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- 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. 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