A 3 9015 00396 107 8 University of Michigan - BUHR Bang Bang by George, Ade W IB 17 SUM 100ULB ARTES SCIENTIA VERITAS LIBRARY VERITAS OF THE VERSITY OF MICHIGAY UNIVERSITY OF BUNDESENTATION TUEBOR COUERIS PENINSULAM SULAM AMEN CIRCUMSPICE OUDUDDUNTUK SUNILE WHITUS SOUTHWINDIHIDUNHC h t tUMIMITTANTUM Minud 828 A2286 Bang! Bang! . M WW; ME north w MOOTON POW Our Hero Bang Bangl George Ade CA Collection of Stories Intended to Recall Memories of the Nickel Library Days When L Boys Were Supermen and Murder a Fine Art. Ilustrated by John T.M-Cutcheon J. H. SEARS & CO. Inc. Publishers New York COPYRIGHT, 1928, BY J. H. SEARS & CO., INCORPORATED MANUFACTURED COMPLETE BY THE KINGSPORT PRESS KINGSPORT, TENNESSEE United States of America reas These stories were first printed in the Chicago Record in the late nineties. They are boiled-down imitations of the haymow literature which was de- nounced by parents and encouraged by boys from the time of Horace Greeley up to the golden age ushered in by the comic strip. The nickel library came after the yellow-back novel, which dealt mostly with smoking tepees, crouching savages and trappers who were deadly with the rifle and wore fringe on their buckskin suits. One reason for the enduring popularity of the nickel library was that it could be spread open inside of a school geography and entirely concealed from any teacher who did not approach from the rear. For the first time Eddie Parks, Cyril Smith, Clarence Allen and their brave colleagues are being put into a book. Because these narratives are a reminder of thirty years ago, they have not been revised or brought up to date. The allusions to the Spanish-American War, the Klondike, William Mc- Kinley and the League of American Wheelmen have been retained because of their historical flavor. These stories will mean nothing to juveniles who have been pampered with roadsters and fed up on movies—who never heard of Oliver Optic, Horatio ix CONTENTS · PAGE HANDSOME CYRIL; or, The Messenger Boy with the Warm Feet . . . . . . THE GLENDON MYSTERY; or, Eddie Parks, the Newsboy Detective . . . . . . EDDIE PARKS TO THE REscue; or, The Na- tional Bank Robbery . . . . . . CLARENCE ALLEN, THE HYPNOTIC Boy JOURNALIST; or, The Mysterious Disap- pearance of the United States Government Bonds . . . . . . . . . . THE STEEL Box; or, The Robbers of Rattle- snake Gulch . . . . . . . . Rollo JOHNSON, THE BOY INVENTOR; or, The Demon Bicycle and Its Daring Rider THE BOY CHAMPION; or, America's Fair Name Defended . . . . . . . THE GREAT STREET-CAR ROBBERY; or, The Newsboy Detective on the Trail . . . 97 The KLONDIKE Rescue; or, The Mysterious Guide . . . . . . . . . . Contents PAGE The Goodlot Murder Case; or, Solving the Mystery . . . . . . . . 123 THE AVENGER AND GENERAL BOLERO; or, The Spanish Plot Foiled . . . . . 137 Handsome Cyril; or, The Messenger Boy with the Warm Feet HANDSOME CYRIL; or, THE MESSENGER BOY WITH THE WARM FEET Chapter 1 THE MEETING YYRIL!” “Alexander!" The two messenger boys clasped hands. It was on Madison Street—that busy thoroughfare where many streams of hu- manity meet in whirling vortexes. The afternoon sun lighted up the features of Cyril Smith, the courageous young mes- senger boy. His steel-gray eyes glinted as he gazed at his friend and comrade, Alexander. He had regular features and a regular suit of mes- senger boy clothes. Bang! Bang! “I hope you are well, Alexande a smile lighting up his handsome “Oh, yes, quite well, indeed, Alexander. There was a short silence broke the continuous uproar of the stre Alexander asked: “Where are you "I am delivering a death mes plied Cyril, thoughtfully. “Well, I must ascertain how the game is progressing,” said Alexa shaking our hero by the hand away. “Alexander is a strange you Cyril, musingly. “I sometimes must be pessimistic.” At that moment the shriek of a agony smote upon his ears. "What is this?” he asked. "Aw trouble? I must buy an extra and what has occasioned this disturban For at that moment the newsbo shouting the extras which told woman had screamed. Such is life in a great city. Our hero ran toward the corner. . Handsome Cyril 3 m... m, thank you,” she said, and for a few ... ies she wept softly. aily she lifted her tear-stained face wid: “Summon a conveyance and if we ever in need of a friend come to this Lii” saying which she gave Cyril an ,id card and offered him a purse con- .lg gold. madam,” said Cyril, with dignity. . not take your money. My salary is int to permit me to live in compara- - Xury. cab which he had summoned arrived is moment. He assisted his fair com- to enter the cab and then turned his sion to the carriage, which was by this nearly a mile away. That wretch shall not escape me," he determinedly, and without further he started in pursuit of the carriage, was now a mile and a quarter she sped along the street he chanced to he card given to him by the beautiful + ran thus: Bang! Bang! . . Vse tu re veLexander," he said, ::. 1 us Tanusome face. nute venteech." responded ERIN sene broken only by We rear care street. Then her ne Wrere you going?” . o poder message," re- im N w e to o w the baseball see texander, and ze haad he moved bunt .tu Che youth," said venecimes think he BOR: Trešot a woman in too . De nie "A woman in i Himera and find out AURIbar e." od mes newsb ys were W. * told rhy the L WAT N e curner, Handsome Cyril He saw a beautiful woman struggling in the grasp of a fashionably-attired man. She was a magnificent creature. Great swirls of raven hair fell in profusion down her back. The alabaster whiteness of her face served to intensify her beauty. She wore a diamond necklace, diamond earrings, and her lily-white hands flashed with precious jewels. She turned an appealing look at our hero and said: “Oh, sir, save me!" Bing! With a well-directed blow Cyril sent the fashionably-dressed man sprawling on the pavement. With the other arm he sup- ported the fainting woman. Then with the other hand he picked up the lace hand- kerchief which had fallen to the ground and presented it to her with a graceful bow. “Curse you!" shouted the villain, strug- gling to his feet. “I shall cause you to rue this deed.” “Coward!” exclaimed Cyril, with a curl- ing lip. “How dare you strike this woman?" CYRIL SPLASH! IH BINCI MuwTurcar THWARTED! Handsome Cyril; or, The Messenger Boy with the Warm Feet HANDSOME CYRIL; or, THE MESSENGER BOY WITH THE WARM FEET Chapter 1 THE MEETING YRIL!” “Alexander!" The two messenger boys clasped hands. It was on Madison Street—that busy thoroughfare where many streams of hu- manity meet in whirling vortexes. The afternoon sun lighted up the features of Cyril Smith, the courageous young mes- senger boy. His steel-gray eyes glinted as he gazed at his friend and comrade, Alexander. He had regular features and a regular suit of mes- senger boy clothes. Handsome Cyril He saw a beautiful woman struggling in the grasp of a fashionably-attired man. She was a magnificent creature. Great swirls of raven hair fell in profusion down her back. The alabaster whiteness of her face served to intensify her beauty. She wore a diamond necklace, diamond earrings, and her lily-white hands flashed with precious jewels. She turned an appealing look at our hero and said: “Oh, sir, save me!” Bing! With a well-directed blow Cyril sent the fashionably-dressed man sprawling on the pavement. With the other arm he sup- ported the fainting woman. Then with the other hand he picked up the lace hand- kerchief which had fallen to the ground and presented it to her with a graceful bow. “Curse you!" shouted the villain, strug- gling to his feet. “I shall cause you to rue this deed.” “Coward!” exclaimed Cyril, with a curl- ing lip. “How dare you strike this woman?" Bang! Bang! "We shall meet again,” said Cyril's an- tagonist, ominously, and with these words he stepped into a carriage and was driven rapidly away. Our hero now turned his attention to the beautiful creature who reclined in his arms. "Speak! speak!” he whispered. Slowly the glorious eyes opened, and then she asked, in tremulous tones: “Where is he?" “Gone.” “Where to ?” "That I cannot say, madam,” responded Cyril, for though he was only a messenger boy he had been taught to be courte- ous. “His name is Rudolf Belmont. He must be followed.” “Yes, madam.” “He has taken the papers which prove that I am the real owner of the Belmont estate.” A shudder passed through our hero's frame. Then recovering himself he said: “Madam, I will follow that villain and re- cover the papers.” Handsome Cyril "Ah, sir; you are a handsome youth,” said some one behind him, and Cyril turned to behold a tall, handsome stranger. Our hero acknowledged the compliment with a pleasant bow, and soon he was in conversation with the stranger. Before departing, the stranger gave our hero a box of crackerjack, which he devoured with a relish, as it had been nearly two hours since he had tasted food. Scarcely had he finished eating when he felt a strange faintness. Everything seemed to swim before his gaze, as though he were in a natatorium. He had to lean against the tree for support. Suddenly the truth flashed upon him! The crackerjack had been drugged. The whole earth seemed enveloped in darkness. He sank to the ground. He heard a voice, “Away with him to the basement!” It was the voice of Rudolf Belmont! Then all was blank: Bang! Bang! Chapter 3 THE RIVER V THEN our hero recovered conscious- W ness he found himself bound and gagged and being carried along a dark thor- oughfare by two rough-looking men. He was blindfolded but he knew the men were rough-looking. They always are. A drizzle of rain was falling and the sky overhead was inky black. Cyril heard a voice. It was the voice of Rudolf Belmont. He was speaking to the two rough-looking men. He said: “Do your work well. Then meet me at the Rock Island depot and you shall have your money." Cyril's heart seemed to stand still! What were they going to do? The two ruffians carried him along a dark wall. He heard beneath him the lapping of waves. The two men spoke in muttered oaths. He knew the horrible truth. The river! 10 Bang! Bang! We must get to the Rock Island depot. Have you your revolvers with you?” “Yes,” said Alexander, producing his trusty weapons and inspecting them care- fully. “Then come with me, for we have not a moment to spare.” With one strong pull the boat reached the shore. Our hero hastened up the bank, closely followed by Alexander, and ran to- ward the Rock Island depot. Just as our hero and his companion dashed into the train shed a man with a slouch hat pulled down over his face ran for a train which was slowly moving out of the station. That man was Rudolf Belmont! Chapter 5 THWARTED O UR hero, it will be recalled, saw Rudolf Belmont running to catch the train. He redoubled his speed. As Rudolf Belmont swung on the last platform, Cyril followed closely. 12 Bang! Bang! Chapter 6 UNITED MOTHER!" M "Cyril!” It was indeed a happy evening at the mag- nificent home in Michigan Boulevard. “I have brought you the papers, mother," said Cyril, modestly. "My brave boy!" she murmured, with pardonable pride. “We must not forget your friend, who so bravely came to your succor,” and she handed Alexander a $1000 note. Little remains to be told. Rudolf Belmont served a life sentence in Joliet. Cyril Smith lives happily with his mother, Mrs. Fisher, who is as young and beautiful as ever. Often, on pleasant eve- nings, they entertain at dinner a thoughtful man with a brown mustache and genteel suit of dark material. That man is a mem- ber of the Knights of Pythias, but if we look again we will see that he is none other than our old friend, Alexander. THE END 14 The Glendon Mystery or, Eddie Parks, the Newsboy Detective محمد مطالعه OUR HERO *AHA!* SYBILY ۰۹ THE GLENDON MYSTERY; or, EDDIE PARKS, THE NEWSBOY DETECTIVE Chapter 1 THE MYSTERY THE Chief of Police of the great city I of Chicago sat alone in his office. He wore a perturbed look. Ever and anon an ejaculation escaped his lips. It had been a week since the Glendon rob- bery in the Lake Shore Drive, and the sleuths had not yet discovered a clew as to the identity of the robbers. The thieves had entered the Glendon mansion at night, carried away $3000 in money, $60,000 worth of diamonds and an autographed letter of an English nobleman declining an invitation to dinner, valued at $8000. 17 Bang! Bang! Worst of all, they had abducted Sibyl Glendon, the beautiful and accomplished daughter of Hugh Glendon, the millionaire. Thus far every effort of the police to trace the thieves had been baffled. Day by day the mystery deepened. Little wonder that the Chief of Police was unhappy as he paced back and forth in the magnificent apartment. Suddenly a servant entered the room, and, making a low bow, said: “The Newsboy Detective wishes to see you.” The great official gave a sudden start. “The very one!” he exclaimed. The next instant he was clasping the hand of Eddie Parks! Chapter 2 Two MEN I ET us take a second look at our hero as he sits on the elegant divan chatting with the Chief of Police. He has an open countenance, a flashing eye and a deter- 18 The Glendon Mystery mined look. Such is the youth who at the age of nine has made himself a most cele- brated detective in the great city of Chicago, the terror of all criminals. "And so you think you have a clew?'' asked the Chief, with a keen glance at our hero. "I am on the trail,” replied our young sleuth, accepting the fragrant cigar ten- dered him. “I know the whereabouts of the maiden.” “This is indeed remarkable,” said the Chief. “How did you come into possession of this information?" In a few words our hero told of having seen two suspicious-looking men talking in a Jackson Street café. Disguising himself as a flower girl he had sauntered up to the table and had heard enough of their conver- sation to assure himself that they were implicated in the abduction of Sibyl Glen- don. For three days he shadowed the two men all of the time. One lived on the north side. The other lived on the south side. All of the facts were fitting together. 19 Bang! Bang! “Aha, this grows interesting!” exclaimed the Chief. Our hero smiled modestly. He told how he followed the men into a restaurant. They went to a lavatory to wash their hands. He waited until they removed their cuffs and then he stole their cuffs and escaped. “And why did you purloin the cuffs ?” asked the Chief. "I wished to be sure of their names!” ex- claimed our hero. “They had been patron- izing a Chinese laundry and the names were in Chinese. Fortunately, I have studied that language.” So saying, our hero handed the Chief a slip of paper bearing the names of Granville Armytage and Herbert Blusco. The Chief stepped to his desk and wrote as follows: All members of the Police Department are in- structed to obey orders given by the bearer. (Signed) CHIEF "You may need some money,” said he, and he pressed a $100 bill into our hero's hand. 20 The Glendon Mystery Five minutes later a man with full white beard and snowy hair emerged from the city hall, and, boarding a west-bound car, rode rapidly away. Few, indeed, would have recognized be- neath this disguise the well-known figure of the Newsboy Detective! Chapter 3 A PRISONER NEVER!" IV These were the words spoken in a ringing tone by Sibyl Glendon. Herbert Blusco cringed before her gaze. Sibyl Glendon was indeed a regal beauty, and she was never more beautiful than when she said the above words to Herbert Blusco. A mass of golden hair fell about her shoul- ders and the black velvet dress which she wore served to intensify the pallor of her countenance. The scene was in a palatial apartment rich with draperies and works of art. 21 The Glendon Mystery Be brave. A friend is near. "Thank heaven!” she exclaimed, and fainted. Chapter 4 HELP! CIBYL GLENDON was aroused from w her swoon by the sound of footfalls in the hallway. She shrank back and listened with bated breath. Herbert Blusco and his friend Granville Armytage entered the room. They wore full dress suits and were smoking cigarettes. "Come here!” said Granville Armytage hoarsely. At these words a withered old hag en- tered the room and leered at our heroine, who emitted a low cry of fear. "This is the girl,” said Granville Army- tage; "keep a close watch on her. If she behaves, use her well. If not,” and he made a significant gesture. 23 Bang! Bang! Sibyl fell back on the couch and wept softly. With a cruel laugh, Herbert Blusco and Granville Armytage strode from the room. Scarcely had they departed when Sibyl heard a voice close to her ear: “Fear not. I am here to save you." She looked up and saw the old woman standing by her side. “What do you mean?” she asked, in doubt and fear. “This!" In a moment the disguise was thrown off and Sibyl was face to face with the News- boy Detective.. "That face!" she shrieked, gazing at our hero. With feverish haste she drew from her bosom a locket encrusted with jewels, which she gazed at. "Brother!” she exclaimed. “To think that I have found you—and here!" With an effort our hero repressed his emotions. "Darling sister,” said he, "we must escape from this place. You are in the clutches of 24 The Glendon Mystery two desperate villains, who will scruple at nothing.” At that instant the room filled with smoke and the clanging of bells was heard out- side. Our hero ran to the window, and his face blanched. "Courage, sister!” he exclaimed. “The house is on fire!" Chapter 5 THE HOLOCAUST FIRE!” T “Fire!” "Fire!" The wild alarm rang throughout the great city of Chicago and countless thou- sands assembled to witness the conflagra- tion. The great stone mansion of the Blusco family was being devoured by the hungry flames. For blocks around the wildest ex- citement prevailed, and the scene beggared description. 25 Bang! Bang! Suddenly a moan of horror swept through a vast assemblage. There, in the topmost window, stood a youth, supporting in his arms a beautiful young lady. At first the multitude was frozen with horror, and then a mighty cheer went up, for they had recognized in the youth at the window none other than our hero, the News- boy Detective! With lightning rapidity the firemen raised the tallest ladder. It was still thirty feet from the window! The ledge on which our hero stood was enveloped in flames. "Courage,” he whispered. Then he leaped. Through the air he shot like a rocket. Sibyl clung to him desperately. He caught the top round of the ladder with his left hand, and for a moment dangled in the air far above the horrified spectators. Then he drew himself up and whispered to his fair burden. “Saved!” she exclaimed, and fainted. 26 The Glendon Mystery Chapter 6 Run to Earth AFTER setting fire to the house, Herbert Blusco and Granville Armytage stepped into a carriage and were driven away to the grand ball to be given by Mrs. Clarence St. Clair. “Are you sure they will perish in the flames?” asked Herbert Blusco, with an oath. “Certainly,” replied Granville Armytage, with an oath. At that moment the carriage stopped be- fore the brilliantly lighted St. Clair man- sion. Herbert Blusco and Granville Armytage were soon mingling with the merry throng. Few, to have seen them, would have sus- pected that they were desperate criminals. At midnight the ball was at its height. Herbert Blusco was entering the ballroom with Mrs. Clarence St. Clair on his arm, when he felt a heavy hand on his shoulder and a voice said: “You are my prisoner.” 27 Bang! Bang! With a gasp he turned. There stood the Newsboy Detective! At that moment a pistol shot rang out. Granville Armytage had shot himself in the conservatory. Chapter 7 HOME AGAIN TITTLE remains to be told. U When Herbert Blusco was searched by the police, the Glendon diamonds and the letter from the English nobleman were found in his possession. Next day he was sentenced to prison for life. Eddie Parks was offered a home with his sister, but he preferred to continue selling papers and ferreting out mysteries. The $10,000 reward paid him for recovering the diamonds he used in completing the Home for Newsboys. THE END 28 Eddie Parks to the Rescue; or, The National Bank Robbery EDDIE PARKS TO THE RESCUE; or, THE NATIONAL BANK ROBBERY Chapter 1 THE PLOTTERS UTOW much did you say?” "One million four hundred and sixty-three thousand dollars.” “A good night's work.” “E'en so." Three men seated in an elegant private apartment of a metropolitan hotel ex- changed significant glances. “Are you sure that you can hypnotize Hiram Clivington ?” asked one. "I am positive of it. I can put him under the hypnotic influence without waking him. Then he will tell us the combination to the vault; after that all is plain sailing.” "Blinky” Briggs, Eau Claire George and 31 Bang! Bang! F. Morton Bunker, three of the most skillful and desperate burglars ever known in the annals of crime, chuckled hoarsely. At that moment a voice was heard in the hallway. It was the voice of a woman sing- ing “On the Banks of the Wabash.” The door opened and a chambermaid of prepos- sessing appearance entered the room. “Did you ring for towels, gents?” asked she in a pleasant manner. “No,” replied Eau Claire George. Without another word the chambermaid began tidying up the room, while the three men continued to converse in low tones. Presently they arose and left the room. A peculiar expression was visible on the face of the chambermaid. “We shall see,” she remarked. Chapter 2 HYPNOTIZED MIDNIGHT! M Hiram Clivington, cashier of the Eleventh National Bank, lay asleep in his 32 Eddie Parks to the Rescue sumptuous apartment. All the bedclothes were of silk and satin, and it could be seen that he had jeweled buttons on his pajamas. All was silent save for the measured breathing of the handsome gray-bearded man in the magnificent bed. Suddenly the door opened noiselessly and three masked men glided into the room. One of them advanced on tiptoe to the bed- side and made mystic signs and passes above the recumbent form. "It is well,” he whispered. Then, taking Hiram Clivington's hand in his, he said: “Tell me the combination to the main vault.” Without opening his eyes, the cashier slowly said: “Fifteen-two, fifteen—four, to the right, to the left, three sixes, then turn around and go the other way.” "Have you got it down ?” asked Eau Claire George, the hypnotist. "Yes," answered his companion F. Mor- ton Bunker. Without another word the three men hurried from the room! 33 Bang! Bang! Chapter 3 A Night RIDE THE three men escaped from the house 1 and walked several blocks, finally stop- ping at a dark corner, where they waited for ten minutes or more. Then a carriage came rolling along the street and stopped at the corner. On the box sat a muffled figure. "You understand?" asked “Blinky" Briggs of the driver. "I understand,” replied the driver, in a gruff voice. “Then hurry," and the three men jumped into the conveyance. The horses sprang away at a lively speed. The carriage rolled from side to side. In a few minutes Eau Claire George looked out of the window and gave an ex- clamation of dismay. "We are going in the wrong direction!" he shouted. “Look!" ejaculated F. Morton Bunker, pointing out at the same moment through 34 Eddie Parks to the Rescue the glass front of the speeding carriage. The driver had disappeared! "Perdition!” was all Eau Claire George could say as he threw himself against the door. It would not yield. The horses were running away, and the three men were locked in the carriage! Chapter 4 THWARTED! RLINKY” Briggs, Eau Claire George D and F. Morton Bunker clung to their seats, expecting every moment that the carriage would be overturned. At last the horses stopped from sheer ex- haustion and the three desperadoes broke the glass from a window and crawled out. They found themselves in West Pullman. “Curse the carelessness of that driver!” said Eau Claire George. “We have lost valuable time.” “Blinky” Briggs mounted the driver's box and his two companions crawled back into the carriage again and were driven quick- 35 Eddie Parks to the Rescue not discover that the lock had been tampered with. It was agreed that the money must have been taken by some one who knew the com- bination, and suspicion naturally fell on Hiram Clivington, he being the only one who was in on the secret. The venerable and trusted cashier gave a strict account of his doings on the night of the robbery, but the directors of the bank were skeptical and relieved him of his place. On the morning following the discovery of the robbery Hiram Clivington opened the vault and explained the combination to his successor J. H. Grief. What was his surprise upon glancing into the vault to see there the one million four hundred and sixty-three thousand dollars! Chapter 6 THE CONSPIRATORS THE fact that the stolen money had been I returned to the bank caused great amazement, and seemed to prove beyond all 37 Eddie Parks to the Rescue couch lay a stalwart man with a full growth of red beard. Eau Claire George stood above the sleeping man, moved his hands to and fro. Suddenly a violent tremor seized him. “I have met a will that is stronger than mine!” he gasped. At that moment a revolver was pointed straight at his face, and the man on the bed said: "Don't move or I'll shoot!" Before “Blinky” Briggs or F. Morton Bunker could spring to his asssistance, they were pinioned from behind by two burly policemen. “What does this mean?” demanded Eau Claire George. "It means that you have been trapped,” responded the man on the bed, as he re- moved the red beard. Eau Claire George gave a shriek of mortal terror. Before him he saw Eddie Parks, the News- boy Detective!! 39 Bang! Bang! Chapter 8 RETRIBUTION V OU are, indeed, a remarkable youth,” I said the president of the bank, shaking our hero by the hand. “One would hardly expect a boy of ten to capture three such desperate characters. Pray narrate to me how you accomplished your purpose.” Our hero blushed modestly as he told his story. “When I learned that these three mis- creants were here in Chicago, I knew it was for no good purpose,” said he. “Accord- ingly I went to the hotel at which they were temporarily domiciled, and, disguising my- self as a chambermaid, gained admittance to their room and overheard their foul con- spiracy to hypnotize Mr. Clivington and obtain the combination to the vault. Ac- cordingly I preceded them to Mr. Cliving- ton's house and secreted myself under his bed. When they obtained the combination from him I took it down very carefully. As 40 Eddie Parks to the Rescue soon as they had left I descended from the second story by a water pipe and hurried away to where their carriage was in waiting. It was the work of a few minutes to over- power the driver and put on his clothes. I broke the inside door handles so that the doors could not be opened except from the outside. Then I drove up to where the vil- lains were waiting. My disguise was per- fect. They got into the carriage. I started the horses south instead of north, lashed them into a run and leaped from the box. I knew the men could not escape until the horses stopped, so I had time to go to the bank, open the vault by means of the com- bination I had obtained under the bed and remove the one million four hundred and sixty-three thousand dollars to a place of safety. Two hours later the robbers came and opened the vault, only to find it empty. Next night, feeling sure that they would not renew the attempt at once, I replaced the money in the vault. Knowing these men as I do, I was satisfied that they would try to practice their infernal devices on Mr. Grief. Accordingly I sent him a bogus tele- 41 Bang! Bang! gram calling him out of town, and went to his room disguised as him and accompanied by two trusty officers of the law. The rest you know.” “You are indeed a bright boy, and have a great future before you," said the bank president. Little remains to be told. Mr. Clivington was restored to his posi- tion as cashier and the three robbers were given long terms in the penitentiary. Eddie Parks was offered a reward of $25,000 by the bank. At first he refused it, but after- wards he accepted it and devoted it to useful charities. THE END Bang! Bang! editor. He had a strikingly handsome face and an eagle eye. On his breast glittered a star, indicating that he was a representative of the press. A notebook and a well- sharpened lead pencil protruded from his breast pocket. This is our first view of Clarence Allen, the hypnotic boy journalist. “Ah, you have come,” said the great editor. “Yes, Mr. Frost, I am always ready to answer the call of duty,” said our hero, mod- estly. Without further ado the great editor handed the following clipping to the boy journalist: GREAT EXCITEMENT Our city was thrown into a fever of excite- ment last evening by the announcement that Erastus Hare, one of our oldest and most re- spected citizens, had been robbed of $37,000 worth of United States government bonds by some unknown miscreant. The culprit entered Mr. Hare's bedroom through a window and at- tacked our old friend and subscriber with a 46 Clarence Allen, Boy Journalist knife. Afterwards he took the bonds and es- caped. As we go to press he has not been caught. Little knots of men may be seen standing on the corners discussing the topic in low tones. Great excitement prevails. "The item you have just read was printed in this morning's Beacon,” said J. Windsor Frost. “This is the greatest criminal case that ever came under my observation. Can you find the thief?” "I can,” replied Clarence, and, drawing his notebook, he hastily made a few notes. At that moment he heard a suspicious noise outside the window. He ran to see what could have been the cause. A masked man was rapidly descending to the ground by means of a rope. They had been overheard! Chapter 2 The FOOTPRINT AFTER providing himself with a dark 1 lantern and other needful articles, Clarence Allen, the hypnotic boy journalist, 47 Clarence Allen, Boy Journalist he knew that the thieves had recognized him as a representative of the press, prob- ably because of the star on his coat. Without further ado he rushed to a tele- phone and called up the office of the Daily Beacon and expressed a wish to converse with J. Windsor Frost, the great editor. “Hello!" “Hello!” “Who is this? “This is J. Windsor Frost, the editor. And you?" "I am Clarence Allen, the hypnotic boy journalist. I desire ”. But J. Windsor Frost heard no more. The wire had been cut! Chapter 4 QUICK WORK W HAT was our hero to do? For a moment only he hesitated. Then he rushed to the window. It was thirty feet to the ground below. A trolley car was approaching. 49 Bang! Bang! "I have no time to spare," he exclaimed, and jumped to the pavement. Leaping to the trolley car he pushed the motorman aside, and, seizing the crank, sent the car flying along the street at a speed of twenty-five miles an hour. The conductor of the car attempted to pull him away. With a well-directed blow our hero sent him flying. Women passengers shrieked in terror and the street was in a panic. Little cared Clarence Allen, the hypnotic boy journalist. Suddenly applying the brake in front of the office of the Daily Beacon, he ran wildly into the office of J. Windsor Frost and showed him what he had written in his note- book. "Great Heavens!” exclaimed the great editor. “And now what do you propose doing?" Clarence's eyes flashed as he replied: “I am going to put the bloodhounds on the trail!” 50 Bang! Bang! Chapter 6 HYPNOTIZED TT will be remembered that we left our I hero concealed in the thicket. He remained here for some time, and then, making sure that he had eluded his pursuers, he ventured forth and made a hasty examination of the old stone house. It was a dark night and the wind rustled through the elm trees. Only one window was lighted, and it was on the second floor. “They are there,” said our hero, and, pro- curing a coil of rope with a hook in the end of it, he made a fastening to the ledge of the second-story window and climbed up until he could peer in at the window. Three bearded men sat at a table talk- ing in hoarse tones. Our hero felt a thrill when he heard his own name mentioned. "It is understood, then," said the leader, "that we meet an hour from now at the blasted oak to divide the money." “ 'Tis well,” said the other two. 52 Clarence Allen, Boy Journalist “And then we will leave this country for- ever.” “Hold,” cried a stentorian voice, and with a crashing of glass, Clarence Allen, the hypnotic boy journalist, leaped through the window and confronted them. For a moment they were surprised, and then with fearful oaths they drew their weapons. "Your time has come,” snarled the leader of the gang. Three revolvers were pointed straight at our intrepid young hero! Could aught save him? Clarence Allen did not flinch. Gazing steadily at the leader of the band, he lifted his hands and moved them gently through the air. The ruffian fell backward to the floor and the weapon dropped from his palsied hand. Our hero turned quickly to the two other villains, who stood in mute surprise. It was the work of a moment to put them under the hypnotic influence and take away their weapons. 53 Bang! Bang! “At last!” he said, and, taking out his book, he made full notes of the proceedings. Chapter 7 JUSTICE H AVING hypnotized the villains, it was 11 an easy task for our hero to learn from the leader of the band the hiding place of the stolen bonds. They were found under a loose tiling in the fireplace and re- turned to their owner, who speedily recov- ered from his injuries. Little remains to be told The Daily Beacon printed a half-column account, under glaring headlines, of the capture of the desperadoes by the hypnotic boy journalist. As for the thieves, they were promptly sent to prison on the testimony of our hero, who achieved a great reputation for his courageous conduct and was soon after ad- mitted to membership in the League of American Wheelmen, a distinction which few merit and a glory which few achieve. THE END 54 THE STEEL BOX; or, THE ROBBERS OF RATTLESNAKE GULCH Chapter 1 THE CIPHER MESSAGE COMMUNICATION for you, sir.” With these words a youthful messenger placed an envelope on the desk of the mighty railroad official, Rodney Russell, president of the Lake Michigan & Iowa Southern Railway. The great man turned in his revolving chair, which must have cost a large sum of money, and picked up the envelope. Rodney Russell was a stalwart and hand- some man with a long and flowing brown mustache. His pleated shirt front bore two superb diamonds, and he had other marks of being a real gentleman. 57 The Steel Box “Aha! Just as I thought!” he exclaimed. “'It is the cipher!" What he read was as follows: 91 - Ado Ap of V/E T P D G 2° y se J? e ho “Do you know what this means ?” asked the stranger with a grim smile. "No." "It means that the Sunrise Express is to be held up in Rattlesnake Gulch to-night!" "Heavens!” With a low moan the president sank to the floor in a swoon. The stranger rushed from the room. At that moment two pistol shots rang out on the frosty air! 59 Bang! Bang! Chapter 2 THE PURSUIT TT was two o'clock. 1 In the roundhouse of the Lake Michigan & Iowa Southern Railway a dozen huge locomotives, panting under a full head of steam, waited for orders. The attendants were at work around the monsters, rubbing the metallic parts and testing them. Suddenly a bearded man rushed through the doorway. He wore a sweater, but no coat or vest. His eyes blazed with excite- ment. "'I want a fireman!” he shouted. “I am a fireman,” replied a muscular young man, stepping forward. “Then get on this engine. We must be off.” "Have you the orders ?” “Never mind the orders,” said the bearded stranger, drawing a revolver. “Get on that engine.” The fireman obeyed with alacrity. 60 The Steel Box The stranger followed. With a fearful puffing and the grinding of wheels, the immense Mogul Number Eleven moved out of the roundhouse and gathered speed as it rolled through the yards. "The Sunrise Express has four hours' start,” said the stranger, who stood at the throttle, “but I will overtake her.” The great engine increased its speed and soon houses, fields, telegraph poles and vil- lages went reeling by in lightning proces- sion. "I might have wired the express to wait for me, but I do not wish anyone to sus- he said. The fireman shoveled incessantly. The whole landscape flashed by in one whirling and confused blur. The man at the throttle looked at his watch. “Good!” he ejaculated. For the train was making 147 miles an hour! Pect, me said. 61 Bang! Bang! Dalton gang. All three were heavily armed and wore masks. They spoke in hoarse whispers, such being the habit of all practiced robbers. “Are you sure the money is on this train ?" asked one. "Yes,” replied the leader, who was none other than Bill Dalton. “There's a cool million in the box in the express car. It's in currency and gold. Now, then, if the train don't stop to take water, pull the switch. Do you understand?" “We do,” replied the others, huskily. “Get ready, then.” Even as he spoke there was a distant whistle and in a few moments the rumbling of the train. Fortune seemed to favor the robbers. The train came to a stop at the water tank. One desperado jumped into the cab of the locomotive and covered the engineer and fireman. The other two went to the express car and commanded that the door be opened. "Open the car or we'll blow it up with dynamite,” shouted Bill Dalton. 64 Bang! Bang! the lock with a cold chisel and hammer. “Hurry up!" shouted one of his compan- ions. “We must divide the swag and be miles away from here before noon.” Bill Dalton struck another blow, and the shattered lock fell to the floor. "There!” he exclaimed, and lifted the lid. Even as he did so he gave a gasp of terror. His two companions sat chilled with fear. A youth of intrepid appearance was sit- ting up in the box, covering the bandits with two glittering revolvers! "Don't make a move, or I will shoot,” he said calmly. He gave a short whistle, and six armed men came hurriedly through the door and seized the robbers. “Tricked!” shrieked Bill Dalton, and looking at the youth with baleful hatred he hissed between his teeth: “Curse you! Who are you?” "Í,” said the youth in the box, “am Eddie Parks, the Newsboy Detective!" 66 Bang! Bang! As soon as I leaped to the express train I told the conductor of the impending danger, and he promised to assist me in any plan looking toward the meting out of justice to the miscreants. Knowing of the Daltons' cabin retreat, I organized a posse from among the passengers and sent them to the cabin to remain in hiding until I whistled. The rest you know—of how I secreted my- self in the box and waited until the oppor- tune moment arrived.” “To think that a boy of ten should suc- ceed after all the great detective agencies had failed!” said the great man, musingly. “You are a clever youth.” “I did my duty,” said our hero, with downcast eyes. Little remains to be told. The Daltons were either hanged or sent to prison again. Eddie Parks refused the $50,000 offered by the railway company and express company, saying that he preferred to go back among his loved companions and sell newspapers. The END 68 Rollo Johnson, the Boy Inventor; or, The Demon Bicycle and Its Daring Rider VOLTS PLANS OUR KERO AT WORK ORE sad na MODO TEM WII BANG! BANG! BANG! VICTORY!! Bang! Bang! wished to be well rested in anticipation of the great race for the championship of America. Next morning he arose bright and early and proceeded to the race track, where thou- sands had already assembled. It was known that our hero was the in- ventor of the demon bicycle, and there was a buzz of wonder and admiration as Rollo came upon the track, attired in a neat cos- tume of red, white and blue. To all appear- ances his wheel was the same as those used by the other riders. Hooper, the favorite in the race, ap- proached our hero and said, tauntingly, “You are a mere stripling, and it is pre- sumptuous of you to enter the championship race.' “I will bide my time,” said Rollo, for he was a gentleman at heart. A moment later the riders in the cham- pionship race were called to the tape and the word “go” was given. Eight wheels flashed away in the sun- light. Hooper was leading, Gardiner was sec- 74 | Bang! Bang! sented itself. His father and mother and his elder brother Claude were seated in the parlor weeping bitterly. “Why so sad on this day when all should be joy?” asked our hero. "Alas!” replied his mother, kissing him affectionately, "some one has stolen the plans.” “Stolen the plans!” he gasped. “Yes, Rollo; the only copy in existence was left lying on the table in your work- shop, and some miscreant has purloined it.” "If I do not recover those plans my four years of investigation will have been in vain,” said Rollo, thoughtfully. "I will follow the thieves to the world's end!” and leaping on his demon bicycle, he rode away like the wind! Chapter 4 THE RIVER TT was dusk. 1 In a dingy basement near the murky Chicago River Hector Legrand sat at a 76 Bang! Bang! There was no escape to right or left! Behind him were the murderous pursuers! Ahead of him yawned the dark stream! What was he to do? Chapter 5 THE ESCAPE HECTOR LEGRAND and his villain- 11 ous associates emitted yells of tri- umph when they saw our hero riding madly toward the open river. Rollo heard their demoniacal cries and he knew that capture meant certain death. Pressing the electric button on his wheel he flew forward at a terrific speed. At the river's brink he lifted his front wheel. The bicycle shot into the air with the swiftness of an arrow. Bang! Bang! Bang! went the revolvers. Then there were howls of rage. Rollo had landed safely on the other side! 78 Rollo Johnson, the Boy Inventor Chapter 6 RETRIBUTION AFTER his escape from the would-be 61 assassins, Rollo's first act was to notify the police of Hector Legrand's at- tempt to steal the plans. The police went to Hector Legrand's mansion to arrest him, but he had escaped, and was never again seen in Chicago. His four associates were soon after ar- rested on another charge and sent to prison for life. Such is the fate of evildoers. As for Rollo Johnson, he took his plans home and had his mother put them in a safe place. Little remains to be told. Our hero received a million dollars for his invention and achieved just fame, but he did not relinquish his study, and every day he may be seen in his workshop inventing some useful article for the betterment of mankind. THE END OUR HERO 23 VICTORY! LORD ROMNE Bang! Bang! “Then you refuse ?” asked Mortimer Blake, with a hiss. “I am an American, and no American ever took a bribe,” replied George, with flashing eye. "What do I care for one hundred thousand dollars, when my honor and my country's fair name are at stake ?" Once more his eyes filled with tears. With a fearful oath Mortimer Blake drew a revolver. Bang! Bang! He fired two shots straight at the heart of George Webster. Chapter 2 DARK WORK THE girl shall yet be mine!" 1 Such were the words spoken by Vincent Edgerton, and his eye had a baleful gleam. His remarks were addressed to the Water Rat, a bearded ruffian whose hideous fea- tures were an index to his depraved soul. 84 Bang! Bang! Chapter 4 The CONSPIRACY M ORTIMER BLAKE, after firing two 11 futile shots at George Webster's bullet-proof jacket, returned to the palatial hotel at which he was a guest. Stepping into the elevator he quickly ascended to the fourth floor and was ushered into a magnifi- cent apartment, where two fashionably at- tired men sat at a marble table drinking champagne. One of these men was Lord Romney. The other was a secret agent of the British government, Guy Beresford. “Curse the luck, I have failed!” ex- claimed Mortimer Blake, sinking heavily to an ottoman. "Did you blow up the building?" asked Lord Romney. “Yes." “And he escaped ?" “He did.” With a smothered curse Lord Romney arose and paced back and forth on the rich Brussels carpet. 88 The Boy Champion “Should this American youth win, the British government will be disgraced before the world,” he exclaimed. "I have received a message from the Prime Minister that he must be put out of the way at all hazards.” His companions exchanged significant looks. “You mean—" began Guy Beresford. “I mean that he must be drugged and car- ried away this very night.” “Cowards!" The three conspirators turned hastily and then gave vent to ejaculations of surprise. A beautiful young girl in pure white, with heavy chestnut curls falling about her shoulders, had stepped from behind the portière and stood with blazing eyes. In each hand she held a gleaming pistol. “I have heard your nefarious plotting,” said she, while her lip curled with scorn, "but your dastardly schemes will never suc- ceed. George Webster is an American, and the American people will support him in his endeavor to protect the glorious Stars and Stripes, even as their forefathers protected our proud flag at Bunker Hill.” 89 Bang! Bang! At these words the Englishmen winced. “Stand back!” she exclaimed, as Lord Romney made a movement toward her. "Remember, I am protected by the flag!” saying which she drew the glorious emblem from her pocket and swept from the room. Who was she? She was Irene! Chapter 5 TO THE RESCUE CEORGE WEBSTER had concluded U his exercise for the day and sat with his trainer, Reddy Muldoon, reading the columns and columns which were printed in the newspapers. "To think that in a few hours I am to meet Tug Smith, the greatest fighter that ever came from England,” said our hero, musingly. "I feel that I must win that con- test, for I realize, oh, so keenly, that the reputation of the United States of America is at stake.” Bang! Bang! 90 Bang! Bang! ring and faced his burly antagonist boldly. A murmur of admiration ran through the vast crowd. Although our hero was fully eighty pounds lighter than Tug Smith, his well- knit frame and catlike agility showed at a glance that he was no mean opponent. Around his waist were the Stars and Stripes, the glorious emblem of the land of his birth. On his face was a look of grim determi- nation. The interest was intense. Tug Smith, a savage leer on his face, rushed at our hero and aimed a terrific blow. George Webster avoided it with the great- est ease. “Bravo!" shouted the multitude. Five times did the giant rush madly at our hero, and as many times did George Webster dodge the death-dealing blows. Tug Smith paused to recover himself and our hero availed himself of the opportunity. With a leap into the air, he struck the British champion a mighty blow on the jaw. Tug Smith fell and lay helpless in the 92 The Boy Champion ring while the boy champion bowed mod- estly in recognition of the thunderous ap- plause. He had won! In response to the calls he made a brief and appropriate speech. "I am proud [cheers] of my victory,” said he, “because [cheers] the championship remains in America [cheers], under the glorious folds of the dear old Stars and Stripes.” At that moment there was a commotion in the crowd and four men were seen to pass from the building carrying the body of a man. It was Lord Romney! He had died of a broken heart! Chapter 7 MOTHER AND SISTER TITTLE remains to be told. 1 George Webster, clad in a rich dressing gown, sat in his beautiful home with his dear mother on one side of him and his dar- .93 Bang! Bang! ling sister Irene on the other side of him. He had been reading telegrams of congrat- ulations from President McKinley, Chaun- cey M. Depew, Henry Watterson and other great Americans who rejoiced with him over the signal victory for the land of the free and the home of the brave. "The police have captured Vincent Ed- gerton,” said he to Irene. “He will trouble us no more.” A slight shudder passed through the girl's frame. "Promise me that you will never again engage in a pugilistic contest,” said our hero's mother, stroking his hair. “I promise, mother,” replied our hero, tenderly. “I promise that I will not do so, except in defense of the dear old Stars and Stripes.” THE END 94 . THE GREAT STREET-CAR ROBBERY; or THE NEWSBOY DETECTIVE ON THE TRAIL Chapter 1 THE STRANGER ANOTHER trolley-car robbery! Aha! A The city detectives are the veriest tyros!” Such were the words spoken by a hand- some youth, aged nine, as he stood on the corner and addressed his companions. Under his arm was a neat bundle of papers, bespeaking his occupation. He was none other than our old friend, Eddie Parks, the Newsboy Detective. "Why do you not pursue an investigation of the case, that you may bring the guilty parties to justice ?” asked Lawrence Hether- 97 Bang! Bang! emerged from the woods. They carried gleaming revolvers. As the trolley car came to a stop, women screamed and brave men grew pale. Surely it was enough to make the stoutest heart quail. The robbers began to despoil the passen- gers of their valuables, thrusting into their pockets handfuls of glittering gems and great rolls of money. “Come, give me your money and jewels," said a villain, who appeared to be the leader of the gang, addressing a beautiful young lady on the end seat. “I will give you nothing, Edgar Black," was the scornful reply. “Curse you! Who are you?” “I will show you,” said she, and with a swift movement the wig was removed. It was the Newsboy Detective! "Damnation!” shrieked Edgar Black. The next instant our hero was engaged in a hand-to-hand encounter with four rob- bers. 100 Great Street-car Robbery Chapter 3 THE STRUGGLE TT will be remembered that we left the 1 Newsboy Detective engaged in a terrific combat with the four desperate highway- men. He fought with supreme strength, and at one time had three of the robbers lying prone on the earth. At the moment of vic- tory he was struck heavily on the head from behind. He fell prone and lay uncon- scious. His assailants retreated into the woods with shouts of triumph. Recovering himself slowly, our hero looked about him. The trolley car was dis- appearing in the distance. All was silence around him. Drawing a small vial from his pocket he touched his lips to a magic preparation which a friend had sent him from India. In a moment he was completely recov- ered. Picking up his revolver, which had fallen WA 101 Bang! Bang! during the mêlée, he set off rapidly in the direction taken by the robbers. Chapter 4 DARKNESS UR hero knew that by taking a few drops of the magic preparation occa- sionally he could run for hours without tiring and he was determined to keep on the trail of the miscreants who had robbed the trolley car. Sure enough, after running for two hours across the desolate prairie, he was re- warded by the sight of a distant buggy containing the four men. He redoubled his speed and soon began to gain on the robbers. Bang! Bang! Bang! A volley of bullets whistled around him but he paid no heed. Lifting his six-shooter he began firing rapidly at the lines which 102 Great Street-car Robbery guided the horses. One of them snapped and parted. The horses, being no longer under con- trol, swung to one side. The four robbers were hurled through the air! "At last!” shouted our hero. At that moment he stumbled and fell for- ward. A bullet had struck him in the head! Chapter 5 THE CIPHER MESSAGE W THEN our hero recovered conscious- W ness it was broad daylight. It re- quired some time for him to remember what had happened. An examination of the wound showed that the bullet had entered at the front of the forehead and had glanced along the skull, coming out at the back of the head. Beyond a slight headache our hero suf- fered no inconvenience. A few drops of the 103 Great Street-car Robbery "All members of the gang will meet at the haunted house, corner of Plumsen Street and Diversey Avenue, Wednesday evening, at 8 o'clock sharp, in order to attend to the distri- bution of the swag. It is especially desired that the members will be on hand punctually, as there is much business to transact. By order COMMITTEE.” “So far, so good,” said our hero, putting the card into his pocket. Chapter 6 The Haunted House THE haunted house was a venerable I structure, overgrown with vines and surrounded by tall trees. The residents of that portion of the me. tropolis shunned it after nightfall, and it was, therefore, an ideal place for the robbers to assemble and divide their ill-gotten gains. In an upper room, heavily curtained to prevent a ray of light escaping, sat Edgar 105 Bang! Bang! Black and two of his associates in crime. A black bottle was on the table, and the rob- bers took occasional long drafts of its con- tents. "Is the swag safe ?” asked one of the rob- bers, hoarsely. "Safe as in the bank,” replied Edgar Black, with a fearful leer. “There's nothin' to fear now, boys. The only one we was afraid of is out of the way.” “Yes, curse him; he's lying dead in the 27th ward,” said another robber, "and it may be weeks or months before he is found. By that time we will be safely in Paris." "Where's Wolf Pete?” asked Edgar Black, with an oath. At that moment the door opened and the three robbers, looking up, recognized the familiar features of Wolf Pete, the most desperate member of the gang. He seated himself at the table and brusquely de- manded an immediate division of the money and jewels. Edgar Black went to the wall, and, touch- ing a secret spring, opened a panel and brought forth a large tin box containing the 106 Great Street-car Robbery proceeds of the car robbery. The box con- tained $37,000 in money and over $16,000 worth of watches and diamonds. For several minutes not a word was spoken as the division was made. Each man put his fortune into a stout canvas bag. “Now, we're through,” said Edgar Black, reaching for the black bottle. "Not yet!" came in thunderous tones. The door fell with a crash, and a dozen policemen in full uniform poured into the room! Chapter 7 THE LAW TRAPPED!” shouted Edgar Black, pale I with rage. “Yes; your time has come,” replied the Chief of Police with a smile. “Someone has betrayed me,” exclaimed the leader, glaring at his companions. “You are right, I did,” replied Wolf Pete. 107 THE KLONDIKE RESCUE; or, THE MYSTERIOUS GUIDE Chapter 1 THE STRANGER TXCUSE me, Miss.” Mae Watts stopped suddenly and looked in a startled manner at the stranger who had thus addressed her. The scene we have just described took place in State Street in the great city of Chicago. Mae Watts was indeed a beautiful girl. A complexion of alabaster whiteness con- trasted with the ruby red of her lips. Her eyes were a liquid brown and when she smiled her teeth flashed in the sunlight. "Have we met ?” asked Miss Watts, with a questioning look at the stranger. He was a handsome gentleman, with a 111 Bang! Bang! long mustache, silk hat, a satin-faced light overcoat with a red carnation in the button- hole, immaculate collar, neat blue cravat, gold watch chain, etc. In one of his gloved hands he carried a silver-headed cane. "No, Miss, we have not met," said the strange gentleman in a voice of musical sweetness, causing a strange thrill to per- meate Mae, “but I perceive that you are in trouble, and if I can be of any service to you I will do so.” Mae was now thoroughly reassured and spoke to the gentleman most confidentially. "It is true that I am in trouble,” she said, laying her hand on his arm. "My poor, dear father went to the Klondike late in August or early in September, I forgot which, and for weeks we have received no written com- munication from him.” "Would you have tidings of your father?” asked the stranger. “I would,” replied Miss Watts. "Enough,” said the stranger. "Here is money to provide for your immediate wants.” He pressed a roll of bills into her hand 112 The Klondike Rescue and rapidly moved away toward the North- western Station. Miss Watts counted the money. He had left $10,000! Chapter 2 AT SEA M IDNIGHT on the Pacific! 1 The stark upper rigging swings black against the soft and opalescent clouds. The vessel rides the long and oily waves. Two lights move like slow pendulums at the yardarms. There is no sound save the occasional tugging of the sheet or the draw- ing of a timber. A lonely man paces the deck. Apparently he is in deep meditation. Suddenly he pauses and says, half aloud: “Curse the luck! I forgot to inquire her father's name!" Small difficulties seldom stand in the way of a man of determination. After pacing the deck for a half-hour or so, he retires to his cabin with a confident smile on his face. He has laid his plans. 113 Bang! Bang! Chapter 3 CAPTURED! SIXTY degrees below zero! D A heavy layer of snow covered the gaunt hillsides of Alaska. So intense was the cold that even the pine trees were frozen stiff and did not bend before the boreal blasts that swept the icy ravines and lifted the sleet into blinding clouds. Along the desolate trail, battling fiercely with the wind and moving slowly over the encrusted snow, came a solitary pedestrian, followed by two dogs hauling a sledge. The traveler paused for a few minutes in the shelter of a huge bowlder. "It is bitter cold,” he said. He had made the same observation more than 1300 times since leaving Dawson City. “But I will not despair!” he added and for a moment a smile of anticipation showed on his frozen face. "On yonder sledge I have $800,000 worth of gold. Let me but live to get back to Chicago and I will take luncheon at the St. Hubert every day and 114 The Klondike Rescue Mae shall wear violets while the other girls are wearing smilax.” Even as he spoke these hopeful words he chanced to raise his eyes and a groan of horror came from his lips. Before him stood three Chilkoot Indians! Chapter 4 The Nick OF TIME As soon as Joseph H. Watts (for the 1 solitary traveler was Mae's father, as the reader may have suspected) found him- self in the hands of the Indians he gave up all hope. · He knew that if the Indians did not rob him outright they would either eat his pro- visions and leave him to starve or else insist on acting as his guides and charge the entire $800,000 for their services. The unhappy traveler was not left in doubt. The Indians directed him to follow them. It was evident that they intended to lead him some distance from the trail and murder him. 115 Bang! Bang! Sure enough, they halted after a while and one of them said: “Gioo kaloo mahoo." Joseph H. Watts had an imperfect knowledge of the Chilkoot language, but he knew that this meant: “Your time has come!” Three rifles were pointed at Joseph H. Watts's heart. He breathed a last prayer. Suddenly the Indians dropped dead! Chapter 5 The RESCUER M R. WATTS was so astounded that he M did not at first take cognizance of the approach of a stalwart figure clad in a full suit of fur. The man was heavily bearded, but he had a kindly eye. "Another minute and I would have been too late," said the newcomer. "What do you mean?” asked Mr. Watts. “Why did the Indians fall ?” "'I shot them,” was the terse reply. “But I heard no report.” 116 The Goodlot Murder Case; or, Solving the Mystery THE TRIAL DISP it.com ar BA COS NON y WE car autores WA RAALI THE LEŚP" FOR LIFE! Bosh MAINTAIN QUIET!! CICA Ve U 2 THE GOODLOT MURDER CASE; or, SOLVING THE MYSTERY Chapter 1 THE case is hopeless!” So spoke the great criminal lawyer, and as he did so he sighed deeply. “Tell me the facts again,” said his com- panion, a proud-appearing youth of nine, as he took a notebook from his pocket. "I will,” said the other, dejectedly, “but I fear it can avail nothing. We can prove that Mrs. Goodlot has been missing since August 2nd. We know that she had quar- reled with her husband, and that he had threatened her life. We can show that on the night of August 2nd, the defendant generated ozonotic gas in his chemical labor- atory, and we have every reason to be- 123 Bang! Bang! lieve that he put his wife into the gas tank; but to prove it-ah, that is the diffi- culty!" "What is the effect of ozonotic gas on human tissue ?” asked the youth, with a thoughtful expression on his face. "It converts all animal matter into gaseous vapor. Within ten minutes after the body had been put into the tank there was not a trace of solid substance left.” "I will examine that tank!" "You!" “Yes!” “It is guarded constantly. They will kill you!" “We shall see.” He arose, and after shaking hands with the great criminal lawyer, passed rapidly to a carriage in waiting. The reader may have suspected ere this that he was none other than Eddie Parks, the Newsboy De- tective! 124 Bang! Bang! turn,” he said, chuckling. With that he threw off his disguise. It was the Newsboy Detective! Chapter 3 THE TOWER REFORE starting on his perilous night trip to the chemical laboratory our hero had studied a plan of the interior of the vast structure, so that, even in the pitch darkness it required but a few moments for him to find the tank in which the ozonotic gas had been generated. Taking a can opener from his pocket, he cut a circular opening in the tank and crawled in. After a few minutes he emerged with a satisfied smile on his face. As he approached the doorway at which he had entered he saw four men standing in the moonlight. The other man on guard had discovered the bound and gagged watchman! 126 Bang! Bang! Chapter 4 On Hand AGAIN AT ten o'clock the next morning James H. Webster, the great criminal law- yer, was seated in his office. He had waited for hours for tidings from our hero. There was a knock at the door and Ralph Dumont, counsel for the defendant, entered the room. "'I came to tell you that the foolhardy youth who dared to visit the laboratory last night is no more,” said he, a smile of triumph lighting up his malignant features. “Dead!” exclaimed the great lawyer, blanching perceptibly. "Yes-dead! He was pursued to the tower and leaped to the river. He did not come to the surface. So you see, Mr. Web- ster, that your trump card has failed. You can never convict Anthony Goodlot.” "Don't be too sure of that,” came a quiet voice from behind. “Perdition!” exclaimed Ralph Dumont. 128 The Goodlot Murder Eddie Parks was standing in the door- vas way! Chapter 5 THE Tоотн As soon as James H. Webster saw our 1 hero alive and well he rushed toward him with open arms. Ralph Dumont hurried from the room, muttering curses. "He seems surprised to see me,” said our hero, laughing merrily. "You are indeed a brave youth,” said the great lawyer, gazing at our hero in admira- tion. “But tell me, have you secured any evidence ?" “I have,” replied our hero, modestly and taking a small paper from his pocket he un- rolled it and showed a false tooth. “This is a porcelain tooth, and was not affected by the gas,” said he. “After find- ing this tooth I inquired the name of Mrs. Goodlot's dentist.” “Aha!” said the great lawyer. 129 Bang! Bang! “'I looked up the address in the directory, and upon going to the address I learned that the dentist died three years ago.” “Curse the luck!” exclaimed James H. Webster. “The fates are against us. Is there no one else who can identify this tooth ?” “There is a way,” said our hero. “Leave it to me. Now let us deposit the tooth in a place of safety.” As they passed out of the building there was a terrific explosion and James H. Webster's office was completely wrecked. Chapter 6 The Trial THE Goodlot murder trial was in prog- I ress. The prosecution was about to close its side of the case. There had been no direct testimony to show that Anthony Goodlot had murdered his wife. 130 Bang! Bang! ever used that tooth ?” asked the lawyer. “I found that the person who used that tooth and the person who chewed the gum contained in this box are one and the same.” With these words our hero drew a paper box from his pocket. “What does the box contain ?” asked James H. Webster. "It contains 423 pieces of chewed gum, each piece showing the imprint of human teeth." "You may state where you found that gum.” “At the residence of Anthony Goodlot, stuck along the under edges of chairs, tables, shelves, piano, piano stool, mantels, desks, whatnots, folding beds, railings, ban- isters, sofas, and bookcases. I found twenty-two portions of chewed gum stuck on the columns of the front veranda and I found fourteen on various chandeliers and brackets. I found three on one closet door and two on the caster in the pan- try.” “Have you attempted to fit the porcelain 132 THE AVENGER AND GENERAL BOLERO; or, THE SPANISH PLOT FOILED Chapter 1 IN THE DARKNESS TN a remote street of the great west divi- sion of Chicago there stands a tall - gloomy building. This building was once used as a factory. On this night in December it was supposed to be unoccupied. Not so. Seven men sat huddled together in one of the rooms on the second floor. A lighted candle stood on the table. The men were heavily muffled, for the night was cold. They talked in whispers. “Will he come ?” asked one. “I am sure of it,” said another. Both men spoke with a foreign accent. Suddenly there was a rap at the door. 137 The Avenger and General Bolero Chapter 2 THE CONSPIRATOR COME ten days later a beautiful vessel ► swept by the frowning Morro Castle and came to anchor in the magnificent har- bor of Havana. Almost immediately a small boat put out from shore and rapidly approached the ves- sel. In the stern sat Major Claro of the Spanish Army, a large and handsome man of dignified bearing. As he stepped on the deck of the vessel he was met by a young man attired in the uniform of a Spanish captain. The young man had a coal-black mustache, raven hair and keen, restless eyes. “Major Claro ?” “Yes, sir.” "'I am Captain Rico Portico, and I have just returned from a secret mission to Chi- cago. I have discovered a conspiracy to liberate General Bolero. One of the con- spirators is aboard.” “Aha!” 139 Bang! Bang! “Yon man who watches me so closely is the one you seek.” Major Claro stepped up to the swarthy young man indicated and said: “You are my prisoner.” "Prisoner!” exclaimed the young man. "Surely you do not mean it. I am a loyal Spanish subject.” “Let me see your passports.” The young man put his hand into his pocket and then said, in apparent dismay: "Why they're gone! They've been stolen!" "A likely story,” said Major Claro, mock- ingly. At a signal four soldiers seized the young man and hurried him away. He was doomed to a dungeon in Morro Castle! Chapter 3 PLOTTING THE AMBUSH THAT evening Major Claro and Cap- 1 tain Rico Portico sat in a café overlook- ing the Plaza Pazaza and had a long 140 The Avenger and General Bolero conversation over their coffee and cigar- ros. "You have rendered a valuable service, Captain Portico," said the Major. “Pray how did you learn of the conspiracy?” "While I was in Chicago I posed as a Cuban patriot and became one of the leaders of the junta,” replied the Captain. “As soon as I heard of the conspiracy to liberate General Bolero, I notified General Blanco. Then I followed the agent of the conspirators to New York and embarked on the same vessel.” “The plot has been entirely baffled,” said the Major. "Listen!" continued the Captain. "Gen- eral Bolero knows that there is to be an effort to release him. Let him continue to think so. Do not permit your prisoner in Morro Castle to communicate with anyone. I will go to the Matanzas Prison and repre- sent myself to Bolero as the agent of the conspirators. I will tell him that I have bribed the guards and provided for his es- cape. He shall be given into my custody, on order of General Blanco, and then as he 141 | Bang! Bang! rides away from the prison he can be shot by your soldiers in ambush. Thus the govern- ment can rid itself of a dangerous character and at the same time escape the charge of assassination.” "Wonderful!" ejaculated the Major. “Do you think your plan will succeed ?” A strange glitter came into the eyes of Captain Portico as he replied: “I will succeed or die!” Chapter 4 The ESCAPE TT was midnight. 1 The moonlight flooded the dreary walls of Matanzas Prison. There was no sound except the measured tread of the guard. Stretching away eastward and westward from the prison lay a broad level road, showing white in the moonlight. A quarter of a mile to the east a company of soldiers waited, hidden in the high vegetation. 142 The Avenger and General Bolero Their horses were secreted farther back from the roadway. It was the ambush waiting to fire on Gen- eral Bolero! While the soldiers waited in silence, a whispered consultation was being held in General Bolero's little cell at the prison. “May I trust you?” he asked, taking the hand of Captain Portico. “I swear that I will either deliver you to your friends or die by your side.” “Then I will go.” "Good! The guards will allow us to pass. I have two horses waiting at the gate." A few moments later the two men breathed the cool night air. The servant led two horses from a dark shed. Captain Portico leaped to the saddle and General Bolero followed example. "Follow me,” said the captain, tersely. He turned his horse's head-not to the east, but to the west! Away they flew! 143