diff options
| author | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-01-23 07:04:21 -0800 |
|---|---|---|
| committer | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-01-23 07:04:21 -0800 |
| commit | ee58d5178868d29e6588024486f0a04e7c8cf3f3 (patch) | |
| tree | e4bec24dfbb3e24ff98fa04466e3041f3cc8d0c0 | |
| parent | c9d39d7dd04a4dc8b8b104e6015af0a9cd8df8a3 (diff) | |
| -rw-r--r-- | .gitattributes | 4 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | LICENSE.txt | 11 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | README.md | 2 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/64800-0.txt | 9345 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/64800-0.zip | bin | 131771 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/64800-h.zip | bin | 314704 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/64800-h/64800-h.htm | 11516 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/64800-h/images/colophon.jpg | bin | 20754 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/64800-h/images/cover.jpg | bin | 152884 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/64800-h/images/sigil.jpg | bin | 8205 -> 0 bytes |
10 files changed, 17 insertions, 20861 deletions
diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..9089f20 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #64800 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/64800) diff --git a/old/64800-0.txt b/old/64800-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index 2144c01..0000000 --- a/old/64800-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,9345 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of Buffalo Bill's Still Hunt, by Colonel -Prentiss Ingraham - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. 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. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: Buffalo Bill's Still Hunt - The Robber of the Range - -Author: Colonel Prentiss Ingraham - -Release Date: March 12, 2021 [eBook #64800] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -Produced by: David Edwards, Susan Carr and the Online Distributed - Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BUFFALO BILL'S STILL HUNT *** - - - - - Buffalo Bill’s Still Hunt - - OR, - - The Robber of the Range - - BY - - Colonel Prentiss Ingraham - - Author of the celebrated “Buffalo Bill” stories published in the - BORDER STORIES. For other titles see catalogue. - - [Illustration: Colophon] - - STREET & SMITH CORPORATION - - PUBLISHERS - - 79-89 Seventh Avenue, New York - - - - - +----------------------------------+ - | | - | Copyright, 1907 | - | By STREET & SMITH | - | ----- | - | Buffalo Bill’s Still Hunt | - | | - +----------------------------------+ - - - All rights reserved, including that of translation into foreign - languages, including the Scandinavian. - - - - - CONTENTS - - - PAGE - IN APPRECIATION OF WILLIAM F. CODY 1 - I. CROSSING THE RIO GRANDE. 5 - II. DESERTED. 19 - III. SILK LASSO SAM, THE OUTLAW. 24 - IV. BONNIE BELLE OF POCKET CITY. 29 - V. LIFE AT PIONEER POST. 43 - VI. THE LAST APPEAL. 48 - VII. THE DOOMED OUTLAW. 62 - VIII. A FAIR PLOTTER. 77 - IX. A VISITOR AT PIONEER POST. 87 - X. THE REALITY OF AN IDEAL. 101 - XI. THE DEPARTURE. 115 - XII. CAUGHT IN THE ACT. 129 - XIII. IN HANGMAN’S GULCH. 144 - XIV. TURNING THE TABLES. 163 - XV. A MIDNIGHT INTERVIEW. 177 - XVI. A BORDER BURIAL. 186 - XVII. A SISTER OF MERCY. 196 - XVIII. RETURN OF THE SCOUTS. 219 - XIX. THE TELLING BLOW. 228 - XX. THE SURGEON’S MISSION. 238 - XXI. ACCUSED. 252 - XXII. BUFFALO BILL’S MAD RIDE. 261 - XXIII. THE COLONEL RECEIVES A LETTER. 279 - XXIV. TREACHERY. 292 - XXV. THE SURGEON SCOUT’S WARNING. 304 - XXVI. BONNIE BELL’S WORK DONE. 314 - - - - - IN APPRECIATION OF WILLIAM F. CODY - - (BUFFALO BILL). - - -It is now some generations since Josh Billings, Ned Buntline, and -Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, intimate friends of Colonel William F. -Cody, used to forgather in the office of Francis S. Smith, then -proprietor of the _New York Weekly_. It was a dingy little office on -Rose Street, New York, but the breath of the great outdoors stirred -there when these old-timers got together. As a result of these -conversations, Colonel Ingraham and Ned Buntline began to write of -the adventures of Buffalo Bill for Street & Smith. - -Colonel Cody was born in Scott County, Iowa, February 26, 1846. -Before he had reached his teens, his father, Isaac Cody, with his -mother and two sisters, migrated to Kansas, which at that time was -little more than a wilderness. - -When the elder Cody was killed shortly afterward in the Kansas -“Border War,” young Bill assumed the difficult rôle of family -breadwinner. During 1860, and until the outbreak of the Civil War, -Cody lived the arduous life of a pony-express rider. Cody volunteered -his services as government scout and guide and served throughout -the Civil War with Generals McNeil and A. J. Smith. He was a -distinguished member of the Seventh Kansas Cavalry. - -During the Civil War, while riding through the streets of St. Louis, -Cody rescued a frightened schoolgirl from a band of annoyers. In true -romantic style, Cody and Louisa Federci, the girl, were married March -6, 1866. - -In 1867 Cody was employed to furnish a specified amount of buffalo -meat to the construction men at work on the Kansas Pacific Railroad. -It was in this period that he received the sobriquet “Buffalo Bill.” - -In 1868 and for four years thereafter Colonel Cody served as scout -and guide in campaigns against the Sioux and Cheyenne Indians. It was -General Sheridan who conferred on Cody the honor of chief of scouts -of the command. - -After completing a period of service in the Nebraska legislature, -Cody joined the Fifth Cavalry in 1876, and was again appointed chief -of scouts. - -Colonel Cody’s fame had reached the East long before, and a great -many New Yorkers went out to see him and join in his buffalo hunts, -including such men as August Belmont, James Gordon Bennett, Anson -Stager, and J. G. Heckscher. In entertaining these visitors at Fort -McPherson, Cody was accustomed to arrange wild-West exhibitions. In -return his friends invited him to visit New York. It was upon seeing -his first play in the metropolis that Cody conceived the idea of -going into the show business. - -Assisted by Ned Buntline, novelist, and Colonel Ingraham, he started -his “Wild West” show, which later developed and expanded into “A -Congress of the Rough Riders of the World,” first presented at Omaha, -Nebraska. In time it became a familiar yearly entertainment in the -great cities of this country and Europe. Many famous personages -attended the performances, and became his warm friends, including Mr. -Gladstone, the Marquis of Lorne, King Edward, Queen Victoria, and the -Prince of Wales, now King of England. - -At the outbreak of the Sioux, in 1890 and 1891, Colonel Cody served -at the head of the Nebraska National Guard. In 1895 Cody took up the -development of Wyoming Valley by introducing irrigation. Not long -afterward he became judge advocate general of the Wyoming National -Guard. - -Colonel Cody (Buffalo Bill) died in Denver, Colorado, on January -10, 1917. His legacy to a grateful world was a large share in -the development of the West, and a multitude of achievements in -horsemanship, marksmanship, and endurance that will live for ages. -His life will continue to be a leading example of the manliness, -courage, and devotion to duty that belonged to a picturesque phase -of American life now passed, like the great patriot whose career it -typified, into the Great Beyond. - - - - - BUFFALO BILL’S STILL HUNT. - - - - - CHAPTER I. - - CROSSING THE RIO GRANDE. - - -The Rio Grande, the great dividing-line between Mexico and the United -States, was swelling rapidly into a flood under recent rains, which -had sent torrents dashing from the mountain lands toward the Gulf. - -A carriage, drawn by two horses, had halted upon the banks at the -ford, the Mexican driver on the box seeming afraid to venture into -the turbid stream. - -Within the vehicle were two persons, one in the garb of a nun of the -Church of Rome, the other a young and beautiful girl of sixteen, with -dark hair and glorious eyes that revealed her Spanish blood. - -“Well, Pedro, why do you halt here?” asked the nun of the driver. - -“It is dangerous to cross, Sister Felicite,” was the answer. - -“And the river is rising?” - -“It is, sister.” - -“You know the ford, Pedro?” - -“Perfectly, sister.” - -“How deep will the waters come?” - -“They will wash through the carriage, Sister Felicite.” - -“Then what is to be done, Pedro?” - -“Alas! I know not,” was the dejected reply. - -“If you return, the road is dangerous, night is coming on, and there -is no ranch within fifteen miles.” - -“Very true, sister.” - -“What shall we do, then?” the nun asked anxiously. - -“Place greater weights in the carriage, sister; open the doors, to -let the water run through and not wash it away; let me mount the box -with Pedro, to use the whip, while he manages the horses, and we can -get across.” - -The speaker was the young girl, and the nun looked at her with an -expression of amazed horror. - -“Why, child, what do you mean?” - -“Oh, Sister Felicite, I do not mind a ducking or danger, for I have -crossed many a stream beyond its banks.” - -“The señorita is right, Sister Felicite, for it is our only chance,” -Pedro said. - -“And the river is constantly rising, so that there is no time to -delay,” Nina de Sutro remarked, in a determined manner, her face full -of spirit and courage. - -“What do you think, Pedro?” asked the nun. - -“It is all that we can do, sister.” - -“Then act upon the Señorita Nina’s suggestion at once.” - -The driver sprang from his box, and at once began to pack the vehicle -with stones to weight it down. - -The baggage was taken from the boot and placed on top, and Sister -Felicite mounted there, also, seated upon the cushions. - -Nina climbed to the seat next to the driver’s upon the box; then the -man mounted to his place, seized his reins, and, with a searching -glance across the river, to where the trail left the waters on the -other shore, he urged the horses into the now turbulent and deep -stream. - -It was a perilous undertaking, but the nun was silent and calm, the -young girl fearless-faced and determined, the driver, Pedro, seeming -anxious and nervous, understanding the danger more thoroughly, -perhaps with a premonition of what lay in their path. - -The carriage at times was swept along for a few feet; the horses time -and again lost their footing but the brave driver knew the ford -well, and Nina de Sutro understood just when to use the whip, for she -carefully watched every movement of Pedro and the horses. - -As they neared the other shore one of the horses suddenly sank out of -sight into a hole, and the pull dragged the driver over upon the top -of his now struggling team. - -The vehicle swept around suddenly, the driver was beaten down by the -plunging, struggling horses, and was swept away upon the surging -current. - -But Nina de Sutro had seized the reins, and, to her great delight, -the vehicle was swept upon a bar, where its downward course was -arrested, and the horses regained their footing once more. - -Poor Pedro! - -“Alas! we, too, must go to join him soon,” said Sister Felicite, with -calm resignation. - -“Yes, sister, the waters are flowing more rapidly, and we will soon -be swept away,” was the response of the young girl, who was still -cool and full of nerve, though her face had blanched at thus being -confronted by what appeared to be sure death. - -“Keep up your courage, for I will come to your aid!” - -The voice came from the bank, where a horseman had suddenly dashed -down the hill and come to a halt. - -“I will see if my lasso will reach you. Catch it, señorita, as I -throw!” cried the horseman, and he launched the coil into the air, -when it was caught by Nina, while the nun on the top of the carriage -muttered a fervent: - -“Holy Mother, I thank thee!” - -A cheer broke from the lips of the horseman, who was splendidly -mounted and equipped, and dressed in the garb of a Mexican gentleman -ranchero. - -The horseman had been riding along the ridge-trail upon the Mexican -side of the river. - -He saw the danger, just as the driver was dragged from his seat, -and, wheeling his horse, he dashed down to the bank, to see that the -vehicle was at the mercy of the waters and very soon would be swept -away with its occupants. - -At once he had seized the long lariat he had hanging from the horn of -his saddle. - -He was a man whose handsome face and courtly manners would win -admiration anywhere. His fine physique was set off by his elegant -Mexican dress, and he wore upon his head a sombrero richly -embroidered in gold and silver, a tiny crossed American and Mexican -flag being upon the brim on the left side. - -His hair was very long, falling far down his back, and he wore a -mustache and imperial which gave him a military air. - -His horse was richly caparisoned, and it looked ready for any service -its master demanded. - -His lasso coil having been most skilfully launched over the waters -and caught by Nina de Sutro, the horseman called out in a voice of -command: - -“Tie a firm knot about the dash of the carriage, and I will make fast -my end to this tree.” - -The girl obeyed with alacrity, and, dismounting, the man took his -stake-rope, and, throwing aside his hat, jacket, belt of arms, and -boots with heavy spurs, plunged into the stream, and was, with a few -vigorous strokes, carried to the vehicle, which was just balancing -upon the bar of sand, the horses barely keeping their feet. - -The stake-ropes of the horses were taken from the boot and tied -securely to the one carried by the rescuer. The new line was then -made fast to the pole, the stranger meanwhile acting rapidly and -coolly, while he said: - -“Have no fear now, ladies, for I will swim ashore with this line, -attach it to my saddle, and my horse will drag your carriage ashore. -You, miss, hold the reins, but cling to the carriage top-rail, should -the vehicle capsize, as this lady must also do. Now all is ready, and -there is no time to lose.” - -With this he sprang into the stream once more, and was whirled away -by the swiftly flowing current. He swam splendidly, and landed below, -just as he reached the end of the united stake-ropes. - -Running up the bank, he made the end fast to his saddle-horn, and, -seizing the lasso tied to the tree, untied it and took position near -his horse--the intelligent animal seeming to understand just what was -expected of him. - -“All ready, now!” cried the horseman, to the nun and Nina upon the -box of the carriage. The latter still held the reins and whip. - -Then he started his horse slowly forward, thus drawing, with the -stake-ropes attached to the saddle-horn and the lasso which he held, -the horses and vehicle up against the current of the surging stream. - -At the call of the stranger, Nina gathered the reins, and at the same -time laid the whip upon the backs of the horses. - -They plunged forward and were over their depth at once, while the -carriage sank nearly to the top, the waters dashing through the -doors, which had been opened wide and made fast. - -This alone saved the carriage from being upset by the pressure of the -waters. - -The noble horse ashore drew hard, and the rescuer also pulled with -all his might, the lasso and stake-ropes, fast to the pole and -dashboard, being taut as a wire. - -As the horses and vehicle swept off of the bar they swung toward the -shore, and, after a moment of intense suspense to the nun and Nina, -they beheld the team gain a footing; then the carriage began to rise -from the stream, and a moment after the stranger plunged in, seized -the bits of the animals, and led them a hundred feet up the current -to the ford, where a landing could be made. - -A moment more and the panting horses had dragged the vehicle out of -danger, while the stranger cried: - -“Saved, and only a foot wet!” - -“Yes, sir, you have saved this child’s life and mine, and Heaven will -reward you for it. But, alas! poor Pedro has gone to his doom. May -the blessed Mother have mercy upon his soul!” - -“_Amen!_” came the low, but fervent response of the young girl, and -holding out her hand to the stranger, she said in a frank manner -natural to her: - -“You have saved Sister Felicite and poor little me from death, for -without your aid we were doomed. Oh, señor, never will I forget you -and the scene of this day!” - -The stranger bowed courteously, and replied: - -“It was my fortune to be near to aid you. Now let me drive you to the -Mission San José, where I suppose you are to pass the night, for it -is but a mile away.” - -“You are most kind, sir; but do not let me lead you from your way, -for I can drive.” - -“No, the road is bad and dangerous, and I will see you to safety -before I leave you.” - -The baggage was then taken from the top, and placed in the boot -again; the nun entered the carriage, Nina retaining her seat upon -the box, seeming not to hear the good Felicite’s gentle command for -her to sit with her. Springing to his seat, the stranger called to -his horse to follow, and drove off with the skill of an experienced -driver. - -The Mission San José was reached in safety, and there the stranger -left them, but Nina de Sutro never forgot that ride, or the face of -the man who had saved her life. - -Without a word regarding himself, not even giving his name or -calling, the daring rescuer of two lives had sprung into his saddle, -after reaching the mission, raised his sombrero courteously, and, -dashing spurs into his horse, had gone off like the wind. - -“Who is he, Father Ambrose?” asked the nun, addressing the head -priest of the Mission. - -“I do not know, Sister Felicite, for I never saw him before; but he -shall have the prayers of the church for his noble deed done this day -for you and this child,” was the response, and the travelers were -made comfortable at the Mission for the night. - -The next day another driver was secured, and Sister Felicite and her -fair young charge, who was going to the City of Mexico, to a convent, -to receive her education, went on their way. - -But Sister Felicite soon discovered that the peril through which -they had passed had seemed to cast a gloom upon the heart of Nina de -Sutro. The young girl became thoughtful, and no longer gathered wild -flowers when they halted to rest by the wayside. - -Arriving at the convent, Nina did not have the same merry nature as -before, and her leisure hours seemed to be passed in reveries. - -After some months at the convent, the girl went into the city, to -pass a short vacation with her kindred, and to accompany them to a -grand tournament which was given by army officers and gentlemen fond -of such sports. - -There was a bull-fight, then a riding-match for a prize, a -shooting-match, a combat on horseback with swords, and lasso-throwing. - -There were champions in each different sport, and one winning a prize -was to hold himself ready to defend it should any one challenge him -to do so at the time that it was presented to him in the arena. - -The bull-fight had ended disastrously, for the infuriated animals -had killed several horses and wounded half a dozen of the amateur -fighters, until not another one dared enter the ring, it was -supposed, when, to the surprise of all, a horseman, splendidly -mounted, rode into the arena. - -He was masked, and wore the richest of costumes. Who he was no one -knew, and he had merely given his name as the “Cavalier of the Rio -Grande.” - -The maddened bull made a rush for him that caused all to hold their -breath with suspense. - -Just as all believed the horse would be gored to death, the skilful -rider wheeled him out of harm’s way, spurred him alongside of the -bull, and, leaning from his saddle, drove his sword to the hilt into -the great brute’s side. - -The games were then continued, and, just as the victor in the -shooting-match was receiving his prize, in rode the stranger, still -wearing his mask, and challenged him to contest for the trophy he had -won. - -The victor gladly consented, but only to surrender, soon after, the -beautiful prize to the unknown Cavalier of the Rio Grande! - -And so it was with the one who had gained the prize for riding--a -horse, saddle, and bridle of great value--for the unknown was on hand -to challenge him and win. - -In the combat on horseback with swords, the unknown was there to -grasp the prize won by the victor as soon as he went forward to -receive it. Then came the sports with the lasso, and once more it was -the unknown who defeated the champion. - -In addition to the prize--a purse of gold, in this case--a silk lasso -was presented, one beautifully woven of crimson hue, and of great -strength, length, and beauty. - -The last test of skill was a sword-combat, fought with rapiers, and -it was said that the gallant young officer who won the prize had no -equal in Mexico. - -But into the arena rode the unknown, and, dismounting, he threw his -glove down at the feet of the champion. It was promptly picked up by -the victor, who was the commander of a crack command of lancers, and -the two soon advanced to face each other. - -Like fiery serpents the steel blades writhed around each other and -flashed in the sunlight, and men, and women, too, had begun to feel -that at last the unknown had more than met his match. - -“The unknown was a fool to offer combat to Major Delano, after being -tired out with his other combats,” said a rich banker, a kinsman of -Nina de Sutro. - -Through all, the young girl had watched with white face every -contest, her eyes riveted upon the masked face of the unknown; but -she caught the words of her kinsman, and said quickly: - -“A hundred pesos, señor, that the unknown defeats Major Delano.” - -“Bravo! just hear the child! But I accept your wager, Nina, and---- -Holy Heaven, see there!” - -A cry of bravo went up from the crowd, for somehow the major was -seen to catch the point of the unknown’s sword, and it pierced his -heart. - -How it happened no one seemed to know, and the explanation of the -unknown was accepted, for, instantly unmasking, he faced the judges, -and said in a voice that reached every ear: - -“Pardon, señors, but the officer was so confident of disarming me -he pressed forward, slipped, and, not guarding my thrust, my sword -pierced his breast.” - -He bowed his head, to await the decision of the judges, while from -the lips of Nina de Sutro fell the words in a quivering voice: - -“I felt that it was so. He is my hero of the Rio Grande!” - - - - - CHAPTER II. - - DESERTED. - - -A year after the fatal tournament in the City of Mexico, a grand -masquerade ball was being held in a salon in New Orleans, and thither -had flocked the beauty and the chivalry of the Crescent City. - -Among the cavaliers present who had attracted much attention by his -elegance of form and gorgeous attire was one in Mexican costume. - -He had flirted with many of the fair belles, and was always in demand -for a waltz, so gracefully did he dance, and a favored maiden present -was envied by all the others as the Mexican seemed to devote more of -his attention to her than to any one else present. At last he said to -her: - -“Though unknown to you, señorita----” - -“How do you know that I am a señorita?” was the low query, in the -sweetest of voices. - -“My heart tells me that you have never loved, that you are not a -wife; but though unknown to you, let me beg that you take a stroll -with me in the moonlight. Will you go?” - -“Yes.” - -The word was hardly audible, but the Mexican drew the tiny hand into -his arm and led her from the salon, out upon the piazza, and thence -into the moonlit garden, halting at an arbor. - -“Do you know that I can tell who you are, señorita?” the man asked. - -He saw the start that she gave at his words, and then she asked: - -“Who am I?” - -“The beautiful Miss De Latour, whom all the men in the city are -wildly in love with.” - -“How do you know?” - -“Because from the first moment I saw you I loved you, and I have time -and again sought to win a glance from you, and only yesterday did you -favor me with a smile, as I rode by your house; or was I mistaken, -and the smile but the reflex of some pleasant thought?” - -“Señor Marvin, you are mistaken, for I am not Celeste de Latour, the -loveliest and richest girl in the city.” - -“Not Miss De Latour? Surely you are not deceiving me?” - -“No, you are deceiving me, señor, in telling another that you love -her, _for I am your wife, Austin Marvin_!” - -With dexterous hand, she unmasked the man and herself at the same -instant, revealing the faces of the Cavalier of the Rio Grande and -Nina de Sutro. - -“My God! Nina, you here?” gasped the man, his face turning livid in -the moonlight. - -“Yes, Austin Marvin, I am here on your track. I loved you, my hero -among men, with all my heart and soul. Believing you an honorable -man, I fled from the convent with you, to become your wife, though a -mere girl. - -“After a few short months you tired of me, because you knew that I -would not get my fortune until I was twenty-one. Then you deserted -me in a strange land; but I followed you, after reading your cruel -note, and I have found you here after a long and weary search, here, -breathing words of love, as you supposed, to another woman. - -“But, Austin, my husband, I will forgive all if you will go with me -from here, for in a few short years I will be in possession of my -riches.” - -Quickly came the answer of the man: - -“You have conquered, Nina, and if you will forgive me I will go with -you.” - -“Come, for I forgive all,” was the happy answer. - -One week later Nina de Sutro wrote the following letter, addressed -to an army officer who was her guardian, and who had married her -kinswoman: - - “I have given you great distress of mind and heart, and yet love - was my guide, and I believed I acted for the right in leaving the - convent to wed the man whom I met under strange circumstances, and - who once more crossed my path to command me as he might a slave. - - “I have lived in a few short months my romance, burned the candle - to the end, and am a deserted wife, finding that I married one - who was a villain, one who sought me alone for my riches, and - finding that I could not, until twenty-one years of age, control my - fortune, fled from me, leaving me alone in a strange city. - - “I tracked him, found him making love to another, forgave him all, - and lo! once more he deserted me, this time taking my money and my - jewels, and in my despair I wish to hide the grave in my heart from - all except you, to whom I now make this confession, and the Mother - Superior of the convent, to whom I shall at once return, begging - her to receive me once more as a pupil, as my elopement was not - known, it being said that I had been called suddenly home to the - United States. - - “She will take me back, for well I know her kind heart, and when I - have finished my education, if you, my sweet cousin, will allow me, - I will come to you, still known as Nina de Sutro--your name, which, - as my guardian, you gave to me, for I wish not to have the world - know of my unhappy wedded life and the sorrow I have brought upon - myself. - - “As for the man who was my husband, I will not care what his fate - may be, nor will I breathe his name even to you or the Mother - Superior, for my past of misfortune, my dream of bliss that ended - almost in despair, shall be as a sealed book.” - -The letter was addressed to an officer of the United States Army, who -was stationed at a frontier post of the Northwest. - -And back to the convent went the unhappy girl, made her confession, -was forgiven and received as before, for the good Mother Felicite, -the superioress, loved her as her own child, and wept bitter tears of -regret when, two years after, she finished her school-days and went -to join her guardian and his wife in the United States. - - - - - CHAPTER III. - - SILK LASSO SAM, THE OUTLAW. - - -The coach on a branch of the Overland Stage Trail, with its terminus -at Pioneer Post, was upon its way to its destination, with an extra -hand known as Ribbons upon the box, Horseshoe Ned, the regular -driver, being laid up for a short while. - -It had reached a part of the trail where there was a steep and rugged -descent to the bed of a swiftly flowing stream known as Deep Dell -Brook, and Ribbons had brought the team of six horses to a halt for a -short rest and a cooling draft of water. - -There was a steep ascent upon the other side of the brook, with rocky -cliffs some thirty feet in height upon either side for a few hundred -yards. - -Ribbons, the driver, was a good hand with the reins, a bold fellow, -and one who did not shrink from driving the Overland trails no matter -what the danger might be. - -He was seated upon his box with the air of one who felt that a few -hours more would give him rest, when suddenly a man rode down into -the trail ahead of him, and two faces peered over the rocky cliff, -their eyes glancing along the barrels of their rifles. - -“Hands up, Ribbons, or take the consequences,” said the horseman -riding toward the stage, and at the same time the men on the cliff -covered the driver with their rifles. - -“Pilgrims, we is in fer it!” cried Ribbons, turning to the window of -the coach; and a voice quickly answered: - -“Road-agents, eh? Well, I fight.” - -With this, the speaker leveled his revolver at one of the men on the -cliff, and pulled trigger. - -The man leaped to his feet, and, tottering, fell into the road below, -while his companion on the other cliff fired a shot into the coach. -At the same moment the horseman shouted: - -“Ha! that is your game, is it, Ribbons?” - -With his words, he pulled trigger, and the driver sank back dead on -his seat. - -“Ho, men, head off this coach, and I’ll see who this gamecock is -who dares fire upon Silk Lasso Sam and his band,” and the horseman -spurred toward the coach, when several shots rang out of the window, -one of which dropped his horse and another wounded him in the -shoulder. - -The highwayman returned the fire, just as a mounted man came rapidly -to his aid, and riddled the coach with bullets, though the plucky -defender inside fired again, this time wounding the horse ridden by -the outlaw coming to the aid of his chief. - -The animal fell heavily, but the rider landed upon his feet and -sprang to one side of the coach, while his chief threw the door open -upon the other. - -“It’s over with him, so we have nothing to fear now,” said the chief, -as he saw the form of the defender of the coach lying in a heap, and -his life ebbing rapidly away from the wounds he had received at the -hands of the outlaws. - -“Frank dead, one horse ditto, and another dying, so the old coach -should pan out well, to repay us, Pat,” said the chief; and he added: - -“Not to speak of my own wound, but which amounts to little.” - -He drew the body of the brave passenger from the coach as he spoke, -and with deft hands, as though long experienced in such work, went -through his search for booty. - -A well-filled purse, some jewelry, a watch and chain, and a wallet of -papers, were what he found, and quickly the outlaw chief looked them -over. - -Then he stood for some time lost in a deep reverie, as though with -little fear of danger to himself, until suddenly he broke out with -the words: - -“By Heaven, but I’ll risk it! Yes, if I hang for it, I will!” - -“Do what, sir?” asked his companion. - -“Pat, I am going to play a bold game for gold, for I shall go to the -fort, and you are to help me out.” - -“Go to the fort, sir?” asked the amazed man. - -“Yes, I shall go as a passenger in Ribbons’ coach, one who fired upon -the road-agents and was wounded, and afterward was robbed. Quick! -get me the clothes off that man and help me to disguise myself--yes, -here is a dressing-case belonging to him, and I will soon have off my -beard and mustache. - -“Then I will place the body of the passenger in the coach, in another -of his suits of clothes, for he traveled well supplied, and Frank can -be left where he fell, for they will send back to the scene of the -hold-up when I reach the fort.” - -“Ah! captain, you have clean lost your senses.” - -“Not a bit of it, Pat, for I see a chance to visit the fort without -the slightest danger, and there is one there whom I wish particularly -to see, for it means big money for me.” - -As he spoke the daring man was making his toilet, having quickly -shaved off his mustache and imperial. - -“Now, Pat, stand there and empty a couple of revolvers into the -coach,” he said, “and then you get Frank’s horse, take that dead -man’s luggage, and go to the retreat, but say nothing of where I am, -or when to expect me back; only do you keep in Spy’s Cañon, to be -ready to meet me, or a messenger I may send there. Now I am ready, -and do you get off at once, for a body of cavalry might happen along -this way.” - -Mounting the box, where the dead Ribbons still lay, after a few more -words of instructions to his man, the outlaw chief drove on up the -hill, holding the reins like one who was a skilled driver. - -His outlaw companion followed a moment after, with the luggage of the -dead passenger, leaving his dead comrade and the horses lying in the -trail. - -Half an hour after the coach had rolled away, a horseman came dashing -upon the scene and drew rein. - -The horseman was Buffalo Bill, the king of scouts, and he cried -sternly: - -“This is Silk Lasso Sam’s work!” - - - - - CHAPTER IV. - - BONNIE BELLE OF POCKET CITY. - - -Of all strange camps and communities ever seen upon the frontier -that of Pocket City, in Yellow Dust Valley, was the strangest. It -was named from the fact that it fitted into the valley among the -mountains like a pocket in a dress, and also on account, perhaps, of -there having been found just there a number of rich pockets of gold. - -Yellow Dust Valley was a home of miners, a couple or more thousands -being scattered along the sides of the mountains, and Pocket City, -situated near the upper end, was the headquarters of all. - -There the stage-line had its ending, and there was a semi-monthly -coach from Pocket City to the main stem of the Overland Trail. There -was a post-office, a hotel known as the Frying Pan, a saloon and -gambling-resort called the Devil’s Den, several stores, a combination -blacksmith and wagon-shop, with smaller drinking and betting-places, -and several boarding-houses. - -The camps were the resort of a very wild element of humanity, -varying from honest men to horse-thieves, road-agents, gold-grabbers, -and desperadoes of the very worst type. - -The most prominent person in Pocket City was a woman, or, rather, -a young girl, because she could scarcely be over nineteen. She had -arrived in Pocket City one day in a coach which had been held up, and -had defended herself so well that she had shot one of the robbers -dead, and enabled the driver to get away. - -The “big man” of Pocket was in that coach, returning from the East. -He had received a mortal wound, and was so tenderly cared for by the -young girl that, upon arriving at his home, he had told her frankly -that he would make her his heiress, as he had no one to claim his -riches. - -And so it was that Bonnie Belle, as he had called her, after a -daughter who had died years before, became the postmistress, -stage-agent, landlady of the Frying Pan Hotel and of the Devil’s Den. - -What had brought the young girl to Pocket City no one knew; but -Landlord Lazarus had not been in his grave a day before the rough -element discovered that the mistress of the Frying Pan intended to be -the _master_ there. - -She made the hotel a success, would have no cheating in her -gambling-saloon, sold only the best of liquors, stood no nonsense -from any of the men, and was treated with marked respect. - -She was a beautiful creature, too, with a mass of red-gold hair, -large, lustrous black eyes, full of a dreamy sadness, perfect -features, and a form of exquisite grace. - -She was wont to dress neatly about the hotel and in attending to her -other duties there, and when out for a ride on one of her spirited -horses wore a buckskin habit and gold-embroidered sombrero. - -Kind to all, with charity for men’s failings and sins, and generosity -toward all in suffering and distress, Bonnie Belle had won the hearts -of all the miners, as well as their admiration and respect. - -Not the most hardened villain in the camp would have dared say aught -to cast a slur upon Bonnie Belle if he valued his life, for he would -have been seized and made an example of very quickly. - -Many a poor, sick miner had been sent to his home by her, and she was -ever ready to lend aid and do an act of mercy. If a man was hungry -and had no money, he got food at the Frying Pan freely. If a miner -was sick, some delicacy was sent him from Bonnie Belle’s table. - -It was not a wonder, then, that some grateful miner had called her -the Beautiful Samaritan. - -What had brought her to the wild West, unless to do good, no one -could understand, and men wondered and marveled over and over the -strange fact of such a refined being seeking a home amid such rude -surroundings. - -One wing of the Frying Pan Bonnie Belle had fitted up for her -especial use. - -It was surrounded by a high stockade wall, taking in an acre of land, -where there was a spring, rustic arbor, hammock, and flowers. - -There was no way of entering this garden-spot save through her -rooms in the hotel, in the wing referred to, and which were five in -number--an office, sitting-room, dining-room, and two bedrooms. - -There was a piazza running around the wing, and she certainly was -most comfortable in her border home. - -She had Chinese servants, and kept the place as neat as possible, -while she kept hunters out to supply the table with game, had a large -chicken-yard and garden, and, having no bar connected with the hotel, -managed to keep an orderly home for her boarders, who were numerous. - -Bonnie Belle was in the gambling-saloon of Devil’s Den. It was in -full blast, for the bar across one end was crowded with drinkers, -the faro-bank, roulette-table, rouge-et-noir, and games of dice were -going, with plenty of players about them, and a score or more tables -had men at them gambling with cards. - -There was a dense atmosphere of smoke in the vast saloon, in which -mingled the clinking of glasses, rattling of dice, shuffling of -cards, and hum of conversation, in which there was some sudden burst -of profanity now and then. - -Quietly Bonnie Belle entered the saloon from a side door, and, as -soon as she was discovered, a hush like a wave swept over the crowd -of three or four hundred men present. - -No better mark of respect could have been shown her than this, and -the man that uttered an oath while she was present would have found -himself covered by a score of “guns” instantly, until he made ample -apology for his offense. - -Speaking pleasantly here and there, Bonnie Belle made the tour of the -gaming-tables, all of which made a commission upon all money put up, -but the dealers were not allowed to bet against the players, and any -trickery quickly ended a man’s position of trust in the Devil’s Den, -for, as a miner expressed it: - -“Bonnie Belle are squar’ all round.” - -Suddenly, as she made the rounds of the tables, she came face to -face with a man who had just entered the Devil’s Den. He was dressed -in miner’s garb, and was a commanding-looking man, with a handsome, -full-bearded face and wearing his hair long. - -His look was that of a man reared in refinement, and his manners, as -he spoke to various of those whom he passed, were courtly and gentle. - -“Ah, Deadshot Dean, I am glad to see you. Do you play to-night?” and -Bonnie Belle held forth her hand, which the man grasped warmly, while -he doffed his hat as he replied: - -“No, Bonnie Belle, I merely looked in for a moment. Is it too late to -get some supper at the Frying Pan?” - -“No, I will go over at once and order it,” and she passed on, leaving -the saloon by the rear door by which she had entered, and which led -along a stockade lane at the base of the mountain range to her own -quarters. - -The man addressed as Deadshot Dean quietly made the tour of the room, -and it was evident from the greetings bestowed upon him and the -attention he attracted that he was no ordinary personage. - -He had come to the mines some years before to work a claim, for which -he brought papers giving him all right and title thereto, and he had -met with varying success ever since. - -He was known as the Miner of Hangman’s Gulch, as his cabin was -isolated and near a spot where all the hangings in Yellow Dust Valley -took place. - -No other cabin was within a mile and a half of him, for the -superstitious miners would not seek claims within a mile-limit of -Hangman’s Gulch, which was regarded by many as haunted, and was -looked upon by all as a place accursed. - -His home was situated upon a spur around the base of which wound a -trail, and his claim was an eighth of a mile distant from his cabin. - -Generous to all, peaceful in his nature, but a dangerous man to -arouse, he had won his name of Deadshot Dean by defending himself -against half a dozen desperadoes on one occasion, and since then had -shown himself to be a man of courage and determination which no peril -could daunt. - -Leaving the Devil’s Den, the miner had gone directly to the Frying -Pan, and Bonnie Belle met him at the office, and said: - -“I have ordered your supper brought to my dining-room, Deadshot Dean, -so come in here, for I know that you have news for me.” - -“I have, indeed, Bonnie Belle,” was the answer. - -“When did you get back?” - -“To-night. I came by my cabin, but would not stop to get supper, for -I was anxious to see you.” - -“You went to the fort?” - -“I did, but following the trail of that map, found in the room of the -gambler whom I was forced to kill, I met Buffalo Bill and Surgeon -Powell on the war-path, and guided them, with a party of soldiers, to -the retreat of the outlaws.” - -“And captured them?” - -“Yes, or killed them.” - -“And Silk Lasso Sam?” quickly asked the woman, her face showing -intense anxiety as she asked the question. - -“Was captured.” - -“And where is he now?” - -“A prisoner at Pioneer Post.” - -“He will be hanged, of course?” - -“Yes, for his crimes are many, as you know, and he was immediately -sentenced, before I left the fort, to die upon the gallows, along -with his men who had been captured.” - -“Alas! my poor, sinful brother, he deserves the shameful fate that -he is to meet, and from which I have in vain striven hard to save -him.” The tears came into the beautiful eyes of Bonnie Belle, while -Deadshot Dean said: - -“You have been a most devoted sister, Bonnie Belle, to that man, and -he has brought his fate upon his own head; but let me tell you all -that has happened since I left here to track Silk Lasso Sam and his -band to their lair. - -“Bonnie Belle, for I must continue to call you by the name you are -known by to the miners, and not by that of Ruth Leigh, as I knew you -in the years gone by, when you were a little girl, I----” - -“Yes, call me Bonnie Belle, Carrol Dean,” said the girl sadly. - -“Then, Bonnie Belle, let me tell you that I deem the course you have -pursued to check the career of your wicked brother all that you could -do. You would have been his accomplice, though innocently, in his -crimes if you had allowed him to go on in, his desperate deeds of -lawlessness.” - -“I feel that, Carrol Dean; I know it.” - -“Yon know well that when your father, your brother, and yourself -lived in luxury upon your plantation home, that Arden was wild, -wayward, and dissipated.” - -“Alas, yes!” - -“He caused your father much suffering, was dismissed from the navy, -and had to leave the German university because he killed a fellow -student, and your father’s wealth and influence barely saved him from -the gallows for taking another life. - -“Then came his rivalry of me for the love of Kathleen Clyde, who is -now my wife, and you remember how he shot me down in her presence, -fled, believing he had killed me, and forging your father’s name, -secured a large sum from the bank, and became a fugitive from -justice?” - -“Alas! I know all.” - -“You and your father, with sorrow in your hearts, went abroad, and -his failing health brought you back to America, to ranch-life in -California. He died there, and then you sought the reformation of -your wicked brother, seeking him in these wilds, where few other -women would have, or could have, come as you have done. - -“You found him at last in Silk Lasso Sam, the leader of an outlaw -band, and failing to turn him from his wickedness, you did only -right to let him go his way and raise no hand longer to save him. -Fortunately, I was driven to this land to make money by digging in -the old claim my father had bought, for now you have a friend, a -brother, in me, and you must do as I say.” - -“I will.” - -“I did not seek the downfall of your brother through any feeling of -revenge, but because I had been secretly made, by Colonel Dunwoody, -of Pioneer Post, through having saved the life of Buffalo Bill, -as you remember, a Secret Service scout. I did not know until you -told me, before my going, that Silk Lasso Sam was your brother, my -old foe, and remembering you only as a girl just verging into your -teens, I did not recognize Ruth Leigh in Bonnie Belle. I tracked your -brother to his lair, and let me tell you of his latest villainy.” - -“Tell me all, for I wish nothing hidden from me.” - -“After visiting you here, he broke every pledge he had made you. He -went, with two followers, to the Overland Trail to Pioneer Post, -and lay in ambush until the coach came along, when he held it up. -One plucky passenger opened fire, killing one of the outlaws and -slightly wounding the chief, whose horse, also was shot under him. -In retaliation, the outlaws killed the driver and the passenger, and -then the daring idea seized upon your brother to enter the fort.” - -“And he was captured?” - -“Not then, for he played passenger, and was treated with the greatest -kindness by all. Being in secret communication with his men, he -arranged a plot to have a young lady there, Miss Clarice Carr, the -belle of the fort, and himself captured by the band, intending to -force from her a large ransom for her release. - -“Little did she suspect his treachery, and they were captured and -taken to the secret retreat of the outlaws, one of whom pretended to -be Silk Lasso Sam, the chief. Fortunately, it was just then that I -reached the trail and found Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Powell upon it, -with the soldiers. - -“The map, however, enabled me to guide them there, and to Miss Carr’s -horror, she discovered the perfidy of the man she had believed to be -a gentleman. He denied the charges against him, but I made myself -known to him, and he said no more, and was taken to the fort, tried, -and sentenced to die upon the gallows.” - -“My poor, unfortunate, erring brother,” said Bonnie Belle sadly. - -“Yes, it is a sad case, yet you have done far more than your duty to -save him.” - -“I feel that I have sacrificed, I was going to say, my self-respect -to do so.” - -“No, no, not that, for you are true as steel to yourself, even though -you are what you are in this wild land. Your brother, with whom I had -an interview, pledged his word not to make his relationship to you -known, and begged that you would forgive and forget him.” - -“I will forgive, but I can never forget.” - -“He bade me also to tell you that you must let me be as a brother to -you; that you must go with me to my home in the East, where you will -find a sister in my wife, and be loved by her father and my child. - -“Yes, Ruth, you must go with me, for I am going East to see my -family, and then return here to work my mine, which I find is going -to pan out rich. I will take you with me by the first stage, and when -I return, if you will trust me, I will settle up your affairs in -Pocket City as best I can for you, so do not refuse.” - -“Carrol Dean, I will go with you and give up this wild life,” was the -low reply. - -Two weeks after the east-bound stage carried as passengers Bonnie -Belle and Deadshot Dean, the former believing that she was leaving -the wild West forever, where her brother’s life was soon to end in -shame and suffering. - - - - - CHAPTER V. - - LIFE AT PIONEER POST. - - -Pioneer Post was a gem as a frontier post, for it was charmingly -located upon a bluff overhanging a river, with sloping hills -stretching down from the plateau on the summit to the plains below, -and a vast expanse of scenery upon every side. - -Strongly built, it was well armed and an ideal fort. Many officers -had their families there, and Colonel Dunwoody, the bachelor -commandant, had a most hospitable staff, while he was ever ready to -add to the enjoyment and comfort of those under his command. - -He was a handsome man, who had been promoted from lieutenant to the -rank of colonel for services rendered in action. He was a perfect -soldier, a thorough disciplinarian, and though having the means to -live in luxury in the fort, he yet was ready to put up with the -greatest hardships in the field. - -There was an officers’ club in the fort, a ladies’ club, and with -polo, lawn-tennis, rowing on the river, hunting, riding, and -fishing-parties, life passed most pleasantly to all, notwithstanding -the fact that danger was constantly near, and the shadow of death -often came into their midst. - -The garrison was a large one, and there were numerous belles and -beaux in the military family of the colonel. There was one bachelor -captain of cavalry, Dick Caruth, who was a general favorite with -all, and considered a fine parti by mothers with daughters in the -matrimonial mart, for he was a very handsome, daring fellow, with a -fortune and the hope of speedy promotion. - -Lieutenant Vassar Turpin, the colonel’s aide, was another catch, and -there were half a dozen more. - -Among the ladies were two who were known as the Rivals. One was Nina -de Sutro, a Mexican maiden reared mostly in the United States, and -who dwelt with her guardian and kinsman, Colonel Ravel de Sutro and -his beautiful wife, who was also a native of the sunny land of Mexico. - -It was no wonder that Nina de Sutro at twenty was a belle, for she -was very beautiful, and she was brilliant and accomplished, though -perhaps a little too satirical and bitter at times. - -Her rival was Clarice Carr, a young lady who was as popular with her -own sex as with the men. Those who made comparisons between Nina de -Sutro and Clarice Carr were wont to decide almost invariably that the -latter was the loveliest woman of the two. - -She was highly accomplished, having passed much of her life abroad, -was an artist, songstress, and musician, as well; while few men dared -follow her lead when mounted. With a very large fortune under her -control, she preferred to live with her old schoolmate and relative, -Mrs. Lester, the wife of Major Lionel Lester, next officer in rank to -Lieutenant-Colonel De Sutro at the fort. - -“I love the free life of these Western wilds far more than all the -gaieties of metropolitan life,” she was wont to say, and there was -little doubt but she spoke the truth. - -Thus far neither Clarice Carr nor Nina de Sutro had been won by any -of their numerous lovers, and men began to fear that they had both -taken secret vows to become old maids. - -If a rivalry existed between the two, it was Nina, not Clarice, that -revealed it, for the latter appeared to know no rival and to live for -others rather more than herself. - -She admired Nina de Sutro greatly, yet felt pained at times to hear -her cut deeply when the opportunity offered, and often wound the one -she gave the stinging rejoinder to, while, with a look or smile she -would call him again to her side. - -“She is a sad coquette, or heartless one, perhaps, and cannot help -it. At times I fear she has had some great sorrow to embitter her -life, and, if so, I pity her and could never reproach.” - -So said Clarice Carr of Nina de Sutro to her confidante and devoted -friend, Louise Lester. - -“So I have thought, Clarice, and Lionel also suggested it, for she is -all softness at times, and again almost cruel toward her admirers,” -was Mrs. Lester’s comment. - -When Silk Lasso Sam, in his disguise as the wounded passenger hero, -Austin Marvin, had come to the fort, he had devoted himself at first -to Nina de Sutro, and she claimed to have met him in Mexico, where he -had saved her life. - -But the secret of that meeting, the secret that was between them, she -did not reveal, and he dared not do so. - -But soon after he turned his attention to Clarice Carr, and it -ended as the miner related to Bonnie Belle, in the leading of the -maiden into a treacherous trap from which she would not have escaped -without large ransom, but for Deadshot Dean’s tracking the outlaws -to their lair, with Buffalo Bill. - -When the maiden was rescued, and the outlaws brought prisoners into -camp, the excitement was intense, and disciplined soldiers though -they were, there were mutterings of such intense hatred heard against -Silk Lasso Sam that a double guard was placed about him. - -That they had all been most cleverly taken in, every officer had to -admit, though they could not but admire the magnificent nerve and -daring of the outlaw chief, who they realized was no ordinary man, -and hoped that an end would soon come to his many red deeds when he -died on the gallows. - - - - - CHAPTER VI. - - THE LAST APPEAL. - - -The coach out of Pocket City carried as passengers Carrol Dean and -Bonnie Belle, on their way East to the home of the miner. - -Bonnie Belle did not say to her friends in Yellow Dust Valley that -she would not return, for she feared that the result might be -disastrous to her interests there. She told them she was going East -on an important mission, and her interests in Pocket City were left -to the management of the one who held the position of clerk in the -Frying Pan Hotel. - -Deadshot Dean had written to his wife to expect him home soon, and -that he would bring with him one whom she would also be glad to -welcome. - -The stage-trail from Pocket City led within forty miles of Pioneer -Post, and into the one from the fort at a point where there was a -station with a corral of horses for the coaches and couriers. - -It was while the coach was nearing this station that the driver -heard the clatter of hoofs behind him, and, turning his head, saw a -horseman coming along at rapid speed after the coach. - -His first thought was that he was a road-agent in chase, and his next -that the man might be a courier bearing despatches from the fort. But -the horseman soon overtook the coach, and called out: - -“Ho, driver, have you Bonnie Belle a passenger with you?” - -“I has,” was the reply of Sandy Gill, the driver, and he eyed the -horseman curiously. - -“Then I have a letter for her.” - -“A letter for me?” and Bonnie Belle looked out of the coach-window -with surprise at the man, who was dressed as an army courier, and was -well mounted. - -“Are you Bonnie Belle, miss?” - -“Yes, I am so called.” - -“Of Yellow Dust Valley?” - -“Yes, of Pocket City.” - -“I have a letter, then, for you, miss.” - -“Who has sent me a letter?” - -“Its reading will tell you, miss.” - -“You are not from the Yellow Dust country?” - -“No, miss, I am from the fort at Pioneer Post.” - -Bonnie Belle started at this, and glanced at the miner. - -“What does it mean?” she asked Dean, seeming anxious not to touch the -letter for some reason. - -The miner asked: - -“Do you come from the fort, my man?” - -“Yes, sir.” - -“And you were sent with a letter for Bonnie Belle?” - -“I was, sir, and upon reaching Pocket City, and learning that she had -gone East by coach, I came on after her.” - -“Who is this letter from?” - -“I do not know, sir; but it was given to me by an officer at the -fort, with orders to place it in the hands of Miss Bonnie Belle with -the greatest despatch.” - -“Give me the letter,” and Bonnie Belle held out her hand, which -trembled as she read the address and seemed to recognize the writing. - -“It is from----” and she said no more. - -But Deadshot Dean recognized by her look of significance that she -could only mean her brother, then a condemned prisoner at the fort. -She nerved herself to break the seal, and asked: - -“Is there an answer?” - -“I was told that there was, miss.” - -At this the miner stepped out of the coach, and left her to read the -letter alone, for he saw that she was deeply affected. - -While the miner, the courier, and the stage-coach driver were talking -together, she read the letter. It was written in cipher, and she said: - -“It is the alphabet which my poor brother taught me to write when I -was a very little girl. He felt that I would remember it, and has -written something he dared not let any other eye see, I suppose. Oh, -if it should be an appeal to me to save him!” - -She dashed the tears from her eyes, and nerved herself to read the -letter which she seemed to dread so much. It was as follows: - - “MY DARLING SISTER: Do you remember away back when you were a - little girl of ten, and I was dismissed from the navy, that you - said, when father and mother were cold toward me, that you would - never desert me? - - “Do you recall again, when I came home from Germany, dismissed from - the university on account of the fatal duel I fought, you again - were my little comforter? - - “So it has been through all, even when, maddened with jealousy, I - sought the life of Carrol Dean, and, to escape, took my father’s - money, you were the one to aid me secretly with funds and to cheer - me with your loving letters. - - “Every pledge I have made you I have ruthlessly broken, and I feel - that you have utterly lost confidence in me. - - “I have a friend in the fort who gets a messenger to carry this - letter to you, and it is my last appeal, for through Carrol Dean - you have heard that I am under sentence to die upon the gallows. - - “Now I see my crimes in all their enormity, and I am not fit to - die. I have repented, yet I would live to atone by good deeds for - all the wicked ones I have been guilty of, and hence this my last - sad appeal to you, my loving, faithful sister. - - “Whatever you attempt to do, you can, I know, and I ask you to - set me free, that henceforth, far from these scenes, I may live a - better life and atone for the past. - - “Do I appeal in vain, my sister? If not, send word by the - messenger, simply: - - “‘I will.’ - - “If in vain, send simply: - - “I will not.’ - - “Feeling that I do not appeal in vain, believe me your unhappy - brother, - - “THE DOOMED OUTLAW.” - -Over and over again did Ruth Leigh read this letter from her doomed -brother. He had struck the right chord in appealing to her as he did, -for he admitted his guilt, and, repenting, wished to live only for -atonement for the past. - -Bonnie Belle was deeply impressed by the letter. Her brother had been -her idol from her earliest girlhood, and she had condoned his sins, -and hoped for his reformation in the end. - -Had the reformation come at last? - -It seemed so to her, and hence she decided to yield to this last -appeal, to give him one more chance. Then she called to the courier, -and said: - -“Let me give you this for your trouble, so report that your services -are paid for, please.” - -With this she placed in his hand a bill, which the miner saw had an L -upon it. - -“Thank you kindly, miss. But the answer?” - -“Is for you to report that I simply said: - -“‘I will.’” - -“Yes, miss, I will not forgit it.” - -With this the courier turned away, mounted his horse, and started -back upon the trail, while Bonnie Belle said to the driver: - -“You are very kind to delay so long for me, and I thank you, Sandy.” - -“Never mind the delay, Bonnie Belle, for I can make it up. Are you -ready to go on now?” - -“Yes.” - -“Then jump aboard, Deadshot Dean, and I’ll send the critters ahead -lively.” - -The miner obeyed, and the coach rolled rapidly on its way. - -For some time neither the driver nor the girl spoke. He would not ask -her the nature of the letter she had received, unless she chose to -reveal it; yet he could guess that it came from her outlaw brother. - -On her part, she was wondering how she could confide her secret to -Carrol Dean. After a while she decided that she could not tell him -all, for it would be his duty to thwart her in her humane intention. -So she said: - -“Carrol Dean, you have been as a dear, good brother to me, and I hope -that I may ever so regard you; but I fear that you will not approve -of what I have decided to do.” - -“What is it, Bonnie Belle?” - -“I have a letter from my brother.” - -“I guessed as much.” - -“It is written in cipher, and was sent to me through some one in the -fort who is friendly toward him.” - -“I hardly believe that possible, so bitter was the feeling toward -him. He must be an ally of his in some way.” - -“That may be. But the appeal from him is a strong one, and I have -decided to see him.” - -“Do you mean it, Ruth?” asked the surprised miner. - -“Yes.” - -“You are wrong in doing so, very.” - -“It may be that I am, but in this case I feel that I must see him. He -is an outlaw, it is true. He has committed many crimes as Silk Lasso -Sam, the road-agent chief, and yet now he is down, ironed hands and -feet, a prisoner at the mercy of his foes. He is under sentence of -death, and will soon be led upon the gallows, to die at the end of a -rope. - -“He will have not one near to cheer his last moments, to breathe one -kind word, to utter one word of forgiveness, and he will be thrown -into a nameless grave. With all his sins weighing him down, he is yet -my brother, and I will not be a coward and desert him in his last -moments. No, I sent him word that I would come to him, and I will.” - -The earnest argument of the girl touched the miner deeply. He -realized just how she felt and suffered, and said: - -“I appreciate fully, Ruth, your position and your sorrow, and your -kind heart does you credit; but in going to see your brother, to be -with him in his last hours, to place him in the grave of a dishonored -man, will not your sufferings be increased?” - -“They may be, and yet what will be my sufferings to his despair? No, -no, I shall go.” - -“I will not say a word against it. Shall we catch the next coach -back?” - -“No, for you are not to go.” - -“Do you expect me to leave you?” - -“Yes, you must go to your family, and I will go back alone. I will -go to Chicago, and then turn back from there and return to the fort. -When I have done all in my power, Mr. Dean, for that stricken man, I -will go to your home in the East. Need I say more?” - -“No, I will trust you; but I would gladly return with you and wait -until all is over.” - -“That I cannot, will not allow. I must go alone,” was the determined -reply of Bonnie Belle, and the miner urged no more. - -Several days later a carriage drove up to the army headquarters in -Chicago, and a lady wearing a heavy veil got out. - -As she reached the reception-room she suddenly came face to face with -the general’s orderly, and, throwing back her veil, she extended her -hand, and said pleasantly and in a tone of surprise: - -“Why, Bainbridge, you here?” - -“As I live and move, it’s Bonnie Belle!” cried the orderly, grasping -the extended hand in both his own. - -“Yes, Bainbridge, and I am glad to see you once more, though I did -not know that you were a soldier.” - -“Yes; I came home, as you know, with a snug little fortune in gold, -but I speculated and lost it, and some months ago, when in hard luck -here in Chicago, I stopped the horses of the general’s carriage when -they were running away, the driver having been thrown from the box, -and the general and his wife were inside. - -“He asked me what he could do for me, and I said that, as I had a -record as an old soldier, I would enter the army again, and he made -me his orderly, and here I am, Bonnie Belle, and as glad a man as -ever was to see your beautiful face again, for it takes me back to -the mines, and the time you saved my life that night in Devil’s -Den. I’ll never forget you for it, Bonnie Belle, for if you had not -vouched for me, the boys would have hanged me sure.” - -“They certainly would have done so, Bainbridge, and have been sorry -for it the next day, when they found out who the real criminal was. -But is the general in?” - -“No, Bonnie Belle, he has gone out to lunch, but he will soon return, -so walk into his private office and await his coming.” - -“Is no one there?” - -“Not a soul at this hour, miss.” - -“I will go, then.” - -She was led by the orderly into the private quarters of the general -commanding, and as she halted near the desk, she asked: - -“Bainbridge, will you kindly get me a glass of water?” - -The orderly promptly disappeared upon the errand, and quickly Bonnie -Belle stepped to the desk, glanced at something that caught her eye, -and thrust it in her pocket. - -“Who is the assistant adjutant-general, Bainbridge, on the general’s -staff?” she asked casually, after drinking the water and thanking him -for it. - -The orderly told her, and then the two had quite a long talk together -before the officer referred to entered. - -“A lady to see the general, sir, upon important business,” said the -orderly. - -“Be seated, madam, for the general will return very soon.” - -A moment after the general entered and bowed as he saw a lady in -waiting. When she threw back her veil, revealing her beautiful face, -he seemed impressed, and said, with marked courtesy: - -“How can I serve you, miss?” - -“Permit me to ask you, general, if I can confide a secret to you and -yet keep my name from you?” - -“Certainly, if you wish.” - -“My mission, then, sir, is one of sorrow to me, for I come to ask a -favor of you.” - -“Of what tenor, miss?” - -“There has been captured at Pioneer Post a noted criminal, for he is -an outlaw and road-agent, known as Silk Lasso Sam.” - -“Yes, I have word from Colonel Dunwoody, of the fort, and that he has -been sentenced to death for his crimes.” - -“Is this legal, general?” - -“It is justice and military law, for that prevails in that wild land -of lawlessness.” - -“Suppose that he were already amenable to the civil laws for crimes -committed, could he not be taken from the military prison for trial -East?” - -“That may be, but I apprehend no such demand.” - -“Nor do I, sir, only I wished to know if I should appeal to the -civil or the military for permission to see this condemned man, and -be with him in his last moments.” - -“Ah! that is the situation, is it, miss?” - -“Yes, sir.” - -“What is this man to you?” - -“All that I have in the world of near kindred, sir--_my brother_.” - -“Indeed? You have my sympathy indeed, my dear lady.” - -“And is your sympathy deep enough, may I ask, to allow of your -permitting me to go to this doomed brother of mine, be with him in -his last hours, and, when your military law has been satisfied by -his death, to permit me to claim the body for burial? Remember, I do -not attempt to deny his crimes, or to palliate them in the slightest -degree, for he deserves death for breaking the laws of his land as he -has; but I do beg for this mercy for him, and for me, that you permit -me to be with him in his last moments.” - -The general bit his lips, and the adjutant turned his gaze earnestly -upon the fair pleader, for he, too, was impressed. - -“My dear young lady, I will not deny you. I will grant your request,” -said the general. “Colonel, write out an official order to Colonel -Dunwoody, to permit this lady to see her brother at will, and to turn -over the body of the man to her after his execution.” - -“I thank you, sir, most sincerely,” and the tears came into the -beautiful eyes of the girl. - -The order was written, signed, and sealed, and both officers arose as -Bonnie Belle took her leave, the general himself opening the door for -her, while the orderly, in the corridor, escorted her to the carriage. - -“Here is my address, Bainbridge, so call on me this evening, and do -not say to any one that you know me.” - -“You can rely on me fully, Bonnie Belle,” answered the orderly, as he -closed the door. - - - - - CHAPTER VII. - - THE DOOMED OUTLAW. - - -In a cabin of stout logs, with floor and roof of the same solid -material, to make escape impossible, narrow apertures in either end -for windows, and a door of heavy timber, barred with iron, sat a man -under sentence of death. - -Before his door, his beat being from corner to corner of the cabin, -paced a sentinel on duty. - -The cabin stood apart from the regular guard-house, and was so -situated that all approaching and leaving it could readily be seen -from the soldiers’ barracks which it fronted. - -The prisoner was heavily ironed with manacles about his ankles, and -they were chained to the floor, though he had length enough to walk -to the door and to his cot. - -The man sat in an easy chair facing the door, which was partially -open, giving him a glimpse of the plains and mountains beyond. - -The chair, a cot, table, and some books were all that there was in -the room to add to his comfort. - -The face of the man, though pale, was not despairing, and upon it -rested no look of anxiety, though but too well he knew that there was -no help for him; that he was doomed to die upon the gallows. - -Dressed in border costume, clean-shaven, and neat in appearance, he -looked almost contented with his lot. - -The prisoner was the outlaw chief, Silk Lasso Sam, he who held up the -coach and killed the driver and a passenger, afterward playing his -game so boldly as Austin Marvin, and being received into the fort -with every hospitality, until he could kidnap, with the aid of his -band, Miss Clarice Carr, to hold until she paid a large ransom for -her release. - -There were others of his band in the fort as prisoners, but these -were kept apart, as the outlaw chief had asked to be alone. He had -faced his accusers at the trial without flinching, had not quailed -under the gaze of those whom he had wronged, and had appeared really -interested in the testimony given by Miss Carr as to what he had done -after their being captured by the men of his band. - -When he arose to receive the sentence of the military tribunal, he -did not show the slightest sign of emotion, and some said that he -even smiled serenely when the judge-advocate told him that his doom -was to be death upon the gallows. - -From his position the prisoner was watching through his cabin door -the sun nearing the horizon. Suddenly he started, for he saw an -officer and a lady approaching his prison. - -They drew nearer, the sentinel halted, faced them, and came to a -present, as the officer of the day said: - -“Sentinel, you are to permit this lady to enter the cabin to visit -the prisoner, and you are to walk your beat thirty paces from the -cabin.” - -The door opened then to admit the lady, as the officer walked away, -and the sentinel stepped off his thirty paces, so as to be out of -hearing of what was said. - -“Well, Nina, you have come,” said the prisoner, as he rose from his -chair and motioned to her to sit down, while he took a seat upon his -cot. - -“Yes, at your bidding, for Colonel Dunwoody sent for me and said that -you had certain things you wished done, and asked if you might not -communicate them to me. What is it you would have me to do?” - -The girl spoke calmly and coldly. The man smiled, and replied: - -“There is much that I would have you do.” - -“Let me know what it is?” - -“I have a letter here, written in cipher, to one in Pocket City. It -is most important that it should be delivered, for it concerns the -happiness of more than one.” - -“Well?” - -“You must see that it is delivered.” - -“I cannot.” - -“You can and you must.” - -“I know not how, for I would not do one act to bring suspicion upon -myself.” - -“There are a dozen officers here desperately in love with you, and -willing to do your bidding.” - -“That may be.” - -“You must tell one of them that you wish to send a letter to Pocket -City for me, to one there whom I am interested in, and he is to get a -courier, one of the cowboys about the post, to take it.” - -“I cannot.” - -“You must, I say.” - -“I will not compromise myself.” - -“There is nothing to compromise you, but it might did you ask Colonel -Dunwoody to send the courier for you.” - -“No.” - -“I say yes, and, if you refuse, I shall simply ask to see Colonel -Dunwoody, and tell him that you are my wife.” - -“No, no, no!” - -“Then do as I say.” - -The woman was silent a moment, and then said: - -“I will do it. Where is the letter?” - -“Here, already written and addressed.” - -Nina de Sutro looked at the address, and read aloud: - - “To Bonnie Belle, - “The Frying pan Hotel, - “Pocket City, - “Yellow Dust Valley.” - -“Another victim, I suppose, of your treachery?” she said, with a -sneer. - -“She is one I love.” - -“Ah! so you once told me.” - -“Are you jealous?” - -“Thank God, no!” was the emphatic rejoinder. - -“You will prove that by sending the letter?” - -“I will,” she replied, and she placed it in her bosom. - -“Is this all?” she asked, as she turned toward the door, as though to -end the interview. - -“No.” - -“What else have you to say?” - -“I am under sentence of death.” - -“I am well aware of that.” - -“I am to die upon the gallows.” - -“So I know.” - -“That will disgrace you.” - -“In what way, pray, will it affect me?” - -“I am your husband.” - -“Alas, yes!” - -“And you will, then, feel the dishonor.” - -“It will not be known.” - -“It might leak out.” - -“I shall take good care that it shall not.” - -“Well, that is all the sympathy you show.” - -“For you, yes.” - -“I who saved your life.” - -“Yes, and then wrecked it.” - -“You are a very beautiful wreck.” - -“Thank you.” - -“You have grown more beautiful since I saw you last.” - -“My heart is not seen.” - -“Then it is hurt, is it?” - -“It was cruelly hurt, yes, and by you, as well you are aware, Silk -Lasso Sam, the outlaw. But I got over the wound, the sting of -dishonor of becoming your wife, and I shall bury the past in the -grave with you. If I am bitter, seemingly heartless now, your cruelty -made me so; but you did not destroy my whole trust in manhood, thank -Heaven, and I may yet find new happiness in life.” - -“In wedding Colonel Dunwoody?” sneered the man. - -He expected to see her start at his words. But she did not even -change color, and answered most serenely: - -“Yes, if I can win him, when, by your death upon the gallows, I -become a widow.” - -“Why observe such formalities as my being alive?” - -“Because you have not made me so vile as you are, embittered though -my life has been,” was the stern response. - -“Well, I am sorry to block your game, but I must.” - -“What do you mean?” - -“I mean simply that I cannot find it in my heart to die just to make -you a widow.” - -“I do not yet understand.” - -“I must be more explicit. I do not intend to die.” - -“You mean that you will not die on the gallows?” - -“Yes, about that.” - -“But you are sentenced.” - -“Yes, and have stood under the shadow of death a hundred times, yet -live.” - -“This time there will be no escape for you.” - -“Oh, yes, there will.” - -“Do you intend to commit suicide?” - -“Oh, no, I do not intend to hand in my checks yet, but to live.” - -“There is no pleading for pardon that will save you.” - -“I do not intend to plead.” - -“And nothing that I could say would be of avail.” - -“I do not ask you to say anything.” - -“What, then?” - -“To act.” - -“What can I do?” - -“Much.” - -“I can do nothing for you, nothing whatever.” - -“Let me tell you that, unaided, from this place I could not escape. I -am sorry, very sorry, not to make a widow of you in a few weeks, so -that you could wed the colonel, but I cannot die just to oblige you, -and so I call upon you to save me. A moment’s thought will prove to -you that you are to-day in command of about half the officers in the -fort, married and single, while Miss Clarice Carr divides the honors -with you, and I will admit, for candor urges me to do so, that she -holds perhaps a trifle more power.” - -“Then get her to aid you.” - -“I would gladly do so were it possible, which it is not, as I am not -bound to her as I am to you, so cannot force obedience from her.” - -“You were a fool to come here as you did, and kidnap her.” - -“I would have been considered deuced clever had I gotten a big ransom -for her return and escaped from harm’s way.” - -“But you did not?” - -“That is owing to Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Powell hanging so -persistently upon my trail, and having me under suspicion, aided by -that miner, Deadshot Dean, running me to earth as he did. Luck was -against me in spite of my holding trumps.” - -“Well, as you have put your head in the noose you must abide the -consequences.” - -The man laughed, and then replied: - -“I am one never to yield to odds, and they are heavy against me now. -Feeling as I do, I have sent for you that I might ask you to aid me -to escape.” - -“I cannot.” - -“I say that you shall.” - -“I could not do so.” - -“You must find a way, for you are as ingenious as you are beautiful, -and you have money, and that is half the victory won. If you refuse, -then I shall, at the last moment, before ascending the steps of the -gallows, ask to speak a word and will name you as my wife. You know -me, so do _you_ abide the consequences, Nina, my wife.” - -The woman’s face became pallid, and she gasped for breath; but -quickly recovering herself she said: - -“I will do all in my power to save you, for I _know_ that you will -carry out your threat.” - -The man gazed at the woman with a malicious smile as she turned upon -her heel and walked toward the door. - -“I have triumphed,” he said. - -“Over a weak woman,” was her fierce reply, as she turned upon him, -her face now glowing with anger and hatred. - -“A woman, but never a weak one. Are you going?” - -“Yes.” - -“Good-by.” - -“We shall not meet again.” - -“I do not mind that, only if I go to the gallows do you remember to -be there to hear my last words.” - -“They will never be uttered.” - -“That means that I will be aided to escape?” - -“Yes.” - -“I thank you for your unintentional kindness, and I regret that my -love of life will not permit me to prove my appreciation by making -you a widow. Good-by, Nina.” - -“Good-by, Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw,” and with a little laugh she -glided out of the door, not hearing his muttered words: - -“Now with my sister to aid me, as she surely will, and Nina de Sutro, -the gallows will never see me its victim.” - -“You can return to your post, sentinel, close to the cabin,” said -Nina, as she passed the soldier, who gave her an officer’s salute and -obeyed. - -Straight to headquarters went Nina de Sutro, and sent her name in to -Colonel Dunwoody, asking an interview. The colonel came out himself -to receive her, and, walking with her to the end of the piazza, apart -from the sentinel on duty, placed a chair for her. - -“This is an unexpected honor,” he said pleasantly. - -“I have come on business, Colonel Dunwoody.” - -“I am at your service, be the motive of your visit what it may, Miss -Nina.” - -“Thank you, sir. - -“You know that I went with your permission to visit the prisoner this -afternoon?” - -“I gave orders that you should be allowed to do so, Nina.” - -“Of course, Colonel Dunwoody, I feel for that unfortunate man, in -spite of his having been proven an outlaw, a most kindly feeling.” - -“I can understand that thoroughly, Miss Nina, in that you owe to him -your life, not to speak of having seen him afterward in Mexico win -honors that only a hero could. It is a terrible misfortune that such -a man as he was capable of becoming should allow his moral character -to be broken utterly and sink to the level of a common criminal. - -“Brave I admit him to be, a genious in his way, one whose deeds -would make him a splendid commander, and with his good looks, -accomplishments and courtly manners, the wonder in my mind was -that you did not fall desperately in love with him, for few girls, -circumstanced as you have been, Miss Nina, could have held their -hearts in their keeping. You are made of very stern and sterling -material, my dear Miss Nina de Sutro.” - -“I thank you for saying so, Colonel Dunwoody, but as to this -unfortunate man.” - -“Yes.” - -“You said that he had asked to see me that I might serve him in some -way, as he wished to trust me with certain business to transact for -him?” - -“Such was the communication that Captain Caruth brought me from him.” - -“Well, sir, I went to see him, and I was there fully an hour. Though -he did not say as much, he is most deeply interested in a young woman -in Pocket City, and he has written her a letter which he wished me to -send to her by courier.” - -“Indeed?” - -“I, of course, would do nothing without consulting you, and so said -to him that I would take the letter and send it through if possible.” - -“You have the letter, Miss Nina?” - -“Here it is, sir.” - -The colonel glanced at the address and said: - -“It is to Bonnie Belle, one of the most remarkable characters in this -land of strange people. - -“She is a young and very beautiful girl, I have heard, for I have -never seen her; but I have heard much of her through Surgeon Frank -Powell, Captain Caruth and Buffalo Bill, who know her well.” - -“What do they say of her, sir?” - -“That she is a young lady scarcely twenty, of great loveliness of -form and face, accomplished and refined, yet one who has killed her -man, as they have it out here, runs a hotel and gambling-den and is -beloved by every man in the mines.” - -“Can she be this man’s wife?” asked Nina in a low tone, and she would -not look the colonel in the face as she asked the question. - -“It may be so, though I cannot believe that she knows him as he -really is, for she is not one, from all I have heard, to be the ally -of such a man, his confederate in crime.” - -“Well, colonel, he wishes this letter sent through to her, and I -promised to do so for him, so I appeal to you for your consent.” - -“I cannot refuse the appeal, Miss Nina, for I can really see no harm -in the letter, and it would be hard to refuse a favor asked by a man -in his position, wicked as he is.” - -“Oh, I thank you, Colonel Dunwoody, for you are always kind and just.” - -“I will send my aide with the letter to a courier to take it at once -to this strange woman.” - -And so it was that the letter that overtook Bonnie Belle on the -eastward trail was sent. - - - - - CHAPTER VIII. - - A FAIR PLOTTER. - - -Nina de Sutro went from the quarters of Colonel Dunwoody to her own -pleasant rooms in the house of Lieutenant-Colonel Ravel de Sutro. - -She had an extended view of miles and miles of the superb scenery -visible from the fort. There was a large herd of cattle, guarded by -picturesque-looking cowboys in the distance. - -A drove of horses were feeding a few miles away, and a couple of -troops were drilling down in the valley, and all preparing to cease -work as the day was closing. - -In the plaza of the fort the band was playing, and upon the bluff -overhanging the river, officers, ladies and children were gathered -awaiting the time for parade, a spectacle which no one at the fort -ever cared to miss. - -But upon this evening all these scenes and actions held no charm for -Nina de Sutro. She threw herself into a chair in front of the open -window in her sitting-room, and with her hand clasped over one knee, -a favorite attitude of hers in reverie, began to think. - -“How can I save that man from the gallows?” at last burst from her -lips, and revealed what her thoughts were. “He must be saved, or he -will ruin me, for he will carry out his threat. I know that he will -show me no mercy; that he will not soften in his last moments, but -grow more revengeful, so he must never go to the gallows. - -“Surely the devil is tempting me when I feel stealing into my brain -and heart the thought that if he were _poisoned_ it would be believed -that he committed suicide. The act would silence him forever, thus -keeping my secret and making me a widow by the same murderous deed. -No! no! I am not wicked, and what I did do wrong was not so intended, -for I became his wife, believing that he loved me. - -“If I hate him now, and God knows that I have had cause, and love -another, has he not given me cause, and has not that other won me by -contrast in being so noble a specimen of true manhood? No, I will do -no wrong, for I am not wicked, and what I am he made me. - -“But dare I lose the man I now love with all my heart and soul by -letting him know my secret? Dare I let that man come out upon the -gallows and name me as his wife? No, that cannot, shall not be, for I -will save him, though, until I know that he is dead I can never wed -the one I love. Yet how am I to do it?” - -This question she could not answer. In thinking it all over her brow -grew clouded, her lips set sternly and she seemed as though plotting -some daring, desperate deed. - -“I have no sympathy for him, so can only act from my own selfish -motives,” she said after a while. “I feel for him, yes, and as he -saved my life I should now save his. This should prompt me, too; but -can I save him and not compromise myself?” - -Again she was lost in silent reverie for a long while, to at last -have her face light up as she sprung to her feet with the words: - -“_Yes, I can do it, and I will._” - -She paced up and down the room now in an excited manner, and then -said: - -“Yes, at the masquerade, when I put on top-boots, a military cloak -and hat, and the false mustache and imperial every one took me for -Lieutenant Dade, who is just my size, and my chance to aid _his_ -escape is to wait until the time when the lieutenant is to be -officer of the day. - -“He can prove an alibi, and I will see to it that I do also, for it -can be done. I shall pray for rain on that night, and I can slip out -and search the cabin, pass the sentinel, call him into the cabin, and -cover him while the prisoner binds and gags him. Then, in a cowboy -suit I take him, he can leave the fort for the scouts’ quarters and -thus secure a horse and make his escape, for he will have a night’s -start. - -“If he is captured then I cannot help it, and I can do no more. Of -course it will be thought that some one of the cowboys was the ally -of the outlaw, for he is said to have had spies at the post, and no -one will ever suspect me, for I shall so plan it that no suspicion -shall fall upon me. - -“I can have the prisoner speak of me before the soldier as an ally -and one who has played the part of Lieutenant Dade to aid his escape, -and this will free the officer from all trouble. Yes, this must be my -plan, unless some better plot should come to me between now and that -awful day of execution. - -“I will ask the general, when the courier comes back, to allow me to -see the prisoner and report that his letter was delivered, and then -I can tell him of my plot, and may the saints aid me in carrying it -out.” - -The courier sent to Pocket City, with the letter from the condemned -prisoner to Bonnie Belle, returned in good time to the fort and -reported to the officer who had sent him there. - -“I went to Pocket City, sir, and found that the lady had just started -East that morning on the coach.” - -“Then you did not see her?” asked Lieutenant Turpin, the colonel’s -aide. - -“Oh, yes, sir, for I followed and overtook the coach, and gave her -the letter.” - -“And was an answer given you, Jack?” - -“No letter, sir, only the lady told me to say that her answer was -simply: - -“‘I will.’” - -“Well, I’ll so report to the colonel.” - -This the young officer did and Colonel Dunwoody at once sent for Nina -de Sutro. - -She came to the headquarters and was told the report of the courier, -after which the colonel said, without her having to make the request -to see the outlaw again: - -“Now, Miss Nina, will you be good enough to deliver this answer to -the prisoner, who I suppose will understand it, or shall I send word -by Lieutenant Turpin?” - -“I will go, sir, but may I see the courier, so that I can fully -understand the report?” - -“Certainly, I will have him sent to your quarters, so that you can -question him, and at your own pleasure you can send for the officer -of the day to escort you to the outlaw’s cabin.” - -“I will see the courier upon my return home, sir,” was the answer, -and Nina de Sutro half an hour after saw Texas Jack enter the gate -and walk rapidly toward the quarters of Lieutenant-Colonel De Sutro. - -She met the scout at the door, for she knew him well, and he bowed -courteously and said: - -“I have orders to report to you here, Miss De Sutro.” - -“Ah! it was you then, Texas Jack, who took the letter to Pocket City?” - -“Yes, miss, I was the courier, for although it was to have been sent -by a cowboy it was decided that it would be best to have me go.” - -“And you found the one to whom it was addressed at Pocket City?” - -“No, miss, she had started East in the coach that morning, and so I -rode on and overtook her.” - -“And her answer?” - -“Was: - -“‘Simply say that _I will_.’” - -“What else?” - -“Not a word, miss.” - -“Who is she?” - -“One of the handsomest ladies I ever saw.” - -“A lady?” said Nina, with a sneer. - -“Yes, indeed, Miss De Sutro, one of the noblest of her sex if only -half that is said of her goodness is true.” - -“Yet she is the keeper of a border hotel and gambling-den?” - -“True, miss, yet she’s a lady for all that.” - -“Where was she going?” - -“East, the driver told me, on a visit.” - -“She did not turn back?” - -“Oh, no, miss, she kept on in the coach.” - -“And then?” - -“She paid me most liberally, giving me fifty dollars, which I have -already handed in to the treasurer of the Scouts’ League, for aid to -our men when they are in distress and ill.” - -“Just what I would expect of you, Texas Jack; but the prisoner asked -me to pay for the services of the courier.” - -“Thank you, Miss De Sutro, but I made no charge for my services -in this matter, and I certainly would not take money from a man -under sentence of death, no matter what his crimes may have been,” -responded the scout. - -“Well, Texas Jack, I can only thank you most kindly for the outlaw -prisoner.” - -The scout now departed, and soon after Nina de Sutro sought the -officer of the day, and found that he had already received orders to -conduct her to the cabin of the prisoner. As before, the sentinel was -withdrawn out of hearing, and when the visitor entered, Silk Lasso -Sam arose to receive her. - -“I have news for you,” she said coldly. - -“Well?” - -“The courier to Pocket City has returned.” - -“Ah! and he found the one to whom I sent that letter?” - -“Yes, he overtook her on her way East.” - -“On her way East?” The man spoke with an anxiety of look and tone -which Nina de Sutro could not but observe. - -“Yes.” - -“Then she sent no answer to my letter?” - -“She did.” - -“Ha! and that answer was----” - -“‘_I will._’” - -“That answer was sufficient,” he said, in a voice full of relief. - -“You are satisfied with it, then?” - -“I am.” - -“I do not understand it.” - -“Nor is there need that you should do so.” - -“Well, it is a matter of most perfect indifference to me; but I asked -to see you to-day, to deliver the message.” - -“You are very kind.” - -“That I might tell you of the plot I had formed to save you.” - -“Say rather to prevent the exposure of the fact that you are my wife.” - -“Well, have it any way you please, but I have hit upon a plan which -I hope will be successful, and I desire to make it known to you. If -anything better presents itself I will find a way to acquaint you -with the fact. Now hear my plan.” - -She then told just what she had decided upon. - -“It will do, I think; but, if you decide upon another let me know in -time,” said the man. “I shall need some money when I go, so do not -forget to bring it the night of my escape.” - -And thus these two parted again. - - - - - CHAPTER IX. - - A VISITOR AT PIONEER POST. - - -Horseshoe Ned, the driver of the Overland coach running to and from -Pioneer Post, drove into the fort with an all-important air toward -sunset one evening, caused by having a lady seated upon the box with -him. - -She was attired in mourning, wearing a heavy crape veil which she -drew over her face as she approached the gate in the stockade wall. - -But Horseshoe Ned knew that it was a very beautiful face, with large -eyes that were simply magnificent, though she hid them under a pair -of eye-glasses when she drew her veil about her. - -Who she was Horseshoe Ned did not know, more than that she had been -transferred to his care by the driver who had had her in charge up to -the station where his run ended. - -“I say, Pard Ned, jist let yerself out in entertainin’ thet leddy, -fer she are a sweet one and jist as perlite as kin be. She rides on -the box right through, and wants ter know ther whole history o’ ther -trail as we goes along. She are mournin’ fer somebody as is dead and -gone, I guesses, from her dressin’ in black, and I feel sorry for -her, for I sees away back in her eyes that she hain’t just happy, -notwithstandin’ her pretty smile.” - -So had said the driver who had given her into the charge of Horeshoe -Ned, who replied: - -“I’ll treat her same as a princess, pard; but what is her name?” - -“I hain’t heerd it, pard.” - -“Waal, she’s a beauty, so interdooce me.” - -The past guardian on the trail of the fair stranger led Horseshoe Ned -up to the lady, as she came out from breakfast at the station, and -said: - -“Here’s whar I leaves yer, miss, but I gives yer inter charge o’ ther -best driver on ther Overland, and one who has got a name as a dandy -all round, take him at what yer please. He are Horseshoe Ned, miss, -and he takes ther old hearse through ter ther fort, and yer see he’s -got ther best coach and team on ther entire outfit. - -“Don’t be skeered, though his run has been known as the Death Trail, -fer on it Silk Lasso Sam and his men have been hanging out for -deviltry, though that game won’t be played no more. Not knowin’ your -name, miss, I can’t interdooce you ter Horeshoe Ned, only him ter -you.” - -“My name is----” and after a short hesitation she added the name: - -“Ruth Arden, Mr. Baldy.” - -Having learned the name, Baldy was not going to leave the -introduction half done, so said quickly: - -“Miss Ruth Arden, Horseshoe Ned, and if you don’t treat her -first-class yer quarrels with me.” - -“I am sure that he will do all in his power, Mr. Baldy, to make my -ride as pleasant a one as it has been with you.” - -And Horseshoe Ned did, for he showed how he could drive, gathered -wild flowers here and there for his fair passenger, told her the -legends of the trails, and showed her the scenes of Silk Lasso -Sam’s red exploits, and graves which he had been the one to dot the -roadside with. - -“I tell yer, miss, thet Silk Lasso Sam is a terror, and I has seen -him do killin’ more times than I cares to remember. It hain’t been so -very long since he kilt my Pard Ribbons, and he has nipped me slight -several times; but that is his business and drivin’ is mine, and it’s -every man to his occupation, and I must say Silk Lasso Sam stood -above ’em all in what he undertook.” - -“And he is now a prisoner at the fort, sir?” - -“Yes, miss. He’s soon ter be hanged, they says, though I won’t -believe it until I sees it.” - -“Why, do you think he’ll receive a pardon?” - -“A pardon, miss? Silk Lasso Sam receive a pardon? No, indeed, miss, -never from God or man!” was the vehement response. - -“He has been so very wicked, then?” - -“He has had nothing but wickedness in his heart, miss. Nobody has -been able to escape him, men, women or children, for he is merciless -to all, and but for Buffalo Bill, Surgeon Powell and a miner named -Deadshot Dean, he’d hev gone on his wicked ways and done no end of -harm.” - -“I am sorry to hear that he was a man of whom nothing good could be -said, for it is seldom you find a man who has fallen so low as that,” -sadly said the passenger. - -“He brought it on himself, miss.” - -“Yes, I can believe that; but why is it that you do not believe that -he will be hanged?” - -“Well, miss, he has been in so many tight places, and always gives -his foes the slip in some way, that I has begun to think he hain’t -born ter be hanged.” - -“One cannot live an evil life and never expect just punishment in the -end, sir.” - -“Just punishment for him, miss, would be, to my thinking, solitary -confinement in a cell where he’d hev ther chance ter be alone with -his conscience and feel all ther deeds he has been guilty of, for -shootin’ would be too good fer him, and hangin’ would soon be over -with. But there’s the fort, miss, and we’ll soon be there. Has you -friends there, miss?” - -“I have a letter to Colonel Dunwoody,” was the reply, and after a -couple of hours’ rest the visitor to Pioneer Post presented herself -at headquarters and asked to see Colonel Dunwoody. - -The colonel received his fair visitor without any ceremony, wondering -what had brought a lady by coach so far to see him. - -He saw a form of exquisite grace, clad in black, and when she threw -back her veil and her face was revealed in all its beauty he was -fairly startled, for it brought to him at once the memory of an ideal -portrait which he had seen in the long ago, and which he had in vain -sought to find the counterpart of in life. - -He bowed and led her to a seat, while he said in the courteous manner -natural to him: - -“Pray tell me how I can serve you--miss.” - -He added the _miss_ after a slight hesitation, for it did not appear -to him that he stood in the presence of a married woman. - -“Permit me to introduce myself, Colonel Dunwoody, as Miss Ruth -Arden, and to say that I am here to present a letter to insure the -fulfilment of the request I shall have to make you.” - -She gazed into the handsome face of the man before her with a look in -which there was both confidence and admiration commingled. - -She had heard of the daring, dashing Indian-fighter, the youngest -officer of his high rank in the army, and one whom report said was as -noble in nature as he was brave. - -“I assure you, Miss Arden, I should be most happy to do all in my -power for you, even did you not bear this letter,” said the colonel -as he broke the seal of the letter. - -A cloud crossed his brow as he read the purport of the communication, -an official permission for Miss Arden to visit her brother, the -outlaw chief known as Silk Lasso Sam. - -“Your brother, Miss Arden?” asked the colonel, and there was almost -reproach in the tone. - -“Yes, sir, your prisoner is my brother, for I will not disown him, -even though I must deeply regret that he is so unfortunate as to be -under sentence of death for his many heinous crimes.” - -“Miss Arden, I deeply deplore his fate, especially the more since -now I have met you. I felt in my conversation with him, that he had -been well born and reared a gentleman, whatever the sad circumstances -which had made him a criminal and fugitive from justice. I extend to -you my deepest sympathy, and I will at once escort you to the place -where your brother is held a prisoner and arrange that you see him -alone.” - -“You are indeed most kind to me, Colonel Dunwoody, and you have my -deepest gratitude.” - -“May I ask where you have obtained quarters while here, Miss Arden, -and how long your stay will be?” - -“I have secured a room in the sutler’s home, sir, and his wife is -most kind to me. I shall remain only until the next stage departs for -the East.” - -“Permit me to say that my friends, Major and Mrs. Lester, will be, I -know, most happy to entertain you while here, and you will find at -their house a relative, Miss Clarice Carr, who I know will extend you -the warmest of welcomes also, for she is a true woman.” - -“Perhaps, sir, it would be best for me to remain at the sutler’s, for -you know that, no matter what I may myself be, I am the sister of -the condemned outlaw.” - -“Through no act of your own; your misfortune, not your fault, Miss -Arden, and my friends will regard you and your position as I do.” - -“You are most kind, sir.” - -“Then shall we go first to Major Lester’s quarters?” - -“You know best, Colonel Dunwoody, only I do not wish to be an -intruder and----” - -“Come, Miss Arden, for such a thing as your intruding is not to be -thought of. Though our trade is war, we soldiers are yet not wholly -heartless,” and the colonel led the way from his quarters. - -The home of Major Lester was one of the best in the fort, and -situated slightly apart from the others. Clarice Carr was seated upon -the piazza as they approached, a book in hand, but she arose and met -the colonel cordially, and cast a quick glance at the beautiful girl -accompanying him. - -There was something in the face of Ruth Arden which seemed to win her -at once. - -“Miss Carr, let me present to you Miss Ruth Arden, a young lady who -is here on the sad mission of visiting her unfortunate brother and -bidding him farewell, for I refer to the outlaw chief, now under -sentence of death.” - -Instantly Clarice Carr stepped up to Ruth and kissed her, while she -said quickly, with an intuitive knowledge of why the colonel had -brought her there: - -“And you will be my guest, will you not, while you are here, for you -will need me to cheer you up, I know?” - -The tears came into the beautiful eyes of Ruth, and she said in a -voice that quivered: - -“Yes, for your sympathy and friendship will be so dear to me.” - -“You did just what I was going to request of you, Miss Clarice, for -Miss Arden is at the sutler’s, but I will have her things sent here, -as I know that Lester and that sweet wife of his will do as you have, -ask Miss Arden to be your guest.” - -“They will, indeed, Colonel Dunwoody, but they are not at home just -now.” - -“Well, Miss Arden will return here when she has seen her brother.” - -“I will come within an hour, Miss Arden, to fetch you back with me,” -was the prompt reply of Clarice, and both Ruth and the colonel gave -her a look of gratitude for her thoughtfulness. - -All wondered as they saw Colonel Dunwoody escorting a veiled lady in -the direction of the cabin where Silk Lasso Sam was held a prisoner. - -Captain Dick Caruth was officer of the day, and Colonel Dunwoody -sent a soldier in search of him. He joined them at the barrier which -shut off the prisoner’s cabin, and was introduced to Ruth, who still -kept her veil concealing her face completely, for in spite of being -dressed differently, and with her hair arranged in a different style -from what she had worn it as Bonnie Belle, the captain had seen her -at Pocket City, and she did not wish to be recognized. - -Then, too, she desired also to avoid Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Frank -Powell, who also knew her well, and might recognize her as Bonnie -Belle. - -Captain Caruth bowed low, heard what the colonel had to say, and at -once said: - -“I will report to the prisoner his sister’s coming, Colonel Dunwoody, -and”--turning to Ruth--“if I can serve you in any way command me -during your stay here, Miss Arden.” - -“You are all so good to me,” was the low reply. - -Captain Caruth at once hastened on ahead and coming to the sentinel, -he said: - -“Sentinel, march forty paces from the cabin and take up your beat -there, for there is a lady to see the prisoner alone.” - -The sentinel saluted and obeyed, and opening the cabin door Captain -Caruth entered. - -Silk Lasso Sam greeted him politely, while he said in a tone in which -there was some sarcasm: - -“This is an honor, Captain Caruth, I appreciate.” - -“The honor, sir, is to come in the visit of one whom you should have -thought of ere you allowed yourself to become what you now are,” was -the stern reply. - -The prisoner started and his face changed color. - -“I do not comprehend, sir,” he faltered. - -“You have a sister, sir?” - -“Yes, my sister Ruth.” - -“Miss Arden, your sister, is now here to visit you, for she is coming -with the colonel.” An expression of joy swept over the face of the -outlaw while he said in a tone that seemed sincere: - -“God bless her for coming here to see me. She is a brave, noble girl, -true as steel.” - -“It is to be regretted that you did not think of her in the past.” - -“I did, and of my mother, too; but I was born bad, my heart was -wicked from boyhood and it was destined for me to be the devil I -am.” The prisoner spoke bitterly, and Captain Caruth said in a kindly -tone: - -“Well, Arden, your sister is here, and so take what comfort you can -from her visit. She can remain an hour, and see you alone.” - -“I thank you, sir,” and the outlaw bowed his head as the captain -turned and left the cabin. - -“I have told your brother of your coming, Miss Arden, and he is ready -to receive you. I regret that I cannot free him of his irons while -you are with him, but it cannot be.” - -“I do not ask it, sir. He must not expect favors where he has shown -none, and led the life he has,” was the reply. - -The colonel then escorted Ruth to the door, and bowing, said: - -“The sentinel will inform you, Miss Arden, when Miss Carr comes for -you.” - -Ruth bowed in silence, and entered the cabin. - -Her brother sat there, in irons, his head bowed upon his hands. She -turned pale at the sight, brave as she was, and stood for an instant -regarding him. Then she said, softly: - -“Arden, my brother.” - -He arose slowly, his face pallid, and in silence extended his -manacled hands. Either he was playing a part with perfect acting, or -he felt deeply and despairingly his situation, and that she should -see him thus. - -“My poor brother,” she said, laying her hand lightly upon his -shoulder. - -“You pity me, then, Ruth?” he asked, in a quivering voice. - -“From the very depths of my heart and soul I pity you, brother. That -is why I came at your call, came when I received your letter, to say -what words of cheer I could to you.” - -“You came to do more, Ruth?” - -“You mean to save you?” - -“Yes,” he said eagerly. - -“I have come to save you, brother, for with you I feel that you are -not fit to die, that you should have time for repentance, should do -all in your power to atone for the past.” - -“God bless you, Ruth, and I know that he will. I felt that you would -not desert me in my last hour.” - -“No, I have long tried to save you, have worked so hard to help you, -to take you from your evil life, and it seemed all in vain, for you -seemed wedded irrevocably to sin, and every pledge you made me was -broken. - -“But I am not here to upbraid you, but to have a long talk with you. -Sit down and let me tell you just what I have done and why I am -here.” She gently forced the prisoner into his chair while she began -to pace slowly up and down the cabin. - - - - - CHAPTER X. - - THE REALITY OF AN IDEAL. - - -The interview between the brother and sister was brought to an end by -the coming of the sentinel, who reported that Miss Carr awaited Miss -Arden. - -“I will join her immediately, please say,” was Ruth’s response, and -then she turned again to her brother. - -“You will see me again before you go, Ruth?” - -“Yes, for I will be here four days and shall ask the colonel for -leave to spend an hour with you each morning and afternoon. You have -made me very happy, Arden, in the promises you have made me, and I -feel that you will keep them.” - -A moment more and she was gone. The sentinel took his post again -without the door, and just beyond Clarice Carr awaited with Major -Lester and his wife. They greeted her most cordially, the major -saying: - -“We decided to come after you also, Miss Arden, and you must feel -perfectly at home with us.” - -“Yes, my dear Miss Arden, the colonel has done us a favor in -allowing us to claim you while here,” Mrs. Lester remarked. - -Thus greeted, Ruth felt that she was among friends, and she went to -the major’s quarters as to her own home, so hospitable was their -treatment of her. - -Not a word was said about the prisoner, her brother, to render her -unhappy, and refusing themselves to company that night, except the -colonel, who called, they devoted the evening to their fair guest. - -At the request of the colonel Clarice sung for them, and when she had -done so she turned and asked: - -“Do you not sing, Miss Arden?” - -“Yes, I am devoted to music,” was the simple reply. - -Urged to sing, she sat down to Clarice Carr’s harp which stood -nearest to her side, and she had only to run her fingers over the -strings to show that it was an artist’s hands that touched them. Then -in a rich, melodious contralto she sang that old but charming ballad: - - I cannot sing those old songs, - We’ve sung so oft together. - -Her hearers listened breathlessly, for her voice stirred their inmost -hearts, and, when she had ceased, she said softly: - -“I do not know why I sang that song, for it was my brother’s -favorite, and we often have sung together, for he has a superb voice, -or, rather, had when I knew him in the long ago.” - -It was her first reference to her outlaw brother since entering -the house, and, brave men that they were, Colonel Dunwoody and -Major Lester felt the tears dimming their eyes in sympathy for the -beautiful girl. - -But she quickly said, as though to destroy the effect she had caused -by her song: - -“You have an exquisite soprano, Miss Carr, and I sing alto, so -suppose we have a duet.” - -“Willingly,” and several duets were sung until Mrs. Lester said: - -“Now I am not half-satisfied yet, and, as the colonel has a lovely -tenor and my husband sings bass, I insist upon a quartette.” - -All readily agreed, and the four fine voices accorded wonderfully -well together, and until a late hour the musical treat was kept up. - -At last the colonel left, after a pleasant little supper, and as he -walked back to his quarters he was in a contemplative mood, for he -mused aloud: - -“At last I have met my ideal. I did begin to feel that in that -brilliant woman Nina de Sutro I had found her, and that Clarice -Carr was one to make me a happy man; but no, she of the dreamy eyes -is my ideal, the reality of the portrait I saw years ago, and often -wondered if I would ever meet a woman with just such a face. - -“And now the one who has that face is the sister of the vilest man -who ever crossed my path. Still, an angel and a devil may be akin, -and so it is with that man and this beautiful girl. Ah, me! I wish I -could look back into the life of Ruth Arden and read it as an open -book, for she interests me more than I would admit even to myself; -yes, fascinates me.” - -And thus musing, Colonel Dunwoody reached his quarters. - -In the meanwhile those at the major’s had gone to their rooms for the -night. - -Both Major Lester and his wife had spoken most kindly to Ruth and -said that they were sorry she was not to remain at the fort, and -Clarice had escorted the guest to her room. - -A sitting-room divided the chamber of Clarice from the one occupied -by Ruth, and the two had talked together before saying good night. - -“You are tired I know, so I must not keep you up any later, for it -is midnight,” said Clarice. “We breakfast at nine, you know,” and she -kissed Ruth, who, hesitating an instant, replied: - -“Miss Carr, you have been so sweet to me, so sisterly, that I wish to -make a confession to you, but in confidence. I do not wish to deceive -you, and, therefore, I will tell you that Arden is not my name. True, -it was my mother’s maiden name, but I assumed it, for the one I bear -has been dishonored by my brother, and I did not wish to bring shame -upon an honored name by letting it be known who the man you know as -Silk Lasso Sam really is. - -“To others I am Ruth Arden, to you, in confidence, I will say that -I am Ruth Leigh, and my poor brother’s real name is Arden Leigh. -Good night,” and Ruth glided quickly away to her room, while Clarice -murmured gently: - -“Poor girl, yours is a noble nature.” - -Ruth did not ask the favor of Colonel Dunwoody, to be allowed to see -her brother daily, for it was not necessary. - -He anticipated her by calling the next morning and asking for her. - -“I have given orders, Miss Arden, that you shall be allowed to go to -and from the prison where your brother is confined at your will.” - -“You are most kind, Colonel Dunwoody.” - -“No, I am only just, for you have come a long way, have you not, -to see one whom your woman’s heart clings to in spite of what he -may be. A mother’s love and a sister’s are to me the purest of all -affections, and I can understand just how you feel toward the one who -has gone to the bad as your unfortunate brother has.” - -“I appreciate all that you say and do for me, Colonel Dunwoody, and -I make no effort to disguise my deep love for my brother, for I -remember him only as he ever was toward me in the past. His nature -was warped, and he went wrong when quite a young man, and just when -we began to feel that he was saved, that he had seen the evil of his -ways and was coming back to a life of honor, one whom he loved, whom -he idolized in truth, told him that she could never be his wife, that -she loved another. - -“That blow made a madman of him and he sought to take the life of his -rival, and from that day became a fugitive and a wanderer, a hunted -man, feeling that the hand of every one was against him. I do not -defend him, and I ask no mercy for him; but I thank you for your -goodness in allowing me to see him often the few days that I will be -here.” - -“It would be cruel to ask you to remain longer,” said the colonel. - -“No, I must go my way, Colonel Dunwoody.” - -“And do you wish me to send any communication to you when--when--_all -is over_?” - -“Nothing, thank you, sir. I wish no tidings of what occurs after I -leave the fort.” - -“But surely we will see you again?” - -“Where and when?” - -She asked the question quickly, almost excitedly. - -“That remains alone for you to say, Miss Arden, for I do not wish you -to drift out of our memories and our lives, after having crossed our -paths as you have.” - -“I am but the sister of the outlaw Silk Lasso Sam, remember.” - -“Granted.” - -“This does not deter you from wishing to keep up a friendship with -me?” - -“Not in the slightest, for I abhor the old Biblical law of visiting -upon the children the sins of the fathers, only applying it in your -case to a sister’s suffering for a brother’s crimes.” - -“You are generous, you are just,” and Ruth held out her hand, which -the colonel held while she continued: - -“See if you wish my friendship when you hear of me again. If you do, -then Miss Carr can tell you of me, for she has promised to be my -friend and correspond with me. Now can I go and spend an hour with -that unfortunate brother of mine, over whom the shadow of the gallows -hangs like a nightmare?” - -“Yes, I will escort you to the cabin.” - -When the day came around for the departure of the coach, Major Lester -and his wife felt the deepest regret at having to give up their -lovely guest. - -They had become deeply attached to her, and yet they could not urge -her to remain longer, for they wished her to be far away when the day -of execution came which would end the guilty career of Silk Lasso Sam -and the lives of his men, sentenced to die at the same time. - -Both the major and his wife had observed the deep interest felt by -the colonel in their guest, and had spoken of it to each other. - -“The colonel’s heart has been touched by the sorrow of that beautiful -girl,” said Mrs. Lester, and her husband replied: - -“Pity begets love, it is said, and I really wish the colonel would -care for her, as she is a very superior girl, and, whatever the -faults of the brother, she is as pure as snow.” - -Of course, all in the fort had come to understand just why Ruth had -come, and those who saw her had felt deepest compassion for her. That -she was a lady all acknowledged, whatever Silk Lasso Sam might be. - -During her stay at Major Lester’s all had discreetly kept away from -that officer’s home, well understanding that Miss Arden cared for no -visitors, though nearly every lady in the fort left their cards “for -Miss Arden,” as an appreciation of her misfortunes, and sympathy in -her sorrows. - -Nina de Sutro had heard of the coming of this visitor to the doomed -man. He had not spoken to her, during their short married life, of -having a sister; in fact, he had said nothing to her of his past. - -Who then, she wondered, was this beautiful woman, for she did not -regard her as really his sister. Not connecting her in any way with -Bonnie Belle, she looked upon herself, Bonnie Belle and this stranger -as three, perhaps, who held a claim upon the outlaw. - -She felt no jealousy of her, for she hated the prisoner too sincerely -for that emotion to find lodgment in her heart; but she was anxious -to know who she was, and all about her. - -She had been told that she was very beautiful. She would see and know -for herself, for she said: - -“I must see and talk with that woman.” - -When Nina de Sutro set out to do anything, she accomplished it. She -resolved that she would see Ruth Arden, and have a talk with her. - -The interest shown in her by Colonel Dunwoody she could not -understand, any more than she could why the Lesters had made her -their guest, and Clarice Carr seemed so devoted to her. - -She dared not speak to her in public, as it was known that Ruth met -no one, nor cared to. She must see her, then, at the major’s. So she -plotted to do so in her own way. That way was to get Mrs. Lester and -Clarice away for some reason, and then go and call, for the major -would be either on duty or at the club. - -There was to be a gathering of the ladies for their weekly talks -over acts of charity, sewing for the soldiers’ children, or parties, -dinners, or excursions to be held, and so Nina planned to have the -meeting when the major would be absent and Mrs. Lester and Clarice -would have to attend. - -She used Mrs. De Sutro her kinswoman as a catspaw, telling her that -she wished to give a party and that Mrs. Lester and Clarice were to -be consulted, while she, Nina, was to be kept in ignorance of the -affair. - -Then she went to visit an officer’s wife living nearest to the -Lesters, and when she saw, from her seat in the window, first the -major go out, then the two ladies, she waited until they entered her -own house and then ended her visit abruptly. - -At once she walked by the Lester home, and suddenly turned into the -gate. Running up the steps, she opened the door and called aloud: - -“Clarice! Clarice!” - -At the same time she entered the sitting-room. At her call Ruth -Arden, who was there, arose, and, meeting her, said pleasantly: - -“Miss Carr and Mrs. Lester have both gone out. May I ask who it is -that I shall tell them called?” - -Nina de Sutro was taken aback, for she beheld before her a woman of a -beauty of face and form she had not dreamed she possessed. - -“I am Miss De Sutro. Are you Miss Ruth Arden?” she asked. - -“I am.” - -“Will you, knowing as I do your reasons for coming to the fort, let -me offer you my sincere sympathy?” - -“You are very kind, and I thank you, Miss De Sutro.” - -“Remember, Miss Arden, it is more than an ordinary interest that I -feel in you, as your brother saved my life when I was a schoolgirl, -going to Mexico to attend the convent where I was educated. Meeting -him here, in the part he was playing with such daring, and believing -him to be a man of honor when I met him, I felt more than a passing -regard for him, and we were, I may say, the best of friends, yet I -never heard him speak of having a sister.” - -“Yet you see that he has one, and I am sorry he was taken from me, -when I was a mere girl, by circumstances which drove him a fugitive -from our home. I have tried hard to redeem my misguided brother, Miss -De Sutro, to bring him back from the path he has chosen, but all in -vain, and now he sees an ignominious death staring him in the face, -and I thank Heaven that our father and mother are both dead, and that -I alone remain to suffer the ignominy and despair of his deeds which -bring him in shame to the grave.” - -Nina de Sutro listened to every word uttered by the girl, her eyes -seeming to pierce to her heart, and she saw only purity, truth, and -honor upon every feature, and, after again expressing her sympathy, -turned and left the room, while she said to herself, with decided -emphasis: - -“There is no deception there, for that girl is his sister, and is -more unfortunate than even I am, for she loves him.” - -Hastening home she found that Mrs. De Sutro and her two visitors had -gone to join the “Petticoat Convention,” as the officers called the -gathering of the ladies, and, seeking Clarice, she said in a whisper: - -“I have just seen that beautiful girl.” - -“Do you mean Miss Arden?” - -“Yes, I ran over to see you, and, calling your name, she came out of -the sitting-room to say that you and Mrs. Lester had gone out. I had -a short talk with her, and, Clarice, I pity that poor girl from the -bottom of my heart, for she really loves that villainous brother of -hers.” - -“I know that she does,” was the quiet reply of Clarice, who did -not like it that Ruth, who had sought to avoid every one, had been -intruded upon by Nina de Sutro. - -When Nina left Ruth the latter gazed after her a moment and then -said: - -“Miss De Sutro came here on purpose to see me, I feel certain. Well, -she accomplished her purpose, and what will be the result? I will ask -Arden about her, and his saving her life.” - -As it was time for her to visit her brother she put on her hat and -went out. Just as she reached the end of the parade she came suddenly -upon an officer, who started slightly, and, as he saw her face pale, -said quickly: - -“Do not be alarmed, Miss Arden, for I could never betray a woman, and -your secret is safe with me.” - -“You recognize me then, Surgeon Powell?” - -“Yes, as Bonnie Belle, and Buffalo Bill also recognized you, but to -no one else than myself has he made it known. We both know, Miss -Arden, that you are here to rescue Silk Lasso Sam, and you are -playing a bold game daringly; but it is our duty to thwart you if we -can. Good morning,” and Surgeon Frank Powell raised his hat and went -on his way. - - - - - CHAPTER XI. - - THE DEPARTURE. - - -It was with really a sad heart that Clarice Carr felt that she must -say farewell to Ruth Arden. She had become greatly attached to her -in the few days she had been at the fort, and she recognized what a -superior woman she was, young in years but old in experience. - -The major and his wife also were sorry to see her depart, for they -too had been drawn to her most closely. - -When the time came for her departure Colonel Dunwoody came over to -the major’s and for a moment saw Ruth alone. - -“Miss Arden, I hope and feel that we will meet again, and I wish to -say to you that it is my wish that you will command me in any way in -which I can ever be of service to you. Will you promise me this, Miss -Arden?” - -“I will, Colonel Dunwoody, although I am now under the deepest -obligations to you.” - -“No, I do not so consider it; but there is one thing more, and pardon -me for referring to it.” - -“Yes.” - -“When this is all over, when the end has come, I will have the body -of your brother decently buried for your sake, and the grave marked -so that it can be found if need be. The major has told me that there -was a fortune left by your father, and to get possession of it you -may wish to secure a certificate of his death.” - -“It is not necessary, Colonel Dunwoody, as my father left the entire -estate to me, having disinherited my brother. I would gladly have -shared it with him, had he changed his career, or given his share to -his wife or children, had he married, which, however, he told me he -had not done. If you will give him decent burial, sir, I shall be -very grateful, and I desire to leave with you the funds necessary -for----” - -“No, no, Miss Arden, I will keep an account of the expenses and -notify you at the proper time. But here comes the coach, and -farewells must be said.” - -Mrs. Lester, the major, and Clarice then came forward, and all said -farewell with deep regret, the colonel handing the girl to a seat -upon the box by the side of Horseshoe Ned, who seemed proud to have -his fair passenger again under his charge. - -Then Ned gathered up his reins, called to his leaders, and away -whirled the coach at a slapping pace, while the eyes of Ruth were -seen to turn with a longing look toward the cabin where her brother -was in irons, and must soon go forth from his prison to the gallows. - -The coming of Ruth had created much comment. Had she been an ordinary -person it would have been less thought of, but all who saw her -recognized her as a lady at once. She was very beautiful, and her -manner strangely fascinating. - -Her coming carried out the old saying that no man is so vile but has -one good woman to love him. She had bravely met her brother, had done -all in her power to cheer him, and then had gone her way. It would -have been only harmful to her and to him for her to have remained -longer, as all agreed. She had shown her good sense in going. - -As the coach rolled away Surgeon Frank Powell and Buffalo Bill were -standing near the latter’s quarters. - -“Bill, she is really going,” said the surgeon, as he saw Ruth upon -the box with Horseshoe Ned. - -“So it seems, doc. What you said to her must have frightened her off.” - -“You mean about being aware that she came here to rescue the -prisoner?” - -“Yes.” - -“It may be.” - -“She is really, then, the sister of that outlaw?” - -“Oh, yes; as there are no others in the secret I can tell you now -that the miner, Deadshot Dean, told me as much.” - -“Well, she is a brave, noble girl; but here she comes.” - -The coach rolled by just then, and both Surgeon Powell and Buffalo -Bill raised their hats, a salutation which Ruth returned with a very -gracious bow. They watched the coach until it left the stockade -through the gateway, and then Buffalo Bill said: - -“Doc?” - -“Yes, Bill.” - -“I am on the trail of knowledge.” - -“Well?” - -“I wish to see what she is going to do?” - -“Miss Arden?” - -“Exactly.” - -“She can do nothing else than go East now, for Deadshot Dean said he -intended taking her with him.” - -“She may, and she may not go East. No one in the fort knows her, -other than you and I, as Bonnie Belle of Pocket City, for she has -guarded that secret, I am sure.” - -“Yes, wholly.” - -“Now she may go back to Pocket City.” - -“Suppose she does?” - -“She came here to rescue her brother beyond all doubt, and, finding -that you were aware of that fact, having recognized her, she has gone -her way.” - -“Very wisely.” - -“That remains to be seen.” - -“What are you driving at, Bill?” - -“Well, that woman idolizes that wicked brother of hers, and all the -miners in Yellow Dust Valley idolize her. Did she wish to make a -dash and rescue her brother she could get every man in the valley to -follow her lead, so I am going to see just what her destination is.” - -“A good idea,” responded Doctor Powell, and half an hour after -Buffalo Bill rode away from the fort following the trail of the -stage-coach. - -“They is two dandies from ’wayback, miss.” - -Such had been Horseshoe Ned’s comment regarding Surgeon Powell and -Buffalo Bill as the coach rolled by them. - -“Who are they?” innocently asked Ruth. - -“Ther one in fatigue uniform is Doctor Frank Powell, miss, better -known as ther Surgeon Scout, for he’s one of the best Injun-fighters -and trailers on ther plains, and no man has had a more dangerous life -than he has lived. He’s a dead shot, and don’t know no more what fear -is than I does about preachin’ ther Gospil. Ther’ ain’t no squarer -and better man in the wild West than White Beaver, as the Injuns call -him, nor a better surgeon, scout, and all-around man, either.” - -“You certainly give him a most delightful recommendation, Horseshoe -Ned; but, who is the one in buckskin and the broad sombrero who was -talking to him?” - -“That are Buffalo Bill.” - -“Yes, I have heard of him, as I have also of the Surgeon Scout, for -they are known everywhere, it seems, through their deeds.” - -“Yes, miss, they is, for a fact. - -“Buffalo Bill is chief of scouts at the fort, and he is a man to tie -to when one needs a friend. It war them two, if you’ll pardon me for -saying it, along with the miner from Pocket City, thet captured Silk -Lasso Sam and his gang, and stopped highway robbery on this trail.” - -“Then you think there will now be no more holding-up of coaches on -the Overland?” - -“Not on ther trail I runs, miss, I’m thinking.” - -So the coach went along its way. Horseshoe Ned delighted at -exhibiting his skill as a driver and striving hard to keep Ruth from -dwelling upon the fact that she had parted with her brother forever. - -Just as the coach drove down into Deep Dell Brook, where it had been -last held-up and Ribbons had been killed, Horseshoe Ned said: - -“I tells yer, miss, it’s a comfort ter feel yer kin halt in thet -stream ter water your horses, and not be expecting a shot all ther -time.” - -“Yes, for you have risked dangers enough to enjoy some sense of -security now,” was Ruth’s answer. - -But hardly had the words been uttered when suddenly down the trail -beyond, leading into the stream, rode a horseman. He was dressed in -black, but rode a snow-white horse, though all of his trappings were -of sable hue. - -The horseman was masked, and wore a black sombrero, but his hair -fell in heavy waves upon his broad shoulders, concealing even his -neck, while, as he wore gauntlet gloves, no one could have told from -his appearance whether he was paleface, Indian, Chinese, or negro. - -“Hands up, Horseshoe Ned, for you carry a rich prize,” cried the -horseman, as he reached the water’s edge, and leveled his rifle at -the driver. - -“Waal, I’ll be etarnally roasted, ef thet don’t beat all, for I were -jist sayin’ ther trail were clear o’ varmints like you.” - -“Silence! Hold on there, my pretty lady, for I’ll send a bullet -through your brain as quickly as I would shoot Horseshoe Ned, if you -attempt to show your claws,” sternly cried the highwayman. - -This command was caused by seeing the action of Ruth, who had drawn -toward her a small valise she had behind her upon the top of the -coach, and in which she had a revolver, that had before rendered her -good service. Not expecting a hold-up, she had not kept the weapon -near her. There was something in the tone of the man that indicated -his intention to be as good as his word, and Ruth raised her hand -from the satchel. - -“Say, robber, if yer don’t consider me rude, I’d like ter ask yer -who yer be, for I thought ther old gang had been wiped out?” - -“The old gang was, but I have come to hunt the trails, and I am here -to stay. That lady is well fixed, as I happen to know, so I will -trouble her for her money, and all else of value she may have with -her. If she refuses, I will kill you, Horseshoe Ned, and hold her a -captive until she pays far more than I can now rob her of. I hope you -both understand the situation.” - -“I understand you is a thief I’d like ter git a rope onto once,” -growled the driver, while Ruth said: - -“Yes, I understand the situation perfectly, Sir Robber. You have -the power to rob me, and so I submit to your brute force only. I -have with me considerable money, a thousand dollars perhaps, and -some jewelry, as you have said, and I will give all if you demand -it, but I would like to ask to keep a little money, and several -trinkets, which, of little value to you, are most valuable to me from -association. May I keep these and a hundred dollars in money?” - -It would seem that few could resist this appeal, but the robber had -the power and he meant to use it. - -“No, not a dollar, or anything of value shall you keep. I risk my -life to rob, and I demand all, so give it up, or I draw trigger on -Horseshoe hied and you are my captive. Come, no nonsense, so hand -over your wealth,” and the robber rode nearer to the coach. - -The man moved nearer, riding into the stream to do so. - -The team of horses looked at him askance as though appreciating the -situation, while the face of Horseshoe Ned grew black with rage. - -“Ter think I can’t protect her,” he muttered. - -To have his fair passenger robbed of her money and jewels while -in his keeping was a terrible thought to the driver. Yet he was -powerless, as the slightest resistance on his part meant instant -death to him. So the road-agent, still covering the driver with his -rifle, rode nearer to the coach. - -“You will force me to-give up all?” said Ruth, in a voice that showed -she was deeply moved. - -“Every dollar and valuable you have along,” was the stern rejoinder. - -“Then I suppose there is no help for me,” and she opened the satchel -and placed her hand within it. - -“None, my pretty miss, for I need all you have, and more, too.” - -“Then take all that I have to give!” - -As the words were uttered the hand came quickly out of the satchel, -and a sharp report followed. - -With a cry of pain the road-agent dropped his rifle into the stream, -for his right arm was shattered. Then, with a savage oath, he dropped -his left hand upon his revolver on his hip. - -But quickly a second shot rang out, and, notwithstanding the plunging -team, which brought all of Horseshoe Ned’s energies to bear to stop -them from turning short around in the stream, the bullet was truly -aimed and the left arm dropped to his side, the weapon falling into -the water. - -“My God, miss, don’t kill me!” cried the road-agent, and he wheeled -his horse by a movement of his body and a word, to dash away. - -“I hate to harm that beautiful animal, but he must not escape,” cried -Ruth, now thoroughly aroused, and for the third time her revolver was -raised. - -A quick glance along the barrel and the third shot rang out. Although -the horse was bounding up the hill at full speed, the aim was true -and the animal dropped upon his knees, stumbled, and went down, -throwing his rider hard. - -“I’ll catch him, miss, if you can hold the team,” cried Horseshoe -Ned, after giving vent to a wild yell of admiration for the girl’s -crack shooting and the success she had met with. - -But as he spoke there came a rushing sound behind them, a plunge, and -a horseman was crossing the stream with mighty leaps. - -“Buffalo Bill!” yelled Horseshoe Ned wildly, and in an instant the -scout had crossed the stream and was by the side of the wounded -outlaw. - -“Don’t kill me, for I cannot resist,” said the road-agent faintly. - -Snatching the mask from his face, Buffalo Bill said: - -“Ah! I know that face. You are the one of Silk Lasso Sam’s band who -escaped. Ho, Ned, you did some crack shooting here, even if you did -not kill him.” - -“It wasn’t me did it, Buffalo Bill,” responded Ned, who had now -driven up to the spot. - -“Not you?” - -“Nary.” - -“Who then?” - -“This young leddy, and she knows how ter use a gun, says I.” - -“I did not wish to kill him, so broke his right arm. Then, as he drew -a revolver with his left, I sent a bullet through that, and my third -shot was to bring down his horse to prevent his escape.” - -“Well, miss, you are a crack shot, and the fellow, is the last one -of Silk Lasso Sam’s band, so that now there will be a clear trail to -travel, I guess. I will have you take him on with you, Horseshoe Ned, -and bring him back to the fort with you on your next run.” - -“I’ll die if I am not cared for,” groaned the man. - -“Well, if I was in your place, pard, I’d want to die, as yer’ll hang -as sart’in as I knows yer name,” put in Horseshoe Ned. - -“I did no harm,” whined the man. - -“Oh, no, yer didn’t, but it wasn’t your fault all ther same, for yer -intended ter rob this young lady and threatened to shoot her, too.” - -“Well, Ned, I’ll do the best I can for his wounds until you reach the -station where the doctor can care for him, and you must be particular -that he does not escape.” - -“Yer won’t go along then, Bill?” - -“No, for I am on a little scouting-expedition I cannot neglect. I -heard your shots, Miss Arden, so rode on to see what was the matter. -I congratulate you upon your nerve and splendid shooting.” - -“I thank you, sir, for praise from such a man as Buffalo Bill is -worth having.” - -“It was just splendid the way she did it, Bill,” said Horseshoe Ned, -who now, with the scout, set to work to dress the wounds of the -road-agent. - -Taking from her satchel several handkerchiefs Ruth tore them into -strips for bandages and aided in dressing the wounds which she had -made. - -At last the work was done, the road-agent was placed in the coach and -the doors secured firmly, and his traps were placed on the top. - -Mounting the box again with Horseshoe Ned, Ruth said good-by to -Buffalo Bill and the team moved on once more. - -But after waiting for some little time, Buffalo Bill mounted and rode -on after the coach. - - - - - CHAPTER XII. - - CAUGHT IN THE ACT. - - -Buffalo Bill followed on the trail of the coach, with no desire to be -seen again by the woman whom he was watching. He had not intended to -be seen, but the firing had quickly taken him to the rescue. - -“If she goes back to Pocket City she means mischief of some kind, -for having failed to rescue her brother by strategy she will do so -by force, I feel sure. If she was really the ally of her brother it -is certain that the outlaw she wounded did not know it, for no look -passed between them that I could see, and she would not have fired on -him had she known him. I would find it hard to believe that Bonnie -Belle is in league with outlaws.” - -Thus mused the scout as he rode on after the coach. - -It was night when he reached the station where Horseshoe Ned’s run -ended, and he went at once to the hotel. He found Ned there and -learned that his passenger had taken the outgoing coach eastward. - -“That settles it,” mused the scout. “She goes East and not to Pocket -City. She has given up the idea of rescue as impossible. Poor girl, I -pity her, and only wish she loved one in some way worthy of her deep -regard.” - -Then he said aloud: - -“Well, Ned, what do you think of Miss Arden?” - -“I think she is just the dandyest girl I ever crossed ther trail of, -Bill. What a team she and Miss Clarice Carr would make together, for -thar’s another one I sets great store by. But, Bill, ef yer hed seen -Miss Arden work up thet lettle racket to a climax yer’d hev died o’ -joy. - -“Yer see I give up all for gone, when she talked ther same way and -invited thet sarpint ter take ther things. She opened ther satchel -and out come a gun, and oh, my! Bill, she’s ther deadest shot I ever -seen, barrin’ you and Surgeon Powell.” - -“She has nerve of an uncommon order, Ned, and she sends a bullet to -dead center. But where is your prisoner?” - -“He’s in ther tavern under guard, the doctor havin’ fixed up his -wounds.” - -“Are they very bad?” - -“Ther leetle bone in his right arm were smashed, and ther bullet -grazed the one in his left, but he’ll be well enough to hang with -t’others of ther gang, for it’s his neck we wants in prime condition -for thet occasion. But whar is you goin’, Bill?” - -“I thought I would ride on here and see if you needed any aid going -back with your man?” - -“No, indeed, for I’ll tie him on the box with me; but I’ll be glad of -your company, Bill, if you will go along.” - -“Thank you, no, for I’ll continue on in my scouting along the range -to-morrow.” - -Staying that night at the tavern, Buffalo Bill left bright and early -the next morning, taking the trail for Yellow Dust Valley. - -He was well-mounted, and it was not yet sunset when he rode by the -lonely cabin of the miner, Deadshot Dean, where he had so nearly lost -his life at the hands of the desperadoes who had captured him as Silk -Lasso Sam. - -The cabin was closed and doubly locked, and an air of desolation and -desertion was upon all. The scout had hitched his horse down in the -valley, and walked up to the cabin. - -Going to the rear of it, around the cliff he stood gazing at the fine -view from that point until suddenly he heard a noise near the cabin. - -Quickly he made his way there and felt sure that some one was -striving to break in. Voices reached his ear, too, and one said: - -“Yer ain’t moved her, Jerry, so let me get a whack at her, as I fer -one don’t intend ter be caught in this neighborhood arter dark, fer -this is too near ther Hangman’s Gulch ter suit me.” - -“And it don’t please me a little bit.” - -“Take ther ax and let fly, for thar’s money inside I is dead -sart’in,” was the reply. - -The scout placed his foot on the projecting ends of the logs and -quickly ascended to the roof, which was nearly flat and made of -boards on top of logs, slanting toward the cliff under which the -cabin stood. - -He drew a revolver in each hand, knelt down, and, peeping over, saw -the two men hard at work to break in the door. So far they had made -no impression upon either the locks or the door, and, covering both -of them with a revolver, Buffalo Bill said sternly: - -“Hands up, pards, for I want you both!” - -The voice coming from over their heads, and just after their -expressed dread of being so near Hangman’s Gulch when night came on, -brought from the lips of each man a cry of fright. They shrank back, -looked up, and saw their danger. - -“Hands up, I say!” roared Buffalo Bill. - -Quickly they obeyed, and in an instant the scout had leaped down from -the roof and confronted them. - -“Breaking into Deadshot Dean’s home, are you? Well, I am glad I -happened along at this time, for the miner is a friend of mine, and -I guess you are citizens who will not be missed if you are called -suddenly away from Pocket City. I’ll take your weapons, sir,” and the -scout slipped the revolver and knife from the belt of one of the men. - -“And yours, too,” and the second one was disarmed. - -“Ain’t you Buffalo Bill?” - -“So I am called.” - -“Waal, I might have knowed it, fer yer is alus around when yer ain’t -wanted.” - -“I’m a scout, you know,” was the smiling answer. - -“Waal, what does yer treat us this way fer?” - -“When I get you to Pocket City it is more than likely you’ll find -out,” was the scout’s significant reply. - -The two house-breakers did not relish the reply of Buffalo Bill. They -felt that they were in dangerous hands and had been caught in an act -that would not be tolerated in Yellow Dust Valley. - -It would never do to be taken into Pocket City as prisoners. Their -reputations there were of a very unsavory character. They must get -away at all costs, for an enraged border crowd was hard to manage and -would only argue the matter after they were hanged. - -“I say, Buffalo Bill, this is a darned good joke,” said one of the -prisoners. - -“What is?” - -“Your making us prisoners.” - -“Yes, it is funny.” - -“I doesn’t see ther joke,” growled the other. - -“You haven’t the sense of humor that your companion has, for he sees -it,” said the scout. - -“But I means this, Pard Buffalo Bill; we was sent here by Deadshot -Dean ter git some things for him, and as he bed lost his key he told -us ter knock in ther door, don’t yer see?” - -“I see where you did the knocking, yes.” - -“Now jist go with us ter Deadshot Dean, and he’ll say it’s all right.” - -“Where is he?” - -“Up ther cañon thar. We’ll show yer.” - -“Look here, Deadshot Dean went East weeks ago, and you cannot play -any bluff game on me.” - -“I tells yer ther truth.” - -“You couldn’t tell the truth, either one of you, except by accident. -No, I am going to Pocket City, and you go with me. I caught you -breaking into the cabin of an absent miner, and I shall so report to -the miners and give you up to them.” - -“They’ll hang us.” - -“That is your misfortune, not my fault.” - -“And we so innercent,” whined one. - -“See here, Buffalo Bill, we don’t want ter hand in our chips no more -than you does, so if yer plays quits with us we’ll divvy.” - -“What will you divide?” - -“I’ve got nigh a thousand in money here with me, and Jerry have got -about half as much, so you kin hev all if yer’ll let us go.” - -“Yes, all of fifteen hundred dollars.” - -“Well, it is more money than I make in a year with chief of scouts’ -pay, but if it was ten times as much, you could not bribe me to -do a mean act. I know you are two scamps, and as I caught you -house-breaking, I’ll so report your acts. Come, you go with me. Stand -close up behind this man, sir.” - -“Tom, we is goners.” - -“Dead sart’in, Jerry.” - -Having placed the men at close step, Buffalo Bill buckled their -belts together, and fastened them about their waists. - -“I’ll carry ther weapons, Buffalo Bill.” - -“No, thank you, Jerry, I can do so,” was the smiling reply. - -Shouldering the ax and iron bar the two men had brought with them, -and sticking their weapons in his belt, until he looked like a -walking arsenal, Buffalo Bill made his prisoners march down the hill -before him. - -There he found his horse, and, mounting, ordered the men to face -toward Pocket City and march. They did so with low curses and whines. - -It was just before sunset, as they passed Hangman’s Gulch, and they -glanced up into the dark recesses of the cañon, with many a misgiving -that they would soon be more intimately acquainted with the weird and -dreaded spot. - -Just as twilight was falling, the scout heard the supper-horn of the -Frying Pan Hotel, and from that moment a stream of humanity began to -pour out of the mines and cabins, and flow toward the rendezvous of -the miners on every night. - -They quickly caught sight of Buffalo Bill, whose handsome face and -form were seldom seen in Yellow Dust Valley, and, beholding his -prisoners, they began to call out, in many an odd question, as to -what it meant. - -“Ho, Tom and Jerry, what’s up?” - -“Ain’t thet Buf’ler Bill?” - -“What has yer got ’em in limbo fer, pard?” - -“Has they been robbin’ a hen-roost?” - -“Say, pard, what has they been up ter?” - -“Is yer goin’ ter hang ’em?” - -“They’ll be no loss.” - -“How did yer git yer foot inter it, Tom and Jerry?” - -Such questions flowed too fast for replies, and, though the scout -remained silent, the two prisoners tried to explain, but were -constantly cut off by fresh questions. At last a commanding voice -said: - -“Ho, scout, what have those fellows been doing?” - -The speaker was a storekeeper in the camps and a man of considerable -prominence, being captain of the Vigilantes. He stood in front of the -Frying Pan, where he had gone to get his supper. - -“I was coming along the valley, sir, near Deadshot Dean’s cabin, -and went up to take a look at it, when I saw those two men trying -to break in the door. Here is the ax and the bar they used. I -climbed upon the roof and had them where I wanted them, so made them -prisoners, determined to bring them to Pocket City and turn them -over to the miners, with a statement of the facts.” - -“They have a very bad record, sir, and have got their heads at last -into the noose. Remember, Tom and Jerry, it has not been a week since -I warned you that you were getting to the end of your rope. You, sir, -I am told, are Buffalo Bill, chief of scouts at Pioneer Post?” - -“I am, sir.” - -“Then turn over your prisoners to me for trial by our miners’ laws, -sir, for I am Scott Kindon, captain of Vigilantes and proprietor of -the Miners’ Market, as my store is called. I am glad to meet you, -Buffalo Bill, so dismount and be my guest at the hotel to-night.” - -Buffalo Bill dismounted and led his horse to the stables. He was -shown to a pleasant room, where he freshened up for supper, and found -every attention bestowed upon him by the clerk whom Bonnie Belle had -left to manage her affairs in her absence, and who seemed anxious to -treat the scout well. - -Bonnie Belle’s quarters were all securely locked up in her absence, -but otherwise the hotel was in full blast and the Vigilante captain -and Buffalo Bill sat down to a very tempting supper. - -The prisoners had been placed in safe hands and with their guards -were eating supper near, so the scout had an opportunity to see how -much kindness was bestowed upon the two men. - -“You see the boys wish to do the best they can for them, as they -regard them as dying men,” explained the storekeeper. - -“Dying men?” - -“Well it amounts to that, as we shall try them after supper, and that -means a verdict of guilty.” - -“What is the use of trying them if the verdict is assured?” asked -Buffalo Bill, with a smile. - -“Well, for effect. You caught them trying to break into Deadshot -Dean’s cabin and rob it, and you brought here with you the implements -they used, while you bear testimony to their guilt.” - -“True, but why not run them out of the camps, under penalty of death -if they return?” - -“That would never do, for, of course, every fellow that is run out -has a purse made up for him by the sympathetic miners, and hereafter -every man that wanted money would do some act to be sent away for, -whereas if we try these men, find them guilty and hang them, Pocket -City will rid itself of two notorious scoundrels and their end will -serve as a wholesome lesson for others.” - -“Well, if they are all you say they are they deserve hanging, yet I -suppose it would have been better for me to have taken them to the -fort to get justice.” - -“They will get justice here, for we will try them by the law of -right. Now let us go and arrange for the trial.” - -“Need I appear in the matter, sir?” - -“Well, as I am judge, I’ll ask you to take a seat with me on the -bench.” - -“You are very kind, sir; but I am only a witness.” - -“Well, you will have to face the prisoners and the crowd, so take a -seat with me on the ‘bench.’” - -The “judge” evidently felt the importance of his position, and, as -he left the supper-room, lighted his pipe, and took up his position -upon the piazza, where seats had already been placed for him and the -prisoners. - -The _bench_ was one in reality, and Buffalo Bill sat down next to the -judge, while the prisoners were placed in front of them. - -The crowd had now increased to several hundred men, yet they were -not noisy, and their silence was more expressive than their shouting -would have been. - -The prisoners were white with fear, for they sat where the light of a -number of lanterns fell full upon them. They cast uneasy glances at -the judge, baleful ones at Buffalo Bill, and pleading ones over the -crowd, where they looked in vain for some sympathetic face. - -The Vigilante captain called the meeting to order by rapping with his -bowie-knife upon the bench. It was as effective, however, as a golden -gavel in Congress would have been. Instantly there was a death-like -silence. - -“Gentlemen,” began the Vigilante captain, after clearing his throat, -“you have honored me by making me captain of the Vigilantes of Yellow -Dust Valley, and also have bestowed upon me the more honored title of -Judge of the Criminal Court of Pocket City. - -“There are many of us present who remember that Yellow Dust Valley -was a very dangerous place of abode before the Vigilantes were -organized, for lawlessness and disorder reigned supreme. But since -they began to hunt down criminals and this court to sentence them for -their crimes, see the change. Why, there has not been a murder in -Pocket City for thirty-six hours. - -“A short while since this gentleman occupying a seat upon the bench -with me, was ambushed by a gang of desperadoes, and would have -been hanged but for the intervention of our honored fellow citizen, -Deadshot Dean, now absent, who killed the ringleader and saved a -valuable life. - -“Two of that gang are now arraigned before you as prisoners, charged -with another offense against law and order. This gentleman, my fellow -citizens, I desire to introduce to you as a man whose name has spread -from pole to pole, from the rising to the setting sun, as you will -know when I tell you that he is Buffalo Bill.” - -A wild roar like thunder answered the words of the judge, and Buffalo -Bill arose and bowed to the compliment bestowed upon him. - -“Now, gentlemen,” resumed the judge, “let me tell you that on his way -to Pocket City this evening Buffalo Bill saw a sight which I am going -to ask him to relate to you.” - -Thus urged, the scout arose and simply told his story as it is known -to the reader. Then the judge resumed: - -“You have heard, gentlemen, and this case is tried according to law -and Gospel, for as soon as we have heard your decision in the matter, -and I can guess what it will be, I will pass sentence, after which -I will read a chapter in the Bible and the Ten Commandments to the -prisoners and end by singing the Doxology. Now, gentlemen, are these -men guilty or not guilty?” - -“Guilty,” came with another roar like thunder. - - - - - CHAPTER XIII. - - IN HANGMAN’S GULCH. - - -The two prisoners fairly quaked under the angry response of “guilty” -to the question of the judge, and Buffalo Bill quickly arose and -signified his desire to speak. The judge rapped for silence and said: - -“We will hear what the great scout has to say.” - -“I would say, gentlemen, as a government officer, it is my wish to -have full justice done these men. It is true that I caught them -robbing a miner’s cabin, or attempting to do so; but, there are -crimes far more heinous than that, and I beg that you will, in their -case, give them as light a punishment, as possible, for I am sure -they will heed the warning they have had.” - -The words of the scout fell upon deaf ears, when he made an appeal -for mercy. He might as well have attempted to stem the current of a -river as stay that mad element of humanity, for all eyes turned from -him to the judge, who said: - -“You have heard the appeal of our distinguished friend for mercy, and -we will be merciful. As these men have been unanimously pronounced -guilty, our mercy will be not to long keep them in the agony of -their approaching doom, and hence I do hereby sentence them to be -taken within the hour to Hangman’s Gulch, and there to be hanged by -the neck until all life shall leave them, for the good order of this -community must and shall be preserved.” - -Again a roar greeted these words, and once more rapping for silence -the judge said: - -“Officers, do your duty.” - -The two guards stepped forward, and over the head of each prisoner -placed a noose. Then the judge opened the Bible and read, just why -Buffalo Bill did not know, the story of Daniel in the den of lions. -This he followed with the Ten Commandments. Three hundred voices -then sang the Doxology, and the judge arose, and, locking his arm in -Buffalo Bill’s, led the way to Hangman’s Gulch. - -The guards and their prisoners followed, the twelve men who were to -draw the doomed men into mid-air, each grasping the rope of their -respective victim. - -A slow and solemn step was kept to Hangman’s Gulch, the many lanterns -casting flickering shadows, as they marched along. At last the place -was reached, already dotted with the graves of many men who had thus -been tried and executed. - -Into the dark weird place they filed, and soon approached the gallows -where so many others had died. - -The two prisoners were moaning, like men in physical pain, for they -were cowards at heart. Then they began to plead for mercy. But as -well might they have appealed to the cliffs about them as to that -crowd, for while some there were doubtless merciful, they were too -greatly in the minority to dare speak what they felt. - -The ropes were thrown over the beam, which was greased, and, at a -signal from the judge, the twelve men upon each line drew their -victims up into mid-air, silencing their cries for mercy. - -Then, back from Hangman’s Gulch surged the crowd, laughing and -talking as they went over the affair, and it was generally agreed -that Pocket City would be the better for the hanging. - -The Vigilante captain felt that he had done his duty, so repaired -to his store in a very self-satisfied humor, while Buffalo Bill -accompanied him for a short time, and began, in a quiet way, to -question him about Bonnie Belle. - -All he could learn was the fact that not a man in Yellow Dust Valley -was there to say one word against her, all holding her as above -reproach. Nothing was known of her antecedents, and there was not -the slightest suspicion that she was connected in any way with the -road-agents under Silk Lasso Sam. - -She had gone East upon some business of her own, the storekeeper -said, and Deadshot Dean, the miner, had been her escort, and, not -aware that the latter was a married man, Scott Kindon hinted that he -believed there was a strong feeling of friendship between the two. -This might result in marriage, and the “judge” hoped that it would, -as the miner was a splendid fellow in his opinion. - -Then, learning that the driver of the stage-coach was in Pocket City -that night, Buffalo Bill sought him out. He found him at the Devil’s -Den, having just won all the money at poker which his adversary had. - -He greeted the scout pleasantly, said that he had come in a couple of -hours before, and was glad to feel that the trail was free of outlaws. - -“I wish to ask you, Pard Sandy, something about Bonnie Belle?” said -Buffalo Bill. - -At once Sandy was all attention. - -“Waal, pard, what kin I tell yer?” - -“You took her in your coach when she went East?” - -“Sure.” - -“And the miner?” - -“Deadshot Dean?” - -“Yes.” - -“He went along, too.” - -“Where did you leave them?” - -“Waal, she left me at the trail junction.” - -“And the miner?” - -“He went on East on the regular coach.” - -“And Bonnie Belle?” - -“She took the upper branch trail via Omaha.” - -“East?” - -“Yes.” - -This answer caused Buffalo Bill to ponder deeply. - -Bonnie Belle surely started East. Why then did she leave Deadshot -Dean at the Overland junction and take the upper trail which led her -through Chicago? Why did she turn back unless she had received some -word from the fort, where her brother was a prisoner? - -Texas Jack, he recalled, had gone off on a special mission, which had -not been reported to him. He would inquire if Texas Jack had been to -Pocket City. So he asked Sandy if he had seen Texas Jack. - -“Oh, yes.” - -“Where?” - -“He came to Pocket City, and then followed on after the coach.” - -“Why?” - -“He had a letter for Bonnie Belle.” - -“From where?” - -“The fort.” - -“From whom?” - -“I don’t know.” - -“Did he overtake the coach?” - -“Yes.” - -“Did he deliver the letter?” - -“He did, pard.” - -“And receive an answer?” - -“Not a written one, pard.” - -“A verbal answer?” - -“Yes.” - -“Do you know what it was?” - -“I heard her say, ‘Tell him simply that I will.’” - -“Ah! and then?” - -“Texas Jack went back on the trail, and I drove on with my -passengers, Deadshot Dean leaving me by one trail at the junction and -Bonnie Belle going by the upper trail.” - -“And you did not hear of her passing back over the trail?” - -“See here, Buffalo Bill, you is chief of scouts at Pioneer Post I -knows well, and you has a right ter ask all questions of me, but I -wants ter say if it’s ter get Bonnie Belle inter trouble, I’ll be a -dumb man, sart’in, and don’t you fergit it.” - -“Pard Sandy, that little woman has no better friend than I am, and I -would protect, rather than do one act to cause her trouble; but I am -on a secret trail, which I wish to see the end of, and you can help -me by answering my questions and perhaps save much trouble, for I -believe there is a plot on hand to rescue Silk Lasso Sam and his men -by force, and you surely do not wish to see those devils again turned -loose upon the trails more revengeful than ever?” - -“I does not, and I thanks you for being square with me, Buffalo Bill. -The fact is I did not _hear_ of Bonnie Belle’s going West ag’in, but -I happen to know thet she did go, and that’s all I can tell you.” - -“Well, I’ll ask no more, Sandy, to-night at least. Good night,” and -Buffalo Bill remained in the Devil’s Den while the driver left it -with his winnings in his pocket. - -The scout was the cynosure of all eyes as he leisurely strolled about -the gambling-saloon, going from table to table, risking a few dollars -at faro, and winning, then being equally as lucky at roulette, -rouge-et-noir, and dice-throwing, when he received a challenge from a -miner to play him a game of cards. - -“Oh, yes, I’ll play if you wish, though I had not intended to when I -came in,” said the scout. - -“Waal, I plays for big stakes, and don’t you forgit,” was the answer -of the challenger. - -Buffalo Bill took his measure in a steady look at him. He thought -that his face was familiar, but he was not sure, for he could not -recall where he had seen him before. - -He was a man even larger than the scout, for he was more brawny, -weighing over two hundred pounds and as hard as iron. His face was -bearded, his hair worn long, and he carried no knife in his belt, but -instead four revolvers, two in front and one on each hip, so that -no matter where he dropped his hand it must fall upon the butt of a -“gun.” - -He wore no superfluous clothing, either, his miner’s shirt, corduroy -pants, top-boots, and slouch-hat, pulled down over his eyes about -making up his wardrobe. - -The carrying of four revolvers had gained him the name of “Pistols,” -and that he knew how to use them, too, several graves upon Sunset -Hill gave testimony. - -He was peacefully inclined when not drinking, but when under the -influence of liquor his best friends avoided him religiously, and -those who saw him challenge Buffalo Bill to play cards felt that -the scout had made a mistake in accepting, for they discovered that -Pistols was drinking, and that meant a row they were certain. - -In answer to the remark of the man that he played for big stakes, -Buffalo Bill asked in his quiet way: - -“What do you call big stakes, pard?” - -“What does I call big stakes?” - -“Yes, that is the question I asked.” - -“Waal, I call a game without a limit big money.” - -“Are you able to stand a game without a limit?” - -“Is I? Ask my pards if I can’t call yer at a thousand and pay if I -loses.” - -“Oh, a thousand is your limit, then?” - -“Can you match me?” - -“If I could not I would not play with you; but when you said without -limit, I wished to know what you meant, as you can size my pile at a -thousand. Now you know what I can do, so say whether you will play or -back down?” - -“Back down?” yelled the miner savagely. - -“Yes,” was the perfectly calm response. - -“I never backs down agin’ any odds.” - -“Then play,” said Buffalo Bill, in the coolest manner possible. - -The interest in the games going on in Devil’s Den very quickly were -centered in the match between Buffalo Bill and Pistols. - -“I’m out for scalps,” the miner had said, in a voice that was heard -all over the saloon. - -At this Buffalo Bill looked him squarely in the face and there was -something in the look that controlled the man, and he said: - -“I see now that you have been drinking. Had I suspected this I would -not have played with you, for I never play with a drunken man. Behave -yourself now, or quit before trouble follows.” - -There was that in the words and look which mastered the man, for he -made at first no reply; but then he said: - -“What did I say to make you mad?” - -“Nothing, for I am not angry; but you said you were out for scalps, -and I wish you to understand that I take the same trail when there is -need for it.” - -The man appeared cowed, for he said: - -“We don’t want trouble, Buffalo Bill, so shall I git a fresh pack of -cards, and will yer take a drink?” - -“Thank you, I do not care to drink, and you take my advice and let it -alone. But get the cards.” - -An angry gleam came into the eyes of Pistols. He made no reply, and -walked to the bar after a fresh pack of cards. - -“Shuffles, give me a fresh pack and some whisky, too,” he said. - -“Here’s the cards, Pistols, but take my advice and don’t drink any -more, for Buffalo Bill is a stranger here,” said Shuffles. - -“Waal, he wants ter git better acquainted with ther folks. Whisky, I -said, straight, strong, and blistering.” - -Had Bonnie Belle been there he would have refused. But to do the -best he could he took a half-empty bottle, hastily poured water into -it, and set it before the man, hoping to have him get but half the -quantity. The miner suspected, held it up to the lamp, and looked at -it. - -“Is this pale sherry, Shuffles?” - -“It’s whisky.” - -“You lies, for you have drowned it with water, so you kin hev it.” - -Quick as a flash he dashed the stuff full into the face of poor -Shuffles, who, blinded and maddened, drew his revolver and fired a -shot at random. It was the last act of his life, for he dropped dead -with a bullet in his brain, while Pistols called out: - -“He put water into my whisky, pards, and then shot at me, so I kilt -him. Thar he lies ahind the bar.” - -To put water in whisky was a criminal offense which the miners of -Yellow Dust Valley could not forgive or forget, and so Shuffles lost -the sympathy of the crowd by his heinous act, while Pistols rose in -their estimation for visiting just punishment upon one who would do -such a thing. - -“Now, Pard Studley, I wants some whisky,” and Pistols turned to the -bartender nearest, who quickly placed a fresh bottle before him, -while the miner took the other which had caused the trouble, and, -dashing it against the wall at the rear of the bar, shivered it to -atoms. - -“Yer sha’n’t p’izen no one else with watered whisky,” he said. - -Then, turning to those who had gathered about him, he said: - -“J’ine me, folks, in a lettle beverage, for I’m bettin’ high it will -be ther Simon-pure article. Does yer catch on?” - -They “caught on” with alacrity, and with the upturned face of -Shuffles, the eyes wide open staring into his own, Pistols poured his -glass full to the brim and dashed it down his throat. - -A hush had fallen upon the crowd during this scene, and a few of the -timid ones, or, rather, those who wished to avoid being in a row, -silently withdrew from the building. - -There were several who felt that Buffalo Bill was making a sad -mistake in having accepted the challenge of Pistols, while others -knew that had he not done so, a row would have been precipitated at -once, for he would certainly have insulted the scout then and there. - -A few now hastened to tell Buffalo Bill, who had not risen from his -seat, that Pistols had just killed Shuffles, and had then taken a -tumblerful of whisky, so was in a dangerous mood. - -“He didn’t have quite enough ter brace him fer trouble with you, -pard, for he has heerd o’ you, as we all has, and that’s why he got -more. He’s primed now, and will go off like a hair-trigger,” a miner -said. - -“Yaas, so jist go out and let him alone,” another added. - -Buffalo Bill smiled serenely. It was a smile that some who saw it -felt boded mischief. Then he said complacently: - -“I never seek trouble, gentlemen, unless I am after a man I know -needs running down, and duty compels me. I sought no trouble with -your comrade, and merely accepted his challenge, so he can turn it -into any game that suits his humor best.” - -“Here he comes now,” cried a voice, and just then Pistols was seen -approaching the table where Buffalo Bill sat, a cigar between his -teeth. - -With a lurch Pistols dropped into his chair and glared at Buffalo -Bill. - -“I has come back!” he said. - -“So I see.” - -“There’s ther pack o’ cards,” and he tossed them upon the table. - -Buffalo Bill picked them up, glanced at them, and said: - -“Yes, they are all right.” - -“Did yer think I’d git any as wasn’t?” - -“Not being acquainted with you I didn’t know.” - -“Waal, we’ll git better acquainted, I’m thinking.” - -“Perhaps.” - -“Come, don’t git skeered, fer I ain’t goin’ ter shoot, only I hed ter -kill a feller over that, just now, and I is loadin’ my gun ag’in.” - -“You are very wise.” - -“Yer see he insulted me.” - -“I can hardly believe that possible.” - -There were a number who heard this reply who appreciated its sarcasm. -Pistols felt that there was a meaning in it he could not fathom, so -he did not try, and said: - -“Yes, he put water in my whisky.” - -“Did he not know you?” - -“Yaas, only he tried to play a underhand game on me. We has been -mighty good friends, Shuffles and me, for he has twice saved my life, -and he meant well toward me, I is sart’in, fearin’ I sh’u’d git too -much, so he put water in my whisky, and I’d kill my brother fer a -insult like that.” - -“I can believe you; but may he not have been only wounded?” - -“Yer don’t know me, pard, for I never wastes powder and lead, but -shoots to kill. I is sorry my poor pard Shuffles committed suicide, -for he should have know’d me well; but he’s out o’ misery now, and -I’ll pay all ther expenses of ther funeral and give him a beautiful -send-off on ther trail ter glory, an’ put up a stone over him with -a inscription as a warnin’ to them who puts water in whisky, which -I drinks ter git all o’ ther leetle devil out of it I kin. Does yer -tumble?” - -“Oh, yes; but do you still wish to play with me?” - -“Does I?” - -“Yes.” - -“Why, pard, I is in fer a game o’ anything with you.” - -“Then let us begin.” - -The words were so quietly uttered, the look of the scout was so calm, -that it checked the devil gaining the ascendency of the man for a -minute. - -“All right, pard, I is ready.” - -The cards were shuffled, cut for the deal, and Buffalo Bill won. Then -the game was begun. - -All who watched the two men, and they were all who could crowd about -them, saw that the scout was as cool as an icicle, showing not the -slightest dread of what any one who was near felt sure must end in a -deadly encounter between the two players. - -Buffalo Bill serenely smoked his cigar, his face remaining -impassive, and yet those who watched him closely saw that his eyes -were rather upon his adversary than his cards. - -The game was played more carefully by Pistols than those who saw -him believed possible, for he was cautious in all he did and leered -maliciously at Buffalo Bill when he gained a point. At last he seemed -to brighten up and said: - -“A hundred on my hand, Buffalo Bill.” - -“Mine is worth twice that sum.” - -“I’ll add that more to mine.” - -“So will I,” was the quiet response. - -“I calls yer.” - -“Four aces,” and Buffalo Bill laid the cards upon the table. - -“Durn yer,” said the miner without showing his hand, and the scout -pocketed the money. - -That Pistols felt his loss was evident to all, for his face grew -darker and an uglier look came into his eyes. - -“Well, how much is your hand worth, Mister Pistols?” asked the scout, -when the climax of the second game came around. - -“It’s worth a hundred,” and Pistols appeared confident, then. - -“No more?” - -“Well, what is your hand worth?” - -“Just five hundred dollars, no more no less.” - -The miner started. Could it be possible that the scout held a better -hand than he did this time? No, it could not be. The lightning would -not strike twice in the same spot. - -“I jist says show up to ther tune of five hundred.” - -Buffalo Bill put up the money he had just won, adding more to it, and -said: - -“There, match that with five hundred.” - -The miner drew out a greasy buckskin bag and took out a roll of -bills. He counted out very slowly five hundred dollars, and it could -be seen that very little remained in the bag. - -“Thar she goes, and yer needn’t squint at ther bag, fer thar is more -whar thet come from. Now I’m thinkin’ your money is mine, so show yer -hand.” - -“Four aces,” said the scout, without the change of a muscle. - -“Four aces!” roared the miner. “Four aces agin’ my four kings! How -comes that?” - -“You dealt, pard, and were more generous to me than to yourself,” and -Buffalo Bill very quietly put the money in his pocket, while he said: - -“I’ll play you another game to give you a chance to win back your -money, or lose more, if you wish it.” - -“There’s only one more game I’ll play with you, Buffalo Bill, and -that’s with these,” and the miner quickly leveled his revolvers. - - - - - CHAPTER XIV. - - TURNING THE TABLES. - - -The miner’s words and act at once cleared a lane behind Buffalo Bill -and himself between the crowds that had gathered around. - -But the act did not appear to disturb the scout. If caught off his -guard by the sudden drawing of his revolvers by Pistols, Buffalo Bill -remained as cool as before, and said: - -“Then you are willing to play a square game with me with revolvers, -are you?” - -“I is going ter play a game with you, yes, but there’s others in it -besides, for I has something to say to you, Buffalo Bill.” - -“Talk fast then, old man, for life’s short, you know.” - -“Oh, it’ll be short enough to you, when I tells what I knows agin’ -you.” - -“What do you know?” - -“I knows that you was ther cause o’ havin’ two innocent men strung up -in Hangman’s Gulch this night. I only wish I’d been at ther hangin’, -for them wouldn’t hev been ther men thet got choked.” - -“I am listening.” - -“But me and my pard, Dave Dunn, got in too late ter save them poor -murdered men, and when I heerd what had been done, says I, thet as -Buffalo Bill will hev ter die ter-night, I’ll jist be his heir by -winning his money fu’st. So I axes yer ter play me.” - -“And I did?” - -“Yaas, for sure.” - -“And I became your heir, as you put it.” - -“So far.” - -“Well, what else?” - -“A heap, for I wants ter let ther folks know thet Dave Dunn and me -were up in ther range and seen you breakin’ inter ther cabin’ o’ -Deadshot Dean.” - -A murmur went through the crowd at this, while Buffalo Bill said -indifferently: - -“Is that all? - -“Why, I feel relieved, for I was afraid you were going to accuse me -of cheating you.” - -“Oh, no, yer played square enough, for I was a-watchin’ yer; but we -seen yer breakin’ inter Deadshot’s cabin, and Tom and Jerry caught -yer at it. But you was too soon for them, got them under ther muzzle -of yer gun, and trotted them off as house-breakers when you was the -thief.” - -“Why did you not at once come to their rescue?” asked Buffalo Bill, -when the uproar which these words created had in a measure subsided. - -“We was up in Eagle Nest Mountain, and it took us a long time ter git -down to ther valley and up to Pocket City. Then we found thet ther -folks hed believed you, Buffalo Bill, agin’ them men, and it were too -late. So we talked it over, and thar is jist a large-size community -here ter-night as says you has got ter hang, too.” - -“Why not make it by unanimous consent, Mister Pistols, for it would -sound better when reported at the fort to Colonel Dunwoody?” - -The crowd gave vent to a murmur of admiration at the scout’s pluck. -He did not appear to be in the least degree disturbed by the danger -he most certainly was in. - -“Oh, I knows yer is game, and I has just seen thet yer kin bluff, but -thet don’t go now.” - -“What does?” - -“Ropes is trumps.” - -“You intend to hang me, then?” - -“We does.” - -“Without judge or jury?” - -“We have set on your case, and it is agin’ yer.” - -“When am I to be hanged, please?” - -“Afore dawn.” - -“Isn’t that crowding matters a little?” - -“No more than you crowded it agin’ them two poor boys as was hanged -to-night.” - -“And you saw me break into Deadshot Dean’s cabin?” - -“I did.” - -“And the other witness?” - -“Was Dave Dunn.” - -“I do not believe anybody here who has common sense will believe -any such charge against me,” said the scout, while, with his elbows -resting upon the table at which he sat, Pistols held his revolver, -covering the heart of the scout. - -“Yer don’t believe it?” - -“No, I don’t.” - -“Pards, does I tell the truth?” - -In his excitement the miner turned his head, and in that instant his -revolver was struck upward and knocked from his hands by Buffalo -Bill, who now held him covered with his weapon. - -“A turn about is fair play, Mister Pistols.” - -Some laughed at this, but Pistols swore roundly, yet dared not move, -for he saw he was caught, the left hand of the scout lying upon his -own weapon where it had fallen upon the table, the right holding his -revolver within a foot of his eyes. - -But the words of the miner had been answered by a savage chorus of -voices, crying: - -“You is right, Pard Pistols, for Buffalo Bill is the guilty man.” - -Still, the pluck of the scout did not desert him, and he never -changed expression at the outburst. Encouraged by the cries of his -comrades, though under cover of the scout’s pistol, the miner said: - -“See here, Buffalo Bill, you has half a hundred guns on you, but we -don’t intend ter shoot yer, but hang yer, as you got poor Tom and -Jerry strung up, so up with yer hands, mighty quick, says I.” - -“Yes, up with your hands, Buffalo Bill!” shouted the crowd savagely, -while scores of revolvers covered the scout as he still sat at table, -facing the ringleader, whom he yet held his revolver upon, the muzzle -within a foot of his eyes. - -It certainly did look bad for Buffalo Bill, and for two reasons. -First, the charge of Pistols, backed by Dave Dunn, a reputable -miner, seemed to be believed by a great many of those present. - -Second, the crowd that backed Pistols was not only numerous, but -composed of the very worst element in the mines. This shut off many, -who felt that the accusation was utterly false, from lending any aid. - -Pistols was certainly in danger of instant death at the hands of the -scout, but the latter was equally in danger of sudden death from the -backers of his accuser. Thus the situation rested until Buffalo Bill -broke the silence with: - -“See here, Pistols, I recall that ugly face of yours, now that I get -a better look at it, and I remember you as one of Powder Face Pete’s -gang who ambushed me some time ago, under pretense that I was Silk -Lasso Sam. You wished to get rid of me then, because I make this -country too hot for just such men as you and your ilk. - -“Now, what are you going to do about it, Mister Pistols, for if I am -facing death, you are just as close as I am to it, so begin business -when you please, and you’ll find that I’ll never hang, and dying, -will take company along, so as not to get too lonesome on the trail -across the Dark River.” - -The splendid pluck of Buffalo Bill, at bay against a crowd, -delighted many present. But those who surrounded him were his foes, -and the better element hung back, feeling that a terrible scene must -follow the first shot fired. - -Pistols felt his situation keenly. The danger had sobered him. His -desire was to see Buffalo Bill hanged by the crowd, and it began -to look as though he would not be there to witness it. He felt -how certain death was for him if his comrades pushed the scout to -extremes. - -Such was the situation, and the suspense to all was fearful, -especially to Pistols and the scout, though the latter was, as a -miner expressed it to a pard: - -“Beautifully serene.” - -The crowd was becoming restless, and there were those who did not -love Pistols and would push matters to a climax to get him killed -that they might then hang the scout. - -But, just as it seemed that in another instant must come a crash, a -loud, stern voice rang out with: - -“What does this mean, holding a government officer under your guns? -Room here, men!” and, hurling men right and left by his giant -strength as though they were children, the Surgeon Scout strode to -the side of Buffalo Bill, who still sat at the table, covering the -miner with his revolver. - -A perfect yell of joy burst from many in the crowd, who thus gave -vent to their pent-up feelings as they saw the splendid form of Frank -Powell, the Surgeon Scout, in uniform, stride into the midst of the -scene. - -“Ah! doc, just in time to keep me from killing this gent, and being -made a target of myself for half a hundred bullets,” said Buffalo -Bill, still unmoved. - -“It seems that I am just in time, Bill, and if I mistake not there -are men in this crowd who will dangle at a rope’s end for this work, -if they harm a hair of your head. What does it mean?” - -The ugly element in the crowd was still paramount. It had only -received a temporary check by the coming of the Surgeon Scout. - -The greatest number of the miners present were now, however, -decidedly upon the side of law and order, but the devil in the nature -of the others was destined to lead them on to trouble. - -They did not care whether Pistols died or not at the hands of Buffalo -Bill. They hated Bill and his body-guard because they were the foes -of the bad element in the mines. They hated the army, because it put -down lawlessness. - -Here was a chance to wipe out the chief of scouts and Surgeon Powell, -of both of whom they stood in the greatest awe. - -This ugly element were sixty to two, and they had nothing to lose. -The army would sweep down upon the Yellow Dust Valley, of course, but -who could be found who was guilty, who could be punished? - -Thus the men who had backed Pistols argued, and with a desire for -a row, a wish to sacrifice Buffalo Bill and the Surgeon Scout, and -enough whisky in them to make them reckless of consequences, they -began to crowd closely upon the center of attraction, where Cody sat -still covering Pistols, and with the Surgeon Scout by his side, a -revolver in each hand. - -It was a most critical moment, for the officer and the scout saw that -the authority of the latter was going to be defied. - -“Men, don’t mind what Brass Buttons says, for, as he’s chipped inter -the game, he goes with Buffalo Bill. Don’t shoot, for that means -innocent men hurted, but capter them two gamecocks alive and hang -’em. Does I say right?” and the burly ruffian who had constituted -himself leader gazed at the crowd with a look that demanded -recognition. - -The yell that greeted his words showed the temper of the crowd, -which began to sway to and fro wildly, preparing for a rush upon the -two men now at bay. - -“I am sorry you came, Frank, for it only brings you into a tight -place,” said Buffalo Bill, in a low tone to the Surgeon Scout, and he -at once drew a second revolver from his belt to have it ready, though -he did not take his eyes off of the miner whom he covered. - -“I don’t mind it, Bill, and I’m always ready to die, if need be, for -a comrade. If they make a rush, kill that man, then stand back to -back with me and let us make a record before we go under,” was Frank -Powell’s response. - -“I’m with you, Frank,” rejoined Cody, and he added, addressing the -miner: - -“You started this circus, Mister Pistols, but you won’t see the end -of it.” - -“Cuss you, I’ll call ’em off if you’ll call it quits,” returned -Pistols eagerly, now thoroughly terrified when he saw another leader -in the field who meant to precipitate matters independent of him. - -“Pard, you talk in your sleep, for you could no more call off that -pack than you could tell the truth. No, you set the tune and the song -must be sung through.” - -In the meanwhile, the Surgeon Scout was watching the wildly swaying -crowd, which were gradually drawing closer about them, and he was -just about to open fire when there suddenly rang out a clear voice -above the noisy hum: - -“Hold! What does this mean, I should like to know?” - -Instantly there was silence, intense in that it followed such an -uproar. - -Then hats were doffed, the crowd swayed apart, and toward the table -where Buffalo Bill still held the miner under cover of his revolver, -and the Surgeon Scout stood at bay by his side, glided Bonnie Belle. - -She was dressed in a blue dress, trimmed with silver braid, wore a -slouch-hat with a heavy sable plume, and carried a revolver in each -hand. Behind her came Sandy, the driver of the Overland, and then -Scott Kindon, the captain of the Vigilantes. - -But, Bonnie Belle neither needed aid nor asked it. Her simple -presence commanded respect. - -They had deemed her far away in the East, and like an apparition she -had glided through the door she always entered by, and her white -face, now stern and threatening, showed that she was in no humor to -trifle with. - -“Ah! Surgeon Powell, it is you, and you also, Buffalo Bill, whom -these roughs hold at bay? And for what?” - -“I was scouting, Bonnie Belle, and came upon two men, Tom and Jerry -they called them, breaking into Deadshot Dean’s cabin. I made them -prisoners, brought them here, and the Vigilantes hanged them. -To-night this man, whom I have covered, accused me of breaking into -the cabin, and he was not long in getting willing hands to hang me, -and, but for the coming of Surgeon Powell, it would have been over -ere this.” - -“And I only checked the trouble for a few minutes, Bonnie Belle, -as the men turned upon me, also. I took Buffalo Bill’s trail and -followed him here, for somehow I feared he might need aid. You have -saved us both by your timely coming, unless these gentlemen wish to -push their quarrel to a conclusion.” - -But the gentlemen did not seem to be so inclined, or, if they did, -the words of Bonnie Belle checked them, for she said sternly: - -“No, there will be no trouble here, for the man who raises a weapon -against you I will kill. As for you, Pistols, if you ever enter my -hotel or this saloon again, I will see that you do not do so a second -time. Shuffles, do you hear what I say about this man?” - -A silence followed, and, as no answer came, Bonnie Belle called again: - -“Shuffles!” - -“If you are calling your man left in charge here, Bonnie Belle, he is -dead,” said Buffalo Bill, as no one else seemed to care to speak. - -“Shuffles dead?” she repeated, with a start. - -“Yes.” - -“When did he die?” - -“To-night.” - -“Ha! he was killed?” - -“Ask one of your men here to tell you about it, Bonnie Belle.” - -She called a bartender and was told the story. She listened in -silence, making no comment, and then turned to Scott Kindon and asked: - -“Captain, is this not a case of murder?” - -“It looks so, Bonnie Belle.” - -“This man Pistols has been carrying too high a hand for the safety -and comfort of the good citizens in Yellow Dust Valley, and it -appears to me that he needs disciplining by the Vigilantes.” - -“Say the word, Bonnie Belle, and he travels the trail to Hangman’s -Gulch,” the Vigilante captain said very decidedly. - -Bonnie Belle was lost for a moment in thought, while Pistols gazed at -her with a look of pleading and despair commingled. At last she spoke: - -“No, Captain Kindon, I will not say the word, for I wish no man’s -life upon my conscience, where it can be avoided. The mines will be -the better for the taking off of those men, Tom and Jerry, and it -would make it more respectable to rid us of this man Pistols. He has -no mine or claim here, carries his fortune with him, I believe, so -give him until sunrise to get out of the camps, while, that he may -not be lonesome, let this man who was leading the attack upon Surgeon -Powell and Buffalo Bill go with him. - -“Shall it be so, comrades?” and Bonnie Belle glanced over the crowd -which answered with a yell that nearly raised the roof. - - - - - CHAPTER XV. - - A MIDNIGHT INTERVIEW. - - -Pistols was too happy to escape with his life to grumble at anything -that might be put upon him, and he was only too anxious to get away -from the saloon and start upon his exile, feeling that there was -safety only in placing many miles between himself and Yellow Dust -Valley. - -Dave Dunn, the other alleged witness against Buffalo Bill, had been -led into making the charge by his comrade Pistols, and, seeing how -matters were going, had slipped out of Devil’s Den and hastened to -his cabin to prepare for an immediate farewell to Pocket City. - -The burly fellow who had made himself a leader against Surgeon Powell -would have been glad to have escaped the notice of Bonnie Belle. But -her words had brought the eyes of the Vigilantes upon him, and he -was anxious to get away, and so with Pistols skulked out into the -darkness. - -They had hastened to their respective quarters then, making an -agreement to meet at Dave Dunn’s in half an hour’s time, and when -the sun rose the two were making tracks down the valley, carrying -their belongings upon a pole slung between two of them, and with all -the wealth they possessed in their pockets. - -“I would like to see you and Buffalo Bill, Surgeon Powell,” Bonnie -Belle had said, in a low tone. - -“We are going at once to the hotel.” - -“I will see you there,” and Bonnie Belle circled about the room, -greeted everywhere with the most cordial welcome. - -In the meanwhile Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill were congratulated -on all sides by those who had not had the nerve to come to their -rescue. - -But they received all that was said coldly, gaging it at about what -it was worth, and passed out of the saloon on to the hotel. - -The scout already had a room there, and the surgeon was given one -next to him, and so they repaired to them at once. - -“It came over me, Bill, to follow you, believing I might be of -service. I am not superstitious, as you know, but I had a dream in -which I saw you in a close place with Indians about you, and when I -awoke it was all so vivid to me that I wrote the colonel a note and -started upon your trail without waiting until dawn. I went on to the -end of Horseshoe Ned’s run, and he told me you were going down to -Pocket City, so here I came.” - -“And just in time, Frank, to save my life.” - -“It seems so. I was told you were here, so I went over to the Den and -saw what was going on, so chipped in. But, though I postponed matters -for a while, we both would have been food for coyotes at this present -time had not Bonnie Belle arrived as she did.” - -“And how did she come?” - -“I do not know.” - -“She started East from the Junction.” - -“Well, she came here instead, fortunately for us---- Come in!” - -A Chinese servant entered and said: - -“Misses say ’Melican man come with Chinaman.” - -This invitation was promptly accepted by the surgeon and the scout, -and they were led by the Chinaman to the private quarters of Bonnie -Belle. There she had a supper spread out for them, though it was -after one o’clock, and, receiving them cordially, said: - -“I wish to have a talk with you, gentlemen, and you will join me at -supper, please.” - -They readily consented, the Chinaman waiting upon the table, and -Bonnie Belle showing herself to be a most charming hostess. - -The supper over, and the Chinaman having departed, Bonnie Belle -handed her guests a couple of fine cigars and said: - -“I enjoy the fragrance of tobacco smoke, so please light them.” - -They did so, and then Bonnie Belle threw herself into an easy chair -in a tired way and said: - -“I am really fatigued, for I have had a long ride since leaving the -fort. I knew that you were upon my trail, Buffalo Bill, and I am glad -that you were, as you came up in time to have served both Horseshoe -Ned and myself well, but for the fact that our enemy had already been -placed hors de combat.” - -“Yes, you are fully able to protect yourself, Bonnie Belle,” said the -scout. - -“And others, too,” remarked Surgeon Powell. - -“Well, as I wished to throw you off the scent I went on eastward by -stage; but only for a couple of stations, where I secured a horse -and guide, going across country to head off Sandy on his way here. I -caught his coach and made him promise not to tell of my arrival, so -he drove, as there were no other passengers, at once to the stables, -and I got out there and ran to my rooms here. It was Sandy who heard -of the row in the Den, and he came for me, just as I intended going -into the saloon as a surprise. Now I have a favor to ask of both of -you.” - -“Granted before asked,” said Surgeon Powell. - -“Ditto,” responded Buffalo Bill. - -“You are very kind, to offer to grant me a favor without knowing what -it is. Suppose I ask you something that you cannot conscientiously -do?” said Bonnie Belle, with a smile. - -“That is impossible, for _you_ would not ask anything of us which we -cannot conscientiously do,” was the response of the surgeon. - -“It is not too much to ask, I feel. It would have to be much, indeed, -for us to refuse you, Bonnie Belle, for both of us owe you our lives, -and you may be sure, if not profuse in thanks, we appreciate that -we are under obligations to you,” and Surgeon Powell’s manner was -sincere. - -“Do not speak of what I did, for one does not deserve either thanks -or gratitude for doing one’s duty. No, I only wished to ask you both -not to betray me.” - -“Not to betray you?” - -“Yes, for no one knows here, except you two gentlemen, that I am the -sister of the condemned outlaw, Silk Lasso Sam. Not a soul do I wish -to know it.” - -“And no one shall through me,” said Powell. - -“Nor through word of mine,” added Buffalo Bill. - -“I believe that Captain Caruth suspected me, and yet when I met him -face to face at the fort he did not by any act show that he did. He -simply looked as though he recalled Bonnie Belle in Miss Ruth Arden, -and, if so, I wish that you would ask him also to keep my secret.” - -“I will.” - -“And he will do it.” - -“I do not care to have any one here know that I am the sister of the -outlaw, for it would bring me under a suspicion here with many which -I would not care for. Now I can do good, and I have a certain power -over the wildest spirits here, which you had an opportunity to see -yourselves to-night.” - -“We did, indeed,” said Buffalo Bill. - -“And it was in our behalf. You have indeed wonderful power over -the wild savages that congregate here in Pocket City,” the surgeon -remarked. - -“As the sister of the outlaw chief, no matter how innocent I might -be, you can well understand how I would lose my power. A wicked man -might influence them, yet not a wicked woman. It is only by holding -myself pure in all things that I retain my influence, and I wish to -be so respected unto the end.” - -“You are a very remarkable woman, Bonnie Belle, and one whom both -Cody and myself hold the highest respect for. Let me tell you, if it -is a pleasure for you to know it, that you are most highly respected -and admired by all at the fort, especially by the warm friends you -made in Colonel Dunwoody, Major and Mrs. Lester, and Miss Carr. - -“Did they know you as Bonnie Belle they would not change their -opinions in one iota regarding you. But, I can well understand that -this community, knowing you to be the sister of Silk Lasso Sam, would -at once suspect you of being secretly his ally in wrong-doing, so -your secret shall be kept.” - -“I thank you most sincerely, Surgeon Powell.” - -“And permit me to say, Bonnie Belle, that I switch off your trail at -once. I followed, for I believed that you intended to rescue your -brother,” said Buffalo Bill. “I believed that you went to the fort -to accomplish it by strategy, and, finding yourself thwarted, gave -it up. Then, I frankly confess, my idea was that you intended to -accomplish by force what you had failed to do by strategy, that is, -secure a number of men here who would follow your lead and thus -rescue your brother.” - -“No, I would not accomplish his rescue, save his life even, by the -taking of another life. What I could not accomplish by strategy I -would not do by force.” - -“I can believe that of you now, since what you have done and said -to-night.” - -“Let me tell you, Buffalo Bill, what I could have done to-night,” -said Bonnie Belle eagerly. - -“Yes.” - -“I could have seized both you and Surgeon Powell, sent you into -hiding where your best scouts could not have found you, and there -have held you as hostages to be given in exchange for my brother, or -put to death if he was executed.” - -“You are right; you surely could have done that.” - -“Without doubt,” added Frank Powell. - -“But I would not do so, and I would not be known as connected with -the outlaw in any way, and I thank you both for your promise not to -betray me. It is late now, so I will say good night, and I will be -glad to have you breakfast with me at nine, for that will give you -seven hours’ sleep. Good night.” - -They bowed themselves out, both impressed with the thought that they -had stood in the presence of a very superior woman and one as pure -as a pearl, in spite of her surroundings and the calling she followed -as mistress of the Frying Pan and the Devil’s Den. - -“Frank, I would not place a straw in the way of that girl to do her -harm,” said Buffalo Bill, as the two friends reached their room. - -“I would protect her from harm with my life, Bill,” was the Surgeon -Scout’s rejoinder. - -“Do you know she takes the coming execution of her brother, loving -him as she does, very coolly. - -“Yes, Bill, and it sets me to thinking.” - -“And me.” - -“You have an idea?” - -“Yes.” - -“What is it?” - -“That she may accomplish by strategy after all the rescue of Silk -Lasso Sam.” - -“It may be, for she is a very clever woman, and one dangerous to balk -when she sets her mind upon carrying out a plot.” - - - - - CHAPTER XVI. - - A BORDER BURIAL. - - -The morning dawned upon Yellow Dust Valley with Pistols, and Dave -Dunn, and their other ally, Maddox, making tracks out of the valley -with an anxiety to place many miles between themselves and the -citizens of Pocket City in as short a space of time as was possible. - -Crowds are proverbially fickle, and the thought in the minds of the -three fugitives was that the mob might decide to change its mind -and hang them, when it came to attend the funeral of Shuffles, whom -Pistols had so wantonly shot. - -While these three were keeping up a quick step for safety, as if by -common consent, Pocket City was taking a holiday. - -The miners had held open house at Devil’s Den until very late, or, -rather, early, for the gray of dawn was visible in the east when the -doors of the saloon were at last closed. - -Business had been good for the saloon, and bad for many a gambler, -and the employees were anxious to get the accounts straightened out -before Bonnie Belle examined the sales, expenses, and profits. - -Shuffles had been a universal favorite, for he was always polite, -obliging, and generous. He could never refuse a poor devil a drink -and would chalk the amount against himself, so that at the end of the -month he would only have a small sum coming to him out of his wages. - -Bonnie Belle had held the money back until just before her departure -for the East, when she had placed him in charge of the saloon, and at -the same time said to him: - -“Shuffles, you have been here for several years, and Landlord Lazarus -gave you the name of being a very honest man. In the past ten months -you have charged to yourself nearly two-thirds of your wages for -favors shown others who have never paid you. - -“I have kept it back, as I knew that it would be loaned away or -spent. I now hold for you the sum of what those amounts are, and -its total is a trifle over eight hundred dollars. When it reaches a -thousand I shall send it to your mother, of whom you have so often -spoken to me, to keep for you, and who you say has a mortgage on her -little farm which she and your two younger brothers are working hard -to pay off. How much is that mortgage?” - -Shuffles could hardly speak, his heart was so full of joy and -gratitude. But at last he faltered: - -“It is eleven hundred dollars, miss, for I sent mother fifty dollars -last week; but, oh! what can I do to thank you for your goodness to -me?” - -“Act as squarely by me as you have done in the past, and manage the -Den for me until further instructions.” - -“I will, miss, I will.” - -And upon the very night of Bonnie Belle’s return poor Shuffles -shuffled off this mortal coil, murdered for doing a kind act in -preventing Pistols from getting drunk, unmindful of the terrible fate -of a man who waters another man’s whisky. - -There was no contract between Bonnie Belle and her dead clerk, but -the morning after his death she arose, and her first duty was to -write a long letter to his mother, stating that he had been shot by a -desperado, whom he had once saved from being killed. - -She also stated that he should be buried with proper decency, -and that his effects should be sent to her at once, along with -twelve hundred dollars salary in her hands, due him, while a purse -contributed by the miners she begged her acceptance of, as it would -show in what esteem her dead son was held by those among whom he -associated. - -There was not a word as to his calling, or a word to cast a shadow -upon the mother’s love for her son. - -Bonnie Belle had just finished her letter when Surgeon Powell and -Buffalo Bill were ushered into her pleasant sitting-room, by Sly -Cheek, the Chinaman, who deserved his name most certainly. She -welcomed them pleasantly, told them of her letter to Shuffles’ -mother, and added: - -“Pocket City was up all night, so is resting now, for it is arranged -to give poor Shuffles a grand funeral this afternoon. An itinerant -organ-grinder was shot here some months ago, and his instrument -has been pressed into service as a brass band, while a quartet of -really fine voices are rehearsing a hymn which some clever fellow -has discovered can be sung to the air of “Tramp, Tramp, the Boys -are Marching,” the chorus being an original one written by a poor -poet here who gave up the pen for the pick and has made a failure -with both. You surely will remain to the funeral, gentlemen, of poor -Shuffles, for it would be a mark of respect the miners would never -forget you for showing?” - -“Outside of that inducement, Bonnie Bell, I would not miss it for the -world,” said the Surgeon Scout, with enthusiasm. - -“Yes, I know we should enjoy it,” Buffalo Bill added absent-mindedly, -his eyes upon a venison steak which Sly Cheek had just helped him to. - -“Enjoy it, Buffalo Bill?” said Bonnie Belle reproachfully. - -“No, I mean we should be delighted to attend, for if there is -anything that will keep me away from church on a Sabbath day it is -to attend a first-class border funeral, when the chief mourner is -generally the man who turned up the toes of the lamented corpse. -We will see Shuffles laid to rest, Bonnie Belle, and, as you spoke -of raising a purse for his mother, let me offer you now a hundred -dollars.” - -“Wait, please, until I call for the subscription, and then I will -accept your very generous offer,” was Bonnie Belle’s response. - -It was when the bugle sounded at noon, calling the miners to dinner -at the Frying Pan, the Pocket City really awoke to the situation. - -Scott Kindon, the Vigilante captain, set the example of respect by -closing his store and hanging in front of it a piece of black calico. - -The Devil’s Den had not been opened after its night closing, and the -door had been tastefully draped by Bonnie Belle with crape. - -The body of Shuffles was laid out upon the piazza of the Frying Pan, -in a coffin. A United States flag, brought into requisition on all -occasions, was spread over it, and two miners stood guard over the -remains, rifles in hand. It is safe to predict that had Pistols put -in an appearance then he would have been at once placed in the same -position of the lamented Shuffles. - -The crowd began to gather from one end of the valley to the other, -and miners came up with the hand-organ of the dead grinder in a -wheelbarrow. Placing the organ at the foot of the coffin one of the -miners began to play, and all during dinner such airs were ground out -as: - -“Johnny Comes Marching Home,” “The Girl I Left Behind Me,” “A Life On -the Ocean Wave,” “John Brown’s Body,” and others more or less suited -to the occasion. - -There were many extras who took dinner at the Frying Pan that day, so -that the Chinese servants were kept busy; but there was enough for -all, for Bonnie Belle kept a generously supplied table, and there was -never heard the slightest murmur of discontent. - -At last Bonnie Belle appeared upon the piazza, and, as the bars had -all been closed, she looked upon a sober crowd, though not a few were -still unsteady from the effects of drinking the night before. - -At her appearance all head-gear was raised. She was dressed in black, -slouch-hat, sable plume and all, as a mark of respect, and carried in -her hand a small basket. - -“Comrades,” she said with one of her sweetest smiles, and placing her -hand gently upon the head of the dead man lying in the coffin, “I -thank you all for coming here, for we are burying to-day a friend, -one whom we can all call by that sacred name, a name so often abused. -You knew poor Shuffles as he was yesterday, the day before, and -always, true as steel, generous to a fault, and a good man as far as -he understood right and wrong. - -“You know that he was murdered while he sought to do a kindness. But -you do not all know that he has a poor mother in the far-away State -of Connecticut living upon a farm which she and her three sons were -trying to free from debt. The oldest son lies here, dead, and no help -will she ever get from him now. - -“So it is that I ask you, in your generosity to contribute as you -can and will to the purse I wish to raise and send to her. One of -our guests here, Buffalo Bill, was the first to volunteer, and most -liberally, and he was followed by his comrade in arms, Surgeon Frank -Powell, and now I ask all to come forward and contribute their mite, -be it ever so little.” - -She turned to Buffalo Bill and he dropped a roll of bills into the -basket; Surgeon Powell did the same, and then the employees of the -Frying Pan and Devil’s Den followed, after which the miners came -forward in a steady stream, while, not to be outdone, the Chinese -servants “clubbed in” for the mother of the dead “’Melican man.” - -“Surgeon Powell, will you please count this contribution and state to -the donors just what it amounts to?” asked Bonnie Belle. - -The Surgeon Scout obeyed, and answered: - -“Gold-dust valued at five hundred dollars, bills amounting to four -hundred and fifty; gold pieces, one hundred and sixty, and silver one -hundred and forty, with a score of I. O. U.’s amounting to a hundred -dollars.” - -“I will cash those I. O. U.’s, and that makes a most generous -contribution of thirteen hundred and fifty dollars,” said Bonnie -Belle. - -This ceremony over with, the pall-bearers were called, the body was -taken up, and the cortège started for Sunset Hill, Bonnie Belle -escorted by Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill, and the miners following -in fours, while the organ led the way with “The Campbells are -Coming,” and “John Brown’s Body.” - -Arriving at the grave the hymn was sung by the quartet, all joining -in the original chorus written by the miner-poet, with a will that -sent a roar of melody down the valley to rebound from the distant -cliffs with many an echo. - -Then the body was lowered into the grave, while Surgeon Powell took -up a shovel and said in his deep, sympathetic voice: - -“We commit this body to the ground, earth to earth, ashes to ashes, -dust to dust.” - -Then as all stood with bowed, uncovered heads, there arose upon the -air a voice full of melody and pathos singing: - - “Nearer my God to Thee.” - -From beginning to end in her superb, rich tones, Bonnie Belle sang -the beautiful hymn, and when the last word was uttered, tears rolled -across faces furrowed and brown which had not been thus wet since -childhood. Manly hearts heaved convulsively with emotions which -overwhelmed them, and many a miner went to his cabin home from Sunset -Hill a better man for the burial he had witnessed of poor Shuffles. - - - - - CHAPTER XVII. - - A SISTER OF MERCY. - - -Let us now return to the fort, after the departure of Ruth Arden. It -has been seen how the coach was held up on the trail, at Deep Dell -Brook, and that the road-agent quickly met his punishment at the -hands of Ruth, whose shooting was the admiration of Horseshoe Ned, -for he told the story over and over again at the station. - -Buffalo Bill, it has also been seen, followed the trail until -convinced that Ruth had gone East, and yet, to make sure, he had gone -to Pocket City, where he had saved Deadshot Dean’s cabin from being -broken into, and got Tom and Jerry into trouble for their lawless -housebreaking. - -Having had the dream he had, of Buffalo Bill being hemmed in by -redskins, Surgeon Powell, his stanch friend, had gone off upon his -trail, with a result already known to the reader. - -The departure of the chief of scouts and the Surgeon Scout, so soon -after the going of Ruth Arden, set a number in the fort to thinking -what it could mean. - -The visit of the young girl was discussed over and over again, not -only in the officers’ families, but at the clubs, and also in the -barracks among the men and in the settlement adjoining the fort. - -It seemed strange to outsiders that Colonel Dunwoody should be so -attentive to the sister of an outlaw, and that Major Lester and his -wife should have her for their guest, while Clarice Carr had been -seen so much with her. - -At the officers’ club the younger men hinted that it was a case of -love at first sight with the colonel, and all wondered just how it -would turn out. Certain the colonel had made no effort thus far to -get a pardon for the prisoner, even though doubtless urged to do so -by the outlaw’s beautiful sister. - -There was one thing which Ruth had asked of Clarice Carr, and that -was to see her brother and try and influence him for a better life, -even though, as she said, she knew that he was under the shadow of -the gallows, and that the day of his doom was drawing near. - -In obedience to this wish, the day after the departure of Ruth, -Clarice Carr obtained permission from the colonel to visit the -prisoner. It was given freely for her to go and come at will, as -Ruth had asked it. She accordingly went to the cabin, accompanied by -Captain Caruth, and the sentinel had orders to admit her. - -Arden Leigh, the outlaw, sat there, as he had when his sister had -visited him, taking matters very calmly. He arose at her entrance, -the clanking of his chains sounding very harsh in the ears of Clarice. - -“Miss Carr, this is an honor I had not anticipated,” he said, -standing and motioning to her to take his seat. - -“Your sister asked me to see you, and I have come to know if there is -aught that I can do for you.” - -“It is more than kind of you, Miss Carr, as you are the one I plotted -to rob of a large ransom. You have a good heart to forgive me.” - -“I only hope that all your sins may be forgiven as readily as I -forgive your sin against me, sir. But is there aught that you need -that I can send to you?” - -“Nothing. My wants are few, and they will be but for a short while, -as you know just one week from to-day I am to be hanged.” - -“So soon?” - -“Yes, it is to be on Friday, the thirteenth of the month.” - -“And are you prepared to die, Mr.--Mr.--Arden?” - -“In what sense do you mean, Miss Carr?” - -“Have you made your peace with God and man?” - -“I leave my life to man, who will take it, and if I have a soul it -must go to the keeping of God, who gave it.” - -“Then you will not pray for forgiveness for your sins?” - -“I will ask no mercy of a God whose laws I have outraged, and I ask -nothing of man. I have taken human life, and I have committed every -sin in the calendar of wickedness, I suppose. Yet all might have been -different had my earlier years been shaped in a different way, Miss -Carr. - -“My mother was lenient and forgiving, my father allowed me free -rein, and the only check I had upon my temper and temptations was my -little sister, then too young to understand me, or guide me aright. -When I fell in love with one who could have brought me back from the -precipice I was upon; could have made a good man of me, ready to -atone for the past in every way in my power, I found that she turned -from me for the love of another, my rival, whom I hated. - -“That was the turning-point of my life, Miss Carr, and from that -day I made men and women alike fair game. You see what my evil life -has brought me to, and, as I do not believe in death-bed repentance, -in outraging God and humanity, I will not now, when I can do nothing -else, appeal for mercy for sins I committed with my eyes open, and -without mercy to those who were my victims. - -“As I have lived, so will I die, Miss Carr, without fear. Come and -see me executed, will you not?” and Silk Lasso Sam smiled as sweetly -as though the shadow of death hovered not over him. - -Clarice Carr was greatly shocked at the words and indifference of -the doomed man to his fate, his execution upon the gallows, and his -recklessness of pardon beyond the grave. But she said, calmly and -sincerely: - -“Mr. Arden, though I would shun the scene in which you must be an -actor soon, as I would shun an open grave, yet, if my presence there -could add one atom of comfort to you, could smooth your last moments, -as your sister’s loving heart might, I would go with you willingly -under the very shadow of the gallows, and be the last one to clasp -your hand in farewell.” - -The man started at her words and half-held out his manacled hands, -while his face changed from its stern expression to one of softness. - -“It is just such women as you, Miss Carr, who keep the world good, -and my sister is one like you. Had I my life to live over again -I would be a different man, but now I shall face the alternative -unflinchingly. I thank you for your kindness in coming to me, for it -shows a forgiving spirit and sacrifice of self, and my sister will -appreciate it I know.” - -Clarice could say no more to such a man. She, too, was not one to -believe that a man can sin at will, commit the most heinous of -crimes, and then, when the law gets its clutch upon him and he can -sin no more, when the shadow of death is upon him, that he can turn -from his wickedness to prayer, to repentance, as a drowning man -catches at a straw. - -So she wisely did not linger, for what could she tell such a man of -sweet forgiveness, or what could she say to console him in the face -of the hangman fitting the noose for his neck. - -“If you feel that I can serve you, Mr. Arden, send for me. I will -send you some books to read, and if there is anything we can prepare -for you to eat we will gladly do so.” - -With this Clarice Carr left the cabin of the doomed outlaw. She had -done her duty, and, unless he sent for her, she would not care to -see him again. Should he send for her to cheer him in the last awful -moment, she would go without the slightest hesitation. - -Returning to her home, she told Major Lester and his wife just what -had occurred, and they, too, felt that she had done only what was -right. And yet, the next evening the sentinel on duty at the cabin -saw Miss Carr approaching. - -He had had orders to admit her at her will, and, as she drew near, -her face closely veiled, she said, in a low tone: - -“You have orders to admit Miss Carr, have you not, sentinel?” - -“Yes, miss. Pass on!” and the sentinel resumed his steady pace to and -fro, as soon as he had taken the outer beat, some thirty paces away -from the cabin. - -“Ah! Miss Carr, you have come again to see me in my loneliness,” said -the prisoner, rising as the visitor entered. - -The veil was thrown back, and, instead of Clarice Carr, it was Nina -de Sutro who stood before him. - -“Nina! is it you?” - -“Sh---- It is not for you to call me by that name where it might be -heard. I am Miss De Sutro to you, as to others.” - -“Why this disguise in coming to see me?” - -“Am I disguised?” - -“You surely wear the dress and hat of Miss Carr, and a veil?” - -“True, about the hat, and being veiled, for I borrowed the hat to -trim one like it; the veil is mine, for I did not care to have my -face seen, and the dress is Mrs. De Sutro’s and is a match for one -belonging to Clarice.” - -“But why?” - -“Well, I do not intend to compromise myself, and I could find no -excuse to ask to come and see you, so I decided upon strategy.” - -“You were anxious to see me, then?” - -“Nothing of the kind.” - -“Why did you come, then?” - -“Because I had to do so.” - -“Ah! a woman’s reason.” - -“Yes, _because_.” - -“And you impersonated Miss Carr?” - -“I did, for she has gone off with a party for a drive to the -settlement, and you know that she got permission from Colonel -Dunwoody to see you, as _your sister_ asked it.” - -“You speak as though you did not believe it was my sister?” - -“Yes, she said so.” - -“And you doubt her?” - -“Oh, no.” - -“What then?” - -“I would believe anything she told me, for I never saw a truer, -lovelier face, so unlike your own.” - -“Mine is stamped indelibly with crime.” - -“I am glad that you admit as much. But I went to see your sister.” - -“She refused to see any one.” - -“Very true, but I am no blunderer, and I went about it in a way that -won.” - -“I hope you will not blunder when it comes to my rescue.” - -“That is why I have come to see you.” - -“Well?” - -“I have come to tell you that I do not intend to rescue you, or even -make the attempt,” was the cool reply of the woman. - -The man started visibly at her words. He gazed at her with a look -which seemed to pierce to her very soul. - -“Do you mean what you say?” - -“I do.” - -“You do not intend to attempt my rescue?” - -“I do not.” - -“You have changed your mind?” - -“I have.” - -“For some reason?” - -“Yes.” - -“What?” - -“Well, I see no need of it.” - -“You do not?” - -“I do not.” - -“You have thought of the consequences?” - -“I have.” - -“You know that if I am not rescued I will only die upon the gallows?” - -“Oh, yes.” - -“Still you refuse?” - -“I do.” - -“You are aware of my threat?” - -“To expose me?” - -“Yes.” - -“To tell every one that you are my husband?” - -“Yes. It will disgrace you.” - -“Oh, yes, in one sense of the word.” - -“And you do not care?” - -“Well, not so much as I did.” - -“You are willing to be considered the wife of the outlaw, Silk Lasso -Sam?” - -“No, I am not willing.” - -“What then?” - -“I cannot help myself.” - -“Then rescue me.” - -“I cannot.” - -“Then I shall keep my threat.” - -“All right.” - -“You seem indifferent?” - -“I am not indifferent; but I shall, when I see that there is no help -for it, go to Colonel Dunwoody with Lieutenant-Colonel De Sutro and -his wife and tell him the truth.” - -“You dare not.” - -“Oh, yes, I dare. I shall have as witnesses Major and Mrs. Lester, -Clarice Carr, Captain Caruth, Surgeon Frank Powell, Lieutenant -Turpin, and Buffalo Bill. I will tell my story as it was, Colonel De -Sutro and his wife will vouch for it, and I will not only have the -sympathy of all, but will be a heroine as well.” - -“You will be disgraced.” - -“No, for your sins will not be visited upon my head, and when you -tell the story on the gallows, my prior confession will have taken -the sting from it.” - -“I do not believe you will do it!” - -“Then you do not know me.” - -“I cannot believe it. Then you would see me die?” - -“You deserve death most certainly.” - -“Are you to be my judge?” - -“Oh, no, you already have been judged and condemned.” - -“And my death will be upon your head, for you could save me if you -would.” - -“I did not cause your capture.” - -“That is not the question.” - -“What is?” - -“You would sacrifice me when you could save me.” - -“Let me tell you, Arden, for I believe that is your name, unless your -sister is also sailing under false colors, that you sacrificed me -without mercy, and would have been glad to have had me put an end to -my life in my despair, or have gone utterly to the bad. It took me a -long time to turn my love for you into the bitter hatred I feel for -you now, and I will tell you the truth when I say that upon the night -following the day of your death upon the gallows I will sleep as -serenely as an infant, far more so than I would if you had escaped, -and I expected you to appear again in my life to work me evil.” - -“Woman, you are a beautiful devil.” - -“Thanks for the compliment, for it is not many who can be a devil and -beautiful as well.” - -“You will not rest so easy as you say, for I swear that I will haunt -you.” - -The woman laughed. - -“Ah! but I will haunt you, Nina de Sutro, until I drive you to -despair, to madness, to death.” - -The man’s face was livid now, for he felt all that he uttered. But -the woman was wholly unmoved. She gazed fixedly at him a moment and -said: - -“Poor creature, you already haunt me while living. You will haunt me -less when dead, for then you know I will be a widow, and I can find -some one else to love me, for I’ll tell you now that one reason why I -do not attempt your rescue is because I have discovered that I cannot -win the man whom I love. I see with wide-open eyes, Arden, and I have -seen that the man I sought to win, and believed that I could, is -madly in love with your sister.” - -“With my sister?” gasped the outlaw. - -“Oh, yes, with your beautiful sister.” - -“Where did he know her?” - -“Only since she has been here.” - -“He knows her to be my sister?” - -“Yes, and pitied her, and pity begets love, you know.” - -“Does he know aught else about her?” - -“What else is there for him to know?” - -“Only that she is pure, beautiful, and good, a possessor of a fortune -of her own, and mine, for I was disinherited, and that she is the -sister of Silk Lasso Sam.” - -“I do not believe that he knows aught of her other than that her face -shows her virtues, and her tongue has confessed to him the shame of -being _your_ sister,” was the studied reply of Nina de Sutro. - -The outlaw was deeply impressed by what he had been told by Nina de -Sutro. Could it be really true that a man had fallen in love with his -sister, knowing nothing more about her than that she was his sister? - -Yet when he remembered how lovely she was in face and form, how noble -was her nature, and the imprint of her pure soul was stamped upon -every feature, he did not wonder that she could win the love of any -one. At last, after a silence that began to be painful to Nina de -Sutro, in spite of her nerve, and her daring defiance of the man, the -outlaw said: - -“I am remarkably situated, I think.” - -“How so?” - -“Well, I have a beautiful wife, who has learned to love another man, -who in his turn loves another. That other is my lovely sister, about -whom all that is known is that she is the sister of Silk Lasso Sam.” - -“Well, it shows how unworthily two beautiful women have loved, for I -simply apply to myself the praise you have bestowed, not to speak of -many others.” - -“Oh, yes, you are beautiful--so is a serpent.” - -“Thanks.” - -“Now, to this man?” - -“Who?” - -“The one who you say has fallen in love with my sister.” - -“What of him?” - -“That is what I wish to ask you, Miss De Sutro?” - -“Well, he is a man in the true sense of the word, one of nature’s -noblemen, as they say in novels. He is handsome, too, has won -a deserved name for gallantry on the field, and what is most -remarkable, is popular with both men and women.” - -“He must be a saint, or a devil, for you know wicked men win women.” - -“Yes, I have had a very sad experience in that respect.” - -“But continue, please, with your description of your hero.” - -“There is little more to say other than that he has rank, is -brilliant, fascinating, and rich, so the idea of your sister’s riches -would not have influence with him.” - -“Who is this paragon?” - -“The man I love.” - -“This from a wife to a husband?” - -“Why not, from an outraged wife to a demon husband who has turned the -purest love into the bitterest hate? Yes, I do love him, and when I -saw that he loved your sister then I decided, especially as I had -another reason, that I would not raise a hand to save your neck.” - -“Who is this man?” - -“One who has a sentiment. Years ago, when a young cadet, he saw a -portrait in an art-gallery of a face he became fascinated with. That -portrait had been painted by a young artist of his lady-love, one -whom he hopelessly loved, so the story went. - -“He was refused and took to a life of dissipation to drown the -anguish of his unrequited love. He went to the dogs, and at last, to -buy rum, parted with all he had left in that portrait. It was put -into an art exhibition by the purchaser and won the first prize, a -gold medal and a thousand dollars. - -“The purchaser hastened to the studio of the artist to give him the -medal and share with him the prize-money, and found him sitting dead -in his chair, his palette and brush still grasped in his hand. He had -just finished painting a likeness of himself, seated at a table with -Death, a grim skeleton, throwing dice together, and with a decanter -and glasses between them. - -“The owner of the portrait was so impressed by the death of the young -artist, and his last painting, entitled ‘The Last Chance,’ that he -sold them both to a dealer, for he took charge of the remains and had -them decently buried. The purchaser of one of these portraits was the -man I love, for he fell in love with the portrait of his ideal of -womanhood and paid a large sum for it. He has it with him to-day. The -other portrait was purchased by the artist’s rival, who married the -maiden who discarded him. Do you remember the story, Arden?” - -“Perfectly, for the portrait was of my mother, of whom my sister was -a perfect likeness, and my father purchased the painting of ‘The Last -Chance,’ and it is in the old homestead to-day.” - -“You are right, for so your sister told this man of whom I speak. -He told me of the portrait, of his purchasing it, and the story he -had heard regarding the artist. She at once told him the name of the -artist, and more, that ‘The Last Chance’ was her property, for the -story was talked of last night in my presence. - -“Having fallen in love with the portrait, keeping it as his ideal of -a woman, when he met its counterpart, in your sister, he naturally -loved her at once. Could I work against such a cruel fate as that to -win that man? Oh, no, I know when I am defeated, and I gave up the -game, for the cards were against me, and, though tempted, I would -not commit a crime to win. Now shall I tell you who this man is that -loved an ideal and found the real?” - -“Yes.” - -“_Colonel Dunwoody_,” was the answer. - -“Colonel Dunwoody?” said the outlaw, in a tone of utter surprise. - -“Yes.” - -“I am surprised.” - -“Why so?” - -“I had heard it said there was a dead romance in his life never to be -resurrected.” - -“No, it was the romance of the portrait ideal. Had he never met -your sister, the reality of the ideal, I could have won him, though -perhaps never the love I would have wanted, still the love that I -would have been satisfied with.” - -“You are very particular.” - -“Would that I had been more so in the past.” - -“Love is a lottery.” - -“Yes, I grant that; but what do you think of your brother-in-law in -prospective, though, of course, you will never know him as such, -having been hanged by his order.” - -“Nonsense.” - -“Oh, no, sound sense.” - -“He will never wed Ruth.” - -“He will.” - -“She would never wed the man who signed my death-warrant, love him as -she might ever so dearly.” - -“Ah! I had not thought of that.” - -“Then you do not know her nature.” - -“Well, he will sign your death-warrant, and, now I come to recall her -face, she would not marry the man whose signature was attached to it, -so after all there may be a chance for me.” - -“Not the slightest.” - -“Why not?” - -“Having loved an ideal and found her but to lose her, he would be -true to his love of a memory and never marry another.” - -“I believe you are right again. You have been a close student of -human nature, Arden.” - -“I have had reason to be.” - -“And you know something of Colonel Dunwoody?” - -“I have heard of him often, and I had a chance to study him at my -trial.” - -“He was severe?” - -“On the contrary he was kind, for he treated me throughout like a man -at his mercy, the under dog in the fight, you know.” - -“That is his nature.” - -“He having caught me felt sorry for me, and was anxious to get me out -of my misery for his sake and my own, it appeared to me.” - -“You were observant.” - -“I always am. But you give up, do you; the man is lost to you?” - -“I must.” - -“And you really believe that he loves my sister?” - -“I know that he does.” - -“Then aid me to escape so that there can be no barrier to their -union, for of all men I believe I would rather have her wed Colonel -Dunwoody than any one I know, for he would make her a noble husband.” - -“I am sure of that.” - -“And you had better fish in other waters for a lover.” - -“I?” - -“Yes, for there is Surgeon Frank Powell, Captain Dick Caruth, Buffalo -Bill--and I’ll name no others, for those three strike me as men worth -striving for. If I were a woman I should love the three of them and -Colonel Dunwoody, too.” - -“Are you in earnest?” - -“Indeed I am, for I have the happy faculty of admiring my foes. Now, -I have always admired the man who was my rival in love, though I -hated him and sought to kill him. To him, to Surgeon Powell and to -Buffalo Bill I owe it that I am here now, and yet I cannot but like -them immensely. There is Caruth, too, the one who advocated hanging -me, and I admire him also and thought he was perfectly right. I would -have done as much for him had I had him in my place.” - -“You are a very remarkable man, Arden, and if you had devoted to good -deeds the talent and energy you have to evil ones, you would have -made a very great name.” - -“I have as it is, for Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw chief, is the talk -of barracks, camp-fire, stage-station, mines, and, in fact, all along -the frontier, while I am certainly greatly feared.” - -“And you are glad to be feared?” - -“Why not, for if I cannot be loved I can be feared. But you had some -other motive in deciding not to aid me to escape.” - -“Granted.” - -“What is the reason?” - -“I may as well tell you.” - -“Certainly.” - -“Because there is another enlisted in your cause.” - -“What other?” - -“Your sister.” - -“Ah! is she interesting herself in me to the extent of helping me -escape?” - -“You know that she is.” - -“May I ask how you got your information?” - -“Well, I regard your sister as remarkable for a woman as you for a -man.” - -“Well?” - -“She came here for one purpose, and that was to save you. I saw it -in her face, though others only read that she had come to comfort -you in your last hour. Convinced that you are in safe hands, I shall -make no other effort, and I am here to tell you so. I have enjoyed my -talk with you, so now will say good-by, for I do not wish to attract -attention to _Miss Carr_ by my long stay, and I am masquerading as -that young lady, you know. Good-by.” - -Drawing her veil over her face, Nina de Sutro turned to go when the -outlaw said sternly: - -“Hold!” - - - - - CHAPTER XVIII. - - RETURN OF THE SCOUTS. - - -Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Powell were riding slowly upon the trail -back to the fort. They had left Pocket City early that morning, after -passing another night there, and had ridden slowly along homeward, -for the fort is the home of the soldier and the scout. - -After the burial of Shuffles they had returned to the Frying Pan, -where they were entertained by Bonnie Belle. - -The Devil’s Den had been kept closed out of respect for the dead -manager, and a Sabbath-day stillness rested upon the camp. - -The Vigilante opened his store to turn an honest penny, and the -gambling-dens, for the Devil’s Den did not have a monopoly by any -means, had opened wide their doors, to catch those miners and loafers -who would drop in. - -The Frying Pan had fed an enormous crowd at supper, and then settled -down to rest. - -One of the rules of Bonnie Belle, and which was religiously -respected, was that the Devil’s Den should never open on Sundays, and -the miners seemed really glad of this respite from the noisy bustle -of the place and the gambling and drinking which was sure to come. - -The more Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill saw of the strange woman who -seemed to hold the destinies of Pocket City in her little hand, the -more they were pleased with her, and mystified. - -They knew that there was an unreadable page of her history to which -she alone held the key. She talked like one who had seen much of -the world, young as she was, and conversed with Surgeon Powell with -much knowledge upon the military strength of the different powers of -Europe, and launched off into the fine arts with equal fluency. - -She did not appear anxious to show her learning, yet understood well -the political history of the country, and the faults and virtues of -the different national parties. - -Her reading had been varied and instructive, and she seemed glad of -a chance to discuss something else than hotel fare, gambling, and -mining. - -When the officer and scout bade her good night and good-by, for they -said they were to leave at an early hour the next morning, she asked, -with a smile: - -“And is this to swing around the circle, Buffalo Bill, and still play -the detective upon me?” - -“Indeed it is not,” answered the scout, flushing like a girl at the -insinuation. - -“I am glad of it, for we must be friends, you know.” - -“We certainly shall be, if I am to have my way,” said the scout -warmly. - -“And we are also to be friends, Doctor Powell, for candidly, I will -not do aught to cause either of you any trouble, and if I fight -you, should anything turn up to cause me to do so, it shall be by -strategy, not force.” - -“Then we may as well acknowledge ourselves beaten when we are to -measure strength in strategy with a woman,” said Surgeon Powell. - -“For shame, to acknowledge defeat before the combat. It is not like -you, Doctor Powell.” - -“I am dealing with a woman now, Bonnie Belle, not a man.” - -“Well, do not you or Buffalo Bill track me, for it will do no good, I -assure you. I know that you wish to thwart me in setting my brother -free, and from your standpoint you are right. But all that I could -do in the matter I have done.” - -“And failed?” said Buffalo Bill, with a smile. - -“I leave that for you to decide, gentlemen. But, good night.” - -She grasped the hand of each in her frank way, and they left her. - -When they went to pay their score, the clerk told them that there was -no charge against them, as they were the guests of the fair mistress -of the Frying Pan. They could but accept the courtesy, and the clerk -said that an early breakfast had been ordered for them. - -And so the next morning they turned their backs upon Pocket City, and -took the trail for Pioneer Post. - -Their way led by the Hangman’s Gulch, and they turned in there to -have a look at the numerous graves of the victims who had suffered -there, dying at the end of a rope. The two freshly made graves of Tom -and Jerry were there, and, as he looked at them, Buffalo Bill said: - -“Twice have I come very near being placed here, Frank.” - -“You have indeed, Bill.” - -“Once Deadshot Dean saved me from Powder Face Pete and his gang, and -you saved me the next time by your timely arrival, for those fellows -intended hanging me.” - -“And Bonnie Belle saved us both, Bill,” was the answer. - -As they neared the fort they came in sight of the stage-trail, and -upon reaching it heard the rumbling of the coach behind them. - -A few moments after the coach came in sight, and by the side of -Horeshoe Ned a stranger sat upon the box. - -“Ho, Surgeon Powell, how is yer, and you, too, Bill?” cried Horseshoe -Ned, as the coach drew up to the two pards just as they came within -sight of the fort. - -“All right, thank you, Ned.” - -“Have you seen any road-agents this trip?” asked the Surgeon Scout. - -“You bet I ain’t on the run back, doctor, but I has a pilgrim inside -who held me up when I was going east, as I guess Buffalo Bill told -yer.” - -“Yes, he told me what a dead shot your lady passenger proved to be.” - -“Dead shot? Now I should remark but she is ther deadest of ther dead -shots and no mistake. She’s one among a thousand, and no harm said -agin’ t’others; but I guesses yer’ll hev ter doctor him up, sir, for -he’s been in the hands o’ that old Pills at ther station, and maybe -he don’t know much about doctorin’.” - -“All right, Horseshoe Ned, I’ll do all I can for him; but you appear -to have several passengers along on this run?” - -“You bet I has, sir, three passengers besides ther outlaw who is -crippled in both arms. This gent ridin’ with me I don’t know by name, -or I’d interdooce yer.” - -Thus urged, the man riding on the box with Horseshoe Ned said: - -“My name is Raymond, sir, Henry Raymond.” - -“Ah! yes, I remembers hearing your pards call yer by thet name now. -These gents, Mr. Raymond, is Surgeon Powell, o’ ther cavalry, and -Buffalo Bill, chief of scouts, and they is among ther best men thet -ever is seen in these parts.” - -All bowed at the introduction, and the scouts kept up with the coach -until it reached the fort. - -The man who had given his name as Raymond was one who possessed -the look of one to be depended on in a time of need. He was well -built, quick of action, and had a dark, piercing eye that was most -penetrating. - -The other two passengers were heavily bearded men, such as might be -found anywhere on the frontier. - -As Henry Raymond dismounted from the box he turned to Surgeon Powell, -who had just gotten off of his horse and said: - -“You are an officer at the fort, I believe, sir?” - -“Yes, the surgeon of the post.” - -“I would like to see the commandant, sir, Colonel Dunwoody?” - -“I will conduct you to him, if you wish.” - -“I thank you, sir,” and the stranger joined the surgeon and the -scout, who were going to headquarters to report their return. - -Colonel Dunwoody was seated upon the piazza of his headquarters -smoking an after-dinner cigar and was alone when the party arrived, -for the two other passengers had come along also, Henry Raymond -remarking that they were friends of his. - -“Ah! Powell, glad to see you back, and you, too, Cody, for after -getting word that you had gone off on the trail of a dream I began to -fear that after all the redskins might have gotten hold of Buffalo -Bill.” - -“No, sir, the redskins did not catch him, for we have not seen an -Indian; but, strange to say, colonel, my dream was not all a dream, -after all, for I found him in a very tight place. But I’ll explain -later, as this gentleman, whom Horseshoe Ned introduced as Mr. Henry -Raymond, for he and his comrades came in on the coach, desires to see -you, sir.” - -The colonel turned at once to the strangers, and said, addressing the -leader of the three: - -“How can I serve you, Mr. Raymond?” - -“I desire, sir, to present my card and this letter,” said Raymond, -and he handed over a card and letter. The former had on it: - - “Henry Raymond, - “Pinkerton’s Detective Agency, - “Chicago, Ill.” - -The letter bore the official stamp of the military headquarters at -Chicago, and was as follows: - - “SIR: A question having arisen between the civil and military - authorities, regarding the right for you to hold and try the - prisoner now in your keeping, known as Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw - chief, and now under sentence of death, I have consulted the - attorney-general through the secretary of war, and the result is - that you are hereby ordered to turn over the said prisoner to - Detective Henry Raymond, upon his presenting to you the requisition - from the governor of the State of Illinois for his body, through - the authorized officer of the law.” - -This letter was signed by the assistant adjutant-general, and the -colonel read it over with an expression upon his face which was hard -to fathom. - -“You have the requisition, Detective Raymond, referred to in this -letter?” asked the colonel quietly. - -“I have, sir. Here it is, Colonel Dunwoody,” and the detective at -once presented an official-looking document which read as follows: - - “Whereas Austin Arden, alias Silk Lasso Sam, having broken the laws - of the State of Illinois, by the crimes of murder and robbery, I - hereby make requisition of the military commander holding the said - Austin Arden a prisoner, and under sentence of death by military - court, to deliver to my authorized agent, Henry Raymond, detective, - the body of the said Austin Arden, alias Silk Lasso Sam, for trial - in the civil court of the State of Illinois. - - “Signed,” etc. - -“The stage does not return for several days, Detective Raymond, and -before its departure you shall receive my answer,” said Colonel -Dunwoody, after reading the papers handed to him by the officer. - - - - - CHAPTER XIX. - - THE TELLING BLOW. - - -When Silk Lasso Sam called out as he did, in stern, peremptory tones -to Nina de Sutro, she stopped at the door and turned toward him. - -“Well, what do you wish?” - -“This is all bosh about my sister making any effort to save me.” - -“I am sure that it is not.” - -“And I say it is.” - -“She did not come here for nothing.” - -“She came to see me to cheer and comfort me, and, if she saw a chance -to aid me to do so.” - -“And she saw none?” - -“How could she, a stranger in this fort, see what you cannot -discover?” - -“She came here to save you, I am sure.” - -“If possible, and, seeing that it was impossible, she has gone, -bidding me a last farewell and leaving me to my fate.” - -“It is not like her.” - -“It is all that she could do.” - -The man was silent after this, but his thoughts were busy. He knew -that Ruth had promised to do all in her power to save him, and had -told him just what her plot was, just what to expect. - -But, then, it might miscarry. No plot was really certain, and -big chances had to be taken to rescue him from the fort and all -surrounding him. - -Nina de Sutro was in the fort, and her guardian was next in rank to -Colonel Dunwoody. There was no better person anywhere to attempt the -rescue, daring as it must be, than Nina de Sutro. - -She had said that she would desert him, make no effort to carry out -her former plans, and thus leave him to his fate. - -How would he urge Nina de Sutro to change her mind, when she had -decided against making the effort? - -It was something that needed thought, and yet he had no time to think -it over. If he let her go away from him then, she would take good -care not to come again to see him. - -He must find, therefore, some plan by which he could force her to -act in his behalf. What was that plan to be? He did not know, but -ventured upon an expedient, so said: - -“You have an idea that if I were dead, and you my widow, that you -could marry some good man?” - -“I know that I could.” - -“Even Dunwoody, whom you love?” - -“Perhaps yes, if he was prevented from marrying your sister through -having signed your death-warrant.” - -“Yes, he might turn to you for comfort.” - -“I hope so.” - -“And failing in that quarter, you could, perhaps, marry Captain -Caruth?” - -“I believe that I could,” said the woman, who had received such an -unlimited amount of adoration that she believed she was capable of -bringing any man to her feet, as in truth she was, with very rare -exceptions. - -“And failing with him, you have Lieutenant Vassar Turpin to fall back -upon?” - -“Yes, all three of them splendid fellows, men of whom any woman might -feel proud.” - -“I grant that with exceeding candor, yet must say that they are too -honorable men, have too high regard for the proud records they have -won, and honor the names they have inherited, unsullied by a stain, -too much to ally their lives with one wholly unworthy of them.” - -“What do you mean?” and a strange look crept over the woman’s face, a -look that was reflected from the dark, malignant countenance of the -man. - -“I will tell you just what I mean, and what they shall know.” - -“I beg you to do so.” - -“I will, and only too soon for your ears to hear.” - -“In Heaven’s name tell me!” and Nina de Sutro was beginning to feel -that her nerves might be treacherous to her. - -“May I ask,” began Silk Lasso Sam with a most malignant look upon his -face, “if you have your certificate of marriage?” - -“My marriage-certificate?” she gasped. - -“Yes.” - -“Is it necessary?” - -“Of course, for all well-regulated families have one.” - -“Where is mine?” - -“That is what I asked you.” - -“You never gave me one.” - -“It was not for me to give it to you.” - -“Who then should?” - -“The minister who performed the service should have given it to you.” - -“Why did he not, for I was young and thoughtless?” - -“I will tell you why he did not do so.” - -“Why?” - -“Because he had no right to do so, for _he was no minister_.” - -“Heaven have mercy upon me!” - -“Not even Heaven will be merciful to one who cannot show her -certificate of marriage.” - -“You lie, Arden, and you know that you do, for I am your wife, and I -will yet get that certificate to prove it.” - -“You can never get what cannot be secured. That man was no preacher; -he was under my pay, and I paid him for his work. That is all there -is to it, and so, when I make known my story about you, as I face an -attentive and appreciative audience, standing upon the gallows as I -will, it will be my pleasure to state that Nina de Sutro has a right -to her name, as my death will not even leave her _my widow_. - -“Do you see now, my beautiful Nina, just how you will stand in the -eyes of these honorable gentlemen, for I shall add that you knew the -fact from the very first--see?” - -That she did _see_ was proven by the moan that escaped her lips as -she sank in a heap at the feet of the man who had dealt her such a -cruel blow. - -There was nothing for the outlaw to lose, everything for him to gain. - -The time was drawing near when he must die. His sister had promised -to save him, yet there might be a miscarriage of her plot. In his -despairing case it would not do to trust to one plan alone. - -Nina de Sutro, disappointed at the discovery she had made regarding -the colonel’s love for Ruth, had grown reckless, almost desperate, -and was willing that all should be known, rather than save the outlaw -from death. - -When, however, he told her what he would tell to dishonor her, she -feared that she was forever lost, and so sank in a swoon at his feet. - -He stood gazing upon her with intense delight in his expression, the -cause of which was revealed by his muttered words: - -“That will fetch her to terms.” - -He had told a falsehood, for the marriage was a legal one, greatly to -the man’s regret afterward, and only his game of bluff had caused -Nina, in her fear, to forget that the man was a priest, who performed -the ceremony, and that the marriage was registered upon the books of -the parish church where it was celebrated. - -Without one effort to help her, Silk Lasso Sam stood gazing upon the -form lying at his feet. - -“She’ll come round soon,” he muttered. - -And he was right. In a short while there was a convulsive twitching -of the muscles, then color rushed back into the face and the eyes -opened. - -They beheld her surroundings, and, after an effort, she arose to her -feet. She faced him then, at first weak and tottering, but gaining -strength and nerve rapidly. - -Her face had become white now with intense passion, and through her -shut teeth, she hissed forth: - -“You have conquered again, Arden, and by the most accursed act that -ever a man was guilty of. I am a Mexican, and women of my race have -hot blood that is bitterly revengeful. It seems idle to threaten -a man who stands in your position, with the noose of the hangman -about his neck, but yet, I now long for you to live that I may make -you feel how Nina de Sutro can avenge an insult. Yes, I wish you to -live, it is my earnest desire that you should, and I will live with -the hope of making you suffer.” - -“You will aid me to escape, then?” asked the man, impressed in spite -of himself at the words and looks of the woman. - -“I will.” - -“You will not disappoint me?” - -“No.” - -“Remember, failure means my death.” - -“I understand.” - -“When will you do this?” - -“I do not know.” - -“How?” - -“I do not know.” - -“Why not as you planned it before?” - -“Because the officer I spoke of is on the sick-list and does not go -on duty as I supposed he would.” - -“Then you must hunt up another plan.” - -“Yes.” - -“Have you no idea what it is?” - -“Not the remotest.” - -“I fear you will make a botch of it.” - -“If I fail in one way I will try another, and, failing in that, I -will make another effort.” - -“And failing a third time?” - -“I will aid you to escape if I have to come here by night disguised -as Clarice Carr and drive my Mexican dagger to the hilt in the heart -of the sentinel at your cabin door, and then give you the uniform of -an officer to pass out of the fort in, for it can be done, but only -as a last resort. Remember, I shall save you, for I will not let my -wrecked girlhood be stained with dishonor.” - -She drew her veil over her face, turned on her heel, and left the -cabin, the man feeling convinced now that he had two chances of -escape. - -“If Ruth’s plot fails, that devil will surely save me, for she will -not stand the fear of my reporting what I threatened to do,” mused -the outlaw. - -The woman meanwhile had passed the sentinel, walking leisurely along, -calm outwardly but with heart and brain in a whirl. - -She made her way back to her quarters by the most unfrequented paths -and gained her room undetected by any one. - -Once in her room she threw off the dress and hat she had worn, and -was soon in bed, determined to feign illness, for she wanted to be -alone to think. There was very little feigning necessary, for she was -really ill from the shock she had received. - -At last she became more calm and was able to center her thoughts upon -her plan to rescue the outlaw chief. - -Mrs. De Sutro came up to see her and was distressed to find her ill. - -“It’s a sick headache. Let me have a cup of strong tea and then no -one must disturb me until morning,” she said. - -Mrs. De Sutro came again at midnight before retiring, and found her -patient sleeping peacefully, for Nina de Sutro had hit upon a plan -of rescue, and then, having conned it all over, had dropped into a -refreshing slumber. - - - - - CHAPTER XX. - - THE SURGEON’S MISSION. - - -When Detective Raymond had departed from headquarters with his two -friends, the colonel turned to Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill, who -had seen that from some cause the colonel was greatly moved. - -“Sit down, Powell, you and Cody, for I wish to talk to you,” said the -colonel. “I am very glad that you are here.” - -They both obeyed, and the colonel lighted another cigar, and after -smoking it for a couple of minutes, tossed it away. - -“Tobacco always soothes me,” he said, by way of explanation. Then -brightening up, he continued: - -“Let me ask pardon for my delay, but the truth is I was both -nonplused and pleased by the news brought by that gentleman, Raymond. -He is a State detective, an officer of the law, and brought me this -letter, which I will read to you.” - -This the colonel did, the two listening most attentively: - -“This,” he continued, “is a requisition from the Governor of Illinois -for the prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam.” - -This also was read, the surgeon and the scout making no comment. The -colonel then continued: - -“There seems to be in this a reflection upon my course in having at -once tried this man by military court, which sentenced him to death -upon the gallows. Out here on this border my word is law, and the -outlaw has had a price set upon his head for breaking the laws of the -land, for committing crimes untold, and he richly deserves his fate. - -“The proof against him was perfect, and I sentenced him to death by -hanging, at a certain date. Now, it must be that the general gave out -my report to the papers, the man was recognized as an old offender, -who had broken the laws of the State of Illinois, and the State has -sought to gain possession of him, to try him by civil process. - -“Now he may, or may not be hanged, according to the law known by his -lawyer, or his brilliancy as an orator, for most cases hang on these -two things. Of course, if acquitted, he will be back here soon after, -again working the trails as a road-agent. If sent to prison he will -be pardoned out by the next governor, who may be of his political -creed, who hopes to gain a few votes thereby for his clemency, and, -if hanged, then he saves us the trouble of swinging him up. - -“Now, this is the point that pleases me, for, from certain reasons I -cannot explain, I am very glad that I will not be the one to have to -sign his death-warrant, or send him to the gallows. That is an honor -I shall gladly yield to the Governor of Illinois. - -“But, Surgeon Powell, you spoke last week of desiring to run to -Chicago upon important business of your own, and I desire to say that -I will make you the bearer of my despatch to the general, giving all -the papers in the matter, which can be used against this man upon his -trial there, and which will go far toward hanging him, a result most -devoutly to be desired.” - -“I thank you, Colonel Dunwoody, and I appreciate the honor.” - -“You are to see the State’s attorney and place him in possession of -all the facts of the case against this outlaw, and yet this is to -remain a secret, as I do not wish to be thought to influence the -case, though, of course, the just deserts of the man is hanging. You -can therefore get ready to return with Detective Raymond and his -prisoner, and be especially careful that he does not escape them, -for he is no ordinary man and they may not be accustomed to the ways -of this wild land.” - -“I will endeavor to obey your orders in all things, Colonel Dunwoody.” - -“I know that well, Doctor Powell. But say nothing of your going, only -be ready to start on the coach with the prisoner and his guards.” - -“I will, sir.” - -After a few other words of instruction from Colonel Dunwoody, -Surgeon Powell left headquarters accompanied by Buffalo Bill. The -scout accompanied the doctor to his quarters, and there seemed to be -something upon his mind. At last he said: - -“Frank, did you see those papers?” - -“What papers?” - -“The letter from the general and the requisition of the governor?” - -“Yes, I saw them.” - -“I thought I noticed you reading them once.” - -“I did. But why?” - -“Were they regular?” - -“Perfectly.” - -“Seal, letter heading, and all?” - -“Everything was regular, Bill. Why do you ask?” - -“I do not know, unless being a scout detective makes me suspicious of -everything nowadays.” - -“Yes, and I feel the same way in many things.” - -“Well, you are going along, so if there is anything wrong I will be -glad to know that you will be on hand to thwart it.” - -“What do you really suspect, Bill?” - -“I don’t know, but I am as suspicious as a coyote.” - -“Well, as you say, I will be along and will keep my eyes open, and I -will go prepared for work. I am glad that you gave me a hint, for I -was not at all suspicious in that quarter, I admit, and now I will be -upon my guard.” - -As the scout turned away to go to his quarters Frank Powell looked -after him a moment and muttered: - -“Yes, Bill, you have set me to thinking.” - -The coming of the three detectives, with an intimation that a mistake -had been made, and with a requisition for the prisoner from the -Governor of Illinois spread quickly around the fort. - -It ran like wildfire through the officers’ quarters, the barracks, -and the settlement. Rumors of all kinds were flying about, that -Colonel Dunwoody had overstepped his authority in trying the outlaw -chief and his men by military court, and that he would meet with a -strong reprimand if not something more severe. - -The prisoner, rumor had it, was a convict, escaped from the State’s -Prison of Illinois, and if he had been executed much valuable -information which he possessed would have been forever lost. - -It was said that he was to be saved by turning State’s evidence, and -the Governor of Illinois had raised such a rumpus about the trial of -the prisoner by the military, no matter what his crimes on the border -might have been, that the secretary of war had hastily taken action -in the matter and demanded that the outlaw be given up. - -These and innumerable other rumors were flying about, and it was not -long before the prisoner heard the news. - -Colonel Dunwoody, knowing the facts of the case, was serene as to the -result, and was more than glad to give the prisoner up. - -“I could never win that lovely girl by offering her the hand in -marriage which had signed the death-sentence of her brother, for whom -her love is almost idolatrous,” he said to himself. - -Then, as he had heard the various rumors afloat, he mused with a -smile: - -“How little it takes to start a lie upon its rounds. A letter from -the general and this requisition from the Governor of Illinois, was -all there was to cause a hundred idle tales to be set afloat. Well, I -shall be glad when the prisoner is off my hands, and I trust he will -be hanged---- Well, orderly?” - -“The prisoner, sir, Silk Lasso Sam, requests an interview with you, -colonel.” - -“Indeed? I suppose he has already been posted as to what is going on. -It is as hard to keep a State secret as it is to find out a woman’s -exact age. Say that I will come to his cabin, orderly.” - -The orderly disappeared and soon after Colonel Dunwoody started for -the prison of the outlaw. He passed Nina de Sutro on the way, and -said: - -“You look pale, Miss Nina, and I was sorry to hear of your -indisposition.” - -“It was of little consequence, colonel; but may I ask you if it is -true that this outlaw is to be surrendered to the State of Illinois?” - -“It is true, Miss Nina.” - -“When does he go?” - -“On the next coach day.” - -“Then he will escape death?” - -“Here, at least, though, perhaps, he may be hanged by civil process -of law.” - -“I thank you, sir,” and Nina passed on, while there flashed through -her mind great joy at being relieved of having to carry out the bold -plan she had formed for the rescue of the man. - -“I think they will hang him in Illinois, and he will hardly expect -me to rescue him from the civil authorities. But I shall never feel -at rest until his neck is stretched. I hope that he will attempt to -escape on the way, and be shot by the guards.” - -The colonel, meanwhile, met, as he strolled along the bluffs, Clarice -Carr. He stopped for a moment’s talk with her, and waited, supposing -she would ask him, also, about the prisoner. But she did not. - -“Where is your curiosity, Miss Clarice?” he asked, with a smile. - -“I have no idle curiosity, colonel.” - -“This is remarkable, for when I went to the adjutant’s this morning -I met seven ladies, all of whom asked me about this prisoner, Silk -Lasso Sam. On my way back a dozen were lying in ambush for me, and I -had to tell the story over again. Just now I was waylaid by Miss De -Sutro, and she questioned me like a Philadelphia lawyer, and now you -have no questions to ask.” - -“I have not, sir, for I am not in command of Pioneer Post.” - -“Well, I do not know whether you are or not, for you command about -two-thirds of the officers,” was the gallant reply. - -“Yet I am under orders myself, colonel.” - -“And obey, I have noticed; but let me tell you that I am more than -glad to have this man Arden taken out of my keeping, for I did not -relish having to order him hanged.” - -“I am glad, too, sir, on his sister’s account; but I trust that he -will not be allowed to go free through some trick of the law, for, -though I do not believe in capital punishment, still such a man -should be imprisoned for life, I think.” - -“And I agree with you, though if hanging is justifiable he richly -deserves such a fate. I am now going to see him, and I will drop in -and see you on my way back,” and the colonel passed on his way. - -The prisoner arose as Colonel Dunwoody entered the cabin and bowed -courteously. - -“Pardon me, sir, but you see that I cannot be hospitable even in my -own house,” he said, with a sad smile. - -“Resume your seat, Arden, and tell me why you desired this interview?” - -“I have heard, sir, that a requisition has been sent to you for my -body, by the Governor of Illinois. May I ask if it is true, Colonel -Dunwoody?” - -“It is, sir.” - -“There is, then, a conflict of authority, it would seem, between the -military and the civil authorities regarding me?” - -“Well, no, only there were crimes alleged to have been committed by -you in the State of Illinois, which the governor wishes to try you -for. My authority is here, for your crimes committed upon the border, -but this requisition takes precedence in that you are said to be an -escaped convict and your crimes were committed against the State of -Illinois prior to your lawless deeds on this frontier. That is all -there is in it, Mr. Arden.” - -“I thank you, sir; but is there no possibility that I can be kept -here for my execution and not be sent back to Illinois?” - -“I can see none.” - -“You could not assume the responsibility of detaining me?” - -“I could not, and, to be frank with you, Mr. Arden, I am more than -glad that my hands will be clear of your execution.” - -“Yet you offered a reward for my body, dead or alive?” - -“Very true in the discharge of my duty, and were you my own brother I -would have you hanged upon the day set. You are now to go out of my -charge, and I am glad of it.” - -“You do not appear to be revengeful, Colonel Dunwoody?” - -“I am not, I hope, for it is a feeling one should be above allowing a -place in his heart, from my standpoint.” - -“May I ask your particular reason for being glad to send me to -Illinois?” - -“I wish for the misery and misfortune of no man. You richly deserve -your fate, and, as the laws of our land punish by hanging the crimes -of which you have been proven guilty, I sincerely hope that you will -not escape punishment, and yet it would be better to give you a -life sentence to my mind, as something far more severe to bear than -hanging.” - -“And you will not strain a point and keep me here, sir?” - -“No, and why do you dread to go to Illinois?” - -“I shall be taken there to be hanged, sir.” - -“And remaining here you will be much more quickly hanged.” - -“Still, I would prefer to remain here, sir, than to trust myself to -the mercy of an Illinois court.” - -“They can do no more against you than I have done, Mr. Arden--condemn -you to death.” - -“There is another thing I wish to speak to you about, Colonel -Dunwoody.” - -“Well, sir?” - -“My sister.” - -“Ah!” - -“I wish to talk to you, sir, of Ruth.” - -“I am wholly at your service, Mr. Arden, and am glad that you spoke -of your sister.” - -“You were kind to her when she was here, sir, and she appreciated it, -as I also do. But I wish to disarm in your mind, Colonel Dunwoody, -any thought that Ruth is in any way connected with my evil life.” - -“My dear, sir, I would no more connect that pure, angelic girl with -such a devil as you have proven yourself to be than I would compare -darkness and sunlight,” said the colonel, suddenly losing his urbane -manner and becoming vehement. The prisoner smiled and said: - -“I agree with you perfectly, sir; Ruth and I are as different as -light and darkness. But I wished to say that I was well born, my name -being a proud and honored one until I disgraced it, and my parents -dying left their fortune to my sister, for I was disinherited by my -father, and very justly so. - -“Ruth devoted her life to my reformation and failed, and the noble -girl will mourn deeply the fate which I must some day suffer. She is -her own mistress, possesses a large fortune, and yet I would feel -that she has one who would kindly look after her when I am gone, and -I am going to ask you to let me give you the address of our old home, -where a letter sent will reach her, and beg that you will at least -keep the cold and cruel world from making her suffer too deeply upon -my account, if it is within your power to do so.” - -“Mr. Arden, I will tell you that it will be my greatest pleasure to -do as you request, for when she was here I took a deep interest in -your sister, and formed a friendship for her which will be lasting -and sincere. I regret keenly your misfortunes, sir, and wish that I -could help you, but it is not in my power to do so. The detectives -sent by the governor are here for you, and they will take you with -them the day after to-morrow. Good-by, Mr. Arden, and may Heaven have -mercy upon you.” - -With this the colonel turned away, and the prisoner was alone once -more. - - - - - CHAPTER XXI. - - ACCUSED. - - -Colonel Dunwoody was true to his word, and returned to his quarters -by the house of Major Lester. Clarice opened the door for him, and he -said pleasantly: - -“Thanks, for I am in full retreat, and this is a haven of refuge -for me. Glance up and down the rows and you’ll discover several -ambushing-parties lying in wait for me, and I have barely escaped the -petticoats upon my trail by dodging in here. I am very much in demand -to-day by the ladies, Miss Clarice.” - -Clarice laughed at beholding, as the colonel had said, the petticoat -ambushers in squads ready to head him off and learn the facts -regarding the prisoner. - -As none of the officers had yet been made acquainted with just how -matters stood, of course the ladies could not learn from their -husbands what was really the status of affairs. - -The colonel having thrown himself into an easy chair, said: - -“Well, Miss Clarice, I had a long talk with that very wonderful man, -Silk Lasso Sam.” - -“Yes, sir, and I suppose found him unrepentant, as he was upon the -single visit I made to him?” - -“He was unrepentant, yes; but did I understand you to say that you -had been but once to see him, Miss Clarice?” - -“That is all, sir.” - -“That is strange.” - -“What is, may I ask, sir!” - -“That you visited him only once.” - -“That is all, sir.” - -“Put your thinking-cap on, Miss Clarice, and see if you do not recall -going there more than once.” - -“I need not think, sir, for there can be no doubt, as such a -circumstance as another visit I could not forget, as I shall never -cease to remember the one call I made upon him through a sense of -duty.” - -“My dear Miss Clarice, I cannot but take your word for it, but you -know all appertaining to the prisoner is reported to me.” - -“Doubtless, sir.” - -“And you are reported as having been to the cabin to visit Silk Lasso -Sam on two separate days and occasions.” - -“The report is wrong, sir.” - -“It furthermore gives the time of your visits and the length of time -you remained. May I ask how long you remained the first visit?” - -“The only visit, you mean, sir?” - -“Yes.” - -“I remained just seventeen minutes.” - -“And there was no second visit?” - -“None, sir.” - -“Then I shall at once see the officer that made this false report, -which is to the effect that you passed the sentinel and remained in -the prisoner’s cabin just one hour and ten minutes.” - -An indignant flash came into the eyes of the young girl at this -charge, and she said with some show of anger: - -“Colonel Dunwoody, you know me well enough to understand that I -have nothing to hide, that there is no treachery or deceit in my -composition, and I will esteem it a favor if you will bring the -officer and sentinel who made this report to confront me.” - -“I shall go at once, Miss Clarice, to sift this matter,” and the -colonel hastened away. - -He went direct to his quarters and sent for the officer who had made -the report, and the sentinel who was on duty at the time of the -alleged visit of the girl to the prison. - -He also ordered the sergeant and corporal of the guard, who were on -duty on that day, to report to him immediately. The result was that -the officers and soldiers very soon appeared at headquarters, and the -colonel asked: - -“Captain Franklin, who was on duty at the prisoner Silk Lasso Sam’s -cabin when it is said Miss Carr visited him three days ago?” - -“McCarey, sir, was the sentinel.” - -“Did you see the lady yourself, sir?” - -“I did, sir, for she passed me and bowed.” - -“It was Miss Carr?” - -“Yes, sir.” - -“You will vouch for this?” - -“Well, Colonel Dunwoody, I will not do that, for the lady was veiled.” - -“Ah! and yet you supposed it was Miss Carr?” - -“I am very sure of it, sir, for she was dressed as Miss Carr dresses, -and wore that very pretty red sombrero, with its embroidery, which -she wears.” - -“Thank you, Captain Franklin.” - -The sergeant was next called; and reported that Miss Carr had passed -him, and he had bowed to her, when she was upon her way to the -prison. The corporal had also spoken to her, and Sentinel McCarey -stated that the lady had passed him, saying simply: - -“I am Miss Carr, and I suppose you have your orders regarding me.” - -“She was in the prison how long, McCarey?” - -“Just one hour and ten minutes, sir.” - -The officer and soldiers were then dismissed, with orders not to -speak of why they had been called to headquarters, and the colonel -at once sent a note to Clarice, asking if she would come over to -headquarters, and ask Major and Mrs. Lester to accompany her. - -In a short while after the note was sent, the major arrived with the -two ladies. - -Clarice saw at a glance that the colonel was greatly worried about -something. - -“Miss Clarice, I have received the report of Captain Franklin, the -sergeant and corporal of the guard, and the sentinel on duty at the -time of this alleged visit of yours to the prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam.” - -“Yes, Colonel Dunwoody, and what do they say?” - -“The captain states that he met you, and the others report the same.” - -“This is a very remarkable statement, Colonel Dunwoody.” - -“I asked Captain Franklin if he would vouch for its being you, and -he said that you were veiled, and also the others made the same -statement, the sentinels saying that the lady in question reported -herself to be Miss Carr.” - -“This was at what time, Colonel Dunwoody?” asked the major, -considerably amazed. - -The colonel looked at the paper in his hand and gave the time. - -“Why, Clarice was absent with us in the carriage at that very time, -colonel; in fact, the whole of that day,” the major said. - -“Major, I have not for once doubted Miss Clarice in her statement -to me, and I only wish to find out who it is that has visited the -prisoner, impersonating Miss Clarice to do so.” - -“I cannot understand it,” the major replied. - -“The lady wore Miss Carr’s red, silver-embroidered sombrero, her -dress, and her veil.” - -Clarice gave a start at this, and put her fingers upon her lips to -silence Mrs. Lester. But in vain, for out it came: - -“Why, colonel, that could have been no one else than Nina de Sutro, -for she borrowed that red sombrero as a pattern for some embroidery -for one for herself, and on that day, while Mrs. De Sutro has a -dress the counterpart of the one Clarice often wears.” - -“Miss Clarice, you and Miss De Sutro are about the same size, I -believe?” said the colonel. - -“I have nothing whatever to say, Colonel Dunwoody, for I have told -you that I made no second visit to the prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam.” - -“I hope you will pardon me, Miss Clarice, for the annoyance I have -been compelled to give you.” - -“There is no need to ask my pardon, colonel, for you have not -offended and have done no wrong. I can well understand your position, -sir, and I have no feeling whatever in the matter, other than to -regret that I have been imposed upon.” - -“As I regret it. Miss Clarice, and I assure you that Captain -Franklin, the sergeant, corporal, and sentinel shall at once be made -acquainted with the fact that the visitor to Silk Lasso Sam was not -yourself.” - -After a short visit the major and the ladies left the headquarters, -and, putting on his hat, Colonel Dunwoody directed his steps to the -home of Lieutenant-Colonel De Sutro. - -He asked to see Miss De Sutro, and Nina soon entered the room, -looking very pretty in a morning-dress. - -“This is an honor I appreciate, Colonel Dunwoody, a morning call from -you,” she said in her sweet way. - -“Perhaps, Miss De Sutro, you will appreciate it less when I ask you -why you have been visiting the prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam, without -permission, and masquerading to the detriment of another lady to do -so?” - -The colonel’s voice was strangely stern, and Nina de Sutro had never -seen so severe an expression upon his face. She paled and flushed by -turns, and it was full a quarter of a minute before she replied. - -Then she put on a look of injured innocence, and said in a tearful -voice: - -“Oh, Colonel Dunwoody, you are angry with me, and when I meant to -do no harm. I only wished to see that poor desperate man again and -bid him farewell, and see if I could not do him only a little act of -kindness. I had just been given by Mrs. De Sutro the dress so like -Miss Carr’s, and which was too small for her, and I put on the red -sombrero Clarice wears, and wore them without thinking of the harm -they might do.” - -“And yet you spoke of yourself as Miss Carr?” - -“Those who saw me called me Miss Carr, and, being veiled, I carried -out the joke. I am so very sorry, and I will go at once to Miss Carr -and beg her pardon, while I will do all in my power to make amends -for my wrong-doing.” - -“Then see Captain Franklin also, Miss De Sutro, and explain the -affair to him, as also to the sergeant, corporal, and sentinel.” - -“How can I do this, sir?” - -“I cannot advise you, Miss De Sutro, and I believe you are clever -enough to extricate yourself from this position without further -advice from me, and also to save Miss Carr from being misunderstood.” - -“I will do as you wish, sir. But you are angry with me, Colonel -Dunwoody?” - -“No, I am sorry that you placed yourself and Miss Carr in a false -position,” was the reply, and when the colonel left the room Nina de -Sutro threw herself upon the floor and burst into tears. - - - - - CHAPTER XXII. - - BUFFALO BILL’S MAD RIDE. - - -Horseshoe Ned, always an important personage in the eyes of many, was -particularly so on the morning of his departure for the East with no -less a person as a passenger than Silk Lasso Sam. - -He had told over and over again the story of his last run out, and -had brought with him as evidence of Miss Arden’s deadly shooting the -outlaw, wounded in both arms, who had been placed under guard in the -hospital. - -Now he was to go out with Silk Lasso Sam and the three detectives. He -had another passenger, whom he had no knowledge of, but the box-seat -had been engaged for some one who was to go along. - -The coach rattled up to its starting-place, the mail was put aboard -and instructions given, and the three detectives stood ready to -receive their prisoner. - -Presently a squad of soldiers was seen approaching, and in their -midst was the tall form of the outlaw chief. He walked upright -with soldierly step, and looked about him as he halted at the -stage-station with calm indifference. - -A very large crowd had gathered to see him off, and, as the guard -halted, they were anxious to get a look at his face. - -The officer in charge, after coming to a halt, asked: - -“Is Mr. Raymond, the detective, here?” - -Henry Raymond stepped forward and said: - -“I am Detective Henry Raymond, sir.” - -“I have orders to surrender into your keeping this prisoner, known as -Silk Lasso Sam.” - -“I am ready to receive him, sir.” - -“Then please sign this receipt.” - -The officer drew from his belt a paper which the detective carefully -read, and, stepping into the stage-office, signed. - -“Thank you, sir,” said the officer. “The prisoner is now in your -charge,” and, ordering the sergeant to march the guard back to the -guard-house, he turned upon his heel and walked leisurely away, as -though there was no more interest in the case for him. - -The detective ordered the prisoner to enter the coach, assisting him, -as both his hands and feet were manacled, the others followed, and -Henry Raymond called out: - -“All ready, driver.” - -“I’m all ready, too, but I has orders to wait a few minutes.” - -But a moment after Surgeon Powell hastily approached, and, leaping to -the box-seat, said: - -“Let her go, Ned.” - -“The seat was for you, then, sir?” - -“Yes.” - -“Then she goes.” - -The whip cracked and the team went rapidly away down the hill toward -the stockade gate. - -Soon after the stage rolled out of sight in the distance, and -Horseshoe Ned, having given the idea to the uninitiated in -stage-travel that he kept up that speed all the way, now drew the -horses down to a slow pace for the long drive ahead. - -Hardly had the coach disappeared when Buffalo Bill walked up to -headquarters. The colonel, with a relieved look upon his face, was -seated upon the piazza talking with Captain Caruth. - -“Ah! Cody, any news?” asked the colonel. - -“Not any, sir; but I came to ask leave to go on a trail for a few -days.” - -“Any definite point in view, Cody?” - -“Well, no, colonel, only I thought I would like to follow Horseshoe -Ned’s coach.” - -“You have some motive for asking this, Cody?” - -“Yes, sir.” - -“Out with it.” - -“The coach carried a very valuable freight, sir, in the person of -Silk Lasso Sam.” - -“Yes, and you think that he may escape?” - -“Well, sir, it has been rumored about that he was to go by this -coach, and it may be that an attempt at rescue might be made.” - -“Impossible.” - -“Why impossible, sir?” - -“He is well guarded by three determined men, while Surgeon Powell and -Horseshoe Ned are along, and I do not believe a force could be raised -at short notice that would dare attack those five.” - -“Still, sir, Silk Lasso Sam has many friends, and those who sought to -curry favor with him might attempt a rescue.” - -“There is something in this.” - -“There is much in it, I should say, colonel, and if you wish I will -take some troopers and escort the coach past the danger-line,” -Captain Caruth said. - -“It would be a hard ride for the troop to overtake the coach now, -Captain Caruth, and Cody is ready, I see, for the trail, so he can -go.” - -“I will start at once, sir,” was the scout’s reply, and he saluted -and walked rapidly back to his quarters. - -Anticipating that the colonel would grant his request for him to -follow the coach, Buffalo Bill had already prepared for his going, -and had his horse awaiting him, the very best animal that he had, and -he was never known to have an inferior one. - -Ten minutes after his request was granted the scout was riding out of -the stockade, and once out of sight of the fort, went on at a very -rapid pace, for the coach had all of ten miles the start of him. - -Buffalo Bill’s long life upon the border had made him watchful, -cautious, nervy, and cunning. He had all the attributes of a great -borderman, and he could bring into play his every talent and energy -when it was needed. - -He had a suspicion that constantly grew upon him that there might be -a rescue of the prisoner attempted. - -Did not Bonnie Belle know something, he wondered, of this intended -requisition from the governor, and had she not prepared for the -rescue when the opportunity offered? - -Might she not meet the detectives on the way with their prisoner, -and with unlimited money at her command gain by strategy and bribery -what could not be done by force? - -So argued the scout, and that was why he wished to go on the trail of -the coach. - -He rode rapidly until out of sight of the fort. Then he dismounted, -gave his horse a drink of water at a stream, tightened his -saddle-girths, and, looking at his watch, said: - -“Just two hours since Ned left. That means, as he drives, all of -twelve miles from this point. I should overtake him about Deep Dell -Brook or a little beyond, only I do not wish to get close enough to -be seen by them.” - -Mounting, he put his horse into a swinging canter and held him to it -for miles, when he reached the country where the hills grew steep and -long. - -Two hours after leaving the fort he halted for a short rest and said: - -“The coach is about six miles ahead now, I take it, if Ned is on -schedule time.” - -Again he resumed his way and held on until he descended into Deep -Dell Brook. - -Just as he halted his horse for water, confident that the coach -could not be very far from him then, his eyes fell upon the trail -beyond. - -There was something in it which caught his eye. It was a revolver. He -spurred toward it, dismounted, and cried: - -“It’s Frank Powell’s revolver!” - -He looked about him and saw tracks of horses, blood-stains, -footprints, and the evidence of a struggle. Instantly he leaped into -his saddle, and his horse was sent flying on up the hill. - -A mile ahead he caught sight of the coach, and it was driving -rapidly. He had no time to lose in overtaking it, so, drawing his -revolver, he fired several shots. - -The sound reached the ears of Horseshoe Ned who glanced back, saw who -it was, and, wheeling his team in a broad space of the trail, drove -back to meet the scout with all speed. - -He soon drew rein, and the scout dashed up and leaped from his horse. - -“Ho, Ned, what is the matter?” called out Buffalo Bill. - -“Matter enough, Bill, for the doc, the detectives, and the prisoner -is gone.” - -“Gone where?” - -“Don’t know.” - -“Why don’t you know?” angrily said the scout. - -In answer Horseshoe Ned turned the back of his head and said: - -“See there, Bill.” - -“It’s a wound.” - -“It’s something.” - -“What has happened?” - -“Durned ef I know, for I’m kinder dazed like.” - -“Tell me what you can.” - -“I will.” - -“You were held up?” - -“I don’t know,” and the driver passed his hand across his head and -said: - -“It pains me, Bill.” - -“Come, Ned, get down from your box, for there is a brook here, and -let me dress that wound. I have a needle and thread and can stitch it -up for you, for it is an ugly-looking gash. Then tell me all you can -remember.” - -The driver obeyed without a word, allowed the scout to take the -stitches in the wound without flinching and fixed his handkerchief -over it, wet with arnica which Buffalo Bill always carried with him. - -“It feels better now, Bill, thankee.” - -“Oh, you’ll come round all right soon,” and the scout said no more, -for he did not wish to hurry the driver and perhaps fret him in the -condition in which he then was. - -After a few moments of silence, Ned said: - -“I think it was a rock, Bill.” - -“What was?” - -“That struck me.” - -“Ah! and it was at Deep Dell Brook?” - -“Yes, the horses were drinkin’ thar, and doc and me was talkin’, when -suddenly came a blow that knocked me clear off the box, for I was -down on the ground just out of the stream when I came round. The team -was standing near me, just waitin’ like humans for me ter come round, -and when I tried to git up I found I was uncommon dizzy. - -“But I did git up at last, and then I see thet ther mail-bags was -gone and I scrambled up to my box as best I could and come on. I -don’t know no more about it than you does, Bill, save that thar is -one of them detectives dead inside the coach, and he ’pears to hev -been robbed, too, for I recommember thet he hed a watch and chain.” - -Buffalo Bill sprang quickly to the coach door, threw it open, and -there he beheld a dead man. - -It was Henry Raymond. There was a bullet wound in his heart. - -There was evidence that he had also been robbed, though in searching -through the pockets of the man he found a bundle of papers of which -he at once took possession. - -He mounted to the top of the coach and saw there red stains and -indications of a struggle. The grip-sack of Surgeon Powell and the -baggage of the prisoner and the detective were also missing. - -At last Buffalo Bill said, as though at a loss to know what to do: - -“Ned?” - -“Yes, Bill.” - -“You are able to drive on to the station?” - -“I am.” - -“Then continue on your way, and report your having been held up on -the road, and all that you can remember that occurred.” - -“I will.” - -“I must return to the fort at all speed, and I am going to take one -of your horses, to enable me to give mine a rest, for I shall stake -him out in the Deep Dell Brook Valley, for the trail is to be taken -up from there. You can rig one horse in the lead, can you not?” - -“Easy, to oblige you, Bill, for I sees that you is hot for scalps.” - -“I am, so give me your best horse.” - -“I’ll do it.” - -“If I kill him I’ll replace him, but I can make good time to the -fort, make my report, have my scouts and a troop follow, and ride a -fresh horse back to Deep Dell Brook. There I will find my horse well -rested, and, leaving the other animal for the scouts to pick up, I -can get along on the trail of the outlaws who did this deed a long -way before night, marking my way for those coming after me to follow -rapidly.” - -“You’ve got ter do some tall riding, Buffalo Bill.” - -“All right, I’ll do it, for remember, my best pard, Frank Powell, is -either dead or a prisoner.” - -“That’s so. Take the roan mare, Bill. She’s an all-day animal, fast -and willing.” - -Buffalo Bill hastily threw the harness off of the roan mare, put his -saddle and bridle on her, and, bidding Horseshoe Ned good-by, led -his own horse down to a secluded spot upon Deep Dell Brook. There he -staked him out, and, leaping into the saddle, sent the roan mare off -like an arrow. - -He had just twenty-five miles to go to reach the fort, and in two -hours and a half he dashed through the stockade gate, and up to the -colonel’s quarters, the gallant roan staggering under him, and with a -groan dropping dead as the scout sprang from his saddle. - -The colonel heard of his rapid coming, and met him on the piazza, -where there were a number of officers and ladies, among the latter -Clarice Carr and Nina de Sutro. - -“Colonel Dunwoody, I have to report overtaking the coach a mile -beyond Deep Dell Brook, sir, and found Horseshoe Ned half-dazed from -a wound in his head, made, I believe, by a rock, and inside the stage -the dead body of Detective Raymond, shot through the heart. - -“He had been robbed, as also was the coach of the mail and the -luggage it carried, while Surgeon Powell, the prisoner, and the other -two detectives were missing. - -“There was evidence of a severe struggle, sir, and so I took one of -Ned’s horses and rode back, leaving mine to rest, while, as I came -through the gate I ordered another horse which I will return on at -once so as to take the trail before night. - -“With your permission, sir, I would like to take a dozen of my men, -and ask for Captain Caruth with a score of his troopers to follow me, -for I will mark my trail well, sir.” - -“Cody, you are worth a hundred men at any time, and I can now -understand your riding your horse to death. There comes Texas Jack -with another animal for you, so give him your orders and do you start -back at once, while your scouts can follow, and Captain Caruth will -take his entire troop. There must be no mistake about catching those -fellows who have been guilty of this outrage.” - -With a salute to the colonel Buffalo Bill turned to his fresh horse, -Texas Jack having taken the saddle and bridle from the dead animal -and placed them upon the one he had led up for his chief. - -“Jack, get twelve of the men and provisions in plenty and follow me -at once to Deep Dell Brook, where Captain Caruth and his troop are -coming also.” - -“We will be there, Bill,” was the answer of Texas Jack. - -Dropping into the saddle, with a wave of his hand, Buffalo Bill -dashed away like the wind. - -“Deep Dell Brook in two hours at that pace, and another dead horse,” -said Texas Jack as he saw his chief dash away like the wind, -settling himself in his saddle as he started down the hill, as though -it really was his intention to reach the scene of the tragedy in two -hours or kill the horse he rode. - -The scouts were ready fifteen minutes after the departure of Buffalo -Bill, and within half an hour the troop of Captain Caruth rode out of -quarters on their path. - -The scouts, twelve dashing fellows under Texas Jack, had settled -down to a quick trot, and were just disappearing from sight in the -distance when Captain Caruth started off with his men. - -It was an hour before sunset when the scouts reached the Deep Dell -Brook. They threw themselves from their horses to give them a rest, -and they set about looking for “signs.” - -The first thing they discovered was the horse ridden by Buffalo Bill. -The animal was standing dead-beat in the stream, his appearance -indicating that Buffalo Bill had gotten there with ample time to be -far on the trail of the outlaws by that time. - -Then they discovered the signs of the struggle where the coach had -been halted, and down the stream led the trail. - -Not far below was a stick in the top of which was a slip of paper. -Taking it, Texas Jack read in his chief’s well-known hand: - - “There were mounted outlaws awaiting the coach at Deep Dell Brook. - Their horses were staked out at the bend below here, and they had - camped there all night. - - “The tracks show nine horses were there, and I suppose that - means as many men. With their prisoners, Surgeon Powell and the - detectives, they can hardly travel very fast. - - “I shall press rapidly on until dark, marking trail as I go so that - you can follow with considerable speed. - - “BILL.” - -A courier was sent back by Texas Jack to the ford with this note, to -give to Captain Caruth, and then the scout pressed on once more at a -quick trot. - -All along they saw where Buffalo Bill had marked the trail, and when -at last night came on they were compelled to halt, but they were glad -to know that Buffalo Bill had had all of two hours more of daylight -than they had. - -A scout was sent back to bring the troopers up to the camp. - -“Well, Texas Jack, what do you think of the situation?” asked Captain -Caruth, as he sat in his camp that night, having sent for the scout. - -“Buffalo Bill had three hours of daylight at least, sir, when he -reached the brook, as his horse showed that he came through at full -speed. Then, sir, he had his own fresh horse to mount there, and the -trail of the robbers he doubtless followed at a run to get as far as -possible before nightfall. - -“The robbers could not have gone half so fast, and were certainly not -expecting pursuit to-day, which would cause them to go slow. They -supposed they had killed Ned, and were not expecting Cody to be upon -their trail.” - -“Then the chances are, you think, that Buffalo Bill is not very far -behind the band?” asked Captain Caruth. - -“I do, sir, and we can start just when it is light enough to see, so -that we can keep as close upon Cody’s heels as possible.” - -“Now, what is your opinion as to where these outlaws came from?” - -“I pass there, captain, for I supposed that all of the band of the -outlaw chief, Silk Lasso Sam, were either dead or wiped out. But it -seems I am wrong, sir.” - -“Yes, for these were certainly men who were willing to come to the -rescue of their chief.” - -“Yes, sir, and I only hope that no other harm than being taken -prisoner has befallen Surgeon Powell.” - -“So do I.” - -“Yet, Jack, I have such an abiding faith in Surgeon Powell’s capacity -for taking care of himself that I do not believe that he was born to -die with his boots on.” - -“I hope he can take his time about it, sir, when his time comes, -for no better man did I ever meet, nor do I care to know,” was the -scout’s comment. - -“If he has an enemy, Jack, it is an outlaw, an Indian, or a villain.” - -“You are right, sir. But we had better get all the sleep we can, for -we will be kept humping it to-morrow, if Buffalo Bill can find horses -to ride.” - -“Yes, he’s a rough and ready rider, and it would take a score of -horses to break him down. Good night,” and, wrapping his blanket -about him, the captain dropped off to sleep at once. - -Texas Jack had said that all the men could rest, for he would keep -watch, and he started off alone, leaving the whole camp in deep -slumber. - -He, too, had an iron frame, and lantern in hand he picked out the -trail for a distance of some six or seven miles. - -Then he returned to camp, on foot as he had gone, and, as it was yet -an hour before dawn, aroused the men so that they could reach the -place he had gone to before daylight, get breakfast, and be ready for -the trail when able to see it. - - - - - CHAPTER XXIII. - - THE COLONEL RECEIVES A LETTER. - - -Toward sunset of the day the troop and scouts started to follow -Buffalo Bill upon the outlaws’ trail, a horseman was seen coming -rapidly toward the fort. - -He was coming along the trail from the post nearest above, where -there was a more direct and frequent communication than from Pioneer -Post with the East. It was soon seen that he was a military courier, -and his coming was watched with great interest. - -The news brought by Buffalo Bill had fallen like a thunderbolt upon -those in the fort. The colonel was more impressed by it than he cared -to reveal. - -He naturally supposed that the outlaw chief had escaped, and what the -fate of Surgeon Powell was no one could tell. - -That his body had not been found was hopeful that he had not been -killed. - -The fate of the other two detectives was uncertain. What it all meant -could only be surmised. - -The colonel could not find it in his heart to connect Ruth Arden, as -he knew her, with this tragic escape of her brother. It did not seem -like the woman he had met to plan an escape where death must ensue; -the innocent fall to save the wicked outlaw chief. - -In the fort there was a diversity of opinion, and all were very -freely expressed. Clarice Carr did not know what to believe, while -Nina de Sutro, after thinking the matter over, said to herself: - -“That is the work of that girl and no one else. She was determined -that her brother should not hang, and she plotted to have him rescued -at all costs. In some way she learned of his intended removal from -the fort, and so she planned accordingly, and plotted well. - -“If so, she has put herself in a very unfortunate position, for she -can be looked upon as an accessory. Oh, that in the mâlée Arden had -been killed! How rejoiced would I be, for then his tongue would be -forever silenced. What a fool I was to allow him to bluff me as he -did. - -“He certainly frightened me terribly by stating that I could show -no marriage-certificate. Neither can I, but I know the priest that -married us; I know the church well, and I saw it put upon the -register. He thought that I had forgotten, and so forced me to vow to -rescue him. - -“Well, he has escaped, and I only hope that he will soon be shot, -for then will I be free, and a widow. It is useless for me ever to -dream of love with Colonel Dunwoody now, for I know that he suspects -me. I cannot, I dare not tell him the truth, and, doing what I did, -impersonating Clarice Carr, I cannot make him understand unless I -confess all to him. - -“No, I must go on as best I can and try and wipe out that mistake -of mine from his memory. I shall make an effort now to win Caruth, -and, failing there, I will turn to Lieutenant Turpin, for he is by -no means bad, and he has prospects of promotion as well as money. -I would like to know what news that courier brings, for I will be -anxious until Buffalo Bill again returns to the fort.” - -So mused the woman, and with her beauty, wit, cleverness, and money, -it was very certain, if she could bury Silk Lasso Sam, the world yet -had charms for her which she would make the most of. - -The courier, meanwhile, had reached headquarters, and, dismounting, -had delivered his leather satchel to Colonel Dunwoody. - -He had come from the upper fort, also under the command of Colonel -Dunwoody, and the officer in charge there had sent him through as a -special, as an important paper had come there, addressed to Pioneer -Post. - -The colonel saw two letters, one an official document and so marked -and sealed, the other a personal communication. Both came from -Chicago, the army headquarters. - -The official letter was first opened and was only some special -orders, and a sanction of the act of Colonel Dunwoody in having Silk -Lasso Sam and his men so promptly tried and sentenced. - -This was a satisfaction to him, and then he turned to his letter. It -was a personal one from the general, and read as follows: - - “MY DEAR DUNWOODY: If you resist falling in love with that - beautiful girl to whom I gave a letter to you, then you are indeed - destined never to be a benedick. - - “I am sorry you can do no more for her than to allow her to see - that villain of a brother, who certainly deserves hanging, and I - suppose will be promptly executed on the day set, as he should be. - - “The young lady did ask me something about the possibility of her - having the civil law take the man from the military, but I have - heard no more of it, so suppose she made no attempt to do so. - - “You have shown nerve and determination in your dealing with those - border ruffians, and I uphold you in it.” - -The letter then spoke of other matters, and having read it to the end -Colonel Dunwoody hastily sent for Lieutenant-Colonel De Sutro and -Major Lester. - -When the officers arrived at headquarters they found the commandant -pacing the floor with a look as though very much annoyed. - -“Gentlemen, I received by courier this evening a despatch from the -military headquarters and a letter, and they perplex me, so I wish -you would kindly look over those papers, brought by Detective Raymond -some days since, and see how you regard them?” - -Colonel De Sutro at once took the letter from headquarters explaining -the situation regarding the prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam. He read it -through carefully and handed it to Major Lester, who did the same. - -“Do you see anything irregular in that, gentlemen?” - -“I do not, sir.” - -“Nor do I.” - -“Read this now, please.” - -The requisition of the Governor of Illinois, for the delivery to his -authorized agent, Detective Henry Raymond, was then read by both -officers. - -“Now give me your opinion of that, please, gentlemen.” - -“There is but one opinion to give, sir.” - -“So I say,” added Major Lester. - -“Now, gentlemen, a courier just brought this official paper, and I -have received with it a personal letter from the general. Please do -me the kindness to read the official document, and I will read to you -extracts from the general’s letter.” - -This was done, and then the two junior officers sat gazing at their -senior. - -“What does it mean?” asked Colonel Dunwoody. - -“I can see but one meaning to it,” the major said. - -“And that meaning, major?” - -“Is that the general was in ignorance of the governor’s requisition -or----” - -“But he could not be, when his other communication orders me to give -up the prisoner.” - -“That is so, sir. And, as Texas Jack always says, I pass.” - -“So do I,” the lieutenant-colonel said, with a smile. - -“Now this last letter and despatch from the general is dated ten -days after the former one and the requisition, so I can see but one -thing to be said of the first received, and that is that they are -forgeries.” - -“But that cannot be, colonel, for see the real and official -letter-heads, and the writing,” the major said. - -“The letter-heads have been stolen, as also the use of the seal, -while the handwriting of the adjutant-general has been copied. I tell -you, gentlemen, some very clever head and hand have been at work here -for the rescue of that prisoner, and it was accomplished, too, for -those men were no more detectives than you are.” - -The colonel paced to and fro, deeply moved, and the two officers with -him evidently began to see the situation as he did, for Colonel De -Sutro remarked: - -“It is true that it could be done, Colonel Dunwoody, and we read -about such escapes in novels, but it can hardly be possible.” - -“It is possible and has been done, gentlemen, I now feel certain of -that. But, keep the matter quiet, please, and I will at once send a -special courier with a letter to the general and these forged papers, -stating just what has occurred.” - -“It would be best to do so, sir.” - -“Yes, Lester, all that I can do. I will also send another courier -after Caruth with a letter giving these facts, so that he can advise -Buffalo Bill, and they will not be acting in the dark. It is a bold, -clever game that has been played, and I fear it was too well planned -to be any doubt as to the escape of that daring outlaw, Silk Lasso -Sam.” - -“Do you think, sir, that he was in the secret?” - -“Yes, or it could never have been carried out to such a successful -termination.” - -“Then the lady who was here as his sister must have been the fair -plotter.” - -“Yes, Colonel De Sutro, she and no one else; but, I cannot believe -that it was intended by her that a life should be taken in this -escape. That is why I say it was so cleverly planned, in Chicago, not -here, and money obtained those letter-heads, the use of the State -seal, and the forgery of those papers.” - -“She is a very remarkable woman, Colonel Dunwoody.” - -“Yes, Lester, she is; but humane as well as clever and daring. -She has planned, too, that her brother should make no mistake in -escaping, and so I am sure that Buffalo Bill and those he guides are -following a blind trail.” - -“Where is the woman now, sir?” - -“The lady, Colonel De Sutro, for she is such and cannot be censured -for saving her brother, has gone East, I believe. At least, such was -her intention.” - -“And Miss Carr does not know her address, major?” asked Colonel -De Sutro, who was always envious of Clarice Carr’s receiving more -attention than Nina, and was willing to give a little dig at the -major, in return for the colonel’s rebuke to him for calling Ruth -Arden a woman. - -“Miss Arden has promised to write to Miss Carr, Colonel De Sutro, yet -has not done so thus far. With Colonel Dunwoody, I am not one to cast -the slightest censure upon her for wishing to save her wicked brother -from the gallows, and I admire her pluck, but only hope Powell has -not been a sufferer by it.” - -“I most sincerely echo your hope, Lester, that Powell has come to no -harm by this escape,” said Colonel Dunwoody, and Colonel De Sutro -expressed the same wish. - -After some further conversation upon the subject it was decided that -the letter should be at once written and despatched by courier, in -order to get a response from the general as soon as possible. - -Then, while Colonel Dunwoody was writing the letter it occurred to -Major Lester to volunteer himself to go on after Captain Caruth’s -command, and explain the situation to that officer and to Buffalo -Bill. - -When he mentioned to the general his determination, his services -were gladly accepted, and he at once repaired to his quarters to make -preparations for the night ride, and an order was sent for an escort -of a sergeant and eight troopers, with a scout as guide. - -The courier was despatched with the letter to the general, to be -taken to a point on the Overland Trail where there was a tri-weekly -mail going East, and a scout was the bearer, a man thoroughly -acquainted with the country so that he could make the best time -possible. - -Soon after Major Lester and his escort rode out of the fort, and at a -trot started upon the trail. They went prepared to push on by night, -for several lanterns had been taken along, and these were put into -requisition upon reaching Deep Dell Brook. - -The trail was thus readily followed from there, and just at sunrise -the party came to the camp of the troop ahead, which had been -deserted a couple of hours before. - -A halt was made of an hour for rest and breakfast, and then they -pushed on again. - -The scout with the escort was a good one, and he followed the trail -readily, gaining here and there by cutting across country, from his -knowledge of which way the trail must lead. In this way, by noon, -several miles had been made, and Major Lester felt cheered with the -hope of closing up with the party ahead before nightfall. - -A long rest was taken at noon, for both men and horses needed it, and -then the trail was resumed once more. - -When the sun was nearing the horizon the scout descried ahead a -camp-fire. He at once halted and reported it, and soon after the -escort rode into the camp of Captain Caruth’s troop. - -“Well, Lester, what on earth brings you here?” cried Captain Caruth. -“Has aught gone wrong at the fort?” - -“Come aside and I will tell you. Where is Buffalo Bill?” - -“Asleep yonder at my camp.” - -“We will go there, then.” - -“Your manner indicates that something is wrong.” - -“There is. Have you made any discovery?” - -“Buffalo Bill has.” - -“What?” - -“Well, he was on ahead, and we came upon him here. He has been going -all the time, and at last even his iron frame had to acknowledge -fatigue, and he halted here, while his scouts have gone off on the -seven different trails that lead from yonder valley in as many -different directions. Ho, Cody, here is Major Lester, and he has news -for us.” - -Buffalo Bill was asleep upon his blanket, but sprang to his feet in -an instant and said: - -“Glad to see you, major. Hope nothing has gone wrong at the fort to -bring you after us, sir.” - -“There is something very wrong, Bill, as you shall know, for I wish -to tell the major and yourself at once.” - -Then the major went on to tell the captain and the scout of the -letters brought by the courier, and just what the general had done. - -Buffalo Bill gave a low whistle, and the captain laughed. - -“Well, Bill, what do you think of it?” asked Captain Caruth. - -“I think that Miss Arden is a dandy, sir, for it’s her work, sure as -can be.” - -“You are right, she did the work, and she is a dandy. She has -outwitted a fort full of soldiers, from colonel down, and she has -serenely gone her way beyond harm herself,” said Captain Caruth. - -“Yes, it is the belief of the colonel also that Miss Arden did the -planning, and from what I know of her she is capable of it,” Major -Lester said. - -“But where is she now?” the captain asked. - -“Ask the winds, Caruth,” said the major, and then he added: - -“And, Bill, where is Silk Lasso Sam?” - -“I surrender, sir.” - -“Explain, please.” - -“Well, sir, I followed the trail to the point down the valley there, -and from the creek it divided into just seven trails.” - -“All going the same way?” - -“No, sir, going off like the fingers from your hand. I followed one, -then the other, and then gave it up and waited for the coming of -Captain Caruth and my scouts. I sent two men off on each trail, for -I borrowed a soldier or two from Captain Caruth, and I turned in to -rest, sir.” - -“Then you delay here until you get the reports from your scouts?” - -“Yes, sir.” - -“That is all that I can see to do, Lester.” - -“Yes, Caruth, you can do nothing else but wait,” was the major’s -reply. - - - - - CHAPTER XXIV. - - TREACHERY. - - -The coach that carried the prisoner away from the fort progressed -on its way until it neared Deep Dell Brook. Then Detective Raymond -called out to the driver that the prisoner was not feeling very well, -and he would like to give him a seat on top of the coach. - -This was allowed, and a seat was arranged behind Surgeon Powell and -Horseshoe Ned. Then on the coach went once more. - -Neither Horseshoe Ned nor Surgeon Powell suspected treachery from -behind them. They were prepared to resist any attempt at the rescue -of the prisoner, should the coach be held up on the way. - -But behind the surgeon and the driver a plot was going on. - -The prisoner’s irons were quietly unlocked by Detective Raymond, and -he was a free man. - -Then, at a given signal, the two suddenly brought a revolver down -upon the head of the man immediately in the front of each. - -The coach was just moving out of Deep Dell Brook at the time. The -blows were stunning ones, and the one delivered by the detective upon -the head of the driver was very severe, for it cut to the bone, and -was given with an indifference as to whether it killed or not. - -The blow received by the Surgeon Scout was less severe, perhaps -because the benumbed hands of the outlaw chief were not able to -strike so hard or perhaps because the man admired Frank Powell as he -had said that he did. - -Horseshoe Ned fell heavily from his box to the ground, and the team -stopped. Surgeon Powell also reeled, clutched at his revolver, and, -turning, fired. - -His shot killed the pretended Detective Raymond, though he received -a bullet himself in the shoulder, and dropped from the coach to the -ground. - -Half-stunned as he was by the blow, and wounded, too, while the fall -gave him a severe shock, he was no match for the outlaw chief, and -the two men who leaped from the coach upon him. - -He was quickly secured, disarmed, and the manacles taken from Silk -Lasso Sam were put upon him. - -There were others who had appeared upon the scene during this unequal -combat. They were two men who quickly looked about for Raymond, but -found him dead. - -Then they turned to the chief and said that they had been ordered to -that point to meet him, and had horses near. - -The chief, aided by one of the pretended detectives, assisted Surgeon -Powell along the bank to where the horses awaited them, the other men -following soon after, with the booty taken from the coach. - -Surgeon Powell appeared half-dazed from his blow, but he made no -resistance, and was mounted upon one of the horses that was there. - -“You must go with me, Surgeon Powell, for I do not wish to kill you, -and you are too dangerous a man to leave behind,” said the chief. - -Frank Powell made no reply, and, mounting, the chief, his prisoner, -and four men set off down the valley. - -The wound of the surgeon was looked to at the first halt made, and it -was found not to be dangerous, though severe. - -On they went until after noon, when the chief said: - -“I wish to divide here. You have your pay, men, for the work you -have done, so go your separate ways, and I will go mine, taking my -prisoner with me. The odd horses we will turn loose, and that there -may be seven separate trails going in as many directions, I will go -on foot, and the surgeon can ride the horse I had.” - -Thus the men parted on the trail, the Surgeon Scout mounted on the -best horse, which was led by Silk Lasso Sam. - -The outlaw chief appeared to have a direct purpose in view, and to -know the country thoroughly, for he kept steadily on, the Surgeon -Scout seemingly indifferent to what was going on. - -Toward sunset he came to a good spot for a camp, and was just coming -to a halt when a horse and rider appeared in sight. The chief started -and dropped his hand upon his revolver, as though to stand at bay, -when the Surgeon Scout said sternly: - -“Hold! do not fire upon a woman.” - -“My God, I had nearly done so, for I could hardly see her through the -foliage.” - -“It is your sister.” - -“Yes.” - -The outlaw gave a call, and the horsewoman who had not seen them up -to that time came quickly toward them. - -“Ruth!” - -“Brother!” - -The rider had thrown herself from her horse and was clasped in her -brother’s arms, while she cried: - -“You are free, and now you will remember your pledge to me to lead a -different life.” - -“I will keep my word to you, Ruth. But see, here is an old friend, -and he is wounded and suffering.” - -“Surgeon Powell!” cried Ruth, her face turning white, and then -wheeling upon her brother she demanded sternly: - -“What does this mean, sir?” - -The eyes of Ruth flashed fire as she turned them upon her brother, -whose face flushed under her gaze, while he said in an embarrassed -manner: - -“Do not be angry, Ruth, for no harm has been done, or very little at -least, for the surgeon is not much hurt.” - -“I wish to say to you, Surgeon Powell,” and Ruth turned toward him, -“that I planned the escape of my brother from the gallows. I went to -Chicago, got forged documents, and sent these men in my pay to play -the detective and bring my brother away. - -“I was to have horses meet them at Deep Dell Brook, and it seems that -so far as his escape is concerned all went well. In consideration -for his escape he had pledged me to lead a different life, to reform. -Now, when I supposed that there would be no trouble in his making his -escape, no bloodshed, he appears here, when I come to meet him, with -you in irons and a prisoner. I ask you, Surgeon Powell, what does it -mean?” - -“Let your brother inform you, Miss Arden,” was the reply of Frank -Powell. - -“Well, sir, what explanation have you to offer for this outrage upon -Surgeon Powell?” - -“I wish to say, Ruth, that you are angry without a cause. Colonel -Dunwoody sent Surgeon Powell along also, and there was but one way -to escape, if I was to do so. The man Raymond dealt Horseshoe Ned a -severe blow, and I struck the surgeon, but not to do him other harm -than stun him. - -“The driver, I fear, was killed, for he fell from the box, while -Surgeon Powell turned, drew his revolver, and fired upon Raymond, who -also drew trigger at the same time. The surgeon killed Raymond, and -you see that Doctor Powell received a slight wound in the shoulder. - -“There was nothing to be done then but to make Surgeon Powell a -prisoner and bring him along. I discovered the men back in the -valley, and we were upon our way to Pocket City, where I knew that -you would do all in your power for the doctor.” - -“Gladly I will, and it is but seven miles to Pocket City, and we -will go on at once. But there should have been no bloodshed in this -escape, brother, for I meant that it should be a rescue wholly by -strategy. Come, Surgeon Powell, you are no prisoner, so, brother, -unlock those irons.” - -“And have him kill me?” - -“I shall take the parole of both of you to do no harm to each other. -Will you give it, Surgeon Powell?” - -“As you ask it, Miss Arden, I will.” - -“And you, brother?” - -“I will only protect my life,” was the guarded answer of the outlaw. - -“Then give me the key of these manacles.” - -They were handed to her, and the irons were unlocked and thrown over -the horn of the saddle. - -“Now, Doctor Powell, I desire to get you to a place of safety as soon -as possible, and see what can be done for you. Brother, my horse is -fresh and able to carry double, so mount behind me.” - -This the outlaw did, and she rode on through the gathering darkness. - -Arriving in the vicinity of Hangman’s Gulch, Ruth paused and said: - -“Brother, you know that it will not do for you to be seen, and I -have a hiding-place for you, where you can be safe until you have an -opportunity of leaving this country. You have no fear of Hangman’s -Gulch, so remain here until I return for you later, for now I shall -go on with Major Powell to the hotel.” - -The outlaw made no reply and obeyed, and Ruth rode on with Surgeon -Powell by her side. - -Soon after he found himself in pleasant quarters, and his wounds were -skilfully dressed by the fair hands of the good Samaritan who once -more appeared in her character of Bonnie Belle. - -When Ruth had seen Surgeon Powell in comfortable quarters at the -Frying Pan, she mounted her horse and rode alone out of Pocket City. - -There were few miners abroad at that hour, and if any one saw her at -all they supposed in the darkness that she was a man. - -Even had they known it to be Bonnie Belle she would have gone -unquestioned as to the cause of her late ride, no matter how much -any one would have wondered as to the reason. - -She rode directly toward Hangman’s Gulch, and that was a sure sign -that she would meet no one on that trail, which the bravest of the -miners would not travel by night. - -And yet there in that weird spot, among the graves of a score of -victims of border justice or injustice, as the case might be, with -the gallows rising above him, stood a man then under sentence of -death to die by hanging; a man who could count his victims by the -score, a man revengeful, merciless, and wicked far beyond his kind. - -It was Arden Leigh, known on the frontier as Silk Lasso Sam, and if -the spot had haunting memories for him he did not reveal the fact by -word or deed. - -He uttered an impatient oath now and then, as time passed and he did -not hear his sister returning, and at last, losing his patience as -time stole on, he was moving down toward the mouth of the gulch, when -his ears caught the clatter of hoof-falls. - -“She is coming,” he muttered. - -Then, as he darted back into the shadow, he drew a revolver and said: - -“But I must not be too sure.” - -Soon a horse and rider appeared in the gulch, and, drawing rein, the -soft, plaintive notes of the whippoorwill was heard. - -“How that call carries me back to the past, for it was my call for -Ruth,” and the man seemed to feel for an instant a pang of memory and -remorse that overwhelmed him. Then as the call was repeated again and -again he stepped out from the shadow and approached the girl where -she sat upon her horse. - -“Ah! brother, I am so glad to find you, for I was becoming anxious,” -she said, as she slipped from her saddle to the ground. - -“I was so taken aback at the old whippoorwill call, Ruth, that I -could neither answer it nor speak. I was overwhelmed for a moment.” - -“It was your call for me, when I was a little girl, Arden.” - -“Yes, and that is what impressed me so.” - -“Then you can feel, and you are not, as people have said, utterly -heartless and callous?” - -“I hope I am a changed man, my sister. But what am I to do?” - -“You are to return with me to Pocket City, for I have a place in my -wing of the hotel where I can hide and care for you for a few days, -as it would by no means be safe for you to attempt now to go through -the country alone.” - -“And why not now?” - -“Because you know that your attack on Surgeon Powell will cause the -wildest excitement at the fort. Of course, it will be known that you -escaped, and Colonel Dunwoody will have half his force on your track, -for Surgeon Powell will be supposed to have been killed, and that -will make those who search for him most revengeful.” - -“That is so, sister.” - -“I am sorry that this was not an escape without violence, and, as I -fear, the death of the driver.” - -“How could it be without violence or death with the Surgeon Scout -along, Ruth, for you know it would have been easier to have mastered -a guard of half a dozen men than Powell, unless by a blow when he did -not expect it. He is an extraordinary man.” - -“Yes, he is, and I am glad it is no worse. But now here are some -things for you to put on, and you are to come with me to Pocket City. -I will ride on ahead and enter my wing of the hotel, and when you -hear the whippoorwill cry do you then come directly to my gate in the -stockade wall.” - -“I understand.” - -“I will have your room ready, and will bring you your food myself, -while I am arranging for your departure.” - -“You are most kind to me, Ruth. But then you always have been.” - -“I wish to be, and I hope to help you to lead a different life, my -brother.” - -“You alone can do it, Ruth,” was the low response, and then, as -though he dreaded trouble yet for himself, he said: - -“What you say about Powell alarms me, and if it is found out that you -are my sister, then your house will be searched, Ruth.” - -“Let them search it, for they will never find you in the place where -I can hide you, Arden.” - -“All right, I am in your hands, my sister,” and, having slipped on -the clothes she had brought him, he followed her on to the edge of -Pocket City. - -For half an hour he waited there in the shadow of the timber, and -then came the cry of the night bird, when he walked briskly toward -the stockade. - -The gate was opened, and, unseen by any one, he entered and had -reached a haven of refuge. - - - - - CHAPTER XXV. - - THE SURGEON SCOUT’S WARNING. - - -Frank Powell’s wounds were painful, though not serious. He had been -taken to one of the pleasantest rooms in the Frying Pan, and thither -went Bonnie Belle and a Chinese servant, with water, arnica, and -bandages. - -“I have come to dress your wounds, Surgeon Powell, under your -direction,” she said, with a smile. - -“They amount to but little to one who has roughed it as I have, Miss -Arden.” - -“There, you are calling me Miss Arden, when you know that here I am -Bonnie Belle.” - -“I will not mistake again, Bonnie Belle.” - -“Here, Chin-Chin, get ready to help me,” and, having placed the basin -and other things upon the table, she drew back the collar of the -surgeon’s shirt and glanced at the wound. - -“What do you think of it?” she asked. - -“The bullet passed through, and touched no bones, so it will soon -heal,” he said. - -She then bathed the two wounds where the bullet cut its way in and -out and bandaged the shoulder firmly. - -“Now to that cut upon the head.” - -The blow had cut to the bone, but the skull was not injured, and, -being washed clean, she took a couple of stitches, drawing it -together, after which it was also dressed carefully. - -Chin-Chin, meanwhile, was sent for some supper for the Surgeon Scout, -who ate heartily of what was brought to him, and, left to himself, -was soon after sound asleep. - -The next day Bonnie Belle visited him with Chin-Chin, again dressed -his wounds, and then said: - -“Now, Surgeon Powell, I have written a letter to the fort that you -are here, and I suppose a troop will soon be sent for you.” - -“Yes, but there was no need of it, as I could have gone on alone.” - -“No, sir, that I would not allow, for brave and strong as you are you -are not able to take that ride alone, so you are to remain here until -your comrades come for you.” - -“You are the captain, Bonnie Belle, and so I obey. But I have -something to say to you.” - -“Well, sir?” - -“You do not know that Buffalo Bill is on my trail.” - -She started and asked: - -“What do you mean?” - -“I mean that Buffalo Bill was to follow the coach to the end of the -run. He did not say as much, but I feel sure that he did so.” - -“Yes.” - -“Of course he came upon the scene where the coach had been held up, -and where were the bodies of the rescuer and of Horseshoe Ned, if the -latter was killed, which I doubt.” - -“I think I see your meaning now.” - -“Yes, for Buffalo Bill coming upon this scene read it like an open -book. He returned to the fort and got a force with which to follow -the rescuers, and he did so with all the promptness for which he is -famous. That is the way I read it, anyhow.” - -“And that means that he will come here?” - -“Yes, and very soon.” - -“But my brother guarded against that by dividing the men, as you -know, and covering up the trails as well as he could.” - -“Your brother did not guard against the fact that Buffalo Bill was -upon his trail. He supposed that it would, perhaps, be a couple of -days before the rescue was known, and so the trails would be in a -manner stale before there would be any one on his track. What became -of his rescuers he doubtless did not care, so long as he reached you -in safety and found a hiding-place.” - -“I fear such is the nature of my brother, Doctor Powell.” - -“I merely judge him by his actions in the past, and, though I feel -that he deserves hanging, and should be hanged without any hesitation -if taken, as he will surely be, for your sake I give you this -warning.” - -“It is most kind of you.” - -“No, it is just to you, for I feel that you are here, living the life -you do, only to save your brother, to redeem him. You have played -a bold game for his rescue, and as you believe in his reformation, -as he has pledged himself to lead a different life, I shall not be -the one to thwart you, so give you a warning that if Buffalo Bill -comes here with his scouts, as he surely will, he will ferret out the -hiding-place of your brother, and you will see him hanged before your -eyes, I very much fear.” - -“Then you would advise me to at once remove him to a safe retreat?” -anxiously asked Bonnie Bell. - -“I would advise you to send him far from here at once, Bonnie -Belle. If he goes back to his old ways of wickedness again, then -you have done far more than your duty by him, and he must take the -consequences.” - -“Yes, it must be so,” she said sadly, and then, as she turned from -the room, she continued: - -“I thank you, Surgeon Powell; and I will at once take your advice.” - -“I may have done wrong, but it was in justice to that noble girl,” -muttered the Surgeon Scout, when left alone. - -From the room of the Surgeon Scout Bonnie Belle went with very -thoughtful face to her room. - -She soon made her arrangements for bringing the outlaw to her own -quarters, for she could do nothing else. - -Then she looked the situation squarely in the face and decided to -speak and act at once. Delays are dangerous, and, with Buffalo Bill -upon the trail of her brother, she understood just what it meant. - -So she said, after some time spent in silent thought: - -“Brother, I wish to talk with you.” - -“I am very tired, sis, so say another time.” - -“No, it must be now, for I have something to tell you that will -startle you.” - -“Well?” - -“Buffalo Bill is upon your trail.” - -“How do you know this?” - -“From the Surgeon Scout.” - -“Bah! he has tried to frighten you.” - -“And has been successful.” - -“You are frightened, then?” - -“I am.” - -“And I am not.” - -“Well, we shall see what cause you have.” - -“Fire away.” - -“The Surgeon Scout did not try to frighten me.” - -“What then?” - -“He did me a kindness, as after all I had risked and done for you he -did not wish me to see you hanged.” - -“He is very kind.” - -There was a sneer in the man’s tones. - -“You misunderstand him, as I will prove to you. He told me that he -had been sent East by Colonel Dunwoody under orders, and that fearful -of an attack upon the coach, to rescue you--for my men were not -suspected of being treacherous, except that they might be bribed to -release you, detectives though they were supposed to be--Buffalo Bill -had decided to follow the coach, and did so.” - -“Ah!” - -“He therefore came upon the scene and, of course, rode back to the -fort for aid.” - -“This looks bad, if true.” - -“It is true, for Surgeon Powell told me for my good, with the hope -that you might have a chance to prove to me that your reformation was -sincere.” - -The outlaw wore a troubled look now, for he knew what Buffalo Bill -was on a trail. - -“Well, Ruth, what is to be done?” - -“If you remain here, knowing as he does that you are my brother, -Buffalo Bill will prevent your escape, for he will put spies upon -this hotel and you will be captured when you least expect it.” - -“It looks bad for me, sis.” - -“Yes, unless you go at once from here.” - -“How can I?” - -“I will go to the stable and get my best horse for you, yes, two -of them, for one you can use as a pack-animal. I will fit you up a -disguise, some provisions to last you a week or more, and when all is -in readiness you can meet me at the cliff on the trail to Hangman’s -Gulch. - -“That trail is well traveled, and you can take the bed of the stream -then, following down it for miles. This will destroy any trail, for -I will drag back a bush over the trail of the horses to the stream, -leaving a rope to it as though a horse had been hitched to it and had -broke away.” - -“You are as ingenious as Buffalo Bill, sis.” - -“When we are working for a life our brains are on the alert, brother. -Now you get the provisions, blankets, ammunition, and weapons packed -up, for I will bring them to you with the pack-saddle at once, and I -will see to the horses going to the edge of the timber. You will have -to carry the pack-saddle that far yourself, but the other horse will -be all saddled and bridled ready for you.” - -“I will not mind it, Ruth; but I want the best animals you have.” - -“You shall have them.” - -“And you know that I have no money.” - -“Indeed?” - -“It is so.” - -“I heard that you had been allowed to keep what you had on you of -value when taken.” - -“It is not so, for I was robbed of everything,” said the outlaw with -ready lie, for he had then upon him some gold, paper money, and -valuables to the amount of ten thousand dollars. - -“Well, brother, I am not sorry, for that which you had had been -gained dishonorably and would have brought you bad luck. I will -give you ten thousand dollars in bills, which you can carry easily, -and when I know in the future that you have reformed, that you have -atoned for the past all that lies within your power, then will I -share with you the fortune that I possess.” - -“You are very kind to me, Ruth; but I believe if I had more money now -I could invest it so well that you would not have to give me a cent.” - -“I cannot give you more now, brother; but should you need it, you -know where I told you to write to me, and I will readily help you. -But have you decided where you will go?” - -“Yes, I shall go to South America somewhere and invest my money -there.” - -“Well, may success attend you, brother, wherever you go. But now I -have to ask a favor of you.” - -“Granted.” - -“Here is our mother’s prayer-book and in it is a lock of her hair. -Will you clasp this sacred book in your hand, grasp mine with the -other, and solemnly vow to me your pledge of reformation of your life -and atonement for your past sins as far as is within your power to do -so?” - -A cloud swept over the face of the outlaw, but he answered: - -“I will.” - -She placed the prayer-book in his left hand, grasped his right in -both her own, and then repeated the pledge she wished him to make to -her. - -His voice quivered as he repeated it after her, but he kept on to the -end, and then she said: - -“Brother Arden, I have perfect faith in you now that you will keep -your pledge to me. Now I must hasten to get you away under cover of -the darkness.” - -And half an hour after the devoted sister parted from her outlaw -brother at the little stream, she returning to the camps dragging -after her a cedar bush to wipe out the trails of the two horses she -had led to that spot to await his coming. - -And, once more a free man, Arden Leigh was launched again upon the -world, no longer known as Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw. - - - - - CHAPTER XXVI. - - BONNIE BELL’S WORK DONE. - - -The scouts under Buffalo Bill came into camp the following day after -starting upon the trails, two of them with horses which they had -found astray in the timber, and two more with a prisoner they had -taken. - -Two others reported having killed a man whom they overtook and who -showed fight, and thus were the pretended detectives, the comrades of -Raymond, accounted for. - -Texas Jack had the best story to tell, however. He had tracked a -horse down toward Pocket City and discovered that there was a man on -foot going along that way, too. - -He had trailed them to a spot half a dozen miles from Yellow Dust -Valley, and there a horse had joined them, as the tracks showed. This -horse came from the direction of Yellow Dust Valley. - -“That is the trail we take, Captain Caruth, and I am going to ask you -to camp your men outside of Pocket City, and you and the major go -on with me alone,” said Buffalo Bill. “You will discover my reason -later, and, if I mistake not, we will find Surgeon Powell in Pocket -City, for I cannot believe that harm has befallen him.” - -So the command moved on its way, and Buffalo Bill guided them to the -camping-place near the cabin of Deadshot Dean. - -It was night then, and, accompanied by Major Lester and Captain -Caruth, Buffalo Bill rode on into Pocket City and halted at the -Frying Pan. - -But for the warning given by the Surgeon Scout, it would have been -to the great surprise of Bonnie Belle, as she came out of her rooms, -to be suddenly confronted by the tall form of the scout, and to see -behind him the two officers in uniform. The scout acted as spokesman, -and said: - -“Bonnie Belle, we are here to find Surgeon Powell, and I feel that -you will give what information you can regarding him.” - -“Then you missed my courier to the fort, sent this morning?” - -“We saw no courier.” - -“I sent to the fort a letter to Colonel Dunwoody explaining all, -and---- But why this disguise any longer, for I see that Major Lester -and Captain Caruth both know me now as Miss Arden, but here remember -I must be only Bonnie Belle. - -“Come into my rooms and I will tell you all there is to tell, while, -to relieve your minds, let me say that Surgeon Powell is here and -doing well, though he is wounded. I will explain, however.” - -And then she told the story of her bold rescue of her brother, and -which she had intended to be a bloodless one, as far as she was -concerned. - -Surgeon Powell was sent for and was able to come to her rooms to meet -his comrades, and a pleasant meeting it was. - -“And now, Bonnie Belle, I desire to ask you one question,” said -Buffalo Bill. - -“Certainly.” - -“Where is your brother?” - -“Far from here, for he was set free upon conditions. I have kept my -contract with him, and with a handsome sum of money, he has gone, to -appear amid these scenes no more. As for myself, I shall start East -upon the next coach going out, to escape punishment from Colonel -Dunwoody, and also to visit the family of Deadshot Dean, near my old -girlhood home.” - -Until a late hour they all talked together and the next morning, as -Surgeon Powell expressed himself as well able to journey, the return -march was begun. - -Arriving there they found that Colonel Dunwoody had received -the letter written him by Ruth, and to Surgeon Powell he said -confidentially: - -“One of these days I will ask that woman to be my wife, Powell, for -she is as noble a specimen of womanhood as I ever knew. The letter -she wrote me was a confession of why she had so cleverly deceived -us all here, in her rescue of her brother, and begged that I would -understand that her motive was to save him that he might not die -unrepentant. - -“She has been on this border, as the landlady of a hotel and a -gambling-den, and yet I believe that she is pure as an angel.” - -“And I would stake life, honor, all I hold dear on earth, Colonel -Dunwoody, upon her, for she is all that you say that she is,” was -Frank Powell’s response, and then he told the colonel all that had -occurred at the time of his being taken to the hotel. - -“Do you not believe he will change his evil career, Powell, as he has -pledged himself to do?” asked the colonel. - -“Pardon me, sir, if I say that I believe he is too steeped in sin -ever to be other than a wicked man.” - -“All that he is, or yet may be, Powell, does not, however, alter my -regard for his sister one jot or tittle.” - -“Nor mine, sir, and Buffalo Bill feels the same way, for he has said -as much.” - -“And where is the fellow?” - -“He has gone to Mexico, sir, I take it, from what his sister said, -and that is a very bad country for a man of his caliber to go to, to -reform.” - -“It is indeed, Surgeon Powell,” was the answer of the colonel, who -then added: - -“But I tell you in confidence that one of these days I shall seek out -that young girl and offer her my hand and heart.” - -And Colonel Dunwoody was as good as his word, and he did not ask in -vain for the hand and heart of the real of his ideal love, though -then she was no longer known as Bonnie Belle of Pocket City, but as -Miss Ruth Leigh, a belle and beauty in society, and one known to -possess a very large fortune, of which she was the sole mistress. - -And there was in the fort another happy couple in Clarice Carr and -Captain Dick Caruth, whose lives also had a secret romance in them. - -As for Nina de Sutro, with a heart warped by her sorrows, the -wrecking of her life in girlhood by the outlaw who had crossed her -path, she in the end sought a haven of refuge within the walls of a -Mexican convent, hiding her life and her beautiful face under the -veil of a nun. - - - THE END. - - - No. 45 of the BUFFALO BILL BORDER STORIES, “Buffalo Bill and the - Doomed Dozen,” is a good deal of a mystery story. Of course it has - the Western setting, and all the trappings of an A1 Buffalo Bill - adventure yarn--yet it is a little different--though every bit as - enjoyable and thrilling as any in the series. - - - - - READ! - - The Chain of Clues - - By NICHOLAS CARTER - - New Magnet Library No. 1030 - - - A gamblers’ club with sixteen entrances through sixteen different - houses on three streets, where gambling is prohibited, is certainly - an interesting background for a detective story. - - Nick Carter becomes a member of such an organization to trap a - crook who held human life so cheaply that his devilish crimes went - unpunished for a long time. - - Nick matched his wits against those of the criminal and won - out--but how he did so will hold your undivided interest. - - If your dealer cannot supply this book immediately, he will get it - for you. - - - STREET & SMITH CORPORATION - 79 Seventh Avenue New York City - - - - - A REQUEST - - - Conditions due to the war have made it very difficult for us to - keep in print all of the books listed in our catalogues. We still - have about fifteen hundred different titles that we are in a - position to supply. These represent the best books in our line. We - could not afford, in the circumstances, to reprint any of the less - popular works. - - We aim to keep in stock the works of such authors as Bertha Clay, - Charles Garvice, May Agnes Fleming, Nicholas Carter, Mary J. - Holmes, Mrs. Harriet Lewis, Horatio Alger, and the other famous - authors who are represented in our line by ten or more titles. - Therefore, if your dealer cannot supply you with exactly the book - you want, you are almost sure to find in his stock another title by - the same author, which you have not read. - - It short, we are asking you to take what your dealer can supply, - rather than to insist upon just what you want. You won’t lose - anything by such substitution, because the books by the authors - named are very uniform in quality. - - In ordering Street & Smith novels by mail, it is advisable to make - a choice of at least two titles for each book wanted, so as to give - us an opportunity to substitute for titles that are now out of - print. - - - STREET & SMITH CORPORATION, - 79-89 Seventh Avenue, New York City. - - - - - Transcriber’s Notes - - The Table of Contents at the beginning of the book was created by - the transcriber. - - Inconsistencies in hyphenation such as - “house-breaking”/“housebreaking” have been maintained. - - Minor punctuation and spelling errors have been silently corrected - and, except for those changes noted below, all misspellings in the - text, especially in dialogue, and inconsistent or archaic usage, - have been retained. - - Page 2: “A Congress of the Rough-riders” changed to “A Congress of - the Rough Riders”. - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BUFFALO BILL'S STILL HUNT *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law 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. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm -concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, -and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following -the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use -of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for -copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very -easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation -of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project -Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away--you may -do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected -by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark -license, especially commercial redistribution. - -START: FULL LICENSE - -THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE -PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK - -To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free -distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work -(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full -Project Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at -www.gutenberg.org/license. - -Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works - -1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to -and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property -(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all -the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or -destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your -possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a -Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound -by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the -person or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph -1.E.8. - -1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be -used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who -agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few -things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See -paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this -agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. - -1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the -Foundation" or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection -of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual -works in the collection are in the public domain in the United -States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the -United States and you are located in the United States, we do not -claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, -displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as -all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope -that you will support the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting -free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm -works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the -Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with the work. You can easily -comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the -same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg-tm License when -you share it without charge with others. - -1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern -what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are -in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, -check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this -agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, -distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any -other Project Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no -representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any -country other than the United States. - -1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: - -1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other -immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear -prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work -on which the phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the -phrase "Project Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, -performed, viewed, copied or distributed: - - This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and - most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no - restrictions whatsoever. 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. If you are not located in the - United States, you will have to check the laws of the country where - you are located before using this eBook. - -1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is -derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not -contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the -copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in -the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are -redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply -either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or -obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg-tm -trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted -with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution -must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any -additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms -will be linked to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works -posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the -beginning of this work. - -1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm -License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this -work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. - -1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this -electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without -prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with -active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project -Gutenberg-tm License. - -1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, -compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including -any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access -to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format -other than "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official -version posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm website -(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense -to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means -of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original "Plain -Vanilla ASCII" or other form. Any alternate format must include the -full Project Gutenberg-tm License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. - -1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, -performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works -unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing -access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -provided that: - -* You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from - the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method - you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed - to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he has - agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid - within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are - legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty - payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in - Section 4, "Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg - Literary Archive Foundation." - -* You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies - you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he - does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm - License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all - copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue - all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg-tm - works. - -* You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of - any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the - electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of - receipt of the work. - -* You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free - distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. - -1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work or group of works on different terms than -are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing -from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of -the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the Foundation as set -forth in Section 3 below. - -1.F. - -1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable -effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread -works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project -Gutenberg-tm collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may -contain "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate -or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other -intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or -other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or -cannot be read by your equipment. - -1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right -of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project -Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all -liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal -fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT -LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE -PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE -TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE -LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR -INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH -DAMAGE. - -1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a -defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can -receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a -written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you -received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium -with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you -with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in -lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person -or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second -opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If -the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing -without further opportunities to fix the problem. - -1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth -in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO -OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT -LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. - -1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied -warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of -damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement -violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the -agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or -limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or -unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the -remaining provisions. - -1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the -trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone -providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in -accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the -production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, -including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of -the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this -or any Project Gutenberg-tm work, (b) alteration, modification, or -additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any -Defect you cause. - -Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm - -Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of -electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of -computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It -exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations -from people in all walks of life. - -Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the -assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's -goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will -remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure -and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future -generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see -Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at -www.gutenberg.org - -Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation - -The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit -501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the -state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal -Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification -number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by -U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. - -The Foundation's business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, -Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up -to date contact information can be found at the Foundation's website -and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact - -Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg -Literary Archive Foundation - -Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without -widespread public support and donations to carry out its mission of -increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be -freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest -array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations -($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt -status with the IRS. - -The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating -charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United -States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a -considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up -with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations -where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND -DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular -state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate - -While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we -have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition -against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who -approach us with offers to donate. - -International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make -any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from -outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. - -Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation -methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other -ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To -donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate - -Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works - -Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project -Gutenberg-tm concept of a library of electronic works that could be -freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and -distributed Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of -volunteer support. - -Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed -editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in -the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition. - -Most people start at our website which has the main PG search -facility: www.gutenberg.org - -This website includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. diff --git a/old/64800-0.zip b/old/64800-0.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 7a685dd..0000000 --- a/old/64800-0.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/64800-h.zip b/old/64800-h.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 4206cf0..0000000 --- a/old/64800-h.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/64800-h/64800-h.htm b/old/64800-h/64800-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index d90250e..0000000 --- a/old/64800-h/64800-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,11516 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" - "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> -<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> - <head> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> - <title> - Buffalo Bill’s Still Hunt, by Colonel Prentiss Ingraham—A Project Gutenberg eBook - </title> - <link rel="coverpage" href="images/cover.jpg" /> - <style type="text/css"> - -body { - margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; -} - - h1,h2 { - text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ - clear: both; - margin-top: 1.5em; - margin-bottom: 1em; - word-spacing: 0.2em; - letter-spacing: 0.1em; - line-height: 1em; - font-weight: normal; -} - -h1 {font-size: 180%; line-height: 2em;} -h2 {font-size: 120%; line-height: 1.4em;} - -p { - margin-top: .51em; - text-align: justify; - margin-bottom: .49em; - text-indent: 1em; -} - -.p2 {margin-top: 2em;} -.p3 {margin-top: 3em;} -.p4 {margin-top: 4em;} -.p6 {margin-top: 6em;} - -.pb2 {margin-bottom: 2em;} - -.pg-brk {page-break-before: always;} - -div.chapter {page-break-before: always;} -h2.nobreak {page-break-before: avoid;} - -.pfs240 {font-size: 240%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs180 {font-size: 180%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs150 {font-size: 150%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs135 {font-size: 135%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs120 {font-size: 120%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs100 {font-size: 100%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs90 {font-size: 90%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs80 {font-size: 80%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} - -.fs50 {font-size: 50%; font-style: normal;} -.fs70 {font-size: 70%; font-style: normal;} -.fs80 {font-size: 80%; font-style: normal;} -.fs90 {font-size: 90%; font-style: normal;} - -.bold {font-weight: bold;} - - -/* for horizontal lines */ -hr { - width: 33%; - margin-top: 1.5em; - margin-bottom: 1em; - margin-left: 33.5%; - margin-right: 33.5%; - clear: both; -} - -hr.chap {width: 65%; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;} -hr.fulld {width: 80%; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; border-top: double;} - -hr.r10 {width: 10%; margin-left: 45%; margin-right: 45%;} - -.x-ebookmaker hr.chap {width: 0%; display: none;} - - -/* for inserting info from TN changes */ -.corr { - text-decoration: none; - border-bottom: thin dotted gray; -} - -.x-ebookmaker .corr { - text-decoration: none; - border-bottom: none; - } - - -/* for tables */ -table { - margin-left: auto; - margin-right: auto;} - -table.autotable { border-collapse: collapse; } -table.autotable td {} - -.tdr {text-align: right;} -.tdlx {text-align: left; padding-left: 2em;} - - -/* for spacing */ -.pad2 {padding-left: 2em;} -.pad5 {padding-left: 5em;} -.pad8 {padding-left: 8em;} - -.pad50pc {padding-left: 50%;} - -.pagenum { /* uncomment the next line for invisible page numbers */ - /* visibility: hidden; */ - position: absolute; - color: #A9A9A9; - left: 92%; - font-size: smaller; - text-align: right; - font-style: normal; - font-weight: normal; - font-variant: normal; - text-indent: .5em; -} - - -/* blockquote (/# #/) */ -.blockquot { margin: 1.5em 5% 1.5em 5%; } - -.blockquotx { margin: 1.5em 15% 1.5em 15%; } - - -/* general placement and presentation */ -.bbox {margin: 5% 10% 5% 10%; - padding: .5em; - border: double thick;} - -.bboxb {margin: 5% 15% 5% 15%; - padding: .5em; - border: double thick;} - -.ttxt {font-size: 180%; - font-weight: bold; - text-align: center; - letter-spacing: 0.5em; -} - -.center {text-align: center; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;} - -.smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} - - -/* Images */ - -img { - border: none; - max-width: 100%; - height: auto; -} - -img.w100 {width: 100%;} - - -.figcenter { - margin: auto; - text-align: center; - page-break-inside: avoid; - max-width: 100%;} - - -/* Poetry */ -.poetry-container {text-align: center;} -.poetry {text-align: left; margin-left: 5%; margin-right: 5%;} -.poetry {display: inline-block; font-size: 80%} -.poetry .stanza {margin: 1em auto;} -.poetry .verse {text-indent: -3em; padding-left: 3em;} - - -/* Transcriber's notes */ -.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA; - color: black; - font-size:smaller; - padding:0.5em; - margin-bottom:5em; - font-family:sans-serif, serif; } - -.transnote p {text-indent: 0em;} - - -/* Poetry indents */ -.poetry .indent0 {text-indent: -3em;} -.poetry .indent2 {text-indent: -2em;} - -.illowe7_5 {width: 7.5em;} -.illowp58 {width: 58%;} -.illowp53 {width: 53%;} - - - </style> - </head> - -<body> - -<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Buffalo Bill's Still Hunt, by Colonel Prentiss Ingraham</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. 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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<table style='min-width:0; padding:0; margin-left:0; border-collapse:collapse'> - <tr><td>Title:</td><td>Buffalo Bill's Still Hunt</td></tr> - <tr><td></td><td>The Robber of the Range</td></tr> -</table> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Colonel Prentiss Ingraham</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: March 12, 2021 [eBook #64800]</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: David Edwards, Susan Carr and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net</div> - -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BUFFALO BILL'S STILL HUNT ***</div> - -<div class="figcenter illowp53" id="cover" style="max-width: 59.3125em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/cover.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<h1 class="pg-brk">Buffalo Bill’s Still Hunt<br /> - -<span class="fs50">OR,</span><br /> - -<span class="fs70">The Robber of the Range</span></h1> - -<p class="pfs80 p6">BY</p> - -<p class="pfs135">Colonel Prentiss Ingraham</p> - -<p class="pfs90">Author of the celebrated “Buffalo Bill” stories published in the<br /> -<span class="smcap">Border Stories</span>. For other titles see catalogue.</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowp58" id="colophon" style="max-width: 5.8125em;"> - <img class="w100 p3" src="images/colophon.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<p class="pfs120 p4">STREET & SMITH CORPORATION</p> -<p class="pfs90 bold">PUBLISHERS</p> -<p class="pfs120">79-89 Seventh Avenue, New York</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="bbox pg-brk"> -<p class="p2 pfs100">Copyright, 1907</p> -<p class="pfs100">By STREET & SMITH</p> -<hr class="r10" /> -<p class="pfs100 pb2">Buffalo Bill’s Still Hunt</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90">All rights reserved, including that of translation into foreign<br /> -languages, including the Scandinavian.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CONTENTS">CONTENTS</h2> -</div> - -<table class="autotable fs90" width="85%" summary=""> -<tr> -<td class="tdr"></td> -<td class="tdlx"></td> -<td class="tdr fs80">PAGE</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr"></td> -<td class="tdlx">IN APPRECIATION OF WILLIAM F. CODY</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">I.</td> -<td class="tdlx">CROSSING THE RIO GRANDE.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_I">5</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">II.</td> -<td class="tdlx">DESERTED.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_19">19</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">III.</td> -<td class="tdlx">SILK LASSO SAM, THE OUTLAW.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_24">24</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">IV.</td> -<td class="tdlx">BONNIE BELLE OF POCKET CITY.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_29">29</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">V.</td> -<td class="tdlx">LIFE AT PIONEER POST.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_43">43</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VI.</td> -<td class="tdlx">THE LAST APPEAL.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_48">48</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VII.</td> -<td class="tdlx">THE DOOMED OUTLAW.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_62">62</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VIII.</td> -<td class="tdlx">A FAIR PLOTTER.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_77">77</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">IX.</td> -<td class="tdlx">A VISITOR AT PIONEER POST.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_87">87</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">X.</td> -<td class="tdlx">THE REALITY OF AN IDEAL.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_101">101</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XI.</td> -<td class="tdlx">THE DEPARTURE.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_115">115</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XII.</td> -<td class="tdlx">CAUGHT IN THE ACT.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_129">129</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XIII.</td> -<td class="tdlx">IN HANGMAN’S GULCH.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_144">144</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XIV.</td> -<td class="tdlx">TURNING THE TABLES.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_163">163</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XV.</td> -<td class="tdlx">A MIDNIGHT INTERVIEW.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_177">177</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XVI.</td> -<td class="tdlx">A BORDER BURIAL.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_186">186</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XVII.</td> -<td class="tdlx">A SISTER OF MERCY.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_196">196</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XVIII.</td> -<td class="tdlx">RETURN OF THE SCOUTS.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_219">219</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XIX.</td> -<td class="tdlx">THE TELLING BLOW.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_228">228</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XX.</td> -<td class="tdlx">THE SURGEON’S MISSION.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_238">238</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXI.</td> -<td class="tdlx">ACCUSED.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_252">252</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXII.</td> -<td class="tdlx">BUFFALO BILL’S MAD RIDE.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_261">261</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXIII.</td> -<td class="tdlx">THE COLONEL RECEIVES A LETTER.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_279">279</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXIV.</td> -<td class="tdlx">TREACHERY.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_292">292</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXV.</td> -<td class="tdlx">THE SURGEON SCOUT’S WARNING.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_304">304</a></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XXVI.</td> -<td class="tdlx">BONNIE BELL’S WORK DONE.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_314">314</a></td> -</tr> -</table> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">[Pg 1]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="IN_APPRECIATION_OF_WILLIAM_F_CODY">IN APPRECIATION OF WILLIAM F. CODY<br /> -<span class="fs70">(BUFFALO BILL).</span></h2> -</div> - -<p>It is now some generations since Josh Billings, Ned -Buntline, and Colonel Prentiss Ingraham, intimate friends -of Colonel William F. Cody, used to forgather in the -office of Francis S. Smith, then proprietor of the <cite>New -York Weekly</cite>. It was a dingy little office on Rose Street, -New York, but the breath of the great outdoors stirred -there when these old-timers got together. As a result of -these conversations, Colonel Ingraham and Ned Buntline -began to write of the adventures of Buffalo Bill -for Street & Smith.</p> - -<p>Colonel Cody was born in Scott County, Iowa, February -26, 1846. Before he had reached his teens, his -father, Isaac Cody, with his mother and two sisters, -migrated to Kansas, which at that time was little more -than a wilderness.</p> - -<p>When the elder Cody was killed shortly afterward in -the Kansas “Border War,” young Bill assumed the difficult -rôle of family breadwinner. During 1860, and until -the outbreak of the Civil War, Cody lived the arduous -life of a pony-express rider. Cody volunteered his services -as government scout and guide and served throughout -the Civil War with Generals McNeil and A. J. -Smith. He was a distinguished member of the Seventh -Kansas Cavalry.</p> - -<p>During the Civil War, while riding through the streets -of St. Louis, Cody rescued a frightened schoolgirl from -a band of annoyers. In true romantic style, Cody and -Louisa Federci, the girl, were married March 6, 1866.</p> - -<p>In 1867 Cody was employed to furnish a specified -amount of buffalo meat to the construction men at work -on the Kansas Pacific Railroad. It was in this period -that he received the sobriquet “Buffalo Bill.”</p> - -<p>In 1868 and for four years thereafter Colonel Cody<span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">[2]</span> -served as scout and guide in campaigns against the Sioux -and Cheyenne Indians. It was General Sheridan who -conferred on Cody the honor of chief of scouts of the -command.</p> - -<p>After completing a period of service in the Nebraska -legislature, Cody joined the Fifth Cavalry in 1876, and -was again appointed chief of scouts.</p> - -<p>Colonel Cody’s fame had reached the East long before, -and a great many New Yorkers went out to see -him and join in his buffalo hunts, including such men -as August Belmont, James Gordon Bennett, Anson -Stager, and J. G. Heckscher. In entertaining these -visitors at Fort McPherson, Cody was accustomed to -arrange wild-West exhibitions. In return his friends -invited him to visit New York. It was upon seeing his -first play in the metropolis that Cody conceived the idea -of going into the show business.</p> - -<p>Assisted by Ned Buntline, novelist, and Colonel Ingraham, -he started his “Wild West” show, which later -developed and expanded into “<ins class="corr" id="tn2" title="Transcriber’s Note—“A Congress of the Rough-riders” changed to “A Congress of the Rough Riders”.">A Congress of the Rough Riders</ins> -of the World,” first presented at Omaha, Nebraska. -In time it became a familiar yearly entertainment -in the great cities of this country and Europe. -Many famous personages attended the performances, and -became his warm friends, including Mr. Gladstone, the -Marquis of Lorne, King Edward, Queen Victoria, and -the Prince of Wales, now King of England.</p> - -<p>At the outbreak of the Sioux, in 1890 and 1891, -Colonel Cody served at the head of the Nebraska National -Guard. In 1895 Cody took up the development -of Wyoming Valley by introducing irrigation. Not long -afterward he became judge advocate general of the -Wyoming National Guard.</p> - -<p>Colonel Cody (Buffalo Bill) died in Denver, Colorado, -on January 10, 1917. His legacy to a grateful world was -a large share in the development of the West, and a -multitude of achievements in horsemanship, marksmanship, -and endurance that will live for ages. His life -will continue to be a leading example of the manliness, -courage, and devotion to duty that belonged to a picturesque -phase of American life now passed, like the great -patriot whose career it typified, into the Great Beyond.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">[5]</span></p> - -<p class="pfs180">BUFFALO BILL’S STILL HUNT.</p> - -<hr class="r10" /> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_I">CHAPTER I.<br /> -<span class="fs70">CROSSING THE RIO GRANDE.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The Rio Grande, the great dividing-line between -Mexico and the United States, was swelling rapidly -into a flood under recent rains, which had sent torrents -dashing from the mountain lands toward the Gulf.</p> - -<p>A carriage, drawn by two horses, had halted upon -the banks at the ford, the Mexican driver on the -box seeming afraid to venture into the turbid stream.</p> - -<p>Within the vehicle were two persons, one in the -garb of a nun of the Church of Rome, the other a -young and beautiful girl of sixteen, with dark hair -and glorious eyes that revealed her Spanish blood.</p> - -<p>“Well, Pedro, why do you halt here?” asked the -nun of the driver.</p> - -<p>“It is dangerous to cross, Sister Felicite,” was the -answer.</p> - -<p>“And the river is rising?”</p> - -<p>“It is, sister.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">[6]</span></p> - -<p>“You know the ford, Pedro?”</p> - -<p>“Perfectly, sister.”</p> - -<p>“How deep will the waters come?”</p> - -<p>“They will wash through the carriage, Sister Felicite.”</p> - -<p>“Then what is to be done, Pedro?”</p> - -<p>“Alas! I know not,” was the dejected reply.</p> - -<p>“If you return, the road is dangerous, night is coming -on, and there is no ranch within fifteen miles.”</p> - -<p>“Very true, sister.”</p> - -<p>“What shall we do, then?” the nun asked anxiously.</p> - -<p>“Place greater weights in the carriage, sister; open -the doors, to let the water run through and not wash -it away; let me mount the box with Pedro, to use the -whip, while he manages the horses, and we can get -across.”</p> - -<p>The speaker was the young girl, and the nun looked -at her with an expression of amazed horror.</p> - -<p>“Why, child, what do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, Sister Felicite, I do not mind a ducking or -danger, for I have crossed many a stream beyond its -banks.”</p> - -<p>“The señorita is right, Sister Felicite, for it is our -only chance,” Pedro said.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">[7]</span></p> - -<p>“And the river is constantly rising, so that there is -no time to delay,” Nina de Sutro remarked, in a determined -manner, her face full of spirit and courage.</p> - -<p>“What do you think, Pedro?” asked the nun.</p> - -<p>“It is all that we can do, sister.”</p> - -<p>“Then act upon the Señorita Nina’s suggestion at -once.”</p> - -<p>The driver sprang from his box, and at once began -to pack the vehicle with stones to weight it down.</p> - -<p>The baggage was taken from the boot and placed -on top, and Sister Felicite mounted there, also, seated -upon the cushions.</p> - -<p>Nina climbed to the seat next to the driver’s upon -the box; then the man mounted to his place, seized -his reins, and, with a searching glance across the river, -to where the trail left the waters on the other shore, -he urged the horses into the now turbulent and deep -stream.</p> - -<p>It was a perilous undertaking, but the nun was -silent and calm, the young girl fearless-faced and -determined, the driver, Pedro, seeming anxious and -nervous, understanding the danger more thoroughly, -perhaps with a premonition of what lay in their path.</p> - -<p>The carriage at times was swept along for a few -feet; the horses time and again lost their footing<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">[8]</span> -but the brave driver knew the ford well, and Nina de -Sutro understood just when to use the whip, for she -carefully watched every movement of Pedro and the -horses.</p> - -<p>As they neared the other shore one of the horses -suddenly sank out of sight into a hole, and the pull -dragged the driver over upon the top of his now -struggling team.</p> - -<p>The vehicle swept around suddenly, the driver was -beaten down by the plunging, struggling horses, and -was swept away upon the surging current.</p> - -<p>But Nina de Sutro had seized the reins, and, to her -great delight, the vehicle was swept upon a bar, where -its downward course was arrested, and the horses regained -their footing once more.</p> - -<p>Poor Pedro!</p> - -<p>“Alas! we, too, must go to join him soon,” said -Sister Felicite, with calm resignation.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sister, the waters are flowing more rapidly, -and we will soon be swept away,” was the response of -the young girl, who was still cool and full of nerve, -though her face had blanched at thus being confronted -by what appeared to be sure death.</p> - -<p>“Keep up your courage, for I will come to your -aid!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[9]</span></p> - -<p>The voice came from the bank, where a horseman -had suddenly dashed down the hill and come to a -halt.</p> - -<p>“I will see if my lasso will reach you. Catch it, -señorita, as I throw!” cried the horseman, and he -launched the coil into the air, when it was caught by -Nina, while the nun on the top of the carriage muttered -a fervent:</p> - -<p>“Holy Mother, I thank thee!”</p> - -<p>A cheer broke from the lips of the horseman, who -was splendidly mounted and equipped, and dressed in -the garb of a Mexican gentleman ranchero.</p> - -<p>The horseman had been riding along the ridge-trail -upon the Mexican side of the river.</p> - -<p>He saw the danger, just as the driver was dragged -from his seat, and, wheeling his horse, he dashed -down to the bank, to see that the vehicle was at the -mercy of the waters and very soon would be swept -away with its occupants.</p> - -<p>At once he had seized the long lariat he had hanging -from the horn of his saddle.</p> - -<p>He was a man whose handsome face and courtly -manners would win admiration anywhere. His fine -physique was set off by his elegant Mexican dress, -and he wore upon his head a sombrero richly embroidered<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[10]</span> -in gold and silver, a tiny crossed American -and Mexican flag being upon the brim on the left -side.</p> - -<p>His hair was very long, falling far down his back, -and he wore a mustache and imperial which gave -him a military air.</p> - -<p>His horse was richly caparisoned, and it looked -ready for any service its master demanded.</p> - -<p>His lasso coil having been most skilfully launched -over the waters and caught by Nina de Sutro, the -horseman called out in a voice of command:</p> - -<p>“Tie a firm knot about the dash of the carriage, -and I will make fast my end to this tree.”</p> - -<p>The girl obeyed with alacrity, and, dismounting, the -man took his stake-rope, and, throwing aside his hat, -jacket, belt of arms, and boots with heavy spurs, -plunged into the stream, and was, with a few vigorous -strokes, carried to the vehicle, which was just balancing -upon the bar of sand, the horses barely keeping their -feet.</p> - -<p>The stake-ropes of the horses were taken from the -boot and tied securely to the one carried by the rescuer. -The new line was then made fast to the pole, -the stranger meanwhile acting rapidly and coolly, while -he said:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span></p> - -<p>“Have no fear now, ladies, for I will swim ashore -with this line, attach it to my saddle, and my horse -will drag your carriage ashore. You, miss, hold the -reins, but cling to the carriage top-rail, should the -vehicle capsize, as this lady must also do. Now all -is ready, and there is no time to lose.”</p> - -<p>With this he sprang into the stream once more, and -was whirled away by the swiftly flowing current. -He swam splendidly, and landed below, just as he -reached the end of the united stake-ropes.</p> - -<p>Running up the bank, he made the end fast to -his saddle-horn, and, seizing the lasso tied to the -tree, untied it and took position near his horse—the -intelligent animal seeming to understand just what -was expected of him.</p> - -<p>“All ready, now!” cried the horseman, to the nun -and Nina upon the box of the carriage. The latter -still held the reins and whip.</p> - -<p>Then he started his horse slowly forward, thus -drawing, with the stake-ropes attached to the saddle-horn -and the lasso which he held, the horses and -vehicle up against the current of the surging stream.</p> - -<p>At the call of the stranger, Nina gathered the reins, -and at the same time laid the whip upon the backs of -the horses.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[12]</span></p> - -<p>They plunged forward and were over their depth -at once, while the carriage sank nearly to the top, the -waters dashing through the doors, which had been -opened wide and made fast.</p> - -<p>This alone saved the carriage from being upset by -the pressure of the waters.</p> - -<p>The noble horse ashore drew hard, and the rescuer -also pulled with all his might, the lasso and stake-ropes, -fast to the pole and dashboard, being taut as a -wire.</p> - -<p>As the horses and vehicle swept off of the bar they -swung toward the shore, and, after a moment of intense -suspense to the nun and Nina, they beheld the -team gain a footing; then the carriage began to rise -from the stream, and a moment after the stranger -plunged in, seized the bits of the animals, and led -them a hundred feet up the current to the ford, where -a landing could be made.</p> - -<p>A moment more and the panting horses had dragged -the vehicle out of danger, while the stranger cried:</p> - -<p>“Saved, and only a foot wet!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, you have saved this child’s life and mine, -and Heaven will reward you for it. But, alas! poor -Pedro has gone to his doom. May the blessed Mother -have mercy upon his soul!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span></p> - -<p>“<em>Amen!</em>” came the low, but fervent response of the -young girl, and holding out her hand to the stranger, -she said in a frank manner natural to her:</p> - -<p>“You have saved Sister Felicite and poor little me -from death, for without your aid we were doomed. -Oh, señor, never will I forget you and the scene of -this day!”</p> - -<p>The stranger bowed courteously, and replied:</p> - -<p>“It was my fortune to be near to aid you. Now let -me drive you to the Mission San José, where I suppose -you are to pass the night, for it is but a mile -away.”</p> - -<p>“You are most kind, sir; but do not let me lead -you from your way, for I can drive.”</p> - -<p>“No, the road is bad and dangerous, and I will see -you to safety before I leave you.”</p> - -<p>The baggage was then taken from the top, and -placed in the boot again; the nun entered the carriage, -Nina retaining her seat upon the box, seeming -not to hear the good Felicite’s gentle command -for her to sit with her. Springing to his seat, the -stranger called to his horse to follow, and drove off -with the skill of an experienced driver.</p> - -<p>The Mission San José was reached in safety, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span> -there the stranger left them, but Nina de Sutro never -forgot that ride, or the face of the man who had -saved her life.</p> - -<p>Without a word regarding himself, not even giving -his name or calling, the daring rescuer of two lives -had sprung into his saddle, after reaching the mission, -raised his sombrero courteously, and, dashing spurs -into his horse, had gone off like the wind.</p> - -<p>“Who is he, Father Ambrose?” asked the nun, addressing -the head priest of the Mission.</p> - -<p>“I do not know, Sister Felicite, for I never saw -him before; but he shall have the prayers of the -church for his noble deed done this day for you -and this child,” was the response, and the travelers -were made comfortable at the Mission for the night.</p> - -<p>The next day another driver was secured, and -Sister Felicite and her fair young charge, who was -going to the City of Mexico, to a convent, to receive -her education, went on their way.</p> - -<p>But Sister Felicite soon discovered that the peril -through which they had passed had seemed to cast a -gloom upon the heart of Nina de Sutro. The young -girl became thoughtful, and no longer gathered wild -flowers when they halted to rest by the wayside.</p> - -<p>Arriving at the convent, Nina did not have the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span> -same merry nature as before, and her leisure hours -seemed to be passed in reveries.</p> - -<p>After some months at the convent, the girl went -into the city, to pass a short vacation with her kindred, -and to accompany them to a grand tournament -which was given by army officers and gentlemen fond -of such sports.</p> - -<p>There was a bull-fight, then a riding-match for a -prize, a shooting-match, a combat on horseback with -swords, and lasso-throwing.</p> - -<p>There were champions in each different sport, and -one winning a prize was to hold himself ready to -defend it should any one challenge him to do so at -the time that it was presented to him in the arena.</p> - -<p>The bull-fight had ended disastrously, for the infuriated -animals had killed several horses and wounded -half a dozen of the amateur fighters, until not another -one dared enter the ring, it was supposed, when, to -the surprise of all, a horseman, splendidly mounted, -rode into the arena.</p> - -<p>He was masked, and wore the richest of costumes. -Who he was no one knew, and he had merely given -his name as the “Cavalier of the Rio Grande.”</p> - -<p>The maddened bull made a rush for him that caused -all to hold their breath with suspense.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span></p> - -<p>Just as all believed the horse would be gored to -death, the skilful rider wheeled him out of harm’s -way, spurred him alongside of the bull, and, leaning -from his saddle, drove his sword to the hilt into the -great brute’s side.</p> - -<p>The games were then continued, and, just as the -victor in the shooting-match was receiving his prize, -in rode the stranger, still wearing his mask, and challenged -him to contest for the trophy he had won.</p> - -<p>The victor gladly consented, but only to surrender, -soon after, the beautiful prize to the unknown Cavalier -of the Rio Grande!</p> - -<p>And so it was with the one who had gained the -prize for riding—a horse, saddle, and bridle of great -value—for the unknown was on hand to challenge -him and win.</p> - -<p>In the combat on horseback with swords, the unknown -was there to grasp the prize won by the victor -as soon as he went forward to receive it. Then came -the sports with the lasso, and once more it was the -unknown who defeated the champion.</p> - -<p>In addition to the prize—a purse of gold, in this -case—a silk lasso was presented, one beautifully woven -of crimson hue, and of great strength, length, and -beauty.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[17]</span></p> - -<p>The last test of skill was a sword-combat, fought -with rapiers, and it was said that the gallant young -officer who won the prize had no equal in Mexico.</p> - -<p>But into the arena rode the unknown, and, dismounting, -he threw his glove down at the feet of the champion. -It was promptly picked up by the victor, who -was the commander of a crack command of lancers, -and the two soon advanced to face each other.</p> - -<p>Like fiery serpents the steel blades writhed around -each other and flashed in the sunlight, and men, and -women, too, had begun to feel that at last the unknown -had more than met his match.</p> - -<p>“The unknown was a fool to offer combat to Major -Delano, after being tired out with his other combats,” -said a rich banker, a kinsman of Nina de Sutro.</p> - -<p>Through all, the young girl had watched with white -face every contest, her eyes riveted upon the masked -face of the unknown; but she caught the words of her -kinsman, and said quickly:</p> - -<p>“A hundred pesos, señor, that the unknown defeats -Major Delano.”</p> - -<p>“Bravo! just hear the child! But I accept your -wager, Nina, and—— Holy Heaven, see there!”</p> - -<p>A cry of bravo went up from the crowd, for somehow<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span> -the major was seen to catch the point of the unknown’s -sword, and it pierced his heart.</p> - -<p>How it happened no one seemed to know, and the -explanation of the unknown was accepted, for, instantly -unmasking, he faced the judges, and said in a -voice that reached every ear:</p> - -<p>“Pardon, señors, but the officer was so confident of -disarming me he pressed forward, slipped, and, not -guarding my thrust, my sword pierced his breast.”</p> - -<p>He bowed his head, to await the decision of the -judges, while from the lips of Nina de Sutro fell the -words in a quivering voice:</p> - -<p>“I felt that it was so. He is my hero of the Rio -Grande!”</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_II">CHAPTER II.<br /> -<span class="fs70">DESERTED.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>A year after the fatal tournament in the City of -Mexico, a grand masquerade ball was being held in a -salon in New Orleans, and thither had flocked the -beauty and the chivalry of the Crescent City.</p> - -<p>Among the cavaliers present who had attracted -much attention by his elegance of form and gorgeous -attire was one in Mexican costume.</p> - -<p>He had flirted with many of the fair belles, and was -always in demand for a waltz, so gracefully did he -dance, and a favored maiden present was envied by -all the others as the Mexican seemed to devote more -of his attention to her than to any one else present. -At last he said to her:</p> - -<p>“Though unknown to you, señorita——”</p> - -<p>“How do you know that I am a señorita?” was the -low query, in the sweetest of voices.</p> - -<p>“My heart tells me that you have never loved, that -you are not a wife; but though unknown to you, let -me beg that you take a stroll with me in the moonlight. -Will you go?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span></p> - -<p>The word was hardly audible, but the Mexican -drew the tiny hand into his arm and led her from -the salon, out upon the piazza, and thence into the -moonlit garden, halting at an arbor.</p> - -<p>“Do you know that I can tell who you are, señorita?” -the man asked.</p> - -<p>He saw the start that she gave at his words, and -then she asked:</p> - -<p>“Who am I?”</p> - -<p>“The beautiful Miss De Latour, whom all the men -in the city are wildly in love with.”</p> - -<p>“How do you know?”</p> - -<p>“Because from the first moment I saw you I loved -you, and I have time and again sought to win a -glance from you, and only yesterday did you favor -me with a smile, as I rode by your house; or was I mistaken, -and the smile but the reflex of some pleasant -thought?”</p> - -<p>“Señor Marvin, you are mistaken, for I am not -Celeste de Latour, the loveliest and richest girl in the -city.”</p> - -<p>“Not Miss De Latour? Surely you are not deceiving -me?”</p> - -<p>“No, you are deceiving me, señor, in telling another -that you love her, <em>for I am your wife, Austin Marvin</em>!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span></p> - -<p>With dexterous hand, she unmasked the man and -herself at the same instant, revealing the faces of the -Cavalier of the Rio Grande and Nina de Sutro.</p> - -<p>“My God! Nina, you here?” gasped the man, his -face turning livid in the moonlight.</p> - -<p>“Yes, Austin Marvin, I am here on your track. I -loved you, my hero among men, with all my heart and -soul. Believing you an honorable man, I fled from -the convent with you, to become your wife, though -a mere girl.</p> - -<p>“After a few short months you tired of me, because -you knew that I would not get my fortune until I was -twenty-one. Then you deserted me in a strange land; -but I followed you, after reading your cruel note, and -I have found you here after a long and weary search, -here, breathing words of love, as you supposed, to -another woman.</p> - -<p>“But, Austin, my husband, I will forgive all if you -will go with me from here, for in a few short years -I will be in possession of my riches.”</p> - -<p>Quickly came the answer of the man:</p> - -<p>“You have conquered, Nina, and if you will forgive -me I will go with you.”</p> - -<p>“Come, for I forgive all,” was the happy answer.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[22]</span></p> - -<p>One week later Nina de Sutro wrote the following -letter, addressed to an army officer who was her guardian, -and who had married her kinswoman:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“I have given you great distress of mind and heart, -and yet love was my guide, and I believed I acted for -the right in leaving the convent to wed the man whom -I met under strange circumstances, and who once -more crossed my path to command me as he might a -slave.</p> - -<p>“I have lived in a few short months my romance, -burned the candle to the end, and am a deserted wife, -finding that I married one who was a villain, one who -sought me alone for my riches, and finding that I -could not, until twenty-one years of age, control my -fortune, fled from me, leaving me alone in a strange -city.</p> - -<p>“I tracked him, found him making love to another, -forgave him all, and lo! once more he deserted me, -this time taking my money and my jewels, and in my -despair I wish to hide the grave in my heart from all -except you, to whom I now make this confession, and -the Mother Superior of the convent, to whom I -shall at once return, begging her to receive me once -more as a pupil, as my elopement was not known, it -being said that I had been called suddenly home to -the United States.</p> - -<p>“She will take me back, for well I know her kind -heart, and when I have finished my education, if you, -my sweet cousin, will allow me, I will come to you, -still known as Nina de Sutro—your name, which, as -my guardian, you gave to me, for I wish not to have<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span> -the world know of my unhappy wedded life and the -sorrow I have brought upon myself.</p> - -<p>“As for the man who was my husband, I will not -care what his fate may be, nor will I breathe his name -even to you or the Mother Superior, for my past of -misfortune, my dream of bliss that ended almost in -despair, shall be as a sealed book.”</p> -</div> - -<p>The letter was addressed to an officer of the United -States Army, who was stationed at a frontier post of -the Northwest.</p> - -<p>And back to the convent went the unhappy girl, -made her confession, was forgiven and received as -before, for the good Mother Felicite, the superioress, -loved her as her own child, and wept bitter tears of regret -when, two years after, she finished her school-days -and went to join her guardian and his wife in -the United States.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[24]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_III">CHAPTER III.<br /> -<span class="fs70">SILK LASSO SAM, THE OUTLAW.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The coach on a branch of the Overland Stage Trail, -with its terminus at Pioneer Post, was upon its way -to its destination, with an extra hand known as Ribbons -upon the box, Horseshoe Ned, the regular driver, -being laid up for a short while.</p> - -<p>It had reached a part of the trail where there was -a steep and rugged descent to the bed of a swiftly -flowing stream known as Deep Dell Brook, and Ribbons -had brought the team of six horses to a halt for -a short rest and a cooling draft of water.</p> - -<p>There was a steep ascent upon the other side of -the brook, with rocky cliffs some thirty feet in height -upon either side for a few hundred yards.</p> - -<p>Ribbons, the driver, was a good hand with the reins, -a bold fellow, and one who did not shrink from driving -the Overland trails no matter what the danger -might be.</p> - -<p>He was seated upon his box with the air of one -who felt that a few hours more would give him rest, -when suddenly a man rode down into the trail ahead of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span> -him, and two faces peered over the rocky cliff, their -eyes glancing along the barrels of their rifles.</p> - -<p>“Hands up, Ribbons, or take the consequences,” -said the horseman riding toward the stage, and at the -same time the men on the cliff covered the driver with -their rifles.</p> - -<p>“Pilgrims, we is in fer it!” cried Ribbons, turning -to the window of the coach; and a voice quickly -answered:</p> - -<p>“Road-agents, eh? Well, I fight.”</p> - -<p>With this, the speaker leveled his revolver at one -of the men on the cliff, and pulled trigger.</p> - -<p>The man leaped to his feet, and, tottering, fell into -the road below, while his companion on the other cliff -fired a shot into the coach. At the same moment the -horseman shouted:</p> - -<p>“Ha! that is your game, is it, Ribbons?”</p> - -<p>With his words, he pulled trigger, and the driver -sank back dead on his seat.</p> - -<p>“Ho, men, head off this coach, and I’ll see who -this gamecock is who dares fire upon Silk Lasso Sam -and his band,” and the horseman spurred toward the -coach, when several shots rang out of the window, one -of which dropped his horse and another wounded him -in the shoulder.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span></p> - -<p>The highwayman returned the fire, just as a mounted -man came rapidly to his aid, and riddled the coach -with bullets, though the plucky defender inside fired -again, this time wounding the horse ridden by the -outlaw coming to the aid of his chief.</p> - -<p>The animal fell heavily, but the rider landed upon -his feet and sprang to one side of the coach, while -his chief threw the door open upon the other.</p> - -<p>“It’s over with him, so we have nothing to fear -now,” said the chief, as he saw the form of the defender -of the coach lying in a heap, and his life ebbing -rapidly away from the wounds he had received at the -hands of the outlaws.</p> - -<p>“Frank dead, one horse ditto, and another dying, -so the old coach should pan out well, to repay us, Pat,” -said the chief; and he added:</p> - -<p>“Not to speak of my own wound, but which amounts -to little.”</p> - -<p>He drew the body of the brave passenger from the -coach as he spoke, and with deft hands, as though -long experienced in such work, went through his -search for booty.</p> - -<p>A well-filled purse, some jewelry, a watch and -chain, and a wallet of papers, were what he found, -and quickly the outlaw chief looked them over.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span></p> - -<p>Then he stood for some time lost in a deep reverie, -as though with little fear of danger to himself, until -suddenly he broke out with the words:</p> - -<p>“By Heaven, but I’ll risk it! Yes, if I hang for it, -I will!”</p> - -<p>“Do what, sir?” asked his companion.</p> - -<p>“Pat, I am going to play a bold game for gold, for -I shall go to the fort, and you are to help me out.”</p> - -<p>“Go to the fort, sir?” asked the amazed man.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I shall go as a passenger in Ribbons’ coach, -one who fired upon the road-agents and was wounded, -and afterward was robbed. Quick! get me the clothes -off that man and help me to disguise myself—yes, -here is a dressing-case belonging to him, and I will -soon have off my beard and mustache.</p> - -<p>“Then I will place the body of the passenger in the -coach, in another of his suits of clothes, for he traveled -well supplied, and Frank can be left where he fell, for -they will send back to the scene of the hold-up when I -reach the fort.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! captain, you have clean lost your senses.”</p> - -<p>“Not a bit of it, Pat, for I see a chance to visit the -fort without the slightest danger, and there is one -there whom I wish particularly to see, for it means big -money for me.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span></p> - -<p>As he spoke the daring man was making his toilet, -having quickly shaved off his mustache and imperial.</p> - -<p>“Now, Pat, stand there and empty a couple of revolvers -into the coach,” he said, “and then you get -Frank’s horse, take that dead man’s luggage, and go -to the retreat, but say nothing of where I am, or when -to expect me back; only do you keep in Spy’s Cañon, -to be ready to meet me, or a messenger I may send -there. Now I am ready, and do you get off at once, -for a body of cavalry might happen along this way.”</p> - -<p>Mounting the box, where the dead Ribbons still -lay, after a few more words of instructions to his -man, the outlaw chief drove on up the hill, holding the -reins like one who was a skilled driver.</p> - -<p>His outlaw companion followed a moment after, -with the luggage of the dead passenger, leaving his -dead comrade and the horses lying in the trail.</p> - -<p>Half an hour after the coach had rolled away, a -horseman came dashing upon the scene and drew rein.</p> - -<p>The horseman was Buffalo Bill, the king of scouts, -and he cried sternly:</p> - -<p>“This is Silk Lasso Sam’s work!”</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[29]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_IV">CHAPTER IV.<br /> -<span class="fs70">BONNIE BELLE OF POCKET CITY.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Of all strange camps and communities ever seen -upon the frontier that of Pocket City, in Yellow Dust -Valley, was the strangest. It was named from the -fact that it fitted into the valley among the mountains -like a pocket in a dress, and also on account, perhaps, -of there having been found just there a number of -rich pockets of gold.</p> - -<p>Yellow Dust Valley was a home of miners, a couple -or more thousands being scattered along the sides of -the mountains, and Pocket City, situated near the -upper end, was the headquarters of all.</p> - -<p>There the stage-line had its ending, and there was a -semi-monthly coach from Pocket City to the main stem -of the Overland Trail. There was a post-office, a -hotel known as the Frying Pan, a saloon and gambling-resort -called the Devil’s Den, several stores, a -combination blacksmith and wagon-shop, with smaller -drinking and betting-places, and several boarding-houses.</p> - -<p>The camps were the resort of a very wild element<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span> -of humanity, varying from honest men to horse-thieves, -road-agents, gold-grabbers, and desperadoes of -the very worst type.</p> - -<p>The most prominent person in Pocket City was a -woman, or, rather, a young girl, because she could -scarcely be over nineteen. She had arrived in Pocket -City one day in a coach which had been held up, and -had defended herself so well that she had shot one of -the robbers dead, and enabled the driver to get away.</p> - -<p>The “big man” of Pocket was in that coach, returning -from the East. He had received a mortal -wound, and was so tenderly cared for by the young -girl that, upon arriving at his home, he had told her -frankly that he would make her his heiress, as he -had no one to claim his riches.</p> - -<p>And so it was that Bonnie Belle, as he had called -her, after a daughter who had died years before, became -the postmistress, stage-agent, landlady of the -Frying Pan Hotel and of the Devil’s Den.</p> - -<p>What had brought the young girl to Pocket City -no one knew; but Landlord Lazarus had not been in -his grave a day before the rough element discovered -that the mistress of the Frying Pan intended to be the -<em>master</em> there.</p> - -<p>She made the hotel a success, would have no cheating<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span> -in her gambling-saloon, sold only the best of -liquors, stood no nonsense from any of the men, and -was treated with marked respect.</p> - -<p>She was a beautiful creature, too, with a mass of -red-gold hair, large, lustrous black eyes, full of a -dreamy sadness, perfect features, and a form of exquisite -grace.</p> - -<p>She was wont to dress neatly about the hotel and -in attending to her other duties there, and when out -for a ride on one of her spirited horses wore a buckskin -habit and gold-embroidered sombrero.</p> - -<p>Kind to all, with charity for men’s failings and sins, -and generosity toward all in suffering and distress, -Bonnie Belle had won the hearts of all the miners, as -well as their admiration and respect.</p> - -<p>Not the most hardened villain in the camp would -have dared say aught to cast a slur upon Bonnie Belle -if he valued his life, for he would have been seized -and made an example of very quickly.</p> - -<p>Many a poor, sick miner had been sent to his home -by her, and she was ever ready to lend aid and do an -act of mercy. If a man was hungry and had no -money, he got food at the Frying Pan freely. If a -miner was sick, some delicacy was sent him from Bonnie -Belle’s table.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[32]</span></p> - -<p>It was not a wonder, then, that some grateful miner -had called her the Beautiful Samaritan.</p> - -<p>What had brought her to the wild West, unless to -do good, no one could understand, and men wondered -and marveled over and over the strange fact of such -a refined being seeking a home amid such rude surroundings.</p> - -<p>One wing of the Frying Pan Bonnie Belle had fitted -up for her especial use.</p> - -<p>It was surrounded by a high stockade wall, taking -in an acre of land, where there was a spring, rustic -arbor, hammock, and flowers.</p> - -<p>There was no way of entering this garden-spot save -through her rooms in the hotel, in the wing referred -to, and which were five in number—an office, sitting-room, -dining-room, and two bedrooms.</p> - -<p>There was a piazza running around the wing, and -she certainly was most comfortable in her border -home.</p> - -<p>She had Chinese servants, and kept the place as neat -as possible, while she kept hunters out to supply the -table with game, had a large chicken-yard and garden, -and, having no bar connected with the hotel, managed -to keep an orderly home for her boarders, who -were numerous.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span></p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle was in the gambling-saloon of Devil’s -Den. It was in full blast, for the bar across one end -was crowded with drinkers, the faro-bank, roulette-table, -rouge-et-noir, and games of dice were going, -with plenty of players about them, and a score or more -tables had men at them gambling with cards.</p> - -<p>There was a dense atmosphere of smoke in the vast -saloon, in which mingled the clinking of glasses, rattling -of dice, shuffling of cards, and hum of conversation, -in which there was some sudden burst of profanity -now and then.</p> - -<p>Quietly Bonnie Belle entered the saloon from a side -door, and, as soon as she was discovered, a hush like -a wave swept over the crowd of three or four hundred -men present.</p> - -<p>No better mark of respect could have been shown -her than this, and the man that uttered an oath while -she was present would have found himself covered -by a score of “guns” instantly, until he made ample -apology for his offense.</p> - -<p>Speaking pleasantly here and there, Bonnie Belle -made the tour of the gaming-tables, all of which made -a commission upon all money put up, but the dealers -were not allowed to bet against the players, and any<span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span> -trickery quickly ended a man’s position of trust in -the Devil’s Den, for, as a miner expressed it:</p> - -<p>“Bonnie Belle are squar’ all round.”</p> - -<p>Suddenly, as she made the rounds of the tables, she -came face to face with a man who had just entered the -Devil’s Den. He was dressed in miner’s garb, and -was a commanding-looking man, with a handsome, -full-bearded face and wearing his hair long.</p> - -<p>His look was that of a man reared in refinement, -and his manners, as he spoke to various of those whom -he passed, were courtly and gentle.</p> - -<p>“Ah, Deadshot Dean, I am glad to see you. Do you -play to-night?” and Bonnie Belle held forth her hand, -which the man grasped warmly, while he doffed his -hat as he replied:</p> - -<p>“No, Bonnie Belle, I merely looked in for a moment. -Is it too late to get some supper at the Frying -Pan?”</p> - -<p>“No, I will go over at once and order it,” and -she passed on, leaving the saloon by the rear door by -which she had entered, and which led along a stockade -lane at the base of the mountain range to her own -quarters.</p> - -<p>The man addressed as Deadshot Dean quietly made -the tour of the room, and it was evident from the greetings<span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span> -bestowed upon him and the attention he attracted -that he was no ordinary personage.</p> - -<p>He had come to the mines some years before to -work a claim, for which he brought papers giving him -all right and title thereto, and he had met with varying -success ever since.</p> - -<p>He was known as the Miner of Hangman’s Gulch, -as his cabin was isolated and near a spot where all -the hangings in Yellow Dust Valley took place.</p> - -<p>No other cabin was within a mile and a half of -him, for the superstitious miners would not seek claims -within a mile-limit of Hangman’s Gulch, which was -regarded by many as haunted, and was looked upon -by all as a place accursed.</p> - -<p>His home was situated upon a spur around the base -of which wound a trail, and his claim was an eighth -of a mile distant from his cabin.</p> - -<p>Generous to all, peaceful in his nature, but a dangerous -man to arouse, he had won his name of Deadshot -Dean by defending himself against half a dozen desperadoes -on one occasion, and since then had shown -himself to be a man of courage and determination -which no peril could daunt.</p> - -<p>Leaving the Devil’s Den, the miner had gone directly<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[36]</span> -to the Frying Pan, and Bonnie Belle met him -at the office, and said:</p> - -<p>“I have ordered your supper brought to my dining-room, -Deadshot Dean, so come in here, for I know -that you have news for me.”</p> - -<p>“I have, indeed, Bonnie Belle,” was the answer.</p> - -<p>“When did you get back?”</p> - -<p>“To-night. I came by my cabin, but would not -stop to get supper, for I was anxious to see you.”</p> - -<p>“You went to the fort?”</p> - -<p>“I did, but following the trail of that map, found -in the room of the gambler whom I was forced to -kill, I met Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Powell on the -war-path, and guided them, with a party of soldiers, -to the retreat of the outlaws.”</p> - -<p>“And captured them?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, or killed them.”</p> - -<p>“And Silk Lasso Sam?” quickly asked the woman, -her face showing intense anxiety as she asked the -question.</p> - -<p>“Was captured.”</p> - -<p>“And where is he now?”</p> - -<p>“A prisoner at Pioneer Post.”</p> - -<p>“He will be hanged, of course?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, for his crimes are many, as you know, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span> -he was immediately sentenced, before I left the fort, -to die upon the gallows, along with his men who had -been captured.”</p> - -<p>“Alas! my poor, sinful brother, he deserves the -shameful fate that he is to meet, and from which I -have in vain striven hard to save him.” The tears -came into the beautiful eyes of Bonnie Belle, while -Deadshot Dean said:</p> - -<p>“You have been a most devoted sister, Bonnie Belle, -to that man, and he has brought his fate upon his -own head; but let me tell you all that has happened -since I left here to track Silk Lasso Sam and his -band to their lair.</p> - -<p>“Bonnie Belle, for I must continue to call you by -the name you are known by to the miners, and not -by that of Ruth Leigh, as I knew you in the years -gone by, when you were a little girl, I——”</p> - -<p>“Yes, call me Bonnie Belle, Carrol Dean,” said the -girl sadly.</p> - -<p>“Then, Bonnie Belle, let me tell you that I deem -the course you have pursued to check the career of -your wicked brother all that you could do. You -would have been his accomplice, though innocently, in -his crimes if you had allowed him to go on in, his desperate -deeds of lawlessness.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[38]</span></p> - -<p>“I feel that, Carrol Dean; I know it.”</p> - -<p>“Yon know well that when your father, your -brother, and yourself lived in luxury upon your plantation -home, that Arden was wild, wayward, and dissipated.”</p> - -<p>“Alas, yes!”</p> - -<p>“He caused your father much suffering, was dismissed -from the navy, and had to leave the German -university because he killed a fellow student, and your -father’s wealth and influence barely saved him from -the gallows for taking another life.</p> - -<p>“Then came his rivalry of me for the love of -Kathleen Clyde, who is now my wife, and you remember -how he shot me down in her presence, fled, -believing he had killed me, and forging your father’s -name, secured a large sum from the bank, and became -a fugitive from justice?”</p> - -<p>“Alas! I know all.”</p> - -<p>“You and your father, with sorrow in your hearts, -went abroad, and his failing health brought you back -to America, to ranch-life in California. He died there, -and then you sought the reformation of your wicked -brother, seeking him in these wilds, where few other -women would have, or could have, come as you have -done.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[39]</span></p> - -<p>“You found him at last in Silk Lasso Sam, the -leader of an outlaw band, and failing to turn him from -his wickedness, you did only right to let him go his -way and raise no hand longer to save him. Fortunately, -I was driven to this land to make money by -digging in the old claim my father had bought, for -now you have a friend, a brother, in me, and you must -do as I say.”</p> - -<p>“I will.”</p> - -<p>“I did not seek the downfall of your brother -through any feeling of revenge, but because I had been -secretly made, by Colonel Dunwoody, of Pioneer Post, -through having saved the life of Buffalo Bill, as you -remember, a Secret Service scout. I did not know -until you told me, before my going, that Silk Lasso -Sam was your brother, my old foe, and remembering -you only as a girl just verging into your teens, I did -not recognize Ruth Leigh in Bonnie Belle. I tracked -your brother to his lair, and let me tell you of his -latest villainy.”</p> - -<p>“Tell me all, for I wish nothing hidden from me.”</p> - -<p>“After visiting you here, he broke every pledge he -had made you. He went, with two followers, to the -Overland Trail to Pioneer Post, and lay in ambush -until the coach came along, when he held it up. One<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span> -plucky passenger opened fire, killing one of the outlaws -and slightly wounding the chief, whose horse, -also was shot under him. In retaliation, the outlaws -killed the driver and the passenger, and then the daring -idea seized upon your brother to enter the fort.”</p> - -<p>“And he was captured?”</p> - -<p>“Not then, for he played passenger, and was treated -with the greatest kindness by all. Being in secret -communication with his men, he arranged a plot to -have a young lady there, Miss Clarice Carr, the belle -of the fort, and himself captured by the band, intending -to force from her a large ransom for her release.</p> - -<p>“Little did she suspect his treachery, and they were -captured and taken to the secret retreat of the outlaws, -one of whom pretended to be Silk Lasso Sam, -the chief. Fortunately, it was just then that I reached -the trail and found Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Powell -upon it, with the soldiers.</p> - -<p>“The map, however, enabled me to guide them there, -and to Miss Carr’s horror, she discovered the perfidy -of the man she had believed to be a gentleman. He -denied the charges against him, but I made myself -known to him, and he said no more, and was taken -to the fort, tried, and sentenced to die upon the gallows.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span></p> - -<p>“My poor, unfortunate, erring brother,” said Bonnie -Belle sadly.</p> - -<p>“Yes, it is a sad case, yet you have done far more -than your duty to save him.”</p> - -<p>“I feel that I have sacrificed, I was going to say, my -self-respect to do so.”</p> - -<p>“No, no, not that, for you are true as steel to -yourself, even though you are what you are in this -wild land. Your brother, with whom I had an interview, -pledged his word not to make his relationship -to you known, and begged that you would forgive and -forget him.”</p> - -<p>“I will forgive, but I can never forget.”</p> - -<p>“He bade me also to tell you that you must let me -be as a brother to you; that you must go with me to -my home in the East, where you will find a sister in -my wife, and be loved by her father and my child.</p> - -<p>“Yes, Ruth, you must go with me, for I am going -East to see my family, and then return here to work -my mine, which I find is going to pan out rich. I -will take you with me by the first stage, and when I -return, if you will trust me, I will settle up your affairs -in Pocket City as best I can for you, so do not refuse.”</p> - -<p>“Carrol Dean, I will go with you and give up this -wild life,” was the low reply.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span></p> - -<p>Two weeks after the east-bound stage carried as -passengers Bonnie Belle and Deadshot Dean, the former -believing that she was leaving the wild West forever, -where her brother’s life was soon to end in shame -and suffering.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_V">CHAPTER V.<br /> -<span class="fs70">LIFE AT PIONEER POST.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Pioneer Post was a gem as a frontier post, for it -was charmingly located upon a bluff overhanging a -river, with sloping hills stretching down from the -plateau on the summit to the plains below, and a vast -expanse of scenery upon every side.</p> - -<p>Strongly built, it was well armed and an ideal fort. -Many officers had their families there, and Colonel -Dunwoody, the bachelor commandant, had a most -hospitable staff, while he was ever ready to add to -the enjoyment and comfort of those under his command.</p> - -<p>He was a handsome man, who had been promoted -from lieutenant to the rank of colonel for services -rendered in action. He was a perfect soldier, a thorough -disciplinarian, and though having the means to -live in luxury in the fort, he yet was ready to put up -with the greatest hardships in the field.</p> - -<p>There was an officers’ club in the fort, a ladies’ -club, and with polo, lawn-tennis, rowing on the river, -hunting, riding, and fishing-parties, life passed most<span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span> -pleasantly to all, notwithstanding the fact that danger -was constantly near, and the shadow of death often -came into their midst.</p> - -<p>The garrison was a large one, and there were numerous -belles and beaux in the military family of the -colonel. There was one bachelor captain of cavalry, -Dick Caruth, who was a general favorite with all, and -considered a fine parti by mothers with daughters in -the matrimonial mart, for he was a very handsome, -daring fellow, with a fortune and the hope of speedy -promotion.</p> - -<p>Lieutenant Vassar Turpin, the colonel’s aide, was -another catch, and there were half a dozen more.</p> - -<p>Among the ladies were two who were known as -the Rivals. One was Nina de Sutro, a Mexican -maiden reared mostly in the United States, and who -dwelt with her guardian and kinsman, Colonel Ravel -de Sutro and his beautiful wife, who was also a -native of the sunny land of Mexico.</p> - -<p>It was no wonder that Nina de Sutro at twenty -was a belle, for she was very beautiful, and she was -brilliant and accomplished, though perhaps a little too -satirical and bitter at times.</p> - -<p>Her rival was Clarice Carr, a young lady who was -as popular with her own sex as with the men. Those<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[45]</span> -who made comparisons between Nina de Sutro and -Clarice Carr were wont to decide almost invariably -that the latter was the loveliest woman of the two.</p> - -<p>She was highly accomplished, having passed much -of her life abroad, was an artist, songstress, and musician, -as well; while few men dared follow her lead -when mounted. With a very large fortune under -her control, she preferred to live with her old schoolmate -and relative, Mrs. Lester, the wife of Major -Lionel Lester, next officer in rank to Lieutenant-Colonel -De Sutro at the fort.</p> - -<p>“I love the free life of these Western wilds far -more than all the gaieties of metropolitan life,” she -was wont to say, and there was little doubt but she -spoke the truth.</p> - -<p>Thus far neither Clarice Carr nor Nina de Sutro -had been won by any of their numerous lovers, and -men began to fear that they had both taken secret -vows to become old maids.</p> - -<p>If a rivalry existed between the two, it was Nina, -not Clarice, that revealed it, for the latter appeared -to know no rival and to live for others rather more -than herself.</p> - -<p>She admired Nina de Sutro greatly, yet felt pained -at times to hear her cut deeply when the opportunity<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span> -offered, and often wound the one she gave the stinging -rejoinder to, while, with a look or smile she would call -him again to her side.</p> - -<p>“She is a sad coquette, or heartless one, perhaps, -and cannot help it. At times I fear she has had some -great sorrow to embitter her life, and, if so, I pity her -and could never reproach.”</p> - -<p>So said Clarice Carr of Nina de Sutro to her confidante -and devoted friend, Louise Lester.</p> - -<p>“So I have thought, Clarice, and Lionel also suggested -it, for she is all softness at times, and again almost -cruel toward her admirers,” was Mrs. Lester’s -comment.</p> - -<p>When Silk Lasso Sam, in his disguise as the -wounded passenger hero, Austin Marvin, had come to -the fort, he had devoted himself at first to Nina de -Sutro, and she claimed to have met him in Mexico, -where he had saved her life.</p> - -<p>But the secret of that meeting, the secret that was -between them, she did not reveal, and he dared not -do so.</p> - -<p>But soon after he turned his attention to Clarice -Carr, and it ended as the miner related to Bonnie -Belle, in the leading of the maiden into a treacherous -trap from which she would not have escaped without<span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[47]</span> -large ransom, but for Deadshot Dean’s tracking the -outlaws to their lair, with Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>When the maiden was rescued, and the outlaws -brought prisoners into camp, the excitement was intense, -and disciplined soldiers though they were, there -were mutterings of such intense hatred heard against -Silk Lasso Sam that a double guard was placed about -him.</p> - -<p>That they had all been most cleverly taken in, every -officer had to admit, though they could not but admire -the magnificent nerve and daring of the outlaw chief, -who they realized was no ordinary man, and hoped -that an end would soon come to his many red deeds -when he died on the gallows.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[48]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_VI">CHAPTER VI.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE LAST APPEAL.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The coach out of Pocket City carried as passengers -Carrol Dean and Bonnie Belle, on their way East to -the home of the miner.</p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle did not say to her friends in Yellow -Dust Valley that she would not return, for she feared -that the result might be disastrous to her interests -there. She told them she was going East on an important -mission, and her interests in Pocket City were -left to the management of the one who held the position -of clerk in the Frying Pan Hotel.</p> - -<p>Deadshot Dean had written to his wife to expect -him home soon, and that he would bring with him one -whom she would also be glad to welcome.</p> - -<p>The stage-trail from Pocket City led within forty -miles of Pioneer Post, and into the one from the fort -at a point where there was a station with a corral of -horses for the coaches and couriers.</p> - -<p>It was while the coach was nearing this station that -the driver heard the clatter of hoofs behind him, and,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span> -turning his head, saw a horseman coming along at -rapid speed after the coach.</p> - -<p>His first thought was that he was a road-agent in -chase, and his next that the man might be a courier -bearing despatches from the fort. But the horseman -soon overtook the coach, and called out:</p> - -<p>“Ho, driver, have you Bonnie Belle a passenger -with you?”</p> - -<p>“I has,” was the reply of Sandy Gill, the driver, -and he eyed the horseman curiously.</p> - -<p>“Then I have a letter for her.”</p> - -<p>“A letter for me?” and Bonnie Belle looked out of -the coach-window with surprise at the man, who was -dressed as an army courier, and was well mounted.</p> - -<p>“Are you Bonnie Belle, miss?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I am so called.”</p> - -<p>“Of Yellow Dust Valley?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, of Pocket City.”</p> - -<p>“I have a letter, then, for you, miss.”</p> - -<p>“Who has sent me a letter?”</p> - -<p>“Its reading will tell you, miss.”</p> - -<p>“You are not from the Yellow Dust country?”</p> - -<p>“No, miss, I am from the fort at Pioneer Post.”</p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle started at this, and glanced at the -miner.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span></p> - -<p>“What does it mean?” she asked Dean, seeming -anxious not to touch the letter for some reason.</p> - -<p>The miner asked:</p> - -<p>“Do you come from the fort, my man?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p>“And you were sent with a letter for Bonnie Belle?”</p> - -<p>“I was, sir, and upon reaching Pocket City, and -learning that she had gone East by coach, I came on -after her.”</p> - -<p>“Who is this letter from?”</p> - -<p>“I do not know, sir; but it was given to me by an -officer at the fort, with orders to place it in the hands -of Miss Bonnie Belle with the greatest despatch.”</p> - -<p>“Give me the letter,” and Bonnie Belle held out her -hand, which trembled as she read the address and -seemed to recognize the writing.</p> - -<p>“It is from——” and she said no more.</p> - -<p>But Deadshot Dean recognized by her look of significance -that she could only mean her brother, then -a condemned prisoner at the fort. She nerved herself -to break the seal, and asked:</p> - -<p>“Is there an answer?”</p> - -<p>“I was told that there was, miss.”</p> - -<p>At this the miner stepped out of the coach, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[51]</span> -left her to read the letter alone, for he saw that she -was deeply affected.</p> - -<p>While the miner, the courier, and the stage-coach -driver were talking together, she read the letter. It -was written in cipher, and she said:</p> - -<p>“It is the alphabet which my poor brother taught -me to write when I was a very little girl. He felt -that I would remember it, and has written something -he dared not let any other eye see, I suppose. Oh, if -it should be an appeal to me to save him!”</p> - -<p>She dashed the tears from her eyes, and nerved -herself to read the letter which she seemed to dread -so much. It was as follows:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">My Darling Sister</span>: Do you remember away -back when you were a little girl of ten, and I was -dismissed from the navy, that you said, when father -and mother were cold toward me, that you would -never desert me?</p> - -<p>“Do you recall again, when I came home from -Germany, dismissed from the university on account of -the fatal duel I fought, you again were my little comforter?</p> - -<p>“So it has been through all, even when, maddened -with jealousy, I sought the life of Carrol Dean, and, -to escape, took my father’s money, you were the one -to aid me secretly with funds and to cheer me with -your loving letters.</p> - -<p>“Every pledge I have made you I have ruthlessly -<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span>broken, and I feel that you have utterly lost confidence -in me.</p> - -<p>“I have a friend in the fort who gets a messenger -to carry this letter to you, and it is my last appeal, for -through Carrol Dean you have heard that I am under -sentence to die upon the gallows.</p> - -<p>“Now I see my crimes in all their enormity, and I -am not fit to die. I have repented, yet I would live -to atone by good deeds for all the wicked ones I have -been guilty of, and hence this my last sad appeal to -you, my loving, faithful sister.</p> - -<p>“Whatever you attempt to do, you can, I know, -and I ask you to set me free, that henceforth, far from -these scenes, I may live a better life and atone for the -past.</p> - -<p>“Do I appeal in vain, my sister? If not, send word -by the messenger, simply:</p> - -<p>“‘I will.’</p> - -<p>“If in vain, send simply:</p> - -<p>“I will not.’</p> - -<p>“Feeling that I do not appeal in vain, believe me -your unhappy brother,</p> - -<p class="pad50pc">“<span class="smcap">The Doomed Outlaw</span>.”</p> -</div> - -<p>Over and over again did Ruth Leigh read this letter -from her doomed brother. He had struck the right -chord in appealing to her as he did, for he admitted -his guilt, and, repenting, wished to live only for atonement -for the past.</p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle was deeply impressed by the letter. -Her brother had been her idol from her earliest girlhood,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span> -and she had condoned his sins, and hoped for -his reformation in the end.</p> - -<p>Had the reformation come at last?</p> - -<p>It seemed so to her, and hence she decided to yield -to this last appeal, to give him one more chance. Then -she called to the courier, and said:</p> - -<p>“Let me give you this for your trouble, so report -that your services are paid for, please.”</p> - -<p>With this she placed in his hand a bill, which the -miner saw had an L upon it.</p> - -<p>“Thank you kindly, miss. But the answer?”</p> - -<p>“Is for you to report that I simply said:</p> - -<p>“‘I will.’”</p> - -<p>“Yes, miss, I will not forgit it.”</p> - -<p>With this the courier turned away, mounted his -horse, and started back upon the trail, while Bonnie -Belle said to the driver:</p> - -<p>“You are very kind to delay so long for me, and I -thank you, Sandy.”</p> - -<p>“Never mind the delay, Bonnie Belle, for I can -make it up. Are you ready to go on now?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Then jump aboard, Deadshot Dean, and I’ll send -the critters ahead lively.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span></p> - -<p>The miner obeyed, and the coach rolled rapidly on -its way.</p> - -<p>For some time neither the driver nor the girl spoke. -He would not ask her the nature of the letter she had -received, unless she chose to reveal it; yet he could -guess that it came from her outlaw brother.</p> - -<p>On her part, she was wondering how she could -confide her secret to Carrol Dean. After a while she -decided that she could not tell him all, for it would be -his duty to thwart her in her humane intention. So -she said:</p> - -<p>“Carrol Dean, you have been as a dear, good brother -to me, and I hope that I may ever so regard you; but -I fear that you will not approve of what I have decided -to do.”</p> - -<p>“What is it, Bonnie Belle?”</p> - -<p>“I have a letter from my brother.”</p> - -<p>“I guessed as much.”</p> - -<p>“It is written in cipher, and was sent to me through -some one in the fort who is friendly toward him.”</p> - -<p>“I hardly believe that possible, so bitter was the -feeling toward him. He must be an ally of his in -some way.”</p> - -<p>“That may be. But the appeal from him is a strong -one, and I have decided to see him.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span></p> - -<p>“Do you mean it, Ruth?” asked the surprised miner.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“You are wrong in doing so, very.”</p> - -<p>“It may be that I am, but in this case I feel that I -must see him. He is an outlaw, it is true. He has -committed many crimes as Silk Lasso Sam, the road-agent -chief, and yet now he is down, ironed hands and -feet, a prisoner at the mercy of his foes. He is under -sentence of death, and will soon be led upon the gallows, -to die at the end of a rope.</p> - -<p>“He will have not one near to cheer his last moments, -to breathe one kind word, to utter one word -of forgiveness, and he will be thrown into a nameless -grave. With all his sins weighing him down, he is -yet my brother, and I will not be a coward and desert -him in his last moments. No, I sent him word that I -would come to him, and I will.”</p> - -<p>The earnest argument of the girl touched the miner -deeply. He realized just how she felt and suffered, -and said:</p> - -<p>“I appreciate fully, Ruth, your position and your -sorrow, and your kind heart does you credit; but in -going to see your brother, to be with him in his last -hours, to place him in the grave of a dishonored man, -will not your sufferings be increased?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span></p> - -<p>“They may be, and yet what will be my sufferings -to his despair? No, no, I shall go.”</p> - -<p>“I will not say a word against it. Shall we catch -the next coach back?”</p> - -<p>“No, for you are not to go.”</p> - -<p>“Do you expect me to leave you?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, you must go to your family, and I will go -back alone. I will go to Chicago, and then turn back -from there and return to the fort. When I have done -all in my power, Mr. Dean, for that stricken man, I -will go to your home in the East. Need I say more?”</p> - -<p>“No, I will trust you; but I would gladly return -with you and wait until all is over.”</p> - -<p>“That I cannot, will not allow. I must go alone,” -was the determined reply of Bonnie Belle, and the -miner urged no more.</p> - -<p>Several days later a carriage drove up to the army -headquarters in Chicago, and a lady wearing a heavy -veil got out.</p> - -<p>As she reached the reception-room she suddenly -came face to face with the general’s orderly, and, -throwing back her veil, she extended her hand, and -said pleasantly and in a tone of surprise:</p> - -<p>“Why, Bainbridge, you here?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[57]</span></p> - -<p>“As I live and move, it’s Bonnie Belle!” cried the -orderly, grasping the extended hand in both his own.</p> - -<p>“Yes, Bainbridge, and I am glad to see you once -more, though I did not know that you were a soldier.”</p> - -<p>“Yes; I came home, as you know, with a snug -little fortune in gold, but I speculated and lost it, and -some months ago, when in hard luck here in Chicago, -I stopped the horses of the general’s carriage when -they were running away, the driver having been -thrown from the box, and the general and his wife -were inside.</p> - -<p>“He asked me what he could do for me, and I -said that, as I had a record as an old soldier, I would -enter the army again, and he made me his orderly, and -here I am, Bonnie Belle, and as glad a man as ever -was to see your beautiful face again, for it takes me -back to the mines, and the time you saved my life that -night in Devil’s Den. I’ll never forget you for it, -Bonnie Belle, for if you had not vouched for me, the -boys would have hanged me sure.”</p> - -<p>“They certainly would have done so, Bainbridge, -and have been sorry for it the next day, when they -found out who the real criminal was. But is the general -in?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">[58]</span></p> - -<p>“No, Bonnie Belle, he has gone out to lunch, but he -will soon return, so walk into his private office and -await his coming.”</p> - -<p>“Is no one there?”</p> - -<p>“Not a soul at this hour, miss.”</p> - -<p>“I will go, then.”</p> - -<p>She was led by the orderly into the private quarters -of the general commanding, and as she halted -near the desk, she asked:</p> - -<p>“Bainbridge, will you kindly get me a glass of -water?”</p> - -<p>The orderly promptly disappeared upon the errand, -and quickly Bonnie Belle stepped to the desk, glanced -at something that caught her eye, and thrust it in her -pocket.</p> - -<p>“Who is the assistant adjutant-general, Bainbridge, -on the general’s staff?” she asked casually, after drinking -the water and thanking him for it.</p> - -<p>The orderly told her, and then the two had quite -a long talk together before the officer referred to entered.</p> - -<p>“A lady to see the general, sir, upon important -business,” said the orderly.</p> - -<p>“Be seated, madam, for the general will return very -soon.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">[59]</span></p> - -<p>A moment after the general entered and bowed -as he saw a lady in waiting. When she threw back -her veil, revealing her beautiful face, he seemed impressed, -and said, with marked courtesy:</p> - -<p>“How can I serve you, miss?”</p> - -<p>“Permit me to ask you, general, if I can confide a -secret to you and yet keep my name from you?”</p> - -<p>“Certainly, if you wish.”</p> - -<p>“My mission, then, sir, is one of sorrow to me, -for I come to ask a favor of you.”</p> - -<p>“Of what tenor, miss?”</p> - -<p>“There has been captured at Pioneer Post a noted -criminal, for he is an outlaw and road-agent, known -as Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I have word from Colonel Dunwoody, of the -fort, and that he has been sentenced to death for his -crimes.”</p> - -<p>“Is this legal, general?”</p> - -<p>“It is justice and military law, for that prevails in -that wild land of lawlessness.”</p> - -<p>“Suppose that he were already amenable to the civil -laws for crimes committed, could he not be taken from -the military prison for trial East?”</p> - -<p>“That may be, but I apprehend no such demand.”</p> - -<p>“Nor do I, sir, only I wished to know if I should<span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">[60]</span> -appeal to the civil or the military for permission to -see this condemned man, and be with him in his last -moments.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! that is the situation, is it, miss?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p>“What is this man to you?”</p> - -<p>“All that I have in the world of near kindred, sir—<em>my -brother</em>.”</p> - -<p>“Indeed? You have my sympathy indeed, my dear -lady.”</p> - -<p>“And is your sympathy deep enough, may I ask, -to allow of your permitting me to go to this doomed -brother of mine, be with him in his last hours, and, -when your military law has been satisfied by his death, -to permit me to claim the body for burial? Remember, -I do not attempt to deny his crimes, or to palliate -them in the slightest degree, for he deserves death for -breaking the laws of his land as he has; but I do beg -for this mercy for him, and for me, that you permit -me to be with him in his last moments.”</p> - -<p>The general bit his lips, and the adjutant turned -his gaze earnestly upon the fair pleader, for he, too, -was impressed.</p> - -<p>“My dear young lady, I will not deny you. I will -grant your request,” said the general. “Colonel, write<span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[61]</span> -out an official order to Colonel Dunwoody, to permit -this lady to see her brother at will, and to turn over -the body of the man to her after his execution.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you, sir, most sincerely,” and the tears -came into the beautiful eyes of the girl.</p> - -<p>The order was written, signed, and sealed, and both -officers arose as Bonnie Belle took her leave, the general -himself opening the door for her, while the orderly, -in the corridor, escorted her to the carriage.</p> - -<p>“Here is my address, Bainbridge, so call on me this -evening, and do not say to any one that you know -me.”</p> - -<p>“You can rely on me fully, Bonnie Belle,” answered -the orderly, as he closed the door.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">[62]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_VII">CHAPTER VII.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE DOOMED OUTLAW.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>In a cabin of stout logs, with floor and roof of the -same solid material, to make escape impossible, narrow -apertures in either end for windows, and a door of -heavy timber, barred with iron, sat a man under sentence -of death.</p> - -<p>Before his door, his beat being from corner to -corner of the cabin, paced a sentinel on duty.</p> - -<p>The cabin stood apart from the regular guard-house, -and was so situated that all approaching and -leaving it could readily be seen from the soldiers’ barracks -which it fronted.</p> - -<p>The prisoner was heavily ironed with manacles about -his ankles, and they were chained to the floor, though -he had length enough to walk to the door and to -his cot.</p> - -<p>The man sat in an easy chair facing the door, which -was partially open, giving him a glimpse of the plains -and mountains beyond.</p> - -<p>The chair, a cot, table, and some books were all -that there was in the room to add to his comfort.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">[63]</span></p> - -<p>The face of the man, though pale, was not despairing, -and upon it rested no look of anxiety, though but -too well he knew that there was no help for him; that -he was doomed to die upon the gallows.</p> - -<p>Dressed in border costume, clean-shaven, and neat -in appearance, he looked almost contented with his lot.</p> - -<p>The prisoner was the outlaw chief, Silk Lasso Sam, -he who held up the coach and killed the driver and a -passenger, afterward playing his game so boldly as -Austin Marvin, and being received into the fort with -every hospitality, until he could kidnap, with the aid -of his band, Miss Clarice Carr, to hold until she paid a -large ransom for her release.</p> - -<p>There were others of his band in the fort as prisoners, -but these were kept apart, as the outlaw chief -had asked to be alone. He had faced his accusers at -the trial without flinching, had not quailed under the -gaze of those whom he had wronged, and had appeared -really interested in the testimony given by Miss -Carr as to what he had done after their being captured -by the men of his band.</p> - -<p>When he arose to receive the sentence of the military -tribunal, he did not show the slightest sign of -emotion, and some said that he even smiled serenely<span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">[64]</span> -when the judge-advocate told him that his doom was -to be death upon the gallows.</p> - -<p>From his position the prisoner was watching through -his cabin door the sun nearing the horizon. Suddenly -he started, for he saw an officer and a lady approaching -his prison.</p> - -<p>They drew nearer, the sentinel halted, faced them, -and came to a present, as the officer of the day said:</p> - -<p>“Sentinel, you are to permit this lady to enter the -cabin to visit the prisoner, and you are to walk your -beat thirty paces from the cabin.”</p> - -<p>The door opened then to admit the lady, as the officer -walked away, and the sentinel stepped off his -thirty paces, so as to be out of hearing of what was -said.</p> - -<p>“Well, Nina, you have come,” said the prisoner, -as he rose from his chair and motioned to her to sit -down, while he took a seat upon his cot.</p> - -<p>“Yes, at your bidding, for Colonel Dunwoody sent -for me and said that you had certain things you wished -done, and asked if you might not communicate them -to me. What is it you would have me to do?”</p> - -<p>The girl spoke calmly and coldly. The man smiled, -and replied:</p> - -<p>“There is much that I would have you do.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">[65]</span></p> - -<p>“Let me know what it is?”</p> - -<p>“I have a letter here, written in cipher, to one in -Pocket City. It is most important that it should be -delivered, for it concerns the happiness of more than -one.”</p> - -<p>“Well?”</p> - -<p>“You must see that it is delivered.”</p> - -<p>“I cannot.”</p> - -<p>“You can and you must.”</p> - -<p>“I know not how, for I would not do one act to -bring suspicion upon myself.”</p> - -<p>“There are a dozen officers here desperately in love -with you, and willing to do your bidding.”</p> - -<p>“That may be.”</p> - -<p>“You must tell one of them that you wish to send -a letter to Pocket City for me, to one there whom I -am interested in, and he is to get a courier, one of -the cowboys about the post, to take it.”</p> - -<p>“I cannot.”</p> - -<p>“You must, I say.”</p> - -<p>“I will not compromise myself.”</p> - -<p>“There is nothing to compromise you, but it might -did you ask Colonel Dunwoody to send the courier -for you.”</p> - -<p>“No.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">[66]</span></p> - -<p>“I say yes, and, if you refuse, I shall simply ask -to see Colonel Dunwoody, and tell him that you are -my wife.”</p> - -<p>“No, no, no!”</p> - -<p>“Then do as I say.”</p> - -<p>The woman was silent a moment, and then said:</p> - -<p>“I will do it. Where is the letter?”</p> - -<p>“Here, already written and addressed.”</p> - -<p>Nina de Sutro looked at the address, and read aloud:</p> - -<p> -“To Bonnie Belle,<br /> -<span style="margin-left: 1em;">“The Frying pan Hotel,</span><br /> -<span style="margin-left: 2em;">“Pocket City,</span><br /> -<span style="margin-left: 3em;">“Yellow Dust Valley.”</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>“Another victim, I suppose, of your treachery?” she -said, with a sneer.</p> - -<p>“She is one I love.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! so you once told me.”</p> - -<p>“Are you jealous?”</p> - -<p>“Thank God, no!” was the emphatic rejoinder.</p> - -<p>“You will prove that by sending the letter?”</p> - -<p>“I will,” she replied, and she placed it in her bosom.</p> - -<p>“Is this all?” she asked, as she turned toward the -door, as though to end the interview.</p> - -<p>“No.”</p> - -<p>“What else have you to say?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[67]</span></p> - -<p>“I am under sentence of death.”</p> - -<p>“I am well aware of that.”</p> - -<p>“I am to die upon the gallows.”</p> - -<p>“So I know.”</p> - -<p>“That will disgrace you.”</p> - -<p>“In what way, pray, will it affect me?”</p> - -<p>“I am your husband.”</p> - -<p>“Alas, yes!”</p> - -<p>“And you will, then, feel the dishonor.”</p> - -<p>“It will not be known.”</p> - -<p>“It might leak out.”</p> - -<p>“I shall take good care that it shall not.”</p> - -<p>“Well, that is all the sympathy you show.”</p> - -<p>“For you, yes.”</p> - -<p>“I who saved your life.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, and then wrecked it.”</p> - -<p>“You are a very beautiful wreck.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you.”</p> - -<p>“You have grown more beautiful since I saw you -last.”</p> - -<p>“My heart is not seen.”</p> - -<p>“Then it is hurt, is it?”</p> - -<p>“It was cruelly hurt, yes, and by you, as well you -are aware, Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw. But I got -over the wound, the sting of dishonor of becoming<span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[68]</span> -your wife, and I shall bury the past in the grave with -you. If I am bitter, seemingly heartless now, your -cruelty made me so; but you did not destroy my whole -trust in manhood, thank Heaven, and I may yet find -new happiness in life.”</p> - -<p>“In wedding Colonel Dunwoody?” sneered the man.</p> - -<p>He expected to see her start at his words. But -she did not even change color, and answered most -serenely:</p> - -<p>“Yes, if I can win him, when, by your death upon -the gallows, I become a widow.”</p> - -<p>“Why observe such formalities as my being alive?”</p> - -<p>“Because you have not made me so vile as you are, -embittered though my life has been,” was the stern -response.</p> - -<p>“Well, I am sorry to block your game, but I must.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“I mean simply that I cannot find it in my heart to -die just to make you a widow.”</p> - -<p>“I do not yet understand.”</p> - -<p>“I must be more explicit. I do not intend to die.”</p> - -<p>“You mean that you will not die on the gallows?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, about that.”</p> - -<p>“But you are sentenced.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">[69]</span></p> - -<p>“Yes, and have stood under the shadow of death a -hundred times, yet live.”</p> - -<p>“This time there will be no escape for you.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, there will.”</p> - -<p>“Do you intend to commit suicide?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, I do not intend to hand in my checks yet, -but to live.”</p> - -<p>“There is no pleading for pardon that will save -you.”</p> - -<p>“I do not intend to plead.”</p> - -<p>“And nothing that I could say would be of avail.”</p> - -<p>“I do not ask you to say anything.”</p> - -<p>“What, then?”</p> - -<p>“To act.”</p> - -<p>“What can I do?”</p> - -<p>“Much.”</p> - -<p>“I can do nothing for you, nothing whatever.”</p> - -<p>“Let me tell you that, unaided, from this place I -could not escape. I am sorry, very sorry, not to make -a widow of you in a few weeks, so that you could -wed the colonel, but I cannot die just to oblige you, -and so I call upon you to save me. A moment’s -thought will prove to you that you are to-day in command -of about half the officers in the fort, married -and single, while Miss Clarice Carr divides the honors<span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">[70]</span> -with you, and I will admit, for candor urges me -to do so, that she holds perhaps a trifle more power.”</p> - -<p>“Then get her to aid you.”</p> - -<p>“I would gladly do so were it possible, which it is -not, as I am not bound to her as I am to you, so cannot -force obedience from her.”</p> - -<p>“You were a fool to come here as you did, and -kidnap her.”</p> - -<p>“I would have been considered deuced clever had I -gotten a big ransom for her return and escaped from -harm’s way.”</p> - -<p>“But you did not?”</p> - -<p>“That is owing to Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Powell -hanging so persistently upon my trail, and having -me under suspicion, aided by that miner, Deadshot -Dean, running me to earth as he did. Luck was -against me in spite of my holding trumps.”</p> - -<p>“Well, as you have put your head in the noose you -must abide the consequences.”</p> - -<p>The man laughed, and then replied:</p> - -<p>“I am one never to yield to odds, and they are -heavy against me now. Feeling as I do, I have sent -for you that I might ask you to aid me to escape.”</p> - -<p>“I cannot.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[71]</span></p> - -<p>“I say that you shall.”</p> - -<p>“I could not do so.”</p> - -<p>“You must find a way, for you are as ingenious as -you are beautiful, and you have money, and that is -half the victory won. If you refuse, then I shall, at -the last moment, before ascending the steps of the -gallows, ask to speak a word and will name you as -my wife. You know me, so do <em>you</em> abide the consequences, -Nina, my wife.”</p> - -<p>The woman’s face became pallid, and she gasped -for breath; but quickly recovering herself she said:</p> - -<p>“I will do all in my power to save you, for I <em>know</em> -that you will carry out your threat.”</p> - -<p>The man gazed at the woman with a malicious smile -as she turned upon her heel and walked toward the -door.</p> - -<p>“I have triumphed,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Over a weak woman,” was her fierce reply, as she -turned upon him, her face now glowing with anger -and hatred.</p> - -<p>“A woman, but never a weak one. Are you going?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Good-by.”</p> - -<p>“We shall not meet again.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[72]</span></p> - -<p>“I do not mind that, only if I go to the gallows do -you remember to be there to hear my last words.”</p> - -<p>“They will never be uttered.”</p> - -<p>“That means that I will be aided to escape?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you for your unintentional kindness, and -I regret that my love of life will not permit me to -prove my appreciation by making you a widow. Good-by, -Nina.”</p> - -<p>“Good-by, Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw,” and with -a little laugh she glided out of the door, not hearing -his muttered words:</p> - -<p>“Now with my sister to aid me, as she surely will, -and Nina de Sutro, the gallows will never see me -its victim.”</p> - -<p>“You can return to your post, sentinel, close to the -cabin,” said Nina, as she passed the soldier, who gave -her an officer’s salute and obeyed.</p> - -<p>Straight to headquarters went Nina de Sutro, and -sent her name in to Colonel Dunwoody, asking an -interview. The colonel came out himself to receive -her, and, walking with her to the end of the piazza, -apart from the sentinel on duty, placed a chair for her.</p> - -<p>“This is an unexpected honor,” he said pleasantly.</p> - -<p>“I have come on business, Colonel Dunwoody.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[73]</span></p> - -<p>“I am at your service, be the motive of your visit -what it may, Miss Nina.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, sir.</p> - -<p>“You know that I went with your permission to -visit the prisoner this afternoon?”</p> - -<p>“I gave orders that you should be allowed to do -so, Nina.”</p> - -<p>“Of course, Colonel Dunwoody, I feel for that unfortunate -man, in spite of his having been proven an -outlaw, a most kindly feeling.”</p> - -<p>“I can understand that thoroughly, Miss Nina, in -that you owe to him your life, not to speak of having -seen him afterward in Mexico win honors that only -a hero could. It is a terrible misfortune that such -a man as he was capable of becoming should allow his -moral character to be broken utterly and sink to the -level of a common criminal.</p> - -<p>“Brave I admit him to be, a genious in his way, -one whose deeds would make him a splendid commander, -and with his good looks, accomplishments -and courtly manners, the wonder in my mind was that -you did not fall desperately in love with him, for few -girls, circumstanced as you have been, Miss Nina, -could have held their hearts in their keeping. You<span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">[74]</span> -are made of very stern and sterling material, my dear -Miss Nina de Sutro.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you for saying so, Colonel Dunwoody, -but as to this unfortunate man.”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“You said that he had asked to see me that I might -serve him in some way, as he wished to trust me with -certain business to transact for him?”</p> - -<p>“Such was the communication that Captain Caruth -brought me from him.”</p> - -<p>“Well, sir, I went to see him, and I was there fully -an hour. Though he did not say as much, he is most -deeply interested in a young woman in Pocket City, -and he has written her a letter which he wished me to -send to her by courier.”</p> - -<p>“Indeed?”</p> - -<p>“I, of course, would do nothing without consulting -you, and so said to him that I would take the letter and -send it through if possible.”</p> - -<p>“You have the letter, Miss Nina?”</p> - -<p>“Here it is, sir.”</p> - -<p>The colonel glanced at the address and said:</p> - -<p>“It is to Bonnie Belle, one of the most remarkable -characters in this land of strange people.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">[75]</span></p> - -<p>“She is a young and very beautiful girl, I have -heard, for I have never seen her; but I have heard -much of her through Surgeon Frank Powell, Captain -Caruth and Buffalo Bill, who know her well.”</p> - -<p>“What do they say of her, sir?”</p> - -<p>“That she is a young lady scarcely twenty, of great -loveliness of form and face, accomplished and refined, -yet one who has killed her man, as they have it out -here, runs a hotel and gambling-den and is beloved by -every man in the mines.”</p> - -<p>“Can she be this man’s wife?” asked Nina in a low -tone, and she would not look the colonel in the face -as she asked the question.</p> - -<p>“It may be so, though I cannot believe that she -knows him as he really is, for she is not one, from all -I have heard, to be the ally of such a man, his confederate -in crime.”</p> - -<p>“Well, colonel, he wishes this letter sent through to -her, and I promised to do so for him, so I appeal to you -for your consent.”</p> - -<p>“I cannot refuse the appeal, Miss Nina, for I can -really see no harm in the letter, and it would be hard -to refuse a favor asked by a man in his position, wicked -as he is.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">[76]</span></p> - -<p>“Oh, I thank you, Colonel Dunwoody, for you are -always kind and just.”</p> - -<p>“I will send my aide with the letter to a courier to -take it at once to this strange woman.”</p> - -<p>And so it was that the letter that overtook Bonnie -Belle on the eastward trail was sent.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">[77]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_VIII">CHAPTER VIII.<br /> -<span class="fs70">A FAIR PLOTTER.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Nina de Sutro went from the quarters of Colonel -Dunwoody to her own pleasant rooms in the house of -Lieutenant-Colonel Ravel de Sutro.</p> - -<p>She had an extended view of miles and miles of the -superb scenery visible from the fort. There was a -large herd of cattle, guarded by picturesque-looking -cowboys in the distance.</p> - -<p>A drove of horses were feeding a few miles away, -and a couple of troops were drilling down in the valley, -and all preparing to cease work as the day was -closing.</p> - -<p>In the plaza of the fort the band was playing, and -upon the bluff overhanging the river, officers, ladies -and children were gathered awaiting the time for parade, -a spectacle which no one at the fort ever cared to -miss.</p> - -<p>But upon this evening all these scenes and actions -held no charm for Nina de Sutro. She threw herself -into a chair in front of the open window in her sitting-room,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">[78]</span> -and with her hand clasped over one knee, a -favorite attitude of hers in reverie, began to think.</p> - -<p>“How can I save that man from the gallows?” at -last burst from her lips, and revealed what her -thoughts were. “He must be saved, or he will ruin -me, for he will carry out his threat. I know that he -will show me no mercy; that he will not soften in his -last moments, but grow more revengeful, so he must -never go to the gallows.</p> - -<p>“Surely the devil is tempting me when I feel stealing -into my brain and heart the thought that if he were -<em>poisoned</em> it would be believed that he committed suicide. -The act would silence him forever, thus keeping -my secret and making me a widow by the same murderous -deed. No! no! I am not wicked, and what I -did do wrong was not so intended, for I became his -wife, believing that he loved me.</p> - -<p>“If I hate him now, and God knows that I have had -cause, and love another, has he not given me cause, -and has not that other won me by contrast in being so -noble a specimen of true manhood? No, I will do no -wrong, for I am not wicked, and what I am he made -me.</p> - -<p>“But dare I lose the man I now love with all my -heart and soul by letting him know my secret? Dare<span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">[79]</span> -I let that man come out upon the gallows and name -me as his wife? No, that cannot, shall not be, for I -will save him, though, until I know that he is dead I -can never wed the one I love. Yet how am I to -do it?”</p> - -<p>This question she could not answer. In thinking it -all over her brow grew clouded, her lips set sternly -and she seemed as though plotting some daring, desperate -deed.</p> - -<p>“I have no sympathy for him, so can only act from -my own selfish motives,” she said after a while. “I -feel for him, yes, and as he saved my life I should now -save his. This should prompt me, too; but can I save -him and not compromise myself?”</p> - -<p>Again she was lost in silent reverie for a long while, -to at last have her face light up as she sprung to her -feet with the words:</p> - -<p>“<em>Yes, I can do it, and I will.</em>”</p> - -<p>She paced up and down the room now in an excited -manner, and then said:</p> - -<p>“Yes, at the masquerade, when I put on top-boots, -a military cloak and hat, and the false mustache and -imperial every one took me for Lieutenant Dade, who -is just my size, and my chance to aid <em>his</em> escape is to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[80]</span> -wait until the time when the lieutenant is to be officer -of the day.</p> - -<p>“He can prove an alibi, and I will see to it that I do -also, for it can be done. I shall pray for rain on that -night, and I can slip out and search the cabin, pass the -sentinel, call him into the cabin, and cover him while -the prisoner binds and gags him. Then, in a cowboy -suit I take him, he can leave the fort for the scouts’ -quarters and thus secure a horse and make his escape, -for he will have a night’s start.</p> - -<p>“If he is captured then I cannot help it, and I can -do no more. Of course it will be thought that some -one of the cowboys was the ally of the outlaw, for he -is said to have had spies at the post, and no one will -ever suspect me, for I shall so plan it that no suspicion -shall fall upon me.</p> - -<p>“I can have the prisoner speak of me before the soldier -as an ally and one who has played the part of Lieutenant -Dade to aid his escape, and this will free the -officer from all trouble. Yes, this must be my plan, -unless some better plot should come to me between now -and that awful day of execution.</p> - -<p>“I will ask the general, when the courier comes back, -to allow me to see the prisoner and report that his letter<span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">[81]</span> -was delivered, and then I can tell him of my plot, -and may the saints aid me in carrying it out.”</p> - -<p>The courier sent to Pocket City, with the letter from -the condemned prisoner to Bonnie Belle, returned in -good time to the fort and reported to the officer who -had sent him there.</p> - -<p>“I went to Pocket City, sir, and found that the lady -had just started East that morning on the coach.”</p> - -<p>“Then you did not see her?” asked Lieutenant Turpin, -the colonel’s aide.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, sir, for I followed and overtook the coach, -and gave her the letter.”</p> - -<p>“And was an answer given you, Jack?”</p> - -<p>“No letter, sir, only the lady told me to say that -her answer was simply:</p> - -<p>“‘I will.’”</p> - -<p>“Well, I’ll so report to the colonel.”</p> - -<p>This the young officer did and Colonel Dunwoody -at once sent for Nina de Sutro.</p> - -<p>She came to the headquarters and was told the report -of the courier, after which the colonel said, without -her having to make the request to see the outlaw -again:</p> - -<p>“Now, Miss Nina, will you be good enough to deliver -this answer to the prisoner, who I suppose will<span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">[82]</span> -understand it, or shall I send word by Lieutenant Turpin?”</p> - -<p>“I will go, sir, but may I see the courier, so that I -can fully understand the report?”</p> - -<p>“Certainly, I will have him sent to your quarters, -so that you can question him, and at your own pleasure -you can send for the officer of the day to escort you -to the outlaw’s cabin.”</p> - -<p>“I will see the courier upon my return home, sir,” -was the answer, and Nina de Sutro half an hour after -saw Texas Jack enter the gate and walk rapidly toward -the quarters of Lieutenant-Colonel De Sutro.</p> - -<p>She met the scout at the door, for she knew him -well, and he bowed courteously and said:</p> - -<p>“I have orders to report to you here, Miss De -Sutro.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! it was you then, Texas Jack, who took the letter -to Pocket City?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, miss, I was the courier, for although it was -to have been sent by a cowboy it was decided that it -would be best to have me go.”</p> - -<p>“And you found the one to whom it was addressed -at Pocket City?”</p> - -<p>“No, miss, she had started East in the coach that -morning, and so I rode on and overtook her.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">[83]</span></p> - -<p>“And her answer?”</p> - -<p>“Was:</p> - -<p>“‘Simply say that <em>I will</em>.’”</p> - -<p>“What else?”</p> - -<p>“Not a word, miss.”</p> - -<p>“Who is she?”</p> - -<p>“One of the handsomest ladies I ever saw.”</p> - -<p>“A lady?” said Nina, with a sneer.</p> - -<p>“Yes, indeed, Miss De Sutro, one of the noblest of -her sex if only half that is said of her goodness is -true.”</p> - -<p>“Yet she is the keeper of a border hotel and gambling-den?”</p> - -<p>“True, miss, yet she’s a lady for all that.”</p> - -<p>“Where was she going?”</p> - -<p>“East, the driver told me, on a visit.”</p> - -<p>“She did not turn back?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, miss, she kept on in the coach.”</p> - -<p>“And then?”</p> - -<p>“She paid me most liberally, giving me fifty dollars, -which I have already handed in to the treasurer of the -Scouts’ League, for aid to our men when they are in -distress and ill.”</p> - -<p>“Just what I would expect of you, Texas Jack; but<span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[84]</span> -the prisoner asked me to pay for the services of the -courier.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, Miss De Sutro, but I made no charge -for my services in this matter, and I certainly would -not take money from a man under sentence of death, -no matter what his crimes may have been,” responded -the scout.</p> - -<p>“Well, Texas Jack, I can only thank you most kindly -for the outlaw prisoner.”</p> - -<p>The scout now departed, and soon after Nina de -Sutro sought the officer of the day, and found that he -had already received orders to conduct her to the cabin -of the prisoner. As before, the sentinel was withdrawn -out of hearing, and when the visitor entered, Silk -Lasso Sam arose to receive her.</p> - -<p>“I have news for you,” she said coldly.</p> - -<p>“Well?”</p> - -<p>“The courier to Pocket City has returned.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! and he found the one to whom I sent that letter?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, he overtook her on her way East.”</p> - -<p>“On her way East?” The man spoke with an -anxiety of look and tone which Nina de Sutro could -not but observe.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[85]</span></p> - -<p>“Then she sent no answer to my letter?”</p> - -<p>“She did.”</p> - -<p>“Ha! and that answer was——”</p> - -<p>“‘<em>I will.</em>’”</p> - -<p>“That answer was sufficient,” he said, in a voice full -of relief.</p> - -<p>“You are satisfied with it, then?”</p> - -<p>“I am.”</p> - -<p>“I do not understand it.”</p> - -<p>“Nor is there need that you should do so.”</p> - -<p>“Well, it is a matter of most perfect indifference to -me; but I asked to see you to-day, to deliver the message.”</p> - -<p>“You are very kind.”</p> - -<p>“That I might tell you of the plot I had formed to -save you.”</p> - -<p>“Say rather to prevent the exposure of the fact that -you are my wife.”</p> - -<p>“Well, have it any way you please, but I have hit -upon a plan which I hope will be successful, and I desire -to make it known to you. If anything better presents -itself I will find a way to acquaint you with the -fact. Now hear my plan.”</p> - -<p>She then told just what she had decided upon.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[86]</span></p> - -<p>“It will do, I think; but, if you decide upon another -let me know in time,” said the man. “I shall need -some money when I go, so do not forget to bring it -the night of my escape.”</p> - -<p>And thus these two parted again.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[87]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_IX">CHAPTER IX.<br /> -<span class="fs70">A VISITOR AT PIONEER POST.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Horseshoe Ned, the driver of the Overland coach -running to and from Pioneer Post, drove into the fort -with an all-important air toward sunset one evening, -caused by having a lady seated upon the box with -him.</p> - -<p>She was attired in mourning, wearing a heavy crape -veil which she drew over her face as she approached -the gate in the stockade wall.</p> - -<p>But Horseshoe Ned knew that it was a very beautiful -face, with large eyes that were simply magnificent, -though she hid them under a pair of eye-glasses when -she drew her veil about her.</p> - -<p>Who she was Horseshoe Ned did not know, more -than that she had been transferred to his care by the -driver who had had her in charge up to the station -where his run ended.</p> - -<p>“I say, Pard Ned, jist let yerself out in entertainin’ -thet leddy, fer she are a sweet one and jist as perlite as -kin be. She rides on the box right through, and wants -ter know ther whole history o’ ther trail as we goes<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[88]</span> -along. She are mournin’ fer somebody as is dead and -gone, I guesses, from her dressin’ in black, and I feel -sorry for her, for I sees away back in her eyes that she -hain’t just happy, notwithstandin’ her pretty smile.”</p> - -<p>So had said the driver who had given her into the -charge of Horeshoe Ned, who replied:</p> - -<p>“I’ll treat her same as a princess, pard; but what is -her name?”</p> - -<p>“I hain’t heerd it, pard.”</p> - -<p>“Waal, she’s a beauty, so interdooce me.”</p> - -<p>The past guardian on the trail of the fair stranger -led Horseshoe Ned up to the lady, as she came out -from breakfast at the station, and said:</p> - -<p>“Here’s whar I leaves yer, miss, but I gives yer inter -charge o’ ther best driver on ther Overland, and one -who has got a name as a dandy all round, take him at -what yer please. He are Horseshoe Ned, miss, and he -takes ther old hearse through ter ther fort, and yer see -he’s got ther best coach and team on ther entire outfit.</p> - -<p>“Don’t be skeered, though his run has been known -as the Death Trail, fer on it Silk Lasso Sam and his -men have been hanging out for deviltry, though that -game won’t be played no more. Not knowin’ your -name, miss, I can’t interdooce you ter Horeshoe Ned, -only him ter you.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">[89]</span></p> - -<p>“My name is——” and after a short hesitation she -added the name:</p> - -<p>“Ruth Arden, Mr. Baldy.”</p> - -<p>Having learned the name, Baldy was not going to -leave the introduction half done, so said quickly:</p> - -<p>“Miss Ruth Arden, Horseshoe Ned, and if you -don’t treat her first-class yer quarrels with me.”</p> - -<p>“I am sure that he will do all in his power, Mr. -Baldy, to make my ride as pleasant a one as it has -been with you.”</p> - -<p>And Horseshoe Ned did, for he showed how he -could drive, gathered wild flowers here and there for -his fair passenger, told her the legends of the trails, -and showed her the scenes of Silk Lasso Sam’s red -exploits, and graves which he had been the one to dot -the roadside with.</p> - -<p>“I tell yer, miss, thet Silk Lasso Sam is a terror, and -I has seen him do killin’ more times than I cares -to remember. It hain’t been so very long since he -kilt my Pard Ribbons, and he has nipped me slight -several times; but that is his business and drivin’ is -mine, and it’s every man to his occupation, and I must -say Silk Lasso Sam stood above ’em all in what he -undertook.”</p> - -<p>“And he is now a prisoner at the fort, sir?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[90]</span></p> - -<p>“Yes, miss. He’s soon ter be hanged, they says, -though I won’t believe it until I sees it.”</p> - -<p>“Why, do you think he’ll receive a pardon?”</p> - -<p>“A pardon, miss? Silk Lasso Sam receive a pardon? -No, indeed, miss, never from God or man!” -was the vehement response.</p> - -<p>“He has been so very wicked, then?”</p> - -<p>“He has had nothing but wickedness in his heart, -miss. Nobody has been able to escape him, men, -women or children, for he is merciless to all, and but -for Buffalo Bill, Surgeon Powell and a miner named -Deadshot Dean, he’d hev gone on his wicked ways and -done no end of harm.”</p> - -<p>“I am sorry to hear that he was a man of whom -nothing good could be said, for it is seldom you find -a man who has fallen so low as that,” sadly said the -passenger.</p> - -<p>“He brought it on himself, miss.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I can believe that; but why is it that you do -not believe that he will be hanged?”</p> - -<p>“Well, miss, he has been in so many tight places, -and always gives his foes the slip in some way, that I -has begun to think he hain’t born ter be hanged.”</p> - -<p>“One cannot live an evil life and never expect just -punishment in the end, sir.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[91]</span></p> - -<p>“Just punishment for him, miss, would be, to my -thinking, solitary confinement in a cell where he’d hev -ther chance ter be alone with his conscience and feel all -ther deeds he has been guilty of, for shootin’ would be -too good fer him, and hangin’ would soon be over -with. But there’s the fort, miss, and we’ll soon be -there. Has you friends there, miss?”</p> - -<p>“I have a letter to Colonel Dunwoody,” was the reply, -and after a couple of hours’ rest the visitor to -Pioneer Post presented herself at headquarters and -asked to see Colonel Dunwoody.</p> - -<p>The colonel received his fair visitor without any -ceremony, wondering what had brought a lady by -coach so far to see him.</p> - -<p>He saw a form of exquisite grace, clad in black, -and when she threw back her veil and her face was revealed -in all its beauty he was fairly startled, for it -brought to him at once the memory of an ideal portrait -which he had seen in the long ago, and which he -had in vain sought to find the counterpart of in life.</p> - -<p>He bowed and led her to a seat, while he said in the -courteous manner natural to him:</p> - -<p>“Pray tell me how I can serve you—miss.”</p> - -<p>He added the <em>miss</em> after a slight hesitation, for it<span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">[92]</span> -did not appear to him that he stood in the presence of -a married woman.</p> - -<p>“Permit me to introduce myself, Colonel Dunwoody, -as Miss Ruth Arden, and to say that I am here to present -a letter to insure the fulfilment of the request I -shall have to make you.”</p> - -<p>She gazed into the handsome face of the man before -her with a look in which there was both confidence -and admiration commingled.</p> - -<p>She had heard of the daring, dashing Indian-fighter, -the youngest officer of his high rank in the army, and -one whom report said was as noble in nature as he was -brave.</p> - -<p>“I assure you, Miss Arden, I should be most happy -to do all in my power for you, even did you not bear -this letter,” said the colonel as he broke the seal of the -letter.</p> - -<p>A cloud crossed his brow as he read the purport of -the communication, an official permission for Miss Arden -to visit her brother, the outlaw chief known as Silk -Lasso Sam.</p> - -<p>“Your brother, Miss Arden?” asked the colonel, and -there was almost reproach in the tone.</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, your prisoner is my brother, for I will<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[93]</span> -not disown him, even though I must deeply regret that -he is so unfortunate as to be under sentence of death -for his many heinous crimes.”</p> - -<p>“Miss Arden, I deeply deplore his fate, especially -the more since now I have met you. I felt in my conversation -with him, that he had been well born and -reared a gentleman, whatever the sad circumstances -which had made him a criminal and fugitive from justice. -I extend to you my deepest sympathy, and I will -at once escort you to the place where your brother is -held a prisoner and arrange that you see him alone.”</p> - -<p>“You are indeed most kind to me, Colonel Dunwoody, -and you have my deepest gratitude.”</p> - -<p>“May I ask where you have obtained quarters while -here, Miss Arden, and how long your stay will be?”</p> - -<p>“I have secured a room in the sutler’s home, sir, and -his wife is most kind to me. I shall remain only until -the next stage departs for the East.”</p> - -<p>“Permit me to say that my friends, Major and Mrs. -Lester, will be, I know, most happy to entertain you -while here, and you will find at their house a relative, -Miss Clarice Carr, who I know will extend you the -warmest of welcomes also, for she is a true woman.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps, sir, it would be best for me to remain -at the sutler’s, for you know that, no matter what I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[94]</span> -may myself be, I am the sister of the condemned outlaw.”</p> - -<p>“Through no act of your own; your misfortune, not -your fault, Miss Arden, and my friends will regard -you and your position as I do.”</p> - -<p>“You are most kind, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Then shall we go first to Major Lester’s quarters?”</p> - -<p>“You know best, Colonel Dunwoody, only I do not -wish to be an intruder and——”</p> - -<p>“Come, Miss Arden, for such a thing as your intruding -is not to be thought of. Though our trade is -war, we soldiers are yet not wholly heartless,” and the -colonel led the way from his quarters.</p> - -<p>The home of Major Lester was one of the best in -the fort, and situated slightly apart from the others. -Clarice Carr was seated upon the piazza as they approached, -a book in hand, but she arose and met the -colonel cordially, and cast a quick glance at the beautiful -girl accompanying him.</p> - -<p>There was something in the face of Ruth Arden -which seemed to win her at once.</p> - -<p>“Miss Carr, let me present to you Miss Ruth Arden, -a young lady who is here on the sad mission of visiting -her unfortunate brother and bidding him farewell,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">[95]</span> -for I refer to the outlaw chief, now under sentence -of death.”</p> - -<p>Instantly Clarice Carr stepped up to Ruth and kissed -her, while she said quickly, with an intuitive knowledge -of why the colonel had brought her there:</p> - -<p>“And you will be my guest, will you not, while you -are here, for you will need me to cheer you up, I -know?”</p> - -<p>The tears came into the beautiful eyes of Ruth, and -she said in a voice that quivered:</p> - -<p>“Yes, for your sympathy and friendship will be so -dear to me.”</p> - -<p>“You did just what I was going to request of you, -Miss Clarice, for Miss Arden is at the sutler’s, but I -will have her things sent here, as I know that Lester -and that sweet wife of his will do as you have, ask -Miss Arden to be your guest.”</p> - -<p>“They will, indeed, Colonel Dunwoody, but they are -not at home just now.”</p> - -<p>“Well, Miss Arden will return here when she has -seen her brother.”</p> - -<p>“I will come within an hour, Miss Arden, to fetch -you back with me,” was the prompt reply of Clarice, -and both Ruth and the colonel gave her a look of gratitude -for her thoughtfulness.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">[96]</span></p> - -<p>All wondered as they saw Colonel Dunwoody escorting -a veiled lady in the direction of the cabin where -Silk Lasso Sam was held a prisoner.</p> - -<p>Captain Dick Caruth was officer of the day, and -Colonel Dunwoody sent a soldier in search of him. -He joined them at the barrier which shut off the prisoner’s -cabin, and was introduced to Ruth, who still kept -her veil concealing her face completely, for in spite of -being dressed differently, and with her hair arranged -in a different style from what she had worn it as Bonnie -Belle, the captain had seen her at Pocket City, and -she did not wish to be recognized.</p> - -<p>Then, too, she desired also to avoid Buffalo Bill and -Surgeon Frank Powell, who also knew her well, and -might recognize her as Bonnie Belle.</p> - -<p>Captain Caruth bowed low, heard what the colonel -had to say, and at once said:</p> - -<p>“I will report to the prisoner his sister’s coming, -Colonel Dunwoody, and”—turning to Ruth—“if I -can serve you in any way command me during your -stay here, Miss Arden.”</p> - -<p>“You are all so good to me,” was the low reply.</p> - -<p>Captain Caruth at once hastened on ahead and coming -to the sentinel, he said:</p> - -<p>“Sentinel, march forty paces from the cabin and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">[97]</span> -take up your beat there, for there is a lady to see the -prisoner alone.”</p> - -<p>The sentinel saluted and obeyed, and opening the -cabin door Captain Caruth entered.</p> - -<p>Silk Lasso Sam greeted him politely, while he said -in a tone in which there was some sarcasm:</p> - -<p>“This is an honor, Captain Caruth, I appreciate.”</p> - -<p>“The honor, sir, is to come in the visit of one whom -you should have thought of ere you allowed yourself -to become what you now are,” was the stern reply.</p> - -<p>The prisoner started and his face changed color.</p> - -<p>“I do not comprehend, sir,” he faltered.</p> - -<p>“You have a sister, sir?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, my sister Ruth.”</p> - -<p>“Miss Arden, your sister, is now here to visit you, -for she is coming with the colonel.” An expression of -joy swept over the face of the outlaw while he said in -a tone that seemed sincere:</p> - -<p>“God bless her for coming here to see me. She is -a brave, noble girl, true as steel.”</p> - -<p>“It is to be regretted that you did not think of her -in the past.”</p> - -<p>“I did, and of my mother, too; but I was born bad, -my heart was wicked from boyhood and it was destined<span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">[98]</span> -for me to be the devil I am.” The prisoner spoke -bitterly, and Captain Caruth said in a kindly tone:</p> - -<p>“Well, Arden, your sister is here, and so take what -comfort you can from her visit. She can remain an -hour, and see you alone.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you, sir,” and the outlaw bowed his head -as the captain turned and left the cabin.</p> - -<p>“I have told your brother of your coming, Miss Arden, -and he is ready to receive you. I regret that I -cannot free him of his irons while you are with him, -but it cannot be.”</p> - -<p>“I do not ask it, sir. He must not expect favors -where he has shown none, and led the life he has,” was -the reply.</p> - -<p>The colonel then escorted Ruth to the door, and bowing, -said:</p> - -<p>“The sentinel will inform you, Miss Arden, when -Miss Carr comes for you.”</p> - -<p>Ruth bowed in silence, and entered the cabin.</p> - -<p>Her brother sat there, in irons, his head bowed upon -his hands. She turned pale at the sight, brave as she -was, and stood for an instant regarding him. Then -she said, softly:</p> - -<p>“Arden, my brother.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">[99]</span></p> - -<p>He arose slowly, his face pallid, and in silence extended -his manacled hands. Either he was playing a -part with perfect acting, or he felt deeply and despairingly -his situation, and that she should see him thus.</p> - -<p>“My poor brother,” she said, laying her hand lightly -upon his shoulder.</p> - -<p>“You pity me, then, Ruth?” he asked, in a quivering -voice.</p> - -<p>“From the very depths of my heart and soul I pity -you, brother. That is why I came at your call, came -when I received your letter, to say what words of cheer -I could to you.”</p> - -<p>“You came to do more, Ruth?”</p> - -<p>“You mean to save you?”</p> - -<p>“Yes,” he said eagerly.</p> - -<p>“I have come to save you, brother, for with you I -feel that you are not fit to die, that you should have -time for repentance, should do all in your power to -atone for the past.”</p> - -<p>“God bless you, Ruth, and I know that he will. I -felt that you would not desert me in my last hour.”</p> - -<p>“No, I have long tried to save you, have worked so -hard to help you, to take you from your evil life, and -it seemed all in vain, for you seemed wedded irrevocably -to sin, and every pledge you made me was broken.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">[100]</span></p> - -<p>“But I am not here to upbraid you, but to have a -long talk with you. Sit down and let me tell you just -what I have done and why I am here.” She gently -forced the prisoner into his chair while she began to -pace slowly up and down the cabin.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">[101]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_X">CHAPTER X.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE REALITY OF AN IDEAL.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The interview between the brother and sister was -brought to an end by the coming of the sentinel, who -reported that Miss Carr awaited Miss Arden.</p> - -<p>“I will join her immediately, please say,” was Ruth’s -response, and then she turned again to her brother.</p> - -<p>“You will see me again before you go, Ruth?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, for I will be here four days and shall ask the -colonel for leave to spend an hour with you each morning -and afternoon. You have made me very happy, -Arden, in the promises you have made me, and I feel -that you will keep them.”</p> - -<p>A moment more and she was gone. The sentinel -took his post again without the door, and just beyond -Clarice Carr awaited with Major Lester and his wife. -They greeted her most cordially, the major saying:</p> - -<p>“We decided to come after you also, Miss Arden, -and you must feel perfectly at home with us.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, my dear Miss Arden, the colonel has done us<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">[102]</span> -a favor in allowing us to claim you while here,” Mrs. -Lester remarked.</p> - -<p>Thus greeted, Ruth felt that she was among friends, -and she went to the major’s quarters as to her own -home, so hospitable was their treatment of her.</p> - -<p>Not a word was said about the prisoner, her brother, -to render her unhappy, and refusing themselves to -company that night, except the colonel, who called, -they devoted the evening to their fair guest.</p> - -<p>At the request of the colonel Clarice sung for them, -and when she had done so she turned and asked:</p> - -<p>“Do you not sing, Miss Arden?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I am devoted to music,” was the simple reply.</p> - -<p>Urged to sing, she sat down to Clarice Carr’s harp -which stood nearest to her side, and she had only -to run her fingers over the strings to show that it -was an artist’s hands that touched them. Then in a -rich, melodious contralto she sang that old but charming -ballad:</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent0">I cannot sing those old songs,</div> - <div class="verse indent2">We’ve sung so oft together.</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>Her hearers listened breathlessly, for her voice -stirred their inmost hearts, and, when she had ceased, -she said softly:</p> - -<p>“I do not know why I sang that song, for it was my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">[103]</span> -brother’s favorite, and we often have sung together, -for he has a superb voice, or, rather, had when I knew -him in the long ago.”</p> - -<p>It was her first reference to her outlaw brother -since entering the house, and, brave men that they -were, Colonel Dunwoody and Major Lester felt the -tears dimming their eyes in sympathy for the beautiful -girl.</p> - -<p>But she quickly said, as though to destroy the effect -she had caused by her song:</p> - -<p>“You have an exquisite soprano, Miss Carr, and I -sing alto, so suppose we have a duet.”</p> - -<p>“Willingly,” and several duets were sung until Mrs. -Lester said:</p> - -<p>“Now I am not half-satisfied yet, and, as the colonel -has a lovely tenor and my husband sings bass, I insist -upon a quartette.”</p> - -<p>All readily agreed, and the four fine voices accorded -wonderfully well together, and until a late hour the -musical treat was kept up.</p> - -<p>At last the colonel left, after a pleasant little supper, -and as he walked back to his quarters he was in a -contemplative mood, for he mused aloud:</p> - -<p>“At last I have met my ideal. I did begin to feel -that in that brilliant woman Nina de Sutro I had<span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">[104]</span> -found her, and that Clarice Carr was one to make me -a happy man; but no, she of the dreamy eyes is my -ideal, the reality of the portrait I saw years ago, and -often wondered if I would ever meet a woman with -just such a face.</p> - -<p>“And now the one who has that face is the sister -of the vilest man who ever crossed my path. Still, -an angel and a devil may be akin, and so it is with that -man and this beautiful girl. Ah, me! I wish I could -look back into the life of Ruth Arden and read it as -an open book, for she interests me more than I would -admit even to myself; yes, fascinates me.”</p> - -<p>And thus musing, Colonel Dunwoody reached his -quarters.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile those at the major’s had gone to -their rooms for the night.</p> - -<p>Both Major Lester and his wife had spoken most -kindly to Ruth and said that they were sorry she was -not to remain at the fort, and Clarice had escorted -the guest to her room.</p> - -<p>A sitting-room divided the chamber of Clarice from -the one occupied by Ruth, and the two had talked together -before saying good night.</p> - -<p>“You are tired I know, so I must not keep you up<span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">[105]</span> -any later, for it is midnight,” said Clarice. “We -breakfast at nine, you know,” and she kissed Ruth, -who, hesitating an instant, replied:</p> - -<p>“Miss Carr, you have been so sweet to me, so sisterly, -that I wish to make a confession to you, but in -confidence. I do not wish to deceive you, and, therefore, -I will tell you that Arden is not my name. True, -it was my mother’s maiden name, but I assumed it, for -the one I bear has been dishonored by my brother, -and I did not wish to bring shame upon an honored -name by letting it be known who the man you know as -Silk Lasso Sam really is.</p> - -<p>“To others I am Ruth Arden, to you, in confidence, -I will say that I am Ruth Leigh, and my poor brother’s -real name is Arden Leigh. Good night,” and Ruth -glided quickly away to her room, while Clarice murmured -gently:</p> - -<p>“Poor girl, yours is a noble nature.”</p> - -<p>Ruth did not ask the favor of Colonel Dunwoody, -to be allowed to see her brother daily, for it was not -necessary.</p> - -<p>He anticipated her by calling the next morning -and asking for her.</p> - -<p>“I have given orders, Miss Arden, that you shall<span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">[106]</span> -be allowed to go to and from the prison where your -brother is confined at your will.”</p> - -<p>“You are most kind, Colonel Dunwoody.”</p> - -<p>“No, I am only just, for you have come a long way, -have you not, to see one whom your woman’s heart -clings to in spite of what he may be. A mother’s love -and a sister’s are to me the purest of all affections, -and I can understand just how you feel toward the -one who has gone to the bad as your unfortunate -brother has.”</p> - -<p>“I appreciate all that you say and do for me, Colonel -Dunwoody, and I make no effort to disguise my deep -love for my brother, for I remember him only as -he ever was toward me in the past. His nature was -warped, and he went wrong when quite a young man, -and just when we began to feel that he was saved, -that he had seen the evil of his ways and was coming -back to a life of honor, one whom he loved, whom he -idolized in truth, told him that she could never be his -wife, that she loved another.</p> - -<p>“That blow made a madman of him and he sought -to take the life of his rival, and from that day became -a fugitive and a wanderer, a hunted man, feeling -that the hand of every one was against him. I -do not defend him, and I ask no mercy for him; but<span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">[107]</span> -I thank you for your goodness in allowing me to see -him often the few days that I will be here.”</p> - -<p>“It would be cruel to ask you to remain longer,” -said the colonel.</p> - -<p>“No, I must go my way, Colonel Dunwoody.”</p> - -<p>“And do you wish me to send any communication -to you when—when—<em>all is over</em>?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing, thank you, sir. I wish no tidings of what -occurs after I leave the fort.”</p> - -<p>“But surely we will see you again?”</p> - -<p>“Where and when?”</p> - -<p>She asked the question quickly, almost excitedly.</p> - -<p>“That remains alone for you to say, Miss Arden, -for I do not wish you to drift out of our memories -and our lives, after having crossed our paths as you -have.”</p> - -<p>“I am but the sister of the outlaw Silk Lasso Sam, -remember.”</p> - -<p>“Granted.”</p> - -<p>“This does not deter you from wishing to keep up -a friendship with me?”</p> - -<p>“Not in the slightest, for I abhor the old Biblical -law of visiting upon the children the sins of the -fathers, only applying it in your case to a sister’s suffering -for a brother’s crimes.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">[108]</span></p> - -<p>“You are generous, you are just,” and Ruth held -out her hand, which the colonel held while she continued:</p> - -<p>“See if you wish my friendship when you hear of -me again. If you do, then Miss Carr can tell you of -me, for she has promised to be my friend and correspond -with me. Now can I go and spend an hour with -that unfortunate brother of mine, over whom the -shadow of the gallows hangs like a nightmare?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I will escort you to the cabin.”</p> - -<p>When the day came around for the departure of -the coach, Major Lester and his wife felt the deepest -regret at having to give up their lovely guest.</p> - -<p>They had become deeply attached to her, and yet -they could not urge her to remain longer, for they -wished her to be far away when the day of execution -came which would end the guilty career of Silk Lasso -Sam and the lives of his men, sentenced to die at the -same time.</p> - -<p>Both the major and his wife had observed the deep -interest felt by the colonel in their guest, and had -spoken of it to each other.</p> - -<p>“The colonel’s heart has been touched by the sorrow -of that beautiful girl,” said Mrs. Lester, and her -husband replied:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">[109]</span></p> - -<p>“Pity begets love, it is said, and I really wish the -colonel would care for her, as she is a very superior -girl, and, whatever the faults of the brother, she is as -pure as snow.”</p> - -<p>Of course, all in the fort had come to understand -just why Ruth had come, and those who saw her had -felt deepest compassion for her. That she was a lady -all acknowledged, whatever Silk Lasso Sam might be.</p> - -<p>During her stay at Major Lester’s all had discreetly -kept away from that officer’s home, well understanding -that Miss Arden cared for no visitors, though nearly -every lady in the fort left their cards “for Miss Arden,” -as an appreciation of her misfortunes, and sympathy -in her sorrows.</p> - -<p>Nina de Sutro had heard of the coming of this -visitor to the doomed man. He had not spoken to -her, during their short married life, of having a sister; -in fact, he had said nothing to her of his past.</p> - -<p>Who then, she wondered, was this beautiful woman, -for she did not regard her as really his sister. Not -connecting her in any way with Bonnie Belle, she -looked upon herself, Bonnie Belle and this stranger as -three, perhaps, who held a claim upon the outlaw.</p> - -<p>She felt no jealousy of her, for she hated the prisoner -too sincerely for that emotion to find lodgment<span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">[110]</span> -in her heart; but she was anxious to know who she -was, and all about her.</p> - -<p>She had been told that she was very beautiful. She -would see and know for herself, for she said:</p> - -<p>“I must see and talk with that woman.”</p> - -<p>When Nina de Sutro set out to do anything, she -accomplished it. She resolved that she would see Ruth -Arden, and have a talk with her.</p> - -<p>The interest shown in her by Colonel Dunwoody -she could not understand, any more than she could -why the Lesters had made her their guest, and Clarice -Carr seemed so devoted to her.</p> - -<p>She dared not speak to her in public, as it was known -that Ruth met no one, nor cared to. She must see -her, then, at the major’s. So she plotted to do so in -her own way. That way was to get Mrs. Lester and -Clarice away for some reason, and then go and call, -for the major would be either on duty or at the club.</p> - -<p>There was to be a gathering of the ladies for their -weekly talks over acts of charity, sewing for the soldiers’ -children, or parties, dinners, or excursions to -be held, and so Nina planned to have the meeting -when the major would be absent and Mrs. Lester and -Clarice would have to attend.</p> - -<p>She used Mrs. De Sutro her kinswoman as a catspaw,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">[111]</span> -telling her that she wished to give a party and -that Mrs. Lester and Clarice were to be consulted, -while she, Nina, was to be kept in ignorance of the -affair.</p> - -<p>Then she went to visit an officer’s wife living nearest -to the Lesters, and when she saw, from her seat -in the window, first the major go out, then the two -ladies, she waited until they entered her own house and -then ended her visit abruptly.</p> - -<p>At once she walked by the Lester home, and suddenly -turned into the gate. Running up the steps, she -opened the door and called aloud:</p> - -<p>“Clarice! Clarice!”</p> - -<p>At the same time she entered the sitting-room. At -her call Ruth Arden, who was there, arose, and, meeting -her, said pleasantly:</p> - -<p>“Miss Carr and Mrs. Lester have both gone out. -May I ask who it is that I shall tell them called?”</p> - -<p>Nina de Sutro was taken aback, for she beheld -before her a woman of a beauty of face and form she -had not dreamed she possessed.</p> - -<p>“I am Miss De Sutro. Are you Miss Ruth Arden?” -she asked.</p> - -<p>“I am.”</p> - -<p>“Will you, knowing as I do your reasons for coming<span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">[112]</span> -to the fort, let me offer you my sincere sympathy?”</p> - -<p>“You are very kind, and I thank you, Miss De -Sutro.”</p> - -<p>“Remember, Miss Arden, it is more than an ordinary -interest that I feel in you, as your brother saved -my life when I was a schoolgirl, going to Mexico to -attend the convent where I was educated. Meeting him -here, in the part he was playing with such daring, and -believing him to be a man of honor when I met him, -I felt more than a passing regard for him, and we -were, I may say, the best of friends, yet I never -heard him speak of having a sister.”</p> - -<p>“Yet you see that he has one, and I am sorry he -was taken from me, when I was a mere girl, by circumstances -which drove him a fugitive from our -home. I have tried hard to redeem my misguided -brother, Miss De Sutro, to bring him back from the -path he has chosen, but all in vain, and now he sees an -ignominious death staring him in the face, and I thank -Heaven that our father and mother are both dead, and -that I alone remain to suffer the ignominy and despair -of his deeds which bring him in shame to the grave.”</p> - -<p>Nina de Sutro listened to every word uttered by -the girl, her eyes seeming to pierce to her heart, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">[113]</span> -she saw only purity, truth, and honor upon every -feature, and, after again expressing her sympathy, -turned and left the room, while she said to herself, -with decided emphasis:</p> - -<p>“There is no deception there, for that girl is his -sister, and is more unfortunate than even I am, for -she loves him.”</p> - -<p>Hastening home she found that Mrs. De Sutro and -her two visitors had gone to join the “Petticoat Convention,” -as the officers called the gathering of the -ladies, and, seeking Clarice, she said in a whisper:</p> - -<p>“I have just seen that beautiful girl.”</p> - -<p>“Do you mean Miss Arden?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I ran over to see you, and, calling your name, -she came out of the sitting-room to say that you and -Mrs. Lester had gone out. I had a short talk with -her, and, Clarice, I pity that poor girl from the bottom -of my heart, for she really loves that villainous -brother of hers.”</p> - -<p>“I know that she does,” was the quiet reply of -Clarice, who did not like it that Ruth, who had sought -to avoid every one, had been intruded upon by Nina -de Sutro.</p> - -<p>When Nina left Ruth the latter gazed after her a -moment and then said:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">[114]</span></p> - -<p>“Miss De Sutro came here on purpose to see me, I -feel certain. Well, she accomplished her purpose, -and what will be the result? I will ask Arden about -her, and his saving her life.”</p> - -<p>As it was time for her to visit her brother she put -on her hat and went out. Just as she reached the end -of the parade she came suddenly upon an officer, who -started slightly, and, as he saw her face pale, said -quickly:</p> - -<p>“Do not be alarmed, Miss Arden, for I could never -betray a woman, and your secret is safe with me.”</p> - -<p>“You recognize me then, Surgeon Powell?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, as Bonnie Belle, and Buffalo Bill also recognized -you, but to no one else than myself has he made -it known. We both know, Miss Arden, that you are -here to rescue Silk Lasso Sam, and you are playing -a bold game daringly; but it is our duty to thwart -you if we can. Good morning,” and Surgeon Frank -Powell raised his hat and went on his way.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">[115]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XI">CHAPTER XI.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE DEPARTURE.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>It was with really a sad heart that Clarice Carr felt -that she must say farewell to Ruth Arden. She had -become greatly attached to her in the few days she -had been at the fort, and she recognized what a superior -woman she was, young in years but old in experience.</p> - -<p>The major and his wife also were sorry to see her -depart, for they too had been drawn to her most -closely.</p> - -<p>When the time came for her departure Colonel Dunwoody -came over to the major’s and for a moment -saw Ruth alone.</p> - -<p>“Miss Arden, I hope and feel that we will meet -again, and I wish to say to you that it is my wish -that you will command me in any way in which I -can ever be of service to you. Will you promise me -this, Miss Arden?”</p> - -<p>“I will, Colonel Dunwoody, although I am now under -the deepest obligations to you.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">[116]</span></p> - -<p>“No, I do not so consider it; but there is one thing -more, and pardon me for referring to it.”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“When this is all over, when the end has come, I -will have the body of your brother decently buried for -your sake, and the grave marked so that it can be -found if need be. The major has told me that there -was a fortune left by your father, and to get possession -of it you may wish to secure a certificate of his -death.”</p> - -<p>“It is not necessary, Colonel Dunwoody, as my -father left the entire estate to me, having disinherited -my brother. I would gladly have shared it with him, -had he changed his career, or given his share to his -wife or children, had he married, which, however, -he told me he had not done. If you will give him decent -burial, sir, I shall be very grateful, and I desire -to leave with you the funds necessary for——”</p> - -<p>“No, no, Miss Arden, I will keep an account of -the expenses and notify you at the proper time. But -here comes the coach, and farewells must be said.”</p> - -<p>Mrs. Lester, the major, and Clarice then came forward, -and all said farewell with deep regret, the colonel -handing the girl to a seat upon the box by the side of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">[117]</span> -Horseshoe Ned, who seemed proud to have his fair -passenger again under his charge.</p> - -<p>Then Ned gathered up his reins, called to his leaders, -and away whirled the coach at a slapping pace, -while the eyes of Ruth were seen to turn with a longing -look toward the cabin where her brother was in -irons, and must soon go forth from his prison to the -gallows.</p> - -<p>The coming of Ruth had created much comment. -Had she been an ordinary person it would have been -less thought of, but all who saw her recognized her -as a lady at once. She was very beautiful, and her -manner strangely fascinating.</p> - -<p>Her coming carried out the old saying that no man -is so vile but has one good woman to love him. She -had bravely met her brother, had done all in her power -to cheer him, and then had gone her way. It would -have been only harmful to her and to him for her to -have remained longer, as all agreed. She had shown -her good sense in going.</p> - -<p>As the coach rolled away Surgeon Frank Powell -and Buffalo Bill were standing near the latter’s quarters.</p> - -<p>“Bill, she is really going,” said the surgeon, as he -saw Ruth upon the box with Horseshoe Ned.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">[118]</span></p> - -<p>“So it seems, doc. What you said to her must -have frightened her off.”</p> - -<p>“You mean about being aware that she came here -to rescue the prisoner?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“It may be.”</p> - -<p>“She is really, then, the sister of that outlaw?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes; as there are no others in the secret I can -tell you now that the miner, Deadshot Dean, told me -as much.”</p> - -<p>“Well, she is a brave, noble girl; but here she -comes.”</p> - -<p>The coach rolled by just then, and both Surgeon -Powell and Buffalo Bill raised their hats, a salutation -which Ruth returned with a very gracious bow. They -watched the coach until it left the stockade through -the gateway, and then Buffalo Bill said:</p> - -<p>“Doc?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Bill.”</p> - -<p>“I am on the trail of knowledge.”</p> - -<p>“Well?”</p> - -<p>“I wish to see what she is going to do?”</p> - -<p>“Miss Arden?”</p> - -<p>“Exactly.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">[119]</span></p> - -<p>“She can do nothing else than go East now, for -Deadshot Dean said he intended taking her with him.”</p> - -<p>“She may, and she may not go East. No one in the -fort knows her, other than you and I, as Bonnie Belle -of Pocket City, for she has guarded that secret, I am -sure.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, wholly.”</p> - -<p>“Now she may go back to Pocket City.”</p> - -<p>“Suppose she does?”</p> - -<p>“She came here to rescue her brother beyond all -doubt, and, finding that you were aware of that fact, -having recognized her, she has gone her way.”</p> - -<p>“Very wisely.”</p> - -<p>“That remains to be seen.”</p> - -<p>“What are you driving at, Bill?”</p> - -<p>“Well, that woman idolizes that wicked brother of -hers, and all the miners in Yellow Dust Valley idolize -her. Did she wish to make a dash and rescue her -brother she could get every man in the valley to follow -her lead, so I am going to see just what her destination -is.”</p> - -<p>“A good idea,” responded Doctor Powell, and half -an hour after Buffalo Bill rode away from the fort following -the trail of the stage-coach.</p> - -<p>“They is two dandies from ’wayback, miss.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">[120]</span></p> - -<p>Such had been Horseshoe Ned’s comment regarding -Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill as the coach rolled -by them.</p> - -<p>“Who are they?” innocently asked Ruth.</p> - -<p>“Ther one in fatigue uniform is Doctor Frank Powell, -miss, better known as ther Surgeon Scout, for he’s -one of the best Injun-fighters and trailers on ther -plains, and no man has had a more dangerous life -than he has lived. He’s a dead shot, and don’t know -no more what fear is than I does about preachin’ ther -Gospil. Ther’ ain’t no squarer and better man in the -wild West than White Beaver, as the Injuns call him, -nor a better surgeon, scout, and all-around man, -either.”</p> - -<p>“You certainly give him a most delightful recommendation, -Horseshoe Ned; but, who is the one in -buckskin and the broad sombrero who was talking to -him?”</p> - -<p>“That are Buffalo Bill.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I have heard of him, as I have also of the -Surgeon Scout, for they are known everywhere, it -seems, through their deeds.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, miss, they is, for a fact.</p> - -<p>“Buffalo Bill is chief of scouts at the fort, and he -is a man to tie to when one needs a friend. It war<span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">[121]</span> -them two, if you’ll pardon me for saying it, along -with the miner from Pocket City, thet captured Silk -Lasso Sam and his gang, and stopped highway robbery -on this trail.”</p> - -<p>“Then you think there will now be no more holding-up -of coaches on the Overland?”</p> - -<p>“Not on ther trail I runs, miss, I’m thinking.”</p> - -<p>So the coach went along its way. Horseshoe Ned -delighted at exhibiting his skill as a driver and striving -hard to keep Ruth from dwelling upon the fact that -she had parted with her brother forever.</p> - -<p>Just as the coach drove down into Deep Dell Brook, -where it had been last held-up and Ribbons had been -killed, Horseshoe Ned said:</p> - -<p>“I tells yer, miss, it’s a comfort ter feel yer kin halt -in thet stream ter water your horses, and not be expecting -a shot all ther time.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, for you have risked dangers enough to enjoy -some sense of security now,” was Ruth’s answer.</p> - -<p>But hardly had the words been uttered when suddenly -down the trail beyond, leading into the stream, -rode a horseman. He was dressed in black, but rode -a snow-white horse, though all of his trappings were -of sable hue.</p> - -<p>The horseman was masked, and wore a black sombrero,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">[122]</span> -but his hair fell in heavy waves upon his broad -shoulders, concealing even his neck, while, as he wore -gauntlet gloves, no one could have told from his appearance -whether he was paleface, Indian, Chinese, -or negro.</p> - -<p>“Hands up, Horseshoe Ned, for you carry a rich -prize,” cried the horseman, as he reached the water’s -edge, and leveled his rifle at the driver.</p> - -<p>“Waal, I’ll be etarnally roasted, ef thet don’t beat -all, for I were jist sayin’ ther trail were clear o’ varmints -like you.”</p> - -<p>“Silence! Hold on there, my pretty lady, for I’ll -send a bullet through your brain as quickly as I would -shoot Horseshoe Ned, if you attempt to show your -claws,” sternly cried the highwayman.</p> - -<p>This command was caused by seeing the action of -Ruth, who had drawn toward her a small valise she -had behind her upon the top of the coach, and in -which she had a revolver, that had before rendered -her good service. Not expecting a hold-up, she had -not kept the weapon near her. There was something -in the tone of the man that indicated his intention to -be as good as his word, and Ruth raised her hand from -the satchel.</p> - -<p>“Say, robber, if yer don’t consider me rude, I’d<span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">[123]</span> -like ter ask yer who yer be, for I thought ther old -gang had been wiped out?”</p> - -<p>“The old gang was, but I have come to hunt the -trails, and I am here to stay. That lady is well fixed, -as I happen to know, so I will trouble her for her -money, and all else of value she may have with her. -If she refuses, I will kill you, Horseshoe Ned, and -hold her a captive until she pays far more than I can -now rob her of. I hope you both understand the situation.”</p> - -<p>“I understand you is a thief I’d like ter git a rope -onto once,” growled the driver, while Ruth said:</p> - -<p>“Yes, I understand the situation perfectly, Sir Robber. -You have the power to rob me, and so I submit -to your brute force only. I have with me considerable -money, a thousand dollars perhaps, and some jewelry, -as you have said, and I will give all if you demand it, -but I would like to ask to keep a little money, and several -trinkets, which, of little value to you, are most -valuable to me from association. May I keep these -and a hundred dollars in money?”</p> - -<p>It would seem that few could resist this appeal, but -the robber had the power and he meant to use it.</p> - -<p>“No, not a dollar, or anything of value shall you -keep. I risk my life to rob, and I demand all, so give<span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">[124]</span> -it up, or I draw trigger on Horseshoe hied and you -are my captive. Come, no nonsense, so hand over -your wealth,” and the robber rode nearer to the coach.</p> - -<p>The man moved nearer, riding into the stream to -do so.</p> - -<p>The team of horses looked at him askance as though -appreciating the situation, while the face of Horseshoe -Ned grew black with rage.</p> - -<p>“Ter think I can’t protect her,” he muttered.</p> - -<p>To have his fair passenger robbed of her money and -jewels while in his keeping was a terrible thought to -the driver. Yet he was powerless, as the slightest resistance -on his part meant instant death to him. So -the road-agent, still covering the driver with his rifle, -rode nearer to the coach.</p> - -<p>“You will force me to-give up all?” said Ruth, in a -voice that showed she was deeply moved.</p> - -<p>“Every dollar and valuable you have along,” was -the stern rejoinder.</p> - -<p>“Then I suppose there is no help for me,” and she -opened the satchel and placed her hand within it.</p> - -<p>“None, my pretty miss, for I need all you have, and -more, too.”</p> - -<p>“Then take all that I have to give!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">[125]</span></p> - -<p>As the words were uttered the hand came quickly -out of the satchel, and a sharp report followed.</p> - -<p>With a cry of pain the road-agent dropped his rifle -into the stream, for his right arm was shattered. -Then, with a savage oath, he dropped his left hand -upon his revolver on his hip.</p> - -<p>But quickly a second shot rang out, and, notwithstanding -the plunging team, which brought all of -Horseshoe Ned’s energies to bear to stop them from -turning short around in the stream, the bullet was -truly aimed and the left arm dropped to his side, the -weapon falling into the water.</p> - -<p>“My God, miss, don’t kill me!” cried the road-agent, -and he wheeled his horse by a movement of his body -and a word, to dash away.</p> - -<p>“I hate to harm that beautiful animal, but he must -not escape,” cried Ruth, now thoroughly aroused, and -for the third time her revolver was raised.</p> - -<p>A quick glance along the barrel and the third shot -rang out. Although the horse was bounding up the -hill at full speed, the aim was true and the animal -dropped upon his knees, stumbled, and went down, -throwing his rider hard.</p> - -<p>“I’ll catch him, miss, if you can hold the team,” -cried Horseshoe Ned, after giving vent to a wild<span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">[126]</span> -yell of admiration for the girl’s crack shooting and -the success she had met with.</p> - -<p>But as he spoke there came a rushing sound behind -them, a plunge, and a horseman was crossing the -stream with mighty leaps.</p> - -<p>“Buffalo Bill!” yelled Horseshoe Ned wildly, and -in an instant the scout had crossed the stream and -was by the side of the wounded outlaw.</p> - -<p>“Don’t kill me, for I cannot resist,” said the road-agent -faintly.</p> - -<p>Snatching the mask from his face, Buffalo Bill said:</p> - -<p>“Ah! I know that face. You are the one of Silk -Lasso Sam’s band who escaped. Ho, Ned, you did -some crack shooting here, even if you did not kill -him.”</p> - -<p>“It wasn’t me did it, Buffalo Bill,” responded Ned, -who had now driven up to the spot.</p> - -<p>“Not you?”</p> - -<p>“Nary.”</p> - -<p>“Who then?”</p> - -<p>“This young leddy, and she knows how ter use a -gun, says I.”</p> - -<p>“I did not wish to kill him, so broke his right arm. -Then, as he drew a revolver with his left, I sent a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">[127]</span> -bullet through that, and my third shot was to bring -down his horse to prevent his escape.”</p> - -<p>“Well, miss, you are a crack shot, and the fellow, -is the last one of Silk Lasso Sam’s band, so that now -there will be a clear trail to travel, I guess. I will -have you take him on with you, Horseshoe Ned, and -bring him back to the fort with you on your next run.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll die if I am not cared for,” groaned the man.</p> - -<p>“Well, if I was in your place, pard, I’d want to die, -as yer’ll hang as sart’in as I knows yer name,” put -in Horseshoe Ned.</p> - -<p>“I did no harm,” whined the man.</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, yer didn’t, but it wasn’t your fault all ther -same, for yer intended ter rob this young lady and -threatened to shoot her, too.”</p> - -<p>“Well, Ned, I’ll do the best I can for his wounds -until you reach the station where the doctor can care -for him, and you must be particular that he does not -escape.”</p> - -<p>“Yer won’t go along then, Bill?”</p> - -<p>“No, for I am on a little scouting-expedition I cannot -neglect. I heard your shots, Miss Arden, so rode -on to see what was the matter. I congratulate you -upon your nerve and splendid shooting.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">[128]</span></p> - -<p>“I thank you, sir, for praise from such a man as -Buffalo Bill is worth having.”</p> - -<p>“It was just splendid the way she did it, Bill,” said -Horseshoe Ned, who now, with the scout, set to work -to dress the wounds of the road-agent.</p> - -<p>Taking from her satchel several handkerchiefs Ruth -tore them into strips for bandages and aided in dressing -the wounds which she had made.</p> - -<p>At last the work was done, the road-agent was -placed in the coach and the doors secured firmly, and -his traps were placed on the top.</p> - -<p>Mounting the box again with Horseshoe Ned, Ruth -said good-by to Buffalo Bill and the team moved on -once more.</p> - -<p>But after waiting for some little time, Buffalo Bill -mounted and rode on after the coach.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">[129]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XII">CHAPTER XII.<br /> -<span class="fs70">CAUGHT IN THE ACT.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Buffalo Bill followed on the trail of the coach, with -no desire to be seen again by the woman whom he -was watching. He had not intended to be seen, but -the firing had quickly taken him to the rescue.</p> - -<p>“If she goes back to Pocket City she means mischief -of some kind, for having failed to rescue her -brother by strategy she will do so by force, I feel -sure. If she was really the ally of her brother it is -certain that the outlaw she wounded did not know it, -for no look passed between them that I could see, and -she would not have fired on him had she known him. I -would find it hard to believe that Bonnie Belle is in -league with outlaws.”</p> - -<p>Thus mused the scout as he rode on after the coach.</p> - -<p>It was night when he reached the station where -Horseshoe Ned’s run ended, and he went at once to -the hotel. He found Ned there and learned that his -passenger had taken the outgoing coach eastward.</p> - -<p>“That settles it,” mused the scout. “She goes East<span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">[130]</span> -and not to Pocket City. She has given up the idea -of rescue as impossible. Poor girl, I pity her, and only -wish she loved one in some way worthy of her deep -regard.”</p> - -<p>Then he said aloud:</p> - -<p>“Well, Ned, what do you think of Miss Arden?”</p> - -<p>“I think she is just the dandyest girl I ever crossed -ther trail of, Bill. What a team she and Miss Clarice -Carr would make together, for thar’s another one I -sets great store by. But, Bill, ef yer hed seen Miss -Arden work up thet lettle racket to a climax yer’d -hev died o’ joy.</p> - -<p>“Yer see I give up all for gone, when she talked -ther same way and invited thet sarpint ter take ther -things. She opened ther satchel and out come a gun, -and oh, my! Bill, she’s ther deadest shot I ever seen, -barrin’ you and Surgeon Powell.”</p> - -<p>“She has nerve of an uncommon order, Ned, and -she sends a bullet to dead center. But where is your -prisoner?”</p> - -<p>“He’s in ther tavern under guard, the doctor havin’ -fixed up his wounds.”</p> - -<p>“Are they very bad?”</p> - -<p>“Ther leetle bone in his right arm were smashed, -and ther bullet grazed the one in his left, but he’ll be<span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">[131]</span> -well enough to hang with t’others of ther gang, for -it’s his neck we wants in prime condition for thet -occasion. But whar is you goin’, Bill?”</p> - -<p>“I thought I would ride on here and see if you -needed any aid going back with your man?”</p> - -<p>“No, indeed, for I’ll tie him on the box with me; -but I’ll be glad of your company, Bill, if you will go -along.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, no, for I’ll continue on in my scouting -along the range to-morrow.”</p> - -<p>Staying that night at the tavern, Buffalo Bill left -bright and early the next morning, taking the trail for -Yellow Dust Valley.</p> - -<p>He was well-mounted, and it was not yet sunset -when he rode by the lonely cabin of the miner, Deadshot -Dean, where he had so nearly lost his life at the -hands of the desperadoes who had captured him as -Silk Lasso Sam.</p> - -<p>The cabin was closed and doubly locked, and an air -of desolation and desertion was upon all. The scout -had hitched his horse down in the valley, and walked -up to the cabin.</p> - -<p>Going to the rear of it, around the cliff he stood -gazing at the fine view from that point until suddenly -he heard a noise near the cabin.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_132">[132]</span></p> - -<p>Quickly he made his way there and felt sure that -some one was striving to break in. Voices reached his -ear, too, and one said:</p> - -<p>“Yer ain’t moved her, Jerry, so let me get a whack -at her, as I fer one don’t intend ter be caught in this -neighborhood arter dark, fer this is too near ther -Hangman’s Gulch ter suit me.”</p> - -<p>“And it don’t please me a little bit.”</p> - -<p>“Take ther ax and let fly, for thar’s money inside -I is dead sart’in,” was the reply.</p> - -<p>The scout placed his foot on the projecting ends -of the logs and quickly ascended to the roof, which -was nearly flat and made of boards on top of logs, -slanting toward the cliff under which the cabin stood.</p> - -<p>He drew a revolver in each hand, knelt down, and, -peeping over, saw the two men hard at work to break -in the door. So far they had made no impression upon -either the locks or the door, and, covering both of them -with a revolver, Buffalo Bill said sternly:</p> - -<p>“Hands up, pards, for I want you both!”</p> - -<p>The voice coming from over their heads, and just -after their expressed dread of being so near Hangman’s -Gulch when night came on, brought from the -lips of each man a cry of fright. They shrank back, -looked up, and saw their danger.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_133">[133]</span></p> - -<p>“Hands up, I say!” roared Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>Quickly they obeyed, and in an instant the scout had -leaped down from the roof and confronted them.</p> - -<p>“Breaking into Deadshot Dean’s home, are you? -Well, I am glad I happened along at this time, for the -miner is a friend of mine, and I guess you are citizens -who will not be missed if you are called suddenly -away from Pocket City. I’ll take your weapons, -sir,” and the scout slipped the revolver and knife -from the belt of one of the men.</p> - -<p>“And yours, too,” and the second one was disarmed.</p> - -<p>“Ain’t you Buffalo Bill?”</p> - -<p>“So I am called.”</p> - -<p>“Waal, I might have knowed it, fer yer is alus -around when yer ain’t wanted.”</p> - -<p>“I’m a scout, you know,” was the smiling answer.</p> - -<p>“Waal, what does yer treat us this way fer?”</p> - -<p>“When I get you to Pocket City it is more than -likely you’ll find out,” was the scout’s significant reply.</p> - -<p>The two house-breakers did not relish the reply of -Buffalo Bill. They felt that they were in dangerous -hands and had been caught in an act that would not be -tolerated in Yellow Dust Valley.</p> - -<p>It would never do to be taken into Pocket City as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_134">[134]</span> -prisoners. Their reputations there were of a very unsavory -character. They must get away at all costs, for -an enraged border crowd was hard to manage and -would only argue the matter after they were hanged.</p> - -<p>“I say, Buffalo Bill, this is a darned good joke,” -said one of the prisoners.</p> - -<p>“What is?”</p> - -<p>“Your making us prisoners.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, it is funny.”</p> - -<p>“I doesn’t see ther joke,” growled the other.</p> - -<p>“You haven’t the sense of humor that your companion -has, for he sees it,” said the scout.</p> - -<p>“But I means this, Pard Buffalo Bill; we was sent -here by Deadshot Dean ter git some things for him, -and as he bed lost his key he told us ter knock in ther -door, don’t yer see?”</p> - -<p>“I see where you did the knocking, yes.”</p> - -<p>“Now jist go with us ter Deadshot Dean, and he’ll -say it’s all right.”</p> - -<p>“Where is he?”</p> - -<p>“Up ther cañon thar. We’ll show yer.”</p> - -<p>“Look here, Deadshot Dean went East weeks ago, -and you cannot play any bluff game on me.”</p> - -<p>“I tells yer ther truth.”</p> - -<p>“You couldn’t tell the truth, either one of you, except<span class="pagenum" id="Page_135">[135]</span> -by accident. No, I am going to Pocket City, and -you go with me. I caught you breaking into the cabin -of an absent miner, and I shall so report to the miners -and give you up to them.”</p> - -<p>“They’ll hang us.”</p> - -<p>“That is your misfortune, not my fault.”</p> - -<p>“And we so innercent,” whined one.</p> - -<p>“See here, Buffalo Bill, we don’t want ter hand in -our chips no more than you does, so if yer plays quits -with us we’ll divvy.”</p> - -<p>“What will you divide?”</p> - -<p>“I’ve got nigh a thousand in money here with me, -and Jerry have got about half as much, so you kin -hev all if yer’ll let us go.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, all of fifteen hundred dollars.”</p> - -<p>“Well, it is more money than I make in a year with -chief of scouts’ pay, but if it was ten times as much, -you could not bribe me to do a mean act. I know you -are two scamps, and as I caught you house-breaking, -I’ll so report your acts. Come, you go with me. -Stand close up behind this man, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Tom, we is goners.”</p> - -<p>“Dead sart’in, Jerry.”</p> - -<p>Having placed the men at close step, Buffalo Bill<span class="pagenum" id="Page_136">[136]</span> -buckled their belts together, and fastened them about -their waists.</p> - -<p>“I’ll carry ther weapons, Buffalo Bill.”</p> - -<p>“No, thank you, Jerry, I can do so,” was the smiling -reply.</p> - -<p>Shouldering the ax and iron bar the two men had -brought with them, and sticking their weapons in his -belt, until he looked like a walking arsenal, Buffalo Bill -made his prisoners march down the hill before him.</p> - -<p>There he found his horse, and, mounting, ordered -the men to face toward Pocket City and march. They -did so with low curses and whines.</p> - -<p>It was just before sunset, as they passed Hangman’s -Gulch, and they glanced up into the dark recesses of -the cañon, with many a misgiving that they would soon -be more intimately acquainted with the weird and -dreaded spot.</p> - -<p>Just as twilight was falling, the scout heard the supper-horn -of the Frying Pan Hotel, and from that -moment a stream of humanity began to pour out of -the mines and cabins, and flow toward the rendezvous -of the miners on every night.</p> - -<p>They quickly caught sight of Buffalo Bill, whose -handsome face and form were seldom seen in Yellow -Dust Valley, and, beholding his prisoners, they began<span class="pagenum" id="Page_137">[137]</span> -to call out, in many an odd question, as to what it -meant.</p> - -<p>“Ho, Tom and Jerry, what’s up?”</p> - -<p>“Ain’t thet Buf’ler Bill?”</p> - -<p>“What has yer got ’em in limbo fer, pard?”</p> - -<p>“Has they been robbin’ a hen-roost?”</p> - -<p>“Say, pard, what has they been up ter?”</p> - -<p>“Is yer goin’ ter hang ’em?”</p> - -<p>“They’ll be no loss.”</p> - -<p>“How did yer git yer foot inter it, Tom and Jerry?”</p> - -<p>Such questions flowed too fast for replies, and, -though the scout remained silent, the two prisoners -tried to explain, but were constantly cut off by fresh -questions. At last a commanding voice said:</p> - -<p>“Ho, scout, what have those fellows been doing?”</p> - -<p>The speaker was a storekeeper in the camps and -a man of considerable prominence, being captain of -the Vigilantes. He stood in front of the Frying Pan, -where he had gone to get his supper.</p> - -<p>“I was coming along the valley, sir, near Deadshot -Dean’s cabin, and went up to take a look at it, when -I saw those two men trying to break in the door. -Here is the ax and the bar they used. I climbed upon -the roof and had them where I wanted them, so made -them prisoners, determined to bring them to Pocket<span class="pagenum" id="Page_138">[138]</span> -City and turn them over to the miners, with a statement -of the facts.”</p> - -<p>“They have a very bad record, sir, and have got -their heads at last into the noose. Remember, Tom -and Jerry, it has not been a week since I warned you -that you were getting to the end of your rope. You, -sir, I am told, are Buffalo Bill, chief of scouts at -Pioneer Post?”</p> - -<p>“I am, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Then turn over your prisoners to me for trial by -our miners’ laws, sir, for I am Scott Kindon, captain -of Vigilantes and proprietor of the Miners’ Market, as -my store is called. I am glad to meet you, Buffalo -Bill, so dismount and be my guest at the hotel to-night.”</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill dismounted and led his horse to the -stables. He was shown to a pleasant room, where he -freshened up for supper, and found every attention -bestowed upon him by the clerk whom Bonnie Belle -had left to manage her affairs in her absence, and who -seemed anxious to treat the scout well.</p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle’s quarters were all securely locked up -in her absence, but otherwise the hotel was in full blast -and the Vigilante captain and Buffalo Bill sat down to -a very tempting supper.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_139">[139]</span></p> - -<p>The prisoners had been placed in safe hands and -with their guards were eating supper near, so the -scout had an opportunity to see how much kindness -was bestowed upon the two men.</p> - -<p>“You see the boys wish to do the best they can -for them, as they regard them as dying men,” explained -the storekeeper.</p> - -<p>“Dying men?”</p> - -<p>“Well it amounts to that, as we shall try them after -supper, and that means a verdict of guilty.”</p> - -<p>“What is the use of trying them if the verdict is -assured?” asked Buffalo Bill, with a smile.</p> - -<p>“Well, for effect. You caught them trying to break -into Deadshot Dean’s cabin and rob it, and you brought -here with you the implements they used, while you -bear testimony to their guilt.”</p> - -<p>“True, but why not run them out of the camps, -under penalty of death if they return?”</p> - -<p>“That would never do, for, of course, every fellow -that is run out has a purse made up for him by the -sympathetic miners, and hereafter every man that -wanted money would do some act to be sent away for, -whereas if we try these men, find them guilty and -hang them, Pocket City will rid itself of two notorious<span class="pagenum" id="Page_140">[140]</span> -scoundrels and their end will serve as a wholesome -lesson for others.”</p> - -<p>“Well, if they are all you say they are they deserve -hanging, yet I suppose it would have been better for -me to have taken them to the fort to get justice.”</p> - -<p>“They will get justice here, for we will try them -by the law of right. Now let us go and arrange for -the trial.”</p> - -<p>“Need I appear in the matter, sir?”</p> - -<p>“Well, as I am judge, I’ll ask you to take a seat -with me on the bench.”</p> - -<p>“You are very kind, sir; but I am only a witness.”</p> - -<p>“Well, you will have to face the prisoners and the -crowd, so take a seat with me on the ‘bench.’”</p> - -<p>The “judge” evidently felt the importance of his -position, and, as he left the supper-room, lighted his -pipe, and took up his position upon the piazza, where -seats had already been placed for him and the prisoners.</p> - -<p>The <em>bench</em> was one in reality, and Buffalo Bill sat -down next to the judge, while the prisoners were placed -in front of them.</p> - -<p>The crowd had now increased to several hundred -men, yet they were not noisy, and their silence was -more expressive than their shouting would have been.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_141">[141]</span></p> - -<p>The prisoners were white with fear, for they sat -where the light of a number of lanterns fell full upon -them. They cast uneasy glances at the judge, baleful -ones at Buffalo Bill, and pleading ones over the crowd, -where they looked in vain for some sympathetic face.</p> - -<p>The Vigilante captain called the meeting to order -by rapping with his bowie-knife upon the bench. It -was as effective, however, as a golden gavel in Congress -would have been. Instantly there was a death-like -silence.</p> - -<p>“Gentlemen,” began the Vigilante captain, after -clearing his throat, “you have honored me by making -me captain of the Vigilantes of Yellow Dust Valley, -and also have bestowed upon me the more honored -title of Judge of the Criminal Court of Pocket City.</p> - -<p>“There are many of us present who remember that -Yellow Dust Valley was a very dangerous place of -abode before the Vigilantes were organized, for lawlessness -and disorder reigned supreme. But since they -began to hunt down criminals and this court to sentence -them for their crimes, see the change. Why, -there has not been a murder in Pocket City for thirty-six -hours.</p> - -<p>“A short while since this gentleman occupying a -seat upon the bench with me, was ambushed by a gang<span class="pagenum" id="Page_142">[142]</span> -of desperadoes, and would have been hanged but for -the intervention of our honored fellow citizen, Deadshot -Dean, now absent, who killed the ringleader and -saved a valuable life.</p> - -<p>“Two of that gang are now arraigned before you -as prisoners, charged with another offense against -law and order. This gentleman, my fellow citizens, -I desire to introduce to you as a man whose name has -spread from pole to pole, from the rising to the setting -sun, as you will know when I tell you that he is Buffalo -Bill.”</p> - -<p>A wild roar like thunder answered the words of the -judge, and Buffalo Bill arose and bowed to the compliment -bestowed upon him.</p> - -<p>“Now, gentlemen,” resumed the judge, “let me tell -you that on his way to Pocket City this evening Buffalo -Bill saw a sight which I am going to ask him to -relate to you.”</p> - -<p>Thus urged, the scout arose and simply told his -story as it is known to the reader. Then the judge -resumed:</p> - -<p>“You have heard, gentlemen, and this case is tried -according to law and Gospel, for as soon as we have -heard your decision in the matter, and I can guess -what it will be, I will pass sentence, after which I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_143">[143]</span> -will read a chapter in the Bible and the Ten Commandments -to the prisoners and end by singing the Doxology. -Now, gentlemen, are these men guilty or not -guilty?”</p> - -<p>“Guilty,” came with another roar like thunder.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_144">[144]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XIII">CHAPTER XIII.<br /> -<span class="fs70">IN HANGMAN’S GULCH.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The two prisoners fairly quaked under the angry -response of “guilty” to the question of the judge, and -Buffalo Bill quickly arose and signified his desire to -speak. The judge rapped for silence and said:</p> - -<p>“We will hear what the great scout has to say.”</p> - -<p>“I would say, gentlemen, as a government officer, -it is my wish to have full justice done these men. It -is true that I caught them robbing a miner’s cabin, or -attempting to do so; but, there are crimes far more -heinous than that, and I beg that you will, in their -case, give them as light a punishment, as possible, for -I am sure they will heed the warning they have had.”</p> - -<p>The words of the scout fell upon deaf ears, when -he made an appeal for mercy. He might as well have -attempted to stem the current of a river as stay that -mad element of humanity, for all eyes turned from -him to the judge, who said:</p> - -<p>“You have heard the appeal of our distinguished -friend for mercy, and we will be merciful. As these -men have been unanimously pronounced guilty, our<span class="pagenum" id="Page_145">[145]</span> -mercy will be not to long keep them in the agony of -their approaching doom, and hence I do hereby sentence -them to be taken within the hour to Hangman’s -Gulch, and there to be hanged by the neck until all life -shall leave them, for the good order of this community -must and shall be preserved.”</p> - -<p>Again a roar greeted these words, and once more -rapping for silence the judge said:</p> - -<p>“Officers, do your duty.”</p> - -<p>The two guards stepped forward, and over the head -of each prisoner placed a noose. Then the judge -opened the Bible and read, just why Buffalo Bill did -not know, the story of Daniel in the den of lions. -This he followed with the Ten Commandments. Three -hundred voices then sang the Doxology, and the judge -arose, and, locking his arm in Buffalo Bill’s, led the -way to Hangman’s Gulch.</p> - -<p>The guards and their prisoners followed, the twelve -men who were to draw the doomed men into mid-air, -each grasping the rope of their respective victim.</p> - -<p>A slow and solemn step was kept to Hangman’s -Gulch, the many lanterns casting flickering shadows, -as they marched along. At last the place was reached, -already dotted with the graves of many men who had -thus been tried and executed.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_146">[146]</span></p> - -<p>Into the dark weird place they filed, and soon approached -the gallows where so many others had died.</p> - -<p>The two prisoners were moaning, like men in physical -pain, for they were cowards at heart. Then they -began to plead for mercy. But as well might they -have appealed to the cliffs about them as to that crowd, -for while some there were doubtless merciful, they -were too greatly in the minority to dare speak what -they felt.</p> - -<p>The ropes were thrown over the beam, which was -greased, and, at a signal from the judge, the twelve -men upon each line drew their victims up into mid-air, -silencing their cries for mercy.</p> - -<p>Then, back from Hangman’s Gulch surged the -crowd, laughing and talking as they went over the -affair, and it was generally agreed that Pocket City -would be the better for the hanging.</p> - -<p>The Vigilante captain felt that he had done his -duty, so repaired to his store in a very self-satisfied -humor, while Buffalo Bill accompanied him for a short -time, and began, in a quiet way, to question him about -Bonnie Belle.</p> - -<p>All he could learn was the fact that not a man in -Yellow Dust Valley was there to say one word against -her, all holding her as above reproach. Nothing was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_147">[147]</span> -known of her antecedents, and there was not the slightest -suspicion that she was connected in any way with -the road-agents under Silk Lasso Sam.</p> - -<p>She had gone East upon some business of her own, -the storekeeper said, and Deadshot Dean, the miner, -had been her escort, and, not aware that the latter was -a married man, Scott Kindon hinted that he believed -there was a strong feeling of friendship between the -two. This might result in marriage, and the “judge” -hoped that it would, as the miner was a splendid fellow -in his opinion.</p> - -<p>Then, learning that the driver of the stage-coach -was in Pocket City that night, Buffalo Bill sought him -out. He found him at the Devil’s Den, having just -won all the money at poker which his adversary had.</p> - -<p>He greeted the scout pleasantly, said that he had -come in a couple of hours before, and was glad to feel -that the trail was free of outlaws.</p> - -<p>“I wish to ask you, Pard Sandy, something about -Bonnie Belle?” said Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>At once Sandy was all attention.</p> - -<p>“Waal, pard, what kin I tell yer?”</p> - -<p>“You took her in your coach when she went East?”</p> - -<p>“Sure.”</p> - -<p>“And the miner?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_148">[148]</span></p> - -<p>“Deadshot Dean?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“He went along, too.”</p> - -<p>“Where did you leave them?”</p> - -<p>“Waal, she left me at the trail junction.”</p> - -<p>“And the miner?”</p> - -<p>“He went on East on the regular coach.”</p> - -<p>“And Bonnie Belle?”</p> - -<p>“She took the upper branch trail via Omaha.”</p> - -<p>“East?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>This answer caused Buffalo Bill to ponder deeply.</p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle surely started East. Why then did -she leave Deadshot Dean at the Overland junction and -take the upper trail which led her through Chicago? -Why did she turn back unless she had received some -word from the fort, where her brother was a prisoner?</p> - -<p>Texas Jack, he recalled, had gone off on a special -mission, which had not been reported to him. He -would inquire if Texas Jack had been to Pocket City. -So he asked Sandy if he had seen Texas Jack.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes.”</p> - -<p>“Where?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_149">[149]</span></p> - -<p>“He came to Pocket City, and then followed on -after the coach.”</p> - -<p>“Why?”</p> - -<p>“He had a letter for Bonnie Belle.”</p> - -<p>“From where?”</p> - -<p>“The fort.”</p> - -<p>“From whom?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t know.”</p> - -<p>“Did he overtake the coach?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Did he deliver the letter?”</p> - -<p>“He did, pard.”</p> - -<p>“And receive an answer?”</p> - -<p>“Not a written one, pard.”</p> - -<p>“A verbal answer?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Do you know what it was?”</p> - -<p>“I heard her say, ‘Tell him simply that I will.’”</p> - -<p>“Ah! and then?”</p> - -<p>“Texas Jack went back on the trail, and I drove -on with my passengers, Deadshot Dean leaving me by -one trail at the junction and Bonnie Belle going by -the upper trail.”</p> - -<p>“And you did not hear of her passing back over -the trail?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_150">[150]</span></p> - -<p>“See here, Buffalo Bill, you is chief of scouts at -Pioneer Post I knows well, and you has a right ter -ask all questions of me, but I wants ter say if it’s ter -get Bonnie Belle inter trouble, I’ll be a dumb man, -sart’in, and don’t you fergit it.”</p> - -<p>“Pard Sandy, that little woman has no better friend -than I am, and I would protect, rather than do one act -to cause her trouble; but I am on a secret trail, which I -wish to see the end of, and you can help me by answering -my questions and perhaps save much trouble, for -I believe there is a plot on hand to rescue Silk Lasso -Sam and his men by force, and you surely do not wish -to see those devils again turned loose upon the trails -more revengeful than ever?”</p> - -<p>“I does not, and I thanks you for being square with -me, Buffalo Bill. The fact is I did not <em>hear</em> of Bonnie -Belle’s going West ag’in, but I happen to know thet -she did go, and that’s all I can tell you.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I’ll ask no more, Sandy, to-night at least. -Good night,” and Buffalo Bill remained in the Devil’s -Den while the driver left it with his winnings in his -pocket.</p> - -<p>The scout was the cynosure of all eyes as he leisurely -strolled about the gambling-saloon, going from table -to table, risking a few dollars at faro, and winning,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_151">[151]</span> -then being equally as lucky at roulette, rouge-et-noir, -and dice-throwing, when he received a challenge from -a miner to play him a game of cards.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, I’ll play if you wish, though I had not -intended to when I came in,” said the scout.</p> - -<p>“Waal, I plays for big stakes, and don’t you forgit,” -was the answer of the challenger.</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill took his measure in a steady look at -him. He thought that his face was familiar, but he -was not sure, for he could not recall where he had -seen him before.</p> - -<p>He was a man even larger than the scout, for he -was more brawny, weighing over two hundred pounds -and as hard as iron. His face was bearded, his hair -worn long, and he carried no knife in his belt, but -instead four revolvers, two in front and one on each -hip, so that no matter where he dropped his hand it -must fall upon the butt of a “gun.”</p> - -<p>He wore no superfluous clothing, either, his miner’s -shirt, corduroy pants, top-boots, and slouch-hat, pulled -down over his eyes about making up his wardrobe.</p> - -<p>The carrying of four revolvers had gained him the -name of “Pistols,” and that he knew how to use them, -too, several graves upon Sunset Hill gave testimony.</p> - -<p>He was peacefully inclined when not drinking, but<span class="pagenum" id="Page_152">[152]</span> -when under the influence of liquor his best friends -avoided him religiously, and those who saw him challenge -Buffalo Bill to play cards felt that the scout had -made a mistake in accepting, for they discovered that -Pistols was drinking, and that meant a row they were -certain.</p> - -<p>In answer to the remark of the man that he played -for big stakes, Buffalo Bill asked in his quiet way:</p> - -<p>“What do you call big stakes, pard?”</p> - -<p>“What does I call big stakes?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, that is the question I asked.”</p> - -<p>“Waal, I call a game without a limit big money.”</p> - -<p>“Are you able to stand a game without a limit?”</p> - -<p>“Is I? Ask my pards if I can’t call yer at a thousand -and pay if I loses.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, a thousand is your limit, then?”</p> - -<p>“Can you match me?”</p> - -<p>“If I could not I would not play with you; but -when you said without limit, I wished to know what -you meant, as you can size my pile at a thousand. -Now you know what I can do, so say whether you -will play or back down?”</p> - -<p>“Back down?” yelled the miner savagely.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” was the perfectly calm response.</p> - -<p>“I never backs down agin’ any odds.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_153">[153]</span></p> - -<p>“Then play,” said Buffalo Bill, in the coolest manner -possible.</p> - -<p>The interest in the games going on in Devil’s Den -very quickly were centered in the match between Buffalo -Bill and Pistols.</p> - -<p>“I’m out for scalps,” the miner had said, in a voice -that was heard all over the saloon.</p> - -<p>At this Buffalo Bill looked him squarely in the face -and there was something in the look that controlled -the man, and he said:</p> - -<p>“I see now that you have been drinking. Had I -suspected this I would not have played with you, for -I never play with a drunken man. Behave yourself -now, or quit before trouble follows.”</p> - -<p>There was that in the words and look which mastered -the man, for he made at first no reply; but then -he said:</p> - -<p>“What did I say to make you mad?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing, for I am not angry; but you said you -were out for scalps, and I wish you to understand -that I take the same trail when there is need for it.”</p> - -<p>The man appeared cowed, for he said:</p> - -<p>“We don’t want trouble, Buffalo Bill, so shall I git -a fresh pack of cards, and will yer take a drink?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_154">[154]</span></p> - -<p>“Thank you, I do not care to drink, and you take -my advice and let it alone. But get the cards.”</p> - -<p>An angry gleam came into the eyes of Pistols. He -made no reply, and walked to the bar after a fresh -pack of cards.</p> - -<p>“Shuffles, give me a fresh pack and some whisky, -too,” he said.</p> - -<p>“Here’s the cards, Pistols, but take my advice and -don’t drink any more, for Buffalo Bill is a stranger -here,” said Shuffles.</p> - -<p>“Waal, he wants ter git better acquainted with ther -folks. Whisky, I said, straight, strong, and blistering.”</p> - -<p>Had Bonnie Belle been there he would have refused. -But to do the best he could he took a half-empty -bottle, hastily poured water into it, and set it -before the man, hoping to have him get but half the -quantity. The miner suspected, held it up to the -lamp, and looked at it.</p> - -<p>“Is this pale sherry, Shuffles?”</p> - -<p>“It’s whisky.”</p> - -<p>“You lies, for you have drowned it with water, -so you kin hev it.”</p> - -<p>Quick as a flash he dashed the stuff full into the -face of poor Shuffles, who, blinded and maddened,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_155">[155]</span> -drew his revolver and fired a shot at random. It was -the last act of his life, for he dropped dead with a -bullet in his brain, while Pistols called out:</p> - -<p>“He put water into my whisky, pards, and then shot -at me, so I kilt him. Thar he lies ahind the bar.”</p> - -<p>To put water in whisky was a criminal offense -which the miners of Yellow Dust Valley could not forgive -or forget, and so Shuffles lost the sympathy of -the crowd by his heinous act, while Pistols rose in -their estimation for visiting just punishment upon one -who would do such a thing.</p> - -<p>“Now, Pard Studley, I wants some whisky,” and -Pistols turned to the bartender nearest, who quickly -placed a fresh bottle before him, while the miner -took the other which had caused the trouble, and, -dashing it against the wall at the rear of the bar, shivered -it to atoms.</p> - -<p>“Yer sha’n’t p’izen no one else with watered -whisky,” he said.</p> - -<p>Then, turning to those who had gathered about -him, he said:</p> - -<p>“J’ine me, folks, in a lettle beverage, for I’m bettin’ -high it will be ther Simon-pure article. Does yer -catch on?”</p> - -<p>They “caught on” with alacrity, and with the upturned<span class="pagenum" id="Page_156">[156]</span> -face of Shuffles, the eyes wide open staring into -his own, Pistols poured his glass full to the brim and -dashed it down his throat.</p> - -<p>A hush had fallen upon the crowd during this scene, -and a few of the timid ones, or, rather, those who -wished to avoid being in a row, silently withdrew -from the building.</p> - -<p>There were several who felt that Buffalo Bill was -making a sad mistake in having accepted the challenge -of Pistols, while others knew that had he not -done so, a row would have been precipitated at once, -for he would certainly have insulted the scout then -and there.</p> - -<p>A few now hastened to tell Buffalo Bill, who had -not risen from his seat, that Pistols had just killed -Shuffles, and had then taken a tumblerful of whisky, -so was in a dangerous mood.</p> - -<p>“He didn’t have quite enough ter brace him fer -trouble with you, pard, for he has heerd o’ you, as -we all has, and that’s why he got more. He’s primed -now, and will go off like a hair-trigger,” a miner -said.</p> - -<p>“Yaas, so jist go out and let him alone,” another -added.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_157">[157]</span></p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill smiled serenely. It was a smile that -some who saw it felt boded mischief. Then he said -complacently:</p> - -<p>“I never seek trouble, gentlemen, unless I am after -a man I know needs running down, and duty compels -me. I sought no trouble with your comrade, and -merely accepted his challenge, so he can turn it into -any game that suits his humor best.”</p> - -<p>“Here he comes now,” cried a voice, and just then -Pistols was seen approaching the table where Buffalo -Bill sat, a cigar between his teeth.</p> - -<p>With a lurch Pistols dropped into his chair and -glared at Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>“I has come back!” he said.</p> - -<p>“So I see.”</p> - -<p>“There’s ther pack o’ cards,” and he tossed them -upon the table.</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill picked them up, glanced at them, and -said:</p> - -<p>“Yes, they are all right.”</p> - -<p>“Did yer think I’d git any as wasn’t?”</p> - -<p>“Not being acquainted with you I didn’t know.”</p> - -<p>“Waal, we’ll git better acquainted, I’m thinking.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_158">[158]</span></p> - -<p>“Come, don’t git skeered, fer I ain’t goin’ ter shoot, -only I hed ter kill a feller over that, just now, and -I is loadin’ my gun ag’in.”</p> - -<p>“You are very wise.”</p> - -<p>“Yer see he insulted me.”</p> - -<p>“I can hardly believe that possible.”</p> - -<p>There were a number who heard this reply who -appreciated its sarcasm. Pistols felt that there was -a meaning in it he could not fathom, so he did not -try, and said:</p> - -<p>“Yes, he put water in my whisky.”</p> - -<p>“Did he not know you?”</p> - -<p>“Yaas, only he tried to play a underhand game -on me. We has been mighty good friends, Shuffles -and me, for he has twice saved my life, and he meant -well toward me, I is sart’in, fearin’ I sh’u’d git too -much, so he put water in my whisky, and I’d kill my -brother fer a insult like that.”</p> - -<p>“I can believe you; but may he not have been only -wounded?”</p> - -<p>“Yer don’t know me, pard, for I never wastes -powder and lead, but shoots to kill. I is sorry my -poor pard Shuffles committed suicide, for he should -have know’d me well; but he’s out o’ misery now, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_159">[159]</span> -I’ll pay all ther expenses of ther funeral and give -him a beautiful send-off on ther trail ter glory, an’ -put up a stone over him with a inscription as a warnin’ -to them who puts water in whisky, which I drinks -ter git all o’ ther leetle devil out of it I kin. Does yer -tumble?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes; but do you still wish to play with me?”</p> - -<p>“Does I?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Why, pard, I is in fer a game o’ anything with -you.”</p> - -<p>“Then let us begin.”</p> - -<p>The words were so quietly uttered, the look of the -scout was so calm, that it checked the devil gaining -the ascendency of the man for a minute.</p> - -<p>“All right, pard, I is ready.”</p> - -<p>The cards were shuffled, cut for the deal, and Buffalo -Bill won. Then the game was begun.</p> - -<p>All who watched the two men, and they were all -who could crowd about them, saw that the scout was -as cool as an icicle, showing not the slightest dread -of what any one who was near felt sure must end in -a deadly encounter between the two players.</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill serenely smoked his cigar, his face remaining<span class="pagenum" id="Page_160">[160]</span> -impassive, and yet those who watched him -closely saw that his eyes were rather upon his adversary -than his cards.</p> - -<p>The game was played more carefully by Pistols -than those who saw him believed possible, for he was -cautious in all he did and leered maliciously at Buffalo -Bill when he gained a point. At last he seemed to -brighten up and said:</p> - -<p>“A hundred on my hand, Buffalo Bill.”</p> - -<p>“Mine is worth twice that sum.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll add that more to mine.”</p> - -<p>“So will I,” was the quiet response.</p> - -<p>“I calls yer.”</p> - -<p>“Four aces,” and Buffalo Bill laid the cards upon -the table.</p> - -<p>“Durn yer,” said the miner without showing his -hand, and the scout pocketed the money.</p> - -<p>That Pistols felt his loss was evident to all, for his -face grew darker and an uglier look came into his -eyes.</p> - -<p>“Well, how much is your hand worth, Mister Pistols?” -asked the scout, when the climax of the second -game came around.</p> - -<p>“It’s worth a hundred,” and Pistols appeared confident, -then.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_161">[161]</span></p> - -<p>“No more?”</p> - -<p>“Well, what is your hand worth?”</p> - -<p>“Just five hundred dollars, no more no less.”</p> - -<p>The miner started. Could it be possible that the -scout held a better hand than he did this time? No, -it could not be. The lightning would not strike twice -in the same spot.</p> - -<p>“I jist says show up to ther tune of five hundred.”</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill put up the money he had just won, -adding more to it, and said:</p> - -<p>“There, match that with five hundred.”</p> - -<p>The miner drew out a greasy buckskin bag and took -out a roll of bills. He counted out very slowly five -hundred dollars, and it could be seen that very little -remained in the bag.</p> - -<p>“Thar she goes, and yer needn’t squint at ther bag, -fer thar is more whar thet come from. Now I’m -thinkin’ your money is mine, so show yer hand.”</p> - -<p>“Four aces,” said the scout, without the change of -a muscle.</p> - -<p>“Four aces!” roared the miner. “Four aces agin’ -my four kings! How comes that?”</p> - -<p>“You dealt, pard, and were more generous to me -than to yourself,” and Buffalo Bill very quietly put -the money in his pocket, while he said:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_162">[162]</span></p> - -<p>“I’ll play you another game to give you a chance -to win back your money, or lose more, if you wish it.”</p> - -<p>“There’s only one more game I’ll play with you, -Buffalo Bill, and that’s with these,” and the miner -quickly leveled his revolvers.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_163">[163]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XIV">CHAPTER XIV.<br /> -<span class="fs70">TURNING THE TABLES.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The miner’s words and act at once cleared a lane -behind Buffalo Bill and himself between the crowds -that had gathered around.</p> - -<p>But the act did not appear to disturb the scout. If -caught off his guard by the sudden drawing of his revolvers -by Pistols, Buffalo Bill remained as cool as before, -and said:</p> - -<p>“Then you are willing to play a square game with -me with revolvers, are you?”</p> - -<p>“I is going ter play a game with you, yes, but -there’s others in it besides, for I has something to -say to you, Buffalo Bill.”</p> - -<p>“Talk fast then, old man, for life’s short, you -know.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, it’ll be short enough to you, when I tells what -I knows agin’ you.”</p> - -<p>“What do you know?”</p> - -<p>“I knows that you was ther cause o’ havin’ two innocent -men strung up in Hangman’s Gulch this night.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_164">[164]</span> -I only wish I’d been at ther hangin’, for them wouldn’t -hev been ther men thet got choked.”</p> - -<p>“I am listening.”</p> - -<p>“But me and my pard, Dave Dunn, got in too late -ter save them poor murdered men, and when I heerd -what had been done, says I, thet as Buffalo Bill will -hev ter die ter-night, I’ll jist be his heir by winning his -money fu’st. So I axes yer ter play me.”</p> - -<p>“And I did?”</p> - -<p>“Yaas, for sure.”</p> - -<p>“And I became your heir, as you put it.”</p> - -<p>“So far.”</p> - -<p>“Well, what else?”</p> - -<p>“A heap, for I wants ter let ther folks know thet -Dave Dunn and me were up in ther range and seen you -breakin’ inter ther cabin’ o’ Deadshot Dean.”</p> - -<p>A murmur went through the crowd at this, while -Buffalo Bill said indifferently:</p> - -<p>“Is that all?</p> - -<p>“Why, I feel relieved, for I was afraid you were -going to accuse me of cheating you.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, yer played square enough, for I was -a-watchin’ yer; but we seen yer breakin’ inter Deadshot’s -cabin, and Tom and Jerry caught yer at it. -But you was too soon for them, got them under ther<span class="pagenum" id="Page_165">[165]</span> -muzzle of yer gun, and trotted them off as house-breakers -when you was the thief.”</p> - -<p>“Why did you not at once come to their rescue?” -asked Buffalo Bill, when the uproar which these -words created had in a measure subsided.</p> - -<p>“We was up in Eagle Nest Mountain, and it took -us a long time ter git down to ther valley and up to -Pocket City. Then we found thet ther folks hed believed -you, Buffalo Bill, agin’ them men, and it were -too late. So we talked it over, and thar is jist a large-size -community here ter-night as says you has got ter -hang, too.”</p> - -<p>“Why not make it by unanimous consent, Mister -Pistols, for it would sound better when reported at -the fort to Colonel Dunwoody?”</p> - -<p>The crowd gave vent to a murmur of admiration -at the scout’s pluck. He did not appear to be in the -least degree disturbed by the danger he most certainly -was in.</p> - -<p>“Oh, I knows yer is game, and I has just seen thet -yer kin bluff, but thet don’t go now.”</p> - -<p>“What does?”</p> - -<p>“Ropes is trumps.”</p> - -<p>“You intend to hang me, then?”</p> - -<p>“We does.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_166">[166]</span></p> - -<p>“Without judge or jury?”</p> - -<p>“We have set on your case, and it is agin’ yer.”</p> - -<p>“When am I to be hanged, please?”</p> - -<p>“Afore dawn.”</p> - -<p>“Isn’t that crowding matters a little?”</p> - -<p>“No more than you crowded it agin’ them two poor -boys as was hanged to-night.”</p> - -<p>“And you saw me break into Deadshot Dean’s -cabin?”</p> - -<p>“I did.”</p> - -<p>“And the other witness?”</p> - -<p>“Was Dave Dunn.”</p> - -<p>“I do not believe anybody here who has common -sense will believe any such charge against me,” said -the scout, while, with his elbows resting upon the -table at which he sat, Pistols held his revolver, covering -the heart of the scout.</p> - -<p>“Yer don’t believe it?”</p> - -<p>“No, I don’t.”</p> - -<p>“Pards, does I tell the truth?”</p> - -<p>In his excitement the miner turned his head, and -in that instant his revolver was struck upward and -knocked from his hands by Buffalo Bill, who now -held him covered with his weapon.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_167">[167]</span></p> - -<p>“A turn about is fair play, Mister Pistols.”</p> - -<p>Some laughed at this, but Pistols swore roundly, yet -dared not move, for he saw he was caught, the left -hand of the scout lying upon his own weapon where -it had fallen upon the table, the right holding his revolver -within a foot of his eyes.</p> - -<p>But the words of the miner had been answered by -a savage chorus of voices, crying:</p> - -<p>“You is right, Pard Pistols, for Buffalo Bill is the -guilty man.”</p> - -<p>Still, the pluck of the scout did not desert him, and -he never changed expression at the outburst. Encouraged -by the cries of his comrades, though under -cover of the scout’s pistol, the miner said:</p> - -<p>“See here, Buffalo Bill, you has half a hundred -guns on you, but we don’t intend ter shoot yer, but -hang yer, as you got poor Tom and Jerry strung up, -so up with yer hands, mighty quick, says I.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, up with your hands, Buffalo Bill!” shouted -the crowd savagely, while scores of revolvers covered -the scout as he still sat at table, facing the ringleader, -whom he yet held his revolver upon, the muzzle within -a foot of his eyes.</p> - -<p>It certainly did look bad for Buffalo Bill, and for -two reasons. First, the charge of Pistols, backed by<span class="pagenum" id="Page_168">[168]</span> -Dave Dunn, a reputable miner, seemed to be believed -by a great many of those present.</p> - -<p>Second, the crowd that backed Pistols was not only -numerous, but composed of the very worst element in -the mines. This shut off many, who felt that the accusation -was utterly false, from lending any aid.</p> - -<p>Pistols was certainly in danger of instant death at -the hands of the scout, but the latter was equally in -danger of sudden death from the backers of his accuser. -Thus the situation rested until Buffalo Bill -broke the silence with:</p> - -<p>“See here, Pistols, I recall that ugly face of yours, -now that I get a better look at it, and I remember -you as one of Powder Face Pete’s gang who ambushed -me some time ago, under pretense that I was Silk -Lasso Sam. You wished to get rid of me then, because -I make this country too hot for just such men as -you and your ilk.</p> - -<p>“Now, what are you going to do about it, Mister -Pistols, for if I am facing death, you are just as close -as I am to it, so begin business when you please, and -you’ll find that I’ll never hang, and dying, will take -company along, so as not to get too lonesome on the -trail across the Dark River.”</p> - -<p>The splendid pluck of Buffalo Bill, at bay against<span class="pagenum" id="Page_169">[169]</span> -a crowd, delighted many present. But those who surrounded -him were his foes, and the better element -hung back, feeling that a terrible scene must follow -the first shot fired.</p> - -<p>Pistols felt his situation keenly. The danger had -sobered him. His desire was to see Buffalo Bill -hanged by the crowd, and it began to look as though -he would not be there to witness it. He felt how -certain death was for him if his comrades pushed the -scout to extremes.</p> - -<p>Such was the situation, and the suspense to all was -fearful, especially to Pistols and the scout, though the -latter was, as a miner expressed it to a pard:</p> - -<p>“Beautifully serene.”</p> - -<p>The crowd was becoming restless, and there were -those who did not love Pistols and would push matters -to a climax to get him killed that they might then -hang the scout.</p> - -<p>But, just as it seemed that in another instant must -come a crash, a loud, stern voice rang out with:</p> - -<p>“What does this mean, holding a government officer -under your guns? Room here, men!” and, hurling -men right and left by his giant strength as though -they were children, the Surgeon Scout strode to the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_170">[170]</span> -side of Buffalo Bill, who still sat at the table, covering -the miner with his revolver.</p> - -<p>A perfect yell of joy burst from many in the crowd, -who thus gave vent to their pent-up feelings as they -saw the splendid form of Frank Powell, the Surgeon -Scout, in uniform, stride into the midst of the scene.</p> - -<p>“Ah! doc, just in time to keep me from killing this -gent, and being made a target of myself for half a -hundred bullets,” said Buffalo Bill, still unmoved.</p> - -<p>“It seems that I am just in time, Bill, and if I mistake -not there are men in this crowd who will dangle -at a rope’s end for this work, if they harm a hair of -your head. What does it mean?”</p> - -<p>The ugly element in the crowd was still paramount. -It had only received a temporary check by the coming -of the Surgeon Scout.</p> - -<p>The greatest number of the miners present were -now, however, decidedly upon the side of law and -order, but the devil in the nature of the others was -destined to lead them on to trouble.</p> - -<p>They did not care whether Pistols died or not at -the hands of Buffalo Bill. They hated Bill and his -body-guard because they were the foes of the bad element -in the mines. They hated the army, because -it put down lawlessness.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_171">[171]</span></p> - -<p>Here was a chance to wipe out the chief of scouts -and Surgeon Powell, of both of whom they stood in -the greatest awe.</p> - -<p>This ugly element were sixty to two, and they had -nothing to lose. The army would sweep down upon -the Yellow Dust Valley, of course, but who could be -found who was guilty, who could be punished?</p> - -<p>Thus the men who had backed Pistols argued, and -with a desire for a row, a wish to sacrifice Buffalo -Bill and the Surgeon Scout, and enough whisky in -them to make them reckless of consequences, they began -to crowd closely upon the center of attraction, -where Cody sat still covering Pistols, and with the -Surgeon Scout by his side, a revolver in each hand.</p> - -<p>It was a most critical moment, for the officer and -the scout saw that the authority of the latter was going -to be defied.</p> - -<p>“Men, don’t mind what Brass Buttons says, for, -as he’s chipped inter the game, he goes with Buffalo -Bill. Don’t shoot, for that means innocent men -hurted, but capter them two gamecocks alive and -hang ’em. Does I say right?” and the burly ruffian -who had constituted himself leader gazed at the crowd -with a look that demanded recognition.</p> - -<p>The yell that greeted his words showed the temper<span class="pagenum" id="Page_172">[172]</span> -of the crowd, which began to sway to and fro wildly, -preparing for a rush upon the two men now at bay.</p> - -<p>“I am sorry you came, Frank, for it only brings -you into a tight place,” said Buffalo Bill, in a low -tone to the Surgeon Scout, and he at once drew a second -revolver from his belt to have it ready, though -he did not take his eyes off of the miner whom he -covered.</p> - -<p>“I don’t mind it, Bill, and I’m always ready to die, -if need be, for a comrade. If they make a rush, kill -that man, then stand back to back with me and let us -make a record before we go under,” was Frank Powell’s -response.</p> - -<p>“I’m with you, Frank,” rejoined Cody, and he -added, addressing the miner:</p> - -<p>“You started this circus, Mister Pistols, but you -won’t see the end of it.”</p> - -<p>“Cuss you, I’ll call ’em off if you’ll call it quits,” -returned Pistols eagerly, now thoroughly terrified -when he saw another leader in the field who meant to -precipitate matters independent of him.</p> - -<p>“Pard, you talk in your sleep, for you could no more -call off that pack than you could tell the truth. No, -you set the tune and the song must be sung through.”</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile, the Surgeon Scout was watching<span class="pagenum" id="Page_173">[173]</span> -the wildly swaying crowd, which were gradually -drawing closer about them, and he was just about to -open fire when there suddenly rang out a clear voice -above the noisy hum:</p> - -<p>“Hold! What does this mean, I should like to -know?”</p> - -<p>Instantly there was silence, intense in that it followed -such an uproar.</p> - -<p>Then hats were doffed, the crowd swayed apart, -and toward the table where Buffalo Bill still held the -miner under cover of his revolver, and the Surgeon -Scout stood at bay by his side, glided Bonnie Belle.</p> - -<p>She was dressed in a blue dress, trimmed with silver -braid, wore a slouch-hat with a heavy sable plume, -and carried a revolver in each hand. Behind her came -Sandy, the driver of the Overland, and then Scott -Kindon, the captain of the Vigilantes.</p> - -<p>But, Bonnie Belle neither needed aid nor asked it. -Her simple presence commanded respect.</p> - -<p>They had deemed her far away in the East, and like -an apparition she had glided through the door she -always entered by, and her white face, now stern and -threatening, showed that she was in no humor to trifle -with.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_174">[174]</span></p> - -<p>“Ah! Surgeon Powell, it is you, and you also, Buffalo -Bill, whom these roughs hold at bay? And for -what?”</p> - -<p>“I was scouting, Bonnie Belle, and came upon two -men, Tom and Jerry they called them, breaking into -Deadshot Dean’s cabin. I made them prisoners, -brought them here, and the Vigilantes hanged them. -To-night this man, whom I have covered, accused me -of breaking into the cabin, and he was not long in getting -willing hands to hang me, and, but for the coming -of Surgeon Powell, it would have been over ere this.”</p> - -<p>“And I only checked the trouble for a few minutes, -Bonnie Belle, as the men turned upon me, also. I -took Buffalo Bill’s trail and followed him here, for -somehow I feared he might need aid. You have -saved us both by your timely coming, unless these -gentlemen wish to push their quarrel to a conclusion.”</p> - -<p>But the gentlemen did not seem to be so inclined, -or, if they did, the words of Bonnie Belle checked -them, for she said sternly:</p> - -<p>“No, there will be no trouble here, for the man who -raises a weapon against you I will kill. As for you, -Pistols, if you ever enter my hotel or this saloon again, -I will see that you do not do so a second time. Shuffles, -do you hear what I say about this man?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_175">[175]</span></p> - -<p>A silence followed, and, as no answer came, Bonnie -Belle called again:</p> - -<p>“Shuffles!”</p> - -<p>“If you are calling your man left in charge here, -Bonnie Belle, he is dead,” said Buffalo Bill, as no one -else seemed to care to speak.</p> - -<p>“Shuffles dead?” she repeated, with a start.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“When did he die?”</p> - -<p>“To-night.”</p> - -<p>“Ha! he was killed?”</p> - -<p>“Ask one of your men here to tell you about it, -Bonnie Belle.”</p> - -<p>She called a bartender and was told the story. She -listened in silence, making no comment, and then -turned to Scott Kindon and asked:</p> - -<p>“Captain, is this not a case of murder?”</p> - -<p>“It looks so, Bonnie Belle.”</p> - -<p>“This man Pistols has been carrying too high a -hand for the safety and comfort of the good citizens -in Yellow Dust Valley, and it appears to me that he -needs disciplining by the Vigilantes.”</p> - -<p>“Say the word, Bonnie Belle, and he travels the -trail to Hangman’s Gulch,” the Vigilante captain said -very decidedly.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_176">[176]</span></p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle was lost for a moment in thought, -while Pistols gazed at her with a look of pleading and -despair commingled. At last she spoke:</p> - -<p>“No, Captain Kindon, I will not say the word, for I -wish no man’s life upon my conscience, where it -can be avoided. The mines will be the better for the -taking off of those men, Tom and Jerry, and it would -make it more respectable to rid us of this man Pistols. -He has no mine or claim here, carries his fortune -with him, I believe, so give him until sunrise to -get out of the camps, while, that he may not be lonesome, -let this man who was leading the attack upon -Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill go with him.</p> - -<p>“Shall it be so, comrades?” and Bonnie Belle -glanced over the crowd which answered with a yell -that nearly raised the roof.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_177">[177]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XV">CHAPTER XV.<br /> -<span class="fs70">A MIDNIGHT INTERVIEW.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Pistols was too happy to escape with his life to -grumble at anything that might be put upon him, and -he was only too anxious to get away from the saloon -and start upon his exile, feeling that there was safety -only in placing many miles between himself and Yellow -Dust Valley.</p> - -<p>Dave Dunn, the other alleged witness against Buffalo -Bill, had been led into making the charge by his -comrade Pistols, and, seeing how matters were going, -had slipped out of Devil’s Den and hastened to his -cabin to prepare for an immediate farewell to Pocket -City.</p> - -<p>The burly fellow who had made himself a leader -against Surgeon Powell would have been glad to have -escaped the notice of Bonnie Belle. But her words -had brought the eyes of the Vigilantes upon him, and -he was anxious to get away, and so with Pistols -skulked out into the darkness.</p> - -<p>They had hastened to their respective quarters then, -making an agreement to meet at Dave Dunn’s in half<span class="pagenum" id="Page_178">[178]</span> -an hour’s time, and when the sun rose the two were -making tracks down the valley, carrying their belongings -upon a pole slung between two of them, and with -all the wealth they possessed in their pockets.</p> - -<p>“I would like to see you and Buffalo Bill, Surgeon -Powell,” Bonnie Belle had said, in a low tone.</p> - -<p>“We are going at once to the hotel.”</p> - -<p>“I will see you there,” and Bonnie Belle circled about -the room, greeted everywhere with the most cordial -welcome.</p> - -<p>In the meanwhile Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill -were congratulated on all sides by those who had not -had the nerve to come to their rescue.</p> - -<p>But they received all that was said coldly, gaging -it at about what it was worth, and passed out of the -saloon on to the hotel.</p> - -<p>The scout already had a room there, and the surgeon -was given one next to him, and so they repaired -to them at once.</p> - -<p>“It came over me, Bill, to follow you, believing I -might be of service. I am not superstitious, as you -know, but I had a dream in which I saw you in a -close place with Indians about you, and when I awoke -it was all so vivid to me that I wrote the colonel a -note and started upon your trail without waiting until<span class="pagenum" id="Page_179">[179]</span> -dawn. I went on to the end of Horseshoe Ned’s run, -and he told me you were going down to Pocket City, -so here I came.”</p> - -<p>“And just in time, Frank, to save my life.”</p> - -<p>“It seems so. I was told you were here, so I went -over to the Den and saw what was going on, so chipped -in. But, though I postponed matters for a while, we -both would have been food for coyotes at this present -time had not Bonnie Belle arrived as she did.”</p> - -<p>“And how did she come?”</p> - -<p>“I do not know.”</p> - -<p>“She started East from the Junction.”</p> - -<p>“Well, she came here instead, fortunately for us—— Come -in!”</p> - -<p>A Chinese servant entered and said:</p> - -<p>“Misses say ’Melican man come with Chinaman.”</p> - -<p>This invitation was promptly accepted by the surgeon -and the scout, and they were led by the Chinaman -to the private quarters of Bonnie Belle. There she -had a supper spread out for them, though it was after -one o’clock, and, receiving them cordially, said:</p> - -<p>“I wish to have a talk with you, gentlemen, and -you will join me at supper, please.”</p> - -<p>They readily consented, the Chinaman waiting upon<span class="pagenum" id="Page_180">[180]</span> -the table, and Bonnie Belle showing herself to be a -most charming hostess.</p> - -<p>The supper over, and the Chinaman having departed, -Bonnie Belle handed her guests a couple of -fine cigars and said:</p> - -<p>“I enjoy the fragrance of tobacco smoke, so please -light them.”</p> - -<p>They did so, and then Bonnie Belle threw herself -into an easy chair in a tired way and said:</p> - -<p>“I am really fatigued, for I have had a long ride -since leaving the fort. I knew that you were upon my -trail, Buffalo Bill, and I am glad that you were, as -you came up in time to have served both Horseshoe -Ned and myself well, but for the fact that our enemy -had already been placed hors de combat.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, you are fully able to protect yourself, Bonnie -Belle,” said the scout.</p> - -<p>“And others, too,” remarked Surgeon Powell.</p> - -<p>“Well, as I wished to throw you off the scent I went -on eastward by stage; but only for a couple of stations, -where I secured a horse and guide, going across -country to head off Sandy on his way here. I caught -his coach and made him promise not to tell of my -arrival, so he drove, as there were no other passengers, -at once to the stables, and I got out there and ran to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_181">[181]</span> -my rooms here. It was Sandy who heard of the row -in the Den, and he came for me, just as I intended -going into the saloon as a surprise. Now I have a -favor to ask of both of you.”</p> - -<p>“Granted before asked,” said Surgeon Powell.</p> - -<p>“Ditto,” responded Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>“You are very kind, to offer to grant me a favor -without knowing what it is. Suppose I ask you something -that you cannot conscientiously do?” said Bonnie -Belle, with a smile.</p> - -<p>“That is impossible, for <em>you</em> would not ask anything -of us which we cannot conscientiously do,” was -the response of the surgeon.</p> - -<p>“It is not too much to ask, I feel. It would have -to be much, indeed, for us to refuse you, Bonnie Belle, -for both of us owe you our lives, and you may be sure, -if not profuse in thanks, we appreciate that we are -under obligations to you,” and Surgeon Powell’s manner -was sincere.</p> - -<p>“Do not speak of what I did, for one does not deserve -either thanks or gratitude for doing one’s duty. -No, I only wished to ask you both not to betray me.”</p> - -<p>“Not to betray you?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, for no one knows here, except you two gentlemen,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_182">[182]</span> -that I am the sister of the condemned outlaw, -Silk Lasso Sam. Not a soul do I wish to know it.”</p> - -<p>“And no one shall through me,” said Powell.</p> - -<p>“Nor through word of mine,” added Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>“I believe that Captain Caruth suspected me, and -yet when I met him face to face at the fort he did -not by any act show that he did. He simply looked -as though he recalled Bonnie Belle in Miss Ruth Arden, -and, if so, I wish that you would ask him also -to keep my secret.”</p> - -<p>“I will.”</p> - -<p>“And he will do it.”</p> - -<p>“I do not care to have any one here know that I -am the sister of the outlaw, for it would bring me -under a suspicion here with many which I would not -care for. Now I can do good, and I have a certain -power over the wildest spirits here, which you had an -opportunity to see yourselves to-night.”</p> - -<p>“We did, indeed,” said Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>“And it was in our behalf. You have indeed wonderful -power over the wild savages that congregate -here in Pocket City,” the surgeon remarked.</p> - -<p>“As the sister of the outlaw chief, no matter how -innocent I might be, you can well understand how I -would lose my power. A wicked man might influence<span class="pagenum" id="Page_183">[183]</span> -them, yet not a wicked woman. It is only by holding -myself pure in all things that I retain my influence, -and I wish to be so respected unto the end.”</p> - -<p>“You are a very remarkable woman, Bonnie Belle, -and one whom both Cody and myself hold the highest -respect for. Let me tell you, if it is a pleasure for you -to know it, that you are most highly respected and -admired by all at the fort, especially by the warm -friends you made in Colonel Dunwoody, Major and -Mrs. Lester, and Miss Carr.</p> - -<p>“Did they know you as Bonnie Belle they would -not change their opinions in one iota regarding you. -But, I can well understand that this community, knowing -you to be the sister of Silk Lasso Sam, would at -once suspect you of being secretly his ally in wrong-doing, -so your secret shall be kept.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you most sincerely, Surgeon Powell.”</p> - -<p>“And permit me to say, Bonnie Belle, that I switch -off your trail at once. I followed, for I believed that -you intended to rescue your brother,” said Buffalo -Bill. “I believed that you went to the fort to accomplish -it by strategy, and, finding yourself thwarted, -gave it up. Then, I frankly confess, my idea was that -you intended to accomplish by force what you had -failed to do by strategy, that is, secure a number of<span class="pagenum" id="Page_184">[184]</span> -men here who would follow your lead and thus rescue -your brother.”</p> - -<p>“No, I would not accomplish his rescue, save his -life even, by the taking of another life. What I could -not accomplish by strategy I would not do by force.”</p> - -<p>“I can believe that of you now, since what you have -done and said to-night.”</p> - -<p>“Let me tell you, Buffalo Bill, what I could have -done to-night,” said Bonnie Belle eagerly.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“I could have seized both you and Surgeon Powell, -sent you into hiding where your best scouts could not -have found you, and there have held you as hostages -to be given in exchange for my brother, or put to -death if he was executed.”</p> - -<p>“You are right; you surely could have done that.”</p> - -<p>“Without doubt,” added Frank Powell.</p> - -<p>“But I would not do so, and I would not be known -as connected with the outlaw in any way, and I thank -you both for your promise not to betray me. It is -late now, so I will say good night, and I will be glad -to have you breakfast with me at nine, for that will -give you seven hours’ sleep. Good night.”</p> - -<p>They bowed themselves out, both impressed with -the thought that they had stood in the presence of a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_185">[185]</span> -very superior woman and one as pure as a pearl, in -spite of her surroundings and the calling she followed -as mistress of the Frying Pan and the Devil’s Den.</p> - -<p>“Frank, I would not place a straw in the way of -that girl to do her harm,” said Buffalo Bill, as the -two friends reached their room.</p> - -<p>“I would protect her from harm with my life, Bill,” -was the Surgeon Scout’s rejoinder.</p> - -<p>“Do you know she takes the coming execution of -her brother, loving him as she does, very coolly.</p> - -<p>“Yes, Bill, and it sets me to thinking.”</p> - -<p>“And me.”</p> - -<p>“You have an idea?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“What is it?”</p> - -<p>“That she may accomplish by strategy after all the -rescue of Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>“It may be, for she is a very clever woman, and -one dangerous to balk when she sets her mind upon -carrying out a plot.”</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_186">[186]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XVI">CHAPTER XVI.<br /> -<span class="fs70">A BORDER BURIAL.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The morning dawned upon Yellow Dust Valley -with Pistols, and Dave Dunn, and their other ally, -Maddox, making tracks out of the valley with an -anxiety to place many miles between themselves and -the citizens of Pocket City in as short a space of time -as was possible.</p> - -<p>Crowds are proverbially fickle, and the thought in -the minds of the three fugitives was that the mob -might decide to change its mind and hang them, when -it came to attend the funeral of Shuffles, whom Pistols -had so wantonly shot.</p> - -<p>While these three were keeping up a quick step for -safety, as if by common consent, Pocket City was -taking a holiday.</p> - -<p>The miners had held open house at Devil’s Den -until very late, or, rather, early, for the gray of dawn -was visible in the east when the doors of the saloon -were at last closed.</p> - -<p>Business had been good for the saloon, and bad -for many a gambler, and the employees were anxious<span class="pagenum" id="Page_187">[187]</span> -to get the accounts straightened out before Bonnie -Belle examined the sales, expenses, and profits.</p> - -<p>Shuffles had been a universal favorite, for he was -always polite, obliging, and generous. He could never -refuse a poor devil a drink and would chalk the -amount against himself, so that at the end of the -month he would only have a small sum coming to -him out of his wages.</p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle had held the money back until just -before her departure for the East, when she had placed -him in charge of the saloon, and at the same time -said to him:</p> - -<p>“Shuffles, you have been here for several years, and -Landlord Lazarus gave you the name of being a very -honest man. In the past ten months you have charged -to yourself nearly two-thirds of your wages for favors -shown others who have never paid you.</p> - -<p>“I have kept it back, as I knew that it would be -loaned away or spent. I now hold for you the sum -of what those amounts are, and its total is a trifle -over eight hundred dollars. When it reaches a thousand -I shall send it to your mother, of whom you -have so often spoken to me, to keep for you, and who -you say has a mortgage on her little farm which she<span class="pagenum" id="Page_188">[188]</span> -and your two younger brothers are working hard to -pay off. How much is that mortgage?”</p> - -<p>Shuffles could hardly speak, his heart was so full -of joy and gratitude. But at last he faltered:</p> - -<p>“It is eleven hundred dollars, miss, for I sent mother -fifty dollars last week; but, oh! what can I do to thank -you for your goodness to me?”</p> - -<p>“Act as squarely by me as you have done in the -past, and manage the Den for me until further instructions.”</p> - -<p>“I will, miss, I will.”</p> - -<p>And upon the very night of Bonnie Belle’s return -poor Shuffles shuffled off this mortal coil, murdered -for doing a kind act in preventing Pistols from getting -drunk, unmindful of the terrible fate of a man who -waters another man’s whisky.</p> - -<p>There was no contract between Bonnie Belle and -her dead clerk, but the morning after his death she -arose, and her first duty was to write a long letter -to his mother, stating that he had been shot by a desperado, -whom he had once saved from being killed.</p> - -<p>She also stated that he should be buried with proper -decency, and that his effects should be sent to her at -once, along with twelve hundred dollars salary in her -hands, due him, while a purse contributed by the miners<span class="pagenum" id="Page_189">[189]</span> -she begged her acceptance of, as it would show -in what esteem her dead son was held by those among -whom he associated.</p> - -<p>There was not a word as to his calling, or a word -to cast a shadow upon the mother’s love for her son.</p> - -<p>Bonnie Belle had just finished her letter when Surgeon -Powell and Buffalo Bill were ushered into her -pleasant sitting-room, by Sly Cheek, the Chinaman, -who deserved his name most certainly. She welcomed -them pleasantly, told them of her letter to Shuffles’ -mother, and added:</p> - -<p>“Pocket City was up all night, so is resting now, for -it is arranged to give poor Shuffles a grand funeral -this afternoon. An itinerant organ-grinder was shot -here some months ago, and his instrument has been -pressed into service as a brass band, while a quartet of -really fine voices are rehearsing a hymn which some -clever fellow has discovered can be sung to the air of -“Tramp, Tramp, the Boys are Marching,” the chorus -being an original one written by a poor poet here who -gave up the pen for the pick and has made a failure -with both. You surely will remain to the funeral, gentlemen, -of poor Shuffles, for it would be a mark of -respect the miners would never forget you for showing?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_190">[190]</span></p> - -<p>“Outside of that inducement, Bonnie Bell, I would -not miss it for the world,” said the Surgeon Scout, -with enthusiasm.</p> - -<p>“Yes, I know we should enjoy it,” Buffalo Bill -added absent-mindedly, his eyes upon a venison steak -which Sly Cheek had just helped him to.</p> - -<p>“Enjoy it, Buffalo Bill?” said Bonnie Belle reproachfully.</p> - -<p>“No, I mean we should be delighted to attend, for -if there is anything that will keep me away from -church on a Sabbath day it is to attend a first-class -border funeral, when the chief mourner is generally -the man who turned up the toes of the lamented -corpse. We will see Shuffles laid to rest, Bonnie Belle, -and, as you spoke of raising a purse for his mother, -let me offer you now a hundred dollars.”</p> - -<p>“Wait, please, until I call for the subscription, and -then I will accept your very generous offer,” was Bonnie -Belle’s response.</p> - -<p>It was when the bugle sounded at noon, calling the -miners to dinner at the Frying Pan, the Pocket City -really awoke to the situation.</p> - -<p>Scott Kindon, the Vigilante captain, set the example -of respect by closing his store and hanging in -front of it a piece of black calico.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_191">[191]</span></p> - -<p>The Devil’s Den had not been opened after its night -closing, and the door had been tastefully draped by -Bonnie Belle with crape.</p> - -<p>The body of Shuffles was laid out upon the piazza -of the Frying Pan, in a coffin. A United States flag, -brought into requisition on all occasions, was spread -over it, and two miners stood guard over the remains, -rifles in hand. It is safe to predict that had Pistols -put in an appearance then he would have been at once -placed in the same position of the lamented Shuffles.</p> - -<p>The crowd began to gather from one end of the -valley to the other, and miners came up with the hand-organ -of the dead grinder in a wheelbarrow. Placing -the organ at the foot of the coffin one of the miners -began to play, and all during dinner such airs were -ground out as:</p> - -<p>“Johnny Comes Marching Home,” “The Girl I Left -Behind Me,” “A Life On the Ocean Wave,” “John -Brown’s Body,” and others more or less suited to the -occasion.</p> - -<p>There were many extras who took dinner at the -Frying Pan that day, so that the Chinese servants were -kept busy; but there was enough for all, for Bonnie -Belle kept a generously supplied table, and there was -never heard the slightest murmur of discontent.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_192">[192]</span></p> - -<p>At last Bonnie Belle appeared upon the piazza, and, -as the bars had all been closed, she looked upon a sober -crowd, though not a few were still unsteady from -the effects of drinking the night before.</p> - -<p>At her appearance all head-gear was raised. She -was dressed in black, slouch-hat, sable plume and all, -as a mark of respect, and carried in her hand a small -basket.</p> - -<p>“Comrades,” she said with one of her sweetest -smiles, and placing her hand gently upon the head of -the dead man lying in the coffin, “I thank you all for -coming here, for we are burying to-day a friend, one -whom we can all call by that sacred name, a name so -often abused. You knew poor Shuffles as he was yesterday, -the day before, and always, true as steel, generous -to a fault, and a good man as far as he understood -right and wrong.</p> - -<p>“You know that he was murdered while he sought -to do a kindness. But you do not all know that he -has a poor mother in the far-away State of Connecticut -living upon a farm which she and her three sons -were trying to free from debt. The oldest son lies -here, dead, and no help will she ever get from him -now.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_193">[193]</span></p> - -<p>“So it is that I ask you, in your generosity to contribute -as you can and will to the purse I wish to raise -and send to her. One of our guests here, Buffalo Bill, -was the first to volunteer, and most liberally, and he -was followed by his comrade in arms, Surgeon Frank -Powell, and now I ask all to come forward and contribute -their mite, be it ever so little.”</p> - -<p>She turned to Buffalo Bill and he dropped a roll -of bills into the basket; Surgeon Powell did the same, -and then the employees of the Frying Pan and Devil’s -Den followed, after which the miners came forward -in a steady stream, while, not to be outdone, the -Chinese servants “clubbed in” for the mother of the -dead “’Melican man.”</p> - -<p>“Surgeon Powell, will you please count this contribution -and state to the donors just what it amounts -to?” asked Bonnie Belle.</p> - -<p>The Surgeon Scout obeyed, and answered:</p> - -<p>“Gold-dust valued at five hundred dollars, bills -amounting to four hundred and fifty; gold pieces, one -hundred and sixty, and silver one hundred and forty, -with a score of I. O. U.’s amounting to a hundred dollars.”</p> - -<p>“I will cash those I. O. U.’s, and that makes a most<span class="pagenum" id="Page_194">[194]</span> -generous contribution of thirteen hundred and fifty -dollars,” said Bonnie Belle.</p> - -<p>This ceremony over with, the pall-bearers were -called, the body was taken up, and the cortège started -for Sunset Hill, Bonnie Belle escorted by Surgeon -Powell and Buffalo Bill, and the miners following in -fours, while the organ led the way with “The Campbells -are Coming,” and “John Brown’s Body.”</p> - -<p>Arriving at the grave the hymn was sung by the -quartet, all joining in the original chorus written by -the miner-poet, with a will that sent a roar of melody -down the valley to rebound from the distant cliffs with -many an echo.</p> - -<p>Then the body was lowered into the grave, while -Surgeon Powell took up a shovel and said in his deep, -sympathetic voice:</p> - -<p>“We commit this body to the ground, earth to earth, -ashes to ashes, dust to dust.”</p> - -<p>Then as all stood with bowed, uncovered heads, -there arose upon the air a voice full of melody and -pathos singing:</p> - -<div class="poetry-container"> -<div class="poetry"> - <div class="stanza"> - <div class="verse indent0">“Nearer my God to Thee.”</div> - </div> -</div> -</div> - -<p>From beginning to end in her superb, rich tones, -Bonnie Belle sang the beautiful hymn, and when the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_195">[195]</span> -last word was uttered, tears rolled across faces furrowed -and brown which had not been thus wet since -childhood. Manly hearts heaved convulsively with -emotions which overwhelmed them, and many a miner -went to his cabin home from Sunset Hill a better man -for the burial he had witnessed of poor Shuffles.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_196">[196]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XVII">CHAPTER XVII.<br /> -<span class="fs70">A SISTER OF MERCY.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Let us now return to the fort, after the departure of -Ruth Arden. It has been seen how the coach was -held up on the trail, at Deep Dell Brook, and that the -road-agent quickly met his punishment at the hands of -Ruth, whose shooting was the admiration of Horseshoe -Ned, for he told the story over and over again -at the station.</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill, it has also been seen, followed the trail -until convinced that Ruth had gone East, and yet, to -make sure, he had gone to Pocket City, where he had -saved Deadshot Dean’s cabin from being broken into, -and got Tom and Jerry into trouble for their lawless -housebreaking.</p> - -<p>Having had the dream he had, of Buffalo Bill being -hemmed in by redskins, Surgeon Powell, his stanch -friend, had gone off upon his trail, with a result already -known to the reader.</p> - -<p>The departure of the chief of scouts and the Surgeon -Scout, so soon after the going of Ruth Arden,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_197">[197]</span> -set a number in the fort to thinking what it could -mean.</p> - -<p>The visit of the young girl was discussed over and -over again, not only in the officers’ families, but at -the clubs, and also in the barracks among the men and -in the settlement adjoining the fort.</p> - -<p>It seemed strange to outsiders that Colonel Dunwoody -should be so attentive to the sister of an outlaw, -and that Major Lester and his wife should have -her for their guest, while Clarice Carr had been seen -so much with her.</p> - -<p>At the officers’ club the younger men hinted that it -was a case of love at first sight with the colonel, and -all wondered just how it would turn out. Certain the -colonel had made no effort thus far to get a pardon for -the prisoner, even though doubtless urged to do so by -the outlaw’s beautiful sister.</p> - -<p>There was one thing which Ruth had asked of -Clarice Carr, and that was to see her brother and try -and influence him for a better life, even though, as -she said, she knew that he was under the shadow of -the gallows, and that the day of his doom was drawing -near.</p> - -<p>In obedience to this wish, the day after the departure -of Ruth, Clarice Carr obtained permission from<span class="pagenum" id="Page_198">[198]</span> -the colonel to visit the prisoner. It was given freely -for her to go and come at will, as Ruth had asked -it. She accordingly went to the cabin, accompanied -by Captain Caruth, and the sentinel had orders to admit -her.</p> - -<p>Arden Leigh, the outlaw, sat there, as he had when -his sister had visited him, taking matters very calmly. -He arose at her entrance, the clanking of his chains -sounding very harsh in the ears of Clarice.</p> - -<p>“Miss Carr, this is an honor I had not anticipated,” -he said, standing and motioning to her to take his seat.</p> - -<p>“Your sister asked me to see you, and I have come -to know if there is aught that I can do for you.”</p> - -<p>“It is more than kind of you, Miss Carr, as you are -the one I plotted to rob of a large ransom. You have -a good heart to forgive me.”</p> - -<p>“I only hope that all your sins may be forgiven as -readily as I forgive your sin against me, sir. But is -there aught that you need that I can send to you?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing. My wants are few, and they will be but -for a short while, as you know just one week from to-day -I am to be hanged.”</p> - -<p>“So soon?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, it is to be on Friday, the thirteenth of the -month.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_199">[199]</span></p> - -<p>“And are you prepared to die, Mr.—Mr.—Arden?”</p> - -<p>“In what sense do you mean, Miss Carr?”</p> - -<p>“Have you made your peace with God and man?”</p> - -<p>“I leave my life to man, who will take it, and if I -have a soul it must go to the keeping of God, who -gave it.”</p> - -<p>“Then you will not pray for forgiveness for your -sins?”</p> - -<p>“I will ask no mercy of a God whose laws I have -outraged, and I ask nothing of man. I have taken -human life, and I have committed every sin in the -calendar of wickedness, I suppose. Yet all might have -been different had my earlier years been shaped in a -different way, Miss Carr.</p> - -<p>“My mother was lenient and forgiving, my father -allowed me free rein, and the only check I had upon -my temper and temptations was my little sister, then -too young to understand me, or guide me aright. -When I fell in love with one who could have brought -me back from the precipice I was upon; could have -made a good man of me, ready to atone for the past -in every way in my power, I found that she turned -from me for the love of another, my rival, whom I -hated.</p> - -<p>“That was the turning-point of my life, Miss Carr,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_200">[200]</span> -and from that day I made men and women alike fair -game. You see what my evil life has brought me to, -and, as I do not believe in death-bed repentance, in -outraging God and humanity, I will not now, when I -can do nothing else, appeal for mercy for sins I committed -with my eyes open, and without mercy to those -who were my victims.</p> - -<p>“As I have lived, so will I die, Miss Carr, without -fear. Come and see me executed, will you not?” and -Silk Lasso Sam smiled as sweetly as though the -shadow of death hovered not over him.</p> - -<p>Clarice Carr was greatly shocked at the words and -indifference of the doomed man to his fate, his execution -upon the gallows, and his recklessness of pardon -beyond the grave. But she said, calmly and sincerely:</p> - -<p>“Mr. Arden, though I would shun the scene in -which you must be an actor soon, as I would shun an -open grave, yet, if my presence there could add one -atom of comfort to you, could smooth your last moments, -as your sister’s loving heart might, I would go -with you willingly under the very shadow of the gallows, -and be the last one to clasp your hand in farewell.”</p> - -<p>The man started at her words and half-held out his<span class="pagenum" id="Page_201">[201]</span> -manacled hands, while his face changed from its stern -expression to one of softness.</p> - -<p>“It is just such women as you, Miss Carr, who keep -the world good, and my sister is one like you. Had -I my life to live over again I would be a different -man, but now I shall face the alternative unflinchingly. -I thank you for your kindness in coming to me, for -it shows a forgiving spirit and sacrifice of self, and -my sister will appreciate it I know.”</p> - -<p>Clarice could say no more to such a man. She, -too, was not one to believe that a man can sin at will, -commit the most heinous of crimes, and then, when the -law gets its clutch upon him and he can sin no more, -when the shadow of death is upon him, that he can -turn from his wickedness to prayer, to repentance, as -a drowning man catches at a straw.</p> - -<p>So she wisely did not linger, for what could she -tell such a man of sweet forgiveness, or what could -she say to console him in the face of the hangman fitting -the noose for his neck.</p> - -<p>“If you feel that I can serve you, Mr. Arden, send -for me. I will send you some books to read, and if -there is anything we can prepare for you to eat we will -gladly do so.”</p> - -<p>With this Clarice Carr left the cabin of the doomed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_202">[202]</span> -outlaw. She had done her duty, and, unless he sent -for her, she would not care to see him again. Should -he send for her to cheer him in the last awful moment, -she would go without the slightest hesitation.</p> - -<p>Returning to her home, she told Major Lester and -his wife just what had occurred, and they, too, felt -that she had done only what was right. And yet, the -next evening the sentinel on duty at the cabin saw -Miss Carr approaching.</p> - -<p>He had had orders to admit her at her will, and, -as she drew near, her face closely veiled, she said, in -a low tone:</p> - -<p>“You have orders to admit Miss Carr, have you not, -sentinel?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, miss. Pass on!” and the sentinel resumed his -steady pace to and fro, as soon as he had taken the -outer beat, some thirty paces away from the cabin.</p> - -<p>“Ah! Miss Carr, you have come again to see me in -my loneliness,” said the prisoner, rising as the visitor -entered.</p> - -<p>The veil was thrown back, and, instead of Clarice -Carr, it was Nina de Sutro who stood before him.</p> - -<p>“Nina! is it you?”</p> - -<p>“Sh—— It is not for you to call me by that name<span class="pagenum" id="Page_203">[203]</span> -where it might be heard. I am Miss De Sutro to you, -as to others.”</p> - -<p>“Why this disguise in coming to see me?”</p> - -<p>“Am I disguised?”</p> - -<p>“You surely wear the dress and hat of Miss Carr, -and a veil?”</p> - -<p>“True, about the hat, and being veiled, for I borrowed -the hat to trim one like it; the veil is mine, for -I did not care to have my face seen, and the dress is -Mrs. De Sutro’s and is a match for one belonging to -Clarice.”</p> - -<p>“But why?”</p> - -<p>“Well, I do not intend to compromise myself, and -I could find no excuse to ask to come and see you, so -I decided upon strategy.”</p> - -<p>“You were anxious to see me, then?”</p> - -<p>“Nothing of the kind.”</p> - -<p>“Why did you come, then?”</p> - -<p>“Because I had to do so.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! a woman’s reason.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, <em>because</em>.”</p> - -<p>“And you impersonated Miss Carr?”</p> - -<p>“I did, for she has gone off with a party for a drive -to the settlement, and you know that she got permission<span class="pagenum" id="Page_204">[204]</span> -from Colonel Dunwoody to see you, as <em>your sister</em> -asked it.”</p> - -<p>“You speak as though you did not believe it was -my sister?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, she said so.”</p> - -<p>“And you doubt her?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no.”</p> - -<p>“What then?”</p> - -<p>“I would believe anything she told me, for I never -saw a truer, lovelier face, so unlike your own.”</p> - -<p>“Mine is stamped indelibly with crime.”</p> - -<p>“I am glad that you admit as much. But I went -to see your sister.”</p> - -<p>“She refused to see any one.”</p> - -<p>“Very true, but I am no blunderer, and I went about -it in a way that won.”</p> - -<p>“I hope you will not blunder when it comes to my -rescue.”</p> - -<p>“That is why I have come to see you.”</p> - -<p>“Well?”</p> - -<p>“I have come to tell you that I do not intend to -rescue you, or even make the attempt,” was the cool -reply of the woman.</p> - -<p>The man started visibly at her words. He gazed<span class="pagenum" id="Page_205">[205]</span> -at her with a look which seemed to pierce to her very -soul.</p> - -<p>“Do you mean what you say?”</p> - -<p>“I do.”</p> - -<p>“You do not intend to attempt my rescue?”</p> - -<p>“I do not.”</p> - -<p>“You have changed your mind?”</p> - -<p>“I have.”</p> - -<p>“For some reason?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“What?”</p> - -<p>“Well, I see no need of it.”</p> - -<p>“You do not?”</p> - -<p>“I do not.”</p> - -<p>“You have thought of the consequences?”</p> - -<p>“I have.”</p> - -<p>“You know that if I am not rescued I will only die -upon the gallows?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes.”</p> - -<p>“Still you refuse?”</p> - -<p>“I do.”</p> - -<p>“You are aware of my threat?”</p> - -<p>“To expose me?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“To tell every one that you are my husband?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_206">[206]</span></p> - -<p>“Yes. It will disgrace you.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, in one sense of the word.”</p> - -<p>“And you do not care?”</p> - -<p>“Well, not so much as I did.”</p> - -<p>“You are willing to be considered the wife of the -outlaw, Silk Lasso Sam?”</p> - -<p>“No, I am not willing.”</p> - -<p>“What then?”</p> - -<p>“I cannot help myself.”</p> - -<p>“Then rescue me.”</p> - -<p>“I cannot.”</p> - -<p>“Then I shall keep my threat.”</p> - -<p>“All right.”</p> - -<p>“You seem indifferent?”</p> - -<p>“I am not indifferent; but I shall, when I see that -there is no help for it, go to Colonel Dunwoody with -Lieutenant-Colonel De Sutro and his wife and tell him -the truth.”</p> - -<p>“You dare not.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, I dare. I shall have as witnesses Major -and Mrs. Lester, Clarice Carr, Captain Caruth, Surgeon -Frank Powell, Lieutenant Turpin, and Buffalo -Bill. I will tell my story as it was, Colonel De Sutro -and his wife will vouch for it, and I will not only<span class="pagenum" id="Page_207">[207]</span> -have the sympathy of all, but will be a heroine as -well.”</p> - -<p>“You will be disgraced.”</p> - -<p>“No, for your sins will not be visited upon my -head, and when you tell the story on the gallows, my -prior confession will have taken the sting from it.”</p> - -<p>“I do not believe you will do it!”</p> - -<p>“Then you do not know me.”</p> - -<p>“I cannot believe it. Then you would see me die?”</p> - -<p>“You deserve death most certainly.”</p> - -<p>“Are you to be my judge?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, you already have been judged and condemned.”</p> - -<p>“And my death will be upon your head, for you -could save me if you would.”</p> - -<p>“I did not cause your capture.”</p> - -<p>“That is not the question.”</p> - -<p>“What is?”</p> - -<p>“You would sacrifice me when you could save me.”</p> - -<p>“Let me tell you, Arden, for I believe that is your -name, unless your sister is also sailing under false -colors, that you sacrificed me without mercy, and -would have been glad to have had me put an end to my -life in my despair, or have gone utterly to the bad. -It took me a long time to turn my love for you into<span class="pagenum" id="Page_208">[208]</span> -the bitter hatred I feel for you now, and I will tell -you the truth when I say that upon the night following -the day of your death upon the gallows I will sleep as -serenely as an infant, far more so than I would if you -had escaped, and I expected you to appear again in -my life to work me evil.”</p> - -<p>“Woman, you are a beautiful devil.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks for the compliment, for it is not many who -can be a devil and beautiful as well.”</p> - -<p>“You will not rest so easy as you say, for I swear -that I will haunt you.”</p> - -<p>The woman laughed.</p> - -<p>“Ah! but I will haunt you, Nina de Sutro, until I -drive you to despair, to madness, to death.”</p> - -<p>The man’s face was livid now, for he felt all that -he uttered. But the woman was wholly unmoved. -She gazed fixedly at him a moment and said:</p> - -<p>“Poor creature, you already haunt me while living. -You will haunt me less when dead, for then you know -I will be a widow, and I can find some one else to love -me, for I’ll tell you now that one reason why I do -not attempt your rescue is because I have discovered -that I cannot win the man whom I love. I see with -wide-open eyes, Arden, and I have seen that the man<span class="pagenum" id="Page_209">[209]</span> -I sought to win, and believed that I could, is madly -in love with your sister.”</p> - -<p>“With my sister?” gasped the outlaw.</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, with your beautiful sister.”</p> - -<p>“Where did he know her?”</p> - -<p>“Only since she has been here.”</p> - -<p>“He knows her to be my sister?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, and pitied her, and pity begets love, you -know.”</p> - -<p>“Does he know aught else about her?”</p> - -<p>“What else is there for him to know?”</p> - -<p>“Only that she is pure, beautiful, and good, a possessor -of a fortune of her own, and mine, for I was -disinherited, and that she is the sister of Silk Lasso -Sam.”</p> - -<p>“I do not believe that he knows aught of her other -than that her face shows her virtues, and her tongue -has confessed to him the shame of being <em>your</em> sister,” -was the studied reply of Nina de Sutro.</p> - -<p>The outlaw was deeply impressed by what he had -been told by Nina de Sutro. Could it be really true -that a man had fallen in love with his sister, knowing -nothing more about her than that she was his sister?</p> - -<p>Yet when he remembered how lovely she was in -face and form, how noble was her nature, and the imprint<span class="pagenum" id="Page_210">[210]</span> -of her pure soul was stamped upon every feature, -he did not wonder that she could win the love of any -one. At last, after a silence that began to be painful -to Nina de Sutro, in spite of her nerve, and her daring -defiance of the man, the outlaw said:</p> - -<p>“I am remarkably situated, I think.”</p> - -<p>“How so?”</p> - -<p>“Well, I have a beautiful wife, who has learned to -love another man, who in his turn loves another. That -other is my lovely sister, about whom all that is known -is that she is the sister of Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>“Well, it shows how unworthily two beautiful -women have loved, for I simply apply to myself the -praise you have bestowed, not to speak of many -others.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, yes, you are beautiful—so is a serpent.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks.”</p> - -<p>“Now, to this man?”</p> - -<p>“Who?”</p> - -<p>“The one who you say has fallen in love with my -sister.”</p> - -<p>“What of him?”</p> - -<p>“That is what I wish to ask you, Miss De Sutro?”</p> - -<p>“Well, he is a man in the true sense of the word, -one of nature’s noblemen, as they say in novels. He<span class="pagenum" id="Page_211">[211]</span> -is handsome, too, has won a deserved name for gallantry -on the field, and what is most remarkable, is -popular with both men and women.”</p> - -<p>“He must be a saint, or a devil, for you know -wicked men win women.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I have had a very sad experience in that respect.”</p> - -<p>“But continue, please, with your description of -your hero.”</p> - -<p>“There is little more to say other than that he has -rank, is brilliant, fascinating, and rich, so the idea -of your sister’s riches would not have influence with -him.”</p> - -<p>“Who is this paragon?”</p> - -<p>“The man I love.”</p> - -<p>“This from a wife to a husband?”</p> - -<p>“Why not, from an outraged wife to a demon husband -who has turned the purest love into the bitterest -hate? Yes, I do love him, and when I saw that he -loved your sister then I decided, especially as I had -another reason, that I would not raise a hand to save -your neck.”</p> - -<p>“Who is this man?”</p> - -<p>“One who has a sentiment. Years ago, when a -young cadet, he saw a portrait in an art-gallery of a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_212">[212]</span> -face he became fascinated with. That portrait had -been painted by a young artist of his lady-love, one -whom he hopelessly loved, so the story went.</p> - -<p>“He was refused and took to a life of dissipation -to drown the anguish of his unrequited love. He went -to the dogs, and at last, to buy rum, parted with all he -had left in that portrait. It was put into an art exhibition -by the purchaser and won the first prize, a gold -medal and a thousand dollars.</p> - -<p>“The purchaser hastened to the studio of the artist -to give him the medal and share with him the prize-money, -and found him sitting dead in his chair, his -palette and brush still grasped in his hand. He had -just finished painting a likeness of himself, seated at a -table with Death, a grim skeleton, throwing dice together, -and with a decanter and glasses between them.</p> - -<p>“The owner of the portrait was so impressed by -the death of the young artist, and his last painting, entitled -‘The Last Chance,’ that he sold them both to a -dealer, for he took charge of the remains and had them -decently buried. The purchaser of one of these portraits -was the man I love, for he fell in love with the -portrait of his ideal of womanhood and paid a large -sum for it. He has it with him to-day. The other -portrait was purchased by the artist’s rival, who married<span class="pagenum" id="Page_213">[213]</span> -the maiden who discarded him. Do you remember -the story, Arden?”</p> - -<p>“Perfectly, for the portrait was of my mother, of -whom my sister was a perfect likeness, and my father -purchased the painting of ‘The Last Chance,’ and it -is in the old homestead to-day.”</p> - -<p>“You are right, for so your sister told this man -of whom I speak. He told me of the portrait, of his -purchasing it, and the story he had heard regarding -the artist. She at once told him the name of the -artist, and more, that ‘The Last Chance’ was her property, -for the story was talked of last night in my -presence.</p> - -<p>“Having fallen in love with the portrait, keeping it -as his ideal of a woman, when he met its counterpart, -in your sister, he naturally loved her at once. Could -I work against such a cruel fate as that to win that -man? Oh, no, I know when I am defeated, and I -gave up the game, for the cards were against me, and, -though tempted, I would not commit a crime to win. -Now shall I tell you who this man is that loved an -ideal and found the real?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“<em>Colonel Dunwoody</em>,” was the answer.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_214">[214]</span></p> - -<p>“Colonel Dunwoody?” said the outlaw, in a tone -of utter surprise.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“I am surprised.”</p> - -<p>“Why so?”</p> - -<p>“I had heard it said there was a dead romance in -his life never to be resurrected.”</p> - -<p>“No, it was the romance of the portrait ideal. Had -he never met your sister, the reality of the ideal, I -could have won him, though perhaps never the love I -would have wanted, still the love that I would have -been satisfied with.”</p> - -<p>“You are very particular.”</p> - -<p>“Would that I had been more so in the past.”</p> - -<p>“Love is a lottery.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I grant that; but what do you think of your -brother-in-law in prospective, though, of course, you -will never know him as such, having been hanged by -his order.”</p> - -<p>“Nonsense.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, sound sense.”</p> - -<p>“He will never wed Ruth.”</p> - -<p>“He will.”</p> - -<p>“She would never wed the man who signed my -death-warrant, love him as she might ever so dearly.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_215">[215]</span></p> - -<p>“Ah! I had not thought of that.”</p> - -<p>“Then you do not know her nature.”</p> - -<p>“Well, he will sign your death-warrant, and, now -I come to recall her face, she would not marry the man -whose signature was attached to it, so after all there -may be a chance for me.”</p> - -<p>“Not the slightest.”</p> - -<p>“Why not?”</p> - -<p>“Having loved an ideal and found her but to lose -her, he would be true to his love of a memory and -never marry another.”</p> - -<p>“I believe you are right again. You have been a -close student of human nature, Arden.”</p> - -<p>“I have had reason to be.”</p> - -<p>“And you know something of Colonel Dunwoody?”</p> - -<p>“I have heard of him often, and I had a chance -to study him at my trial.”</p> - -<p>“He was severe?”</p> - -<p>“On the contrary he was kind, for he treated me -throughout like a man at his mercy, the under dog in -the fight, you know.”</p> - -<p>“That is his nature.”</p> - -<p>“He having caught me felt sorry for me, and was -anxious to get me out of my misery for his sake and -my own, it appeared to me.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_216">[216]</span></p> - -<p>“You were observant.”</p> - -<p>“I always am. But you give up, do you; the man -is lost to you?”</p> - -<p>“I must.”</p> - -<p>“And you really believe that he loves my sister?”</p> - -<p>“I know that he does.”</p> - -<p>“Then aid me to escape so that there can be no -barrier to their union, for of all men I believe I would -rather have her wed Colonel Dunwoody than any one -I know, for he would make her a noble husband.”</p> - -<p>“I am sure of that.”</p> - -<p>“And you had better fish in other waters for a -lover.”</p> - -<p>“I?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, for there is Surgeon Frank Powell, Captain -Dick Caruth, Buffalo Bill—and I’ll name no others, -for those three strike me as men worth striving for. -If I were a woman I should love the three of them -and Colonel Dunwoody, too.”</p> - -<p>“Are you in earnest?”</p> - -<p>“Indeed I am, for I have the happy faculty of admiring -my foes. Now, I have always admired the -man who was my rival in love, though I hated him and -sought to kill him. To him, to Surgeon Powell and -to Buffalo Bill I owe it that I am here now, and yet I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_217">[217]</span> -cannot but like them immensely. There is Caruth, -too, the one who advocated hanging me, and I admire -him also and thought he was perfectly right. I would -have done as much for him had I had him in my -place.”</p> - -<p>“You are a very remarkable man, Arden, and if -you had devoted to good deeds the talent and energy -you have to evil ones, you would have made a very -great name.”</p> - -<p>“I have as it is, for Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw -chief, is the talk of barracks, camp-fire, stage-station, -mines, and, in fact, all along the frontier, while I am -certainly greatly feared.”</p> - -<p>“And you are glad to be feared?”</p> - -<p>“Why not, for if I cannot be loved I can be feared. -But you had some other motive in deciding not to -aid me to escape.”</p> - -<p>“Granted.”</p> - -<p>“What is the reason?”</p> - -<p>“I may as well tell you.”</p> - -<p>“Certainly.”</p> - -<p>“Because there is another enlisted in your cause.”</p> - -<p>“What other?”</p> - -<p>“Your sister.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_218">[218]</span></p> - -<p>“Ah! is she interesting herself in me to the extent -of helping me escape?”</p> - -<p>“You know that she is.”</p> - -<p>“May I ask how you got your information?”</p> - -<p>“Well, I regard your sister as remarkable for a -woman as you for a man.”</p> - -<p>“Well?”</p> - -<p>“She came here for one purpose, and that was to -save you. I saw it in her face, though others only -read that she had come to comfort you in your last -hour. Convinced that you are in safe hands, I shall -make no other effort, and I am here to tell you so. I -have enjoyed my talk with you, so now will say good-by, -for I do not wish to attract attention to <em>Miss Carr</em> -by my long stay, and I am masquerading as that young -lady, you know. Good-by.”</p> - -<p>Drawing her veil over her face, Nina de Sutro -turned to go when the outlaw said sternly:</p> - -<p>“Hold!”</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_219">[219]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XVIII">CHAPTER XVIII.<br /> -<span class="fs70">RETURN OF THE SCOUTS.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Buffalo Bill and Surgeon Powell were riding slowly -upon the trail back to the fort. They had left Pocket -City early that morning, after passing another night -there, and had ridden slowly along homeward, for the -fort is the home of the soldier and the scout.</p> - -<p>After the burial of Shuffles they had returned to -the Frying Pan, where they were entertained by Bonnie -Belle.</p> - -<p>The Devil’s Den had been kept closed out of respect -for the dead manager, and a Sabbath-day stillness -rested upon the camp.</p> - -<p>The Vigilante opened his store to turn an honest -penny, and the gambling-dens, for the Devil’s Den -did not have a monopoly by any means, had opened -wide their doors, to catch those miners and loafers -who would drop in.</p> - -<p>The Frying Pan had fed an enormous crowd at -supper, and then settled down to rest.</p> - -<p>One of the rules of Bonnie Belle, and which was<span class="pagenum" id="Page_220">[220]</span> -religiously respected, was that the Devil’s Den should -never open on Sundays, and the miners seemed really -glad of this respite from the noisy bustle of the place -and the gambling and drinking which was sure to -come.</p> - -<p>The more Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill saw of -the strange woman who seemed to hold the destinies -of Pocket City in her little hand, the more they were -pleased with her, and mystified.</p> - -<p>They knew that there was an unreadable page of -her history to which she alone held the key. She -talked like one who had seen much of the world, young -as she was, and conversed with Surgeon Powell with -much knowledge upon the military strength of the -different powers of Europe, and launched off into the -fine arts with equal fluency.</p> - -<p>She did not appear anxious to show her learning, -yet understood well the political history of the country, -and the faults and virtues of the different national -parties.</p> - -<p>Her reading had been varied and instructive, and -she seemed glad of a chance to discuss something else -than hotel fare, gambling, and mining.</p> - -<p>When the officer and scout bade her good night and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_221">[221]</span> -good-by, for they said they were to leave at an early -hour the next morning, she asked, with a smile:</p> - -<p>“And is this to swing around the circle, Buffalo -Bill, and still play the detective upon me?”</p> - -<p>“Indeed it is not,” answered the scout, flushing like -a girl at the insinuation.</p> - -<p>“I am glad of it, for we must be friends, you know.”</p> - -<p>“We certainly shall be, if I am to have my way,” -said the scout warmly.</p> - -<p>“And we are also to be friends, Doctor Powell, -for candidly, I will not do aught to cause either of -you any trouble, and if I fight you, should anything -turn up to cause me to do so, it shall be by strategy, -not force.”</p> - -<p>“Then we may as well acknowledge ourselves beaten -when we are to measure strength in strategy with a -woman,” said Surgeon Powell.</p> - -<p>“For shame, to acknowledge defeat before the combat. -It is not like you, Doctor Powell.”</p> - -<p>“I am dealing with a woman now, Bonnie Belle, not -a man.”</p> - -<p>“Well, do not you or Buffalo Bill track me, for it -will do no good, I assure you. I know that you wish -to thwart me in setting my brother free, and from<span class="pagenum" id="Page_222">[222]</span> -your standpoint you are right. But all that I could -do in the matter I have done.”</p> - -<p>“And failed?” said Buffalo Bill, with a smile.</p> - -<p>“I leave that for you to decide, gentlemen. But, -good night.”</p> - -<p>She grasped the hand of each in her frank way, -and they left her.</p> - -<p>When they went to pay their score, the clerk told -them that there was no charge against them, as they -were the guests of the fair mistress of the Frying -Pan. They could but accept the courtesy, and the -clerk said that an early breakfast had been ordered -for them.</p> - -<p>And so the next morning they turned their backs -upon Pocket City, and took the trail for Pioneer Post.</p> - -<p>Their way led by the Hangman’s Gulch, and they -turned in there to have a look at the numerous graves -of the victims who had suffered there, dying at the -end of a rope. The two freshly made graves of Tom -and Jerry were there, and, as he looked at them, Buffalo -Bill said:</p> - -<p>“Twice have I come very near being placed here, -Frank.”</p> - -<p>“You have indeed, Bill.”</p> - -<p>“Once Deadshot Dean saved me from Powder Face<span class="pagenum" id="Page_223">[223]</span> -Pete and his gang, and you saved me the next time -by your timely arrival, for those fellows intended -hanging me.”</p> - -<p>“And Bonnie Belle saved us both, Bill,” was the -answer.</p> - -<p>As they neared the fort they came in sight of the -stage-trail, and upon reaching it heard the rumbling -of the coach behind them.</p> - -<p>A few moments after the coach came in sight, and -by the side of Horeshoe Ned a stranger sat upon the -box.</p> - -<p>“Ho, Surgeon Powell, how is yer, and you, too, -Bill?” cried Horseshoe Ned, as the coach drew up to -the two pards just as they came within sight of the -fort.</p> - -<p>“All right, thank you, Ned.”</p> - -<p>“Have you seen any road-agents this trip?” asked -the Surgeon Scout.</p> - -<p>“You bet I ain’t on the run back, doctor, but I has -a pilgrim inside who held me up when I was going -east, as I guess Buffalo Bill told yer.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, he told me what a dead shot your lady passenger -proved to be.”</p> - -<p>“Dead shot? Now I should remark but she is ther -deadest of ther dead shots and no mistake. She’s one<span class="pagenum" id="Page_224">[224]</span> -among a thousand, and no harm said agin’ t’others; -but I guesses yer’ll hev ter doctor him up, sir, for he’s -been in the hands o’ that old Pills at ther station, and -maybe he don’t know much about doctorin’.”</p> - -<p>“All right, Horseshoe Ned, I’ll do all I can for him; -but you appear to have several passengers along on -this run?”</p> - -<p>“You bet I has, sir, three passengers besides ther -outlaw who is crippled in both arms. This gent ridin’ -with me I don’t know by name, or I’d interdooce yer.”</p> - -<p>Thus urged, the man riding on the box with Horseshoe -Ned said:</p> - -<p>“My name is Raymond, sir, Henry Raymond.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! yes, I remembers hearing your pards call yer -by thet name now. These gents, Mr. Raymond, is -Surgeon Powell, o’ ther cavalry, and Buffalo Bill, -chief of scouts, and they is among ther best men thet -ever is seen in these parts.”</p> - -<p>All bowed at the introduction, and the scouts kept -up with the coach until it reached the fort.</p> - -<p>The man who had given his name as Raymond was -one who possessed the look of one to be depended on -in a time of need. He was well built, quick of action, -and had a dark, piercing eye that was most penetrating.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_225">[225]</span></p> - -<p>The other two passengers were heavily bearded men, -such as might be found anywhere on the frontier.</p> - -<p>As Henry Raymond dismounted from the box he -turned to Surgeon Powell, who had just gotten off -of his horse and said:</p> - -<p>“You are an officer at the fort, I believe, sir?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, the surgeon of the post.”</p> - -<p>“I would like to see the commandant, sir, Colonel -Dunwoody?”</p> - -<p>“I will conduct you to him, if you wish.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you, sir,” and the stranger joined the surgeon -and the scout, who were going to headquarters -to report their return.</p> - -<p>Colonel Dunwoody was seated upon the piazza of -his headquarters smoking an after-dinner cigar and -was alone when the party arrived, for the two other -passengers had come along also, Henry Raymond remarking -that they were friends of his.</p> - -<p>“Ah! Powell, glad to see you back, and you, too, -Cody, for after getting word that you had gone off -on the trail of a dream I began to fear that after all -the redskins might have gotten hold of Buffalo Bill.”</p> - -<p>“No, sir, the redskins did not catch him, for we -have not seen an Indian; but, strange to say, colonel, -my dream was not all a dream, after all, for I found<span class="pagenum" id="Page_226">[226]</span> -him in a very tight place. But I’ll explain later, as this -gentleman, whom Horseshoe Ned introduced as Mr. -Henry Raymond, for he and his comrades came in on -the coach, desires to see you, sir.”</p> - -<p>The colonel turned at once to the strangers, and -said, addressing the leader of the three:</p> - -<p>“How can I serve you, Mr. Raymond?”</p> - -<p>“I desire, sir, to present my card and this letter,” -said Raymond, and he handed over a card and letter. -The former had on it:</p> - -<p class="center">“Henry Raymond,<br /> -<span class="center">“Pinkerton’s Detective Agency,</span><br /> -<span class="pad8">“Chicago, Ill.”</span><br /> -</p> - -<p>The letter bore the official stamp of the military -headquarters at Chicago, and was as follows:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">Sir</span>: A question having arisen between the civil -and military authorities, regarding the right for you -to hold and try the prisoner now in your keeping, -known as Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw chief, and now -under sentence of death, I have consulted the attorney-general -through the secretary of war, and the result -is that you are hereby ordered to turn over the said -prisoner to Detective Henry Raymond, upon his presenting -to you the requisition from the governor of the -State of Illinois for his body, through the authorized -officer of the law.”</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_227">[227]</span></p> - -<p>This letter was signed by the assistant adjutant-general, -and the colonel read it over with an expression -upon his face which was hard to fathom.</p> - -<p>“You have the requisition, Detective Raymond, referred -to in this letter?” asked the colonel quietly.</p> - -<p>“I have, sir. Here it is, Colonel Dunwoody,” and -the detective at once presented an official-looking document -which read as follows:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“Whereas Austin Arden, alias Silk Lasso Sam, having -broken the laws of the State of Illinois, by the -crimes of murder and robbery, I hereby make requisition -of the military commander holding the said Austin -Arden a prisoner, and under sentence of death by -military court, to deliver to my authorized agent, -Henry Raymond, detective, the body of the said Austin -Arden, alias Silk Lasso Sam, for trial in the civil -court of the State of Illinois.</p> - -<p class="pad50pc">“Signed,” etc.</p> -</div> - -<p>“The stage does not return for several days, Detective -Raymond, and before its departure you shall -receive my answer,” said Colonel Dunwoody, after -reading the papers handed to him by the officer.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_228">[228]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XIX">CHAPTER XIX.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE TELLING BLOW.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>When Silk Lasso Sam called out as he did, in stern, -peremptory tones to Nina de Sutro, she stopped at -the door and turned toward him.</p> - -<p>“Well, what do you wish?”</p> - -<p>“This is all bosh about my sister making any effort -to save me.”</p> - -<p>“I am sure that it is not.”</p> - -<p>“And I say it is.”</p> - -<p>“She did not come here for nothing.”</p> - -<p>“She came to see me to cheer and comfort me, and, -if she saw a chance to aid me to do so.”</p> - -<p>“And she saw none?”</p> - -<p>“How could she, a stranger in this fort, see what -you cannot discover?”</p> - -<p>“She came here to save you, I am sure.”</p> - -<p>“If possible, and, seeing that it was impossible, she -has gone, bidding me a last farewell and leaving me to -my fate.”</p> - -<p>“It is not like her.”</p> - -<p>“It is all that she could do.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_229">[229]</span></p> - -<p>The man was silent after this, but his thoughts -were busy. He knew that Ruth had promised to do all -in her power to save him, and had told him just what -her plot was, just what to expect.</p> - -<p>But, then, it might miscarry. No plot was really -certain, and big chances had to be taken to rescue him -from the fort and all surrounding him.</p> - -<p>Nina de Sutro was in the fort, and her guardian -was next in rank to Colonel Dunwoody. There was -no better person anywhere to attempt the rescue, daring -as it must be, than Nina de Sutro.</p> - -<p>She had said that she would desert him, make no -effort to carry out her former plans, and thus leave -him to his fate.</p> - -<p>How would he urge Nina de Sutro to change her -mind, when she had decided against making the effort?</p> - -<p>It was something that needed thought, and yet he -had no time to think it over. If he let her go away -from him then, she would take good care not to come -again to see him.</p> - -<p>He must find, therefore, some plan by which he -could force her to act in his behalf. What was that -plan to be? He did not know, but ventured upon an -expedient, so said:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_230">[230]</span></p> - -<p>“You have an idea that if I were dead, and you my -widow, that you could marry some good man?”</p> - -<p>“I know that I could.”</p> - -<p>“Even Dunwoody, whom you love?”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps yes, if he was prevented from marrying -your sister through having signed your death-warrant.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, he might turn to you for comfort.”</p> - -<p>“I hope so.”</p> - -<p>“And failing in that quarter, you could, perhaps, -marry Captain Caruth?”</p> - -<p>“I believe that I could,” said the woman, who had -received such an unlimited amount of adoration that -she believed she was capable of bringing any man to -her feet, as in truth she was, with very rare exceptions.</p> - -<p>“And failing with him, you have Lieutenant Vassar -Turpin to fall back upon?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, all three of them splendid fellows, men of -whom any woman might feel proud.”</p> - -<p>“I grant that with exceeding candor, yet must say -that they are too honorable men, have too high regard -for the proud records they have won, and honor the -names they have inherited, unsullied by a stain, too<span class="pagenum" id="Page_231">[231]</span> -much to ally their lives with one wholly unworthy of -them.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?” and a strange look crept -over the woman’s face, a look that was reflected from -the dark, malignant countenance of the man.</p> - -<p>“I will tell you just what I mean, and what they -shall know.”</p> - -<p>“I beg you to do so.”</p> - -<p>“I will, and only too soon for your ears to hear.”</p> - -<p>“In Heaven’s name tell me!” and Nina de Sutro -was beginning to feel that her nerves might be treacherous -to her.</p> - -<p>“May I ask,” began Silk Lasso Sam with a most -malignant look upon his face, “if you have your certificate -of marriage?”</p> - -<p>“My marriage-certificate?” she gasped.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Is it necessary?”</p> - -<p>“Of course, for all well-regulated families have -one.”</p> - -<p>“Where is mine?”</p> - -<p>“That is what I asked you.”</p> - -<p>“You never gave me one.”</p> - -<p>“It was not for me to give it to you.”</p> - -<p>“Who then should?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_232">[232]</span></p> - -<p>“The minister who performed the service should -have given it to you.”</p> - -<p>“Why did he not, for I was young and thoughtless?”</p> - -<p>“I will tell you why he did not do so.”</p> - -<p>“Why?”</p> - -<p>“Because he had no right to do so, for <em>he was no -minister</em>.”</p> - -<p>“Heaven have mercy upon me!”</p> - -<p>“Not even Heaven will be merciful to one who cannot -show her certificate of marriage.”</p> - -<p>“You lie, Arden, and you know that you do, for -I am your wife, and I will yet get that certificate to -prove it.”</p> - -<p>“You can never get what cannot be secured. That -man was no preacher; he was under my pay, and I -paid him for his work. That is all there is to it, and -so, when I make known my story about you, as I face -an attentive and appreciative audience, standing upon -the gallows as I will, it will be my pleasure to state -that Nina de Sutro has a right to her name, as my -death will not even leave her <em>my widow</em>.</p> - -<p>“Do you see now, my beautiful Nina, just how -you will stand in the eyes of these honorable gentlemen,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_233">[233]</span> -for I shall add that you knew the fact from the -very first—see?”</p> - -<p>That she did <em>see</em> was proven by the moan that escaped -her lips as she sank in a heap at the feet of -the man who had dealt her such a cruel blow.</p> - -<p>There was nothing for the outlaw to lose, everything -for him to gain.</p> - -<p>The time was drawing near when he must die. His -sister had promised to save him, yet there might be -a miscarriage of her plot. In his despairing case it -would not do to trust to one plan alone.</p> - -<p>Nina de Sutro, disappointed at the discovery she -had made regarding the colonel’s love for Ruth, had -grown reckless, almost desperate, and was willing that -all should be known, rather than save the outlaw from -death.</p> - -<p>When, however, he told her what he would tell to -dishonor her, she feared that she was forever lost, and -so sank in a swoon at his feet.</p> - -<p>He stood gazing upon her with intense delight in -his expression, the cause of which was revealed by -his muttered words:</p> - -<p>“That will fetch her to terms.”</p> - -<p>He had told a falsehood, for the marriage was a -legal one, greatly to the man’s regret afterward, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_234">[234]</span> -only his game of bluff had caused Nina, in her fear, -to forget that the man was a priest, who performed -the ceremony, and that the marriage was registered -upon the books of the parish church where it was celebrated.</p> - -<p>Without one effort to help her, Silk Lasso Sam -stood gazing upon the form lying at his feet.</p> - -<p>“She’ll come round soon,” he muttered.</p> - -<p>And he was right. In a short while there was a convulsive -twitching of the muscles, then color rushed -back into the face and the eyes opened.</p> - -<p>They beheld her surroundings, and, after an effort, -she arose to her feet. She faced him then, at first -weak and tottering, but gaining strength and nerve -rapidly.</p> - -<p>Her face had become white now with intense passion, -and through her shut teeth, she hissed forth:</p> - -<p>“You have conquered again, Arden, and by the -most accursed act that ever a man was guilty of. I -am a Mexican, and women of my race have hot blood -that is bitterly revengeful. It seems idle to threaten -a man who stands in your position, with the noose of -the hangman about his neck, but yet, I now long for -you to live that I may make you feel how Nina de -Sutro can avenge an insult. Yes, I wish you to live,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_235">[235]</span> -it is my earnest desire that you should, and I will live -with the hope of making you suffer.”</p> - -<p>“You will aid me to escape, then?” asked the man, -impressed in spite of himself at the words and looks -of the woman.</p> - -<p>“I will.”</p> - -<p>“You will not disappoint me?”</p> - -<p>“No.”</p> - -<p>“Remember, failure means my death.”</p> - -<p>“I understand.”</p> - -<p>“When will you do this?”</p> - -<p>“I do not know.”</p> - -<p>“How?”</p> - -<p>“I do not know.”</p> - -<p>“Why not as you planned it before?”</p> - -<p>“Because the officer I spoke of is on the sick-list -and does not go on duty as I supposed he would.”</p> - -<p>“Then you must hunt up another plan.”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Have you no idea what it is?”</p> - -<p>“Not the remotest.”</p> - -<p>“I fear you will make a botch of it.”</p> - -<p>“If I fail in one way I will try another, and, failing -in that, I will make another effort.”</p> - -<p>“And failing a third time?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_236">[236]</span></p> - -<p>“I will aid you to escape if I have to come here -by night disguised as Clarice Carr and drive my -Mexican dagger to the hilt in the heart of the sentinel -at your cabin door, and then give you the uniform -of an officer to pass out of the fort in, for it -can be done, but only as a last resort. Remember, I -shall save you, for I will not let my wrecked girlhood -be stained with dishonor.”</p> - -<p>She drew her veil over her face, turned on her heel, -and left the cabin, the man feeling convinced now that -he had two chances of escape.</p> - -<p>“If Ruth’s plot fails, that devil will surely save me, -for she will not stand the fear of my reporting what -I threatened to do,” mused the outlaw.</p> - -<p>The woman meanwhile had passed the sentinel, -walking leisurely along, calm outwardly but with heart -and brain in a whirl.</p> - -<p>She made her way back to her quarters by the most -unfrequented paths and gained her room undetected -by any one.</p> - -<p>Once in her room she threw off the dress and hat -she had worn, and was soon in bed, determined to -feign illness, for she wanted to be alone to think. -There was very little feigning necessary, for she was -really ill from the shock she had received.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_237">[237]</span></p> - -<p>At last she became more calm and was able to center -her thoughts upon her plan to rescue the outlaw -chief.</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Sutro came up to see her and was distressed -to find her ill.</p> - -<p>“It’s a sick headache. Let me have a cup of strong -tea and then no one must disturb me until morning,” -she said.</p> - -<p>Mrs. De Sutro came again at midnight before retiring, -and found her patient sleeping peacefully, for -Nina de Sutro had hit upon a plan of rescue, and then, -having conned it all over, had dropped into a refreshing -slumber.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_238">[238]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XX">CHAPTER XX.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE SURGEON’S MISSION.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>When Detective Raymond had departed from headquarters -with his two friends, the colonel turned to -Surgeon Powell and Buffalo Bill, who had seen that -from some cause the colonel was greatly moved.</p> - -<p>“Sit down, Powell, you and Cody, for I wish to -talk to you,” said the colonel. “I am very glad that -you are here.”</p> - -<p>They both obeyed, and the colonel lighted another -cigar, and after smoking it for a couple of minutes, -tossed it away.</p> - -<p>“Tobacco always soothes me,” he said, by way of -explanation. Then brightening up, he continued:</p> - -<p>“Let me ask pardon for my delay, but the truth is -I was both nonplused and pleased by the news brought -by that gentleman, Raymond. He is a State detective, -an officer of the law, and brought me this letter, which -I will read to you.”</p> - -<p>This the colonel did, the two listening most attentively:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_239">[239]</span></p> - -<p>“This,” he continued, “is a requisition from the -Governor of Illinois for the prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>This also was read, the surgeon and the scout making -no comment. The colonel then continued:</p> - -<p>“There seems to be in this a reflection upon my -course in having at once tried this man by military -court, which sentenced him to death upon the gallows. -Out here on this border my word is law, and the outlaw -has had a price set upon his head for breaking -the laws of the land, for committing crimes untold, -and he richly deserves his fate.</p> - -<p>“The proof against him was perfect, and I sentenced -him to death by hanging, at a certain date. -Now, it must be that the general gave out my report -to the papers, the man was recognized as an old offender, -who had broken the laws of the State of -Illinois, and the State has sought to gain possession of -him, to try him by civil process.</p> - -<p>“Now he may, or may not be hanged, according -to the law known by his lawyer, or his brilliancy as an -orator, for most cases hang on these two things. Of -course, if acquitted, he will be back here soon after, -again working the trails as a road-agent. If sent to -prison he will be pardoned out by the next governor,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_240">[240]</span> -who may be of his political creed, who hopes to gain -a few votes thereby for his clemency, and, if hanged, -then he saves us the trouble of swinging him up.</p> - -<p>“Now, this is the point that pleases me, for, from -certain reasons I cannot explain, I am very glad that -I will not be the one to have to sign his death-warrant, -or send him to the gallows. That is an honor -I shall gladly yield to the Governor of Illinois.</p> - -<p>“But, Surgeon Powell, you spoke last week of desiring -to run to Chicago upon important business of -your own, and I desire to say that I will make you the -bearer of my despatch to the general, giving all the -papers in the matter, which can be used against this -man upon his trial there, and which will go far toward -hanging him, a result most devoutly to be desired.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you, Colonel Dunwoody, and I appreciate -the honor.”</p> - -<p>“You are to see the State’s attorney and place him -in possession of all the facts of the case against this -outlaw, and yet this is to remain a secret, as I do not -wish to be thought to influence the case, though, of -course, the just deserts of the man is hanging. You -can therefore get ready to return with Detective Raymond -and his prisoner, and be especially careful that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_241">[241]</span> -he does not escape them, for he is no ordinary man -and they may not be accustomed to the ways of this -wild land.”</p> - -<p>“I will endeavor to obey your orders in all things, -Colonel Dunwoody.”</p> - -<p>“I know that well, Doctor Powell. But say nothing -of your going, only be ready to start on the -coach with the prisoner and his guards.”</p> - -<p>“I will, sir.”</p> - -<p>After a few other words of instruction from Colonel -Dunwoody, Surgeon Powell left headquarters accompanied -by Buffalo Bill. The scout accompanied the -doctor to his quarters, and there seemed to be something -upon his mind. At last he said:</p> - -<p>“Frank, did you see those papers?”</p> - -<p>“What papers?”</p> - -<p>“The letter from the general and the requisition of -the governor?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I saw them.”</p> - -<p>“I thought I noticed you reading them once.”</p> - -<p>“I did. But why?”</p> - -<p>“Were they regular?”</p> - -<p>“Perfectly.”</p> - -<p>“Seal, letter heading, and all?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_242">[242]</span></p> - -<p>“Everything was regular, Bill. Why do you ask?”</p> - -<p>“I do not know, unless being a scout detective makes -me suspicious of everything nowadays.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, and I feel the same way in many things.”</p> - -<p>“Well, you are going along, so if there is anything -wrong I will be glad to know that you will be on -hand to thwart it.”</p> - -<p>“What do you really suspect, Bill?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t know, but I am as suspicious as a coyote.”</p> - -<p>“Well, as you say, I will be along and will keep -my eyes open, and I will go prepared for work. I am -glad that you gave me a hint, for I was not at all suspicious -in that quarter, I admit, and now I will be -upon my guard.”</p> - -<p>As the scout turned away to go to his quarters Frank -Powell looked after him a moment and muttered:</p> - -<p>“Yes, Bill, you have set me to thinking.”</p> - -<p>The coming of the three detectives, with an intimation -that a mistake had been made, and with a requisition -for the prisoner from the Governor of Illinois -spread quickly around the fort.</p> - -<p>It ran like wildfire through the officers’ quarters, -the barracks, and the settlement. Rumors of all kinds -were flying about, that Colonel Dunwoody had overstepped<span class="pagenum" id="Page_243">[243]</span> -his authority in trying the outlaw chief and -his men by military court, and that he would meet with -a strong reprimand if not something more severe.</p> - -<p>The prisoner, rumor had it, was a convict, escaped -from the State’s Prison of Illinois, and if he had been -executed much valuable information which he possessed -would have been forever lost.</p> - -<p>It was said that he was to be saved by turning -State’s evidence, and the Governor of Illinois had -raised such a rumpus about the trial of the prisoner by -the military, no matter what his crimes on the border -might have been, that the secretary of war had hastily -taken action in the matter and demanded that the outlaw -be given up.</p> - -<p>These and innumerable other rumors were flying -about, and it was not long before the prisoner heard -the news.</p> - -<p>Colonel Dunwoody, knowing the facts of the case, -was serene as to the result, and was more than glad to -give the prisoner up.</p> - -<p>“I could never win that lovely girl by offering her -the hand in marriage which had signed the death-sentence -of her brother, for whom her love is almost -idolatrous,” he said to himself.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_244">[244]</span></p> - -<p>Then, as he had heard the various rumors afloat, -he mused with a smile:</p> - -<p>“How little it takes to start a lie upon its rounds. -A letter from the general and this requisition from the -Governor of Illinois, was all there was to cause a hundred -idle tales to be set afloat. Well, I shall be glad -when the prisoner is off my hands, and I trust he will -be hanged—— Well, orderly?”</p> - -<p>“The prisoner, sir, Silk Lasso Sam, requests an interview -with you, colonel.”</p> - -<p>“Indeed? I suppose he has already been posted as -to what is going on. It is as hard to keep a State secret -as it is to find out a woman’s exact age. Say -that I will come to his cabin, orderly.”</p> - -<p>The orderly disappeared and soon after Colonel -Dunwoody started for the prison of the outlaw. He -passed Nina de Sutro on the way, and said:</p> - -<p>“You look pale, Miss Nina, and I was sorry to hear -of your indisposition.”</p> - -<p>“It was of little consequence, colonel; but may I -ask you if it is true that this outlaw is to be surrendered -to the State of Illinois?”</p> - -<p>“It is true, Miss Nina.”</p> - -<p>“When does he go?”</p> - -<p>“On the next coach day.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_245">[245]</span></p> - -<p>“Then he will escape death?”</p> - -<p>“Here, at least, though, perhaps, he may be hanged -by civil process of law.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you, sir,” and Nina passed on, while there -flashed through her mind great joy at being relieved -of having to carry out the bold plan she had formed -for the rescue of the man.</p> - -<p>“I think they will hang him in Illinois, and he will -hardly expect me to rescue him from the civil authorities. -But I shall never feel at rest until his neck is -stretched. I hope that he will attempt to escape on the -way, and be shot by the guards.”</p> - -<p>The colonel, meanwhile, met, as he strolled along -the bluffs, Clarice Carr. He stopped for a moment’s -talk with her, and waited, supposing she would ask -him, also, about the prisoner. But she did not.</p> - -<p>“Where is your curiosity, Miss Clarice?” he asked, -with a smile.</p> - -<p>“I have no idle curiosity, colonel.”</p> - -<p>“This is remarkable, for when I went to the adjutant’s -this morning I met seven ladies, all of whom -asked me about this prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam. On my -way back a dozen were lying in ambush for me, and I -had to tell the story over again. Just now I was waylaid -by Miss De Sutro, and she questioned me like a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_246">[246]</span> -Philadelphia lawyer, and now you have no questions -to ask.”</p> - -<p>“I have not, sir, for I am not in command of Pioneer -Post.”</p> - -<p>“Well, I do not know whether you are or not, -for you command about two-thirds of the officers,” -was the gallant reply.</p> - -<p>“Yet I am under orders myself, colonel.”</p> - -<p>“And obey, I have noticed; but let me tell you that -I am more than glad to have this man Arden taken -out of my keeping, for I did not relish having to -order him hanged.”</p> - -<p>“I am glad, too, sir, on his sister’s account; but I -trust that he will not be allowed to go free through -some trick of the law, for, though I do not believe in -capital punishment, still such a man should be imprisoned -for life, I think.”</p> - -<p>“And I agree with you, though if hanging is justifiable -he richly deserves such a fate. I am now going -to see him, and I will drop in and see you on my way -back,” and the colonel passed on his way.</p> - -<p>The prisoner arose as Colonel Dunwoody entered -the cabin and bowed courteously.</p> - -<p>“Pardon me, sir, but you see that I cannot be hospitable<span class="pagenum" id="Page_247">[247]</span> -even in my own house,” he said, with a sad -smile.</p> - -<p>“Resume your seat, Arden, and tell me why you desired -this interview?”</p> - -<p>“I have heard, sir, that a requisition has been sent -to you for my body, by the Governor of Illinois. May -I ask if it is true, Colonel Dunwoody?”</p> - -<p>“It is, sir.”</p> - -<p>“There is, then, a conflict of authority, it would -seem, between the military and the civil authorities -regarding me?”</p> - -<p>“Well, no, only there were crimes alleged to have -been committed by you in the State of Illinois, which -the governor wishes to try you for. My authority -is here, for your crimes committed upon the border, -but this requisition takes precedence in that you are -said to be an escaped convict and your crimes were -committed against the State of Illinois prior to your -lawless deeds on this frontier. That is all there is in -it, Mr. Arden.”</p> - -<p>“I thank you, sir; but is there no possibility that -I can be kept here for my execution and not be sent -back to Illinois?”</p> - -<p>“I can see none.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_248">[248]</span></p> - -<p>“You could not assume the responsibility of detaining -me?”</p> - -<p>“I could not, and, to be frank with you, Mr. Arden, -I am more than glad that my hands will be clear of -your execution.”</p> - -<p>“Yet you offered a reward for my body, dead or -alive?”</p> - -<p>“Very true in the discharge of my duty, and were -you my own brother I would have you hanged upon -the day set. You are now to go out of my charge, -and I am glad of it.”</p> - -<p>“You do not appear to be revengeful, Colonel Dunwoody?”</p> - -<p>“I am not, I hope, for it is a feeling one should be -above allowing a place in his heart, from my standpoint.”</p> - -<p>“May I ask your particular reason for being glad -to send me to Illinois?”</p> - -<p>“I wish for the misery and misfortune of no man. -You richly deserve your fate, and, as the laws of our -land punish by hanging the crimes of which you have -been proven guilty, I sincerely hope that you will not -escape punishment, and yet it would be better to give -you a life sentence to my mind, as something far more -severe to bear than hanging.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_249">[249]</span></p> - -<p>“And you will not strain a point and keep me here, -sir?”</p> - -<p>“No, and why do you dread to go to Illinois?”</p> - -<p>“I shall be taken there to be hanged, sir.”</p> - -<p>“And remaining here you will be much more quickly -hanged.”</p> - -<p>“Still, I would prefer to remain here, sir, than to -trust myself to the mercy of an Illinois court.”</p> - -<p>“They can do no more against you than I have -done, Mr. Arden—condemn you to death.”</p> - -<p>“There is another thing I wish to speak to you -about, Colonel Dunwoody.”</p> - -<p>“Well, sir?”</p> - -<p>“My sister.”</p> - -<p>“Ah!”</p> - -<p>“I wish to talk to you, sir, of Ruth.”</p> - -<p>“I am wholly at your service, Mr. Arden, and am -glad that you spoke of your sister.”</p> - -<p>“You were kind to her when she was here, sir, -and she appreciated it, as I also do. But I wish to -disarm in your mind, Colonel Dunwoody, any thought -that Ruth is in any way connected with my evil life.”</p> - -<p>“My dear, sir, I would no more connect that pure, -angelic girl with such a devil as you have proven yourself -to be than I would compare darkness and sunlight,”<span class="pagenum" id="Page_250">[250]</span> -said the colonel, suddenly losing his urbane -manner and becoming vehement. The prisoner smiled -and said:</p> - -<p>“I agree with you perfectly, sir; Ruth and I are as -different as light and darkness. But I wished to say -that I was well born, my name being a proud and honored -one until I disgraced it, and my parents dying -left their fortune to my sister, for I was disinherited -by my father, and very justly so.</p> - -<p>“Ruth devoted her life to my reformation and -failed, and the noble girl will mourn deeply the fate -which I must some day suffer. She is her own mistress, -possesses a large fortune, and yet I would feel -that she has one who would kindly look after her when -I am gone, and I am going to ask you to let me give -you the address of our old home, where a letter sent -will reach her, and beg that you will at least keep the -cold and cruel world from making her suffer too deeply -upon my account, if it is within your power to do so.”</p> - -<p>“Mr. Arden, I will tell you that it will be my greatest -pleasure to do as you request, for when she was -here I took a deep interest in your sister, and formed -a friendship for her which will be lasting and sincere. -I regret keenly your misfortunes, sir, and wish -that I could help you, but it is not in my power to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_251">[251]</span> -do so. The detectives sent by the governor are here -for you, and they will take you with them the day -after to-morrow. Good-by, Mr. Arden, and may -Heaven have mercy upon you.”</p> - -<p>With this the colonel turned away, and the prisoner -was alone once more.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_252">[252]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XXI">CHAPTER XXI.<br /> -<span class="fs70">ACCUSED.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Colonel Dunwoody was true to his word, and returned -to his quarters by the house of Major Lester. -Clarice opened the door for him, and he said pleasantly:</p> - -<p>“Thanks, for I am in full retreat, and this is a haven -of refuge for me. Glance up and down the rows and -you’ll discover several ambushing-parties lying in wait -for me, and I have barely escaped the petticoats upon -my trail by dodging in here. I am very much in -demand to-day by the ladies, Miss Clarice.”</p> - -<p>Clarice laughed at beholding, as the colonel had -said, the petticoat ambushers in squads ready to head -him off and learn the facts regarding the prisoner.</p> - -<p>As none of the officers had yet been made acquainted -with just how matters stood, of course the ladies could -not learn from their husbands what was really the -status of affairs.</p> - -<p>The colonel having thrown himself into an easy -chair, said:</p> - -<p>“Well, Miss Clarice, I had a long talk with that -very wonderful man, Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_253">[253]</span></p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, and I suppose found him unrepentant, -as he was upon the single visit I made to him?”</p> - -<p>“He was unrepentant, yes; but did I understand you -to say that you had been but once to see him, Miss -Clarice?”</p> - -<p>“That is all, sir.”</p> - -<p>“That is strange.”</p> - -<p>“What is, may I ask, sir!”</p> - -<p>“That you visited him only once.”</p> - -<p>“That is all, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Put your thinking-cap on, Miss Clarice, and see -if you do not recall going there more than once.”</p> - -<p>“I need not think, sir, for there can be no doubt, -as such a circumstance as another visit I could not -forget, as I shall never cease to remember the one call -I made upon him through a sense of duty.”</p> - -<p>“My dear Miss Clarice, I cannot but take your word -for it, but you know all appertaining to the prisoner -is reported to me.”</p> - -<p>“Doubtless, sir.”</p> - -<p>“And you are reported as having been to the cabin -to visit Silk Lasso Sam on two separate days and occasions.”</p> - -<p>“The report is wrong, sir.”</p> - -<p>“It furthermore gives the time of your visits and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_254">[254]</span> -the length of time you remained. May I ask how long -you remained the first visit?”</p> - -<p>“The only visit, you mean, sir?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“I remained just seventeen minutes.”</p> - -<p>“And there was no second visit?”</p> - -<p>“None, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Then I shall at once see the officer that made this -false report, which is to the effect that you passed the -sentinel and remained in the prisoner’s cabin just one -hour and ten minutes.”</p> - -<p>An indignant flash came into the eyes of the young -girl at this charge, and she said with some show of -anger:</p> - -<p>“Colonel Dunwoody, you know me well enough to -understand that I have nothing to hide, that there is -no treachery or deceit in my composition, and I will -esteem it a favor if you will bring the officer and sentinel -who made this report to confront me.”</p> - -<p>“I shall go at once, Miss Clarice, to sift this matter,” -and the colonel hastened away.</p> - -<p>He went direct to his quarters and sent for the officer -who had made the report, and the sentinel who -was on duty at the time of the alleged visit of the girl -to the prison.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_255">[255]</span></p> - -<p>He also ordered the sergeant and corporal of the -guard, who were on duty on that day, to report to -him immediately. The result was that the officers -and soldiers very soon appeared at headquarters, and -the colonel asked:</p> - -<p>“Captain Franklin, who was on duty at the prisoner -Silk Lasso Sam’s cabin when it is said Miss Carr visited -him three days ago?”</p> - -<p>“McCarey, sir, was the sentinel.”</p> - -<p>“Did you see the lady yourself, sir?”</p> - -<p>“I did, sir, for she passed me and bowed.”</p> - -<p>“It was Miss Carr?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p>“You will vouch for this?”</p> - -<p>“Well, Colonel Dunwoody, I will not do that, for -the lady was veiled.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! and yet you supposed it was Miss Carr?”</p> - -<p>“I am very sure of it, sir, for she was dressed as -Miss Carr dresses, and wore that very pretty red sombrero, -with its embroidery, which she wears.”</p> - -<p>“Thank you, Captain Franklin.”</p> - -<p>The sergeant was next called; and reported that Miss -Carr had passed him, and he had bowed to her, when -she was upon her way to the prison. The corporal<span class="pagenum" id="Page_256">[256]</span> -had also spoken to her, and Sentinel McCarey stated -that the lady had passed him, saying simply:</p> - -<p>“I am Miss Carr, and I suppose you have your -orders regarding me.”</p> - -<p>“She was in the prison how long, McCarey?”</p> - -<p>“Just one hour and ten minutes, sir.”</p> - -<p>The officer and soldiers were then dismissed, with -orders not to speak of why they had been called to -headquarters, and the colonel at once sent a note to -Clarice, asking if she would come over to headquarters, -and ask Major and Mrs. Lester to accompany her.</p> - -<p>In a short while after the note was sent, the major -arrived with the two ladies.</p> - -<p>Clarice saw at a glance that the colonel was greatly -worried about something.</p> - -<p>“Miss Clarice, I have received the report of Captain -Franklin, the sergeant and corporal of the guard, -and the sentinel on duty at the time of this alleged visit -of yours to the prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Colonel Dunwoody, and what do they say?”</p> - -<p>“The captain states that he met you, and the others -report the same.”</p> - -<p>“This is a very remarkable statement, Colonel Dunwoody.”</p> - -<p>“I asked Captain Franklin if he would vouch for its<span class="pagenum" id="Page_257">[257]</span> -being you, and he said that you were veiled, and also -the others made the same statement, the sentinels saying -that the lady in question reported herself to be -Miss Carr.”</p> - -<p>“This was at what time, Colonel Dunwoody?” asked -the major, considerably amazed.</p> - -<p>The colonel looked at the paper in his hand and -gave the time.</p> - -<p>“Why, Clarice was absent with us in the carriage at -that very time, colonel; in fact, the whole of that day,” -the major said.</p> - -<p>“Major, I have not for once doubted Miss Clarice -in her statement to me, and I only wish to find out who -it is that has visited the prisoner, impersonating Miss -Clarice to do so.”</p> - -<p>“I cannot understand it,” the major replied.</p> - -<p>“The lady wore Miss Carr’s red, silver-embroidered -sombrero, her dress, and her veil.”</p> - -<p>Clarice gave a start at this, and put her fingers upon -her lips to silence Mrs. Lester. But in vain, for out -it came:</p> - -<p>“Why, colonel, that could have been no one else -than Nina de Sutro, for she borrowed that red sombrero -as a pattern for some embroidery for one for<span class="pagenum" id="Page_258">[258]</span> -herself, and on that day, while Mrs. De Sutro has a -dress the counterpart of the one Clarice often wears.”</p> - -<p>“Miss Clarice, you and Miss De Sutro are about -the same size, I believe?” said the colonel.</p> - -<p>“I have nothing whatever to say, Colonel Dunwoody, -for I have told you that I made no second -visit to the prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>“I hope you will pardon me, Miss Clarice, for the -annoyance I have been compelled to give you.”</p> - -<p>“There is no need to ask my pardon, colonel, for -you have not offended and have done no wrong. I can -well understand your position, sir, and I have no feeling -whatever in the matter, other than to regret that -I have been imposed upon.”</p> - -<p>“As I regret it. Miss Clarice, and I assure you that -Captain Franklin, the sergeant, corporal, and sentinel -shall at once be made acquainted with the fact that the -visitor to Silk Lasso Sam was not yourself.”</p> - -<p>After a short visit the major and the ladies left the -headquarters, and, putting on his hat, Colonel Dunwoody -directed his steps to the home of Lieutenant-Colonel -De Sutro.</p> - -<p>He asked to see Miss De Sutro, and Nina soon entered -the room, looking very pretty in a morning-dress.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_259">[259]</span></p> - -<p>“This is an honor I appreciate, Colonel Dunwoody, -a morning call from you,” she said in her sweet way.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps, Miss De Sutro, you will appreciate it less -when I ask you why you have been visiting the prisoner, -Silk Lasso Sam, without permission, and masquerading -to the detriment of another lady to do so?”</p> - -<p>The colonel’s voice was strangely stern, and Nina -de Sutro had never seen so severe an expression upon -his face. She paled and flushed by turns, and it was -full a quarter of a minute before she replied.</p> - -<p>Then she put on a look of injured innocence, and -said in a tearful voice:</p> - -<p>“Oh, Colonel Dunwoody, you are angry with me, -and when I meant to do no harm. I only wished to -see that poor desperate man again and bid him farewell, -and see if I could not do him only a little act of -kindness. I had just been given by Mrs. De Sutro -the dress so like Miss Carr’s, and which was too small -for her, and I put on the red sombrero Clarice wears, -and wore them without thinking of the harm they -might do.”</p> - -<p>“And yet you spoke of yourself as Miss Carr?”</p> - -<p>“Those who saw me called me Miss Carr, and, being -veiled, I carried out the joke. I am so very sorry, and -I will go at once to Miss Carr and beg her pardon,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_260">[260]</span> -while I will do all in my power to make amends for -my wrong-doing.”</p> - -<p>“Then see Captain Franklin also, Miss De Sutro, -and explain the affair to him, as also to the sergeant, -corporal, and sentinel.”</p> - -<p>“How can I do this, sir?”</p> - -<p>“I cannot advise you, Miss De Sutro, and I believe -you are clever enough to extricate yourself from this -position without further advice from me, and also to -save Miss Carr from being misunderstood.”</p> - -<p>“I will do as you wish, sir. But you are angry with -me, Colonel Dunwoody?”</p> - -<p>“No, I am sorry that you placed yourself and Miss -Carr in a false position,” was the reply, and when the -colonel left the room Nina de Sutro threw herself -upon the floor and burst into tears.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_261">[261]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XXII">CHAPTER XXII.<br /> -<span class="fs70">BUFFALO BILL’S MAD RIDE.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Horseshoe Ned, always an important personage in -the eyes of many, was particularly so on the morning -of his departure for the East with no less a person as -a passenger than Silk Lasso Sam.</p> - -<p>He had told over and over again the story of his -last run out, and had brought with him as evidence of -Miss Arden’s deadly shooting the outlaw, wounded in -both arms, who had been placed under guard in the -hospital.</p> - -<p>Now he was to go out with Silk Lasso Sam and the -three detectives. He had another passenger, whom -he had no knowledge of, but the box-seat had been engaged -for some one who was to go along.</p> - -<p>The coach rattled up to its starting-place, the mail -was put aboard and instructions given, and the three -detectives stood ready to receive their prisoner.</p> - -<p>Presently a squad of soldiers was seen approaching, -and in their midst was the tall form of the outlaw -chief. He walked upright with soldierly step, and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_262">[262]</span> -looked about him as he halted at the stage-station -with calm indifference.</p> - -<p>A very large crowd had gathered to see him off, -and, as the guard halted, they were anxious to get a -look at his face.</p> - -<p>The officer in charge, after coming to a halt, asked:</p> - -<p>“Is Mr. Raymond, the detective, here?”</p> - -<p>Henry Raymond stepped forward and said:</p> - -<p>“I am Detective Henry Raymond, sir.”</p> - -<p>“I have orders to surrender into your keeping this -prisoner, known as Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>“I am ready to receive him, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Then please sign this receipt.”</p> - -<p>The officer drew from his belt a paper which the -detective carefully read, and, stepping into the stage-office, -signed.</p> - -<p>“Thank you, sir,” said the officer. “The prisoner -is now in your charge,” and, ordering the sergeant to -march the guard back to the guard-house, he turned -upon his heel and walked leisurely away, as though -there was no more interest in the case for him.</p> - -<p>The detective ordered the prisoner to enter the -coach, assisting him, as both his hands and feet were -manacled, the others followed, and Henry Raymond -called out:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_263">[263]</span></p> - -<p>“All ready, driver.”</p> - -<p>“I’m all ready, too, but I has orders to wait a few -minutes.”</p> - -<p>But a moment after Surgeon Powell hastily approached, -and, leaping to the box-seat, said:</p> - -<p>“Let her go, Ned.”</p> - -<p>“The seat was for you, then, sir?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Then she goes.”</p> - -<p>The whip cracked and the team went rapidly away -down the hill toward the stockade gate.</p> - -<p>Soon after the stage rolled out of sight in the distance, -and Horseshoe Ned, having given the idea to the -uninitiated in stage-travel that he kept up that speed -all the way, now drew the horses down to a slow pace -for the long drive ahead.</p> - -<p>Hardly had the coach disappeared when Buffalo -Bill walked up to headquarters. The colonel, with a -relieved look upon his face, was seated upon the piazza -talking with Captain Caruth.</p> - -<p>“Ah! Cody, any news?” asked the colonel.</p> - -<p>“Not any, sir; but I came to ask leave to go on a -trail for a few days.”</p> - -<p>“Any definite point in view, Cody?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_264">[264]</span></p> - -<p>“Well, no, colonel, only I thought I would like to -follow Horseshoe Ned’s coach.”</p> - -<p>“You have some motive for asking this, Cody?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Out with it.”</p> - -<p>“The coach carried a very valuable freight, sir, in -the person of Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, and you think that he may escape?”</p> - -<p>“Well, sir, it has been rumored about that he was -to go by this coach, and it may be that an attempt at -rescue might be made.”</p> - -<p>“Impossible.”</p> - -<p>“Why impossible, sir?”</p> - -<p>“He is well guarded by three determined men, while -Surgeon Powell and Horseshoe Ned are along, and I -do not believe a force could be raised at short notice -that would dare attack those five.”</p> - -<p>“Still, sir, Silk Lasso Sam has many friends, and -those who sought to curry favor with him might attempt -a rescue.”</p> - -<p>“There is something in this.”</p> - -<p>“There is much in it, I should say, colonel, and -if you wish I will take some troopers and escort the -coach past the danger-line,” Captain Caruth said.</p> - -<p>“It would be a hard ride for the troop to overtake<span class="pagenum" id="Page_265">[265]</span> -the coach now, Captain Caruth, and Cody is ready, I -see, for the trail, so he can go.”</p> - -<p>“I will start at once, sir,” was the scout’s reply, and -he saluted and walked rapidly back to his quarters.</p> - -<p>Anticipating that the colonel would grant his request -for him to follow the coach, Buffalo Bill had -already prepared for his going, and had his horse -awaiting him, the very best animal that he had, and -he was never known to have an inferior one.</p> - -<p>Ten minutes after his request was granted the -scout was riding out of the stockade, and once out -of sight of the fort, went on at a very rapid pace, for -the coach had all of ten miles the start of him.</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill’s long life upon the border had made -him watchful, cautious, nervy, and cunning. He had -all the attributes of a great borderman, and he could -bring into play his every talent and energy when it -was needed.</p> - -<p>He had a suspicion that constantly grew upon him -that there might be a rescue of the prisoner attempted.</p> - -<p>Did not Bonnie Belle know something, he wondered, -of this intended requisition from the governor, -and had she not prepared for the rescue when the -opportunity offered?</p> - -<p>Might she not meet the detectives on the way with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_266">[266]</span> -their prisoner, and with unlimited money at her command -gain by strategy and bribery what could not -be done by force?</p> - -<p>So argued the scout, and that was why he wished to -go on the trail of the coach.</p> - -<p>He rode rapidly until out of sight of the fort. -Then he dismounted, gave his horse a drink of water -at a stream, tightened his saddle-girths, and, looking -at his watch, said:</p> - -<p>“Just two hours since Ned left. That means, as he -drives, all of twelve miles from this point. I should -overtake him about Deep Dell Brook or a little beyond, -only I do not wish to get close enough to be seen -by them.”</p> - -<p>Mounting, he put his horse into a swinging canter -and held him to it for miles, when he reached the -country where the hills grew steep and long.</p> - -<p>Two hours after leaving the fort he halted for a -short rest and said:</p> - -<p>“The coach is about six miles ahead now, I take -it, if Ned is on schedule time.”</p> - -<p>Again he resumed his way and held on until he descended -into Deep Dell Brook.</p> - -<p>Just as he halted his horse for water, confident that<span class="pagenum" id="Page_267">[267]</span> -the coach could not be very far from him then, his -eyes fell upon the trail beyond.</p> - -<p>There was something in it which caught his eye. -It was a revolver. He spurred toward it, dismounted, -and cried:</p> - -<p>“It’s Frank Powell’s revolver!”</p> - -<p>He looked about him and saw tracks of horses, -blood-stains, footprints, and the evidence of a struggle. -Instantly he leaped into his saddle, and his horse -was sent flying on up the hill.</p> - -<p>A mile ahead he caught sight of the coach, and -it was driving rapidly. He had no time to lose in -overtaking it, so, drawing his revolver, he fired several -shots.</p> - -<p>The sound reached the ears of Horseshoe Ned -who glanced back, saw who it was, and, wheeling his -team in a broad space of the trail, drove back to meet -the scout with all speed.</p> - -<p>He soon drew rein, and the scout dashed up and -leaped from his horse.</p> - -<p>“Ho, Ned, what is the matter?” called out Buffalo -Bill.</p> - -<p>“Matter enough, Bill, for the doc, the detectives, -and the prisoner is gone.”</p> - -<p>“Gone where?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_268">[268]</span></p> - -<p>“Don’t know.”</p> - -<p>“Why don’t you know?” angrily said the scout.</p> - -<p>In answer Horseshoe Ned turned the back of his -head and said:</p> - -<p>“See there, Bill.”</p> - -<p>“It’s a wound.”</p> - -<p>“It’s something.”</p> - -<p>“What has happened?”</p> - -<p>“Durned ef I know, for I’m kinder dazed like.”</p> - -<p>“Tell me what you can.”</p> - -<p>“I will.”</p> - -<p>“You were held up?”</p> - -<p>“I don’t know,” and the driver passed his hand -across his head and said:</p> - -<p>“It pains me, Bill.”</p> - -<p>“Come, Ned, get down from your box, for there -is a brook here, and let me dress that wound. I have -a needle and thread and can stitch it up for you, for -it is an ugly-looking gash. Then tell me all you can -remember.”</p> - -<p>The driver obeyed without a word, allowed the -scout to take the stitches in the wound without flinching -and fixed his handkerchief over it, wet with arnica -which Buffalo Bill always carried with him.</p> - -<p>“It feels better now, Bill, thankee.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_269">[269]</span></p> - -<p>“Oh, you’ll come round all right soon,” and the -scout said no more, for he did not wish to hurry the -driver and perhaps fret him in the condition in which -he then was.</p> - -<p>After a few moments of silence, Ned said:</p> - -<p>“I think it was a rock, Bill.”</p> - -<p>“What was?”</p> - -<p>“That struck me.”</p> - -<p>“Ah! and it was at Deep Dell Brook?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, the horses were drinkin’ thar, and doc and -me was talkin’, when suddenly came a blow that -knocked me clear off the box, for I was down on the -ground just out of the stream when I came round. -The team was standing near me, just waitin’ like -humans for me ter come round, and when I tried to -git up I found I was uncommon dizzy.</p> - -<p>“But I did git up at last, and then I see thet ther -mail-bags was gone and I scrambled up to my box -as best I could and come on. I don’t know no more -about it than you does, Bill, save that thar is one of -them detectives dead inside the coach, and he ’pears -to hev been robbed, too, for I recommember thet he -hed a watch and chain.”</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill sprang quickly to the coach door, threw -it open, and there he beheld a dead man.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_270">[270]</span></p> - -<p>It was Henry Raymond. There was a bullet wound -in his heart.</p> - -<p>There was evidence that he had also been robbed, -though in searching through the pockets of the man -he found a bundle of papers of which he at once took -possession.</p> - -<p>He mounted to the top of the coach and saw there -red stains and indications of a struggle. The grip-sack -of Surgeon Powell and the baggage of the prisoner -and the detective were also missing.</p> - -<p>At last Buffalo Bill said, as though at a loss to -know what to do:</p> - -<p>“Ned?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Bill.”</p> - -<p>“You are able to drive on to the station?”</p> - -<p>“I am.”</p> - -<p>“Then continue on your way, and report your having -been held up on the road, and all that you can -remember that occurred.”</p> - -<p>“I will.”</p> - -<p>“I must return to the fort at all speed, and I -am going to take one of your horses, to enable me -to give mine a rest, for I shall stake him out in the -Deep Dell Brook Valley, for the trail is to be taken<span class="pagenum" id="Page_271">[271]</span> -up from there. You can rig one horse in the lead, -can you not?”</p> - -<p>“Easy, to oblige you, Bill, for I sees that you is -hot for scalps.”</p> - -<p>“I am, so give me your best horse.”</p> - -<p>“I’ll do it.”</p> - -<p>“If I kill him I’ll replace him, but I can make good -time to the fort, make my report, have my scouts and -a troop follow, and ride a fresh horse back to Deep -Dell Brook. There I will find my horse well rested, -and, leaving the other animal for the scouts to pick -up, I can get along on the trail of the outlaws who did -this deed a long way before night, marking my way -for those coming after me to follow rapidly.”</p> - -<p>“You’ve got ter do some tall riding, Buffalo Bill.”</p> - -<p>“All right, I’ll do it, for remember, my best pard, -Frank Powell, is either dead or a prisoner.”</p> - -<p>“That’s so. Take the roan mare, Bill. She’s an -all-day animal, fast and willing.”</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill hastily threw the harness off of the -roan mare, put his saddle and bridle on her, and, bidding -Horseshoe Ned good-by, led his own horse down -to a secluded spot upon Deep Dell Brook. There he -staked him out, and, leaping into the saddle, sent the -roan mare off like an arrow.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_272">[272]</span></p> - -<p>He had just twenty-five miles to go to reach the -fort, and in two hours and a half he dashed through -the stockade gate, and up to the colonel’s quarters, -the gallant roan staggering under him, and with a -groan dropping dead as the scout sprang from his -saddle.</p> - -<p>The colonel heard of his rapid coming, and met him -on the piazza, where there were a number of officers -and ladies, among the latter Clarice Carr and Nina -de Sutro.</p> - -<p>“Colonel Dunwoody, I have to report overtaking -the coach a mile beyond Deep Dell Brook, sir, and -found Horseshoe Ned half-dazed from a wound in his -head, made, I believe, by a rock, and inside the stage -the dead body of Detective Raymond, shot through -the heart.</p> - -<p>“He had been robbed, as also was the coach of the -mail and the luggage it carried, while Surgeon Powell, -the prisoner, and the other two detectives were missing.</p> - -<p>“There was evidence of a severe struggle, sir, and -so I took one of Ned’s horses and rode back, leaving -mine to rest, while, as I came through the gate I -ordered another horse which I will return on at once -so as to take the trail before night.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_273">[273]</span></p> - -<p>“With your permission, sir, I would like to take a -dozen of my men, and ask for Captain Caruth with -a score of his troopers to follow me, for I will mark -my trail well, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Cody, you are worth a hundred men at any time, -and I can now understand your riding your horse to -death. There comes Texas Jack with another animal -for you, so give him your orders and do you start -back at once, while your scouts can follow, and Captain -Caruth will take his entire troop. There must be -no mistake about catching those fellows who have -been guilty of this outrage.”</p> - -<p>With a salute to the colonel Buffalo Bill turned to -his fresh horse, Texas Jack having taken the saddle -and bridle from the dead animal and placed them upon -the one he had led up for his chief.</p> - -<p>“Jack, get twelve of the men and provisions in -plenty and follow me at once to Deep Dell Brook, -where Captain Caruth and his troop are coming also.”</p> - -<p>“We will be there, Bill,” was the answer of Texas -Jack.</p> - -<p>Dropping into the saddle, with a wave of his hand, -Buffalo Bill dashed away like the wind.</p> - -<p>“Deep Dell Brook in two hours at that pace, and -another dead horse,” said Texas Jack as he saw his<span class="pagenum" id="Page_274">[274]</span> -chief dash away like the wind, settling himself in his -saddle as he started down the hill, as though it really -was his intention to reach the scene of the tragedy -in two hours or kill the horse he rode.</p> - -<p>The scouts were ready fifteen minutes after the -departure of Buffalo Bill, and within half an hour the -troop of Captain Caruth rode out of quarters on their -path.</p> - -<p>The scouts, twelve dashing fellows under Texas -Jack, had settled down to a quick trot, and were just -disappearing from sight in the distance when Captain -Caruth started off with his men.</p> - -<p>It was an hour before sunset when the scouts -reached the Deep Dell Brook. They threw themselves -from their horses to give them a rest, and they set -about looking for “signs.”</p> - -<p>The first thing they discovered was the horse ridden -by Buffalo Bill. The animal was standing dead-beat -in the stream, his appearance indicating that -Buffalo Bill had gotten there with ample time to be -far on the trail of the outlaws by that time.</p> - -<p>Then they discovered the signs of the struggle -where the coach had been halted, and down the stream -led the trail.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_275">[275]</span></p> - -<p>Not far below was a stick in the top of which was -a slip of paper. Taking it, Texas Jack read in his -chief’s well-known hand:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“There were mounted outlaws awaiting the coach -at Deep Dell Brook. Their horses were staked out at -the bend below here, and they had camped there all -night.</p> - -<p>“The tracks show nine horses were there, and I -suppose that means as many men. With their prisoners, -Surgeon Powell and the detectives, they can -hardly travel very fast.</p> - -<p>“I shall press rapidly on until dark, marking trail -as I go so that you can follow with considerable speed.</p> - -<p class="pad50pc">“<span class="smcap">Bill.</span>”</p> -</div> - -<p>A courier was sent back by Texas Jack to the ford -with this note, to give to Captain Caruth, and then the -scout pressed on once more at a quick trot.</p> - -<p>All along they saw where Buffalo Bill had marked -the trail, and when at last night came on they were -compelled to halt, but they were glad to know that -Buffalo Bill had had all of two hours more of daylight -than they had.</p> - -<p>A scout was sent back to bring the troopers up to -the camp.</p> - -<p>“Well, Texas Jack, what do you think of the situation?” -asked Captain Caruth, as he sat in his camp -that night, having sent for the scout.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_276">[276]</span></p> - -<p>“Buffalo Bill had three hours of daylight at least, -sir, when he reached the brook, as his horse showed -that he came through at full speed. Then, sir, he had -his own fresh horse to mount there, and the trail of -the robbers he doubtless followed at a run to get as -far as possible before nightfall.</p> - -<p>“The robbers could not have gone half so fast, and -were certainly not expecting pursuit to-day, which -would cause them to go slow. They supposed they -had killed Ned, and were not expecting Cody to be -upon their trail.”</p> - -<p>“Then the chances are, you think, that Buffalo Bill -is not very far behind the band?” asked Captain -Caruth.</p> - -<p>“I do, sir, and we can start just when it is light -enough to see, so that we can keep as close upon -Cody’s heels as possible.”</p> - -<p>“Now, what is your opinion as to where these outlaws -came from?”</p> - -<p>“I pass there, captain, for I supposed that all of -the band of the outlaw chief, Silk Lasso Sam, were -either dead or wiped out. But it seems I am wrong, -sir.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, for these were certainly men who were willing -to come to the rescue of their chief.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_277">[277]</span></p> - -<p>“Yes, sir, and I only hope that no other harm than -being taken prisoner has befallen Surgeon Powell.”</p> - -<p>“So do I.”</p> - -<p>“Yet, Jack, I have such an abiding faith in Surgeon -Powell’s capacity for taking care of himself that -I do not believe that he was born to die with his boots -on.”</p> - -<p>“I hope he can take his time about it, sir, when his -time comes, for no better man did I ever meet, nor -do I care to know,” was the scout’s comment.</p> - -<p>“If he has an enemy, Jack, it is an outlaw, an Indian, -or a villain.”</p> - -<p>“You are right, sir. But we had better get all the -sleep we can, for we will be kept humping it to-morrow, -if Buffalo Bill can find horses to ride.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, he’s a rough and ready rider, and it would -take a score of horses to break him down. Good -night,” and, wrapping his blanket about him, the captain -dropped off to sleep at once.</p> - -<p>Texas Jack had said that all the men could rest, -for he would keep watch, and he started off alone, -leaving the whole camp in deep slumber.</p> - -<p>He, too, had an iron frame, and lantern in hand he -picked out the trail for a distance of some six or seven -miles.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_278">[278]</span></p> - -<p>Then he returned to camp, on foot as he had gone, -and, as it was yet an hour before dawn, aroused the -men so that they could reach the place he had gone to -before daylight, get breakfast, and be ready for the -trail when able to see it.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_279">[279]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XXIII">CHAPTER XXIII.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE COLONEL RECEIVES A LETTER.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Toward sunset of the day the troop and scouts -started to follow Buffalo Bill upon the outlaws’ trail, -a horseman was seen coming rapidly toward the fort.</p> - -<p>He was coming along the trail from the post nearest -above, where there was a more direct and frequent -communication than from Pioneer Post with the East. -It was soon seen that he was a military courier, and -his coming was watched with great interest.</p> - -<p>The news brought by Buffalo Bill had fallen like -a thunderbolt upon those in the fort. The colonel was -more impressed by it than he cared to reveal.</p> - -<p>He naturally supposed that the outlaw chief had -escaped, and what the fate of Surgeon Powell was -no one could tell.</p> - -<p>That his body had not been found was hopeful -that he had not been killed.</p> - -<p>The fate of the other two detectives was uncertain. -What it all meant could only be surmised.</p> - -<p>The colonel could not find it in his heart to connect -Ruth Arden, as he knew her, with this tragic escape<span class="pagenum" id="Page_280">[280]</span> -of her brother. It did not seem like the woman he -had met to plan an escape where death must ensue; -the innocent fall to save the wicked outlaw chief.</p> - -<p>In the fort there was a diversity of opinion, and all -were very freely expressed. Clarice Carr did not -know what to believe, while Nina de Sutro, after -thinking the matter over, said to herself:</p> - -<p>“That is the work of that girl and no one else. -She was determined that her brother should not hang, -and she plotted to have him rescued at all costs. In -some way she learned of his intended removal from -the fort, and so she planned accordingly, and plotted -well.</p> - -<p>“If so, she has put herself in a very unfortunate -position, for she can be looked upon as an accessory. -Oh, that in the mâlée Arden had been killed! How -rejoiced would I be, for then his tongue would be forever -silenced. What a fool I was to allow him to bluff -me as he did.</p> - -<p>“He certainly frightened me terribly by stating that -I could show no marriage-certificate. Neither can -I, but I know the priest that married us; I know the -church well, and I saw it put upon the register. He -thought that I had forgotten, and so forced me to -vow to rescue him.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_281">[281]</span></p> - -<p>“Well, he has escaped, and I only hope that he will -soon be shot, for then will I be free, and a widow. -It is useless for me ever to dream of love with -Colonel Dunwoody now, for I know that he suspects -me. I cannot, I dare not tell him the truth, and, -doing what I did, impersonating Clarice Carr, I cannot -make him understand unless I confess all to him.</p> - -<p>“No, I must go on as best I can and try and wipe -out that mistake of mine from his memory. I shall -make an effort now to win Caruth, and, failing there, -I will turn to Lieutenant Turpin, for he is by no -means bad, and he has prospects of promotion as well -as money. I would like to know what news that -courier brings, for I will be anxious until Buffalo -Bill again returns to the fort.”</p> - -<p>So mused the woman, and with her beauty, wit, -cleverness, and money, it was very certain, if she -could bury Silk Lasso Sam, the world yet had charms -for her which she would make the most of.</p> - -<p>The courier, meanwhile, had reached headquarters, -and, dismounting, had delivered his leather satchel -to Colonel Dunwoody.</p> - -<p>He had come from the upper fort, also under the -command of Colonel Dunwoody, and the officer in -charge there had sent him through as a special, as an<span class="pagenum" id="Page_282">[282]</span> -important paper had come there, addressed to Pioneer -Post.</p> - -<p>The colonel saw two letters, one an official document -and so marked and sealed, the other a personal -communication. Both came from Chicago, the army -headquarters.</p> - -<p>The official letter was first opened and was only -some special orders, and a sanction of the act of Colonel -Dunwoody in having Silk Lasso Sam and his -men so promptly tried and sentenced.</p> - -<p>This was a satisfaction to him, and then he turned -to his letter. It was a personal one from the general, -and read as follows:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">My Dear Dunwoody</span>: If you resist falling in -love with that beautiful girl to whom I gave a letter -to you, then you are indeed destined never to be a -benedick.</p> - -<p>“I am sorry you can do no more for her than to -allow her to see that villain of a brother, who certainly -deserves hanging, and I suppose will be -promptly executed on the day set, as he should be.</p> - -<p>“The young lady did ask me something about the -possibility of her having the civil law take the man -from the military, but I have heard no more of it, so -suppose she made no attempt to do so.</p> - -<p>“You have shown nerve and determination in your -dealing with those border ruffians, and I uphold you -in it.”</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_283">[283]</span></p> - -<p>The letter then spoke of other matters, and having -read it to the end Colonel Dunwoody hastily sent for -Lieutenant-Colonel De Sutro and Major Lester.</p> - -<p>When the officers arrived at headquarters they -found the commandant pacing the floor with a look -as though very much annoyed.</p> - -<p>“Gentlemen, I received by courier this evening a -despatch from the military headquarters and a letter, -and they perplex me, so I wish you would kindly -look over those papers, brought by Detective Raymond -some days since, and see how you regard -them?”</p> - -<p>Colonel De Sutro at once took the letter from -headquarters explaining the situation regarding the -prisoner, Silk Lasso Sam. He read it through carefully -and handed it to Major Lester, who did the -same.</p> - -<p>“Do you see anything irregular in that, gentlemen?”</p> - -<p>“I do not, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Nor do I.”</p> - -<p>“Read this now, please.”</p> - -<p>The requisition of the Governor of Illinois, for the -delivery to his authorized agent, Detective Henry Raymond, -was then read by both officers.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_284">[284]</span></p> - -<p>“Now give me your opinion of that, please, gentlemen.”</p> - -<p>“There is but one opinion to give, sir.”</p> - -<p>“So I say,” added Major Lester.</p> - -<p>“Now, gentlemen, a courier just brought this official -paper, and I have received with it a personal -letter from the general. Please do me the kindness -to read the official document, and I will read to you -extracts from the general’s letter.”</p> - -<p>This was done, and then the two junior officers sat -gazing at their senior.</p> - -<p>“What does it mean?” asked Colonel Dunwoody.</p> - -<p>“I can see but one meaning to it,” the major said.</p> - -<p>“And that meaning, major?”</p> - -<p>“Is that the general was in ignorance of the governor’s -requisition or——”</p> - -<p>“But he could not be, when his other communication -orders me to give up the prisoner.”</p> - -<p>“That is so, sir. And, as Texas Jack always says, -I pass.”</p> - -<p>“So do I,” the lieutenant-colonel said, with a smile.</p> - -<p>“Now this last letter and despatch from the general -is dated ten days after the former one and the requisition, -so I can see but one thing to be said of the first -received, and that is that they are forgeries.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_285">[285]</span></p> - -<p>“But that cannot be, colonel, for see the real and -official letter-heads, and the writing,” the major said.</p> - -<p>“The letter-heads have been stolen, as also the use -of the seal, while the handwriting of the adjutant-general -has been copied. I tell you, gentlemen, some -very clever head and hand have been at work here for -the rescue of that prisoner, and it was accomplished, -too, for those men were no more detectives than you -are.”</p> - -<p>The colonel paced to and fro, deeply moved, and the -two officers with him evidently began to see the situation -as he did, for Colonel De Sutro remarked:</p> - -<p>“It is true that it could be done, Colonel Dunwoody, -and we read about such escapes in novels, but -it can hardly be possible.”</p> - -<p>“It is possible and has been done, gentlemen, I now -feel certain of that. But, keep the matter quiet, please, -and I will at once send a special courier with a letter -to the general and these forged papers, stating just -what has occurred.”</p> - -<p>“It would be best to do so, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Lester, all that I can do. I will also send -another courier after Caruth with a letter giving these -facts, so that he can advise Buffalo Bill, and they will -not be acting in the dark. It is a bold, clever game<span class="pagenum" id="Page_286">[286]</span> -that has been played, and I fear it was too well planned -to be any doubt as to the escape of that daring outlaw, -Silk Lasso Sam.”</p> - -<p>“Do you think, sir, that he was in the secret?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, or it could never have been carried out to -such a successful termination.”</p> - -<p>“Then the lady who was here as his sister must -have been the fair plotter.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Colonel De Sutro, she and no one else; but, -I cannot believe that it was intended by her that a life -should be taken in this escape. That is why I say -it was so cleverly planned, in Chicago, not here, and -money obtained those letter-heads, the use of the State -seal, and the forgery of those papers.”</p> - -<p>“She is a very remarkable woman, Colonel Dunwoody.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Lester, she is; but humane as well as clever -and daring. She has planned, too, that her brother -should make no mistake in escaping, and so I am sure -that Buffalo Bill and those he guides are following -a blind trail.”</p> - -<p>“Where is the woman now, sir?”</p> - -<p>“The lady, Colonel De Sutro, for she is such and -cannot be censured for saving her brother, has gone -East, I believe. At least, such was her intention.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_287">[287]</span></p> - -<p>“And Miss Carr does not know her address, -major?” asked Colonel De Sutro, who was always -envious of Clarice Carr’s receiving more attention than -Nina, and was willing to give a little dig at the major, -in return for the colonel’s rebuke to him for calling -Ruth Arden a woman.</p> - -<p>“Miss Arden has promised to write to Miss Carr, -Colonel De Sutro, yet has not done so thus far. With -Colonel Dunwoody, I am not one to cast the slightest -censure upon her for wishing to save her wicked -brother from the gallows, and I admire her pluck, but -only hope Powell has not been a sufferer by it.”</p> - -<p>“I most sincerely echo your hope, Lester, that Powell -has come to no harm by this escape,” said Colonel -Dunwoody, and Colonel De Sutro expressed the same -wish.</p> - -<p>After some further conversation upon the subject -it was decided that the letter should be at once written -and despatched by courier, in order to get a response -from the general as soon as possible.</p> - -<p>Then, while Colonel Dunwoody was writing the letter -it occurred to Major Lester to volunteer himself -to go on after Captain Caruth’s command, and explain -the situation to that officer and to Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>When he mentioned to the general his determination,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_288">[288]</span> -his services were gladly accepted, and he at once -repaired to his quarters to make preparations for the -night ride, and an order was sent for an escort of a -sergeant and eight troopers, with a scout as guide.</p> - -<p>The courier was despatched with the letter to the -general, to be taken to a point on the Overland Trail -where there was a tri-weekly mail going East, and a -scout was the bearer, a man thoroughly acquainted -with the country so that he could make the best time -possible.</p> - -<p>Soon after Major Lester and his escort rode out -of the fort, and at a trot started upon the trail. They -went prepared to push on by night, for several lanterns -had been taken along, and these were put into -requisition upon reaching Deep Dell Brook.</p> - -<p>The trail was thus readily followed from there, and -just at sunrise the party came to the camp of the -troop ahead, which had been deserted a couple of -hours before.</p> - -<p>A halt was made of an hour for rest and breakfast, -and then they pushed on again.</p> - -<p>The scout with the escort was a good one, and he -followed the trail readily, gaining here and there by -cutting across country, from his knowledge of which -way the trail must lead. In this way, by noon, several<span class="pagenum" id="Page_289">[289]</span> -miles had been made, and Major Lester felt cheered -with the hope of closing up with the party ahead -before nightfall.</p> - -<p>A long rest was taken at noon, for both men and -horses needed it, and then the trail was resumed once -more.</p> - -<p>When the sun was nearing the horizon the scout -descried ahead a camp-fire. He at once halted and -reported it, and soon after the escort rode into the -camp of Captain Caruth’s troop.</p> - -<p>“Well, Lester, what on earth brings you here?” -cried Captain Caruth. “Has aught gone wrong at -the fort?”</p> - -<p>“Come aside and I will tell you. Where is Buffalo -Bill?”</p> - -<p>“Asleep yonder at my camp.”</p> - -<p>“We will go there, then.”</p> - -<p>“Your manner indicates that something is wrong.”</p> - -<p>“There is. Have you made any discovery?”</p> - -<p>“Buffalo Bill has.”</p> - -<p>“What?”</p> - -<p>“Well, he was on ahead, and we came upon him -here. He has been going all the time, and at last even -his iron frame had to acknowledge fatigue, and he -halted here, while his scouts have gone off on the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_290">[290]</span> -seven different trails that lead from yonder valley in -as many different directions. Ho, Cody, here is Major -Lester, and he has news for us.”</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill was asleep upon his blanket, but sprang -to his feet in an instant and said:</p> - -<p>“Glad to see you, major. Hope nothing has gone -wrong at the fort to bring you after us, sir.”</p> - -<p>“There is something very wrong, Bill, as you shall -know, for I wish to tell the major and yourself at -once.”</p> - -<p>Then the major went on to tell the captain and the -scout of the letters brought by the courier, and just -what the general had done.</p> - -<p>Buffalo Bill gave a low whistle, and the captain -laughed.</p> - -<p>“Well, Bill, what do you think of it?” asked Captain -Caruth.</p> - -<p>“I think that Miss Arden is a dandy, sir, for it’s -her work, sure as can be.”</p> - -<p>“You are right, she did the work, and she is a -dandy. She has outwitted a fort full of soldiers, -from colonel down, and she has serenely gone her -way beyond harm herself,” said Captain Caruth.</p> - -<p>“Yes, it is the belief of the colonel also that Miss<span class="pagenum" id="Page_291">[291]</span> -Arden did the planning, and from what I know of her -she is capable of it,” Major Lester said.</p> - -<p>“But where is she now?” the captain asked.</p> - -<p>“Ask the winds, Caruth,” said the major, and then -he added:</p> - -<p>“And, Bill, where is Silk Lasso Sam?”</p> - -<p>“I surrender, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Explain, please.”</p> - -<p>“Well, sir, I followed the trail to the point down -the valley there, and from the creek it divided into -just seven trails.”</p> - -<p>“All going the same way?”</p> - -<p>“No, sir, going off like the fingers from your hand. -I followed one, then the other, and then gave it up -and waited for the coming of Captain Caruth and my -scouts. I sent two men off on each trail, for I borrowed -a soldier or two from Captain Caruth, and I -turned in to rest, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Then you delay here until you get the reports -from your scouts?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, sir.”</p> - -<p>“That is all that I can see to do, Lester.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Caruth, you can do nothing else but wait,” -was the major’s reply.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_292">[292]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XXIV">CHAPTER XXIV.<br /> -<span class="fs70">TREACHERY.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The coach that carried the prisoner away from the -fort progressed on its way until it neared Deep Dell -Brook. Then Detective Raymond called out to the -driver that the prisoner was not feeling very well, -and he would like to give him a seat on top of the -coach.</p> - -<p>This was allowed, and a seat was arranged behind -Surgeon Powell and Horseshoe Ned. Then on the -coach went once more.</p> - -<p>Neither Horseshoe Ned nor Surgeon Powell suspected -treachery from behind them. They were prepared -to resist any attempt at the rescue of the prisoner, -should the coach be held up on the way.</p> - -<p>But behind the surgeon and the driver a plot was -going on.</p> - -<p>The prisoner’s irons were quietly unlocked by Detective -Raymond, and he was a free man.</p> - -<p>Then, at a given signal, the two suddenly brought -a revolver down upon the head of the man immediately -in the front of each.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_293">[293]</span></p> - -<p>The coach was just moving out of Deep Dell Brook -at the time. The blows were stunning ones, and the -one delivered by the detective upon the head of the -driver was very severe, for it cut to the bone, and -was given with an indifference as to whether it killed -or not.</p> - -<p>The blow received by the Surgeon Scout was less -severe, perhaps because the benumbed hands of the -outlaw chief were not able to strike so hard or perhaps -because the man admired Frank Powell as he had said -that he did.</p> - -<p>Horseshoe Ned fell heavily from his box to the -ground, and the team stopped. Surgeon Powell also -reeled, clutched at his revolver, and, turning, fired.</p> - -<p>His shot killed the pretended Detective Raymond, -though he received a bullet himself in the shoulder, -and dropped from the coach to the ground.</p> - -<p>Half-stunned as he was by the blow, and wounded, -too, while the fall gave him a severe shock, he was -no match for the outlaw chief, and the two men who -leaped from the coach upon him.</p> - -<p>He was quickly secured, disarmed, and the manacles -taken from Silk Lasso Sam were put upon him.</p> - -<p>There were others who had appeared upon the scene -during this unequal combat. They were two men who<span class="pagenum" id="Page_294">[294]</span> -quickly looked about for Raymond, but found him -dead.</p> - -<p>Then they turned to the chief and said that they -had been ordered to that point to meet him, and had -horses near.</p> - -<p>The chief, aided by one of the pretended detectives, -assisted Surgeon Powell along the bank to where -the horses awaited them, the other men following -soon after, with the booty taken from the coach.</p> - -<p>Surgeon Powell appeared half-dazed from his blow, -but he made no resistance, and was mounted upon one -of the horses that was there.</p> - -<p>“You must go with me, Surgeon Powell, for I do -not wish to kill you, and you are too dangerous a man -to leave behind,” said the chief.</p> - -<p>Frank Powell made no reply, and, mounting, the -chief, his prisoner, and four men set off down the -valley.</p> - -<p>The wound of the surgeon was looked to at the first -halt made, and it was found not to be dangerous, -though severe.</p> - -<p>On they went until after noon, when the chief -said:</p> - -<p>“I wish to divide here. You have your pay, men, -for the work you have done, so go your separate ways,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_295">[295]</span> -and I will go mine, taking my prisoner with me. The -odd horses we will turn loose, and that there may be -seven separate trails going in as many directions, I -will go on foot, and the surgeon can ride the horse -I had.”</p> - -<p>Thus the men parted on the trail, the Surgeon Scout -mounted on the best horse, which was led by Silk -Lasso Sam.</p> - -<p>The outlaw chief appeared to have a direct purpose -in view, and to know the country thoroughly, for he -kept steadily on, the Surgeon Scout seemingly indifferent -to what was going on.</p> - -<p>Toward sunset he came to a good spot for a camp, -and was just coming to a halt when a horse and rider -appeared in sight. The chief started and dropped his -hand upon his revolver, as though to stand at bay, -when the Surgeon Scout said sternly:</p> - -<p>“Hold! do not fire upon a woman.”</p> - -<p>“My God, I had nearly done so, for I could hardly -see her through the foliage.”</p> - -<p>“It is your sister.”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>The outlaw gave a call, and the horsewoman who -had not seen them up to that time came quickly toward -them.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_296">[296]</span></p> - -<p>“Ruth!”</p> - -<p>“Brother!”</p> - -<p>The rider had thrown herself from her horse and -was clasped in her brother’s arms, while she cried:</p> - -<p>“You are free, and now you will remember your -pledge to me to lead a different life.”</p> - -<p>“I will keep my word to you, Ruth. But see, here -is an old friend, and he is wounded and suffering.”</p> - -<p>“Surgeon Powell!” cried Ruth, her face turning -white, and then wheeling upon her brother she demanded -sternly:</p> - -<p>“What does this mean, sir?”</p> - -<p>The eyes of Ruth flashed fire as she turned them -upon her brother, whose face flushed under her gaze, -while he said in an embarrassed manner:</p> - -<p>“Do not be angry, Ruth, for no harm has been done, -or very little at least, for the surgeon is not much -hurt.”</p> - -<p>“I wish to say to you, Surgeon Powell,” and Ruth -turned toward him, “that I planned the escape of my -brother from the gallows. I went to Chicago, got -forged documents, and sent these men in my pay to -play the detective and bring my brother away.</p> - -<p>“I was to have horses meet them at Deep Dell -Brook, and it seems that so far as his escape is concerned<span class="pagenum" id="Page_297">[297]</span> -all went well. In consideration for his escape -he had pledged me to lead a different life, to reform. -Now, when I supposed that there would be no trouble -in his making his escape, no bloodshed, he appears -here, when I come to meet him, with you in irons and -a prisoner. I ask you, Surgeon Powell, what does it -mean?”</p> - -<p>“Let your brother inform you, Miss Arden,” was -the reply of Frank Powell.</p> - -<p>“Well, sir, what explanation have you to offer for -this outrage upon Surgeon Powell?”</p> - -<p>“I wish to say, Ruth, that you are angry without a -cause. Colonel Dunwoody sent Surgeon Powell along -also, and there was but one way to escape, if I was to -do so. The man Raymond dealt Horseshoe Ned a -severe blow, and I struck the surgeon, but not to do -him other harm than stun him.</p> - -<p>“The driver, I fear, was killed, for he fell from the -box, while Surgeon Powell turned, drew his revolver, -and fired upon Raymond, who also drew trigger at -the same time. The surgeon killed Raymond, and you -see that Doctor Powell received a slight wound in -the shoulder.</p> - -<p>“There was nothing to be done then but to make -Surgeon Powell a prisoner and bring him along. I<span class="pagenum" id="Page_298">[298]</span> -discovered the men back in the valley, and we were -upon our way to Pocket City, where I knew that you -would do all in your power for the doctor.”</p> - -<p>“Gladly I will, and it is but seven miles to Pocket -City, and we will go on at once. But there should -have been no bloodshed in this escape, brother, for I -meant that it should be a rescue wholly by strategy. -Come, Surgeon Powell, you are no prisoner, so, -brother, unlock those irons.”</p> - -<p>“And have him kill me?”</p> - -<p>“I shall take the parole of both of you to do no -harm to each other. Will you give it, Surgeon -Powell?”</p> - -<p>“As you ask it, Miss Arden, I will.”</p> - -<p>“And you, brother?”</p> - -<p>“I will only protect my life,” was the guarded answer -of the outlaw.</p> - -<p>“Then give me the key of these manacles.”</p> - -<p>They were handed to her, and the irons were unlocked -and thrown over the horn of the saddle.</p> - -<p>“Now, Doctor Powell, I desire to get you to a place -of safety as soon as possible, and see what can be -done for you. Brother, my horse is fresh and able -to carry double, so mount behind me.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_299">[299]</span></p> - -<p>This the outlaw did, and she rode on through the -gathering darkness.</p> - -<p>Arriving in the vicinity of Hangman’s Gulch, Ruth -paused and said:</p> - -<p>“Brother, you know that it will not do for you to be -seen, and I have a hiding-place for you, where you -can be safe until you have an opportunity of leaving -this country. You have no fear of Hangman’s Gulch, -so remain here until I return for you later, for now I -shall go on with Major Powell to the hotel.”</p> - -<p>The outlaw made no reply and obeyed, and Ruth -rode on with Surgeon Powell by her side.</p> - -<p>Soon after he found himself in pleasant quarters, -and his wounds were skilfully dressed by the fair -hands of the good Samaritan who once more appeared -in her character of Bonnie Belle.</p> - -<p>When Ruth had seen Surgeon Powell in comfortable -quarters at the Frying Pan, she mounted her -horse and rode alone out of Pocket City.</p> - -<p>There were few miners abroad at that hour, and if -any one saw her at all they supposed in the darkness -that she was a man.</p> - -<p>Even had they known it to be Bonnie Belle she -would have gone unquestioned as to the cause of her<span class="pagenum" id="Page_300">[300]</span> -late ride, no matter how much any one would have -wondered as to the reason.</p> - -<p>She rode directly toward Hangman’s Gulch, and -that was a sure sign that she would meet no one on -that trail, which the bravest of the miners would not -travel by night.</p> - -<p>And yet there in that weird spot, among the graves -of a score of victims of border justice or injustice, as -the case might be, with the gallows rising above him, -stood a man then under sentence of death to die by -hanging; a man who could count his victims by the -score, a man revengeful, merciless, and wicked far -beyond his kind.</p> - -<p>It was Arden Leigh, known on the frontier as Silk -Lasso Sam, and if the spot had haunting memories -for him he did not reveal the fact by word or deed.</p> - -<p>He uttered an impatient oath now and then, as -time passed and he did not hear his sister returning, -and at last, losing his patience as time stole on, he was -moving down toward the mouth of the gulch, when -his ears caught the clatter of hoof-falls.</p> - -<p>“She is coming,” he muttered.</p> - -<p>Then, as he darted back into the shadow, he drew -a revolver and said:</p> - -<p>“But I must not be too sure.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_301">[301]</span></p> - -<p>Soon a horse and rider appeared in the gulch, and, -drawing rein, the soft, plaintive notes of the whippoorwill -was heard.</p> - -<p>“How that call carries me back to the past, for it -was my call for Ruth,” and the man seemed to feel -for an instant a pang of memory and remorse that -overwhelmed him. Then as the call was repeated -again and again he stepped out from the shadow and -approached the girl where she sat upon her horse.</p> - -<p>“Ah! brother, I am so glad to find you, for I was -becoming anxious,” she said, as she slipped from her -saddle to the ground.</p> - -<p>“I was so taken aback at the old whippoorwill call, -Ruth, that I could neither answer it nor speak. I was -overwhelmed for a moment.”</p> - -<p>“It was your call for me, when I was a little girl, -Arden.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, and that is what impressed me so.”</p> - -<p>“Then you can feel, and you are not, as people have -said, utterly heartless and callous?”</p> - -<p>“I hope I am a changed man, my sister. But what -am I to do?”</p> - -<p>“You are to return with me to Pocket City, for I -have a place in my wing of the hotel where I can hide -and care for you for a few days, as it would by no<span class="pagenum" id="Page_302">[302]</span> -means be safe for you to attempt now to go through -the country alone.”</p> - -<p>“And why not now?”</p> - -<p>“Because you know that your attack on Surgeon -Powell will cause the wildest excitement at the fort. -Of course, it will be known that you escaped, and -Colonel Dunwoody will have half his force on your -track, for Surgeon Powell will be supposed to have -been killed, and that will make those who search for -him most revengeful.”</p> - -<p>“That is so, sister.”</p> - -<p>“I am sorry that this was not an escape without -violence, and, as I fear, the death of the driver.”</p> - -<p>“How could it be without violence or death with -the Surgeon Scout along, Ruth, for you know it would -have been easier to have mastered a guard of half a -dozen men than Powell, unless by a blow when he did -not expect it. He is an extraordinary man.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, he is, and I am glad it is no worse. But now -here are some things for you to put on, and you are -to come with me to Pocket City. I will ride on ahead -and enter my wing of the hotel, and when you hear the -whippoorwill cry do you then come directly to my -gate in the stockade wall.”</p> - -<p>“I understand.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_303">[303]</span></p> - -<p>“I will have your room ready, and will bring you -your food myself, while I am arranging for your departure.”</p> - -<p>“You are most kind to me, Ruth. But then you -always have been.”</p> - -<p>“I wish to be, and I hope to help you to lead a -different life, my brother.”</p> - -<p>“You alone can do it, Ruth,” was the low response, -and then, as though he dreaded trouble yet for himself, -he said:</p> - -<p>“What you say about Powell alarms me, and if it -is found out that you are my sister, then your house -will be searched, Ruth.”</p> - -<p>“Let them search it, for they will never find you -in the place where I can hide you, Arden.”</p> - -<p>“All right, I am in your hands, my sister,” and, -having slipped on the clothes she had brought him, he -followed her on to the edge of Pocket City.</p> - -<p>For half an hour he waited there in the shadow -of the timber, and then came the cry of the night bird, -when he walked briskly toward the stockade.</p> - -<p>The gate was opened, and, unseen by any one, he -entered and had reached a haven of refuge.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_304">[304]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XXV">CHAPTER XXV.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE SURGEON SCOUT’S WARNING.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>Frank Powell’s wounds were painful, though not -serious. He had been taken to one of the pleasantest -rooms in the Frying Pan, and thither went Bonnie -Belle and a Chinese servant, with water, arnica, and -bandages.</p> - -<p>“I have come to dress your wounds, Surgeon Powell, -under your direction,” she said, with a smile.</p> - -<p>“They amount to but little to one who has roughed -it as I have, Miss Arden.”</p> - -<p>“There, you are calling me Miss Arden, when you -know that here I am Bonnie Belle.”</p> - -<p>“I will not mistake again, Bonnie Belle.”</p> - -<p>“Here, Chin-Chin, get ready to help me,” and, having -placed the basin and other things upon the table, -she drew back the collar of the surgeon’s shirt and -glanced at the wound.</p> - -<p>“What do you think of it?” she asked.</p> - -<p>“The bullet passed through, and touched no bones, -so it will soon heal,” he said.</p> - -<p>She then bathed the two wounds where the bullet<span class="pagenum" id="Page_305">[305]</span> -cut its way in and out and bandaged the shoulder -firmly.</p> - -<p>“Now to that cut upon the head.”</p> - -<p>The blow had cut to the bone, but the skull was -not injured, and, being washed clean, she took a couple -of stitches, drawing it together, after which it was -also dressed carefully.</p> - -<p>Chin-Chin, meanwhile, was sent for some supper -for the Surgeon Scout, who ate heartily of what was -brought to him, and, left to himself, was soon after -sound asleep.</p> - -<p>The next day Bonnie Belle visited him with Chin-Chin, -again dressed his wounds, and then said:</p> - -<p>“Now, Surgeon Powell, I have written a letter to -the fort that you are here, and I suppose a troop will -soon be sent for you.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, but there was no need of it, as I could have -gone on alone.”</p> - -<p>“No, sir, that I would not allow, for brave and -strong as you are you are not able to take that ride -alone, so you are to remain here until your comrades -come for you.”</p> - -<p>“You are the captain, Bonnie Belle, and so I obey. -But I have something to say to you.”</p> - -<p>“Well, sir?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_306">[306]</span></p> - -<p>“You do not know that Buffalo Bill is on my trail.”</p> - -<p>She started and asked:</p> - -<p>“What do you mean?”</p> - -<p>“I mean that Buffalo Bill was to follow the coach -to the end of the run. He did not say as much, but -I feel sure that he did so.”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Of course he came upon the scene where the coach -had been held up, and where were the bodies of the -rescuer and of Horseshoe Ned, if the latter was killed, -which I doubt.”</p> - -<p>“I think I see your meaning now.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, for Buffalo Bill coming upon this scene read -it like an open book. He returned to the fort and got -a force with which to follow the rescuers, and he did -so with all the promptness for which he is famous. -That is the way I read it, anyhow.”</p> - -<p>“And that means that he will come here?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, and very soon.”</p> - -<p>“But my brother guarded against that by dividing -the men, as you know, and covering up the trails as -well as he could.”</p> - -<p>“Your brother did not guard against the fact that -Buffalo Bill was upon his trail. He supposed that it<span class="pagenum" id="Page_307">[307]</span> -would, perhaps, be a couple of days before the rescue -was known, and so the trails would be in a manner -stale before there would be any one on his track. -What became of his rescuers he doubtless did not care, -so long as he reached you in safety and found a hiding-place.”</p> - -<p>“I fear such is the nature of my brother, Doctor -Powell.”</p> - -<p>“I merely judge him by his actions in the past, and, -though I feel that he deserves hanging, and should -be hanged without any hesitation if taken, as he will -surely be, for your sake I give you this warning.”</p> - -<p>“It is most kind of you.”</p> - -<p>“No, it is just to you, for I feel that you are here, -living the life you do, only to save your brother, to -redeem him. You have played a bold game for his -rescue, and as you believe in his reformation, as he -has pledged himself to lead a different life, I shall -not be the one to thwart you, so give you a warning -that if Buffalo Bill comes here with his scouts, as he -surely will, he will ferret out the hiding-place of your -brother, and you will see him hanged before your -eyes, I very much fear.”</p> - -<p>“Then you would advise me to at once remove him -to a safe retreat?” anxiously asked Bonnie Bell.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_308">[308]</span></p> - -<p>“I would advise you to send him far from here at -once, Bonnie Belle. If he goes back to his old ways -of wickedness again, then you have done far more -than your duty by him, and he must take the consequences.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, it must be so,” she said sadly, and then, as -she turned from the room, she continued:</p> - -<p>“I thank you, Surgeon Powell; and I will at once -take your advice.”</p> - -<p>“I may have done wrong, but it was in justice to -that noble girl,” muttered the Surgeon Scout, when -left alone.</p> - -<p>From the room of the Surgeon Scout Bonnie Belle -went with very thoughtful face to her room.</p> - -<p>She soon made her arrangements for bringing the -outlaw to her own quarters, for she could do nothing -else.</p> - -<p>Then she looked the situation squarely in the face -and decided to speak and act at once. Delays are dangerous, -and, with Buffalo Bill upon the trail of her -brother, she understood just what it meant.</p> - -<p>So she said, after some time spent in silent thought:</p> - -<p>“Brother, I wish to talk with you.”</p> - -<p>“I am very tired, sis, so say another time.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_309">[309]</span></p> - -<p>“No, it must be now, for I have something to tell -you that will startle you.”</p> - -<p>“Well?”</p> - -<p>“Buffalo Bill is upon your trail.”</p> - -<p>“How do you know this?”</p> - -<p>“From the Surgeon Scout.”</p> - -<p>“Bah! he has tried to frighten you.”</p> - -<p>“And has been successful.”</p> - -<p>“You are frightened, then?”</p> - -<p>“I am.”</p> - -<p>“And I am not.”</p> - -<p>“Well, we shall see what cause you have.”</p> - -<p>“Fire away.”</p> - -<p>“The Surgeon Scout did not try to frighten me.”</p> - -<p>“What then?”</p> - -<p>“He did me a kindness, as after all I had risked -and done for you he did not wish me to see you -hanged.”</p> - -<p>“He is very kind.”</p> - -<p>There was a sneer in the man’s tones.</p> - -<p>“You misunderstand him, as I will prove to you. -He told me that he had been sent East by Colonel -Dunwoody under orders, and that fearful of an attack -upon the coach, to rescue you—for my men were not -suspected of being treacherous, except that they might<span class="pagenum" id="Page_310">[310]</span> -be bribed to release you, detectives though they were -supposed to be—Buffalo Bill had decided to follow the -coach, and did so.”</p> - -<p>“Ah!”</p> - -<p>“He therefore came upon the scene and, of course, -rode back to the fort for aid.”</p> - -<p>“This looks bad, if true.”</p> - -<p>“It is true, for Surgeon Powell told me for my -good, with the hope that you might have a chance to -prove to me that your reformation was sincere.”</p> - -<p>The outlaw wore a troubled look now, for he knew -what Buffalo Bill was on a trail.</p> - -<p>“Well, Ruth, what is to be done?”</p> - -<p>“If you remain here, knowing as he does that you -are my brother, Buffalo Bill will prevent your escape, -for he will put spies upon this hotel and you will be -captured when you least expect it.”</p> - -<p>“It looks bad for me, sis.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, unless you go at once from here.”</p> - -<p>“How can I?”</p> - -<p>“I will go to the stable and get my best horse for -you, yes, two of them, for one you can use as a pack-animal. -I will fit you up a disguise, some provisions -to last you a week or more, and when all is in readiness<span class="pagenum" id="Page_311">[311]</span> -you can meet me at the cliff on the trail to Hangman’s -Gulch.</p> - -<p>“That trail is well traveled, and you can take the -bed of the stream then, following down it for miles. -This will destroy any trail, for I will drag back a bush -over the trail of the horses to the stream, leaving a -rope to it as though a horse had been hitched to it and -had broke away.”</p> - -<p>“You are as ingenious as Buffalo Bill, sis.”</p> - -<p>“When we are working for a life our brains are on -the alert, brother. Now you get the provisions, blankets, -ammunition, and weapons packed up, for I will -bring them to you with the pack-saddle at once, and I -will see to the horses going to the edge of the timber. -You will have to carry the pack-saddle that far yourself, -but the other horse will be all saddled and bridled -ready for you.”</p> - -<p>“I will not mind it, Ruth; but I want the best animals -you have.”</p> - -<p>“You shall have them.”</p> - -<p>“And you know that I have no money.”</p> - -<p>“Indeed?”</p> - -<p>“It is so.”</p> - -<p>“I heard that you had been allowed to keep what -you had on you of value when taken.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_312">[312]</span></p> - -<p>“It is not so, for I was robbed of everything,” said -the outlaw with ready lie, for he had then upon him -some gold, paper money, and valuables to the amount -of ten thousand dollars.</p> - -<p>“Well, brother, I am not sorry, for that which you -had had been gained dishonorably and would have -brought you bad luck. I will give you ten thousand -dollars in bills, which you can carry easily, and when -I know in the future that you have reformed, that you -have atoned for the past all that lies within your -power, then will I share with you the fortune that I -possess.”</p> - -<p>“You are very kind to me, Ruth; but I believe if -I had more money now I could invest it so well that -you would not have to give me a cent.”</p> - -<p>“I cannot give you more now, brother; but should -you need it, you know where I told you to write to me, -and I will readily help you. But have you decided -where you will go?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I shall go to South America somewhere and -invest my money there.”</p> - -<p>“Well, may success attend you, brother, wherever -you go. But now I have to ask a favor of you.”</p> - -<p>“Granted.”</p> - -<p>“Here is our mother’s prayer-book and in it is a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_313">[313]</span> -lock of her hair. Will you clasp this sacred book in -your hand, grasp mine with the other, and solemnly -vow to me your pledge of reformation of your life -and atonement for your past sins as far as is within -your power to do so?”</p> - -<p>A cloud swept over the face of the outlaw, but he -answered:</p> - -<p>“I will.”</p> - -<p>She placed the prayer-book in his left hand, grasped -his right in both her own, and then repeated the -pledge she wished him to make to her.</p> - -<p>His voice quivered as he repeated it after her, but -he kept on to the end, and then she said:</p> - -<p>“Brother Arden, I have perfect faith in you now -that you will keep your pledge to me. Now I must -hasten to get you away under cover of the darkness.”</p> - -<p>And half an hour after the devoted sister parted -from her outlaw brother at the little stream, she returning -to the camps dragging after her a cedar bush -to wipe out the trails of the two horses she had led -to that spot to await his coming.</p> - -<p>And, once more a free man, Arden Leigh was -launched again upon the world, no longer known as -Silk Lasso Sam, the outlaw.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_314">[314]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XXVI">CHAPTER XXVI.<br /> -<span class="fs70">BONNIE BELL’S WORK DONE.</span></h2> -</div> - - -<p>The scouts under Buffalo Bill came into camp the -following day after starting upon the trails, two of -them with horses which they had found astray in the -timber, and two more with a prisoner they had taken.</p> - -<p>Two others reported having killed a man whom -they overtook and who showed fight, and thus were -the pretended detectives, the comrades of Raymond, -accounted for.</p> - -<p>Texas Jack had the best story to tell, however. He -had tracked a horse down toward Pocket City and discovered -that there was a man on foot going along that -way, too.</p> - -<p>He had trailed them to a spot half a dozen miles -from Yellow Dust Valley, and there a horse had -joined them, as the tracks showed. This horse came -from the direction of Yellow Dust Valley.</p> - -<p>“That is the trail we take, Captain Caruth, and I -am going to ask you to camp your men outside of -Pocket City, and you and the major go on with me -alone,” said Buffalo Bill. “You will discover my<span class="pagenum" id="Page_315">[315]</span> -reason later, and, if I mistake not, we will find Surgeon -Powell in Pocket City, for I cannot believe that -harm has befallen him.”</p> - -<p>So the command moved on its way, and Buffalo -Bill guided them to the camping-place near the cabin -of Deadshot Dean.</p> - -<p>It was night then, and, accompanied by Major Lester -and Captain Caruth, Buffalo Bill rode on into -Pocket City and halted at the Frying Pan.</p> - -<p>But for the warning given by the Surgeon Scout, -it would have been to the great surprise of Bonnie -Belle, as she came out of her rooms, to be suddenly -confronted by the tall form of the scout, and to see -behind him the two officers in uniform. The scout -acted as spokesman, and said:</p> - -<p>“Bonnie Belle, we are here to find Surgeon Powell, -and I feel that you will give what information you -can regarding him.”</p> - -<p>“Then you missed my courier to the fort, sent this -morning?”</p> - -<p>“We saw no courier.”</p> - -<p>“I sent to the fort a letter to Colonel Dunwoody explaining -all, and—— But why this disguise any -longer, for I see that Major Lester and Captain Caruth<span class="pagenum" id="Page_316">[316]</span> -both know me now as Miss Arden, but here remember -I must be only Bonnie Belle.</p> - -<p>“Come into my rooms and I will tell you all there -is to tell, while, to relieve your minds, let me say that -Surgeon Powell is here and doing well, though he is -wounded. I will explain, however.”</p> - -<p>And then she told the story of her bold rescue of -her brother, and which she had intended to be a bloodless -one, as far as she was concerned.</p> - -<p>Surgeon Powell was sent for and was able to come -to her rooms to meet his comrades, and a pleasant -meeting it was.</p> - -<p>“And now, Bonnie Belle, I desire to ask you one -question,” said Buffalo Bill.</p> - -<p>“Certainly.”</p> - -<p>“Where is your brother?”</p> - -<p>“Far from here, for he was set free upon conditions. -I have kept my contract with him, and with a -handsome sum of money, he has gone, to appear amid -these scenes no more. As for myself, I shall start -East upon the next coach going out, to escape punishment -from Colonel Dunwoody, and also to visit the -family of Deadshot Dean, near my old girlhood -home.”</p> - -<p>Until a late hour they all talked together and the<span class="pagenum" id="Page_317">[317]</span> -next morning, as Surgeon Powell expressed himself -as well able to journey, the return march was begun.</p> - -<p>Arriving there they found that Colonel Dunwoody -had received the letter written him by Ruth, and to -Surgeon Powell he said confidentially:</p> - -<p>“One of these days I will ask that woman to be -my wife, Powell, for she is as noble a specimen of -womanhood as I ever knew. The letter she wrote me -was a confession of why she had so cleverly deceived -us all here, in her rescue of her brother, and begged -that I would understand that her motive was to save -him that he might not die unrepentant.</p> - -<p>“She has been on this border, as the landlady of a -hotel and a gambling-den, and yet I believe that she -is pure as an angel.”</p> - -<p>“And I would stake life, honor, all I hold dear on -earth, Colonel Dunwoody, upon her, for she is all that -you say that she is,” was Frank Powell’s response, and -then he told the colonel all that had occurred at the -time of his being taken to the hotel.</p> - -<p>“Do you not believe he will change his evil career, -Powell, as he has pledged himself to do?” asked the -colonel.</p> - -<p>“Pardon me, sir, if I say that I believe he is too -steeped in sin ever to be other than a wicked man.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_318">[318]</span></p> - -<p>“All that he is, or yet may be, Powell, does not, -however, alter my regard for his sister one jot or -tittle.”</p> - -<p>“Nor mine, sir, and Buffalo Bill feels the same way, -for he has said as much.”</p> - -<p>“And where is the fellow?”</p> - -<p>“He has gone to Mexico, sir, I take it, from what -his sister said, and that is a very bad country for a -man of his caliber to go to, to reform.”</p> - -<p>“It is indeed, Surgeon Powell,” was the answer of -the colonel, who then added:</p> - -<p>“But I tell you in confidence that one of these days -I shall seek out that young girl and offer her my hand -and heart.”</p> - -<p>And Colonel Dunwoody was as good as his word, -and he did not ask in vain for the hand and heart of -the real of his ideal love, though then she was no -longer known as Bonnie Belle of Pocket City, but as -Miss Ruth Leigh, a belle and beauty in society, and -one known to possess a very large fortune, of which -she was the sole mistress.</p> - -<p>And there was in the fort another happy couple in -Clarice Carr and Captain Dick Caruth, whose lives -also had a secret romance in them.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_319">[319]</span></p> - -<p>As for Nina de Sutro, with a heart warped by her -sorrows, the wrecking of her life in girlhood by the -outlaw who had crossed her path, she in the end -sought a haven of refuge within the walls of a Mexican -convent, hiding her life and her beautiful face -under the veil of a nun.</p> - -<p class="pfs90 p2 pb2">THE END.</p> - - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>No. 45 of the <span class="smcap">Buffalo Bill Border Stories</span>, -“Buffalo Bill and the Doomed Dozen,” is a good deal -of a mystery story. Of course it has the Western -setting, and all the trappings of an A1 Buffalo Bill -adventure yarn—yet it is a little different—though -every bit as enjoyable and thrilling as any in the series.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="bboxb pg-brk"> - -<p class="ttxt">READ!</p> - -<p class="pfs240 bold">The Chain of Clues</p> - -<p class="pfs120">By NICHOLAS CARTER</p> - -<p class="pfs100">New Magnet Library No. 1030</p> - -<hr class="fulld" /> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>A gamblers’ club with sixteen entrances -through sixteen different houses on three streets, -where gambling is prohibited, is certainly an interesting -background for a detective story.</p> - -<p>Nick Carter becomes a member of such an organization -to trap a crook who held human life -so cheaply that his devilish crimes went unpunished -for a long time.</p> - -<p>Nick matched his wits against those of the -criminal and won out—but how he did so will -hold your undivided interest.</p> - -<p>If your dealer cannot supply this book immediately, -he will get it for you.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="fulld" /> - -<p class="center">STREET & SMITH CORPORATION<br /> -79 Seventh Avenue <span class="pad2">New York City</span></p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="blockquot pg-brk"> - -<p class="pfs150">A REQUEST</p> - -<div class="figcenter illowe7_5" id="sigil"> - <img class="w100" src="images/sigil.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>Conditions due to the war have made it very difficult -for us to keep in print all of the books listed in our -catalogues. We still have about fifteen hundred different -titles that we are in a position to supply. These -represent the best books in our line. We could not afford, -in the circumstances, to reprint any of the less -popular works.</p> - -<p>We aim to keep in stock the works of such authors as -Bertha Clay, Charles Garvice, May Agnes Fleming, -Nicholas Carter, Mary J. Holmes, Mrs. Harriet Lewis, -Horatio Alger, and the other famous authors who are -represented in our line by ten or more titles. Therefore, -if your dealer cannot supply you with exactly the -book you want, you are almost sure to find in his stock -another title by the same author, which you have not -read.</p> - -<p>It short, we are asking you to take what your dealer -can supply, rather than to insist upon just what you -want. You won’t lose anything by such substitution, -because the books by the authors named are very uniform -in quality.</p> - -<p>In ordering Street & Smith novels by mail, it is advisable -to make a choice of at least two titles for each -book wanted, so as to give us an opportunity to substitute -for titles that are now out of print.</p> -</div> - - -<p class="center bold">STREET & SMITH CORPORATION,<br /> -<span class="pad5">79-89 Seventh Avenue, New York City.</span></p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"></div> - -<div class="transnote"> -<p class="center bold">Transcriber’s Notes</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>The Table of Contents at the beginning of the book was created by -the transcriber.</p> - -<p>Inconsistencies in hyphenation such as -“house-breaking”/“housebreaking” have been maintained.</p> - -<p>Minor punctuation and spelling errors have been silently corrected -and, except for those changes noted below, all misspellings in the -text, especially in dialogue, and inconsistent or archaic usage, -have been retained.</p> -</div> - -<ul> -<li><a href="#tn2">Page 2</a>: “A Congress of the Rough-riders” changed to “A Congress of -the Rough Riders”.</li> -</ul> -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BUFFALO BILL'S STILL HUNT ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law 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. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™ -concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, -and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following -the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use -of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for -copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very -easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation -of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project -Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away--you may -do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected -by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark -license, especially commercial redistribution. -</div> - -<div style='margin:0.83em 0; font-size:1.1em; text-align:center'>START: FULL LICENSE<br /> -<span style='font-size:smaller'>THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE<br /> -PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK</span> -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -To protect the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting the free -distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work -(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase “Project -Gutenberg”), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full -Project Gutenberg™ License available with this file or online at -www.gutenberg.org/license. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg™ -electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to -and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property -(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all -the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or -destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in your -possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a -Project Gutenberg™ electronic work and you do not agree to be bound -by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person -or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.B. “Project Gutenberg” is a registered trademark. It may only be -used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who -agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few -things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See -paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works if you follow the terms of this -agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation (“the -Foundation” or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection -of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works. Nearly all the individual -works in the collection are in the public domain in the United -States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the -United States and you are located in the United States, we do not -claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, -displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as -all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope -that you will support the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting -free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg™ -works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the -Project Gutenberg™ name associated with the work. You can easily -comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the -same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg™ License when -you share it without charge with others. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern -what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are -in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, -check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this -agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, -distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any -other Project Gutenberg™ work. The Foundation makes no -representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any -country other than the United States. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other -immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg™ License must appear -prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg™ work (any work -on which the phrase “Project Gutenberg” appears, or with which the -phrase “Project Gutenberg” is associated) is accessed, displayed, -performed, viewed, copied or distributed: -</div> - -<blockquote> - <div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> - This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most - other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions - whatsoever. 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 <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you - are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws - of the country where you are located before using this eBook. - </div> -</blockquote> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg™ electronic work is -derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not -contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the -copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in -the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are -redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase “Project -Gutenberg” associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply -either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or -obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg™ -trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg™ electronic work is posted -with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution -must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any -additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms -will be linked to the Project Gutenberg™ License for all works -posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the -beginning of this work. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg™ -License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this -work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg™. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this -electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without -prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with -active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project -Gutenberg™ License. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, -compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including -any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access -to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg™ work in a format -other than “Plain Vanilla ASCII” or other format used in the official -version posted on the official Project Gutenberg™ website -(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense -to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means -of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original “Plain -Vanilla ASCII” or other form. Any alternate format must include the -full Project Gutenberg™ License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, -performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg™ works -unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing -access to or distributing Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -provided that: -</div> - -<div style='margin-left:0.7em;'> - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from - the use of Project Gutenberg™ works calculated using the method - you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed - to the owner of the Project Gutenberg™ trademark, but he has - agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid - within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are - legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty - payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in - Section 4, “Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg - Literary Archive Foundation.” - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies - you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he - does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg™ - License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all - copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue - all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg™ - works. - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of - any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the - electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of - receipt of the work. - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free - distribution of Project Gutenberg™ works. - </div> -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project -Gutenberg™ electronic work or group of works on different terms than -are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing -from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of -the Project Gutenberg™ trademark. Contact the Foundation as set -forth in Section 3 below. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable -effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread -works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project -Gutenberg™ collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may -contain “Defects,” such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate -or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other -intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or -other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or -cannot be read by your equipment. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the “Right -of Replacement or Refund” described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project -Gutenberg™ trademark, and any other party distributing a Project -Gutenberg™ electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all -liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal -fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT -LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE -PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE -TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE -LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR -INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH -DAMAGE. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a -defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can -receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a -written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you -received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium -with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you -with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in -lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person -or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second -opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If -the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing -without further opportunities to fix the problem. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth -in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you ‘AS-IS’, WITH NO -OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT -LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied -warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of -damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement -violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the -agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or -limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or -unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the -remaining provisions. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the -trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone -providing copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in -accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the -production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, -including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of -the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this -or any Project Gutenberg™ work, (b) alteration, modification, or -additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg™ work, and (c) any -Defect you cause. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg™ -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ is synonymous with the free distribution of -electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of -computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It -exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations -from people in all walks of life. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the -assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg™’s -goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg™ collection will -remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure -and permanent future for Project Gutenberg™ and future -generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see -Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit -501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the -state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal -Revenue Service. The Foundation’s EIN or federal tax identification -number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by -U.S. federal laws and your state’s laws. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Foundation’s business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, -Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up -to date contact information can be found at the Foundation’s website -and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ depends upon and cannot survive without widespread -public support and donations to carry out its mission of -increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be -freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest -array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations -($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt -status with the IRS. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating -charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United -States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a -considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up -with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations -where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND -DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular state -visit <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/donate/">www.gutenberg.org/donate</a>. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we -have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition -against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who -approach us with offers to donate. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make -any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from -outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation -methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other -ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To -donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project -Gutenberg™ concept of a library of electronic works that could be -freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and -distributed Project Gutenberg™ eBooks with only a loose network of -volunteer support. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ eBooks are often created from several printed -editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in -the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Most people start at our website which has the main PG search -facility: <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This website includes information about Project Gutenberg™, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. -</div> - -</div> - -</body> -</html> diff --git a/old/64800-h/images/colophon.jpg b/old/64800-h/images/colophon.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 2831102..0000000 --- a/old/64800-h/images/colophon.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/64800-h/images/cover.jpg b/old/64800-h/images/cover.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 55460f4..0000000 --- a/old/64800-h/images/cover.jpg +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/64800-h/images/sigil.jpg b/old/64800-h/images/sigil.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index a14ee59..0000000 --- a/old/64800-h/images/sigil.jpg +++ /dev/null |
