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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Messenger No. 48 + +Author: James Otis + +Release Date: November 26, 2007 [EBook #23627] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MESSENGER NO. 48 *** + + + + +Produced by Al Haines + + + + + +</pre> + + +<A NAME="img-front"></A> +<CENTER> +<IMG CLASS="imgcenter" SRC="images/img-front.jpg" ALT="Jet brought the cane down on his head with full force." BORDER="2" WIDTH="540" HEIGHT="408"> +<H4 CLASS="h4center" STYLE="width: 540px"> +Jet brought the cane down on his head with full force. +</H4> +</CENTER> + +<BR><BR> + +<H1 ALIGN="center"> +MESSENGER No. 48 +</H1> + +<BR> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +BY +</H3> + +<H2 ALIGN="center"> +JAMES OTIS +</H2> + +<BR><BR> + +<H4 ALIGN="center"> +<I> +Author of "Telegraph Tom's Venture," "Messenger No. 48",<BR> +"Toby Tyler," "The Boy Captain," "Silent Peter," etc., etc.<BR> +</I> +</H4> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<H4 ALIGN="center"> +THE SAALFIELD PUBLISHING COMPANY +<BR> +NEW YORK —— AKRON, OHIO —— CHICAGO +</H4> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<H5 ALIGN="center"> +Copyright, 1899 +<BR> +By +<BR> +The Saalfield Publishing Company +</H5> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<H2 ALIGN="center"> +CONTENTS +</H2> + +<BR> + +<TABLE ALIGN="center" WIDTH="80%"> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">CHAPTER</TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> </TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">CHAPTER</TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"> </TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">I </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap01">Jet</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XVII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap17">An Old Friend</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">II </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap02">Trouble</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XVIII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap18">Jail Life</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">III </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap03">The Kidnappers</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XIX </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap19">The Dinner</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">IV </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap04">An Engagement</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XX </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap20">A Recognition</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">V </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap05">Baffled</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXI </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap21">The Adirondacks</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">VI </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap06">The Battle</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap22">The Small Guide</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">VII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap07">A Bold Attempt</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXIII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap23">The Visit</A></TD> +</TR> + + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">VIII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap08">An Arrest</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXIV </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap24">A Stern Chase</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">IX </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap09">The Detective</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXV </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap25">Jim</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">X </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap10">One Prisoner</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXVI </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap26">Success</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XI </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap11">Close Quarters</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXVII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap27">Reconnoitering</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap12">The Encounter</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXVIII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap28">The Struggle</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XIII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap13">The Snare</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXIX </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap29">Bob</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XIV </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap14">A Capture</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXX </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap30">A Failure</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XV </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap15">Assistance</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXXI </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap31">An Attack</A></TD> +</TR> + +<TR> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XVI </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap16">On the Trail</A></TD> +<TD ALIGN="right" VALIGN="top">XXXII </TD> +<TD ALIGN="left" VALIGN="top"><A HREF="#chap32">Harvey & Co.</A></TD> +</TR> + +</TABLE> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap01"></A> + +<H1 ALIGN="center"> +MESSENGER No. 48 +</H1> + +<BR> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER I +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +JET +</H3> + +<P> +"What's your name?" +</P> + +<P> +"Jethro Lewis." +</P> + +<P> +"How old are you?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know." +</P> + +<P> +"Judging from the size I shouldn't say you were over ten." +</P> + +<P> +"My size 's against me, that's a fact; but I can run a good deal faster +than some fellers twice as big." +</P> + +<P> +The manager of the District Messenger Station did not attempt to +conceal a smile as the boy spoke thus earnestly, and continued the +examination by asking: +</P> + +<P> +"Where do you live?" +</P> + +<P> +"Down on East Tenth Street." +</P> + +<P> +"Mother and father alive?" +</P> + +<P> +"Both dead. I'm boardin' with Mammy Showers." +</P> + +<P> +"As a rule we do not employ boys who have no parents." +</P> + +<P> +"Why not? Can't they shinney 'round, jest as well as other fellers?" +</P> + +<P> +"There is no question about that, but we prefer to have some one to +look out for them." +</P> + +<P> +"So would I, but there's no use kickin' when a feller can't have all +them luxuries," Jet said gravely. "It ain't so awful nice to hustle +for yourself with a chance of bein' fired outer the house if the board +ain't paid right up to the minute." +</P> + +<P> +"How have you been earning a living?" +</P> + +<P> +"Most any way that come handy. Sometimes I sell papers, an' then agin +I black boots. I did think one spell of goin' into the theayter biz, +but I couldn't git the right kind of a job. I can dance a good many of +them perfessionals way out of sight, but the managers won't hire a +performer what ain't got good clothes." +</P> + +<P> +Jet spoke in a business-like tone which evidently pleased the manager, +for the latter said, after a short pause: +</P> + +<P> +"I will give you a trial, and——" +</P> + +<P> +"You couldn't do better," Jet interrupted gravely, "for if I can't hump +myself ahead of that fat chump over there I don't want a cent," and he +pointed to a very fleshy boy who was half asleep on a bench which +extended across the rear of the room. +</P> + +<P> +"Here is a cap," the manager continued. "Your number is forty-eight. +We'll find a coat which will answer until another is made, and you are +to go to work at once. Can you read?" +</P> + +<P> +"Why cert." +</P> + +<P> +"Then study this book of distances so you may know how much to charge +for service, and set on that bench until it is your turn to go out." +</P> + +<P> +Jet took the articles and was about to turn away from the desk when a +very important question came into his mind. +</P> + +<P> +"How much money are you goin' to give me a week?" +</P> + +<P> +"Four dollars is the regular price for beginners; but there are good +chances to advance if you attend to business." +</P> + +<P> +This was evidently satisfactory to new number forty-eight, for he did +as directed, and was soon busily engaged studying the tariff of prices, +seated beside the fat boy who was now slumbering calmly. +</P> + +<P> +For a short time Jet thought more about financial matters than of his +lesson. Mammy Showers charged him a dollar and a half per week for a +small room hardly larger than a cupboard, and two meals each day. He +would now, providing he did not indulge in too many luxuries while +traveling around the city, be able to save two dollars and a half every +seven days, and it seemed very much as if he had fairly started on the +highway to fortune. +</P> + +<P> +"Well, if they call this work I'd like to have two or three jobs of the +same kind." Jet said aloud when he was tired of studying the printed +instructions. "I've been here a little more'n an hour, an' haven't +been called off the bench once." +</P> + +<P> +This remark appeared to arouse the fat boy to the consciousness of +being alive, and on making great effort to sit upright, he noticed Jet +for the first time. +</P> + +<P> +"Hello! You're a new feller; I s'pose," he said with a yawn. +</P> + +<P> +"Do you think I look very new?" +</P> + +<P> +"You've jest com here to work, haven't you?" +</P> + +<P> +"The way things look now I've come to set around an' keep the flies +offer them young gents as has ter sleep forenoons." +</P> + +<P> +"You'll be glad to do that same thing before you've worked here a week. +It's dull now, but wait awhile, an' then see how the fellers have to +hump themselves." +</P> + +<P> +"Say, do you ever do very much?" Jet asked gravely. +</P> + +<P> +"I was out on a job yesterday that I didn't get through with till past +midnight." +</P> + +<P> +"Do the fellers have to work so late as that?" +</P> + +<P> +"Once in a while. You have to go where the customers send you, an' +some of the jobs are funny ones." +</P> + +<P> +"How far have you ever been on an errand?" +</P> + +<P> +"Up to Albany to bring down a dog for a man what was goin' huntin'." +</P> + +<P> +"Did you get him here?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course I did." +</P> + +<P> +"It must have been mighty rough on the dog." +</P> + +<P> +"Why?" +</P> + +<P> +"'Caus he'd be away from home so long if he wasn't allowed to walk any +faster than you can." +</P> + +<P> +"Think you're funny, don't you?" and the fat boy made ready to resume +his interrupted nap. +</P> + +<P> +Before Jet could turn his attention to the tariff again the boy at the +desk called loudly: "Number forty-eight!" and he went forward quickly, +well pleased that something had occurred to break the monotony. +</P> + +<P> +A summons had come from one of the hotels near by, and on answering it +he found nothing of more importance than to carry a letter to a certain +house in the immediate vicinity, but to Jet it was particularly +agreeable work, since he was given ten cents more than the regular fee. +</P> + +<P> +"If all the messages turn out like this one I shall have a mighty good +thing of it," he said to himself, in a tone of satisfaction as he +returned to the station. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was called upon only twice more during this first day of his new +work, and when he went home it was with the pleasing knowledge that he +had received as presents fifteen cents. +</P> + +<P> +On the following morning he was at his post so early that some of the +"night boys" made sport of him for appearing at such an hour, +predicting that in less than a week he would have "sense enough to stay +at home till he was wanted." +</P> + +<P> +He was not allowed to remain idle very long, however. +</P> + +<P> +"Number forty-eight!" the man at the desk called sharply, and Jet +leaped to his feet. +</P> + +<P> +"Go to No. — East Fourteenth Street. Here is your slip." +</P> + +<P> +Jet took the bit of paper and hurried away at full speed, to find that +he had been sent to a bar-room which was by no means noted for bearing +a good reputation so far as the honesty of its patrons was concerned. +</P> + +<P> +Seated at one of the tables were two men. The elder, tall and slim, +and the other of medium height, but rather fleshy. +</P> + +<P> +"Come here!" the thin man called as the messenger entered, and Jet +fancied that the fellow's full beard looked suspiciously heavy and +black. +</P> + +<P> +"I wouldn't like to bet that all that hair grew on his face," Jet said +to himself, as he approached the table, but he gave the matter no +further thought, for it was his business to obey orders, and not +criticize his patrons. +</P> + +<P> +"How long will it take you to go to the corner of Sixth Avenue and +Fifteenth Street?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not more than ten minutes." +</P> + +<P> +"Take this satchel and give it to a party with red hair who is standing +on the northwest corner." +</P> + +<P> +"Suppose there should be more than one?" Jet asked as he took the +traveling-bag which was remarkably light in weight although it was +apparently stuffed full to bursting. +</P> + +<P> +"The right man will ask your number, and you are to tell him it is one +hundred and ten." +</P> + +<P> +"But he can see by my cap that I'm forty-eight." +</P> + +<P> +"Do as I tell you, and never mind about your cap, do you hear?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, sir." +</P> + +<P> +"He will give you something to bring back, and you are not to stop on +the way, no matter what happens." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm not in the habit of loafing," Jet replied, just a trifle +indignantly, and before he could say anything more the short man added +impatiently: +</P> + +<P> +"Then don't do it here. Get on about your business, for we want the +answer in the ten minutes you promised." +</P> + +<P> +Jet started at once, feeling decidedly hurt at the tone used by the +men, and, walking as rapidly as the crowds on the sidewalk would +permit, was soon at the appointed place. +</P> + +<P> +A rough booking fellow with a shock of red hair which looked quite as +false as the tall man's whiskers, was waiting for him. +</P> + +<P> +"What is your number?" he asked nervously. +</P> + +<P> +"I was told to say one hundred and ten, but that isn't right." +</P> + +<P> +"Give me the bag, and take this back," the man said, as he literally +tore Jet's burden from him, and thrust into the boy's hands a paper +parcel so heavy that it required all his strength to hold it on one arm. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was on the point of handing this odd acting fellow the slip of +paper that it might be signed according to the rules of the office, but +before he could so much as take it from his pocket the man had +disappeared among the throng. +</P> + +<P> +"I suppose it's all right," he said in a tone of perplexity, "but I +wish people would let a fellow do as the boss insists upon." +</P> + +<P> +There was no time for delay if he intended to return within the ten +minutes as had been promised, and he hurried away, arriving at the +saloon only to be told by the bartender that the gentlemen had left +some time previous. +</P> + +<P> +"What am I to do with this?" and Jet held up the paper parcel. +</P> + +<P> +"They said you was to go to this number on the Bowery. I reckon it's +one of them cheap lodging houses." +</P> + +<P> +Jet took the card which was held toward him, and, stopping only long +enough to read the written words and number, hurried off once more. +</P> + +<P> +This last address was, as the barkeeper had suggested, a small hotel, +and on ascending the stairs to the tiny apartment called by courtesy +"the office," found the tall man awaiting his arrival. +</P> + +<P> +"I thought you was a boy who didn't do any loafing," the gentleman said +gruffly. +</P> + +<P> +"I haven't stopped a minute." +</P> + +<P> +"Who did you hang around chinning with?" +</P> + +<P> +"Nobody." +</P> + +<P> +"Haven't you been talking to that other messenger?" +</P> + +<P> +"Which one?" +</P> + +<P> +"The fellow you met." +</P> + +<P> +"I haven't spoken to anybody except the red-haired man, and he didn't +give me a chance to do much talking." +</P> + +<P> +"What is your fee?" +</P> + +<P> +"Twenty-five cents." +</P> + +<P> +"Here's half a dollar. If anybody asks where you have been say that it +was to the Stock Exchange. I don't care to have a lot of people +talking about my business, and a quarter should be enough to make you +hold your tongue." +</P> + +<P> +"Will you sign this slip, sir? the manager wants the distance and time +on there." +</P> + +<P> +"Do it yourself, and put it down as I tell you." +</P> + +<P> +Jet obeyed, writing as the stranger dictated, and when he presented +himself at the station once more the manager had no reason to believe +he had been anywhere except to the Exchange. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap02"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER II +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +TROUBLE +</H3> + +<P> +Jet was not just certain, when he seated himself on the bench to wait +for another summons, whether he had done right in obeying the tall man +so implicitly, but yet he could not understand how it would make any +difference to the manager, since he brought back the amount of money +which was the lawful charge for such service. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll ask one of the other fellows," he said to himself, and then the +rush of business was so great that he almost forgot the incident of the +morning. +</P> + +<P> +Until two o'clock in the afternoon he was busily engaged, and at that +hour returned after having been to the post-office to mail a large lot +of circulars sent by a particularly testy and disagreeable old +gentleman. +</P> + +<P> +"You needn't sit down," the manager said sharply, as the boy laid the +service slip on the desk. "Go with this man and see to it that you +tell the whole truth." +</P> + +<P> +Jet looked in surprise at a gentlemanly appearing person who was +pointed out to him, standing near the door, and asked hesitatingly: +</P> + +<P> +"What do you mean, sir?" +</P> + +<P> +"Exactly what I said. Don't keep him waiting, and come back here at +once if they let you go to-day." +</P> + +<P> +This last remark was yet more mysterious than the first, but Jet did +not have an opportunity to ask any more questions, for at this instant +the stranger took him by the arm, saying as he did so: +</P> + +<P> +"Now walk sharp. I've lost too much time already." +</P> + +<P> +There was no other alternative but to obey, for the man literally +dragged him through the crowds on the sidewalks, and continued on at a +rapid pace until the two were at the entrance of Police Headquarters. +</P> + +<P> +"What am I to go in there for?" Jet asked, as he tried to hold back. +</P> + +<P> +"The inspector wants to see you," the man replied, and the boy ceased +any show of resistance, for he began to realize that he was a prisoner, +although on what charge he could not so much as guess. +</P> + +<P> +Ten minutes later he was standing in front of the inspector, and that +gentleman was gazing at him scrutinizingly. +</P> + +<P> +"What is your name?" he asked abruptly, and when the answer had been +given be continued by inquiring into all the particulars of his short +life, until Jet cried in desperation: +</P> + +<P> +"What do you think I have done, sir?" +</P> + +<P> +"That remains to be seen," was the unsatisfactory reply, as, after +writing down all the boy had said, the inspector summoned a man in the +garb of an ordinary citizen, to whom he handed the paper as he said in +a low tone: "Find out if this is correct, and come back at once." +</P> + +<P> +Then turning to Jet: +</P> + +<P> +"How long have you been a district messenger?" +</P> + +<P> +"Two days." +</P> + +<P> +"What time in the morning do you go on duty?" +</P> + +<P> +"Seven o'clock." +</P> + +<P> +"What was the first call you had to-day?" +</P> + +<P> +"To No. — East Fourteenth Street." +</P> + +<P> +"Tell me all that happened there, and remember If you try to lie I +shall know it." +</P> + +<P> +Jet, confused and bewildered by the strange position in which he found +himself, did as he was bidden. +</P> + +<P> +Just for an instant he believed it would be only just toward the man +who had hired him, to repeat what he had been told to say, but then +came the thought that he was virtually under arrest and the truth +should be spoken at every hazard. +</P> + +<P> +"Can you describe these men?" the inspector asked, when his short story +was told. +</P> + +<P> +Jet did his best, not omitting to say that the hair of one and the +whiskers of another looked suspiciously false. +</P> + +<P> +"Would you know them again?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'm certain of it. The tall man I could spot even if the whiskers +were taken off." +</P> + +<P> +At this point the officer who had been sent to learn the truth of Jet's +statement regarding himself, returned, nodded his head in a significant +manner, and immediately disappeared through another doorway. +</P> + +<P> +Over and over again did the inspector insist on Jet's telling the story +of his morning's work, and when fully an hour had been spent in this +manner he said decidedly more kindly than before: +</P> + +<P> +"I believe you have spoken the truth, but you will be an important +witness in a very serious case, and I suppose it is my duty to send you +to the House of Detention." +</P> + +<P> +"Does that mean I'm goin' to be locked up?" Jet asked in alarm. +</P> + +<P> +"You will be deprived of your liberty, but it is very different from +going to jail." +</P> + +<P> +"Don't do that! Please don't do that! I've just got a job where I can +earn a good deal of money, and it'll knock me out of it. Besides," Jet +added as a lucky thought occurred to him, "if I keep on about my +business I may see them fellers again." +</P> + +<P> +"You advance a very good argument, and, in fact, I am depending on you +to do that same thing, but how shall I know that you won't give us the +slip?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'll stay right at the office, except when I'm out with a message, an' +come here every night if you say the word." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you know of any one who would go bail for your appearance when +wanted?" +</P> + +<P> +"Mammy Showers would tell you that I'll act square up to what I say." +</P> + +<P> +The inspector did not reply for several seconds, and then it was to say: +</P> + +<P> +"I'll take your word for it, my boy. You are to report to me, or one +of the officers here, every twenty-four hours, and, in the meanwhile, +if you get a glimpse of either of those men, follow him until word can +be sent to me; but do not speak of this matter to any one." +</P> + +<P> +It was evident that this ended the interview, for the inspector rose to +his feet, and Jet, overjoyed at the prospect of escaping imprisonment, +hurried out of the gloomy-looking building. +</P> + +<P> +On his return to the office the manager, who was particularly busy at +that moment, motioned him to a seat on the messengers' bench, and the +fat boy, unusually wide awake, asked in a blood-curdling whisper: +</P> + +<P> +"Did you really have anything to do with that murder?" +</P> + +<P> +"What do you mean?" +</P> + +<P> +"There was a man killed an' robbed over on East Twentieth Street last +night, and some of the fellers said you was down to headquarters +tellin' the police all about it." +</P> + +<P> +"And it was the murderers I saw this morning!" Jet repeated aloud, +astounded by the knowledge that he had possibly assisted the guilty +ones to hide the evidences of their crime. +</P> + +<P> +"Then you was in it!" the fat boy exclaimed. +</P> + +<P> +"Now don't be a fool! I carried a bag for some men this morning, but +that's all I know about it. Who was the murdered man?" +</P> + +<P> +"It's all in that paper Sankey left in his overcoat pocket. Get it an' +you have the whole story. I wonder why they don't put you in jail?" +</P> + +<P> +Before Jet could reply to this question he was ordered to the desk, and +from there sent to answer a call from the Union Square Hotel. +</P> + +<P> +Evidently it was not one of the regular patrons of the house who had +summoned him. +</P> + +<P> +He found a gentlemanly looking party standing just outside the clerk's +desk, who appeared particularly pleased on observing the number on his +cap. +</P> + +<P> +"I want you to go with me to Yonkers, and bring back certain papers +which must be delivered before six o'clock. Can you go so far?" +</P> + +<P> +"I will run over to the office and find out. You see I haven't been on +the force very long, and don't know exactly what to do when the work +will keep me so long away." +</P> + +<P> +"Very well, hurry as fast as possible, for I want to leave here by the +next train." +</P> + +<P> +Jet ran swiftly back, and in a very few moments returned with the +information that he was at liberty to go wherever the gentleman +desired, so long as the office received the regular price per hour for +his services. +</P> + +<P> +"There won't be any difficulty about that. You are to go to pier 466 +North River, and wait there until I come. Don't stop on the way, for I +shall probably ride down." +</P> + +<P> +"I thought we were going on the cars." +</P> + +<P> +"I changed my mind while you were away. We can get there just as +quickly by boat. Hurry off, for I don't want to be kept waiting." +</P> + +<P> +Jet left the hotel at once, wondering why the gentleman did not give +him a car fare if the business demanded so much speed, and on his way +to the pier he heard the news-boys crying the particulars of the +"Terrible tragedy on East Twentieth Street." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll see what the story is," Jet said to himself as he bought one of +the papers, but he did not stop to read then lest he should arrive at +the rendezvous too late. +</P> + +<P> +The gentleman was waiting for him on his arrival, but did not express +any anxiety to start for Yonkers immediately. +</P> + +<P> +"You can go up to my room and help me stow away some baggage," he said, +glancing around as if to make certain they were not observed. +</P> + +<P> +"Ain't this the Albany boat?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes; but I reckon there's nothing to prevent our getting out at +Yonkers." +</P> + +<P> +"I didn't know she stopped there." +</P> + +<P> +"You will probably have time to learn several things before you're many +years older." +</P> + +<P> +"But this steamer doesn't leave till night." +</P> + +<P> +"I've made another change in my plans, and it doesn't concern you since +a messenger's duty is to follow as long as he is paid for his services." +</P> + +<P> +This was said in such an angry tone that Jet held his peace lest he +should give further offense, but at the same time the whole affair was +beginning, in his mind, to assume a very mysterious aspect. +</P> + +<P> +The man motioned for him to walk by his side, and led the way through +the main saloon to a state-room forward, where, through the half-opened +door. Jet failed to see the baggage which had been spoken of as +needing "stowing." +</P> + +<P> +"Go in," the stranger said impatiently, pushing Jet into the apartment, +and following him. +</P> + +<P> +Then the door was locked, and the man carefully fastened both the +shutter and window. +</P> + +<P> +Now the messenger was alarmed, and turned toward the door with upraised +fist as if to pound for assistance, when a hand was placed roughly over +his mouth. +</P> + +<P> +"Don't try any such game as that or there'll be trouble, you young +cub," the man whispered, and almost before Jet knew what was being done +a hard substance had been forced into his mouth and fastened there by a +towel tied around his head. +</P> + +<P> +That he was a victim of foul play the young messenger could have no +doubt, and he struggled with all his strength to free himself, but in +vain. +</P> + +<P> +The stranger took from his pocket several lengths of stout rope, bound +first Jet's hands and then his feet, after which he threw him roughly +into one of the berths. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon you'll lay there without making very much fuss, till I get +ready to let you go," he said, as he treated himself to a long draught +from a black flask. "When we do land at Yonkers, you can go back to +Police Headquarters once more." +</P> + +<P> +The latter remark caused Jet to associate this adventure with the one +he had had in the morning, and after looking intently at the stranger +his suspicions became a certainty. +</P> + +<P> +"This is the short fellow who got me to carry the valise!" he said to +himself. "They know about my goin' to see the inspector, and are bound +to get me out of the way." +</P> + +<P> +The idea that his captor was a cold-blooded murderer, who probably +would not hesitate to add another to his list of crimes, was far from +reassuring, and the perspiration burst out on Jet's face as he thus +persuaded himself he was in immediate danger of a violent death. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap03"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER III +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE KIDNAPPERS +</H3> + +<P> +Jet's captor appeared to be perfectly contented after binding the boy, +and assuring himself that it was impossible an alarm could be given. +</P> + +<P> +He seated himself by the side of the berth, lighted a cigar, and began +to read a newspaper, although the light in the room was far from good +owing to the blinds being closed. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was lying in such a manner that he could see the fellow's face +plainly, and was now able to understand why he had not recognized him +before. +</P> + +<P> +At the saloon he had a heavy moustache and rather long hair. Now his +face was smooth and his head closely shaven. +</P> + +<P> +His face had then been so white as to be pallid, whereas it was now +bronzed deeply. In addition the man's clothing was of the most +fashionable make, while in the morning Jet had seen him clad in coarse, +badly fitting garments. +</P> + +<P> +"There's a big difference in his looks," Jet said to himself, "but yet +I don't understand why I was such a fool as not to know him when he +first spoke." +</P> + +<P> +Messenger number forty-eight had ample time for reflection, for fully +an hour passed without any change in the relative position of affairs, +and then came a low, quick tap at the door. +</P> + +<P> +When it was opened the tall man, now without a beard, and wearing a +pair of green spectacles, came quickly into the room, locking the door +carefully behind him. +</P> + +<P> +"I see you've got the cub," he said, bending over Jet to make certain +of his identity. +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, had him here an hour." +</P> + +<P> +"Have any trouble?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not a particle. He was the first to answer my call, and I took that +as a sign we should get away without leaving a trail." +</P> + +<P> +"We can't lug him around the country with us." +</P> + +<P> +"You're right but we can drop him after he's where it'll trouble him to +get back." +</P> + +<P> +"There's a safer way." +</P> + +<P> +"I know what you mean, Joe, but I don't like to do any more of that +business than's necessary. The last one couldn't have been avoided, +but this can." +</P> + +<P> +"It's a big risk to carry him up the river, and he'd better be dropped." +</P> + +<P> +"We'll talk about that later. Have you heard anything new?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not much. After this cub came from headquarters a detective was sent +down to the Bowery, and by this time it is known pretty well what we +looked like. The afternoon papers say the police are following a good +clew, but you know what such talk means, Bob." +</P> + +<P> +"Is the stuff salted away?" +</P> + +<P> +"All except what we need for a couple of months. The boys can send us +more if we conclude to leave the quiet little place we're bound for." +</P> + +<P> +Then the two men had recourse to the flask, and after taking a hearty +drink the one who had been called Bob proposed to go outside for a +moment. +</P> + +<P> +"You must be a fool to think of such a thing," Joe said angrily. "You +are not done up so well but that some body would be able to recognize +you. We are lucky in getting under cover without trouble, and here we +stop till morning." +</P> + +<P> +"It's going to be mighty dull work staying in this coop all that time." +</P> + +<P> +"Not half so bad as a cell in the Tombs." +</P> + +<P> +The two men relapsed into silence for a time and Jet lay watching them +as he tried to devise some way out of a position which was fraught with +danger. It seemed impossible that he could aid himself, bound as he +was, and exceedingly improbable any one would come to his assistance. +</P> + +<P> +Study as he might Jet could think of no way to extricate himself and he +said mentally after racking his brain in vain: +</P> + +<P> +"I don't see any way out, but there's no use in giving up hope till a +fellow is obliged to." +</P> + +<P> +The men alternately drank and smoked during the remainder of the +afternoon, but said very little more regarding their flight. +</P> + +<P> +When the steamer started Jet expected to hear them decide what was to +be done with him, but in this he was mistaken. +</P> + +<P> +As the hours wore on he fell into an uneasy slumber, despite the +painfulness of his position, and during this time of unconsciousness +the matter must have been settled. +</P> + +<P> +It was yet dark when the steamer arrived at Albany, and, very much to +the prisoner's surprise, the two men left the room, fastening the door +behind them. Then Jet heard a noise as if something was being done to +the lock, after which a deep silence reigned. +</P> + +<P> +"They're going to leave me here, and have put something into the lock +so the door can't be opened in a hurry," he said to himself, and during +the next ten minutes he struggled desperately to free himself. +</P> + +<P> +The bonds had been adjusted by an expert, and he might as well have +tried to fly as to hope to remove them unaided. +</P> + +<P> +He was both thirsty and hungry, and every limb ached from being so long +in one position. +</P> + +<P> +It seemed an almost endless time before the sounds of people moving +proclaimed that the passengers were leaving the steamer. +</P> + +<P> +Then another long interval, during which he could hear the noises of +the city, and finally some one knocked on the door of the room. +</P> + +<P> +If he could have cried out then his term of imprisonment would have +been speedily ended. +</P> + +<P> +"Some fool has broken the key in the lock," he heard one of the +servants say after trying several times to open the door. "We may as +well wait till the engineer can come up." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was rapidly losing heart. He counted the minutes, as if such a +course would make the time pass more rapidly, and was so thoroughly +exhausted when, at nearly three o'clock in the afternoon, the work of +picking the lock was begun, that he could not have made himself heard +even had the gag been removed. +</P> + +<P> +The engineer was not a skillful locksmith, and half an hour elapsed +before the door was opened. +</P> + +<P> +Even then it was several moments before the bedroom stewards perceived +the prisoner, and instead of unbinding him at once they ran in search +of the purser. When that officer arrived Jet was released from his +uncomfortable position, but his mouth was so dry and parched that he +could not speak. +</P> + +<P> +The boy realized that he would be questioned closely, and remembering +the inspector's caution, he resolved to tell no more than was +absolutely necessary. Therefore when the officers of the steamer +insisted on being told how he chanced to be a prisoner, he simply +related the story of the capture, without entering into particulars as +to why the men should do such a thing. His account was looked upon +with suspicion, and after questioning him yet more closely the purser +said: +</P> + +<P> +"The boy is lying for some purpose, probably to get a free passage. +Why would two men want to steal a fellow like him?" +</P> + +<P> +"I've told the truth," Jet replied earnestly. "Don't you suppose I +could have stowed away easier than by being tied up till I couldn't +wink, an' waiting for you to come an' find me?" +</P> + +<P> +"That sounds reasonable enough, but at the same time I don't believe +the story," the purser said severely. "Get ashore now, and if I catch +you on this boat again you'll have considerable trouble." +</P> + +<P> +It was with difficulty Jet could walk, owing to the cramps in his +limbs, but he hobbled ashore at once, thinking that for a boy who had +simply tried to do his duty he had been badly used. +</P> + +<P> +It was necessary he should return home at once, but he had no money. +</P> + +<P> +He was hungry, and yet had nothing with which to purchase a meal. +</P> + +<P> +His entire hoardings were in a box at Mammy Showers' house, and he did +not have the value of a penny about him. +</P> + +<P> +"It's a mighty tight fix," he said reflectively, as he walked up from +the river front, "and what makes it worse is that the inspector will be +certain I've run away because I had something to do with the murder." +</P> + +<P> +There could be no question but that he was in a bad scrape, and the +more he thought of it the more serious did the whole affair appear. +</P> + +<P> +"Hello, Johnny! Whater you doin' up here?" +</P> + +<P> +Without really thinking he was the one addressed, Jet looked around, +and saw a small boy in district messenger's uniform beckoning +vigorously to him. +</P> + +<P> +"Was you calling me?" he asked, as he crossed the street. +</P> + +<P> +"Sure. Ain't that a New York cap?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes." +</P> + +<P> +"Whater you doin' here?" +</P> + +<P> +"That's what I'd like to know," Jet replied ruefully. +</P> + +<P> +"Well say, what's crawlin' on you? Run away, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet was in that frame of mind when to confide in some one is a relief, +and he told him the same story the purser of the steamer refused to +believe. +</P> + +<P> +His new acquaintance listened attentively, and when Jet had concluded, +asked: +</P> + +<P> +"What do you s'pose they wanted with a feller like you?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know." +</P> + +<P> +"Hadn't anybody's else money, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not a cent, an' I'm no richer now." +</P> + +<P> +"What kind of lookin' duffers was they?" +</P> + +<P> +"Dressed pretty well, the short one was." +</P> + +<P> +"Did the other one wear green spectacles, an' was he tall?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, have you seen 'em?" +</P> + +<P> +"There was a couple of duffers hangin' round the other depot waitin' +for the train, an' I wouldn't wonder if they was the ones. The short +feller bought two tickets for Cooperstown Junction." +</P> + +<P> +"How did you happen to hear all that?" +</P> + +<P> +"I went after some parlor car tickets for our boss." +</P> + +<P> +"Has the train gone yet?" +</P> + +<P> +"It oughter left at seven this mornin'." +</P> + +<P> +"An' it's most night now, so they've got off." +</P> + +<P> +"Was they runnin' away from somebody?" +</P> + +<P> +Just for an instant Jet was on the point of telling this brother +messenger the whole story, but he checked himself in time and replied: +</P> + +<P> +"I should think they'd want to after playin' such a trick on me. Say, +how am I goin' back to New York?" +</P> + +<P> +"I dunno 'less you walk; I don't reckon you wanter stow away on the +boat?" +</P> + +<P> +"You bet I don't." +</P> + +<P> +At this moment the Albany messenger remembered that he had been sent on +an important errand, and said as he turned to go: +</P> + +<P> +"I'll be through work at six o'clock. Come around by the office an' +we'll have another talk." +</P> + +<P> +Food, not conversation, was what Jet most wanted just then, and as his +new acquaintance departed in great haste he walked aimlessly along the +streets wondering what could be done. +</P> + +<P> +"The inspector thinks by this time that I lied to him, and—— By +gracious, why can't I follow those fellows? That's jest what he told +me to do!" +</P> + +<P> +This seemed like a lucky thought, and without realizing that he had no +means to prosecute even the shortest search, Jet went rapidly toward +the depot. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap04"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER IV +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +AN ENGAGEMENT +</H3> + +<P> +It was necessary for Jet to inquire the way to the depot spoken of by +his new acquaintance, and after arriving there his helplessness seemed +more apparent than before. +</P> + +<P> +Passengers coming and going paid no attention to the boy, save to push +him out of their road, and he was even more alone in the hurrying +throng than he had been on the street. +</P> + +<P> +After wandering to and fro, trying to screw up courage enough to ask +the conductor for a free ride, and failing in the effort because none +of the train hands would give him an opportunity to speak with them, he +sat down on a truck and mechanically plunged his hands in his pockets. +</P> + +<P> +The paper purchased on the evening previous was the only thing which +met his touch. +</P> + +<P> +"I might as well find out about this murder," he said to himself, as he +unfolded the printed sheet. "When a feller is readin' he kinder +forgets how hungry he is, I reckon." +</P> + +<P> +To give the printed account in all its details would require too much +space, since there were no less than five columns in Jet's paper. +</P> + +<P> +The substance was to the effect that a well-known merchant, residing on +East Twentieth Street, had been found on the floor of his library the +previous morning, his skull crushed in as if with some heavy instrument +like a crow-bar, or a burglar's jimmy, and the safe, which was known to +have contained money and bonds to the amount of forty-six thousand +dollars, was broken open and empty. +</P> + +<P> +The theory of the detectives was that thieves had entered the dwelling +for the purpose of robbery; but having been surprised by the owner, +killed him in order to make good their escape. +</P> + +<P> +A large tuft of hair in the dead man's hand told that he had grappled +with his murderers, and the overturned furniture spoke of a long and +desperate struggle. +</P> + +<P> +Singular as it may seem none of the other occupants of the house had +heard any unusual noise, although the uproar must have been great for +some moments, nor was any shock perceived when the safe door had been +blown off. +</P> + +<P> +It was as the paper stated, the most mysterious of the many +detective-baffling crimes which had been committed in New York city, +because of the fact that such a deed could have been done without +alarming any one in the vicinity. +</P> + +<P> +Nothing was said regarding the men for whom Jet had carried the +satchel, because at the time the article had been written the police +were not in possession of this very valuable clew. +</P> + +<P> +Jet had finished reading the article, and was studying the matter in +his mind without being able to arrive at any definite conclusion +regarding the course he should pursue, except that he was eager to +follow the men who had treated him so roughly, when a stranger halted +directly in front of him. +</P> + +<P> +"You don't seem to be very busy." +</P> + +<P> +"It kinder looks that way for a fact." +</P> + +<P> +"Taking a vacation?" +</P> + +<P> +"A good deal more of a one than I want. I'd like to pick up some kind +of a job that would pay a little money between now an' bedtime." +</P> + +<P> +"Live here?" +</P> + +<P> +"In New York. A couple of duffers hired me to come here, an' then +skipped without payin'." +</P> + +<P> +"So you're stranded?" +</P> + +<P> +"You'd think so if you didn't have a blessed cent, an' was hungry +enough to eat up the whole town." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you want to earn money to take you back to the city?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'd rather go to Cooperstown Junction." +</P> + +<P> +"Then you'd be worse off than you are here, for it isn't any town." +</P> + +<P> +"That's where I want to go all the same." +</P> + +<P> +"I can give you a chance if you'll work your way." +</P> + +<P> +"What do you want me to do?" +</P> + +<P> +"I've got a minstrel company on the road, and wouldn't mind paying the +traveling expenses of a smart boy who will distribute programmes and +make himself generally useful." +</P> + +<P> +"A show! Say, I can do a mighty good turn at dancin', and give some of +these fellers what think they know it all, a few points." +</P> + +<P> +"Step out and let me see what you can do." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was by no means bashful; in a few seconds he was dancing as +spiritedly as if such discomforts as hunger and fatigue were unknown. +</P> + +<P> +"You'll do," the stranger said, approvingly, when the boy ceased his +efforts. "I'll take you along, and pay a little something if you'll do +a turn." +</P> + +<P> +"You can bet your life I will, but I don't want to go any farther than +Cooperstown Junction." +</P> + +<P> +"Very well, there'll be plenty of time to talk about that part of the +business, for we shall make three stands between here and there. Take +this money to buy something in the way of a lunch, and in twenty +minutes we'll start." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was overjoyed. +</P> + +<P> +By this arrangement he saw an opportunity to follow the alleged +murderers, and at the same time earn money to return to New York if +necessary. +</P> + +<P> +Probably if he had told his new employer the whole story that gentleman +would have advised him to call upon the inspector without delay, rather +than try to run the criminals down himself. +</P> + +<P> +As it was, however, he believed he knew exactly what course to pursue, +and had little doubt as to succeeding. +</P> + +<P> +Two sandwiches and three boiled eggs were the provisions he purchased +to break his long fast, and when the train drew out of the depot the +amateur dancer, seated by the side of his employer, thought he was very +fortunate. +</P> + +<P> +Cobleskill was the town where Jet was to make his first bow before the +public, and with a costume which was rather "off color" because of +having been contributed in fragments by the different members of the +company, he stepped on the stage feeling just a trifle nervous. +</P> + +<P> +To the surprise of his professional companions Jet gave a really +presentable performance. +</P> + +<P> +It is true some of his steps were not exactly artistic, but he made up +in quantity what might have been lacking in quality, and the applause +received was enough to make him proud. +</P> + +<P> +"Say, my boy, you'll make a success of this thing if you do a little +studying," the manager exclaimed when Jet finished his turn. "I'll +give you ten dollars a week and pay all your expenses if you want to +keep on the road with us." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon I'll stay more than the three nights we talked about, +'cause you see I've got some work to do when we strike Cooperstown +Junction." +</P> + +<P> +"You'll be glad enough to drop it when you see what kind of a place it +is." +</P> + +<P> +During the remainder of the evening Jet had nothing to do save watch +the other performers from the wings, and but for the fear that the +inspector might send an officer to arrest him, he would have enjoyed +himself hugely. +</P> + +<P> +On the following day he took part in the street parade at the next +stopping place, and during the afternoon read everything concerning the +tragedy he could find in the hotel reading-room papers. +</P> + +<P> +He did not gain any great amount of information, however. +</P> + +<P> +The particulars of the murder were related at greater length, and it +was said that several promising clews were being followed, but no +details were given concerning the work of the detectives. +</P> + +<P> +"Jest as likely as not I'll surprise people before this thing is over. +If I can get on the track of them men Something is goin' to happen for +a fact." +</P> + +<P> +He had already begun to speculate on the anticipated triumph when he +should, unaided, bring the guilty men to justice, as his gaze fell on +an advertisement displayed in large type: +</P> + +<BR> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +INFORMATION WANTED. +</H3> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +A suitable reward will be paid for information as to the whereabouts of +Jethro Lewis. The said boy is fourteen years of age, medium size, +curly hair, and when last seen wore a suit of grey clothes with a +district messenger's cap, on which were the figures 48. +<BR><BR> +Address<BR> +X. Y. Z., <I>Herald</I> office.<BR> +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +"The inspector is after me," Jet whispered as the paper fell from his +grasp. "Now my jig is up, an' I reckon there's no chance but that I'll +have to go to jail." +</P> + +<P> +Jet tore the advertisement from the sheet lest it should be seen by +some member of the company, and then went at once to the theater, where +he could remain screened from view of the townspeople. +</P> + +<P> +The one thought in his mind was that all would be well if he could get +on the track of those who had kidnapped him, and he blamed himself +severely for not having gone straight on to Cooperstown Junction, +instead of remaining with the company, but how that might have been +done while he was penniless was something he did not attempt to solve. +</P> + +<P> +"I won't stay any longer than to-night," he said to himself as the +curtain was raised for the evening's performance, and the stage manager +warned him to be ready for his cue. "There must be some way of getting +over to that place without waiting for the company." +</P> + +<P> +On this night he felt more confidence in himself, having had two +rehearsals with the leader of the orchestra, and at the signal went +before the audience confidently. +</P> + +<P> +On the previous performance he had not dared to look at the people, but +kept his eyes on the stage. Now, however, he glanced around, and the +dance was hardly begun before he brought it to a close, the musicians +gazing at him in surprise. +</P> + +<P> +The cause of his sudden stopping was startling enough to have +disconcerted a much older performer. +</P> + +<P> +Facing him, and not more than two rows of seats from the stage, sat the +two men he was so anxious to meet. +</P> + +<P> +"Go on!" the leader of the orchestra whispered hoarsely, and from the +wings he heard the angry command of the stage manager: +</P> + +<P> +"Get to work, boy! Do you want to queer the whole show?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet nerved himself to begin the dance, but he was so exceedingly +awkward that several of the audience guyed him, a fact which deprived +him of the small remnant of self-possession remaining. +</P> + +<P> +Without stopping to consider what the result might be, he ran at full +speed from the stage, and the spectators hooted and yelled derisively. +</P> + +<P> +"What is the matter with you?" the manager asked fiercely, as he shook +Jet until his teeth chattered. +</P> + +<P> +"Them men are there!" the boy cried brokenly. "I must go right out an' +get hold of them." +</P> + +<P> +"You'll go and stay, you little villain! If you couldn't dance I +wouldn't say a word, but I know what you are able to do. Where are you +off to now?" +</P> + +<P> +"I want to change these clothes so's I can go around to the front of +the house." +</P> + +<P> +"What for?" +</P> + +<P> +"Them men are there, an' I've got to find out where they're stopping." +</P> + +<P> +"What are they to you? +</P> + +<P> +"Don't stop to ask questions now, but let me go!" Jet cried, +impatiently, as he tore himself from the angry man's grasp, threw off +the stage costume and ran from the building. +</P> + +<P> +With no idea his enemies had recognized him, he continued on without +fear until reaching the corner of the building, where one of the men +was standing half hidden by the shadow. +</P> + +<P> +The fellow's hand was raised, and as Jet came up he struck the boy a +crashing blow on the head with a stout stick, felling him to the ground +like one suddenly deprived of life. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap05"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER V +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +BAFFLED +</H3> + +<P> +When Jet regained consciousness he was lying on the ground alone, +feeling dizzy and suffering from a most severe pain in his head. +</P> + +<P> +He raised his hand as if to relieve the anguish, and found that his +hair was matted together with a certain sticky substance, which, by aid +of a light from a near-by lamp, he discovered to be blood. +</P> + +<P> +From the theater music could be heard, thus telling that the +performance had not yet been brought to a close. +</P> + +<P> +It was only after the greatest difficulty that Jet rose to his feet, +looked around for an instant as if expecting another attack, and then +staggered toward the stage entrance. +</P> + +<P> +He spent ten minutes covering a distance of twenty yards, and, on +opening the door, was greeted by one of the company, who had evidently +come out for a breath of fresh air. +</P> + +<P> +"You had better not let the manager see you until after he cools off a +little more, for—— What is the matter, lad?" +</P> + +<P> +This last question after the boy's pale and blood-stained face could be +seen. +</P> + +<P> +"Somebody struck me." +</P> + +<P> +"Struck you? It looks more as if they had been trying to kill you." +</P> + +<P> +"Perhaps that was what they did want to do," and Jet half-seated +himself, half-fell on a trunk. +</P> + +<P> +However aggrieved the members of the company may have felt because of +Jet's failure, none of them were so hard-hearted as to ignore the fact +of his suffering. Those not on the stage were immediately summoned by +the boy's questioner, and in a very few seconds a messenger had been +sent in search of a surgeon. +</P> + +<P> +"Don't bother about me; I'll be all right in a little while," Jet +managed to say, and then he fainted. +</P> + +<P> +It was soon found that the boy's injuries, while severe, were not +dangerous. +</P> + +<P> +The scalp had been laid open to such an extent that half a dozen +stitches were necessary to close the wound, and the surgeon said, +reassuringly, as he bandaged the cut: +</P> + +<P> +"He has lost considerable blood, which accounts for his weak condition. +It will be some time before he feels all right again; but he'll come +around in good shape." +</P> + +<P> +"Will it do him any harm to keep on traveling with us?" the manager +asked. +</P> + +<P> +"Let him be quiet, and I don't anticipate any evil results. Do you +know how it happened?" +</P> + +<P> +"No. He was very anxious to see some one in the audience, and I fancy +he went out immediately after breaking down in his act." +</P> + +<P> +"Then send around at once and learn if anybody left the hall just +before the assault." +</P> + +<P> +This suggestion was acted upon immediately, and the doorkeeper stated +that two men, one tall and the other of medium height, went out very +soon after Jet ran off the stage. +</P> + +<P> +"It must have been some fellow who had a grudge against him, and he +broke down from fright at seeing the man; but I don't fancy it will do +much good to attempt to trace the matter. Show people can't afford to +fool around a town waiting for the delays of the law when they are +billed to play in other places, therefore the whole thing had better be +dropped." +</P> + +<P> +The surgeon received his fee and left the invalid after advising that +he be kept perfectly quiet. +</P> + +<P> +The performers continued their efforts to amuse, and Jet, lying on a +pile of wardrobe stuff, with the music of the orchestra and the +applause of the audience ringing in his ears, tried to decide upon his +course of action. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll have to leave the show here an' find them fellers," he thought to +himself, and then the pain of his wound prevented any further study of +the detective work he hoped to perform. +</P> + +<P> +It so chanced, however, that he did not carry out this resolution. +</P> + +<P> +When morning came he was too sick to have much choice in the matter, +and the kind-hearted manager said as he wrapped the boy in an old +overcoat: +</P> + +<P> +"We'll take him along in the hope of his getting better. If he don't +improve in a day or two he can be left in some other town, for it's +certain his life isn't safe in this place. Those fellows hit to kill +last night, and on a second attempt might be more successful." +</P> + +<P> +It was forty-eight hours before Jet fully realized the condition of +affairs, and then the show was nearly a hundred miles from the scene of +the attack. +</P> + +<P> +"Have we passed Cooperstown Junction?" he asked of the manager as the +performers boarded a train. +</P> + +<P> +"Bless your heart, lad, we left that desolate place behind us the +morning after you were hurt." +</P> + +<P> +"How can I get back there?" +</P> + +<P> +"I shan't allow you to try it yet awhile. In your present condition it +would be as much as your life is worth to make the attempt." +</P> + +<P> +"But I must go." +</P> + +<P> +"See here, Jet, why not tell me what is on your mind? I might be able +to help you." +</P> + +<P> +"Some time you shall know all about it; but not now." +</P> + +<P> +"Just as you please," was the impatient reply. "Will you be able to do +a turn to-night?" +</P> + +<P> +"I must get off the train at the next station." +</P> + +<P> +"Not much." +</P> + +<P> +"That's what I've got to do. You've been mighty good to me, but I +can't go any farther from New York." +</P> + +<P> +"How will you get back without money?" +</P> + +<P> +"Walk, if there isn't any other way." +</P> + +<P> +It was useless for the manager to make any protest. He was eager to +keep Jet with the company, for he had seen that he could please the +public; but after quite a lengthy conversation the boy's determination +was so strong that it would have been useless to oppose him further. +</P> + +<P> +"Well, if I can't help myself, I suppose you must go. Here are a +couple of dollars to help out on the trip, and I hope you'll win, +whatever's in the wind." +</P> + +<P> +"When does the train stop?" +</P> + +<P> +"In less than ten minutes." +</P> + +<P> +Jet made his preparations for leaving by removing the coat which one of +the company had contributed for his comfort, but the manager insisted +that he keep it, and when he stepped upon the platform of a small +station while the train continued on, it was with a very decided sense +of loneliness. +</P> + +<P> +His first care was to buy a new hat. +</P> + +<P> +His messenger's cap was too conspicuous, and afforded positive means of +identification in case he met with any one who had read the +advertisement. +</P> + +<P> +Then came the question as to whether he should return by the train at +the expense of his small capital, or walk at the expense of time. +</P> + +<P> +"It ain't certain they stayed in that town after knockin' me down, an' +I stand as good a chance of meetin' 'em on the road as anywhere else, +so I'll tramp it." +</P> + +<P> +After investing twenty cents in crackers and cheese, and consulting +with the station master as to whether it would be advisable for him to +follow the track or the carriage road, Jet set out on his journey. +</P> + +<P> +"Counting ties" was not as easy a job as he had fancied, and after an +hour's steady walking he sat down to rest a short distance from the +road, in the shelter of a shanty which looked as if it might originally +have been intended for a tool-house when that portion of the road was +being built. +</P> + +<P> +He had not yet fully recovered from the effects of the murderous blow, +and the steady traveling tired him to such an extent that it became +necessary to lie down. +</P> + +<P> +The natural result of this indulgence was that he soon fell asleep, and +even the rumbling of the trains as they passed failed to awaken him, +until after some time, when he became aware of a tugging and pulling at +his coat. +</P> + +<P> +Opening his eyes, he saw crouching by his side about as villainous a +looking tramp as one would care to meet. +</P> + +<P> +"What are you up to?" Jet cried angrily, as he attempted to rise to his +feet, but was prevented by the man, who threw one arm around the boy's +body. +</P> + +<P> +"Lay still, sonny, an' nobody shan't hurt you." +</P> + +<P> +"Take your hand out of my pocket!" and Jet cautiously drew up his legs +ready for a sudden dash. +</P> + +<P> +"Now don't get into a fidget; I'm only tryin' to find out if you've got +a license to travel over this 'ere road." +</P> + +<P> +The fellow was now doing his utmost to get at the contents of his +prisoner's pockets, and although the special one on which he was +working contained nothing of value, Jet did not intend to submit to the +indignity. +</P> + +<P> +He had drawn his feet up as far as possible, and was ready for the +struggle. +</P> + +<P> +Striking the man a blow in the eye with his disengaged hand, he kicked +upward an instant later, hitting the tramp fairly on the back of the +head as he involuntarily sprang backwards from the effects of the pain. +</P> + +<P> +This vigorous treatment sufficed to break the hold, and Jet sprang to +his feet just in time to avoid a vicious blow. +</P> + +<P> +"Try to get the best of me will you?" the man cried, savagely, as he +picked up a heavy cane which lay near by, keeping his eye meanwhile on +the boy. +</P> + +<P> +Jet knew he must do his best, or suffer for what had been done. +</P> + +<P> +He could see nothing which would serve as a weapon, and was thinking it +might be best to make a break for freedom, when the man sprang upon him. +</P> + +<P> +Luckily he succeeded in avoiding a blow from the cane, by seizing with +both hands the tramp's right arm, and then came a desperate struggle. +</P> + +<P> +Not for a moment did he dare to release his hold lest the fellow should +be able to use his weapon, and in the meanwhile he was pummeled soundly. +</P> + +<P> +The man's left hand was at liberty, and with it he showered blow after +blow on the boy's body. +</P> + +<P> +Jet managed to screen his face by using the tramp's arm as a shield, +and, finding that he was getting the worst of it darted forward at the +same time he kicked with all his strength. +</P> + +<P> +This sudden attack sent the man to the ground, and as he fell Jet +wrested the cane from his grasp. +</P> + +<P> +"It's my turn now!" he cried, as the fellow scrambled to his feet in a +rage. "Make tracks out of this mighty fast or I'll break every bone in +your body!" +</P> + +<P> +The man glared at him fiercely for an instant, and then, stepping back +a few paces, shouted loudly in a peculiar tone. +</P> + +<P> +"Stop that!" and Jet ran forward with the stick uplifted. "Don't you +dare to bring your friends here." +</P> + +<P> +"You spoke a leetle too late, sonny, for they're coming." +</P> + +<P> +Jet glanced quickly down the track, where could be seen two others of +the same sort as his adversary, running at full speed. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon we won't have any trouble about huntin' for your license +now," the fellow said with a grin as he retreated to a safe distance. +</P> + +<P> +Jet hesitated an instant. +</P> + +<P> +He knew that it would be useless to make a stand-up fight against all +three, but yet at the same time flight was impossible, because of his +exhaustion, caused by the struggle with the tramp. +</P> + +<P> +Looking quickly around, he observed that the door of the shanty was +open, hanging by one hinge. +</P> + +<P> +The hut might serve as a place of refuge until some of the section +hands should come that way and he leaped into the building. +</P> + +<P> +Wrenching the door from its fastening, he pulled it inside, and set it +up lengthwise as a sort of a barrier. +</P> + +<P> +"They'll have to come within reach of this cane before getting at me, +an' it'll be hard luck if I don't give a good account of myself for a +little while," he said, as with compressed lips, he waited for the +battle which he knew must soon begin. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap06"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER VI +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE BATTLE +</H3> + +<P> +The two tramps who were coming down the track halted on reaching the +one who had attacked Jet, and all had a brief conversation, which +evidently concerned the occupant of the shanty. +</P> + +<P> +Jet watched every movement, but while they were talking he had an +opportunity to gaze around the hut in the hope of seeing other means of +defense. +</P> + +<P> +It was empty, with the exception of a pile of straw in one corner, +which most likely had served as a bed for these or other tramps. +</P> + +<P> +"There's nothing for it but to stand up here as long as possible, and +perhaps somebody will come along before they can get the best of me," +he said grimly. "If things are going on at this rate, it would have +been better for me if I'd stayed with the show, for this isn't doin' +very much toward findin' the murderers." +</P> + +<P> +The men had finished their conversation, and were now approaching the +shanty. +</P> + +<P> +Jet raised the heavy cane, and stood ready for the battle. +</P> + +<P> +It was not to begin as quickly as he thought, for the three men halted +a few yards away, and one of them said, in a wheedling tone, as he +stepped several paces nearer: +</P> + +<P> +"See here, sonny, we're poor, hard-workin' carpenters out of a job. +There's no need of havin' trouble with you; but we're that hungry as to +make a fight seem pleasant alongside of suckin' our thumbs an' eatin' +wind-puddin' all the time." +</P> + +<P> +"What do you mean by all that?" +</P> + +<P> +"Nothin' more'n to let you know how we're fixed." +</P> + +<P> +"It doesn't concern me." +</P> + +<P> +"There's where you're makin' a big mistake, sonny. You've got money +an' we're broke, so it's nothin' more'n fair you should whack up." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm no better off than you are, or I wouldn't be walking instead of +riding on the cars." +</P> + +<P> +"Then come out like a man an' show us what you have got." +</P> + +<P> +"I'd be a fool to do that, for it's none of your business." +</P> + +<P> +"Now you're makin' another mistake. We've been put here to find out +sich things." +</P> + +<P> +"There's no use of all this chinning, for I'm not a fool," Jet cried, +angrily. "I shan't come out, nor will you have a chance to rob me." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm sorry you won't listen to reason, for we may have to treat you +mighty rough before this job is finished." +</P> + +<P> +"Do the best you know how, but remember that I'm going to have +something to say first," and Jet swung the cane threateningly. +</P> + +<P> +"Better take him right out; we'll have visitors before long, an' it +won't do to have sich a cub around," the leader of the party said, as +he advanced, after having armed himself with several huge rocks. +</P> + +<P> +Now the battle began in downright earnest. +</P> + +<P> +Almost before Jet understood that the men were ready to make the attack +a shower of stones were hurled against the shanty, and two came +unpleasantly near his head as they were flung through the door. +</P> + +<P> +"If one of them hits me the jig is up," Jet muttered, dodging his head +barely in time to escape a huge fragment which would have crushed his +skull like an eggshell. +</P> + +<P> +"We'll give you one more chance to come out peaceable like," the leader +cried, as he motioned for his companions to cease firing. +</P> + +<P> +If it had not been for the ignominy of backing down from the bold stand +he had taken, Jet would have accepted the invitation. +</P> + +<P> +The small amount of money in his possession did not warrant a risk of +life, and then again he was but delaying the real purpose of his life +by remaining. +</P> + +<P> +His pride prevented him from surrendering, and he made no reply. +</P> + +<P> +Again the men advanced with a shower of stones, and now they were so +near that Jet could only find shelter by hugging the side of the hut +nearest the door. +</P> + +<P> +"Can't some of you hit him?" the leader asked, angrily. "We mustn't +keep the fun up very long, for the boss is bound to come mighty soon, +an' there'll be a row that amounts to something if he finds us foolin' +like this." +</P> + +<P> +These words caused the men to renew their efforts, and twice did Jet +receive a severe blow on the body before he found an opportunity to +return the compliment. +</P> + +<P> +Then one of the fellows, leaning over the barricade in order to take +better aim, presented a fair target. +</P> + +<P> +Jet brought the cane down on his head with full force, and the fellow +fell to the ground like one dead. +</P> + +<P> +A roar of rage went up from the others, but they prudently fell back a +short distance, dragging their companion with them. +</P> + +<P> +"You see it isn't going to be so one-sided as you fancied," Jet cried. +"Now haul off an' I'll leave without saying another word." +</P> + +<P> +"You won't have much more chance to talk," the leader cried, savagely, +as he gathered another armful of rocks; but before he could renew the +attack a shout from the distance caused him to drop his weapons very +suddenly. +</P> + +<P> +"The boss has come, an' now we shall get a tongue-lashing!" one of the +fellows said, as if in alarm. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon that won't hurt us very much," the leader replied, but at the +same time he dropped the rocks, and stood ready to receive the +new-comer. +</P> + +<P> +Jet could not see the track from where he was standing, but he heard +what sounded like a familiar voice ask, sharply: +</P> + +<P> +"Now what kind of deviltry are you fellers into?" +</P> + +<P> +"Trying to drive out a rat we've got cornered in here." +</P> + +<P> +"Same old tricks, eh? Well, some of these days you'll bite off more +than can be chewed easily, an' then the jig will be up for all hands. +Can't you act decent one day in a month?" +</P> + +<P> +"That depends. When we're left alone three or four weeks on mighty +short allowance, it stands us in hand to look out for ourselves," the +leader of the party replied, insolently. +</P> + +<P> +"Take care of your tongue, my friend, or there'll be something else +needin' care precious soon. Let me see your game." +</P> + +<P> +Jet heard the sound of rapid footsteps, and an instant later the tall +man whom he had such good cause to remember was standing at a safe +distance trying to peer into the shanty. +</P> + +<P> +"Hello!" he cried, in surprise, as he recognized the boy. "It seems +that you've been doin' a lucky stroke of business without knowing it. +Don't let him give you the slip, an' bring him over to the house as +soon as possible." +</P> + +<P> +"Somebody you know?" one of the fellows asked. +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, a boy who has found out too much for his own good, and he must be +kept mighty close." +</P> + +<P> +"It wouldn't take long to fix that for you," was the significant reply. +</P> + +<P> +"We may have to do it; but Bob is agin that kind of business, an' to +humor him we must keep the cub awhile." +</P> + +<P> +"Has Bob come back?" +</P> + +<P> +"He must be at the house by this time." +</P> + +<P> +"Have you brought grub?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course not. Do you think we travel around the country loaded down +like pack horses?" +</P> + +<P> +"Better do that than go hungry." +</P> + +<P> +"Is everything used up?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, or we shouldn't be down here." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll see to layin' in a stock, an' there shall be plenty to drink. +When you can get hold of the boy, come along; I'll start now." +</P> + +<P> +The man disappeared from view, and the sound of his footsteps told that +he was walking rapidly away in the direction from which he had +approached. +</P> + +<P> +"What a fool I was to stay here fightin' for less than two dollars, +when by giving it up I might have been half a mile from here before +that villain came!" Jet said, bitterly, as he nerved himself for what +he knew must be the final struggle. +</P> + +<P> +He had good cause for fear. +</P> + +<P> +After the instructions which had been given there was little chance the +men would let him slip through their fingers, and, with such an +incentive on their part, there was no hope the struggle could be +prolonged. +</P> + +<P> +The man whom he had stricken down was now on his feet, vowing +vengeance, and ready to continue the fight. +</P> + +<P> +"Close right in on him," the leader said as he seized a stout rail from +a near-by fence. "He can only hit one blow, and the job is ended." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll give them a chance to remember me," Jet said, as he stood ready +for the attack, and the words had hardly come into his mind before the +men were in front of him. +</P> + +<P> +Striking out with all his strength, his cane came in contact with the +leader's weapon, shattering the former, and the fight was over. +</P> + +<P> +Two of the men seized him by the arms, and the third amused himself by +slapping the helpless boy in the face until tired of the sport. +</P> + +<P> +"Tie his hands, an' we'll mosey along. Joe is after something to +drink, an' we must be there in time to get our share." +</P> + +<P> +One of the party had rope enough in his pocket to obey the order, and +in a twinkling Jet's arms were bound so tightly to his sides as to +cause great pain. +</P> + +<P> +During all this time he had not spoken a word, but he did a "power of +thinking." +</P> + +<P> +In the first place he scrutinized his captors carefully, in order to be +able to give a perfect description of them in case he succeeded in +making his escape, and then took a good survey of the surrounding +country, that he might find his way back again. +</P> + +<P> +"Now get along, an' walk sharp, or what I have given you will seem no +more than a flea-bite alongside of the whalin' you'll get," the leader +said as one of the party started off, and he pushed Jet behind him. +</P> + +<P> +The prisoner could do no less than obey, and despite the disadvantage +of walking with his hands tied, he managed to keep pace with the +others. During nearly half an hour the party continued on at a rapid +pace, turning out of the railroad track about a quarter of a mile from +the shanty, and striking directly through the woods. +</P> + +<P> +At the end of this time they had arrived at what appeared to be little +more than a clearing in the woods, where was situated a rude log house +of two stories, around which was piled a complete circle of cordwood +not less than six feet high. +</P> + +<P> +It may have been cut for fuel, but it would serve admirably as +breast-works if the place was attacked by officers. +</P> + +<P> +A small outbuilding, which was evidently used as a stable, stood +fifteen or twenty feet in the rear of the main building, inside the +circle of wood, and near the door were tied two savage looking dogs, +who tugged and pulled at their chains, while they barked loudly as the +party approached. +</P> + +<P> +"If we had left them loose, I don't reckon either the boss or Bob would +have cared to come very near while we were away," the leader of the +party said grimly, as he went toward the stable, leaving the others in +charge of the prisoner. +</P> + +<P> +"There ain't much chance I'll ever be able to tell the inspector what +I've been doing," Jet thought as he entered the enclosure formed by the +fuel, and was led toward the single door of which the house boasted. +"Those dogs would be worse than a hundred men if a fellow was trying to +sneak off." +</P> + +<P> +He had no further opportunity for speculation just then, for the men +pushed him roughly into the house, and he stood in front of the short +man who had so successfully acted the part of a gentleman at the Union +Square Hotel. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap07"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER VII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +A BOLD ATTEMPT +</H3> + +<P> +"It seems to be pretty hard to get rid of you," the man said, with a +grin as Jet stood in front of him. +</P> + +<P> +"I can't say it's my fault." +</P> + +<P> +"Perhaps not, and it shan't be ours in the future. Where have you +been?" +</P> + +<P> +"Trying to earn money enough to pay my way back home." +</P> + +<P> +"We'll provide you a job here. If you behave yourself things won't go +so very bad; but there'll be the very devil to pay if we find you +trying to give us the slip." +</P> + +<P> +"I shan't stay any longer'n I can help," Jet replied, stoutly. +</P> + +<P> +"We'll take good care that you can't help it for some time. Sam, take +him up stairs where the small press was; I reckon he'll be safe enough +there; and when Joe comes back turn the dogs loose." +</P> + +<P> +"Then you an' he'll have to be mighty careful about goin' into the +yard, for they'll tackle either of you as quick as they would this boy." +</P> + +<P> +"So much the better. We'll look out for ourselves. There must be work +done to-night, so get ready for it while you are up stairs." +</P> + +<P> +The fellow waited an instant as if to learn whether there were any more +directions to be given, and then dragged Jet out through a door which +led to the apartments above. +</P> + +<P> +There were no stairs connecting the first with the second story. A +stout ladder afforded the only means of ascent, and since Jet could not +make his way up this while his hands were tied, his jailor was forced +to remove the rope. +</P> + +<P> +"Now get along; but look out how you try to play any tricks, for this +is a mighty unhealthy place for anything of the kind." +</P> + +<P> +Jet had no idea of attempting to escape while the odds were so +decidedly against him, and he obeyed meekly. +</P> + +<P> +The man conducted him to a small room at the rear of the building, +which looked as if it had lately been used as a workshop, and there +left him, after locking and barring the door from the outside. +</P> + +<P> +The prisoner gazed around him curiously. +</P> + +<P> +The apartment did not contain a single article of furniture. One small +window admitted the light, and this was so heavily barred with wooden +uprights that even with a sharp saw considerable time would have been +required for the prisoner to cut through. +</P> + +<P> +In one corner was a heap of dirt and fragments of paper; the floor was +stained as if with ink, as were the walls of hewn boards. +</P> + +<P> +From the window the stable was all with the exception of trees, to be +seen. A more desolate spot could not well be imagined, and to add to +its loneliness was the fact that it must be many miles from the nearest +habitation. +</P> + +<P> +Jet had no time to speculate upon his own condition; the only thought +in his mind just then was why these men chose to live in such a +forsaken place. +</P> + +<P> +In an adjoining room he could hear some person walking around briskly, +evidently moving heavy articles from one spot to another, and from +below came the hum of conversation. +</P> + +<P> +Having nothing better to do, and still intent on trying to learn the +purpose for which this house was intended, Jet began kicking away the +pile of dirt. +</P> + +<P> +A bit of bright green attracted his attention. +</P> + +<P> +Picking it up he found to his great surprise and delight that it was a +new ten dollar bill. The fact, that it was unsigned escaped his notice. +</P> + +<P> +"Well, this isn't so bad," he said, in a tone of satisfaction. "If I +ever do get away from this place I'll have money enough to pay my fare +to New York. I s'pose it belongs to them fellers; but I'm going to +keep it, all the same, to even up for what they've done." +</P> + +<P> +Now the dirt pile had great attractions. +</P> + +<P> +He examined it closely, and had the satisfaction of finding a second +bill exactly like the first. +</P> + +<P> +"These people must have plenty of money if they can afford to leave it +around loose like this," he said, as he placed the newly found wealth +in his stocking directly beneath his foot. +</P> + +<P> +Quite a large quantity of plain paper in small strips was all that +rewarded his further search among the dirt; but he did not think there +was any cause for complaint on his part. +</P> + +<P> +"Twenty dollars will come pretty nigh settlin' for all them fellers +have done to me. Now let's try to study up a plan for gettin' out of +this place. There must be some way." +</P> + +<P> +A second examination of the window gave no encouragement, for his +strength was not sufficient to force aside the bars. +</P> + +<P> +The boards of the floor, while not nailed with any remarkable care, +defied all his attempts to remove them. +</P> + +<P> +Then he looked at the ceiling, which was composed only of the rafters +with beams, poles, and boards laid across the top, but, so far as he +could judge, unfastened. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know as I should be any better off if I was up there; but it +won't do much harm to make a try in that direction after dark. A +fellow ought to be able to shin up the window bars." +</P> + +<P> +The more he thought of this possibility for escape the more simple did +it seem, and he resolved on putting the plan into execution. +</P> + +<P> +That the dogs were outside ready to try conclusions with any stranger +he understood very well; but it was useless to borrow trouble on this +score until learning whether there was a chance for him to descend to +their level. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't s'pose it'll amount to anything more than gettin' into the +loft, an' then coming down again; but it's better than laying still," +he said, and from that time until sunset he remained at the window +gazing out at the trees and the deep-mouthed guardians of the place. +</P> + +<P> +When, as nearly as he could judge, two hours had passed from the time +of his arrival, the tall man drove up in a springless wagon which was +apparently filled with food and liquor. +</P> + +<P> +The load was taken into the house, the horse stabled, and then the dogs +were let loose. +</P> + +<P> +That they would be very disagreeable customers with whom to have any +dispute could be well understood as they ran to and fro growling and +snarling, and despite his resolve not to borrow trouble until he knew +there was a possibility it could come, Jet could not prevent himself +from speculating upon what would happen if he suddenly appeared before +them. +</P> + +<P> +It was nearly sunset before the door of his room was opened, and then +the short man entered, bringing several slices of raw bacon, half a +loaf of bread, and a bottle of water. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't count on havin' you starve to death," he said, as he placed +the articles on the floor; "but you won't get enough to injure your +health, I reckon." +</P> + +<P> +"Why don't you let me go to New York? I haven't done anything to harm +you." +</P> + +<P> +"That is because you haven't had much of a chance as yet, except to +talk with the inspector, my boy, and we don't intend to give you one. +There isn't—" +</P> + +<P> +"Here, Bob! What's the use of chinnin' with that cub when the grub is +ready. Come down, or I won't answer that your share will be left." +</P> + +<P> +This threat had the desired effect, for Bob went out of the room very +quickly, taking good care, however, to lock and bolt the door behind +him. +</P> + +<P> +The night came; Jet could no longer distinguish objects from the +window, and the room was so dark that it was impossible to see his way +around. +</P> + +<P> +Crouching close by the window Jet heard the heavy tramp as the men came +upstairs, and by the noises he knew they had entered the apartment +adjoining his prison. +</P> + +<P> +The hum of conversation came through the rough partition quite +distinctly, and in a short time this was followed by a heavy thumping +sound at regular intervals. +</P> + +<P> +It was as if the men were pounding with a wooden mallet, except that +the blows were fully thirty seconds apart. +</P> + +<P> +Jet tried to guess what they were doing; but the effort was in vain. +</P> + +<P> +"What's the use bothering about them," he said, finally, to himself. +"So long as they stay where they are, and don't trouble me, I haven't +much right to complain, though a fellow would find it mighty hard work +to sleep in such a racket." +</P> + +<P> +It was time to make his explorations if he proposed doing so before +morning, and he arose to his feet. +</P> + +<P> +By the aid of the window bars it was not a difficult matter for one as +agile as he to clamber to the rafters above, and once there the +remainder of the task was comparatively simple. +</P> + +<P> +Hanging by one arm to the beams, with his disengaged hand he pulled +away the loose timbers and boards from above until a passage was made +for his body. +</P> + +<P> +Then raising himself by both hands he was soon standing where he could +touch the roof of the building; but unable to see his surroundings +because of the intense darkness. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't see that I am much better off up here," he muttered, grimly, +as he walked cautiously along without any very good idea of what he +expected to find. +</P> + +<P> +Just then a twinkling star was seen, and he discovered that one of the +roof-boards was badly rotted. +</P> + +<P> +Now, there was something tangible in the way of escape, and he eagerly +began to tear away the decayed wood, laying the pieces gently on the +flooring, until there was an aperture sufficiently large to admit of +his passing through. +</P> + +<P> +An instant later he was seated astride the ridge-pole, looking down +into the yard where the ferocious dogs were running wildly to and fro +as if having already scented their prey. +</P> + +<P> +Now indeed was Jet at a loss to know what to do. +</P> + +<P> +Even if the animals had not been below he would have hesitated to leap +from the roof of the building lest he should strike upon the barricade +of cord-wood with which the house was surrounded. +</P> + +<P> +He must go down regardless of the many dangers, or return to the room +where the men could murder him whenever they felt so disposed, and +after a few second's reflection he chose the former course. +</P> + +<P> +"There is one chance of getting away from the dogs, an' no show +whatever that I'll ever leave here alive unless I go now," he said, to +himself. +</P> + +<P> +Clutching at the rough boards literally with his finger-nails, he slid +slowly down toward the edge of the roof at a point farthest from the +stable. +</P> + +<P> +He could see the wall of wood directly beneath him, and hear the low +growling of the dogs as they sniffed the air to discover the cause of +the sounds which had aroused their suspicions. +</P> + +<P> +To remain very long deliberating would be to run the risk of the +animals giving an alarm, and Jet gathered himself for a spring. +</P> + +<P> +Putting forth all his strength in order to clear the obstacle, he +leaped. +</P> + +<P> +The ends of the cord-wood just grazed his clothing as he passed over +them, and Jet struck the soft ground, which gave forth no warning sound +to those who were in the building, on that side of the clearing where +the trees were nearest. +</P> + +<P> +He was unhurt, although badly shaken up, and would have started at full +speed to gain the partial shelter of the forest, but for the fact that +just then a heavy body leaped over the barricade. +</P> + +<P> +It was one of the dogs, and Jet knew he must now fight desperately if +he would live. +</P> + +<P> +A stick of wood about as thick as his wrist was the first weapon which +came to his hand as he clutched at the top of the pile to draw himself +up, and with this he awaited in silence the onset. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap08"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER VIII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +AN ARREST +</H3> + +<P> +Jet understood only too well that even if he should come off victorious +in this battle with the dog, and in so doing make sufficient noise to +be heard by the inmates of the house, all his efforts would have been +in vain. +</P> + +<P> +Although the moon had not yet risen, the light of the stars permitted +the boy to see his antagonist, who, on first striking the ground on the +outside of the barricade, stood for an instant as if at a loss to +locate the intruder. +</P> + +<P> +Jet thought it possible he might yet escape, and started toward the +shelter of the trees; but the sound of his footsteps soon told the +brute where to look for his prey. +</P> + +<P> +With a low, angry yelp he turned, standing motionless a few seconds, +during which time Jet continued to back farther away from the house in +order that there might be less chance the noise of the conflict would +be overheard. +</P> + +<P> +Then the dog crouched for a spring, and Jet, every muscle strained to +its utmost tension, stood ready to receive him. +</P> + +<P> +The battle was short. +</P> + +<P> +While the dog was yet in the air Jet struck out with the heavy stick, +and his aim was perfect. +</P> + +<P> +The club fell squarely on the brute's head, crushing the skull as if it +had been an egg-shell, and without so much as a moan the dog dropped +dead. +</P> + +<P> +There was yet another to be met, but so far he had not made his +presence known save by angry barks, and Jet ran for the woods with all +speed. +</P> + +<P> +He gained the shelter of the trees and paused for an instant to look +back. +</P> + +<P> +If he must meet the companion of the animal he had killed it would be +better to do so at the edge of the undergrowth where he could have a +fair view of his antagonist, rather than fight in the darkness where +the branches would obstruct his movements. +</P> + +<P> +No sound came from the inmates of the house to show that they had been +alarmed. +</P> + +<P> +From the window of the room where Jet had heard them moving about a +bright light could be seen, and what seemed very strange, considering +the fact that the night was far from cold, the men had built such a +roaring fire that the sparks were coming from the chimney in wreaths. +</P> + +<P> +Even where he stood Jet could hear those dull, heavy blows at regular +intervals, which, since it proved their work had not been interrupted, +showed that the men had no idea their prisoner was making his escape. +</P> + +<P> +The remaining dog was rushing to and fro barking furiously; but, +contrary to Jet's expectations, he did not leap over the barrier. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon there's any use waiting longer for him. It will be +better to take my chances of fighting among the trees than to stay +until those fellows come out." +</P> + +<P> +With this thought in his mind Jet started at a rapid pace through the +woods, exerting himself to the utmost to keep ever before him the +direction of the morning's journey. +</P> + +<P> +The bread and bacon he had put in his pocket before attempting the +escape, and now as he made his way through the underbrush he ate +leisurely, for strength was the one thing needful for the successful +completion of the task, and to retain this, food was essential. +</P> + +<P> +More than once he fell over the trunk of a tree, or was thrown by the +vines which caught his feet as in a snare; but each time he arose to +his feet undismayed, and the weary tramp was continued without a halt +until considerably past midnight, when he had arrived at the railroad +track. +</P> + +<P> +With plenty of money in his pocket there was no thought of walking any +farther than necessary, and Jet's only desire was to find a depot. +</P> + +<P> +By continuing on half an hour longer in a direction opposite the one +taken by him when he met the three apparent tramps, the boy found that +for which he sought. +</P> + +<P> +The night train would be along in ten minutes, so the station-agent +said, and Jet bought a ticket for Albany. +</P> + +<P> +He had been tempted to change one of the ten-dollar bills for this +purpose; but decided not to do so after realizing that it might be +imprudent to display so much money. +</P> + +<P> +Of the amount given him by the manager of the minstrel company he had +enough left to pay for a passage and purchase something to eat in the +morning, consequently there was no necessity of using that which he had +found. +</P> + +<P> +Of the journey to Albany he knew absolutely nothing. +</P> + +<P> +The long tramp had given him an overpowering desire for sleep, and the +soft seat was rest-inviting, therefore in less than five minutes from +the time he boarded the train his eyes were closed in slumber. +</P> + +<P> +On arriving at his destination one of the brakemen awakened him with a +vigorous shaking, which would have done credit to a giant's strength, +and he went out in the early morning air decidedly refreshed. +</P> + +<P> +His plans had all been laid during the tramp through the woods, and he +knew exactly what to do. +</P> + +<P> +First breakfast was necessary, and this important duty he attended to +without delay, spending therefor the last of his change. +</P> + +<P> +It was six o'clock when he arrived at the Hudson River depot, and +learned that a train for New York would leave in a short time. +</P> + +<P> +"Give me a ticket," he said, producing one of the bills found in the +house from which he escaped. +</P> + +<P> +The ticket-seller took the money, looked at it scrutinizingly for an +instant, and then at the boy. +</P> + +<P> +"Where did you get this?" he asked. +</P> + +<P> +"Out on the road a piece. Don't think I stole it, do you?" +</P> + +<P> +"Tell me where you got it." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know. It wasn't any town, an' I ain't acquainted 'round this +way." +</P> + +<P> +"Who gave it to you?" +</P> + +<P> +"A man." +</P> + +<P> +"Did you earn it?" +</P> + +<P> +"Say, mister, what's the matter?" and now Jet began to be alarmed, for +the ticket-agent looked very stern. +</P> + +<P> +Instead of replying the man beckoned to an officer who was standing +near by, and said, in a low tone: +</P> + +<P> +"Take this boy on a charge of passing counterfeit money. I will be up +to make a complaint as soon as I can get away." +</P> + +<P> +"Come with me," and the officer laid his hand heavily on Jet's shoulder. +</P> + +<P> +"What's the matter?" Jet asked, as he tried to release himself, but +succeeded only in getting such a choking as nearly deprived him of +breath. +</P> + +<P> +"You'd better come along without any trouble, for I don't want to club +a little shaver like you." +</P> + +<P> +"But I'm going to New York, an' that man has got my money." +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon you won't need it yet awhile." +</P> + +<P> +"Tell me what business you've got to haul me off like this?" +</P> + +<P> +"You'll find out soon enough." +</P> + +<P> +By this time quite a crowd had began to gather, and realizing that it +would be useless to make any further objections, Jet added: +</P> + +<P> +"Let up on my collar a little so's I can breathe, an' I'll go along +peaceable." +</P> + +<P> +The officer did as he had been requested, but not to such an extent +that there was any danger his prisoner would have an opportunity to +escape, and the two walked rapidly along the street followed by a +throng of boys. +</P> + +<P> +At the police station Jet was led in front of a high desk, and the +officer said in reply to a question from the sergeant: +</P> + +<P> +"Charged by the ticket-seller at the depot with passing counterfeit +money." +</P> + +<P> +The small prisoner was asked his name, age, and place of residence, to +all of which he made truthful answers, and then he was searched +thoroughly. +</P> + +<P> +As a matter of course this could only result in the finding of the +second bill, and the sergeant said, severely: +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon this isn't his first offense of the same kind. Who sent you +out to pass that money, my boy?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet hesitated. +</P> + +<P> +He had believed it would be possible for him to give such information +to the inspector as would result in the arrest of the murderers, and +was not willing to tell these officers the whole story. +</P> + +<P> +"I didn't know the money was bad," he said, after a brief time of +reflection. "Is that the only reason why you are going to keep me +here?" +</P> + +<P> +"Before the business is ended you'll find that to be serious enough." +</P> + +<P> +"But is it all?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes." +</P> + +<P> +"Then will you send word to the inspector in New York that District +Messenger No. 48 is here, and wants to see him right away?" +</P> + +<P> +"So? You're the boy who is wanted so badly in New York, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know anything about that; but I must see the inspector mighty +soon or it'll be too late." +</P> + +<P> +"Too late for what?" +</P> + +<P> +"That's jest what I can't tell you." +</P> + +<P> +"It may be possible I shall make you." +</P> + +<P> +"You can try; but it won't be any use, for I won't say a word to +anybody but him." +</P> + +<P> +"He has nothing to do with this case of passing counterfeit money." +</P> + +<P> +"I know it; but there's somethin' else of a good deal more importance +that he's got a finger in. It don't make any difference to me, about +the money, for I've done nothin' wrong, however you try to fix it." +</P> + +<P> +Jet spoke in such a tone of independence that the sergeant would have +made him feel the weight of his authority but for the fact that word +had been sent out from the New York Police Headquarters in such a +peculiar manner as to leave no doubt of the boy's being an important +prisoner or witness, and he could not well decline to grant the request. +</P> + +<P> +"You may think to get out of the scrape by playing this game, but I +promise you'll be in a worse box than ever if the inspector don't like +your message." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll run the risk," Jet replied, calmly, feeling that his arrest would +be a matter of but little moment if through it he should be able to +communicate with the inspector before the men in the woods would have +time to get away. +</P> + +<P> +"It would be much better if you confided in me, for just at present you +are in a disagreeable position, and I could do considerable toward +helping you." +</P> + +<P> +"We'll let things go as they are, providin' you let the inspector know +I've got to see him right away," Jet replied, and the sergeant could +not well continue the conversation. +</P> + +<P> +The small prisoner was confined in one of the cells; but due care was +taken in regard to his comfort, for by this time all in the station had +begun to look upon him as a very important person. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was not disturbed because of the fact that he had been arrested on +a charge of passing counterfeit money; already he had a shrewd +suspicion as to the value of his discoveries, and felt quite certain he +would receive a warm and friendly reception from the inspector. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap09"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER IX +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE DETECTIVE +</H3> + +<P> +The only thing which troubled Jet as he sat alone in the narrow cell +was the possibility that the inspector might not get his message in +time to bag the suspected men before they left the house in the woods, +for now that he had made his escape, it was reasonable to suppose they +would be alarmed. +</P> + +<P> +On this score, however, he need have had little fear. Before sunset a +gentleman was ushered into his cell and the door locked behind him. +</P> + +<P> +"You wanted to see the inspector," the stranger began, as he seated +himself on the narrow bench which served as a bed. +</P> + +<P> +"Well, s'posin' I did?" Jet asked, thinking this man was some one +attached to the station. +</P> + +<P> +"He has sent me to know where you have been." +</P> + +<P> +"Did you come from New York?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, on the last train." +</P> + +<P> +"Why didn't the inspector come?" +</P> + +<P> +"He never leaves the city; there are plenty of officers at headquarters +to do such work. Now, what do you know?" +</P> + +<P> +"More'n I'll tell to anybody but him." +</P> + +<P> +"In that case I shall have to take you back to the city." +</P> + +<P> +"But then it will be too late; them fellers are bound to skip when they +find out I've got away." +</P> + +<P> +"What fellows?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet looked up suspiciously. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't want to say a word to anybody but the inspector." +</P> + +<P> +"I told you he sent me to do the business. You can talk as freely as +to him." +</P> + +<P> +"Who are you?" +</P> + +<P> +"Detective Harvey." +</P> + +<P> +"From New York?" +</P> + +<P> +"See here, my boy, I don't blame you for having doubts, and to set them +at rest I'll prove that what I say is true," and the detective pounded +on the bars of the cell door until the turnkey appeared. +</P> + +<P> +"I wish you would ask the sergeant to step this way a moment." +</P> + +<P> +That officer obeyed the summons at once, and when he stood at the door +the detective said to him: +</P> + +<P> +"Will you kindly tell this boy who I am? He is afraid I am sailing +under false colors." +</P> + +<P> +"You are Detective Harvey, sent by the inspector at New York in answer +to a telegram I wired this morning. To give him perfect confidence in +you I will say further that at present he is confined for passing +counterfeit money, but if you should ask to have him released I +guarantee that the charge will be withdrawn. Are you satisfied now, my +boy?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, I reckon it's all right. I'll take the chances; but if you +fellers are playin' any game, the inspector is bound to raise a +terrible row when I see him." +</P> + +<P> +"That part of it is all right. Tell Harvey what you know, and I answer +for it that it will be the same as if the inspector himself was here." +</P> + +<P> +With this remark the sergeant walked away, and Jet said in a low tone: +</P> + +<P> +"Now I'll tell the whole story; but first I want to know why that +advertisement about me was put in the papers?" +</P> + +<P> +"We thought those two men might have gotten hold of you, more +especially since the manager at the district messenger station reported +that you spoke of being hired to go to Yonkers." +</P> + +<P> +Jet now gave, with careful attention to detail, the story of his +misadventures from the time of leaving the Union Square Hotel, and +Detective Harvey received the information with no slight degree of +excitement. +</P> + +<P> +"I suppose the bills you found in the pile of dirt are in the +sergeant's hands," he said, half to himself, when Jet concluded. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon so; anyway, they took both away from me." +</P> + +<P> +"We will go up stairs and look at them. If I'm not mistaken, my boy, +we shall run to earth the gang who are flooding the country with the +most dangerous counterfeit known, at the same time that we bag the +murderers. Do you think you could lead me to the house in the woods?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'm certain of it; but we shall have to walk a long distance." +</P> + +<P> +"I wouldn't grumble if it was fifty miles, providing we finally +succeeded. Come with me." +</P> + +<P> +Again he summoned the turnkey, ordered him to open the door, and said +to Jet: +</P> + +<P> +"Follow me." +</P> + +<P> +"Ain't they goin' to keep me here any longer?" +</P> + +<P> +"I should say not. You heard what the sergeant said, and we must be +out of this town within an hour." +</P> + +<P> +Jet followed his conductor up stairs, and in a few moments the two were +in earnest consultation with the Albany Chief of Police. +</P> + +<P> +The counterfeits were found to be the same which had given the +authorities so much trouble. They were so well executed as to pass +without suspicion in the majority of cases, and the fact that the two +discovered by Jet were imperfect impressions, which had been thrown +aside by the makers, was, probably, the only cause of their having been +refused by the ticket-seller. +</P> + +<P> +"It is lucky you were arrested," Harvey said in a tone of satisfaction. +</P> + +<P> +"Why?" Jet asked in surprise. "It wasn't any fun to stay in that +little cell all day." +</P> + +<P> +"I can fancy not; but if you had come to New York a great deal of time +would have been wasted, and as it is we can start in search of those +fellows at once." +</P> + +<P> +"But you an' I can't handle the crowd if they show fight." +</P> + +<P> +"We don't intend to try. When we leave this town our party will be +large enough." +</P> + +<P> +"How many men do you want?" the chief asked the detective. +</P> + +<P> +"Two, providing they are ready at once." +</P> + +<P> +"I suppose you will go a certain portion of the way on the train?" +</P> + +<P> +"Certainly." +</P> + +<P> +"On that road the next one leaves in about an hour. I will have the +best men I know of waiting at the depot. Is there anything else to be +done?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not now. Jet and I will go for dinner, and meet you at the station. +Can you lend the boy a revolver; one more weapon may come in handy in +case of a fight, and unless those fellows have already made a change of +base I reckon we shall have a lively time." +</P> + +<P> +The chief gave Jet a weapon and plenty of cartridges, and District +Messenger No. 48 felt exceedingly proud as he walked out of the station +with the revolver in the inside pocket of his coat. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey was no niggard so far as caring for the comfort of his small +assistant was concerned. +</P> + +<P> +A dinner at the Delavan House such as Jet had never set down to before +was indulged in, and when the messenger arose from the table it was +with the sensation of being full almost to bursting. +</P> + +<P> +To the boy's relief Harvey informed him that the inspector never for a +moment believed he had run away; but attributed his absence to exactly +the true cause, and all which had been done toward finding him was with +this view of the case. +</P> + +<P> +"It will be a mighty big thing for you if we succeed to-night," the +detective added, "for the rewards which have been offered, both for the +counterfeiters and the murderers, amount to no small sum, a portion of +which will, of course, belong to you." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm satisfied if I make wages out of the thing; but it's too bad that +money I found wasn't good, for I allowed to put the most of it away +so's to pay my board till I got another job." +</P> + +<P> +"You needn't hunt very far for work if this thing turns, out all right. +I'll take care of that part of it." +</P> + +<P> +Since Jet was to be the guide on the expedition his advice was asked +for when the tickets were purchased, and in order to be certain of his +bearings he thought best to return to the town where he boarded the +cars during his flight. +</P> + +<P> +Two officers, dressed in citizens' clothes, reported to Harvey at the +depot, and one would say, judging from their personal appearance, that +they were well able to cope with twice the number of desperate +characters who might be found in the house in the woods. +</P> + +<P> +It was late in the evening when the party alighted from the train, and +Jet set out up the track leading the way, until he arrived at the point +where he emerged from the woods. +</P> + +<P> +"This is the place," he said, pointing to the trunk of a dead tree. "I +took especial notice of that so's I'd be able to know where to strike +in again." +</P> + +<P> +"In what direction is the house situated?" Harvey asked. +</P> + +<P> +"About there," and Jet pointed toward the north. +</P> + +<P> +"Do you think you could find it in the night?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'm certain I could when it was light; but there is a long distance to +walk, so what's to hinder our goin' as far as I traveled, an' then +waiting for morning." +</P> + +<P> +"It's a good idea. Go ahead, and when you think we are far enough, +call a halt." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't fancy camping in the woods all night, and that is about what +you are preparing to do," one of the Albany officers said, grumblingly. +</P> + +<P> +"This is a case where we must put up with considerable discomfort for +the sake of bagging our game. Let the boy do as he chooses; I'll +answer for it that he's got brains enough to lead us right." +</P> + +<P> +Harvey was ready to undergo any discomfort in order to gain the desired +end; but his companions were not as enthusiastic. They complained at +being under the guidance of a boy in whom they did not feel the most +perfect confidence, and Harvey was obliged to speak very harshly before +they would consent to follow. +</P> + +<P> +Jet led the way with no slight degree of mental disquietude. +</P> + +<P> +If he failed to conduct the party correctly it might be said he was +playing the traitor, and the task set for him was a difficult one, +considering the fact that he had only been over the ground once before. +</P> + +<P> +Nevertheless he was willing to do all in his power, trusting for +success to the chapter of accidents rather than any especial skill of +his own, and the men followed close at his heels. +</P> + +<P> +During his flight he had noted carefully all the prominent landmarks, +and the fact that he had seen them only in the night aided him now. +</P> + +<P> +During at least four hours he advanced at a rapid pace, stopping now +and then to take counsel with Harvey, and at the expiration of that +time he said, as he pointed toward a clump of alder bushes: +</P> + +<P> +"There is where I first began the tramp after the fight with the dog." +</P> + +<P> +"Are you certain of that?" +</P> + +<P> +"You can make sure by crawling through the bushes three or four hundred +yards, when the house should be in sight." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll go ahead now. If I get off the course, stop me," and Harvey took +command of the party. +</P> + +<P> +That Jet had made no mistake was shown ten minutes later when the +outlines of the building with its barricade of cord-wood could be seen +against the gray sky. +</P> + +<P> +The house was wrapped in darkness, presenting a striking contrast with +the scene as viewed by Jet a few hours previous, and the latter said +mournfully: +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon all hands have skipped." +</P> + +<P> +"It won't take us long to find out, for we'll overhaul the place at +once." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap10"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER X +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +ONE PRISONER. +</H3> + +<P> +The brute guardian of the house was at his post, as was soon learned +when the new-comers drew nearer. +</P> + +<P> +The deep baying of the dog was heard before the party had gained the +edge of the woods where an unobstructed view of the house could be had, +and Jet whispered to Harvey in a tone of satisfaction: +</P> + +<P> +"It's a good thing I killed the other, for now there can't be much of a +fight with only one to be taken care of." +</P> + +<P> +"Does that wood-pile run all around the house?" the detective asked. +</P> + +<P> +"It does, so far as I could see, except at the gate." +</P> + +<P> +"Where is that?" +</P> + +<P> +"To the right." +</P> + +<P> +"How high is it?" +</P> + +<P> +"About the same as the wood-pile, and made of planks." +</P> + +<P> +It was evident the place had been built with especial reference to +sustaining an attack, and there seemed little chance but that it would +be stoutly defended. +</P> + +<P> +"Three men inside could snap their fingers at a hundred," Harvey said, +half to himself; "but at the same time four on the outside could keep a +dozen of them prisoners." +</P> + +<P> +"You are bound to have a fight," Jet whispered. +</P> + +<P> +"There's little doubt about that, my boy. You are to stay under cover +of the barricade near the gate while we rush in." +</P> + +<P> +"Why don't I go with you?" +</P> + +<P> +"Because there's too much danger. It will be enough if you prevent any +of the crowd from giving us the slip." +</P> + +<P> +"But I want to do my share; it was through me that you found out where +they were, and it isn't fair to make me stay behind?" +</P> + +<P> +"You're a brick, my boy," Harvey exclaimed as he grasped Jet's hand +warmly. "If we finish this work all right I'll show you a chance to +earn a living, for you shall be my partner." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you mean it?" Jet cried, speaking incautiously loud in his +excitement. +</P> + +<P> +"Every word; but we'll drop the matter now and attend to business. +I've got a general idea of the lay of the land, and there must be no +more time wasted. Keep close behind me." +</P> + +<P> +Harvey then held a whispered conversation with his companions, during +which it was decided that the barricade should be scaled near the gate, +and the dog silenced, if possible, in the manner Jet settled the other +one. +</P> + +<P> +"Don't shoot unless it is absolutely necessary," Harvey said in +conclusion, "for we must take those fellows by surprise." +</P> + +<P> +"It isn't likely they've been obliging enough to leave the door open so +we can walk in," one of the party suggested. +</P> + +<P> +"By attacking that with the heaviest sticks of cordwood after the brute +is killed, we should be able to pound our way through in a very few +seconds. Now come on, and work lively after we are in the yard." +</P> + +<P> +Harvey led the way, and on arriving at the gate it was found to be an +extremely difficult point at which to effect an entrance, because of +its height, therefore the plan was so far changed as to move farther +toward the rear of the building, where the party began clambering the +wood. +</P> + +<P> +During all this time the dog had kept up a furious barking, and when +Harvey stood on the top of the barricade ready to leap down, the animal +was directly beneath him ready for a spring. +</P> + +<P> +It would have been an easy matter to shoot him then and there; but the +detective was not willing to discharge his weapon, and, armed with a +heavy stick, he leaped upon him. +</P> + +<P> +Unfortunately, just as he jumped some of the wood rolled from beneath +his feet, and he was turned in such a manner that he fell prostrate +before the enraged brute. +</P> + +<P> +In another instant, and before he could have scrambled to his feet, the +dog would have had him by the throat but for Jet, who was on the alert +for just such an accident. +</P> + +<P> +In a twinkling he was inside the enclosure, and the remainder of the +party hardly had time to understand what had happened before his club +descended on the animal's head. +</P> + +<P> +One such blow was sufficient to put an end to this portion of the +battle, and when Harvey stood erect once more the dog was still in +death, save for the muscular twitching of his body. +</P> + +<P> +Again Harvey clasped the boy by the hand, for the latter's timely +action had saved the man from severe wounds, if nothing more serious, +and then all advanced cautiously toward the house. +</P> + +<P> +Listening at the door an instant, not a sound could be heard. +</P> + +<P> +From the silence all believed the men had made their escape, but yet it +would not be wise to take that for granted. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey raised his weapon, looked around to make certain his companions +were ready to join in the assault, and then whispered: +</P> + +<P> +"Now! Strike together, and keep it up till something gives way." +</P> + +<P> +The words had hardly been spoken when the heavy sticks of wood were +launched against the door, and before a second blow could be given the +report of a revolver rang out sharp and angry on the night air. +</P> + +<P> +"We have got them!" the detective shouted triumphantly, for there was +no reason why they should remain silent. "Work quickly, boys!" +</P> + +<P> +Again and again were the blows delivered, causing the barrier to +splinter and creak on its hinges, and the fusillade of shots was kept +up during this portion of the task. +</P> + +<P> +The assaulting party were so near within the shadow of the building +that those inside, who appeared to be in the upper story, could not +take good aim without exposing themselves, and the bullets fled wide of +their mark. +</P> + +<P> +Crash! Crash! +</P> + +<P> +With each blow portions of the door were splintered off, until, before +one hardly had time to count twelve from the beginning of the assault, +the besiegers had free access to the building. +</P> + +<P> +"Let one stay here and the others follow me!" Harvey cried, as he drew +his revolver and rushed at full speed up the ladder. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was close at his heels. He intended to take a man's part in the +capture, and for the time being all thought of danger was forgotten. +</P> + +<P> +The firing had come from the front room, and there Harvey ran after +gaining the upper floor. +</P> + +<P> +"Stand back, Jet, they're bound to shoot when the door is opened," he +said as he halted before the second barrier. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll take my share of it," the boy replied, and he pressed forward for +the honor of entering first, but Harvey pushed him back quickly as he +laid his hand on the wooden latch. +</P> + +<P> +To the surprise of both the door yielded readily to the hand, instead +of being locked, as was supposed. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey sprang in and Jet stepped so close behind as almost to tread on +his leader's heels. +</P> + +<P> +One man stood in the center of the apartment brandishing a revolver, +which he discharged full at the detective. +</P> + +<P> +The latter had stooped suddenly on entering, and the bullet buried +itself in the woodwork above his head. +</P> + +<P> +Quick as thought Harvey threw himself forward, overturning the defender +of the house and causing him to lose his weapon. +</P> + +<P> +"Stand guard over this fellow, and shoot him as you would a dog if he +so much as makes the least motion to get up," the detective shouted to +Jet. Then he sprang back to the ladder. "They have given us the slip. +Get into the yard while I search the other rooms." +</P> + +<P> +The Albany detectives had not yet had time to ascend, and they obeyed +at once, while Harvey ran quickly through the other rooms. +</P> + +<P> +A search of five minutes was sufficient to show that the building had +no other occupant than the prisoner whom Jet was guarding, and Harvey +returned to the front room. +</P> + +<P> +"When did your pals leave?" he asked as he slipped a pair of handcuffs +on the fellow's wrists. +</P> + +<P> +"They went away this morning. What right have you to break into +innocent men's houses?" +</P> + +<P> +"We will explain that matter later. Tell me where the others went." +</P> + +<P> +"Don't you wish you may find out?" +</P> + +<P> +"It will be better for you to give all the information possible if you +want to save your own skin." +</P> + +<P> +"I've heard roosters like you before, so there's no use in crowing to +me." +</P> + +<P> +"Can you find a light, Jet? I want to see what the scoundrel looks +like." +</P> + +<P> +"You'll see enough of me before this thing is ended," the man said with +a growl, and Harvey looked around suspiciously, so confident was the +fellow's tone. +</P> + +<P> +Jet soon found a candle on the rude affair which answered as a table, +but its light revealed nothing of importance. +</P> + +<P> +The room had no other furniture than a cot bed on which were a pile of +coarse blankets, two stools and a sort of shelf that served as a table. +</P> + +<P> +By this time the detectives had come in from the yard with the report +that nothing could be found to show when the others left. +</P> + +<P> +The stable was empty, and had evidently been so for several hours. +</P> + +<P> +"One of you stand guard over this fellow, and we will search the house. +Come on, Jet, and show me where you were imprisoned," Harvey said as he +took up the candle and left the room. +</P> + +<P> +The boy obeyed and a thorough search was made of the premises. +</P> + +<P> +To the surprise of all nothing of importance was found. +</P> + +<P> +If the men had had machinery for making counterfeit money, everything +had been taken away. +</P> + +<P> +The building contained nothing more than might have been found in any +honest dwelling, and Harvey said in a tone of disappointment: +</P> + +<P> +"They must have worked like beavers from the time it was learned the +boy had made his escape, and that fellow in the other room was pretty +near right when he made his threats, for we have broken into a building +without legal right to do anything of the kind." +</P> + +<P> +"If they had presses here we should be able to find them in the +morning, for the whole plant must be buried near by; it couldn't have +been carried away in this short time," the men from Albany suggested. +</P> + +<P> +This seemed reasonable, and Harvey decided to make a thorough search +before returning. +</P> + +<P> +The prisoner was secured to the heavy table in the back room on the +lower floor, and until daylight the party discussed the matter in all +its bearings. +</P> + +<P> +Then Harvey said as he went toward the door: +</P> + +<P> +"Now, let's get to work, and finish this job by night-fall if possible." +</P> + +<P> +At that instant he stepped outside, and at the same moment the reports +of two weapons were heard from the direction of the woods, the bullets +striking within an inch of the detective's head. +</P> + +<P> +He leaped back under cover, saying bitterly as he did so: +</P> + +<P> +"The villains are sharper than I gave them credit for, and have got us +like rats in a trap. We were allowed to come in, and now they propose +to shoot us down at their leisure, for the gang can't afford to let us +leave here alive!" +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap11"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XI +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CLOSE QUARTERS +</H3> + +<P> +If either of the party had looked at the prisoner when the shots were +heard it would have been possible to understand that he was expecting +something of the kind. +</P> + +<P> +His face lighted up with an expression of joy, and one could readily +fancy he believed the time near at hand when the tables would be turned +with a vengeance. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey was more chagrined than frightened. +</P> + +<P> +The fact that he had not suspected something of the kind when it was +learned the house had been virtually abandoned, cut deep into his +professional pride, and he blamed himself more severely than any other +member of the party could have done. +</P> + +<P> +"A child would have had more sense than to fancy they had given us the +slip and taken all their stuff with them," he said, angrily. "I have +simply done what they allowed a fool would do, and now we must pay the +piper." +</P> + +<P> +"But they'll make a mighty poor fist of trying to take us out of here," +one of the detectives said, consolingly. +</P> + +<P> +"That goes without saying; but how about our leaving when we get ready? +They have us where we can't show our noses outside, and in this +desolate spot we needn't expect any help for it would take a month of +steady work for a person to find us, and I don't reckon the house is +provisioned to stand such a siege." +</P> + +<P> +"I haven't seen anything in the way of food, and I've been into every +room." +</P> + +<P> +"Most likely you'll find that the stock of water is quite as low. +We're penned up here without a chance of helping ourselves unless we're +willing to stand a regular battle." +</P> + +<P> +"Well, I don't see why we shouldn't be able to do, that. According to +the boy's story there are only three, without counting this man, +therefore the forces are equal in numbers." +</P> + +<P> +"That is true; but they have the advantage of position by being hidden +in the woods, and we can't show our noses out of doors without the +certainty of acting as targets while they are under cover." +</P> + +<P> +It was not necessary to discuss the matter at any very great length in +order to understand that they had voluntarily entered a trap, and the +entire party gazed at each other in silence while the prisoner appeared +to enjoy the situation hugely. +</P> + +<P> +"I can't see why they want to pen us up here?" Jet said in a low tone +to Harvey when the two were in one of the rear rooms gazing from the +window, and the remainder of the party were with the prisoner. +</P> + +<P> +"It is plain enough," was the petulant reply. "When they found that +you had escaped it was quite natural to suppose you would lead officers +here. Those fellows wanted to get their precious bodies out of the +way; but yet were not willing to leave all their belongings behind. +The work was done systematically. Everything was first carried a short +distance into the woods, and a man left here on guard so we should be +certain to come into the trap." +</P> + +<P> +"Well?" +</P> + +<P> +"Well, while we are here those fellows are carting off their stuff, and +when that has been safely done we shall be allowed to go free, or they +may possibly try to rescue the prisoner, although that would be +needless, since we have no evidence against him." +</P> + +<P> +"Wouldn't things be all right if you could know where the things were +hidden?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course; why do you ask?" +</P> + +<P> +"Because it seems to me that I might slip out of here after dark and +watch them." +</P> + +<P> +"There would be too much danger in such a job. They had rather get +hold of you than succeed in carrying the stuff away, for you are an +important witness against them, and once in their hands your lease of +life would be cut mighty short." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll run the risk of their getting hold of me." +</P> + +<P> +"But I won't, so there is no need of discussing the matter. I am going +to post the men at the windows in the hope we shall get a shot at one +of the crowd, and while that is being done you must make another search +of the house to find out what we have got in the way of water and +provisions." +</P> + +<P> +Jet obeyed at once, and the detective placed his assistants at +different points where a view of the woods could be had, impressing +upon them the importance of trying to shoot down one or more of the +besiegers. +</P> + +<P> +A search of the building failed to reveal anything which would aid in +"holding the fort." +</P> + +<P> +Not so much as a cracker could be found, and the supply of water was +hardly more than a quart, which had been left in a pail on the kitchen +table. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey had nothing to say when Jet made his report. He had joined his +assistants in trying to get a shot at the men, and seemed to think of +nothing else. +</P> + +<P> +Left to himself, Jet wandered around the building trying to devise some +means of helping his companions, and before noon he fancied he had a +plan which promised success. +</P> + +<P> +At the rear of the house next to the barn was a pile of fuel prepared +for the stove, and near by were two water barrels. +</P> + +<P> +"There is enough around to prevent them from seeing me if I crawled out +to the barn, and I'm going to do it to-night, whether Mr. Harvey is +willing or not," he said to himself as he ascended the stairs. +</P> + +<P> +All the men were on guard; but nothing suspicious had been seen. +</P> + +<P> +"There is no need of their showing themselves, and I question if more +than one is on guard," Harvey said in reply to the boy's question. +</P> + +<P> +"I want to do something," Jet said, and then he explained the plan he +had formed. "There must be an outlet from the barn at the back, and +even if there isn't I can get through all right in the darkness." +</P> + +<P> +"We can't stay idle while those fellows are carrying off their goods," +the detective said after some thought, "and I believe I will go with +you. We'll leave the others here a while, and see what it is possible +to do." +</P> + +<P> +Jet would have preferred to make the attempt alone, but he could say +nothing against the officer's decision, and the latter at once began to +make his plans. +</P> + +<P> +The two men from Albany were told what was to be tried, and cautioned +to keep the house well guarded during the absence of the others. +</P> + +<P> +"Above all things have your eyes open for the prisoner," Harvey said +warningly. "It is of the utmost importance that we hold him, and you +must shoot the fellow rather than let him give you the slip." +</P> + +<P> +A series of signals were decided upon so that the defenders might know +when their comrades were coming back; the weapons were carefully +examined to make certain they were in good working order, and then +there was nothing to be done but await the coming of night. +</P> + +<P> +All hands were both hungry and thirsty; but since nothing could be done +to relieve their wants no one complained. +</P> + +<P> +When the night had fully settled down Harvey laid his hand on Jet's +shoulder to signify that he was ready, for the prisoner was to be kept +in ignorance concerning their movements, and the two, followed by one +of the other detectives, descended to the kitchen. +</P> + +<P> +"Barricade the door as soon as we go out," the leader whispered, "for +it isn't impossible that the men have crept nearer the building since +sunset." +</P> + +<P> +"Suppose you should meet them before getting out of the house?" +</P> + +<P> +"Then we must fight alone, unless you can aid us from the upper window, +for I would rather get the worst of it than to let that fellow escape. +Follow me, Jet, and don't attempt to go ahead." +</P> + +<P> +Harvey opened the door softly, dropped to his hands and knees, and +crawled into the yard. +</P> + +<P> +Jet copied every movement, and the two worked their way toward the +barn, stopping every few feet to listen for some sound from the enemy. +</P> + +<P> +All was quiet as the grave, and not even so much as the rustling of the +leaves broke the stillness. +</P> + +<P> +The barn door was not fastened, and Harvey pulled it open a short +distance, rising to his feet as he gained the entrance. +</P> + +<P> +A moment later the two were in the building groping their way from one +point to another in the hope of finding a place of exit. +</P> + +<P> +Now Harvey stopped for a final word. +</P> + +<P> +"If it should happen that those fellows on the outside get the best of +me, make every effort to escape." +</P> + +<P> +"Not at the cost of leaving you alone." +</P> + +<P> +"At any price, so that you can telegraph in my name for more men to be +sent up." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you want the inspector to know it?" +</P> + +<P> +"No; wire the chief of police at Albany, and wait at the first station +you reach for them to come. Here is money." +</P> + +<P> +He handed Jet what seemed like quite a large roll of bills, and then +advanced in the darkness once more. +</P> + +<P> +By good fortune rather than skill he found, a moment later, that for +which he was seeking. +</P> + +<P> +A small window, used for throwing out offal, was before him, and +through this he crawled, turning, as he gained the outside, to assist +Jet. +</P> + +<P> +They were now in the shadow of the building with a cleared space of +about twenty yards to be traversed before they could gain the shelter +of the trees. +</P> + +<P> +Again the detective dropped to his hands and knees, Jet following his +example. +</P> + +<P> +Silently and cautiously they crept across the opening; but just as they +were half way it seemed to Jet as if a solid sheet of fire lighted up +the clearing, and the reports which followed were almost deafening. +</P> + +<P> +The enemy had expected exactly the move which was being made, and were +counting on killing their foes. +</P> + +<P> +Fortunately the bullets had passed over the heads of the two reclining +figures, and Jet was about to leap to his feet when Harvey said sternly: +</P> + +<P> +"Stay where you are, and give them a dose!" +</P> + +<P> +At the same instant he began firing his revolver, aiming at the place +from which the flash of weapons had been seen. +</P> + +<P> +Jet did as he was bidden until his weapon was emptied, and then he saw +Harvey leap to his feet and run at full speed diagonally across the +opening. +</P> + +<P> +He did the same, loading the weapon as he went, and just as both +reached the fringe of foliage the detective fell before the fire of +those in the woods. +</P> + +<P> +"Are you hurt?" Jet whispered as he knelt by the side of his friend +regardless of the danger. +</P> + +<P> +"They have put a bullet through my leg, and I reckon that does me up." +</P> + +<P> +"Let me try to get you back." +</P> + +<P> +"It can't be done, my boy. Remember what I told you, and start at +once." +</P> + +<P> +"But I don't want to leave you here?" +</P> + +<P> +"You must; our only hope is that you can reach a telegraph station. +Run the best you know how while I give them something to occupy their +attention." +</P> + +<P> +Jet hesitated no longer. +</P> + +<P> +It seemed cruel to desert a wounded friend; but the order had been +given, and he could not refuse to obey it. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey discharged his weapon rapidly, and the boy ran at full speed in +the opposite direction fearing he would never again see in life the man +who had promised to befriend him. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap12"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE ENCOUNTER +</H3> + +<P> +Jet was now traveling over a country with which he was not familiar, +and to continue on would be to take great chances of losing his way, at +least during the hours of darkness. +</P> + +<P> +It was necessary, therefore, or at least he thought so, to get into +that section of the woods over which he had previously journeyed. +</P> + +<P> +To do this he was forced to make a half circle around the building, and +as he ran, keeping at about the same distance from the house as he and +Harvey had gained, the sounds of the conflict could be distinctly heard. +</P> + +<P> +Judging from the noise, one would say at least half a dozen men were +engaged, and Jet said to himself: +</P> + +<P> +"The men from Albany are taking a hand in the row, probably firing from +the windows. If they could wipe the whole gang out there wouldn't be +any need for me to try to strike a telegraph office." +</P> + +<P> +He could not afford to await the result of the contest, however, for if +his friends were worsted just so much valuable time would be lost, and +he pressed on at full speed until, when he was near the spot where he +began his first journey, there was a rustling of the foliage in front +of him as a voice cried: +</P> + +<P> +"Hold up or I'll fire!" +</P> + +<P> +That this threat was made by one of the gang from whom he was trying to +escape there could be no question, and Jet darted aside quickly as he +cocked his revolver. +</P> + +<P> +This had hardly been done when he saw a long tongue of flame leap out +of the bushes at the right, not more than ten feet away, and a bullet +whistled so near his ear that he could hear it shrieking like a minnie +ball. +</P> + +<P> +If he could wound one of these fellows matters would be just so much +better for his friends, and jumping behind the trunk of a tree he fired +every chamber of his revolver as rapidly as possible. +</P> + +<P> +Not until the weapon was emptied did he start on his course again, +shoving cartridges in the chambers as he ran, and followed by a volley +of shots. +</P> + +<P> +It was evident he had not done any damage, and once more he wheeled and +fired. +</P> + +<P> +There was no reply to this last fusillade, and he continued the flight, +straining every muscle to outdistance the enemy in case an attempt +should be made to follow him. +</P> + +<P> +At the expiration of ten minutes he was forced to halt in order to +regain his breath, and while standing panting and blowing behind a tree +he listened for some token of the enemy. +</P> + +<P> +Not a sound, save those made by himself, broke the silence of the +forest, and there was every reason to believe he had for the second +time given the fellows the slip. +</P> + +<P> +But what about Harvey? +</P> + +<P> +In fancy he saw him lying dead or dying within the shelter of the +bushes, while the gang were making a desperate attack upon the house, +and this thought nerved him to continue the flight before he had fairly +recovered his wind. +</P> + +<P> +The journey was a succession of brief halts and mad races, for every +moment might be precious now, and he took no heed of fatigue, save when +exhausted nature literally forced him so to do. +</P> + +<P> +In less than half the time it had cost him to traverse the same +distance when no one but himself was in danger, he accomplished the +task, and stood on the platform of the station at which Harvey's party +stopped the night previous. +</P> + +<P> +The building was closed. +</P> + +<P> +While he was rattling at the door in the vain hope that there might be +a watchman inside, a resident of the town passed. +</P> + +<P> +"What's going on?" he asked in an unsteady voice which told quite +plainly why he was away from home at such an hour. +</P> + +<P> +"I want to send a very important telegram." +</P> + +<P> +"Well send—hic—her if you wanter." +</P> + +<P> +"Where is the operator?" +</P> + +<P> +"At home, I reckon, if he ain't, that's where he oughter be this time +in the morning." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you know when he will be here?" +</P> + +<P> +"'Bout midnight, if he counts on lookin' out for the express." +</P> + +<P> +"Can you tell me what time it is now?" +</P> + +<P> +It was rather a difficult matter for the tipsy party to get at his +watch; but he was in an obliging mood, and after some trouble succeeded +in clutching the timepiece. +</P> + +<P> +"Come here an' see for yourself," he said, after trying in vain to make +out the position of the hands. "I reckon I must have bought four or +five watches by the looks of these, though I'm blest if I remember +anything about it." +</P> + +<P> +"You've only got one there," Jet said, as he gazed over the stranger's +shoulder. "It lacks only ten minutes of being twelve o'clock; I shan't +have long to wait." +</P> + +<P> +"I'd stay with you if I didn't have to call upon a sick friend," the +man replied after some difficulty, and then he staggered on, while Jet +paced to and fro as if only by exercise could he control his impatience. +</P> + +<P> +In less than five minutes he was joined by two men, or at least they +came on the platform; but seemingly took care to prevent him from +seeing their faces. +</P> + +<P> +He could hear them talking in low, earnest tones; but was so engrossed +by his own thoughts that he made no attempt to distinguish the words. +</P> + +<P> +Finally the station agent, who was also the telegraph operator, +arrived, and as he unlocked the door Jet asked eagerly, and +sufficiently loud for the strangers to hear: +</P> + +<P> +"Can I send a message to Albany?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not now. Come to-morrow morning after eight o'clock." +</P> + +<P> +"But this is very important and must go as soon as possible." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll attend to you in the morning." +</P> + +<P> +"It will be too late then," Jet cried, excitedly. "The chief of police +must have the news at once!" +</P> + +<P> +The operator looked at Jet scrutinizingly, and the two men stepped a +few paces nearer. +</P> + +<P> +"What's the matter?" the official asked. +</P> + +<P> +"It is necessary detectives be sent here at once." +</P> + +<P> +"Murder, or something of that kind, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"All I know is that I was sent by a man who said the telegram must go +at the earliest possible moment." +</P> + +<P> +"Very well, come in and write it. I'll see if the Albany office will +answer my call." +</P> + +<P> +Jet walked into the waiting-room so excited that he failed to notice +the strangers, who crowded behind him; but stood where their faces +would be in the shadow. +</P> + +<P> +After a moment's reflection he wrote the following: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="salutation"> +"TO THE CHIEF OF POLICE,<BR> +"Albany, N.Y.<BR> +</P> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"Send more men at once; they have us foul. My messenger will wait at +the station until assistance arrives. +<BR><BR> +HARVEY." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +It was a simple matter for the strangers to read this by looking over +Jet's shoulder, and as soon as they had done so they slipped quietly +out of the building where the following conversation might have been +heard: +</P> + +<P> +"That's the boy Joe and Bob brought up from New York." +</P> + +<P> +"I thought so, and now he is working for Harvey." +</P> + +<P> +"Who has gone to the house in the woods to pull the boys, and has got +the worst of it." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon we could prevent the operator from sending that +message?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not without putting ourselves in the hole." +</P> + +<P> +"We can make sure though that the boy isn't here to show them the place +when the officers arrive." +</P> + +<P> +"Which forces us to stay here another day, and according to the looks +of things I don't think it safe. What made the fools come after +agreeing to lay over in the city till we showed up?" +</P> + +<P> +"That's what I can't say. It's enough to know we've got to bear a +hand, for if one of the crowd is caught all hands stand a good chance +of being sent up." +</P> + +<P> +"Shall we nab the boy as soon as the train passes?" +</P> + +<P> +"No; I've got a better plan than that. We'll wait till the western +express arrives, and make him think we're the officers who have come in +reply to his telegram." +</P> + +<P> +"Then we must keep out of sight. Let's take a turn around the town +where he won't be likely to see us." +</P> + +<P> +The men walked quietly away, and in the depot Jet was congratulating +himself upon having been able to give the alarm so quickly. +</P> + +<P> +The operator had been very eager to learn why officers should be +summoned from the city; but Jet professed entire ignorance of the +matter, repeating again and again that he had only brought the message +from a stranger a short distance up the road, and the questioner +finally ceased trying to extract information. +</P> + +<P> +There was no difficulty about getting a telegram through, and in a few +moments Jet rejoiced at hearing the man say: +</P> + +<P> +"It's done, and now you'll only have to wait until the parties arrive." +</P> + +<P> +"How long before they can come?' +</P> + +<P> +"There's a morning express which leaves Albany in an hour; but it +doesn't stop here, so they'll have to wait for the five o'clock train." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was not troubled as to where he should spend the time. +</P> + +<P> +He was so tired that he could sleep anywhere, and walked across the +track to the waiting shed, where he laid down on one of the benches, +glad of an opportunity to rest his weary limbs. +</P> + +<P> +While paying for the telegram he noticed with surprise that Harvey had +intrusted him with twenty dollars, and he said to himself as his eyes +were closing in sleep: +</P> + +<P> +"I wonder why he gave me so much? It can't be possible he thought the +message would cost all that." +</P> + +<P> +Then he was unconscious of everything around him. +</P> + +<P> +The midnight express arrived, stopped, and with a loud snort from the +engine went on again; but the noise barely sufficed to make Jet aware +that something unusual had happened. +</P> + +<P> +During the next hour he slept peacefully, and then the two strangers +came up the track talking in low tones. +</P> + +<P> +By the glare of the station lamp they saw the sleeping boy. +</P> + +<P> +"What is the use of waiting for the train, when it may be possible the +officers will come?" +</P> + +<P> +"The morning express doesn't stop here." +</P> + +<P> +"What of that? The conductor would let the officers off if the chief +should ask him as an especial favor." +</P> + +<P> +"Well, how can we hurry matters?" +</P> + +<P> +"He is asleep, and all we have to do is to swear the train has just +passed. He probably hasn't got a watch, and can't tell whether one +hour or four has passed since he closed his eyes." +</P> + +<P> +"But if he should be suspicious, he might make trouble." +</P> + +<P> +"Say, you're getting to be a regular coward. We've got to take some +chances if we want to prevent Joe and Bob from being pulled, and it +will be rough if you and I can't handle a boy like that." +</P> + +<P> +"Do as you please; of course I'm bound to stand at your back all the +time." +</P> + +<P> +The first speaker looked around once to make certain no one was near, +and then stepping quickly into the shed shook Jet roughly. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap13"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XIII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE SNARE +</H3> + +<P> +"What's the matter?" Jet cried, as he arose to a sitting posture, and +rubbed his eyes. +</P> + +<P> +"Are you the fellow who sent a message to the Albany chief of police?" +one of the men asked. +</P> + +<P> +"Yes; has there been an answer?" +</P> + +<P> +"I should say so. Don't we look like a pretty substantial reply to +almost any kind of a telegram?" +</P> + +<P> +"But how did you get here?" +</P> + +<P> +"On the morning express. It wasn't much of a job to persuade the +conductor to slow up about here when he knew what our business was." +</P> + +<P> +"The morning express?" Jet repeated. "Why, it hasn't been more than +ten minutes since I fell asleep." +</P> + +<P> +"You are not awake yet. It's twenty minutes past three," and the man +looked at his watch, as if to assure himself that he had made no +mistake. "Now, what is the matter, and where did you leave Harvey?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet gazed around him in bewilderment at the thought that he had been +sleeping so long; but as the man asked these last questions it seemed +certain everything was all right, and he replied, without hesitation: +</P> + +<P> +"I left Mr. Harvey wounded near a house about five miles from here." +</P> + +<P> +Then he told the entire story, the men glancing triumphantly at each +other as he proceeded. +</P> + +<P> +"Can you lead us to the place?" one of them asked, when he concluded. +</P> + +<P> +"Of course, that's what I waited for." +</P> + +<P> +"How many men has Harvey with him?" +</P> + +<P> +"Didn't you know he brought two from Albany?" +</P> + +<P> +"So he did; I remember now. And they are shut up in the house?" +</P> + +<P> +"I suppose so." +</P> + +<P> +"Then the sooner we leave the better, for it stands us in hand to +arrive about daybreak." +</P> + +<P> +"Are you well armed?" +</P> + +<P> +"Don't worry about us, my son. We know what we are about when we start +on a job like this." +</P> + +<P> +"I only spoke because they have been shooting pretty lively." +</P> + +<P> +"Things will be changed when we get there," was the reply in a +significant tone. +</P> + +<P> +"If you are ready, we'll tramp along." +</P> + +<P> +Jet leaped to his feet, feeling woefully stiff and sore; but the +thought that he was guiding those who would aid Harvey served to make +him forget, in a measure, his weariness. +</P> + +<P> +He led the way down the track to that portion of the woods with which +he was familiar, and then struck across the country, walking so rapidly +that more than once his companions insisted on less speed. +</P> + +<P> +"We must get there as soon as possible," he said, slackening his speed +unwillingly. +</P> + +<P> +"A few minutes more or less can't make any difference, and we were +mighty nigh used up before we started. The next time Harvey undertakes +a job I hope he'll have sense enough to carry it through without +calling on all the men in the country." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was about to make an angry protest against this criticism of his +friend, but he reflected that it would not be well to get into a +controversy, and more especially when he could better employ his breath. +</P> + +<P> +He continued on as rapidly as his companions would permit, stopping to +rest only when they insisted upon it, and succeeded in making such good +headway that the sun had not yet shown himself when they arrived at a +point near the house. +</P> + +<P> +"Here we are," Jet said, as he halted and listened for some sound which +would give him an inkling of the position of affairs. +</P> + +<P> +"Where is the building?" +</P> + +<P> +"About a hundred yards in that direction," and Jet pointed toward the +east. +</P> + +<P> +"Are you certain Harvey and his men are there?" +</P> + +<P> +"I know the men are inside, if they obeyed orders; but I'm afraid the +villains have got Mr. Harvey. Say, we must have walked mighty quick, +if it was past three o'clock when you wakened me, for it isn't daylight +yet." +</P> + +<P> +"I said you was rushing too fast. Now, how are we to get inside?" +</P> + +<P> +"Go over the wood-pile on this side." +</P> + +<P> +"They'll shoot, not knowing who we are." +</P> + +<P> +"Whistle twice while you are in the woods, and wait for an answer +before coming out of cover. That was the signal agreed upon." +</P> + +<P> +"Then, you young cub, I reckon we are through with you," and as the man +spoke, he clasped Jet tightly around the waist, while his companion +clapped his hand over the boy's mouth. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was taken so completely by surprise that he did not struggle for an +instant, and then the humiliating truth began to dawn upon him. +</P> + +<P> +"Where is the rope you brought to tie him with?" the man who was +holding Jet asked, and after a moment's pause the other said with a +curse: +</P> + +<P> +"It has slipped out of my pocket while we were coming through the +woods. Now, what shall we do?" +</P> + +<P> +"You can manage to spoil a good thing quicker than any fellow I ever +knew. Why didn't you look out for it?" +</P> + +<P> +"Because I didn't," was the surly reply. "If I'd had my way, these +fools would have been left to take care of themselves." +</P> + +<P> +"Don't turn rusty now when our work is about done. Use a stick of wood +for a gag, and tie it in with your handkerchief." +</P> + +<P> +When this had been done, and it required several moments, owing to the +shortness of the impromptu rope, Jet's hands were secured with another +handkerchief, and his body lashed to a tree with a pair of suspenders. +In this position he was unable to make any outcry; but he felt positive +he could release himself from the bonds after two or three attempts. +</P> + +<P> +"Now, listen to me," one of the men said, in a low tone, as he shook +his fist unpleasantly near Jet's nose. "I reckon you're made fast +here; but if by chance you should find anybody fool enough to untie +you, and undertake to run away, it will be a case of shooting you on +sight. You've been too fresh altogether, and both Joe and Bob are to +blame for not having taken the wind out of your body long ago." +</P> + +<P> +Jet made no reply, for the very good reason that it was impossible for +him to speak, and the men walked hurriedly away in the direction of the +house. +</P> + +<P> +That he had suffered himself to be thus fooled caused the boy more +distress of mind than did the fact of his being powerless at the very +time when he was most needed. +</P> + +<P> +The real officers would soon arrive from Albany; but if no one met them +at the depot they could do nothing, since they had no idea of the +location of the house. +</P> + +<P> +His whole night's work had resulted only in bringing aid to the enemy, +and what made the situation worse was the fact that he had explained +how the villains could gain access to the house without a struggle. +</P> + +<P> +"If Mr. Harvey knew what I had done he'd give over trying to help me +along, in case we ever do get out of this scrape," he said to himself. +"I ain't fit even to carry a message, let alone trying to help a +regular detective." +</P> + +<P> +Then came the thought that Mr. Harvey might no longer be alive, and +this caused Jet such mental distress that several moments passed before +he was sufficiently composed to make any attempt at effecting his own +rescue. +</P> + +<P> +He began by stiffening his muscles and throwing his body forward, with +the idea of stretching the suspenders to such an extent that he could +crawl out of them; but was suddenly stopped by hearing sounds as of +some one coming through the underbrush. +</P> + +<P> +The only thought in his mind was that one of the enemy was coming to +kill him, and he redoubled his efforts until a familiar voice whispered: +</P> + +<P> +"Jet, Jet! Is it you?" +</P> + +<P> +He could not reply in words; but he managed to give vent to a faint +moan, at the same time moving his feet over the dead leaves to make a +yet louder noise. +</P> + +<P> +"It's me, Harvey," the voice continued. "I heard a couple of men +talking about having left some one tied up, and thought it must be you." +</P> + +<P> +While he spoke the detective continued to advance, drawing himself +along the ground by the hands, as if his lower limbs were useless, and +on reaching Jet raised his body with an effort until he could feel the +bonds which held the boy. +</P> + +<P> +It was but the work of an instant to remove the gag, and untie his +hands, after which he could finish the work without assistance. +</P> + +<P> +"Did you send the message?" Harvey asked, eagerly. +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, and made a fool of myself afterward," Jet replied, quickly. +</P> + +<P> +"Tell me what you mean, and speak quickly, for there is no knowing how +long we may be able to talk with each other." +</P> + +<P> +In the fewest words possible the boy related the events of the night, +sparing himself not one whit, and when he had finished the detective +said, soothingly: +</P> + +<P> +"An older hand than you might have been taken in. They probably got a +glimpse of your telegram, and were thus able to deceive you, so don't +feel badly." +</P> + +<P> +"But they will now be able to get into the house." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm not so sure of that. Those there must fancy that one or both of +us were hurt in the scrimmage, and would look mighty close before +letting two enter without a struggle." +</P> + +<P> +"Are you wounded badly?" Jet asked. +</P> + +<P> +"My leg is useless, and I lost considerable blood before I had time to +get a bandage around it." +</P> + +<P> +"How did you give them the slip?" +</P> + +<P> +"After you left I fired two rounds, and then crawled into the bushes. +They didn't dare to hunt me out while it was dark, because I could have +killed the first who came near, so I had a chance to circle around the +clearing. I wanted to be here when you came up with the +reinforcements." +</P> + +<P> +"Have the fellows in the woods done much firing?" +</P> + +<P> +"No; they have kept mighty quiet, and I'm hoping that some of our +bullets hit the mark by chance. We must get out of here as soon as +possible. Can't you find something that would answer as a crutch? +Thus far I've hunted in vain." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll do better than that, Mr. Harvey, if you'll get on my back." +</P> + +<P> +"You can't carry me." +</P> + +<P> +"Indeed I can for a while, and at a good pace." +</P> + +<P> +At that instant a shrill whistle sounded twice, and Jet said, in a +mournful tone: +</P> + +<P> +"Now they are trying to get into the house." +</P> + +<P> +"There's the answer," the detective said, a moment later. "We shall +hear some firing soon, whether they are successful or not." +</P> + +<P> +He had hardly ceased speaking when the sound of firearms rang out on +the still air, and Harvey exclaimed, as he pointed toward the sky: +</P> + +<P> +"We'll hope they tried their plan too late. Day is breaking, and in +the clearing it should be possible to distinguish the forms of men +quite distinctly. If our fellows are fooled, I fancy we shall never +see them again." +</P> + +<P> +"Are we to leave without making one try to give them warning?" +</P> + +<P> +"It is too late now, and was when I first found you. I'll see if you +can carry me a short distance, and then we must find a hiding-place, +for whether they are successful in this scheme or not, the +counterfeiters will soon be on the hunt for me." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap14"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XIV +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +A CAPTURE +</H3> + +<P> +For Harvey to attempt to walk, however good a crutch might be found, +would have been foolhardy, for it was only with the greatest difficulty +he could stand upright. +</P> + +<P> +Jet understood this quite as well as did the detective and he also knew +there was no time to be lost, if they expected to find a hiding-place +before the day had fairly dawned. +</P> + +<P> +"I am going to take you on my back," he said in a decided tone, "and we +mustn't fool around here talking about it. Will you climb up without +making a row, or must I use force?" +</P> + +<P> +"I will obey," Harvey replied with a smile, as Jet backed toward him, +and a few seconds later the boy was making his way through the +underbrush. +</P> + +<P> +Jet's burden was heavier than he had anticipated, and he staggered from +side to side before twenty yards had been traversed, causing Harvey to +say firmly: +</P> + +<P> +"It is no use for you to try anything of the kind, Jet. This will only +result in both of us being overhauled." +</P> + +<P> +"Here's a place where we can stop for a rest," and Jet halted in front +of a thick clump of fir bushes. "By crawling in there we shall soon be +out of sight, and I'll start back for the depot as soon as you think it +is safe." +</P> + +<P> +He lowered the detective gently to the ground, aided him in making his +way through the tangled underbrush to the center of the clump, and then +returned to the outside of the little thicket, in order to replace the +branches and foliage generally to their ordinary position, that those +who should come in search might not be able to see the trail. +</P> + +<P> +This done he skirted around to the opposite side, and entered in a +manner which would have done credit to an Indian. +</P> + +<P> +"Now you've got a chance to tie up your leg as it ought to be," he +said. "Shall I take that handkerchief off?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't think it will pay to disturb it, my boy. The flow of blood +has been stopped, and might start again if the compress was removed. +Besides there is no water with which to wash it." +</P> + +<P> +"How long are you counting on staying around here?" +</P> + +<P> +"Until you can get to the town, and send some one back to help me in. +I couldn't crawl that far in a month." +</P> + +<P> +"Then the sooner I go the better," and Jet rose to his feet, despite +the fatigue which almost overpowered him. +</P> + +<P> +"Wait a while. In the first place, you need rest, and secondly, those +men will soon come back to find you, after which a hunt is certain to +be made for both of us. Hold on until we see what they are going to +do, in order to the better decide upon our own course of action." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was not sorry to sit down again, although, in view of the desperate +situation, he knew he could afford to halt but a short time. +</P> + +<P> +"Do you think you can make another round trip to-day?" Harvey asked +after a short pause. +</P> + +<P> +"It has got to be done, so there's no use in thinking anything about +it. What troubles me is how you are going to get along without food or +water while I am gone." +</P> + +<P> +"Probably in the same way you will keep on your feet after having +walked nearly all night—by sheer force of will." +</P> + +<P> +"But suppose——" +</P> + +<P> +Jet ceased speaking very suddenly, for at that instant the sound as of +some one coming through the underbrush was heard. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey drew his revolver, and Jet followed his example. +</P> + +<P> +Both weapons were fully loaded, and those in hiding knew it must be a +fight to the death, if they were discovered. +</P> + +<P> +By parting the bushes in front of him slightly, Jet could see through +to where the foliage was less dense, and, as he did so, Joe, the tall +man who had been the cause of all his trouble, came in view, walking +slowly, and peering from side to side. +</P> + +<P> +That he was searching for Harvey there could be no doubt, and, seeing +him alone, a bold plan came into Jet's mind. +</P> + +<P> +Without making any sign to his companion he began to move noiselessly +toward the new-comer on his hands and knees, arriving at the edge of +the bushes just as Joe had passed. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey laid his hand on Jet's leg as a signal for him to come back; but +the boy paid no attention to the mute command. +</P> + +<P> +Joe had halted about three feet from the edge of the bushes, and was +evidently trying to decide in which direction he should go, when Jet +rose up behind him so noiselessly that not even the rustling of a leaf +could have been heard. +</P> + +<P> +By reaching up, he could just touch the back of the man's head, and, +suddenly pressing the muzzle of the revolver against the fellow's neck, +he said quickly: +</P> + +<P> +"Throw up your hands or I'll fire!" +</P> + +<P> +Under such circumstances there was but one thing for Joe to do. +</P> + +<P> +He raised both hands, not daring to so much as turn his head, and Jet +continued, sternly: +</P> + +<P> +"Stay where you are, or a bullet goes into your head. I ain't sure, +anyway, but what it would be better to shoot first and talk afterward." +</P> + +<P> +Harvey understood from the words exactly what had been done, and Jet +heard him crawling out from the bushes, in order to assist at the +capture. +</P> + +<P> +"Take your time, sir," the boy said, calmly. "I've got this fellow +where he won't care to run the chances of wiggling very much." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll kill you some day," the man growled, hoarsely. +</P> + +<P> +"You won't try it for quite a while yet. Look out. Hold your hands +higher!" +</P> + +<P> +This last remark was called forth as Joe lowered his arms ever so +slightly, probably for the purpose of learning if his captor was on the +alert. +</P> + +<P> +By this time Harvey had managed to crawl from his place of concealment, +and, at the expense of severe pain, raised himself to his feet directly +in front of the prisoner. +</P> + +<P> +"Keep your revolver where it is, and fire at the least show of +resistance," he said to Jet, as he proceeded to search Joe's pockets. +</P> + +<P> +"Now, lower your hands, but don't take a step forward," he said when +the man's weapons and money had been thrown on the ground. +</P> + +<P> +Joe obeyed sullenly, and Jet heard the dick of a pair of handcuffs as +they were fastened on the former's wrists, with his arms behind his +back. +</P> + +<P> +"Now sit down," the detective said, as he gathered up two revolvers, an +ugly looking dirk-knife and a well-filled pocket-book. +</P> + +<P> +Joe obeyed in silence, but if a glance could have killed, his captors +would soon have been lying lifeless before him. +</P> + +<P> +"Hadn't we better take him into the thicket?" Jet asked. +</P> + +<P> +"No. Stand in front of him while I write a note. Now, you must start +for the town without delay." +</P> + +<P> +"And take this fellow along?" +</P> + +<P> +"Certainly; we can't afford to run the chances of a rescue." +</P> + +<P> +It was such a job as Jet did not fancy, but he made no protest. +</P> + +<P> +When Harvey had ceased writing on a leaf of his note-book, he handed it +to Jet as he said: +</P> + +<P> +"March your prisoner into the first town you come to, and demand to be +shown to a magistrate. Give him the letter, which will explain the +outlines of who this fellow is, and tell him all of the story save such +as is connected with the murder. That we will keep secret for a while. +Then telegraph to the inspector to send an officer without delay to +carry him to the city." +</P> + +<P> +"Is that all, sir?" +</P> + +<P> +"Except as to the manner of traveling. Keep your prisoner in advance, +and do not hesitate to shoot if he fails to obey every reasonable +order. Above all, do not allow him to face you." +</P> + +<P> +"Suppose some of the gang should overtake us?" +</P> + +<P> +"Put this fellow in front and let them shoot through him if they +choose. Aim to kill or seriously disable if you are attacked, and in +order that there be no lack of ammunition, take one of his revolvers in +addition to your own. By dividing his cartridges we shall each have +enough to stand quite a siege." +</P> + +<P> +"What about sending help to you?" +</P> + +<P> +"I hope the officers from Albany will wait around the depot until you +arrive, when they can decide what is best to be done; but don't make +another mistake as to the identity of those you want to see." +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon I shan't fall into the same kind of a trap for a long while +to come." +</P> + +<P> +"Get something to eat while you are in town, and take a short rest. +Matters won't be very serious here until nightfall." +</P> + +<P> +"I shan't stop long, for it would be a pretty poor sort of a fellow who +couldn't walk twenty miles under these circumstances." +</P> + +<P> +"Do as you choose; you have money enough for all expenses, and it may +be as well to hire a saddle horse to carry me back." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll attend to everything," Jet replied, "and the sooner I leave the +better." +</P> + +<P> +"You are right. Remember what I said about shooting the prisoner if he +shows a disposition to turn rusty, and keep him in front of you." +</P> + +<P> +"I won't forget, sir." +</P> + +<P> +"Then good luck to you." +</P> + +<P> +Harvey held out his hand, Jet grasped it for an instant, and said to +his prisoner: +</P> + +<P> +"Get up now, and go ahead at your best pace. You have heard the advice +given me, and I shall act upon it without hesitation." +</P> + +<P> +Joe looked sullenly around and then obeyed, asking as he set out: +</P> + +<P> +"Which way shall I walk?" +</P> + +<P> +"Straight ahead. I reckon you know the road better than I do." +</P> + +<P> +"That's a fact. There is a short cut after we get down here a bit, +which will save nearly two miles of distance." +</P> + +<P> +"Don't let him guide you," Harvey shouted, he having heard the remark. +"Keep on the course you are familiar with." +</P> + +<P> +"Never fear I'll let him show me anything," Jet replied cheerily, and +he ordered the man to step out more briskly. +</P> + +<P> +During the next ten minutes the two walked at a rapid pace in silence, +and then Joe said without turning his head: +</P> + +<P> +"I suppose you count on making a big pile by taking me to prison?" +</P> + +<P> +"That's where you are mistaken. I'm only trying to square things after +the scrape you got me into." +</P> + +<P> +"Would you like to make five thousand dollars?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course I would." +</P> + +<P> +"Then unfasten these handcuffs, and I'll guarantee to give you that +amount within the next three days." +</P> + +<P> +"More likely you'd give me a clip over the head. But even if I was +certain of having the money, you couldn't get away, so walk on briskly +and don't let me hear you speak again." +</P> + +<P> +Joe glanced savagely around at the boy, and there was that in his face +which told what desperate chances he would take in order to effect his +escape. +</P> + +<P> +"He's studying mischief," Jet said to himself, "and I've got to look +sharp, or find myself in the soup as I was this morning." +</P> + +<P> +At the best it was a difficult task to walk at any degree of speed +through the woods; but the labor was more than doubled by having a +prisoner over whom it was necessary to keep the strictest watch. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap15"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XV +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +ASSISTANCE +</H3> + +<P> +During the first hour Jet thought it would be impossible for him to +hold out to reach the town; but the knowledge of what the result would +be, not only to himself, but to those whom he had left behind, enabled +him to battle against the fatigue which threatened to overpower him. +</P> + +<P> +Not a word had been spoken since Joe made the proposition to purchase +his liberty, until fully an hour passed, and then he said in a meek +tone: +</P> + +<P> +"Don't you think it is about time to take a rest? I'm pretty nigh +played out." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was only too willing to do so, and said: +</P> + +<P> +"Sit down at the foot of that tree; I'll stay in the rear as Mr. Harvey +advised." +</P> + +<P> +"What damage do you think I could do with my arms handcuffed behind me?" +</P> + +<P> +"That is exactly what I don't know, and shall take good care you +haven't a chance to show me." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't deny that I would run a good many risks rather than be taken +to jail; but at the same time I'm not such a fool as to kick when there +isn't the least show of getting the upper hands." +</P> + +<P> +"You are wasting your breath talking to me in that manner, for I intend +to follow Mr. Harvey's advice to the letter." +</P> + +<P> +Joe's face was contorted with a grimace of rage as Jet thus showed that +it would be impossible to wheedle him into carelessness, and, suddenly +changing his tone, he said, angrily: +</P> + +<P> +"You don't have any idea of the trap you're running into. There's more +belonging to our gang than that fool detective fancies, and the minute +we show up in town you'll be marked." +</P> + +<P> +"That won't hurt I reckon." +</P> + +<P> +"It will be enough to cause your death." +</P> + +<P> +"Then I'm to be murdered, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"That is exactly what will happen when any of our crowd get the chance, +and you may make sure they won't lay down till you're out of the way." +</P> + +<P> +"Well?" +</P> + +<P> +"That's all, unless you're willing to make a trade with me. There'll +be more in it than by sticking to Harvey, who'll throw you over as soon +as this job is finished." +</P> + +<P> +"Get up and make another start," Jet said, abruptly. "If you have +rested enough to talk, I reckon you can push ahead." +</P> + +<P> +"You'll regret not having listened to me while there is a chance." +</P> + +<P> +"Get up!" +</P> + +<P> +The man obeyed with a very bad grace, and once more the two were +traveling at a fair rate of speed toward the village. +</P> + +<P> +Twice again during the journey did Joe attempt to bribe or frighten his +captor, and desisted from his efforts only when they were within sight +of the town. +</P> + +<P> +This walking through a settlement behind a man at whose head a cocked +revolver is held, naturally created considerable excitement, and Jet +found himself surrounded by a curious throng before he had reached the +main street. +</P> + +<P> +The thought occurred to him that among these people might be friends of +his prisoner, and his anxiety became even greater than while they were +in the woods. +</P> + +<P> +He was overwhelmed with questions; but refused to make any +explanations, asking simply that some one would show him the nearest +magistrate's office, and his silence served to anger the crowd. +</P> + +<P> +"Are we going to let a boy walk through this town with his revolver at +a man's head?" one of the party shouted, angrily, and Joe's face +lighted up wonderfully. +</P> + +<P> +"I'm an innocent man whom a party of villains are trying to down," he +cried. "If there are any here who like fair play, take me along +decently, rather than in this style. I can explain who and what I am." +</P> + +<P> +"Shove that boy out of the way!" another member of the crowd shouted, +and Jet believed his prisoner was about to be rescued. +</P> + +<P> +Drawing his second revolver, he held it in his left hand, as he said +firmly: +</P> + +<P> +"This fellow has nearly killed a detective who was sent to arrest him, +and I have the proof of that in my pocket, which I will show to the +magistrate. My orders were to deliver him up to justice, and make sure +he didn't give me the slip. If any one interferes, I shall fire first +at the prisoner, and then at him who dares try to help him." +</P> + +<P> +Just for an instant the crowd fell back, and then the man who had first +spoken, cried angrily: +</P> + +<P> +"Hasn't somebody got the nerve to knock that cub down? I'll see to it +that the prisoner is taken before the magistrate in a proper manner." +</P> + +<P> +"That's a fair offer," Joe said, eagerly. "I'm willing to go along +peaceably; but I don't want to walk with a revolver at my head, as if I +was too dangerous to be in a town with my hands behind my back." +</P> + +<P> +"Knock the boy down!" +</P> + +<P> +"Shoot him!" +</P> + +<P> +"Don't let such an outrage be committed in our town!" +</P> + +<P> +"Will you let a cub like that play the part of desperado in a quiet +village?" +</P> + +<P> +These and similar shouts were heard as the throng drew nearer Jet, who +now understood that Joe's friends must be making the row for the +purpose of releasing the prisoner, and he looked around in vain for a +friendly face. +</P> + +<P> +"Will no one help me do my duty?" he cried. +</P> + +<P> +"We'll take the man to the magistrate decently," some one replied. +</P> + +<P> +"That simply means that a few of you are determined on a rescue." +</P> + +<P> +He would have said more; but Joe's pals, fearing the influence his +words might have upon the crowd, drowned his voice by angry shouts. +</P> + +<P> +Jet realized that the crisis was at hand. +</P> + +<P> +He and his prisoner had just turned down the main street, and the plot +must be carried out at once. +</P> + +<P> +Half a dozen men had crowded so near that they could easily have thrown +him to the ground before he would have an opportunity to use his +weapons. +</P> + +<P> +It was high time to carry his threat into execution; but he knew that +the instant he fired for the purpose of keeping the nearest back, his +prisoner would be torn from him. +</P> + +<P> +"I have failed at the moment when I thought the work was done," he said +to himself, despairingly, and at that instant two men ranged themselves +either side of him. +</P> + +<P> +"Have you been sent here by Harvey?" one of them asked, and Jet could +have shouted for very joy, for he understood these must be the officers +who had come from Albany. +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, and this is one of the men he was so anxious to arrest." +</P> + +<P> +"Where is he now?" +</P> + +<P> +"Hiding in the woods, wounded so badly that he can't walk." +</P> + +<P> +"And the others?" +</P> + +<P> +"Penned up in the building with a prisoner." +</P> + +<P> +During this short conversation the crowd had grown more unruly, and +were now clustered around Joe so closely as to impede his progress. +</P> + +<P> +The officer who had been speaking to Jet motioned to his companion, and +the two sprang in front of the prisoner, as the former shouted: +</P> + +<P> +"Make way, or I shall do more than the boy promised," and he drew a +revolver. +</P> + +<P> +"Who are you?" +</P> + +<P> +"Officers from Albany who have come to assist in the arrest of this +man. The first who interferes shall be taken in custody, and I warn +you that it is a serious matter to try to rescue a prisoner." +</P> + +<P> +This short speech had a decidedly good effect upon the majority of the +crowd, who fell back at once; but Joe's friends had not yet despaired +of success. +</P> + +<P> +They faced the officers boldly, trying to force their way between the +prisoner and Jet, and in a twinkling two of them were seized by the +strangers, who clasped bracelets on their wrists without delay. +</P> + +<P> +"If there are any more who want to try the same, we've got plenty of +time to attend to them, for all we ask is a chance to pick out this +fellow's pals." +</P> + +<P> +The street was now cleared, each member of the throng endeavoring to be +the first to escape suspicion, and the officers called to Jet: +</P> + +<P> +"Start your man along lively. We'll lead you to a magistrate, and then +come back for a few of those who were shouting the loudest." +</P> + +<P> +Ten minutes later Jet's work was accomplished. The prisoners were +confined in the village lock-up, and a message sent to the inspector, +detailing what had been done. +</P> + +<P> +Before Jet had finished the meal he was so much in need of, an answer +came. +</P> + +<P> +It read as follows: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"Have sent for the tall man by train which is just leaving. Report the +result of Harvey's injuries as soon as possible." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +"That will be when we come back from the woods," one of the officers +said, as he read the telegram which Jet handed him. "You had better +lie down an hour or so, and then we'll start." +</P> + +<P> +"I'd rather go now. If we can hire a horse with which to bring Mr. +Harvey here, I'll be able to ride part of the way." +</P> + +<P> +One of the officers went out to attend to this portion of the work, and +when he returned it was with the information that he had secured just +the kind of an animal they required. +</P> + +<P> +"He's too old to be afraid of anything, and there's no danger of his +running away after Harvey mounts." +</P> + +<P> +Both the men insisted that Jet should ride the entire distance, and +when he objected they reminded him that by so doing it would be +possible to arrive at the desired place just so much sooner. +</P> + +<P> +The strain of caring for his prisoner had fatigued him quite as much as +the tramp, and it is doubtful if he could have covered the distance +again in less than three or four hours. +</P> + +<P> +The officers walked on either side of the horse, and during the journey +he had ample opportunity to explain why he had not met them at the +arrival of the train. +</P> + +<P> +"We knew from the station agent that a boy had sent the telegram, and +intended to wait for us, therefore it was only natural to suppose some +of the crowd had got the best of you. When we heard the row both of us +hurried from the depot, thinking you were in some way the cause of it." +</P> + +<P> +"I was afraid you might leave when I failed to show up." +</P> + +<P> +"Not much. On such a job as this we'd have stayed here more than one +day before jumping back." +</P> + +<P> +During the last portion of the journey, Jet dozed as he rode along, +forcing himself to open his eyes now and then to make certain he was on +the right course, and it was while he was thus in a semi-conscious +condition that a shout from a clump of bushes told the tramp was nearly +at an end. +</P> + +<P> +"That is Mr. Harvey," Jet cried, gleefully, all desire for slumber gone +from his eyelids now. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap16"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XVI +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +ON THE TRAIL. +</H3> + +<P> +The detective had crawled out of the bushes by the time the new-comers +were opposite his place of concealment, and, before speaking to the two +men, he clasped Jet warmly by the hand, as he said: +</P> + +<P> +"I knew you could do the job, if it was in the power of any one, my +boy. After making the capture, single-handed, it would have been +strange if you had failed at the last minute." +</P> + +<P> +"He didn't tell us that it was him who took the fellow prisoner," one +of the men said, in surprise. +</P> + +<P> +"But he did it nevertheless, and I would trust him as far as any person +I ever saw." +</P> + +<P> +Then the men held a short consultation as to what should be done, and +Harvey insisted on making a detour, in order to approach the house on +the side opposite where he believed the enemy were stationed. +</P> + +<P> +"If you help me on the horse I can ride," he said, "and it will be +possible to hold communication with the besieged, if nothing more." +</P> + +<P> +"But you should go where your wound can be dressed properly." +</P> + +<P> +"There is time enough for that. I want to get hold of Bob, and then +I'll give you fellows a chance to clear up the counterfeiting case." +</P> + +<P> +Since Harvey was really the leader of the expedition, the others could +do no more than advise against his engaging in work, and he led the +way, seated on the saddle, with his wounded leg fastened to the pommel +in such a manner that it would not be injured by the trees while they +were passing through the woods. +</P> + +<P> +In due time the party came to a point from which the building could be +seen. +</P> + +<P> +A deep silence reigned. One would have said the house had long been +deserted. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll go where they can see me, and, if no one shoots, climb over the +wood-pile," Jet suggested. +</P> + +<P> +To this plan Harvey would not listen. +</P> + +<P> +He first sent the new-comers to beat the thicket on this side, for the +purpose of learning if any of the enemy were in the vicinity, and, when +they returned with the information that no one had been seen, he +advanced to the very edge of the bushes, where the signal was given. +</P> + +<P> +"They won't be likely to answer it after having been fooled this +morning," Jet suggested, and, without waiting for orders, he stepped +beyond the shelter of the trees. +</P> + +<P> +Instantly he did so one of the besieged appeared at the window, and +hailed: +</P> + +<P> +"Are you alone?" +</P> + +<P> +"There are three besides me," Jet replied, and the words were hardly +out of his mouth before the remainder of the party came into view. +</P> + +<P> +"Are you all right?" Harvey shouted. +</P> + +<P> +"Except for being mighty hungry and thirsty." +</P> + +<P> +"Have you seen anything of the enemy?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not since early this morning. It's my opinion that they have skipped +after trying to get in here." +</P> + +<P> +"We can soon find out," Harvey said. "We'll go boldly up to the gate, +and before it is torn down we shall know how many are in the vicinity." +</P> + +<P> +During the time Jet and the two men were forcing an entrance nothing +more was heard from the adjoining woods, and when the party entered the +yard it was with the belief that the gang had been frightened away by +the escape of the detective and Jet, and the disappearance of their +leader. +</P> + +<P> +"It won't do to take chances," Harvey said, as his friends opened the +door of the house. "Go out with these gentlemen who have just arrived, +and make careful search. The boy and I will care for things here." +</P> + +<P> +This order was obeyed after the detective had been assisted into the +building, and the horse fastened in the stable. +</P> + +<P> +The prisoner was occupying the same position as when Jet saw him last, +and appeared to be thoroughly tired of the whole business. +</P> + +<P> +"If you had brought up some food we might have stayed here until +morning; but as it is I reckon we must make a move pretty soon." +</P> + +<P> +"How strange that I never thought of such a thing," Jet replied, and +straightway he began to blame himself, until his companion said +soothingly: +</P> + +<P> +"After what you have gone through with, it is not strange such a thing +should have escaped your mind. We shan't suffer very much if we don't +get anything for a few hours more." +</P> + +<P> +A short time later the searchers returned laden down with provisions, +and reported that they failed to find any signs of the enemy. +</P> + +<P> +They had come upon a place where the ground appeared to have been +lately disturbed, and on digging there discovered a large store of +bacon, hard-tack, flour and potatoes. +</P> + +<P> +Before waiting to discuss the situation, the hungry men at once +proceeded to cook a hearty meal, two of them going in search of water, +and while this work was being done Harvey had a long, serious +conversation with Jet. +</P> + +<P> +"There is no question but that they have grown frightened and run +away," he said by way of beginning, and to this remark Jet assented, +nodding his head. +</P> + +<P> +"Our trip will have been a failure, despite the fact of having captured +Joe, unless we also get Bob." +</P> + +<P> +"It'll be mighty hard work to find him now." +</P> + +<P> +"That may be; but yet I am depending upon you to do the work." +</P> + +<P> +"Me?" Jet repeated in surprise. +</P> + +<P> +"Certainly; what is to prevent?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't even know where to look for him." +</P> + +<P> +"Neither do I; but we shall hit upon the trail after a while, for I +believe in the maxim that 'all things come to him who waits.'" +</P> + +<P> +"But surely some of these men could do better than I." +</P> + +<P> +"Are you afraid to try it?" Harvey asked, as he looked Jet full in the +face. +</P> + +<P> +"Not a bit of it. I only thought that there'd be more chance of +success if somebody else took the job. You see I've made a big fool of +myself half a dozen times since this thing was started." +</P> + +<P> +"And by so doing have gained just so much experience. I want the whole +work done by you and I, except when we have to call for assistance, as +in the present case. It's professional pride, my boy, and I look to +you to take my place, until I can crawl around once more." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll be only too willing to do anything you say, Mr. Harvey." +</P> + +<P> +"Then it is all right, Jet, and before three months go by we'll have +our friend Bob behind the bars. Now, lie down and take a nap so as to +be in condition for our final trip to the town." +</P> + +<P> +"Then you have given up all hopes of finding the men here?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes; although it may be possible they will be foolish enough to come +back. We'll leave two men here on watch for a few days." +</P> + +<P> +Jet threw himself on the floor, and in a very few seconds was sleeping +soundly. +</P> + +<P> +When he was awakened the hunger of those who had been so long without +food was appeased, and all preparations made for the return trip. +</P> + +<P> +As a matter of course Harvey rode on the horse; Jet walked by his side, +and the officers traveled in advance. +</P> + +<P> +The last arrivals were perfectly willing to remain on guard in the +house a few days, now that there were plenty of provisions, and they +were busily engaged repairing the gate when the little party started. +</P> + +<P> +Nothing of especial interest occurred during the journey, and when they +arrived in town an officer was met who had come from New York to take +charge of the prisoner. +</P> + +<P> +The two men who had attempted to rescue Joe were held on the charge of +resisting an officer, and it was believed they could be detained until +it might be possible to connect them with the manufacture or passing of +counterfeit money. +</P> + +<P> +To this last, however, Harvey paid but little attention, allowing the +officers from Albany full charge of the case. He was on the trail of a +murderer, and all else seemed of but trifling importance. +</P> + +<P> +A surgeon in the village dressed Harvey's wound, and when that had been +done there was yet two hours remaining before a train bound for Albany +would arrive. +</P> + +<P> +"Now you and I will have a final talk, Jet," the detective said, when +the two were left alone in one of the rooms at the hotel. +</P> + +<P> +"Why? Ain't you counting on taking me with you?" +</P> + +<P> +"Certainly not. I thought it was agreed you were to search for Bob." +</P> + +<P> +"So I am; but I didn't know I was to be left here." +</P> + +<P> +"That is not exactly what will be done, although it amounts to much the +same thing. I propose to have you get on the train with us, as if you +were going off, and then, stopping at the next station, travel back +thirty or forty miles to whichever town we may decide upon as the most +promising." +</P> + +<P> +"What am I to do there, sir?" +</P> + +<P> +"Look for Bob. Move about from town to town just as seems best at the +moment, and I have no doubt but that you will soon strike his trail." +</P> + +<P> +"Am I to let you know when I find it?" +</P> + +<P> +"Certainly. Can you write?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, sir." +</P> + +<P> +"Then let me hear from you every day. Here is an address where the +letters will reach me at the earliest possible moment." +</P> + +<P> +"But, Mr. Harvey, can't you tell me how to begin the work?" +</P> + +<P> +"No; circumstances must decide. I have no question but that you will +succeed finally, and in two weeks, if the job isn't finished before, I +hope to be with you again." +</P> + +<P> +The detective wrote on a slip of paper the address to which letters +should be sent, gave Jet more money, and concluded the interview by +saying: +</P> + +<P> +"It isn't well to let even the officers from Albany know what you +propose to do. I will cook up some story to satisfy their curiosity. +Now, go and buy me a through ticket, and one for yourself to the next +station." +</P> + +<P> +Jet did as he was directed, and, as he entered the depot saw Joe, who, +guarded by the officer sent from New York, was waiting the coming of +the train. +</P> + +<P> +The alleged murderer bestowed a wicked look on the boy who had captured +him, and then turned his head away. +</P> + +<P> +"If he ever gets the chance I shall have a hot time of it," Jet +thought, as he transacted his business with the ticket-seller and then +returned to Harvey. +</P> + +<P> +The latter was just being brought down stairs, for the time of +departure was near at hand, and Jet followed him to the station, where +the detective was warmly greeted by Joe's guard. +</P> + +<P> +Here Jet felt proud by being introduced as the one who had made the +arrest and afterward brought his prisoner safely through the woods +where the remainder of the gang were lurking, and District Messenger +No. 48 felt amply rewarded by the words of praise for all he had +suffered. +</P> + +<P> +The cars arrived. Jet followed his companions on board, and, twenty +minutes later, alighted at a small village where it would be necessary +he should wait half an hour before a western bound train came along. +</P> + +<P> +"It's a tough job I've undertaken," he said to himself, when the long +line of coaches had pulled out, leaving him alone, "and somehow or +other I feel pretty certain I'm going to come to grief before this +thing is ended." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap17"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XVII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +AN OLD FRIEND +</H3> + +<P> +To Jet the idea of loitering around first one town and then another +with no definite plan, unless the simple hope of meeting the man by +accident could be called one, was in the highest degree unsatisfactory. +</P> + +<P> +He had embarked on the enterprise, however, and it was now too late for +regrets. +</P> + +<P> +In due time the train arrived, and, stepping on board, he was surprised +at hearing a familiar voice ask: +</P> + +<P> +"Hello Jet! Have you concluded to join us again?" +</P> + +<P> +It was his old friend the manager of the minstrel company, who appeared +to take it for granted Jet had boarded this particular train for no +other purpose than that of going into the show business again. +</P> + +<P> +"Where are you playing?" the boy asked without answering the question. +</P> + +<P> +"Nowhere to-night, or I shouldn't be here. We've been having mighty +hard luck, and had to lay off to reorganize—— At least that's the +best way of putting it. The company is about twenty miles down the +road, and we shall play that town to-morrow." +</P> + +<P> +While the manager was speaking, Jet thought to himself that he could +attend to his particular business as well, if not better, by traveling +with the show a few days than in any other way, and he asked: +</P> + +<P> +"Do you want a good dancer?" +</P> + +<P> +"If you mean yourself, I'll say yes mighty quick. Will you come?" +</P> + +<P> +"There is no reason why I shouldn't for a while, providing you won't +make any objection if I should leave very suddenly." +</P> + +<P> +"Say, my boy, what are you up to in this section of the country, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"Nothing in particular, or perhaps it would be best to say, nothing +that I can explain." +</P> + +<P> +"Then I won't ask any questions. How much do you want a night to do +two turns, and help us out in any other way that may come up?" +</P> + +<P> +"If you'll pay my traveling expenses and hotel bills, I'll go on for +one night, and, perhaps a week, but when it comes to leaving this +section of the country I shall have to stay behind." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll accept the offer, and reckon we can keep you with us a good +while, if you are so stuck on this part of the State, for we intend to +remain within a circle of fifty miles for a couple of weeks. Business +has been so bad that we can't afford to make many long jumps, and there +are plenty of little towns where I hope to pull out money enough to set +us on our feet." +</P> + +<P> +This plan exactly suited Jet, and he believed he had been very +fortunate in thus meeting the manager. +</P> + +<P> +When the conductor came for the tickets, Jet's friend paid his fare to +the town where the company had been waiting for funds ever since the +day the young dancer felt forced to leave them. +</P> + +<P> +It was a very cordial greeting which he received from the members of +the show party that night, and many times was he forced to give an +evasive answer in reply to their searching questions, lest his secret +should be discovered. +</P> + +<P> +During the evening he wrote to Harvey, telling him how he proposed to +travel, and concluded by saying: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"You see, by this means I can stay around here a long while without +spending any of your money, and it seems as if there is less chance of +being suspected by friends of Bob's whom I might meet without knowing +them." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +During the following day he helped distribute programmes, put the hall +to rights, and otherwise made himself so useful that all looked upon +him as a decided acquisition to the company. +</P> + +<P> +On this night he did his regular turn, and instead of trying to prevent +himself from looking at the audience, stared at each person every time +he came on the stage, hoping he might get a glimpse of Bob. +</P> + +<P> +It was doubtful, he admitted to himself, whether he would recognize the +two who had played the part of Albany officers, for he saw them only at +night and in the feeble rays of light cast by the station lamps. +</P> + +<P> +As to Bob, he was confident of knowing him under almost any disguise +that might be assumed. +</P> + +<P> +However, this night's appearance before the public brought him no other +result than that of establishing himself yet more firmly in the minds +of his companions as a good dancer, and he had no reason to be +discouraged since that which must necessarily be a long task had but +just begun. +</P> + +<P> +According to promise, he wrote a short letter to Harvey, and on the +following morning received, a reply to his first. +</P> + +<P> +Among other things the detective wrote: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"I am glad you had an opportunity to join the company, for it is the +best way you could prosecute the search. It would do no harm to go +even farther from the house in the woods than you propose doing, since +Bob will most likely give that place a wide berth for some time to +come. Do not get discouraged, and use as much money as may be +necessary for your comfort. My wound is improving rapidly under proper +treatment, and I am told that in two weeks I shall be able to walk with +the aid of a cane." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +It is true this was not a very important communication; but it was +highly satisfactory to Jet, since it showed that the detective approved +of his course. +</P> + +<P> +The second performance after the "reorganization" of the company, was +given in a small town of about twelve hundred population, and the +receipts at the door were not enough to pay the hotel bill and +traveling expenses to the next town, therefore on that same evening the +manager called the performers to his room for consultation. +</P> + +<P> +"We shall take big money in the next place, providing we can get there +early enough in the morning to make a parade; but I am broke again, and +want your advice." +</P> + +<P> +No one spoke for some time, and Jet asked: +</P> + +<P> +"How far is it?" +</P> + +<P> +"Only six miles." +</P> + +<P> +"I will walk, or pay my own expenses, either one you choose." +</P> + +<P> +"Now, that's what I call coming to the front in great shape. Who's +willing to walk?" +</P> + +<P> +It was some time before he could persuade the other members of the +company to agree. They had received no wages for several weeks, and it +seemed particularly hard to ask them to work for nothing, and, in +addition, tramp from town to town. +</P> + +<P> +It was finally decided two of the company should ride, in order to +transport the baggage, and that the remainder would take to the road as +soon as sunrise next morning. +</P> + +<P> +The manager, knowing that Jet had some money, because of his offer to +pay his own railroad fare, borrowed five dollars of him, with the +promise that it should be repaid with the first money taken at the door +on the next evening, and the amateur detective went to bed feeling +that, perhaps, he could travel around the country more cheaply than by +working for a manager who borrowed his funds. +</P> + +<P> +All hands were called at an early hour on the following morning, and +Jet set out immediately after breakfast with those who were to travel +on "Shank's mare." +</P> + +<P> +It was unfortunate that some of these involuntary pedestrians, while +not having enough to pay their railroad fare, managed to scrape +together sufficient to buy a large bottle of whisky, and when a trifle +more than half the distance had been traversed, several were under the +influence of the fiery liquor. +</P> + +<P> +Jet had many invitations to drink, but he stoutly refused even to taste +of the stuff, and walked on ahead with the other temperate members of +the company. +</P> + +<P> +The dissipated portion of the party danced and sang to the amusement or +disgust of the inhabitants whose houses they passed, and the town was +in sight when a loud shout from the rear caused Jet and his companions +to look back. +</P> + +<P> +Half a dozen of the men had scaled a fence, and were industriously +engaged filling their pockets with fruit, paying no attention to the +damage done the trees as they broke branches or threw heavy clubs up to +bring down the apples or pears. +</P> + +<P> +"Say, this won't do!" Jet shouted as he ran toward them. "You stand a +good chance to be arrested, and then how shall we get out of town?" +</P> + +<P> +"Walk, as we had to this time," some one replied with a laugh, and the +thefts went on with redoubled eagerness. +</P> + +<P> +Jet tried to persuade the fellows to desist, but deaf ears were turned +to all his entreaties, and he was leaning over the fence when two women +and a boy came out to drive the intruders away. +</P> + +<P> +The drunken men paid no attention either to threats or entreaties, but +continued at the work until a sufficient amount of fruit had been +obtained, when they continued the journey. +</P> + +<P> +Immediately after arriving in town Jet had plenty to do in the way of +distributing programmes, and finished the task only to take his place +in the street parade. +</P> + +<P> +The drunkards had sobered off in a measure by this time, and managed to +march through the village without reeling; but the fumes of liquor were +quickly driven from their brains on returning to the hotel, when one +after another was arrested for trespass and theft preferred by the +owner of the orchard, who brought the two women and boy into town as +witnesses. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was not made a prisoner when the majority of the party were marched +to the squire's office, nor did he anticipate any trouble, for he had +done nothing more than try unsuccessfully to prevent the mischief. +</P> + +<P> +Therefore he followed those under arrest to learn what disposition +would be made of the case, and as he entered the closely-packed room +was surprised at hearing one of the women say, in a voice loud enough +to be understood by all: +</P> + +<P> +"There's another of 'em—that boy. I seen him standin' there all the +time." +</P> + +<P> +"But I was only trying to make the others stop," Jet said quickly, as +if the remark had been addressed to him. +</P> + +<P> +"Don't you believe him, squire, he was doin' that to poke fun at me, +an' jest egged the others on." +</P> + +<P> +To Jet's surprise the magistrate included him in the list of prisoners, +and he had the questionable satisfaction of hearing all three of the +witnesses swear that he was aiding and abetting the thieves. +</P> + +<P> +Jet tried hard to defend himself, but the squire had evidently made up +his mind in advance as to what the sentence should be, for without +allowing the prisoners to make more than a shadow of defense, he said +sternly: +</P> + +<P> +"It's time you show people got to learn that you can't travel 'round +the country cuttin' up shines an' then tryin' to excuse yourselves by +sayin' you was under the influence of licker. This court don't +recognize any sich pleadin', an' sentences every one of the crowd to +pay ten dollars an' costs." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you mean that each man must pay that fine?" the manager asked in +dismay. +</P> + +<P> +"That's what I said, an' if there's any row kicked up I'll double it." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was literally stunned and could make no reply. It is true he had +sufficient money with which to settle his fine, but he did not feel +that he was entitled to do such a thing, and besides, the injustice of +the verdict was so great as to overshadow everything else. +</P> + +<P> +Extra constables were sent for to convey the prisoners to the village +lock-up until such time as they should pay the money, and when one of +these officials entered the room, Jet's anger and surprise was changed +to bewilderment. +</P> + +<P> +The man who advanced to carry him to jail was none other than a member +of that party of alleged tramps who had attempted to rob him on the +railroad track, and consequently a pal of the murderers. +</P> + +<P> +The fellow was unquestionably at the house in the woods when Harvey and +his men were besieged, and had since then returned to this town, where, +of course, he lived. +</P> + +<P> +The question in Jet's mind now was as to whether Bob and the others had +accompanied this one. +</P> + +<P> +"Being arrested may turn out to be a mighty good thing, after all," he +said to himself, "and I wouldn't be surprised if I held off a long +while before paying my fine." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap18"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XVIII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +JAIL LIFE +</H3> + +<P> +The manager of the minstrel company was, and quite naturally, in a high +state of excitement when his people were marched off to the lock-up. +</P> + +<P> +If he was not able to raise sufficient money to pay for the railroad +tickets, it was useless to think he could satisfy the claim which +alleged justice had against the men. +</P> + +<P> +To remain there even for twenty-four hours without giving a performance +would result in utter bankruptcy, and in case he was willing to desert +the company he did not have money enough to go out of the town, except +by leaving the baggage behind and walking. +</P> + +<P> +An hour after the now saddened minstrels had been lodged behind the +bars the manager called upon them. +</P> + +<P> +"I've been trying to chin that old fool of a squire into letting you +off for this evening, so's we can give a show, but he won't listen to +anything of the kind," the visitor announced in a disconsolate tone. +</P> + +<P> +"If you could rope off the yard and put up some seats we might perform +behind the bars. Advertise that the gentlemen composing the greatest +aggregation of minstrel talent in the known world will attempt the +difficult feat of playing themselves out of jail." +</P> + +<P> +This suggestion was made by the "funny" man of the party, but the +distressed manager failed to see in it anything witty or comical. +</P> + +<P> +"Can't some of you fellows suggest a plan?" he asked. +</P> + +<P> +"Announce that we are to lay off a short time in order to—to—well +anything you can think of." +</P> + +<P> +"That is no plan at all; it would look rather fishy to reorganize twice +in one week." +</P> + +<P> +"Say that we are studying our parts for a realistic drama, entitled +'Would You put Yourself in Their Places.'" +</P> + +<P> +"Now see here, boys, this isn't a thing to joke about. We must give a +show to-night, and the question is how can it be done?" the manager +asked in a tone of despair. +</P> + +<P> +This was what no one could answer. +</P> + +<P> +It surely seemed as if the squire had been prompted by an unkind fate +to lay the heavy hand of the law upon this particular branch of the +minstrel business, in order to deter others from traveling in the same +path, and to prevent this company from inflicting stale jokes upon the +public. +</P> + +<P> +Finding that the chief performers could not suggest a way out of the +difficulty, the manager took Jet as far aside as the size of the cell +would permit. +</P> + +<P> +"How much money have you got?" he asked in a whisper. +</P> + +<P> +"None that belongs to me. The five dollars I loaned you was put in my +hands for an especial purpose, and I really had no right to dispose of +it as I did." +</P> + +<P> +"But if you've got enough to pay these fines, I'll promise faithfully +that you shall have every cent we take in until the full amount is paid +back. There isn't any risk, my boy, for we shall certainly do a big +business here." +</P> + +<P> +Although Jet had had but little experience in this line, he knew that +the receipts at the door, even if the small hall should be filled, +would not amount to enough to settle the bills, and from it must +necessarily be taken sufficient to carry the party to the next town. +</P> + +<P> +"I haven't got half as much as you need, and if I had it would be wrong +to use it." +</P> + +<P> +"Then you intend to pay your own fine and give us the slip, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"I should have a perfect right to do so, because I took no part in the +stealing of the fruit; but I shall stay with the rest." +</P> + +<P> +During the next ten minutes the manager pleaded in vain with the boy, +and then recognizing the uselessness of his arguments, left the +building in a pet. +</P> + +<P> +Meanwhile the members of the company did not look upon the imprisonment +as such a very great hardship. +</P> + +<P> +"Say, who has to pay our board while we are here?" one of the party +asked the jailer. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon it'll come on the town." +</P> + +<P> +"Then so long as it costs us nothing, what's the use of repining?" and +the man started a song, in which he was joined by his companions, until +the dilapidated building fairly shook with the alleged melody. +</P> + +<P> +As a matter of course, this had the effect of drawing the idle ones to +the jail doors, and the applause from the outside induced a continuance +of the free concert. +</P> + +<P> +All those who could show any right to enter the building crowded in, +and among them was the constable whom Jet had recognized. +</P> + +<P> +While his companions were amusing the visitors and themselves, he edged +along as near this particular man as he could without exposing himself +too freely, and during the pauses between the songs he was fortunate +enough to overhear the following conversation between the fellow in +whom he was interested and a brother constable: +</P> + +<P> +"You've been away quite a while, eh, Jabe?" +</P> + +<P> +"Only three weeks." +</P> + +<P> +"Where was you?" +</P> + +<P> +"'Tendin' to some private business." +</P> + +<P> +"I thought when a man was elected constable he'd got to stay 'round in +case he might be needed." +</P> + +<P> +"I didn't ask for the office, an' don't intend to loaf here when +there's a chance of makin' a dollar outside." +</P> + +<P> +"What have you been up to?" +</P> + +<P> +"That's my own business." +</P> + +<P> +"Of course it is, Jabe; but I know you're makin' money somehow, an' it +seems as if you might give me a show." +</P> + +<P> +"Well, I can't. I had a good thing for a while, but it's busted now." +</P> + +<P> +If Jet had had any doubts as to the identity of the man they would have +been dispelled by this last remark, and he listened eagerly for a +continuation of the conversation. +</P> + +<P> +"Got company up to your house, ain't you?" the inquisitive party asked. +</P> + +<P> +"How'd you know that?" +</P> + +<P> +"Some of the folks said you brought some friends back." +</P> + +<P> +"It seems as if the people in this town had nothin' better to do than +watch their neighbors." +</P> + +<P> +"Then it is true?" +</P> + +<P> +"I've got an old friend visitin' me for a spell, but he's sick now, an' +we don't want folks 'round to disturb him." +</P> + +<P> +"That must be Bob," Jet said to himself. "Perhaps he was wounded, and +has come here to stay till he gets better. Now, how can I send word to +Mr. Harvey?" +</P> + +<P> +This was the one important thing to do in view of what he had learned, +but it would be necessary that none of the townspeople should see the +letter, and the manager of the company was so angry with him that it +was a question if he would attend to the matter. +</P> + +<P> +He seated himself in one corner of the room, where his face could not +be seen plainly, and waited for this particular constable to leave the +building. +</P> + +<P> +In about an hour the prisoners tired of giving a free concert, and, +finding they were not likely to be amused any longer, the visitors took +their departure. +</P> + +<P> +From one of his companions Jet begged a few leaves out of a note-book, +from another he borrowed a pencil, and thus equipped he sat down to +detail what he thought was important news. +</P> + +<P> +"Sending for money to pay your fine, Jet?" one of the party asked +jokingly, and this caused the others to think of what they might do. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon a good many of us had better try the same game," a second man +said seriously. "The manager can't get us out of the hole, and we may +as well begin to hustle for ourselves." +</P> + +<P> +"It won't cost much to do it," Jet replied, thinking that if a number +of letters were sent from the jail his would attract less attention. +</P> + +<P> +Nearly all the party concluded to make the attempt, and a call was made +upon the turnkey for envelopes. +</P> + +<P> +Jet offered ten cents to pay for the same, and in a short time the +note-book was stripped of its leaves as each prisoner set about making +a written appeal for funds. +</P> + +<P> +The question of postage was next raised, and to this Jet was forced to +respond, in order that his missive should be sent without delay. +</P> + +<P> +By the time the letters had been made ready, the member of the company +who came over on the cars with the manager paid his companions a visit, +and, quite naturally, agreed to post the mail matter. +</P> + +<P> +Now that he was reasonably certain Harvey would soon know the exact +condition of affairs, Jet felt very light-hearted. It seemed almost +positive he had stumbled upon Bob's hiding-place, and if such should +prove to be the case, the second man implicated in the murder must be +captured within a few days. +</P> + +<P> +Shortly before mid-day the squire came over to interview his prisoners. +</P> + +<P> +It was possible he had been figuring the cost to the town in case this +party of twelve should remain contentedly in jail; and perhaps he was +beginning to believe the sentence too severe when taken in the +aggregate. +</P> + +<P> +"Your manager has been tryin' to talk me into lettin' you fellers out," +he began, assuming a friendly tone and air. "I told him that justice +couldn't be tampered with, an' have come 'round to see what you're +goin' to do 'bout payin' the fines." +</P> + +<P> +"Squire, did you ever try to get blood out of a stone?" one of the +party asked. +</P> + +<P> +"What has that got to do with it, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"Nothing, except that it would be as easy to bleed a rock as to get +cash from them who are flat broke." +</P> + +<P> +"But, bless my heart, you can't stay here forever, you know." +</P> + +<P> +"It depends on you. If the manager has made any kind of a fair offer I +advise you to accept it, for it will cost something to feed this crowd, +and I don't suppose you would care to take the responsibility of +starving us to death." +</P> + +<P> +The squire wiped the perspiration from his face, although the room was +by no means warm. +</P> + +<P> +"If you could pay somethin' on account, an' give bonds for the rest——" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't believe you could scare up a dollar among the whole of us, and +as for bonds—who would sign them?" +</P> + +<P> +"But you can't expect me to let you go free after robbing a man's +orchard, an' bein' sentenced in a regular court?" +</P> + +<P> +"Certainly not, and for that reason we have settled down to the belief +that we shall be your guests a very long while." +</P> + +<P> +"If I should let you out long enough to give a show, would you come +back here?" the squire asked after a long pause. +</P> + +<P> +"Who would get the money taken at the door?" +</P> + +<P> +"It would go toward payin' your fines." +</P> + +<P> +"That's a matter we shall have to discuss, for it isn't a pleasant +lookout to give a performance for the benefit of your court when we +need money so badly ourselves." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll come back in an hour an' get your answer," the squire replied +with considerable show of dignity, as he left the building. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was distressed at the thought that it might be possible the fines +would be paid in a short time, for then he could make no excuse for +loitering about the town, and even if he should do so there was every +reason to believe the constable he was eager to have arrested would +recognize him. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap19"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XIX +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE DINNER +</H3> + +<P> +Dinner, consisting of soup, with a liberal supply of meat and bread, +was served to the prisoners at twelve o'clock, and, half an hour later, +the manager arrived to talk with his company regarding the proposition +to reduce the fines so far as was possible by giving a performance. +</P> + +<P> +The "funny" man of the party acted as spokesman for his companions, and +Jet listened with deepest interest to the following conversation: +</P> + +<P> +"There is no question about persuadin' that idiotic squire to give all +hands a few hours' liberty, if you agree to return here as soon as the +performance is ended," the manager began. +</P> + +<P> +"And in what way shall we be benefited?" +</P> + +<P> +"At least a portion of the fines will be paid, and it may then be +possible to get his consent to our moving on to the next town." +</P> + +<P> +"How will you get there, if he insists on taking all the receipts?" +</P> + +<P> +"There must be some kind of a bargain made whereby we can take +car-fares and expenses out of the show." +</P> + +<P> +Although the majority of the prisoners were responsible for the deed +which committed them to prison, not one seemed willing to give an +evening's work, in order to pay a portion of the amount exacted. +</P> + +<P> +The fines were so large in the aggregate, considering the value of the +property taken, that all felt as if it would be the proper thing to let +the town support them for a time. +</P> + +<P> +To the manager the case presented itself in a different aspect. +</P> + +<P> +He had made dates ahead, and if the company failed to keep them, after +having already disappointed the public once, his position would be that +of a veritable bankrupt with whom the owners of the halls would refuse +to transact business. +</P> + +<P> +Therefore it was that he spent considerable time urging his company to +do as he hoped the squire might approve of, and finally, much to Jet's +mental discomfort, he succeeded in extracting a promise from each that +he would agree to go on the stage, and afterward return to the jail. +</P> + +<P> +Then he went to try his powers of persuasion on the squire. +</P> + +<P> +During the afternoon the other member of the party who was at liberty, +reported that the matter had been arranged satisfactorily, and +"dodgers" were now being distributed around the town calling upon the +people to aid in "rescuing from imprisonment a number of gentlemen, +whose exuberance of spirit rather than evil propensities, had plunged +them into sore distress." +</P> + +<P> +More than one of the company predicted that the appeal would be a +signal failure, and Jet earnestly hoped these "exuberant gentlemen" +would prove truthful prophets. +</P> + +<P> +Evening came, and with the shadows of night the constables arrived to +conduct the performers to the hall. +</P> + +<P> +A supper of bread, cold meat, and tea had been served, and, save for +the severe headaches with which the intemperate portion of the party +were suffering, all were in reasonably good spirits. +</P> + +<P> +Both the squire and the manager were at the door to take the money from +the charitably inclined, and the owner of the hall also stood near by +to make certain of receiving his rent from the first cash paid over. +</P> + +<P> +Watching through the peep-hole in the curtain, Jet saw the constable in +whom he was especially interested seated near the stage, and for an +instant he resolved not to appear lest he should be recognized. +</P> + +<P> +A moment's reflection, however, showed him that such a course would +unquestionably arouse suspicion, and he settled the matter by +blackening his face, a disguise which, under the glare of the +footlights, would prove most effective. +</P> + +<P> +The inhabitants of the town did not respond very generously to the +"appeal." +</P> + +<P> +When the curtain rose on the first act, there were hardly more than +enough in the hall to pay the actual running expenses of the evening, +and there was no longer any hope of being able to reduce the amount +owed for fines. +</P> + +<P> +Both the manager and the squire looked despondent, the latter +particularly so, for he had saddled upon the town what might prove to +be a white elephant before the matter was ended. +</P> + +<P> +Despite the discouraging state of affairs the performers did their +best, and the audience were delighted. Jet danced until it was +impossible to take another step, and then, on being called before the +curtain, was forced to bow his thanks instead of responding to the +fourth encore. +</P> + +<P> +During all the time he was on the stage he had scrutinized the faces of +the spectators, but without recognizing any face other than the one +before him, and it was in a decidedly contented frame of mind that he +followed his companions back to jail after the result of the "show" was +made known. +</P> + +<P> +By this evening's work, after the hall rent, printing and services of +the musicians had been paid, the company were able to reduce the entire +amount of fines exactly four dollars, and one of the party remarked, +laughingly: +</P> + +<P> +"At this rate, by hard work, providing the people are willing to come +to a show every night, we may manage to pull through in about three +months, which won't be a profitable speculation, considering the fact +that we might have bought all the fruit for a dollar at the outside." +</P> + +<P> +On the following afternoon Jet received a reply to his letter, and in +it Harvey said: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"Pay your fine and come out of jail at once. You can avoid our +constable by remaining with the company the greater portion of the +time; but it is necessary you should learn who the visitor is. Can't +you walk around that way now and then? I don't fancy Bob will stay in +the house all the time. This work can be done better now by you than +any one I could send, since the presence of a stranger in the little +village would attract attention." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +While reading this Jet was busily engaged in trying to make some excuse +whereby he could do as Harvey ordered without arousing the suspicion of +his companions. +</P> + +<P> +If he had paid the fine in the first place all would have been simple; +but reason must be given for leaving after telling the manager that he +did not dare to spend the money he had on his person. +</P> + +<P> +A happy thought occurred to him. +</P> + +<P> +Pretending to read after the letter was finished, he contrived, without +being seen, to take fifteen dollars from his pocket, and, holding them +up triumphantly, he cried: +</P> + +<P> +"Here's enough with which to pay my fine, and I'll have more in a few +days if you fellows don't get out." +</P> + +<P> +As a matter of course his companions supposed the money had been taken +from the letter. +</P> + +<P> +Several tried to persuade him that it would be useless to spend that +amount when by waiting the squire might be forced to free them; but he +professed to be sick of life in a jail, and summoned the turnkey to +take him to the magistrate's office. +</P> + +<P> +Twenty minutes later he was formally released from custody, and the +squire began to believe that two or three more days of imprisonment +would force the others to follow Jet's example. +</P> + +<P> +He went at once to the hotel, paid twenty-four hours' board in advance, +and on turning, after completing this transaction, found himself face +to face with the manager. +</P> + +<P> +"So you concluded that it wouldn't be so very much out of the way to +use some of that money, eh?" the latter asked, sarcastically. +</P> + +<P> +"I wrote for funds, and got fifteen dollars by the last mail." +</P> + +<P> +"Was that the best you could do?" +</P> + +<P> +"It wasn't to be supposed I could pay the whole amount." +</P> + +<P> +"No; but since you have friends with money enough to let you loaf +around this section of the country, I didn't know but that we might +raise a stake somehow." +</P> + +<P> +Now Jet regretted having followed Harvey's advice, for if the manager +should make this same remark in the hearing of the constable, many and +grave suspicions might be aroused, for, of course, the man would be on +the alert for anything which needed an explanation. +</P> + +<P> +"That's where you are making a big mistake," he said, with an +assumption of carelessness which was far from natural. "I only wanted +to stay here till I could get a job." +</P> + +<P> +"That wasn't the way you talked when I met you the other day; but it +doesn't make much difference now, for I am beginning to see my way out +of this snarl." +</P> + +<P> +"How?" +</P> + +<P> +"There's a constable in this town who seems to be pretty well fixed, +and he gave me to understand that he might take the company out of +jail, providing I'd let him act as treasurer until the amount was paid." +</P> + +<P> +"Which one is he?" Jet asked, trying hard not to betray the eagerness +for knowledge which he felt. +</P> + +<P> +"The fellow who took you to jail." +</P> + +<P> +"Are you pretty certain he'll make the trade?" +</P> + +<P> +"Here he comes now to talk the matter over; it won't take us long to +find out." +</P> + +<P> +Jet glanced toward the door, and saw the man in whom he felt so great +an interest. +</P> + +<P> +The manager, eager to clinch the bargain, advanced to meet him, and the +boy, keeping his back toward the new-comer, managed to walk out of the +opposite door without being observed. +</P> + +<P> +Now the one question in the mind of the amateur detective was as to why +this man should be willing to travel with the show. +</P> + +<P> +It did not require many minutes for him to arrive at a satisfactory +conclusion. +</P> + +<P> +"He has got a lot of that counterfeit money with him, and by running +the company through a number of towns some distance from here can pass +it," Jet said to himself. "Now, what shall I do if he makes the trade?" +</P> + +<P> +The proper thing seemed to be to send a letter at once, and, going to +his room, he wrote a full account of what he had heard, concluding by +saying: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"To-night I shall lay around his house trying to get a sight of the man +who is visiting there." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +This done he went into the office once more, and there saw the manager, +who was highly elated. +</P> + +<P> +"It is all arranged," he said. "The fines will be fixed in some way +to-morrow, and we shall start once more. We only lose to-night's +stand, and then go on with a backer who has plenty of money. Will you +tell the boys of our good luck, while I make arrangements for sending +the posters ahead?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet promised to carry the tidings, and stopped only long enough to add +the following postscript to his letter: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"The trade has been made, and the constable will leave here to-morrow +with the company. I shall loaf near his house this evening, and walk +to the next town to send you a telegram if I learn anything." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +This letter he mailed in time for the night train, and then visited the +jail, delivering news which the prisoners were not particularly glad to +hear, since it gave them no immediate prospect for money. +</P> + +<P> +"We have made up our minds to tire the squire out," one of them said, +"and I don't take favorably to the idea of working to pay the fines +when there's no real need of it." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap20"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XX +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +A RECOGNITION +</H3> + +<P> +Jet did not spend much time trying to induce the prisoners to take +advantage of the constable's offer. +</P> + +<P> +It suited his plans best to have them refuse, and, after giving the +information, he walked back to the hotel, as if the one desire of his +life was to get a good supper. +</P> + +<P> +When the meal was finished the night had fully come, and he would have +set out at once to loiter around the constable's house but for the fact +that as yet he did not know where that gentleman lived. +</P> + +<P> +While standing in the office trying to make up his mind whom he could +approach, in order to get this information, the manager joined him, as +he asked: +</P> + +<P> +"What did the boys say when you told them what was to be done?" +</P> + +<P> +"I didn't wait to hear very much; but it struck me that they were not +particularly well pleased." +</P> + +<P> +"Why not?" +</P> + +<P> +"They think it is foolish to work for the money when it may be possible +to tire the squire out by holding on a while and letting the town +support them." +</P> + +<P> +"Is it possible they can be such fools? Come with me, and we'll see if +it isn't possible to beat some sense into their stupid heads." +</P> + +<P> +Jet did not want to waste the time; but since he could make no good +excuse, there was nothing for it but to comply, and the two started at +once. +</P> + +<P> +On arriving at the jail, the turnkey informed them that it was against +orders to admit any one after dark; but he intimated that the matter +might be arranged with any one of the constables who had brought the +prisoners there. +</P> + +<P> +"Then it won't take us long to fix it," the manager said, as he +beckoned Jet to follow him, and when they were in the open air again, +he added: "Barker will see that we get in." +</P> + +<P> +"Who is he?" +</P> + +<P> +"Why, Jabe Barker, the constable who wants to take the company on the +road." +</P> + +<P> +Jet made no reply, but congratulated himself on thus having the house +pointed out to him without any questions on his part. +</P> + +<P> +A walk of ten minutes brought them to quite a large residence on the +outskirts of the village, and the manager said: +</P> + +<P> +"That's where he lives, and I'm told he owns the entire property, so +you see we'll have a capitalist to back us." +</P> + +<P> +"I guess I'd better not go any farther with you," Jet said, +half-apologetically, as he halted. +</P> + +<P> +"Why not?" +</P> + +<P> +"You and he may want to talk business, and, perhaps, it wouldn't look +well for me to be where I could listen." +</P> + +<P> +"You are right, my boy. Go back to the hotel, and I'll meet you there +in a short time." +</P> + +<P> +Jet turned as if to obey, and walked slowly toward the center of the +village, until he saw that the manager had been admitted to the +building, when he clambered over a fence, ran across a piece of plowed +land, and stood at the rear of the out-buildings when Mr. Barker and +the manager emerged. +</P> + +<P> +Not until they were lost to view in the gloom did he dare to make a +move, and then he crept softly around in search of a place of vantage +from which the house could be watched. +</P> + +<P> +He finally found it immediately behind the woodshed, where, by climbing +on the sloping roof, it was possible to look in at the uncurtained +windows of the first and second story. +</P> + +<P> +During fully an hour he lay at full length upon the hard boards without +seeing that for which he sought. +</P> + +<P> +Now and then a female form would pass one of the lighted windows, but +nothing more, and he was beginning to think he had struck the wrong +trail, when Barker returned. +</P> + +<P> +He was whistling merrily while coming up the lane which led to the +house, and, as if this was a signal, a man came from the building with +a pipe in his mouth. Jet's heart beat fast and loud. +</P> + +<P> +Although it was impossible, in the gloom, to distinguish any object +clearly, he felt certain that this man was the one whom Harvey was so +eager to find. The stature, form, and general appearance was Bob's, +and Jet believed his search had come to an end. +</P> + +<P> +It was evident that the two had some business to discuss which they did +not care to speak of in the house, where the other members of the +family could hear them, for they walked directly toward the shed on +which the boy was lying, and, fortunately for his purpose, sat down on +a log almost directly beneath him. +</P> + +<P> +"It is all arranged," Barker was saying. "The fool actors kicked at +first about working for nothing, as they called it; but we soon brought +them to terms." +</P> + +<P> +"When are you going to start?" +</P> + +<P> +"Day after to-morrow." +</P> + +<P> +"Why do you wait?" +</P> + +<P> +"I think we had better find out first what the officers did after we +left, and a few hours can't make much difference, for I'll get rid of +plenty of the queer to keep us going before we've been out a day." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm not certain that it is best for you to do this thing, Jabe. A +minstrel show can be tracked a dozen times where one man could give the +officers the slip without trouble." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm not intending to shove so much that there'll be any fuss. Just +enough to put us in funds so we can skip if things begin to look black. +We wouldn't be in this shape if my advice had been taken; I always +insisted that there was no reason why Joe should carry all the cash." +</P> + +<P> +"He's a slick one, Joe is, and could get out of a tight place where you +or I would be pulled." +</P> + +<P> +"Well, with all his smartness he's cornered this time." +</P> + +<P> +"That remains to be proven. He may have had to skin out while we were +watching the house. If he was arrested we should have heard it before +this." +</P> + +<P> +"That isn't certain; none of the gang have showed up yet, and—— +Hello! Who is this?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet looked toward the road and there saw the form of a man coming +cautiously up the lane as if trying to avoid observation from those in +the house. +</P> + +<P> +Bob and Barker were on their feet in an instant both acting ill at +ease, until a low, peculiar whistle was heard, which the latter +answered in the same manner, and then said to his companion in a tone +of relief: +</P> + +<P> +"Now we shall hear the whole story." +</P> + +<P> +"Who is it?" +</P> + +<P> +"Sam, I reckon; yes it is," and Jabe advanced to seize the new-comer by +the hand. +</P> + +<P> +"Well?" Bob asked, as if impatient to hear the news. +</P> + +<P> +"We're cornered, or at least poor Joe is. We did all we could, and the +result is that I've left the other fellows in jail on the charge of +resisting an officer." +</P> + +<P> +Then Sam went on to tell of Jet's appearing in town with his prisoner, +and the remainder of the story which is already known. +</P> + +<P> +Bob was silent for several moments after the new-comer ceased speaking, +and then said savagely: +</P> + +<P> +"But for me that cub would have been put out of the way before he'd +done anything except tell a certain story in New York. Now all I ask +is a chance to get hold of him again, and I'll swear to it that he +won't do any more mischief." +</P> + +<P> +"What is the New York racket?" Barker asked curiously. "I've noticed +that you and Joe had a secret which bothered you more'n this matter +did." +</P> + +<P> +"If I don't tell you there'll be no danger of your splittin' on us," +was the gruff reply. "What I want to know is whether there's any show +of our being tracked to this place?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course, no man can say that to a dead certainty; but unless the +fellows who are jugged give the snap away, we're safe here, providing +Jabe can take care of us," Sam replied. +</P> + +<P> +Mr. Barker did not venture any advice, possibly because he feared it +might not be safe to have too many guests at his house for the +villagers to gossip about. +</P> + +<P> +"What about the house in the woods?" Bob finally asked. +</P> + +<P> +"Two fellows from Albany stayed there a couple of days, and then got +tired of waiting. They took the train home last night." +</P> + +<P> +"Did they find anything?" +</P> + +<P> +"No; I went up to the big oak this morning, and there were no signs the +ground had been disturbed since we left." +</P> + +<P> +Again Bob was silent, and when he finally spoke Jet was considerably +surprised. +</P> + +<P> +"This part of the country is getting too hot for me, and I'm goin' to +make a jump." +</P> + +<P> +"Where?" +</P> + +<P> +"Almost any place is better than layin' around so near. What do you +say to a hunting trip in the Adirondacks, Sam?" +</P> + +<P> +"It would suit me. How much cash have you got?" +</P> + +<P> +"Enough to see us through." +</P> + +<P> +"Then I'm ready any time." +</P> + +<P> +"When can we leave here, Jabe?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon you want to go through Albany?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course not, you fool." +</P> + +<P> +"Then at five to-morrow morning you'll get a train from here to +Schenectady, and there are plenty out of there to take you into the +mountains." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't fancy running around those big towns," Sam said, hesitatingly. +</P> + +<P> +"Very well, stay behind if you choose; I'm going," and Bob terminated +the interview by walking toward the house. +</P> + +<P> +"It's something besides shoving the queer that's crawling on him now," +Jabe said, as the short man passed out of hearing. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon so; but at the same time I'm bound to be with him, for if +there is a man in this country who can steer clear of trouble he is the +one, and I don't care to be pulled on a charge of counterfeiting." +</P> + +<P> +Jabe made no reply, and a few seconds later the two followed their +friend into the house, leaving Jet to ponder upon the magnitude of the +task he felt bound to undertake. +</P> + +<P> +Not until everything was quiet did the boy venture to come down from +his hiding-place, and then his plans were formed. +</P> + +<P> +"Between now and to-morrow morning I can walk fifteen miles," he said +to himself when he had gained the highway once more, "and then I should +be mighty near the junction. There I shall be able to telegraph at any +hour, and have everything ready to board this five o'clock train when +it comes along. But if we should reach the Adirondacks, and those +fellows ever got hold of me there, it would be all up with Jet Lewis." +</P> + +<P> +It was, indeed, a desperate undertaking for him to follow these men +into the wilderness where he could not call upon his friend for +assistance; but never for a moment did he think of shirking the +responsibility. +</P> + +<P> +His first move was to see the manager, and represent that he was going +down the road a short distance, in order to prevent anything being said +to the constable before the two men should leave. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll most likely meet you at the next town," he said, cheerily, as he +went up stairs apparently to retire, and half an hour later he had +slipped out of the house without being recognized by any one he knew. +</P> + +<P> +At this late hour the village was in a state of repose, and he hurried +to the railroad, saying to himself as he started down the track on the +ties: +</P> + +<P> +"Now we'll see how many miles I can cover between this and sunrise." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap21"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXI +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE ADIRONDACKS +</H3> + +<P> +Jet gave no heed to his own fatigue during this night's traveling. +</P> + +<P> +His one desire was to reach the junction in time to send the telegram +to Harvey, and make such changes in his costume as would serve to +disguise him in some slight degree. +</P> + +<P> +In order to effect this purpose, it would be necessary to travel every +moment of the time at full speed. +</P> + +<P> +This he did, and it was one quarter past four in the morning when he +arrived at the junction. +</P> + +<P> +He had more than two hours before the train would arrive, and his first +care was to send the following telegram to the detective: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"He, with a friend, has just started for the Adirondacks hunting. If +possible will let you know where they stop; but I may not be able to +get out of the woods while they stay." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +It had taken Jet a long while to write the message. He wished to word +it so the operator could not understand that he was tracking a man, and +yet it was necessary the detective should realize it might be many days +before he could send any further information. +</P> + +<P> +If the men had remained at Jabe's house one day after he discovered +positively that Bob was there, the whole work would have been finished +in a few hours, for an officer could have been sent from Albany to +capture him. +</P> + +<P> +Under the circumstances, therefore, nothing could be done, save to +follow the men until it should be possible to let Harvey know where an +arrest might be effected. +</P> + +<P> +After the message had been delivered to the operator, Jet walked around +the town waiting for the stores to be opened. +</P> + +<P> +The "earliest bird" was a clothing dealer, and he "caught the worm" +without difficulty. +</P> + +<P> +Jet bought a reefer's jacket, a slouch hat, and such articles of +underwear as might be needed. He also invested a dollar in a cheap +carpet-bag. +</P> + +<P> +Then he waited a few moments longer for the shoemaker, of whom he +purchased a pair of top boots. Tucking his trousers into these, he had +the satisfaction of knowing that he bore very little resemblance to the +district messenger boy, who had left New York believing his destination +to be Yonkers. +</P> + +<P> +"I'd like to buy a gun and some cartridges, if I could get a good +bargain," he said to the shoemaker, and the latter replied, eagerly: +</P> + +<P> +"I've got jest what you want." +</P> + +<P> +An ordinary breech-loading, double-barrelled gun was produced from +behind the counter, and after some bargaining a trade was made on the +basis of eight dollars for the weapon and sixty cartridges. +</P> + +<P> +By this time Jet's stock of ready cash was running low; but he did not +feel particularly worried, since there was yet enough remaining to pay +his railroad fare to and from the mountains, with something over for +the purchase of provisions. +</P> + +<P> +A hearty breakfast at the depot restaurant, a wait of five minutes, and +the train arrived. +</P> + +<P> +Jet had good reason to believe his game would go direct to Plattsburgh +before striking into the wilderness, for the shoemaker had told him it +was the most direct route to the hunting region, and he procured a +ticket for that point. +</P> + +<P> +On boarding the train he went into the smoking-car, and there saw the +men he intended to fellow. +</P> + +<P> +The seat behind them was vacant, and he took it at once, pulling his +hat down over his eyes in such a manner that one could not see his face +without considerable difficulty. +</P> + +<P> +The men were half asleep; but the conductor awakened them, and Jet was +made glad by a glimpse of their tickets. +</P> + +<P> +They were bound for Plattsburgh as he had guessed, and he resolved that +at the next station he would telegraph this information to Harvey. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't suppose he could get a man there before these fellows strike +into the woods," he said to himself; "but there's just a chance they'll +hang around the town a while, and it is best he should have all the +information possible." +</P> + +<P> +At Schenectady it was necessary to change cars, and here Jet found an +opportunity to send Harvey word. +</P> + +<P> +On boarding the other train, the boy again succeeded in getting a seat +directly behind his men without apparently having been observed by them. +</P> + +<P> +They had not started without an ample supply of liquid refreshments, +and both indulged liberally, but not to such an extent as to loosen +their tongues. +</P> + +<P> +Jet listened eagerly, but not a word of particular interest or +importance to him could he hear. +</P> + +<P> +Owing to several delays, it was nightfall before the train reached +Plattsburgh, and now came the hardest part of the amateur detective's +task. +</P> + +<P> +It was necessary to keep the men in sight, and yet at the same time +avoid being seen by them. +</P> + +<P> +He was convinced that it would be necessary for him to stand watch all +night; but fortune favored him in a signal manner. +</P> + +<P> +Observing Bob going toward the ticket-office, he slipped through the +crowd, and heard the following conversation: +</P> + +<P> +"When does the next train leave for Saranac Lake?" +</P> + +<P> +"Seven to-morrow morning." +</P> + +<P> +"From what depot?" +</P> + +<P> +"This one." +</P> + +<P> +"What is the fare?" +</P> + +<P> +"Three thirty-five." +</P> + +<P> +"Give me two tickets." +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon that's enough for me," Jet said to himself, joyfully. +"There's no question about where they are going, and I can do as I +please until morning." +</P> + +<P> +After Bob left the window to rejoin Sam, the boy purchased a ticket for +the same point, and then went to a small hotel near the depot where he +registered as David Small. +</P> + +<P> +The two men had evidently sought shelter elsewhere, for he saw nothing +of them during the evening. +</P> + +<P> +After a hearty supper, which was all the more needed, because he had +refrained from buying dinner, in order to husband his rapidly +decreasing store of cash, Jet wrote a long letter to Harvey, telling +him all he had learned, and urging that some officer be sent to Saranac +Lake in order to make the arrest. +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"I shall keep on their track as long as I can," he said in conclusion; +"but after they get into the woods it's going to be a hard job, and the +sooner they are pulled the more certain we'll be of having them." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +This done he went to bed and slept soundly until awakened at six +o'clock. +</P> + +<P> +Half an hour later he was at the depot, and took a seat in the +smoking-car. +</P> + +<P> +Neither Bob nor Sam were there; but they arrived five minutes before +the train left, and seated themselves some distance from Jet. +</P> + +<P> +From that time until considerably past noon the boy could do no more +than watch his men; but he was well content, knowing they had no +suspicion as to being followed. +</P> + +<P> +Then the end of the first stage of the journey was finished, and the +real work of trailing the human game began. +</P> + +<P> +Jet loitered around the station asking questions relative to the best +way of getting into the woods, but all the while keeping his eye on the +men. +</P> + +<P> +Their movements puzzled him. +</P> + +<P> +Neither appeared to be in any hurry to leave the town. +</P> + +<P> +They also asked a number of questions; but Jet was not near enough to +overhear the conversation, and then both went to the hotel. +</P> + +<P> +A boy about his own age was standing near the depot platform eying Jet +curiously, and the latter asked, more as an excuse for remaining where +he was than anything else. +</P> + +<P> +"Do you know where a fellow could find some good hunting?" +</P> + +<P> +"You'd have to go down to the lake, and strike into the woods most +anywhere." +</P> + +<P> +"Where is the lake?" +</P> + +<P> +"Down that road a couple of miles." +</P> + +<P> +"Isn't there any other way of getting into the woods?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not unless you strike through the fields, an' then you'd be goin' +right away from the best hunting. There's a fork in the road a little +more than a mile down, an' the people mostly take the right-hand turn. +How far are you countin' on traveling?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know; just want to have a little trip." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon you want a guide, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"I guess I couldn't stand anything quite so expensive. I heard one of +them fellers say he wanted, three dollars a day." +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, some of 'em get pretty big prices; but I'd put myself alongside +of the best, 'less it comes to deers." +</P> + +<P> +"And how much do you charge?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'll go for nothin', if you'll pay the bills." +</P> + +<P> +"Bills for what?" +</P> + +<P> +"Grub, hire of a boat, powder an' shot, an' sich things." +</P> + +<P> +"Have you got a gun?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course; but she's not so good as your'n." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll take you along. When will you be ready?" +</P> + +<P> +"In five minutes; I've only got to run home a second to get some +things." +</P> + +<P> +"Don't be away any longer than you can help." +</P> + +<P> +The boy started off at full speed; and Jet congratulated himself on +having made the arrangement. +</P> + +<P> +"That fellow can do a good deal to help me, and since he lives around +here, Bob won't recognize me so quick, because he'll be apt to take me +for one of the natives." +</P> + +<P> +Jet's guide returned in a very short time. +</P> + +<P> +He brought with him several fishing-lines, an old muzzle-loading gun, +some cooking utensils, and a small bundle of provisions. +</P> + +<P> +"Now, you've got to buy a lot of grub, an' then we'll have so much to +carry that a team will be needed to haul 'em. I know where we can get +a boat." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll stay here while you pick out as much as we'll need; but don't +spend more'n ten dollars." +</P> + +<P> +"Ten dollars! Why, half of that'll be enough." +</P> + +<P> +"Go ahead, an' call me when you've found out how much the bill is." +</P> + +<P> +"Why don't you come, too?" +</P> + +<P> +"I didn't know but I might see a friend, an' I want to kinder watch out +for a while." +</P> + +<P> +The boy hurried away, and returned half an hour later. +</P> + +<P> +"The stuff comes to six dollars an' eighty cents, an' we'll have to pay +a dollar to get it hauled down." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was averse to losing sight of the hotel door even for a moment; but +it was necessary to settle the bill, and he hurried off just as the +stage drove up. +</P> + +<P> +He paid the amount asked for, and had turned toward the store door when +he saw Bob and Sam, with guns, rods, and quite an amount of baggage, +clambering on the roof of the coach. +</P> + +<P> +"Hurry up an' get your team," he said, in a low tone to his new friend. +"I'd like to know where that stage stops." +</P> + +<P> +"I can show you any time," the boy replied, carelessly; but he obeyed +the injunction, and in a few moments after the public conveyance rolled +away the amateur detective was following it. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap22"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE SMALL GUIDE +</H3> + +<P> +The driver of the vehicle which Jet had hired did not seem disposed to +push his sorry-looking horse to his utmost speed, and the boy +experienced no slight amount of mental anxiety through fear that the +men would escape him. +</P> + +<P> +Once they entered the woods without his having some idea of their +course, the chase would be well-nigh hopeless. +</P> + +<P> +His small guide commenced the process of becoming acquainted by asking +Jet's name. +</P> + +<P> +"David Small," was the prompt reply. "What's your's?" +</P> + +<P> +"Jim Crosby." +</P> + +<P> +Then Jet was obliged to explain considerably more about himself; he +said he lived in Albany, sold news papers there, and, having laid by a +little money, concluded to see what the Adirondack region looked like. +</P> + +<P> +"If you don't have to go back too soon, I'll show you the whole place," +Jim replied, with an air of profound wisdom such as one might have +expected from the oldest inhabitant in the vicinity. +</P> + +<P> +Then the small guide went on to explain where he proposed to take his +friend and patron, and before his recital was finished the wagon +stopped at the lake side. +</P> + +<P> +Here everything was in a state of seeming confusion. Sportsmen and +tourists were setting out for their respective destinations; but Jet +had no thought for any, save the two he had followed so far. +</P> + +<P> +"You hire a boat, and I'll stay here," he said to Jim, who hurried +away, leaving him where he could see all who left the shore by the +water-way. +</P> + +<P> +Again fortune favored him. +</P> + +<P> +Bob and Sam had just concluded their arrangements for a craft, and were +loading it not more than twenty yards away. +</P> + +<P> +Before Jim returned they had started alone. +</P> + +<P> +These two who thought more of hiding themselves than of hunting or +fishing, did not need a guide. +</P> + +<P> +Jet kept his eyes fixed on them as they rowed leisurely down the lake, +and when Jim returned, he said: +</P> + +<P> +"See here, can't we keep about half a mile behind those fellows?" +</P> + +<P> +"What do you want to do that for? They won't know where to find the +best sport." +</P> + +<P> +"I've got a particular reason for wanting to see where they stop, an' +will make it worth your while." +</P> + +<P> +"Oh, that's all right, I don't want to be paid for anything of the +kind! Come on an' help me put this stuff aboard before they get around +the point." +</P> + +<P> +Jet was so eager to be off that he did most of the work himself, and +Jim promised to take the first trick at the oars. +</P> + +<P> +"Don't pull very fast; I only want to keep them in sight," Jet +explained, as he shoved the light craft off and leaped into the +stern-sheets. +</P> + +<P> +"You steer, and tell me when we're coming too near, for I can't keep +lookin' around. Say, what game are you up to?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't understand you." +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon you know what I mean. Why do you wanter keep on the track of +that boat?" +</P> + +<P> +"I just had an idea, that's all. They are going without a guide, and +I'd like to see how they'll come out." +</P> + +<P> +"There's plenty of them kind of fellers who think they can save money +by workin' it alone; but they don't travel very far. What's your other +reason?" +</P> + +<P> +Unquestionably Jim was suspicious, and Jet began to study the question +of how much he could tell him, for it would soon be necessary to make +some more definite explanation. +</P> + +<P> +While he was thus trying to decide, the small guide continued to ply +him with questions, until he came to the conclusion that the best plan +would be to give a portion of the story, otherwise, in case he met the +men, Jim might ask them to solve the riddle. +</P> + +<P> +"If you'll cross your throat never to tell a living person till we get +out of the woods again, I'll let you into the secret, and what's more, +I'll agree to give you twenty dollars, if this job is finished up +right." +</P> + +<P> +"Twenty dollars!" the boy repeated, in surprise. "What do you want me +to do?" and he turned to look at the boat. +</P> + +<P> +"Nothing just at present but row slowly without turning around. Will +you agree not to tell anybody?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course, an' I'd do a good deal more'n that to earn so much money." +</P> + +<P> +"Then here it is, and if you breathe a single word I wouldn't wonder if +you got into jail. I've been hired to watch them fellows till officers +can get here and arrest them." +</P> + +<P> +"Then you're a reg'lar detective," Jim cried, breathlessly. +</P> + +<P> +"Hold your tongue, or everybody on the lake will hear you. I ain't +anything of the kind. Didn't I say I'd only been hired to watch them +so's to let the officers know where they stop?" +</P> + +<P> +"What have they been doing?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon it's very much; but somebody in Albany seems to think +it'll pay to catch them." +</P> + +<P> +"Why didn't the constables come with you?" +</P> + +<P> +"Because nobody but me knew they'd started for this place. It the men +make a camp we can send back word; but if they have the least little +idea that we're on their trail there'll be a mighty good chance of our +getting our throats cut." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll be still as a fish; but I do wish I knew more about 'em." +</P> + +<P> +"If they are arrested you can find out the whole story." +</P> + +<P> +This promise seemed to satisfy Jim, and he rowed on in silence, +probably fancying he was doing some skillful piece of detective work, +which might be spoiled by so much as the splashing of the oars. +</P> + +<P> +An hour later the men were taking matters so leisurely that it was +necessary the boys should make a pretense of landing in order to remain +behind, otherwise their evident loitering would have caused suspicion. +</P> + +<P> +Jet explained this to his companion, and the latter proposed that they +utilize the time by cooking dinner. +</P> + +<P> +The boat was run ashore, and Jim soon proved that he was a valuable +assistant in the woods by preparing a hot lunch, which to Jet was +decidedly palatable. +</P> + +<P> +By the time the meal was ended the men were a couple of miles in +advance, and the boys resumed the chase, with Jim still at the oars. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll bet you they are bound for the falls," the guide said, shortly +after the second start. "If that's so we'll have to make a carry, an' +that can't be done between now and sunset." +</P> + +<P> +"What's a carry?" +</P> + +<P> +"A place where you have to lug your boat for a while, an' it's no fun +I'll tell you." +</P> + +<P> +"If they do it, I reckon we can." +</P> + +<P> +"Of course, only it's a lot of work." +</P> + +<P> +"We must expect plenty of that before the money is earned." +</P> + +<P> +That Jim was correct in his surmise was shown later when Bob and Sam +turned their craft into the stream which led to Round Lake, and then +landed, evidently for the night. +</P> + +<P> +"How near shall we go to them?" Jim asked. +</P> + +<P> +"It won't do to stay too far away, for we must make it appear as if we +intended to run down the same stream. We'll hold up here." +</P> + +<P> +Jet steered the craft into an indentation on the shore about a quarter +of a mile from where the others had stopped, and at a spot from which +he could keep them in view. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll rig up a camp, and you keep your eyes on them while you're +getting some of the grub out," the small guide proposed. +</P> + +<P> +The boys made preparations for the night, and while so occupied could +see that the men were doing the same. +</P> + +<P> +Then fires were lighted in both camps, and Jet watched the one down +stream until his eyes closed in slumber, despite all his efforts to +keep them open. +</P> + +<P> +The gray light of dawn could be but faintly seen in the eastern sky +when the amateur detective awakened, and his heart was made glad by the +sight of a glow from the lower encampment. +</P> + +<P> +"They haven't started yet," he said, as he awakened the guide, "and it +stands us in hand to be ready to leave the minute they do." +</P> + +<P> +"Better let 'em get to the carry first. When they keep on down the +stream, we'll know where they're headed for, an' can get through in +time, for I don't reckon there's a chance of their stayin' on Round +Lake." +</P> + +<P> +"There may be, and we mustn't run any risks." +</P> + +<P> +The boys were ready to continue the journey some time before the men +gave any sign of leaving camp, and they bustled around first in one +direction and then another to make it appear as if they were doing work +of importance, in case the game should be suspicious. +</P> + +<P> +Not until Bob and Sam had been half an hour on their way would Jim +consent to start, and that he had been wise in so doing could be seen +after the fatiguing labor of "the carry" had been performed. +</P> + +<P> +The fugitives were not more than two hundred yards in advance when the +boys came out of the woods with the last load, and Jim said with a +chuckle: +</P> + +<P> +"I knowed they'd take the wrong turn, an' we'd been a good bit ahead if +it hadn't been for layin' back." +</P> + +<P> +By working slowly the boat was not reloaded until some time after the +men were out of sight, and then when she had been pulled to the +entrance of Round Lake, Jet insisted on remaining there a while, +concealed by the bushes, to watch the movements of the other craft. +</P> + +<P> +"I swow! They are goin' to stop here after all!" Jim exclaimed, as he +saw the men turn toward the shore about a mile from the stream. +"There's one thing about it, though, they're bound to leave before many +days." +</P> + +<P> +"Why?" +</P> + +<P> +"'Cause there's no game 'round here, an' the fishin' ain't anything to +speak of." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon they care, so long as the provisions hold out." +</P> + +<P> +"Of course, they can get fish enough, if they only want them to eat; +but I never heard of anybody campin' here." +</P> + +<P> +"That's probably the very reason why they stop; no one would think of +looking for them where there's so little sport to be had. Now we'll +slip down about half-way between here and there, and build our camp." +</P> + +<P> +This time Jet rowed, and his companion steered the little craft to a +small point within less than half a mile of where Bob's boat could be +seen. +</P> + +<P> +The guide took upon himself the task of building a shelter, and he had +a very respectable looking lean-to finished before night. +</P> + +<P> +The boat was drawn up on the shore; the goods stored underneath her, +and everything was ready for the night. +</P> + +<P> +Jim caught four fish from the bank, and these he fried in a most +appetizing manner, after which the boys rested from their labors. +</P> + +<P> +A camp-fire had been built, and Jet was lying inside the shanty where +the smoke would not disturb him, while Jim remained outside to +"brighten the blaze" whenever the fuel should bum too low. +</P> + +<P> +Both were enjoying the luxury of repose when an exclamation from the +guide caused the amateur detective to glance quickly toward the water's +edge. +</P> + +<P> +That which he saw was sufficient to cause his heart to beat rapidly. +</P> + +<P> +Bob, with his gun thrown carelessly over his shoulder, was coming +directly toward them. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap23"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXIII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE VISIT +</H3> + +<P> +There could be no question but that the man was coming for the sole and +only purpose of paying them a visit, and Jet was quite confident he had +grown suspicious he and his companion were being followed. +</P> + +<P> +The boy's first thought was to edge farther into the shanty, in order +to prevent his face from being seen so plainly; but he did not dare +make very much of a move lest the man should be aware of his purpose. +</P> + +<P> +"He knows what we're here for," Jim whispered, in a tone of fear. +</P> + +<P> +"Don't let him see you think it. Act as if we wasn't talking of +anything but hunting and fishing. Remember he'll kill us, if he knows +the truth." +</P> + +<P> +This was sufficient to drive away what little self-possession Jim had +left, and he stood stupidly staring at the visitor until Jet said +sharply: +</P> + +<P> +"Pick up that hatchet and begin to cut wood; we haven't enough to last +over night." +</P> + +<P> +Jim would have obeyed almost any order at that moment. He was so dazed +with fear as not to know what he was about, and mechanically he began +to do as he was bidden. +</P> + +<P> +Bob advanced leisurely, looked carelessly around at the boat, the stack +of provisions and the weapons, after which he asked, much as if it was +really a matter of no concern to him: +</P> + +<P> +"Come up here on a hunting trip, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"More for fishing than anything else," Jet replied, keeping his face in +the shadow as much as possible. +</P> + +<P> +"Is this a good place for that kind of sport?" +</P> + +<P> +"We haven't had a chance to find out yet; but my chum caught four from +the shore just after we landed." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you live anywhere around here?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'm from Plattsburgh; but Jim lives at the village of Saranac Lake." +</P> + +<P> +"Then he ought to be acquainted with the best fishing grounds." +</P> + +<P> +"He thinks he is, and wanted me to keep on into the upper lake; but +after that long carry I thought I'd had enough of such work, and so +we've hauled up here a while." +</P> + +<P> +"Going to stay long?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon we can be away more'n a week." +</P> + +<P> +"Do many of the visitors stop on this lake?" Bob asked, as he turned to +Jim, and Jet took advantage of the opportunity to move farther inside +the shanty. +</P> + +<P> +"No, sir, they mostly keep farther on. This place has been fished over +so much that there's no fun for the city chaps what wanter catch big +fellows." +</P> + +<P> +Under Jet's example Jim was rapidly recovering his presence of mind, +and since the visitor did not immediately set about killing them, he +dared to look him in the face. +</P> + +<P> +This answer seemed to please Bob, and Jet could readily understand why. +</P> + +<P> +He gazed around once more, and then started back, much to the relief of +his hosts. +</P> + +<P> +Jim attempted to say something a moment afterward, but Jet interrupted +him by crying loudly: +</P> + +<P> +"Don't you think we'd better try to fix this camp up a little more +before night?" +</P> + +<P> +"Why, she's good enough," Jim replied, in surprise, as he came to the +front of the hut, which gave Jet the opportunity to whisper: +</P> + +<P> +"Don't you dare to say a word about him yet a while. There's no +knowing how near he may be." +</P> + +<P> +It was fully a quarter of an hour before the small guide ventured to +speak again, and then Jet had seen both the men on the shore in front +of their hut. +</P> + +<P> +"You can talk now," he said, as he rose to his feet; "but in the future +be mighty careful where those fellows are before opening your mouth +about them. What were you going to say?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know now; you frightened it out of my head. I swow! but I +thought he'd come over to raise the very old Harry with us." +</P> + +<P> +"It wasn't pleasant to see him so near; but now I'm glad he made the +visit, for I don't think he suspects anything, and won't have a reason +to prowl around. We must spend a good deal of time fishing tomorrow." +</P> + +<P> +"Why don't you send word for them fellers to come up an' nab him?" +</P> + +<P> +"Perhaps we will to-morrow, if they are still here; but you must +remember that it isn't yet certain they'll stay very long, and by the +time the officers arrived both might be out of the way." +</P> + +<P> +"Of course, you've got the management of this job; but, if it was in my +hands, I'd want to have it over as soon as I could." +</P> + +<P> +"So do I; but at the same time it won't do to make a mistake. How long +would it take you to walk back to the village, if I rowed you to the +falls?" +</P> + +<P> +"Pretty nigh one whole day." +</P> + +<P> +"Would you go up there and send a telegram?" +</P> + +<P> +"Couldn't you come to?" +</P> + +<P> +"No, because they might leave while we were gone." +</P> + +<P> +"Then I s'pose I'd have to do it," Jim replied; but it could readily be +seen that he did not care for such a job. +</P> + +<P> +Without saying anything to his companion, Jet decided that if the men +should be in this camp on the morning of the second day he would send +Jim to the village, and take the chances of their concluding to make a +change of location. +</P> + +<P> +Surely Bob would not think of starting off that night, therefore the +amateur detective felt it was safe for him to take all the rest he +needed, and, after a hearty supper, he and Jim turned in. +</P> + +<P> +The sun was an hour high in the heavens when the boys awakened next +morning. +</P> + +<P> +As a matter of course the first thought of both was regarding the game +they were watching, and their gaze was at once directed toward the +other camp. +</P> + +<P> +Both men could be seen lounging around the fire, and Jet said in a tone +of relief: +</P> + +<P> +"It's all right so far. If they are there to-morrow you shall go back." +</P> + +<P> +Jim made no protest unless one might have been read in the expression +of his face. +</P> + +<P> +This second day in the woods was spent in a lazy fashion by the +occupants of both camps. +</P> + +<P> +It was nearly noon before Jim and his companion were ready to go out +fishing, and then the sport was so dull that they did not remain very +long. +</P> + +<P> +Half a dozen medium-sized fish was the only result of their labor, and +these the guide proposed to roast, because, as he explained, it would +save the trouble of cleaning them. +</P> + +<P> +He set about the task in the most approved backwoods style, and +succeeded in bringing forth a most acceptable dish. +</P> + +<P> +After this meal the boys did nothing, save watch their neighbors, and +when night came Jet began to discuss the details of the return trip, +for he was now confident the men were permanently located. +</P> + +<P> +"Go right to the telegraph office as soon as you get home," he said to +Jim, "and if the operator asks who sent the message say it was some one +you met in the woods who hired you to bring it." +</P> + +<P> +"S'posen he won't take it?" +</P> + +<P> +"There's no danger of that. I'll give you the money, and he'll be +bound to do as you say." +</P> + +<P> +"You'll have to stay here all night alone, for, of course, I can't get +back the same day." +</P> + +<P> +"I shan't mind it, except that I may be lonesome; but I mustn't think +of such a thing now." +</P> + +<P> +Jim brought up various reasons why it would be better both should go; +but Jet would not listen to them, and when they laid down to sleep it +was understood that the guide would start at an early hour. +</P> + +<P> +Next morning shortly after sunrise Bob and Sam were seen cooking +breakfast, and Jet wrote the following message to Harvey: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"Come at once to Saranac lake, and hire a boat to Round Lake. I will +watch for you." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +When this had been done the amateur detective suddenly realized that if +both he and Jim should set out in the craft and but one returned, it +might arouse suspicion, therefore he said to the guide: +</P> + +<P> +"It won't pay to run any risks, and you'll have to walk the whole +distance. Here's money enough so you can buy anything you think we may +need." +</P> + +<P> +He handed Jim three dollars, and that young gentleman was so delighted +at having such an amount to spend as he saw fit that all objections to +the journey were forgotten. +</P> + +<P> +"Go up along fast as possible; you can take your time coming back," Jet +said, as his companion, shouldering the muzzle-loader, was ready to set +out, "and don't delay sending that message." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll fix things in great shape," was the confident reply, and then the +small guide disappeared amid the foliage. +</P> + +<P> +During the next hour Jet bustled around considerably more than was +necessary, in order to make it appear as if both he and Jim were there, +and as a means of causing the time to pass more quickly, attempted to +cook an elaborate dinner. +</P> + +<P> +This was a failure, however, owing to his lack of skill, and he dined +on boiled potatoes, which were not particularly palatable, owing to the +fact that they had been thoroughly scorched. +</P> + +<P> +The men appeared to be well contented with their camp. They lounged +around near the shore, but without showing any desire to fish, and +otherwise behaved as if determined to remain. +</P> + +<P> +When night came Jet felt more than lonely. The night noises of the +forest almost frightened him, and only by piling the fire high with +wood could he keep his courage screwed to the "sticking point." +</P> + +<P> +He had not slept more than half an hour, and was promising himself a +long nap after the sun rose; but when the day dawned he had something +more serious to think about. +</P> + +<P> +He watched Bob and Sam as they prepared breakfast, and then, much to +his surprise and sorrow, saw them launch the boat, packing into her all +their belongings. +</P> + +<P> +"Jimminy! They're going to leave, and I've sent that telegram just at +the wrong time. Now, what's to be done?" +</P> + +<P> +There could be no question but that the men were intending to break +camp, and, uncertain as to what he should do, Jet watched until all the +camp equipage had been stowed on board the craft. +</P> + +<P> +Then they pushed off, rowing leisurely down the lake, and again Jet +asked himself what should be done. +</P> + +<P> +To pursue them in the boat, no matter how far in the rear he might keep +himself, would simply be to tell the men he intended to watch them, +and, unfamiliar as he was with the country or woodcraft, it seemed both +foolish and dangerous to follow on land. +</P> + +<P> +Not until those he so ardently wished to keep in sight had rowed fully +a mile away did he arrive at any decision, and then he said to himself: +</P> + +<P> +"There's no other way out of it. I must go on, and take the chances. +I only hope when Jim comes back he won't be such a fool as to pull down +the lake in search of me, for they'd be certain to see him." +</P> + +<P> +Filling his pockets with cartridges, and wrapping in a paper a small +stock of provisions, he set off, only to come back a moment later and +write on a piece torn from a paste board box: +</P> + +<BR> + +<P CLASS="letter"> +"I have had to go down the lake. Wait here for me." +</P> + +<BR> + +<P> +This he fastened to a tree where Jim would be most likely to see it +immediately on his arrival, and then he started for the second time. +</P> + +<P> +When Jet set out, the boat containing the men was a long distance in +advance heading directly toward the lower end of the lake where were a +number of small islands. +</P> + +<P> +At first it had seemed a simple thing to follow a craft by keeping +close to the edge of the water; but in a short time he learned the +difference to his cost. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap24"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXIV +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +A STERN CHASE +</H3> + +<P> +For a certain distance Jet could walk through the fringe of bushes +growing at the water's edge, enabled to see the boat and its occupants +distinctly, and then a bit of marsh or small stream would force him to +a detour of a mile or more. +</P> + +<P> +"At this rate, I'm making about three times the distance they have to," +he said, as he staggered across a shallow water-course so laden with +the provisions, and the gun that he could not hold the branches back +from his face, and thus received many a severe blow. "Most likely the +next time I get to the edge of the lake they will be behind one of +those islands, and then what's to be done?" +</P> + +<P> +The catastrophe he feared did not occur quite as soon as he feared, +although it came finally. +</P> + +<P> +Twice more he saw the little craft, Sam rowing and Bob steering, and +then she had disappeared. +</P> + +<P> +By this time he was so near the outlet of the lake that it was +impossible to say whether the men had crossed over into Upper Saranac, +or were making camp near by. +</P> + +<P> +During half an hour Jet sat concealed by the bushes where he could have +a full view of the water, and no sign of life met his anxious gaze. +</P> + +<P> +The only benefit derived from this halt was that he had lightened the +bundle of provisions by making a hearty meal from a portion of its +contents, and enjoyed the repose. +</P> + +<P> +"There's no question but that they have either gone into camp on one of +the islands, or kept on through the stream," he said, as he rose to his +feet; "but I declare I don't know which way to turn." +</P> + +<P> +He finally decided to walk to the outlet, scanning the shores of the +island as he passed, and, failing in seeing any signs there, continue +on until nightfall. +</P> + +<P> +He tramped steadily for an hour without finding that for which he +sought, and by this time was at the carry with the gloom of night +settling rapidly around him. +</P> + +<P> +Added to the desolateness of the situation was the sorrow caused by the +belief that he had lost the trail at the very time when allowing Harvey +to believe the men were where they could be arrested without difficulty. +</P> + +<P> +"If I hadn't sent that telegram," he thought, mournfully, "Jim would +have been here to help keep them in sight, or, if we lost them entirely +as I have done, he'd have some sort of an idea where they went to." +</P> + +<P> +The thought of the small guide gave him a new idea. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll go back to our camp, if it takes all night," he said, resolutely, +turning his face in the direction he believed it was located. "We can +come down in the boat and find out whether they stopped on one of the +islands." +</P> + +<P> +Now he walked rapidly, in order to cover as much ground as possible +before it grew so dark as to shut out surrounding objects from view. +</P> + +<P> +Weary as he was, and owing to the broken ground, his progress was +exceedingly slow, and night had fully shut her black curtain down +before he reached the edge of the lake. +</P> + +<P> +Then he was forced to proceed at a snail's pace, lest he inadvertantly +walked into one of the small streams; but he continued manfully on +until it was no longer possible to take another step. +</P> + +<P> +Now came the alarming knowledge that he was lost. +</P> + +<P> +Had he been going in the right direction he should have reached the +lake before sunset, and it could not then be less than nine o'clock. +</P> + +<P> +He was no longer able to find the stream which had served him as guide, +and stretched himself on the ground at the foot of a gigantic tree +feeling as if it made but little difference whether he ever arose again +or not. +</P> + +<P> +In utter despair he remained silent and motionless until slumber came +to his relief, and he remained wrapped in blissful unconsciousness for +several hours. +</P> + +<P> +When he awoke it was yet dark, and he was benumbed with the chill which +came from the damp earth. +</P> + +<P> +"There's no need of freezing to death, if I am lost," he said to +himself. "Things are so bad now that they can't be much worse, and I +may as well make the best of a bad bargain." +</P> + +<P> +By feeling carefully around he succeeded in getting together a small +quantity of decaying wood, and this he lighted after some difficulty. +</P> + +<P> +"It's lucky I had to cook dinner to-day, or I shouldn't have had a +match." he said, grimly, as he sat about gathering more fuel. +</P> + +<P> +In a short time he had a cheerful blaze, and the warmth, which was so +grateful, served to revive his courage. +</P> + +<P> +Slowly the hours passed. +</P> + +<P> +Now and then he fell into a light slumber, but only for a few moments +at a time, and it seemed as if forty hours must have elapsed before the +sun lightened the sky again. +</P> + +<P> +Toasting some of the crackers on the coals, and refreshing himself with +water from a tiny stream, he made ready to continue his search. +</P> + +<P> +Now he took his bearings carefully, with the sun as a guide, and, +knowing the lake must lie to the west, pushed straight across the +wilderness. +</P> + +<P> +One, two, three hours, and then his heart was made glad by a glimpse of +the water. +</P> + +<P> +Never had anything looked as beautiful as did the lake at that moment. +</P> + +<P> +He ran to the bank, and looked out through the bushes. +</P> + +<P> +He was nearly opposite the islands, at the exact spot where the trail +was lost on the previous afternoon. +</P> + +<P> +To reach the camp it would be necessary to travel the greater portion +of the day, and the important question was as to whether Jim would +remain quietly there until he returned. +</P> + +<P> +"There's no use thinking about it; I've got to take the chances," he +said, resolutely to himself, and the weary march was resumed. +</P> + +<P> +More than once before the journey came to an end was he tempted to give +himself up to the rest he so sadly needed; but the thought that he +might be forced to spend another night in the woods alone without a +shelter, prevented him from giving way. +</P> + +<P> +The last of the provisions were eaten for dinner. +</P> + +<P> +A halt of half an hour was indulged in, and then he trudged forward +once more, traveling a trifle more easily since one of his hands was +now free. +</P> + +<P> +It was late in the afternoon when he finally arrived within sight of +the encampment; but there were no signs of Jim. +</P> + +<P> +Before reaching the shanty he shouted loudly, receiving no reply, save +the mocking echoes. +</P> + +<P> +Now he ran the short distance remaining, and looked around eagerly. +</P> + +<P> +Everything was apparently as he had left them. The notice was still +fastened to the trunk of the tree. +</P> + +<P> +The store of provisions was untouched, and he went to the water's edge. +</P> + +<P> +The boat had not been launched, and this in itself was sufficient to +show the small guide had not returned. +</P> + +<P> +It was time he arrived, even supposing he remained over night at his +home, as had been intimated, and the only reason for delay which he +could imagine was that the young gentleman's parents refused to let him +continue the hunting trip. +</P> + +<P> +If that had been the case it seemed strange he did not come back to let +Jet know he could no longer act as guide and assistant detective. +</P> + +<P> +Thoroughly disheartened Jet threw himself on the ground near the front +of the shanty, trying to decide what he could do; when the sound as of +some person forcing his way through the underbrush caused a look of joy +to come over his face. +</P> + +<P> +An instant later it was replaced by one of disappointment. +</P> + +<P> +Instead of seeing Jim as he had hoped, a very disreputable-looking +stranger came from the direction of the upper carry, approaching Jet +with a careless "Howdy?" +</P> + +<P> +"Good afternoon," Jet responded. +</P> + +<P> +"Out here on a fishin' trip, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, something of that sort." +</P> + +<P> +"Been 'round long?" +</P> + +<P> +"A few days." +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon you don't want to hire a good guide, who can beat any one in +this section cooking, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"No, and I haven't got the money if I did want to." +</P> + +<P> +"I'd go mighty cheap seein's how business is dull." +</P> + +<P> +Jet shook his head. +</P> + +<P> +"Well, there's no harm done. I don't reckon you'd kick agin givin' a +feller a bite, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"Help yourself; the provisions are under the boat." +</P> + +<P> +The stranger proceeded to overhaul the outfit in the most +matter-of-fact way possible, even grumbling because certain articles he +evidently expected were not to be found. +</P> + +<P> +"How would it do, if I got up a dinner for both of us?" he finally +asked. +</P> + +<P> +"All right, go ahead." +</P> + +<P> +It made very little difference to Jet what the fellow did so long as he +left him free to think the matter over, and he paid no attention to his +movements. +</P> + +<P> +After an hour had passed the stranger invited Jet to "fill up" from his +own stock of provisions, and as he accepted the invitation the boy +discovered that whatever this man might think of his abilities, he was +certainly a very poor cook. +</P> + +<P> +"I'd a-done better if you'd had more stuff," he said, +half-apologetically, and then he began an attack on the food which +speedily emptied the dishes. +</P> + +<P> +The visitor made no move toward clearing away the cooking utensils; but +leaving them where they were last used, proceeded to fill his pipe. +</P> + +<P> +Then he stretched himself out inside the shanty, and took, as he said, +"solid enjoyment." +</P> + +<P> +"I allow there's no reason why I can't stay here till morning, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +Much as Jet disliked the proposed companionship, he could not well +refuse the request, therefore he gave consent with rather an ill-will. +</P> + +<P> +"Seen anybody else huntin' 'round here?" the fellow asked, after a +pause. +</P> + +<P> +"There were two men camping down there a bit, but they left yesterday." +</P> + +<P> +"When did they come?" +</P> + +<P> +"Three or four days ago." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you know where they went?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet fervently wished he did; but he simply answered "no." +</P> + +<P> +The visitor appeared deeply interested in these men; but his host +showed such a disinclination to talk that he finally relapsed into +silence. +</P> + +<P> +Jet soon fell asleep, and was so tired that he did not awaken again +until an hour or more after sunrise. +</P> + +<P> +To his delight the stranger was no longer, there. +</P> + +<P> +He glanced around leisurely, and to his surprise found that more than +the man had disappeared. +</P> + +<P> +The boat, his gun, the store of provisions, and even the pot and +frying-pan had taken their departure. +</P> + +<P> +"The thief!" he cried, leaping to his feet, and then a thought which +was little less than an inspiration came to him. +</P> + +<P> +"He is one of Bob's gang. That is why he wanted to know so much when I +spoke of two men. Jabe probably told him where Bob and Sam were bound +for, and he came here hunting them." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap25"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXV +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +JIM +</H3> + +<P> +The idea that he had been tricked by one of the gang he was hoping to +run down seemed particularly humiliating, and during at least five +minutes Jet stood silent and motionless gazing across the lake. +</P> + +<P> +Then anger took the place of bewilderment, and he managed to say some +very vigorous things which might have excited the ire of the gentleman +who claimed to be such a skillful cook had he been there to hear. +</P> + +<P> +Scolding doesn't as a rule, make any material difference in a fellow's +situation, and this Jet came to understand when he was forced to cease +from sheer lack of breath. +</P> + +<P> +"What a fool I'm making of myself!" he exclaimed. "The idea of +standing here raving when I ought to be trying to mend matters." +</P> + +<P> +It was difficult, however, when he began to reflect, to decide upon his +course. +</P> + +<P> +Should he go toward the town in search of Jim, and also to hire another +boat? +</P> + +<P> +That would involve the loss of two days, during which time the officer +for whom he had telegraphed might arrive, and, failing to find him, go +down the lake on a wild goose chase. +</P> + +<P> +To attempt to search for the men, alone and on foot, seemed the height +of folly, and while he stood near the water's edge deliberating upon +the question of whether he could replenish his stock of provisions +without paying a visit to the settlement, the rustling of the bushes +proclaimed an arrival. +</P> + +<P> +Jet looked around, half expecting to see his seedy friend of the +previous evening come back to tell him it was all a joke, when the +small guide Jim stepped into view. +</P> + +<P> +He was evidently in the best of spirits, and gazed at Jet as if +wondering why he was not welcomed more warmly. +</P> + +<P> +"I've made two dollars, though I ain't got 'em yet, since I've been +gone," he said, as he threw on the ground in front of the shanty a +well-filled bag, "an' now there's as much grub in camp as will last us +for a month, providin' we do a little cookin'." +</P> + +<P> +"What made you stay so long?" +</P> + +<P> +"Why, you see, it was to earn the two dollars I was tellin' about. I +met a feller the other side of the carry what was askin' if I'd seen +two men 'round here fishin', an' we had a real sociable talk——" +</P> + +<P> +"Was that when you were going up to the village?" Jet interrupted. +</P> + +<P> +"Of course." +</P> + +<P> +"And the fellow had black whiskers on his chin, and said he was a guide +and cook." +</P> + +<P> +"That's the very one. Have you seen him?" +</P> + +<P> +"I will tell you after your story is finished." +</P> + +<P> +"Well we had a right nice time together. I gave him part of my lunch, +an' then he wanted me to come back with him; but I told him I'd got to +get to the telegraph office——" +</P> + +<P> +"Did you let him know what you were going there for?" Jet asked, +excitedly. +</P> + +<P> +"Of course not, though he tried mighty hard to find out. He was +lookin' for a party what's coming through the carry in a day or two, +an' has got a job with 'em at four dollars a day. He said they was +over to Pine Pond, an' promised to give me two dollars, if I'd see if I +could find 'em." +</P> + +<P> +"Why didn't he go?" Jet asked, in a peculiar tone. +</P> + +<P> +"'Cause he didn't know the way." +</P> + +<P> +"Funny kind of a guide not to be better acquainted than a boy who never +attempted anything of the kind." +</P> + +<P> +"Well, you see, the most of his work has been done 'round Raquette Lake +way." +</P> + +<P> +"So you went over to the pond for him?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, it wouldn't take me so very much longer, an' it was earnin' two +dollars mighty easy." +</P> + +<P> +"But what about the telegram?" +</P> + +<P> +"Oh, that's all right. He offered to carry it to the village for me, +an' to pay the charges out of his own pocket, though it was to be taken +from what he owed me when I got back." +</P> + +<P> +"And you gave it to him?" Jet asked, his face growing very pale. +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, it would get there jest the same, an' I'd be helpin' buy the +grub," Jim replied, in a matter-of-fact tone, wholly unconscious of the +black looks Jet was bestowing upon him. "I couldn't find anybody +'round the pond, an' I reckon the party must have come that very day, +for when I got back to the village the man wasn't there; but I'll have +the money when he finishes the job." +</P> + +<P> +"Did you ask the telegraph operator if the message had been sent?" +</P> + +<P> +"No; what was the use of that so long as he'd promised to fix +everything? But say," Jim cried, suddenly, as he looked toward the +water's edge, "where's the boat?" +</P> + +<P> +"Your friend, the Raquette Lake guide borrowed her this morning." +</P> + +<P> +"So he's been here, eh? Did he say anything about meetin' me?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not a word," Jet replied, grimly. "I guess he was too busy getting +ready to leave, for he had to pack all our provisions, my gun and the +other things which were lying around into the boat." +</P> + +<P> +"What do you mean?" Jim cried, as he gazed about him and failed to see +any of their outfit. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon he's gone to Raquette Lake with the two fellows who were +camping over on the point." +</P> + +<P> +"Have they skipped?" and now Jim's eyes were opened very wide. +</P> + +<P> +"Went yesterday morning bag and baggage." +</P> + +<P> +"What'll we do when the officer comes to arrest 'em?" +</P> + +<P> +"See here, Jim, are you so stupid as not to know what has happened?" +</P> + +<P> +"Why don't you tell me?" the guide screamed. +</P> + +<P> +"Because you have been giving me the story. The very jolly fellow you +met was a friend of the men I came here to watch; he talked with you +long enough to find out that the telegram you were carrying concerned +them in some way, and cooked up the yarn about Pine Pond, in order to +get hold of it. Then he came down to hunt me, stole the things to +prevent our following him, and skipped on to look for his pals." +</P> + +<P> +Jim gazed at his friend with dilated eyes while this explanation was +being made, and when Jet concluded, he said in a half-whisper: +</P> + +<P> +"Then I'm to blame for all that has happened?" +</P> + +<P> +"There's no question but you have been the means of informing those +fellows what we are here for," was the gloomy reply. +</P> + +<P> +"Do you know where they have gone?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet told of his fruitless journey, and when he concluded, Jim said +decidedly: +</P> + +<P> +"They didn't go into the upper lake, if they want to keep out of sight. +I'll bet they've landed on Dollar Island." +</P> + +<P> +"Which is that?" +</P> + +<P> +"The one nearest the outlet. It's a good place to camp, and from it +they can keep track of everybody coming or going. Suppose that fellow +who said he was a guide hasn't found 'em yet?" +</P> + +<P> +"Well, what then?" +</P> + +<P> +"We might catch him before the others find out about the telegram +message." +</P> + +<P> +"He has a boat, and we haven't." +</P> + +<P> +"But he's bound to land somewhere, and I know of a trail down this +side, which would take us to the outlet in short order. It isn't +more'n two miles." +</P> + +<P> +"Are you willing to go and take the chances? Remember if Bob and Sam +have learned what we are here for it will likely be a case of life or +death with us." +</P> + +<P> +"See here, Dave, I've spoiled all your plans without meanin' to do +wrong, an' now I'm ready to take any risks if things can be +straightened out. You've got a revolver, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes." +</P> + +<P> +"Then let's see what can be done." +</P> + +<P> +Jim was thoroughly excited now, and his determination to rectify the +error put new life into Jet. +</P> + +<P> +He sprang to his feet at once; reloaded his weapon lest the cartridges +should have been dampened during the night in the woods, and while he +was thus occupied Jim packed the provisions into a more convenient +shape for carrying. +</P> + +<P> +When all was ready, and but a few seconds had been spent in these +preparations, Jim led the way to a well defined trail a hundred yards +or so from the shore of the lake, saying as he did so: +</P> + +<P> +"It's queer you didn't find this when you were lost." +</P> + +<P> +"I shouldn't have noticed it if I'd come across it, because the most of +the tramping was done after dark, and in the morning I thought only of +finding the lake." +</P> + +<P> +"We shall see it two or three times before coming to the outlet." +</P> + +<P> +The boys walked at their best pace, Jet carrying Jim's gun, and the +latter with the greater portion of the provisions slung over his +shoulder. +</P> + +<P> +At the end of a quarter of an hour the trail brought them to the edge +of the lake, and they looked out over the water eagerly, but without +seeing any signs of life. +</P> + +<P> +Again their way wound through the woods, and when the journey was a +trifle more than two-thirds finished they were within sight of the +water once more. +</P> + +<P> +"Unless that fellow has made straight for the upper lake, he ought to +be 'round here somewhere, so we'd better not show ourselves," Jim +suggested, as he crept cautiously down to the fringe of bushes +bordering the banks. +</P> + +<P> +The boys were now where they could see between the cluster of islands +to the opposite shore, and after gazing for some time in silence, Jet +said, as he pointed directly across the lake: +</P> + +<P> +"Isn't that a line of smoke over there?" +</P> + +<P> +"It is, an' I'll bet our man has made camp to watch for his chums. +Let's go over!" +</P> + +<P> +It seemed to be a sort of forlorn hope; but the chances were well worth +taking in view of the possible result, and Jet replied: +</P> + +<P> +"Go ahead; but we must keep a good watch of the shores in case that +should not be the fellow we are searching for." +</P> + +<P> +Jim hardly needed this caution. Since having done so much harm he was +careful to a fault, and many times before reaching the outlet did he +run to the edge of the wood to search with his eyes the borders of the +lake. +</P> + +<P> +Each time he reported that no one was in sight, and always concluded +the information with the assurance: +</P> + +<P> +"I'm certain the two men are on Dollar Island." +</P> + +<P> +The outlet was reached and crossed at the expense of a wetting; but the +boys thought nothing of that; it was too trifling a matter to be +considered at such a time. +</P> + +<P> +From this on there was no trail to follow, and Jim led the way as near +the water's edge as possible. +</P> + +<P> +Finally the moment came when they were so near the thin curl of blue +smoke that the utmost care was necessary lest a noise should give token +of their approach. +</P> + +<P> +Jim crept through the bushes in the most approved manner of alleged +Indian hunters, and when they had thus traveled a couple of hundred +yards, he motioned for Jet to look as he parted the foliage in front of +him. +</P> + +<P> +There on the shore was the boat which had been stolen, and farther up, +near a hastily constructed shelter of branches, sat the man who had +promised to send the telegram for the small guide. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap26"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXVI +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +SUCCESS +</H3> + +<P> +The man was sitting in front of a small fire, over which he had +evidently been cooking, for the frying-pan was close at hand, and the +odor of bacon could be distinguished in the air. +</P> + +<P> +Most likely he had just finished his morning meal, and was now solacing +himself with a pipe. +</P> + +<P> +The stolen gun had been leaned against a tree close by the hut, and +about a half a dozen yards from its new possessor, but on the opposite +side from where the boys were crouching. +</P> + +<P> +"What are you goin' to do?" Jim whispered. +</P> + +<P> +"We've got to get hold of him somehow, and by that means prevent Bob +and Sam from knowing what we are about." +</P> + +<P> +Jim nodded to show that he agreed fully in this assertion. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't s'pose you'd dare to shoot him." +</P> + +<P> +"Of course not; that would be murder." +</P> + +<P> +"Then how is it to be fixed?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet studied the situation for several minutes, and whispered: +</P> + +<P> +"We must manage to creep around on the other side, and get hold of the +gun first. Then I'll cover him with my revolver, and you must do the +same with the other weapon. When he sees that both of us have got the +drop on him, I reckon there won't be much trouble in keeping him quiet." +</P> + +<P> +Jim did not stop to argue the matter. +</P> + +<P> +According to his opinion the sooner the job was finished, the better, +and he started off at right angles with the camp, Jet following him. +</P> + +<P> +The boys moved so slowly and cautiously that not so much as a leaf was +disturbed, and the man by the fire heard nothing to arouse his +suspicions. +</P> + +<P> +Jim made a needlessly long detour. +</P> + +<P> +Many times before it was ended Jet felt convinced that the guide had +made a mistake, and once he stopped the boy to say so; but the latter +replied, in the tone of a fellow who knows perfectly well where he is: +</P> + +<P> +"We're all right. The camp is just over there, and I want to come in +sight of the lake once more before turning toward it." +</P> + +<P> +Twenty minutes later Jim pointed ahead with a gesture of triumph. +</P> + +<P> +Jet could see dimly through the foliage the outlines of the hut; but +the trees hid the man from view. +</P> + +<P> +Now the progress was even more slow and cautious. It seemed at times +as if Jim hardly moved, so afraid was he of making a noise; but the +advance was certain, and finally he stopped, motioning for Jet to come +beside him. +</P> + +<P> +The two were hardly more than a dozen feet from the weapon, and about +the same distance farther away was the man they hoped to make prisoner. +</P> + +<P> +His pipe had gone out, his head was sunk on his breast, and there was +every indication of his having fallen asleep. +</P> + +<P> +"Can you get the gun?" Jet whispered. +</P> + +<P> +Jim nodded his head. +</P> + +<P> +"Then creep up to it. I'll have the revolver ready, and jump in if he +awakens. In case he's still asleep we'll go toward him until he opens +his eyes. Start now," and Jet drew his weapon. +</P> + +<P> +The boys advanced side by side until Jim grasped the gun, and then Jet +motioned for him to rise to his feet, he setting the example. +</P> + +<P> +They stepped forward softly, each with his weapon leveled at the +half-reclining man, who did not so much as move until the boys were +close upon him. +</P> + +<P> +Then he lazily opened his eyes, and turned his head ever so slightly. +</P> + +<P> +"Throw up your hands; but don't make the slightest noise, or I'll shoot +you as I would a dog!" Jet said, sternly. +</P> + +<P> +The fellow obeyed the first order with alacrity as he saw the muzzles +of the weapons within a few inches of his head, and said in a careless +tone: +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon you didn't care about lendin' me your outfit." +</P> + +<P> +"That's just the size of it, and there is other business to be settled." +</P> + +<P> +By this time the prisoner had caught a glimpse of Jim's face, and he +added with a smile: +</P> + +<P> +"Come to collect that two dollars, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"We mustn't stand here chinning," Jet said, as he pressed the muzzle of +the revolver to the back of the man's head. "Look around for something +to tie him with, Jim, and be quick about it." +</P> + +<P> +"What are you up to now?" the fellow growled. +</P> + +<P> +"It won't take long to find out, and I shall be forced to waste this +cartridge if you make any row." +</P> + +<P> +"I thought I was behavin' myself in proper shape." +</P> + +<P> +"So you are just at present; but I am ready for any change of plans, +and want you to understand fully how little it would take to induce me +to send a bullet into your worthless head." +</P> + +<P> +This was sufficient to silence the prisoner. +</P> + +<P> +"I can't find anything but the boat's painter," Jim cried. "Shall we +use that?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, and be quick about it." +</P> + +<P> +The rope was soon detached from the craft, and, as Jim approached with +it, Jet said to the man: +</P> + +<P> +"Now put your hands behind you." +</P> + +<P> +This order was obeyed without a murmur, and the small guide began to +tie them securely. +</P> + +<P> +The painter was of sufficient length to serve as bonds for the fellow's +legs also, and when he was thus trussed up Jet began fashioning a gag +from a piece of pine wood. +</P> + +<P> +Having had this instrument of torture applied to himself on two +occasions, he was well prepared to put it on in a proper fashion, +although the prisoner begged abjectly to be spared the indignity. +</P> + +<P> +"We have got to take care of ourselves, and I wouldn't trust to your +oath if you should swear from now till Christmas." +</P> + +<P> +When it was impossible for the fellow to move or speak, Jet made a +thorough search of his clothing, and succeeded in finding, among +several unimportant things, the telegram Jim had supposed was sent many +hours ago. +</P> + +<P> +"It hasn't been a bad forenoon's work," the amateur detective said, as +he wiped the perspiration from his face, for the mental anxiety of the +past few hours had caused the big drops to flow down his cheeks as the +heat of the sun never could have done. +</P> + +<P> +"What are we going to do with him?" +</P> + +<P> +"Take him back to the camp, of course. It won't pay to let him out of +our sight until the officers take charge of affairs." +</P> + +<P> +Before making preparations for the return, Jet scanned closely the +shores of the islands, which were situated nearer the opposite side of +the lake, hoping to discover some signs of Bob and Sam; but in this he +was disappointed. +</P> + +<P> +Nothing in the shape of a boat could be seen, and he said to the small +guide: +</P> + +<P> +"I'm afraid they have gone into the other lake." +</P> + +<P> +"It doesn't seem reasonable, and I shan't believe it until we have +searched over all those islands." +</P> + +<P> +"How can we do that now we've got this fellow to look out for." +</P> + +<P> +"That's what you must figger out; I'm willin' to carry out whatever you +say." +</P> + +<P> +"Of course the first thing is to get back to the camp. Do you suppose +we can load that fellow into the boat so in case the men are where our +movements may be seen they won't suspect it is a human being." +</P> + +<P> +"Cover him over with a lot of pine boughs." +</P> + +<P> +"That's the idea. Come on; we have no time to lose, for we must do +something toward finding the others before night." +</P> + +<P> +Jim hastily gathered an armful of branches and threw them over the +prisoner, completely concealing his form, and then the boys carried him +to the boat much as if he had been nothing more than a log of wood. +</P> + +<P> +The fellow was laid in the bottom of the craft, and around him were +packed the goods he had stolen from the camp. +</P> + +<P> +"It will load the old boat down pretty heavy; but there's no wind +blowing, an' we shan't have a very hard pull back," Jim said, as he +took his place at the oars, leaving Jet to push off. +</P> + +<P> +It was not much past noon when the start was effected, and the boys had +the supreme satisfaction of knowing that the most important of their +human game had not been warned of what was being done. +</P> + +<P> +"Say, how would it do to move our camp down opposite Dollar Island +after dark?" Jim asked, when they were some distance from the shore. +"We could then take the chances of running over to search the place, +and wouldn't have so far to go." +</P> + +<P> +"We'll try it," Jet replied, as he steered the boat away from the +islands. +</P> + +<P> +When the two arrived at the camp the prisoner was carried into the +shanty, and there so covered with boughs and blankets that any one +passing would not have had any suspicion a human being was concealed in +the vicinity. +</P> + +<P> +A hearty dinner was next on the programme, and then arrangements were +made for moving camp. +</P> + +<P> +Jim thought they would not be warranted in building a shanty at the +proposed halting-place, unless loose brush could be found, since the +noise of an axe might betray their whereabouts, and he also decided +against a fire. +</P> + +<P> +"I'll cook up a lot of stuff this afternoon," he said, "and then we +must get along with cold grub. Can't you catch some fish while I'm +working over there?" +</P> + +<P> +Jet rowed the boat a short distance out into the lake, and soon had all +he could do to attend to his line, so rapidly did the finny denizens of +the water attack the bait. +</P> + +<P> +He brought ashore as many as would serve them for food during the next +three days, and the small guide cooked every one. +</P> + +<P> +All this work was not completed until after nightfall, and Jim was +eager to be off. +</P> + +<P> +"It is so dark that they can't see us now," he said, "and after the +moon rises things will be different." +</P> + +<P> +"We'll feed the prisoner, for I reckon he needs something by this time." +</P> + +<P> +Jet removed the gag, while Jim stood over the fellow with a cocked +revolver, and a plentiful supply of fish, bacon, and water was put in +his mouth, after which he was "bottled up" again, as the guide +expressed it. +</P> + +<P> +The craft was loaded as before; but this time Jet took the oars, +because Jim was so well acquainted with the lake that he was needed at +the helm. +</P> + +<P> +"Be careful not to run too near the islands," the amateur detective +said, as he made ready for work, "and after we start not a word must be +spoken, for sound travels farther on the water than the land." +</P> + +<P> +"Don't pull too hard, and be careful about splashing with the oars." +</P> + +<P> +"Shove off, I'm ready." +</P> + +<P> +During the next hour nothing was said. The little boat moved silently +through the waters, and at the end of this time Jet could see the loom +of the islands on the right. +</P> + +<P> +They were near the proposed camping-place, and every precaution should +be observed. +</P> + +<P> +Suddenly Jim leaned forward, touched his companion on the arm, and +pointed to the right. +</P> + +<P> +A light as from a camp-fire could be seen among the trees, and the +small guide whispered triumphantly: +</P> + +<P> +"I told you they were there." +</P> + +<P> +"Then we must contrive to get hold of one or both in the morning. It +won't pay to wait for the officers." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap27"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXVII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +RECONNOITERING +</H3> + +<P> +The small guide steered the boat into the mouth of a tiny creek as +skillfully as if it had been noonday, and when her bow grounded +motioned for Jet to step ashore. +</P> + +<P> +Then he followed the example and hauled her farther up to prevent any +possibility of the craft's drifting away, after which he stood +motionless as if awaiting orders. +</P> + +<P> +"How far from here do you count on camping?" Jet asked, in a cautious +whisper. +</P> + +<P> +"A short bit straight back is a thick clump of cedars. We could stay +there a month without being seen, no matter how many people might come +on the lake." +</P> + +<P> +"Take hold of the fellow's feet, and I'll carry his head. He'd better +be taken care of first." +</P> + +<P> +Jim obeyed, and thus loaded down led the way to the place he had +described. +</P> + +<P> +It was, indeed, just such a spot as Jet would have asked for. +</P> + +<P> +The cedars, with their branches growing to the very ground, covered +about fifty square feet of space, and through the center of this +apparently impenetrable thickness ran the stream at whose mouth the +boat had been brought. +</P> + +<P> +It would not have been possible to put up a decently-sized shanty, +because the trees were so near together; but there was ample +opportunity for a hundred boys to find comfortable places in which to +sleep, and the foliage would shelter them sufficiently well except in +case of a rainstorm. +</P> + +<P> +Although it hardly seemed necessary, Jet insisted that the prisoner +should be made fast to one of the trees in a sitting posture, and not +until this had been done was the balance of the work attended to. +</P> + +<P> +First the provisions were carried into the natural camp, and stored in +the center, then the other goods were cared for in the same manner, and +nothing but the boat remained to mark their landing. +</P> + +<P> +"It's goin' to be a hard job; but she's got to come here too," Jim +said, when they stopped for a moment to rest. +</P> + +<P> +"Do you think we can do it?" +</P> + +<P> +"Oh, yes, she isn't so heavy but that we could take her around a carry, +and I reckon it's to be done here." +</P> + +<P> +"How long before the moon rises?" +</P> + +<P> +"Somewhere about midnight." +</P> + +<P> +"Then suppose we try to find out for certain if those camping on Dollar +Island are the ones we want to keep in sight?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'm willing if you say the word." +</P> + +<P> +"Then come on. That fellow is safe enough, and we shall be just so +much farther ahead with our work." +</P> + +<P> +Jim led the way back to the boat, removed his shoes and stockings as a +precaution against making a noise, Jet doing the same, and the two +started, with the small guide paddling instead of rowing. +</P> + +<P> +The faint glimmer of light served as a beacon, and toward it they +advanced slowly until the boat's bow struck the shore. +</P> + +<P> +Jim motioned for his companion to help him pull her up, and then stole +through the woods as noiselessly as a shadow. +</P> + +<P> +The gloom was so dense that it was necessary Jet should hold on to the +leader's coat, otherwise they would speedily have been separated, and a +watcher ten feet away could not have said a human being was passing. +</P> + +<P> +Thanks to the fire-light, it was not a difficult matter for the two to +go straight to the camp, and in a comparatively short time they were +where it was possible not only to see the occupants, but to hear +everything which was said. +</P> + +<P> +Jet's spirits rose very high as he recognized the two he had followed +so long, and now all previous discomforts and suffering were forgotten +in the knowledge that he was once more carrying out Harvey's +instructions to the letter. +</P> + +<P> +The men had built quite a comfortable looking hut in the center of the +island, where it would not be seen from the water, and near by was the +boat, turned bottom-up as if they did not expect to use her for some +time. +</P> + +<P> +The fact that they allowed themselves a camp-fire at a time when it +could be distinguished from a distance was probably owing to the fact +that visitors seldom visited this particular lake after dark, since the +absence of deer in the vicinity prevented hunters from scouring the +banks with a jack light. +</P> + +<P> +Both were ready for trouble, however, as could be told by the guns +stacked within reach while they smoked and drank in front of the cheery +blaze, and Jet was forced to admit to himself that these men could not +be made prisoners with as much ease as in case of the other. +</P> + +<P> +For some time the boys watched in silence, mentally jotting down all +the details of the camp for future reference, and then Sam said, with a +yawn: +</P> + +<P> +"This is what I call mighty dull sport." +</P> + +<P> +"It ain't very lively, for a fact; but I reckon it's way ahead of what +poor Joe's having." +</P> + +<P> +"If it's so bad now what will it be in another week? I don't think I +can stand it very long." +</P> + +<P> +"There's nothin' to prevent your goin' any time you get ready; but here +I stay for quite a spell." +</P> + +<P> +"What about more liquor an' grub?" +</P> + +<P> +"There won't be any trouble in getting all we want as long as the money +holds out." +</P> + +<P> +"And by fall you'll have bark on your back." +</P> + +<P> +"Better that than a striped coat. It isn't so bad as you make out, +though. We can move our camp whenever we feel like a change, an' then +there's plenty of fishin' an' sich like that the swells call sport." +</P> + +<P> +Sam's only reply was another prolonged yawn as he stretched himself out +at full length, and Bob replenished the fire without moving from his +seat. +</P> + +<P> +Jet understood that it was time for them to take their departure. +</P> + +<P> +When the men got ready to turn in for the night, one or the other might +take a fancy to have a look around to make sure they had no unwelcome +visitors, in which case the spies would be discovered. +</P> + +<P> +Motioning Jim to follow his example, he started toward the shore, +moving at a snail's pace to prevent a noisy disturbance among the +foliage, and not until they were in the boat once more paddling toward +the opposite bank did he feel at liberty to draw a long breath. +</P> + +<P> +Arriving at the point from which they started, Jim insisted on carrying +the boat to the clump of cedars, and this required so much time and +labor that it was nearly midnight before they could seek the +well-earned rest. +</P> + +<P> +Even then Jet took pity on the prisoner, and removed the gag +sufficiently long to give him food and water, the small guide standing +over him with the cocked revolver, lest he should make an outcry. +</P> + +<P> +"What are you boys countin' on doin' with me?" he asked, when his +hunger and thirst had been appeased. +</P> + +<P> +"Deliver you to the officers in a day or two." +</P> + +<P> +"Am I to be kept trussed up in this fashion until then?" +</P> + +<P> +"It's pretty rough, I know; but there's no other way out of it. You'd +treat us the same or worse if the tables were turned, and we're bound +to take care of ourselves." +</P> + +<P> +"I don't reckon it would do any good if I was to swear I wouldn't so +much as yip?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not a bit, for we shouldn't dare run the risk you would break your +word." +</P> + +<P> +The prisoner had nothing more to say; but obligingly held his mouth +open so that Jet might replace the gag, and after this had been done +the boys wrapped themselves in their blankets, lying down in the +softest spot they could find. +</P> + +<P> +"How are we ever goin' to get the best of them fellers?" Jim whispered +when they were ready to go to sleep. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know; but we must cook up some kind of a plan." +</P> + +<P> +"Don't you think it would be better to send for the officers, an' let +them do the job?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'm afraid the fellows will make another move before anybody could get +here. You heard what Sam said, and it shows he is so discontented that +he'll be insisting on breaking camp very soon, unless he turns his back +on this place entirely." +</P> + +<P> +"That's all right enough; but at the same time I don't see that we can +do anything without somebody to help us," Jim said, with a sigh, and +then he rolled over as if determined not to rack his brain with the +perplexing subject any longer. +</P> + +<P> +Neither of the boys slept very soundly on this night. The fact of the +prisoner in their midst, and the problem which they must solve shortly, +prevented that feeling of restfulness which is necessary for profound +slumber. +</P> + +<P> +The sun had not yet risen when Jet awakened, shook Jim into +consciousness, and made his toilet in the tiny stream which wound its +way through the camp. +</P> + +<P> +"We'll feed the prisoner the first thing, and then keep watch of the +island," Jet proposed, and this task was performed as quickly as +possible, neither captive nor jailors indulging in conversation during +the operation. +</P> + +<P> +There was to be no cooking, and the boys carried as much food as they +thought would afford them a hearty meal to the edge of the water, they +crouching behind the bushes with their gaze centered on the spot where +they knew the camp to be located. +</P> + +<P> +"Have you thought of anything?" Jim asked, while they were eating the +not very palatable meal. +</P> + +<P> +Jet shook his head despairingly. +</P> + +<P> +Half an hour passed, and neither spoke. +</P> + +<P> +Then both started as if electrified, for they saw both the men +approaching the shore of the island nearest the main land. +</P> + +<P> +"They heard us last night, and are comin' over here to see who has +come," Jim whispered, his face growing pale. +</P> + +<P> +It certainly looked as if he had guessed correctly, and Jet drew his +revolver. +</P> + +<P> +The men were carrying the boat between them, and on reaching the water +launched it. +</P> + +<P> +The distance was not so great but that a conversation carried on in an +ordinary tone could be distinguished from one shore to the other, and +the first words spoken by the fellows caused the greatest relief. +</P> + +<P> +"Now, don't fool your time away up there," Bob said, sharply, as Sam +took his seat in the boat and pushed her off. +</P> + +<P> +"Why? Do you think this is such a pleasant place that I shouldn't lose +the opportunity to stay here as many hours as possible?" +</P> + +<P> +"I think that if you once begin drinking you'll get full, and five +minutes afterward every loafer in the village will know we are hiding +here." +</P> + +<P> +"You must allow I'm a fool." +</P> + +<P> +"So I do, or you'd be willing to stay twenty-four hours longer without +liquor rather than run the first minute the bottle is empty." +</P> + +<P> +"There would be jest as much risk to-morrow, as now, so what's the use +waitin' with our tongues hangin' out when plenty can be got by takin' a +short walk?" +</P> + +<P> +"When shall I expect you?" +</P> + +<P> +"Some time before mornin'. I'll start back within half an hour after I +land." +</P> + +<P> +"If you do that there'll be little harm come to us," and Bob +disappeared amid the foliage while Sam rowed vigorously up the pond. +</P> + +<P> +"There is no need of our trying to cook up a plan now," Jet whispered. +</P> + +<P> +"Why?" +</P> + +<P> +"Because it is all arranged. We must tackle Bob before Sam comes back." +</P> + +<P> +Jim appeared thoroughly alarmed by his companion's bold statement. +</P> + +<P> +He looked upon Bob as the most desperate of the three men, as really +was the case, and the idea of a struggle with him seemed alarming; but +yet he said nothing against the plan. +</P> + +<P> +"What puzzles me is why they launched the boat on this side of the +island? They had to bring her way across." +</P> + +<P> +"Perhaps they have seen some one on the opposite shore, and don't care +to let folks know where the boat started from." +</P> + +<P> +"Do you suppose that fellow will call at our old camp?" +</P> + +<P> +"I shouldn't be surprised; but it will be too late to do us any harm, +unless he comes directly back with the news that we have made a change +of base." +</P> + +<P> +"You seem to think there isn't a question but we shall get the best of +that fellow." +</P> + +<P> +"I didn't say anything of the kind. We shall either have him prisoner, +or be in the same fix ourselves in his camp by the time Sam gets back. +Bob will take good care we are not in condition to trouble him again, +if we fail this day." +</P> + +<P> +"How are we to set about it?" +</P> + +<P> +"In the same way as the other was taken. Trust to our chances of +finding him asleep, or so far from his gun that he can't get at it +until we have the drop on him." +</P> + +<P> +"Don't you suppose he carries a revolver?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course he does." +</P> + +<P> +"Then he'll be certain to shoot." +</P> + +<P> +"This case is different from the other. There I had no right to fire; +but here I should take the chances rather than let him kill me." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap28"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXVIII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +THE STRUGGLE +</H3> + +<P> +Jet was talking altogether too boldly to please the small guide, and he +began to repent ever having consented to take part in such work. +</P> + +<P> +"It won't do to call on our friend for some time, so let's go back to +the thicket and make ready," Jet said, as he arose to his feet, and Jim +followed like one who feels positive he is going to his doom. +</P> + +<P> +Once inside the shelter of the trees, the amateur detective set about +preparing for the work on hand. +</P> + +<P> +He examined the revolver carefully, greased the lock with a bit of +bacon rind, and assured himself that every part worked freely and +correctly. +</P> + +<P> +Then he loaded the gun with ball cartridge, and put half a dozen in his +pocket. The bacon rind was also used with good effect, and, Jet said, +as he slipped a couple of crackers in his coat: +</P> + +<P> +"Now come on, Jim. We may as well sit there as here, and we shall know +if he leaves the place." +</P> + +<P> +"He can't unless he swims, for the other fellow has got the boat." +</P> + +<P> +"I forgot that; but anyhow it won't do any harm to be ready. We'll +carry the boat down to the bushes on the bank, and that will take some +time." +</P> + +<P> +The small guide obeyed. +</P> + +<P> +The craft was taken as near the water as possible without exposing her +to view in case Bob should look that way, and then the boys settled +down for the last rest before the struggle. +</P> + +<P> +"How long are we to wait here?" Jim asked. +</P> + +<P> +"A couple of hours. He will have all his chores done up by that time, +and there's more chance of finding him lying down." +</P> + +<P> +"Why wouldn't it be as well to row around boldly, and make believe +we've jest come for a visit? Then when he wasn't looking you could +clap your revolver to his head." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm afraid that wouldn't work. In the first place, he'd be pretty +certain to recognise me in the daylight—you know my face was +half-hidden in the shadow of the shanty when he called at the other +camp. Then again I question if any visitors could catch him unawares +after first showing themselves. He has reason to know there are a good +many hunting for him, and is too old a bird to take chances." +</P> + +<P> +Jim sighed. Almost any plan seemed to him preferable to trying to +steal upon a fellow, who would be likely to shoot at the first alarm, +and he had little faith in the ultimate success of the undertaking. +</P> + +<P> +Jet waited patiently another hour, and then he said, as a look of +resolution came over his face: +</P> + +<P> +"We must start now. If he happens to see us rowing over we must +pretend that we came to look at the island, and then get away as soon +as possible. In case we land without his knowledge, the thing must be +worked exactly as was the other: creep up till we see him, and take +advantage of the first chance that offers." +</P> + +<P> +"Shall I carry the gun?" +</P> + +<P> +"No; here is the revolver, and be sure to use it if things get hot. We +shall be fighting for our lives when we tackle him." +</P> + +<P> +Jet took hold on one side of the boat, and Jim with an expression of +despair on his face, cared for the other, launching the little craft +without a splash. +</P> + +<P> +The amateur detective motioned his companion to take up the oars, and +then shoved off, leaping lightly on the stern-sheets where he could +handle the tiller. +</P> + +<P> +There was no attempt at conversation now, for the utmost silence was +necessary if they would land without making their coming known to the +man both feared. +</P> + +<P> +Jet steered the boat under an overhanging tree, made the painter fast, +and then crept softly onto the bank, leaving his companion to follow. +</P> + +<P> +Since both the boys knew the exact location of the camp, their task was +just so much the easier, and they crept cautiously along in a straight +line, but keeping a close watch ahead lest Bob should suddenly appear. +</P> + +<P> +Half an hour after landing they were where the shanty could be seen +clearly; but its occupant was not in it. +</P> + +<P> +Jet had begun to fear he might have circled around the island merely +for the sake of walking, and would come up in their rear; but this +cause for alarm was soon found to be groundless. +</P> + +<P> +Jim espied the man lying under the shade of some trees, where he could +have a full view of any who might pass, and pointed him out to Jet. +</P> + +<P> +There was no chance to creep upon him as in the case of the other +fellow, for he was unmistakably awake and on the alert. +</P> + +<P> +"We shall have to wait until he changes his position," the boy +whispered. "It won't do to tackle him yet a while." +</P> + +<P> +Jim breathed more freely. +</P> + +<P> +Any respite, however brief, was a great relief. +</P> + +<P> +When ten minutes had passed, and there was no change in the position of +affairs, Jet said: +</P> + +<P> +"I'm going to creep around the hut, and try to get through the back. +The guns are probably there, and it will be a big thing if we get hold +of them." +</P> + +<P> +"How long are you goin' to be gone?" +</P> + +<P> +"I don't know; but in case I stay you can make up your mind that I've +concluded to do the business there, and when he comes toward the shanty +be on your feet ready to jump in the minute you hear my voice." +</P> + +<P> +"Hadn't we better keep together?" +</P> + +<P> +"If there's a good chance to hide, I shall wait and try to get the drop +on him from the inside." +</P> + +<P> +Then Jet started off as if fearing his companion might attempt to +dissuade him from his purpose. +</P> + +<P> +Bob was so far away that there was no reason for moving with such +extreme caution, and he walked rapidly around through the underbrush +until the hut was between himself and the man, after which he went +boldly forward. +</P> + +<P> +It was not a difficult matter to make his way into the shelter, +constructed as it was only of brush, and he entered at once. +</P> + +<P> +The hut was entirely enclosed on all sides, save where a narrow +door-way had been left open, and Jet soon realized that he could ask +for no better place to attempt the capture. +</P> + +<P> +He found both guns in one corner, and these he carried out, hiding them +under the leaves some distance away. +</P> + +<P> +It was well he finished this work quickly, for he had hardly regained +the shelter of the shanty when from between the branches he could see +Bob rise to his feet, yawn wearily, and then come leisurely up the +incline. +</P> + +<P> +The decisive moment had arrived, and only by the greatest exercise of +will power could Jet prevent his hands from trembling violently. +</P> + +<P> +Gently pushing the muzzle of the gun through the brush which formed the +side of the hut, the boy waited until the man should be within a few +feet. +</P> + +<P> +Bob came on in a lounging fashion, looking back every now and then as +if undecided what to do, and thus approached the shanty in the exact +direction which best served the purpose of his would-be captor. +</P> + +<P> +Not until he was within a couple of yards did Jet shout, as he pushed +the muzzle of the gun farther out and took careful aim: +</P> + +<P> +"Hold up your hands, quick! I shall fire at the first move you make." +</P> + +<P> +Bob obeyed instinctively, as any other man would have done in the same +position, with that ominous-looking barrel almost touching him. +</P> + +<P> +"Now, remember that the slightest movement will cost you your life, for +I shall let both barrels go if you do more than wink. I know what your +reputation is, and don't intend to take any chances. Where are you, +Jim?" +</P> + +<P> +"Here," was the prompt reply, and Jet saw the small guide coming +rapidly from his place of concealment. +</P> + +<P> +"Stand on one side of that fellow so you won't spoil my aim, and take +his revolver away. Be quick, and don't fear his hurting you, for he +can't make but one move." +</P> + +<P> +Bob scowled fiercely; but did not dare to offer any resistance. +Perhaps if he had known who was behind that gun the case might have +been different; but there was every reason to believe an officer held +it, and he could not afford to run any risk. +</P> + +<P> +Jim searched the prisoner carefully, and then, when a revolver and a +knife had been thrown into the camp, Jet said: +</P> + +<P> +"Now, stand directly behind him with your revolver pressed to the back +of his head, and pull the trigger if you feel him move ever so +slightly." +</P> + +<P> +Jim was beginning to regain his courage, and obeyed without hesitation. +</P> + +<P> +The amateur detective now came into view, and Bob literally gnashed his +teeth in rage. +</P> + +<P> +"I wish I'd known it was you," he cried, savagely. +</P> + +<P> +"Be careful or your head will move so much my friend will shoot; his +hand trembles so now that there's danger your brains will be blown out +unintentionally." +</P> + +<P> +On first entering the shanty, Jet had seen plenty of ropes with which +to bind the prisoner, and these he brought out, lashing Bob's arms +behind his back, and tying his legs securely together. +</P> + +<P> +During this last operation, the prisoner struggled most desperately, +for Jim's revolver had been lowered in order that he might assist his +companion, and before the boys finally got him under subjection they +were reeking with perspiration, in addition to being nearly tired out. +</P> + +<P> +"Well," Jim said, triumphantly, as he rose to his feet, "that part of +the work was done as slick as grease, and at this rate it won't take us +long to wind the whole gang up." +</P> + +<P> +"I'm afraid the hardest job is ahead," Jet replied, as a most +unaccountable fit of gloominess came over him. "You know the other +makes the third one, and superstitious people believe a fellow always +comes to grief on that number." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap29"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXIX +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +BOB +</H3> + +<P> +When Bob was fettered beyond his power to make any resistance he +relapsed into a sullen silence, which troubled Jet more than reproaches +or threats would have done. +</P> + +<P> +He had expected to be overwhelmed with curses, and fancied the man +would rave and struggle uselessly until he was completely worn out; but +such was not the fact. +</P> + +<P> +It was much as if Bob had suddenly conceived the idea of reserving his +strength until the time should come when he could use it with effect. +</P> + +<P> +He lay silent and motionless on the ground, and when Jet had prepared a +gag he was even so complaisant as to open his mouth to receive it. +</P> + +<P> +"S'posen we let up on his legs a little so's he can walk down to the +shore," Jim suggested. "He's goin' to make a big load if we try to +carry him." +</P> + +<P> +This seemed to be a very good idea, and Jet acted upon it at once, +saying to the prisoner: +</P> + +<P> +"If you'll come along quietly we'll treat you the best we can under the +circumstances." +</P> + +<P> +Bob did not move. +</P> + +<P> +"Get up," Jet said, in a louder tone, as if believing his first remark +was not understood. +</P> + +<P> +Bob shook his head, and there was no mistaking the look on his face as +he did so. +</P> + +<P> +He had no intention of aiding his captors in any manner, and if they +claimed him as prisoner they must take him by sheer expenditure of +strength or not at all. +</P> + +<P> +"There's no use spending time trying to coax or drive him," Jet said, +after a long pause. "If he won't walk we've got to carry him, and +that's the end of it." +</P> + +<P> +Jim, who had been examining the shanty while resting after the battle, +discovered a hammock tucked away in one corner, and he proposed that +this should be used as a litter, for the man could be conveyed more +easily on something than if the boys raised him simply by the head and +feet. +</P> + +<P> +"Roll him in here, and we'll run this pole through the ends so all the +weight will be on our shoulders." +</P> + +<P> +This was done at once, and although the prisoner was bent nearly double +when the density of the foliage forced the bearers to approach each +other closely, the labor of removing him to the boat was greatly +lessened. +</P> + +<P> +"There's no chance Sam will be back until late in the night," Jet said, +as Bob was deposited in the bottom of the craft with no gentle force, +"so we can move about without fear of being discovered, and you might +give us a hot dinner." +</P> + +<P> +"We'll take our ease this day, an' that'll put us in better shape for +tackling the other feller to-night. If he helps himself to the liquor +as he comes down the lake we may have our hands full." +</P> + +<P> +"That's what I'm afraid of," Jet replied, gloomily, and then, +recovering himself as with an effort, he added: "There's no use +borrowing trouble, however, and we should be mighty thankful we've +succeeded so well in getting two of them." +</P> + +<P> +"You can bet I am thankful," Jim replied, with such emphasis that Jet +could not prevent himself from laughing heartily. +</P> + +<P> +By this time Bob had been carried to the cedar thicket, and an +expression of surprise came over his face as he saw the first prisoner; +but Jet did not intend to allow them an opportunity to communicate with +each other even by signs. +</P> + +<P> +Bob was made fast to a tree at the farther end of the encampment, where +he could not see his former companion, and then Jet went to the first +prisoner as he said: +</P> + +<P> +"If you will promise not to speak, I'll take the gag out of your mouth +for a while, because we shall likely be here a long time." +</P> + +<P> +There was an expression of deepest thankfulness in the fellow's eyes, +and the amateur detective felt reasonably certain that he would not +attempt to make any disturbance. +</P> + +<P> +"Now, if I hear you so much as whisper, back it goes," he said, as he +removed the uncomfortable preventive of speech. +</P> + +<P> +"You needn't be afraid," was the meek reply. "I'll do anything rather +than have that thing put in my mouth agin. How did you get hold of +Bob?" +</P> + +<P> +"Took him unawares, as we did you." +</P> + +<P> +"Well, all I can say is, you fellers are corkers!" +</P> + +<P> +This in a tone of admiration. "If any one had told me that a couple of +boys could get the best of him, I'd said it was a lie, an' here you +sneak off an' bring him in when you get ready." +</P> + +<P> +"We shouldn't have done it if you'd found them." +</P> + +<P> +"That's a fact; but you can't expect that a feller wouldn't help his +pals." +</P> + +<P> +"That's all right, since no harm has been done," Jet replied, feeling +very magnanimous now he had been so successful. +</P> + +<P> +The boy had every reason to feel proud of what had been accomplished. +He had acted as Harvey wished, and, in addition, arrested the man so +particularly wanted, with one of his companions. +</P> + +<P> +Now if he could transfer them to the charge of an officer his triumph +would be complete, and the detective have good reason to keep his +promise relative to employing him as an assistant. +</P> + +<P> +It was the fact of his having been successful, more than anything else, +that caused Jet to fear the third attempt at capturing a man would be +attended with signal failure, and several times during the day was he +tempted to bundle the two into the boat, instead of waiting to make +prisoners of all three. +</P> + +<P> +He even went so far as to suggest this to Jim, saying: +</P> + +<P> +"We could get up to the village with these fellows before morning, and +I'm not sure it wouldn't be the best plan, for if Sam downs us these +will be set free. Then all this work counts for nothing." +</P> + +<P> +"Let's go the whole hog or nothing," the small guide replied, bravely, +for he was rapidly beginning to think that he and Jet could accomplish +anything they might attempt. +</P> + +<P> +Then Jim set about cooking an elaborate dinner as a sort of +thanksgiving. +</P> + +<P> +The fire was built inside the thicket between the two prisoners, so +that the boys might keep watch of both at the same time, and when the +food had been prepared Detective Harvey's assistants set themselves +down to enjoy it to the utmost. +</P> + +<P> +Then it was necessary to feed the prisoners, a task which required +considerable time. +</P> + +<P> +Jim attended to the stranger, while Jet fed Bob, and the latter said, +when his gag was removed: +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon you're countin' on turnin' us over to the Albany officers." +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, unless some one comes from New York." +</P> + +<P> +"Ain't you the messenger boy I smuggled up on the boat?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes. I don't suppose you expected to see me again, eh?" +</P> + +<P> +"I wish I'd done as Joe wanted me to. You could have been thrown over +that night, and no one would have been any the wiser." +</P> + +<P> +"Lucky for me you didn't know as much as you do now." +</P> + +<P> +"You can well say that," was the surly reply, and during the next five +minutes Bob paid strict attention to receiving the food which Jet held +to his lips. +</P> + +<P> +"I wonder if it would be any use to try an' buy you off?" the fellow +said, half to himself, when the meal was finished. +</P> + +<P> +"Not a bit; Joe tried that, but it wouldn't work." +</P> + +<P> +"Are you the same boy who nabbed him?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes." +</P> + +<P> +"It's hard, mighty hard, to be pulled by a cub like you," and Bob shook +his head mournfully. "A feller expects something of the kind from a +reg'lar officer, if it so be that he's put himself in the way of +trouble; but it comes tough to be downed by a couple of whiffletts I +could break all up with one hand." +</P> + +<P> +"It does seem queer we should be able to do so much," Jet replied, +modestly, and then he added: "If you give me your word as a man that +not a word shall be spoken, and no noise made, I'll leave this gag out +until sunset, otherwise, it must go in again." +</P> + +<P> +"I'll agree, because you've got me foul." +</P> + +<P> +"Very well; but if I hear so much as a whisper it will go in your mouth +again, not to be taken out till the officers get here." +</P> + +<P> +"I know when I'm licked," Bob growled, "an' don't need threats after I +can't help myself." +</P> + +<P> +During the remainder of the afternoon the boys had nothing to do save +discuss the chances of taking Sam a prisoner, and when they were tired +of this Jet suggested that each take a nap. +</P> + +<P> +"From this out we shall have to keep our eyes open pretty much all the +time, unless Sam succeeds in getting the best of us, and it will be a +good idea to scoop in what rest we can now. You lie down first, and +I'll stand watch." +</P> + +<P> +The small guide was quite ready to act upon this suggestion, and it +seemed as if he had but just rolled over on the blanket when his eyes +were closed in slumber. +</P> + +<P> +When the sun was an hour high Jet awakened his companion, and said, as +he prepared to take his turn at sleeping: +</P> + +<P> +"Be sure to call me at sunset, and keep your eyes on those fellows all +the time. I don't reckon there's much chance of their being able to +get free; but we mustn't run any risks." +</P> + +<P> +His orders were obeyed to the letter, and the sun had but just sunk +behind the trees when Jim shook him into wakefulness as he was +instructed to do. +</P> + +<P> +"I haven't seen so much as a boat," he said. "The men have been quiet +as mice, sleeping a good deal of the time. When shall we start for the +island?" +</P> + +<P> +"As soon as we've had supper, and gagged the prisoners again. It won't +do to let them have the chance of warning Sam." +</P> + +<P> +"It ain't likely he'll get back before midnight." +</P> + +<P> +"That's true; but in the meanwhile we have a good deal to do. The +camp-fire must be lighted, to prevent him from being suspicious when he +comes in sight of the island, and we need to look about a bit for a +hiding-place." +</P> + +<P> +"Have you made up your mind how we are to strike him?" +</P> + +<P> +"I think it will be best to wait near the shore, and knock him down. +If he comes back half-drunk he won't be likely to put up his hands very +quickly, even if a revolver is at his head, and I don't want to shoot." +</P> + +<P> +"You were willing enough to do so in Bob's case." +</P> + +<P> +"That was different. Sam's crime isn't as serious." +</P> + +<P> +"What's Bob accused of?" +</P> + +<P> +"Murder." +</P> + +<P> +"I swow!" and Jim looked around in alarm, even though the man was +powerless to so much as move his hands. "If I'd known that I wouldn't +have gone to help catch him for a hundred dollars." +</P> + +<P> +"That is exactly why I didn't go into any particulars when we made the +trade for you to help me," Jet replied quietly. "Now let's get our +work done, and row over to the island for what I hope will be the last +time." +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap30"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXX +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +A FAILURE +</H3> + +<P> +The boys soon had their camp in order. The prisoners were gagged +again; their bonds examined to make certain there could be no chance of +an escape, and the smouldering remains of the fire carefully +extinguished. +</P> + +<P> +"I reckon everything will be safe if we are gone all night," Jet said, +as he looked around for the last time to assure himself nothing had +been forgotten; "but those fellows would have a pain in their jaws if +we should stay so long." +</P> + +<P> +Jim insisted on carrying his muzzle-loader on this expedition, +believing it a more trustworthy weapon than the revolver, and Jet made +no objections, although he would have much preferred that the ancient +musket had been left behind. +</P> + +<P> +The boys did not draw the boat upon shore when they landed with Bob, +therefore they had nothing to do but step on board. +</P> + +<P> +The small guide pulled her across to the hiding-place under the +overhanging trees, and there she was made fast. +</P> + +<P> +Then the boys went directly to the camp, and built a fire, after which +nothing could be done save wait and watch. +</P> + +<P> +Since it was not known on which side of the island Sam would come +ashore, the two went to the extreme northern point where they could see +the fellow in time to hasten back and get into ambush. +</P> + +<P> +Jet's plans were already formed, and had been explained to his +companion. He now said, as they sat among the bushes, waiting for the +first sound which should betoken the coming of the man they hoped to +make captive: +</P> + +<P> +"I shall hit him over the head with the butt of the revolver, and the +moment he drops you must be ready to jump on him, for it'll be sharp +work if I don't stun him at the first blow." +</P> + +<P> +"Ain't you afraid of killing him?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not a bit of it; he'd stand up under a good deal harder blow than I +shall give him." +</P> + +<P> +Then the conversation ceased, and after a time Jim's heavy breathing +told that he was sleeping at his post of duty. +</P> + +<P> +Jet had quite as much as he could do to keep his eyes open; but he +succeeded after a fashion, and when they had been in hiding at least +three hours the alleged melody of a song coming across the still waters +told their hoped-for captive was approaching. +</P> + +<P> +That Sam had been indulging to a considerable extent in liquor could be +plainly understood by the sound of his voice, and again Jet felt the +same misgivings which had assailed him immediately after the capture of +Bob. +</P> + +<P> +The new-comer had no thought of prudence; but was evidently bent on +landing in front of the camp on the outside of the island. +</P> + +<P> +Jet shook Jim, at the same time placing his hand over the boy's mouth +to prevent a possible outcry, and whispered: +</P> + +<P> +"There's no time to lose. We must get there ahead of him, or the jig +is up, and, according to the noise, he's rowing mighty fast." +</P> + +<P> +Jim was on his feet in an instant, and the two started at full speed +through the underbrush, paying little attention to the disturbance of +the foliage, because Sam was so nearly intoxicated that he would not +heed slight sounds. +</P> + +<P> +"He'll land somewhere here," Jet said, breathlessly, as he halted where +the glimmer of the camp-fire could be seen. "If he don't we must creep +up while he's fastening the boat." +</P> + +<P> +Sam was evidently amusing himself by making the light craft spin +through the water, and when he turned for the shore the boys saw that +they had stationed themselves in the most advantageous position. +</P> + +<P> +It was not necessary to move out of their tracks, for after landing the +man came directly toward where they were standing. +</P> + +<P> +Jet raised his revolver by the muzzle, and Jim stood ready to make a +spring. +</P> + +<P> +Sam reeled along shouting for Bob and lurching from side to side. +</P> + +<P> +The time had not come to strike the blow; but the boy, believing he was +about to be discovered, struck at the fellow's head. +</P> + +<P> +The blow was not delivered fairly, but glanced off, and instead of +being stunned Sam was only alarmed. +</P> + +<P> +Leaping back quickly, before Jet could strike again, he fired into the +bushes from whence he believed the attack had come. +</P> + +<P> +The bullet whistled so near Jim's nose that the young gentleman leaped +back with a howl, and this outcry was sufficient to show Sam where to +send another. Before the echoes had fairly died away the sound of +hurried footsteps through the bushes told that the small guide had +taken refuge in flight. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was alone, amid darkness so intense that he had no means of judging +the whereabouts of his enemy save by the flash when the revolver was +discharged. +</P> + +<P> +The knowledge of danger had sobered Sam, and he understood he must make +a desperate fight or be arrested, for, quite naturally, the first +thought was that the officers of the law were on his track. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was wholly at a loss to know what course should be pursued. +</P> + +<P> +Sam was not charged with a capital crime, and Harvey never intimated +that he cared to take him prisoner, therefore to shoot now, save +actually in self-defense, would be little less than murder. +</P> + +<P> +Sam emptied the chambers of his weapon while retreating toward the +boat, and that he had reloaded before reaching her was told by the +second volley which he sent in the direction of Jet. +</P> + +<P> +By the grating of wood and sand the amateur detective knew the boat was +being pushed off from the shore, and at that moment he could have fired +with a very good chance of hitting the mark; but he refrained from +doing so. +</P> + +<P> +The most important thing just now was to assure the safety of the +prisoners in the other camp, and he made his way across the island +hurriedly, lest by accident Sam should happen to stumble across his +comrades. +</P> + +<P> +Neither Jim nor the boat were to be seen when he arrived at the clump +of trees where the craft had been moored. +</P> + +<P> +The small guide had thought only of his own safety, and paid no +attention to what might happen to his friend. +</P> + +<P> +Jet would have tried to summon him by whistling, but for the fear Sam +might hear the signal and come that way. +</P> + +<P> +It was possible to swim across the intervening space; but it would be +at the cost of wetting both weapons, and he decided against the idea +almost before it took form in his mind. +</P> + +<P> +He splashed the water gently, hoping Jim would believe it a signal to +come back. +</P> + +<P> +Then he waited in silence nearly an hour, fancying all the previous +work would speedily be undone, and when it seemed certain the small +guide had deserted him entirely, he heard his name whispered. +</P> + +<P> +"Is that you, Jim?" he asked in a low tone. +</P> + +<P> +"Yes. Where's that feller?" +</P> + +<P> +"Left the island, I think. Why don't you row in here?" +</P> + +<P> +"Is it safe?" +</P> + +<P> +"It won't be if you don't take me off precious quick." +</P> + +<P> +This threat had the effect of deciding the timid guide, and in a few +moments the boat was paddled alongside the bank. +</P> + +<P> +"What did you run away for?" Jet asked, angrily, when they were a short +distance from the shore. +</P> + +<P> +"What for? Didn't you hear that bullet come across my nose?" +</P> + +<P> +"Of course he fired; but there wasn't much chance of being hit in the +darkness." +</P> + +<P> +"There was too good a chance to suit me. If that bullet had come an +inch nearer I'd be dead by this time." +</P> + +<P> +"But it didn't, and when you found he hadn't hit the mark, you told him +where you was by runnin' away." +</P> + +<P> +"I couldn't help it," Jim replied apologetically. "I don't reckon I +was cut out for a detective, an' when folks begin shootin' right at me +I'm bound to run." +</P> + +<P> +"Have you been up to the camp?" +</P> + +<P> +"Not much. I stayed right here in the boat to find out what was goin' +on." +</P> + +<P> +"Then there's no knowing but he has been ashore and set the men free." +</P> + +<P> +"If that's so the sooner we get out of this place the better," and Jim +would have headed the boat toward the outlet, but that Jet prevented +him by pulling lustily on the other oar. +</P> + +<P> +"Look here," the latter said, angrily, "if you act like this I'll dump +you overboard, or shoot, whichever comes handiest. Now row for our +camp, and do the best you know how, if you don't want to get into a +pile of trouble with me." +</P> + +<P> +Jim obeyed meekly, and a few moments later Jet was running at full +speed toward the clump of cedars. +</P> + +<P> +The encampment was, apparently, just as they had left it, and Jet gave +vent to a sigh of relief as he ascertained that the prisoners were +still bound securely. +</P> + +<P> +Then he ran back to help Jim bring the boat ashore, and the guide asked +in a trembling voice: +</P> + +<P> +"Are you goin' to try to stay here now?" +</P> + +<P> +"What else can we do? It would be running a big risk to start in the +boat with both men, for Sam is rowing around somewhere, and he's +certain to help his friends if he sees them in trouble." +</P> + +<P> +"Suppose he should find out we were here?" +</P> + +<P> +"That's exactly what I'm afraid of. We must keep mighty close for a +day or two, and then I'll try to send another message." +</P> + +<P> +"I can't stay as long as that." +</P> + +<P> +"Very well, start for the village now, and I'll hold my own against him +if he comes." +</P> + +<P> +"But I don't dare to go off by myself while he's prowlin' 'round." +</P> + +<P> +"Then don't be a fool, but help me keep things quiet until he gets +tired of hunting for us, and leaves." +</P> + +<P> +Jim was not in such a frame of mind as would best fit him to be an +assistant in such a desperate case as was now before the boys; but in +the absence of other help Jet could do no less than utilize him in some +way, and he began by threatening all kind of punishments if he didn't +stand up like a man and do his duty. +</P> + +<P> +There was no sleep for the amateur detective on this night. +</P> + +<P> +He spent the time pacing to and fro in the encampment, watching the +prisoners, going to the water's edge, or listening to the slightest +unusual sound, fearing it might be made by Sam. +</P> + +<P> +When daylight came Jet was hidden among the fringe of bushes which +bordered the lake, and the first living thing he saw was the man whom +he had failed to capture on the previous evening. +</P> + +<P> +Sam was standing on the shore of the island, apparently on the point of +embarking in the boat. +</P> + +<P> +While Jet could have counted twenty he remained there, and then, +stepping on board, began to row directly toward the spot where the boy +was in hiding. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap31"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXXI +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +AN ATTACK +</H3> + +<P> +It could not have been other than an accident which caused Sam to head +for this particular spot; but excited as he was Jet believed the man +knew they were encamped in the cedars. +</P> + +<P> +The first question in his mind was whether he had best make a stand on +the shore, or in the thicket, and the latter course was decided upon. +</P> + +<P> +Sam was not more than two boat lengths from the island when he started, +and there would be several moments in which to arrange for a defense +before the man could land. +</P> + +<P> +Jim was overhauling the cooked provisions preparatory to feeding the +prisoners when his comrade burst into the encampment looking quite as +excited as he felt. +</P> + +<P> +"Sam must have come to the conclusion that those who hit him last night +were not officers of the law, for he went back to the island, and now +is heading straight for this place." +</P> + +<P> +"What?" Jim cried, sharply, as he leaped to his feet, dropping a +handful of fried fish. +</P> + +<P> +"Now, don't get excited, and, above all, keep quiet. It isn't dead +certain he has any suspicion there is a camp here; but we must be +prepared for the worst." +</P> + +<P> +"What are you goin' to do?" Jim asked in a voice trembling with fear. +</P> + +<P> +"Fight him off if he tries to come inside this thicket. It will be +strange if two of us, well armed and under cover, can't hold our own +against one man." +</P> + +<P> +"But how is it to end? He may keep us shut up here till the provisions +are all gone." +</P> + +<P> +"There is no need to look so far ahead. Get your gun and come with me." +</P> + +<P> +Jim obeyed very unwillingly. +</P> + +<P> +This was one of the moments when he felt more like running away than +fighting, but Jet took good care that he should not have an opportunity. +</P> + +<P> +The two crept to the very edge of the thicket, where it would be +possible to see any one who came up from the lake, and they had hardly +concealed themselves before the man appeared. +</P> + +<P> +He was walking slowly, gazing around scrutinizingly, as if expecting to +find enemies, and carried a revolver in his hand. +</P> + +<P> +Jet hoped sincerely that he would pass the cedars without devoting to +them any especial attention, but in this he was disappointed. +</P> + +<P> +Sam had already noted the place, and came straight on as if determined +to examine every inch of the ground. +</P> + +<P> +There was no time for hesitation. +</P> + +<P> +Already he was within a dozen yards of where the boys were crouching, +and in a moment more would be upon them. +</P> + +<P> +Jet suddenly pushed the muzzle of his gun out from among the branches, +and cried: +</P> + +<P> +"Put up your hands, or I'll fire." +</P> + +<P> +Unfortunately Sam was not taken by surprise as the others had been; his +revolver was ready for use, and it seemed as if the words had hardly +been uttered when he fired three times in rapid succession. +</P> + +<P> +He aimed directly for the muzzle of Jet's gun, but was forced to +discharge his weapon so quickly that there was no time to shoot with +any degree of accuracy. +</P> + +<P> +Two of the bullets whistled past Jet, but the third lodged in the +fleshy portion of his arm. +</P> + +<P> +For the instant he was conscious of nothing more than a sharp twinge +such as might have been caused by the sudden application of a galvanic +battery, and he pulled both triggers of his gun at the same instant. +</P> + +<P> +Unfortunately neither of the bullets took effect. +</P> + +<P> +At the moment he fired Sam leaped behind a tree, thus shielding himself +from what might otherwise have put a speedy end to the battle. +</P> + +<P> +"Stay where you are, and fire whenever he shows himself!" Jet whispered +sternly to Jim, who was showing signs of beating a retreat. +</P> + +<P> +"Where's the use?" the small guide whined. "You're pretty nigh killed, +an' what am I goin' to do?" +</P> + +<P> +"I'm all right; there's no need to worry about me if you'll only do +your share." +</P> + +<P> +"But look at the blood!" and Jim pointed to his friend's shoulder down +which the life fluid was flowing copiously. +</P> + +<P> +Just at that instant Jet had no time to bestow upon his own injuries. +</P> + +<P> +He had seen Sam edging around as if to advance nearer, and he emptied +two chambers of his revolver as a warning that it would be dangerous +for him to make the attempt. +</P> + +<P> +The man shrank behind the tree very suddenly, and this gave the amateur +detective an opportunity to slip a couple of cartridges into his gun. +</P> + +<P> +"Shall I go to see if the prisoners are all right?" Jim whispered. +"They'll be sure to try an' give us the slip after hearin' all this +shootin'." +</P> + +<P> +"Stay here, and keep your eyes oh that fellow! The others must be left +to do as they can for a while." +</P> + +<P> +This scheme of Jim's for getting out of the way of danger had proven a +failure, and with a deep sigh he turned his attention once more to the +enemy in front. +</P> + +<P> +Jet knew how dangerous it would be to allow Sam a chance to rush in +upon them, and after loading his gun he fired one ball at the fellow's +leg, which was visible from behind the tree. +</P> + +<P> +A smothered curse, and two shots fired at random told that he had +succeeded in making matters even, so far as wounds were concerned, and +Jet whispered: +</P> + +<P> +"Fire, whenever you see a bit of his clothes; that will prevent him +from jumping in on us." +</P> + +<P> +During the next ten minutes no less than a dozen shots were exchanged +without apparent effect. +</P> + +<P> +Sam was growing more cautious. +</P> + +<P> +The discharge of Jim's weapon, thus showing there were at least two +confronting him, had taught a salutary lesson, and he now appeared +eager to find a better shelter. +</P> + +<P> +Jet understood what the man wished to do and determined to prevent it +if possible. +</P> + +<P> +Sam, in his present position, did not dare show himself long enough to +take aim, and while he remained behind this particular tree there was +little danger he could do very serious damage. +</P> + +<P> +By this time Jet's wound had begun to make itself felt. +</P> + +<P> +The pain had become great, and the blood was yet flowing freely. +</P> + +<P> +Once he thought he would creep over to Jim that the latter might fasten +a ligature above the aperture, thus checking the blood, but in order to +do so it would have been necessary to expose himself to a certain +extent, and also give Sam the desired opportunity to gain a better +shelter. +</P> + +<P> +"I don't see any way out of the scrape," he said to himself, "for +there's no chance anybody will come this way, and he's bound to get the +best of us after a time, because I can't hold out a great while longer +if I keep on growing weak; but anything is better than surrendering +willingly." +</P> + +<P> +Therefore he remained where he was, firing on the slightest chance of +hitting the mark, and using the revolver when the gun was empty. +</P> + +<P> +The only ray of hope which Jet could see in the entire business was the +fact that Sam might not have a full supply of cartridges. +</P> + +<P> +He no longer shot at random, reserving his fire as if it was necessary +to make every shot count, but this might mean nothing more than a +desire to tire the others out. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was growing weaker each moment. +</P> + +<P> +Jim watched his companion anxiously, ready to take flight the instant +he was overcome. +</P> + +<P> +Jet knew exactly what would happen the instant he failed to show a bold +front, and between two evils be chose the one which seemed the least. +</P> + +<P> +Loading the gun and the revolver he laid both at his side, and stripped +off his coat to stanch the flow of crimson fluid. +</P> + +<P> +Sam must have seen this movement, for at that moment he ran for a clump +of trees half a dozen yards farther off, and succeeded in gaining the +desired spot before Jet could pick up his weapons. +</P> + +<P> +"Why didn't you fire?" the latter asked sharply. +</P> + +<P> +"I didn't know he was goin' to leave so sudden," was the innocent reply. +</P> + +<P> +"That move was just what I've been trying to guard against, and now we +must push back a bit, to prevent him from picking us off." +</P> + +<P> +The small guide was only too willing to beat a retreat, even though it +was only for a short distance, and he followed his companion quickly. +</P> + +<P> +An overturned tree twenty feet away was the barricade Jet selected, and +when they were sheltered by it he said: +</P> + +<P> +"Tie this handkerchief around my arm above that bullet hole, and then +twist it with a stick until the blood stops. I'll use the revolver in +the meanwhile so he'll know we haven't gone far." +</P> + +<P> +Jim did as he was directed, and Jet discharged one chamber of the +weapon every few seconds, taking good aim at the clump of bushes behind +which he believed Sam was hiding. +</P> + +<P> +Twice he loaded his revolver, and twice exploded every cartridge before +the surgical work was done, and then Jim seized his own weapon, saying +as he did so: +</P> + +<P> +"That fellow has got a good chance now to creep around behind us an' +let the others loose. Then the fat will be in the fire for certain, +because we shan't even have a chance to run away." +</P> + +<P> +This was a possibility which Jet had failed to take into consideration, +and for the first time since the battle began he was thoroughly alarmed. +</P> + +<P> +He did not know whether it would be best to go up to the encampment or +remain where he was, either course seemed fraught with danger, and he +was beginning to despair when the sound of a human voice startled both +him and Jim. +</P> + +<P> +"Hold up your hands!" some one shouted, the speaker evidently being +between the lake and Sam's hiding-place. +</P> + +<P> +"Drop that revolver, but don't lower your arm!" was the next command, +and Jet cried joyfully: +</P> + +<P> +"Some one has come to help us, Jim, and it don't make much matter who, +for we can get him to help take the prisoners up to the village." +</P> + +<P> +The small guide had recovered all his lost courage immediately upon +hearing the words, and was dancing about in a triumphant manner, but +much too cautious to venture from his hiding-place until knowing to a +certainty that the enemy was really disarmed. +</P> + +<P> +During a couple of minutes not another sound was heard, and then the +listeners could distinguish the words: +</P> + +<P> +"Go up farther and find out what this fellow was shooting at." +</P> + +<P> +There was a sound as of some one making his way through the foliage, +and again the voice shouted: +</P> + +<P> +"Hello there! What's the matter?" +</P> + +<P> +"Who is that?" Jet cried. +</P> + +<P> +"Harvey!" +</P> + +<P> +"Come on! Come on! You've got here just in' time!" and Jet started +down the slope to meet the one person in the world whom he particularly +wished to see at that moment. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR> + +<A NAME="chap32"></A> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +CHAPTER XXXII +</H3> + +<H3 ALIGN="center"> +HARVEY & CO. +</H3> + +<P> +When Jet was where he could see the new-comers Sam had been handcuffed, +and was in charge of a stranger who was dressing the wound in his leg, +while the detective, walking with a cane, was coming up the ascent in +advance of another man. +</P> + +<P> +"It seems as if you'd been in pretty snug quarters," Harvey said as he +clasped Jet warmly by the hand. "Who is this fellow who has been +making a target of you?" +</P> + +<P> +"One of the gang we met at the house in the woods. He introduced +himself to me when he was made up as a tramp, on the railroad track." +</P> + +<P> +"You are wounded!" Harvey interrupted, as he pointed to the boy's arm. +"Let me see if it is serious; you are looking pale." +</P> + +<P> +"I shall be all right now you are here. Come up to our camp, and you +can attend to it." +</P> + +<P> +Jet led the way hurriedly to the cedar thicket, taking such a route +that his visitor must pass Bob, who was looking woefully disconsolate +and uncomfortable. +</P> + +<P> +"Hello!" Harvey cried in astonishment, "I'm blest if you haven't bagged +the game already," and once more he clasped Jet's hand. "I knew you +would suit me for a partner, and from this day out we'll work in +company or my name's not Dan Harvey. How long have you had this +fellow?" +</P> + +<P> +"Since last night, and that's why Sam was trying to get the best of us. +We attempted to capture him, but made a botch of the business." +</P> + +<P> +"Bob's arrest is enough to cover you with glory, my boy, for you've +done what every man on the force would have liked to had a hand in. +Here, Downs," he continued to the man behind him, "slip the bracelets +on this man, and take the gag out. I reckon his jaws ache by this +time." +</P> + +<P> +When this order was obeyed Jet led his visitors to where the other +prisoner was trussed up, and Harvey's amazement was complete. +</P> + +<P> +"Is this another one of the gang?" +</P> + +<P> +"Yes, in the counterfeit money business, and when we get back I +calculate the constable can be found without much trouble." +</P> + +<P> +"Well, Jet, you've done this job up about as brown as possible, and +there'll be no mean reward coming when Bob reaches New York." +</P> + +<P> +"What do you mean?" +</P> + +<P> +"One thousand dollars has been offered for the apprehension of those +charged with murder, and in regard to the makers of the queer, Uncle +Sam ought to shell out liberally for having them brought in so +cleverly. The firm shall be Harvey & Co., for a boy who can do so much +single handed will be an ornament to the force even though he isn't +larger than a pint of cider." +</P> + +<P> +"I had Jim to help me," Jet replied modestly. +</P> + +<P> +"Who is Jim?" +</P> + +<P> +"A boy I met up at the village, and promised twenty dollars if we +succeeded." +</P> + +<P> +"But I haven't earned it," Jim cried, "I was mightily frightened, an' +would have run home long ago if you'd let me." +</P> + +<P> +"The money has been earned," Harvey said as he took a roll of bills +from his pocket, "and I'll add ten on my own account." +</P> + +<P> +The small guide looked in bewilderment at the thirty dollars, and then +broke into a dance which was quite as vigorous if not so skillful as +Jet's performances with the minstrel company. +</P> + +<P> +"How did it happen you got here in the nick of time?" Jet asked after +Jim had ceased his contortions. +</P> + +<P> +"When I received your letter telling me you were coming into the woods +it was enough to show you would want assistance. I never thought for a +moment you'd be able to bag the whole gang, but only counted on saving +them from cutting your throat. Not being well enough to walk very +handily I brought a couple of friends along, and now we've got force +enough to take our men back." +</P> + +<P> +"How did you happen to find me?" +</P> + +<P> +"We heard at the village that a couple of boys, one a stranger, had +come this way, and we started on chances. Last night we camped this +side of the first carry, and was striking for the upper lake when the +reports of your weapon gave us a clew. It was easy to tell that the +shots were not fired by hunters, and we rounded up your friend Sam on +general principles." +</P> + +<P> +While this conversation was being carried on Harvey's companions +released the prisoners from the bonds which had been put on by the +boys, and shackled them in much more secure and less painful fashion. +</P> + +<P> +Then Jim remembered that none of his party had breakfasted, and he +cooked the remainder of the provisions at once, when all hands joined +in the meal. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey had already examined Jet's wound, and pronounced it a trifling +one, more painful than dangerous. +</P> + +<P> +The ball was extracted, the arm bandaged properly, and fastened in a +sling, the detective saying, when the work was finished: +</P> + +<P> +"You'll come around all right in a week or two with care, and that I'll +guarantee you shall have in abundance." +</P> + +<P> +It was not yet noon when the party were ready to leave Round Pond. +Harvey and the boys traveled in the boat Jet had hired, and the other +craft, which was considerably larger, carried the two officers and +their prisoners. +</P> + +<P> +Except at the carry, where all hands were forced to assist in +transporting the boats, the journey was made in a leisurely fashion, +and that night Jet slept in a comfortable bed at the Saranac Lake House. +</P> + +<P> +Jim disappeared as soon as the party arrived at the village. He was +eager to show the money earned, and to tell his chums of his wonderful +skill as a detective, but it is not probable he spoke of the many times +when he would have sold his position very cheaply. +</P> + +<P> +He was on hand next morning to see his friend and companions take their +departure, and then Jet was forced to promise he would visit the +Adirondacks on a regular hunting trip as soon as his business would +permit. +</P> + +<P> +"I'd like to go out with you once when there wasn't a lot of ruffians +'round to make trouble," Jim said, and a moment later the train rolled +out of the depot. +</P> + +<P> +Jet was praised and petted by the officers at headquarters, when the +party arrived in New York, at a rate which would have turned many +another boy's head, but he knew in his heart that a good portion of the +success was due to "luck" rather than detective skill. +</P> + +<P> +Harvey kept his word in regard to taking him in partnership, and to-day +Jet Lewis, young as he is, does a full share of Detective Harvey's +work. In fact, that gentleman often says that without his partner he +would fail in many cases which he now "works up" successfully. +</P> + +<P> +Jet received the reward of one thousand dollars for the arrest of Joe +and Bob, and those worthies are serving a life sentence at Sing Sing +for murder, the crime having been fully proven against them. +</P> + +<P> +Sam, the constable, and the fellow who stole the boys' boat have been +sentenced to ten years for uttering counterfeit money, and Jet insists +that at some future time he will find the plates they buried in the +vicinity of the house in the woods, for he keeps well in mind what he +heard regarding the big oak. +</P> + +<BR><BR><BR><BR> + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Messenger No. 48, by James Otis + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MESSENGER NO. 48 *** + +***** This file should be named 23627-h.htm or 23627-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/2/3/6/2/23627/ + +Produced by Al Haines + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Messenger No. 48 + +Author: James Otis + +Release Date: November 26, 2007 [EBook #23627] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MESSENGER NO. 48 *** + + + + +Produced by Al Haines + + + + + + + + + + +[Frontispiece: Jet brought the cane down on his head with full force.] + + + + + + +MESSENGER No. 48 + + +BY + +JAMES OTIS + + + +_Author of "Telegraph Tom's Venture," "Messenger No. 48", + "Toby Tyler," "The Boy Captain," "Silent Peter," etc., etc._ + + + + +THE SAALFIELD PUBLISHING COMPANY + +NEW YORK ---- AKRON, OHIO ---- CHICAGO + + + + +Copyright, 1899 + +By + +The Saalfield Publishing Company + + + + +CONTENTS + + +CHAPTER + + I Jet + II Trouble + III The Kidnappers + IV An Engagement + V Baffled + VI The Battle + VII A Bold Attempt + VIII An Arrest + IX The Detective + X One Prisoner + XI Close Quarters + XII The Encounter + XIII The Snare + XIV A Capture + XV Assistance + XVI On the Trail + XVII An Old Friend + XVIII Jail Life + XIX The Dinner + XX A Recognition + XXI The Adirondacks + XXII The Small Guide + XXIII The Visit + XXIV A Stern Chase + XXV Jim + XXVI Success + XXVII Reconnoitering + XXVIII The Struggle + XXIX Bob + XXX A Failure + XXXI An Attack + XXXII Harvey & Co. + + + + +MESSENGER No. 48 + + +CHAPTER I + +JET + +"What's your name?" + +"Jethro Lewis." + +"How old are you?" + +"I don't know." + +"Judging from the size I shouldn't say you were over ten." + +"My size 's against me, that's a fact; but I can run a good deal faster +than some fellers twice as big." + +The manager of the District Messenger Station did not attempt to +conceal a smile as the boy spoke thus earnestly, and continued the +examination by asking: + +"Where do you live?" + +"Down on East Tenth Street." + +"Mother and father alive?" + +"Both dead. I'm boardin' with Mammy Showers." + +"As a rule we do not employ boys who have no parents." + +"Why not? Can't they shinney 'round, jest as well as other fellers?" + +"There is no question about that, but we prefer to have some one to +look out for them." + +"So would I, but there's no use kickin' when a feller can't have all +them luxuries," Jet said gravely. "It ain't so awful nice to hustle +for yourself with a chance of bein' fired outer the house if the board +ain't paid right up to the minute." + +"How have you been earning a living?" + +"Most any way that come handy. Sometimes I sell papers, an' then agin +I black boots. I did think one spell of goin' into the theayter biz, +but I couldn't git the right kind of a job. I can dance a good many of +them perfessionals way out of sight, but the managers won't hire a +performer what ain't got good clothes." + +Jet spoke in a business-like tone which evidently pleased the manager, +for the latter said, after a short pause: + +"I will give you a trial, and----" + +"You couldn't do better," Jet interrupted gravely, "for if I can't hump +myself ahead of that fat chump over there I don't want a cent," and he +pointed to a very fleshy boy who was half asleep on a bench which +extended across the rear of the room. + +"Here is a cap," the manager continued. "Your number is forty-eight. +We'll find a coat which will answer until another is made, and you are +to go to work at once. Can you read?" + +"Why cert." + +"Then study this book of distances so you may know how much to charge +for service, and set on that bench until it is your turn to go out." + +Jet took the articles and was about to turn away from the desk when a +very important question came into his mind. + +"How much money are you goin' to give me a week?" + +"Four dollars is the regular price for beginners; but there are good +chances to advance if you attend to business." + +This was evidently satisfactory to new number forty-eight, for he did +as directed, and was soon busily engaged studying the tariff of prices, +seated beside the fat boy who was now slumbering calmly. + +For a short time Jet thought more about financial matters than of his +lesson. Mammy Showers charged him a dollar and a half per week for a +small room hardly larger than a cupboard, and two meals each day. He +would now, providing he did not indulge in too many luxuries while +traveling around the city, be able to save two dollars and a half every +seven days, and it seemed very much as if he had fairly started on the +highway to fortune. + +"Well, if they call this work I'd like to have two or three jobs of the +same kind." Jet said aloud when he was tired of studying the printed +instructions. "I've been here a little more'n an hour, an' haven't +been called off the bench once." + +This remark appeared to arouse the fat boy to the consciousness of +being alive, and on making great effort to sit upright, he noticed Jet +for the first time. + +"Hello! You're a new feller; I s'pose," he said with a yawn. + +"Do you think I look very new?" + +"You've jest com here to work, haven't you?" + +"The way things look now I've come to set around an' keep the flies +offer them young gents as has ter sleep forenoons." + +"You'll be glad to do that same thing before you've worked here a week. +It's dull now, but wait awhile, an' then see how the fellers have to +hump themselves." + +"Say, do you ever do very much?" Jet asked gravely. + +"I was out on a job yesterday that I didn't get through with till past +midnight." + +"Do the fellers have to work so late as that?" + +"Once in a while. You have to go where the customers send you, an' +some of the jobs are funny ones." + +"How far have you ever been on an errand?" + +"Up to Albany to bring down a dog for a man what was goin' huntin'." + +"Did you get him here?" + +"Of course I did." + +"It must have been mighty rough on the dog." + +"Why?" + +"'Caus he'd be away from home so long if he wasn't allowed to walk any +faster than you can." + +"Think you're funny, don't you?" and the fat boy made ready to resume +his interrupted nap. + +Before Jet could turn his attention to the tariff again the boy at the +desk called loudly: "Number forty-eight!" and he went forward quickly, +well pleased that something had occurred to break the monotony. + +A summons had come from one of the hotels near by, and on answering it +he found nothing of more importance than to carry a letter to a certain +house in the immediate vicinity, but to Jet it was particularly +agreeable work, since he was given ten cents more than the regular fee. + +"If all the messages turn out like this one I shall have a mighty good +thing of it," he said to himself, in a tone of satisfaction as he +returned to the station. + +Jet was called upon only twice more during this first day of his new +work, and when he went home it was with the pleasing knowledge that he +had received as presents fifteen cents. + +On the following morning he was at his post so early that some of the +"night boys" made sport of him for appearing at such an hour, +predicting that in less than a week he would have "sense enough to stay +at home till he was wanted." + +He was not allowed to remain idle very long, however. + +"Number forty-eight!" the man at the desk called sharply, and Jet +leaped to his feet. + +"Go to No. -- East Fourteenth Street. Here is your slip." + +Jet took the bit of paper and hurried away at full speed, to find that +he had been sent to a bar-room which was by no means noted for bearing +a good reputation so far as the honesty of its patrons was concerned. + +Seated at one of the tables were two men. The elder, tall and slim, +and the other of medium height, but rather fleshy. + +"Come here!" the thin man called as the messenger entered, and Jet +fancied that the fellow's full beard looked suspiciously heavy and +black. + +"I wouldn't like to bet that all that hair grew on his face," Jet said +to himself, as he approached the table, but he gave the matter no +further thought, for it was his business to obey orders, and not +criticize his patrons. + +"How long will it take you to go to the corner of Sixth Avenue and +Fifteenth Street?" + +"Not more than ten minutes." + +"Take this satchel and give it to a party with red hair who is standing +on the northwest corner." + +"Suppose there should be more than one?" Jet asked as he took the +traveling-bag which was remarkably light in weight although it was +apparently stuffed full to bursting. + +"The right man will ask your number, and you are to tell him it is one +hundred and ten." + +"But he can see by my cap that I'm forty-eight." + +"Do as I tell you, and never mind about your cap, do you hear?" + +"Yes, sir." + +"He will give you something to bring back, and you are not to stop on +the way, no matter what happens." + +"I'm not in the habit of loafing," Jet replied, just a trifle +indignantly, and before he could say anything more the short man added +impatiently: + +"Then don't do it here. Get on about your business, for we want the +answer in the ten minutes you promised." + +Jet started at once, feeling decidedly hurt at the tone used by the +men, and, walking as rapidly as the crowds on the sidewalk would +permit, was soon at the appointed place. + +A rough booking fellow with a shock of red hair which looked quite as +false as the tall man's whiskers, was waiting for him. + +"What is your number?" he asked nervously. + +"I was told to say one hundred and ten, but that isn't right." + +"Give me the bag, and take this back," the man said, as he literally +tore Jet's burden from him, and thrust into the boy's hands a paper +parcel so heavy that it required all his strength to hold it on one arm. + +Jet was on the point of handing this odd acting fellow the slip of +paper that it might be signed according to the rules of the office, but +before he could so much as take it from his pocket the man had +disappeared among the throng. + +"I suppose it's all right," he said in a tone of perplexity, "but I +wish people would let a fellow do as the boss insists upon." + +There was no time for delay if he intended to return within the ten +minutes as had been promised, and he hurried away, arriving at the +saloon only to be told by the bartender that the gentlemen had left +some time previous. + +"What am I to do with this?" and Jet held up the paper parcel. + +"They said you was to go to this number on the Bowery. I reckon it's +one of them cheap lodging houses." + +Jet took the card which was held toward him, and, stopping only long +enough to read the written words and number, hurried off once more. + +This last address was, as the barkeeper had suggested, a small hotel, +and on ascending the stairs to the tiny apartment called by courtesy +"the office," found the tall man awaiting his arrival. + +"I thought you was a boy who didn't do any loafing," the gentleman said +gruffly. + +"I haven't stopped a minute." + +"Who did you hang around chinning with?" + +"Nobody." + +"Haven't you been talking to that other messenger?" + +"Which one?" + +"The fellow you met." + +"I haven't spoken to anybody except the red-haired man, and he didn't +give me a chance to do much talking." + +"What is your fee?" + +"Twenty-five cents." + +"Here's half a dollar. If anybody asks where you have been say that it +was to the Stock Exchange. I don't care to have a lot of people +talking about my business, and a quarter should be enough to make you +hold your tongue." + +"Will you sign this slip, sir? the manager wants the distance and time +on there." + +"Do it yourself, and put it down as I tell you." + +Jet obeyed, writing as the stranger dictated, and when he presented +himself at the station once more the manager had no reason to believe +he had been anywhere except to the Exchange. + + + + +CHAPTER II + +TROUBLE + +Jet was not just certain, when he seated himself on the bench to wait +for another summons, whether he had done right in obeying the tall man +so implicitly, but yet he could not understand how it would make any +difference to the manager, since he brought back the amount of money +which was the lawful charge for such service. + +"I'll ask one of the other fellows," he said to himself, and then the +rush of business was so great that he almost forgot the incident of the +morning. + +Until two o'clock in the afternoon he was busily engaged, and at that +hour returned after having been to the post-office to mail a large lot +of circulars sent by a particularly testy and disagreeable old +gentleman. + +"You needn't sit down," the manager said sharply, as the boy laid the +service slip on the desk. "Go with this man and see to it that you +tell the whole truth." + +Jet looked in surprise at a gentlemanly appearing person who was +pointed out to him, standing near the door, and asked hesitatingly: + +"What do you mean, sir?" + +"Exactly what I said. Don't keep him waiting, and come back here at +once if they let you go to-day." + +This last remark was yet more mysterious than the first, but Jet did +not have an opportunity to ask any more questions, for at this instant +the stranger took him by the arm, saying as he did so: + +"Now walk sharp. I've lost too much time already." + +There was no other alternative but to obey, for the man literally +dragged him through the crowds on the sidewalks, and continued on at a +rapid pace until the two were at the entrance of Police Headquarters. + +"What am I to go in there for?" Jet asked, as he tried to hold back. + +"The inspector wants to see you," the man replied, and the boy ceased +any show of resistance, for he began to realize that he was a prisoner, +although on what charge he could not so much as guess. + +Ten minutes later he was standing in front of the inspector, and that +gentleman was gazing at him scrutinizingly. + +"What is your name?" he asked abruptly, and when the answer had been +given be continued by inquiring into all the particulars of his short +life, until Jet cried in desperation: + +"What do you think I have done, sir?" + +"That remains to be seen," was the unsatisfactory reply, as, after +writing down all the boy had said, the inspector summoned a man in the +garb of an ordinary citizen, to whom he handed the paper as he said in +a low tone: "Find out if this is correct, and come back at once." + +Then turning to Jet: + +"How long have you been a district messenger?" + +"Two days." + +"What time in the morning do you go on duty?" + +"Seven o'clock." + +"What was the first call you had to-day?" + +"To No. -- East Fourteenth Street." + +"Tell me all that happened there, and remember If you try to lie I +shall know it." + +Jet, confused and bewildered by the strange position in which he found +himself, did as he was bidden. + +Just for an instant he believed it would be only just toward the man +who had hired him, to repeat what he had been told to say, but then +came the thought that he was virtually under arrest and the truth +should be spoken at every hazard. + +"Can you describe these men?" the inspector asked, when his short story +was told. + +Jet did his best, not omitting to say that the hair of one and the +whiskers of another looked suspiciously false. + +"Would you know them again?" + +"I'm certain of it. The tall man I could spot even if the whiskers +were taken off." + +At this point the officer who had been sent to learn the truth of Jet's +statement regarding himself, returned, nodded his head in a significant +manner, and immediately disappeared through another doorway. + +Over and over again did the inspector insist on Jet's telling the story +of his morning's work, and when fully an hour had been spent in this +manner he said decidedly more kindly than before: + +"I believe you have spoken the truth, but you will be an important +witness in a very serious case, and I suppose it is my duty to send you +to the House of Detention." + +"Does that mean I'm goin' to be locked up?" Jet asked in alarm. + +"You will be deprived of your liberty, but it is very different from +going to jail." + +"Don't do that! Please don't do that! I've just got a job where I can +earn a good deal of money, and it'll knock me out of it. Besides," Jet +added as a lucky thought occurred to him, "if I keep on about my +business I may see them fellers again." + +"You advance a very good argument, and, in fact, I am depending on you +to do that same thing, but how shall I know that you won't give us the +slip?" + +"I'll stay right at the office, except when I'm out with a message, an' +come here every night if you say the word." + +"Do you know of any one who would go bail for your appearance when +wanted?" + +"Mammy Showers would tell you that I'll act square up to what I say." + +The inspector did not reply for several seconds, and then it was to say: + +"I'll take your word for it, my boy. You are to report to me, or one +of the officers here, every twenty-four hours, and, in the meanwhile, +if you get a glimpse of either of those men, follow him until word can +be sent to me; but do not speak of this matter to any one." + +It was evident that this ended the interview, for the inspector rose to +his feet, and Jet, overjoyed at the prospect of escaping imprisonment, +hurried out of the gloomy-looking building. + +On his return to the office the manager, who was particularly busy at +that moment, motioned him to a seat on the messengers' bench, and the +fat boy, unusually wide awake, asked in a blood-curdling whisper: + +"Did you really have anything to do with that murder?" + +"What do you mean?" + +"There was a man killed an' robbed over on East Twentieth Street last +night, and some of the fellers said you was down to headquarters +tellin' the police all about it." + +"And it was the murderers I saw this morning!" Jet repeated aloud, +astounded by the knowledge that he had possibly assisted the guilty +ones to hide the evidences of their crime. + +"Then you was in it!" the fat boy exclaimed. + +"Now don't be a fool! I carried a bag for some men this morning, but +that's all I know about it. Who was the murdered man?" + +"It's all in that paper Sankey left in his overcoat pocket. Get it an' +you have the whole story. I wonder why they don't put you in jail?" + +Before Jet could reply to this question he was ordered to the desk, and +from there sent to answer a call from the Union Square Hotel. + +Evidently it was not one of the regular patrons of the house who had +summoned him. + +He found a gentlemanly looking party standing just outside the clerk's +desk, who appeared particularly pleased on observing the number on his +cap. + +"I want you to go with me to Yonkers, and bring back certain papers +which must be delivered before six o'clock. Can you go so far?" + +"I will run over to the office and find out. You see I haven't been on +the force very long, and don't know exactly what to do when the work +will keep me so long away." + +"Very well, hurry as fast as possible, for I want to leave here by the +next train." + +Jet ran swiftly back, and in a very few moments returned with the +information that he was at liberty to go wherever the gentleman +desired, so long as the office received the regular price per hour for +his services. + +"There won't be any difficulty about that. You are to go to pier 466 +North River, and wait there until I come. Don't stop on the way, for I +shall probably ride down." + +"I thought we were going on the cars." + +"I changed my mind while you were away. We can get there just as +quickly by boat. Hurry off, for I don't want to be kept waiting." + +Jet left the hotel at once, wondering why the gentleman did not give +him a car fare if the business demanded so much speed, and on his way +to the pier he heard the news-boys crying the particulars of the +"Terrible tragedy on East Twentieth Street." + +"I'll see what the story is," Jet said to himself as he bought one of +the papers, but he did not stop to read then lest he should arrive at +the rendezvous too late. + +The gentleman was waiting for him on his arrival, but did not express +any anxiety to start for Yonkers immediately. + +"You can go up to my room and help me stow away some baggage," he said, +glancing around as if to make certain they were not observed. + +"Ain't this the Albany boat?" + +"Yes; but I reckon there's nothing to prevent our getting out at +Yonkers." + +"I didn't know she stopped there." + +"You will probably have time to learn several things before you're many +years older." + +"But this steamer doesn't leave till night." + +"I've made another change in my plans, and it doesn't concern you since +a messenger's duty is to follow as long as he is paid for his services." + +This was said in such an angry tone that Jet held his peace lest he +should give further offense, but at the same time the whole affair was +beginning, in his mind, to assume a very mysterious aspect. + +The man motioned for him to walk by his side, and led the way through +the main saloon to a state-room forward, where, through the half-opened +door. Jet failed to see the baggage which had been spoken of as +needing "stowing." + +"Go in," the stranger said impatiently, pushing Jet into the apartment, +and following him. + +Then the door was locked, and the man carefully fastened both the +shutter and window. + +Now the messenger was alarmed, and turned toward the door with upraised +fist as if to pound for assistance, when a hand was placed roughly over +his mouth. + +"Don't try any such game as that or there'll be trouble, you young +cub," the man whispered, and almost before Jet knew what was being done +a hard substance had been forced into his mouth and fastened there by a +towel tied around his head. + +That he was a victim of foul play the young messenger could have no +doubt, and he struggled with all his strength to free himself, but in +vain. + +The stranger took from his pocket several lengths of stout rope, bound +first Jet's hands and then his feet, after which he threw him roughly +into one of the berths. + +"I reckon you'll lay there without making very much fuss, till I get +ready to let you go," he said, as he treated himself to a long draught +from a black flask. "When we do land at Yonkers, you can go back to +Police Headquarters once more." + +The latter remark caused Jet to associate this adventure with the one +he had had in the morning, and after looking intently at the stranger +his suspicions became a certainty. + +"This is the short fellow who got me to carry the valise!" he said to +himself. "They know about my goin' to see the inspector, and are bound +to get me out of the way." + +The idea that his captor was a cold-blooded murderer, who probably +would not hesitate to add another to his list of crimes, was far from +reassuring, and the perspiration burst out on Jet's face as he thus +persuaded himself he was in immediate danger of a violent death. + + + + +CHAPTER III + +THE KIDNAPPERS + +Jet's captor appeared to be perfectly contented after binding the boy, +and assuring himself that it was impossible an alarm could be given. + +He seated himself by the side of the berth, lighted a cigar, and began +to read a newspaper, although the light in the room was far from good +owing to the blinds being closed. + +Jet was lying in such a manner that he could see the fellow's face +plainly, and was now able to understand why he had not recognized him +before. + +At the saloon he had a heavy moustache and rather long hair. Now his +face was smooth and his head closely shaven. + +His face had then been so white as to be pallid, whereas it was now +bronzed deeply. In addition the man's clothing was of the most +fashionable make, while in the morning Jet had seen him clad in coarse, +badly fitting garments. + +"There's a big difference in his looks," Jet said to himself, "but yet +I don't understand why I was such a fool as not to know him when he +first spoke." + +Messenger number forty-eight had ample time for reflection, for fully +an hour passed without any change in the relative position of affairs, +and then came a low, quick tap at the door. + +When it was opened the tall man, now without a beard, and wearing a +pair of green spectacles, came quickly into the room, locking the door +carefully behind him. + +"I see you've got the cub," he said, bending over Jet to make certain +of his identity. + +"Yes, had him here an hour." + +"Have any trouble?" + +"Not a particle. He was the first to answer my call, and I took that +as a sign we should get away without leaving a trail." + +"We can't lug him around the country with us." + +"You're right but we can drop him after he's where it'll trouble him to +get back." + +"There's a safer way." + +"I know what you mean, Joe, but I don't like to do any more of that +business than's necessary. The last one couldn't have been avoided, +but this can." + +"It's a big risk to carry him up the river, and he'd better be dropped." + +"We'll talk about that later. Have you heard anything new?" + +"Not much. After this cub came from headquarters a detective was sent +down to the Bowery, and by this time it is known pretty well what we +looked like. The afternoon papers say the police are following a good +clew, but you know what such talk means, Bob." + +"Is the stuff salted away?" + +"All except what we need for a couple of months. The boys can send us +more if we conclude to leave the quiet little place we're bound for." + +Then the two men had recourse to the flask, and after taking a hearty +drink the one who had been called Bob proposed to go outside for a +moment. + +"You must be a fool to think of such a thing," Joe said angrily. "You +are not done up so well but that some body would be able to recognize +you. We are lucky in getting under cover without trouble, and here we +stop till morning." + +"It's going to be mighty dull work staying in this coop all that time." + +"Not half so bad as a cell in the Tombs." + +The two men relapsed into silence for a time and Jet lay watching them +as he tried to devise some way out of a position which was fraught with +danger. It seemed impossible that he could aid himself, bound as he +was, and exceedingly improbable any one would come to his assistance. + +Study as he might Jet could think of no way to extricate himself and he +said mentally after racking his brain in vain: + +"I don't see any way out, but there's no use in giving up hope till a +fellow is obliged to." + +The men alternately drank and smoked during the remainder of the +afternoon, but said very little more regarding their flight. + +When the steamer started Jet expected to hear them decide what was to +be done with him, but in this he was mistaken. + +As the hours wore on he fell into an uneasy slumber, despite the +painfulness of his position, and during this time of unconsciousness +the matter must have been settled. + +It was yet dark when the steamer arrived at Albany, and, very much to +the prisoner's surprise, the two men left the room, fastening the door +behind them. Then Jet heard a noise as if something was being done to +the lock, after which a deep silence reigned. + +"They're going to leave me here, and have put something into the lock +so the door can't be opened in a hurry," he said to himself, and during +the next ten minutes he struggled desperately to free himself. + +The bonds had been adjusted by an expert, and he might as well have +tried to fly as to hope to remove them unaided. + +He was both thirsty and hungry, and every limb ached from being so long +in one position. + +It seemed an almost endless time before the sounds of people moving +proclaimed that the passengers were leaving the steamer. + +Then another long interval, during which he could hear the noises of +the city, and finally some one knocked on the door of the room. + +If he could have cried out then his term of imprisonment would have +been speedily ended. + +"Some fool has broken the key in the lock," he heard one of the +servants say after trying several times to open the door. "We may as +well wait till the engineer can come up." + +Jet was rapidly losing heart. He counted the minutes, as if such a +course would make the time pass more rapidly, and was so thoroughly +exhausted when, at nearly three o'clock in the afternoon, the work of +picking the lock was begun, that he could not have made himself heard +even had the gag been removed. + +The engineer was not a skillful locksmith, and half an hour elapsed +before the door was opened. + +Even then it was several moments before the bedroom stewards perceived +the prisoner, and instead of unbinding him at once they ran in search +of the purser. When that officer arrived Jet was released from his +uncomfortable position, but his mouth was so dry and parched that he +could not speak. + +The boy realized that he would be questioned closely, and remembering +the inspector's caution, he resolved to tell no more than was +absolutely necessary. Therefore when the officers of the steamer +insisted on being told how he chanced to be a prisoner, he simply +related the story of the capture, without entering into particulars as +to why the men should do such a thing. His account was looked upon +with suspicion, and after questioning him yet more closely the purser +said: + +"The boy is lying for some purpose, probably to get a free passage. +Why would two men want to steal a fellow like him?" + +"I've told the truth," Jet replied earnestly. "Don't you suppose I +could have stowed away easier than by being tied up till I couldn't +wink, an' waiting for you to come an' find me?" + +"That sounds reasonable enough, but at the same time I don't believe +the story," the purser said severely. "Get ashore now, and if I catch +you on this boat again you'll have considerable trouble." + +It was with difficulty Jet could walk, owing to the cramps in his +limbs, but he hobbled ashore at once, thinking that for a boy who had +simply tried to do his duty he had been badly used. + +It was necessary he should return home at once, but he had no money. + +He was hungry, and yet had nothing with which to purchase a meal. + +His entire hoardings were in a box at Mammy Showers' house, and he did +not have the value of a penny about him. + +"It's a mighty tight fix," he said reflectively, as he walked up from +the river front, "and what makes it worse is that the inspector will be +certain I've run away because I had something to do with the murder." + +There could be no question but that he was in a bad scrape, and the +more he thought of it the more serious did the whole affair appear. + +"Hello, Johnny! Whater you doin' up here?" + +Without really thinking he was the one addressed, Jet looked around, +and saw a small boy in district messenger's uniform beckoning +vigorously to him. + +"Was you calling me?" he asked, as he crossed the street. + +"Sure. Ain't that a New York cap?" + +"Yes." + +"Whater you doin' here?" + +"That's what I'd like to know," Jet replied ruefully. + +"Well say, what's crawlin' on you? Run away, eh?" + +Jet was in that frame of mind when to confide in some one is a relief, +and he told him the same story the purser of the steamer refused to +believe. + +His new acquaintance listened attentively, and when Jet had concluded, +asked: + +"What do you s'pose they wanted with a feller like you?" + +"I don't know." + +"Hadn't anybody's else money, eh?" + +"Not a cent, an' I'm no richer now." + +"What kind of lookin' duffers was they?" + +"Dressed pretty well, the short one was." + +"Did the other one wear green spectacles, an' was he tall?" + +"Yes, have you seen 'em?" + +"There was a couple of duffers hangin' round the other depot waitin' +for the train, an' I wouldn't wonder if they was the ones. The short +feller bought two tickets for Cooperstown Junction." + +"How did you happen to hear all that?" + +"I went after some parlor car tickets for our boss." + +"Has the train gone yet?" + +"It oughter left at seven this mornin'." + +"An' it's most night now, so they've got off." + +"Was they runnin' away from somebody?" + +Just for an instant Jet was on the point of telling this brother +messenger the whole story, but he checked himself in time and replied: + +"I should think they'd want to after playin' such a trick on me. Say, +how am I goin' back to New York?" + +"I dunno 'less you walk; I don't reckon you wanter stow away on the +boat?" + +"You bet I don't." + +At this moment the Albany messenger remembered that he had been sent on +an important errand, and said as he turned to go: + +"I'll be through work at six o'clock. Come around by the office an' +we'll have another talk." + +Food, not conversation, was what Jet most wanted just then, and as his +new acquaintance departed in great haste he walked aimlessly along the +streets wondering what could be done. + +"The inspector thinks by this time that I lied to him, and---- By +gracious, why can't I follow those fellows? That's jest what he told +me to do!" + +This seemed like a lucky thought, and without realizing that he had no +means to prosecute even the shortest search, Jet went rapidly toward +the depot. + + + + +CHAPTER IV + +AN ENGAGEMENT + +It was necessary for Jet to inquire the way to the depot spoken of by +his new acquaintance, and after arriving there his helplessness seemed +more apparent than before. + +Passengers coming and going paid no attention to the boy, save to push +him out of their road, and he was even more alone in the hurrying +throng than he had been on the street. + +After wandering to and fro, trying to screw up courage enough to ask +the conductor for a free ride, and failing in the effort because none +of the train hands would give him an opportunity to speak with them, he +sat down on a truck and mechanically plunged his hands in his pockets. + +The paper purchased on the evening previous was the only thing which +met his touch. + +"I might as well find out about this murder," he said to himself, as he +unfolded the printed sheet. "When a feller is readin' he kinder +forgets how hungry he is, I reckon." + +To give the printed account in all its details would require too much +space, since there were no less than five columns in Jet's paper. + +The substance was to the effect that a well-known merchant, residing on +East Twentieth Street, had been found on the floor of his library the +previous morning, his skull crushed in as if with some heavy instrument +like a crow-bar, or a burglar's jimmy, and the safe, which was known to +have contained money and bonds to the amount of forty-six thousand +dollars, was broken open and empty. + +The theory of the detectives was that thieves had entered the dwelling +for the purpose of robbery; but having been surprised by the owner, +killed him in order to make good their escape. + +A large tuft of hair in the dead man's hand told that he had grappled +with his murderers, and the overturned furniture spoke of a long and +desperate struggle. + +Singular as it may seem none of the other occupants of the house had +heard any unusual noise, although the uproar must have been great for +some moments, nor was any shock perceived when the safe door had been +blown off. + +It was as the paper stated, the most mysterious of the many +detective-baffling crimes which had been committed in New York city, +because of the fact that such a deed could have been done without +alarming any one in the vicinity. + +Nothing was said regarding the men for whom Jet had carried the +satchel, because at the time the article had been written the police +were not in possession of this very valuable clew. + +Jet had finished reading the article, and was studying the matter in +his mind without being able to arrive at any definite conclusion +regarding the course he should pursue, except that he was eager to +follow the men who had treated him so roughly, when a stranger halted +directly in front of him. + +"You don't seem to be very busy." + +"It kinder looks that way for a fact." + +"Taking a vacation?" + +"A good deal more of a one than I want. I'd like to pick up some kind +of a job that would pay a little money between now an' bedtime." + +"Live here?" + +"In New York. A couple of duffers hired me to come here, an' then +skipped without payin'." + +"So you're stranded?" + +"You'd think so if you didn't have a blessed cent, an' was hungry +enough to eat up the whole town." + +"Do you want to earn money to take you back to the city?" + +"I'd rather go to Cooperstown Junction." + +"Then you'd be worse off than you are here, for it isn't any town." + +"That's where I want to go all the same." + +"I can give you a chance if you'll work your way." + +"What do you want me to do?" + +"I've got a minstrel company on the road, and wouldn't mind paying the +traveling expenses of a smart boy who will distribute programmes and +make himself generally useful." + +"A show! Say, I can do a mighty good turn at dancin', and give some of +these fellers what think they know it all, a few points." + +"Step out and let me see what you can do." + +Jet was by no means bashful; in a few seconds he was dancing as +spiritedly as if such discomforts as hunger and fatigue were unknown. + +"You'll do," the stranger said, approvingly, when the boy ceased his +efforts. "I'll take you along, and pay a little something if you'll do +a turn." + +"You can bet your life I will, but I don't want to go any farther than +Cooperstown Junction." + +"Very well, there'll be plenty of time to talk about that part of the +business, for we shall make three stands between here and there. Take +this money to buy something in the way of a lunch, and in twenty +minutes we'll start." + +Jet was overjoyed. + +By this arrangement he saw an opportunity to follow the alleged +murderers, and at the same time earn money to return to New York if +necessary. + +Probably if he had told his new employer the whole story that gentleman +would have advised him to call upon the inspector without delay, rather +than try to run the criminals down himself. + +As it was, however, he believed he knew exactly what course to pursue, +and had little doubt as to succeeding. + +Two sandwiches and three boiled eggs were the provisions he purchased +to break his long fast, and when the train drew out of the depot the +amateur dancer, seated by the side of his employer, thought he was very +fortunate. + +Cobleskill was the town where Jet was to make his first bow before the +public, and with a costume which was rather "off color" because of +having been contributed in fragments by the different members of the +company, he stepped on the stage feeling just a trifle nervous. + +To the surprise of his professional companions Jet gave a really +presentable performance. + +It is true some of his steps were not exactly artistic, but he made up +in quantity what might have been lacking in quality, and the applause +received was enough to make him proud. + +"Say, my boy, you'll make a success of this thing if you do a little +studying," the manager exclaimed when Jet finished his turn. "I'll +give you ten dollars a week and pay all your expenses if you want to +keep on the road with us." + +"I don't reckon I'll stay more than the three nights we talked about, +'cause you see I've got some work to do when we strike Cooperstown +Junction." + +"You'll be glad enough to drop it when you see what kind of a place it +is." + +During the remainder of the evening Jet had nothing to do save watch +the other performers from the wings, and but for the fear that the +inspector might send an officer to arrest him, he would have enjoyed +himself hugely. + +On the following day he took part in the street parade at the next +stopping place, and during the afternoon read everything concerning the +tragedy he could find in the hotel reading-room papers. + +He did not gain any great amount of information, however. + +The particulars of the murder were related at greater length, and it +was said that several promising clews were being followed, but no +details were given concerning the work of the detectives. + +"Jest as likely as not I'll surprise people before this thing is over. +If I can get on the track of them men Something is goin' to happen for +a fact." + +He had already begun to speculate on the anticipated triumph when he +should, unaided, bring the guilty men to justice, as his gaze fell on +an advertisement displayed in large type: + + +INFORMATION WANTED. + +A suitable reward will be paid for information as to the whereabouts of +Jethro Lewis. The said boy is fourteen years of age, medium size, +curly hair, and when last seen wore a suit of grey clothes with a +district messenger's cap, on which were the figures 48. + +Address + X. Y. Z., _Herald_ office. + + +"The inspector is after me," Jet whispered as the paper fell from his +grasp. "Now my jig is up, an' I reckon there's no chance but that I'll +have to go to jail." + +Jet tore the advertisement from the sheet lest it should be seen by +some member of the company, and then went at once to the theater, where +he could remain screened from view of the townspeople. + +The one thought in his mind was that all would be well if he could get +on the track of those who had kidnapped him, and he blamed himself +severely for not having gone straight on to Cooperstown Junction, +instead of remaining with the company, but how that might have been +done while he was penniless was something he did not attempt to solve. + +"I won't stay any longer than to-night," he said to himself as the +curtain was raised for the evening's performance, and the stage manager +warned him to be ready for his cue. "There must be some way of getting +over to that place without waiting for the company." + +On this night he felt more confidence in himself, having had two +rehearsals with the leader of the orchestra, and at the signal went +before the audience confidently. + +On the previous performance he had not dared to look at the people, but +kept his eyes on the stage. Now, however, he glanced around, and the +dance was hardly begun before he brought it to a close, the musicians +gazing at him in surprise. + +The cause of his sudden stopping was startling enough to have +disconcerted a much older performer. + +Facing him, and not more than two rows of seats from the stage, sat the +two men he was so anxious to meet. + +"Go on!" the leader of the orchestra whispered hoarsely, and from the +wings he heard the angry command of the stage manager: + +"Get to work, boy! Do you want to queer the whole show?" + +Jet nerved himself to begin the dance, but he was so exceedingly +awkward that several of the audience guyed him, a fact which deprived +him of the small remnant of self-possession remaining. + +Without stopping to consider what the result might be, he ran at full +speed from the stage, and the spectators hooted and yelled derisively. + +"What is the matter with you?" the manager asked fiercely, as he shook +Jet until his teeth chattered. + +"Them men are there!" the boy cried brokenly. "I must go right out an' +get hold of them." + +"You'll go and stay, you little villain! If you couldn't dance I +wouldn't say a word, but I know what you are able to do. Where are you +off to now?" + +"I want to change these clothes so's I can go around to the front of +the house." + +"What for?" + +"Them men are there, an' I've got to find out where they're stopping." + +"What are they to you? + +"Don't stop to ask questions now, but let me go!" Jet cried, +impatiently, as he tore himself from the angry man's grasp, threw off +the stage costume and ran from the building. + +With no idea his enemies had recognized him, he continued on without +fear until reaching the corner of the building, where one of the men +was standing half hidden by the shadow. + +The fellow's hand was raised, and as Jet came up he struck the boy a +crashing blow on the head with a stout stick, felling him to the ground +like one suddenly deprived of life. + + + + +CHAPTER V + +BAFFLED + +When Jet regained consciousness he was lying on the ground alone, +feeling dizzy and suffering from a most severe pain in his head. + +He raised his hand as if to relieve the anguish, and found that his +hair was matted together with a certain sticky substance, which, by aid +of a light from a near-by lamp, he discovered to be blood. + +From the theater music could be heard, thus telling that the +performance had not yet been brought to a close. + +It was only after the greatest difficulty that Jet rose to his feet, +looked around for an instant as if expecting another attack, and then +staggered toward the stage entrance. + +He spent ten minutes covering a distance of twenty yards, and, on +opening the door, was greeted by one of the company, who had evidently +come out for a breath of fresh air. + +"You had better not let the manager see you until after he cools off a +little more, for---- What is the matter, lad?" + +This last question after the boy's pale and blood-stained face could be +seen. + +"Somebody struck me." + +"Struck you? It looks more as if they had been trying to kill you." + +"Perhaps that was what they did want to do," and Jet half-seated +himself, half-fell on a trunk. + +However aggrieved the members of the company may have felt because of +Jet's failure, none of them were so hard-hearted as to ignore the fact +of his suffering. Those not on the stage were immediately summoned by +the boy's questioner, and in a very few seconds a messenger had been +sent in search of a surgeon. + +"Don't bother about me; I'll be all right in a little while," Jet +managed to say, and then he fainted. + +It was soon found that the boy's injuries, while severe, were not +dangerous. + +The scalp had been laid open to such an extent that half a dozen +stitches were necessary to close the wound, and the surgeon said, +reassuringly, as he bandaged the cut: + +"He has lost considerable blood, which accounts for his weak condition. +It will be some time before he feels all right again; but he'll come +around in good shape." + +"Will it do him any harm to keep on traveling with us?" the manager +asked. + +"Let him be quiet, and I don't anticipate any evil results. Do you +know how it happened?" + +"No. He was very anxious to see some one in the audience, and I fancy +he went out immediately after breaking down in his act." + +"Then send around at once and learn if anybody left the hall just +before the assault." + +This suggestion was acted upon immediately, and the doorkeeper stated +that two men, one tall and the other of medium height, went out very +soon after Jet ran off the stage. + +"It must have been some fellow who had a grudge against him, and he +broke down from fright at seeing the man; but I don't fancy it will do +much good to attempt to trace the matter. Show people can't afford to +fool around a town waiting for the delays of the law when they are +billed to play in other places, therefore the whole thing had better be +dropped." + +The surgeon received his fee and left the invalid after advising that +he be kept perfectly quiet. + +The performers continued their efforts to amuse, and Jet, lying on a +pile of wardrobe stuff, with the music of the orchestra and the +applause of the audience ringing in his ears, tried to decide upon his +course of action. + +"I'll have to leave the show here an' find them fellers," he thought to +himself, and then the pain of his wound prevented any further study of +the detective work he hoped to perform. + +It so chanced, however, that he did not carry out this resolution. + +When morning came he was too sick to have much choice in the matter, +and the kind-hearted manager said as he wrapped the boy in an old +overcoat: + +"We'll take him along in the hope of his getting better. If he don't +improve in a day or two he can be left in some other town, for it's +certain his life isn't safe in this place. Those fellows hit to kill +last night, and on a second attempt might be more successful." + +It was forty-eight hours before Jet fully realized the condition of +affairs, and then the show was nearly a hundred miles from the scene of +the attack. + +"Have we passed Cooperstown Junction?" he asked of the manager as the +performers boarded a train. + +"Bless your heart, lad, we left that desolate place behind us the +morning after you were hurt." + +"How can I get back there?" + +"I shan't allow you to try it yet awhile. In your present condition it +would be as much as your life is worth to make the attempt." + +"But I must go." + +"See here, Jet, why not tell me what is on your mind? I might be able +to help you." + +"Some time you shall know all about it; but not now." + +"Just as you please," was the impatient reply. "Will you be able to do +a turn to-night?" + +"I must get off the train at the next station." + +"Not much." + +"That's what I've got to do. You've been mighty good to me, but I +can't go any farther from New York." + +"How will you get back without money?" + +"Walk, if there isn't any other way." + +It was useless for the manager to make any protest. He was eager to +keep Jet with the company, for he had seen that he could please the +public; but after quite a lengthy conversation the boy's determination +was so strong that it would have been useless to oppose him further. + +"Well, if I can't help myself, I suppose you must go. Here are a +couple of dollars to help out on the trip, and I hope you'll win, +whatever's in the wind." + +"When does the train stop?" + +"In less than ten minutes." + +Jet made his preparations for leaving by removing the coat which one of +the company had contributed for his comfort, but the manager insisted +that he keep it, and when he stepped upon the platform of a small +station while the train continued on, it was with a very decided sense +of loneliness. + +His first care was to buy a new hat. + +His messenger's cap was too conspicuous, and afforded positive means of +identification in case he met with any one who had read the +advertisement. + +Then came the question as to whether he should return by the train at +the expense of his small capital, or walk at the expense of time. + +"It ain't certain they stayed in that town after knockin' me down, an' +I stand as good a chance of meetin' 'em on the road as anywhere else, +so I'll tramp it." + +After investing twenty cents in crackers and cheese, and consulting +with the station master as to whether it would be advisable for him to +follow the track or the carriage road, Jet set out on his journey. + +"Counting ties" was not as easy a job as he had fancied, and after an +hour's steady walking he sat down to rest a short distance from the +road, in the shelter of a shanty which looked as if it might originally +have been intended for a tool-house when that portion of the road was +being built. + +He had not yet fully recovered from the effects of the murderous blow, +and the steady traveling tired him to such an extent that it became +necessary to lie down. + +The natural result of this indulgence was that he soon fell asleep, and +even the rumbling of the trains as they passed failed to awaken him, +until after some time, when he became aware of a tugging and pulling at +his coat. + +Opening his eyes, he saw crouching by his side about as villainous a +looking tramp as one would care to meet. + +"What are you up to?" Jet cried angrily, as he attempted to rise to his +feet, but was prevented by the man, who threw one arm around the boy's +body. + +"Lay still, sonny, an' nobody shan't hurt you." + +"Take your hand out of my pocket!" and Jet cautiously drew up his legs +ready for a sudden dash. + +"Now don't get into a fidget; I'm only tryin' to find out if you've got +a license to travel over this 'ere road." + +The fellow was now doing his utmost to get at the contents of his +prisoner's pockets, and although the special one on which he was +working contained nothing of value, Jet did not intend to submit to the +indignity. + +He had drawn his feet up as far as possible, and was ready for the +struggle. + +Striking the man a blow in the eye with his disengaged hand, he kicked +upward an instant later, hitting the tramp fairly on the back of the +head as he involuntarily sprang backwards from the effects of the pain. + +This vigorous treatment sufficed to break the hold, and Jet sprang to +his feet just in time to avoid a vicious blow. + +"Try to get the best of me will you?" the man cried, savagely, as he +picked up a heavy cane which lay near by, keeping his eye meanwhile on +the boy. + +Jet knew he must do his best, or suffer for what had been done. + +He could see nothing which would serve as a weapon, and was thinking it +might be best to make a break for freedom, when the man sprang upon him. + +Luckily he succeeded in avoiding a blow from the cane, by seizing with +both hands the tramp's right arm, and then came a desperate struggle. + +Not for a moment did he dare to release his hold lest the fellow should +be able to use his weapon, and in the meanwhile he was pummeled soundly. + +The man's left hand was at liberty, and with it he showered blow after +blow on the boy's body. + +Jet managed to screen his face by using the tramp's arm as a shield, +and, finding that he was getting the worst of it darted forward at the +same time he kicked with all his strength. + +This sudden attack sent the man to the ground, and as he fell Jet +wrested the cane from his grasp. + +"It's my turn now!" he cried, as the fellow scrambled to his feet in a +rage. "Make tracks out of this mighty fast or I'll break every bone in +your body!" + +The man glared at him fiercely for an instant, and then, stepping back +a few paces, shouted loudly in a peculiar tone. + +"Stop that!" and Jet ran forward with the stick uplifted. "Don't you +dare to bring your friends here." + +"You spoke a leetle too late, sonny, for they're coming." + +Jet glanced quickly down the track, where could be seen two others of +the same sort as his adversary, running at full speed. + +"I reckon we won't have any trouble about huntin' for your license +now," the fellow said with a grin as he retreated to a safe distance. + +Jet hesitated an instant. + +He knew that it would be useless to make a stand-up fight against all +three, but yet at the same time flight was impossible, because of his +exhaustion, caused by the struggle with the tramp. + +Looking quickly around, he observed that the door of the shanty was +open, hanging by one hinge. + +The hut might serve as a place of refuge until some of the section +hands should come that way and he leaped into the building. + +Wrenching the door from its fastening, he pulled it inside, and set it +up lengthwise as a sort of a barrier. + +"They'll have to come within reach of this cane before getting at me, +an' it'll be hard luck if I don't give a good account of myself for a +little while," he said, as with compressed lips, he waited for the +battle which he knew must soon begin. + + + + +CHAPTER VI + +THE BATTLE + +The two tramps who were coming down the track halted on reaching the +one who had attacked Jet, and all had a brief conversation, which +evidently concerned the occupant of the shanty. + +Jet watched every movement, but while they were talking he had an +opportunity to gaze around the hut in the hope of seeing other means of +defense. + +It was empty, with the exception of a pile of straw in one corner, +which most likely had served as a bed for these or other tramps. + +"There's nothing for it but to stand up here as long as possible, and +perhaps somebody will come along before they can get the best of me," +he said grimly. "If things are going on at this rate, it would have +been better for me if I'd stayed with the show, for this isn't doin' +very much toward findin' the murderers." + +The men had finished their conversation, and were now approaching the +shanty. + +Jet raised the heavy cane, and stood ready for the battle. + +It was not to begin as quickly as he thought, for the three men halted +a few yards away, and one of them said, in a wheedling tone, as he +stepped several paces nearer: + +"See here, sonny, we're poor, hard-workin' carpenters out of a job. +There's no need of havin' trouble with you; but we're that hungry as to +make a fight seem pleasant alongside of suckin' our thumbs an' eatin' +wind-puddin' all the time." + +"What do you mean by all that?" + +"Nothin' more'n to let you know how we're fixed." + +"It doesn't concern me." + +"There's where you're makin' a big mistake, sonny. You've got money +an' we're broke, so it's nothin' more'n fair you should whack up." + +"I'm no better off than you are, or I wouldn't be walking instead of +riding on the cars." + +"Then come out like a man an' show us what you have got." + +"I'd be a fool to do that, for it's none of your business." + +"Now you're makin' another mistake. We've been put here to find out +sich things." + +"There's no use of all this chinning, for I'm not a fool," Jet cried, +angrily. "I shan't come out, nor will you have a chance to rob me." + +"I'm sorry you won't listen to reason, for we may have to treat you +mighty rough before this job is finished." + +"Do the best you know how, but remember that I'm going to have +something to say first," and Jet swung the cane threateningly. + +"Better take him right out; we'll have visitors before long, an' it +won't do to have sich a cub around," the leader of the party said, as +he advanced, after having armed himself with several huge rocks. + +Now the battle began in downright earnest. + +Almost before Jet understood that the men were ready to make the attack +a shower of stones were hurled against the shanty, and two came +unpleasantly near his head as they were flung through the door. + +"If one of them hits me the jig is up," Jet muttered, dodging his head +barely in time to escape a huge fragment which would have crushed his +skull like an eggshell. + +"We'll give you one more chance to come out peaceable like," the leader +cried, as he motioned for his companions to cease firing. + +If it had not been for the ignominy of backing down from the bold stand +he had taken, Jet would have accepted the invitation. + +The small amount of money in his possession did not warrant a risk of +life, and then again he was but delaying the real purpose of his life +by remaining. + +His pride prevented him from surrendering, and he made no reply. + +Again the men advanced with a shower of stones, and now they were so +near that Jet could only find shelter by hugging the side of the hut +nearest the door. + +"Can't some of you hit him?" the leader asked, angrily. "We mustn't +keep the fun up very long, for the boss is bound to come mighty soon, +an' there'll be a row that amounts to something if he finds us foolin' +like this." + +These words caused the men to renew their efforts, and twice did Jet +receive a severe blow on the body before he found an opportunity to +return the compliment. + +Then one of the fellows, leaning over the barricade in order to take +better aim, presented a fair target. + +Jet brought the cane down on his head with full force, and the fellow +fell to the ground like one dead. + +A roar of rage went up from the others, but they prudently fell back a +short distance, dragging their companion with them. + +"You see it isn't going to be so one-sided as you fancied," Jet cried. +"Now haul off an' I'll leave without saying another word." + +"You won't have much more chance to talk," the leader cried, savagely, +as he gathered another armful of rocks; but before he could renew the +attack a shout from the distance caused him to drop his weapons very +suddenly. + +"The boss has come, an' now we shall get a tongue-lashing!" one of the +fellows said, as if in alarm. + +"I reckon that won't hurt us very much," the leader replied, but at the +same time he dropped the rocks, and stood ready to receive the +new-comer. + +Jet could not see the track from where he was standing, but he heard +what sounded like a familiar voice ask, sharply: + +"Now what kind of deviltry are you fellers into?" + +"Trying to drive out a rat we've got cornered in here." + +"Same old tricks, eh? Well, some of these days you'll bite off more +than can be chewed easily, an' then the jig will be up for all hands. +Can't you act decent one day in a month?" + +"That depends. When we're left alone three or four weeks on mighty +short allowance, it stands us in hand to look out for ourselves," the +leader of the party replied, insolently. + +"Take care of your tongue, my friend, or there'll be something else +needin' care precious soon. Let me see your game." + +Jet heard the sound of rapid footsteps, and an instant later the tall +man whom he had such good cause to remember was standing at a safe +distance trying to peer into the shanty. + +"Hello!" he cried, in surprise, as he recognized the boy. "It seems +that you've been doin' a lucky stroke of business without knowing it. +Don't let him give you the slip, an' bring him over to the house as +soon as possible." + +"Somebody you know?" one of the fellows asked. + +"Yes, a boy who has found out too much for his own good, and he must be +kept mighty close." + +"It wouldn't take long to fix that for you," was the significant reply. + +"We may have to do it; but Bob is agin that kind of business, an' to +humor him we must keep the cub awhile." + +"Has Bob come back?" + +"He must be at the house by this time." + +"Have you brought grub?" + +"Of course not. Do you think we travel around the country loaded down +like pack horses?" + +"Better do that than go hungry." + +"Is everything used up?" + +"Yes, or we shouldn't be down here." + +"I'll see to layin' in a stock, an' there shall be plenty to drink. +When you can get hold of the boy, come along; I'll start now." + +The man disappeared from view, and the sound of his footsteps told that +he was walking rapidly away in the direction from which he had +approached. + +"What a fool I was to stay here fightin' for less than two dollars, +when by giving it up I might have been half a mile from here before +that villain came!" Jet said, bitterly, as he nerved himself for what +he knew must be the final struggle. + +He had good cause for fear. + +After the instructions which had been given there was little chance the +men would let him slip through their fingers, and, with such an +incentive on their part, there was no hope the struggle could be +prolonged. + +The man whom he had stricken down was now on his feet, vowing +vengeance, and ready to continue the fight. + +"Close right in on him," the leader said as he seized a stout rail from +a near-by fence. "He can only hit one blow, and the job is ended." + +"I'll give them a chance to remember me," Jet said, as he stood ready +for the attack, and the words had hardly come into his mind before the +men were in front of him. + +Striking out with all his strength, his cane came in contact with the +leader's weapon, shattering the former, and the fight was over. + +Two of the men seized him by the arms, and the third amused himself by +slapping the helpless boy in the face until tired of the sport. + +"Tie his hands, an' we'll mosey along. Joe is after something to +drink, an' we must be there in time to get our share." + +One of the party had rope enough in his pocket to obey the order, and +in a twinkling Jet's arms were bound so tightly to his sides as to +cause great pain. + +During all this time he had not spoken a word, but he did a "power of +thinking." + +In the first place he scrutinized his captors carefully, in order to be +able to give a perfect description of them in case he succeeded in +making his escape, and then took a good survey of the surrounding +country, that he might find his way back again. + +"Now get along, an' walk sharp, or what I have given you will seem no +more than a flea-bite alongside of the whalin' you'll get," the leader +said as one of the party started off, and he pushed Jet behind him. + +The prisoner could do no less than obey, and despite the disadvantage +of walking with his hands tied, he managed to keep pace with the +others. During nearly half an hour the party continued on at a rapid +pace, turning out of the railroad track about a quarter of a mile from +the shanty, and striking directly through the woods. + +At the end of this time they had arrived at what appeared to be little +more than a clearing in the woods, where was situated a rude log house +of two stories, around which was piled a complete circle of cordwood +not less than six feet high. + +It may have been cut for fuel, but it would serve admirably as +breast-works if the place was attacked by officers. + +A small outbuilding, which was evidently used as a stable, stood +fifteen or twenty feet in the rear of the main building, inside the +circle of wood, and near the door were tied two savage looking dogs, +who tugged and pulled at their chains, while they barked loudly as the +party approached. + +"If we had left them loose, I don't reckon either the boss or Bob would +have cared to come very near while we were away," the leader of the +party said grimly, as he went toward the stable, leaving the others in +charge of the prisoner. + +"There ain't much chance I'll ever be able to tell the inspector what +I've been doing," Jet thought as he entered the enclosure formed by the +fuel, and was led toward the single door of which the house boasted. +"Those dogs would be worse than a hundred men if a fellow was trying to +sneak off." + +He had no further opportunity for speculation just then, for the men +pushed him roughly into the house, and he stood in front of the short +man who had so successfully acted the part of a gentleman at the Union +Square Hotel. + + + + +CHAPTER VII + +A BOLD ATTEMPT + +"It seems to be pretty hard to get rid of you," the man said, with a +grin as Jet stood in front of him. + +"I can't say it's my fault." + +"Perhaps not, and it shan't be ours in the future. Where have you +been?" + +"Trying to earn money enough to pay my way back home." + +"We'll provide you a job here. If you behave yourself things won't go +so very bad; but there'll be the very devil to pay if we find you +trying to give us the slip." + +"I shan't stay any longer'n I can help," Jet replied, stoutly. + +"We'll take good care that you can't help it for some time. Sam, take +him up stairs where the small press was; I reckon he'll be safe enough +there; and when Joe comes back turn the dogs loose." + +"Then you an' he'll have to be mighty careful about goin' into the +yard, for they'll tackle either of you as quick as they would this boy." + +"So much the better. We'll look out for ourselves. There must be work +done to-night, so get ready for it while you are up stairs." + +The fellow waited an instant as if to learn whether there were any more +directions to be given, and then dragged Jet out through a door which +led to the apartments above. + +There were no stairs connecting the first with the second story. A +stout ladder afforded the only means of ascent, and since Jet could not +make his way up this while his hands were tied, his jailor was forced +to remove the rope. + +"Now get along; but look out how you try to play any tricks, for this +is a mighty unhealthy place for anything of the kind." + +Jet had no idea of attempting to escape while the odds were so +decidedly against him, and he obeyed meekly. + +The man conducted him to a small room at the rear of the building, +which looked as if it had lately been used as a workshop, and there +left him, after locking and barring the door from the outside. + +The prisoner gazed around him curiously. + +The apartment did not contain a single article of furniture. One small +window admitted the light, and this was so heavily barred with wooden +uprights that even with a sharp saw considerable time would have been +required for the prisoner to cut through. + +In one corner was a heap of dirt and fragments of paper; the floor was +stained as if with ink, as were the walls of hewn boards. + +From the window the stable was all with the exception of trees, to be +seen. A more desolate spot could not well be imagined, and to add to +its loneliness was the fact that it must be many miles from the nearest +habitation. + +Jet had no time to speculate upon his own condition; the only thought +in his mind just then was why these men chose to live in such a +forsaken place. + +In an adjoining room he could hear some person walking around briskly, +evidently moving heavy articles from one spot to another, and from +below came the hum of conversation. + +Having nothing better to do, and still intent on trying to learn the +purpose for which this house was intended, Jet began kicking away the +pile of dirt. + +A bit of bright green attracted his attention. + +Picking it up he found to his great surprise and delight that it was a +new ten dollar bill. The fact, that it was unsigned escaped his notice. + +"Well, this isn't so bad," he said, in a tone of satisfaction. "If I +ever do get away from this place I'll have money enough to pay my fare +to New York. I s'pose it belongs to them fellers; but I'm going to +keep it, all the same, to even up for what they've done." + +Now the dirt pile had great attractions. + +He examined it closely, and had the satisfaction of finding a second +bill exactly like the first. + +"These people must have plenty of money if they can afford to leave it +around loose like this," he said, as he placed the newly found wealth +in his stocking directly beneath his foot. + +Quite a large quantity of plain paper in small strips was all that +rewarded his further search among the dirt; but he did not think there +was any cause for complaint on his part. + +"Twenty dollars will come pretty nigh settlin' for all them fellers +have done to me. Now let's try to study up a plan for gettin' out of +this place. There must be some way." + +A second examination of the window gave no encouragement, for his +strength was not sufficient to force aside the bars. + +The boards of the floor, while not nailed with any remarkable care, +defied all his attempts to remove them. + +Then he looked at the ceiling, which was composed only of the rafters +with beams, poles, and boards laid across the top, but, so far as he +could judge, unfastened. + +"I don't know as I should be any better off if I was up there; but it +won't do much harm to make a try in that direction after dark. A +fellow ought to be able to shin up the window bars." + +The more he thought of this possibility for escape the more simple did +it seem, and he resolved on putting the plan into execution. + +That the dogs were outside ready to try conclusions with any stranger +he understood very well; but it was useless to borrow trouble on this +score until learning whether there was a chance for him to descend to +their level. + +"I don't s'pose it'll amount to anything more than gettin' into the +loft, an' then coming down again; but it's better than laying still," +he said, and from that time until sunset he remained at the window +gazing out at the trees and the deep-mouthed guardians of the place. + +When, as nearly as he could judge, two hours had passed from the time +of his arrival, the tall man drove up in a springless wagon which was +apparently filled with food and liquor. + +The load was taken into the house, the horse stabled, and then the dogs +were let loose. + +That they would be very disagreeable customers with whom to have any +dispute could be well understood as they ran to and fro growling and +snarling, and despite his resolve not to borrow trouble until he knew +there was a possibility it could come, Jet could not prevent himself +from speculating upon what would happen if he suddenly appeared before +them. + +It was nearly sunset before the door of his room was opened, and then +the short man entered, bringing several slices of raw bacon, half a +loaf of bread, and a bottle of water. + +"I don't count on havin' you starve to death," he said, as he placed +the articles on the floor; "but you won't get enough to injure your +health, I reckon." + +"Why don't you let me go to New York? I haven't done anything to harm +you." + +"That is because you haven't had much of a chance as yet, except to +talk with the inspector, my boy, and we don't intend to give you one. +There isn't--" + +"Here, Bob! What's the use of chinnin' with that cub when the grub is +ready. Come down, or I won't answer that your share will be left." + +This threat had the desired effect, for Bob went out of the room very +quickly, taking good care, however, to lock and bolt the door behind +him. + +The night came; Jet could no longer distinguish objects from the +window, and the room was so dark that it was impossible to see his way +around. + +Crouching close by the window Jet heard the heavy tramp as the men came +upstairs, and by the noises he knew they had entered the apartment +adjoining his prison. + +The hum of conversation came through the rough partition quite +distinctly, and in a short time this was followed by a heavy thumping +sound at regular intervals. + +It was as if the men were pounding with a wooden mallet, except that +the blows were fully thirty seconds apart. + +Jet tried to guess what they were doing; but the effort was in vain. + +"What's the use bothering about them," he said, finally, to himself. +"So long as they stay where they are, and don't trouble me, I haven't +much right to complain, though a fellow would find it mighty hard work +to sleep in such a racket." + +It was time to make his explorations if he proposed doing so before +morning, and he arose to his feet. + +By the aid of the window bars it was not a difficult matter for one as +agile as he to clamber to the rafters above, and once there the +remainder of the task was comparatively simple. + +Hanging by one arm to the beams, with his disengaged hand he pulled +away the loose timbers and boards from above until a passage was made +for his body. + +Then raising himself by both hands he was soon standing where he could +touch the roof of the building; but unable to see his surroundings +because of the intense darkness. + +"I don't see that I am much better off up here," he muttered, grimly, +as he walked cautiously along without any very good idea of what he +expected to find. + +Just then a twinkling star was seen, and he discovered that one of the +roof-boards was badly rotted. + +Now, there was something tangible in the way of escape, and he eagerly +began to tear away the decayed wood, laying the pieces gently on the +flooring, until there was an aperture sufficiently large to admit of +his passing through. + +An instant later he was seated astride the ridge-pole, looking down +into the yard where the ferocious dogs were running wildly to and fro +as if having already scented their prey. + +Now indeed was Jet at a loss to know what to do. + +Even if the animals had not been below he would have hesitated to leap +from the roof of the building lest he should strike upon the barricade +of cord-wood with which the house was surrounded. + +He must go down regardless of the many dangers, or return to the room +where the men could murder him whenever they felt so disposed, and +after a few second's reflection he chose the former course. + +"There is one chance of getting away from the dogs, an' no show +whatever that I'll ever leave here alive unless I go now," he said, to +himself. + +Clutching at the rough boards literally with his finger-nails, he slid +slowly down toward the edge of the roof at a point farthest from the +stable. + +He could see the wall of wood directly beneath him, and hear the low +growling of the dogs as they sniffed the air to discover the cause of +the sounds which had aroused their suspicions. + +To remain very long deliberating would be to run the risk of the +animals giving an alarm, and Jet gathered himself for a spring. + +Putting forth all his strength in order to clear the obstacle, he +leaped. + +The ends of the cord-wood just grazed his clothing as he passed over +them, and Jet struck the soft ground, which gave forth no warning sound +to those who were in the building, on that side of the clearing where +the trees were nearest. + +He was unhurt, although badly shaken up, and would have started at full +speed to gain the partial shelter of the forest, but for the fact that +just then a heavy body leaped over the barricade. + +It was one of the dogs, and Jet knew he must now fight desperately if +he would live. + +A stick of wood about as thick as his wrist was the first weapon which +came to his hand as he clutched at the top of the pile to draw himself +up, and with this he awaited in silence the onset. + + + + +CHAPTER VIII + +AN ARREST + +Jet understood only too well that even if he should come off victorious +in this battle with the dog, and in so doing make sufficient noise to +be heard by the inmates of the house, all his efforts would have been +in vain. + +Although the moon had not yet risen, the light of the stars permitted +the boy to see his antagonist, who, on first striking the ground on the +outside of the barricade, stood for an instant as if at a loss to +locate the intruder. + +Jet thought it possible he might yet escape, and started toward the +shelter of the trees; but the sound of his footsteps soon told the +brute where to look for his prey. + +With a low, angry yelp he turned, standing motionless a few seconds, +during which time Jet continued to back farther away from the house in +order that there might be less chance the noise of the conflict would +be overheard. + +Then the dog crouched for a spring, and Jet, every muscle strained to +its utmost tension, stood ready to receive him. + +The battle was short. + +While the dog was yet in the air Jet struck out with the heavy stick, +and his aim was perfect. + +The club fell squarely on the brute's head, crushing the skull as if it +had been an egg-shell, and without so much as a moan the dog dropped +dead. + +There was yet another to be met, but so far he had not made his +presence known save by angry barks, and Jet ran for the woods with all +speed. + +He gained the shelter of the trees and paused for an instant to look +back. + +If he must meet the companion of the animal he had killed it would be +better to do so at the edge of the undergrowth where he could have a +fair view of his antagonist, rather than fight in the darkness where +the branches would obstruct his movements. + +No sound came from the inmates of the house to show that they had been +alarmed. + +From the window of the room where Jet had heard them moving about a +bright light could be seen, and what seemed very strange, considering +the fact that the night was far from cold, the men had built such a +roaring fire that the sparks were coming from the chimney in wreaths. + +Even where he stood Jet could hear those dull, heavy blows at regular +intervals, which, since it proved their work had not been interrupted, +showed that the men had no idea their prisoner was making his escape. + +The remaining dog was rushing to and fro barking furiously; but, +contrary to Jet's expectations, he did not leap over the barrier. + +"I don't reckon there's any use waiting longer for him. It will be +better to take my chances of fighting among the trees than to stay +until those fellows come out." + +With this thought in his mind Jet started at a rapid pace through the +woods, exerting himself to the utmost to keep ever before him the +direction of the morning's journey. + +The bread and bacon he had put in his pocket before attempting the +escape, and now as he made his way through the underbrush he ate +leisurely, for strength was the one thing needful for the successful +completion of the task, and to retain this, food was essential. + +More than once he fell over the trunk of a tree, or was thrown by the +vines which caught his feet as in a snare; but each time he arose to +his feet undismayed, and the weary tramp was continued without a halt +until considerably past midnight, when he had arrived at the railroad +track. + +With plenty of money in his pocket there was no thought of walking any +farther than necessary, and Jet's only desire was to find a depot. + +By continuing on half an hour longer in a direction opposite the one +taken by him when he met the three apparent tramps, the boy found that +for which he sought. + +The night train would be along in ten minutes, so the station-agent +said, and Jet bought a ticket for Albany. + +He had been tempted to change one of the ten-dollar bills for this +purpose; but decided not to do so after realizing that it might be +imprudent to display so much money. + +Of the amount given him by the manager of the minstrel company he had +enough left to pay for a passage and purchase something to eat in the +morning, consequently there was no necessity of using that which he had +found. + +Of the journey to Albany he knew absolutely nothing. + +The long tramp had given him an overpowering desire for sleep, and the +soft seat was rest-inviting, therefore in less than five minutes from +the time he boarded the train his eyes were closed in slumber. + +On arriving at his destination one of the brakemen awakened him with a +vigorous shaking, which would have done credit to a giant's strength, +and he went out in the early morning air decidedly refreshed. + +His plans had all been laid during the tramp through the woods, and he +knew exactly what to do. + +First breakfast was necessary, and this important duty he attended to +without delay, spending therefor the last of his change. + +It was six o'clock when he arrived at the Hudson River depot, and +learned that a train for New York would leave in a short time. + +"Give me a ticket," he said, producing one of the bills found in the +house from which he escaped. + +The ticket-seller took the money, looked at it scrutinizingly for an +instant, and then at the boy. + +"Where did you get this?" he asked. + +"Out on the road a piece. Don't think I stole it, do you?" + +"Tell me where you got it." + +"I don't know. It wasn't any town, an' I ain't acquainted 'round this +way." + +"Who gave it to you?" + +"A man." + +"Did you earn it?" + +"Say, mister, what's the matter?" and now Jet began to be alarmed, for +the ticket-agent looked very stern. + +Instead of replying the man beckoned to an officer who was standing +near by, and said, in a low tone: + +"Take this boy on a charge of passing counterfeit money. I will be up +to make a complaint as soon as I can get away." + +"Come with me," and the officer laid his hand heavily on Jet's shoulder. + +"What's the matter?" Jet asked, as he tried to release himself, but +succeeded only in getting such a choking as nearly deprived him of +breath. + +"You'd better come along without any trouble, for I don't want to club +a little shaver like you." + +"But I'm going to New York, an' that man has got my money." + +"I reckon you won't need it yet awhile." + +"Tell me what business you've got to haul me off like this?" + +"You'll find out soon enough." + +By this time quite a crowd had began to gather, and realizing that it +would be useless to make any further objections, Jet added: + +"Let up on my collar a little so's I can breathe, an' I'll go along +peaceable." + +The officer did as he had been requested, but not to such an extent +that there was any danger his prisoner would have an opportunity to +escape, and the two walked rapidly along the street followed by a +throng of boys. + +At the police station Jet was led in front of a high desk, and the +officer said in reply to a question from the sergeant: + +"Charged by the ticket-seller at the depot with passing counterfeit +money." + +The small prisoner was asked his name, age, and place of residence, to +all of which he made truthful answers, and then he was searched +thoroughly. + +As a matter of course this could only result in the finding of the +second bill, and the sergeant said, severely: + +"I reckon this isn't his first offense of the same kind. Who sent you +out to pass that money, my boy?" + +Jet hesitated. + +He had believed it would be possible for him to give such information +to the inspector as would result in the arrest of the murderers, and +was not willing to tell these officers the whole story. + +"I didn't know the money was bad," he said, after a brief time of +reflection. "Is that the only reason why you are going to keep me +here?" + +"Before the business is ended you'll find that to be serious enough." + +"But is it all?" + +"Yes." + +"Then will you send word to the inspector in New York that District +Messenger No. 48 is here, and wants to see him right away?" + +"So? You're the boy who is wanted so badly in New York, eh?" + +"I don't know anything about that; but I must see the inspector mighty +soon or it'll be too late." + +"Too late for what?" + +"That's jest what I can't tell you." + +"It may be possible I shall make you." + +"You can try; but it won't be any use, for I won't say a word to +anybody but him." + +"He has nothing to do with this case of passing counterfeit money." + +"I know it; but there's somethin' else of a good deal more importance +that he's got a finger in. It don't make any difference to me, about +the money, for I've done nothin' wrong, however you try to fix it." + +Jet spoke in such a tone of independence that the sergeant would have +made him feel the weight of his authority but for the fact that word +had been sent out from the New York Police Headquarters in such a +peculiar manner as to leave no doubt of the boy's being an important +prisoner or witness, and he could not well decline to grant the request. + +"You may think to get out of the scrape by playing this game, but I +promise you'll be in a worse box than ever if the inspector don't like +your message." + +"I'll run the risk," Jet replied, calmly, feeling that his arrest would +be a matter of but little moment if through it he should be able to +communicate with the inspector before the men in the woods would have +time to get away. + +"It would be much better if you confided in me, for just at present you +are in a disagreeable position, and I could do considerable toward +helping you." + +"We'll let things go as they are, providin' you let the inspector know +I've got to see him right away," Jet replied, and the sergeant could +not well continue the conversation. + +The small prisoner was confined in one of the cells; but due care was +taken in regard to his comfort, for by this time all in the station had +begun to look upon him as a very important person. + +Jet was not disturbed because of the fact that he had been arrested on +a charge of passing counterfeit money; already he had a shrewd +suspicion as to the value of his discoveries, and felt quite certain he +would receive a warm and friendly reception from the inspector. + + + + +CHAPTER IX + +THE DETECTIVE + +The only thing which troubled Jet as he sat alone in the narrow cell +was the possibility that the inspector might not get his message in +time to bag the suspected men before they left the house in the woods, +for now that he had made his escape, it was reasonable to suppose they +would be alarmed. + +On this score, however, he need have had little fear. Before sunset a +gentleman was ushered into his cell and the door locked behind him. + +"You wanted to see the inspector," the stranger began, as he seated +himself on the narrow bench which served as a bed. + +"Well, s'posin' I did?" Jet asked, thinking this man was some one +attached to the station. + +"He has sent me to know where you have been." + +"Did you come from New York?" + +"Yes, on the last train." + +"Why didn't the inspector come?" + +"He never leaves the city; there are plenty of officers at headquarters +to do such work. Now, what do you know?" + +"More'n I'll tell to anybody but him." + +"In that case I shall have to take you back to the city." + +"But then it will be too late; them fellers are bound to skip when they +find out I've got away." + +"What fellows?" + +Jet looked up suspiciously. + +"I don't want to say a word to anybody but the inspector." + +"I told you he sent me to do the business. You can talk as freely as +to him." + +"Who are you?" + +"Detective Harvey." + +"From New York?" + +"See here, my boy, I don't blame you for having doubts, and to set them +at rest I'll prove that what I say is true," and the detective pounded +on the bars of the cell door until the turnkey appeared. + +"I wish you would ask the sergeant to step this way a moment." + +That officer obeyed the summons at once, and when he stood at the door +the detective said to him: + +"Will you kindly tell this boy who I am? He is afraid I am sailing +under false colors." + +"You are Detective Harvey, sent by the inspector at New York in answer +to a telegram I wired this morning. To give him perfect confidence in +you I will say further that at present he is confined for passing +counterfeit money, but if you should ask to have him released I +guarantee that the charge will be withdrawn. Are you satisfied now, my +boy?" + +"Yes, I reckon it's all right. I'll take the chances; but if you +fellers are playin' any game, the inspector is bound to raise a +terrible row when I see him." + +"That part of it is all right. Tell Harvey what you know, and I answer +for it that it will be the same as if the inspector himself was here." + +With this remark the sergeant walked away, and Jet said in a low tone: + +"Now I'll tell the whole story; but first I want to know why that +advertisement about me was put in the papers?" + +"We thought those two men might have gotten hold of you, more +especially since the manager at the district messenger station reported +that you spoke of being hired to go to Yonkers." + +Jet now gave, with careful attention to detail, the story of his +misadventures from the time of leaving the Union Square Hotel, and +Detective Harvey received the information with no slight degree of +excitement. + +"I suppose the bills you found in the pile of dirt are in the +sergeant's hands," he said, half to himself, when Jet concluded. + +"I reckon so; anyway, they took both away from me." + +"We will go up stairs and look at them. If I'm not mistaken, my boy, +we shall run to earth the gang who are flooding the country with the +most dangerous counterfeit known, at the same time that we bag the +murderers. Do you think you could lead me to the house in the woods?" + +"I'm certain of it; but we shall have to walk a long distance." + +"I wouldn't grumble if it was fifty miles, providing we finally +succeeded. Come with me." + +Again he summoned the turnkey, ordered him to open the door, and said +to Jet: + +"Follow me." + +"Ain't they goin' to keep me here any longer?" + +"I should say not. You heard what the sergeant said, and we must be +out of this town within an hour." + +Jet followed his conductor up stairs, and in a few moments the two were +in earnest consultation with the Albany Chief of Police. + +The counterfeits were found to be the same which had given the +authorities so much trouble. They were so well executed as to pass +without suspicion in the majority of cases, and the fact that the two +discovered by Jet were imperfect impressions, which had been thrown +aside by the makers, was, probably, the only cause of their having been +refused by the ticket-seller. + +"It is lucky you were arrested," Harvey said in a tone of satisfaction. + +"Why?" Jet asked in surprise. "It wasn't any fun to stay in that +little cell all day." + +"I can fancy not; but if you had come to New York a great deal of time +would have been wasted, and as it is we can start in search of those +fellows at once." + +"But you an' I can't handle the crowd if they show fight." + +"We don't intend to try. When we leave this town our party will be +large enough." + +"How many men do you want?" the chief asked the detective. + +"Two, providing they are ready at once." + +"I suppose you will go a certain portion of the way on the train?" + +"Certainly." + +"On that road the next one leaves in about an hour. I will have the +best men I know of waiting at the depot. Is there anything else to be +done?" + +"Not now. Jet and I will go for dinner, and meet you at the station. +Can you lend the boy a revolver; one more weapon may come in handy in +case of a fight, and unless those fellows have already made a change of +base I reckon we shall have a lively time." + +The chief gave Jet a weapon and plenty of cartridges, and District +Messenger No. 48 felt exceedingly proud as he walked out of the station +with the revolver in the inside pocket of his coat. + +Harvey was no niggard so far as caring for the comfort of his small +assistant was concerned. + +A dinner at the Delavan House such as Jet had never set down to before +was indulged in, and when the messenger arose from the table it was +with the sensation of being full almost to bursting. + +To the boy's relief Harvey informed him that the inspector never for a +moment believed he had run away; but attributed his absence to exactly +the true cause, and all which had been done toward finding him was with +this view of the case. + +"It will be a mighty big thing for you if we succeed to-night," the +detective added, "for the rewards which have been offered, both for the +counterfeiters and the murderers, amount to no small sum, a portion of +which will, of course, belong to you." + +"I'm satisfied if I make wages out of the thing; but it's too bad that +money I found wasn't good, for I allowed to put the most of it away +so's to pay my board till I got another job." + +"You needn't hunt very far for work if this thing turns, out all right. +I'll take care of that part of it." + +Since Jet was to be the guide on the expedition his advice was asked +for when the tickets were purchased, and in order to be certain of his +bearings he thought best to return to the town where he boarded the +cars during his flight. + +Two officers, dressed in citizens' clothes, reported to Harvey at the +depot, and one would say, judging from their personal appearance, that +they were well able to cope with twice the number of desperate +characters who might be found in the house in the woods. + +It was late in the evening when the party alighted from the train, and +Jet set out up the track leading the way, until he arrived at the point +where he emerged from the woods. + +"This is the place," he said, pointing to the trunk of a dead tree. "I +took especial notice of that so's I'd be able to know where to strike +in again." + +"In what direction is the house situated?" Harvey asked. + +"About there," and Jet pointed toward the north. + +"Do you think you could find it in the night?" + +"I'm certain I could when it was light; but there is a long distance to +walk, so what's to hinder our goin' as far as I traveled, an' then +waiting for morning." + +"It's a good idea. Go ahead, and when you think we are far enough, +call a halt." + +"I don't fancy camping in the woods all night, and that is about what +you are preparing to do," one of the Albany officers said, grumblingly. + +"This is a case where we must put up with considerable discomfort for +the sake of bagging our game. Let the boy do as he chooses; I'll +answer for it that he's got brains enough to lead us right." + +Harvey was ready to undergo any discomfort in order to gain the desired +end; but his companions were not as enthusiastic. They complained at +being under the guidance of a boy in whom they did not feel the most +perfect confidence, and Harvey was obliged to speak very harshly before +they would consent to follow. + +Jet led the way with no slight degree of mental disquietude. + +If he failed to conduct the party correctly it might be said he was +playing the traitor, and the task set for him was a difficult one, +considering the fact that he had only been over the ground once before. + +Nevertheless he was willing to do all in his power, trusting for +success to the chapter of accidents rather than any especial skill of +his own, and the men followed close at his heels. + +During his flight he had noted carefully all the prominent landmarks, +and the fact that he had seen them only in the night aided him now. + +During at least four hours he advanced at a rapid pace, stopping now +and then to take counsel with Harvey, and at the expiration of that +time he said, as he pointed toward a clump of alder bushes: + +"There is where I first began the tramp after the fight with the dog." + +"Are you certain of that?" + +"You can make sure by crawling through the bushes three or four hundred +yards, when the house should be in sight." + +"I'll go ahead now. If I get off the course, stop me," and Harvey took +command of the party. + +That Jet had made no mistake was shown ten minutes later when the +outlines of the building with its barricade of cord-wood could be seen +against the gray sky. + +The house was wrapped in darkness, presenting a striking contrast with +the scene as viewed by Jet a few hours previous, and the latter said +mournfully: + +"I reckon all hands have skipped." + +"It won't take us long to find out, for we'll overhaul the place at +once." + + + + +CHAPTER X + +ONE PRISONER. + +The brute guardian of the house was at his post, as was soon learned +when the new-comers drew nearer. + +The deep baying of the dog was heard before the party had gained the +edge of the woods where an unobstructed view of the house could be had, +and Jet whispered to Harvey in a tone of satisfaction: + +"It's a good thing I killed the other, for now there can't be much of a +fight with only one to be taken care of." + +"Does that wood-pile run all around the house?" the detective asked. + +"It does, so far as I could see, except at the gate." + +"Where is that?" + +"To the right." + +"How high is it?" + +"About the same as the wood-pile, and made of planks." + +It was evident the place had been built with especial reference to +sustaining an attack, and there seemed little chance but that it would +be stoutly defended. + +"Three men inside could snap their fingers at a hundred," Harvey said, +half to himself; "but at the same time four on the outside could keep a +dozen of them prisoners." + +"You are bound to have a fight," Jet whispered. + +"There's little doubt about that, my boy. You are to stay under cover +of the barricade near the gate while we rush in." + +"Why don't I go with you?" + +"Because there's too much danger. It will be enough if you prevent any +of the crowd from giving us the slip." + +"But I want to do my share; it was through me that you found out where +they were, and it isn't fair to make me stay behind?" + +"You're a brick, my boy," Harvey exclaimed as he grasped Jet's hand +warmly. "If we finish this work all right I'll show you a chance to +earn a living, for you shall be my partner." + +"Do you mean it?" Jet cried, speaking incautiously loud in his +excitement. + +"Every word; but we'll drop the matter now and attend to business. +I've got a general idea of the lay of the land, and there must be no +more time wasted. Keep close behind me." + +Harvey then held a whispered conversation with his companions, during +which it was decided that the barricade should be scaled near the gate, +and the dog silenced, if possible, in the manner Jet settled the other +one. + +"Don't shoot unless it is absolutely necessary," Harvey said in +conclusion, "for we must take those fellows by surprise." + +"It isn't likely they've been obliging enough to leave the door open so +we can walk in," one of the party suggested. + +"By attacking that with the heaviest sticks of cordwood after the brute +is killed, we should be able to pound our way through in a very few +seconds. Now come on, and work lively after we are in the yard." + +Harvey led the way, and on arriving at the gate it was found to be an +extremely difficult point at which to effect an entrance, because of +its height, therefore the plan was so far changed as to move farther +toward the rear of the building, where the party began clambering the +wood. + +During all this time the dog had kept up a furious barking, and when +Harvey stood on the top of the barricade ready to leap down, the animal +was directly beneath him ready for a spring. + +It would have been an easy matter to shoot him then and there; but the +detective was not willing to discharge his weapon, and, armed with a +heavy stick, he leaped upon him. + +Unfortunately, just as he jumped some of the wood rolled from beneath +his feet, and he was turned in such a manner that he fell prostrate +before the enraged brute. + +In another instant, and before he could have scrambled to his feet, the +dog would have had him by the throat but for Jet, who was on the alert +for just such an accident. + +In a twinkling he was inside the enclosure, and the remainder of the +party hardly had time to understand what had happened before his club +descended on the animal's head. + +One such blow was sufficient to put an end to this portion of the +battle, and when Harvey stood erect once more the dog was still in +death, save for the muscular twitching of his body. + +Again Harvey clasped the boy by the hand, for the latter's timely +action had saved the man from severe wounds, if nothing more serious, +and then all advanced cautiously toward the house. + +Listening at the door an instant, not a sound could be heard. + +From the silence all believed the men had made their escape, but yet it +would not be wise to take that for granted. + +Harvey raised his weapon, looked around to make certain his companions +were ready to join in the assault, and then whispered: + +"Now! Strike together, and keep it up till something gives way." + +The words had hardly been spoken when the heavy sticks of wood were +launched against the door, and before a second blow could be given the +report of a revolver rang out sharp and angry on the night air. + +"We have got them!" the detective shouted triumphantly, for there was +no reason why they should remain silent. "Work quickly, boys!" + +Again and again were the blows delivered, causing the barrier to +splinter and creak on its hinges, and the fusillade of shots was kept +up during this portion of the task. + +The assaulting party were so near within the shadow of the building +that those inside, who appeared to be in the upper story, could not +take good aim without exposing themselves, and the bullets fled wide of +their mark. + +Crash! Crash! + +With each blow portions of the door were splintered off, until, before +one hardly had time to count twelve from the beginning of the assault, +the besiegers had free access to the building. + +"Let one stay here and the others follow me!" Harvey cried, as he drew +his revolver and rushed at full speed up the ladder. + +Jet was close at his heels. He intended to take a man's part in the +capture, and for the time being all thought of danger was forgotten. + +The firing had come from the front room, and there Harvey ran after +gaining the upper floor. + +"Stand back, Jet, they're bound to shoot when the door is opened," he +said as he halted before the second barrier. + +"I'll take my share of it," the boy replied, and he pressed forward for +the honor of entering first, but Harvey pushed him back quickly as he +laid his hand on the wooden latch. + +To the surprise of both the door yielded readily to the hand, instead +of being locked, as was supposed. + +Harvey sprang in and Jet stepped so close behind as almost to tread on +his leader's heels. + +One man stood in the center of the apartment brandishing a revolver, +which he discharged full at the detective. + +The latter had stooped suddenly on entering, and the bullet buried +itself in the woodwork above his head. + +Quick as thought Harvey threw himself forward, overturning the defender +of the house and causing him to lose his weapon. + +"Stand guard over this fellow, and shoot him as you would a dog if he +so much as makes the least motion to get up," the detective shouted to +Jet. Then he sprang back to the ladder. "They have given us the slip. +Get into the yard while I search the other rooms." + +The Albany detectives had not yet had time to ascend, and they obeyed +at once, while Harvey ran quickly through the other rooms. + +A search of five minutes was sufficient to show that the building had +no other occupant than the prisoner whom Jet was guarding, and Harvey +returned to the front room. + +"When did your pals leave?" he asked as he slipped a pair of handcuffs +on the fellow's wrists. + +"They went away this morning. What right have you to break into +innocent men's houses?" + +"We will explain that matter later. Tell me where the others went." + +"Don't you wish you may find out?" + +"It will be better for you to give all the information possible if you +want to save your own skin." + +"I've heard roosters like you before, so there's no use in crowing to +me." + +"Can you find a light, Jet? I want to see what the scoundrel looks +like." + +"You'll see enough of me before this thing is ended," the man said with +a growl, and Harvey looked around suspiciously, so confident was the +fellow's tone. + +Jet soon found a candle on the rude affair which answered as a table, +but its light revealed nothing of importance. + +The room had no other furniture than a cot bed on which were a pile of +coarse blankets, two stools and a sort of shelf that served as a table. + +By this time the detectives had come in from the yard with the report +that nothing could be found to show when the others left. + +The stable was empty, and had evidently been so for several hours. + +"One of you stand guard over this fellow, and we will search the house. +Come on, Jet, and show me where you were imprisoned," Harvey said as he +took up the candle and left the room. + +The boy obeyed and a thorough search was made of the premises. + +To the surprise of all nothing of importance was found. + +If the men had had machinery for making counterfeit money, everything +had been taken away. + +The building contained nothing more than might have been found in any +honest dwelling, and Harvey said in a tone of disappointment: + +"They must have worked like beavers from the time it was learned the +boy had made his escape, and that fellow in the other room was pretty +near right when he made his threats, for we have broken into a building +without legal right to do anything of the kind." + +"If they had presses here we should be able to find them in the +morning, for the whole plant must be buried near by; it couldn't have +been carried away in this short time," the men from Albany suggested. + +This seemed reasonable, and Harvey decided to make a thorough search +before returning. + +The prisoner was secured to the heavy table in the back room on the +lower floor, and until daylight the party discussed the matter in all +its bearings. + +Then Harvey said as he went toward the door: + +"Now, let's get to work, and finish this job by night-fall if possible." + +At that instant he stepped outside, and at the same moment the reports +of two weapons were heard from the direction of the woods, the bullets +striking within an inch of the detective's head. + +He leaped back under cover, saying bitterly as he did so: + +"The villains are sharper than I gave them credit for, and have got us +like rats in a trap. We were allowed to come in, and now they propose +to shoot us down at their leisure, for the gang can't afford to let us +leave here alive!" + + + + +CHAPTER XI + +CLOSE QUARTERS + +If either of the party had looked at the prisoner when the shots were +heard it would have been possible to understand that he was expecting +something of the kind. + +His face lighted up with an expression of joy, and one could readily +fancy he believed the time near at hand when the tables would be turned +with a vengeance. + +Harvey was more chagrined than frightened. + +The fact that he had not suspected something of the kind when it was +learned the house had been virtually abandoned, cut deep into his +professional pride, and he blamed himself more severely than any other +member of the party could have done. + +"A child would have had more sense than to fancy they had given us the +slip and taken all their stuff with them," he said, angrily. "I have +simply done what they allowed a fool would do, and now we must pay the +piper." + +"But they'll make a mighty poor fist of trying to take us out of here," +one of the detectives said, consolingly. + +"That goes without saying; but how about our leaving when we get ready? +They have us where we can't show our noses outside, and in this +desolate spot we needn't expect any help for it would take a month of +steady work for a person to find us, and I don't reckon the house is +provisioned to stand such a siege." + +"I haven't seen anything in the way of food, and I've been into every +room." + +"Most likely you'll find that the stock of water is quite as low. +We're penned up here without a chance of helping ourselves unless we're +willing to stand a regular battle." + +"Well, I don't see why we shouldn't be able to do, that. According to +the boy's story there are only three, without counting this man, +therefore the forces are equal in numbers." + +"That is true; but they have the advantage of position by being hidden +in the woods, and we can't show our noses out of doors without the +certainty of acting as targets while they are under cover." + +It was not necessary to discuss the matter at any very great length in +order to understand that they had voluntarily entered a trap, and the +entire party gazed at each other in silence while the prisoner appeared +to enjoy the situation hugely. + +"I can't see why they want to pen us up here?" Jet said in a low tone +to Harvey when the two were in one of the rear rooms gazing from the +window, and the remainder of the party were with the prisoner. + +"It is plain enough," was the petulant reply. "When they found that +you had escaped it was quite natural to suppose you would lead officers +here. Those fellows wanted to get their precious bodies out of the +way; but yet were not willing to leave all their belongings behind. +The work was done systematically. Everything was first carried a short +distance into the woods, and a man left here on guard so we should be +certain to come into the trap." + +"Well?" + +"Well, while we are here those fellows are carting off their stuff, and +when that has been safely done we shall be allowed to go free, or they +may possibly try to rescue the prisoner, although that would be +needless, since we have no evidence against him." + +"Wouldn't things be all right if you could know where the things were +hidden?" + +"Of course; why do you ask?" + +"Because it seems to me that I might slip out of here after dark and +watch them." + +"There would be too much danger in such a job. They had rather get +hold of you than succeed in carrying the stuff away, for you are an +important witness against them, and once in their hands your lease of +life would be cut mighty short." + +"I'll run the risk of their getting hold of me." + +"But I won't, so there is no need of discussing the matter. I am going +to post the men at the windows in the hope we shall get a shot at one +of the crowd, and while that is being done you must make another search +of the house to find out what we have got in the way of water and +provisions." + +Jet obeyed at once, and the detective placed his assistants at +different points where a view of the woods could be had, impressing +upon them the importance of trying to shoot down one or more of the +besiegers. + +A search of the building failed to reveal anything which would aid in +"holding the fort." + +Not so much as a cracker could be found, and the supply of water was +hardly more than a quart, which had been left in a pail on the kitchen +table. + +Harvey had nothing to say when Jet made his report. He had joined his +assistants in trying to get a shot at the men, and seemed to think of +nothing else. + +Left to himself, Jet wandered around the building trying to devise some +means of helping his companions, and before noon he fancied he had a +plan which promised success. + +At the rear of the house next to the barn was a pile of fuel prepared +for the stove, and near by were two water barrels. + +"There is enough around to prevent them from seeing me if I crawled out +to the barn, and I'm going to do it to-night, whether Mr. Harvey is +willing or not," he said to himself as he ascended the stairs. + +All the men were on guard; but nothing suspicious had been seen. + +"There is no need of their showing themselves, and I question if more +than one is on guard," Harvey said in reply to the boy's question. + +"I want to do something," Jet said, and then he explained the plan he +had formed. "There must be an outlet from the barn at the back, and +even if there isn't I can get through all right in the darkness." + +"We can't stay idle while those fellows are carrying off their goods," +the detective said after some thought, "and I believe I will go with +you. We'll leave the others here a while, and see what it is possible +to do." + +Jet would have preferred to make the attempt alone, but he could say +nothing against the officer's decision, and the latter at once began to +make his plans. + +The two men from Albany were told what was to be tried, and cautioned +to keep the house well guarded during the absence of the others. + +"Above all things have your eyes open for the prisoner," Harvey said +warningly. "It is of the utmost importance that we hold him, and you +must shoot the fellow rather than let him give you the slip." + +A series of signals were decided upon so that the defenders might know +when their comrades were coming back; the weapons were carefully +examined to make certain they were in good working order, and then +there was nothing to be done but await the coming of night. + +All hands were both hungry and thirsty; but since nothing could be done +to relieve their wants no one complained. + +When the night had fully settled down Harvey laid his hand on Jet's +shoulder to signify that he was ready, for the prisoner was to be kept +in ignorance concerning their movements, and the two, followed by one +of the other detectives, descended to the kitchen. + +"Barricade the door as soon as we go out," the leader whispered, "for +it isn't impossible that the men have crept nearer the building since +sunset." + +"Suppose you should meet them before getting out of the house?" + +"Then we must fight alone, unless you can aid us from the upper window, +for I would rather get the worst of it than to let that fellow escape. +Follow me, Jet, and don't attempt to go ahead." + +Harvey opened the door softly, dropped to his hands and knees, and +crawled into the yard. + +Jet copied every movement, and the two worked their way toward the +barn, stopping every few feet to listen for some sound from the enemy. + +All was quiet as the grave, and not even so much as the rustling of the +leaves broke the stillness. + +The barn door was not fastened, and Harvey pulled it open a short +distance, rising to his feet as he gained the entrance. + +A moment later the two were in the building groping their way from one +point to another in the hope of finding a place of exit. + +Now Harvey stopped for a final word. + +"If it should happen that those fellows on the outside get the best of +me, make every effort to escape." + +"Not at the cost of leaving you alone." + +"At any price, so that you can telegraph in my name for more men to be +sent up." + +"Do you want the inspector to know it?" + +"No; wire the chief of police at Albany, and wait at the first station +you reach for them to come. Here is money." + +He handed Jet what seemed like quite a large roll of bills, and then +advanced in the darkness once more. + +By good fortune rather than skill he found, a moment later, that for +which he was seeking. + +A small window, used for throwing out offal, was before him, and +through this he crawled, turning, as he gained the outside, to assist +Jet. + +They were now in the shadow of the building with a cleared space of +about twenty yards to be traversed before they could gain the shelter +of the trees. + +Again the detective dropped to his hands and knees, Jet following his +example. + +Silently and cautiously they crept across the opening; but just as they +were half way it seemed to Jet as if a solid sheet of fire lighted up +the clearing, and the reports which followed were almost deafening. + +The enemy had expected exactly the move which was being made, and were +counting on killing their foes. + +Fortunately the bullets had passed over the heads of the two reclining +figures, and Jet was about to leap to his feet when Harvey said sternly: + +"Stay where you are, and give them a dose!" + +At the same instant he began firing his revolver, aiming at the place +from which the flash of weapons had been seen. + +Jet did as he was bidden until his weapon was emptied, and then he saw +Harvey leap to his feet and run at full speed diagonally across the +opening. + +He did the same, loading the weapon as he went, and just as both +reached the fringe of foliage the detective fell before the fire of +those in the woods. + +"Are you hurt?" Jet whispered as he knelt by the side of his friend +regardless of the danger. + +"They have put a bullet through my leg, and I reckon that does me up." + +"Let me try to get you back." + +"It can't be done, my boy. Remember what I told you, and start at +once." + +"But I don't want to leave you here?" + +"You must; our only hope is that you can reach a telegraph station. +Run the best you know how while I give them something to occupy their +attention." + +Jet hesitated no longer. + +It seemed cruel to desert a wounded friend; but the order had been +given, and he could not refuse to obey it. + +Harvey discharged his weapon rapidly, and the boy ran at full speed in +the opposite direction fearing he would never again see in life the man +who had promised to befriend him. + + + + +CHAPTER XII + +THE ENCOUNTER + +Jet was now traveling over a country with which he was not familiar, +and to continue on would be to take great chances of losing his way, at +least during the hours of darkness. + +It was necessary, therefore, or at least he thought so, to get into +that section of the woods over which he had previously journeyed. + +To do this he was forced to make a half circle around the building, and +as he ran, keeping at about the same distance from the house as he and +Harvey had gained, the sounds of the conflict could be distinctly heard. + +Judging from the noise, one would say at least half a dozen men were +engaged, and Jet said to himself: + +"The men from Albany are taking a hand in the row, probably firing from +the windows. If they could wipe the whole gang out there wouldn't be +any need for me to try to strike a telegraph office." + +He could not afford to await the result of the contest, however, for if +his friends were worsted just so much valuable time would be lost, and +he pressed on at full speed until, when he was near the spot where he +began his first journey, there was a rustling of the foliage in front +of him as a voice cried: + +"Hold up or I'll fire!" + +That this threat was made by one of the gang from whom he was trying to +escape there could be no question, and Jet darted aside quickly as he +cocked his revolver. + +This had hardly been done when he saw a long tongue of flame leap out +of the bushes at the right, not more than ten feet away, and a bullet +whistled so near his ear that he could hear it shrieking like a minnie +ball. + +If he could wound one of these fellows matters would be just so much +better for his friends, and jumping behind the trunk of a tree he fired +every chamber of his revolver as rapidly as possible. + +Not until the weapon was emptied did he start on his course again, +shoving cartridges in the chambers as he ran, and followed by a volley +of shots. + +It was evident he had not done any damage, and once more he wheeled and +fired. + +There was no reply to this last fusillade, and he continued the flight, +straining every muscle to outdistance the enemy in case an attempt +should be made to follow him. + +At the expiration of ten minutes he was forced to halt in order to +regain his breath, and while standing panting and blowing behind a tree +he listened for some token of the enemy. + +Not a sound, save those made by himself, broke the silence of the +forest, and there was every reason to believe he had for the second +time given the fellows the slip. + +But what about Harvey? + +In fancy he saw him lying dead or dying within the shelter of the +bushes, while the gang were making a desperate attack upon the house, +and this thought nerved him to continue the flight before he had fairly +recovered his wind. + +The journey was a succession of brief halts and mad races, for every +moment might be precious now, and he took no heed of fatigue, save when +exhausted nature literally forced him so to do. + +In less than half the time it had cost him to traverse the same +distance when no one but himself was in danger, he accomplished the +task, and stood on the platform of the station at which Harvey's party +stopped the night previous. + +The building was closed. + +While he was rattling at the door in the vain hope that there might be +a watchman inside, a resident of the town passed. + +"What's going on?" he asked in an unsteady voice which told quite +plainly why he was away from home at such an hour. + +"I want to send a very important telegram." + +"Well send--hic--her if you wanter." + +"Where is the operator?" + +"At home, I reckon, if he ain't, that's where he oughter be this time +in the morning." + +"Do you know when he will be here?" + +"'Bout midnight, if he counts on lookin' out for the express." + +"Can you tell me what time it is now?" + +It was rather a difficult matter for the tipsy party to get at his +watch; but he was in an obliging mood, and after some trouble succeeded +in clutching the timepiece. + +"Come here an' see for yourself," he said, after trying in vain to make +out the position of the hands. "I reckon I must have bought four or +five watches by the looks of these, though I'm blest if I remember +anything about it." + +"You've only got one there," Jet said, as he gazed over the stranger's +shoulder. "It lacks only ten minutes of being twelve o'clock; I shan't +have long to wait." + +"I'd stay with you if I didn't have to call upon a sick friend," the +man replied after some difficulty, and then he staggered on, while Jet +paced to and fro as if only by exercise could he control his impatience. + +In less than five minutes he was joined by two men, or at least they +came on the platform; but seemingly took care to prevent him from +seeing their faces. + +He could hear them talking in low, earnest tones; but was so engrossed +by his own thoughts that he made no attempt to distinguish the words. + +Finally the station agent, who was also the telegraph operator, +arrived, and as he unlocked the door Jet asked eagerly, and +sufficiently loud for the strangers to hear: + +"Can I send a message to Albany?" + +"Not now. Come to-morrow morning after eight o'clock." + +"But this is very important and must go as soon as possible." + +"I'll attend to you in the morning." + +"It will be too late then," Jet cried, excitedly. "The chief of police +must have the news at once!" + +The operator looked at Jet scrutinizingly, and the two men stepped a +few paces nearer. + +"What's the matter?" the official asked. + +"It is necessary detectives be sent here at once." + +"Murder, or something of that kind, eh?" + +"All I know is that I was sent by a man who said the telegram must go +at the earliest possible moment." + +"Very well, come in and write it. I'll see if the Albany office will +answer my call." + +Jet walked into the waiting-room so excited that he failed to notice +the strangers, who crowded behind him; but stood where their faces +would be in the shadow. + +After a moment's reflection he wrote the following: + + +"TO THE CHIEF OF POLICE, + "Albany, N.Y. + +"Send more men at once; they have us foul. My messenger will wait at +the station until assistance arrives. + +HARVEY." + + +It was a simple matter for the strangers to read this by looking over +Jet's shoulder, and as soon as they had done so they slipped quietly +out of the building where the following conversation might have been +heard: + +"That's the boy Joe and Bob brought up from New York." + +"I thought so, and now he is working for Harvey." + +"Who has gone to the house in the woods to pull the boys, and has got +the worst of it." + +"I don't reckon we could prevent the operator from sending that +message?" + +"Not without putting ourselves in the hole." + +"We can make sure though that the boy isn't here to show them the place +when the officers arrive." + +"Which forces us to stay here another day, and according to the looks +of things I don't think it safe. What made the fools come after +agreeing to lay over in the city till we showed up?" + +"That's what I can't say. It's enough to know we've got to bear a +hand, for if one of the crowd is caught all hands stand a good chance +of being sent up." + +"Shall we nab the boy as soon as the train passes?" + +"No; I've got a better plan than that. We'll wait till the western +express arrives, and make him think we're the officers who have come in +reply to his telegram." + +"Then we must keep out of sight. Let's take a turn around the town +where he won't be likely to see us." + +The men walked quietly away, and in the depot Jet was congratulating +himself upon having been able to give the alarm so quickly. + +The operator had been very eager to learn why officers should be +summoned from the city; but Jet professed entire ignorance of the +matter, repeating again and again that he had only brought the message +from a stranger a short distance up the road, and the questioner +finally ceased trying to extract information. + +There was no difficulty about getting a telegram through, and in a few +moments Jet rejoiced at hearing the man say: + +"It's done, and now you'll only have to wait until the parties arrive." + +"How long before they can come?' + +"There's a morning express which leaves Albany in an hour; but it +doesn't stop here, so they'll have to wait for the five o'clock train." + +Jet was not troubled as to where he should spend the time. + +He was so tired that he could sleep anywhere, and walked across the +track to the waiting shed, where he laid down on one of the benches, +glad of an opportunity to rest his weary limbs. + +While paying for the telegram he noticed with surprise that Harvey had +intrusted him with twenty dollars, and he said to himself as his eyes +were closing in sleep: + +"I wonder why he gave me so much? It can't be possible he thought the +message would cost all that." + +Then he was unconscious of everything around him. + +The midnight express arrived, stopped, and with a loud snort from the +engine went on again; but the noise barely sufficed to make Jet aware +that something unusual had happened. + +During the next hour he slept peacefully, and then the two strangers +came up the track talking in low tones. + +By the glare of the station lamp they saw the sleeping boy. + +"What is the use of waiting for the train, when it may be possible the +officers will come?" + +"The morning express doesn't stop here." + +"What of that? The conductor would let the officers off if the chief +should ask him as an especial favor." + +"Well, how can we hurry matters?" + +"He is asleep, and all we have to do is to swear the train has just +passed. He probably hasn't got a watch, and can't tell whether one +hour or four has passed since he closed his eyes." + +"But if he should be suspicious, he might make trouble." + +"Say, you're getting to be a regular coward. We've got to take some +chances if we want to prevent Joe and Bob from being pulled, and it +will be rough if you and I can't handle a boy like that." + +"Do as you please; of course I'm bound to stand at your back all the +time." + +The first speaker looked around once to make certain no one was near, +and then stepping quickly into the shed shook Jet roughly. + + + + +CHAPTER XIII + +THE SNARE + +"What's the matter?" Jet cried, as he arose to a sitting posture, and +rubbed his eyes. + +"Are you the fellow who sent a message to the Albany chief of police?" +one of the men asked. + +"Yes; has there been an answer?" + +"I should say so. Don't we look like a pretty substantial reply to +almost any kind of a telegram?" + +"But how did you get here?" + +"On the morning express. It wasn't much of a job to persuade the +conductor to slow up about here when he knew what our business was." + +"The morning express?" Jet repeated. "Why, it hasn't been more than +ten minutes since I fell asleep." + +"You are not awake yet. It's twenty minutes past three," and the man +looked at his watch, as if to assure himself that he had made no +mistake. "Now, what is the matter, and where did you leave Harvey?" + +Jet gazed around him in bewilderment at the thought that he had been +sleeping so long; but as the man asked these last questions it seemed +certain everything was all right, and he replied, without hesitation: + +"I left Mr. Harvey wounded near a house about five miles from here." + +Then he told the entire story, the men glancing triumphantly at each +other as he proceeded. + +"Can you lead us to the place?" one of them asked, when he concluded. + +"Of course, that's what I waited for." + +"How many men has Harvey with him?" + +"Didn't you know he brought two from Albany?" + +"So he did; I remember now. And they are shut up in the house?" + +"I suppose so." + +"Then the sooner we leave the better, for it stands us in hand to +arrive about daybreak." + +"Are you well armed?" + +"Don't worry about us, my son. We know what we are about when we start +on a job like this." + +"I only spoke because they have been shooting pretty lively." + +"Things will be changed when we get there," was the reply in a +significant tone. + +"If you are ready, we'll tramp along." + +Jet leaped to his feet, feeling woefully stiff and sore; but the +thought that he was guiding those who would aid Harvey served to make +him forget, in a measure, his weariness. + +He led the way down the track to that portion of the woods with which +he was familiar, and then struck across the country, walking so rapidly +that more than once his companions insisted on less speed. + +"We must get there as soon as possible," he said, slackening his speed +unwillingly. + +"A few minutes more or less can't make any difference, and we were +mighty nigh used up before we started. The next time Harvey undertakes +a job I hope he'll have sense enough to carry it through without +calling on all the men in the country." + +Jet was about to make an angry protest against this criticism of his +friend, but he reflected that it would not be well to get into a +controversy, and more especially when he could better employ his breath. + +He continued on as rapidly as his companions would permit, stopping to +rest only when they insisted upon it, and succeeded in making such good +headway that the sun had not yet shown himself when they arrived at a +point near the house. + +"Here we are," Jet said, as he halted and listened for some sound which +would give him an inkling of the position of affairs. + +"Where is the building?" + +"About a hundred yards in that direction," and Jet pointed toward the +east. + +"Are you certain Harvey and his men are there?" + +"I know the men are inside, if they obeyed orders; but I'm afraid the +villains have got Mr. Harvey. Say, we must have walked mighty quick, +if it was past three o'clock when you wakened me, for it isn't daylight +yet." + +"I said you was rushing too fast. Now, how are we to get inside?" + +"Go over the wood-pile on this side." + +"They'll shoot, not knowing who we are." + +"Whistle twice while you are in the woods, and wait for an answer +before coming out of cover. That was the signal agreed upon." + +"Then, you young cub, I reckon we are through with you," and as the man +spoke, he clasped Jet tightly around the waist, while his companion +clapped his hand over the boy's mouth. + +Jet was taken so completely by surprise that he did not struggle for an +instant, and then the humiliating truth began to dawn upon him. + +"Where is the rope you brought to tie him with?" the man who was +holding Jet asked, and after a moment's pause the other said with a +curse: + +"It has slipped out of my pocket while we were coming through the +woods. Now, what shall we do?" + +"You can manage to spoil a good thing quicker than any fellow I ever +knew. Why didn't you look out for it?" + +"Because I didn't," was the surly reply. "If I'd had my way, these +fools would have been left to take care of themselves." + +"Don't turn rusty now when our work is about done. Use a stick of wood +for a gag, and tie it in with your handkerchief." + +When this had been done, and it required several moments, owing to the +shortness of the impromptu rope, Jet's hands were secured with another +handkerchief, and his body lashed to a tree with a pair of suspenders. +In this position he was unable to make any outcry; but he felt positive +he could release himself from the bonds after two or three attempts. + +"Now, listen to me," one of the men said, in a low tone, as he shook +his fist unpleasantly near Jet's nose. "I reckon you're made fast +here; but if by chance you should find anybody fool enough to untie +you, and undertake to run away, it will be a case of shooting you on +sight. You've been too fresh altogether, and both Joe and Bob are to +blame for not having taken the wind out of your body long ago." + +Jet made no reply, for the very good reason that it was impossible for +him to speak, and the men walked hurriedly away in the direction of the +house. + +That he had suffered himself to be thus fooled caused the boy more +distress of mind than did the fact of his being powerless at the very +time when he was most needed. + +The real officers would soon arrive from Albany; but if no one met them +at the depot they could do nothing, since they had no idea of the +location of the house. + +His whole night's work had resulted only in bringing aid to the enemy, +and what made the situation worse was the fact that he had explained +how the villains could gain access to the house without a struggle. + +"If Mr. Harvey knew what I had done he'd give over trying to help me +along, in case we ever do get out of this scrape," he said to himself. +"I ain't fit even to carry a message, let alone trying to help a +regular detective." + +Then came the thought that Mr. Harvey might no longer be alive, and +this caused Jet such mental distress that several moments passed before +he was sufficiently composed to make any attempt at effecting his own +rescue. + +He began by stiffening his muscles and throwing his body forward, with +the idea of stretching the suspenders to such an extent that he could +crawl out of them; but was suddenly stopped by hearing sounds as of +some one coming through the underbrush. + +The only thought in his mind was that one of the enemy was coming to +kill him, and he redoubled his efforts until a familiar voice whispered: + +"Jet, Jet! Is it you?" + +He could not reply in words; but he managed to give vent to a faint +moan, at the same time moving his feet over the dead leaves to make a +yet louder noise. + +"It's me, Harvey," the voice continued. "I heard a couple of men +talking about having left some one tied up, and thought it must be you." + +While he spoke the detective continued to advance, drawing himself +along the ground by the hands, as if his lower limbs were useless, and +on reaching Jet raised his body with an effort until he could feel the +bonds which held the boy. + +It was but the work of an instant to remove the gag, and untie his +hands, after which he could finish the work without assistance. + +"Did you send the message?" Harvey asked, eagerly. + +"Yes, and made a fool of myself afterward," Jet replied, quickly. + +"Tell me what you mean, and speak quickly, for there is no knowing how +long we may be able to talk with each other." + +In the fewest words possible the boy related the events of the night, +sparing himself not one whit, and when he had finished the detective +said, soothingly: + +"An older hand than you might have been taken in. They probably got a +glimpse of your telegram, and were thus able to deceive you, so don't +feel badly." + +"But they will now be able to get into the house." + +"I'm not so sure of that. Those there must fancy that one or both of +us were hurt in the scrimmage, and would look mighty close before +letting two enter without a struggle." + +"Are you wounded badly?" Jet asked. + +"My leg is useless, and I lost considerable blood before I had time to +get a bandage around it." + +"How did you give them the slip?" + +"After you left I fired two rounds, and then crawled into the bushes. +They didn't dare to hunt me out while it was dark, because I could have +killed the first who came near, so I had a chance to circle around the +clearing. I wanted to be here when you came up with the +reinforcements." + +"Have the fellows in the woods done much firing?" + +"No; they have kept mighty quiet, and I'm hoping that some of our +bullets hit the mark by chance. We must get out of here as soon as +possible. Can't you find something that would answer as a crutch? +Thus far I've hunted in vain." + +"I'll do better than that, Mr. Harvey, if you'll get on my back." + +"You can't carry me." + +"Indeed I can for a while, and at a good pace." + +At that instant a shrill whistle sounded twice, and Jet said, in a +mournful tone: + +"Now they are trying to get into the house." + +"There's the answer," the detective said, a moment later. "We shall +hear some firing soon, whether they are successful or not." + +He had hardly ceased speaking when the sound of firearms rang out on +the still air, and Harvey exclaimed, as he pointed toward the sky: + +"We'll hope they tried their plan too late. Day is breaking, and in +the clearing it should be possible to distinguish the forms of men +quite distinctly. If our fellows are fooled, I fancy we shall never +see them again." + +"Are we to leave without making one try to give them warning?" + +"It is too late now, and was when I first found you. I'll see if you +can carry me a short distance, and then we must find a hiding-place, +for whether they are successful in this scheme or not, the +counterfeiters will soon be on the hunt for me." + + + + +CHAPTER XIV + +A CAPTURE + +For Harvey to attempt to walk, however good a crutch might be found, +would have been foolhardy, for it was only with the greatest difficulty +he could stand upright. + +Jet understood this quite as well as did the detective and he also knew +there was no time to be lost, if they expected to find a hiding-place +before the day had fairly dawned. + +"I am going to take you on my back," he said in a decided tone, "and we +mustn't fool around here talking about it. Will you climb up without +making a row, or must I use force?" + +"I will obey," Harvey replied with a smile, as Jet backed toward him, +and a few seconds later the boy was making his way through the +underbrush. + +Jet's burden was heavier than he had anticipated, and he staggered from +side to side before twenty yards had been traversed, causing Harvey to +say firmly: + +"It is no use for you to try anything of the kind, Jet. This will only +result in both of us being overhauled." + +"Here's a place where we can stop for a rest," and Jet halted in front +of a thick clump of fir bushes. "By crawling in there we shall soon be +out of sight, and I'll start back for the depot as soon as you think it +is safe." + +He lowered the detective gently to the ground, aided him in making his +way through the tangled underbrush to the center of the clump, and then +returned to the outside of the little thicket, in order to replace the +branches and foliage generally to their ordinary position, that those +who should come in search might not be able to see the trail. + +This done he skirted around to the opposite side, and entered in a +manner which would have done credit to an Indian. + +"Now you've got a chance to tie up your leg as it ought to be," he +said. "Shall I take that handkerchief off?" + +"I don't think it will pay to disturb it, my boy. The flow of blood +has been stopped, and might start again if the compress was removed. +Besides there is no water with which to wash it." + +"How long are you counting on staying around here?" + +"Until you can get to the town, and send some one back to help me in. +I couldn't crawl that far in a month." + +"Then the sooner I go the better," and Jet rose to his feet, despite +the fatigue which almost overpowered him. + +"Wait a while. In the first place, you need rest, and secondly, those +men will soon come back to find you, after which a hunt is certain to +be made for both of us. Hold on until we see what they are going to +do, in order to the better decide upon our own course of action." + +Jet was not sorry to sit down again, although, in view of the desperate +situation, he knew he could afford to halt but a short time. + +"Do you think you can make another round trip to-day?" Harvey asked +after a short pause. + +"It has got to be done, so there's no use in thinking anything about +it. What troubles me is how you are going to get along without food or +water while I am gone." + +"Probably in the same way you will keep on your feet after having +walked nearly all night--by sheer force of will." + +"But suppose----" + +Jet ceased speaking very suddenly, for at that instant the sound as of +some one coming through the underbrush was heard. + +Harvey drew his revolver, and Jet followed his example. + +Both weapons were fully loaded, and those in hiding knew it must be a +fight to the death, if they were discovered. + +By parting the bushes in front of him slightly, Jet could see through +to where the foliage was less dense, and, as he did so, Joe, the tall +man who had been the cause of all his trouble, came in view, walking +slowly, and peering from side to side. + +That he was searching for Harvey there could be no doubt, and, seeing +him alone, a bold plan came into Jet's mind. + +Without making any sign to his companion he began to move noiselessly +toward the new-comer on his hands and knees, arriving at the edge of +the bushes just as Joe had passed. + +Harvey laid his hand on Jet's leg as a signal for him to come back; but +the boy paid no attention to the mute command. + +Joe had halted about three feet from the edge of the bushes, and was +evidently trying to decide in which direction he should go, when Jet +rose up behind him so noiselessly that not even the rustling of a leaf +could have been heard. + +By reaching up, he could just touch the back of the man's head, and, +suddenly pressing the muzzle of the revolver against the fellow's neck, +he said quickly: + +"Throw up your hands or I'll fire!" + +Under such circumstances there was but one thing for Joe to do. + +He raised both hands, not daring to so much as turn his head, and Jet +continued, sternly: + +"Stay where you are, or a bullet goes into your head. I ain't sure, +anyway, but what it would be better to shoot first and talk afterward." + +Harvey understood from the words exactly what had been done, and Jet +heard him crawling out from the bushes, in order to assist at the +capture. + +"Take your time, sir," the boy said, calmly. "I've got this fellow +where he won't care to run the chances of wiggling very much." + +"I'll kill you some day," the man growled, hoarsely. + +"You won't try it for quite a while yet. Look out. Hold your hands +higher!" + +This last remark was called forth as Joe lowered his arms ever so +slightly, probably for the purpose of learning if his captor was on the +alert. + +By this time Harvey had managed to crawl from his place of concealment, +and, at the expense of severe pain, raised himself to his feet directly +in front of the prisoner. + +"Keep your revolver where it is, and fire at the least show of +resistance," he said to Jet, as he proceeded to search Joe's pockets. + +"Now, lower your hands, but don't take a step forward," he said when +the man's weapons and money had been thrown on the ground. + +Joe obeyed sullenly, and Jet heard the dick of a pair of handcuffs as +they were fastened on the former's wrists, with his arms behind his +back. + +"Now sit down," the detective said, as he gathered up two revolvers, an +ugly looking dirk-knife and a well-filled pocket-book. + +Joe obeyed in silence, but if a glance could have killed, his captors +would soon have been lying lifeless before him. + +"Hadn't we better take him into the thicket?" Jet asked. + +"No. Stand in front of him while I write a note. Now, you must start +for the town without delay." + +"And take this fellow along?" + +"Certainly; we can't afford to run the chances of a rescue." + +It was such a job as Jet did not fancy, but he made no protest. + +When Harvey had ceased writing on a leaf of his note-book, he handed it +to Jet as he said: + +"March your prisoner into the first town you come to, and demand to be +shown to a magistrate. Give him the letter, which will explain the +outlines of who this fellow is, and tell him all of the story save such +as is connected with the murder. That we will keep secret for a while. +Then telegraph to the inspector to send an officer without delay to +carry him to the city." + +"Is that all, sir?" + +"Except as to the manner of traveling. Keep your prisoner in advance, +and do not hesitate to shoot if he fails to obey every reasonable +order. Above all, do not allow him to face you." + +"Suppose some of the gang should overtake us?" + +"Put this fellow in front and let them shoot through him if they +choose. Aim to kill or seriously disable if you are attacked, and in +order that there be no lack of ammunition, take one of his revolvers in +addition to your own. By dividing his cartridges we shall each have +enough to stand quite a siege." + +"What about sending help to you?" + +"I hope the officers from Albany will wait around the depot until you +arrive, when they can decide what is best to be done; but don't make +another mistake as to the identity of those you want to see." + +"I reckon I shan't fall into the same kind of a trap for a long while +to come." + +"Get something to eat while you are in town, and take a short rest. +Matters won't be very serious here until nightfall." + +"I shan't stop long, for it would be a pretty poor sort of a fellow who +couldn't walk twenty miles under these circumstances." + +"Do as you choose; you have money enough for all expenses, and it may +be as well to hire a saddle horse to carry me back." + +"I'll attend to everything," Jet replied, "and the sooner I leave the +better." + +"You are right. Remember what I said about shooting the prisoner if he +shows a disposition to turn rusty, and keep him in front of you." + +"I won't forget, sir." + +"Then good luck to you." + +Harvey held out his hand, Jet grasped it for an instant, and said to +his prisoner: + +"Get up now, and go ahead at your best pace. You have heard the advice +given me, and I shall act upon it without hesitation." + +Joe looked sullenly around and then obeyed, asking as he set out: + +"Which way shall I walk?" + +"Straight ahead. I reckon you know the road better than I do." + +"That's a fact. There is a short cut after we get down here a bit, +which will save nearly two miles of distance." + +"Don't let him guide you," Harvey shouted, he having heard the remark. +"Keep on the course you are familiar with." + +"Never fear I'll let him show me anything," Jet replied cheerily, and +he ordered the man to step out more briskly. + +During the next ten minutes the two walked at a rapid pace in silence, +and then Joe said without turning his head: + +"I suppose you count on making a big pile by taking me to prison?" + +"That's where you are mistaken. I'm only trying to square things after +the scrape you got me into." + +"Would you like to make five thousand dollars?" + +"Of course I would." + +"Then unfasten these handcuffs, and I'll guarantee to give you that +amount within the next three days." + +"More likely you'd give me a clip over the head. But even if I was +certain of having the money, you couldn't get away, so walk on briskly +and don't let me hear you speak again." + +Joe glanced savagely around at the boy, and there was that in his face +which told what desperate chances he would take in order to effect his +escape. + +"He's studying mischief," Jet said to himself, "and I've got to look +sharp, or find myself in the soup as I was this morning." + +At the best it was a difficult task to walk at any degree of speed +through the woods; but the labor was more than doubled by having a +prisoner over whom it was necessary to keep the strictest watch. + + + + +CHAPTER XV + +ASSISTANCE + +During the first hour Jet thought it would be impossible for him to +hold out to reach the town; but the knowledge of what the result would +be, not only to himself, but to those whom he had left behind, enabled +him to battle against the fatigue which threatened to overpower him. + +Not a word had been spoken since Joe made the proposition to purchase +his liberty, until fully an hour passed, and then he said in a meek +tone: + +"Don't you think it is about time to take a rest? I'm pretty nigh +played out." + +Jet was only too willing to do so, and said: + +"Sit down at the foot of that tree; I'll stay in the rear as Mr. Harvey +advised." + +"What damage do you think I could do with my arms handcuffed behind me?" + +"That is exactly what I don't know, and shall take good care you +haven't a chance to show me." + +"I don't deny that I would run a good many risks rather than be taken +to jail; but at the same time I'm not such a fool as to kick when there +isn't the least show of getting the upper hands." + +"You are wasting your breath talking to me in that manner, for I intend +to follow Mr. Harvey's advice to the letter." + +Joe's face was contorted with a grimace of rage as Jet thus showed that +it would be impossible to wheedle him into carelessness, and, suddenly +changing his tone, he said, angrily: + +"You don't have any idea of the trap you're running into. There's more +belonging to our gang than that fool detective fancies, and the minute +we show up in town you'll be marked." + +"That won't hurt I reckon." + +"It will be enough to cause your death." + +"Then I'm to be murdered, eh?" + +"That is exactly what will happen when any of our crowd get the chance, +and you may make sure they won't lay down till you're out of the way." + +"Well?" + +"That's all, unless you're willing to make a trade with me. There'll +be more in it than by sticking to Harvey, who'll throw you over as soon +as this job is finished." + +"Get up and make another start," Jet said, abruptly. "If you have +rested enough to talk, I reckon you can push ahead." + +"You'll regret not having listened to me while there is a chance." + +"Get up!" + +The man obeyed with a very bad grace, and once more the two were +traveling at a fair rate of speed toward the village. + +Twice again during the journey did Joe attempt to bribe or frighten his +captor, and desisted from his efforts only when they were within sight +of the town. + +This walking through a settlement behind a man at whose head a cocked +revolver is held, naturally created considerable excitement, and Jet +found himself surrounded by a curious throng before he had reached the +main street. + +The thought occurred to him that among these people might be friends of +his prisoner, and his anxiety became even greater than while they were +in the woods. + +He was overwhelmed with questions; but refused to make any +explanations, asking simply that some one would show him the nearest +magistrate's office, and his silence served to anger the crowd. + +"Are we going to let a boy walk through this town with his revolver at +a man's head?" one of the party shouted, angrily, and Joe's face +lighted up wonderfully. + +"I'm an innocent man whom a party of villains are trying to down," he +cried. "If there are any here who like fair play, take me along +decently, rather than in this style. I can explain who and what I am." + +"Shove that boy out of the way!" another member of the crowd shouted, +and Jet believed his prisoner was about to be rescued. + +Drawing his second revolver, he held it in his left hand, as he said +firmly: + +"This fellow has nearly killed a detective who was sent to arrest him, +and I have the proof of that in my pocket, which I will show to the +magistrate. My orders were to deliver him up to justice, and make sure +he didn't give me the slip. If any one interferes, I shall fire first +at the prisoner, and then at him who dares try to help him." + +Just for an instant the crowd fell back, and then the man who had first +spoken, cried angrily: + +"Hasn't somebody got the nerve to knock that cub down? I'll see to it +that the prisoner is taken before the magistrate in a proper manner." + +"That's a fair offer," Joe said, eagerly. "I'm willing to go along +peaceably; but I don't want to walk with a revolver at my head, as if I +was too dangerous to be in a town with my hands behind my back." + +"Knock the boy down!" + +"Shoot him!" + +"Don't let such an outrage be committed in our town!" + +"Will you let a cub like that play the part of desperado in a quiet +village?" + +These and similar shouts were heard as the throng drew nearer Jet, who +now understood that Joe's friends must be making the row for the +purpose of releasing the prisoner, and he looked around in vain for a +friendly face. + +"Will no one help me do my duty?" he cried. + +"We'll take the man to the magistrate decently," some one replied. + +"That simply means that a few of you are determined on a rescue." + +He would have said more; but Joe's pals, fearing the influence his +words might have upon the crowd, drowned his voice by angry shouts. + +Jet realized that the crisis was at hand. + +He and his prisoner had just turned down the main street, and the plot +must be carried out at once. + +Half a dozen men had crowded so near that they could easily have thrown +him to the ground before he would have an opportunity to use his +weapons. + +It was high time to carry his threat into execution; but he knew that +the instant he fired for the purpose of keeping the nearest back, his +prisoner would be torn from him. + +"I have failed at the moment when I thought the work was done," he said +to himself, despairingly, and at that instant two men ranged themselves +either side of him. + +"Have you been sent here by Harvey?" one of them asked, and Jet could +have shouted for very joy, for he understood these must be the officers +who had come from Albany. + +"Yes, and this is one of the men he was so anxious to arrest." + +"Where is he now?" + +"Hiding in the woods, wounded so badly that he can't walk." + +"And the others?" + +"Penned up in the building with a prisoner." + +During this short conversation the crowd had grown more unruly, and +were now clustered around Joe so closely as to impede his progress. + +The officer who had been speaking to Jet motioned to his companion, and +the two sprang in front of the prisoner, as the former shouted: + +"Make way, or I shall do more than the boy promised," and he drew a +revolver. + +"Who are you?" + +"Officers from Albany who have come to assist in the arrest of this +man. The first who interferes shall be taken in custody, and I warn +you that it is a serious matter to try to rescue a prisoner." + +This short speech had a decidedly good effect upon the majority of the +crowd, who fell back at once; but Joe's friends had not yet despaired +of success. + +They faced the officers boldly, trying to force their way between the +prisoner and Jet, and in a twinkling two of them were seized by the +strangers, who clasped bracelets on their wrists without delay. + +"If there are any more who want to try the same, we've got plenty of +time to attend to them, for all we ask is a chance to pick out this +fellow's pals." + +The street was now cleared, each member of the throng endeavoring to be +the first to escape suspicion, and the officers called to Jet: + +"Start your man along lively. We'll lead you to a magistrate, and then +come back for a few of those who were shouting the loudest." + +Ten minutes later Jet's work was accomplished. The prisoners were +confined in the village lock-up, and a message sent to the inspector, +detailing what had been done. + +Before Jet had finished the meal he was so much in need of, an answer +came. + +It read as follows: + + +"Have sent for the tall man by train which is just leaving. Report the +result of Harvey's injuries as soon as possible." + + +"That will be when we come back from the woods," one of the officers +said, as he read the telegram which Jet handed him. "You had better +lie down an hour or so, and then we'll start." + +"I'd rather go now. If we can hire a horse with which to bring Mr. +Harvey here, I'll be able to ride part of the way." + +One of the officers went out to attend to this portion of the work, and +when he returned it was with the information that he had secured just +the kind of an animal they required. + +"He's too old to be afraid of anything, and there's no danger of his +running away after Harvey mounts." + +Both the men insisted that Jet should ride the entire distance, and +when he objected they reminded him that by so doing it would be +possible to arrive at the desired place just so much sooner. + +The strain of caring for his prisoner had fatigued him quite as much as +the tramp, and it is doubtful if he could have covered the distance +again in less than three or four hours. + +The officers walked on either side of the horse, and during the journey +he had ample opportunity to explain why he had not met them at the +arrival of the train. + +"We knew from the station agent that a boy had sent the telegram, and +intended to wait for us, therefore it was only natural to suppose some +of the crowd had got the best of you. When we heard the row both of us +hurried from the depot, thinking you were in some way the cause of it." + +"I was afraid you might leave when I failed to show up." + +"Not much. On such a job as this we'd have stayed here more than one +day before jumping back." + +During the last portion of the journey, Jet dozed as he rode along, +forcing himself to open his eyes now and then to make certain he was on +the right course, and it was while he was thus in a semi-conscious +condition that a shout from a clump of bushes told the tramp was nearly +at an end. + +"That is Mr. Harvey," Jet cried, gleefully, all desire for slumber gone +from his eyelids now. + + + + +CHAPTER XVI + +ON THE TRAIL. + +The detective had crawled out of the bushes by the time the new-comers +were opposite his place of concealment, and, before speaking to the two +men, he clasped Jet warmly by the hand, as he said: + +"I knew you could do the job, if it was in the power of any one, my +boy. After making the capture, single-handed, it would have been +strange if you had failed at the last minute." + +"He didn't tell us that it was him who took the fellow prisoner," one +of the men said, in surprise. + +"But he did it nevertheless, and I would trust him as far as any person +I ever saw." + +Then the men held a short consultation as to what should be done, and +Harvey insisted on making a detour, in order to approach the house on +the side opposite where he believed the enemy were stationed. + +"If you help me on the horse I can ride," he said, "and it will be +possible to hold communication with the besieged, if nothing more." + +"But you should go where your wound can be dressed properly." + +"There is time enough for that. I want to get hold of Bob, and then +I'll give you fellows a chance to clear up the counterfeiting case." + +Since Harvey was really the leader of the expedition, the others could +do no more than advise against his engaging in work, and he led the +way, seated on the saddle, with his wounded leg fastened to the pommel +in such a manner that it would not be injured by the trees while they +were passing through the woods. + +In due time the party came to a point from which the building could be +seen. + +A deep silence reigned. One would have said the house had long been +deserted. + +"I'll go where they can see me, and, if no one shoots, climb over the +wood-pile," Jet suggested. + +To this plan Harvey would not listen. + +He first sent the new-comers to beat the thicket on this side, for the +purpose of learning if any of the enemy were in the vicinity, and, when +they returned with the information that no one had been seen, he +advanced to the very edge of the bushes, where the signal was given. + +"They won't be likely to answer it after having been fooled this +morning," Jet suggested, and, without waiting for orders, he stepped +beyond the shelter of the trees. + +Instantly he did so one of the besieged appeared at the window, and +hailed: + +"Are you alone?" + +"There are three besides me," Jet replied, and the words were hardly +out of his mouth before the remainder of the party came into view. + +"Are you all right?" Harvey shouted. + +"Except for being mighty hungry and thirsty." + +"Have you seen anything of the enemy?" + +"Not since early this morning. It's my opinion that they have skipped +after trying to get in here." + +"We can soon find out," Harvey said. "We'll go boldly up to the gate, +and before it is torn down we shall know how many are in the vicinity." + +During the time Jet and the two men were forcing an entrance nothing +more was heard from the adjoining woods, and when the party entered the +yard it was with the belief that the gang had been frightened away by +the escape of the detective and Jet, and the disappearance of their +leader. + +"It won't do to take chances," Harvey said, as his friends opened the +door of the house. "Go out with these gentlemen who have just arrived, +and make careful search. The boy and I will care for things here." + +This order was obeyed after the detective had been assisted into the +building, and the horse fastened in the stable. + +The prisoner was occupying the same position as when Jet saw him last, +and appeared to be thoroughly tired of the whole business. + +"If you had brought up some food we might have stayed here until +morning; but as it is I reckon we must make a move pretty soon." + +"How strange that I never thought of such a thing," Jet replied, and +straightway he began to blame himself, until his companion said +soothingly: + +"After what you have gone through with, it is not strange such a thing +should have escaped your mind. We shan't suffer very much if we don't +get anything for a few hours more." + +A short time later the searchers returned laden down with provisions, +and reported that they failed to find any signs of the enemy. + +They had come upon a place where the ground appeared to have been +lately disturbed, and on digging there discovered a large store of +bacon, hard-tack, flour and potatoes. + +Before waiting to discuss the situation, the hungry men at once +proceeded to cook a hearty meal, two of them going in search of water, +and while this work was being done Harvey had a long, serious +conversation with Jet. + +"There is no question but that they have grown frightened and run +away," he said by way of beginning, and to this remark Jet assented, +nodding his head. + +"Our trip will have been a failure, despite the fact of having captured +Joe, unless we also get Bob." + +"It'll be mighty hard work to find him now." + +"That may be; but yet I am depending upon you to do the work." + +"Me?" Jet repeated in surprise. + +"Certainly; what is to prevent?" + +"I don't even know where to look for him." + +"Neither do I; but we shall hit upon the trail after a while, for I +believe in the maxim that 'all things come to him who waits.'" + +"But surely some of these men could do better than I." + +"Are you afraid to try it?" Harvey asked, as he looked Jet full in the +face. + +"Not a bit of it. I only thought that there'd be more chance of +success if somebody else took the job. You see I've made a big fool of +myself half a dozen times since this thing was started." + +"And by so doing have gained just so much experience. I want the whole +work done by you and I, except when we have to call for assistance, as +in the present case. It's professional pride, my boy, and I look to +you to take my place, until I can crawl around once more." + +"I'll be only too willing to do anything you say, Mr. Harvey." + +"Then it is all right, Jet, and before three months go by we'll have +our friend Bob behind the bars. Now, lie down and take a nap so as to +be in condition for our final trip to the town." + +"Then you have given up all hopes of finding the men here?" + +"Yes; although it may be possible they will be foolish enough to come +back. We'll leave two men here on watch for a few days." + +Jet threw himself on the floor, and in a very few seconds was sleeping +soundly. + +When he was awakened the hunger of those who had been so long without +food was appeased, and all preparations made for the return trip. + +As a matter of course Harvey rode on the horse; Jet walked by his side, +and the officers traveled in advance. + +The last arrivals were perfectly willing to remain on guard in the +house a few days, now that there were plenty of provisions, and they +were busily engaged repairing the gate when the little party started. + +Nothing of especial interest occurred during the journey, and when they +arrived in town an officer was met who had come from New York to take +charge of the prisoner. + +The two men who had attempted to rescue Joe were held on the charge of +resisting an officer, and it was believed they could be detained until +it might be possible to connect them with the manufacture or passing of +counterfeit money. + +To this last, however, Harvey paid but little attention, allowing the +officers from Albany full charge of the case. He was on the trail of a +murderer, and all else seemed of but trifling importance. + +A surgeon in the village dressed Harvey's wound, and when that had been +done there was yet two hours remaining before a train bound for Albany +would arrive. + +"Now you and I will have a final talk, Jet," the detective said, when +the two were left alone in one of the rooms at the hotel. + +"Why? Ain't you counting on taking me with you?" + +"Certainly not. I thought it was agreed you were to search for Bob." + +"So I am; but I didn't know I was to be left here." + +"That is not exactly what will be done, although it amounts to much the +same thing. I propose to have you get on the train with us, as if you +were going off, and then, stopping at the next station, travel back +thirty or forty miles to whichever town we may decide upon as the most +promising." + +"What am I to do there, sir?" + +"Look for Bob. Move about from town to town just as seems best at the +moment, and I have no doubt but that you will soon strike his trail." + +"Am I to let you know when I find it?" + +"Certainly. Can you write?" + +"Yes, sir." + +"Then let me hear from you every day. Here is an address where the +letters will reach me at the earliest possible moment." + +"But, Mr. Harvey, can't you tell me how to begin the work?" + +"No; circumstances must decide. I have no question but that you will +succeed finally, and in two weeks, if the job isn't finished before, I +hope to be with you again." + +The detective wrote on a slip of paper the address to which letters +should be sent, gave Jet more money, and concluded the interview by +saying: + +"It isn't well to let even the officers from Albany know what you +propose to do. I will cook up some story to satisfy their curiosity. +Now, go and buy me a through ticket, and one for yourself to the next +station." + +Jet did as he was directed, and, as he entered the depot saw Joe, who, +guarded by the officer sent from New York, was waiting the coming of +the train. + +The alleged murderer bestowed a wicked look on the boy who had captured +him, and then turned his head away. + +"If he ever gets the chance I shall have a hot time of it," Jet +thought, as he transacted his business with the ticket-seller and then +returned to Harvey. + +The latter was just being brought down stairs, for the time of +departure was near at hand, and Jet followed him to the station, where +the detective was warmly greeted by Joe's guard. + +Here Jet felt proud by being introduced as the one who had made the +arrest and afterward brought his prisoner safely through the woods +where the remainder of the gang were lurking, and District Messenger +No. 48 felt amply rewarded by the words of praise for all he had +suffered. + +The cars arrived. Jet followed his companions on board, and, twenty +minutes later, alighted at a small village where it would be necessary +he should wait half an hour before a western bound train came along. + +"It's a tough job I've undertaken," he said to himself, when the long +line of coaches had pulled out, leaving him alone, "and somehow or +other I feel pretty certain I'm going to come to grief before this +thing is ended." + + + + +CHAPTER XVII + +AN OLD FRIEND + +To Jet the idea of loitering around first one town and then another +with no definite plan, unless the simple hope of meeting the man by +accident could be called one, was in the highest degree unsatisfactory. + +He had embarked on the enterprise, however, and it was now too late for +regrets. + +In due time the train arrived, and, stepping on board, he was surprised +at hearing a familiar voice ask: + +"Hello Jet! Have you concluded to join us again?" + +It was his old friend the manager of the minstrel company, who appeared +to take it for granted Jet had boarded this particular train for no +other purpose than that of going into the show business again. + +"Where are you playing?" the boy asked without answering the question. + +"Nowhere to-night, or I shouldn't be here. We've been having mighty +hard luck, and had to lay off to reorganize---- At least that's the +best way of putting it. The company is about twenty miles down the +road, and we shall play that town to-morrow." + +While the manager was speaking, Jet thought to himself that he could +attend to his particular business as well, if not better, by traveling +with the show a few days than in any other way, and he asked: + +"Do you want a good dancer?" + +"If you mean yourself, I'll say yes mighty quick. Will you come?" + +"There is no reason why I shouldn't for a while, providing you won't +make any objection if I should leave very suddenly." + +"Say, my boy, what are you up to in this section of the country, eh?" + +"Nothing in particular, or perhaps it would be best to say, nothing +that I can explain." + +"Then I won't ask any questions. How much do you want a night to do +two turns, and help us out in any other way that may come up?" + +"If you'll pay my traveling expenses and hotel bills, I'll go on for +one night, and, perhaps a week, but when it comes to leaving this +section of the country I shall have to stay behind." + +"I'll accept the offer, and reckon we can keep you with us a good +while, if you are so stuck on this part of the State, for we intend to +remain within a circle of fifty miles for a couple of weeks. Business +has been so bad that we can't afford to make many long jumps, and there +are plenty of little towns where I hope to pull out money enough to set +us on our feet." + +This plan exactly suited Jet, and he believed he had been very +fortunate in thus meeting the manager. + +When the conductor came for the tickets, Jet's friend paid his fare to +the town where the company had been waiting for funds ever since the +day the young dancer felt forced to leave them. + +It was a very cordial greeting which he received from the members of +the show party that night, and many times was he forced to give an +evasive answer in reply to their searching questions, lest his secret +should be discovered. + +During the evening he wrote to Harvey, telling him how he proposed to +travel, and concluded by saying: + + +"You see, by this means I can stay around here a long while without +spending any of your money, and it seems as if there is less chance of +being suspected by friends of Bob's whom I might meet without knowing +them." + + +During the following day he helped distribute programmes, put the hall +to rights, and otherwise made himself so useful that all looked upon +him as a decided acquisition to the company. + +On this night he did his regular turn, and instead of trying to prevent +himself from looking at the audience, stared at each person every time +he came on the stage, hoping he might get a glimpse of Bob. + +It was doubtful, he admitted to himself, whether he would recognize the +two who had played the part of Albany officers, for he saw them only at +night and in the feeble rays of light cast by the station lamps. + +As to Bob, he was confident of knowing him under almost any disguise +that might be assumed. + +However, this night's appearance before the public brought him no other +result than that of establishing himself yet more firmly in the minds +of his companions as a good dancer, and he had no reason to be +discouraged since that which must necessarily be a long task had but +just begun. + +According to promise, he wrote a short letter to Harvey, and on the +following morning received, a reply to his first. + +Among other things the detective wrote: + + +"I am glad you had an opportunity to join the company, for it is the +best way you could prosecute the search. It would do no harm to go +even farther from the house in the woods than you propose doing, since +Bob will most likely give that place a wide berth for some time to +come. Do not get discouraged, and use as much money as may be +necessary for your comfort. My wound is improving rapidly under proper +treatment, and I am told that in two weeks I shall be able to walk with +the aid of a cane." + + +It is true this was not a very important communication; but it was +highly satisfactory to Jet, since it showed that the detective approved +of his course. + +The second performance after the "reorganization" of the company, was +given in a small town of about twelve hundred population, and the +receipts at the door were not enough to pay the hotel bill and +traveling expenses to the next town, therefore on that same evening the +manager called the performers to his room for consultation. + +"We shall take big money in the next place, providing we can get there +early enough in the morning to make a parade; but I am broke again, and +want your advice." + +No one spoke for some time, and Jet asked: + +"How far is it?" + +"Only six miles." + +"I will walk, or pay my own expenses, either one you choose." + +"Now, that's what I call coming to the front in great shape. Who's +willing to walk?" + +It was some time before he could persuade the other members of the +company to agree. They had received no wages for several weeks, and it +seemed particularly hard to ask them to work for nothing, and, in +addition, tramp from town to town. + +It was finally decided two of the company should ride, in order to +transport the baggage, and that the remainder would take to the road as +soon as sunrise next morning. + +The manager, knowing that Jet had some money, because of his offer to +pay his own railroad fare, borrowed five dollars of him, with the +promise that it should be repaid with the first money taken at the door +on the next evening, and the amateur detective went to bed feeling +that, perhaps, he could travel around the country more cheaply than by +working for a manager who borrowed his funds. + +All hands were called at an early hour on the following morning, and +Jet set out immediately after breakfast with those who were to travel +on "Shank's mare." + +It was unfortunate that some of these involuntary pedestrians, while +not having enough to pay their railroad fare, managed to scrape +together sufficient to buy a large bottle of whisky, and when a trifle +more than half the distance had been traversed, several were under the +influence of the fiery liquor. + +Jet had many invitations to drink, but he stoutly refused even to taste +of the stuff, and walked on ahead with the other temperate members of +the company. + +The dissipated portion of the party danced and sang to the amusement or +disgust of the inhabitants whose houses they passed, and the town was +in sight when a loud shout from the rear caused Jet and his companions +to look back. + +Half a dozen of the men had scaled a fence, and were industriously +engaged filling their pockets with fruit, paying no attention to the +damage done the trees as they broke branches or threw heavy clubs up to +bring down the apples or pears. + +"Say, this won't do!" Jet shouted as he ran toward them. "You stand a +good chance to be arrested, and then how shall we get out of town?" + +"Walk, as we had to this time," some one replied with a laugh, and the +thefts went on with redoubled eagerness. + +Jet tried to persuade the fellows to desist, but deaf ears were turned +to all his entreaties, and he was leaning over the fence when two women +and a boy came out to drive the intruders away. + +The drunken men paid no attention either to threats or entreaties, but +continued at the work until a sufficient amount of fruit had been +obtained, when they continued the journey. + +Immediately after arriving in town Jet had plenty to do in the way of +distributing programmes, and finished the task only to take his place +in the street parade. + +The drunkards had sobered off in a measure by this time, and managed to +march through the village without reeling; but the fumes of liquor were +quickly driven from their brains on returning to the hotel, when one +after another was arrested for trespass and theft preferred by the +owner of the orchard, who brought the two women and boy into town as +witnesses. + +Jet was not made a prisoner when the majority of the party were marched +to the squire's office, nor did he anticipate any trouble, for he had +done nothing more than try unsuccessfully to prevent the mischief. + +Therefore he followed those under arrest to learn what disposition +would be made of the case, and as he entered the closely-packed room +was surprised at hearing one of the women say, in a voice loud enough +to be understood by all: + +"There's another of 'em--that boy. I seen him standin' there all the +time." + +"But I was only trying to make the others stop," Jet said quickly, as +if the remark had been addressed to him. + +"Don't you believe him, squire, he was doin' that to poke fun at me, +an' jest egged the others on." + +To Jet's surprise the magistrate included him in the list of prisoners, +and he had the questionable satisfaction of hearing all three of the +witnesses swear that he was aiding and abetting the thieves. + +Jet tried hard to defend himself, but the squire had evidently made up +his mind in advance as to what the sentence should be, for without +allowing the prisoners to make more than a shadow of defense, he said +sternly: + +"It's time you show people got to learn that you can't travel 'round +the country cuttin' up shines an' then tryin' to excuse yourselves by +sayin' you was under the influence of licker. This court don't +recognize any sich pleadin', an' sentences every one of the crowd to +pay ten dollars an' costs." + +"Do you mean that each man must pay that fine?" the manager asked in +dismay. + +"That's what I said, an' if there's any row kicked up I'll double it." + +Jet was literally stunned and could make no reply. It is true he had +sufficient money with which to settle his fine, but he did not feel +that he was entitled to do such a thing, and besides, the injustice of +the verdict was so great as to overshadow everything else. + +Extra constables were sent for to convey the prisoners to the village +lock-up until such time as they should pay the money, and when one of +these officials entered the room, Jet's anger and surprise was changed +to bewilderment. + +The man who advanced to carry him to jail was none other than a member +of that party of alleged tramps who had attempted to rob him on the +railroad track, and consequently a pal of the murderers. + +The fellow was unquestionably at the house in the woods when Harvey and +his men were besieged, and had since then returned to this town, where, +of course, he lived. + +The question in Jet's mind now was as to whether Bob and the others had +accompanied this one. + +"Being arrested may turn out to be a mighty good thing, after all," he +said to himself, "and I wouldn't be surprised if I held off a long +while before paying my fine." + + + + +CHAPTER XVIII + +JAIL LIFE + +The manager of the minstrel company was, and quite naturally, in a high +state of excitement when his people were marched off to the lock-up. + +If he was not able to raise sufficient money to pay for the railroad +tickets, it was useless to think he could satisfy the claim which +alleged justice had against the men. + +To remain there even for twenty-four hours without giving a performance +would result in utter bankruptcy, and in case he was willing to desert +the company he did not have money enough to go out of the town, except +by leaving the baggage behind and walking. + +An hour after the now saddened minstrels had been lodged behind the +bars the manager called upon them. + +"I've been trying to chin that old fool of a squire into letting you +off for this evening, so's we can give a show, but he won't listen to +anything of the kind," the visitor announced in a disconsolate tone. + +"If you could rope off the yard and put up some seats we might perform +behind the bars. Advertise that the gentlemen composing the greatest +aggregation of minstrel talent in the known world will attempt the +difficult feat of playing themselves out of jail." + +This suggestion was made by the "funny" man of the party, but the +distressed manager failed to see in it anything witty or comical. + +"Can't some of you fellows suggest a plan?" he asked. + +"Announce that we are to lay off a short time in order to--to--well +anything you can think of." + +"That is no plan at all; it would look rather fishy to reorganize twice +in one week." + +"Say that we are studying our parts for a realistic drama, entitled +'Would You put Yourself in Their Places.'" + +"Now see here, boys, this isn't a thing to joke about. We must give a +show to-night, and the question is how can it be done?" the manager +asked in a tone of despair. + +This was what no one could answer. + +It surely seemed as if the squire had been prompted by an unkind fate +to lay the heavy hand of the law upon this particular branch of the +minstrel business, in order to deter others from traveling in the same +path, and to prevent this company from inflicting stale jokes upon the +public. + +Finding that the chief performers could not suggest a way out of the +difficulty, the manager took Jet as far aside as the size of the cell +would permit. + +"How much money have you got?" he asked in a whisper. + +"None that belongs to me. The five dollars I loaned you was put in my +hands for an especial purpose, and I really had no right to dispose of +it as I did." + +"But if you've got enough to pay these fines, I'll promise faithfully +that you shall have every cent we take in until the full amount is paid +back. There isn't any risk, my boy, for we shall certainly do a big +business here." + +Although Jet had had but little experience in this line, he knew that +the receipts at the door, even if the small hall should be filled, +would not amount to enough to settle the bills, and from it must +necessarily be taken sufficient to carry the party to the next town. + +"I haven't got half as much as you need, and if I had it would be wrong +to use it." + +"Then you intend to pay your own fine and give us the slip, eh?" + +"I should have a perfect right to do so, because I took no part in the +stealing of the fruit; but I shall stay with the rest." + +During the next ten minutes the manager pleaded in vain with the boy, +and then recognizing the uselessness of his arguments, left the +building in a pet. + +Meanwhile the members of the company did not look upon the imprisonment +as such a very great hardship. + +"Say, who has to pay our board while we are here?" one of the party +asked the jailer. + +"I reckon it'll come on the town." + +"Then so long as it costs us nothing, what's the use of repining?" and +the man started a song, in which he was joined by his companions, until +the dilapidated building fairly shook with the alleged melody. + +As a matter of course, this had the effect of drawing the idle ones to +the jail doors, and the applause from the outside induced a continuance +of the free concert. + +All those who could show any right to enter the building crowded in, +and among them was the constable whom Jet had recognized. + +While his companions were amusing the visitors and themselves, he edged +along as near this particular man as he could without exposing himself +too freely, and during the pauses between the songs he was fortunate +enough to overhear the following conversation between the fellow in +whom he was interested and a brother constable: + +"You've been away quite a while, eh, Jabe?" + +"Only three weeks." + +"Where was you?" + +"'Tendin' to some private business." + +"I thought when a man was elected constable he'd got to stay 'round in +case he might be needed." + +"I didn't ask for the office, an' don't intend to loaf here when +there's a chance of makin' a dollar outside." + +"What have you been up to?" + +"That's my own business." + +"Of course it is, Jabe; but I know you're makin' money somehow, an' it +seems as if you might give me a show." + +"Well, I can't. I had a good thing for a while, but it's busted now." + +If Jet had had any doubts as to the identity of the man they would have +been dispelled by this last remark, and he listened eagerly for a +continuation of the conversation. + +"Got company up to your house, ain't you?" the inquisitive party asked. + +"How'd you know that?" + +"Some of the folks said you brought some friends back." + +"It seems as if the people in this town had nothin' better to do than +watch their neighbors." + +"Then it is true?" + +"I've got an old friend visitin' me for a spell, but he's sick now, an' +we don't want folks 'round to disturb him." + +"That must be Bob," Jet said to himself. "Perhaps he was wounded, and +has come here to stay till he gets better. Now, how can I send word to +Mr. Harvey?" + +This was the one important thing to do in view of what he had learned, +but it would be necessary that none of the townspeople should see the +letter, and the manager of the company was so angry with him that it +was a question if he would attend to the matter. + +He seated himself in one corner of the room, where his face could not +be seen plainly, and waited for this particular constable to leave the +building. + +In about an hour the prisoners tired of giving a free concert, and, +finding they were not likely to be amused any longer, the visitors took +their departure. + +From one of his companions Jet begged a few leaves out of a note-book, +from another he borrowed a pencil, and thus equipped he sat down to +detail what he thought was important news. + +"Sending for money to pay your fine, Jet?" one of the party asked +jokingly, and this caused the others to think of what they might do. + +"I reckon a good many of us had better try the same game," a second man +said seriously. "The manager can't get us out of the hole, and we may +as well begin to hustle for ourselves." + +"It won't cost much to do it," Jet replied, thinking that if a number +of letters were sent from the jail his would attract less attention. + +Nearly all the party concluded to make the attempt, and a call was made +upon the turnkey for envelopes. + +Jet offered ten cents to pay for the same, and in a short time the +note-book was stripped of its leaves as each prisoner set about making +a written appeal for funds. + +The question of postage was next raised, and to this Jet was forced to +respond, in order that his missive should be sent without delay. + +By the time the letters had been made ready, the member of the company +who came over on the cars with the manager paid his companions a visit, +and, quite naturally, agreed to post the mail matter. + +Now that he was reasonably certain Harvey would soon know the exact +condition of affairs, Jet felt very light-hearted. It seemed almost +positive he had stumbled upon Bob's hiding-place, and if such should +prove to be the case, the second man implicated in the murder must be +captured within a few days. + +Shortly before mid-day the squire came over to interview his prisoners. + +It was possible he had been figuring the cost to the town in case this +party of twelve should remain contentedly in jail; and perhaps he was +beginning to believe the sentence too severe when taken in the +aggregate. + +"Your manager has been tryin' to talk me into lettin' you fellers out," +he began, assuming a friendly tone and air. "I told him that justice +couldn't be tampered with, an' have come 'round to see what you're +goin' to do 'bout payin' the fines." + +"Squire, did you ever try to get blood out of a stone?" one of the +party asked. + +"What has that got to do with it, eh?" + +"Nothing, except that it would be as easy to bleed a rock as to get +cash from them who are flat broke." + +"But, bless my heart, you can't stay here forever, you know." + +"It depends on you. If the manager has made any kind of a fair offer I +advise you to accept it, for it will cost something to feed this crowd, +and I don't suppose you would care to take the responsibility of +starving us to death." + +The squire wiped the perspiration from his face, although the room was +by no means warm. + +"If you could pay somethin' on account, an' give bonds for the rest----" + +"I don't believe you could scare up a dollar among the whole of us, and +as for bonds--who would sign them?" + +"But you can't expect me to let you go free after robbing a man's +orchard, an' bein' sentenced in a regular court?" + +"Certainly not, and for that reason we have settled down to the belief +that we shall be your guests a very long while." + +"If I should let you out long enough to give a show, would you come +back here?" the squire asked after a long pause. + +"Who would get the money taken at the door?" + +"It would go toward payin' your fines." + +"That's a matter we shall have to discuss, for it isn't a pleasant +lookout to give a performance for the benefit of your court when we +need money so badly ourselves." + +"I'll come back in an hour an' get your answer," the squire replied +with considerable show of dignity, as he left the building. + +Jet was distressed at the thought that it might be possible the fines +would be paid in a short time, for then he could make no excuse for +loitering about the town, and even if he should do so there was every +reason to believe the constable he was eager to have arrested would +recognize him. + + + + +CHAPTER XIX + +THE DINNER + +Dinner, consisting of soup, with a liberal supply of meat and bread, +was served to the prisoners at twelve o'clock, and, half an hour later, +the manager arrived to talk with his company regarding the proposition +to reduce the fines so far as was possible by giving a performance. + +The "funny" man of the party acted as spokesman for his companions, and +Jet listened with deepest interest to the following conversation: + +"There is no question about persuadin' that idiotic squire to give all +hands a few hours' liberty, if you agree to return here as soon as the +performance is ended," the manager began. + +"And in what way shall we be benefited?" + +"At least a portion of the fines will be paid, and it may then be +possible to get his consent to our moving on to the next town." + +"How will you get there, if he insists on taking all the receipts?" + +"There must be some kind of a bargain made whereby we can take +car-fares and expenses out of the show." + +Although the majority of the prisoners were responsible for the deed +which committed them to prison, not one seemed willing to give an +evening's work, in order to pay a portion of the amount exacted. + +The fines were so large in the aggregate, considering the value of the +property taken, that all felt as if it would be the proper thing to let +the town support them for a time. + +To the manager the case presented itself in a different aspect. + +He had made dates ahead, and if the company failed to keep them, after +having already disappointed the public once, his position would be that +of a veritable bankrupt with whom the owners of the halls would refuse +to transact business. + +Therefore it was that he spent considerable time urging his company to +do as he hoped the squire might approve of, and finally, much to Jet's +mental discomfort, he succeeded in extracting a promise from each that +he would agree to go on the stage, and afterward return to the jail. + +Then he went to try his powers of persuasion on the squire. + +During the afternoon the other member of the party who was at liberty, +reported that the matter had been arranged satisfactorily, and +"dodgers" were now being distributed around the town calling upon the +people to aid in "rescuing from imprisonment a number of gentlemen, +whose exuberance of spirit rather than evil propensities, had plunged +them into sore distress." + +More than one of the company predicted that the appeal would be a +signal failure, and Jet earnestly hoped these "exuberant gentlemen" +would prove truthful prophets. + +Evening came, and with the shadows of night the constables arrived to +conduct the performers to the hall. + +A supper of bread, cold meat, and tea had been served, and, save for +the severe headaches with which the intemperate portion of the party +were suffering, all were in reasonably good spirits. + +Both the squire and the manager were at the door to take the money from +the charitably inclined, and the owner of the hall also stood near by +to make certain of receiving his rent from the first cash paid over. + +Watching through the peep-hole in the curtain, Jet saw the constable in +whom he was especially interested seated near the stage, and for an +instant he resolved not to appear lest he should be recognized. + +A moment's reflection, however, showed him that such a course would +unquestionably arouse suspicion, and he settled the matter by +blackening his face, a disguise which, under the glare of the +footlights, would prove most effective. + +The inhabitants of the town did not respond very generously to the +"appeal." + +When the curtain rose on the first act, there were hardly more than +enough in the hall to pay the actual running expenses of the evening, +and there was no longer any hope of being able to reduce the amount +owed for fines. + +Both the manager and the squire looked despondent, the latter +particularly so, for he had saddled upon the town what might prove to +be a white elephant before the matter was ended. + +Despite the discouraging state of affairs the performers did their +best, and the audience were delighted. Jet danced until it was +impossible to take another step, and then, on being called before the +curtain, was forced to bow his thanks instead of responding to the +fourth encore. + +During all the time he was on the stage he had scrutinized the faces of +the spectators, but without recognizing any face other than the one +before him, and it was in a decidedly contented frame of mind that he +followed his companions back to jail after the result of the "show" was +made known. + +By this evening's work, after the hall rent, printing and services of +the musicians had been paid, the company were able to reduce the entire +amount of fines exactly four dollars, and one of the party remarked, +laughingly: + +"At this rate, by hard work, providing the people are willing to come +to a show every night, we may manage to pull through in about three +months, which won't be a profitable speculation, considering the fact +that we might have bought all the fruit for a dollar at the outside." + +On the following afternoon Jet received a reply to his letter, and in +it Harvey said: + + +"Pay your fine and come out of jail at once. You can avoid our +constable by remaining with the company the greater portion of the +time; but it is necessary you should learn who the visitor is. Can't +you walk around that way now and then? I don't fancy Bob will stay in +the house all the time. This work can be done better now by you than +any one I could send, since the presence of a stranger in the little +village would attract attention." + + +While reading this Jet was busily engaged in trying to make some excuse +whereby he could do as Harvey ordered without arousing the suspicion of +his companions. + +If he had paid the fine in the first place all would have been simple; +but reason must be given for leaving after telling the manager that he +did not dare to spend the money he had on his person. + +A happy thought occurred to him. + +Pretending to read after the letter was finished, he contrived, without +being seen, to take fifteen dollars from his pocket, and, holding them +up triumphantly, he cried: + +"Here's enough with which to pay my fine, and I'll have more in a few +days if you fellows don't get out." + +As a matter of course his companions supposed the money had been taken +from the letter. + +Several tried to persuade him that it would be useless to spend that +amount when by waiting the squire might be forced to free them; but he +professed to be sick of life in a jail, and summoned the turnkey to +take him to the magistrate's office. + +Twenty minutes later he was formally released from custody, and the +squire began to believe that two or three more days of imprisonment +would force the others to follow Jet's example. + +He went at once to the hotel, paid twenty-four hours' board in advance, +and on turning, after completing this transaction, found himself face +to face with the manager. + +"So you concluded that it wouldn't be so very much out of the way to +use some of that money, eh?" the latter asked, sarcastically. + +"I wrote for funds, and got fifteen dollars by the last mail." + +"Was that the best you could do?" + +"It wasn't to be supposed I could pay the whole amount." + +"No; but since you have friends with money enough to let you loaf +around this section of the country, I didn't know but that we might +raise a stake somehow." + +Now Jet regretted having followed Harvey's advice, for if the manager +should make this same remark in the hearing of the constable, many and +grave suspicions might be aroused, for, of course, the man would be on +the alert for anything which needed an explanation. + +"That's where you are making a big mistake," he said, with an +assumption of carelessness which was far from natural. "I only wanted +to stay here till I could get a job." + +"That wasn't the way you talked when I met you the other day; but it +doesn't make much difference now, for I am beginning to see my way out +of this snarl." + +"How?" + +"There's a constable in this town who seems to be pretty well fixed, +and he gave me to understand that he might take the company out of +jail, providing I'd let him act as treasurer until the amount was paid." + +"Which one is he?" Jet asked, trying hard not to betray the eagerness +for knowledge which he felt. + +"The fellow who took you to jail." + +"Are you pretty certain he'll make the trade?" + +"Here he comes now to talk the matter over; it won't take us long to +find out." + +Jet glanced toward the door, and saw the man in whom he felt so great +an interest. + +The manager, eager to clinch the bargain, advanced to meet him, and the +boy, keeping his back toward the new-comer, managed to walk out of the +opposite door without being observed. + +Now the one question in the mind of the amateur detective was as to why +this man should be willing to travel with the show. + +It did not require many minutes for him to arrive at a satisfactory +conclusion. + +"He has got a lot of that counterfeit money with him, and by running +the company through a number of towns some distance from here can pass +it," Jet said to himself. "Now, what shall I do if he makes the trade?" + +The proper thing seemed to be to send a letter at once, and, going to +his room, he wrote a full account of what he had heard, concluding by +saying: + + +"To-night I shall lay around his house trying to get a sight of the man +who is visiting there." + + +This done he went into the office once more, and there saw the manager, +who was highly elated. + +"It is all arranged," he said. "The fines will be fixed in some way +to-morrow, and we shall start once more. We only lose to-night's +stand, and then go on with a backer who has plenty of money. Will you +tell the boys of our good luck, while I make arrangements for sending +the posters ahead?" + +Jet promised to carry the tidings, and stopped only long enough to add +the following postscript to his letter: + + +"The trade has been made, and the constable will leave here to-morrow +with the company. I shall loaf near his house this evening, and walk +to the next town to send you a telegram if I learn anything." + + +This letter he mailed in time for the night train, and then visited the +jail, delivering news which the prisoners were not particularly glad to +hear, since it gave them no immediate prospect for money. + +"We have made up our minds to tire the squire out," one of them said, +"and I don't take favorably to the idea of working to pay the fines +when there's no real need of it." + + + + +CHAPTER XX + +A RECOGNITION + +Jet did not spend much time trying to induce the prisoners to take +advantage of the constable's offer. + +It suited his plans best to have them refuse, and, after giving the +information, he walked back to the hotel, as if the one desire of his +life was to get a good supper. + +When the meal was finished the night had fully come, and he would have +set out at once to loiter around the constable's house but for the fact +that as yet he did not know where that gentleman lived. + +While standing in the office trying to make up his mind whom he could +approach, in order to get this information, the manager joined him, as +he asked: + +"What did the boys say when you told them what was to be done?" + +"I didn't wait to hear very much; but it struck me that they were not +particularly well pleased." + +"Why not?" + +"They think it is foolish to work for the money when it may be possible +to tire the squire out by holding on a while and letting the town +support them." + +"Is it possible they can be such fools? Come with me, and we'll see if +it isn't possible to beat some sense into their stupid heads." + +Jet did not want to waste the time; but since he could make no good +excuse, there was nothing for it but to comply, and the two started at +once. + +On arriving at the jail, the turnkey informed them that it was against +orders to admit any one after dark; but he intimated that the matter +might be arranged with any one of the constables who had brought the +prisoners there. + +"Then it won't take us long to fix it," the manager said, as he +beckoned Jet to follow him, and when they were in the open air again, +he added: "Barker will see that we get in." + +"Who is he?" + +"Why, Jabe Barker, the constable who wants to take the company on the +road." + +Jet made no reply, but congratulated himself on thus having the house +pointed out to him without any questions on his part. + +A walk of ten minutes brought them to quite a large residence on the +outskirts of the village, and the manager said: + +"That's where he lives, and I'm told he owns the entire property, so +you see we'll have a capitalist to back us." + +"I guess I'd better not go any farther with you," Jet said, +half-apologetically, as he halted. + +"Why not?" + +"You and he may want to talk business, and, perhaps, it wouldn't look +well for me to be where I could listen." + +"You are right, my boy. Go back to the hotel, and I'll meet you there +in a short time." + +Jet turned as if to obey, and walked slowly toward the center of the +village, until he saw that the manager had been admitted to the +building, when he clambered over a fence, ran across a piece of plowed +land, and stood at the rear of the out-buildings when Mr. Barker and +the manager emerged. + +Not until they were lost to view in the gloom did he dare to make a +move, and then he crept softly around in search of a place of vantage +from which the house could be watched. + +He finally found it immediately behind the woodshed, where, by climbing +on the sloping roof, it was possible to look in at the uncurtained +windows of the first and second story. + +During fully an hour he lay at full length upon the hard boards without +seeing that for which he sought. + +Now and then a female form would pass one of the lighted windows, but +nothing more, and he was beginning to think he had struck the wrong +trail, when Barker returned. + +He was whistling merrily while coming up the lane which led to the +house, and, as if this was a signal, a man came from the building with +a pipe in his mouth. Jet's heart beat fast and loud. + +Although it was impossible, in the gloom, to distinguish any object +clearly, he felt certain that this man was the one whom Harvey was so +eager to find. The stature, form, and general appearance was Bob's, +and Jet believed his search had come to an end. + +It was evident that the two had some business to discuss which they did +not care to speak of in the house, where the other members of the +family could hear them, for they walked directly toward the shed on +which the boy was lying, and, fortunately for his purpose, sat down on +a log almost directly beneath him. + +"It is all arranged," Barker was saying. "The fool actors kicked at +first about working for nothing, as they called it; but we soon brought +them to terms." + +"When are you going to start?" + +"Day after to-morrow." + +"Why do you wait?" + +"I think we had better find out first what the officers did after we +left, and a few hours can't make much difference, for I'll get rid of +plenty of the queer to keep us going before we've been out a day." + +"I'm not certain that it is best for you to do this thing, Jabe. A +minstrel show can be tracked a dozen times where one man could give the +officers the slip without trouble." + +"I'm not intending to shove so much that there'll be any fuss. Just +enough to put us in funds so we can skip if things begin to look black. +We wouldn't be in this shape if my advice had been taken; I always +insisted that there was no reason why Joe should carry all the cash." + +"He's a slick one, Joe is, and could get out of a tight place where you +or I would be pulled." + +"Well, with all his smartness he's cornered this time." + +"That remains to be proven. He may have had to skin out while we were +watching the house. If he was arrested we should have heard it before +this." + +"That isn't certain; none of the gang have showed up yet, and---- +Hello! Who is this?" + +Jet looked toward the road and there saw the form of a man coming +cautiously up the lane as if trying to avoid observation from those in +the house. + +Bob and Barker were on their feet in an instant both acting ill at +ease, until a low, peculiar whistle was heard, which the latter +answered in the same manner, and then said to his companion in a tone +of relief: + +"Now we shall hear the whole story." + +"Who is it?" + +"Sam, I reckon; yes it is," and Jabe advanced to seize the new-comer by +the hand. + +"Well?" Bob asked, as if impatient to hear the news. + +"We're cornered, or at least poor Joe is. We did all we could, and the +result is that I've left the other fellows in jail on the charge of +resisting an officer." + +Then Sam went on to tell of Jet's appearing in town with his prisoner, +and the remainder of the story which is already known. + +Bob was silent for several moments after the new-comer ceased speaking, +and then said savagely: + +"But for me that cub would have been put out of the way before he'd +done anything except tell a certain story in New York. Now all I ask +is a chance to get hold of him again, and I'll swear to it that he +won't do any more mischief." + +"What is the New York racket?" Barker asked curiously. "I've noticed +that you and Joe had a secret which bothered you more'n this matter +did." + +"If I don't tell you there'll be no danger of your splittin' on us," +was the gruff reply. "What I want to know is whether there's any show +of our being tracked to this place?" + +"Of course, no man can say that to a dead certainty; but unless the +fellows who are jugged give the snap away, we're safe here, providing +Jabe can take care of us," Sam replied. + +Mr. Barker did not venture any advice, possibly because he feared it +might not be safe to have too many guests at his house for the +villagers to gossip about. + +"What about the house in the woods?" Bob finally asked. + +"Two fellows from Albany stayed there a couple of days, and then got +tired of waiting. They took the train home last night." + +"Did they find anything?" + +"No; I went up to the big oak this morning, and there were no signs the +ground had been disturbed since we left." + +Again Bob was silent, and when he finally spoke Jet was considerably +surprised. + +"This part of the country is getting too hot for me, and I'm goin' to +make a jump." + +"Where?" + +"Almost any place is better than layin' around so near. What do you +say to a hunting trip in the Adirondacks, Sam?" + +"It would suit me. How much cash have you got?" + +"Enough to see us through." + +"Then I'm ready any time." + +"When can we leave here, Jabe?" + +"I don't reckon you want to go through Albany?" + +"Of course not, you fool." + +"Then at five to-morrow morning you'll get a train from here to +Schenectady, and there are plenty out of there to take you into the +mountains." + +"I don't fancy running around those big towns," Sam said, hesitatingly. + +"Very well, stay behind if you choose; I'm going," and Bob terminated +the interview by walking toward the house. + +"It's something besides shoving the queer that's crawling on him now," +Jabe said, as the short man passed out of hearing. + +"I reckon so; but at the same time I'm bound to be with him, for if +there is a man in this country who can steer clear of trouble he is the +one, and I don't care to be pulled on a charge of counterfeiting." + +Jabe made no reply, and a few seconds later the two followed their +friend into the house, leaving Jet to ponder upon the magnitude of the +task he felt bound to undertake. + +Not until everything was quiet did the boy venture to come down from +his hiding-place, and then his plans were formed. + +"Between now and to-morrow morning I can walk fifteen miles," he said +to himself when he had gained the highway once more, "and then I should +be mighty near the junction. There I shall be able to telegraph at any +hour, and have everything ready to board this five o'clock train when +it comes along. But if we should reach the Adirondacks, and those +fellows ever got hold of me there, it would be all up with Jet Lewis." + +It was, indeed, a desperate undertaking for him to follow these men +into the wilderness where he could not call upon his friend for +assistance; but never for a moment did he think of shirking the +responsibility. + +His first move was to see the manager, and represent that he was going +down the road a short distance, in order to prevent anything being said +to the constable before the two men should leave. + +"I'll most likely meet you at the next town," he said, cheerily, as he +went up stairs apparently to retire, and half an hour later he had +slipped out of the house without being recognized by any one he knew. + +At this late hour the village was in a state of repose, and he hurried +to the railroad, saying to himself as he started down the track on the +ties: + +"Now we'll see how many miles I can cover between this and sunrise." + + + + +CHAPTER XXI + +THE ADIRONDACKS + +Jet gave no heed to his own fatigue during this night's traveling. + +His one desire was to reach the junction in time to send the telegram +to Harvey, and make such changes in his costume as would serve to +disguise him in some slight degree. + +In order to effect this purpose, it would be necessary to travel every +moment of the time at full speed. + +This he did, and it was one quarter past four in the morning when he +arrived at the junction. + +He had more than two hours before the train would arrive, and his first +care was to send the following telegram to the detective: + + +"He, with a friend, has just started for the Adirondacks hunting. If +possible will let you know where they stop; but I may not be able to +get out of the woods while they stay." + + +It had taken Jet a long while to write the message. He wished to word +it so the operator could not understand that he was tracking a man, and +yet it was necessary the detective should realize it might be many days +before he could send any further information. + +If the men had remained at Jabe's house one day after he discovered +positively that Bob was there, the whole work would have been finished +in a few hours, for an officer could have been sent from Albany to +capture him. + +Under the circumstances, therefore, nothing could be done, save to +follow the men until it should be possible to let Harvey know where an +arrest might be effected. + +After the message had been delivered to the operator, Jet walked around +the town waiting for the stores to be opened. + +The "earliest bird" was a clothing dealer, and he "caught the worm" +without difficulty. + +Jet bought a reefer's jacket, a slouch hat, and such articles of +underwear as might be needed. He also invested a dollar in a cheap +carpet-bag. + +Then he waited a few moments longer for the shoemaker, of whom he +purchased a pair of top boots. Tucking his trousers into these, he had +the satisfaction of knowing that he bore very little resemblance to the +district messenger boy, who had left New York believing his destination +to be Yonkers. + +"I'd like to buy a gun and some cartridges, if I could get a good +bargain," he said to the shoemaker, and the latter replied, eagerly: + +"I've got jest what you want." + +An ordinary breech-loading, double-barrelled gun was produced from +behind the counter, and after some bargaining a trade was made on the +basis of eight dollars for the weapon and sixty cartridges. + +By this time Jet's stock of ready cash was running low; but he did not +feel particularly worried, since there was yet enough remaining to pay +his railroad fare to and from the mountains, with something over for +the purchase of provisions. + +A hearty breakfast at the depot restaurant, a wait of five minutes, and +the train arrived. + +Jet had good reason to believe his game would go direct to Plattsburgh +before striking into the wilderness, for the shoemaker had told him it +was the most direct route to the hunting region, and he procured a +ticket for that point. + +On boarding the train he went into the smoking-car, and there saw the +men he intended to fellow. + +The seat behind them was vacant, and he took it at once, pulling his +hat down over his eyes in such a manner that one could not see his face +without considerable difficulty. + +The men were half asleep; but the conductor awakened them, and Jet was +made glad by a glimpse of their tickets. + +They were bound for Plattsburgh as he had guessed, and he resolved that +at the next station he would telegraph this information to Harvey. + +"I don't suppose he could get a man there before these fellows strike +into the woods," he said to himself; "but there's just a chance they'll +hang around the town a while, and it is best he should have all the +information possible." + +At Schenectady it was necessary to change cars, and here Jet found an +opportunity to send Harvey word. + +On boarding the other train, the boy again succeeded in getting a seat +directly behind his men without apparently having been observed by them. + +They had not started without an ample supply of liquid refreshments, +and both indulged liberally, but not to such an extent as to loosen +their tongues. + +Jet listened eagerly, but not a word of particular interest or +importance to him could he hear. + +Owing to several delays, it was nightfall before the train reached +Plattsburgh, and now came the hardest part of the amateur detective's +task. + +It was necessary to keep the men in sight, and yet at the same time +avoid being seen by them. + +He was convinced that it would be necessary for him to stand watch all +night; but fortune favored him in a signal manner. + +Observing Bob going toward the ticket-office, he slipped through the +crowd, and heard the following conversation: + +"When does the next train leave for Saranac Lake?" + +"Seven to-morrow morning." + +"From what depot?" + +"This one." + +"What is the fare?" + +"Three thirty-five." + +"Give me two tickets." + +"I reckon that's enough for me," Jet said to himself, joyfully. +"There's no question about where they are going, and I can do as I +please until morning." + +After Bob left the window to rejoin Sam, the boy purchased a ticket for +the same point, and then went to a small hotel near the depot where he +registered as David Small. + +The two men had evidently sought shelter elsewhere, for he saw nothing +of them during the evening. + +After a hearty supper, which was all the more needed, because he had +refrained from buying dinner, in order to husband his rapidly +decreasing store of cash, Jet wrote a long letter to Harvey, telling +him all he had learned, and urging that some officer be sent to Saranac +Lake in order to make the arrest. + + +"I shall keep on their track as long as I can," he said in conclusion; +"but after they get into the woods it's going to be a hard job, and the +sooner they are pulled the more certain we'll be of having them." + + +This done he went to bed and slept soundly until awakened at six +o'clock. + +Half an hour later he was at the depot, and took a seat in the +smoking-car. + +Neither Bob nor Sam were there; but they arrived five minutes before +the train left, and seated themselves some distance from Jet. + +From that time until considerably past noon the boy could do no more +than watch his men; but he was well content, knowing they had no +suspicion as to being followed. + +Then the end of the first stage of the journey was finished, and the +real work of trailing the human game began. + +Jet loitered around the station asking questions relative to the best +way of getting into the woods, but all the while keeping his eye on the +men. + +Their movements puzzled him. + +Neither appeared to be in any hurry to leave the town. + +They also asked a number of questions; but Jet was not near enough to +overhear the conversation, and then both went to the hotel. + +A boy about his own age was standing near the depot platform eying Jet +curiously, and the latter asked, more as an excuse for remaining where +he was than anything else. + +"Do you know where a fellow could find some good hunting?" + +"You'd have to go down to the lake, and strike into the woods most +anywhere." + +"Where is the lake?" + +"Down that road a couple of miles." + +"Isn't there any other way of getting into the woods?" + +"Not unless you strike through the fields, an' then you'd be goin' +right away from the best hunting. There's a fork in the road a little +more than a mile down, an' the people mostly take the right-hand turn. +How far are you countin' on traveling?" + +"I don't know; just want to have a little trip." + +"I don't reckon you want a guide, eh?" + +"I guess I couldn't stand anything quite so expensive. I heard one of +them fellers say he wanted, three dollars a day." + +"Yes, some of 'em get pretty big prices; but I'd put myself alongside +of the best, 'less it comes to deers." + +"And how much do you charge?" + +"I'll go for nothin', if you'll pay the bills." + +"Bills for what?" + +"Grub, hire of a boat, powder an' shot, an' sich things." + +"Have you got a gun?" + +"Of course; but she's not so good as your'n." + +"I'll take you along. When will you be ready?" + +"In five minutes; I've only got to run home a second to get some +things." + +"Don't be away any longer than you can help." + +The boy started off at full speed; and Jet congratulated himself on +having made the arrangement. + +"That fellow can do a good deal to help me, and since he lives around +here, Bob won't recognize me so quick, because he'll be apt to take me +for one of the natives." + +Jet's guide returned in a very short time. + +He brought with him several fishing-lines, an old muzzle-loading gun, +some cooking utensils, and a small bundle of provisions. + +"Now, you've got to buy a lot of grub, an' then we'll have so much to +carry that a team will be needed to haul 'em. I know where we can get +a boat." + +"I'll stay here while you pick out as much as we'll need; but don't +spend more'n ten dollars." + +"Ten dollars! Why, half of that'll be enough." + +"Go ahead, an' call me when you've found out how much the bill is." + +"Why don't you come, too?" + +"I didn't know but I might see a friend, an' I want to kinder watch out +for a while." + +The boy hurried away, and returned half an hour later. + +"The stuff comes to six dollars an' eighty cents, an' we'll have to pay +a dollar to get it hauled down." + +Jet was averse to losing sight of the hotel door even for a moment; but +it was necessary to settle the bill, and he hurried off just as the +stage drove up. + +He paid the amount asked for, and had turned toward the store door when +he saw Bob and Sam, with guns, rods, and quite an amount of baggage, +clambering on the roof of the coach. + +"Hurry up an' get your team," he said, in a low tone to his new friend. +"I'd like to know where that stage stops." + +"I can show you any time," the boy replied, carelessly; but he obeyed +the injunction, and in a few moments after the public conveyance rolled +away the amateur detective was following it. + + + + +CHAPTER XXII + +THE SMALL GUIDE + +The driver of the vehicle which Jet had hired did not seem disposed to +push his sorry-looking horse to his utmost speed, and the boy +experienced no slight amount of mental anxiety through fear that the +men would escape him. + +Once they entered the woods without his having some idea of their +course, the chase would be well-nigh hopeless. + +His small guide commenced the process of becoming acquainted by asking +Jet's name. + +"David Small," was the prompt reply. "What's your's?" + +"Jim Crosby." + +Then Jet was obliged to explain considerably more about himself; he +said he lived in Albany, sold news papers there, and, having laid by a +little money, concluded to see what the Adirondack region looked like. + +"If you don't have to go back too soon, I'll show you the whole place," +Jim replied, with an air of profound wisdom such as one might have +expected from the oldest inhabitant in the vicinity. + +Then the small guide went on to explain where he proposed to take his +friend and patron, and before his recital was finished the wagon +stopped at the lake side. + +Here everything was in a state of seeming confusion. Sportsmen and +tourists were setting out for their respective destinations; but Jet +had no thought for any, save the two he had followed so far. + +"You hire a boat, and I'll stay here," he said to Jim, who hurried +away, leaving him where he could see all who left the shore by the +water-way. + +Again fortune favored him. + +Bob and Sam had just concluded their arrangements for a craft, and were +loading it not more than twenty yards away. + +Before Jim returned they had started alone. + +These two who thought more of hiding themselves than of hunting or +fishing, did not need a guide. + +Jet kept his eyes fixed on them as they rowed leisurely down the lake, +and when Jim returned, he said: + +"See here, can't we keep about half a mile behind those fellows?" + +"What do you want to do that for? They won't know where to find the +best sport." + +"I've got a particular reason for wanting to see where they stop, an' +will make it worth your while." + +"Oh, that's all right, I don't want to be paid for anything of the +kind! Come on an' help me put this stuff aboard before they get around +the point." + +Jet was so eager to be off that he did most of the work himself, and +Jim promised to take the first trick at the oars. + +"Don't pull very fast; I only want to keep them in sight," Jet +explained, as he shoved the light craft off and leaped into the +stern-sheets. + +"You steer, and tell me when we're coming too near, for I can't keep +lookin' around. Say, what game are you up to?" + +"I don't understand you." + +"I reckon you know what I mean. Why do you wanter keep on the track of +that boat?" + +"I just had an idea, that's all. They are going without a guide, and +I'd like to see how they'll come out." + +"There's plenty of them kind of fellers who think they can save money +by workin' it alone; but they don't travel very far. What's your other +reason?" + +Unquestionably Jim was suspicious, and Jet began to study the question +of how much he could tell him, for it would soon be necessary to make +some more definite explanation. + +While he was thus trying to decide, the small guide continued to ply +him with questions, until he came to the conclusion that the best plan +would be to give a portion of the story, otherwise, in case he met the +men, Jim might ask them to solve the riddle. + +"If you'll cross your throat never to tell a living person till we get +out of the woods again, I'll let you into the secret, and what's more, +I'll agree to give you twenty dollars, if this job is finished up +right." + +"Twenty dollars!" the boy repeated, in surprise. "What do you want me +to do?" and he turned to look at the boat. + +"Nothing just at present but row slowly without turning around. Will +you agree not to tell anybody?" + +"Of course, an' I'd do a good deal more'n that to earn so much money." + +"Then here it is, and if you breathe a single word I wouldn't wonder if +you got into jail. I've been hired to watch them fellows till officers +can get here and arrest them." + +"Then you're a reg'lar detective," Jim cried, breathlessly. + +"Hold your tongue, or everybody on the lake will hear you. I ain't +anything of the kind. Didn't I say I'd only been hired to watch them +so's to let the officers know where they stop?" + +"What have they been doing?" + +"I don't reckon it's very much; but somebody in Albany seems to think +it'll pay to catch them." + +"Why didn't the constables come with you?" + +"Because nobody but me knew they'd started for this place. It the men +make a camp we can send back word; but if they have the least little +idea that we're on their trail there'll be a mighty good chance of our +getting our throats cut." + +"I'll be still as a fish; but I do wish I knew more about 'em." + +"If they are arrested you can find out the whole story." + +This promise seemed to satisfy Jim, and he rowed on in silence, +probably fancying he was doing some skillful piece of detective work, +which might be spoiled by so much as the splashing of the oars. + +An hour later the men were taking matters so leisurely that it was +necessary the boys should make a pretense of landing in order to remain +behind, otherwise their evident loitering would have caused suspicion. + +Jet explained this to his companion, and the latter proposed that they +utilize the time by cooking dinner. + +The boat was run ashore, and Jim soon proved that he was a valuable +assistant in the woods by preparing a hot lunch, which to Jet was +decidedly palatable. + +By the time the meal was ended the men were a couple of miles in +advance, and the boys resumed the chase, with Jim still at the oars. + +"I'll bet you they are bound for the falls," the guide said, shortly +after the second start. "If that's so we'll have to make a carry, an' +that can't be done between now and sunset." + +"What's a carry?" + +"A place where you have to lug your boat for a while, an' it's no fun +I'll tell you." + +"If they do it, I reckon we can." + +"Of course, only it's a lot of work." + +"We must expect plenty of that before the money is earned." + +That Jim was correct in his surmise was shown later when Bob and Sam +turned their craft into the stream which led to Round Lake, and then +landed, evidently for the night. + +"How near shall we go to them?" Jim asked. + +"It won't do to stay too far away, for we must make it appear as if we +intended to run down the same stream. We'll hold up here." + +Jet steered the craft into an indentation on the shore about a quarter +of a mile from where the others had stopped, and at a spot from which +he could keep them in view. + +"I'll rig up a camp, and you keep your eyes on them while you're +getting some of the grub out," the small guide proposed. + +The boys made preparations for the night, and while so occupied could +see that the men were doing the same. + +Then fires were lighted in both camps, and Jet watched the one down +stream until his eyes closed in slumber, despite all his efforts to +keep them open. + +The gray light of dawn could be but faintly seen in the eastern sky +when the amateur detective awakened, and his heart was made glad by the +sight of a glow from the lower encampment. + +"They haven't started yet," he said, as he awakened the guide, "and it +stands us in hand to be ready to leave the minute they do." + +"Better let 'em get to the carry first. When they keep on down the +stream, we'll know where they're headed for, an' can get through in +time, for I don't reckon there's a chance of their stayin' on Round +Lake." + +"There may be, and we mustn't run any risks." + +The boys were ready to continue the journey some time before the men +gave any sign of leaving camp, and they bustled around first in one +direction and then another to make it appear as if they were doing work +of importance, in case the game should be suspicious. + +Not until Bob and Sam had been half an hour on their way would Jim +consent to start, and that he had been wise in so doing could be seen +after the fatiguing labor of "the carry" had been performed. + +The fugitives were not more than two hundred yards in advance when the +boys came out of the woods with the last load, and Jim said with a +chuckle: + +"I knowed they'd take the wrong turn, an' we'd been a good bit ahead if +it hadn't been for layin' back." + +By working slowly the boat was not reloaded until some time after the +men were out of sight, and then when she had been pulled to the +entrance of Round Lake, Jet insisted on remaining there a while, +concealed by the bushes, to watch the movements of the other craft. + +"I swow! They are goin' to stop here after all!" Jim exclaimed, as he +saw the men turn toward the shore about a mile from the stream. +"There's one thing about it, though, they're bound to leave before many +days." + +"Why?" + +"'Cause there's no game 'round here, an' the fishin' ain't anything to +speak of." + +"I don't reckon they care, so long as the provisions hold out." + +"Of course, they can get fish enough, if they only want them to eat; +but I never heard of anybody campin' here." + +"That's probably the very reason why they stop; no one would think of +looking for them where there's so little sport to be had. Now we'll +slip down about half-way between here and there, and build our camp." + +This time Jet rowed, and his companion steered the little craft to a +small point within less than half a mile of where Bob's boat could be +seen. + +The guide took upon himself the task of building a shelter, and he had +a very respectable looking lean-to finished before night. + +The boat was drawn up on the shore; the goods stored underneath her, +and everything was ready for the night. + +Jim caught four fish from the bank, and these he fried in a most +appetizing manner, after which the boys rested from their labors. + +A camp-fire had been built, and Jet was lying inside the shanty where +the smoke would not disturb him, while Jim remained outside to +"brighten the blaze" whenever the fuel should bum too low. + +Both were enjoying the luxury of repose when an exclamation from the +guide caused the amateur detective to glance quickly toward the water's +edge. + +That which he saw was sufficient to cause his heart to beat rapidly. + +Bob, with his gun thrown carelessly over his shoulder, was coming +directly toward them. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIII + +THE VISIT + +There could be no question but that the man was coming for the sole and +only purpose of paying them a visit, and Jet was quite confident he had +grown suspicious he and his companion were being followed. + +The boy's first thought was to edge farther into the shanty, in order +to prevent his face from being seen so plainly; but he did not dare +make very much of a move lest the man should be aware of his purpose. + +"He knows what we're here for," Jim whispered, in a tone of fear. + +"Don't let him see you think it. Act as if we wasn't talking of +anything but hunting and fishing. Remember he'll kill us, if he knows +the truth." + +This was sufficient to drive away what little self-possession Jim had +left, and he stood stupidly staring at the visitor until Jet said +sharply: + +"Pick up that hatchet and begin to cut wood; we haven't enough to last +over night." + +Jim would have obeyed almost any order at that moment. He was so dazed +with fear as not to know what he was about, and mechanically he began +to do as he was bidden. + +Bob advanced leisurely, looked carelessly around at the boat, the stack +of provisions and the weapons, after which he asked, much as if it was +really a matter of no concern to him: + +"Come up here on a hunting trip, eh?" + +"More for fishing than anything else," Jet replied, keeping his face in +the shadow as much as possible. + +"Is this a good place for that kind of sport?" + +"We haven't had a chance to find out yet; but my chum caught four from +the shore just after we landed." + +"Do you live anywhere around here?" + +"I'm from Plattsburgh; but Jim lives at the village of Saranac Lake." + +"Then he ought to be acquainted with the best fishing grounds." + +"He thinks he is, and wanted me to keep on into the upper lake; but +after that long carry I thought I'd had enough of such work, and so +we've hauled up here a while." + +"Going to stay long?" + +"I don't reckon we can be away more'n a week." + +"Do many of the visitors stop on this lake?" Bob asked, as he turned to +Jim, and Jet took advantage of the opportunity to move farther inside +the shanty. + +"No, sir, they mostly keep farther on. This place has been fished over +so much that there's no fun for the city chaps what wanter catch big +fellows." + +Under Jet's example Jim was rapidly recovering his presence of mind, +and since the visitor did not immediately set about killing them, he +dared to look him in the face. + +This answer seemed to please Bob, and Jet could readily understand why. + +He gazed around once more, and then started back, much to the relief of +his hosts. + +Jim attempted to say something a moment afterward, but Jet interrupted +him by crying loudly: + +"Don't you think we'd better try to fix this camp up a little more +before night?" + +"Why, she's good enough," Jim replied, in surprise, as he came to the +front of the hut, which gave Jet the opportunity to whisper: + +"Don't you dare to say a word about him yet a while. There's no +knowing how near he may be." + +It was fully a quarter of an hour before the small guide ventured to +speak again, and then Jet had seen both the men on the shore in front +of their hut. + +"You can talk now," he said, as he rose to his feet; "but in the future +be mighty careful where those fellows are before opening your mouth +about them. What were you going to say?" + +"I don't know now; you frightened it out of my head. I swow! but I +thought he'd come over to raise the very old Harry with us." + +"It wasn't pleasant to see him so near; but now I'm glad he made the +visit, for I don't think he suspects anything, and won't have a reason +to prowl around. We must spend a good deal of time fishing tomorrow." + +"Why don't you send word for them fellers to come up an' nab him?" + +"Perhaps we will to-morrow, if they are still here; but you must +remember that it isn't yet certain they'll stay very long, and by the +time the officers arrived both might be out of the way." + +"Of course, you've got the management of this job; but, if it was in my +hands, I'd want to have it over as soon as I could." + +"So do I; but at the same time it won't do to make a mistake. How long +would it take you to walk back to the village, if I rowed you to the +falls?" + +"Pretty nigh one whole day." + +"Would you go up there and send a telegram?" + +"Couldn't you come to?" + +"No, because they might leave while we were gone." + +"Then I s'pose I'd have to do it," Jim replied; but it could readily be +seen that he did not care for such a job. + +Without saying anything to his companion, Jet decided that if the men +should be in this camp on the morning of the second day he would send +Jim to the village, and take the chances of their concluding to make a +change of location. + +Surely Bob would not think of starting off that night, therefore the +amateur detective felt it was safe for him to take all the rest he +needed, and, after a hearty supper, he and Jim turned in. + +The sun was an hour high in the heavens when the boys awakened next +morning. + +As a matter of course the first thought of both was regarding the game +they were watching, and their gaze was at once directed toward the +other camp. + +Both men could be seen lounging around the fire, and Jet said in a tone +of relief: + +"It's all right so far. If they are there to-morrow you shall go back." + +Jim made no protest unless one might have been read in the expression +of his face. + +This second day in the woods was spent in a lazy fashion by the +occupants of both camps. + +It was nearly noon before Jim and his companion were ready to go out +fishing, and then the sport was so dull that they did not remain very +long. + +Half a dozen medium-sized fish was the only result of their labor, and +these the guide proposed to roast, because, as he explained, it would +save the trouble of cleaning them. + +He set about the task in the most approved backwoods style, and +succeeded in bringing forth a most acceptable dish. + +After this meal the boys did nothing, save watch their neighbors, and +when night came Jet began to discuss the details of the return trip, +for he was now confident the men were permanently located. + +"Go right to the telegraph office as soon as you get home," he said to +Jim, "and if the operator asks who sent the message say it was some one +you met in the woods who hired you to bring it." + +"S'posen he won't take it?" + +"There's no danger of that. I'll give you the money, and he'll be +bound to do as you say." + +"You'll have to stay here all night alone, for, of course, I can't get +back the same day." + +"I shan't mind it, except that I may be lonesome; but I mustn't think +of such a thing now." + +Jim brought up various reasons why it would be better both should go; +but Jet would not listen to them, and when they laid down to sleep it +was understood that the guide would start at an early hour. + +Next morning shortly after sunrise Bob and Sam were seen cooking +breakfast, and Jet wrote the following message to Harvey: + + +"Come at once to Saranac lake, and hire a boat to Round Lake. I will +watch for you." + + +When this had been done the amateur detective suddenly realized that if +both he and Jim should set out in the craft and but one returned, it +might arouse suspicion, therefore he said to the guide: + +"It won't pay to run any risks, and you'll have to walk the whole +distance. Here's money enough so you can buy anything you think we may +need." + +He handed Jim three dollars, and that young gentleman was so delighted +at having such an amount to spend as he saw fit that all objections to +the journey were forgotten. + +"Go up along fast as possible; you can take your time coming back," Jet +said, as his companion, shouldering the muzzle-loader, was ready to set +out, "and don't delay sending that message." + +"I'll fix things in great shape," was the confident reply, and then the +small guide disappeared amid the foliage. + +During the next hour Jet bustled around considerably more than was +necessary, in order to make it appear as if both he and Jim were there, +and as a means of causing the time to pass more quickly, attempted to +cook an elaborate dinner. + +This was a failure, however, owing to his lack of skill, and he dined +on boiled potatoes, which were not particularly palatable, owing to the +fact that they had been thoroughly scorched. + +The men appeared to be well contented with their camp. They lounged +around near the shore, but without showing any desire to fish, and +otherwise behaved as if determined to remain. + +When night came Jet felt more than lonely. The night noises of the +forest almost frightened him, and only by piling the fire high with +wood could he keep his courage screwed to the "sticking point." + +He had not slept more than half an hour, and was promising himself a +long nap after the sun rose; but when the day dawned he had something +more serious to think about. + +He watched Bob and Sam as they prepared breakfast, and then, much to +his surprise and sorrow, saw them launch the boat, packing into her all +their belongings. + +"Jimminy! They're going to leave, and I've sent that telegram just at +the wrong time. Now, what's to be done?" + +There could be no question but that the men were intending to break +camp, and, uncertain as to what he should do, Jet watched until all the +camp equipage had been stowed on board the craft. + +Then they pushed off, rowing leisurely down the lake, and again Jet +asked himself what should be done. + +To pursue them in the boat, no matter how far in the rear he might keep +himself, would simply be to tell the men he intended to watch them, +and, unfamiliar as he was with the country or woodcraft, it seemed both +foolish and dangerous to follow on land. + +Not until those he so ardently wished to keep in sight had rowed fully +a mile away did he arrive at any decision, and then he said to himself: + +"There's no other way out of it. I must go on, and take the chances. +I only hope when Jim comes back he won't be such a fool as to pull down +the lake in search of me, for they'd be certain to see him." + +Filling his pockets with cartridges, and wrapping in a paper a small +stock of provisions, he set off, only to come back a moment later and +write on a piece torn from a paste board box: + + +"I have had to go down the lake. Wait here for me." + + +This he fastened to a tree where Jim would be most likely to see it +immediately on his arrival, and then he started for the second time. + +When Jet set out, the boat containing the men was a long distance in +advance heading directly toward the lower end of the lake where were a +number of small islands. + +At first it had seemed a simple thing to follow a craft by keeping +close to the edge of the water; but in a short time he learned the +difference to his cost. + + + + +CHAPTER XXIV + +A STERN CHASE + +For a certain distance Jet could walk through the fringe of bushes +growing at the water's edge, enabled to see the boat and its occupants +distinctly, and then a bit of marsh or small stream would force him to +a detour of a mile or more. + +"At this rate, I'm making about three times the distance they have to," +he said, as he staggered across a shallow water-course so laden with +the provisions, and the gun that he could not hold the branches back +from his face, and thus received many a severe blow. "Most likely the +next time I get to the edge of the lake they will be behind one of +those islands, and then what's to be done?" + +The catastrophe he feared did not occur quite as soon as he feared, +although it came finally. + +Twice more he saw the little craft, Sam rowing and Bob steering, and +then she had disappeared. + +By this time he was so near the outlet of the lake that it was +impossible to say whether the men had crossed over into Upper Saranac, +or were making camp near by. + +During half an hour Jet sat concealed by the bushes where he could have +a full view of the water, and no sign of life met his anxious gaze. + +The only benefit derived from this halt was that he had lightened the +bundle of provisions by making a hearty meal from a portion of its +contents, and enjoyed the repose. + +"There's no question but that they have either gone into camp on one of +the islands, or kept on through the stream," he said, as he rose to his +feet; "but I declare I don't know which way to turn." + +He finally decided to walk to the outlet, scanning the shores of the +island as he passed, and, failing in seeing any signs there, continue +on until nightfall. + +He tramped steadily for an hour without finding that for which he +sought, and by this time was at the carry with the gloom of night +settling rapidly around him. + +Added to the desolateness of the situation was the sorrow caused by the +belief that he had lost the trail at the very time when allowing Harvey +to believe the men were where they could be arrested without difficulty. + +"If I hadn't sent that telegram," he thought, mournfully, "Jim would +have been here to help keep them in sight, or, if we lost them entirely +as I have done, he'd have some sort of an idea where they went to." + +The thought of the small guide gave him a new idea. + +"I'll go back to our camp, if it takes all night," he said, resolutely, +turning his face in the direction he believed it was located. "We can +come down in the boat and find out whether they stopped on one of the +islands." + +Now he walked rapidly, in order to cover as much ground as possible +before it grew so dark as to shut out surrounding objects from view. + +Weary as he was, and owing to the broken ground, his progress was +exceedingly slow, and night had fully shut her black curtain down +before he reached the edge of the lake. + +Then he was forced to proceed at a snail's pace, lest he inadvertantly +walked into one of the small streams; but he continued manfully on +until it was no longer possible to take another step. + +Now came the alarming knowledge that he was lost. + +Had he been going in the right direction he should have reached the +lake before sunset, and it could not then be less than nine o'clock. + +He was no longer able to find the stream which had served him as guide, +and stretched himself on the ground at the foot of a gigantic tree +feeling as if it made but little difference whether he ever arose again +or not. + +In utter despair he remained silent and motionless until slumber came +to his relief, and he remained wrapped in blissful unconsciousness for +several hours. + +When he awoke it was yet dark, and he was benumbed with the chill which +came from the damp earth. + +"There's no need of freezing to death, if I am lost," he said to +himself. "Things are so bad now that they can't be much worse, and I +may as well make the best of a bad bargain." + +By feeling carefully around he succeeded in getting together a small +quantity of decaying wood, and this he lighted after some difficulty. + +"It's lucky I had to cook dinner to-day, or I shouldn't have had a +match." he said, grimly, as he sat about gathering more fuel. + +In a short time he had a cheerful blaze, and the warmth, which was so +grateful, served to revive his courage. + +Slowly the hours passed. + +Now and then he fell into a light slumber, but only for a few moments +at a time, and it seemed as if forty hours must have elapsed before the +sun lightened the sky again. + +Toasting some of the crackers on the coals, and refreshing himself with +water from a tiny stream, he made ready to continue his search. + +Now he took his bearings carefully, with the sun as a guide, and, +knowing the lake must lie to the west, pushed straight across the +wilderness. + +One, two, three hours, and then his heart was made glad by a glimpse of +the water. + +Never had anything looked as beautiful as did the lake at that moment. + +He ran to the bank, and looked out through the bushes. + +He was nearly opposite the islands, at the exact spot where the trail +was lost on the previous afternoon. + +To reach the camp it would be necessary to travel the greater portion +of the day, and the important question was as to whether Jim would +remain quietly there until he returned. + +"There's no use thinking about it; I've got to take the chances," he +said, resolutely to himself, and the weary march was resumed. + +More than once before the journey came to an end was he tempted to give +himself up to the rest he so sadly needed; but the thought that he +might be forced to spend another night in the woods alone without a +shelter, prevented him from giving way. + +The last of the provisions were eaten for dinner. + +A halt of half an hour was indulged in, and then he trudged forward +once more, traveling a trifle more easily since one of his hands was +now free. + +It was late in the afternoon when he finally arrived within sight of +the encampment; but there were no signs of Jim. + +Before reaching the shanty he shouted loudly, receiving no reply, save +the mocking echoes. + +Now he ran the short distance remaining, and looked around eagerly. + +Everything was apparently as he had left them. The notice was still +fastened to the trunk of the tree. + +The store of provisions was untouched, and he went to the water's edge. + +The boat had not been launched, and this in itself was sufficient to +show the small guide had not returned. + +It was time he arrived, even supposing he remained over night at his +home, as had been intimated, and the only reason for delay which he +could imagine was that the young gentleman's parents refused to let him +continue the hunting trip. + +If that had been the case it seemed strange he did not come back to let +Jet know he could no longer act as guide and assistant detective. + +Thoroughly disheartened Jet threw himself on the ground near the front +of the shanty, trying to decide what he could do; when the sound as of +some person forcing his way through the underbrush caused a look of joy +to come over his face. + +An instant later it was replaced by one of disappointment. + +Instead of seeing Jim as he had hoped, a very disreputable-looking +stranger came from the direction of the upper carry, approaching Jet +with a careless "Howdy?" + +"Good afternoon," Jet responded. + +"Out here on a fishin' trip, eh?" + +"Yes, something of that sort." + +"Been 'round long?" + +"A few days." + +"I reckon you don't want to hire a good guide, who can beat any one in +this section cooking, eh?" + +"No, and I haven't got the money if I did want to." + +"I'd go mighty cheap seein's how business is dull." + +Jet shook his head. + +"Well, there's no harm done. I don't reckon you'd kick agin givin' a +feller a bite, eh?" + +"Help yourself; the provisions are under the boat." + +The stranger proceeded to overhaul the outfit in the most +matter-of-fact way possible, even grumbling because certain articles he +evidently expected were not to be found. + +"How would it do, if I got up a dinner for both of us?" he finally +asked. + +"All right, go ahead." + +It made very little difference to Jet what the fellow did so long as he +left him free to think the matter over, and he paid no attention to his +movements. + +After an hour had passed the stranger invited Jet to "fill up" from his +own stock of provisions, and as he accepted the invitation the boy +discovered that whatever this man might think of his abilities, he was +certainly a very poor cook. + +"I'd a-done better if you'd had more stuff," he said, +half-apologetically, and then he began an attack on the food which +speedily emptied the dishes. + +The visitor made no move toward clearing away the cooking utensils; but +leaving them where they were last used, proceeded to fill his pipe. + +Then he stretched himself out inside the shanty, and took, as he said, +"solid enjoyment." + +"I allow there's no reason why I can't stay here till morning, eh?" + +Much as Jet disliked the proposed companionship, he could not well +refuse the request, therefore he gave consent with rather an ill-will. + +"Seen anybody else huntin' 'round here?" the fellow asked, after a +pause. + +"There were two men camping down there a bit, but they left yesterday." + +"When did they come?" + +"Three or four days ago." + +"Do you know where they went?" + +Jet fervently wished he did; but he simply answered "no." + +The visitor appeared deeply interested in these men; but his host +showed such a disinclination to talk that he finally relapsed into +silence. + +Jet soon fell asleep, and was so tired that he did not awaken again +until an hour or more after sunrise. + +To his delight the stranger was no longer, there. + +He glanced around leisurely, and to his surprise found that more than +the man had disappeared. + +The boat, his gun, the store of provisions, and even the pot and +frying-pan had taken their departure. + +"The thief!" he cried, leaping to his feet, and then a thought which +was little less than an inspiration came to him. + +"He is one of Bob's gang. That is why he wanted to know so much when I +spoke of two men. Jabe probably told him where Bob and Sam were bound +for, and he came here hunting them." + + + + +CHAPTER XXV + +JIM + +The idea that he had been tricked by one of the gang he was hoping to +run down seemed particularly humiliating, and during at least five +minutes Jet stood silent and motionless gazing across the lake. + +Then anger took the place of bewilderment, and he managed to say some +very vigorous things which might have excited the ire of the gentleman +who claimed to be such a skillful cook had he been there to hear. + +Scolding doesn't as a rule, make any material difference in a fellow's +situation, and this Jet came to understand when he was forced to cease +from sheer lack of breath. + +"What a fool I'm making of myself!" he exclaimed. "The idea of +standing here raving when I ought to be trying to mend matters." + +It was difficult, however, when he began to reflect, to decide upon his +course. + +Should he go toward the town in search of Jim, and also to hire another +boat? + +That would involve the loss of two days, during which time the officer +for whom he had telegraphed might arrive, and, failing to find him, go +down the lake on a wild goose chase. + +To attempt to search for the men, alone and on foot, seemed the height +of folly, and while he stood near the water's edge deliberating upon +the question of whether he could replenish his stock of provisions +without paying a visit to the settlement, the rustling of the bushes +proclaimed an arrival. + +Jet looked around, half expecting to see his seedy friend of the +previous evening come back to tell him it was all a joke, when the +small guide Jim stepped into view. + +He was evidently in the best of spirits, and gazed at Jet as if +wondering why he was not welcomed more warmly. + +"I've made two dollars, though I ain't got 'em yet, since I've been +gone," he said, as he threw on the ground in front of the shanty a +well-filled bag, "an' now there's as much grub in camp as will last us +for a month, providin' we do a little cookin'." + +"What made you stay so long?" + +"Why, you see, it was to earn the two dollars I was tellin' about. I +met a feller the other side of the carry what was askin' if I'd seen +two men 'round here fishin', an' we had a real sociable talk----" + +"Was that when you were going up to the village?" Jet interrupted. + +"Of course." + +"And the fellow had black whiskers on his chin, and said he was a guide +and cook." + +"That's the very one. Have you seen him?" + +"I will tell you after your story is finished." + +"Well we had a right nice time together. I gave him part of my lunch, +an' then he wanted me to come back with him; but I told him I'd got to +get to the telegraph office----" + +"Did you let him know what you were going there for?" Jet asked, +excitedly. + +"Of course not, though he tried mighty hard to find out. He was +lookin' for a party what's coming through the carry in a day or two, +an' has got a job with 'em at four dollars a day. He said they was +over to Pine Pond, an' promised to give me two dollars, if I'd see if I +could find 'em." + +"Why didn't he go?" Jet asked, in a peculiar tone. + +"'Cause he didn't know the way." + +"Funny kind of a guide not to be better acquainted than a boy who never +attempted anything of the kind." + +"Well, you see, the most of his work has been done 'round Raquette Lake +way." + +"So you went over to the pond for him?" + +"Yes, it wouldn't take me so very much longer, an' it was earnin' two +dollars mighty easy." + +"But what about the telegram?" + +"Oh, that's all right. He offered to carry it to the village for me, +an' to pay the charges out of his own pocket, though it was to be taken +from what he owed me when I got back." + +"And you gave it to him?" Jet asked, his face growing very pale. + +"Yes, it would get there jest the same, an' I'd be helpin' buy the +grub," Jim replied, in a matter-of-fact tone, wholly unconscious of the +black looks Jet was bestowing upon him. "I couldn't find anybody +'round the pond, an' I reckon the party must have come that very day, +for when I got back to the village the man wasn't there; but I'll have +the money when he finishes the job." + +"Did you ask the telegraph operator if the message had been sent?" + +"No; what was the use of that so long as he'd promised to fix +everything? But say," Jim cried, suddenly, as he looked toward the +water's edge, "where's the boat?" + +"Your friend, the Raquette Lake guide borrowed her this morning." + +"So he's been here, eh? Did he say anything about meetin' me?" + +"Not a word," Jet replied, grimly. "I guess he was too busy getting +ready to leave, for he had to pack all our provisions, my gun and the +other things which were lying around into the boat." + +"What do you mean?" Jim cried, as he gazed about him and failed to see +any of their outfit. + +"I reckon he's gone to Raquette Lake with the two fellows who were +camping over on the point." + +"Have they skipped?" and now Jim's eyes were opened very wide. + +"Went yesterday morning bag and baggage." + +"What'll we do when the officer comes to arrest 'em?" + +"See here, Jim, are you so stupid as not to know what has happened?" + +"Why don't you tell me?" the guide screamed. + +"Because you have been giving me the story. The very jolly fellow you +met was a friend of the men I came here to watch; he talked with you +long enough to find out that the telegram you were carrying concerned +them in some way, and cooked up the yarn about Pine Pond, in order to +get hold of it. Then he came down to hunt me, stole the things to +prevent our following him, and skipped on to look for his pals." + +Jim gazed at his friend with dilated eyes while this explanation was +being made, and when Jet concluded, he said in a half-whisper: + +"Then I'm to blame for all that has happened?" + +"There's no question but you have been the means of informing those +fellows what we are here for," was the gloomy reply. + +"Do you know where they have gone?" + +Jet told of his fruitless journey, and when he concluded, Jim said +decidedly: + +"They didn't go into the upper lake, if they want to keep out of sight. +I'll bet they've landed on Dollar Island." + +"Which is that?" + +"The one nearest the outlet. It's a good place to camp, and from it +they can keep track of everybody coming or going. Suppose that fellow +who said he was a guide hasn't found 'em yet?" + +"Well, what then?" + +"We might catch him before the others find out about the telegram +message." + +"He has a boat, and we haven't." + +"But he's bound to land somewhere, and I know of a trail down this +side, which would take us to the outlet in short order. It isn't +more'n two miles." + +"Are you willing to go and take the chances? Remember if Bob and Sam +have learned what we are here for it will likely be a case of life or +death with us." + +"See here, Dave, I've spoiled all your plans without meanin' to do +wrong, an' now I'm ready to take any risks if things can be +straightened out. You've got a revolver, eh?" + +"Yes." + +"Then let's see what can be done." + +Jim was thoroughly excited now, and his determination to rectify the +error put new life into Jet. + +He sprang to his feet at once; reloaded his weapon lest the cartridges +should have been dampened during the night in the woods, and while he +was thus occupied Jim packed the provisions into a more convenient +shape for carrying. + +When all was ready, and but a few seconds had been spent in these +preparations, Jim led the way to a well defined trail a hundred yards +or so from the shore of the lake, saying as he did so: + +"It's queer you didn't find this when you were lost." + +"I shouldn't have noticed it if I'd come across it, because the most of +the tramping was done after dark, and in the morning I thought only of +finding the lake." + +"We shall see it two or three times before coming to the outlet." + +The boys walked at their best pace, Jet carrying Jim's gun, and the +latter with the greater portion of the provisions slung over his +shoulder. + +At the end of a quarter of an hour the trail brought them to the edge +of the lake, and they looked out over the water eagerly, but without +seeing any signs of life. + +Again their way wound through the woods, and when the journey was a +trifle more than two-thirds finished they were within sight of the +water once more. + +"Unless that fellow has made straight for the upper lake, he ought to +be 'round here somewhere, so we'd better not show ourselves," Jim +suggested, as he crept cautiously down to the fringe of bushes +bordering the banks. + +The boys were now where they could see between the cluster of islands +to the opposite shore, and after gazing for some time in silence, Jet +said, as he pointed directly across the lake: + +"Isn't that a line of smoke over there?" + +"It is, an' I'll bet our man has made camp to watch for his chums. +Let's go over!" + +It seemed to be a sort of forlorn hope; but the chances were well worth +taking in view of the possible result, and Jet replied: + +"Go ahead; but we must keep a good watch of the shores in case that +should not be the fellow we are searching for." + +Jim hardly needed this caution. Since having done so much harm he was +careful to a fault, and many times before reaching the outlet did he +run to the edge of the wood to search with his eyes the borders of the +lake. + +Each time he reported that no one was in sight, and always concluded +the information with the assurance: + +"I'm certain the two men are on Dollar Island." + +The outlet was reached and crossed at the expense of a wetting; but the +boys thought nothing of that; it was too trifling a matter to be +considered at such a time. + +From this on there was no trail to follow, and Jim led the way as near +the water's edge as possible. + +Finally the moment came when they were so near the thin curl of blue +smoke that the utmost care was necessary lest a noise should give token +of their approach. + +Jim crept through the bushes in the most approved manner of alleged +Indian hunters, and when they had thus traveled a couple of hundred +yards, he motioned for Jet to look as he parted the foliage in front of +him. + +There on the shore was the boat which had been stolen, and farther up, +near a hastily constructed shelter of branches, sat the man who had +promised to send the telegram for the small guide. + + + + +CHAPTER XXVI + +SUCCESS + +The man was sitting in front of a small fire, over which he had +evidently been cooking, for the frying-pan was close at hand, and the +odor of bacon could be distinguished in the air. + +Most likely he had just finished his morning meal, and was now solacing +himself with a pipe. + +The stolen gun had been leaned against a tree close by the hut, and +about a half a dozen yards from its new possessor, but on the opposite +side from where the boys were crouching. + +"What are you goin' to do?" Jim whispered. + +"We've got to get hold of him somehow, and by that means prevent Bob +and Sam from knowing what we are about." + +Jim nodded to show that he agreed fully in this assertion. + +"I don't s'pose you'd dare to shoot him." + +"Of course not; that would be murder." + +"Then how is it to be fixed?" + +Jet studied the situation for several minutes, and whispered: + +"We must manage to creep around on the other side, and get hold of the +gun first. Then I'll cover him with my revolver, and you must do the +same with the other weapon. When he sees that both of us have got the +drop on him, I reckon there won't be much trouble in keeping him quiet." + +Jim did not stop to argue the matter. + +According to his opinion the sooner the job was finished, the better, +and he started off at right angles with the camp, Jet following him. + +The boys moved so slowly and cautiously that not so much as a leaf was +disturbed, and the man by the fire heard nothing to arouse his +suspicions. + +Jim made a needlessly long detour. + +Many times before it was ended Jet felt convinced that the guide had +made a mistake, and once he stopped the boy to say so; but the latter +replied, in the tone of a fellow who knows perfectly well where he is: + +"We're all right. The camp is just over there, and I want to come in +sight of the lake once more before turning toward it." + +Twenty minutes later Jim pointed ahead with a gesture of triumph. + +Jet could see dimly through the foliage the outlines of the hut; but +the trees hid the man from view. + +Now the progress was even more slow and cautious. It seemed at times +as if Jim hardly moved, so afraid was he of making a noise; but the +advance was certain, and finally he stopped, motioning for Jet to come +beside him. + +The two were hardly more than a dozen feet from the weapon, and about +the same distance farther away was the man they hoped to make prisoner. + +His pipe had gone out, his head was sunk on his breast, and there was +every indication of his having fallen asleep. + +"Can you get the gun?" Jet whispered. + +Jim nodded his head. + +"Then creep up to it. I'll have the revolver ready, and jump in if he +awakens. In case he's still asleep we'll go toward him until he opens +his eyes. Start now," and Jet drew his weapon. + +The boys advanced side by side until Jim grasped the gun, and then Jet +motioned for him to rise to his feet, he setting the example. + +They stepped forward softly, each with his weapon leveled at the +half-reclining man, who did not so much as move until the boys were +close upon him. + +Then he lazily opened his eyes, and turned his head ever so slightly. + +"Throw up your hands; but don't make the slightest noise, or I'll shoot +you as I would a dog!" Jet said, sternly. + +The fellow obeyed the first order with alacrity as he saw the muzzles +of the weapons within a few inches of his head, and said in a careless +tone: + +"I reckon you didn't care about lendin' me your outfit." + +"That's just the size of it, and there is other business to be settled." + +By this time the prisoner had caught a glimpse of Jim's face, and he +added with a smile: + +"Come to collect that two dollars, eh?" + +"We mustn't stand here chinning," Jet said, as he pressed the muzzle of +the revolver to the back of the man's head. "Look around for something +to tie him with, Jim, and be quick about it." + +"What are you up to now?" the fellow growled. + +"It won't take long to find out, and I shall be forced to waste this +cartridge if you make any row." + +"I thought I was behavin' myself in proper shape." + +"So you are just at present; but I am ready for any change of plans, +and want you to understand fully how little it would take to induce me +to send a bullet into your worthless head." + +This was sufficient to silence the prisoner. + +"I can't find anything but the boat's painter," Jim cried. "Shall we +use that?" + +"Yes, and be quick about it." + +The rope was soon detached from the craft, and, as Jim approached with +it, Jet said to the man: + +"Now put your hands behind you." + +This order was obeyed without a murmur, and the small guide began to +tie them securely. + +The painter was of sufficient length to serve as bonds for the fellow's +legs also, and when he was thus trussed up Jet began fashioning a gag +from a piece of pine wood. + +Having had this instrument of torture applied to himself on two +occasions, he was well prepared to put it on in a proper fashion, +although the prisoner begged abjectly to be spared the indignity. + +"We have got to take care of ourselves, and I wouldn't trust to your +oath if you should swear from now till Christmas." + +When it was impossible for the fellow to move or speak, Jet made a +thorough search of his clothing, and succeeded in finding, among +several unimportant things, the telegram Jim had supposed was sent many +hours ago. + +"It hasn't been a bad forenoon's work," the amateur detective said, as +he wiped the perspiration from his face, for the mental anxiety of the +past few hours had caused the big drops to flow down his cheeks as the +heat of the sun never could have done. + +"What are we going to do with him?" + +"Take him back to the camp, of course. It won't pay to let him out of +our sight until the officers take charge of affairs." + +Before making preparations for the return, Jet scanned closely the +shores of the islands, which were situated nearer the opposite side of +the lake, hoping to discover some signs of Bob and Sam; but in this he +was disappointed. + +Nothing in the shape of a boat could be seen, and he said to the small +guide: + +"I'm afraid they have gone into the other lake." + +"It doesn't seem reasonable, and I shan't believe it until we have +searched over all those islands." + +"How can we do that now we've got this fellow to look out for." + +"That's what you must figger out; I'm willin' to carry out whatever you +say." + +"Of course the first thing is to get back to the camp. Do you suppose +we can load that fellow into the boat so in case the men are where our +movements may be seen they won't suspect it is a human being." + +"Cover him over with a lot of pine boughs." + +"That's the idea. Come on; we have no time to lose, for we must do +something toward finding the others before night." + +Jim hastily gathered an armful of branches and threw them over the +prisoner, completely concealing his form, and then the boys carried him +to the boat much as if he had been nothing more than a log of wood. + +The fellow was laid in the bottom of the craft, and around him were +packed the goods he had stolen from the camp. + +"It will load the old boat down pretty heavy; but there's no wind +blowing, an' we shan't have a very hard pull back," Jim said, as he +took his place at the oars, leaving Jet to push off. + +It was not much past noon when the start was effected, and the boys had +the supreme satisfaction of knowing that the most important of their +human game had not been warned of what was being done. + +"Say, how would it do to move our camp down opposite Dollar Island +after dark?" Jim asked, when they were some distance from the shore. +"We could then take the chances of running over to search the place, +and wouldn't have so far to go." + +"We'll try it," Jet replied, as he steered the boat away from the +islands. + +When the two arrived at the camp the prisoner was carried into the +shanty, and there so covered with boughs and blankets that any one +passing would not have had any suspicion a human being was concealed in +the vicinity. + +A hearty dinner was next on the programme, and then arrangements were +made for moving camp. + +Jim thought they would not be warranted in building a shanty at the +proposed halting-place, unless loose brush could be found, since the +noise of an axe might betray their whereabouts, and he also decided +against a fire. + +"I'll cook up a lot of stuff this afternoon," he said, "and then we +must get along with cold grub. Can't you catch some fish while I'm +working over there?" + +Jet rowed the boat a short distance out into the lake, and soon had all +he could do to attend to his line, so rapidly did the finny denizens of +the water attack the bait. + +He brought ashore as many as would serve them for food during the next +three days, and the small guide cooked every one. + +All this work was not completed until after nightfall, and Jim was +eager to be off. + +"It is so dark that they can't see us now," he said, "and after the +moon rises things will be different." + +"We'll feed the prisoner, for I reckon he needs something by this time." + +Jet removed the gag, while Jim stood over the fellow with a cocked +revolver, and a plentiful supply of fish, bacon, and water was put in +his mouth, after which he was "bottled up" again, as the guide +expressed it. + +The craft was loaded as before; but this time Jet took the oars, +because Jim was so well acquainted with the lake that he was needed at +the helm. + +"Be careful not to run too near the islands," the amateur detective +said, as he made ready for work, "and after we start not a word must be +spoken, for sound travels farther on the water than the land." + +"Don't pull too hard, and be careful about splashing with the oars." + +"Shove off, I'm ready." + +During the next hour nothing was said. The little boat moved silently +through the waters, and at the end of this time Jet could see the loom +of the islands on the right. + +They were near the proposed camping-place, and every precaution should +be observed. + +Suddenly Jim leaned forward, touched his companion on the arm, and +pointed to the right. + +A light as from a camp-fire could be seen among the trees, and the +small guide whispered triumphantly: + +"I told you they were there." + +"Then we must contrive to get hold of one or both in the morning. It +won't pay to wait for the officers." + + + + +CHAPTER XXVII + +RECONNOITERING + +The small guide steered the boat into the mouth of a tiny creek as +skillfully as if it had been noonday, and when her bow grounded +motioned for Jet to step ashore. + +Then he followed the example and hauled her farther up to prevent any +possibility of the craft's drifting away, after which he stood +motionless as if awaiting orders. + +"How far from here do you count on camping?" Jet asked, in a cautious +whisper. + +"A short bit straight back is a thick clump of cedars. We could stay +there a month without being seen, no matter how many people might come +on the lake." + +"Take hold of the fellow's feet, and I'll carry his head. He'd better +be taken care of first." + +Jim obeyed, and thus loaded down led the way to the place he had +described. + +It was, indeed, just such a spot as Jet would have asked for. + +The cedars, with their branches growing to the very ground, covered +about fifty square feet of space, and through the center of this +apparently impenetrable thickness ran the stream at whose mouth the +boat had been brought. + +It would not have been possible to put up a decently-sized shanty, +because the trees were so near together; but there was ample +opportunity for a hundred boys to find comfortable places in which to +sleep, and the foliage would shelter them sufficiently well except in +case of a rainstorm. + +Although it hardly seemed necessary, Jet insisted that the prisoner +should be made fast to one of the trees in a sitting posture, and not +until this had been done was the balance of the work attended to. + +First the provisions were carried into the natural camp, and stored in +the center, then the other goods were cared for in the same manner, and +nothing but the boat remained to mark their landing. + +"It's goin' to be a hard job; but she's got to come here too," Jim +said, when they stopped for a moment to rest. + +"Do you think we can do it?" + +"Oh, yes, she isn't so heavy but that we could take her around a carry, +and I reckon it's to be done here." + +"How long before the moon rises?" + +"Somewhere about midnight." + +"Then suppose we try to find out for certain if those camping on Dollar +Island are the ones we want to keep in sight?" + +"I'm willing if you say the word." + +"Then come on. That fellow is safe enough, and we shall be just so +much farther ahead with our work." + +Jim led the way back to the boat, removed his shoes and stockings as a +precaution against making a noise, Jet doing the same, and the two +started, with the small guide paddling instead of rowing. + +The faint glimmer of light served as a beacon, and toward it they +advanced slowly until the boat's bow struck the shore. + +Jim motioned for his companion to help him pull her up, and then stole +through the woods as noiselessly as a shadow. + +The gloom was so dense that it was necessary Jet should hold on to the +leader's coat, otherwise they would speedily have been separated, and a +watcher ten feet away could not have said a human being was passing. + +Thanks to the fire-light, it was not a difficult matter for the two to +go straight to the camp, and in a comparatively short time they were +where it was possible not only to see the occupants, but to hear +everything which was said. + +Jet's spirits rose very high as he recognized the two he had followed +so long, and now all previous discomforts and suffering were forgotten +in the knowledge that he was once more carrying out Harvey's +instructions to the letter. + +The men had built quite a comfortable looking hut in the center of the +island, where it would not be seen from the water, and near by was the +boat, turned bottom-up as if they did not expect to use her for some +time. + +The fact that they allowed themselves a camp-fire at a time when it +could be distinguished from a distance was probably owing to the fact +that visitors seldom visited this particular lake after dark, since the +absence of deer in the vicinity prevented hunters from scouring the +banks with a jack light. + +Both were ready for trouble, however, as could be told by the guns +stacked within reach while they smoked and drank in front of the cheery +blaze, and Jet was forced to admit to himself that these men could not +be made prisoners with as much ease as in case of the other. + +For some time the boys watched in silence, mentally jotting down all +the details of the camp for future reference, and then Sam said, with a +yawn: + +"This is what I call mighty dull sport." + +"It ain't very lively, for a fact; but I reckon it's way ahead of what +poor Joe's having." + +"If it's so bad now what will it be in another week? I don't think I +can stand it very long." + +"There's nothin' to prevent your goin' any time you get ready; but here +I stay for quite a spell." + +"What about more liquor an' grub?" + +"There won't be any trouble in getting all we want as long as the money +holds out." + +"And by fall you'll have bark on your back." + +"Better that than a striped coat. It isn't so bad as you make out, +though. We can move our camp whenever we feel like a change, an' then +there's plenty of fishin' an' sich like that the swells call sport." + +Sam's only reply was another prolonged yawn as he stretched himself out +at full length, and Bob replenished the fire without moving from his +seat. + +Jet understood that it was time for them to take their departure. + +When the men got ready to turn in for the night, one or the other might +take a fancy to have a look around to make sure they had no unwelcome +visitors, in which case the spies would be discovered. + +Motioning Jim to follow his example, he started toward the shore, +moving at a snail's pace to prevent a noisy disturbance among the +foliage, and not until they were in the boat once more paddling toward +the opposite bank did he feel at liberty to draw a long breath. + +Arriving at the point from which they started, Jim insisted on carrying +the boat to the clump of cedars, and this required so much time and +labor that it was nearly midnight before they could seek the +well-earned rest. + +Even then Jet took pity on the prisoner, and removed the gag +sufficiently long to give him food and water, the small guide standing +over him with the cocked revolver, lest he should make an outcry. + +"What are you boys countin' on doin' with me?" he asked, when his +hunger and thirst had been appeased. + +"Deliver you to the officers in a day or two." + +"Am I to be kept trussed up in this fashion until then?" + +"It's pretty rough, I know; but there's no other way out of it. You'd +treat us the same or worse if the tables were turned, and we're bound +to take care of ourselves." + +"I don't reckon it would do any good if I was to swear I wouldn't so +much as yip?" + +"Not a bit, for we shouldn't dare run the risk you would break your +word." + +The prisoner had nothing more to say; but obligingly held his mouth +open so that Jet might replace the gag, and after this had been done +the boys wrapped themselves in their blankets, lying down in the +softest spot they could find. + +"How are we ever goin' to get the best of them fellers?" Jim whispered +when they were ready to go to sleep. + +"I don't know; but we must cook up some kind of a plan." + +"Don't you think it would be better to send for the officers, an' let +them do the job?" + +"I'm afraid the fellows will make another move before anybody could get +here. You heard what Sam said, and it shows he is so discontented that +he'll be insisting on breaking camp very soon, unless he turns his back +on this place entirely." + +"That's all right enough; but at the same time I don't see that we can +do anything without somebody to help us," Jim said, with a sigh, and +then he rolled over as if determined not to rack his brain with the +perplexing subject any longer. + +Neither of the boys slept very soundly on this night. The fact of the +prisoner in their midst, and the problem which they must solve shortly, +prevented that feeling of restfulness which is necessary for profound +slumber. + +The sun had not yet risen when Jet awakened, shook Jim into +consciousness, and made his toilet in the tiny stream which wound its +way through the camp. + +"We'll feed the prisoner the first thing, and then keep watch of the +island," Jet proposed, and this task was performed as quickly as +possible, neither captive nor jailors indulging in conversation during +the operation. + +There was to be no cooking, and the boys carried as much food as they +thought would afford them a hearty meal to the edge of the water, they +crouching behind the bushes with their gaze centered on the spot where +they knew the camp to be located. + +"Have you thought of anything?" Jim asked, while they were eating the +not very palatable meal. + +Jet shook his head despairingly. + +Half an hour passed, and neither spoke. + +Then both started as if electrified, for they saw both the men +approaching the shore of the island nearest the main land. + +"They heard us last night, and are comin' over here to see who has +come," Jim whispered, his face growing pale. + +It certainly looked as if he had guessed correctly, and Jet drew his +revolver. + +The men were carrying the boat between them, and on reaching the water +launched it. + +The distance was not so great but that a conversation carried on in an +ordinary tone could be distinguished from one shore to the other, and +the first words spoken by the fellows caused the greatest relief. + +"Now, don't fool your time away up there," Bob said, sharply, as Sam +took his seat in the boat and pushed her off. + +"Why? Do you think this is such a pleasant place that I shouldn't lose +the opportunity to stay here as many hours as possible?" + +"I think that if you once begin drinking you'll get full, and five +minutes afterward every loafer in the village will know we are hiding +here." + +"You must allow I'm a fool." + +"So I do, or you'd be willing to stay twenty-four hours longer without +liquor rather than run the first minute the bottle is empty." + +"There would be jest as much risk to-morrow, as now, so what's the use +waitin' with our tongues hangin' out when plenty can be got by takin' a +short walk?" + +"When shall I expect you?" + +"Some time before mornin'. I'll start back within half an hour after I +land." + +"If you do that there'll be little harm come to us," and Bob +disappeared amid the foliage while Sam rowed vigorously up the pond. + +"There is no need of our trying to cook up a plan now," Jet whispered. + +"Why?" + +"Because it is all arranged. We must tackle Bob before Sam comes back." + +Jim appeared thoroughly alarmed by his companion's bold statement. + +He looked upon Bob as the most desperate of the three men, as really +was the case, and the idea of a struggle with him seemed alarming; but +yet he said nothing against the plan. + +"What puzzles me is why they launched the boat on this side of the +island? They had to bring her way across." + +"Perhaps they have seen some one on the opposite shore, and don't care +to let folks know where the boat started from." + +"Do you suppose that fellow will call at our old camp?" + +"I shouldn't be surprised; but it will be too late to do us any harm, +unless he comes directly back with the news that we have made a change +of base." + +"You seem to think there isn't a question but we shall get the best of +that fellow." + +"I didn't say anything of the kind. We shall either have him prisoner, +or be in the same fix ourselves in his camp by the time Sam gets back. +Bob will take good care we are not in condition to trouble him again, +if we fail this day." + +"How are we to set about it?" + +"In the same way as the other was taken. Trust to our chances of +finding him asleep, or so far from his gun that he can't get at it +until we have the drop on him." + +"Don't you suppose he carries a revolver?" + +"Of course he does." + +"Then he'll be certain to shoot." + +"This case is different from the other. There I had no right to fire; +but here I should take the chances rather than let him kill me." + + + + +CHAPTER XXVIII + +THE STRUGGLE + +Jet was talking altogether too boldly to please the small guide, and he +began to repent ever having consented to take part in such work. + +"It won't do to call on our friend for some time, so let's go back to +the thicket and make ready," Jet said, as he arose to his feet, and Jim +followed like one who feels positive he is going to his doom. + +Once inside the shelter of the trees, the amateur detective set about +preparing for the work on hand. + +He examined the revolver carefully, greased the lock with a bit of +bacon rind, and assured himself that every part worked freely and +correctly. + +Then he loaded the gun with ball cartridge, and put half a dozen in his +pocket. The bacon rind was also used with good effect, and, Jet said, +as he slipped a couple of crackers in his coat: + +"Now come on, Jim. We may as well sit there as here, and we shall know +if he leaves the place." + +"He can't unless he swims, for the other fellow has got the boat." + +"I forgot that; but anyhow it won't do any harm to be ready. We'll +carry the boat down to the bushes on the bank, and that will take some +time." + +The small guide obeyed. + +The craft was taken as near the water as possible without exposing her +to view in case Bob should look that way, and then the boys settled +down for the last rest before the struggle. + +"How long are we to wait here?" Jim asked. + +"A couple of hours. He will have all his chores done up by that time, +and there's more chance of finding him lying down." + +"Why wouldn't it be as well to row around boldly, and make believe +we've jest come for a visit? Then when he wasn't looking you could +clap your revolver to his head." + +"I'm afraid that wouldn't work. In the first place, he'd be pretty +certain to recognise me in the daylight--you know my face was +half-hidden in the shadow of the shanty when he called at the other +camp. Then again I question if any visitors could catch him unawares +after first showing themselves. He has reason to know there are a good +many hunting for him, and is too old a bird to take chances." + +Jim sighed. Almost any plan seemed to him preferable to trying to +steal upon a fellow, who would be likely to shoot at the first alarm, +and he had little faith in the ultimate success of the undertaking. + +Jet waited patiently another hour, and then he said, as a look of +resolution came over his face: + +"We must start now. If he happens to see us rowing over we must +pretend that we came to look at the island, and then get away as soon +as possible. In case we land without his knowledge, the thing must be +worked exactly as was the other: creep up till we see him, and take +advantage of the first chance that offers." + +"Shall I carry the gun?" + +"No; here is the revolver, and be sure to use it if things get hot. We +shall be fighting for our lives when we tackle him." + +Jet took hold on one side of the boat, and Jim with an expression of +despair on his face, cared for the other, launching the little craft +without a splash. + +The amateur detective motioned his companion to take up the oars, and +then shoved off, leaping lightly on the stern-sheets where he could +handle the tiller. + +There was no attempt at conversation now, for the utmost silence was +necessary if they would land without making their coming known to the +man both feared. + +Jet steered the boat under an overhanging tree, made the painter fast, +and then crept softly onto the bank, leaving his companion to follow. + +Since both the boys knew the exact location of the camp, their task was +just so much the easier, and they crept cautiously along in a straight +line, but keeping a close watch ahead lest Bob should suddenly appear. + +Half an hour after landing they were where the shanty could be seen +clearly; but its occupant was not in it. + +Jet had begun to fear he might have circled around the island merely +for the sake of walking, and would come up in their rear; but this +cause for alarm was soon found to be groundless. + +Jim espied the man lying under the shade of some trees, where he could +have a full view of any who might pass, and pointed him out to Jet. + +There was no chance to creep upon him as in the case of the other +fellow, for he was unmistakably awake and on the alert. + +"We shall have to wait until he changes his position," the boy +whispered. "It won't do to tackle him yet a while." + +Jim breathed more freely. + +Any respite, however brief, was a great relief. + +When ten minutes had passed, and there was no change in the position of +affairs, Jet said: + +"I'm going to creep around the hut, and try to get through the back. +The guns are probably there, and it will be a big thing if we get hold +of them." + +"How long are you goin' to be gone?" + +"I don't know; but in case I stay you can make up your mind that I've +concluded to do the business there, and when he comes toward the shanty +be on your feet ready to jump in the minute you hear my voice." + +"Hadn't we better keep together?" + +"If there's a good chance to hide, I shall wait and try to get the drop +on him from the inside." + +Then Jet started off as if fearing his companion might attempt to +dissuade him from his purpose. + +Bob was so far away that there was no reason for moving with such +extreme caution, and he walked rapidly around through the underbrush +until the hut was between himself and the man, after which he went +boldly forward. + +It was not a difficult matter to make his way into the shelter, +constructed as it was only of brush, and he entered at once. + +The hut was entirely enclosed on all sides, save where a narrow +door-way had been left open, and Jet soon realized that he could ask +for no better place to attempt the capture. + +He found both guns in one corner, and these he carried out, hiding them +under the leaves some distance away. + +It was well he finished this work quickly, for he had hardly regained +the shelter of the shanty when from between the branches he could see +Bob rise to his feet, yawn wearily, and then come leisurely up the +incline. + +The decisive moment had arrived, and only by the greatest exercise of +will power could Jet prevent his hands from trembling violently. + +Gently pushing the muzzle of the gun through the brush which formed the +side of the hut, the boy waited until the man should be within a few +feet. + +Bob came on in a lounging fashion, looking back every now and then as +if undecided what to do, and thus approached the shanty in the exact +direction which best served the purpose of his would-be captor. + +Not until he was within a couple of yards did Jet shout, as he pushed +the muzzle of the gun farther out and took careful aim: + +"Hold up your hands, quick! I shall fire at the first move you make." + +Bob obeyed instinctively, as any other man would have done in the same +position, with that ominous-looking barrel almost touching him. + +"Now, remember that the slightest movement will cost you your life, for +I shall let both barrels go if you do more than wink. I know what your +reputation is, and don't intend to take any chances. Where are you, +Jim?" + +"Here," was the prompt reply, and Jet saw the small guide coming +rapidly from his place of concealment. + +"Stand on one side of that fellow so you won't spoil my aim, and take +his revolver away. Be quick, and don't fear his hurting you, for he +can't make but one move." + +Bob scowled fiercely; but did not dare to offer any resistance. +Perhaps if he had known who was behind that gun the case might have +been different; but there was every reason to believe an officer held +it, and he could not afford to run any risk. + +Jim searched the prisoner carefully, and then, when a revolver and a +knife had been thrown into the camp, Jet said: + +"Now, stand directly behind him with your revolver pressed to the back +of his head, and pull the trigger if you feel him move ever so +slightly." + +Jim was beginning to regain his courage, and obeyed without hesitation. + +The amateur detective now came into view, and Bob literally gnashed his +teeth in rage. + +"I wish I'd known it was you," he cried, savagely. + +"Be careful or your head will move so much my friend will shoot; his +hand trembles so now that there's danger your brains will be blown out +unintentionally." + +On first entering the shanty, Jet had seen plenty of ropes with which +to bind the prisoner, and these he brought out, lashing Bob's arms +behind his back, and tying his legs securely together. + +During this last operation, the prisoner struggled most desperately, +for Jim's revolver had been lowered in order that he might assist his +companion, and before the boys finally got him under subjection they +were reeking with perspiration, in addition to being nearly tired out. + +"Well," Jim said, triumphantly, as he rose to his feet, "that part of +the work was done as slick as grease, and at this rate it won't take us +long to wind the whole gang up." + +"I'm afraid the hardest job is ahead," Jet replied, as a most +unaccountable fit of gloominess came over him. "You know the other +makes the third one, and superstitious people believe a fellow always +comes to grief on that number." + + + + +CHAPTER XXIX + +BOB + +When Bob was fettered beyond his power to make any resistance he +relapsed into a sullen silence, which troubled Jet more than reproaches +or threats would have done. + +He had expected to be overwhelmed with curses, and fancied the man +would rave and struggle uselessly until he was completely worn out; but +such was not the fact. + +It was much as if Bob had suddenly conceived the idea of reserving his +strength until the time should come when he could use it with effect. + +He lay silent and motionless on the ground, and when Jet had prepared a +gag he was even so complaisant as to open his mouth to receive it. + +"S'posen we let up on his legs a little so's he can walk down to the +shore," Jim suggested. "He's goin' to make a big load if we try to +carry him." + +This seemed to be a very good idea, and Jet acted upon it at once, +saying to the prisoner: + +"If you'll come along quietly we'll treat you the best we can under the +circumstances." + +Bob did not move. + +"Get up," Jet said, in a louder tone, as if believing his first remark +was not understood. + +Bob shook his head, and there was no mistaking the look on his face as +he did so. + +He had no intention of aiding his captors in any manner, and if they +claimed him as prisoner they must take him by sheer expenditure of +strength or not at all. + +"There's no use spending time trying to coax or drive him," Jet said, +after a long pause. "If he won't walk we've got to carry him, and +that's the end of it." + +Jim, who had been examining the shanty while resting after the battle, +discovered a hammock tucked away in one corner, and he proposed that +this should be used as a litter, for the man could be conveyed more +easily on something than if the boys raised him simply by the head and +feet. + +"Roll him in here, and we'll run this pole through the ends so all the +weight will be on our shoulders." + +This was done at once, and although the prisoner was bent nearly double +when the density of the foliage forced the bearers to approach each +other closely, the labor of removing him to the boat was greatly +lessened. + +"There's no chance Sam will be back until late in the night," Jet said, +as Bob was deposited in the bottom of the craft with no gentle force, +"so we can move about without fear of being discovered, and you might +give us a hot dinner." + +"We'll take our ease this day, an' that'll put us in better shape for +tackling the other feller to-night. If he helps himself to the liquor +as he comes down the lake we may have our hands full." + +"That's what I'm afraid of," Jet replied, gloomily, and then, +recovering himself as with an effort, he added: "There's no use +borrowing trouble, however, and we should be mighty thankful we've +succeeded so well in getting two of them." + +"You can bet I am thankful," Jim replied, with such emphasis that Jet +could not prevent himself from laughing heartily. + +By this time Bob had been carried to the cedar thicket, and an +expression of surprise came over his face as he saw the first prisoner; +but Jet did not intend to allow them an opportunity to communicate with +each other even by signs. + +Bob was made fast to a tree at the farther end of the encampment, where +he could not see his former companion, and then Jet went to the first +prisoner as he said: + +"If you will promise not to speak, I'll take the gag out of your mouth +for a while, because we shall likely be here a long time." + +There was an expression of deepest thankfulness in the fellow's eyes, +and the amateur detective felt reasonably certain that he would not +attempt to make any disturbance. + +"Now, if I hear you so much as whisper, back it goes," he said, as he +removed the uncomfortable preventive of speech. + +"You needn't be afraid," was the meek reply. "I'll do anything rather +than have that thing put in my mouth agin. How did you get hold of +Bob?" + +"Took him unawares, as we did you." + +"Well, all I can say is, you fellers are corkers!" + +This in a tone of admiration. "If any one had told me that a couple of +boys could get the best of him, I'd said it was a lie, an' here you +sneak off an' bring him in when you get ready." + +"We shouldn't have done it if you'd found them." + +"That's a fact; but you can't expect that a feller wouldn't help his +pals." + +"That's all right, since no harm has been done," Jet replied, feeling +very magnanimous now he had been so successful. + +The boy had every reason to feel proud of what had been accomplished. +He had acted as Harvey wished, and, in addition, arrested the man so +particularly wanted, with one of his companions. + +Now if he could transfer them to the charge of an officer his triumph +would be complete, and the detective have good reason to keep his +promise relative to employing him as an assistant. + +It was the fact of his having been successful, more than anything else, +that caused Jet to fear the third attempt at capturing a man would be +attended with signal failure, and several times during the day was he +tempted to bundle the two into the boat, instead of waiting to make +prisoners of all three. + +He even went so far as to suggest this to Jim, saying: + +"We could get up to the village with these fellows before morning, and +I'm not sure it wouldn't be the best plan, for if Sam downs us these +will be set free. Then all this work counts for nothing." + +"Let's go the whole hog or nothing," the small guide replied, bravely, +for he was rapidly beginning to think that he and Jet could accomplish +anything they might attempt. + +Then Jim set about cooking an elaborate dinner as a sort of +thanksgiving. + +The fire was built inside the thicket between the two prisoners, so +that the boys might keep watch of both at the same time, and when the +food had been prepared Detective Harvey's assistants set themselves +down to enjoy it to the utmost. + +Then it was necessary to feed the prisoners, a task which required +considerable time. + +Jim attended to the stranger, while Jet fed Bob, and the latter said, +when his gag was removed: + +"I reckon you're countin' on turnin' us over to the Albany officers." + +"Yes, unless some one comes from New York." + +"Ain't you the messenger boy I smuggled up on the boat?" + +"Yes. I don't suppose you expected to see me again, eh?" + +"I wish I'd done as Joe wanted me to. You could have been thrown over +that night, and no one would have been any the wiser." + +"Lucky for me you didn't know as much as you do now." + +"You can well say that," was the surly reply, and during the next five +minutes Bob paid strict attention to receiving the food which Jet held +to his lips. + +"I wonder if it would be any use to try an' buy you off?" the fellow +said, half to himself, when the meal was finished. + +"Not a bit; Joe tried that, but it wouldn't work." + +"Are you the same boy who nabbed him?" + +"Yes." + +"It's hard, mighty hard, to be pulled by a cub like you," and Bob shook +his head mournfully. "A feller expects something of the kind from a +reg'lar officer, if it so be that he's put himself in the way of +trouble; but it comes tough to be downed by a couple of whiffletts I +could break all up with one hand." + +"It does seem queer we should be able to do so much," Jet replied, +modestly, and then he added: "If you give me your word as a man that +not a word shall be spoken, and no noise made, I'll leave this gag out +until sunset, otherwise, it must go in again." + +"I'll agree, because you've got me foul." + +"Very well; but if I hear so much as a whisper it will go in your mouth +again, not to be taken out till the officers get here." + +"I know when I'm licked," Bob growled, "an' don't need threats after I +can't help myself." + +During the remainder of the afternoon the boys had nothing to do save +discuss the chances of taking Sam a prisoner, and when they were tired +of this Jet suggested that each take a nap. + +"From this out we shall have to keep our eyes open pretty much all the +time, unless Sam succeeds in getting the best of us, and it will be a +good idea to scoop in what rest we can now. You lie down first, and +I'll stand watch." + +The small guide was quite ready to act upon this suggestion, and it +seemed as if he had but just rolled over on the blanket when his eyes +were closed in slumber. + +When the sun was an hour high Jet awakened his companion, and said, as +he prepared to take his turn at sleeping: + +"Be sure to call me at sunset, and keep your eyes on those fellows all +the time. I don't reckon there's much chance of their being able to +get free; but we mustn't run any risks." + +His orders were obeyed to the letter, and the sun had but just sunk +behind the trees when Jim shook him into wakefulness as he was +instructed to do. + +"I haven't seen so much as a boat," he said. "The men have been quiet +as mice, sleeping a good deal of the time. When shall we start for the +island?" + +"As soon as we've had supper, and gagged the prisoners again. It won't +do to let them have the chance of warning Sam." + +"It ain't likely he'll get back before midnight." + +"That's true; but in the meanwhile we have a good deal to do. The +camp-fire must be lighted, to prevent him from being suspicious when he +comes in sight of the island, and we need to look about a bit for a +hiding-place." + +"Have you made up your mind how we are to strike him?" + +"I think it will be best to wait near the shore, and knock him down. +If he comes back half-drunk he won't be likely to put up his hands very +quickly, even if a revolver is at his head, and I don't want to shoot." + +"You were willing enough to do so in Bob's case." + +"That was different. Sam's crime isn't as serious." + +"What's Bob accused of?" + +"Murder." + +"I swow!" and Jim looked around in alarm, even though the man was +powerless to so much as move his hands. "If I'd known that I wouldn't +have gone to help catch him for a hundred dollars." + +"That is exactly why I didn't go into any particulars when we made the +trade for you to help me," Jet replied quietly. "Now let's get our +work done, and row over to the island for what I hope will be the last +time." + + + + +CHAPTER XXX + +A FAILURE + +The boys soon had their camp in order. The prisoners were gagged +again; their bonds examined to make certain there could be no chance of +an escape, and the smouldering remains of the fire carefully +extinguished. + +"I reckon everything will be safe if we are gone all night," Jet said, +as he looked around for the last time to assure himself nothing had +been forgotten; "but those fellows would have a pain in their jaws if +we should stay so long." + +Jim insisted on carrying his muzzle-loader on this expedition, +believing it a more trustworthy weapon than the revolver, and Jet made +no objections, although he would have much preferred that the ancient +musket had been left behind. + +The boys did not draw the boat upon shore when they landed with Bob, +therefore they had nothing to do but step on board. + +The small guide pulled her across to the hiding-place under the +overhanging trees, and there she was made fast. + +Then the boys went directly to the camp, and built a fire, after which +nothing could be done save wait and watch. + +Since it was not known on which side of the island Sam would come +ashore, the two went to the extreme northern point where they could see +the fellow in time to hasten back and get into ambush. + +Jet's plans were already formed, and had been explained to his +companion. He now said, as they sat among the bushes, waiting for the +first sound which should betoken the coming of the man they hoped to +make captive: + +"I shall hit him over the head with the butt of the revolver, and the +moment he drops you must be ready to jump on him, for it'll be sharp +work if I don't stun him at the first blow." + +"Ain't you afraid of killing him?" + +"Not a bit of it; he'd stand up under a good deal harder blow than I +shall give him." + +Then the conversation ceased, and after a time Jim's heavy breathing +told that he was sleeping at his post of duty. + +Jet had quite as much as he could do to keep his eyes open; but he +succeeded after a fashion, and when they had been in hiding at least +three hours the alleged melody of a song coming across the still waters +told their hoped-for captive was approaching. + +That Sam had been indulging to a considerable extent in liquor could be +plainly understood by the sound of his voice, and again Jet felt the +same misgivings which had assailed him immediately after the capture of +Bob. + +The new-comer had no thought of prudence; but was evidently bent on +landing in front of the camp on the outside of the island. + +Jet shook Jim, at the same time placing his hand over the boy's mouth +to prevent a possible outcry, and whispered: + +"There's no time to lose. We must get there ahead of him, or the jig +is up, and, according to the noise, he's rowing mighty fast." + +Jim was on his feet in an instant, and the two started at full speed +through the underbrush, paying little attention to the disturbance of +the foliage, because Sam was so nearly intoxicated that he would not +heed slight sounds. + +"He'll land somewhere here," Jet said, breathlessly, as he halted where +the glimmer of the camp-fire could be seen. "If he don't we must creep +up while he's fastening the boat." + +Sam was evidently amusing himself by making the light craft spin +through the water, and when he turned for the shore the boys saw that +they had stationed themselves in the most advantageous position. + +It was not necessary to move out of their tracks, for after landing the +man came directly toward where they were standing. + +Jet raised his revolver by the muzzle, and Jim stood ready to make a +spring. + +Sam reeled along shouting for Bob and lurching from side to side. + +The time had not come to strike the blow; but the boy, believing he was +about to be discovered, struck at the fellow's head. + +The blow was not delivered fairly, but glanced off, and instead of +being stunned Sam was only alarmed. + +Leaping back quickly, before Jet could strike again, he fired into the +bushes from whence he believed the attack had come. + +The bullet whistled so near Jim's nose that the young gentleman leaped +back with a howl, and this outcry was sufficient to show Sam where to +send another. Before the echoes had fairly died away the sound of +hurried footsteps through the bushes told that the small guide had +taken refuge in flight. + +Jet was alone, amid darkness so intense that he had no means of judging +the whereabouts of his enemy save by the flash when the revolver was +discharged. + +The knowledge of danger had sobered Sam, and he understood he must make +a desperate fight or be arrested, for, quite naturally, the first +thought was that the officers of the law were on his track. + +Jet was wholly at a loss to know what course should be pursued. + +Sam was not charged with a capital crime, and Harvey never intimated +that he cared to take him prisoner, therefore to shoot now, save +actually in self-defense, would be little less than murder. + +Sam emptied the chambers of his weapon while retreating toward the +boat, and that he had reloaded before reaching her was told by the +second volley which he sent in the direction of Jet. + +By the grating of wood and sand the amateur detective knew the boat was +being pushed off from the shore, and at that moment he could have fired +with a very good chance of hitting the mark; but he refrained from +doing so. + +The most important thing just now was to assure the safety of the +prisoners in the other camp, and he made his way across the island +hurriedly, lest by accident Sam should happen to stumble across his +comrades. + +Neither Jim nor the boat were to be seen when he arrived at the clump +of trees where the craft had been moored. + +The small guide had thought only of his own safety, and paid no +attention to what might happen to his friend. + +Jet would have tried to summon him by whistling, but for the fear Sam +might hear the signal and come that way. + +It was possible to swim across the intervening space; but it would be +at the cost of wetting both weapons, and he decided against the idea +almost before it took form in his mind. + +He splashed the water gently, hoping Jim would believe it a signal to +come back. + +Then he waited in silence nearly an hour, fancying all the previous +work would speedily be undone, and when it seemed certain the small +guide had deserted him entirely, he heard his name whispered. + +"Is that you, Jim?" he asked in a low tone. + +"Yes. Where's that feller?" + +"Left the island, I think. Why don't you row in here?" + +"Is it safe?" + +"It won't be if you don't take me off precious quick." + +This threat had the effect of deciding the timid guide, and in a few +moments the boat was paddled alongside the bank. + +"What did you run away for?" Jet asked, angrily, when they were a short +distance from the shore. + +"What for? Didn't you hear that bullet come across my nose?" + +"Of course he fired; but there wasn't much chance of being hit in the +darkness." + +"There was too good a chance to suit me. If that bullet had come an +inch nearer I'd be dead by this time." + +"But it didn't, and when you found he hadn't hit the mark, you told him +where you was by runnin' away." + +"I couldn't help it," Jim replied apologetically. "I don't reckon I +was cut out for a detective, an' when folks begin shootin' right at me +I'm bound to run." + +"Have you been up to the camp?" + +"Not much. I stayed right here in the boat to find out what was goin' +on." + +"Then there's no knowing but he has been ashore and set the men free." + +"If that's so the sooner we get out of this place the better," and Jim +would have headed the boat toward the outlet, but that Jet prevented +him by pulling lustily on the other oar. + +"Look here," the latter said, angrily, "if you act like this I'll dump +you overboard, or shoot, whichever comes handiest. Now row for our +camp, and do the best you know how, if you don't want to get into a +pile of trouble with me." + +Jim obeyed meekly, and a few moments later Jet was running at full +speed toward the clump of cedars. + +The encampment was, apparently, just as they had left it, and Jet gave +vent to a sigh of relief as he ascertained that the prisoners were +still bound securely. + +Then he ran back to help Jim bring the boat ashore, and the guide asked +in a trembling voice: + +"Are you goin' to try to stay here now?" + +"What else can we do? It would be running a big risk to start in the +boat with both men, for Sam is rowing around somewhere, and he's +certain to help his friends if he sees them in trouble." + +"Suppose he should find out we were here?" + +"That's exactly what I'm afraid of. We must keep mighty close for a +day or two, and then I'll try to send another message." + +"I can't stay as long as that." + +"Very well, start for the village now, and I'll hold my own against him +if he comes." + +"But I don't dare to go off by myself while he's prowlin' 'round." + +"Then don't be a fool, but help me keep things quiet until he gets +tired of hunting for us, and leaves." + +Jim was not in such a frame of mind as would best fit him to be an +assistant in such a desperate case as was now before the boys; but in +the absence of other help Jet could do no less than utilize him in some +way, and he began by threatening all kind of punishments if he didn't +stand up like a man and do his duty. + +There was no sleep for the amateur detective on this night. + +He spent the time pacing to and fro in the encampment, watching the +prisoners, going to the water's edge, or listening to the slightest +unusual sound, fearing it might be made by Sam. + +When daylight came Jet was hidden among the fringe of bushes which +bordered the lake, and the first living thing he saw was the man whom +he had failed to capture on the previous evening. + +Sam was standing on the shore of the island, apparently on the point of +embarking in the boat. + +While Jet could have counted twenty he remained there, and then, +stepping on board, began to row directly toward the spot where the boy +was in hiding. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXI + +AN ATTACK + +It could not have been other than an accident which caused Sam to head +for this particular spot; but excited as he was Jet believed the man +knew they were encamped in the cedars. + +The first question in his mind was whether he had best make a stand on +the shore, or in the thicket, and the latter course was decided upon. + +Sam was not more than two boat lengths from the island when he started, +and there would be several moments in which to arrange for a defense +before the man could land. + +Jim was overhauling the cooked provisions preparatory to feeding the +prisoners when his comrade burst into the encampment looking quite as +excited as he felt. + +"Sam must have come to the conclusion that those who hit him last night +were not officers of the law, for he went back to the island, and now +is heading straight for this place." + +"What?" Jim cried, sharply, as he leaped to his feet, dropping a +handful of fried fish. + +"Now, don't get excited, and, above all, keep quiet. It isn't dead +certain he has any suspicion there is a camp here; but we must be +prepared for the worst." + +"What are you goin' to do?" Jim asked in a voice trembling with fear. + +"Fight him off if he tries to come inside this thicket. It will be +strange if two of us, well armed and under cover, can't hold our own +against one man." + +"But how is it to end? He may keep us shut up here till the provisions +are all gone." + +"There is no need to look so far ahead. Get your gun and come with me." + +Jim obeyed very unwillingly. + +This was one of the moments when he felt more like running away than +fighting, but Jet took good care that he should not have an opportunity. + +The two crept to the very edge of the thicket, where it would be +possible to see any one who came up from the lake, and they had hardly +concealed themselves before the man appeared. + +He was walking slowly, gazing around scrutinizingly, as if expecting to +find enemies, and carried a revolver in his hand. + +Jet hoped sincerely that he would pass the cedars without devoting to +them any especial attention, but in this he was disappointed. + +Sam had already noted the place, and came straight on as if determined +to examine every inch of the ground. + +There was no time for hesitation. + +Already he was within a dozen yards of where the boys were crouching, +and in a moment more would be upon them. + +Jet suddenly pushed the muzzle of his gun out from among the branches, +and cried: + +"Put up your hands, or I'll fire." + +Unfortunately Sam was not taken by surprise as the others had been; his +revolver was ready for use, and it seemed as if the words had hardly +been uttered when he fired three times in rapid succession. + +He aimed directly for the muzzle of Jet's gun, but was forced to +discharge his weapon so quickly that there was no time to shoot with +any degree of accuracy. + +Two of the bullets whistled past Jet, but the third lodged in the +fleshy portion of his arm. + +For the instant he was conscious of nothing more than a sharp twinge +such as might have been caused by the sudden application of a galvanic +battery, and he pulled both triggers of his gun at the same instant. + +Unfortunately neither of the bullets took effect. + +At the moment he fired Sam leaped behind a tree, thus shielding himself +from what might otherwise have put a speedy end to the battle. + +"Stay where you are, and fire whenever he shows himself!" Jet whispered +sternly to Jim, who was showing signs of beating a retreat. + +"Where's the use?" the small guide whined. "You're pretty nigh killed, +an' what am I goin' to do?" + +"I'm all right; there's no need to worry about me if you'll only do +your share." + +"But look at the blood!" and Jim pointed to his friend's shoulder down +which the life fluid was flowing copiously. + +Just at that instant Jet had no time to bestow upon his own injuries. + +He had seen Sam edging around as if to advance nearer, and he emptied +two chambers of his revolver as a warning that it would be dangerous +for him to make the attempt. + +The man shrank behind the tree very suddenly, and this gave the amateur +detective an opportunity to slip a couple of cartridges into his gun. + +"Shall I go to see if the prisoners are all right?" Jim whispered. +"They'll be sure to try an' give us the slip after hearin' all this +shootin'." + +"Stay here, and keep your eyes oh that fellow! The others must be left +to do as they can for a while." + +This scheme of Jim's for getting out of the way of danger had proven a +failure, and with a deep sigh he turned his attention once more to the +enemy in front. + +Jet knew how dangerous it would be to allow Sam a chance to rush in +upon them, and after loading his gun he fired one ball at the fellow's +leg, which was visible from behind the tree. + +A smothered curse, and two shots fired at random told that he had +succeeded in making matters even, so far as wounds were concerned, and +Jet whispered: + +"Fire, whenever you see a bit of his clothes; that will prevent him +from jumping in on us." + +During the next ten minutes no less than a dozen shots were exchanged +without apparent effect. + +Sam was growing more cautious. + +The discharge of Jim's weapon, thus showing there were at least two +confronting him, had taught a salutary lesson, and he now appeared +eager to find a better shelter. + +Jet understood what the man wished to do and determined to prevent it +if possible. + +Sam, in his present position, did not dare show himself long enough to +take aim, and while he remained behind this particular tree there was +little danger he could do very serious damage. + +By this time Jet's wound had begun to make itself felt. + +The pain had become great, and the blood was yet flowing freely. + +Once he thought he would creep over to Jim that the latter might fasten +a ligature above the aperture, thus checking the blood, but in order to +do so it would have been necessary to expose himself to a certain +extent, and also give Sam the desired opportunity to gain a better +shelter. + +"I don't see any way out of the scrape," he said to himself, "for +there's no chance anybody will come this way, and he's bound to get the +best of us after a time, because I can't hold out a great while longer +if I keep on growing weak; but anything is better than surrendering +willingly." + +Therefore he remained where he was, firing on the slightest chance of +hitting the mark, and using the revolver when the gun was empty. + +The only ray of hope which Jet could see in the entire business was the +fact that Sam might not have a full supply of cartridges. + +He no longer shot at random, reserving his fire as if it was necessary +to make every shot count, but this might mean nothing more than a +desire to tire the others out. + +Jet was growing weaker each moment. + +Jim watched his companion anxiously, ready to take flight the instant +he was overcome. + +Jet knew exactly what would happen the instant he failed to show a bold +front, and between two evils be chose the one which seemed the least. + +Loading the gun and the revolver he laid both at his side, and stripped +off his coat to stanch the flow of crimson fluid. + +Sam must have seen this movement, for at that moment he ran for a clump +of trees half a dozen yards farther off, and succeeded in gaining the +desired spot before Jet could pick up his weapons. + +"Why didn't you fire?" the latter asked sharply. + +"I didn't know he was goin' to leave so sudden," was the innocent reply. + +"That move was just what I've been trying to guard against, and now we +must push back a bit, to prevent him from picking us off." + +The small guide was only too willing to beat a retreat, even though it +was only for a short distance, and he followed his companion quickly. + +An overturned tree twenty feet away was the barricade Jet selected, and +when they were sheltered by it he said: + +"Tie this handkerchief around my arm above that bullet hole, and then +twist it with a stick until the blood stops. I'll use the revolver in +the meanwhile so he'll know we haven't gone far." + +Jim did as he was directed, and Jet discharged one chamber of the +weapon every few seconds, taking good aim at the clump of bushes behind +which he believed Sam was hiding. + +Twice he loaded his revolver, and twice exploded every cartridge before +the surgical work was done, and then Jim seized his own weapon, saying +as he did so: + +"That fellow has got a good chance now to creep around behind us an' +let the others loose. Then the fat will be in the fire for certain, +because we shan't even have a chance to run away." + +This was a possibility which Jet had failed to take into consideration, +and for the first time since the battle began he was thoroughly alarmed. + +He did not know whether it would be best to go up to the encampment or +remain where he was, either course seemed fraught with danger, and he +was beginning to despair when the sound of a human voice startled both +him and Jim. + +"Hold up your hands!" some one shouted, the speaker evidently being +between the lake and Sam's hiding-place. + +"Drop that revolver, but don't lower your arm!" was the next command, +and Jet cried joyfully: + +"Some one has come to help us, Jim, and it don't make much matter who, +for we can get him to help take the prisoners up to the village." + +The small guide had recovered all his lost courage immediately upon +hearing the words, and was dancing about in a triumphant manner, but +much too cautious to venture from his hiding-place until knowing to a +certainty that the enemy was really disarmed. + +During a couple of minutes not another sound was heard, and then the +listeners could distinguish the words: + +"Go up farther and find out what this fellow was shooting at." + +There was a sound as of some one making his way through the foliage, +and again the voice shouted: + +"Hello there! What's the matter?" + +"Who is that?" Jet cried. + +"Harvey!" + +"Come on! Come on! You've got here just in' time!" and Jet started +down the slope to meet the one person in the world whom he particularly +wished to see at that moment. + + + + +CHAPTER XXXII + +HARVEY & CO. + +When Jet was where he could see the new-comers Sam had been handcuffed, +and was in charge of a stranger who was dressing the wound in his leg, +while the detective, walking with a cane, was coming up the ascent in +advance of another man. + +"It seems as if you'd been in pretty snug quarters," Harvey said as he +clasped Jet warmly by the hand. "Who is this fellow who has been +making a target of you?" + +"One of the gang we met at the house in the woods. He introduced +himself to me when he was made up as a tramp, on the railroad track." + +"You are wounded!" Harvey interrupted, as he pointed to the boy's arm. +"Let me see if it is serious; you are looking pale." + +"I shall be all right now you are here. Come up to our camp, and you +can attend to it." + +Jet led the way hurriedly to the cedar thicket, taking such a route +that his visitor must pass Bob, who was looking woefully disconsolate +and uncomfortable. + +"Hello!" Harvey cried in astonishment, "I'm blest if you haven't bagged +the game already," and once more he clasped Jet's hand. "I knew you +would suit me for a partner, and from this day out we'll work in +company or my name's not Dan Harvey. How long have you had this +fellow?" + +"Since last night, and that's why Sam was trying to get the best of us. +We attempted to capture him, but made a botch of the business." + +"Bob's arrest is enough to cover you with glory, my boy, for you've +done what every man on the force would have liked to had a hand in. +Here, Downs," he continued to the man behind him, "slip the bracelets +on this man, and take the gag out. I reckon his jaws ache by this +time." + +When this order was obeyed Jet led his visitors to where the other +prisoner was trussed up, and Harvey's amazement was complete. + +"Is this another one of the gang?" + +"Yes, in the counterfeit money business, and when we get back I +calculate the constable can be found without much trouble." + +"Well, Jet, you've done this job up about as brown as possible, and +there'll be no mean reward coming when Bob reaches New York." + +"What do you mean?" + +"One thousand dollars has been offered for the apprehension of those +charged with murder, and in regard to the makers of the queer, Uncle +Sam ought to shell out liberally for having them brought in so +cleverly. The firm shall be Harvey & Co., for a boy who can do so much +single handed will be an ornament to the force even though he isn't +larger than a pint of cider." + +"I had Jim to help me," Jet replied modestly. + +"Who is Jim?" + +"A boy I met up at the village, and promised twenty dollars if we +succeeded." + +"But I haven't earned it," Jim cried, "I was mightily frightened, an' +would have run home long ago if you'd let me." + +"The money has been earned," Harvey said as he took a roll of bills +from his pocket, "and I'll add ten on my own account." + +The small guide looked in bewilderment at the thirty dollars, and then +broke into a dance which was quite as vigorous if not so skillful as +Jet's performances with the minstrel company. + +"How did it happen you got here in the nick of time?" Jet asked after +Jim had ceased his contortions. + +"When I received your letter telling me you were coming into the woods +it was enough to show you would want assistance. I never thought for a +moment you'd be able to bag the whole gang, but only counted on saving +them from cutting your throat. Not being well enough to walk very +handily I brought a couple of friends along, and now we've got force +enough to take our men back." + +"How did you happen to find me?" + +"We heard at the village that a couple of boys, one a stranger, had +come this way, and we started on chances. Last night we camped this +side of the first carry, and was striking for the upper lake when the +reports of your weapon gave us a clew. It was easy to tell that the +shots were not fired by hunters, and we rounded up your friend Sam on +general principles." + +While this conversation was being carried on Harvey's companions +released the prisoners from the bonds which had been put on by the +boys, and shackled them in much more secure and less painful fashion. + +Then Jim remembered that none of his party had breakfasted, and he +cooked the remainder of the provisions at once, when all hands joined +in the meal. + +Harvey had already examined Jet's wound, and pronounced it a trifling +one, more painful than dangerous. + +The ball was extracted, the arm bandaged properly, and fastened in a +sling, the detective saying, when the work was finished: + +"You'll come around all right in a week or two with care, and that I'll +guarantee you shall have in abundance." + +It was not yet noon when the party were ready to leave Round Pond. +Harvey and the boys traveled in the boat Jet had hired, and the other +craft, which was considerably larger, carried the two officers and +their prisoners. + +Except at the carry, where all hands were forced to assist in +transporting the boats, the journey was made in a leisurely fashion, +and that night Jet slept in a comfortable bed at the Saranac Lake House. + +Jim disappeared as soon as the party arrived at the village. He was +eager to show the money earned, and to tell his chums of his wonderful +skill as a detective, but it is not probable he spoke of the many times +when he would have sold his position very cheaply. + +He was on hand next morning to see his friend and companions take their +departure, and then Jet was forced to promise he would visit the +Adirondacks on a regular hunting trip as soon as his business would +permit. + +"I'd like to go out with you once when there wasn't a lot of ruffians +'round to make trouble," Jim said, and a moment later the train rolled +out of the depot. + +Jet was praised and petted by the officers at headquarters, when the +party arrived in New York, at a rate which would have turned many +another boy's head, but he knew in his heart that a good portion of the +success was due to "luck" rather than detective skill. + +Harvey kept his word in regard to taking him in partnership, and to-day +Jet Lewis, young as he is, does a full share of Detective Harvey's +work. In fact, that gentleman often says that without his partner he +would fail in many cases which he now "works up" successfully. + +Jet received the reward of one thousand dollars for the arrest of Joe +and Bob, and those worthies are serving a life sentence at Sing Sing +for murder, the crime having been fully proven against them. + +Sam, the constable, and the fellow who stole the boys' boat have been +sentenced to ten years for uttering counterfeit money, and Jet insists +that at some future time he will find the plates they buried in the +vicinity of the house in the woods, for he keeps well in mind what he +heard regarding the big oak. + + + + + + + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Messenger No. 48, by James Otis + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK MESSENGER NO. 48 *** + +***** This file should be named 23627.txt or 23627.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/2/3/6/2/23627/ + +Produced by Al Haines + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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