Villiam St., N. ¥.

Five Cents.

MITH, 235

IDA gas)

ry STRI

é b

a

20U York Post

at Ni

‘Ss Matter

ss

8
™~
O
x
S
R
Ss
S
X
ay
oO

a

2

ed

7

- year. Ent
‘*HANDS UP, BLACK PHANTOM!’’ SAID BUFFALO BILL,

7

Subscrepiu

4

By

bserver (batch

 
 
 

 
La OES Ne =

 

  

 

: Teta cation aut thoried by bythe Hon We. Cody vp

 

 

 

Issued Weekly. By Subscription a 50 poe year. .Fintered as Second Class Matter at the N. x. Post es éy STREET & SMITH, 238 William 97.5). Vu
Te Entered accor at: to Act a Congress in the year 1901, in the Cire we the Librarian of Congress, Washington, D. Ce

No. 14.

NEW YORK, August 17, 1901.

Price Five Cents.

 

 

By the author of “BUFFALO BILL.”

 

CHAPTER I.
“SPOOK RIDERS OF THE OVERLAND.

They called them the “Spook Riders of the Overland
‘Trail,’’ and they well deserved the name.
Daring riders all of them, men picked for pluck, to en-
dure hardships untold, and face death as they would a
friend, if need be.

It was a wild, lonesome and deadly trail they rode, by
night and by day, in storm. and in sunshine, in blizzards

of ice and under. pouring rains, never faltering, never

fearing, only determined to do or die.

They had been picked for the duty, to ride the one
and heart-breaking, death-haunted express trail, -t

overland path that connected the rising with the te

sun. ~ SS eae |

, Aithe tran proved not lonely, that meant that Indians.

x

>

were on the war-path for the Pony Riders or that it had
become known that a rider was to carry through a valua-

ble package, and hence road agents were in ambush, and

it was “his life or the gold. i

Like “Spook Horsemen, ” the gallant Pony Riders
flitted along the deadly overland trail, making history ;
laying the cornerstone of a grand civilization to spring
up along their then desolate and dangerous pathway,
and gather about themselves by their deeds a halo of
romance and fiction that will grow in charm and interest

the further removed we are by time from those scenes.

So much for an introduction to the heroes of the Pony
Ridérs express trail, and among whom, with many

other dashing, daring spirits, wild riders and dead shots
all of them, was William FE. Cody, the man whose bor- —

der name of Buffalo Bill, and - who is knowm in every

‘land, across

 

every sea, and always as representing die

 
 

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

 

} ideal of splendid American fnteod a’ a’ type that must mineutous way, and te the. valuable he car- "
soon pase ene ‘from our - ane s ee ee mever ried. Bee Scale eee ee | |
: to retarn. Cr arcane ae Then came a letter front the Night Rid 2f to Ait i
[ ured was the headquarters of one of. the divisions Slade, in which was a os to Bufi: i: in par-. ‘
of the Pony Riders and stage lite, one Alf Slade was the tictilar. a ey |
: chief. ee , ‘Buffalo Bill did a heed the: warning, le RLed ‘ta 4
Here ae ‘a stakes he of : Le be sent elsewhere upon the trail to ride, od that as i

and the scene was like’a guarded camp, for men held the Night Riders had declared-war again “hewwenie i

nade his

i ay
i hy

theinselves in readiness to protect the property ‘of the return the compliment, and the daring
company from horse thieves, to fight Indians, "Or pursue
a.. band. of. outlaws. who had held a a coach or ey
Rider. £ a ees

‘The camp of the: Pony Riders was on the river, and
there dwelt. Buffalo” Bill in his little cabin, with ‘two
comrades.

The two companions-of Buffalo Bill’ were Hart Rath-

way to his own caimp; where he found ‘coin pan-

ions awaiting him, Hart Rat an call as he ap--
proached: ‘ i aos ee eS 1
oA Bill, glad you’ ve come, for yc

letter in your un “to- day I wish 16 |

ght ine a

GEESE RT Soe et

you, for I

need your advice.”’

CDA E ED:

‘‘And I «wish to have a talk with
responded Buffalo Bill, as he took hi

table upon which supper had been serv

ad’ Seott,’’
it theslittle -
rcott Kane, - ‘

burn and Scott Katie, uandgoime, fearless fellows, and the

i trio had run more: oe el than any men in the

pony express. it: being his week ‘to be the: cook, f pards took

 

| Particularly had Palio Bill oa. the traps set for turns in the work té be done about th n.
him by the outlaws, and though he had twice had a ‘All right, Bill; what is it?”
| horse shot under him, once received a severe wound, No. let me hear’ your story ise, eet Gace to

and at other times appeared to be wholly at the mercy of ‘say will k eep, only itis most importany, “you will see.
Now fire away, Hart?’ See ae

“Well, as I said, you prone me a

his foes, he had rever yielded, nor lost his treasured
express pouches, but brought them through in safety. and I wish
to'read it to you.

‘4¢Vou know I catie out West from a le»

At the time of which I write the Pony Riders had been’ ;
having a particularly hard struggle of it eae a pale adventure -
hl know

so doing

of outlaws, known as the ‘Night Riders.’ —at least; that igs the°story I have told,
many have suspected that I had iore reas«

than a desire to:fight Indians and hunt a f ee

These lawless men were commanded: i a chick, who :
was as merciless as an Indian, and as cunning as. a fox.
The truth is, my ‘father was an-army \ nea ana i
was born at a frontier post,’as was also my sister, three’
the express riders, eee ane stat ions ne peculiar, fer years nry junior: We: were raised in forts in the South-
ee a Ce eh tae west and West, and that:accounts for my eh cs eS
inuch of wild life, though a: professed tender foot...

Ther: too, he was one who ruled his men with mili-
tary discipline, and his ‘mantier of ‘striking His ‘blows at
ae hé moved only at night.
| ae “It was ‘said that his men dressed in black, 4 and rode
black horses, and this gained Wow their name of’ night RE my. fatlier’s’ death, my ‘mother went. East, and my: E
sister was sent to boarding- school, -T to college, and we 5

Yiders, as Mel as the fact ae ae were secn only 3 in’

 

the night time.”

Bea . h ac their retteat no one Knew outside of

they had five been’ ‘able to find where hey hid a tin:

= ay Ce s

selves. 9 ~

“Several tines of late the ‘most ‘daring taids” had been

nade » by” hé outlaws - “upon ‘the company’ S stock; and”

both the coaches aud Pony Riders had had deadly gaunt"

leis (a ar batalo Bi , moans deat, ae it were, ina

were ‘supposed to be‘heirs to a good fortune. © ;
“Bue mother married as California miner who:
was reported tO Me Vely Tic OO a re
“He was a: widower, With oné ‘son, several years older
than I, and he was-a most ‘fascifiating: young man.
“We had been educated for the army, but was forced”

 

£6 resign for some ‘reason ; “he ‘ttaveled for: several’ ‘years,

until “his father settled him upon ara such in Texas, and:
he won ny sister’s ‘heart, and, ‘when my mother refused :

 

 

 
 

a
Si

 

 

and had proors «

4 arry him, although not related, he ran
ng her from her boarding-school.

to allow he: |
off with her, |»)
‘(This ac
mother was «: ; sed to find out that her husband was
not a rich n: .od he had not. only dissipated her for-
tune, which ‘ad entrusted to. him, but my sister's
and mine, a‘ |i: had paid. his own and his son’s debts
With our nhac nee.
‘*Nor was't: 1, for there appeared upon the scene
a wonfan whe: 2d the Californian as her husband,
.ipport her claim.
“The shoc -o great my. mother never recovered
fron it, ang is.! ays after the news of how she had
been deceived, ;
“We were 1 (ae South, and there we avenge per-
sonal wrongs; « Med’ my stepfather*to account, im-
mediately afte: cisternal. :
you. know, and my bullet cut

“hen I left home and came West to

pe l’m a. goc
through his he
seek a fortune. 2

‘“Tust a year { had a letter from my sister, in
which she told
attack of illness, caused by her husband’s effort to kill
her by slow poison. oe ~

had just. recovered from a severe

‘‘He was discovered in the ae iy the nurse, and she
put the déctor on his guard, the result of which was
that they.set a trap for the murderer and caught him.

JPEG escaped by flight, carrying with him all of my
sister’s jewels and family plate, and then it was discov-
ered that he had forged her name and robbed her of all
she had left of the fortune, save some landed property.

‘‘Now it turns out that this landed property is. most
valuable, will make both Rita and myself rich, but as
all was in our stepfather’s name, so placed by my mother,
and he made a will before his duel with me, giving all
over to his son, that son must sign certain papers before
the property can be sold, as it must be, for all around it
a city is springing up. bey

‘Rita writes me that her fugitive bostend | is out yee
on.the Overland, as a Pony Rider, stage driver or serv-
ing in some CADRES and she i is coming here to. look |
him up.

one Says - “she a take charge of our ae for I
foe written her about you, Bill, and Scott, and she.
wishes. to quietly search for Burr. Ford, for such is his
name. | 3

1is part was forgiven, but then my.

‘vat she was left very poor, she died..

THE BUFFALO -BILL STORIES. | Le

“‘She says I am to look for her within a week, bea
now [| wish to ask your advice as to what I am to do?’’

‘“‘Do? Why, what,can you do, Rathburn, but receive
her and aid her in her search ?”’

‘‘This is no place for ladies; but you say she knows
what frontier life is, so it will not surprise her.

‘“There is, you know, the widow of Stage Driver.
Drayton, who was shot, and we’ll get her to come over
and be a help to your sister. We'll set the boys to work
to build her a nice cabin and make her comfortable
while she is here, and we’ll take a hand in the hunt for
that villain-husband of hers, and when we find him, I
guess he’ll sign any papers she wishes him to put his
namie to.’’ : :

“So say I, Bill,’ said Scott Kane, heartily, and so it
was arranged that Rita Rathburn, for Hart would not

call her by her married name, was to be warmly wel-

comed into the Pony Riders’ camp.

CHAPTER IL.
THE PLEDGE OF THE PARDS,

In the station camp the men were divided into Pony”
Riders, stage drivers, and their assistants, stock tenders
and hangers-on. _

Alf Slade was chief of all, while the separate comn-
panies had their captains.
Hart Rathburn and Scott Kane were devoted to phen
leader and comrade, Buffalo Bill, and they were men
after his own heart, for they were utterly fearless, dash-
ing, generous-natured fellows.
Both of them were handsome men, athletic j in build, —
wore their hair long, and while Kane dressed in the
style of the camps, Rathburn always wore good clothes
and a white silk shirt. | |
Kane’s life was a mystery, and not even to Mis “NG .
most intimate pards had he spoken of his past. |
both Buffalo Bill aud.
Kane had listened to all that Rathburn had to say, and

With considerable interest,
after they had expressed their intention to make his
sister as comfortable as circumstances would permit, ate:
also aid in the search for Burr Ford, Cody se 'n his”
quiet way:
“Now BL tell you what i Mayet to report, pards,’
The two w ere at once all attention. ae

 

 

 

 
ae

     

FRB a Peg RIEL Pit OTE fe PORT I

o

‘‘T have just had a talk with Mr. Slade, and he wishes.
to put me elsewhere upon the trail.”

‘*But why, Bill?’

i Dowt go, Bill.”

oh ain not going; but his reason was a kind one to

}
-
‘
}
i
;
i
di}
t 4
fi
4
hi
|

me, for it was on account of a letter he had received
from Captain Kit, of the Night Riders, threatening my
life if he kept me on, so he wished to oo me on
the trail)
“ And they a are threatening you by letter, are ae re
‘Yes, Hart.’’
“TI don’t wonder, as they have never been able either
“te catch, rob or kill you,’’ Kane observed.

have waged war against us three.’

ae we'll wage War, Loo.”

 

game,’
Buffalo Bill smiled and said:
“It is just what I knew yor both would say and Tos
told Mr. Slade.
‘Now, it seems I have kept more treasure from their
grasp than any of the riders, and you two come next.

‘Why they threaten I do not know, instead of killing,

 

but they do threaten us with death, hoping, I suppose,
to drive us off the run, and then catch the other riders.”’
“But you tofd the chief you would not go?”
\ ‘‘I did, and told him that I was sure you would he
: with me in this resolve,”
“Right you are, Bill.’’
“*You know what cards to gamble on, Bill.”

‘Well, 1 told hitw that we were here to. stay, at the |
same time I would pledge myself to hunt down the

Night Riders, and knew that you would be with me in
the good work.’’

eas,

 

‘*Comimand me.’

‘'Il knew what you Oli. Sy it as it wilt now be a
man-hunt for us, we must change our present work ina
nreasure, for I have a plan to suggest.”’ De

| - dart Rathburn said with great earnestness:
“Name your wish, Bill, and Vl guarantee that Scott

i aud I will back you up.’’

i os ».' (As Pony Riders we have but one Sia to strike a, rau

i sai ae id act Cy RS

stag e drive or--aud n0. better driver is On the Ovetland-—

v and discov: er what we wish, DUE with you,

fo THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

‘Oh, you two were also mentioned, for a scciied to.

‘Yes, atid show them that we can play « at the same

and you, Scott, as stock tender, I remai? wing as ae
Rider, we can doa great deal of good.
*“T believe you are right, Bill, but I hate ee give up

the saddle for the stock tender’s cabin,’  tirged Scott.

‘“And the coach will.be dead slow for tue after being a
Pony Rider,’’ Hart declared. _ cs

“Well, you will be four days in camp here with your
sister, Hart, and three days on the rum to Rocky ie
and back.”

“Yes, I will be glad of that, now I think of my eicter $
coming.’
And you, Scott, Mr, Slade will make stock tender at

Rocky Ridge, and with you there, Hart driving stage,

and I on my regular run, we will have a chance to pick
up some news about these Night Riders whieh will enable
us to turn the hae upon. them.
“Doe you agree?’
ao.
"And T also.’
“Then there is ‘one thing more to be done, 2 _ Said
Buffalo Bill, earnestly.

‘‘I go out on my run in the ‘morning, as you know,
pards, so let us fix up our an now while we are talk-
_ing it over. ny

el you take the coach, Hae you start out day after

a nlorrow. And as the stock tender at the station be-

yond. Rocky Ridge ‘has been killed by outlaws, for ‘Tas

dians did not do ip I am sure, you will doubtless be

sent there to- morrow, Scott, sO we can begin work at

Ounce,

 

Nene too soon for me,’ pad Kane.

nie too, am ready whenever needed, ee Ge "replied =

Rathburn. : ee

‘‘Well, I'll see Mr. Slade to-night, as soon as we
have come to a thorough understanding, for you know
I said that there was one thing to do first. .

Mes 77

Tell mie what it is, Pard Bill.”

ele is. just ae To swear ourselves into a certain
compact—that 1s; ce pledge ourselves to stand by each
other unto death.”?
: ‘Agreed. | |

“So say iL a a a is : a
ue “You are ‘both well aware that where so ) many men

    

 

 

 

 

F 3F irs wis AB i ib %
eer ais ar ater Bote a Petar ema E sete esa ere LO So peyton t

 

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

@

and stockimen who were members of the outlaw band,
simply ferreting out what Mae they wes get
that was of value to them.’”
“‘You bet there are such cven now in our midst, Pard
Bill, though we caunot just spot them.’’
“And lucky for them that we cannot;’’ added Kane.
‘‘Now I wish to bind myself and you, ina compact

that will hold.

‘«Remember, I do not have a doubt of either of you,
but where Iam willing to so pledge myself, I wish you
to do the same; but if you have any reason why you
refuse, and that ends it.’’

w

should not, siripl
“T have noyréa

responded Hart F Rathburn, ea rnestly.

   
  

 

2, Bill, aud you know my story,’

‘*My life story you: do Hot know, Bill, nor does Rath-
burn, and tl die i is no yeason just now why you should;

‘it is a love disappointment and deais with a bitter past;

but Tam ready to take the ple edge, and you will find me

- as true as. steel, ‘and should either of you doubt me, sim-

9

ply send a bullet through my heart without warning.
And Scott Kane spoke with considerable feeling.

ey Gitthers the’stern response of Buffalo Bill. ‘‘I
_ will kill either of you the moment I am given good cause
‘to doubt you, aud you both have the same right in my

case, for this is to be a pledge to bind us in honor, to

death if need be, and there must be no. treachery, 1

hesitancy, no secrets unknown to each and all of us.’’
“T agree.”
‘fAs do 1%
At the reply of the two men, Buffalo Bill: arose, and,

facing his tivo comrades as they sat there in their cabin,

Said:

“Stand up!”
‘They did so, ‘and, going out of the cabin, he made a
quick circuit around it, to see that no one was about.

Re-entering, he said:

_ “Now grasp hands and we ll take the pledge. as Tt ce
: done, and earnestly,

“Pards, I have just a as ‘much faith in you as I believe

you have in me, and my word for it that we ‘three will

be the ones to run the Night Riders to earth.
cl here are others I would like to have join us, for it

a6 4 big work to cut ‘out for three. men, but ; as long as \
cannot be sure ‘of every man, we must trust no one.

“Now I will go and see Mr, Slade, and then we will °

 

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES. | 5

midst there have been spies serving as drivers, riders

know just what is before us,’’ and Buffalo Bill left the
cabin and walked rapidly over to the auaerae of the
division chief.

Ah, Cody, I was. just about to send for you, ” said

“Alf Slade, as the Pony Rider captain entered his cabin.

«Anything wrong, sir??
‘‘Not with the company—no, for, save that joties Fron
Captain Kit threatening you, all goes well. Have you

reconsidered your determination to remain, and come to

tell me you will be transferred ??’

‘On the contrary, sir, I have come to tell you of a
plan I have formed to hit back at the Night Riders. But
how.can I serve you, sir?”

‘Good! When you have planned to hit back it means

a great deal. But, first, to my case,’’ and there was a

shadow on the face of Alf Slade as he spoke.

iat ie i
““Tthave got to kill a man,”’

Wes, SiH,

MOS. Ghee

‘'Or he will kill me.’’

‘‘Is iteas bad as that, sir?’’

f Ves just that,” f ce

‘Who is he??? ao

‘Badman Bender, who is down on the rolls of ‘the
company as Buck Bender, assistant agent of division.’

‘*T have heard he wanted your place, sir,’

OM Ves that is! at; and as his secret reports to head-
quarters did not get me dismissed, he concludéd to dis-
miss me himself by killing me.”

“‘T am sorry, sir, for he isa very bad, a dangerous
fellow—thé best shot, worst hand with a knife, and the -
strongest man on the Overland.” .

“So it is asserted, and he makes it his boast: but
there is one man he has not yet drawn a revolver on,
used a knife against or tested his strength with, Bill.’’

‘“Who is that, sir, if it is not oe

“Itis you, Cody.’’

“T have had-no quarrel with him, sir.’

‘No, you do not seek trouble, and he has been wise
enough to seek none with you; but if he kills me I shall
leave hind io you, Cody.” ce

‘Po mie, Sirk’!

‘Yes for I have orders in my last mail to discharge
him, and it wasthis that brought on the trouble between

“us.

 

 
 

 

 

Nr inne CR

ees

aimee eon ame

Fea isin

 

 

  

|
i hf
|
'

   

=

 

  

EL oI SG AOE Tings

i

6 ~~ THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

“T wanted to let him down easy, so called him aside
fo tell him quietly my instructions.

‘The superintendent said that as my assistant he
cotild be of little use working against me, and as he had
shown himself to be doing that, I should discharge him
and appoint any man J deemed better in his place.

"I  called him aside, and he at once accused me of
having backcapped him, and drew his revolver.”

‘You did not draw on him, sir?’

eo On, no: I think I understand men pretty well, and
how tomanagethem.

‘He called me a coward, and dared me to fight him;
but I kept my temper, read the letter from the.
aloud, and then dismissed him.’’

CHAPTER III.
THE BORDER DUEL.

’“*And did Bender kick, sir??? asked Buffalo Bill, and
in his strangely quiet way Alf Slade continued: :

“He was taken aback, but said the letter was a put-
up job. |

“But, having done my duty as I saw it, I told him
then that I would meet him at the starting post to-mor-
row, at the time of arrival and departure of the riders,
and fight him with what weapons he cared to ee

‘*Tust what 1 expected of you, Mr. Slade.’

_‘*Ves, it was all I could do, for disclipline ruck be
enforced, you know. All
there, including those who saw and heard what passed

the men in camp will be
between us.’’
-** And what can I do, sir?”
** Fars, r shall now. appoint. you assistant in his
place.’’
fork thank ye sir, for the honor, but I cannot accept
the position.’ :
‘Phe pay is forty dollars more a month, as you know,
and the place a good one.”’ i.
“True, sir; but just now I prefer the harder coe
and less ‘pay : a Pony Rider, and my reasons I will ex-
plaia te you.’ ei
“Hirst, let me say that if Iam killed you must take
the place as full chief of this division in my stead.
“That man is discharged, you know,
acknowledge it, aud will assume my place if he kills

chief ~

but refuses to

 

 

me, and you know the chances are as 5 much in bis favor
as mine, though I fear 3 no mat, ON eas

““Now, you must be assistant, whatever. your motives
for refusing, as I know of no. man here whom I can put
in my place to confront Badman Bender, should I fall,

‘‘Vou can do so, and he must not be left in control of
the company’s papers, books, money and property here,
so I call upon you to take the place until another can be
sent here as division agent. ee

‘Unless Badman Bender kills you,.too, Bill, as he may

’ added Alf Slade, with a smile. ee

“I must take the chances, as you do, sir; but the light-
ning does ‘not strike twice in the same place, I hav
heard,’’ was the quiet response of Buffalo Bill.

‘‘You have told Badman Bender you would fight him
with auy weapons, sir?” asked Buffalo Bill, after a mo-
jaent of thought.) ee oe

“Ves.”?

**You are the challenged party?”

‘Yes, and I wish you to serve as my second. =

| Certainly, six, for 2 request from my superior I
regard as a command.’ |

‘Do you not,wish to do so?’? « -

“Mr, Slade, don’t take that view of it, but let me
give you the Tight ollie.”

“qT should like to hear it,’

‘‘Tam aman of the. West, a type af what is ein on
the plains and in theinountains toa certain extent; yet,
discharge of duty or in self-_
‘T abhor Bas a

though forced often, in the
defense, to take human ee
bloodshed.’’

i], believe you do, Cody, ae I also an though the’
sangeet scenes nave been forced upon me.

“But go on.

va have little more ie say, Sie than that L serve you
from a sense of duty, and not from a desire to mingle } in
a death-g grapple any more than you do.”

‘‘T believe you, and I feel that you will serve me well. a
, ag will do as I deem is best in the matter, and now I
ask you why you did so foolish a thing as to say you
would meet him with any weapons?” :
“T wished him to understand that I did not oe him,
or even dread him.’
““€N6 one who awe you would’ think that: ue sup-
pose he selects bow's ievives, as i believe he eee
~ ‘Lamust. meet Qiu.’

 

 

 
 

vi
i
i
i

 

 

 

"Or they. dig ‘our graves ‘for us:

‘ tne no false prophet.
“aman of education, and q have heard his story.

vi he: 4s “over: six. fest: tall, weiglis’ two. hundied, is

Known to. be.a most deadly hand with the knife,. quick

as a panther and strong:as.a.buffalo bull”? ..

aS Sull. f must: ineet hina-if he selects knives. a

Right: ‘there. E take issue with you, Mr. ‘Slade, and

as you Have placed ‘yourself in. ny hands, I shall. say no

‘e-that. you, as the ‘challenged party, stanl select the

weapons, and they shall: be: revolvers, “which will place

‘you. ou even: terms.’

““Hardly, Bill, as. he isa much larger target, *”” sug-
gested Alf Slade, With a smile, : ey

“‘FTe must take the chance of size, as you would have
to were” the weapons knivés,’ ie
«7 fear the men may regard it as a babi” :

“Not after 1 have had By: Say, sir, , and Vil have it as

your second. ee

SCAT right, Bill, Tam in your lands.’’
“Thanks, for the confidence shown in Bite, sie: But,

‘this being settled, let us turn to the cause of my visit to

«

yout!
‘“Go ahead. a
ESE accepted the: ‘gauge of war the Night Ridere offer,
aud have had a talk with my two pards.’ ae
oe and Kane?" 2a ee

oe “Ves, sir,

Well???
‘““We have pledged ourselves to stand ‘by each other i in

-this® matter, to live or die together.”’

ee That means a great: deal, Cody.”
eT means that we either run the Night Riders to. eatth
But the compact.is.a

secret, and I came to secure your help.”’

40 “You shall have it, vand “af T: fall to-morrow ‘you are

chief here to carry ‘out your ‘OW Views Pete eee
«Ves, sir; but. you will not go under, ‘had ‘you a find
Now, ‘you know that ee is

He is a good | fellow.’

ott

“Ves, sir, and he and his have known s sorrow and

“trouble.

“His sister is coming. here. to visit hin in, his. wild :

frontier home to try and find, her husband, and we are
going to niake her as comfortable as possible.”? ee
A. woman in, thie. camp, and one who. imust, be refined

%

‘andecee!t eo OT ae Bari aie? vine lan 2,

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES. z

“She wilt bevall Heke sir, for she was raised on the
frontier, and it will help the camp,. ‘her being: here.’’
“T do not know but what. you. may. be sight, Bill,
| When je she coming ?!?.. : a
so ‘Within a few days, ‘sir, and ‘to carry ae our plan, T
ai going to ask you to have Rathburn drive the coach
to Rocky Ridge and back, and Jet Kane take the station
as stock tender at Wild Water.’ oe
‘“But they are Pony. Riders.”’ Me bruns ae
‘True, sit; but Rathburn drives poleudidiy, and: Kane
understands. the care of stock.’”
‘‘But what do they say to the change?’’

i ‘They are more ‘than: willing, sit, for that j is our little
"game we ate to play with the Night ‘Riders.’?

“All right: I shall isste ‘the orders to-night, and
have them enter upon their separate duties to-morrow.’’

‘Thank you, sir.’’ oe ;

“But Rathburn’s sister is coming?’

‘‘He will, as driver, be four ‘days in camp.’

“True, and you can plan as you please, and I will
-back you- up, Cody.’ /» Now. you: had better get what rest
you can, and bright and early in the morning. I will be
at the post to settle with Badman Bender.’’..- oe

Bidding his chief good-night, Buffalo Bill went. to
his quarters to tell his comrades that all was: ean as
they had wished itto be. oo

~The’ start of the Pony ‘Riders was made from a post
in front of the general assembling qtiarters, where the
coaches also halted, and from which they departed.

Cole wae a large cabin, with kitchen, eating room, bar
: “and gambling saloon attached, and there, day and night,
“gathered: the nen, drivers, Pony Riders” and: stock
tenders. See

The Pony Rider was due about eight” o'clock in the
“morning, and the one to take his’ poughes and continue
on was always ready at his post, so that not, half a miin-
ute of time was lost inthe change. ;

_ Much earlier than usual, the men hastened. toward the
‘Pony Riders’ post, the morning after the affair between
Badman Bendeér and Alf Slade. fr eG vel

The sympathy. was ‘with. the chief, ‘for the. assistant
agent was feared and disliked, and as he had: decided to
.fght with bowie knives, there Were few that thought
Slade. had any chance with him. in a personal encounter

‘tw thus fought.
 

 

  

 

See

 

near gr rE aT TT

: But all knew the pluck of the division spent. and they
hoped that something might occur to save him.

‘*Boss Bender’’ had deliberately sharpened his bowie
the night before in the barroom, and as he had remarked,
had ‘‘put a razor edge on it.’’
That there. was to be a duel to ‘the death no one

' doubted, and all. duties were neglected so that the men

could be early upon the scene.

Buffalo Bill was to be the Pony Rider out, and an hour
before starting time he was seen Sone. from his ea
and Alf Slade with him.-

His two companions, Rathburn and Kane, were

“already. at the post, listening to the talk of Bone who |

was certainly in a fighting mood.

All eyes were turned upon. Slade and Buffalo Bill as

they approached, the latter having evidently made sonie —

ainusing remark, as the former was smiling. |

‘“‘T am here to meet you as agreed, Sander. a ce Alf
Slade, amid the breathless silence that followed the
approach of the chief and his second, :

on here, Slade, so. git yer Epis 2 Was, s the gruff
respolse.

“T have placed oo in 1 the hands of Aiea Ok
sion Agent William Cody, your successor, so he will
arrange.”’

“What's he got to do with it?”

ust what he deems. best. or an ie

“Wal, Tim assistant te agent here a soon
will be. chief, aa acknowledge no. one. else.’ ene

See: here, Bender,’’ said Buffalo Bill, ‘the question is
just this: As the challenged party, Mr. Slade has the
choice of weapons, ae qT have selected oe in his
behalf. :

The words were coolly uttered, and every eye was
upon Buffalo Bill.

As for Betder, lie was seen io iy ate color,

but he blurted out:

The | Weapons: is bate ieshiven a he Sa poward Af

he don’t: use them.’

_‘*The man who says ae Slade is a coward ee add
knows he lies, and. your desire to use a knife against one
who is not your equal in size, strength or see in
handling a blade, shows who the coward is.

“Men, Ee appeal to youd oy it would - a oe oe 7

thn ee DTD:

‘nives between ‘two suc”

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

 

sa Boece roar af voices shouted:

eNO!”

’ The crowd was on the side of fair play, and eg
realized it, but said: eae

‘‘He said any weapons, and I choosed knives.”’

“You chose the weapons you were least likely to be
hurt with, but select your second and I'll arrange with
him very quickly for the fight.’ | ae

«ards, I appeal to you if this is a squar’ deal?” cried
Bender. es on oo

A few voices cried out:

‘‘Knives was agreed on, and they should be used .37

“F will, meet him with the bowie, i impatiently said
Alb Slade.

‘‘T say no! Revolvers are the weapons you are to use

vith . him, but if he thinks he must wet pave a kuife
fight, I will try him on!” :

A perfect yell of admiration greeted this tenmark of
Buffalo Bill, and all eyes were turned upon Bender. ,

But before he could reply, Alf Slade said, sternly:

‘‘My fight first, and if you are not a coward, Bender,
you will meet me with:revolvers.”’- |

‘Yes, revolvers! revolvers!” shouted the crowd, and
Bender saw he was ina very small minority and. must
yield, especially as he claimed to be the best shot ou the
Overland trail, so he: growled out:: See

““Revolvers goes, then, fer I'd just as soon shoot ‘yer,
‘Slade, as knife yer!’’ : :

But for the determined stand taken | by Buffalo Bill, all
knew that Slade would have fought with knives, ani
with hardly a chance in a-hundred of victory...

That Bender deeply felt’ the change of weapons was

shown by the manner in-which he glared at Buffalo Bill,
and those who knew him best were stire that a second
duel would follow ees on the a should Alf nlade
fall. cee
Bender would nor lose an iietané iwealling Battal Bill
to account, and that it would ‘be a duel to death | with
knives all who knew both men were assured.

‘Well, draw and let us git atit!? called. out Bender.

‘No; this shali be a fair and> sqtiare fight as wede-
mand ; so name yon second, ” firmly proclainred-Buffalo

uy don’t want ano. |
See -here,-Bender, if you are
coward, you” “will ght as we demand;

one earnest. sand not a
so. name: »you

 
 

BES

Eas

 

 

Sareea

second, and I will coed: oe ae white if you attempt
any. trickery 8 "ll be shot so-quick you will not know
who killed you.”

“Then. there’s a gang ag’in me??? -
. ‘{No, only all are: Geteimiined, to-see fair. play. -
name your friend,’” »;

Cornered as he was, oe ed over the. crowd
and. called. out as his eyes fell upon a man of his stripe:

‘Roper Dick, will you stand by me? ioe

‘“You bet, for Buf’ler Bill don’ tscare me a leetle bit.”’

‘‘T eannot see why I should, for Ido not understand
why one man should fear another, Roper Dick,’’ was the
reply.

‘‘Well, what's ther game???

“ Revolvers are the: weapons, so disarm your man, as
I will mine, and each weapon will be given them when
they are in position, thirty feet apart. a

at the word fire! they can draw trigger as quickly
as they a and. advance Dee each other, firing’ as
they do so. ee ena eee

‘‘Here, toss with me for the word?!” and Buffalo Bill
took from his pocket atwenty-dollar gold coin he always
carried as a “Tuek- -piece,’’ it having been coined in the
year of his birth. be

Tossing it in the air, as” thee crowed wai heen around,
he called out: A : -

e Heads or tails?’’

adel? oi:

Heads winl!? : : ahs:

‘No, best two in three, and I wants ates cried
Bender.- oo ' fe
ATL right, Bender best. two in: ene and Roper

‘Dick tosses for you,’

“Ng I does niyself!’’. > :
‘*Y say no, and that settles it!’’
- Phen begin now!’
' ‘ST have womonce.’’!
‘That don’t count, ’”? fe Boader i
_opoahk right; -what do you: Say, Buper: “Dick?” ae oe
coin was again tossed into the Bit, ei Sa
i Heads?’ e we pa ie egal
‘Tails win,’’ Se phounced the Ray Rider.

‘‘Now it is your throw, Roper Dick.’’ . 2

_ Bender: whispered. something to his second,.as he took
ae coin,-and- Roper Diek- oe it: high in .air, Buffalo
Bill say ing, piscine

 

Now.

_ THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES. : Ce

Heads!" > Ba te
‘(And heads it is!’? cried a number of voices.
ie ee won the word, SOP Dick. Now place your

man.”? ve

The distance of thirty feet was d acea off, Bue Bender
de not wish to part with his weapons, and but for the
angry looks of the crowd would not have done so.

ie: yielded. with, bad. grace at last, and the two men
were placed in position. .

“Are you ready : we called out Buffalo Bill, as the men
stood, weapons in hand. be

‘‘Ves,’? answered Alf Slade, with no show of emotion.

“Vou bet!’ cried Bender, in a voice of thunder, as if
intended to intimidate. a

es

The hands. veut quickly up, and the. finger on Ben-
der’s trigger must have had a convulsive twitchin Z, for
his revolver exploded before the weapon was at 2 fevel,
the bullet striking the eround at one ‘side of Slade.

Before he could fire a secoud shot, and quickly follow-
ing his, came the report of Slade’s weapon. —

His aim had been true, for his bullet turned Bender
half around by the force of the shock, and, staggering
backward, he fell his length, his revolyer dropping from
his hand.

But instantly he rallied, grasped it, and would have
fired upon Slade who had turned away, but ; a shot rang
out, and his hand dropped torn and bleeding to his side,
while, with a groan, ‘Bender sank ina el apparently
wounded, Bes alae

CHAPTER IV.

eo WARNING,

ce

Chia not dead yet, Slade, and I’ ll Jay you ¢ out, " cried
Bender. oy 7 ee

Alf Slade had his back to his enemy, and did not
realize his danger. Buffalo. Bill’both heard. and saw, and
a quickly aimed shot passed through the hand that held
the revolver, and Bender’s treachery was thwarted.
ac! Bee vat. he .is sbeyond -aid, or if you can help him,
Stevens,’’.ordered Alf Slade,.quietly, to his steck- ae
who was also the surgeon of the oe
over to the. groaning man au Suking ne nae ae
at the wound.

 

 
     

Tea x. GF A

    

10 : . oo : _ THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES. |

“The: bullet racked through the ae but- aid ‘not by outlaws or Indians;. but, as he was pee froin his

 

break a bone—only a flesh wound,’’ he said? saddle, he: whispered, ee
Then. he threw the jacket.back and opened the shitt, | ‘‘Night Riders!” ; ei i
the act revealing that the bullet from Slade’s revolver With: a eon vuleie. ‘miovement, the brave carrier “fell
had struck on a rib and, glancing upward, had entered forward, a dead man; ae oan oe
the shoulder: : i “God bless him! He died in the harness, and hung | on
“Not dangerous. Come, Bender, you are not much to life to get ‘his pouches in! Lt
hurt, though you ll be laid up for a. | month or 80. ‘Rally, “Go, Cody, DUE, look out for “foes!” commanded Alt
man, rally!) ee. - Slade.’ . ae CO Tie
‘Then I hain’t Kale on te oo Bender, bright “The oe bags were flung over the saddle of Buffalo
ening up quickly oe | } Bill, whose’ fine bay horse was rearing any his eagerness :
“Not a bit of it. Pil go to your ee and Ba ‘you to go, and, with a bound, the handsome pony rider threw
up, but lose: no time for you are bleeding. freely.’” himself upon the back of” the spirited animal and was
“Then I don’t die, ‘and I get my revenge!’ muttered away amid a rousing cheer for him. ae ae
Bender, as he was assisted to his feet and walked away Alb watched the brave rider, going, as many ne to
toward his cabin, just as a yoice called out: a i nee his own: ‘death, perhaps, ‘until he- ‘disappeared 4 the :
‘*Here comes the rider !’’ oe shadow of the distant hills, and then turned to the ‘dead
Afar off the Pony Rider was seen coming along the form of Will Hope, who had ‘Clung to life until he got
valley at rushing speed, a cloud of dust following him. - in with ‘his: DECCl Ose freight, poe at the post on
' Quickly toward the post. Buffalo. Bill stepped, and. Alf Chea ula time i ee An Bae
Slade followed him. ae They ‘ ‘saw that the pony Hider had two Satine one in

““Cody,?? he said, i a low, earnest voice: “Vou saved the arm made by a knife thrust, which showed in what
my life, for that man would have killed me had. we Close quarters he had beén, while his’ hand ‘also. was”
fought with knives, and again, but for. your quick shot | gashed, and a bullet’ hhad eutered: his body. a
—I] appreciate it; Bill.’? ; “There was a bullet shot in the saddle, ale. wit one’
ay He did not offer his hand, but his: words nd ook of his. reins had been slashed in ‘two by a. knife, and his.
i meant much; more from Alf Slade than from most men. horse had two slight, gunshot “wounds, and stood pant
i ‘You will send Rathburn on the coach, sir, and. Kane ing and nervous after’ his long and hard Fun
He to Wild - Waters??? asked Buffalo Bill, shrinking from a Night Riders did’ as “Will Hope had said, ‘anid
a being complimented or thanked. ee there is” another, pany’ Tider to ay vEnge, ae AME Slade 1 Te-

EVs, if you sO wish, but do. you still refuse the ‘posi _ marked. cee w a ae oe

ee Be

 

tion of assistant agent, “Cody???” ee a “He gave. orders: to prepare the pay: eee ‘burial, and
“Ves, ‘sir: “for just now I can do better by die pony then: ‘told Rathburn’ and: Kane’to- pepe to his quarters:
express, though I would, be. glad ot the test and d the in a short’ time, to“be: sent oy other duty.” aL es

extra pay the other ‘would | give He : As he walked toward his s quarters fe niused to hime
‘“'There is a teward on the head of- Captain’ Kit, you self, half aloud: ee

know, and each one of his Night Riders)? °° “Ves, he cived me, n0 doubt ot that. ae cena Waule
'Drue, sir; but, put it as you please, it i¢ blood man is Buffafo Bill, a’ wonderful man; ‘and, as he has”

money, and that I will never touch.’’ c as undertaken to run down the Night Riders, I will leave it”

‘ a
‘YOU are. a strange fellow, Cody,’’ muttered’ Alf to him and not take the move et va which x had’
Slade, and he turned to the pony rider, who We ‘then intended. ae Ce ro ae

 

 

dashed up. : ‘It 48 an | detieateaged fact that Buffalo. Bill can get
All'saw that his left arm hung ‘limp by ‘his side, and more out of a horse than any one else, and as for human :
his face was very pale, poe ie a Bees crimson ” endurance in the saddle, he ha records s never vexceeded, ! '
aa drops were falling, © Le or indeed equaled. ae os

There was no need to tell that he had been fired upon. His horses of the pony trail a soon to know ce

 

 
    

 

 

to understand his pace, and they went along without
urging.

He. made rae their master first, then their good
comrade, and they loved hiin as he did them.

Dashing along a trail that many a rider before him
had dreaded for its ruggedness, and also for its dangers,
Buffalo Bie ie eyes were watching the way well
ahead.

No one knew better than he that avery bush might
shield a foe, behind every rock an ambushed assassin
might be hiding, and canyon and timber hold a band of
redskins to pounce upon him or give him a race for life.
At last on this run, he came to a level bit of plain, with
only here and there a boulder breaking the surface.

As he sped down the slope to the plain he suddenly
saw a horseman ride out from behind one ‘of those
boulders and move forward toward the pony. trail,

The horseman at once riveted the eye of the pony
rider.

The big stone behind oh i had been in hiding
might conceal another horse and rider.

the horseman rode to the pony trail and halted.

‘He was then all of two hundred yards from the boulder
under whose cover he had lurked.

‘The pony rider was yet a quarter of a mile away, but
pressing rapidly on, and having only loosened his
revolver for action, for he had not drawn rein, or shown
other sign of having seen the man who barred his way.

The latter was well mounted, upon a black horse, with
black bridle, bit and saddle, a

The. rider was clad. in black from head to foot, ‘and

as well.

altogether presenting’ a very funereal appearance.

His face was so thoroughly concealed beneath a black

mask, and his hands eneased in gloves equally as.somber

in hue, that no one could have told whether he was. pale-
face, redskin or negro, ie c

As the pony rider drew nearer, still at the same speed,
and with no idea of swerving from his trail, the horse-

iman in black raised both hands above his head, the.

palius fuged outward to show that they grasped no
weapon. ee es
“FHello! is it a ehE ‘rider wishing to eee
likely it is one who is willing to sell out the gang for
cash,”’ decided Buffalo Bill.
Then he added :
oY must look out for him.’?

More

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES. i |

-On flew he horse at his full speed, the rider still
showing no intention of drawing rein on account of the
man in his trail. ae

A moment more and the somber horseman called out:

Mbiare, Buffalo Bill, and hear what I have #7 0)

‘See? I carry no weapons!”’

The pony ridér drew his horse toa walk, kept hia
other hand conveniently near his revolver, and advanced
at a walk, while he replied:

‘‘Talk quick, pard, I’ve got no time to lose.’’

‘Do you know who I am??’

‘‘A night rider, I take it, as ok have the look of one,
or an undertaker.’

‘‘Tam a night rider, and I am here to warn you.’

LOE what ee

«Of danger.’”

“Ts that all——-’’

-‘*You are booked to die.’

“Maybe! but I’m wetned Py bullets oftener than by
words.”

‘You must leave the pony trail.”

CW ny 2"

**You’ll be killed if you do not.’’

‘*See here, pard, I’m in the pony riding Biisiness for

a living, and I’ll not be scared off by threats.’ :

‘*Not by death ?’’ Ne

= Why should death be more to me than to any other
man??? 4 |

“Vou will surely be killed if you remain on the pony
trail. There are those who wish you dead, but there are
others who do not wish to take your life, and that :
alone has saved you; you have been in the power ‘of the.
Night Riders when you little dreamed that you were, but
have been spared :

S

ne guess they knew I had - no beng on det run.’
ING,
not wish you killed..’

L WHO.IS Dey,’
“TI cannot tell.”?

<) Or will not.”’

“Have it so; but do you refuse to leave the trail???
‘Ves.
‘‘T have done my duty, so you must take the conse-

they spared you because there was one who did

quences.’’ ;
‘‘So pe it, and only that you came to me with hands

>

Ne a pe

 
RR FTE ME EE ERE Pe Se ET WATERY ARR a ORR TIT oe

ote

 

cece Arta

 

 

 

i ue

up, I'd take you in, pard, or you could get me, ee as it
happened to turn out.”’

Wwe will not quarrel, Buffalo Bill, and I knew I
could trust you when I placed myself in your power, for,
see, I am unarmed.

“'T have a you, ‘and you do not feel, sol have

no more to say.”’

‘Thanks for the warning, pard, but I knew what was
before me when I became a pony rider, and threats do
not scare me off. Good-by and lee Vi have a chance

to do you ‘a oe turn some day.”

CHAPTER V.
A FAIR PASSENGER.

‘Then, from your accounts, driver, all the men out
on this border are wicked ?”’ | y

‘‘Yas, miss, all of us, more or less wicked, some of us

not so bad as others, but none of ug saints, though there

do be men here as would die for a pard, give their last

cent to one as was suffering for food, kill a man for

insultin’? a woman, and never back’ down ag’in’ any
odds, never He or steal, nor——’’

‘“ Hold on, driver, for you are making a saint out of
one of your sinners; for to do what you say, one must
be noble and good indeed.’’

‘But, then they is rough with it all, miss,’’

‘Who, for instance, is a-‘man puch as you describe—

_ Sinner, yet saint?)’

‘Well, miss, in the camp te which vou is going, I
have in mind several men sich as I speak of,

“Now, Alf Slade, the division chief, haiu’t no saint,
but he’s true as steel to friend or foe, generous, and his
word goes fer gospil-in these parts.

“Then thar’ is Buffalo Bill.’’

ay, have heard.of him.”

‘‘I guess..so, for he’s done brave co. coach to be
known.’’

‘What of him?’’ uae ees

‘In the first place, he's as handsome as a picter’, and
put up like a. thoroughbred racer, |

Hels peaceful as.a lamb, too, but. ae ae a gun .
when it’s needed, and they say—and many. believes it—

he has a charmed life, for no Tnjun or outlaw has heen

- ableto down: him.
ak ‘He’ d give his life for a feicua. aad I tas ead a “

Je cod aL

12. _ JHE BUFFALO BILL STORIES,

he came out here to ride pony express, where pay is big,
to take care of his mother and sisters, and he sends his.

money home as he ‘arns it.

‘‘I has knowed him to sit up all ake nurse a,

poor devil as got shot bad and then ride express the
next day and not mind it?

‘Well, how is he bad?”’

He hait’t bad, only, as I said a while ago, he d be
called bad because he had to kill men along in the way
of duty, aud so I says we is all a bad lot, take us as you
pleases) ee

‘‘I.don't believe you, for Tam sure you are not iad, ie

ay ought not ter be, miss, for my good mother shaped
my way right when I was a lad; but I’ve got hard since

them days, and I gambles, drinks heavy when not

drivin’, , an’ has faliee ae the gtavey ards in my small

2

way, miss.’’
‘“That means you have killed men ?”’
‘“Had to, miss—just had to.’’
“In self-defense, I suppose ?”’

‘‘Well, yes, miss, and when a man was trying to cheat -
me at cards, hold me up fer a fool, and sich—it all goes,

yer know, miss, and nobody calls me Saint Matthew—

you know my name is Matthew Wright—Matt Wright.

y-

fer short, always Wright if I, am wrong,’’ and the

driver of the overland coach, then rolling along for.
Rocky Ridge, laughed at what he considered a. good

joke,
His companion Ca tao, waa ee

‘I don’t believe vou and your comrades are half as’
bad as you paint them, Driver Matt, and I am sorry you

do net go on to Julesburg to see how well I will get on

with these Western terrors, as you make them. out.’

“I ain sorry, too, miss, but my run ends at Rocky’

Ridge, though I used to drive the Julesburg trail.’’ .
‘*Do you know ary one in the Julesburg a by the
name of Rathburn???
‘‘Rathburn— Hart Reus 2
"Yes, Hart Rathburn ?’’
*' Does I know hin, ayes
yes, €

‘*Well, Y 1 ay tell yer ef it wasn ’t te Hart Rathburn.

_I’d not be drivin’ stage now.”’

“Way. note’* ae

‘Dead. men don’t, ae coaches, ‘miss—at east, not .
on earthly trails, whatever they might de in heaven.” sa

’

=

Mee 4 5
ake

 
 

 

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES,

“«Did Hart Rathburn save you from being killed?”

epyy tell’ you hejust did. =

‘Ver, See, it were on this very run, and he were
ridin’ pony express as he is now.

“Thad been held up by ther road- -agents, and I Ve a
tich cargo aboard.

‘‘Thet I were going to lose all, and my life, too, were
settled, for ther chief owed me a grudge fer drivin’ him
out of ther gold camps, and he told his men ter hang me.

‘“They were pleased ter do it, and, more interested in

_that then in gittin’ ther treasure, they had puta rope

about. my neck when, suddenly, the tramp o horses was
heerd back on the trail, and I shouted out:

a ‘Go on with yer funeral, pards! It’s only cavalry

{??

from ther fort!
“And I thought was, and so aid they, for ae ran

off to git ther horses.

‘* They had hardly got out a sight when up came the
cavalry, and, Lord bless yer pretty face, miss, it was ther
horses of ther road agents, twenty of ‘em, druv along by
Hart Rathburn, ther pony rider!

‘“He had suspected trouble, was on his run, was
flankin’ ther trail, and, seein’. their horses, he tuk back
an’ started them on ther jump ter skeer ther outlaws,
and you bet he did!

‘Git on yer box, Matt, and drive like ther devil!’ he.

yelled ter me, which same I did, and saved my treasure

and life, leavin’ ther outlaws on foot, ouee they did

fire at us. .
‘“That’s what Hart Rathburn did for me, miss.’? .

‘‘And Hart Rathburn is my own brother. Iam going .

out to see him now,’
fair passenger gave Matt Wright.

Matt Wright was known upon the Overland as.a square |

man, and an all-around good fellow.

He had driven stage for years, and his faults could be
set down as two—drinking and gambling.

Several times he had amassed considerable ‘wealth,
and had started for the home of his, boyhood, but would
get upon a spree, aan all, a have to return to
work again, ~

When on duty Matt never drank. He was wont to
gamble in his idle hours, but ‘never touched liquor until
a longing came oy ver “hie it seened which he’ poniG not
resist.” Ca

* was the information which his. .

~ said:

  

13

Then he would. give up his place, and take a few

- weeks off for a carousal.

‘It’s a weakness, I own up; but it’s nature, and on
I'll never be different, and there
ate the good people at home hoping for me to come back

can’t go ag’in’ nature.

some day a great inan.

“Tt’s a thorn in my side, but I suffers ther most,’’ he

would say to his particular pards. *

He had found Rita Rathburn awaiting bls coach at
the end of his run, and her beauty of face and form had
at once struck him, while he wondered what had

brought such a woman alone out into the wilds of the

far West.

‘Some officer’s darter goin’ out to one of ther forts,’’
was his decision regarding her.

Rita Rathburn: was beautiful, for hers was a face to
see and not forget; hers a form the perfection of grace, :

Dressed in a plain. gray traveling suit, she wore a soft
hat that was, very becoming, and her little hands were
sheltered by gauntlet gloves.

She had slung around her shoulder a leather satchel
which she kept close by her, Matt Wright observed.

When she tounted to the box she did so with the
She had asked to drive, en
when she took the reins Matt’s eyes opened, for he saw

easy swing of an athlete.

that she was a skillful driver.

As they went on their way, there being no one else on
the coach, they became right good friends, Matt Wright
and his fair passenger; and when, at last, it became
known that Hart Rathburn was her brother, the driver
was delighted.

Then he said, in a serious way:

‘But what takes a out to Julesburg, miss?’’

‘“To see my brother.’

‘‘T don’t wonder that you wants ter see him, for he’s
a fine fellow: but then, it hain’t no place for sieh as you
be, miss.’’

‘“‘T’ll get used to it, and like it.”

‘‘I guess not. It’s too tough and rough for that.
was hopin’ you was a officer’s daughter out at the fort:
it wouldn’t be so bad; but out in a wild camp you will
find it too mighty rough fora veane and pretty girl like
you,’

Rita Rathburn flushed under the compliment, Dut

&

i. ‘ sch PUES Pink,

 

 
  

 

 

 

14

‘‘T was born ina frontier fort and reared amid the
scenes of a wild life, so it will seem like old times to me.

‘‘Besides, in spite of what you say of the men out
here, they are not so bad, only rough diamonds, save a
few outlawed wretches who may be beyond reclaim.”’

‘‘Well, miss, this is the place to find all kinds, and
matiy a man out here is dodging the gallows and the
jail, and, having begun wrong, they keep up their bad
life when they come West.

““J am sorry you is coming out here to aay. as you
teils.me, for you'll see sete? Mee pretty Sy. shouldn’ £
look on.

‘It’s time we was meeting the Pony Rider out 0’ Wild
Waters, miss, for he’s allers'on time, but late to-day.

‘‘I hope he hain’t been held up by ther Night Riders,
for hé poes in over this run at night, and they PS
only by night.’’ :

‘‘ And do they trouble you much, sir?’’

‘‘At times they plays the deuce with us, and the
passengers and freight, but 1 hopes we won’t see ’em te-
night.’’

‘*T hope so.’

“As Rita Rathburn soak she saw that darkness was
falling fast, and the driver had told her that it was yet
ten miles.to Wild Waters, and that Rocky Ridge was
still double that distance further on.

It seemed to Rita Rathburn that, with the davies
the trail grew. worse, and Matt Wright relapsed into
silence, devoting his whole attention to managing his
tea. . ee on aa

At last they entered some heavy timber, and all about
them was pitchy darkness, but Matt Wright heid on as
though he had the eyes of a cat, and Rita Rathburn was
just about to ask him how he could see to drive, wnen,
sharply on the night air broke the command:

‘“Halt, Matt Wright, by command of the Night
Riders!’’ | a

“We is done for!” moaned the driver, as he put his
foot hard down upon the brake and reined in his team
at the same time.

(CHAPTER VI.
_ DOING DOUBLE DUTY..

Bidale Bill made his ride in safety, in spite of he

7, SRT He ET Cert ee Sg EES po EE i aT a

Z

warning of the night rider who intercepted him on the

traik: 574

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES. |

“He reached the end of his run, received the return
pouches from the porily rider arriving there, aud started
back to Julesburg. Ree Aes

Reaching Julesburg on schedule time, he was compli-
thented by Alf Slade and again offered the Po of
assistant chief of division.

Again it was declined, and then Alf Slade said:

‘‘Well, Cody, we will wait and see how your plot to
entrap the Night Riders turns out and then, maybe, you ll
accept.’’

“Y think not, sir, but I hope to be eaccesstul in my
hunt for the riders.’

‘‘You saw nothing of them on your last ride??’ ;

‘‘Oh, yes, sir,’’? and Buffalo Bill teld of the meeting
with the masked man in black who had given him the
warning.

‘“Well, they hae surely given you fae warning; but
I cannot understand just why they are so anxiousto get
you off the trail,’’

Nor Tj sir; a my place could an be filled.’ ”

‘‘T could.put on another rider, for Iam one to believe
that no man lives whose place cannot be filled, though
it would be hard to find your match, Cody.

‘But there is some secret motive, I-am sure, for these
Night Riders wishing to get rid of you.

“If they desired to kill’ you they could do so, but
instead they warn you—try, in fact, to drive you off the
trail.”’

‘(And I won’t be driven,’’ said Patao Bill.

““Tonly wish, for your own sake, that you would aoe
the warning; but vou know best.

‘You saw Rathburn, I suppose ??’’

‘‘Ves, sir; met him on his coach before he reached
Rocky Ridge.’’ ; a

‘fAnd I sent Kane with him to go on to his post a at

- Wild Waters.’’

“Yes, sir; he’ll be there all right o my next ‘ride,
But how is Badman Bender, sir?’’

“Improv site slowly, Doc Stevens tells me.”

‘*You' must look out for el sir, ee ‘he gets or
again. ms TR a
Alf Slade smiled as he eo

‘How about you, Cody : eae

‘Oh, Pll keep an eye on him, too.’’ Herloe tee a

_ “De se, for re is even more bitter an you than he
is toward me.’”? — oe : ae

Se

 

ae

 

 

 

 

See

 
 

‘a
i

—

SEs

SE

    

wie
is
a

 

 

 

 

‘THE BUFFALO BILL. STORIES.

; “Did the roy arrange ae abe. coming os s
ee sir?” i

_ ‘Wes, they gave her your cabin, and all chipped is in to
ft it up.in fine style, for I sent some things over.

‘‘Y had the men put up a cabin near, and I can tell
you she will havea nice home of it for this part of the
country, while: the camps are wild.about her coming,
and I stippose Rathburn will find her at Rocky Ridge on
his next run, and bring her home with him.’’

“Yes, sit, he expects to; but I’ll go and:see if I can
do anything else to add to her comfort, and see Boss
Betsy about taking Cateof-her?’ 32.0: :

‘That has alréady been. Gone? Boss Betsy is in ‘charge
of the cabin, Soa eee ae oF

"She will cook for Miss Rathburn, and help her all
she can, but will keep her own cabin on the brook; which

is not far away, you know, and -continue to: wash: and ©

sew for the boys, and turn an honest penny, as she calls
it, thus- making her fortune, for she is ‘getting rich,
Bill, being the: only: woman in ee I hope she won’t
be iealous of Miss Rathburn? 200 > Las.
Buffalo Bill Jaughed, for -he had seen-a ee
svhiely Hart Rathburn, had-of-his-sister, and recalled the
freckled face, red hair and athletic form the boys had
nicknamed | ‘* Boss. Betsy” from the. fact that. she had
bossed. cher. late husband and held the whole. cainp..in
subjection. " hy
As Driver Drayton's wife. and. the only woman in

camp, she had done.well in taking in <‘washing and

mending,’’ but, as a lone wedew i8hS -had doubled her
charges and got all she. asked. oa : 2
_ Buffalo Bill was. her. fay orite es ae his ae an
ae she was partial to; and she stood in.awe of: Alf
Slade, but. all the Test. of the camp. were as mere cattle to
Boss Betsy. eehed Pei
Ugly she certainly was; in fact, Scott-Kane was wont
to say that her face pained her, it was..so homely; but
as the one woman in camp, she was. regarded as a most
superior being g, and she made capital out of the fact,
When Buffalo Bill left headquarters he made his: way
over to his own cabin, to be amazed at the change there.

A fence had been built around:it, eticlosing am acre of

land, which was bordered:-by the brook on ‘one side. ° —

o Mere, by. the waters, inthe “shelter: of the trees, a
rustic arbor had been erected for the coming patel tue of

‘tue elLug littie Rouse,

15

Acr Oss ‘the front me the ie a cade: piazza - “nad been
built, and the place looked very homelike from without,
Within, the place looked even more attractive, aud
Buffalo Bill was the «more surprised at what. had been
done. _ | fod ee ie
ae men, had all iheen a to cebu some:
thing to. adorn or be useful, and furs, birds’ wings, mats
aud easy chairs were seen everywhere, with a hamimnock
slung under the trees. . A :

A hundred yards flan was the new aad hastily
erected cabin fér the three pards, and Buffalo Bill went,
after he had taken a. look at the. nest intended for Rita
Rathburn, to see Boss Betsy. , :

aan? it grand, Bill, _and won't she: be Cvaiotiapie:

ok only hope she won ’t. put on airs, for that I can’t
sane. and won’t from an angel. ae

‘‘Drayton, big as he sas, never. ee me, and no
woman,shall,”? decidedly asserted the widow. .

‘Don’t: get'a chip ou your ‘shoulder to welcome her,
Betsy, for I believe you will like Miss Rathburn, unless
you make up your mind beforehand not to do $0, ‘and in
that. case. Twill have: Hart-send ta,Recky Ridge and ect

ea woman, for there are several there, you know.’’-

This quiet. remark’ silenced: Betsy,- for she was in
deadly fear of a rival inthe © ‘washing and eee”
monopoly. which she held, ‘and she said: quickly:

. “ Don’ + You: “fear, Bilt; YL It treat" ‘hher‘a as thought she
were my ‘own child.’ ee ere

And Buffalo Hill felt poe 2 nomen Bony: was no
longer “bogs, ca :

Aart” Rathburn came in on schedule time, though it
was his first drive’ over the overland trail on a coach
Woe ee ee Loe ee
gers: and? had no seeidene or ‘Bivedeline

‘You are as good a driver as you area pony rider:
Rathburn,’’ was Alf Slade’s- comment, and this ae
“meant a good deal from him. ee

With Buffalo Bill’s aid Rathburn werit to obec tide
ing their cabin more comfortable, and adding a few fin-
ishing touches to the dwelling place of Rita nae

It looked so cozy and homelike that all the men i the
camp. asked ‘to cenie over and havea peep at: it, ue
there were miore volunteers ‘than were required: to: clear
up the grounds and add to the manera; trim appearance.
vi ihe surroundings. |

 

 
 

 

 

16 oe THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

By the last mail Hart Rathburn Had recived word
from his sister that she would arrive by the next through
coach, and so he expected to meet her at Rocky Ridge,
and when it became known in the camp that the pony
rider’s sister would soon be with them, every man 1 began
to brush up for the occasion.

Buffalo Bill went out to the grave of Will Hope, the
pony rider who had been the last victim of the Night
Riders, and placed a bunch of wild flowers upon it as a
token of his regard. ‘

_‘*Poor Hope would have done as fauich for me,’’ he
said to Hart Rathburn, who had also remembered his

pony rider pard. In fact, the grave was’simply hidden

under wild flowers, the tribute of kind hearts, if toner

hands.

The captain of the Pony Kiders reported for duty on
time, when he had to again go out on his run, and
dashed away with the pouches brought in by his com-
rade of the trail. a ;

The next morning Hart Rathburn mounted the box
of the stage, and all the camp assembled to see him off
and wish him success,for he was to bring his sister back

with him: and each man was as much interested i in her ©

coming as though she was his own kin.

‘When Buffalo Bill arrived at Rocky Ridge ee found
that another pony rider had come to Biren. a)

His horse had come on into camp, but ale gud
there were marks on his saddle that showed he had
been down in the mud. -
os party was ordered out at once in search of the miss-
ing courier, and the poor fellow was found dead by the
side of the trail, a bullet wound in his side.

He had been fired upon, ‘wounded, but kept his saddle
until his, evidently hard-rushed horse over a bit of
rugged and slippery road, had fallen and rolled over
him,

Unhurt, the horse had sprung to his feet and gene on,

aud the rider, crushed by the fall, had lain there in the

trail and breathed his last, his pouches lying near him.

| With the rider dead, and miles from the station, no
one else there to take his place, Buffalo Bill at once vol-
uuteered for double duty, and went on with the express
bags, a ride of eighty-five miles further.

But his form | was as hard. as: iron, and his sinews like

steel) he could stand any amount of hardship, | lose night

 

2

  

after night of sleep, and so he didnot ies from the
task, or even hesitate. eee

Leaving the party to return with the dead pony ‘rider,
and with a sigh for another comrade gone, Buflalo Bill
dashed away upon the task he had set for yess to
accoinplish. ee

‘His own run was a hundred and ten miles and return,
with seven changes of horses, and over the wildest, most
rugged part of the long trail, while it was also the more
dangerous, having been proven by far the most fatal to

riders and stage drivers, both from the deeds of outlaws

and Indians.

To this ride of two hundred and twenty miles, with
the return considered, he was to add eighty-five miles
more going, and as much returning, making in call,
without rest, a continuous ride of three hundred and
ninety miles with twenty changes of horses.

As half of the distance was to be covered at night,
and the-trail led over mountain and plain, through can-
yon and valley, across streams and through a land
haunted with danger, the reader can see that the daring
captain of the Pony Riders had cut out for himself a most
gigantic task. ?

Nor was this to be all that Buffalo Bill had to face
upon this memorable ride, for he was flying along on his

run to Wild Waters when he drew rein with a sudden-
ness that threw his horse upon his. haunches, while a
whistle of surprise was given at a discovery he had made
by one quick glance at the trail he was pursuing. ~

CHAPTER VIL.
BUFFALO BILL’S DISCOVERY. .

‘The discovery made by Buffalo Bill was the tracks of
shod horses, going oars a ridge, aud: some dozen in
number. ee

Coming from the mountains, they could but be foes,
and the animals being oe showed i aes were ‘not
redskins. ; :

Night Riders, then, tes must be, and their way led to
the stage traila mile to the right, for just there the
pony ‘tral was: ‘making a cut to save several miles:

The stage trail passed through a gap in the moun-
tains, that led into a valley, and it miust be that the out-
laws: were on their mae to teal oft the stage aud “hold. ait

 

 

 
  

Of course, it was important to push on with the pony
express matter, but Buffalo Biil had been told that the
incoming stage to Rocky Ridge was. bearing a rich
freight in funds to pay off the Pony Riders, drivers and.
other men employed by the company. :

This meant a large sum of money, and it was being
sent through first while it was given out that the con-
pany’s. paymaster was to come by tlfe next coach, so, if:
held up, he would have nothing to be robbed of.

This secret had been divulged to Buffalo Bill by the
agent at Rocky Ridge.

But the pony rider captain knew that there was another
valuable freight on the coming coach—Rita Rathburn.

_ At least, her letter to her brother said she would come
by that coach,

- Matt Wright, the driver, Buffalo Bill ge well and
liked.

If the pony express matter was somewhat ged, he
must try to save the company’s inoney, Rita Rathburn
and: Matt Wright.

How to do so was the question, ‘

First he would exaniine the situation. —

So he turned off the beaten pony trail, and rode on.
after the one that he could readily follow, and which >

was so fresh he knew it had been made within a. couple
of hours.

. As he drew.
tiously.. | os
“Ap:
proaching as nearas he dared to the trail, he dismounted,

Fortunately, he was : glislterca be Ges tebe

hitched his horse; and went along on foot.
He walked with great caution, for he knew his danger
if he came upon the outlaws suddenly, -

He had gone but. a short distance hobs a
horses feeding ahead. - ve
They were staked out, theie he ah hae a
Whee oa their deen : Ly

‘There were just twelve ee and Buffalo Bill say
that one was a. pack anual. Ns

_ ‘The men inust.be in the gap.

The coach, however,
hours or more, so Cody. a to. climb: the hill,

He. decided. to reach the range, look over. in. thee gap,

discover just where the outlaws: were ambushed, then go
back. to. his horse, ride around by the ep0ay oa, head,

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

“the coach off, give warning,

near e stage Ee eal more cau-

_ was. not ihe. for” a. ene of

17

and have Matt Wright
leave the stage, mount his ‘passenger or passengers oi
the horses, and take the pony trail, and flank the ain-
bushed outlaws in the ambush, carrying his treasure
with him. :

But when Buffalo Bill crept cautiously to he edge of
the precipice and looked over, to his surprise he did
not see the outlaws in ambush. |

He searched all about, and, failing to find them, he
began to look for a position from which he could view
the trail running through the valley.

At last he got a place from which to scan the long,
narrow, but pretty, valley.

‘‘Ah! there they are!”’

He had discerned a group of men in the edge of a
pretty grove of pines in the valley.

The stage trail ran through the center of this grove,
and the bandits had preferred to ambush in there, as, if
there was a euard with the coach, they would be on the
watch for foes at the gap, but not at the pines in the
valley a ittile, nearly, away from the range, |

They had left their horses beyond the range and gone
to the oe on i) and a aes rider captain mut-
tered: e

“Vl try another game, and one that Hart Rathburn

- once ‘played—that” is, capture oe horses, and then

warn Matt of his danger.
“Bat suppose they. Aer a guard: ‘with their horses?’ re
must go slow.””
_ With this he retraced his way down the nage and —
after some difficulty obtained a view of the-horses of the
Outldwe <8. eee Dee ae

As he was looking. the situation carefully over, he
beheld a than lying on.a blanket near the horses. __
- Buffalo Bill calmly looked the, matter over as_ he stood
on the ridge gazing at the outlaws’ horses. and their.
guard, apparently asleep on his post. |
Ifthe -had. been in any doubt as to who the riders of
those horses were this had bee dispelled by noting that.
each animal was jet black, as were also their saddles. . .
oT have thus far lost just twenty-five minutes, and: if
on-time, the stage ie Re at. the: poe in two: neue at
furthest.- ees a as Tes

Night is coming on, a I think one het Pan neat

 
18
aid of Scott Kane and his assistant, with the horses
there, for a dozen outlaws will not be so easy to drive
away from a treasure they deem within their grasp.

‘“By hard riding I can reach Wild Waters in half an
hour, and an hour can get us back behind the coach and
make the outlaws believe we are a guard of cavalry.

“*Now for it!”’

With this, Buffalo Bill rapidly descended the ridge,
and when he got into the valley he knew he had to take
his chances of being discovered.

There might be two guards over the horses, or, if not
the one might get up from his blanket and discover him.

The horses, seeing him, might neigh, or otherwise ~

arouse the guard.

The Pony Riders rode as lightly armed as possible,
and Buffalo Bill carried only one revolver.

The guard, or guards, as the case ‘might be, would
surely have rifles.

This placed the pony rider at a great edie.

. Aroused, through whatever meaus, the guard, being
armed with a rifle, would be able. to open upon Buffalo
Bill before the latter was within range.

‘‘T must make strategy serve me if he discovers me,’’
lecided the wary rider, as he left the range and ‘boldly
walked toward the scattering timber where the recum-

“pent form of the guard was visible.
There was no need of caution now, Ponty so much as to
nake no ‘sound to” arouse the guard, so Buffalo Bill
‘walked erect ‘and with a firm ae his hand to
ay his revolver.
- His express pouches he had concealed : near r where he
eft his horse. :
Nearer and nearer he drew to ihe form on 1 the blanket
ind he saw now that it was clothed i in black.

The sable slouch hat lay by him, and the face was

masked.

When withia: a “Haneies ey of the man, Buffalo Bill

paused, and looked all about to see if there was another —

guard,

To his relief, he saw none.

As he continued to advance one of the horses, as ae
is the case, discovered him, gave a startled snort, end
trotted to the end of his stake rope, awe PAV ace

This catised the others to throw up their. ee and
sound an alarm,

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

And more, it. brought the ‘sleeping guard to.his feet
with a bound. aes
Ee rubbed his eyes and gazed hurriedly. about hint

It was at long range for a revolver, but Buffalo Bill
would not fire until the guard showed fight; he would
try strategy to get nearer. a

Suddenly the guard discovered the prowler, and the
discovery was a startling one, for he uttered a cry of
alarm and sprang with great leaps ‘toward a tree some
rods away, whiere Buffalo Bill now saw a rifle leaning.

The guard must not reach that rifle, ‘for the t terms
would be too unequal if he did.

So Buffalo Bill fired a quick shot at the running man.

The bullet hit his leg and knocked him down, but the
man was upon his feet in an instant, and made another
attempt to spring for the rifle, but his foot would not
allow of it, and seizing his revolver from his belt he now
turned pon the pony rider.

‘‘Hands up, pard, or I fire,’’ shouted Buffalo Bill,

The response was a shot, and the bullet came danger-

ously near the pony rider’s head.

The shot was answered with surprising quickness, and
the aim was true, for "the night Tider fell in a heap on
the ground. — :

Though Buffalo Bill saw his man a fall, and had perfect
confidence i in his own aim, he approached cautiously.

‘He had seen men “supposed to be’ dead ae oe
ous very suddenly. ° oo

~It had ‘been iis wish not: to kill the man, to’ “Wound
aad take hii prisoner. -

~ But he had proven::so dangerous. he did not dare to
trust him too far, so had fired to britig him OWI) S O8

Still, he had hoped not to have him die at once; for he
greatly to be desired.

‘Thus far most of the Night Riders brougtit down had
been killed outright,

might get a confession—a thing

-though there’ had’ been — several

_ exceptions that Pe how well the band * was organized

and disciplined... ay
One man, wounded ee when his foes approached
him, turned his last shot a “hiiself, thus. ending ts
QW ieee ee a ea ee aco oe
Another had died with sealed is refusing to tell on
his comrades. >. Dy Piehe Piet lena eG i SA ate
A third, captured anne had. beds nanked: refusing
to the Jast. to betray the band-to save liis Hfe sk cee
ptill, Buffalo Bill, though know! ing all this, tae oe

 
   
   
 
  
  
  
  

 

 

14
ne
(ey
i
|

 

 

that one man inight do what another poeta fice. aa
had been anxious to keep from killing the guard if he
could do so, :

Wken he reached the man he turned him over upon
his back and took from his face the black mask.

‘He was not dead. ae

Pewell, comrade, I am sorry I had to fire to kill, ? said
e po sny rider, with real sympathy in his tone.

He saw that the man was conscious, for he looked
Cody straight in the eye.

/ “T would have kiiled you.”’

‘‘Who are you?”’

“ omioent rider,’.

“Where are your comrades ?”’

oy will not tell.”’

guilt from your conscience ?’’

Cag”? :

‘You are dying.’’

ae know itis

“T wish I could help you.’

You cantol.”

“Buffalo Bill hardly ene what to do.

He must not let the coach be held up, and yet he dis-

liked to leave the dying outlaw.

But he felt his duty was to the company he served
rather . than tothe man who had warred against it,
though he was now dying.

Night was coming on, and the cites in the pines
might have heard the shots, though he did not think so.

-“*Pard, I will make yott as comfortable here as I can,
and leave you, but later will send aid to you, for I must
go on my. way.

‘4—. am sorry,’ but.it must be $0.72.

Buffalo Bill. had hoped that the man would try and
ee seek to make some confession, after all; in-
stead, he merely said:

“Go; do not mind me, I have brought this upon
myself.’ ‘ ne

Bylale Bill put eut his Lat
The outlaw had not strength to raise his, pat tried to
do so..

The pony rider ctogeed and grasped his, and: then
f fplaced-him in as comfortable a position as he could.
| Near him he left his revolver, to keep off a coyote.

Will you die and make no confession to remove the

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES. 19

Then he nea grasped ‘his hand, and in silence viene
away.

Taking the rifle of the outlaw from the tree, Buffalo
Bill then mounted the best of the horses, tied the others
two by two, and drove them back on the trail he had
come. : uF

Reaching his own horse, he took his saddle and ex-
press pouches, and at once set the horses into a rapid
run.

‘This was kept up until the pony trail was reached.

Then he hitched the horses, and upon his own animal
went speeding along at a tremendous pace back to Wild
Waters, )

CHAPTER VIIT.
A STRANGE CAVALCADE.

It was growing dark, but the horse knew the trail and
soon covered the distance, and dashed up to the station

-of Wild Waters, where Scott Kane was now stock tender.

The latter came out, rifle in hand, much surprised at
the sudden appearance. His comrade was just behind
him.

* Ho; Bill! you back ??’

“Ves, and not a moment to lose. You and Roper Dick
arm yourselves; you, Scott,-bring your bugle; get my
horse in the corral and come with me,. for we can save
Matt Wright’s coach from ambush.

: “Don’ t lose a minute, for we coe spare the | tine.
Matt Rares: treasure, and as know Hart Rathburn’s
sister is along on this run.

The two men did not take a minute to arm (hon
selves, and'while they got the herd of horses together,
Buffalo Bill saddled the two they were to ride. :

In just six minutes the three men were off to the res-
cue of the coach, the horses’ hoofs echoing loudly as they
sped along.

Buffalo Bill fully realized that he had to act quickly,
that if the coach was held up, Matt Wright might be
killed, perhaps some of the passengers, if there were any
others than Rita Sea and the treasure taken and
pee robbed.
“he outlaws worked quickly and well when at their
lawless deeds, ‘and would very soon carry out their bold
intention to rob, perhaps to kill, so he and his eee
had not a moment to lose,
 

 

ae .

The horses of the outlaws were found where Buffalo
Bill left them, and with those brought from,the station,
were driven on at a run, forming a large cavalcade.

They were urged on along The pony trail for miles,

and after nearly an hour of hard riding, came to where
it ounce more entered the stage trail. |

There a short halt, was made, and Buffalo Bill, dis-
mounting, quickly lighted a match, and, with Scott
Kane, searched the ground thoroughly.

They were not long in finding what they sought, for
there were the fresh tracks of the wheels and horses.

The stage had passed, just how long before they could
only guess. ,

They had no time to lose.

It might be then nearing the ambuscade i in the pines.

‘‘Now, pards, I have not been able to tell you just why
I came for you and what I wish,”’ said Buffalo Bill.

*‘ Start the horses on ahead, and we ll ride together,
and I’ll give you my plan.’’

‘All right, pard Bill, we are with you, whatever is to
be done,’’ said Scott Kane.

‘Yes, shout and we obeys,’’ added Roper Dick, Scott :
Kane’s. assistant at the station, and a good all-around —

. fellow.

The horses’ were started aheaa: once more, on tie
jump, but now tied with Jlariats, four abreast, as the
stage trail allowed of their so going.

Thus they looked like a company of cavalry riding in

fours, and were thirty riderless animals.
‘'Pards, I came upon a trail crossing the pony path
near Rocky Ridge and I investigated.

‘‘There are just eleven Night Riders ambushed in .

Park Valley, in the grove of pines near the center.
eomhey left their horses the other side of ‘the gap at
Rocky ‘Ridge, and with one guard, so I corraled thein,
and that accounts for the animals Thave alone.
“And the guard, Bill?” asked Kane.
‘We had a couple of shots, and I left him badly

wounded, and you must see to him, Scott, for Igo on at

once on my trail as soon as we have blocked the game.
‘‘Rleven, you say?’ asked Roper Dick.
‘Yes, and we are three; but we will make them be-
lieve we are half a hundred, , with the horses we have.

‘That is why I asked Scott to bring his cornet, for.
he can give a bugle call or two, and we will stampede
the riders w hether they. have already held up the coach

or not,

‘“When we get neat the’ pine grove we can charge at

the call of the bugle, and riding in front: of our troop ‘of

horses, we can open fire, but be careful ‘not to aim tow ard |

the coach.

then Matt can drive on aud you can acconipany him.

 

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

  

‘As we will have the outlaws’ horses, they will be
on foot, and make their escape as best they can.

‘‘When you get through the gap look up the man I
wounded, and carry him in the coach to the ‘station, “but
I think you will find him dead, as he was failing fast
when I left,

“‘Now, on to the rescue!’ and Buffalo Bill urged his
horse to a still fleeter pace.

But now to return to the Sees. which had already

been halted.

As he drove along on his way with Rita Rathburn on
the box with him, Matt Wright had not once forgotten

the danger of the trail.

He had only hoped that he would get es that |
run without a halt, for he realized that a hold- “up would
prove a great shock to his fair passenger. :

Aware that he was carrying a large sum of money and
knowing the plot for the paymaster to come by the next

coach, and so try to prevent being robbed, Matt Wright |

hoped that the scheme might work successfully.
But he was doubtful, and the gap in Rocky Ridge was

: what he feared.

If he got through there without a hold-up, then he

had hopes of going on all right.

It was then a surprise to him when he heard the com:
mand to halt, in the pines in the valley, a mile before he
reached the gap.:

Not for a moment, daring as he was, would he have
then attempted to dash through, as he had several times —
done, for fear of bringing a shot that might wound Of
kill his fair passenger on the box uh ;

When the challenge came he at once understood what
was expected of him, and never in his life had he halted
with greater promptness. :

“Sh! Don’t say a word to let ’em oy you is a Wo-
man, or they might want yer fer tansom,’’ he warningly
whispered. | a

But his foot was on the brake, his strong hands had
drawn hard on the lines, Be the team had come toa
quick halt. — |

In the darkness the shadowy, rons of oe outlaws:
were seen.

Approaching the coach on the side. on which the driver
sat was the tall form of the chief..

‘“Good- -eyening, Mr. Wright, he said, ‘pleasantly, as -
he halted and looked up at the driver, his mask being
seen even in the darkness,

‘I doesn’t call it a good evening when I’m held up oy
a lot.o’ men who ought tet be Banged, y boldly responded
Matt. te

Don't get cross, for it. will do ho good, and you

, | : _ know we must live. ae
“ATL we wish is to “stampede AMe, Night. Riders, and

By stealin’ ‘other folks’ goods: ‘but yer ait git nothin’ pe
fer yer trouble this time, so take that for a pointer.’ ce

 

ee TR Tyne re TRON or eT ee err
i Lai Pes)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

  

oh beg to differ from you,”’ eee the outlaw leader.

“Ves we does differ, for if I was, like you, I'd be
cutthroat atid thief, too.”’

“Don’ t get cross, ag say, Math, but ay me what freight
and _ passengers you’ earry,’’ and the leader seemed | un-
moved by the insulting words of the driver.

‘I has one paseenger, no freight to speak of, and
you'll get nothing to-night, for the paymaster you hoped
to find didn’t come on this run.’’ . . :

‘‘You both lie and tell the truth, Matt, for the pay-
master is not along, though I happen to know that his
money is, for I take it the lady passenger you have, and

.who is bound to some one of Has foris, is | Party ane it
through for him.’’

‘You is away off this time.’

‘‘Seeing will be believing.

‘*T expected you would have an escort, and so I con-

cluded to hold you up here, instead of in the gap, for we

could let you go by if there was a guard with you, “and

our presence not be suspected here.

‘Our horses are in hiding beyond the gap, and so we
will ride on there with you.
treasure you carry, aud’as this lady is doubtless an offi-
cer’s wife, she must have baggage of value along, jewels
and other things worth taking, while a good ransom

would be paid for her, so I shall hold her a captive and

yake the demand for money to buy her release.
‘“You see, this is a good night for me, Mr. ‘Wright,
though you do not seem to enjoy it.’’
The tone of the outlaw leader was politely sarcastic,

but every word he uttered fell heavy ily upon the heart of

both Matt Wright and Rita Rathburn.
“ See here, Cap’n Kit, fer that’s what they calls yer,

as yer don’t dare let yer own name be known, I wants —

ter ask yer, a8 a ian, ef yer has any manhood left in
yer, does yer jntend ter take this leddy a prisoner jist for

ther leetle gold yer’d git out o’ it?’ asked Matt Weel

indignantly.

wee am out for gold, Matt Wright, by. fair or foul
means, and if it can be gotten from a woman I will
Haye 3t,

“Veg she will be my prdbner until she can buy } her
freedom, so, that is all there is of it, ” was the response
-of the road- agent chief.

“Well, I has heered many hard things said of yer, but

YP m blamed ef yer hain’ t meaner than any man it knows.’

“Come, no more talk or I’ I] silence your tongue for-

“ever.

“You've. “got. ‘treasure aboard, as { know, and your
passenger is worth more, aud I want, and will have, all
I can, get.

‘Hand over that money- -box, Matt Wright, and you,
miss, must dismount and go with me.

(Oh, Sit, will not you. take any word § for my. re ansom a

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES,

But, come, I want that

‘their horse se
—alry ea Resistance would be madness; the only

ai

‘‘No; possession is nine points of the law, and you
will have to remain a hostage until the money is paid. _

‘‘Come, Wright, delay a minute longer, and I will
kill yee. Out with that treasure, for I know you have it
along.’

There was nothing for it but to obey, and none knew
it better than brave Matt Wright.

‘The passenger would be held, the coach robbed of its
treasure, and delay would cause the death of the driver.

But just as the outlaws gathered more closely around.
the coach, there came tothe ears of Matt Wright a sound
that made him start. :

He was elevated above the others, and he heard the
fall of many hoofs coming along at a swinging pace.

He did not wish the outlaws to hear the welcome sound
until the rescuers were nearer, for he was sure that a
conipany of soldiers must be near.

So Matt talked in a loud tone, called out to his horses,

‘as though they were restive, and whispered to Rita

Rathburn:

‘‘Cry like ther deuce, miss, fer help is near, and I
don’t want ’ein ter hear it!’’ |

' Rita Rathburn had not heard the sound, but she
obeyed, and burst into feigned tears and sobbed, yes
to touch a heart of stone. ¢

““Say, pard outlaw cap’n, I s’pose I has ter yield ter
yer demand—ho, thar, yon critters!—as long as I can’t
help myself, and I’ll tell yer thet you’ve madea rich -
haul. Aund—ho, thar! what’s the matter with you crit-
ters? Oh, glory!”

The last two words were uttered with a yell, for sud-
denly was heard, back on the trail, the wild call of a
bugle.

It was a terrible surprise to the aad. for now they
all heard the quick fall of many hoofs, almost upon
thein, and the notes of the bugle rose wilder and wilder.

‘Bor fours! charge!’ shouted a commanding voice,

and the frightened outlaws waited for no more.

They were on foot, a mile from where they had left
; the sound of hoots indicated a troop of cav-

chance for safety would be flight and hiding in the
pines. 4

In his mad 1 rage the chief fired twice upward.

Had his purpose been to kill Matt Wright, and was
the second shot for the woman as well?

Whatever his niotive, he came very near ‘killing both:
Rita Rathburn and the. driver, for one bullet passed
through her hat, the other grazed the head of Matt

_ Wright, inflicting a slight wound in the scalp.

The driver threw his revolver forward to return ‘the
fire, ‘but checked himself, as he feared a volley would
be returned from the flying outlaws es might Kill Rita,

He did uot think of Ringeett,

f

/

oe

 
22

Another moment, and every outlaw had disappeared
in the shadows of the pines on the right, for in that
direction they could keep under cover across the valley,
reach the hills, and get to the spot where they had left

their horses, and ace they had no idea ney would

not find there.

Then up dashed the rescuers, and, to his utter amaze-
ment, Matt Wright instead of beholding’ a troop of
cavalry, beheld’ a number of riderless horses, and but
three men!

The cavalcade came toa halt by the coach, and, in
the darkness, Matt Wright could not recognize the three
rescuers, but one said quickly: —

“Drive on, Matt, for they have no horses to pursue
I must be off. Good-

you with.

night!’’
The speaker wheeled his horse and dashed away in the

_ darkness.

It was the captain of the Pony Riders—Buffalo Bill.

Kane will explain,

(erent pce mt

CHAPTER IX.
“RITA'S STORY:
‘‘We is rescued, miss,’’ said the driver, exultantly,
as he drove on. ‘.
“Veg, and it appears to have been a most remarkable
rescue,’’ replied Rita Rathburn.
“Just like Buffalo Bill does things, miss.’’
“And the man who rode away so quickly was my
brother’s friend, Buffalo Bill?” |
“Ves, mics,’
‘* He said but little, and did not even give us a chance
to thank him.’’
‘That’s his way, miss.’
“Ae i is modest, like all brave men.”
“Just as modest as a school gal, miss.’
‘But, why ‘did he eare?
Vou see, he is ridin’ ‘pony express, and wat behind
on his time.

“He like as not, found the Night Riders was Suit for
_ blood and went back and got Scott and played it on
them, for they fooled me, as I thought it were a A pop of

cayalry.’’ |
‘“There was a bugler there, and a good one.”

“That's Kane, for he plays ther cornet, and he vay

it good, too.
We TL know it all when we gits to fd station,
which Kane has charge of nows? ©
On through the valley drove Matt,
horses at a brisk pace and talking as he weit.
‘‘Kane is one of yer brother’ s pards, ‘miss, for he and

' Buffalo Bill and d part Rathburn lives tergether, as 5 I told

yer. .

a dane he is eal ridin’ Be express, but Kane a

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

Keeping his

 

 

   

oe Sea eae

stock tender now at Wild Waters, which we is coming
to, and yer brother takes the coach on when I leaves it
at Rocky Ridge.’’-- a

“‘IT shall be glad to meet my brother’s friends, ‘and to
thank them for their great service to me to- -niglit. o

‘I don’t jist know why Buffalo Bill are ridin’ on this
run to-night, for he belongs on: ther trail from Wild
Waters on to Julesburg, but, maybe, ther regular rider
hez been Ri :

‘*Poor fellows, they are in- constant dread of death, as
you also are, Mr. Wright.’’

‘“Now, don’t call me mister, for it don't go out here.
I’m plain Matt Wright and don’t claim no titles.’’

“All right; we are good enough friends, I think, so I
will call you Matt.”’

‘“Matt goes, miss. Yas, Scott, nat is it?” and Matt
auswered a call from Kane.

‘Halt after passing through the gap, for I’ve gota

wounded man, or a dead one, for you to carry through. uy

“O.K. Ill freight him eee Holes or dead, if
he’s your friend, pard Kane.’

On through the gap. the eoaeh rolled, and beyond, i
the scattering timber, Matt halted.

It was’ bright starlight, and the oe had rolled
away, so the night was not very dark.

Scott Kane and Roper Dick at once tied the drove of

horses, and, mounted upon their own n animals, began the
search for the wotnded outlaw.

Following Bufialo Bill’s directions, it was not long
before Kane found the spot, and he saw the form lying
beneath the tree whtere Cody had left him.

“Come, Dj ick, here he is,’? he called out to Roper
Dick, who was a hundred yards distant, and the driver
heard his call and waited.

‘Say, pard, are you’ all’ right??? asked Kane, as he
approached. cae

Na reply came, and, stepping forward, he bent over
the motionless form.

“Dead,” he muttered, as he placed his hand | upon the
head, now with the i icy chill of death ‘upon it.

“Ho, Matt, drive over here, please. .

Matt did so, halting the Coach near.

Kane had wrapped the wey in 1 the blanket, and called
out:

‘*Pard Matt, he’s dead: Gnd I’m, going to ask you to
carry the body on to the station, and D i bury: it. a

Petia a a

ay ho is he?”

A night rider, ’” : er oe
“*Good! He’s all right. Who kilt him?
“Buffalo Bill and left him here wounded, while he

came for us to help save the: eee) from the riders who

held you up. *

Bat iil explain when I get’ to the station, for’ now

   

 
  

 

 

we s must hustle away foots ee as s they will come after
their diorses.. hes .

“The blanket- -enyéloped. form was placed in the coach,
and at a brisk 4 pace Matt’ drove on once mores: the: two
men following with their horses, i

“Wild Ww ters. was reached without firther. trouble,
and the six fresh horses left in the corral were brought
out and replaced the team. that had just come in.

Leaving Roper Dick to see to’ the changing of ‘the
liorses, Scott Kane started to explain to Matt just how
he had been’ rescued, when the latter said: — ;

Wait: and tell it to my passenger, too, for I’ve got
ther sweetest leetle leddy along you ever seen, and it’s

 

Hart Rathburn’s Sister, nae over to ther coach and if 1

interdooce yer? :
“T am. glad, indeed, you were “able to serve ‘Hart’ S

sister, and we knew’she was expected through on your.
coac] tn, Matt, ‘and Buffalo a and all of us were that

more anxious to save you,’

“Arid yer did, mn and. approaching the coach, Matt con-
tinued: — ; ‘

_ Miss, this is one 0” yer. brother? s pards, Scott Kane,
whom I spoke to you. about, and. he’s ee ter meet met
da lis ter: interdooce. him.’ a .

‘Indeed, Tain: glad. to meet you, “Miss Rathbum, “and.

your brother will take you ou from Rocky Ridge.’

_Rita swung herself. down. from. the. box with the ‘easy
notion of an athlete and, steeping: Kane’ 8 hand, said, :

W armly :

“You have nobly: served. me,. ae “ane, a from oe
heart. - thank you and your brave. friend, ‘whom J wish,

  
 

also to know.’
. Roper, Dick will soon, be here, miss,

 

 

 
 

and I will prove my ‘appreciation ‘when. I see.
ore deserves | all, ae Rathburn, for he.
double duty. é

 

&

“He svent through, Matt, on: ce run, as ‘the rider, ‘was

 

mine and so is taking ‘the ride ON from. here, eyed
‘(An hour after he. left. ihe was back again, had ine ee

the horses up, and we started at full speed to flank the

valley and. come in behind you on the trail...

“Tt seems. Bill, ‘discovered the outlaws’, trail, eotlowed
it, found their horses under a ‘guard, wounded. him, left
him there, and, finding where the band was, ambushed,
rode back for us to help him.

‘*We had the horses, of the Fiders. alee as Buifalo Bill
had captured them, and we played: cavalry. and _ fo. ste
peded your, enemies, , Sa 3

aN

 

“Bill told me to carry. ‘my ‘oprniet ene, ‘aud when the

outlaws | were driven off he Went on his run,- and. a, hard
ride he’ll have of it, “enough ‘to kill any other man.’?
“He'll make it all right, never fear, and git in on

 

= io a

Mi esa aeRO ee

“THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

time, Tit. bet big money, said ‘Matt Wright, ao

 

at we were. a
means to an end, for Buffal o Bill deserves all the credit. e
.,.4 have uo doubt that he also deserves any than ks,

as doing

3

enthusiasm.

ne ll neyer . " bet a panos Buffalo” ‘Bill, Matt but here.

comes | Roper Dick and Miss Rathburn wishes to meet
him.’

Roper Dick was duly preted bid Rita Rathburn
won his heart by warnily grasping his hand and thank -
ing him,

The fresh team was now ready, and as the body of Whe
dead. outlaw had been reinoved from the coach, Scott
Kane suggested that Rita Rathburn ride inside and get
what sleep she could.

‘No, indeed | Tu not desert my ae comrade, Matt, yy
she replied. “T will ride on the box as before,’’ and,
with a good-by, she swung herself. up with the sate
ease with which she had descended. _ ce

Matt was delighted. at her decision, and away the
coach started once more to make a rapid drive to Rocky
Ridge and make up for the time that had been lost
through the hold-up by the Night Riders.

It was midnight when the coach drew rein at the Over-
land tavern, in Rocky Ridge, and standing in the light

of the open doorway was revealed the tall form of Hart

Rathburn, ie
* Phere is my Pog ‘cried. Rig.
in that garb before, but 1; know that it is he. ip
es, miss. av Ss your, brother, and he’ Ss Just a lookin’
fer you with all his eyes.’

As the coach halted Fatt Rathbuas ae oe a s side, :

and in-another Anoment he had welcomed his sister.
“arth

Da :

It was all they. said, but, the. tea ch nen was. a
and Matt Wright. felt a lump in. his throat and brushed
tears from his eyes which he could. not force, back.

AS. Rita turned she: saw those tears alictening in, | the
ew and said:
7 %On Dave
and you. Kuow now TL. appreciate it. a

 

 

_ Matt. could ot. reply, ‘but. wrung ‘the tiny. hand. in 1 hig

ake in silence.

‘Yes, Matt,.old pard, you have brought, my, sister. 1

ine, and. AL, must. also thank. Yous, but. did you haye e any
trouble?”

A Well kinder reckon we,did, and ef. it, bean t ean
fer Buffalo Bill—God bless him—we’ ‘d not be here--at,

least, yer. Sister .wouldn’t, and somethin’ 1 carries, too,

and you has ter take on. through, so look out. fer trouble.
yerself, as. yer, knows them Night Riders. when, _they is
dead. sure thar. JS gold. ter git, amakes. two or. three,

attempts at it, by dividin’ their band and hittin’ all,

along ther trail... oe on oa ae
“That is so, Matt, at te. don ior the ve
‘You have the paymaster’ s box along???

6

 

SSR AB

Ty never saw Ww him

brought me. safely Abrough, good friend,

    

 

 
ae

 

®

“Yas, and yer sister, so look out ior trouble, > was
the whispered warning.

Hart Rathburn slightly Changed cola? ak the w warning
of Matt ‘Wright. ee

He recalled that the outlaws when pretty sure that a
coach or a’ pony rider carried a valuable freight, were
almost certain to make two, if not three, attempts to get

the booty before it got to its destination, justa as s Matt

Wright had said.

They would divide their band in two or three parties,
and strike“at as many points on the trail, so if one
missed another might be more successful in securing the
booty, as the drivers often used- strategy to save their
treasure and passengers from robbery.

That they knew of the paymaster’s strong box being
aboard was certain from what Matt Wright told him of

his hold- -up, and a second, if not a third, effort to rob

the coach Hart Rathburn felt morally sure would be
eo

oo eton himself he did not oo but then he had his sister
ee and after a talk with Matt he decided to leave

‘her at Rocky Ridge until the next run of his coach.

But when this plan was’ told to her, Rita Rathburn
would not hear of an,

<'T will not dodge any danger 4 you Tee te face, Hart,
and you should know me better than to ask me to do so.

“T go through with you on this TMi, OF take the con-
sequences,’’ was the bold reply of Rita Rathburn..

Hart knew. his sister, and said no.more. .

Supper was eaten at Rocky. Ridge, a, fresh. team pu
to the coach, and Rita mounted. ae box .by the. side of
her brother. =

Matt. ‘Wright: Said ie be a a ad. te in: ae
voice, and saw the coach drive away with foreboding
of evil.
sel. don't think they: u loa Aer up. oe Chen
hatte. I-only wishes I. could. do. something sto. help
Hart and his sister out, Die I.don't just see what. it
can be.” :
- Withsthis he sighed and-went to his quarters...

Although anxious as to the result, Hart Rathburn did
not wish to~show it to his sister, and as. pi san ascthes
were well on-the way he ‘said, cheerily: . ee ea

~** Well, sister, Vim: more than’: ee to = see: syonus
though ee is not the Dee ft Dlsee a ee to ee ot
tor eee! Pte! Sy oel® ete
AA, ae 1 tae we oe Speight: ne for
you are°all that I: Have to eare> for® now; and:cyou. well
gee I know what itis to r6oueldite 39) eo ee yen

   

oe Ves you: ca adapt yourself” tO? circunistances as well

as’ any” ‘one F ever saw: but® you" Avil’ ‘Have a’ pleasatit

cabin, the boys will give you a hearty welcorie; the one
woman in camp, Betsy the Boss, as she loves to be called,

_tofore paid,

 

ae

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

will look to your ‘cérifort: and four days of the: week 1
will be in Julesburg. ” re far «nae os
Then T will have no cause to coiplain, for’T have
my guitar and ‘violin along, my music, a lot of ‘books
and plenty of fishing tackle and animunition, ‘ict’ -to
speak: of my. work ‘basket ° ‘full of needles, thread and

_darning cotton, so de can keep busy ae will have to be a

mother to the camp.”

‘‘A pretty mother you will be, sis.’’

“Thanks for the compliment.’’~ ~~ nas

*‘Oh, I did not mean it that way, though: you are
pretty——yes, beautiful, more so than ever; but: fo are

nothing but.a child in years’!

. fam twenty- -four.?/.
‘Ves, and even in your few years have known very

much of sorrow and trouble; but tell me, Rita, just why

you caine West?”’ -
**T will, for you might as well know it now as later.’’
‘Yes, Iam anxious to know all.’
‘‘Well, you are not aware of ail that has happened, so
I will go back to you—— ‘Pardon me for eae bit-
fer: memoriés, but I must——7? 0” ee ie
“"*Don’t mifud ime, sis? ce ote moe
‘Your ele duel with our Sei Tr meant.’* :
MSS Se = le c

“ Mother, poor: sot hed given hist full cotitrol of.

ev erything, and thus he gore all our: property in his pos-
session, — “ os
~“ Mother’s déatly a

Hiekilled ber!’ : 3;
“Ves, her heart was ‘broken, I phew ail she felt that
by her’ marriage ‘with him, ce 2S in oe him aig
had ruined us.’? as Bed

‘You killed him; an L that: ride: his sou his heir, and
then. began my greatest ‘suffering, for : my husband: was
dgtermined to get tid of me, rand; as you know, cee
to slowly ‘poison me to death. —S

‘The discovery of his crime. Sent him'a fugitive out of
the land, and you - were also a vir Eee in ae
Ty Cae up ee estate it was. dicaeed that tices
was: “only a: little money fer me, but the: furniture’ and

es

other personal effects F had a right to sell, and did soy

ue ‘Then | our attorney told me that what else there: was
r éotild not touch Without my husband's Signattre.”

“! One day ny lawyer éamé to’ je ‘and: asked regarding
soine land father had ‘botight itt the West long yéars ago.

‘IT told him we had always considered” it worthless,
but “my mother had ‘paid taxes*upon it as long as she
lived, as it was father’s urgent Tequest she should do so:

The: lawyer said that-the tax: bill-had just been’ sent,
and Was for a large amount, ‘ten timés the” ea cane he

 

‘So ‘Be wrote out to an n attorney néar ee a ce

CORT IE a irc rc atta

y : a ae

 
 

 

Fee

ese

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

covered that thr ee railroads. had. centered on ae land, a
city. was. ‘Springing up near by, and the property was
becoming most valuable. :

: aa prices: were offered for jake on our land, ae as
we had hundreds. of-acres there, we would realize a large
fortune by. the sale.

“But thén came the coulten in. the chops a my. hus-
band’s signature, which must be had. to make the sale
legal; he" was a fugitive frein ee and sO must be
found. : oe 3

“In this unfortunate predicament Here was “nothing
tobe done but find him.’ - > 4.
~ i° And: you haye cone out here to oe so! 537?

EL have: “

‘Have you any proof of his being here???
TT have!’ was-the decisive reply of Rita Rathburn.

eet a

- CRae rR
SAVED BY STRATEGY.

At tat, Rita broke the. silence by saying: 7
“Ves, I puta detective on his track, au he. discov-
ered that he was last seen at Leavenworth, and came

further west with a. wagon train bound to Denver.

‘To Denver, however, he did not g0, but came. to:the
Overland, and:it was said: pene a stag e. driver under a
man by the name of Alf Slade.’ ae

OF Alt Slade is our division chief, Rita, and i Pe
every driver for three hundred miles each side, of his
headquarters.”’ , ;

> iS Well, he «may have given ‘up stage driving. fe other
oe but dam ‘sure he is out here, for. he was last heard
of on the Overland near Julesburg.”’ os

{There is nothing: he could be doing, out nee orl
syould cettainly. have heard of. him.’ * :
: cg ie might: have changed. his. mame, atid doubtless
ee es
fo SfAh!- that. may he $0; oc L would lenov hier fat a
glance. '. : 2 7 Reh dae

‘He woutd og you, Hart, equally as. well >
eT ree a i
et You: have hot oe your. name; ang so. ae woul
hee it, aid; what is more, if he did he would. be. on, the
watch for: you,, that you did not: see and yYecognize. ‘hum.

‘By growing his beard: and dressing in: rough clothes;
wearing his. hair long, and assuming another mame, you

might. aot: fYeeognize. him, papecially 9 as: ‘you would not

 
 
   

suspect is being. here.’ —, ee

J Buty: granting that. hei is here, what: 4s your. intention
regardhve, Bre?) acd...

»ACIn. the: first place, Ido opt oe are he ‘east ‘kill
rene ashe vowed te do. when you. Billed his father), in?
hat eucl: a

Seu Aenea Nau pene nba Aut ot evi eNuiae uee emo MUM aS MEG NOR ch

oe

“y will Se tie to be ou 1 the watch for an assassi: 4,
Sissy
LAT ay better, for I will find the man myself.”? pa
Vou tae t
“TJ will see that when I find him I hate him in my

7 power!

“Yes, for, he would kill. you as quickly : as he woul
me, as you have had reason to know.’ ;

‘“‘T have indeed, 2

‘“Once the man fascinated me, cand T was as his a ceey
ae ; ‘3
el deemed it love, ey it was ae influence over me
simply that made me marry him.

‘“My eyes were opened, and it made another coe out
of me; but I tried to make the best of my mistake, to
put up with my ignoble bargain.

“You know what followed, Hart, and ‘that he and his
ihe sent our mother to her grave, and made us, “as we
Delis ed, almost beggars. _
- “Now it turns out we are rich, but to get our own we

must find Burr Ford and make terms with him. _

i he ‘must not. be killed, ‘for. he has: information and
papers my attorney must have.

“We can get hin in our power and with threats of
sending him East for trial can’ bring him to terms.

‘‘Now, Hart, Burr. Ford must be Be and oe he
is; leave hhimi to 'me!’’’ a .

Oe ‘right, Rita, for I know ee can ae the
whole affair well... :

“T will put Buffalo Brill and Scott Kane, my pledged
pards of the pony express upon the aoe also, and if
he-is out here’ we will find hii. SS ee ee

Vow may rest assured of that, Rita. ay wilh likewise
have a talk with Chief Slade, and see if he can give ime.
any clew as to’a man (ot ine He ‘being on tite

‘Overland ‘trail’ °°

“Do all you can, for. the man must ss ee

{It will soon be generally known that I'am here with
you, and then, remembering his: former power over mie,
I believe he will look ne uP df Cnly to: totter 1g frem
me.

et Eee Bing a he ig-in? at Tek: and will ind
me 1 eS a et De aca tena a ane
"Don’t tet him make a foo! of ‘you a& “hétore, ‘sis!

‘Trust me for that, Hart. I was a fool once, but a sad
experience : a > taught: ame sound Setise, and: J ami iron-
he: arted: now, a (oa a Oueg od ee edie 8 tea

Thus they Ces, gntil. thie gray ae ‘i morning ap:
peared and Hart Rathburn. gave a’ sigl: of relief. as
another spot where the outlaws’ had. held.up coaches mas
Hoy Riders in the past was gone by in safety.. oe

The relay. stations were reached. on time, and. a oa
tender: at each one reported that. no sigt of the ag

had been seen. oe

 

  

 

 
 

i
@
it
i
4

   
   
  
  
  
   
  
    
 

 
  
 
  
  
  
  
  
 
 
   
  

SS

- “The Night Riders ba your way!

eNig hts Riders .doingy’

 

26 ene BUFFALO. BILL STORIES.

. oe we pass the valley ahead in ue efter iL ‘will

feel pretty sure of going through all right,’ ’ said Hart,
as they drove away from the relay station where they

had had breakfast.

The sun rose as they left the. station, and in “spite of
her night ride Rita Rathburn looked very beautiful, and
as sheagain drew her thick veil over her face Hart. oe

not refrain from saying:

“Vou have certainly become more beautiful, sis, in
spite of your sorrows, for ‘you look as fresh as a " dew-
drop. But, here is the valley, and

Bali | : ee
pry

In spite of being on his guard and half expecting he
would be again held up on the trail, Hart Rathburn

Started at the bold command, ard his face whitened.

He scented to realize at a glance that the coach would
be robbed, his sister taken asa hostage for ‘Tansom, ‘and
that no help whatex: er was near.

The coach had just desended from a ridge into a large
valley, broken by timber, rocks and a streain.

. There were innumerable places where an ambush could
be held, and the presence of foes never suspected until
they drove upon them.

The trail ran through a growth of: thick timber, with
‘bowlders: upon either side, and. the one. who had given

the cominand to halt rode. ater into, the taal; lis

-fifke in hand:

He was: mounted upon a black Morse: is coe was

black; and his: face was covered with the sable mask of
the Night Riders, : a

‘Hart Rabe was. surprised ar t being heed. in ihe |
It was: ne ek he had. snot heard: before-0 of. thie

 

 

« He recalled: that’ i ne ‘Ox heoatdant for jee
ae him nearly an hour behind, and had he conte right

son without a stop at -the last station, louger than for a.

Saas eae would. ee aaa darken a eneral Burke’ s. daughter captive the army. would make i

he reached the valley. UG es a ee
-. "Phe Night=Riders:had been: lectins ee sooner,
that was evident, and in spite: of “his Arriving: ati thee

ambush after daybreak , they were not to be cheated out |

of their prey, and so ee Re ne oa ee ne oe in

2 the ‘daytime,

“Suddenly an “idea Aushied? ‘across ‘the: ‘ready tine of
Hart Rathburn, and as he drew rein’ and put -his foot

upon” ‘the ‘heavy California: brake £0: Malt: ay Coan ina a
Wlispérs; c5 sv Gra oe a ee a

  

TLetame. manage © this, SiS; + only cle je 2 out, D oo

instead.’

ain toa. having met your chief, and if you can find
any, pickings | atter he and his coyotes, have gone. through
the outfit, you are*welcome to-all you get,” .

    

¥ a
“The chief halted you, ee “quickly. asked the
horseman,

+ Mou bet he didi:

“Where?” 4 Ce

“Tn Pleasant Valley Sone r

Wien 2 ue
a Jittle attey. nightfall.’ 2.

“What did he get?” a

‘Enough to make Alf Slade put at force out ‘ run
down and hang every coyote of you.’

“Good! Then he got the box ?”’

FONOs yo Cin “have the strong box if you want it, tor
after he has had his. hand in it you may be sure it is as
clean-picked as a deer bone after a coyote has had his
dinner on it,’’ a

‘“How much did te get?”

“The paymaster’ s money to pay. off the whole ¢givision
“for. two months. was in the box: but you ‘Ul have to nae e
your head wolf. tell you how much it: was. frac

e Goad?! sees
o \' Anything, elge?”’.
estiere’s. tie box.’

a 1 ask you. if he got any thing alae :

“Now you know a there was tb else ‘of vale
ane got it, ae "
“ - Why, bp eve ee thig a. pay a: a big ransom, whe

 

was so inean, robbing her of things that ¢ cal do jim 4 110
ae dei ae

Well, we. xia our “life: to get gold, ‘and we. want |
owe can find.”

 

4 He. ahougie 90% a ae hak nae Ee a took

   

it a little too hot for Le so. he. concluded . tor yb. her

   
 

oF cotA I fe is “Miss Buylee is ak ‘he ee
~slanced fixedly: ‘at Rita's veiled: face:as) she ‘sat: quietly

a tistening: to her: ‘brother! 'siclever-and’ bold’ ruse to escape
Devs robbed, and wondering if he would: be stecessful..

| Welly ‘Sit envoy what © interest” have ™ ca in me?”

 

  

   

 
   
 

i ae dared. not disobe; y. the. command to halt, $0. he ee os

 

 

 

 

  

 
 

 

 

THE BUFFALO | BILL STORIES.

eee he has not the power to act “Bgalnct you for your

other lawless deeds.’

me “Oh, yes, I know him,

a
ae broke your rijlés ih Koldjae me up in the

daytime, haven’t your”? oe ae Rathburn, with a

sneer. ; tertaa

SS NOTE

and Pu let you: ly

You were due here neti ca ‘and I waited,”
‘‘VYes, your chief put me behind. pon t want the box,
eh, for it’s of no nse to me.”

PON), drive On
‘Thank you for sce aud ate Rathburn drove

on.

CHAPTER XI.
THE SILENT WARNING.

When he had accomplished the good work of s saving
the coach from robbery, and Rita Rathburn from capture,
Buffalo. Bill, with a word to his pard, ‘Scott Rane, weut
off as silently as a ghost.

He put spurs to his horse, for he not only had a hard
ride to make, a double duty to him; but there was much
time to make up, lost in his ‘Aalting: to render good
service.

On, on he went, no Eee having any dread for the
coach, or its. fair passenger, for he ay how well his
plan had worked. .

Station after station he came to,’a rapid change of
horses was made, and, still bearing the valuable Sabres:
bags, he sped on through the night.

He urged his horses to their greatest speed, one after
another, as he inounted a fresh one at a relay station,

for he was determined to make tip for lost time if horse
flesh and human endtirance combined could do it.

“It was just inidnight when be reached the end of.his
taken chanees with greater odds, as I. ee to well

run, and he*felt that he-had ae or eet a oe task,
though he was still behind time. :

He had ridden from Julesburg to Ray ieee ad
thenceon, and had delayed over two hours on the road
in his rescue-of the coach, while he had also ridden back
‘on the trail to Wild Wee and. thence on with. his two

comrades from there. os piine gies

Without a aie $s more e delay that, was necessary;
the gallant pony rider was off on his return, and the

_ horses were kept at the same tremendous and killing

_ pace. from station to station.

Wild ‘Waters was reached, and there a ale ‘of fa few
minutes was made for Scott Kane to tell him what, had
followed his rescue.
| “Then he was off again, and Rocky Ridge was reached
“just'ten minutes: ‘behind the time of the pony rider who

 

ee

Mounted upon - a fresh horse, he was away again as
soon as he had taken a small repast, and just as the sun
peered over the mountains he said, with grim satisfac-

‘tion:

‘'T will catch the coach before it reaches J Blesbats
and go in ahead of time in spite of my dcuble run.’

He had badly uttered the words when, in glancing
far ahead_on the trail, his keen eyes caught sight of a

‘bit of paper fluttering in the air.

A closer look, as he approached at full speed, showed
that a string was stretched across the trail, and in the
center of it, about as high as his breast when mounted,
was fastened a slip of paper.

He at once drew rein, took the paper from the string,
cutting the latter from. the trees to which it was tied on
either side of the trail.

The paper was addressed upon one side ta:

‘WE, Cody, Pony Rider.’*

. Upon the other, written in a good hand with a pencil,
was the following, which Buffalo Bill read aloud:

‘“The coach driven by your pard, Hart Rathburn, has
been twice halted, first by Captain Kit’s men, who
robbed it, and also the lady passenger.

‘It was halted near here half an hour ago, bat as
there was nothing to get, it was allowed to go on.

“A third party of the Night Riders are in Black
Canyon, aud the leader of that is Captain Kit himself,
and he will surely hold the lady for ransom, so try your
best to warn Driver Rathburn of what he may expeet,

-and save her from a captivity that will be cruel.

*‘If you reach here too late to overtake andvarn the

coach, you might attempt a rescue, for there will be but

five Night Riders in the third band.
‘““A bold dash might stampede them, and you. ae

know, Buffalo Bill. ae
-*€T his is a silent but well-intended warning fron one

wees can: oe no name other than:

ine STHENE WARNING.’’

Buffalo Bill did not hesitate an ae ate reading

.this strange note, but put spurs to his horse and dashed
-on at a swifter pace: than before.

' He had ridden about. a mile wien he ae wheeled
out of the trail into what seemed only a deer path.

“T know what I’ ll do,’ he muttered,
way, as hie sped along. a.
-“ Fortunately, I know this country a and though
i cannot overtake the: coach before it gets into Black

in a nae ee

WCany on. I can get ES the clifts: Sree the spot
had ridden thatiua, a

 

 
Es

BES

 

bl

28 THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

ouce there, when they hold Reece up, maybe I will
have a. chance to chip in.
‘*But I must ride for it.’’

bl the men.jn the. camps swear they will ‘not put red:
skin and paleface, good and bad, in a grave together.
“"And so they~ remain unburied, though human

; ee
ES BORED

as

NY]
i

V9

i

it

x
{

 

_ Having decided upon what he would do, Buffalo Bill
‘pressed his horse harder and harder, muttering from
time to time in a eG way tq the straining
animal.

PL oe do it, old horse, for your speed alone can
help now.’

At last Buffalo Bill wheeled suddenly out of the deer
trail, threw his rein over a limb, seized his express
pouches, and began to climb the steep hillside on foot.

In the meanwhile, Hart Rathburn came to the Black
Canyon with the feeling’of a man who would be content
if he passed through it in safety.

Some presentiment of evil seemed to have impressed
him.

_If his sister was not along—if he only did not carry
the pavinaster’s money—he would gladly take all
chances which he might personally have to run.

The Black Canyon was a pass through a ridge of dark-
colored rock running from mountain to mountain.

The ridge was/not over a quarter of a mile in width,
and had precipitous sides, causing it to have the appear-
ance of an immense wall of stone.

The canyon, or pass, was like a split in the ridge, not.

over a hundred feet wide at its greatest width, and on
each side at its base were huge pieces of rocks which had
split off and fallen from the cliffs.

There were also cltimps of stunted pines growing in
the canyon, and with the rocks they formed the very best
places for an ambush for horses and nien.

The cliff on either side rose from forty to sixty feet,
and there were stories told that the Black Canyon had
been the scene of many an Indian massacre, when one
tribe massacred another, and it was known that a wagon
train'of emigrants had all been slain there by redskins.

That there were graves and many human bones scat-
tered through the canyon appeared proof of its having
been a scene fatal to many, whether Indians or whites.

‘' Here is the Black Canyon, Rita,’ said Hart -Rath-
burn, as he drove into the deadly. pass.

“Tt appears a nained, for the rocks on ae side”

are almost black.’ ne
“Ves, and its history is a black one as well ?
‘Why, those look like human bones, Hart,
' for see those two skulls!”

‘*Ves, there are many of ‘those to ue seen Were

“‘Why do you riders not bury them ?’’ ie
‘*Buffalo Bill suggested doing so once, but there was

~<a great howl raised; for some are known to be-whites,. -

others redskins of hostile tribes to each other, and to
bury them together the Indians would become enraged

 

they are,..

beings.
“Ves, Rita, and we Pony Riders call it the Place of

Skulls.’’

Rita Rathburn looked sadly about her, and then re-
marked:

“<The Pony Riders have well named the place, but it
is in this canyon that you dreaded ae the Night Riders
might again hold us up.’?

Ves. ep)

“And whiat then ?’’

Ob vean only play the same bluff game, Rita; as I did
last time. By Jove! I was right—see there |’’

As Rathburn spoke there stepped out from behind

large rocks, upon either side of the trail, forms clad in

black, and masked.

There were two of them, and they were on. ioe but
as Hart. glanced quickly behind him he beheld two
horsemen also ride into view.

- Then he again looked ahead, and his eyes fell upon
another ‘hotseman tiding out fron: behind a rock ‘from
whence had come one of the men on foot. if

The latter halted: irae in the a and held up his
hand in silence.

Hart Rathburn drove on until his leaders were almost
up with the man “whose horse a their way, and
then he drew reii. :

At the same time the viene naa broke oe into a

‘Toud laugh.

ae seem amitised,”’ said the horseman.

“7 ari. ‘

‘*T don’t see the joke, and I guess you won't chink | it
so funtry when J tell: you that ne are in the hands of
the Night Riders.’’ : He et

‘Vou are the third ae of tetas that. has halted
me since last night.”’ as

«Aly! then yous fake been halted bec os
The questiom was area) afi anxious tone.

‘*T rather think I have.

“T thought you were a new. man, but ee are Han
Rathburn, the pony rider.” ee
'* Right! go-up head!”

‘‘Whoshalted you? 7 : a ey
i Captain. Kit and. dis canine gang; then, fifteen _
niles back, one of his lieutenants and his pack of eayotes,

Be) ital

and now you and your gold- -hungry wolves!”’ an

‘What did Captain Kit get??? -~ -
- “Just-take a look aud see if you can find. anything of
valtie. aie escaped | himh—if $0, you are heartily wer:
coe.’ hag ay ee -
aa will, “te Tve had 1 more ‘experience ‘a ge business

 

we erent a Sa ata aa

 
 

 

THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

and only need look at that young lady to see that ie has

Oy erlooked capturing: a treasure,” “was bet ee response.
we “ain Captain Kit,

The teply of - ‘the idee of the Night Riders was a
decided rebuff and disappointiment to Hart Rathburn.

He had hoped, as before, his suggestion of a search of

the coach would be sure proof that there was nothing to

find of value.

But the remark of Captain Kit. that his officers had
-: overlooked. making a capture of Rita to hold for ransoin
but carried out the words of the leader of the second
band of outlaws, that if halted again the same considera.
tion would not be shown the oy passenger that had

-.- been thus far..

‘What do you mean ?’' vases Hart, lreteading not to

-- wnderstand his words,

“‘T mean that I see a treasure to be gained for. the ran-
som of that young lady.”’

‘Do you mean that you would dare hold the Se
of the general commanding this department a prisoner
until she was rausomed ?”’ i

‘“Why not? And as I have a grudge against General
». Burke, I can now even up matters by holding you for
ransom, Miss Burke.”’
“warn you that the insult will be avenged,” spoke
Rita, indignantly, and she drew her thick veil more
closely. over her face, which he could not see at all.

“Tt is catching before hanging, young lady, and with
you in my possession I can make my own terms with

. General Burke.

“You must go ae me, Miss Burke, so. ae what
clothing. you care to from your trunks, and I will Tare
a bundle of it all, and carry it along.

“Come, dismount !’’

-He-spoke sternly, and with his voice. oe as dated

. terrorize the woman. ;
. Jorefuse to:go!’’ was the firm vegindee Bf Rita.
‘“Then I shall have to use force..

‘‘Distiount: from that coach. or. I will. oe my men:
get up there and bind you rey for I stand no.

trifing now!’’
~ Hart Rathburn dropped his hand upon ae revolver,
It was evident from his look that he. intended to defy
all odds and resist his sister’s capture.

_ She saw this at a glance and quickly said: ’

» “Twill go, and you will find that I will be ransomed -

with lead and steel instead of with gold.’ % oo
The man laughed rudely,.and Rita whispered quickly:

st mist be Part. REL

~ “You and your friend; Buffalo Bill; can rescue me.

— “TE vould be madness to resist; for you would be shot

_, down inercilessly aud L would still be a prisoner.”

a

you, sis,

29

‘It is true, but it breaks my heart to see them take
** and the deep voice quivered with emotion. _

‘“Come, I dislike waiting, Miss Burke,’’ rudely: said
the outlaw leader, and he held up his hand as though

.to aid her down from the box.

But there came a sharp report, and ween a yell of
amazement and pain from the outlaw leader’s lips.

Ere the surprised and terrified Night Riders could
move, a second shot came from the same direction, and
the other outlaw, who had dismounted and stood near
his chief, fell dead in his tracks. ie

‘‘Hands up, all of you!’’ cried’ a voice that seemed to
come from the clouds.

But the three mounted men had no idea oF surrender.

Their foe could not be seen, so was certainly not down
in the canyon. They put spurs to their horses and
turned in flight.

‘‘That is Buffalo Bill’s war cry!’ yelled Hart Rath:

burn, and, as he uttered the words, the tall form of the

pony rider captain appeared upon the top of the cliff
above them.

There he stood, his broad sombrero in his left hand,
his revolver in the right, and his eyes peering down —
into the canyon and watching the rapid flight of the men
as they spurred like mad through the Bap | to seek safety
through the speed of their horses,

ae hat a grand picture!”

‘It was Rita Rathburn that.spoke, and her gaze was
fasteried upon the pony rider. _

As she looked she saw him step back from the cliff:

put he reappeared in a ininute, with a coiled lariat in

his hand, a weapon he never went without.
One end of it he had already made fast.to a small pine,

. aud the other he dropped over into the canyon.’

It reached within a few feet of the bottom.
“Swinging himself fearlessly over the edge, he began

‘the descent, hand under hand, and ‘as his feet touched
the ground, Hart eee ae a sister stood there to
receive hiny. ° eu

‘“Ho,’Pard Cody! I. owe you another favor to the

‘Many already due, for you do not know what a great
- service you have rendered,’’ and Hart Rathburn grasped

the hand of his pledged. pard, who cone

‘‘T can guess that you were in trouble.’

‘“But let me make you known to my sister, Rita, this
is the man ef whom. you have heard meso often speak—

Buffalo Bill, I will call him,.for that name explains all.’’

‘‘T also owe debts of gratitude to my brother’s friend I
can néver repay,’’ said. Rita Rathburn, ee as she
held out her hand,

“Let me-tell-you.<how elad 1 v am to seluome you to

the Wild West, Miss Rathburn, for we ae eur pres
Vea pt i our life here.” ie

 

 

 
 

 

30 : THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES.

‘“Thank you, Mr. Cody——”’

‘Tt am Buffalo Bill to my best pards, Miss. Rathburn,
and you are to be one.”’

‘Then Buffalo Bill it shall be.

‘“‘But let me thank you for last night’s rescue and now
again for having been saved by you from captivity.”’

““J am glad I was so fortunate; but, Hart, the man I
shot is not dead, and we must see what we can do for
him. Then I’ll have to ride for it, for I am far behind
time, you know.”’

“In a good cause, though; but you are ever merciful
to think of that wounded outlaw, for I had forgotten
him.

‘‘Now, tell me how you came to be upon the cliff.”

‘‘Read this letter, and it will explain, for it caused
me to turn off the trail when I found that I could not
overtake you.

“Tt was tied in the center of a string stretched across
the trail.

‘“Now to see if that wounded man is beyond aid.”’

Handing the written warning to Hart Rathburn,
Buffalo Bill walked rapidly to where lay the wotinded
outlaw, and drew from his face the black mask that still
concealed it.

“‘He clafined to be Captain Kit himself, and——
Great God, Rita, it is Burr Ford!’ cried Hart Rathburn.

‘Yes, my guilty husband—worse even than I believed
him to be, for he is the chief of the Night Riders,”’ said
Rita, in a low tone, and her face as livid as the dead.
She stood like one dazed at the discovery. Her eyes
fastened upon the man lying at her feet, the man who
had proclaimed himself to be eran it the cruel

chief of the Night Riders.

Quickly had the bitterly wronged - young wife found
the man whom she had been in search of, had dared so
much to find.

CHAPTER XII.

THE PLEDGE KEPT.

‘It was a sad, pitiable scene there in the ‘‘Place of
Skulls,’ a fitting spot for such a sight, such an ending

fo an evil dine.
Butialo ee bullet Le Cutit “ey coward through

the body of the oe leader, and he was beyond an
human aid.

He realized it, and his eyes turned upou the pony:

rider chief, and he said, faintly:
**You have ended my life trail—yes, I'am Burr Ford

= tel her. to come here,

But Rita had already walked to ee he lay, having
removed her thick veil as though to the better see the
face of the man who was indeed her husband, whatever
had been his sins and his treament of her.

“Poor Burr! and.this is the end,’’ she said, as she
knelt by his side and took his hand.

‘Phe end, and I brought it upon myself—I was born
bad, Rita, and my. worst crime was my treatment of
you.”’

“But I forgive you, ne . it is One atom of comfort
to you now to hear me say so.’

“It is everything, and I will atone afl in my power,
for you shall have proof of all your claims to your
rights, aud Hart’s—I have them safe in an undervest I
wear—I know that you are rich or will be, and I was
plotting more directly against you, to get you to come
West aud kill you, for I knew Hart was here, and he was

~ dooined—but that 1 man, , Buflalo Bill, a ended it aS

29

and——’

His eyes closed, he writhed in pain, and the siti

was never finished, for he passed away ina spasm of
anguish. ce

Rita gently closed the eyes and folded the hands. Bue
the broad ‘breast.

Then Buffalo Bill broke the paintal silence with:

‘Hart, we will place his body in the coach, and that

of his dead conirade—and bury them at Julesburg.

‘(No one must know who he was, of what he was to

your sister, for you need no witnesses to prove his death
other than myself, and being dead, you and your sister

can claim your own without papers to prove your rights.

“*T desire to make up lost time, so will leave you, and

if I can find the one who gave ine that silent warning

_we can track the Night Riders to their den, very |

after my.return to Julesburg.

‘Miss Rathburn, I will be glad to bee ge. you when

you: get to your frontier home, and pore to say 4

braver little woman I never inet than you are.’
A few moments miore and, navioe seen jue coach an

\

 

 
 

 

its ghastly human freight inside ready to start, Buffalo _

Bill went ‘up: hand over hand on the lariat to the cliff
above, waved his hat in farewell, and soon after reached
his horse and was away.

As he once, more reached the Pee trail, he saw a
horseman awaiting him.

He knew him as one he had met long before, and a
man whose life he had once saved from Indians, but he
had not seen him for a long time. pe.

‘Ho, Gordon, still out here?”

‘Yes, Mr, Cody, but going—you got my ae

“Then you wrote that warning???

“Yes, for I had done wrong in e outlaw, and
wished to redeem myself in some way.’

, ‘‘Well, you did so; but you a are a night eee then?

‘Was; but I have come to myself; and being a good
card sharp, I won about half the money the men robbed
honest people of, and I concluded to quit the game,

“Pil do more, for I will give you a map of the trail

to the Night Riders’ den, and let you know that Bad-

man. Bender is the py of Capain Kit on the Overland

¢

trail and badly needs hanging. Af
“Good! but Captain Kit is no more, for I killed him
in Black Canyon, thanks to the news you gave me.’’ _
‘Then Vl leave the West in double-quick time, and
turn honest, for £ have enough Saved to make Me coin-
fortable.. ae

‘«Vou are wise to go— aie you. can, “idee

‘Under the circumstances, I wish you luck, for you
did do a good turn, and I ee it isin you to: become.

honest—yes, I wish you luck.’ 2

SOAs. I, do-you in your Night Ride Tait here isa
map of the trail to their den—good- by, and don’ t.refuse
to. take, ay, hand, for T am honest in my reform, believe
me, Buffalo Bill.” | ee.

“Stick £04, a ie Me pony. “rider. captain iioc 4 the.
hand of the ex- aallaw. and dashed off on jus. way ouce .

more, arriving at the end of his run just, on time, after

his most. remar kable ride and splendid services rendered. .
t

It was indeed a warm welcome that Rita Rathburn got

_ from ‘the ‘men of the station and ‘pony camp; and Boss

Betsy: ‘made her. very comfortable, ati once: taking a. a
>General Custer,

fancy to the Boacus y yen wonlan.

 

_ THE BUFFALO BILL STORIES. a 31

There was great rejoicing over the death of Captain
Kit, and he was buried with his comrade, no one sus-
pecting what the outlaw leader of the Night Riders had

been to Rita Rathburn.

The moment Buffalo Bill had arrived in camp he held
along interview with Alf Slade, the result being that
the men were called together, Bender was sent for, and
he was tried as a spy of the Night Riders upon the
charges William Cody brought against him. AM could
understand then how it was that the outlaws had been so
well posted as to the affairs of the Overland trail, the
coming of treasure and valuable freight.

It took just half an hour to try the man, find him

guilty and hang him, and the work was just over when >

Hart Rathburn’s coach came in and the entire camp
stood ready to welcome Rita Rathburn after her many
adventures. :

That night a band of picked men rode out of camp,
under the leadership of Buffalo Bill, and twenty-four
hours later they returned successful, for they had sur-
prised the retreat of the Night Riders. ,

It was a case where no mercy was shown, and the
booty that fell to the victors was large.

After a few weeks in her new home, Rita Rathburn

departed, escorted by her brother, who had already sent
Soate Kane on ahead as his business representative, to
look after the valuable landed praperty belonging to him-
self and his sister.

‘The two got possession of their property without trou-

ble, and then left for the East, joey Scott Kane be--

hind to manage the estate.
‘But some inonths after Scott Kane also left for the

East, and. it was to fia as his bride. Rita Rathburn.

‘They were married it St. Louis, Hart | giving the
beautiful bie away, and the most honored guest pres:

ent was the third one of the “ Biedeed Pe ards!'—Buffalo.

Bill, the captain of the ‘‘Saddle Sharps,’’ ag Alf Slade
always called his Pony Riders of the Overland Trail.

vee Ne

Next week’s Buffalo Bill Stories (No. 15) will contain
‘‘Buffalo. Bill’s Unknown, Ally or, The Brand of the
Red Arrow.’’ A Story of.the Scout? S Strange Aah VTL

  

|
f
j

 

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

The enly publication authorized by the | lion. Wm. fe ody

(BUFFALO BILL)

 

pts
ee a

a

‘THE

 

Our New 5c. Weekly | A Sure Winner

 

 

 

 

S
ta
2 :

 

: fracas
teeter son as

:
- We were the publishers of the first story.
ever written of the famous and world-
renowned BUFFALO BILL, the most daring
scout, wonderful rifle shot, expert guide,
greatest Indian trailer ever known, and a
popular hero whose life has been one suc-
cession of exciting and thrilling incidents
combined with great successes and accom-
plishments, all of which will be told in a
series of grand stories which we shall now
place before the American Boys. :

These exciting stories will appear regu-
larly in our new Sc. weekly to be known as

THE BUFFALO BILL STORI ES

READ THE FOLLOWING TITLES:

 

Hon. Wm. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill)

 

12. Buffalo Bill's Secret Mission; or, The | 14, Buffalo Bill’s Saddle Sharps se Phe

Fair Hermit of Mystery Valley. Pledged Pards of the Por) ores

J3. Buifalo Bill's Bravo Pard; or, On the 15. Buffalo Bilf’s Unknown Ally: o*. | 2¢
|

Texan Terror’s Trail.

Brand of the Red Arrow.
LCOK OUT FOR THE mneay INDIAN STORIES

ari AREA Ae Ea
eae

Bs

sin

 

 

 

 

STREET & SMITH, Publishers, NEW © Y (ORK

 

CUO AREA ta eS ¢ : . = an fit ae Ses «scat

 

writ ne

 

[
|
|
|
i

 
 

 

 

reteset eet tne OA.

 

 

 

 
 

ae

 

Wise sees

Jesse James Stories | Nick Carter Stories

 

 

 

WE were the first pub-
»  lishers in the won
to print the famous sto-
ries of the James Boys,
written by that remark-

able man, W. B. Lawson, -

whose name is a watch-
word with our boys. We
have had many imitators,
and in order that no one
shall be deceived in ac-
cepting the spurious for
the real we shall issue the best stories of

Jesse James.

the James Boys, by Mr. Lawson, in a New |

Library entitled ““The Jesse James Stories,”
one of our big five-cent libraries, and a sure
witiner with the boys. The first four issues
are: “Jesse James, the Outlaw. A Nar-
rative of the James Boys,” “Jesse James’

Legacy; or, The Border Cyclone,” “Jesse
James’ Dare-Devil Dance; or, Betrayed by
One of Them,” “‘ Jesse James’ Black Agents;
or, The Wild Raid at Bullion City.”

~ STREET & SmiTu, Publishers, New York.

HE best known detec.
tive in the world js
Nick Carter. Stories by
this noted sleuth are is-
sued regularly in ‘‘Nick
Carter Weekly” (price
five cents), and all his
work is written for us.
It may interest the patrons and readers
of the Nick Carter Series of Detective
Stories to know that these famous stories
will soon be. produced upon the stage
under unusually elaborate circumstances.
Arrangements have just been completed
between the publishers and Manager F,
C. Whitney, to present the entire set of
Nick Carter stories in dramatic form. ‘The
first play of the series will be brought out
next fall. ;

Nick Carter.

Srreet & SmitTH, Publishers, New York.

 

 

 

BUFFALO- BILL STORIES

The only publication authorized by
the Hon. Wm. F. Cody (Buffalo Bill.)

E were the publish-
ers of the first story

ever written of the fam-
ous and world-renowned
Buffalo Bill, the great
~-hero whose life has been

Buffalo Bill.

s

ing and thrilling inci-
dents combined with great successes and

accomplishments, all of which will be told

in a series of grand stories which we shall
now place before the American boys. ‘The
first of these stories entitled “Buffalo Bill,
the Border King,” appears in No. 1 of our
new five-cent libraty entitled “ The Buf
falo Bill Stories.”

STREET & SmiTH, Publishers, New York.

* one succession of excit-

 

DiaMonD Dick SToRIES

THE celebrated Dia-

GM oe mond Dick stories can
A 3 only be found in “ Dia-

ig

gs

mond Dick, Jr.,The Boys’
Best Weekly.” Diamond
Dick and his son Bertie

are the most unique and fascinating heroes

Diamond Dick.

of Western romance. The scenes, and many
of the incidents, in these exciting stories are
taken from real life. Diamond Dick stories
are conceded to be the best stories of the West.
and are all copprighted by us. The library
is the same size and priee as this publication,

with handsome iMluminated cover. Price,
five cents.

STREET & Smitu, Publishers, NEw York.

 

comer