two wooden-topp d tables and a small buffet, on which were glasses and. various sorts of liquors in bottles and decanters. T room had no windows. The windows of the cardroor \were ‘so heavily shuttered and curtained that not a ‘a We're going where Will you join ~ | - Still it was not generally suspected that gambling was ‘| carried on there. Lo Dickey was regarded as a shrewd chap who knew | how to run a place of that sort on the dead quiet. As a*rule he was very cautious in choosing his patrons. Never before in the history of the place had any stranger obtained admission to it with such ease as | Cap’n Squall. The sailor steadidd himself as he entered the card- room, glancing around with interest. “Keelhaul me if Cap’n Dickey hasn’t fitted her up fancy since I last put foot on this craft,” he observed. ‘The appearance of the party seemed a signal for two or three dozing men to awaken and take interest. An anemic chap, with a spindling mustache and long, slender fingers, took his place behind the roulette table and began clicking the chips and spinning the little ball. In the adjoining room a man in white apron and shirt - sleeves was busy polishing glasses. The lights had been low, but one of the men turned them all on. “Right you are, Capt. Squall,’”’ said Chester Arling- ton. “Unless you’ve been here within the last three months, you’ve not seen this place at its best.” “Well, this beats me!’ exclaimed Vance Silkley, in astonishment. “TI didn’t dream a little town like this sported such a joint. A roulette layout, too!” cried Tom Grody. _ “I don't see how the man pate run it. Where'd he get that outfit?” i * “Dickey is out for the dust,” said Chet; “but he ‘runs the place’on the square. That’s how he succeeds. Every man who plays here knows he has a square Of course the percentage on the wheel is in favor of the house. That’s understood. If you play ars you. pay for ee, Site as for the —— - Silkey meine to aie surprises sie he Beers “This is areal semibing nF ardale.” said Astingtan that I've You're in TIP TOP WEEKLY: 9 & ‘Chet, with a laugh. ‘I suppose he’s made more off me than anyone else. Still I’ve bumped him a few times.” It was true that Arlington had squandered money recklessly in that place. With the folly of the sucker who goes against any g game of chance where the natural percentage is against him, Chet had pursued roulette persistently, although aware that he was losing money in the long run. A dozen times he had lost where once he had won. Still he was forever expecting to bump the tiger hard and make a big haul that would more than put him even. One evening he had actually made nine hundred dollars at the game before his luck turned. He was determined to “bu’st the bank,” and this deter- mination had cost him dear, for, when fortune swung against him, all his winnings melted away like dew be- fore the morning sun. Nevertheless, the very fact that he had started with ten dollars and piled up nine hun- | dred in less than an hour was sufficient to keep him forever anticipating another streak like that. It led him on and on, causing him to lose his ready money, ten, twenty, fifty or a hundred dollars at a time; and often ‘he found himself in debt to the bank to, an ex- tent that would have disheartened and horrified almost any other chap of his years. It is doubtful if Dickey would have trusted anyone else to the extent that he trusted Arlington. And had he done so, it is doubly doubtful if he would not have lost through his confidence. With Chester he never lost a penny. No matter how unscrupulous Arlington might be in es the ordinary affairs of life, one standard he had from which he never swerved. A “debt of honor,” as he termed a gambling debt, he invariably paid, even though é to do so might embarrass him and deprive him of lux- _ uries, possibly of necessities, for which he ardently yearned. Without hesitation and without a pang of — remorse, he would defraud his tailor or his friends~ who trusted him; but, as sure as he lived and could — obtain the money needed, he would pay his gambling — debts. No person living could have convinced him ~ that this was a false virtue, which was practically no — virtue at all. By this it is not meant that when a per- 4 son gambles he should not pay such debts; but when ~ he pays gambling debts and fails to settle honest ones of a respectable nature, he is quite as bad as the sneak thief who picks pockets. _ Beyond ee gamblin . boys and men to. ruin than drinle, : however, to separate these two vices, for ¢e gol ae in hand, one aiding the other i in the terrible | or moral degradation. ¥ IO A ee Lae n” “Well, gentlemen,” Let’s have a nipper before we do anything else.” He led the way to the buffet. “I want you to go slow to-night, Silkley,” he whis- pered in Vance’s ear. “Don’t lose your head. Don’t drink too much. I’m laying the wires for our sailor friend. He has plenty of cash.” Even as he said this, Cap’n Squall elbowed the others aside and lurched to the front. “This is on me, mates,” he chuckled, again flashing his roll, “Name your grog, and I will settle.” They called for various drinks to their liking, and the sailor himself asked for gin, with “water on the side.” Chester made a bluff by pretending he was anx- ious to pay, but Squall would not hear to this. “Your money is counterfeit to-night, my lad,” chuckled in his hoarse way. They lifted their glasses. “THere’s luck,” said Cap’n Squall. ‘“Here’s hopin’ you'll live to eat the hen that scratches on your grave.” “Now see here,” said Chester, “fone isn’t enough for me, and I’m embarrassed. I can’t ask you to take an- other one and let the cap’n pay. It isn’t right, captain, and you know it.” 7 Squall slapped the white-a prpacd waiter on the shoulder. “Jack, my boy,” he said, Ge you let any of these children spend a bit of their good money with you to- night, so help me I'll make you na ae plank! What- ever they want is theirs, and I pay.” Then he slipped some money into the waiter’s hand. “What you 93 “Correct, cap’n,” chuckled the waiter. say goes.” So they drank again on Cap’n Squall, who seemed unsteadier than ever after the second round. 3 _Arlington’s cheeks began to glow; and his eyes glit- tered. “T’ve got a feeling,” he said. “TI believe I can tie a knot in the tiger’s tail. I’m going out and tackle the ; perl. e , - They drifted out to the roulette table, and Chester began to play, having purchased five dollars’ worth of chips. | Bencher and Silkley each bought a dollar’s worth and joined-in the game. s “Aren’t you going to try it, captain?” asked Chet. “Pl wait till I see how she points,” answered the x. “I’m more familiar with a different kind of a said Chet, “I’m thirsty myself. - WEEKLY. “Somebody drop a few on thirteen,” said Squall. “Thirteen is the number, mates.” “T wouldn’t play thirteen if I knew it would come!” exclaimed Chester. ‘It’s my hoodoo number.” The little ivory ball dropped into one of the pockets. “There,” exclaimed Chet, “it’s not thirteen! What———”’ He stopped aghast, for the ball had jumped out of the pocket, rolled along the revolving wheel and gently dropped into thirteen. “Well, say, what do you think of that?” exclaimed Bencher. “It was in twenty-four, and my chips are on twenty-four. “I think Cap’n Squall had a hunch,” confessed Ar- lington. ‘‘Why don’t you play, captain, if you can call the numbers that. way?” “Haven't got my bearings yet,” chuckled the sailor. “Wait till I see whether the compass varies or not.” “The old fool is mighty cautious for a man with a muttered Chet, in Grody’s ear. 33 jag and a big roll,” Again the players sprinkled their chips over various Again the ivory ball hummed around the numbers. circle. “‘What’s your hunch this time, captain?” laughed Ar- lington. “You can’t name it twice, if you try.” a The sailor lurched against Silkley and begged his ye pardon as he straightened up. . “Somehow 'I think thirteen is a ray-peter.” “A repeater?’ cried Chet. “Not on your life! Thirty-five or eleven is the number.” But the ball dropped into thirteen! “Careful, gentlemen,” warned the dealer, asthe en; tire party, excepting Squall, uttered loud exclamations of astonishment. “You mustn’t make noise enough to be heard outside. You know this is a ee respect- able, private clubroom.” aa “say, you're a winner, captain!” cried ‘Avitignge | rad you ‘d had a dollar on ee each time, ae 'd be 4 sixty nine to the good now.’ “Play the numbers I name, mate,” hvarsely laughed the’sailor. . ® | “The very fact that you’ve named the winner twice would keep me from trying anything you select next — time,” retorted Chet. “Lightning never can strike three times in the same place!” ‘ ‘ “Make your bets,” said the dealer, as he spun the Bt kc folie a Cap’n Squall leaned on Grody’s shoulder and seemed — on the point of falling asleep. | ae “Come, come!” urged his companions. “What’s the number ?” 2 So a oie ee 9 all. “Thirty-three,” he answered, with his eyes closed. “You seem to be stuck on threes,” laughed Chet. 2? “If anyone wants to try thirty-three they’re welcome. I’m on the double o and four.” ts. | Both Bencher and Grody carefully avoided thirty- nm! | three, but into thirty-three dropped the ball. i ie Needless to say, there was no end of wonderment of | over this; but until Grody gave him a shake the sailor ly | did not even open his eyes to see what had happened. “Why don’t you play?” breathlessly asked Arling- a] 7 ton. re". 8 i _ “Funny thing about that,” mumbled Squall. “I can _ pick the numbers for anybody else, but I can’t pick ‘em r- + for myself.” I |} Then he seemed inclined to drift off into slumber } once more. . “This is no lodging house,” said Grody; “and you } can’t pillow your head on my shoulder.” a | _ This caused the sailor to shake himself and brace up. He stood watching the others play, although per- iS. sistently refusing to try it himself, Luck was with the e house, and Arlington quickly dropped his five dollars’ worth of chips. He, bought five more, and not until he had. lost half of them did he again ask Squall to name a number. fia " _. “Eleven looks good to me,® said the sailor. _ “Then on eleven she goes!” growled. Chet, pushing sal his chips onto that number. » They awaited the result with great interest. _ The ball whirled round and round, gradually losing speed. As it seemed ready to fall, the sailor suddenly said: | “It’s twenty-five! Eleven is no good!” ‘Arlington stretched out his hand to move a part of the chips onto twenty-five, but before he could do so _ the ball dropped. é _ “Twenty-five wins,” Arlington swore. “T can’t have any luck at this, even when the fool lucky man gives me a tip!” he growled. “It’s my bad night, and I'll have to ctit it out, for I’m shy on ready money. However, I’d like to try a little game of poker. What do you say, Capt. Squall? You're ae blows ‘ing up. with good luck!” But the sailor shook his head. said the dealer.. “T like to see the little pea spin,” he said. - Two or three other visitors had drifted into the room and showed an inclination to play the wheel. They pushed forward and bought chips. In vain Arlington sought to drag the sailor away. A last, in Bomrirmee bs sabatdoaed the en ALP: TOP WEEKLY. in the first place to follow his tips we’d hit that wheel _ strange that the old fool could name winners in such _self a8 the son of D. Roscoe Ar lington, the great rail- II “Come on, fellows,’ he said. “Let him alone until he gets tired of it. When you want us you'll find us at the other end of the room, cap’n.” CHAPTER VI. A. S U DDEN. .C.H.AGNG EB. “What’s the matter with that old lobster, anyhow?” growled Arlington, as he sat down at one of the card tables and his companions took seats around him. “He’s jagged for fair, and I fancied he’d be eager to gamble. He seems anxious enough to spend his money. If anything could lead a man to gamble it would be picking winning numbers the way he did. I never saw anything like it! It was positively uncanny !” “That’s right,” nodded Grody. “If we’d started in an awful rap.” 3ut who the dickens would ever fancy anyone could pick winners like that?’ snapped Chet. “Are you sure this place is on the level: ?” asked Grody. “Why ?” “Oh, don’t know; but it struck me as mighty a fashion. Isn’t there any way the dealer could cause the ball to drop into certain numbers ?” “See here,” said Chester? “It’s a fact that certain roulette wheels have been made so they could be manip- ulated, but never yet has there been one made so the dealer could cause the ball to stop on a definite and par- ticular number. That’s impossible—at least, it’s impos- sible if the wheel appears to be on the level.” “It may be,” confessed Bencher; “but if it is, there was something mighty queer about that business.” “Anyhow,” asserted Arlington, ‘‘I wasn’t so terribly anxious to see him play roulette. What I wanted was — to have him in a poker game. He’s in good condition to be skinned, and I would like some of that roll. I need it! I couldn’t afford to lose ten to-night.” As soon as he made this confession he felt like biti his tongue, for pride had prevented him from ac- knowledging any change in his own fortunes and those. of his parents. He was still inclined to boast of him- road man, and it was not so very long ago that D. Roscoe Arlington was admitted to be one of the richest men in America. . “Well, let old Squall go for a while,” said Silkl “Let’s settle this business ght a football. You say az tik Lor _ you're picking up a hot team for Fairport. Now, do you want my friends here?” “Of course I want them,’ dead-sure thing.” “Well, can you offer them proper inducements ?”’ “No question about it, my boy. Fairport has the money this year and she’s going to spend it. I'll see that both Bencher and Grody go through the school without a cent of expense. Further than that, I’m sure that I can make arrangements that will cause the chink to jingle in their pockets.” “What do you say?’ asked Bencher, Grody. “T leave it to you,” said Grody. “And you don’t want to forget,” put in, “that we play Fardale three games, and no other team has such a chance at her. Besides that, we're going against her at hockey, basket ball and other sports. If you can deliver the goods, I’ll guarantee to see to it that you're on ay of our teams that you select.” fe “Well, that suits me,’ pad Bencher. “I’m with you. You can make definite terms with Grody, if you like. I accept your word for it that the thing will be satisfactory.” “Good!” said Silkley, with a oat smile. hope you trim Merriwell and his. crowd handsomely. I'll be right here in Fardale, and it will give me satis- - faction to see you succeed. “Possibly I may be of some i) assistance to,you, too. I may be able to give you a few tips.” ! “That’s right,” sitet Chet, instantly. We, need some one in the enemy’s camp, and you're the ver y man forus. But mum is the word. You will notice I didn't _ give anything away, even to that drunken sailor. Now, if Haughton were only come———” : “Here he is,” said Vance, rising as Leon Haughton hurriedly entered the room. - Leon was a slender, dark-eyed boy, with white, pointed teeth and a stealthy manner. He walked as softly as a cat as he crossed the room to join them. ’ “T beg your pardon if I’ve kept you waiting,’ he said. “There was a reason for it. Old Gunn has been in town, and I was curious to know what had brought him over from the academy.” af Did, you find out?’ asked Vance. ; i “No, I couldn’t do that. But I followed him to Iudge Morey’s office. You know the old boy has been ” nodded Chet. ‘“‘That’s a nodding to Arlington hastily = is I ae oes his Era was somehow Con: “And T° ing his best, to get at the bottom of the hazing of / trust him. More than once he had proven himself un- WEEKLY, “Oh, we all know who hazed Rioden,” “Of course it was the Merriwell crowd.” “But Merriwell wasn’t in it,’ asserted Haughton. “He was at the academy when the affair took place.” “Tl guarantee it was his plan,” Silkley instantly asserted. “He was shrewd enough.to be with old Gunn at that hour, so he could not be convicted. Riqden swore he saw Merriwell with the hazers,” “That’s where he made his mistake. That’s what threw discredit on his whole story. Why, I believe old Gunn actually doubts there was any hazing. He can’t prove there was not, but he thinks Rioden put up the job with the idea of injuring Merriwell,” “Well, we haven’t anything to do with that,” said Arlington. oo are you, Haughton? Give us your hand, old man.’ For all of the past, Chester shook hands pues. with Leon. “We've had some disagreements,” he said; “and I'm willing to acknowledge that I have not always been in the right. When I look back over what has happened, I realize I made a mistake in not sticking by you.” This confession came from his lips with an air of apparent openness and sincerity \that seemed very genuine. | 4 “Let me introduce you to two of our team, old man,” — he said, turning to Bencher and Grody. Haughton, | this is Joe Sears. Shake hands, gentlemen.” ss As he ‘said this Chet winked in a ‘significant manner at Bencher, who immediately tumbled to the fact that — the crafty chap did not intend at that time to trust Leon with too much knowledge. . “This,” said Arlington, with a motion corey Grody, 3 “4s Phil Hibbard.” “Glad to know ses both, geatieniaes ton. They all sat down at the table. ines “Now, Leon, old man, tell me the plain truth,” urged Chester. ‘Are you confident that you're in your old” condition? Are you confident that you can, play foot- ball just as well this fall as yowcould two years ago?’ pre: “T know it,” nodded Haughtoft. “I’m in better con-— dition than I ever was. I've taken care of myself lately.” : “Well, do you think Merriwell intends, to give = a show?” said Silkley. » said: Hoke “T don’t know. I have my abe ater it, for h e doesn’t trust me. Confound him! he’s afraid of me. 7 If Leon confessed the truth, he must have acknowl- edged that Dick had every reason in the world not to PR ee ai TOP - trustworthy and treacherous to the core. Naturally ambitious, conceited and jealous of others, he was one to sneer at the success of anyone besides himself, and repeatedly he had plotted for the discomfiture of those he considered dangerous rivals. The true Fardale spirit had never been imbibed by him. Never had he expressed a willingness to sacrifice himself and any possible chance for his own glory in order that the school might be benefited. Had he been such a willing chap, he must have retained a place on the football team, for he was naturally a remarkably good player. Arlington was fully aware of Haughton’s ability and believed he could handle the fellow to his own advat tage, in case he could induce Leon to abandon Fard ste for Fairport. * “T want you, old man,” he declared. “You say you don’t believe Merriwell will give you a show. If you come over to Fairport, you can depend on it that you'll be one of the team, and you'll have all the chance in id _ the world to get back at Fardale. You know the schedule gives us three games with Fardale. It’s a great opportunity for you. We're going to snow this crowd under! You may depend on that! We'll have the team to do it at any expense. What do you say, Leon?” “Well; you know I'll have to consult my folks about it. They know I’m pretty sore and want to get away _ from here. It’s possible they’ll let me make the change. Tf they do——” ~ "Will you do it?” “Sure thing.” “Good!” cried Chet. ‘‘Give us your hand on it.” Again they shook hands. _ At this moment the players at the roulette table ut- “tered exclamations which attracted the attention of the boys. One man was seen to slap Squall on the back and declared he was all right. “Ts the old fool playing?” asked Arlington. “Wait a minute, and I'll see,” said Silkley, rising and - starting across the room. | A few minutes later he returned. “Te isn’t playing, but they’re following his tips, and I believe they’re going to break the bank!’ he palpi- tated, literally quivering with excitement. “I never - saw anything like it! He picks the winning numbers - more than half the time!’’ RE RF a he Instantly all the others were eager to witness what lette table in a body. induce the sailor bp accept part of his winnings. WEEKLY. 13 “turned the tops of the card tables bottom upward, so was taking place, and they hurried over to the rou- ' As they arrived, one of the players was trying to “You must take it,” urged the man. “Avast there!’ roared Cap’n Squall. “I won’t touch the filthy stuff! If I do it will break the streak.”’ “But I made it all by following your tips.” “That's all right. You’re welcome to it as far as I’m concerned. I’m a sailor and not a gambler.” Then once more he began to sing in that hoarse and. husky voice of his: “When the mad waves leap and the sea runs high, On the deck of my ship I stand, And I laugh at the wind and the reeling sky ‘ And bid farewell to the land; I reef her down A sharp buzzing sound echoed through the room. That sound seemed a signal that electrified several of sg the persons present. Instantly the dealer made haste to count the chips in front of the winners and fling out money in a reckless manner from a little drawer, at the same time telling them to pocket the money, while he swept the chips from sight. The roulette layout was quickly folded into a flat, compact body; and then the dealer opened a hidden door in the wall and slid the whole business out of sight. Two other men were busy. One of them quickly that they presented plain, polished surfaces, and on these tables he scattered books and papers. Se In the adjoining room the waiter did something that caused the buffet to slide bodily through an opening in the wall and disappear from view, while the opening closed in a mechanical manner. Then the man stripped — off his white apron and flung it on a shelf in a little | closet, while he hastily donned a coat. : “What’s up?” gasped Silkley. “Danger !’’ hissed Arlington. and get busy with the books and papers. 3 They hurriedly selected chairs and seized upon the | nearest books or periodicals. : In a remarkably brief space of titne the entire at- mosphere of the place had changed. Apparently every- one in it was quietly reading or chatting with some of ~ the others. Even Cap’n Squall had been forcibly — pushed into a chair and a paper thrust into his hands, — The paper proved to be Zion’s Advocate, and no one — noticed that he was holding it wrong side up. a8 Then there came a sharp rap on the door. The anemic young man with the silky mustach quickly stepped over and opened the door. Into the room strode Prof. Gunn, followed by: ‘local sheriff and two oun. “Sit around, fellows, 39 TEP AGE CHAPTER VIL. A LIVELY OLD TAR. A moment later Dickey himself, looking somewhat anxious, appeared. He glanced hastily around the room, and then an expression of relief settled on his face. “Go ahead with your business!’’ he cried, defiantly. “It’s an outrage, and I shall expect an apology!” “Hum! haw! Haw! hum!” exploded Zenas, as he surveyed the occupants of the room. “I thought as much! A fine place for boys!” “Indeed it is a fine place for boys!” said Dickey. “They can come here and be quiet, while they improve their minds reading the magazines and the best liter- toor.”’ The occupants of the room stared at the intruders in apparent amazement. Among them all Leon Haughton _ seemed the only one filled with consternation and dis- may. He made an effort to keep out of sight behind his immediate companions. “Tl get it!” he whispered. it to me!” “Oh, brace up!” muttered Arlington. care for him?” “He may expel me!” “Well, if he does you know where to come.” It is. quite probable that Chester would have seen _ Haughton expelled from Fardale with considerable pleasure. “Old Gunn will give “What do you ~~ “Look around, sheriff,” urged Gunn. “Inspect the _ place. I’m certain it is a wicked resort! I’m certain ‘i they gamble here! I’ve been informed to that effect.” “Yes, look around, sheriff!’ sneered Dickey. “You've forced your way into a respectable private club, and you may as well complete the outrage.” - ‘The sheriff spoke to his two deputies, and immedi- ately the trio began searching the rooms. Prof. Gunn urged them on. _ Two of Dickey’s “cappers” now joined him in pro- itt the whole affair an outrage and asserting that some one should suffer for it. “That's right, mates—perfectly right!” Cap’n Squall, rising and flourishing the paper in his hand. “We certainly are—hic—perfectly respectable gentlemen. If respectable gentlemen can’t—hic—as- semble and behave themselves without being imposed 2% th Tm for coe them at overboard! Who's WEEKLY. roared ° Chester off his feet and hurled him backward to fall on this way it’s a thundering shame! Keelhaul me, if Dickey, in exasperation. ‘You will make a mess of it with your loud mouth!” “Hold on, sir—hold on!” spluttered Squall. “I don’t i permit—hic—any man to talk to me that way!” 4 But Dickey gave him a push into a chair, on which 4 : he limply fell. 4 In vain the, officers searched for evidence that gam- = |. bling was carried on in those rooms. Notevena pack — of cards could be found. | oa “T told you, sir,’ said Dickey, addressing Zenas Gunn, “that this was a respectable reading room. Only =| a few of my customers are admitted here.” “Go away from me—go away!” snapped the old a professor, who was not a little chagrined over the re- - sult of the raid. “I havea right to look after my boys, ¥ and I was informed that they came here.” Chester Arlington had now risen to his feet, and he swaggered forward, hands in his pockets, and con- fronted the old pedagogue. . Ra “Good-evening, professor,” he said, with curling | lips. “You're indeed, a fine, solicitous old dub! As | an antiquated, moss-covered fossil, you’re the limit!” _ “Eh? Hey?” gasped Zenas. ‘Young man, be care- ful!” | a “I’ve been wishing for an opportunity to tell you =) what I thought of you,” said Chet; “and this seems to — be the particular occasion. It is my private opinion, =| which I now express for your benefit and the benefit of those present, that you have curdled milk in your head | instead of brains. You’re at the head, of Fardale Academy, where you’re supposed to instruct the youth, but you’re not fit to instruct a stable of mules. Any long-eared jackass has more intelligence than you.” Once more Cap’n Squall rose to his feet. “Hold on there!” he bellowed, striding forward. “I admit it’s an outrage for these people to force them- — selves in here in such a manner; but I don’t propose to” see this aged, gray- -haired, venerable man insulted by anyone present.” a “Oh, don’t you?” said Chester. “What are you © going to do about it?” . Pa ae “This!” Smack! | ; _Cap’n Squall’s fist shot out like a bolt of lightning, - landing on Arlington’s jaw. The blow literally lifted — 9 with a thud at full length on the carpeted floor. Chet was stunned and lay err quivering like a ie _ stricken ox. ‘The witnesses gasped for breath and dedmapal tume _to stone for a moment. | Then up rose Bencher and Grody, with cries of rage.’ “Soak him, Jasper!” snarled Grody. “Knock the packing out of him!’ : Together they leaped for the old sailor. a He seemed to meet them halfway. And what fol- lowed created greater astonishment than the downfall a of Arlington, for Squall hit Bencher two lightning-like blows. His right fist landed on the pit of the fellow’s stomach, doubling him up, while his left fist found Bencher’s jaw and dropped the chap across Arlington’s body. ‘* _ When Grody sought to grapple with the fighting 4 sailor something remarkable happened to him, for his wrist was seized, his hand turned uppermost, his arm brought with a twisting movement across Squall’s shoulder, and he was sent flying through the air clean across the room. “Howlin’ hurricanes!’ roared the sailor, as he looked around. “‘Are there any more? Let them come!” | If any of the others present had contemplated, at- a. tacking this remarkable old tar they now seemed to hoe’ change their minds, and Squall stood in the middle of the room vainly looking for other aggressors. “Disgraceful! Outrageous! Scandalous!” splut- tered Gunn. Sn a Re ee out of that room, and Leon Haughton sought to fol- low him. Leon was not as successful, for Prof. Gunn detected him and hurriedly grabbed him by the shoul- der. “Hold on, sir!’ he rasped. “Ah! I knew at least one of my boys was here! So it’s you, Haughton!” “Yes, sir,’ answered Leon, weakly. “But I’m not doing parr wrong, sir. I simply came here to read the magazines.” “Oh, you did, hey? You did, eh? Well, perhaps you did, but I’ve never observed that you were par- ticularly inclined to spend your spare time in reading. gq You oe go, but I’ll have something further to say to you.” The moment he was released Leon lost no time in getting out. In the meantime Grody had risen to his feet and seemed on the point of again rushing at Cap’n Squall, - who was swaying a bit unsteadily and regarding him with a leering expression of derision. - But now the sheriff and deputies hastened to inter- pose, declaring they would place under arrest anyone who created further disturbance. _ Arlington rolled Bencher’s body off nik and sat up, _ looking at the sailor in bewildered rage. 4 TIP TOP: WEEKLY. 15 Vance Siikley had improved the opportunity to slip \getting along in years myself, and I’m not quite as “You hit me, did you?” he panted, huskily. “Keelhaul me if I don’t believe I had that pleasure!” chuckled Squall. “You insulted a respectable old gen- tleman, and it gave me great satisfaction to tap you once.” “You'd never succeeded if I’d expected it!” declared Chet. “You couldn’t hit me when I was looking!” “Now is that so?” rumbled the captain. “How I think they were looking.” about your friends? Dickey tried to push forward toward Squall, mut- tering threats, but the sheriff thrust him aside. “Take that man out of here!” raged Dickey. “‘He’s the first person who ever raised a disturbance in these rooms. I won’t have it! I don’t allow it! They are all respectable gentlemen who come here, and I would not have admitted him had I supposed anything like this would happen.” Zenas Gunn now expressed his thanks to the sailor. “T don’t believe in fighting, sir,” said the old peda- gogue; “but I must congratulate you for the efficient manner in which you disposed of these three young ruffans. I never saw anything like it in all my life! It was perfectly marvelous—perfectly marvelous!” “That’s all right, mate,’ said Squall. “It’s always been my principle to treat old age with respect. [’m spry as I used to be; but still I think I can hold my own with some of these young sprouts. A life on the briny deep is what does it. That keeps a man hard and ready for anything. You see I have salt in my veins, mate—good sea salt.” “Well, you have good red blood, at least,” nodded Zenas. “Would you mind telling me what has been going on here? Would you mind informing me if there has been card playing?” Hm “Now I couldn’t think of it, mate,” answered Squall, with a queer laugh. “You saw what was going on when you came in, didn’t you? Well, that will have to suffice, I reckon.” | Dickey drew a breath of relief, for he had feared the sailor might blow” on him. “Have you seen any card playing here?” persisted Prof. Gunn. . | Now it happened that the sailor had not seen any card playing, for his attention had been given strictly to the roulette wheel since entering the place. was his answer. “I ees seen any- That will have to do you.” ” “No, mate, thing of the sort. “Very well,” said the old pedagogue. “Still Pm. not satisfied that gambling is not carried on here.” — “You seem hard to satisfy!” sneered Dickey, : TIP 5fOP WEEKLY. Instantly. Zenas shook a crooked finger at the speaker. “Be careful, my man!” he rasped. “I have the boys of Fardale Academy to look after and to guard against evil. I shall do my duty. That’s why I procured the warrant to search this place to-night. I’m doing my . duty, nothing more. If gambling is conducted here, I’ll learn the truth and prosecute you as you deserve. But, more than that, sir, if you persist in admitting cadets _ from my school to these rooms, I shall make trouble for you whether there is gambling here or not. This is no place for boys, and I know it. That’s all I have to say. Good-night, sir.” “T think [’ll sail along with you,” said Cap’n Squall, as Zenas and the officers were departing. -“Tt’s a good thing for you that you do!” ‘Chester Arlington. The sailor’s only answer was a hoarse laugh. snarled CHAPTER VIII. OTGCK SicCON FPESS1LON: Frank Merriwell’s Fardale cottage seemed dark and deserted, but up and down the walk in front of it paced a boy who was literally quivering with impatience. “Tt certain is time for my pard to be back!’’ he mut- ‘ tered, and the voice betokened the fact that it was Brad ~ Buckhart. “There’s something going on to-night, for _ Prof.*Gunn is in town, and he didn’t come over for _ nothing.” » Brad leaned on the gate and peered down the street. Beneath a lamp a dark figure appeared, sauntering,in that direction. _ “T believe that’s him!” Citas the Texan. _ The figure drew nearer, and Buckhart caught the re- : frain of a song which the approaching person was sing- “T yeef her down when the wild winds roar And she leaps from wave to wave; Give me such a life forever more, + And give me a sailor’s grave!” “Avast there, one drew nearer. You may come below.” Brad opened the gate and the settee entered. To- : gether they ascended the ae and Buckhart unlocked mate!”’ called a voice, as the approach- “Your time on watch is up. which he warmed over a lighted tallow candle and hastily rubbed over his face. The wipe of a towel seemed to complete the metamorphosis, and Cap’n Squall, the sailor, was transformed into Richard Mer- riwell, the Fardale cadet. “Great doings, Brad!” laughed Dick. has been a strenuous old night.” “Tell me about it, pard—tell me about it,” Buckhart, eagerly. “Did you find out what you wanted to know ?”’ “Tt certainly Dick turned the tap in the bowl and proceeded to — ; make a good lather with a piece of soap. As he fin-- ished removing all traces of make-up from his face, he answered, not without ‘a shade of disappointment : I suppose it was “To tell you the truth, I didn’t. | my own fault, too.” “Did Haughton meet Arlington at Dickey’s?” “Yes,” “T told you he would. He told Joe ae he had made the appointment, and Howard told me.’ “That was straight enough,” said Dick, as he slopped ¥ the water over his face. “Then you didn’t get into Dickey’: s clubroom? You weren’t able to carry out your plan in full?’ “Oh, I got in all right,” laughed Dick. so very hard.” | He proceeded to tell his chum in what manner he had : succeeded in getting into Dickey’s. . “Whoop!” cried the Texan. “em some when you try, partner! When it comes down to acting, you're the real thing, But how did you get _ out of drinking after getting into that joint?” nF “The old trick worked,” spluttered Dick, his face e “T ordered gin, with water The gin I simply " almost in the washbowl. on the side, and I drank the water. slopped into a convenient cuspidor.” “Your make-up was great—simply great,” said “T don’t believe I’d oe you myself if T d a Brad. met you.” “Tt was lucky that Frank had those old eheatriesl costumes stowed away here,” said Dick, seizing a towel — "Pve made the stuff and scrubbing his face with it. serve my purpose before.” “But I don’t see how you failed to vil onto the whole business after being taken into ea S pany t in 4 such a manner.’ Dick straightened up and. faced his chum. | “Brad,” he said, gravely, “I have a confession t make.” slits i Et he? ae ‘exclaimed the Texan. “A confession? ps urged “Phat. wasn 7 “You certain can fool ete eRe ee aN AN 2k re cae re -_— Le. them to Frank and me. Siar eta I’ve been tempted, and I want to ey right here that I came pretty near falling.” “What, you—you ” gasped Buckhart. “Ves, I,” nodded Dick. “For the first time in my life I learned to-night that the gambling fever is in my veins. Oh, it’s there, Brad—it’s there! You know Frank had to fight the same weakness. I don’t know 7 that I’ve ever told you, but gambling was the bane of my father’s life. As a young man it ruined him. It separated him from his/first wife, Frank’s mother, and I think it broke her heart. ‘You know fortune is a fickle jade, and she never smiles on a man without eventually giving him a frown. She smiled on my father and lured him on until he was led to believe him- self her especial favorite. Then, after her treacherous manner, she turned on him, and I’ve been told that he disgraced himself. He became a wanderer, and after the death of Frank’s mother he married my mother. _ Once more fortune changed and lavished her smiles upon him, for by the rarest good luck he located two of the most valuable mines in this country. He left They are the Queen Mystery, - in Arizona, and the San Pablo, in Mexico. After that _ J believe father never gambled. He knew the danger and he avoided it. “One time when Frank and I were having | a heart- S _ to-heart talk he spoke of the one failing that had ; - changed the whole course of father’s life. He admitted i to me that he had found it necessary to guard himself constantly against the desire to gamble. For him it had been a long, hard fight, but he had conquered. He told me that it was certain I w ould meet with the same A ‘temptations, and that it was also probable I would be assailed by the same weaknesses. Again and again he warned me to hold myself with a firm hand and never _yield to that temptation. Up to this present night I’ve never found myself in great danger of yielding. But to-night something happened that started the fever pulsing in my veins, and I nearly lost my head. _ “Brad, after we went into that place Arlington pro- posed that we should play roulette. He and two of the others bought chips and played. I purposed to look on, - but the spin of the wheel, the whir of the ivory ball and the atmosphere of that place all conspired to give me an unspeakable desire to venture something. In my ear a voice seemed to whisper, ‘Try it; have a little fun.’ ‘No,’ said I. ‘You don’t dare!’ sneered the mys- ee voice. ‘You’ re a coward! Bea sport.’ ‘I will not!’ I vowed. ‘ ‘But the tempter, eta not leave me. ‘Other boys e voice. — It doesn’t a them aay; by three officers. Silkley slipped out without being, seen. : proved the opportunity to in WEEKLY. ogy particular harm. other boys?’ Haven’t you as much stamina as But that was not the worst of it, Buck- hart. My eyes became fixed on\the number thirteen. I couldn’t seem to turn them away. I told the others to put their chips on number thirteen, but they would not. The ball fell into thirteen!’ “That’s what they call a hunch,” said the Texan. “Yes, Arlington called it that. But I’m not through. On the next play thirteen stood out larger than ever. Again I told them to play thirteen, and again they re- fused. That number repeated!” “Wow! whoop!” cried Buckhart. ‘That sure was enough to give anyone a touch of the fever.” “That was not the end. I found I could pick winner * after winner. All that was necessary was to heed the first impulse that came into my mind. If I wavered or - hesitated, I couldn’t name the number. If I doubted my ability to name it, I could not. If I spoke the very first number that came to me, it won without fail.” “Well, didn’t they follow your hunches ?” “No. They seemed to think I couldn’t keep it up. At last Arlington did ask me to name a number. When he did so my mind seemed to waver for a moment. I named eleven. He ptit all his chips on that square. _ The ball went spinning round and round, and just as it was ready to fall my eyes became glued on twenty-five. Said I, ‘Eleven won't win; play twenty-five.’ Before Arlington could move a chip the ball sroppet ‘into pocket twenty-five!” ; Brad dropped on the edge of the bathtub, as limp é as” a Tag. “Well, say, partner, the old dame certain was at your elbow to-night!’ he cried. “Of course I believe you; but if anyone else had told me such a thing, ’d had my © doubts.” “Well, Brad, it’s possible you can understand the kind of a fight | ‘had with myself. When Arlington — and his crowd left the roulette wheel in disgust I couldn’t seem to tear myself away.from it. I stayed there, calling winners to myself, and they kept-com- _ ing. Others played the wheel, and I told them the winning numbers. One man followed my directions, — and he hit the bank hard. - I believe he would have broken it, but suddenly a buzzer gave a warning. They knew what it meant, and in double-quick order every sign of gambling disappeared. . They had secret doors in the walls, into which they slipped the roulette lay- out ;;and in the ae room the buffet and liquors — were disposed of in the same manner. Everyone grabbed up a book or a paper, and the next thing we knew into the place marched Prof. Gunn, sO + It was a raid!” though he did detect ee in the hts Arling ult the old prof 18 TiP: TOP couldn’t stand for that. My blood literally boiled, and I had some trouble with Arlington and his friends. That’s the whole story, Brad.” “Great tarantulas!’’ exploded the Texan. “I wish I'd been with you. We wouldn’t done a thing to Ar- lington and his crowd!. You don’t seem to be marked up any, Dick. Did you have a real scrap with them?” “Oh, not much of a scrap,” smiled Merriwell. “You see the officers were present, and they stopped it.” “And you didn’t even get one little crack at Chet Arlington ?”’ “Yes, I did hit him once.” “Whoop! Great stuff!” “T couldn’t seem to help it,” said Dick. “When I heard him insult Prof. Gunn, and when I remembered all the dirty things he had done to me, I struck him before I realized what I was going to do. Two of his friends pitched in, but, as I said, the officers cut it short and I received no damage.” Dick did not boast. He did not even tell the plain facts in regard to the fight. Together the boys left the bathroom, and in the ad- 3 joining room Merriwell dressed in his school uniform. , “T’m ashamed of myself, Brad,” he confessed. “Only for my foolishness in regard to that roulette wheel I “might have learned the truth about Arlington and Haughton. I might know now why Chester made ar- rangements to meet Leon in that place.” “How did Silkley happen to. be with them?” “T don’t know. He was in the party. \I am con fident that Arlington is up to some of his old tricks, al- though I can’t conceive what the scheme may be. We'll have to be on our guard, Brad. But I’ve learned to-night that I have to guard against an enemy within me, who is more dangerous than any othes enemy I have hitherto encountered,” CHAPTER IX. RIODEN’S NEW PLAN. - Rob Rioden was in an ugly mood as he dressed that Sunday morning. He snarled at himself, at his clothes, at his roommate, at everything. “What's the matter with you?” asked Hoke, “None of your blamed business!” retorted Rob, sav- agely. ~ A moment later, when Orrin happened to get in his _ way, the big plebe made a kick at him; but Hoke deftly - dodged aside, and Rioden came near sitting down heavily upon the floor. This did not make him any more agreeable, and when he discovered the grin on ' the other boy’s face he promptly hurled a book at his head. | : Orrin dodged, and the book smashed a small square mirror on the wall. : \ “There,” snarled Rob, furiously, “see what you've “See what I’ve done!” exclaimed Hoke. “I didn’t erred ee At co SS WEEKLY. “Don’t yer tell me I done it!’ rasped Rob, glaring ruc at Hoke. “Don’t'yer tell nobody I done it! You done Yo it! See? If yer ever say dat yer didn’t do it I'l [ git break dat face of yours! Wat yer goin’ ter do? Are : yer goin’ ter pack it off onter me? Speak up! Who i | broke dat mirror?” ha “Why-—I—I did,” faltered Orrin. i “Now dat’s right. Always tell the truth, no matter fe he if yer does have ter pay fer a new mirror. Dere’ll be | S® some questions asked about how der old glass was ~ to broke. You'll say dat you hit it wit’ your elbow, or cle somet’ing, by accident. And you'll buy der new mirror ——™' ter-morrer. Mebbe dat will teach youse perliteness! oa Mebbe dat will teach youse not to grin at Rob Rio- den!” fm “T didn’t mean any harm,” said Hoke, meekly. “Can’t you ever take a joke or see anything funny?” “By dis time you ought ter know dat nobody gits ac gay wit’ me. Where's dat left shoe of mine? Where have you put dat shoe, Hoke?” “T haven’t seen it.” | “Now, don’t you tell me dat! I dropped it right here last night and it’s gone. You've hid it, and I | wants yer ter find it! See? You'll get a move on, 3 too.” a “Why, I’m sure I haven’t see your shoe,” tested Orrin. Ve “Dat’ll do! Shet your face and find dat shoe in a hurry!” \ 4 Without further rebellion, Hoke searched around ~ for the missing shoe, finally discovering it under fhe |. bed, where Rioden had thrown it as he undressed the night before. : “Don’t you remember throwing it there?” asked the bully’s roommate, in a subdued tone. “You were mad. You said there was a nail in it that hurt your foot.” “Oh, der nail is dere,” admitted Rob, as he felt in © the shoe; “but I put it down right here beside this — chair. You moved it, don’t say you didn’t! Now, — here, you take dat shoe and find somet’ing to knock © dat nail down wit’ so I can wear it.” sa) ; “Why, there isn’t anything in the room to fix the © nail with.” . | ° “Ain't dere?” : | SNC. , ’ ; ; , “Den you find somet’ing! If you can’t find some- t’ing you make somet’ing, and be lively about it, for |} we've got to git around to morning roll call in short order.” Orrin searched helplessly about for something with which he could hammer down the nail. After a while, he found a metal paper weight, and with this he worked on the shoe, while Rioden snarled at him and told him to hurry. ie: In this manner the big plebe kept Hoke waiting on him until he was fully dressed. Then he glanced a his watch, and observed: Ae “Jest twenty seconds before roll call. I’ve got jes barely time to get dere, and youse ain’t half dressed, I pro- $ Saas N Tet a rudder t'ink you'll fail ter be on hand dis mornin’. rin i ae he You're in for a call down, Hoke. Dat’ll teach you to Vike git up and move livelier in the morning.” Are | Then he went out and left Hoke to finish dressing. Vho Of course Hoke was late at roll call and knew it had been recorded against him. __ Rioden’s ill temper continued, and at morning mess tter f. he was ugly and growled under his breath at those lbe | seated near him. It did not add to his good nature was -~-to see Dick Merriwell smiling and pleasant amid or Classmates at a distant table. He kept glaring in Mer- “ror | riwell’ s direction, but not once did Dick deign to cast ess! ~—s a look that way. ioe «=©=)—™té<‘ . “W'at’s dat to youse?” demanded Rob. “I didn’t tS chs eidress me conversation to youse!”’ “Oh, excuse me,” said the plebe, hastily, and re- ere | lapsed into awe-stricken silence. _ “Dis grub would choke a hog!’ was Rioden’s next ght remark, “Why don’t dey give us somet’ing fit to eat 1 Ts ee mere?” | | on, “Why, I thought it was a pretty good breakfast this ; fp morning,” said Cal Colson. ro. “Well, you got anudder t’ink comin’ to yer! It may Soe be der kind you like, but I want somet’ing ter eat fer 12 me.” nd ventured Colson. ; fhe Rob gave him a look of contempt. the. “Mebbe you t’ink dat’s a funny remark,” he said. Hummin’ birds’ tongues on toast! Wouldn't dat the freeze your feet? You're gittin’ a little gay yourself, id. Better pare down.” _A moment later his eyes met those of Horace Lo- gan, who still betrayed marks of the football game with White Academy. Now Rioden had forbidden his classmates to speak to Logan or have anything to do with him, but, in spite of himself, he could not keep back the words that rose to his lips. -“Dere’s der great football player of der fourt’ class! fe laid down and cried baby. Mamma’s boy makes ‘me sick!” Involuntarily Horace lifted his hand and touched e- or rt football game. The look he gave Rioden indicated t he vividly remembered how treacherously the big lebe had struck him with brass knuckles in a sup- ad of appearing t to be abashed, Rioden grinned tisfaction. me,” he said. There was a ica in Logan’ 5 eyes that plainly told tad eect or es That look should WEEKLY. 19 _ although he muttered sullenly to himself. ae sore with all the world, but he was disgusted with “Something like humming birds’ EE on toast?” . _ At last he said: ie f scar on his cheek, which, had not been made in a ‘been t’inkin’ An ybody dat sees hes once will know yer next top. ly t nape I'd begin wit? ¢ He was at a considerable distance on the opposite side of the long table, but Rioden spoke loudly enough for him to hear. “Dere’s anudder mut wit’ baby complexion dat’s been suckin’ around der high cockalorum of dis school! I don’t tink he made no great success of it!” A sharp rap for order caused Rob to lower. his voice. In chapel Rioden: sat through morning services, scowling blackly at everyone. Not only did he feel himself as well. As the boys filed out of the chapel by bfaasas: Rob touched Hoke’s arm. “We're goin’ fer a walk,’ . “Are we?” asked Hoke. “Dat’s w’at we are! Come on!” For the first time since meeting Rioden, perhaps, Orrin felt like repelling, but he lacked the nerve, and so they walked away together. The big plebe strode along in silence, his eyes on the ground, failing to note any of the beauties of the autumn landscape. After a time, Hoke coughed in a suggestive manner, but still Rioden remained silent. “Tt’s a nice day,” ventured Orrin. No answer from Rob. ° Some “T say it’s a nice day,’ observed Hoke, a few min- utes later. . Still Rioden’s lips remained sealed. His jaw was” squared and there was a wicked expression about his mouth. They left the road and set out across the fields, Hoke unquestionably following his companion’s lead. Finally the big fellow paused on an elevation and looked back toward the academy buildings. He lifted his fist and shook it in that direction. Stan “It’s a fight to der finish!” he growled. “Der nie: cockalorum of der school has got ter fight it out wit’ his dukes! I’ll make him do it!” Then he went on again, finally sitting on a mass of fallen leaves at the edge of a strip of woods, where — the cool breeze did not reach and the sun poured in | warm and agreeable. | ia Hoke flung himself down on thie leaves. ee Fully ten minutes passed before Rioden spoke again. — ’ he said. “T’ve made up me mind dat I started in wfong. I’ve dis whole matter over, and I see sept where I made me mistake.” ae “What are you talking about?” dined Gita “Pm a-talkin’ about dis Dick Merriwell, business. I've been t’inkin’ about dat mut all der mornin’, and it’s kept me ready ter eat, nails. I’ve made a new Pe Hoke.” | “Do you mind telling fist ih ig ae é “Why, it’s simple enough. I don’t see why I didn follow it in der first place. I made my mistake by starting in wit’ der wrong end of der bunch. I beg wit’ der bottom, when I shoulc started + 20 hare te up to Merriwell, and I see dat’s der wrong way ter do it. I’m wasting time. Der only way is to begin wit’ Merriwell and settle der whole business quick.” “How, do you propose to begin?’ “See dem?’ asked Rob, lifting his huge, clinched fists. ‘“‘Dey’ll do der job all right. Dere ain’tenobody in der school dat I can’t oi when it comes to a scrap!” “Perhaps that’ s right,” sata. Orrin. “Perhaps—perhaps!’”’ snarled the bully. “There ain’t no perhaps about it. I know it’s right! You know it, too, don’t yer?” “Why, I think it is right.” “°*Course yer do. Now I’m goin’ ter pick a-fuss wit’ Merriwell der first chance I git. I'll make him fight me, and I'll leave him in such shape dat he won’t be struttin’ round showin’ his handsome face- fer a week! I’ve intended to do dis all along, but I was kind er comin’ up to it gradual. Dere won't be no put- tin’ it off no longer.” | “What if Merriwell won’t fight you?” “He'll have ter! He'll have ter fight | ‘me or stand _ as a coward before der school! I'll fix it so dere won’t be no udder way fer him. I don’t know how, but I’m goin’ ter begin it der first opportunity, and I'll insult dat duffer every way possible. He won’t be: able to stand fer dat a great while.” “Perhaps he’ll get his gang together and give you another hazing.”’ ; “T’ll fix dat! I'll make it so all der hazin’ he could give me wouldn’t let him out!’ For nearly half an hour the two plebes talked this matter over. At the end Rioden seemed wholly satis- fied and in a far better humor. “Now,” he said, “jest one t’ing will -fix me all right. I want ter blow off some of dis surplus energy w’at’s been workin’ inside er me. I know where to find a _ bo’t over on der lake, and) we'll go over and row. Come on, Orrin.” ot CHAPTER X. ON LILY LAKE. Y Dice Merriwell met Doris Templeton and Zona Desmond by appointment, and mor them for a row on Lily Lake. P Both the girls seemed in high spirits. crisp and invigorating. ‘Zona sat in the bow of the boat, while Doris occu- pied the stern. With strong, vigorous strokes, Dick sent the little craft skimming over the water. _. “Oh, that game yesterday was 3 just perfectly grand! Fe cried Doris. - “That’s the way it seemis to you now,® smiled Dick; ‘but I’ll guarantee there was one time when men didn’t think it very ‘grand. eta : “Well, that is true,” she admitted. “I was awfully ightened, for 1 felt sure Fardale was defeated.” the. eee of eine, Fardale win is what The air was WEEKLY. the ball to Earl and let him win so much glory.” oughly as I did. I thought they’d get onto the trick : pretty well.” “They never could have won if you hadn't gone into the game. Why, I thought you were too lame to play. Your ankle must have recovered wonderfully.” “T’m wearing an ankle support. I’m a trifle lame, but the support seems to have fixed me up all right. The doctor warned me not to go into that game. Of course there was a chance that I’d sprain my ankle again and be lamed up a long time. Instead of that, it seems to have done me good. Why, last night, after doctoring up my ankle and putting on the support again, I found [ could walk almost as well as ever.’ Then he laughed a bit. “T suppose some of the fellows may suspect that I wasn’t very lame anyhow. I can’t help that.” “Weren't those White Academy boys just the hor- ridest creatures?” exclaimed Zona. “They were posi- tively brutal! I think they meant to hurt the Far- dale players so the whole team would be knocked out.” “They did knock out a few of the most dangerous men,” nodded Dick. “Why, yes, there was poor Logan,” sighed Zona. “He looked as if he had been half murdered when, they carried him off the field. I wanted to run right down to him, but such a thing would have been aw- fully unladylike, and so I kept still.” hag “T don’t think Logan wasehurt as much as Dar- rell,” said Dick. “Darrell was nearly knocked out several times. When he made that play toward the last of the game, White realized that he must be fin- © ished, and she finished him. Then they thought ae had the game on ice.’ ie “When they finished Hal,” aid Doris, her eyes. flashing, “they finished themselves, for that’s what caused you to goin. Oh, it was perfectly amazing the way the boys played the minute you went into the game! I found myself shaking like a leaf, and when you played that trick on them I just screamed. I thought you had the ball all the time. I saw you come round the end, and I was actually praying for you to © get past the tacklers and make a touch-down. You fooled everybody, Dick. Not until they had downed you and piled on you did I realize that Earl Gardner had the ball. Then, when the crowd rose up and shouted, I jumped up and down and, nearly pitched | headlong off my seat. It was fine of you, Dick, to give “Fine!” cried Dick. “There wasn’t anything. fine about it. I did that, for I knew well enough that I couldn’t make the run on my lame ankle. rs felt sure White would be watching for me to attempt some such run, and the only chance for Fardale seemed to be to’ fool them. But I didn’t expect to fool them as thor-- sooner.’ “Well, it was a grand finish,” 4 “Chester Arlington was there,” said Zona. “I saw him. I had my chance to cut him, too. .He lifted his _ hat to me, and I just looked right through him, J bet he felt cheap. You know Chester used ito like 1 laughed Thabie: TtP: TOP Neither of her companions ventured to hint that by every art and wile she could command Zona had tried to win the attention of Arlington, although such was a fact. Not until she had learned of D. Roscoe Ar- lington’s misfortune and Chester’s complete downfall had she ever spoken a word against Chet, although at | least a score of times she must have realized that his } actions were most reprehensible. “What team do you play next Saturday?” Doris. “Fairport,” “Do you think you can defeat them?” “T hope we can. We are going to do our level best, you may be sure of that. In another week the team should’ be in much better shape than it was yesterday.” “Oh, say,” cried Zona, “do you know Bing Turner has gone over to Fairport to school ?”’ Ve “Somebody told me so,” said Dick. “I’m rather -§ sorry, too. Turner wasn’t such a bad fellow, although _ he was easily influenced by certain corhpanions, Phy: S- ally he was a bulldog, but morally he was a poodle. He would have made a good man for the Fardale team only for his vacillating nature. 1 suppose we'll be likely to see him with the Fairport eleven. I hope _ he has good luck over there. It may be a good thing for him, as he’ll escape the influence of the bad com- panions whom he chose as his particular mates while here.” By this time they had rowed far up the lake, and Dick pulled round the little wooded island. As they rounded this island, Doris observed another boat, con- taining two oarsmen. _ “Those look like academy boys,”’ know them, Dick ?” Merriwell paused to glance over his shoulder to- ward the two rowers, who were in their shirt sleeves. At the same time it seemed that the fellows in the other boat observed Merriwell and his companions, for they _ paused and looked round. Almost immediately they changed their course somewhat and headed toward the island. Dick frowned the least bit. “Yes, I think I know them,” away from them.” “Who are they ?” questioned Zona. _ ing toward us.’ . Suddenly a bit of color seemed to leave Doris’ cheeks. “T believe it is that horrid fellow, Rioden!’ claimed. Zona gave a little scream. “Oh, I just detest him!” she gasped. “Let’s go away! He’s a perfect ruffan! Pull as hard as you can-—please do!” “Yes, let’s get away, Dick,” urged Doris, more calmly. “I’m afraid of Rob Rioden myself.” _ In spite of her assertion that she feared Rioden, ona previous occasion she had faced the big bully in a most courageous manner, ag Logan against the abuse AeOaEA and his intimate chums: asked she said. “Do you he said. “We'll keep “They're com- * she ex- WEEKLY. 21 Urged by the girls, Merriwell laid to the oars ear- nestly, although he sought to conceal the fact that he was anxious to get away from the approaching lads. Rioden “had recognized Dick and the girls, and in- stantly he urged Hoke to pull hard: “Dis is a good time to t’row it into dat mut some,” he said. “I'll make him look like t’irty cents before dem skirts. He won't fancy gittin’ a call down wit’ der girls hearin’ it. Dis is der beginnin’ of me new plans of operations, and in less dan t’ree days I’ll have dat mut backed off der map.” In spite of the fact that Rioden and Hoke were row- ing, Merriwell gave them a hard pull. Nevertheless, two pairs of oars enabled the plebes to gain steadily on the other boat, and the bully chuckled as he saw the dis- tance between grow less and less. “He’s puttin’ in his best licks ter laughed Rob. “Dat shows Then he shouted: “Hold on, Merriwell! You can’t runaway! I know you're scart!” “Pull, Dick—do pull hard!” urged Doris. git away from us,” he’s afraid.” “T believe ,they are up to some mischief.” ” asserted Ji don’t believe they’ve lost all sense ot ak “Oh, they won’t do any particular harm,’ Dick. cency.’ “T don’t believe they ever had any sense of decency!” exclaimed Zona. “I’m frightened almost to death! I wish I hadn’t come rowing at all! I didn’t want to come, but Doris begged me to. Ii there’s any trouble — Doris will be to blame. She’s always getting me into scrapes.” Dick realized at last that there was no prospect of avoiding the plebes. Still he kept on for a while. -Fi- nally, of a sudden, he abandoned the effort and rested | on his oars, w atching the other boat shoot up to them. Hoke spoke to Rioden and told him Merriwell had stopped rowing. nae Immediately Rob stopped as his boat came up to that occupied by Merriwell and the girls.. He rose to his feet, oar in hand. With the oar he made a jab at Dick, apparently seeking to push him overboard into, the water, Dick dodged and grasped the wet blade of the oar. With a little jerk, he caused Rioden to lose his balance, - and the bully uttered a gasp.as,he found himself fall- ing. The boat swung from beneath him, and he clutched at its side as he went down. A moment later Hoke was upset, with a great aplaaly into the water, for Rioden had capsized the boat. The girls screamed, and at once Dick gave two strokes which carried them away from the immediate 5 vicinity ofsthe overturned craft. | Rioden and Hoke came up, both spurting water from — theit mouths. Orrin seemed badly frightened, but without delay he caught hold of the capsized boat and hung on. Rioden was infuriated. He hurled a: volley of furious language at Dick and started swim ing in his anette Pate teen RAN A ca! Se ek sae 22 TIP TOP “Go back,” said Merriwell. to do?” “Don’t let him get hold of this boat!’’ palpitated Do- ris. “He'll capsize us! That’s what he intends to do.” Watching Rioden, Dick pulled away slowly, barely keeping beyond the swimming lad’s reach. Once or twice Rob lifted a hand and made a clutch at the stern of the boat, causing Doris to utter little cries of alarm. Each time a little pull from Dick prevented the rascal from accomplishing his purpose. “You will have a nice swim, Rioden, well. “Oh, you wait!’ grated Rob. of me reach all the time!” “Under other circumstances, I shan’t try. Just now I happen to have two girls with me, and that makes it necessary.” Suddenly the bully stopped swimming. hoarse ery, he sank beneath the surface. “Oh, what’s the matter with him?’ gasped Doris. Dick watched for the fellow to come up. The moment Rioden appeared he chokingly cried: is “Cramps! cramps!” Then he again sank from view. Dick’s coat was off. In a twinkling he removed his shoes. Then he stood up, unheeding the alarm of the “What are you trying 33 said Merri- “You can’t keep out With a care not to upset Doris and Zona. Swimming beneath the surface, Merriwell seized the other boy and rose with him. Clearing the water from ‘his eyes, he beheld on Rioden’s face a malignant look of triumph. Then he heard the fellow laugh harshly, and say: | “T fooled you dat time all right! I ain’t got no cramps, but Pve got youse, and now I’m goin’ ter fix : yer i” CHAPTER XI. Witt Ae Dy OR Sc. DD _ Ridden was a good swimmer, and he had unlimited - confidence in himself when in the water... Therefore, he _ was highly elated when his deception worked and he found Dick Merriwell in his clutches. : Needless to say, Diclk® was somewhat disgusted as he _ realized how he had been duped. He made an effort to _ break Rioden’s hold, but the ruffian had a grip on the shoulder of his shirt. | _ “No use for yer ter flop,” me yes, I’ve got yer!” ___ Seizing Rioden’s wrist, Dick gave it a wrench. The irt sleeve was torn loose at the shoulder, and Rob’s hold was temporarily broken. When Merriwell sought to get away, however, the plebe put forth one huge, wlike hand and dantened 3 a set of 4 iron fingers at said Rob. “I’ve got yer—: girls, and plunged from the boat into the water, taking. minute, oe sek, ae Pe poi go « een speethtts WEEKLY. in the water, and he instantly turned his whole atten- _ 1 tion to the task of giving his antagonist something to E keep him busy. Osa Rioden lifted a huge fist and struck at Dick’s face as i the latter twisted about. iB The blow was warded off, and Merriwell delivered | - one in return, landing on his enemy’s nose. ee In a moment Rioden’s nose began to bleed. This in- e furiated him to a still higher pitch, and he dragged - Merriwell beneath the surface. Ee Down they went, holding fast to each other. With - his knee Rob sought to strike Dick in the pit of the | stomach, knowing it would cause him to gasp and take in water. Instinctively Merriwell realized the game of his foe b and prevented it by lifting his own knee. NRE In the boat two frightened girls sat with clasped = | hands and open lips, gazing at the spot where the boys had vanished. “Tt’s terrible—terrible!” sobbed Zona, “Oh, I wish t I hadn’t come! What made you ask me to come, Doris?” { « “They’ll both be drowned!” murmured Doris. “What { a fearful thing that will be!’ : She leaned over the edge of the boat and peered I down into the water. She could see two moving, writh- =| ing, twisting figures, and knew that a terrible struggle | was taking place down there beneath the surface. wet ‘ Then she called to the other lad, who was clinging to ( the overturned boat in a helpless manner. ‘ee ¢ “Can’t you do something?” she cried. “They'll both drown!” “a “That ain’t my fault,” answered Hoke, his teeth chattering. “I didn’t upset the boat. Merriwell did it.” “Oh, you coward—you coward!’ panted Doris. : “You know you're partly to blame! You pursued us, i and that brutal fellow tried to strike Dick with the oar.” “Oh, that was nothing but a joke,” declared Orrin, who was anxious to absolve himself'from any blame in ~ case either of the boys should drown., “Merriwell ae could take a joke.” ae “A joke!” panted Doris. “If they drown ¥ i tell the : truth, and I hope you'll go to prison for it!’ ie a Zona tittered a cry. 4 The heads of the two boys again appeared at the sur- face. Rioden had tried to hold Dick down long enough to force him to take in water, but he found that, with-. out taking a breath, Merriwell could stay down far longer that he had anticipated. They gasped and were quiet a moment or two after reaching the surface. 4 “Take your hands off me, Rioden!” Dick finally said. : “If you don’t you'll regret it!” “Oh, you’re a big case of bluff!” sneered the tealtyse Kod "You t’ink yer can make anybody do jest w’at yer tells © ‘em ter do. Well, you'll find it won’t work wit’.me!” Again the struggle was renewed, and it becam fiercer than ever. Now and then‘one or the other would disappear beneath the surface, but not for a full | ee ad oy eyes. ’ TIP TOP WEEKLY. Then Rioden succeeded in fastening those terrible fingers of iron on Dick’s throat. The moment he suc- ceeded this hold he sank heavily and pulled Dick under. As has been stated, Rob Rioden was the possessor of unusual strength. He was powerful in his hands and fingers, and Merriwell’s throat seemed to crack beneath that pressure. Down they went. In Dick’s ears there was a strange ringing sound. He could not breathe, and this was the only thing that prevented him from swallowing water. Down there, with his eyes wide open, Merriwell fancied he could see an almost demoniacal expression of triumph on the countenance of his enemy. His im- -agination told him that Rioden was inwardly trium- phantly saying: “This will end it! Now I'll finish you!’ A queer sense of weakness crept over Dick’s body. He seemed growing numb from.his toes to his finger tips. “Tye got to break that hold on my throat,” he thought; and he put forth every effort to accomplish the feat. | _, For all of Rob Riodeniggtrength and his iron grip, Merriwell tore those fing@®$ free. Many days after- ward he wore on his throat the marks they left. Zona Desmond had covered her eyes with her hands and seemed ready to swoon. Doris was staring like one turned to stone, fearing that never again would she ~ see Dick Merriwell alive. Suddenly she screamed : “There they are!’ _ Once more the heads of both boys appeared. The moment they rose Dick, got into action. He did not seem to pause to catch a breath. Lifting himself high in the water, he raised his fist and smote Rioden on the temple with all his might. That blow was effective. In an instant the big plebe _was limp and helpless and started to sink. ~ Merriwell caught him by the shoulder and supported - him. . In the meantime, Hoke had succeeded in pushing the overturned boat away toward the shore. _ Holding Rioden up,\Dick paddled toward the stern of the boat occupied by the girls. When he reached it he found there was no way in which he could lift the unconscious chap into the boat. This being the case, he instructed Doris to take the oars\and row gently toward the nearest shore. She did so, and in this man- ner the two boys were towed along, Merriwell still sus- taining his enemy. When shallow water was reached, Dick waded ashore, carrying Rioden, whom he placed on the bank. The frightened girls remained in the boat. In a minute the big plebe recovered and opened his He seemed dazed and bewildered for a short e, but the sight of Merriwell quickly brought him ound, 3 “Oh —what-—how aa i get here?” he mumbled, vi ee matter wit’ me?” j “Oh, I was afraid Dick had killed him!” breathed Zona, in relief, “Tt would have been no more than he deserved,” said Doris, her indignation beginning to get the better of her alarm. Rioden lifted himself to his elbow and looked around. At a distance Hoke was still pushing the boat toward the shore, which he had nearly reached. “You hit me wit’ somet’ing, did yer?” grated the big plebe. “Yes,” said Dick, “I hit you with my fist.” It seemed difficult for Rioden ‘to comprehend that Dick had conquered in the struggle. “T tought I had yer!” he growled. “Well, dis. ain’t der end. Dere’s anudder time comin’, and I'll fix yer den!’ Although Dick was burning with indignation over the affair, he remembered the girls and decided to leave the ruffian at once. Without wasting further words on Rob, Merriwell stepped into the boat nd pushed | off, taking the oars. Rioden rose to his feet. As he a this, he igen up a huge stone. Without a word of warning, he stepped quickly to the edge of the water and hurled the stone at Merriwell. It barely missed the boat, plunging into the water and splashing Zona Desmond, who uttered a cry of terror. “The brute!” muttered Dick, as he quickly applied , himself to the oars and rowed away. Snarling like an infuriated dog, Rioden caught up smaller stones and threw them at ‘the boat. He failed, however, to hit anyone, and after a time®Dick suc- ceeded in getting beyond range. . “Oh, it doesn’t seem possible that they could permit a fellow like that at Fardale!’’ exclaimed Doris. es “IT don’t believe he'll remain there a great while,” said Dick. “He'll bring about his own downfall. He can’t help it.” “But I’m afraid he’ll nie you before he has to leave. You must be careft Dick. He hates you, and he’ll not hesitate at ae : As Merriwell rowed away toward the lower end af A the lake, he saw Rioden wade into the water to aid — Hoke with the boat, which they finally Ene and : dragged upoh the shore. | e “Those horrid fellows! They spoiled our good time,” said Zona. “Oh, I won’t get over it for a whole ite week!. I’m cold as ice!” : “You must be cold, Dick, for r you’ re dripping wet,” said Doris. “Oh, I think I'll apiage to warm up at the bars,” laughed the boy. ; f Finally he set them ashore.and accompanied them a short distance on the way to Lakeside Academy, | “I can’t tell you how frightened I was when I saw you struggling in the water with that fellow!’,m mured Doris, as she was bidding Dick’ good- know my_ heart stopped beating! ‘Ber Over, » ; = ant to whisper something.” eget oa) oe 24 SAP EOL As he stooped a little, she quickly placed her arm round his neck and kissed him. Then she ran away to join Zona, who was waiting for her. CHAPTER XII. IN THE CEDARS. The indignation of Brad Buckhart when he heard Dick’s story of the affair and saw the marks on Dick’s throat could not be expressed by words. The Texan threatened to go forth at once and fall on Rioden, with the intention of whipping the fellow as he deserved. Merriwell knew Brad meant it, and immediately he placed a restraining hand upon his chum. “You'll do nothing of the sort,” he said. have it.” “Why not?” “Because I’m able to fight my own battles, and I don’t propose to have anyone fight them for me.’ “I don’t see ydt fighting any, pard.” “There’s plenty of time for that. I know what this business is coming to, and it will be settled all right in due time.” : “Well, I opine I can pick a quarrel of my own with that whelp!” growled Buckhart.. “You can’t keep me from doing that!” “You must pick no quarrel with him until after we've settled our little affair. When I’m through with him, [ll not interfere with you. You must understand ; that I’m right in this matter. If I were to let you pick “T won't 2 ; up trouble with Rioden and fight him, he would fancy I was afraid of him.” “But you don’t like to scrap, partner. You always _ dodge a fight when you can.” “When I can without disgracing myself,” nodded Dick. “But I don’t think you understand me in this case, old man. I’m more than ready to give Rioden what he deserves! I’ve stood too much from him! _ He’s reached the limit at last!” “All right,” said Brad,.in acto soivernapit “Tl wait a while, but don’t expect me to wait too long.” “You won’t have to wait very long,” assured Dick. Nevertheless, on the following day Merriw ell seemed - to ignore Rioden completely. He wore a high stock, which covered the marks on his throat, and he went about his own affairs as if nothing of an unusual nature had happened. — The big plebe was confident Dick feared him. Mer- ey manner seémed to betoken this. ae in the day Rob announced to several members of his class that as his intention to publicly insult Merriwell before | he school, nd his opportunity. T During midday intermission the big plebe cadets were scattered over efriwell was talking with two thee came ae up, WEEKLY. Dick turned his dark, piercing eyes on the fellow and surveyed him steadily. “Are you speaking to me?” he asked. “Yer bet yer sweet life I am! I see you’ve got yer neck tied up in a rag! Ho! ho! Do you want ter know w’at I t’ink of youse?”’ , “Tt’s impossible for me to find words in the English language to express just what I think of a lowbred cur like you, Rioden,” said Dick. “I advise you to take a walk, and take it at once.” “Oh, do yer?” “Ves, 3) The big plebe thrust out his chin and hunched his shoulders. “You're der one to take der walk!” he cried, threat- eningly. *y Then he suddenly. advanced, his fists clinched and lifted. “Put up your dukes, Merriwell!’’ he shouted. ““You’re said ter be a great fighter, but I’ll agree ter knock yer. block off in less dan t’ree minutes!’ t Instantly several of the cadets sprang betw een them. “Not here! not here!” they exclaimed. be expelled if you fight on'the parade ground!” “Well, ’'ve got to catch dat mut somewhere,” Rob. “He ain’t got der nerve ter meet me any place.” Brad Buckhart came hurrying up. “What is it, pard?” he palpitated. “Rioden has tried to force the fight here,” quietly. maining. I think that should be time enough. If we can get into the cedars out back without attracting at- tention, I’ll try to give te fellow what he’s looking for.” “That’s the talk!” erated Buckhart. need thirty minutes, pard! te _ In the midst of the cedars which rose, thickly. be- . hind the academy just beyond the limit of the school — grounds, there was a certain hard-trodden ring where many a hurried fight had been pulled off. Asa rule, the cadets preferred to settle ther personal differences said Dick, in Chadwick’s Pasture, but there were occasions when — two belligerent boys could not wait to meet in the pas- Bs ture. On such occasions they sometimes slipped away into the cedars and had it out as quietly and quickly as possible. Whenever such encounters took place, guards _ were posted to watch and warn the lads in the cedars i in 5 case any of the faculty happened to approach. a Not five minutes after Rioden’s challenge he and Dick Merriwell were there in the midst of: those ce- dars and prepared to settle the matter. A dozen more | cadets were present, several of the plebe class being among them. Outside the usual guards were on watch. | “Now, you've got to do it, Rob!” Cal Colson whi pered in Rioden’s ear. “Don’t lose any time!” “Don’t yer ee none about it,” returned the © bie ae ree ys. is! “Vou'll both 2 | said -< oer . . . \ 4 ‘ ae There are thirty minutes of intermission re- “Vou don’t : 1 ae “Tm so sad!” he said. “I hate to see Merriwell whipped! I know he'll be half killed! Isn’t it per- fectly dreadful!” “Oh, keep still!” growled Brad, pushing Ted aside. “Get back and give them room!” “One moment,” said Dick, as he stepped out. “There is just one thing I want to know before I begin, and that is 1f Rioden has a set of brass knuckles in his pocket.” , : “That’s right!” breathed Horace Logan, who was present. “Don’t let the cur hit you the way he did me.”’ Rioden heard these words and glared at Logan. “Vl see you again arter I’m trough wit’ Merri- well!’’ he threatened. Rioden was confident of himself and his ability, and he permitted two of Dick’s friends to investigate and make sure he had no brass knuckles or other weapons on his. person. “T don’t need ’em wit’ dis slob!” he sneered. Dick stepped forward. In his: dark eyes there burned a reddish glow, which told how thor oughly he was aroused. Although he felt he was lowering ca self to meet the ruffianly plebe in such a manner, he realized there was no other way, and for the time being he had crushed down his natural repulsion for fighting with a lowbred fellow. “Rioden,”’ he said, in a tone of voice that was low and repressed, “J want you to remember when it is over that you brought about this fight through your own ruffianly acts.” _| “What are you going to do?” sneered Rob. you going to back down now?” “Are you ready?” asked Dick. “Sure ting!” _ A moment later they were at it. “Are CHAPTER XIII. THE DOWNFALL OF THE BULLY, It had been one of Rioden’s early ambitions to be- ‘come a prize fighter. He had trained for that very purpose and had taken lessons from various profes- sionals, He was hard as iron, had remarkable wind, nd could stand a great amount of punishment. On the other hand, Merriwell’s natural inclinations when unaroused to anger led him to heartily detest ghting. Still he had realized that every boy should ‘learn to defend himself with his fists. may pass through life without ever being called upon o defend himself in, such a manner, but the chances re that sometime in his career he will find it neces- ' sary. Not only that, but the occasion may arise when 1e feels called upon to stand forth in defense of another rho is weaker than himself and hel pless before the at- ks of a powerful and brutal enemy. | Vith this idea in mind, Merriwell had lost no oppor-_ ity to learn anything he could pick up in regard to art = Pee. ee early life in the open air had Perhaps a lad TOP WEEKLY. | 25 given him a fine constitution and built the foundation for a splendid physique, which was gradually rounding into shape at Fardale. Although he had not trained to stand punishment in the ring, his training on thé dia- mond, the track and the football field had been ‘suffi- cient. 3 Rioden led off by pressing Dick, who avoided his rushes cleverly. Almost every time Merriwell escaped by swift footwork, he succeeded in reaching his op- ponent with some sort of a blow. “Ho! ho!” laughed the bully. He’s a great sprinter, he is!” Plunk! Dick delivered a blow on Rioden’s ribs, having ducked to permit Rob’s fist.to pass over his shoulder. , “Say, why don’t yer hit some!” sneered the plebe, as he danced away and came forward again. . “I'd never know you'd touched me!” “You haven’t touched him yet!” muttered Buck- hart, who found it impossible to keep still. “Dere’s plenty of time! When I do touch him he’ll know it! See He'll t’ink somebody: has hit him wit’ a ten-pound dumb- bell!” All prize fighters, who are not merely scientific’ boxers, practice to secure a “wallop.” The best of them have it and use it as a knocking-out blow. Rio- den had acquired a wallop, and with this he intended | to put Merriwell down and out. ‘Horace Logan’s teeth were set, and his breath made a whistling sound as it came through his nostrils. He watched the encounter with every nerve aquiver. Once - or twice he lifted his hand and touclfed the scar made on his cheek by Rioden when the ruffian, during their encounter in Chadwick’s Pasture, struck him with brass knuckles. \ “Ah!” exclaimed Logan. ee Dick had landed on Rioden’s left eye w ith force suf- ficient to stagger the bully. a “Look out, Rob-—look out! breathed Colson. “See him dodge! You were careless!” “Oh, dat was huttin’!” asserted Rioden, although al- most immediately his eye began to puff up a little. : But he was exasperated, for not once had he suc- — ceeded in jarring Dick in the least. Two or three times — he had touched Merriwell, but the force of these blows — was spent ere they landed, as the dark-eyed lad re- a treated like a flash on each occasion. “T’ll smash him yet!” thought Rob. has Even as he made this vow to himself, Merriwell came at him with a rush that kept him busy. He parried, ducked and sidestepped to. get away, but the | pantherish lad, who was now pressing the fight, 8 lowed him, closely, giving him no respite. Rioden swung furiously with his left, but Dick was not there, and the blow was wasted on empty air. The fury of this blow threw the big plebe slightly his balance for a moment. With a stagek, ane ndec on Rob’s right eye. Pay _ “That's what counts!” pi clo: his. latices: rectly 26 oo TIP TOP WEEKLY. “T wish I t’ought it!” snarled Rob. Even as the final word escaped his lips he received a smash on the mouth that cut both his lips and loosened several teeth. “Oh, great jingos!” gasped Colson. “Look at that! Look at that! Say, Rioden, what are you doing?” The battling lads came together, and Rioden clinched. He attempted to backheel Merriwell, but Dick ‘twisted around, securing a jiu-jitsu hold, and flung the bully over his head and at full length on the ground. Rioden lifted himself, filled with wonder- ment over his antagonist’s success in breaking his hold. “Oh, yer cussed slippery!” he snarled. “Shinin’ scissors!” fluttered Snack Tait. terin’ guns! I believe Rob is whipped!” “You're a liar!” hissed the big ruffian, as he wiped the blood from his lips. “All dem little tricks don’t bodder me none. Why, dat slob couldn’t hurt me if he hit me wit’ a sledge hammer!” From the very start Dick had been determined to punish his enemy thoroughly, with as little injury to himself as possible. He had entered the fight with this in mind. Never before had he fought more savagely, yet all through it he seemed as cool as a cake of ice. He stood waiting for his enemy to rise and laughed at the fellow’s words. “When my pard laughs that way,” “he can whip his weight in wild cats.” Merriwell’s apparent amusement added to Rioden’s _ unspeakable rage. It sent a feeling of quivering anger all over the bully. . “Oh, I’ll make yer laugh!” he grated. “I’ll make yer laugh outer der udder corner of yer mout’ in a min- ute !”” Then he ran at Dick. But not a fair blow did he land. He struck again and again, failing in judgment, or having his blows blocked, parried or dodged. In the meantime, Merriwell landed three or four jabs which left their marks. He added to Rioden’s sangui- nary appearance by hitting him on the nose and start- ing the claret. “Howlin’ Halifax!” gasped Tait. “Rob will be a holy show when it’s over! Jumpin’ jingos! This cer- tainly settles who is the best man, and it settles it for “Great glit- said Buckhart, Brad Buckhart was cool and unconcerned now. He stood with his hands on his\ hips, calmly watching the affair, as if barely interested in the outcome. He had feared at the outset that Rioden might mark Dick up, _ for he knew the big plebe was no mean antagonist. “But isn’t Dick getting an awful drubbing!” chirped Ted Smart. “I knew it would be this war He was so foolish to fight with that fellow!” _ “T should hate to have Rioden’s face on me to-mor- To v,” said Earl Gardner. ‘I should hate to have it on me any time!” declared art. ,, But u reckon. it will looks worse than usual 1” i Rob had used all his skill on Merriwell, and now he determined on a new course. Believing he could stand the punishment, he exposed himself recklessly in a fierce endeavor to land with his wallop. Again and again he seemed to miss by the slightest possible mar- gin. He followed Dick up, although his left eye blurred, and he realized that the other eye was swiftly closing. Again they clinched. two kidney blows that made This time Merriwell delivered the big fellow flinch. Rob tried to uppercut as they broke free, but his fist swung =| up into the air. Before he could recover, he received a smash on the chin that stretched him on the ground. With a feeling of uncertainty, as if things were moy- ing all around him, the big plebe rose as quickly as possible. He saw Dick coming again. He swung with that wallop. Again he missed, Crack! It seemed as if Rioden’s jaw had been broken by that blow. He went down once more, and this time he made no move to rise, for a great pall of darkness had settled over everything, and the fight was finished. Never again would Rob Rioden pose as the bully of Fardale. His days of tyranny were ended. And, to confess the truth, there were few who felt pity for him. THE END. The Next Number (498) Will Contain DICK MERRIWELL’S DROP-KICK; why Chester Arlington’s Team of Tigers. The Arrival at Fairport—Chet Puts the Matter Before the ie Committee—Bing Turner’s Warning—Dashing Ned’s : Defiance—Arlington Springs His Trap—Chet Wins. Horton’s Appeal—A Deceptive Rascal—The Thrill of Expectancy—At the Sound of the Referee’s Whistle. Merriwell’s Flying Tackle—The Field Goal. ! 5k ; Beware of cheap imitations of the Tip. Top Weekly.’ Frank and Dick Merriwell and | their friends appear only in the pages of Tip Top. BURT L. STANDISH writes exclus- ively for Tip Top and has been the author of the ONLY and ORICINAL Merriwell stories kd over ‘nine years. TIP TOP: WEEKLY. 27 ~ NEW YORK, October 21, 1905. TERMS TO TIP TOP WEEKLY MAIL SUBSCRIBERS. (Postage Free.) Single Copies or Back Numbers, 5c. Each. One WUE od teuttey 2 head ‘oes a a 2 copies one year......... EO L CODY UwO FOatsss. 5 .zoksccacc - 00 POMONA -sihiss Veadnatecvacencss 65¢. « MONE NG isudeliete ho sepecdl 85e. SPECIIOMG aeine haw cacubecsscdee $1.25 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 King of Weeklies. Get in line boys and girls and strive to have your name at the head of the list. - Orvall Hobbs, Cairo, Ill. Harold Hayes, Brookline, Mass. A. Beckman, Sheffield, Ala. Clifford Armstrong, Tupelo, Miss. Thomas E. Webb, Friars Point, Miss. Harry G. Young, Genoa, Nebraska. George E. Peterson, 9 W. 64th St., N. Y. City. W. R. Doell, Eveleth, Minn. Edward Brewer, Mansfield, Ohio. Ralph Martin Tripcony, Kent, Ohio. . The names of other enthusiastic Tip Toppers will be added from time to time. Send in thé result of your efforts to push the circula- _ tion of your favorite weekly and win a place on the Roll of Honor. APPLAUSE. _ Owing to the number of letters received, the editors of Tip Top cannot undertake to secure their publication under six weeks. Those who contribtste to this eee must not expect to see them before that time. J have just finished vette Tie Tor No. 489. I think it is fine. I think it would be a good idea to get up some contest or ‘souvenir for the five-hundredth number of Tie Top, for its tenth anniversary, which would be No. 520. I have been trying to increase the circulation of Tie Top, the ‘king of weeklies. Whenever I get a chance I speak a good word for Tip Top, and I know I never will regret it, for it is the best f all publications for boys, and many have, by following the example of Frank Merriwell, stopped smoking, chewing and other bad habits. ‘Mr. Standish asks us to ‘as to double the circulation, and make “1905 Tip Tor’s banner year. Of course we can! Ge ot to work, ll of you, and show him what we can do! I will try very hard aren bn: circulation’ ins this eh and you, Tip ae do it in your places. Whenever I see a boy who does not read Tip Top, I lend him a few, and since when he reads it once he reads it always. I thus make many constant readers. Among those, some are: Ray Wayring, Earl Parker, Irvin Musson, Robert Clifford, John Goodman, Elmer Spencer, ‘and many others whom I cannot think of. I only voice the opinion of hundreds when I say I hope Frank will meet his old-time college friends, Ben Halliday, Charlie Creighton, Puss Parker, Paul Purson—also Nellie and Jack, the lame boy; Roscoe Havener and his wife, Cassie Lee; Stella Stanley and Mrs. Hodge. I would like to get the numbers of Tre. Top from 1 to 285 if any Tip Toppers have them to trade or sell. I think it would be a good idea to put the back numbers of Tie Top in print—any- way as far back as 265, because there is such a demand for them. I hope I will get a place on the Tie Tor Roll of Honor, and that this letter will avoid the dreaded wastebasket. With three cheers for T. F., B. L. S. and S. & S., I will close, hoping to see this letter in the next issue of Tine 4": OP, Kent, Ohio, RALPH Martin TRIPCONY. We agree with you that you deserve a place on the Roll of Honor, and therefore we take pleasure in placing your name there. Your letter was rather lengthy, so we were forced to leave some of your remarks out. os A catalogue has been sent you by mail. { have read Tip Top but a few months, and seeing so many letters in the Applause column, I thought that I would express my opinion of the stories. I find that the characters are true to life and the stories are bright and interesting and the kind that no one need fear to read. They are not of the blood and thun- der, as some books, but a clean and sensible story of bright American boys and girls. Dick is my favorite, and I am al- ways delighted to read of him playing ball. I am saving souvenir post cards and wish to exchange with any other loyal Tip — Topper. Wishing long life to Burt L. and Messrs. Street & Smith, I remain, Joun J. DA&RAGAN. 1 Deer Hill Avenue, Danbury, Conn. Although you are a recent recruit to the ranks of loyal Tip Toppers, you are none the less enthusiastic. Your words of praise are appreciated, and we welcome you to the large army of Tie Tor veterans. After having read the Tir Top for more than two years and a half or so, I will now write in the name of the club of which I am a member. How I came to read Tip Top was this. In December, 1902, my cousin Edgar stepped into our club- room, for it was snowing very hard and he had quite a long way to go, so he thought he would call ‘in and get his sister. At the time all of the girls, including myself, were very busily engaged in reading love stories. He asked May—his sister—if she was ready to go home. She said to him: “Oh, please wait until I finish this chapter.” Ed sat down, saying it was just — like a girl, always reading such trashy novels without any sense in them; but, nevertheless, he sat down in a rocking-chair, and I suppose he thought the chapter was very long, so he took a book out of his pocket and started to read it. I looked at the girls and smiled. He suddenly laughed outright. He looked very indignant at this remark, and said if we would read Tip Top, instead of reading those lovesick novels, we would’ be better off. Well, before he left that evenng, he loaned me the book, and by the next Friday all the girls finished it, and we thought it was the finest book ever published. We have read it ever since and are trying very hard to get the back numbers, and we leave the love stories alone. I have given it to a few boy friends of mine, and they think it is really fine. One little fellow, about ten years old, one eveni Y asked my brother if he had any books for him to read. Brother tol him “No,” so just as he was going home I thought of belove Tie Tors and loaned them to him, and he has read them. ever since. This is my second letter to the Tip Top. Sarin s I am very much pleased with some of the Trp Top. ae ci 7 especially Harold B. Davenport, Marlin Seyon, The Two Texa Girls, and a few others: too numerous _ mention. : TIP TOP Dick is my special favorite; then comes Brad. Now, putting all jokes aside, I think if it was not for Dick I would really fall in love with Brad. Then comes Smart, Earle G. and the rest. Chet Arlington is a measly coyote, you hear me gently murmur, pard, and if I were a boy, I should be ready to horsewhip him. I think I have got a few supporters, with the exception of I. M. It and I. M. Mad—well, they told no lie that time, for he was truly “mad.” Bosh for theirs! So get to work, Tip Toppers, and tar and feather your enemies. I like June and Elsie; then Inza, Felicia and Doris. T will be willing to exchange scenery postals with any of the Tr Top admirers and friends. I intend to sign my real name after this. to all my letters, for I saw a letter in the Tir Top Applause, saying that some people were ashamed to sign their names. Now I intend to show him that I am not ashamed. I think I have taken up more space than necessary, so, hoping it will glide by his majesty, King Wastebasket, I am, yours very truly, PEARL KEAN. Newark, N. J. Yours is a very interesting letter, and expresses in a charming style your appreciation of Trp Top, Having been a reader of your king of weeklies, the Tip Top, from No. 1 up to date, I take the liberty of expressing my opinion. In the first place; I think dear old Frank the best of the lot, for he is my ideal. Next we have our old friend, Bart, for we all love him next to Frank, and then comes all of the old flock as the best; for, you know, it is hard to forget the old love for the new. In the new comes Dick, who, we hope, will turn out another Frank, always forgiving to his enemies and friends alike. Then next to Dick, I like Chester Arlington, and I think he should be in Brad’s place, for he reminds us so much of dear old Bart on his outstart at Fardale; and the less said of Ted Smart the better I like it, for where does he hold a candle to our old friends, Danny, Bink and Jack Ready, who really were funny and did not have a swelled head like Smart. Clos- ing, I tender my best regards to B. S., S. & S., and Frank and Dick and the rest of the flock. Hoping to see this in print and miss the wastebasket, I remain, an old Tip Topper, Sa kay 2467 Amber Street, Philadelphia, Pa. You are an enthusiastic Tip Topper, and all the characters seem to suit you. Thanks for your words of praise. ' J have been a reader of your weekly for a long time, and - would like to express my admiration for it. Everyone in our family reads it, and we all think it is the best paper published. I like Dick and his crowd best, and Doris is my favorite of the is. <:\ P I am a collector of souvenir postals, and would like to exchange with Tip Top readers all over the world. Will return card for gard to all who send.. Some one, in the Applause in No. 485, who signed himself “A Youngster Comedian” from Massachu- setts, stated that he would send views to any of the readers on _ request. I think it was a very kind offer, and would be glad _ to receive some from him. Hoping this will miss the wastebasket, and wishing success to “Mr. tandish and Street & Smith, I remain, PEDIGO. Prentis Place, Portsmouth, Va. _ Thanks for your warm words of praise. will not only hear from “A Youngster Comedian,” _ more of our readers. Let us hope that you but many I have been reading Tre Tor for three years, and think it the king of weeklies. I enjoy reading the letters in the Applause column. In No. 485 is a letter from “A Youngster Comedian,” which I enjoyed immensely, although he was rather hard on the cowboy. As I am not an Easterner, it didn’t bother me at Perhgfs our Eastern friend did not visit the Good-night Ranch, and he should not judge all ranches by the ones he has seen. Since a child I have always had a oe for the cowboy, and I always thought, if I was only a boy, I would go West d be a cowboy. Just think “what brave, big-hearted people they are. They never see a friend in need without helping ‘him. And another thing, some of them are smart, well-educated I think our friend of the Good-night Ranch very clever, sh ve ven, spoken, I love to read The Young Rough W. if d think it is about as good reading as Tip tter is from. oe saith Sen EES. x I Recs WEEKLY. a with him about the girls using slang, and I think it very un- becoming to any young lady to use it; but don’t agree with him about thinking they ought not to read novels. I think they have as good a right to read them as the boys. Of course there are some that even the boys should not read. I don’t see anything in Tie Top that would make it unfit for girls to read. I will close, with best wishes for all Tip Top readers. Best luck to Burt L. and S. & S. Yours truly, Ss “OnLy A. GIRL.” Windsor, Mo, Yours is a very sensible letter, and you have expressed, in a proper manner, just what you wish to convey. Tip Top has many admirers among the fair sex, and, as you say, they are as much entitled to read them as their brothers. When spring arrives, with bud and flower, I spend many a happy and youthful hour Reading of the famous “Merriwells,” While plain and woodland with music swells. Then life is one sweet, joyous song, When our cheering we all prolong Hark! We hear crack of bat and ball, Which proves brave Dick will never fall, When summer comes with golden grain, When victory crowns both heart and brain, And autumn comes with flakes of snow, And, without little doubt, we know That Dick to defeat will never yield. Hark! We hear loud cheers from the football field! When winter winds doth howl and wail We read of sports at old Fardale While we sit round the cheerful fire, And in our hearts good things inspire. Thus through the year we always read, | And all things bad we never heed. Our hero we try to emulate, But never reach success’ gate. Now one more cheer for the whole crowd, Of whom you know we are all proud: Frank, Dick, Bart, Hodge, Obed and Brad, Who are fine models for every lad. If any of the Tip Tor readers wish to correspond with a “Lass from the Sunflower State,” and will let me know their address through the Applause column, I will write promptly. Would be pleased if the boy who signed himself Jack Darling, Chicago, Ill., in No. 435, would let me know his street number, so I could write to him. Will close, hoping to see this in print soon.. I remain, “A Kansas Lassie.” Wellington, Kan. Your verses are very clever, and y talents in this line. No doubt Jack send you his address. I am a constant reader of Tie Top, having read it for three years. Dick M. is a fine fellow. I would like to step on Chet A.’s necktie, the low-down sneak. My favorite characters’ are Dick, Frank, Bart, Eph, Hans, Stretcher, Brad and Cap’n Wiley. I hope Dick will get back to Fardale, and Prof. Gunn will take his old position at Fardale. I hope Mig. Bunol will get his other pim shot from under him. I would like to read some- thing about Dick’s trip around the world. Please tell me the names of the Tie Top QuarTerty. Yours, ; McComb, Miss. E. Jay Bowen. | By this time you will have read of Dick’s return to Fardale, — and how things are progressing there. You can read of Dick’s — tour of the world by securing back numbers of Trp Top. All of the Trp Top Quarrervigs are out of print. Having read all of Trp Top, with the exception of a few num-_ per I wish to express my true views ofthat sweekly known “the ideal publication for the American youth.” * Tie Top started where wall w inners of true success must start publications, until it stands sen, the greatest of its kind. was tried ane found not: were It sae and grew and stood. should cultivate your (ie arling will see this and TL TOP the most severe of all tests—public opinion. It has become “the ideal publication for the American people.” : And who can say it was not tried fairly, when the jury was € ' the millions of people of America and the judge was—result. e And what of its hero, Frank Merriwell, the youth who, when _ first we knew him, was noble, manly and true? 0: See. He, too, started at the bottom of the ladder, and as he ad- ’ vanced, never failed to extend a helping hand to all in need of aid. He did not need to crush thousands to rise above the mass of human beings along the path of life; but, instead, he gave a helping hand to those who were weak and tottering. And even as he did so, it seemed to impart strength to him. When- ever he had difficulties to 6vercome he did so with strength and _ determination, never taking his eyes from the goal of success for which he was striving. He rose above all others, and to-day he stands alone, without an equal, the ideal specimen of American - manhood. And as he looks back along the path of life, he does _ not hear the groans of those he has crushed, but sees the smiling, ~ happy faces of those hg has helped by the way. But not yet has Frank Merriwell risen to the full extent of his powers, not yet has he gained the goal of perfect success. ~ Let us hope, for many long years to come, the pen of Burt L. Standish will continue to record the history ‘of Frank Merriwell. Let his pen tell of him until Frank’s hair is white and his face wrinkled with age. Let Frank Merriwell be the guide and model | of the youth of America, for as George Washington was first ae in the hearts of his countrymen, so is Frank Merriwell first in | the hearts of the American youth. - Let Mr. Standish continue to write, for never again will there be an author who can so clearly portray the character of the true, ideal American. So let Tip Top continue that we may follow through life that true, generous, manly and noble specimen of American man- hood—Frank Merriwell. E. Z. PLEASED. Algona, Ia. 1 By: i Kos st Your eloquent, well-written letter needs no comment. It shows that you are an appreciative reader of Tip Top, and realize the value of entertaining, clean stories for our boys and girls. I have read Tir Tor from No. 1 to date, and think they are all to the good, and I intend to read them as long as they are published. I have just read the last nuumber, and think that “T Am It” and “I Am Bad” don’t know anything about Tip Tor. I want to announce myself a June champion, and I think she is the girl for Dick. I am glad that Frank married Inza, and I know Elsie will marry Bart. Hoping to see this in print soon, I remain, “CHAUFFEUR.” York, Pa. ‘ Here is another Junefte from the Keystone State. Well, June p a many admirers, who think she is the one girl for Dick. y ie Having s know that | far-off city. Although some people sect call me an “old maid,” as I have sgn no letters feck Seattle, I thought I would let you ie Top, the best of weeklies, has admirers in this _ ever, and have never lost my liking for good, manly boys, such as the main characters in your weekly. _ I also want to thank you for the good your paper has done my youngest brother. He was always a sickly boy, not being le to attend school regularly; but when he was about the re of twelve years, he and I began reading the Tre Tor. He ot interested in athletics, and soon after joined the Seattle* Y. M. C. A., attending regularly for yeats, and now I am happy to Say that he is as healthy and well developed as any boy of sixteen hat I know. He has often said that if it were not for Tre Top he would never have been interested in any. kind of athletic ames or have thought of building himself up by exercise. I feat IT am talking too much oe this one subject, as there are other gs I want to say. But I ateful I am. _ As for the characters in Tip Top, I like them all. I think Frank and Dick, Inza and Elsie are the best. wanted to let others know how Next Eoubting for a minute that Frank will win. Then comes Brad. e him very well, for I know lots of Texans, having lived in me Star State over two years, and seen the “Rio Pecos,” “He j is a character true to life. They can do lots of talking, Bilan “make ores if you will Permit a slang expression. ed WEEKLY. passed the corner of twenty-five years, I am still as young as Of course . In fact, they have the Mexicans so thoroughly scared that that small republic thinks, that with Texas left out, they could whip the whole United States. I have heard the Mexicans express that opinion more than once, I have just finished reading No. 483, “Dick Merriwell Playing Baseball in Japan.” I enjoyed it ever so much, as anything about baseball always interests me. I have also read about the wedding of Frank and Inza. I am glad they are united at last, and I am sure all other Tip Toppers join me in wishing them a long and happy life together. I hope Dick gets June, for I think she is just suited to him. As for her brother Chester—well, the less said about him the better, though I do hope he will repent in earnest some day. I am afraid the only way to cure him would be for his father to lose his money. That would be too bad for June. But Burt L. Standish will attend to him without ay troubling. If he will only send Obediah Tubbs to Seattle I will make pies for him till he can’t eat another one. I must stop, or you will think, like a worthy minister of our church said: “That people sometimes start their tongues to wagging and go off and forget them.” My pen does run away with me sometimes. Wishing success to B. L. S., Street & Smith and all Tre Top characters, I will close, WasHINGTON Mam. Seattle, Wash. Your words of praise are appreciated, and we congratulate your brother on his good sense in deciding to follow the advice of Prof, Fourmen. As I have seen only one letter in the Applause column, I thought I would take the liberty of writing you a few lines, to let the readers know that I am not a back number. I have been reading them about a year or two now. I have just got through reading No. 487, and I think it is just fine, one of the best I have ever read. I like Frank best; then Dick and Brad next. I think “Bunol and Chet” are about as bad as you make “’em.” I agree with the person that signed his name the “Ohio Boy.” He has got Chet down to a “T.” I do not like the Chickering set; they are too smart for me. I think Trp Top is the kihg of weeklies. In No. 486, where Dick and Brad were marooned on Fire Island, and where they were captured by cannibals, tied to posts, and then when the time came for one of them was bound for the stew pot, and when Dick saw Brad being led away for the pot, when he was about to be carved up, when Iola, the queen of the cannibals, chose Brad for her husband, was excit- ing enough and just fine. I think when Dick, Brad and the professor get back to Fardale, the professor will expel Chet A., and Dick and Brad will take their old places again. reading all sorts of books, but give*me Tip Top every time. did not miss the one where Frank Merriwell got married; it was fine, too. I think this is long enough, so will close. Hoping this does not reach the wastebasket, with three cheers for Burt — L. and Street & Smith, I remain, an Aikenite, Aiken, S. H. M. Hutson. Our friend pt South Carolina shows that he has followed me You have a true con- — the fortunes of Dick for many a day. ception of the characters, but you are no friend of Chet’s, are you? As I sit waiting for the arrival of the king of weeklies, I thought I would write a few lines in its praise. I like Frank, Dick, Bart, Bruce, pees the best. And of the girls, I like Doris, Inza, Elsie and June. I am saving souvenir post cards, and would like to exchange with the readers. Hoping to see this in print soon, I remain, very truly yours, CuHas. FESSENDEN. -433 King Street, Pan. Ontario, Canada. Here is a letter from one of our Canadian admirers, who. anxious to exchange postal cards. Let us hope he will receive many answers to his appeal. “GOLDEN HOURS. . Boys, have you any old numbers of Golden’: Hours? If so, see what numbers are among them and write sie stating price. | will pay pee to ple a Ndi eis) Station : ‘te pe I have been ~ ) Mulloy, Brad, Flint, Hal and Gallup — ONS APM BD ANSWERS. ie re 1? rs m QUESTI The Tip Top Baseball Tournament will close on October 28th, 1905. WILL BE CREDITED AFTER THAT DATE. As soon thereafter as practicable, after the large number of coupons received have been ‘counted and arranged, the two winning teams will be announced and the pennant ‘Pror. Fourmen: I would like to ask you a few questions per- taining to physical culture, as I wish to become an athlete. I have played ball a little, but I think I am too small and light in weight for fast company. I am 21 years old. Only weigh 108 pounds. Am 5 feet 4% inches tall; around the chest, 33 inches; around the waist, 29 inches; neck, 13'%4 inches; arms, 29 inches; legs, 29 inches. Tell me if I am>built proportionately through- out; if not, where the fault lies? What kind of exercises I should take to develop my body? Do you think I will grow much more in height? Are there many such small men playing professional ball nowadays? Yours respectfully, Eau Claire, Wis. Hapiy Kotstap. Your measurements show a lack of weight, but otherwise you are fairly well proportioned. Having reached the age of twenty- one you cannot expect any further growth. Exercise, however, will develop and strengthen the muscles of your body. There is no set rule in respect to the height of professional baseball players. Pror. FourmMEN: I would like to know where and what kind of chest weights to use and directions for using. J would like to find out all I could about the traveling rings, as I do not know what they are. I would like to get that book written by Frank Merriwell, on physical culture. Thanking you in advance, I remain, yours truly, CLeve FLitcrort. Henry, S. D. Write to A. G. Spalding & Co., New York City, for informa- tion pertaining to physical culture apparatus. “Frank Merriwell’s Book of Athletic Development” may be obtained from any book- seller. The price is ten cents. Pror. FourmMeN: I am now 14 years 4 months old. I am 5 feet t inch, Am I large or small for my age? Weight, 99 pounds; arm length, 23 inches. How is my ‘weight—too much or not enough? Is my arm length too long or too short? Indianapolis, Ind. GLEN MAPLE. A boy five feet one inch is large for your age. Pror. FourMEN: Being a constant and interested reader of the Tr Top WEEKLY, I now beg you to give me your opinion of ty measurements in the Tip Top as soon as convenience permits. I am 17 years old. My height is 5 feet 11 inches; weight, 150 pounds; chest, 34, 37 and 39 inches; waist, 31 inches; across shoulders, 20 inches; right bicep, normal, 10 inches; contracted, 11% inches; left, down, 9% inches; contracted, 1014 inches; right forearm, 1034 inches; left, 1014 inches; thighs, 21 inches; calves, 13%4 inches; neck, 151% inches; ankles, 9 inches. I have layed football’on high school eleven for two years. Being a bisuball pitcher, I would like to ask you: t. How can I develop speed? 2. Have you published any articles on baseball? 3. In = BPITBD 2a == PROF. FOURMEN NO COUPONS and suits awarded to the successful nines. What should 4. What are my regard to my measurements, what is your opinion? a boy of seventeen, and of my height, weigh? strong points, and what are my weak? How shall I develop my weak points? I am able to raise fifty pounds above my head with one arm. 5. Should I be able to lift more? Daxota Scrise. You are entirely too light for a youth five feet eleven inches in height, who should weigh at least one hundred and sixty pounds. Proper exercise and careful living will develop the weight you require. You will be able to lift weights heavier than fifty pounds as the course of training develops greater strength. Consult Nos. 366 and 367 of the Tie Top WerrEkLy for the first articles on the science of pitching. Later numbers treat of specialized baseball subjects, such as “Base Hits,” “Strikes,” “Flies,” etc. Pror. Fourmen: As I have been reading Tie Top for a good while, I thought I would send you my measurements, and ask you a few questions. I am 4 feet 7 inches high; neck, 11 inches; across shoulders, 12 inches; chest, 24 inches; expanded, 27 inches; waist, 24 inches; biceps, 7 inches; forearms, 714 inches; thighs, 13 inches; calves, 10%4 inches; am 14 years old and weigh 61 pounds. 1. What are my weak points? 2. What will remedy them? 3. What will increase my weight? 4. What qill increase my height? 5. What is good for stoop shoulders? Thanking you in advance, I remain, yours truly, Thi Little Rock, Ark. Do not feel alarmed on account of your present height at your age. Several inches will probably be added to your stature be- fore you stop growing, without the necessity of resorting to any method designed to assist nature’s methods. Stoop shoulders, if merely the result of a careless position in walking, can be easily overcome if the person afflicted makes it a point to always sit up straight when in a chair and carry himself erect while on the street. Pror. FourMEN: Being a reader of Tre Top, I take the lib- erty of asking you a few questions. My age is 14 years 9 months; height, 5 feet 1 inch; weight, 95 pounds; waist, 26 inches; chest, normal, 28 inches; expanded, 30% inches. Could I pass examination at U. S. Naval Training School for ap- prentices? 2. Could you give me the address of the commander of the training school on the Great Lakes? Hoping to see this in print, I remain, A Tie Topper Forever. Anna, Ii. 1. Write to the secretary of the navy, Washington, D. C., for the information you desire. ies ee ee ee Pr am | Ches to sl 12 Wha main W P. my - 7S Re club: for ; Pr abou mea: weig 4 in 312 inch thig’ are Kin nigh felt rem of 3 ches cise: Batl thre tion wei: inch inch inck calv uret a 1 Is con: a ewe of -like yea! che: sho’ arm incl I ir spri wei to t you TIP TOP WEEKLY. 31 Pror. Fourmen: I: would like to ask you a few questions. I am PRocaes old, 5 feet 5 inches in height dnd weigh 127 pounds. Chest, normal, 32 inches; expanded, 34 inches; from shoulder _to shoulder, 17 inches; thighs, 30 inches; waist, 26 inches; neck, _ 12% inches; calves, 13 inchés. 1. What are my good points? 2. What are my poor points? 3. How can I remedy them? I re- ‘main, yours. truly, T. H. Oszorne. Warsaw, II. _ P. S—I have read Tie Tor for about three years. 4. With my weight and measurements do you think I could get into the U. S. Nagy? Reduce your weight by taking light exercises with Indian ‘clubs. Write to the secretary of the navy, at Washington, D. C., for answer to your last question. Pror. Fourmen: I have been a reader of Tre Top WeeExty for -about nine months, and thought I would send you my age and “measurements. I am 15 years old. My height is 5 feet 4 inches; weight, 110 pounds; neck, 14 inches; wrist, 6% inches; fore- arm, 10 inches; biceps, 1014 inches; chest, normal, 30 inches; expanded, 341% inches; waist, 28 inches; thigh, 1814 inches; _¢alves, 12 inches; ankle, 81% inches; hips, 31 inches. I remain, — St. Paul, Minn. J. 3; HA. You should take exercise to develop the thighs and waist. _ Pror. FourmMEN: My age is 15 years 4 months; height, 5 feet 4 inches; weight, 108 pounds; neck, 12 inches; chest, normal, 31% inches; expanded, 33 inches; waist, 2834 inches; wrist, 6 inches; shoulders, 17 inches; calf, 13%4 inches; ankle, 9 inches; thigh, 19 inches; forearms, 9 inches; biceps, 814 inches. How are my measurements? 1. What are my weak points? 2. Kindly let me know why my feet ache when I lie in bed at night, after riding a wheel or walking a little. I never have felt these pains before. Thank you very kindly in advance, I emain, “A Tie Top Apmirer As Ever.” New York City. _ 1, One hundred and ten pounds should be the weight for one of your height. Your waist is a little too large. While the est expansion is fair, you should take deep-breathing exer- ises. v7 2. Probably you have been walking or riding too hard lately. Bathe them in salt and water. ‘Pror. FourMEN: Having been a reader of Tre Tor for about three years, I take the liberty to ask your opinion of my condi- tion. I am 18 years 3 months old; height, 5 feet 6 inches; ‘Weight, 140 pounds; chest, normal, 37 inches; expanded,» 39 inches; neck, 14)4 inches; waist, 31 inches; biceps, natural, 11 ches; contracted, 13 inches; forearm, 12 inches; wrists, 7%4 inches; shoulders, 18 inches; hips, 33 inches; thighs, 21 inches; Ives, 1414 inches; ankles, 834 inches. 1. How do my meas- urements correspond? 2. What are my weak and strong points? Isn’t my waist too large? 4. I play baseball once in a while. this a good exercise? Thanking you in advance, I remain, a constant reader of Tir Top, Cuartes L. Mappux. Carlyle, Til. - 1 and 2. You are not well proportioned. _ 3. It is three inches too large. 4. Baseball will bring all the muscles into play and afford one f the best exercises to develop your weak points. , 7 we Pror. Fourmen: Being a reader of your fine weekly, I should like to have you answer a few of my questions. My age is 15 ‘years 10 months; height, 6 feet 1 inch; weight, 158 pounds; chest, normal, 34 inches; expanded, 37% inches ;, dround shoulders, 43 inches; waist, 30% inches; hips, 36 inches; fore- rm, 104 inches; biceps, 12 inches; wrist, 7 inches ; calves, 141% ches. 1. Do you think I am well built and in proportion? 2. intend to run in the eight-hundred-and-eighty and mile this pring, both indoor and out. Do you thik I am at the right ight? 3. About how many weeks beforehand should I begin train? 4. Please tell me of my Weak and strong points, and if rou think I will broaden out. Yours truly, RAST. Chicago, Ill. pas t and 2, You lack ten pounds under the normal weight. All other measurements are considerably below those of a well-pro- portioned person of your height. 3. Begin training six weeks before the event. 4. Eat plenty of nourishing food, bathe frequently, get eight hours’ sleep every night, do not smoke cigarettes and take light exercise morning and evening. _Pror. FourMEN: Being a reader of the Tre Top WEEKLY, I take liberty to ask you a few questions. I am 15 years 5 months old; height, 5 feet 10 inches; weight, 165 pounds; neck measures 1534 inches; chest, normal, 36 inches; expanded, 40 inches; right forearm, 1334 inches; left, 13!4 inches; wrist, 734 inches; reach, 41}4 inches; around shoulders, 43)4 inches; waist, 32 inches; around hips, 40 inches, and ankle, 11 inches. 1. How are my measurements for a boy of fifteen years? 2. What are my weak points, and what kind of exercise should I take to improve my condition? 3. Is a four-inch chest expansion enough for a boy of my size? I want to join the navy. Do you think I could pass the examination? Thanking you in ad- vance, I remain, a reader of Tir Top, Witt Roppa. Butte, Mont. , P, S.—Good luck to Dick Merriwell and Brad Buckhart. You are ten pounds overweight, but, on the other hand, your normal chest measurement lacks one inch of the standard. But the expansion is good. Your waist measurement should be three inches less, according to your height. ae, For a boy of your age, you are very well set up. Take cross- country runs to reduce weight. Answer to third question: Yes. Write to the secretary of the navy for the information concerning examinations for that branch of the service. , Pror. FourMEN: As this is my first offense, I trust you will not view my measurements too critically. Height, 5 feet 6 inches; weight, 140 pounds; waist, 30 inches; chest, 31 to 37% inches; across ‘shoulders, 22 inches; neck, 14 inches; my right and left legs measure exactly alike; wrist, 614 inches; forearm, 10 inches; biceps, 12 inches; ankle, 9 inches; calf, 14% jnches; thigh, 20 inches. How are my measurements in comparison with others of my age—sixteen? Harry WILGUus. Mt. Sterling, Ill. A weight of one hundred and forty pounds is too much for a person of your height by twenty pounds, while a thirty-inch- — waist measure is in excess by three inches. You should take. exercise to reduce your weight to normal. | PROF. Fourmen: I again send my measurements, to show the improvement I have made since my last letter appeared in No. 466. Don’t you think I am doing well for my age? I enjoy taking exercise, and think that the reason I get along so well. — The following are my measurements: My age is 17; chest, 41_ inches, normal; biceps, 1414 inches; forearm, 13 inches; neck, 16 inches; waist, 30 inches; thigh, 22 inches; calf, 15 inches; weight, 138 pounds; height, 5 feet 7 inches. With my right or left hand I can lift slowly over my head one hundred and sixty- one pounds. With two hands, from the ground over my head, I can lift.one hundred and ninety pounds. I am able to hold aloft with two hands two hundred and ninety-eight pounds. I can walk around with six hundred pounds on my shoulders, and lift two hundred and eighty-five pounds, with one finger, off ‘the ground, hold fifty-six pounds out straight from the shoulder _ 3 and tear nearly two decks of cards with my fingers. Some peo- ple say weight lifting makes one slow. I don’t agree with them, as I can dodge and run faster than any boy in our neighborhood.. I never would have become interesied in physical culture if 1 had not read Tip Tor. These feats and measurements were made before witnesses. I trained myself. R. H. Philadelphia, Pa. : ¥ 2 Your measurements show remarkable development for a boy seventeen years old. Feats of strength, such as you describe, indicate great prowess. You should become, with proper train-— ing, a young man of great athletic attainments. = *e . Md Be ¥ a ‘ € “oe PA 32 Pror. Fourmen: As I have read Tire Top for a number of years, I take the liberty of asking a few questions about my measurements. My age is 16 years 1 month; height, 5 feet 8 inches; chest, natural, 31 inches; expanded, 35 inches; biceps, natural, 11 inches; contracted, 1214 inches; weight, 120 pounds. Am I too light weight for my height? How can I harden the muscles of my arms? Wie W., L Rochester, N. Y. Your weight corresponds with your measurements. Exercise for fifteen minutes with light dumb-bells on rising in the morn- ‘ing and again before retiring, to strengthen the muscles of your arms. Pror. Fourmen: As I am a great admirer of the Tip Top, I will take the liberty of asking you a few questions. The follow- ing are my measurements: Height, 5 feet 6 inches; weight, 129 pounds; reach, 70 inches; neck, 15 inches; chest, normal, 33%4 inches; expanded, 37% inches; waist, 27 inches; biceps, 12 inches; forearm, 10% inches; wrist, 7 inches; thighs, 19%4 inches; calf, 12% inches; ankles, 714 inches. 1. How is my build? 2. What are the measurements of a perfectly formed man of my size? Thanking you in advance, I am, yours truly, Fayette, Idaho. An ARDENT AMATEUR. The following are the standard measurements of a young man your height: Weight, 120 pounds; chest, 35 inches; waist, 27 ‘inches; hips, 34 inches; thighs, 20 inches; calf, 1334 inches. \ . Pror. Fourmen: I and my chum would like you to express an opinion of our measurements. Mine are as follows: Height, 5 feet 5 inches; neck, 1274 inches; right bicep, 10 inches; fore- arm, 934 inches, right wrist, 554 inches; left bicep, 934 inches; left wrist, 534 inches; chest, normal, 2934 inches; expanded, 32% inches; waist, 2414 inches; hips, 2914 inches; right thigh, 167% inches; calf, 11 inches; ankle, 714 inches; left thigh, 16% inches. My reach is 65% inches. Age, 16 years 9 months. The measurements of my friend, who is sixteen years old, are _as follows: Height, 67% inches; weight, 112 pounds; distance between shoulders, 14 inches; size of neck, 13 inches; right bicep, expanded, 9% inches; forearms, 9% inches; right wrist, 6% inches; left bicep, expanded, 914 inches; left wrist, 574 inches; waist, 2514 inches; hips, 28% inches; chest, normal, 29% inches; expanded, 31% inches; thighs, 1614 inches; right calf, 114% inches; ankle, 8%4 inches; left calf, 1134 inches; ankle, 8% inches; reach, 66 inches. 1. Do you think we can become all- around athletes? 2. What are our strong points? 3. What are, and how can we develop, our weak ones? 4. Do you think we compare favorably with other boys? Thanking you in advance, I remain, yours respectfully, JoHN GALLAGHER. Clinton, Mass. _ With proper training, you and your friend should become very good athletes! Exercises like baseball and football are ex- cellent for developing all the muscles, preventing overdevelop- ment of certain particular ones. Both of you should take regular - gymnasium work as well. Pror. FourmMen: I am a steady reader of Trp Top, and _ nat- urally take great interest in your department. I send you my measurements, hoping you will pass on them and. give me some ‘advice. “Neck, 13 inches; shoulders, across, 18 inches; chest, small, 3214 inches; normal, 33% inches; expanded, 37 inches; upper arms, 934 inches ; right forearm, 10 inches; left, 10 inches; waist, 30 inches ; thigh, 21 inches; knee, 14 inches; calf, 14 ‘inches; ankle, 9 inches; height, 5 feet 8 inches; weight, 142 pounds; age, 17 years 10 months. How are my measurements? Do they compare favorably with other fellows of my age? 1. How can I strengthen and enlarge my neck and arms? 2. About two months ago I started to exercise to try and fill a hollow in my shoulders just,in back of the bone. But instead of the desired result, my shoulders became sloped from the muscle acquired on the back part of shoulder instead of in front. How can I remedy this? How would you advise a person to train for he short distances up to the eight-hundred-and-eighty-yard run and the er jump? Thanking you in advance for your kind Lene BOER oe ‘ JAMES WILLIAMS. City. A Nae ne | ight ‘machine for the arms, bu but observe eee a i. Py en he TIP: POPS WRERLY: inches; waist, 29 inches; hips, 37 inches; thighs, 22 inches; calf, manhood. oe For the neck, bend the head to a right angle with the body; —— carry it slowly toward the right side, keeping the neck stretched as far as possible. Continue moving the head toward the left side, describing a complete circle. Do this five minutes every morning. 2. You have been training too hard. vee 3. Begin by running short distances, increasing them as your wind improves. Do not try to do too much at the start. Pay | attention to your legs and wind, particularly. Gradually lengthen your pace over courses of one and two hundred vat at first rather than increasing the distances each day. When the five- — hundred-yard limit has been reached by this method, your wind and legs being in good condition, it will be time enough to make the distance considerably greater from day to day. For the © broad jump, begin by jumping distances of about twelve feet, | taking the preliminary run slowly. Start twenty yards away and — quicken the last few strides. Let the last few paces before the tow line be as speedy as possible, and raise the legs as if going eS over a high jump. — eee ca a weenie —_——- ve Pror. FourmMEN: Being a reader of the Trp Top Weexty, I | take the liberty to ask you a few questions. My measurements >) are as follows: Age, 14 years 2 months; height, 4 feet 11 inches; | weight, 8514 pounds; neck, 12 inches; chest, normal, 30 inches; | expanded, 33 inches; contracted, 27 inches; biceps, 8 inches ; forés arm, 8% inches; wrist, 26 inches; waist, 274% inches; across shoulders, 14 inches; thighs, right, 18 inches; left, 17 inches; | calves, right, 12 inches; left, 1114 inches; ankles, 8 inches. I. | What are my weak and strong points? 2. How can I get my | left thigh and calf as large as my right thigh and calf? 3. Il can | make a high jump of four feet. How is that? 4. How am I compared with other boys my age? 5.,How can I gain height and weight? 6. Where can I get Frank Merriwell’s book of exercises ? A Tre TOPPER. Aes Bedford City, Va. ri, You are fairly set up for a boy of twelve years. nastic exercises that will develop all parts of the body. There is a slight difference in the size of nearly everyone’s — thighs and calves. You apparently are no exception to the gen- 4 eral rule. You will probably grow several inches before getting your full growth, and at/ present compare well with other boys of your age. We will send you “Frank Merriwell’s Poor oO Athletic Development” for ten cents. Sy Take gym- a Pror. FourMEN: Being a constant reader of Trp Top, I take the liberty to ask you a few questions. My measurements, are: Ag 15 years 9 months; height, 5 feet 414 inches; weight, 420 pound biceps, 9% inches; forearm, 10 inches ; chest, 33 inches; expanded, 35 inches; contracted, 31 a: waist, 28 inches; thighs, 19 inches; calves, 12% inches. How are my measurements? When I bend my knee it sbhuen cracks at the joint, and my thigh makes a sound like the croaking of a frog. How can . remedy this? ; A Constant READER. Grant Park, Ill. Mer Sd are a trifle too small. Reduce your weight five or six pounds. Unless the noises you speak of are accompanied by a sensati of pain, there is no reason of your feeling alarmed. ~ Pror. Fourmen: Would you kindly let me know through Tr Top WeeEkLy what you think Frank Merriwell’s weight, height and chest. measurements would be? I think Frank is a. — fellow, and would like to know his measurements. I remain, % A Goop WIsHER oF You AND Tir Top. Frank Merriwell’s measurements would probably be the fol- lowing: Height, 5 feet 10 inches; weight, 155 pounds; chest, 39 144% inches. His rugged health, great strength and wonderful prowess make him the noblest RETR ARTRELIYD of young American Pror. Fourmen: The following are my measurements: Age, 15 years; weight, 178 pounds; height, 5 feet 934 inches; neck, 151% ‘inches; chest, normal, 37 inches; expanded, 41 inches; biceps, 13! inches; forearms, 12 inches; thighs, 234 inches; calves, 15% inches; wrist, 744 inches. 1. Which are my weak points, and please tell me how to strengthen them? 2. Which are my strong points, if any? 3. What exercise is best for a boy of my build? 4. What do you think of my measurements? Thanking you in advance, | remain, yours truly, Paar ds GH Brooklyn, N. Y. 1. In your first question you ask me something that it is im- possible to answer. Your weak points? Why, it would require a cleverer man than Sherlock Holmes to discover a single weak point in your measurements. 2. All the points given are strong ones, very. 3. You give promise of developing into a splendid specimen of physical manhood, and it will all depend upon yourself whether you grow up into a healthy, well-developed man or one with a large, ungainly frame and little strength. Exercise daily for a half hour each morning before breakfast. Dumb-bells, In- dian clubs, pulley weights, punching bag, etc. Keep out in the open air as much as possible. Get at least nine hours sleep. - Don’t smoke cigarettes. 4. Your measurements are excellent, away above the average for a fifteen-year-old boy, and you are very symmetrically buiit. As Pror. FourMEN: I weigh 138 pounds; was 16 years old in _ June; height, 5 feet 10 inches; neck, 13 inches; chest, natural, 31 inches; expanded, 34 inches; waist, 30 inches; wrist, 6% inches; forearm, 10 inches; upper arm, 9% inches, natural; - flexed, 11 inches; thighs, 1914 inches; calves, 13 inches; width of shoulders, 18 inches. I am pitcher on our high school baseball nine. I play at least two games a week; my arm never gets sore. Can pitch better at the last half of the game than first. I. How are my measurements? 2. Do you think I can ever make a successful baseball player? 3. How is my weight? If it is not correct, please tell me how I can make it so. 4. Do et I, eine TIP TOP BASEBALL TOURNAMENT IS NOW OPEN. you think I am very well adapted fcr a pitcher? Thaaking you in advance, I remain, yours truly, Tarentum, Pa. H. S. BASEBALL PLAYER. I. With the exception of your weight, your measurements are very good. 2. I can see no reason why you should not make a very cessful pitcher. 3. You should weigh about one hundred and fifty-five pounds. To increase your weight you should drink a couple. of glasses of hot water morning and evening. Eat all the wholesome food your appetite naturally craves. Plenty of butter, eggs, milk and potatoes. Get plenty of sleep, at least nine hours éach night. 4. You seem unusually well adapted to make a first-class pitcher. Inasmuch as your arm does not give out during a game, you are very fortunate, as that is the principal trouble with the majority of pitchers. sic Pror. Fourmen: As.I have been reading your Tre Tor WEEKLY for some time, I think I am entitled to a bit of advice. I am a boy 15 years 11% months old, am only 5 feet tall and weigh only 90 pounds. I once smoked cigarettes quite freely. but have not been smoking for the last year and a half. Could you kindly give me some advice as to how I can grow taller and gain weight? Hoping to see this information in print, I re- main, respectfully yours, F. O. New York City. I have no doubt that your stunted growth was caused by the use of the pernicious cigarettes. Smoking injures the nerves, softens the muscles, weakens the stomach and retards growth. For a sixteen-year-old boy, your height and weight are very much below the average. You should take a thorough .course of physical training; join a good gymnasium, if possible. About the best means of growing is to adopt habits of life which will incline to build the highest degree of health and strength, and take those exercises which will make you stand erect. declared the win.iers. The two teams which, at the end of the season, have the highest average—the members of which play the greatest number of games, score the most runs and have lost the least number of games, will be Of the two winning teams, the one having the highe” average will be declared the TIP TOP CHAMPIONSHIP TEAM OF THE ALL-AMERICAN BASEB «L TOURNAMENT FOR 1905, and will receive a large pennant bearing the above device. for nine members consisting of trousers, shirt, stockings, shoes and cap. DON’T FAIL TO SEND IN YOUR COUPON AT ONCE No notice taken of any score not entered on this coupon. Coupons must be properly made out. One coupon for each game, Each winning team will receive a full equipment Is this not worth working for, boys? Name of Team... Town | L, Field Tip Top Baseball Tournament Coupon State POSITION Pitcher Catcher ist Base 2d Base 3d Base _|Short Stop R. Field C. Field oe RA ea Opponent’s Name NAMES OF TEAM 1 ME arom rch UA Ratt Se OOO AT NOR Ds aisle BLS NOS TNA YEA LLcahet