FIVE-CEN® LIBRARY PUBLISHED fhe Best 5 Cent hepiaee of Datoctiva Sines. Entered According to Act of Congress, in the Year 1892, by Street & Smith, in the Office of the Librarian of Congress, Washington. D.C Entered as Second-class Matter at the New York, N. Y., Post Office ‘ Issued Weekly. Subscription Price, $2.50 ner Year. December 19, 1898. No. 282. STREET & SMITH, Publishers, NEW YORK, 29 Rose 8t., N. Y. h Cents. K CARTER on the BOWER The Terrors ee One Night. BY THE AUTHOR OF “NICK CARTER,” S = : . Soe || | SS SSS SS ics a. io) SON ~ iy “IN THE DEVIL'S POWER AGAIN!” EXCLAIMED NICK, AS HE STARTED AFTER THE CARRIAGE, 2 NICK: CARTHR LIBRARY: © (09 oe Nick Garter on the Bowery, | R, THE TERRORS OF ONE NIGHT. BY THE AUTHOR OF “NICK CARTER.” | CHAPTER I. THE EAVESDROPPER, “Say, Humpy !” 46 Wot 972 “Did yer see der bloke?” “* Which 2” “Der swell wid de gal on his fin.” “Naw, where.” .“ Over dere; gittin’ in de waggin.” “Wot! der Duke?” 46 Yes. bP) “Oh! wot of it?” “Did yer notice der gal 2” 46 Naw. 99 “ W here’s yer peepers? 9” “In my head.” “{T should think yer’d spouted ’em wid de ticker yer swiped from de drunk last night.” “Shet up, Blinker, ’r I’ll bust yer face wide open! You hear me.’ “T ain’t said nothin’. “Yes, yer hev. Talkin’ papers, Blinker; see?” They were two bootblacks, and they were standing to- gether on the east side of the Bowery, about two blocks below the London Theater. It was Sunday night in the month of June. The day that had just closed had been unusually warm for that season of the year, and asa consequence, the ‘broad pavements of that old and world-known thorough- fare were thronged with people. They were passing to and fro, jostling each other; ex- changing impertinent and obscene remarks ; laughing, shouting, singing, cursing; many were in the incipient stages of intoxication, others were barely able to carry the load of vile liquors already imbibed, and a few others; too sober for their own contentment, were evidently in search of the frightful decoctions which are sold on the Bowery under the name of whisky- The “ Bowery Boy” (of which Blinker—who had received the sobriquet because he possessed only one eye—and Humpy—whose name was derived from the condition of his back—were typical specimens), knows everything. He is ananimated bundle of shrewdness, and to put it tersely, what he knows, he knows, Business had been slack for the last half hour, and the two Arabs had degenerated into matching pennies in the gutter, when the foregoing conversaticn took place. The subject of their remarks, to whom Humpy had re- ferred as the “Duke,” was a character whom they knew well—if only by sight. They had shined his shoes many times, and they knew him for one of those all-around “ sports” (?) who always have money, always dress expensively and flashily, and yet who possess no visible means of livelihood. They knew what it meant to see him in company with the woman who was his companion, for she was quite as notorious and as well known to them as he was. ‘‘Somethin’s up!” commented Blinker, lanonealy. after a short pause. 66 Why Q “Cos dere is; see?” “Naw, I don’t.” - “Well, de gal wid der Duke was Bowery Bell.” “Spose’n ‘twas. Ain’t they got erright ter walk to- gether, an’ ter git inter ole Bones’ hack ef dey wants ter, Bho, *bout ther ticker ain’t square “Den wot——” “Say 66 W ot? 97) “Yer a chump, Finipy | a “Say, Blinker, didn’t I tell yer I’ d break yer, jaw ef yer got too fresh, hey ?” nothin’ ef ye are allers talkin’ bout doin’ it; wouldn’t lick me if yer could; see?” “That’s so, Blinker; now, tell us ther yarn.” ‘sides, yer lar) ‘‘fur runnin’ a muck” (errand) “for him this morn- in’ a “Sure.” “T hed ter go to Brooklyn.” “Well ?” “Dere’s a church in Bedford avenue——” “Git out ! is there ?” “Yep. Dey calls it Christ’s Church. ’Taint only a lit- tle ways from Broadway, an’ I went pee it jest es ther folks was comin’ out.” “Ts it dere yet?” “Wat, der chureh "” 66 Yes. + 66 W’y 2a c Con it’s a wunner it didn’t fall on yer; see?” “Aw, dry up, Humpy, or I’ll do a little jaw bustin’ ee own self ; see ?”’ “Go on wid yer yarn.” ‘‘Well, I seed Bowery Bell a-comin’ outen de church.” ““Ver_a liar, Blinker.” “T ain’t, neither; I hangin’ onto de Duke’s fin, same’s jest now.” ‘* 'W hee-ew !” “T thort yer’d w’istle.” “Goon, Blinker; tell de rest.” aL spotted ’ em dead ter rights, ter oncet; see?” ee Yep.” peeled.” “Sure.” “Dey sorter stopped near de door when dey comed out, an’ in a minute more two gals—der purtiest gals——” “ Aw, stow that!” a Well, they was; I ain’t lyin’! Dem two gals comed out togedder, an’ ‘dey bowed ter Bell an’ der Duke’s though they’d know’d ’em allers; see?” “Yep; go on!” “Bell begun chinnin’ de gals—yer know she’s as han’- some as they make ’em, an’ looks like a genoine lady soon she said somethin’, an’ thenthe gals bowed ter de Duke, an’ de Duke bowed ter de gals; see?” “Tt’s gettin’ kinder thick, Blinker. Can’t yer find er point to yer yarn?” “Dat’s de point.” “Where 2” “Why, yer crooked fool, when two sharks like de Duke and Bowery Bell goes ter church, it means somethin’, ‘don’t it?” 66 Yep.” “An’ when they stop an’ chin wid two purty gals, it means somethin’ more, don’t it?” 66 Yep.” means, but by der hokey, I know wot it don’t mean !” 6 Wot? 9) i It don’t mean any good to them air purty gals; see 2” “Sure !” “T’d amost forgot ther hull thing whenI seed them two jest now, but dat brung it all back; see?” “Course.” “Dere’s a bloke wants a shine over dere, Humpy. Go and collar de nickel; I’ll wait.” _Humpy ran away to earn the half dime, while Blinker, after leisurely fishing a dilapidated cigar-butt from his pocket, proceeded leisurely to light it. There had been an attentive listener to their conversa- tion whom neither of them had noticed for the reason that they OL him so drunk that he was was not worth h ey 9” “Sure.” it. ‘‘Oh, come off! Wot’s eatin’ yer, say? Yer can’t break : “Do yer remember de bloke wot guv me ashiner” (dol- | seed her, an’ wot’s more, she was “Den I sloped behind de crowd an’ est” me eyes ; anywheres; so’s der Duke fur that matter—an’ purty “< Fea | evi pat 66 ask | gas the ; Dy “Well, Humpy, I ain’t smart enough ter tell wot it © NICK CARTE R LIBRARY. : 3 He was a dectene specimen of the aged “ Bowery tough” | n the last stages of dissipation. | The boys had been standing near an old lamp-post, and t he man who had listened to their conversation was lean- fe ng against it within five feet of them. as When Humpy went away todo the shine, the old fel- i. w, after keeping his eye upon the other lad during the process of lighting the cigar-butt, addressed him. “Come here, Blinker,” he said, in a voice quite unlike i ‘the one which was to be expected from a man in his ap- E Bert condition. Blinker looked up quickly, so startled that he dropped ‘the butt. Then, with a leap, he attempted to run away, but the bummer was too quick for him. With one bound he caught the boy, and held himin a -vise-like grip. e “Not so fast, Blinker,” he said. “I want to talk to ou! 0) : y “Lemme go!” cried Blinker. “ “T ain’t done nothin’.” “Nobody said you had. I’m not going to hurt you.” “Rats! I know you; you’re a fly-cop !” “Right, Blinker, I am.” “What d’yer want o’ me?” “T want to ask you some questions.” “Wot about?” y 4 “ About the drunk?” “Wot drunk ?” ” “The man whom you and Humpy robbed last night.” “Tt’s a lie; we dian’t rob nobody. He guv ’em to us.” . A quiet smile changed the old bummer’s features. He was Nick Carter in one of his many disguises, as the _ reader has already guessed. Nick well knew the terror that his name inspired among | evil-doers, and hessometimes used it when he was im- | patient to hasten matters. “Have you ever heard of Nick Carter, Blinker?” he ‘3 asked. x “T should smile, boss !” “Well, I am Nick Carter. Ncw——” t The boy made a violent effort to free himself, and al- ic most succeeded. The terror upon his face was almost ludicrous as he a gasped out: G “Say, let up on me, an’ I’ll never do so any more. It’s the fust time I ever stole a thing in my life, honest. Oh, I’m in fur it, now,‘sure !” 7 oe ly. CHAPTER II. Ly ee THE TWO “ ARABS.” le “Tell’ me about that drunk, Blinker,” continued Nick a Carter. “Wot d’yer wanter know ?” “ All that you know.” “Humpy ’n me was comin’ through Houston street, an’ over near Crosby we found a bloke layin’ in de gutter ; © see ?” L > “Yes.” “Humpy shook him, but-he wouldn’t wake up.” : ‘‘He hasn’t waked up yet, Blinker.” it 66 Hey 9 “Go on with your story.” it “He had asparkler in his shirt, nother on his finger, - money; an’ a ticker wid a heavy chain in his pocket.” ‘Like this, Blinker 2” As Nick spoke ke drew a gold watch and chain from his pocket and held it before the boy’s astonished gaze. ‘*Holy smoke!” he cried; and he made another effort to free himsetf ; but all to no purpose. “That’s the very ticker,” he gasped. “Hxactly. Goon with your tale.” “Hey? my wot?” “Your story.” “Oh! Well, afore I knowed wot was wot, Humpy dives inter de bloke’ s vest an’ pulls out de watch ; see? an’ ae “You shoved your hand into his pocket and stole his is that it, Blinker?” ss Yep. How’d you know ?” ae vt know everything. What did you do next?” “Sloped.” oe ow! _“ Without the shiners ?” be Yep.” ij H ; “Why?” ‘ “Cos we saw somebody comin’.” 66 Who Oe “The Duke.” “Ah! Now we’re getting at it. Duke?” ‘‘Dead sure.” “What then?” “We hid an’ watched.” 66 Well? 99) “The Duke comed along, an! he didn’t seem a bit s’prised ter find ther drunk there.” “Didn't, eh?” “Naw. He looked every way fur Sunday, and then seein’ there wasn’t nobody lookin’—’cos he couldn’t twig us—he jest bent over an’ took the shiners an’ walked on.” ‘“ Are you sure he took the shiners ?” “ He'd be a blasted fool if he didn’t.” “That isn’t the question. Did you see him take the Are you sure it was the diamonds ?” “J thought he took ’em.” “But you’re not sure?” * No.” “Did you go back after he went away ?” “Not much !” “What did you do?” / “Flitted.” “Now, Blinker, when you robbed the drunk did you notice him particularly ?” “Dunno wot yer mean.” “Did you see his face ?” “Cert.” “Describe it.” “Couldn’t, ’cept he had a black mustache an’a big mole on his right cheek.” “Very good. Did you notice anything else about him?” 66 Nope.” “ Are you sure that he was alive, Blinker.” ‘* Alive !” 66 Yes. bb) “Cert. He wouldn’t wake up when he was shook, but he mumbled out somethin’ ’bout ’nother round o’ drinks.” “What did you do with the money ?” + IG bos “Where ?” “In aplace I know in Rivington street. I’ll take ye there ef yer wanter go, an’ ye kin have ther stuff; blowed "f I want it.” (<9 Why on) é Don't taste good. Iain’t spent acentofit. It’s the fust money I ever stole—an’ ther last. I’N—say, I'll guv yer a shine fur nothin ef yer’ll take ther cussed stuff an’ let me off.” Nick smiled. “How much is there, Blinker?” “Sixteen cases.” “Dollars, you mean?” “Veg.” ‘‘Blinker, when the man you robbed was found he was dead.” “Dead !” * “Yes—murdered.” “Great glory !” “te had been stabbed, but there was no weapon left in the wound. Now, are you sure he had not been stabbed before you and Humpy went through him ?” “Say, boss, I know it jest es welles I know how ter shine a pair of brogans. He was jest as much alive es I be, but drunker’n a—a—fiddler. Who killed him, hey?” « Suppose I should say you did?” “Ver'd tell ther cussedest lie that ever was spoke, ef ye are Nick Carter,” and genuine indignation gleamed in the boy’s single, but. remarkably brilliant eye. “I guess that’s true, Blinker. I don’t think you did it.” “T didn't.” “How long did the Duke stay beside him ?” “Bout er minute.” “And you thought he took the shiners %” 1 NICK CARTER LIBRARY. a“ Yes. 99 z “Did you see anything glisten in his hands e 46 Nop e. bP) ‘i Did you see him make a motion which looked as though he struck a blow ?” 46 Nope. eh “ Would you have noticed it if he had?” “ Dunno.’ “There comes Humpy. Send him away. I haven’t done talking with you yet. I’m not going to take you in, Blinker, so you need not be afraid to talk.” “Yer a brick !” “Thanks. Send Humpy away.” ‘“ He’s all right.” “Do as I tell you.” oe Cert. 99 Then, when Humpy joined them, he added: “Me an’ his nobs here are talkin’ biz, Humpy; light out.” ““W’acher talkin’ about ?” “Ther McKinley bill, of course. a Senator from Senatorville ? Humpy sloped. Then Blinker turned again to the detective. “Hire away,” he said. “How long have you been blacking boots on the Bowery, Blinker ?” “Ever since I kin remember.” “How long have you known the man you call the Duke?” | “Two ’r three years.” “And Bowery Bell?” “* Bout ther same.” “What do you know about them ?” “T know they ain’t no good !” 66 Why? 9”) “T’ve seed ther Duke git fellers full an’ then steer ’em to Bell’s place more’n oncet.” **Have, eh?” 4% Yes. 2 “They work in concert, ‘then ” “Never seed ’emina concert. Bell runs a mill’ner an’ dressmakin’ shop, an’ ther Duke runs a pack of cards.” “RH? xactly., I mean they work together.” “* Always.” “Does the Duke live at her establishment?” “Dunno. Wot’s that, anyhow ?” “Does he live at her house ?” “Dunno.” “Do you know where it is?” * He made his way directly to the Bowery, for he had — determined t> find out at once if his suspicions were cor- rect, and if Pauline and Selina Ryerson were imprisoned in the house of Bowery Bell. It was midnight when he stood before the door of tha notorious place. To the uninitiated it presented on the outside the ap- pearance of a millinery and dressmaking establishment. But Nick knew better. He knew that the outward appearance was only a Goa to hide the real character of the interior. heed Inside the place was a nest of vice of all kinds. — To the initiated the place was ostensibly a pambling now?” murmured Nick, persuasively. NICK CARTER LIBRARY. : house, but all forms of wickedness were practiced there, and Bowery Bell ruled her followers with a rod of iron. To gain admittance without being known was impos- ble, and so still retaining the character of the Chinaman | ihe detective loitered before the house, seeking to. attract ttention. He was not disappointed. The basement door opened presently, and a man came ut and approached the spot where Nick was standing. “Ag TI suspected,” mused Nick, “somebody is constantly nthe watch: It would be hard work to raid that place -and find anybody there.” The man drew rapidly nearer. “Hello, John,” he exclaimed, gruffly, but in a voice that was ‘meant to be genial. “Hello,” replied Nick. “What’r ye stanin’ here fur?” continued the man ; ye lost ?” Bs ee lostee ; no, me hungly, allee samee eatee ole shoe; ; abe?” “Hungry, eh?” a Ye? ‘ ? “Well, ye don’t s’pose grub’ll fall on ye from the roof, “are do ye?” “No; allee samee hungly like blazes.” “Well, mosey along.” 66 Hey ? 99 ye Light out! skip! vamoose! dig! see?” “Yes, me see. Me no blind; me no digee, neither ; sabe that? me cookee. a “Oh, you’re a cook, eh¢ ” 46 Ye’. 99 “Lookin? for a job?” Ageiee Ye’. 9 “There’s a feller in the next street wants a cook. His]. name’s Mike. Go and see him.” ““Whatee you name, hey 2” “My name?” a Ye’ 9 “Peter.” -“Petee, givee John somethin’ to eatee, allee samee “Go and see Mike; he’ll feed you.” “Me faintee ; me weak. Say, me tellee you lily seclet ; sabe ?” “Secret about what?” “Me juggle; sabe?” “ Juggler?” “Ve. Me plane him; sabe?” Nick, who was a proficient sleight-of-hand performer, ; ead quickly forward, caught the man by his nose, and gave it a tweak which made the tears start to his eyes. A curse leaped to Peter’s lips, but it died there, for he va forgot his anger in surprise at what he saw in the. pseudo ; Chinaman’ 8 hand. CHAPTER V. Gs THE JUGGLER VANISHES. When Nick pinched the nose of the man who had come out to interview him a large white rat seemed to drop from the nostrils and alight in his hand. “Belly funny nose that,” said the Chinaman, placidly ;' “allee samee like lat tlap; sabe? John eatee lat bimeby. ohn inuch obliged to Melican man; sabe?” “Well, I’m blowed !” ejaculated Peter.. “Do that agin, will yer?” ‘‘Melican man cally funny things ’lound wif him, allee samee like menagely.” “ What d’ye mean, John?” “Melican man gottee lat up him pant- leg.” “Hey? What? Which one?” -“Thisee one; sabe?” Nick leaped ‘forward, and before the man knew what was going to happen he wag seized by one leg and shaken vigorously. : ee ‘To his utter astonishment another rat. fell, seemingly, from inside his gar ments to the pavement. “Melican man like lattee. Lattee nice. Good lattee. John fly lattee over fire; John eatee; lattee good.” ~ “Ugh! you heathen. Say, ¢ can you do that thing ag’ in?” R ml ‘*You bettee.” ‘“An’ more besides vy 66 Ver: 1 “Will you do some of your tricks for some friends of ‘ mine ef Ill feed you, eh?” You bettee.” fi “Follow me.’ “Me allee tealy. Peter turned and led the way without more ado back to the basement door. . He drew Nick inside. Then he closed and bolted the door. “Now mind, John,” he whispered, “ we’re ole pals ; see ?” 6b Ye’, 9 “Know’d each other fur years ; see?” 66 Vou bh) ce “Wait here.” “Me waitee.” Peter disappeared. He was gone fully five minutes, and when he returned he was accompanied by no less a person than Bowery Belt herself. She looked Nick over with a cold stare, which was meant to read his very thoughts. “What is your name?” she asked, coldly. : Ah Sin? “A good name,” she replied. Then with a suddenness that was startling she begam talking rapidly in the Chinese tongue. Had Nick not been a perfect linguist he must have been caught; as it was he smiled placidly, and replied in Chinese. “You speak Chinese almost as wellas a Mongolian. If am your servant, madam.” Then lapsing again into pigeon English he added : “Melican lady hitee pipe; learnee Chinese; talkee allee samee like smoke; sabe?” “How long have you known Peter, Ah Sin ?” “Petee an’ Ah Sin ole pals. Me know Petee. Petee allee lite when he no dlink too muchee lum; sabe that, Petee ?” Peter scowled, and Bell smiled. “T guess you'll do,” she said. ‘‘Come.” es W here ? 9” ( “To the parlor. We want to see you perform.” “John no juggle on empty stomach,” said Nick, de- termined to keep up the character in every detail. ‘*T’ll feed you later.” “No; feedee John now. John no budgee wifout feedee ; sube?” Bowery Bell turned to Peter. “Feed him,” she said, ‘‘and then bring him to the par- Tors” Nick was conducted to the kitchen, and enough lunch was set before him to feed two men. Leaving him there Peter went to take another look through his peep-hole at the street. He was gone but a few moments. Nevertheless, when he returned the lunch that he had placed before the China- man had entirely disappeared. “ Cussed ’f I don’t think ye war hungry,” he muttered. “Say, think ye’ve got strength enough ter do yer tricks now ?” oc Ye’. Melican man‘sabe Helen Blazes? sabe?” ‘Come on.’ . Nick tied his conductor up the stairs to the parior, and was presently ushered into the midst of a scene which can only be viewed in New York, and even there is only enacted along the Bowery or upon some of the thoroughfares which lead from it. The house was very deep, and the three parlors of which that floor was comprised were opened together as one. The furniture was of the most expensive and ‘‘showy” Me do ’em now, allee samee like Helen Blazes. She belly tlicky galee ; |kind, and the rooms were decorated without regard te expense. At the rear, concealed by a forded of plants and flowers, was an orchestra of five pieces, and scattered about the rooms were at least fiftv persons of both sexes, laughing, talking, drinking, telling stories, shouting, gesticulating, 8 NICK CARTER LIBRARY. and otherwise making themselves perfectly at home with that air which says, “I can do as I please here if I pay for} It. 4 _. From the hall-way, evidently proceeding from the next floor above, came the monotonous click, click of gambling ‘chips. Nick knew that the people he saw before him repre- sented, so far as the men were concerned, some of the best fainilies in New York. The company quieted down somewhat when he entered, for the proprietress had already announced his coming. ‘Having calculated upon some such opportunity as that which presented itself, the detective had come prepared, and as he entered the room he walked gravely toward the orchestra, seized the bass-viol. and shook it lustily. The next instant a huge green snake dropped upon the the room where he had been talking with Bowery Bell. . The detective was lifted and borne into the adjoining room, where he was thrown roughly upon the floor. Ryerson seemed to forget him in the other matters o hand, for he turned quickly to the man who had first dis- covered Nick. “You arrived just in time, Duke,” he said, easily. “So I see,” replied the Duke. “Do you know the boy, Blinker u So Viag: ” “He’sin the way. Put him out of it. » 179 W hen 2 97) : 66 Now. 9 6 Ah! 4? “Send a man-—-Tim will do—after my affectionate cousin, and get rid of him effecutally. He’s also in the way. Go.” “What of this fellow here? a “T will attend to his case.” f & & CHAPTER VIII. DANGER ON EVERY SIDE. The three men left the room, and then Ryerson turned to Nick. “Tired of life, eh?” he said. “Not particularly. ae “Well, it’s ended for you.” y Indeed |! ee “Yes, Men don’t have a chance to cross my pale twice.” ‘i you. a “Nick i > NICK CARTE R LIBRARY. UW Hilain before hin must be remembered leat the dnteciys was fastened his own handcuffs. They were some that he had caused to be made expressly his own use, and they were particularly light and t there was another point about them which was of more importance. | hen the detective ordered them he foresaw that the Ly might come when he would be'taken by surprise, cap- d, and fastened with his own irons, and he had pro-)} ded for just such an emergency. oncealed in the mechanism of the handcuffs was a tiny ing, so arranged that it could not be touched by acci- t, but which, when pressed upon, served as a key and | tantly unlocked the steel bracelets. e knew that by touching the spring he could release self almost instantly, and as his captors had not taken trouble to disarm him, he would be on an equal footing hh them at once. therefore he was_ well satisfied that he could escape m the strait in which he found himself. e resolved to puta bold face on the matter, and to all he could from the old villain who seemed to be ead of an organized gang. I may cross yours again, all the same,” he said, coolly. hen it will be as a ghost.” ven so.” Well, I don’t fear ghosts.” ou should fear them. --If you make one of me it will 9e your first effort.” rhaps not,” shrugging his shoulders. “ You’re Nick ; aren’t you?” ‘nd you have heard all that we said here?” s; even about Godfrey Dent.” ery of fury escaped the lips of Bowery Bell when Nick ed that name. a quick motion she drew a poniard from her bosom eaped toward the detective. ill kill you for that,” she hissed, ‘‘you cur of a de- Ryerson. was not yet ready to have Nick slain. interposed his arm, and threw Bell roughly back Wait,” he said; “you shall have a chance to use your le toy before long if you want to. Iam not ready yet.” e must die! He shall never leave here alive !” cried woman. Quite so, my dear. But there is no haste. He cannot He always escapes.” Softly—softly. This shall be the exception to the rule. wv, Carter, do you want to die?” Make ll, do you want to do the work ?” 0.” .h; gotten over your fury, eh Bs You kill him.” : Vith pleasure, my dear. Just lend me your poniard. Thanks. Pretty little toy, isn’t it? Where is your rt, Carter? It should bein your mouth in the face of these preparations, but I don’t suppose it is.’ I think you will find it in the usual place, and beating as regularly as ever,” retorted Nick, coolly. “Tndeed !” and Ryerson looked upon the detective with genuine admiration. “ You are a brave man, Carter.” “Thanks.” . “Would you like to nae who killed Donald Payne be- fore you die?” _“T know already.” “Indeed ; who?” ae. Cal. “99 o Nick ‘did not know whe Cal was. but he made the ven- ture, watching Ryerson narrowly as he did so. “An! ! a slight mistake, my dear Lae Cal did not do that any more than you did.” “It was either Cal or the Duke.” This time Ryerson laughed. “You are guessing, I see,” he said. nor the Duke. It was——” “Who then ?” ‘*Blinker.” “What!” “The boy Blinker. wanted Payne out of the way, and I gave the order. you comprehend ?” 66 Yes. bb) “The Duke—no, it was On pare him a‘ knocker-out;? do you know what that is?” | 6 Yes. ” ‘“‘Then they dumped him beside the gutter. Humpy and ‘Blinker came along. Humpy took the watch and skipped, ‘and Blinker, obeying orders, mind you, slipped a knife into the victim. It was beautifully done, and very sim- ple; see?” 66 Yes. bb) “Who would think of suspecting a poy ” “Nobody.” “Don’t you believe me?” “No; I think you are an infernal old liar.” ““Ah; you use bad names. Are you trying to make me lose my temper? It won’t work. I never lose my temper. Come, I think the five minutes are up.” “Then I am ready.” As Nick spoke he pressed the springs of his manacles. _In an instant he was free. With one bound he leaped to his feet, and so great was the astonishment of Samuel Ryerson that for an infinitesi- mal space of time he forgot to act. That time, brief as it was, gave Nick the ee he sought. He bounded forward. His fist shot out with the force of a ‘Dathoris ram, Ryerson recovered himself in time to do a truly pugil- istic dodge. He did not entirely escape the blow, but he did not re- ceive the ful] force of it. He staggered, but did not fall. Then, with one leap he reached the glass doors. ‘A cord hung from the ceiling near them. He seized it, and pulled sharply upon it. Then he turned to face Nick again, but only to find that the-detective was standing coolly in the center of the room with a revolver in either hand. One of them was aimed at him, and the other at the cowering form of Bowery Bell, who seemed paralyzed with terror. “Tf either of you move or attempt to cry out, I will shoot, ” said the cold voiee of the detective. Then, to Ryerson, he continued : “Why did you pull that cord ?” “To shut the outer door, so you could not get away.” “Ts that the truth?” Ryerson shrugged his shoulders. “Why should I lie about it?” he said. would it do me?” “True,” said’ Niex. Then he paused. He heard a noise proceeding from the hall, which he knew was made by feet upon the stairs. In an instant he realized that he_had been tricked. The cord had conveyed a signal to somebody, and a number of men were coming to the rescue of Bowery Bell and their chief. The situation was desperate. The detective was on the third floor of the house, and in a room from which there was no means of exit, except by the door which was already guarded by approaching men. Before him stood Sam Ryerson, cool, calculating; with weapons in his pockets which he would use at nh very first opportunity. The steps came nearer Clearly there was but one thing to do, and Nick did it. He was, as the reader knows, a marvelous marksman with his revolvers. _ He could drive a pin as far off as he could see it. He «“ It was neither Cal I paid him well for doing it. 1 Do “What good NICK CARTER LIBRARY, never missed by a hair’s breadth the spot he wished to hit. To escape he knew that he must disable bosh Ryerson and Bowery Bell. a iy mark you both so I’ll recognize you when we meet again,” he said. Then he pulled both triggers simultaneously. There were two sharp reports and the man and woman fell to the tloor the same instant. CHAPTER IX. STRATEGY AND SKILL, Without waiting to see the effect of his shot the detective leaped over the prostrate form of Sam Ryerson, went on through the glass doors and toward the door which led into the hall. He reached it at the same instant as the men who were approaching from the other side. They had heard the two. pistol-shots, and they threw themselves against the door with a force that threw it open with great violence. There were five of them, and they bounded through the opening and toward the glass doors wath all speed. It never occurred to any of them to look behind the door that they had so hastily passed. If they had done so they would have found Nick Carter. He had simply stepped behind it when the men threw themselves against it, and as they rushed on, in a body, toward the other room, he quietly and quickly slipped from his place of concealment and passed out into the hall. To descend the stairs was but the work of an instant. The gambling was still going on on the second floor, and strains of music floated up to him from the parlor. On down he went to the parlor floor. The coast was clear, and he quickly slipped into the lit- tle alcove wheres he had left his Chinaman suit, It was still concealed in the old piano. To don it was but the work of a moment. There were confusion and noise from the upper floors as he glided from the alcove and down the stairs to the base- ment, where he knew he would find Peter. The fellow was at his post. “John want to goee outee,” he said. ‘Where in —— have you been?” demanded Peter. “ Petee good boyee. Petee lettee John outee,” said Nick, suavely.: **Not by a jugful ! !” exclaimed Peter. “Petee tam foolee,” murmured Nick. hurtee ; sabe ?” “Get out, you heathen !” “That whatee me wantee do, gitee out; sabe?” “Well, where’ve you been? Wot’s all that row about?” “John no knowee. Petee lettee: John out or John smashee him; sabe, that?” “Oh, go to blazes !” Nick’s fist shot forward, and caught Peter squarely on the jaw. He rolled over upon the floor, and Nick, not waiting to see the effect of his blow, leaped over him, shot the bolts, opened the door, and dashed into the street. In reality he had not hit Peter very hard; only hard enough to knock him over. He thought he knew exactly what Peter would do, and he was not mistaken. The fellow leaped to his feet and swore lustily for a moment. | Then the open door attracted his attention. In an instant he closed it, and shot the bolts, and when, » a few moments later, he was questioned, he swore roundly that he had seen nobody. “Peteé gettee His position was much too lucrative to be given up so: easily, and he knew that he would be discharged if it was known that he had let anyvody pass. Meanwhile Nick, having gained the street, only went a ‘few doors away. Then he turned into a hall-way and made a rapid change in his disguise. From a Chinaman he speedily transformed himself into a genuine ragpicker, and a moment later he was seated _ upon the curb in front of the house that he had just left. A half hour passed, and not a° sound came from the darkened windows of the place. Suddenly he saw a lad approaching, whose grotesque figure he at once recognized. The boy was Humpy. Nick watched him carefully, and saw him go to the - basement door, where he gave several mysterious taps ie upon the panels. he door opened, and the boy was admitted. ‘ But he remained in the house only a short time. Presently he came out and started rapidly away. But he had not gone far ere Nick was beside him, andin another instant the boy felt himself seized, raised bodily | from the ground, and borne rapidly away. He struggled, but to no purpose. Then he attempted to cry out, but a rough slap on his face and a gruff order to keep silent quieted him. Nick knew where there was a stable close by, and he. a bore the boy there, never letting him down until they were safely behind the door. Then, with some twine from his pocket, he bound ns hand and foot. Still silence. Never a word did the detective speak until the boy could bear it no longer. ‘“Who be yer” he demanded, in a frightened voice. “Humpy,” said Nick, gruffly, “yer time has come ; see ?”” iy “Wot da’ yer mean ?” “I mean ye’ve got ter croak ; see 2” ‘“W ot fur ?” “Orders.” ‘Whose orders ?” ‘‘Ther bosses.” “Did he tell yer ter do this?” 66 Yes. 9 “Wot fur?” ‘Cos yer too fresh; see?” ‘“‘T ain’t done nothin’.” “Oh, yes, yer have,” 6 Wat on “Talked,” “It’s a lie.” “No, taint. 66 Oh 18 “Ye know wot I mean now ?” 6¢ Yes. 9 “Ive gotter lay ye out, Humpy.” The boy began to cry. a begged and pleaded for mercy, but Nick was inexor- able He assured the boy that he had his orders, and that h dared not disobey them. Still Humpy pleaded. “Tell you wot I’ll do, Humpy,” said Nick, finally. 6 W ot. ” “T’ll let up on yer if——” “Tf wot?” “Tf ye’ll split.” “'W ot about ?” “ *Bout the gals and the ‘drunk, ‘an’ ther hull lot.” “Wot fur?” Yer told of it yerself, like a cussed fool. “Tve got an ax ter grind. We'll work the racket ‘ together ;, see?” Wat's yer game ?”” ; “Ter lay yer out unless yer do as I say, ” retorted Nick, savagely. ter git even with ole Rye ’f I die tryin’; 66 ‘Yes. 99 “Who stole the gals?” “Ther Duke #n’ Bell.” “Where are they keepin’ em 2” “Tn ther old crib.” ; “Kin you git in there?” : “You bet.” ‘Good. Come on.” “Where 2” **To ther ole crib.” “Wot fur? 2 “ Cos I say so. Do yer want me ter slit yer wizzen ?” “Naw, I don’t.” i Well, be careful'then.” ~ see?” “Ye know ther hull lay,'an’ I don’t. I’m goin! os NICK CARTER LIBRARY. “Tm ready.” You go ahead. Lead ther way. I'll folly; an’ look a re, Huinpy.” | “ Well?” uy * ‘Don’t try any games,” f ain’t er goin’ ter.” “Go on, then.” . umpy led the way to the corner, and then turned rough to the next street. e kept on until they reached a house which stood di- tly back of the one in which the detective had had such exciting adventure. Humpy approached it with confidence until he was Imost at the basement door. ‘Then he paused suddenly. “Say !” he said. “Well, wot?” “If Tm marked, they'll lay me out ef I go in there. , “Not much they won’t.” a‘ oe Why ay ** °Cos nobody knows you’ve been eae aah but me.” oe WhO ?r you, anyhow ?” 4 eae My name’ smud. Come, go on now, ’r by the hokey, Humpy sprang toward the door, and pressed an electric button upon the casing several times. _ An interval passed, and then the door was cautiously pened, and an old negress examined them suspiciously. ‘““Wacher want, honey ?” she demanded. Nick crowded brusquely past her without deigning a eply. “Come on, Humpy,” he said, in a gruff voice. But Humpy had no idea of coming on. Now was his time, if ever, and he turned and halted, ile at the same instant a succession of screams sounded : Tom one of’ the upper floors of the house. x CHAPTER x. ONE AGAINST A DOZEN. fo Ib 18 aoubital whether Nick would have pursued Humpy, had he not heard the screams, but as it was, his only thought was for the safety of the girls, from whom, as he at once knew, the cries for help came. Thrusting the old negress aside as if she had been a feather he leaped up the stairs as fast as he could go. The cries continued, and they guided him like a beacon- light on a dark night. > Up—up, still higher! ““Help! Help! Oh, for the love of foo, help us!” came the voice. There was only one of them, and Nick wondered at that, until he boven that they might have separated the irls. oe Help! ‘Help ! Help ! ve With every bound the detective came nearer to the cries for assistance, and at last he was at the door of the room from whence they proceeded. He threw himself against it with all his force, and it gave way before his onslaught as though it were made of aper. e Paekon from hinges and lock at the same time, it fell “ inward to the floor, and he was nearly thrown from his feet by the impetus of his own assault upon it. “On time!” he ejaculated. : Kneeling in one corner was Pauline Ryerson, and bend- _ ing over her was a man—one of the very men before whom Nick had performed his tricks earlier in the evening. He had one hand over her mouth, which prevented her from crying out, and which accounted for the fact that he had heard but one voice. Near the center of the room was Selina. | _ There was another man there, too, and he had evidently been pursuing Selina round and round the room in an effort to capture her when the door, was so uncere- ‘moniously burst open. ’ Then he turned, and at the same instant the other vil- lain leaped to his feet. Nick’s entrance to the room was like a whirlwind, but his manner of attack upon the two villains was cyclonic in its force and effect. — e 13 His strength was prodigious at all times, and now it seemed to be redoubled. With one bound he seized the man nearest him, and raising him bodily from the floor, flung him as though he had been a ball, full at the other. _ They went down together in a heap, but they had scarcely touched the carpet ere Nick was upon them. i His terrible fist rose and fell with awful violence, and with the rapidity of a trip-hammer. At first the two scoundrels sought vainly to defend themselves, but ina moment they were beaten into in- sensibility, and utterly incapable of offering the slightest resistance. Then, when they were helpless and still, Nick turned to the two girls. They were clothed, although their outer garments had been taken from them in order to render their escape more difficult. Crouched in one corner of the room, terrified by the scene they had witnessed, they were almost speechless with fright. “Come!” said Nick, laconically ; “you must leave this,” Pauline rose to her feet and started toward him. Selina endeavored to follow, but the strain had been too great for her. o With a low ery, she staggered and fell ina dead faint at the detective’s feet. He quickly picked her up. “Don’t you faint,” he said sternly to Pauline, “unless you want to remain here. Come.” “Who are you, sir?” gasped Pauline. | “T am your father’s friend,” replied Nick. “Come!” With Selina in his arms, he Sere down the stairs, Pauline following behind. .- But the old negress had not been idle. She knew that all was not right, and while Nick was up stairs, she had given the alarm. That there was a means of .commuication between the two housés was almost certain, and Nick was soon to be convinced of it. As he descended the stairs, carrying Selina in his arms, he heard voices and the sounds of hurrying feet. When he reached the ground floor, several men were just coming up the basement stairs. He knew that he had not a moment to lose. Selina was already regaining consciousness, and in a Yooment more she would be able to walk. He cleared the last few stairs ata bound, and the next instant he had pulled the front door open and thrust Pauline before him into the street. “Quick !” he said. ‘‘Your sister can walk now. Run if you can. Go anywhere, only get away from here. Run!” He left them both on the outside, and then leaped back into the house. He closed the door behind him and placed his’ aes against it. It was a brave act. To defend those two girls, he faced that mob of desper- ate men, having first shut off his only avenue of escape. They saw and knew just what he had done. With loud yells they bounded forward toward him. Weapons of all kinds flourished in their hands, and they were resolved to end the detective’s career then and there. One of the men, who seemed to be the leader, dashed forward, and Nick ‘met him half way. He did not strike him; he seized him in his arms and squeezed him against his own body until the fellow cried for mercy. Then, when he was limp and helpless, the detective flung him away with all his strength, and leaping over him, dashed like a steam engine into the crowd that beset. him. His fists shot out like darts, time. The men went down before him like grass before a scythe. Two or three pistol-shots rang out upon the air, but no bullet. struck the detective, although he knew that lel were aimed at him. Still he fought on. \ and a blow. landed every. ‘NICK CARTER LIBRARY. -Blows were showered upon him, but he did not feel them. Two men were. attacking him from behind, and the others beset him in front. He fought them all, alone, single-handed. There were many times when he could have dashed them all away, and escaped through the door. But he did not do it because he was not sure that the girls were yet safely out of harm’s way. Instead he fought on and on,.only seeking to gain time for the girls to get safely away. Then he would make a dash for liberty. The fight was furious. It needed all Nick Carter’s skill, all his strength, all his ability, all his strategy. The reader must not imagine that the detective escaped punishment. The greatest skill would not be equal to such a task as protecting one’s self from the blows aimed atone by a dozen assailants. There was many a bruise upon his face; many a con- fusion. Still he managed to escape any serious injury, and - fought on and on. Where were the girls he wondered ? Had they been able to make their escape? Had they fied, and were they out of harm's way? The moment came when he realized that he could stand the strain no longer. He knew that he must end the fight or falla victim to the malignity of his assailants. Suddenly he leaped back and drew his revolvers. It was the first time he had thought to resort to them. With desperate energy, he pulled the triggers of the self- acting weapons. Bang—bang—bang—bang!!!! He fired low. He did not wish to take a life; only to main, and ren- der impotent the rage of his enemies. ' Shouts of dismay. Groans of pain. expletives followed the sharp reports. The men fell around him like chaff. _ His bullets struck their legs and their arms, or grazed their temples, and* they went down before them resist- lessly. One minute after he drew his revolvers and began to fire, there was not a man left standing. There were a few answering shots to his own. One bullet made a hole through the detective’s sleeve; another pierced the fleshy part of his arm. And then all became quiet. The men were conquered. ‘Nick Carter was victorious. . He heard the tap-tap of a poliéeman’s club on the pave- ment in the distance. There was no reason why he cared. to pause and givea lengthened account of what had happened, and every reason why he did not wish to do so. With one bound he reached the door and dashed into the street. Curses, yells, and nowhere to be seen. ~CHAPTER XI. THE FATE OF HUMPY. For a moment he-hesitated which way to turn. Then, deciding suddenly, he hurried toward the Bowery, looking upon every side for Pauline and Selina. But. they had disappeared ; they had been swallowed up in the darkness and the night. What had happened to them? at Had they only escaped one danger to rush into others? Half-clothed as they were, and in that neighborhood, their plight was scarcely less than when they were in the den of Bowery Bell, attacked by the two scoundrels who had forced their way to the room they occupied. On rushed Nick. He met two men at different intervals and questioned ; them ; but Mey could tell him Apne: ‘front door and close it after them. i Then he looked to the right and left; but the girls were He was about to turn back and look in the other di tion when a carriage dashed past him. He was Standing beneath an electric light, and it sh full upon the occupants. One glance was enough. He saw the two girls whom he had rescued, and them the evil face of Samuel Ryerson. The old villain had a bandage around his head whee Nick’s bullet had grazed his temple. Otherwise he seemed as well as ever. -“In that devil’s power again !” exclaimed the detéc \ Then without pausing, he dashed aiter them in full chase. He was forced to run for several blocks, for there was no hack near. Suddenly he espied one, just.in front of him. The driver was half asleep upOR the box when leaped up beside him. There was a revolver in the Cee s hand, for he h no time to lose in argument. 2 “Follow that carriage,” he said, “if you value you life. Obey me, and I will’ pay you well ; refuse, and af put a bullet through you.” The driver did not want to argue, either, and the ne moment they were in full chase, but totally unsuspecte by the object of their pursuit. “Straight to Seventeenth street,” mused Nick. ‘“ thought 80. , The old villain will take them to his o house now.’ The fase was soon reached, and Nick, having stopped his hack and got down, far enough away to remain unob- served, saw Samuel Ryerson conduct the girls through’ his a ‘‘Good !” exclaimed the detective. own hands now !” He moved stealthily toward the door-way of the how As he neared it, he saw a figure approaghing from th opposite direction. One glance told him who it was. There was no mistaking the hump on Humpy’s back. Nick drew back, and saw Humpy go straight to the door and ring the bell. The door was opened almost immediately, and the boy © passed through, out of sight. wh An instant later Nick was upon the steps. His pick-lock was brought into play again, and the: door /, opened before him. But there was a chain bolt on the inside. However, Nick drew a pair of nippers from his pocket and cut it in an instant. Then he passed through and closed the door behind him. He could hear voices, and he crept toward the room from whence they proceeded. ‘So, you’ve come to confess, have you?” he heard the ja cold, hard voice of Ryerson exclaim. “Veg: I have,” replied the voice of Humpy. “Well?” “i “Did you mark me to-night ?” “Mark you! No.” “Then he lied.” “Who? 97) f “The feller wot said he was sept to lay me out.” “That won’t do, Humpy.” : “Tt’s the fruth.” ‘Bah! Why did you take him to the old crib?” “*Cos—’cos—’cos J——” “Because you wanted to betray me, eh Q”, “T ain’t one to betray you, and you know it.” “Why, pray. ” . “ Ain’t I allers done yer bidden ?” i (79 Yes. 9 “ Ain’t I stole fur you—— “Oh, drop the slang. You can talk if you want to.” ‘‘Haven’t I stolen for you? Haven’t I forged checks for you? Haven’t I even committed murder for you } ‘‘Hush! Hush!” i **T shall not hush.” ‘ “You had better do s0.” . ‘ “T will not. I have committed every crime in the ¢ata-_ logue for you, and I even went so far as to stab——” e “Hush, I say !” “The game is in m ” vel won’ Ay iptebed Donald oe because you ordered. NICK CARTER LIBRARY. I did it when he was helpless and defense H i r 1se- e closed the door with a sla ig ] you say that I would betray you.” “If either of you move, 1’ll ki you a aia ‘couple ie a of curs!” he said. wily oy ieee They turned, but Nick continued : py, I warn Fe ‘ “T mean what Isay. Don’t me i 1 * Don’t warn me. I ain’t afraid of you, if the | lives. I am Nick Corte. You oe ae oe Bowery Bell ground her white teeth together in rage. ,Humpy?” She h ick? ; Wo aor oropt# enough hidden away to hang you| e had already had a taste of Nick’s bullets that night. aeCOs twice over.” “Where are they hidden, Humpy ?” CHAPTER XII _‘“yWhere you won’t find them.” , “J won’t, eh? Suppose you should die; who would find CON them then ?” “March !” said Nick. Nick shuddered, for he saw the villain’s meaning. | "Where ?” “tive taken good care of that,” was Humpy’s rejoinder. “Into the back parlor. I’ve got something to show you.” vho knows where they are? Does Blinker?” ‘What ?” “ A friend of yours.” “Ah! Old Rye?” 35 Yes. ” “Ts he a prisoner ?” : “Yes; the jig’s up.” mpy had to turn his back to obey. “Not for us.” nthinkingly, he did so. “For you all.” n instant Ryerson was upon his feet. “Bah!” gaid the Duke. “You can’t interfere with me.” ae mn “e was a heavy iron paper-weight in his hand, and “Can’t 1? Where’s Blinker ?” Jed it with all his force straight at Humpy’s head.| It was a chance question, but it told. on missile struck the boy, and he fell to the floor| The Duke turned as white as a sheet. out a groan. “You devil!” he hissed. another form bounded into view at that instant. “Exactly, You did your work quickly, friend Cal.” cat hat of Nick Carter. “Ah! you know that name also?” " fe threw himself upon the murderer, and the next in-| "1 know everything.” "stant they rolled upon the floor together. , “'Where’s dad ?” Ryerson had not overestimated his strength. “Eh? Who?” ‘b aggprne nearer finding his match in thyt old man “Dad. Old Rye. If you know everything you know n he fad since the days when he was pitheu against the that he is my father.” “fmous Doctor Quartz. Ce a aed “Indeed! Tbat’s one of the few things I did not know. The struggle was terrific while it lasted; but it was|1 begin to see his scheme now.” : ort. ae re a TM, “ What scheme ?” fhe paper-weight with which Ryerson had stuck the “ About the girls.” was on the floor within reach of the detective’s hand. “Qh, that.” Nick seized it. / “Yes, that.” ‘aised it, and struck the ynurderer upon, the head “T was going to marry Pauline” he heavy missile. te “Exactly. And Selina? What was to become of her?” stantly Ryerson’s muse)es relaxed, and he sank back, “She? Oh, she was to be given up to the tender mercies eless and helpless. . of Bell.” was at the detectixe’s mercy at last. “You scoundrel !” Rising, Nick pulled/an oil-painting from the wall. “Thanks.” a In an instant h¢-€tripped the wire cord from the screw-| ‘“You’ll have a chance to think over your villainy in ae ier ace bound his captive securely, hand and |Sing Sing, friend Duke, and I'll take especial pains to see . FH that you don’t get out very soon. They’ve gota chair ae * ae hastened to Humpy, and bent over him. there that will fit you.’ ‘Then De aead,” he Aegean “Poor boy. A murderer “What chair?” : ry 1° ‘ : a ‘6 : se) _ Humphre, was by his own confession, he was more sinned The electric chair. that heben sinning.” “Bah! You can’t get me int@ that.” | LG i : “ J sa Lee eer saiche etective glanced around the room. Can Te ane ot the first thing that bis eye lit upon was a tele- “No.” et He “ Wait till I find Blinker’s body.” — Most astened toward it, and was on the point of ringing, “You won't find it.” © ny 19 Hastie heard the door-bell. “Won’tl? Why? ~~“ «Good !” he muttered. re amen eam “ Because he’s alive.” J vi i rm atthe door, he| ‘‘Where is he?” ; eas De tone ae to the ala , 4 Bont gan Ch ponent? : | | ello!” said the central-office clerk. “11 tell,” interrupted Bell. “I’m sick of this business. ello!” said Nick. ‘‘Central?” Cal had the whole thing——” om “Shut up, Bell.” ’ “JT won’t. He had the whole thing fixed up to prove the murder of Donald Payne against Blinker, and Blinker’s ice-stati _— 17th street. |in jail now.” up the nearest police-station to No. — % -| Ps vho did kill Donald Payne, Bell?” asked Nick, quietly. “The Duke,” she replied. Tam Nick| ‘‘You lie, curse you!” shouted the Duke. es.” ‘ want you to do something for me?’ lag 2?! | them to send some men here at once. il 66 ; Sia arter.” He did. lsaw him. © AL ridht- te “J thought Humpy did it,” said Nick. _ ee in, “Humpy’s a fool. Humpy’s a girl; didn’t you know Nick hung up the telephone and ey os Le att : ek * i hi it as he dia so. _ . : : Pees ie ee ea Mora “Yes, a girl. She’sin love with the Duke. She'd swear i im li ‘ck instantly recognized | to anything to save him.” ee a light of the hall, Nic = _ = | “Humpy is dead,” said Nick. “Dead!” they both cried. e the Duke and Bowery Bell. _ self of some poison, and thus escaped the é but the Duke and Bowery Bell were sent t To Nick’s: surprise Bovey Bell broke down and wept; |long terms of years. There are other ch yerson killed “her with a paper: ‘but the Duke never said a word. over them, so when they come— out, they w During all this time Nick had kept them bok covered diately re-arrested. © ‘with his revolvers. So end the terrors of one night in the Bow ; At that moment there was a loud ring at the bell, and [THE END.] the detective made both his prisoners march before him . ‘ = to the door and open it. as Te igen 3 - On the doorstep were a number of policemen, and the i aos prisoners were soon placed safely in custody. * * * * * * * Pauline and Selina were restored to their father that morning, and the old man was overcome with joy when he learned that they were safe and well, and were once ‘more in his care. Blinker was only detained a few hours, and is now again blacking boots as industriously as ever. - The Nick CARTER LisRARY has the largest circulation q Samuel Ryerson managed in some way to possess him- | any detective library published. 4 This Library will hereafter be kno wn as the _ New Nick Carter Library. u THE ILLUSTRATIONS WILL APPEAR ON A COVER ’ ee ARTISTICALLY ILLUMINATED IN COL ORS. : “a,” Ne \ . The old favorites, Nick, Chick and Patsy will still often be ‘ V and a new personage has been added to the s detective combinat person of ARIM CARTER, need Son of the Famous “Chick” Carter. f Trim Carter brings to the detective’s profession a special ed and life training for the work, with the benefit of Nick Carte “Chick” Carter’s unlimited experience to further aid him. Wit added helps to a young man already equipped with extraordinary ability for his chosen calling, the public may look for the most inte stories of detective work ever written. « 22 PAGES AND ILLUMINATED COWER. ALL FOR erOe As progressive publishers, Street & Smith aim to not only keep up t >, the times, but ahead of them. The Nick Carter Library was acknowledged to be the most popular detective library published. The New Nick Carte? @ Library will be in every way superior to its predecessor. Ask your dealer ie to show you a sample of the regular issue, with the illuminated coves. | oe J For sale a a newsdealers or sent os mail estat on receipt of price, Ve =