Pathaway, or, The mountain outlaws
page: (TitlePage) [View Page (TitlePage) ]PA T HA WA Y; ae EaUtnain 4htiut . A TALE OF THE NORTHERN HUNTINGOQURS BY DR.J 3. H. ROBINSON. NEW TORK: R E D EREI-O A. , E rDT NO. 24 ANN STREET. page: [View Page ] I ' I +. ENTBURD according to Act of Congress, in the year 1859, BY CAULDWELL, SOUTHWORTH & WHITNEY, Sthe erk's Offoe of the District Court for the Southern District of New York. Io *9 R f (1 PATHAWAY; OE, T HE MOUNTAIN OUTJLAWS. CHAPTER I. TUE SILENT TRAGEDY. It was quite dark when the hunter reached the spot where he had set his traps the day before. It was one of those singular places' that are found in the mountain-ranges only, shut out from the usual haunts of men by im- passable barriers, and towering ramparts of earth and rock. But to the Northern trapper, all places are accessible. His practiced' eyes find the thread-like passes, and his experienced hand unlocks the secret gates ohe mountains. His feet are familiar with hidden paths ; and the moss upon the tret s, as well as the-stars in the sky, direct his seeps.' The hunter reached the inter-mountain soli- tude, to which we have referred, by a cul-de- sac, which he had believed was known only to himself ; but, having recently lost several traps, which he had set upon a deep, narrow stream that watered the basin, and found its way out to a more open country, by some in- explicable winding way, his opinion in regard to the immunity of the spot from other human visitors lhad changed. He was not disposed to bear his losses without an effort to solve the mystery. He approached the margin of the dark stream not without a feeling of curiosity, which was soon changed to surprise, by the discovery that his traps were again missing. Having well assured himself of this fact, he searched, as thoroughly as the darkness would permit, for some clue to the authors of this mischief, bu was unable to obtain the faintest' evidence that the spot had been visited by a white or red man. _ The trapper mused awhile, and then con- cealed himself in the rank grass and weeds near the water, which, at that point, seemed to flow out of the mountains, from beneath an arching roof of solid rock. The hunter, stretched at his length upon the soft verdure, listened to the murmur of the stream a long time, undisturbed, wondering where it came from, and hdw it forced its way through the flinty fastnesses of the ranges. The night grew darker. The blackness seemed to be rolled and compressed into the basin, till it resem. bled that Egyptian darkness that could be felt. Presently a light flashed across the ravine. Startled at. the phenomenon, the trapper looked vainly for its cause, and had made up his mind that it was a flash of lightning ; when, upon the summit of a cliff, directly opposite, he discovered the solution of the mystery. Two persons stood there, holding brilliant torches over their heads, and endeavoring, by their light, to obtain a view of the stream be. low._ These men were clad something like Mexican banditti.. They wore the deer-skin hunting-shirts of the northwestern tr tie. with plain leggings and mocca ins. Th, ,ger of the two wore a red sash around his ist with flowing,jaunty ends Beneath this were4 thrust a brace of cavalry pistols, dagger .i a handsome sheath, a hinting-knife with-A siP ver handle, and an ivory call of large size. He carried in his hand a double-barrel carbine. He was of medium height, thick-set, and the corporate members compactly knitted to- gether. His head was covered by a skin cap. His features, as they appeared to the trapper by the light of the torch,.were strongly marked, coarse, and hard. His companion was of lighter mace, but dressed much in the same style, with the ex- ception that he wore a black leathern belt in stead of sash. The two remained there but a few moments, and disappeared as mysteriously as they ease. This cireumstance perplexedlthe trapper. It 1' ; ; .: - , yj, , rr, A41 w r - a ' 1 1 i d page: 4-5[View Page 4-5] 4 PATITAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. a peared to hin that something out of the or- dinary course of events was about to happen. The faces he had seen troubled him. He beat a tattoo upon his forehead with his fingers, formed numberless conjectures, and grew more confident that the last was the furthest from the truth-a significant hint that those which might follow would be still less satisfactory. WIdle he ias thus cogitating, the torches ap- pearl$ i s another direction, slowly descending a steep and difficult pass on the same side, but lower down the stream. Their progress was manifestly difficult and dangerous. For some ten minutes he watched the light moving- eccentrically to and fro, sometimes totally dis- appearing, then flashing out clearer and nearer. Anon, they were near enough for the trapper to see that they were followed by four others, bearing a burden which looked like a human figure wrapped in a cloak. He instinctively drew himself further beneath the rocky arch that spanned the stream, The strange noc- turnal visitors reached the bottom of the ra- vine, an4l the man with the sash led the way to the margin of the water, when the four men, in obedience to a slight gesture from him, pled their burden upon the ground, and fell bask into a group by themselves. 41he trapper began to leel an indefinable in- r -t st in the motionless object they had thus dpesited. What was it? A human being? ,"dead or living? These questions were imtnedijtely answered. A young and feminine re',prang up, casting aside the closk, that had enveloped her. The glare of the torches lighted up the rocky basin. and gave the hun- ter a full view ,of her person. Her face was pale as winter snow, and lovely beyond expres- sion. The forester had .never seen beauty of so:iigh an'order. It seemed to his rough and honest nature, that an'angelic creature had * suddenly descended from the sky to thrill and awe him, for a moment, with her supernal eia. Her hats, long, dark, and shining, l ye wavy threads of jet inthe torchlight, hung iveled overter gracefulneek and rounded shoulders. The symmetry of her person was 4 ns'vloua. She gazed about her wildly, then a Jierselfuspon her knees at the feet of the si the sash. She threw up her arms, so e and beautiful; they waved to and fro-- ,, t*eat the air in an agony of supplication, rapper heard her cry : "Save me-save * The words struck him like the thrusts of a 'dagger. He was tempted to rush forth and die in defence of sueh .transcendent .bpauty. But they were six, he but one; he would wait. Vrovidence would, perhaps, give him the priv- i Ege of doing something for that helpless and despiring woihan. He had heard some one or he had read it, that Heaven's time was ,tv# i*hoir of man'shopelessness. The trapper to bea .;religionist-after the iane fashionable Christiani- ty, but he had the true instincts of the child of Nature, who, all unknown to the world, spontaneously worships in spirit and in truth. Honest men do not entirely forget.God in the wilderness, for he has placed so many memen- toes of His presence around them that it is im- possible to forget them. The trapper's sympathies were terribly awoke. The fair supplant took a chain from her neck, drew the rings from her fingers, and threw them at the man's feet. He gathered them up in silence, and dropped them into the pouch at his side. She continued her entreat- ies; she attempted 'to take his hand, but he pushed her from him. Tired, apparently, of this scene, he looked significantly at the four ruffians in the background. They came for- ward, and laid their rough hands upon her. The trapper deemed such touch sacrilege, and it required all his self-discipline to prevent hini from sending a bullet through the head of the author of this.outrage. She ceased to strug- gle, and, abandoning all earthly hope, appeared to be addressing her prayers to Heaven. They bound her white arms behind her; the rigor of the cords wounded her delicate wrists till they were stained with little drops of blood. She' was then muffled in the large cloak, in which was placed.a stone of considerable size, and both made fast to her person. The beautiful victim of these persecutions had alrea wooned, and was insensible to all these prep nations. She was as motionless .as a corpse, and as passive. The four mute men lifted the unresisting form, while the other two held their torches over the stream. While this was taking place, the trapper threw off his hunting-shirt, and divested himself of his arms except his hunting-knife. His heart was beat- ing madly ; the blood went racing tumultuous- ly through his veins, while his swarthy brow was streaming with perspiration. He resolved to hazard all for the woman. Of her history, of the events that led to this tragedy, he knew nothing ; but in his soul he believed her inno- cent of all crime, and undeserving the fate to which she was too manifestly domed. Her sex, her helplessness, her wondrous 'beauty, appealed to him, and touched his heart as it had never been touched before. The men carried her to the very margin of the stream, swung the motionless body to and fro for a moment, and east it from them ; it, fell into the dark water-it sank-it disap-' peared from view. Afew bubbles marked the spot where it went dwu. The man with. the sash gazed a few seconds at the disturbed sur- face, then, waving his torch, turned from the place, and, followed by his accomplices, as- eended, hurriedly, the rocks.- All this was, performed in silence; not a -word had been uttered by the grim leader or his men. It passed before the eyes of the trapper like a horrible dream;: but,,shaking off the chilling impression it had produced, he lowered him- 5 I PATHAWAY; OR, THE self quietly and quickly into the stream, with his hunting-knife between his teeth, and diving, sawm to the spot where the muffled form had gone down. He soon reached it, and with his knife dis- engaged the woman from the stone ; then, grasping her with his left hand, struck out bravely with his right, still keeping beneath the surface. He was a hardy swimmer, but by this time he began to experience a terrible pressure about the chest. The waters hissed and roared in his ears, and the demand for air was imperative and painful. He arose near the bank with his unconscious burden. He gasped, he breathed, he was strong again.' He sprang from the water and drew her after him. He had scarcely done this, when he heard quick footsteps on'the rocks, and* saw the gleam of a torch again. He threw himself down in the grass beside the immobile object of his solicitude. The assassin was returning to take a parting look at the'stream, to see if his unhallowed work had been effectually per- formed. He lingered but a short time, and turned on his heel, the trapper thought, with an involuntary shudder. He was out of sight in a moment. The hunter tore the cloak from the woman, and bore her to a; drier and more sheltered spot. He chafed her temple, he rubbed her hands, and employed various other arts to bring her to consciousness. At first, a slight tremor of the body,-then a sigh, assured him that his efforts were not in vain. A thrill of blushing life soon animated her peerless pro- portions. The beautiful eyes -opened, the pale lips moved, and a gleam of intelligence illum- inated the face. Evidently that portion of time that had elapsed since she had been thrown into the water and taken from it, was entirely lost to her apprehension. The hor- ror inspired by the miscreants was still upon her and paramount. Again she stretched out those white arms for mercy, and uplifted those soft andpleading eyes. The movement deeply affected the trapper. " You're safe, little woman-you're safe 4" he exclaimed, earnestly. "The wretches have. gone, and you're with a ,man who is ready to diefor'you! No more need of askin' for mer- cy, gal; no more claspin' of them white hands in despair, no more turnin' of that pale face to heaven!" The girl looked vaguely and incredulously * at the hunter ; her mind was disordered ; and. she could not quite comprehend what had transpired, and her situation. The one idea of deadly peril still absorbed and bewildered her. " Look at dne, gal ! Recollect yourself. There's a friend near ye, who'll never desart you in the hour o'-diffikilty. See ! the mon- sters are not here ! You have escaped their cruelty-you are free and safe! Heaven be * praised, who would not allow ouch a deed of MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 5 darkness! I've alleys believed in Providence, and I believe it more nor ever to-night!" The soothing tones and enest- words of the trapper acted like magic upon the girL. She began to understand ; she saw a kindly sympathizing face bending over her, and the man, raising her tenderly, she pillowed her face upon his shoulder and wept.lAe a; child. Thetrapper laid his large hand pretecting- ly upon her pretty head, and passed 4hs fin- gers carelessly through her wet tresss, There was magnetism-there was enchantment in the movement; the girl was reassured--she felt, sheknew, that she was indeed safe, andseizing the sun-browned hand, kissed it and dropped tears upon it. CHAPTER UI. THE CAPTIVE TRAPPEB. It was the vernal season in the mountains. The trees were in foliage ; the stretching prai. ries were carpeted with green; and-the winter snows had melted from the peaks of the ranges. The trapper stood on a shelving rock, look. ing down into a deep valley below. In height, he was over six feet---rather slim---straight as an arrow-his muscles hard and seasoned with exercise., He wore the garb of the Northern adventurer and hunter. His face was pleasant and genial, though it had a few legible care. lines- upon it. Nature had gifted him, with one of those comical mouths which it is im- possible to reduce to melancholy, but which will persist, in the most trying emergencies, in looking hopeful and brave. His. deep-set eyes harmonized wonderfully with his mouth, having the same cheerful prestige. His - rested easily and gracefully across his left-s His tall and motionless figure, atandin ;'r- lief against the rocks, would have 'fktie pleasmg picture for the painter, whose as'diti eye, overlooking common-places, seek the- picturesque and the bold as subject. in spiration. The man--whoever he was, or whate is history-had evidently met Life's voiitdge. with a manly front, and learned :to-dure, with a philosophical patience, misfortune'that could not be averted. He was a nomad; his - wandering nature was palpably written-upon him. He carriedwith him, in son e inexpli- cable way, the air of one who annot remain at rest. Give him mountains;',prairies, for- ests, and rivers, and keeg hii from cities and the haunts of civilized n.en,and he is at home, thouzhy his mighty campingground rean hundred .jles apart. A dildtoand crept up the ascent to 'he trapper's ears; ii as dike unshod hoofs oa the rocks. His ulanic tinctat g i page: 6-7[View Page 6-7] PATHAWAY ; OR,,THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS 7 eameaetive., He descended the jagged side of the mountain, until he could command a wider view of the valley; then, posting himself be. hind a tree, watched for the ""use o the noise he had heard, which was soon apparent. Five horsemen appeared, and approached the spot where he was concealed. Your of the parties were natives of the country ; but the fifth was a whiteman, and a captive. As they came near, and drew opposite the trapper's point of observation, he was able to arrive at several conclusions in regard to the prisoner. He was a man considerably matured in life, and belonged!'obviously, to that rough and roving cles known as free trappers, who 'fraternize alike with the white and red races. It was plain that he had not been taken without a struggle - marks -of which were palpable enough upon his torn and soiled hunting- shirt, not to mention a wound upon his face. He was minus the skin cap usually worn by people of his type-having lost it, doubtless, in the conflict that attended his capture. His long, unkempt hair hung in matted masses over his face, giving it a dogged and morose expression-heightened, questionless, by the state of mind he was in. His hands were lashed at his back, with a rigor that gave him a foretaste of the tortures in reserve for him when his captors should reach their camp or village. He was secured to his horse, to make assurance doubly sure, by stout thongs of buf- falo skin tied to his ankles, and passing under his horse's flanks. It was easy to'perceive that this wanderer of the wilderness was ill pleased with this ar- rangement; and the sullen manner in which be bore his reverses, indicated that patience was not among his prominent virtues., Two of his triumphant conquerors rode before, two behind him. The most important personage ofthe party kept a little in advance, and was elearly:a warrior of distinction. His "face and naked limbs were painted to the highest-point of lIdian fashion. His- neck, chest and cheeks were bedeviled finely with alternate streaks of black, red, and white. His head was decorated with seven eagle feathers which told t he was of very high caste, indeed-' paei"Cherrepresenting a scalp that he had t *em0 in this particular, he enjoyed an envi- ableatm 'eriority over his three companions- nosWhomn could sport more than four of these tell* ale badges, while one; of them dis- played but two. It wWnear sunset. The declining rays of the golden orb fell brightly upon captors and captiveapast the spot where the . 4 i~berty,"imittered the latter, "is a mighty '''thing, 'secially when the sun eh res, and ati' looks pleasant. Now that poor itterhas lost hf'ni, and got into ,diffik lty. Them, p'isohA ar-aerits lYltake him to their vil- 1agand:bnse him, asi if he's a condemned Hottentot, or a heathen like theirselves. -,The feller isn't 'tractive to look at, and has rather a hang-dog expression, I allow ; but I don't like the idee of his ben' rubbed out afore his. time comes." A light footfall caused the trapper to change his position : a boy of thirteen or fourteen had approached him unheard, and was now near him. He was a youth to fix the attention of the observer immediately, and retain it. In stature he was small, with a personal develop- ment singularly delicate and graceful. Ibis complexion was dark -his eyes large and dreamy-his feature wondrously regular and fair. It was evident that ie was of mixed blood; but the somewhat dusky hue of his cheeks did not seem to impair his beauty. His hair was long, black, and curling. He wore a light, jaunty cap, which partially con- cealed his forehead. His neck was small,- round, and delicately set upon' the shoulders, which were feminine in their contour. His frock, which was of the finest and softest dressed doeskin, -was ornamented with fringes of Indian needle-work. The sleeve, where it fell over the wrist, was wrought with bright colors in quills; while the hand below it ap- peared, by its smallness and delicacy, to he unacquainted with toil: those members had never been hardened with labor. His leggings and moccasins were of the same material as his frock, and of the same elaborate make. To look at, he was indeed a handsome youth. The only fault that could be found with him was, that he was too effeminate to fill one's idea of developing nianliness ; yet this defect did not inspire a feeling of contempt, but rather of admiration; for there was a spirit in the boy's eyes, and an expression about his mouth, that checked the rising impulse of scorn or pity. .Iis figure was erect-his step elastic. There was a smile ;on his lips when the trapper turned toward him. " Ali it is you, Sebastian V" " It is I, Niohoas. I saw you creep down, the mountain, and observe something in the valley, Mountaineer, you have been mutter- ing to yourself,",replied the youth, in a clear, sweet voice. - " You have sharp eyes, lad. There's little to be seen-that you don't see. You'd better heed my. advice, and stick close to camp," an- swered the trapper. " It's lonely at camp; besides, I don't like to lose sight of you, uncle Nicholas," returned the boy Sebastian. " Lonely at the camp ! Lonely with Mis- fortin andSmuggler-a brace of brutes that are as fond of ye as they be of fresh buffaler- hump. Bless your soul, ladi what better coin- panv do you want? Then it's so pleasant to, set at the camp-door and see Shagbark crop the tender grass, or give his heels an airiu, when his sperrits are up." We must. remark -here, enpassant, that 4 M No S "Misfortin " and " Smuggler " were two hon est dogs-the steadfast friends and companion of the trapper-while " Shagbark " was the name of a favorite horse-an animal tried in thousand tramps across the prairies. " They are, no doubt, faithful creatures, bu not quite equal to the mountaineer Nicholas to whom I owe such a debt of gratitude-" "None o' that, little un. I'll make a con demned diffikilty atween us one o' these days if you don't stop pratin' about gratitude ' an sich like. Do you -s'pose a rough feller lik me ever did more nor his duty? Did yot ever see an individooal that ever did more not his duty? Did I ever? Did anybody ever?' The trapper glanced skyward, sighed, an capped the climax by adding: "0 Heaven ! no!" "Bless your honest old soul! '"exclaimed the boy, taking one of the trapper's larg( brown hands in his. "Humbug !-for you are a humbug, and] shall call you so as long's you're with me.- don't take it kind of'ye to.call me old. Do] look as if there was an ' old soul' in thisbodyl The Lord love you, nod If 'twas a thousand year old, there'd never be a wrinkle in it; foi the Master of life, in givin' me a small intel lect, balanced the account by a hopeful hear and cheerful disposition. I never see no-trou- ble ahead, and don't borrer none to make my. self miser'ble with ; though some of my family did nothin' but borrer trouble, and died'thout payin' it. But see ! the dogs have missed ye ; Smuggler's settin' on the brow of the plateau, with his nose in the air, while Misfortin is slowly ereepin' down the slope. Go back, Humbug, and I'll jine ye presently." " But you have not told me what you saw." "Four redskins, with a captive white man -a free trapper, I should say. He was nigh about as dirty as an Ingin himself ; but he'll be purified, as 'twere, by fire, afore long, I al- low," replied Nicholas, thoughtfully. " But go you up with the dogs, and I'll toiler ye ar- ter I've looked at my traps." -"Trapa! You are not going to look at traps, Uncle Nicholas ; you're going to follow that party of Indians-I see it in your eyes. You pity the prisoner. But if you should be killed--if you should be killed, Nicholas--a sad day it would be to Sebastian Delaunayl! What a terrible thing it would be to be;left in the measureless wilderness without a friend!" " My dear lad,you forgit the dogs," said the trapper, with a half smile, looking down be- nignantly upon the youth. "%I'l .glad, for the sake o' their feeling's, that they didn't hear ye make that remark. Why, Smuggler would eat his own tail with vexation ; and Misfortia would be more onreconciled than ever to bein' t dog. 'Go up,'I say, lad ; don't be: obstinate. Vou want to make me cross-grained and ill* tempered, don't yae?" "You nrc' brave, Nicholas, and it touches d PATIfAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. - your feelings to see a fellow-creature In 4an- s ger. I know well enough that you are abput e to expose yourself ; you, will risk your life for a the captive trapper. Don't shake'your bead ; -I'm as sure of it as if I saw you on' the trail. ,t I'm goin' with you." ,t "What for ? To hinder my movements; to make me too late to be of sarvice ;to git ypur- - self into diffikilty ? I thank ye, little un; but , I say, No ! The man who follera a trail must d go fast ; he must pass like a.shadow from p'int e to p'int, and as softly as shadows go." u "I will obey you. But promise me,",added r the youth, with more earnestness,," that -you " will be very careful, and not deprive me of my I only protector." "I promise ! Rashness and imnprudeses would be injustice to you. I won't run no I risks if I cen help it. 'll be wise as a sarpent, e and dangerous as I can. Call up the dogs, and don't let 'em foller me." I The youth turned reluctantly; away; an45 I calling the dogs, with affected eheerfulness I slowly ascended toward the plateau; while Nicholas, after lookingat him a few sco'ds, I rapidly descended to the valley. r The sunwas sinking to the verge of the horizon, and twilight mists were already, purl- t ing in upon mountain-p sand defile. Having reached the fresh trai ,he-made a momentary halt, examined his rifle and equipments, tight- ened his belt, and resumed his way like a nan, who has made up his mind. That heae aoe quainted with that region, was obvious fromn the manner in which he noted the landmarks. "'I know\nigh -about where'll, they'll, go," i said, speaking to himself. "Bein' mounted, th 'll be obleeged-to foller the windin'sof the val y; but I'l make shorter wort os't." r The mountaineer no longer threaded the in. tricacies of the valley, but made a straight course across mountain-spur, meadow, andra- vine. For two hours he held his way ove A country rough and rugged, and inaccessible to inexperiencedfeet. Considerably exhausted, he reached the goal of his-wishes, ._It was spot lying between twomountains, waters -by a small tributary of the southern:bransk 4, the Sasketehewan. On the eastern side' w sa narrow pass, half masked by rocks and bushes, leading to the Sasketchewan prairies, amthe favorite hunting-grounds of the Blaekfeet., Two horsemen could not.ride abreast th this gate in the mountains. Through *a itene tsr-mountain pocket, the trapper licholas calculated that the braves would bebiged to pass with their prisoner; on their way to the villages of their people. Its wgs here, nesr the water, that he resolved to station limsel an4. wait the appearance ofthe parties, wh, come from the South, croes the streawpdt their horses, make a short halperbaps a * leave the spot by the eastern pass.. 4ceI8 . a plae of=concealment behind ;lare m _ page: 8-9[View Page 8-9] $ PATHAWAY ; OR, THE a ~ id buer, poised on a rounded point upEi ab61er beneath it. Hedges of mesquit sad t'aWEp dt wormwood grew in the soil he igbtgrew dark ; it curtained the moun- tain-ranges sombrely. The dingle seemed like a fbled temipls; the passes and defiles were mi6b ils; the craggy cliffs, dim and time- wi alts; the arching, starless sky, the dd~e. The tiadt aof the bunter proved wonder. full correct. The sound of hoofs was pres- edtyeabd y Nichola--muffled and distant at ; rstlMeater And nearer anon. The scenes and 4asiehts of the wilderness do not affect the tried nerves of adepts in woodcraft as they dot e wods, kah and effeminate from the huntb of wiVilized men, He heard these sigtbf e praibhing savages with equable palse -Under certain circumstances, coolness is bravery ; it enables one to grasp every ad- vrssga , 'and turn t to account. Te 'waiors -entered the dingle, and ap-° ptdced'thetream; while'their dusky out- as toked like unsubstantial shadows re- flected faintly dpon the eye. They crossed theNaera-heevery movement that the trapper had 'Aoi ed apon, and which brought them v& ear his place of concealment. After a fw wrder of conversation in their own tongue, thenhfhaAismounted and held their horses -e ;!ea while they drank, The animal, t 66tb the risonerfrightened by some ob. jt, ugaly bteked, until he stood to his * etbesuit.ssad wild wormwood grow. i artolI te boulder behind which Nicholas . t hidden. The wherior with the seven p1V s, WhoWaas the leader of the party, gave little attention to this circumstance--the es- eiaft f thewaptive in that direction seeming w)h01r itntpraoticable, as no one, however dar- inr* edIdulge his -horse up that rocky and ne ply pendicular ascent. To the trapper, ti,'WSis ':ropitious moment. Providence, ftli, favored his intentions. The spec- t tWayes-of the braves remained motionless b"toheltam. Nicholas emerged partially frm ite shelter of the boulder, drew his aI Wedged hunting-knife, and prepared to eitwt hAs1tld ,purpose. But how should haanattnbe 1i* presence to the prisoner? A e , elamation, might betray him. He hlssbd }k'1 a serpent. The captive:turned his head whgdtly,aid Nicholas availed himself of tgim rtsoent. Trapper,"*hb'whispered, "a friend is near. Be n qiet, ' TEse wow, loras they were, reached the eas of 'thesprsoner. He raised his headsud- de nlya geearottad bim.like a man re- alitthI' dd liholas,ar'ising from the naqit natheietsels fdanks. The -captive pegeiveI thistuistpdcted apparition; but-con- t d y emjaotions weh i kt. unheralded ap- MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. pearance excited. The Northern trapper is taught to be quick in his instincts by the dan- gers that continually surround him. Nicholas cut the thongs that bound him to the horse- then his knife passed quickly between his wrists: he was free ! His deliverer silently placed a brace of pistols in his hands. All this took place with a rapidity and adroitness that the clumsy inhabitants of cities cannot well conceive of. With a-novice, such a feat would have loomed up a stern impossibility ; but training and-skill smoothed down the rug. ged surfaces of seeming impracticabilities. Nicholas glided behind the boulder, and the eaptive trapper,,slipping noiselessly from his horse, followed him. Instantly the war-cry of the Blackfeet rang through the dingle. " Now, stranger, for a scramble among the rocks! Keep close to me, and I'll warrant we'll give the-red heathen the slip. Fire when you have a chance, but don't waste your lead." Nicholas sprang up the rocks like a moun- tain-goat. "My lhbs are summat cramped, but you needn't be afeard but I can use 'em to good advantage," replied the other, hurriedly. The Blackfeet were now pursuing them, whooping and yelling with disappointment ; but the fugitives had the advantage of the first start, and, being used to the vicissitudes and peils of the mountains, felt litt e apprehension or the result. Several shots were fired after them.; but they fell short, and spent their force on. the rocks and bushes. In ten min- utes, they had gained the top of the ascent ; and, after breathing a moment, Nicholas led the way along the more accessible part of the country. 1 CHAPTER III. T aE MIMIC CITY. Nicholas was curious to see the face of his companion, but the darkness prevented him from scanning his features; and it was not till the moon came up, eni hour la:er, that he was able to satisfy himself in this respect. A clo- ser view confirmed his previous impressions : he was of the wandering, free-trapper type, tinctured with Indian manners--addicted to most -of the habits of that race, doubtless- with free-and-easy notions of life, and a hearty contempt for those outside of his calling. 'Tlhe countenance that he presented to Nicholas, lighted by the first rays of the aseenling moon, was by no means calculated to invite friendship and secure confidence. The brow was low, and contracted into a perpetual frown. , His eves were sunken, heavy, and dull in expression ; while the nose was broad and fiat, and the mouth beneath wide, with a PATHAWAY; OR,.THE carnivorous air about it. The chin was short --the neck large--the shoulders broad. His garments were of the poorer sort, well worn, tattered, and greasy. His hair has already been mentioned as being in a rank state of na- ture-long, and matted over his forehead. In addition to this, the trapper was squint-eyed. Nicholas internally concluded that his last adventure had not made an important acqui- sition to the number of his friends ; in short, he was not inclined to be pleased with him. His manner of talking was abrupt, short, and jerking-giving one the impression that his words and sentences were discharged from a catapult or battery. He had a peculiar way, too, of grunting between his sentences, that was not charming. The hurry of the flight and the darkness had caused Nicholas to deviate from his intend- ed course. He now found himself on a con- siderable eminence, surrounded by scenery that was really wild and picturesque. Cast- ing his eyes eastward, he beheld what appear. ed to be the ruins. of a great city. This ap- .earance was produced by far-stretching and high-piled masses of rocks, that shaped them- selves into dark walls, tottering towers, and broken columns. This mimic city covered the sides and summit of a mountain, and at last, with its grand and gigantic scenery, was lost to view in a deep and dark valley. In all his wanderings, the trapper had never beheld a sight more worthy of attention.' He was contemplating it with a rapt sort of won- der, when he was addressed by his companion: "Terbaccer, eh ? Chaw, stranger ?" Nicolas turned, and met the heavy eyes of the questioner. "You want some o' the weed. I allow, and I'm most alleys able to''commodate in that line, though I'm not powerful fond on't my- self. Mister, I should say you'd been in a con- demned little difikilty " answered Nicholas. ' Diffikilty, eh ? Tisn't the first time, stranger ; reckon 'twon't be the.last. "Spect sich accidents in the wilderness. Git used to everything, you know, arter a while." The free trapper, stopped, and filled his mouth from the pouch which Nicholas tendered him, then rolling the narcotic mass into his right cheek with his tongue, added : " I obsarved you war lookin' at that heap o' rocks. We call it the haunted city." 'We ? Who ?" asked Nicholas. The man hesitated, then stammered: "Why, we free trappers, to be sure !" 1I wasn't aware," replied Nicholas, "that folks went trapping ' 'mong the rocks. I gin- er'l set my traps in the valleys, on streams, an lakes. " In coorse ; but one can't help seen' a mountain o' rocks like that, if he's anywhere in the neighborhood on't. But I'll tell you that it isn't a place of good repute. People o' my crat usually give it a wide berth. MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 9 Lonely trappers and hunters have suddenly disappeared in the vicinity of Haunted City." Nicholas shook his head incredulously, and the trapper went on : " Noises have been heerd there like dis- charges of artillery. The Ingins say that the Thunder Spirit lives there. Have heerd mys- terious rumblin's there myself. There's a deep valley away yonder, called Lost-Trapper Valley. We call it Trapper Valley for short." "Who named these places?"asked Nicholas, looking sharply at his companion. " Every place must have a name, you know," he replied, somewhat perplexed again. " One place is named from one sarcumstanee, another from another. I happen to know about 'em, 'cause I've cam ped a good many times at Otter Creek-which, I reckon, cant be more nor five or six miles from here. By the way, stranger, I allow you -oughter have a name yourself?" The trapper looked at Nicholas inquiringly. " You're right, mister," returned the latter, " I have plenty o' names, and I don't know as I'm ashamed of any of 'em. The. Ingins, 'cording to their heathenish notions, call nye Doubledark, having somehow or other got the idee that I'm shy and crafty, which is a mis- take o' theirs. The fact is, I'm neither dark nor deep, but transperient, as 'twere, and easy to see through. As for bean' double-faced or double-natured, I ain't. I don't earry two faces--I never did--I can't. Oh, no !" Nicholas took a long breath, and let it out slowly, with the air of a man who feels that injustice has been done him. " Doubledark I" repeated the other, with ia mocking laugh. " Youdon't look'like it, eh ? But what's your white name? I don't care much about red titles." " There's a name that I used to be called by, but sence it's got down into the settle- ment, and been talked over a good 'eal "ti folks that I don't know nothin' about, I ait forrard 'bout mentionin' it to strangers. Tin truth is, that I've bean writ-up in the -peiis by idle people that hadn't nothing' better to do --and I don't jest like it. I'll make a piso diffikilty 'mong 'em, if I ever git down as "fur as the clearin's. I never 'speeted that thin s would come to-sich a pass. I s'[osed I should be left to live and die in peace onmolesfed iOn the peraries, with my gun and traps by ny side, and my dogs and losses around me: But we ain't sure o' nothin' in this world but diffikilty, and that we ean count on'with some sartinty. They tetched me in a tender p'int when they put me in print; and doubted the traditions o' my family." " If you're goin' on i0 this way, mister, you may as well drop the-subjeck, for you'll never git at the question T asked ye. - As for print. in' and all that sort o'- -nonsense,, I never trouble myself about it; and can'tread a wqrd if it's printed neaer o well." M page: 10-11[View Page 10-11] 10 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. "Pm a modest man," resumed Nicholas, though I have my peculyarities. All I want is, to be let alone." The speaker brought his rifle down upon the ground emphatically, and added : "Nick Whiffies wants to be left alone-left alone to tell his stories, to have his joke, to live out his own life in his own way. Oh, yes!" The free trapper fell back a little, chewed his quid violently, ran his eyes up and down Nick's tall figure, and said, presently, in a voice thickened with tobacco juice : "So you're Nick Whiffles ? Guess so!d Pooty likely!"' "6What am I to understand' by that 2" de- manded Nicholas, tartly. "4That I'm not a woolly sheep !" answered the trapper, with a grin. "I don't git at your meanin' yit, precisely. Be a little more plainer, if 'tisn't too much trouble," continued Nick, quietly. " Don't throw dust in my eyes, and I won't wink I" said the trapper, with provoking cool- ness. oI don't like to have a man begin my 'quaintance by doubtin' my word," responded Nick, with warmth. "If you can't believe a person when he tells you his name, you must be a faithless critter ; and I calkilate that we can't hitch losses together, nohow. I a'n't quarrelsome, lout I want to be believed when 'm tellin' the simple truth. The Lord knows that I a'n't proud o' my name ; and for the r reasons I've give, should very well like to for- git it. But if you doubt my veracity, I'm afeard there'll be a diffikilty atween us." "You threaten, eh ? Goin' to scare me, a'n't ye ' Come now, that's good, Mr. Double- ark, Darkdouble, or Doubledark, I shall knock under right away. Uh !". The trapper fin-. ished his remarks with a grunt that might have honored a grizzly bear. "Before we go an further, I' should like some kind of a handle to handle you by !" said Nick." " Take Jack Wiley, and handle me by that; and rather keerfully, too, for there's some glass in me, and I may break with rough usage." "Glass, and brass, too I" muttered Nick. 'iJes' so, if you like it. As for Ingin nick- names, I a'n't a whit behind any free trapper in the country, but have got as, many and as long. Some call me the Medicine-Calf." "1Should like to hear ye bleat, Mister." " One tribe calls me Two Hundred Hosses, because'I run off a drove o' losses of jest that number, one night, from their camp. But come, I don't feel disposed to quarrel with a man who has done.me a good-turn, even if he does undertake to gammnon me a little." " Well, be it so ; but if things hadn't been as they are atween us, I'd made you believe that the moon was made of buffaler-humps, and you's roast a slice .on't-oma stick. But, come on, Jack Wiley, let's foller this ridge." "It'll take us ruther too near 4he MQek City to be altogether agreeable 1" returned Wiley, as Nick moved onward. " That's clear Ingin," said Nick. " White men never ought to git sich notions into their heads. I've heerd o' this rocky city afore, but never believed there was anythin' onna- teral about it, less a mountain-sheep or a poor root-digger are sunthin' out the common course." "I don't pertend to be any wiser nor my neighbors, and shall speak only for myself ; but I shall give Trapper Valley and that mountain a wide berth. It's said that them that enter Trapper Valley never find their way out, and a'n't never heerd on ag'in. The Ingins think the place enchanted by a bad spirit, and that everybody, who unfortinitly gits into it, becomes immediately lost, and is doomed to wander up and down, looking for a way out all the rest of his days. You needn't shake your head ; I tell ye they've been seen there, Mr. Doubledark." " Well, I won't dispute the p'int, though I never 'spect to see anythin' worse nor I am wherever I may go. I never could see sperits myself, but I had a niece that eerld see 'em in quantities to suit customers. You-c heerd o' my family, I allow. 'There was my gran'- father, the traveler, and my uncle, the bistc- rian, that were oncommon in their line o' busi- ness. I know that folks have shook their heads and laughed in their sleeves, as 'twere, when I've mentioned their expl'ites, which I have,:occasionally, to keep their memories green." With this kind of conversation to beguile the way, the parties kept on till they reached a spot where they could command a fuller view of the Mimic City, which, looming up spectrally in the moonhght, looked weird and solemn. "Down yender," said Jack Wiley, pointing, " where you see the rocks piled high, is the entrance to Lost Trapper Valley. It is called the Devil's Gate. Havin', as .I told you, trapped at Otter Creek, Beaver Springs, and Black Rock, I've picked up these stories from one and another that I've come across in the way o' business." " You interest yourself more about sich things nor I do. Give me geod trappin' and huntin'-ground, and I won't trouble myself about the superstitions of the Ingins and ig- n'ant white men." Nick suddenly paused, then added, in a dif- ferent tone : "Jack Wiley, look there, among the rocks, and see if them is some of your hobgob. lines !" "Where--where ?" demanded Wiley. " Don't you see 'em movin' silently 'mong the rocks ?" "Yes, I do ; and we'd better be going , 'less we should see somethin' worse 1" responded Wiley, hurriedly. 4, '. s, 'T "1 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE "You can go where youplease, Mr. Two Hundred Hosses ; but my eyes was give me for service, and I shall use 'em." " Nick's attention had been attracted by the discovery of several persons gliding among the rocks in single file. They were not so far distant, but he could see them very plainly. Their garmentsand manner of walking inti- mated that they were white men, although Nicholas could not positively affirm them to be such. He counted five, and the foremost wore a red sash about his waist. He could see their weapons gleam in the moonlight. Instantly his mind reverted to the scene that had transpired in the little basin, when trying to discover the person, or persons who had stolen his traps. A singular train of thought was at once awakened. He watched with an interest not easily described, the progress of the five figures, while Wiley stood sullen and silent. beside him. Nicholas did not speak. Resting his right arm upon his rifle, with a kind of quiet abstraction of manner,.he fol- lowed with his eyes the movements of the parties among the mimic walls and fragments of the haunted city. They descended to. the bottom of the valley, and were lost to view near the Devil's Gate. Jack Wiley, during this time, was observing his- countenance closely. " What do you think on't 1"' he asked, ab- ruptly,. " That it's not an oncommon thing to see trappers in this part of the country !" answer- ed Nicholas, drily. "Not sich as them-not sich as them !" muttered Wiley. " I've one piece of advice to give you, stranger ; and I do it out of gra- titude for the good turn you've done me : Shun Trapper Valley, the City of Rocks, and the country hereabout, as you. would a war- party of Blackfeet, or the plague, or the pes- tilence,,or anything that's dangerous and to be feared." " I thank ye, Jack Wiley, for the warnin'; but I'm not afeard of man or goblin. I've walked the woods, and mountains, and prai- ries many years, and there's no place that I, fear more nor another. All spots atween Co- lumbia River and Hudson's Bay are alike to me. I know the haunts of the. wolf, the grizzly, the panther, and all the destructive animiles of this region, as well as all the vil- lages, trampin', campin', and huntin'-grounds of the red pison sarpents ; and I go to and fro as one who understands his craft, and has -taken the measure of his compacity to meet sarcumstances and govern 'em." Nicholas uttered these words with decision ; and shouldering his rifle, resumed his way with. the firm step of one who has confidence in his own judgment and foresight. CHAPTER IV. THE GRAY HUNTER, The youth -Sebastian - Delaunay-having . ached the plateau, entered a small hut hid- 0 MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 11 den in a growth of cotton-wood. The dogs followed him, looking back, occasionally, in the direction their master had taken. A fire was blazing in the centre of the hut, beside which he seated himself For a while he be- guiled the time by adjusting feathers to the shafts of some arrows, while phis canine com- panions, stretched at his feet, observed his operations with half-closed eyes and sleepy good-nature. Wearying of this employment, and anxious for the return of Nicholas, he- took down an Indian long-bow that hung against the wall of the hut, and after stringiig it carefully, buckled a well-filled quiver across. his shoulders, then made his way to the spot where hehad parted with the trapper. It was dark ; but the dogs, taking the scent of their master, ran along before him, thus guiding him to the valley. Like a sleepless sentinel, he kept faithful watch upon the cliffs until the moon came up, sometimes talking with the dogs, at ethers, musing. Suddenly, the dog, Smuggler, erected his ears and pointed his long-nose down the val- ley, which was now faintly silvered over with the moonbeams; his four-footed associate growled and started to his feet, and would have bounded down the mountain-side had not Sebastian restrained him. The youth was well enough acquainted with the habits of the dog to know that he had seen or scented either man or beast ; but it was in vain, however, that he taxed his powers of vision to see any animated thing. - A cluster of dwarfed pinon farther down the declivity, within a few rods of the bed of the valley, offering a better and more sheltered point of observation, he descended to it. The advantage of this movement was im- mediately manifest ; for, straining his eyes., southward, he beheld a figure approaching.' It was a white man, but evidently not Nicho- las - there being a palpable difference in height and garb, apparent even at that dis- tance. Sebastian regarded his advance with a singular feeling of curiosity. He .was young--.he judged by his elastic step, and straight, lithe form. As he drew nearer, he perceived that his garments were of coarse, gray stuff, differing materialfy in cut and fit from those of the hunter and trapper-show- ing, perhaps, that he was fresher from the haunts of civilization. Of his features and complexion, the youth could form no opinion- and it was only when the moon's silver rays fell upon him, that he could arrive at conclusions respecting his garb and equipments. His arms consisted of a two-barreled carbine, slung to his .back by a strap. Beneath a plain leather belt he wore the indispensable hunt- ing-knife, and the ever-convenient pistols with which writers of fiction provide their heroes, brigands,-and adventurers. Though alone, and in the heart of a savage country, the young hunter (we will call him such) looked brave and self-reliant-at least, i page: 12-13[View Page 12-13] 4 12 PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. so thought Sebastian, whose attention was now a bear, while a second howled like a wolf, and solicited in another direction by Smuggler, the third crowed like a farm-yard chanticleer. who erected his ears, pointed his nose, and The young man's temper was evidently displayed a strong inclination to dart off up yielding. the valley. With a hand upon the head of "If you think it is becoming to meet a each, the youth subdued them, at the same 'stranger and a white man in this manner, I must time making an effort to discover the cause of beg leave to differ with you. Your conduct their additional excitement. Immediately the is both insultin and rude ; and therefore, good- youth sawwhat affected him very much--three night !" he said, tartly.'g men dressed in a wild, uncivilized manner. "Not so fast, mon garcon ! We have busi. In their outward persons, the roving trapper ness-with ye." and the fierce and predatory Indian seemed The speaker advanced toward the gray to be united, with an ingenuity and effect that hunter, with a leering, insolent expression. rendered them more unique and startling than "Stand back ! Don't come too near !" he either, alone. They advanced in silence, said, pointing his carbine. while Sebastian, for some reason, regarded While this was transpiring, Sebastian De- their coming with pale face and trembling launey looked on with a fixed and stony in- limbs. Crouching between the dogs, and tensity. He had not changed his position- winding an arm around the neck of each, he he still crouched between the dogs, upon one gazed at them with nearly suspended respi- knee, with his arms about their necks and his ration, and with a Countenance upon which hands upon their mouths. He lost not a word terror, incertitude, and dismay were dominant. that passed, nor a movement. Gone was the sprightliness and buoyancy of "Perhaps you don't know, youngster, that the youth-- but his fears appeared not the my name-s Grizzly Bear. I'm death on all common, abject promptings{,of cowardice, but small game that dares step in my way ; so put a sudden horror inspired b some dread mys- down your pop-gun, and we'll decide your ease terious power. for ye, presently." Sebastian glanced, shuddermnly, toward the ".I propose to take:care of myself. I trust young hunter--he had steppe, and unslung no such villains. I warn you to look to your- his carbine. The parties had discovered each selves, for I'm not the man to be brow-beaten other and at the same instant. What would -robbed, perhaps, with impunity !" they do? Would the meeting be friendly? - The Grizzlylsear scowled, menacingly. The Sebastian Delauney believed not. He of the natural malignity of his disposition was being gry frock also had his doubts. It was true aroused. that the three persons looked like white men "Stranger, did you ever hear of Bill Brace ?" and free trappers-but their prestige was more he asked, in a voice in which anger was begin- savage than that of the native inhabitants ning to show itself. themselves..It is easy to be suspicious. Some- " I may have heard of such a knave, but do times one's intuitions warn him whom to shun, not .now remember," answered the hunter, and admonish him where confidence should boldly. stop. "I'm Bill Brace !" added the trapper. The foremost of the three hybrids, after "Perhaps you'll do me the honor to intro- staring at the man in gray-a little while, drew duce your companions ?" retorted the hunter, off a fantastic skin cap, with the tail of some with a sneer. animal attached ; and, after scratching a bristly "You'll soon know 'em well enough, I'll head with a hand that looked like the paw of warrant. This feller, who can eat a raw unile a grizzly bear,.yelled like an Indian. The for his dinner, is Ben Joice ; and this chap, other, not replying to this salutation, he said : who can swaller a quart o' raw whisky at "Hillo ! hallo, there, my mangeur de lard !" once, is Zene Beck. - I don't think you'll "No.,more a pork-eater than yourself !" re- ever tell our names at any of the tradin'-posts plied the hunter in gray, or settlements !" ' Don't be impudent, mon garcon. We was There was something notably sinister in the born on the peraries a half grizzly bear, half mannerin which he uttered the last sentence- panther, half French, and half Injin. Wa ! pertinacious perverseness, a sullen depression wa !" -. of ,the facial muscles. Pride of strength The gray hunter threw his carbine across his made him insolent. Bill Brace was one who left arm, with his right hand on the lock, and believed in the invincibility of his own mus- the other on the guard- eles. Lawless b inclination and habit, vicious " Im a peaceably-disposed hunter. I med. and aggressive by nature, he was in want of dIe with no man's business, and only ask the that wholesome. rebuke that tames the ruffian- simple privilege of being let alone. I'm not and humbles the brute-man. so young and inexperienced as to be terrified "Men," said the young man in gray, " if by bravado and bluster, but am willing to meet you will tell me your purpose, I shall know ever honest person on a friendly footing, bejbetter hoW to meet you. If your intention be he white,:red, or mongrel, like yourselves." robbery, I shall be no passive subject of such One of the trappers growled derisively, like an outrage. I have seen men of your type 4 I ' i K ta} f i i t PATHAWAY ; OR, THE before ; most of them have been peaceable and well disposed ; and, I can assure you, those who were otherwise gained nothing." "Throw down your weapons !" vociferated Bill Brace. "Yes, down with your weapon !" repeated Ben Joice. " Down with your two-shooter 1" said Zene Beck, in a threatening voice. . The hunter's figure grew more erect and de- fiant. His countenance, so mild in expression a few moments before, was now firm and reso- lute. Bill Brace laid his hand upon the handle of a formidable bowie-knife, and advanced his right foot. The hunter cocked his carbine. "Look you, fellows! There are three of you opposed to one. The first man of you that makes an aggressive movement, I will shoot as I would a turkey-buzzard. I hold you to be outlaws, adventurers, vagabonds, and not true men. If you wish a quarrel, I will meet either one of you on fair and equal terms, whether it be with rifle, pistol, knife, or the weapons which Nature has provided." Bill Brace elevated his burly shoulders, and laughed scornfully ; but there was more anger than merriment in the demonstration. "You crow loud for a cock fresh from feather- beds. Tryin' to imitate the giniwine game, ain't ye ? Going' to scare grizzly-bear eaters, I reckon. You'll fight Bill Brace, will ye ?" The fellow stood with his gun before him, the breech upon the ground, both hands upon the muzzle, his body bent, and his bearded, dirty chin thrust forward. , Never was the de- mon of the perverse and insolent more palpa- bly pictured. Dwelling afar from the restraints of civil law, cut loose from all the forms and conventionalities of society, following his own wayward impulses unchecked and unques- tioned, pampering his wild appetites, aping Indian habits--their vices, not their virtues- with full faith in his brute powers, he had de- veloped into a full-grown ruffian of the savage and uncivilized sort. Backed by kindred spirits, with no moral curb upon his passions and desires, he believed that he was not only a law unto himself, but to others. The gray hunter, though taller, was of lighter build. He had more symmetry, and less prominence of muscle. The individual would have been hypocritical who faulted his proportions. His configuration gave promise of quickness and suppleness ; but his frame did not appear of sufficient hardihood to con- tend with the muscular insulter before him. But Sebastian observed that he was cool and steady, unshaken by the usually attendant trepidation of anger and danger. "1Do you hear it,.Ben Joice, and you, Zene Beck? This soft-bearded-this tender infant --this pulin' manger de lard will meet Bill Brace with any weapons, from. his fists to a blunderbuss 1" In a paroxysm of comical, yet inexpressible MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. IS contempt, Brace plucked off his fur cap by its swinging tail, threw it upon the ground, and trampled upon it, while his companions mani- fested their admiration in various ways ; one by thrusting two fingers into his mouth, and whistling through them-the other, by dou- bling himself up, and pretending to be strug- gling with irrepressible laughter, of a nature the most ludicrous possible. The gray hunter remained perfectly tran- quil, with his carbine still in a position to be instantly available. " Milk-drinker, I take that challenge! lie, he ! ho, ho ! Jest-think on't, boys ; he's going' to tackle Bill Brace, the raw catamount-eater -the double-barreled bully of the Saskatche- wan 1" Then, to the young man: "Jes' say how you'll go out the world, mister, and it's done! Will ye have lead, or steel, or grizzly- bear paws, which is the nateral weapons, as you call 'em ?" " We'll begin with the weapon's of Nature ; then, if you are not satisfied, the bowie-knife shall decide who is to be buried in this valley !" "As for that matter, I can tell ye aforehand. We don't take the trouble to bury folks herea- bouts ; the wolves are the undertakers in the mountains ; they make short work on't, and nothin' to pay for grave-diggin' and services. But we're wastin' the precious time. Say your prayers as quick as ye can, and I'll swal- ler ye !" "Moderately, moderately, my double-bar- reled ruffian! There are conditions to this duel ; the arms of yourself and friends must be deposited by that cluster of pines ; then your comrades must withdraw to yonder rook, and remain passive spectators of the contest, let it turn.which way it may. As for myself, I will place my weapons by this tree behind me" where I can easily get at them in case of trea- chery and bad faith." To this proposition Brace at first objected, but finally assented ; and the weapons of the party, after some delay, were disposed of as stipulated by the hunter. Sebastian held tightly upon the muzzles of the dogs while this part of the business was being performed ; for the arms were deposited within a few yards of his hiding-place. Smuggler rebelled a little as Ben Joice drew near, in the discharge -of this duty, and the dog Misfortune actually growled, as if his name was ominous ; but the sound did not attract attention. Beck and Joice retired to the spot desig- nated, which placed several yards' between them and their arms, and about the same dis- tance from Brace and his antagonist. The former cast off his hunting-shirt, and bared his stalwart arms, like a tnan who wishes to get at his work as soon as may be ; while the latter, having laid his gun, pistols, and hunting-knife at the roots of a cotton-wood, deliberately di- vested himself of his gray"frock, and tightened his waist-belt. His lithe, syinmetrical figure was now displayed, i st il''ntraat to the page: 14-15[View Page 14-15] 14 PATHAWAY ; OR, TAE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. stout and unshapely proportions of Brace, who, to all outward appearance, had a physical su- periority, weighing at least a hundred and eighty pounds, while the weight of the other could not exceed a hundred and fifty pounds. "Stranger," said Brace, with mock serious- ness, " you'd better tell me your name before I devour you ; as some of your friends may want to set up a stone over your bones if they should ofdance to hear what kind of an eend you made !" " Should I be assassinated here by you, or yonder cutthroats, an adventurer by the name' of Pathaway will be missed among the moun- tains. Are you ready, Bill Brace ?" "All.ready !" responded Brace. "Then come on, and get what you have long deserved !"- The young man advanced his right foot and arm, then the left with the corresponding arm, and "dressed up " to his antagonist. His right arm was now drawn back like a bent bow, his left hand forward, while his eyes were fixed steadily upon those of Brace, who came on with a great flourish, intending to bear down his antagonist by mere force of muscle. He led off with his right, and received a return-in his mouth with Pathaway's left. It was at once evident that the latter understood the art of self-defence, while the former was ignorant of its advantages, confident that brute strength- was all that was- required in an encounter of that nature. " The youngster's drawed the first blood !" cried Joice. " Look out for him, Bill !" Surprised at this rebuff, Brace fell back, and noticed that his beard was changing its color from dark to red. " Time !" shouted Joice, derisively. At the second round, Brace advanced more cautiously, manifesting an intention to end the matter by one crushing blow. He led off with his right again, when Pathaway cross-coun- tered, and gave him a heavy fall.- Joice and Beck greeted this event with noisy laughter, thinking that their champion was " playing off," in order to come off with more honor by- and-by, when he had tampered with the youngster long enough to suit his purpose. ":Get up, Bill; what are you tumblin' about in that way for'?" said Joice. . " There's a good 'eal of 'possum in Bill," observed Beck, hopefully. " Yes, indeed! he'll peg into him by-and- bye. He'll whip that youngster till he won't know tie moon from a fire-bug !" b]ill Joice was now in a furious passion. He at Pathaway, roaring like a buffalo- bull. He struck right and left ; his arms swung about like flails, always striking the air-never his antagonist-who, dressed under those active members to the left, to the right, planting his blows wherever he pleased. Joice called "Time" again, and the bully was evidentlygladto rest. He scanned his more youthful antagonist from under his depressed and heavy brows, with mingled ferocity, ma-. levolence, and amazement. He wondered what had become of his own strength, and on what object his hot wrath had fallen. He mouthed, and scowled on Pathaway, with the swelling fury of a bafled and tantalized beast of prey. The man who had given the somewhat unique name of Pathaway, maintained his calmness ;, and, with his arms folded upon his breast, met the flaming glances of the ruffian trapper, un- moved. Ben Joice and Zene Beck unconsciously drew nearer ; they were becoming deeply interested in the contest. Sebastian, too, fascinated by the exciting spectacle, raised himself to obtain a better view; and the dogs, equally sympa- thetic, arose upon their haunches. . Brace, panting like a steam-engine, with a startling oath, dashed again at the hunter, who, passing under the belligerent arm, plunged his left like a bullet under his right ear. Brace fell like a bullock in the shambles-got up in a flurry, striking more wildly than ever. Now, for the first time, the gray hunter began to show his marvelous power; he aimed his blows with a skill that was never baffled, and the face of the bully was soon reduced to a pulpy and unsightly mass. The blood rained down his beard, and reddened his broad and heaving chest. He fell every moment, and scarcely had strength to rise, while the small fists of Pathaway played upon him like iron bolts. An upward blow, like a lightning stroke, under the chin, gave Bill Brace the coup de grace- stretching him senseless upon the ground. ! " So let brutal insolence be punished !" cried the hunter. Then, turning to Joice and Beek, with a lofty and scornful air, added : " Which of you will take his turn next ?" Presently, Brace began to revive ; there was too much brute hardihood in him to re- main long passive. He blustered to his feet, hurling impotent imprecations upon his con- queror ; but, too weak to stand, fell with a helplessness that made every joint in his body crack. But, though deprived of physical power, he still command had his vocal organs, " Your bowie-knives, men!t Cut up the rascal as you would a slaughtered buffalo. He's the devil !i-at him, Ben Joice! Give him plenty of steel, Zene Beck, and I'll be your debtor forever I" Quick as thought, Pathaway put his hand to the back of his neck, and drew forth one of those terrible weapons that bear the famed name of the great Texan fighter-Bowie, the brave, the dashing, the daring. The bright, silvery, two-edged blade flashed rapidly in the air, reflecting the moonlight like the.facets of a diamond. Joice and Beck drew the -same weapons from their leggings, and were in- the act of springing forward, with an uicivilized, free- trapper shout, when they were arrested by the gladiator attitude and gleaning blade of the gray hunter. I 4 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 15 "Cowards !" he shouted --" why do yo pause ? Come on, and the mangeur de fare will give you a lesson in wild-wood manners.' "Don't let him scare you, though he b the devil I" muttered Brace, hoarsely. Ashamed of their weakness and incertitude Joice and Beck advanced upon Pathaway who awaited the onset with rigid muscles and compressed lips. Both sprang at him at once; but, evading them with the same adroitness that had marked his encounter with Brace, he gave Joice a wound upon the right arm thai nearly disabled him. At the same moment, an arrow struck Beek upon the shoulder, and the two dogs, Smuggler and Misfortune, freed from the restraint of Sebastian, charged the trap. pers, baying furiously, while a voice shouted " What's the matter? Hold up ! There's a cussed little diffikilty here-isn't there ?" The combatants paused, and saw a tall fig- ure, clad in bucks kin, with a rifle upon his shoulder, approaching them from the northern stretch of the valley. CHAPTER V. THE HUT. A little in the rear of the tall figure, appear- ed another of lesser altitude, but of greater breadth of shoulder. After the quaint address of Nicholas, the hostile parties suspended their sanguinary operations, with the exception of a few kicks at the dogs (who were inclined to worry them) and considered the new-comers with interest. . "Be. quiet, Smuggler ! Down, Misfortin! It's best to inquire into this business, I reckon. Been a trifle of fightin' here, it''pears,, What critter's this on the ground ? His head looks like a rotten apple, I swear to gracious ! It never could a been a handsome face, that o' his'n. I don't believe my gran'father, in all his travels in Centril Afriky, ever come across sich a speciment-of human natur'; though he seed niggers with tails, apes that could talk, and monkeys that had real military musters, with captains and gin'rals, majors, and corpo- rals.", The dogs became silent at the voice of their master, who now turned slowly to Pathaway, and began a philosophical and by no means hurried examination of his person, keeping up a running accompaniment of remarks.' " Stranger, you've licked him like p'isou ! I don't know the beginnin' nor the eend on't, nor whose side justice is on; but, by the looks, should say it was on your'n." " I believe it is, sir. I was forced to defend myself, or submit to robbery, or worse. I trust I have taught that bully a lesson that e'll remember uring the, remainder of his life," answered Pathaway, pointing to Brace, who was lying upon the ground in a sorry plight. " He must have a short memory, if he for- gita it! I must say, mister, that you don't u look capable of handlin' sich a big lump o d flesh. But you've give him enough on't, and " don't 'pear to be cut up much yourself. What e was the mean skunk doin' all the while ?" " Accordi' to his brute - instincts-wasting his strength in ill-aimed blows, striking out like an. old woman, instead of straight from the I shoulder, trying to perform with his threats and invectives what should have been done s with skillfully-directed bone and muscle." " You're a trump, by gracious ! As you t stan' there, you 'mind me of my uncle, the his- torian. He was about the same height, only shorter. lHe had an arm like your'n, only longer. His legs was the very picters of them you stan' on, on'y his was bowed out a good 'eal, and wasn't so straight, as.'twere. His countenance was more open nor yours, 'cause his mouth was a third wider. A re-, mai-kable nose had my uncle. I've never met one like it till I see your'n;. but 'twas a" heap. bigger, stranger-a heap bigger ! I seed it once in the night with the moonbeams shinin' on it, and it looked like a cock o' hay. Ah i sich an orgin as it was ! 'Twas jest in his line, howsomnever, for bein' a historian, he could smell out facks that he couldn't git no other way." The gray hunter smiled. There were no traces of the recent excitement upon his face ; it was now pleasant in expression. The mus- cles that had been as rigid as steel bands had relaxed their unnatural tension, and now look- ed white and soft as a woman's. The gladia- tor spirit in his eyes was quenched ; he was no longer the implacable and pitiless avenger, but the composed and quiet looker-on. He had dexterously concealed his weapon about his person, and now-proceeded to put on his gray frock. The trapper outlaws listened to this collo- quy, which passed quickly, in silence, when en Joice approached Nick's companion, who had been making various gesticulations and pantomimic signs. " Why don't you speak, Jack Wiley, instead of makin' an ape of.yourself by noddin' and flourishin' and holdin' your fingers on your lips? Ain't ashamed of our company, be ye ? Haven't forgot old acquaintances, I s'pose ?" " Don't!" said Wiley, edging up to Joice, and speaking in a - low voice, shielding his mouth with his open hand on the side nearest Nick, "'Don't?' what the deuce do you mean ?" said Ben, gruffly. " Haven't you any sense, man? I don't want you to know me too well afore this tall, talka- tive feller. He's one that we shall have to watch sumw'at. The Injuns, he says, call him Doubledark ; and if they do, you may depend on't, he's a sly one. I shouldn't wonder if he's sent on purpose to look arter us, though he's done me a good turn. He's lookin' atus; don't talk to me too much." Nick's observant eyes had already noted their of I ' 4 page: 16-17 (Illustration) [View Page 16-17 (Illustration) ] 16 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. conduct, and he perceived, with ready acumen, that they were birds of similar plumage. "Young man," he said, addressing the gray hunter, " your work seems to be done here ; I think you'd better go with me. These men don'teowe you much good-will, and the quicker you part company, the better for both." "I accept your offer," answered Pathaway, courteously; "glad to escape these outlaws with my life." "Come, Jack Wiley, if you're goin' with me. It's time to leave these merry companions. They're little too free in their notions to make them safe and agreeable comrades of the camp fire." Bill.Brace staggered to his feet, and leaning against Joice, indulged in a storm of invective and menace, interspersed with Indian and French, that could find its parallel in the Nor'- west only, among'the hybrid and lawless trap- pers. "Bill 'Brace has a memory like an Injun ! Wa , wa! Youngster, you've tetched a fire- brand tthe nose of'the grizzly bear I" he roared, shaking his fist with the unsteadiness of a drunken man. "Should say he'd tetched it with sumthin' harder'n a fire-brand," remarked Nic . "I'm trapper and Igin ! Wa ! whoop ! More Ingin than trapper. I'll have your blood, you pork-eater i I'll foller ye night and day.. I'm Bill Brace, and nobody shall live to say thathe's whipped me. Kill him, Jack Wiley, and I'll give ye a hundred beaver-skins ! Where's your pistils, you sneaks? I--I--I feel faint. Git me some water, Ben. My head's floatin' all about ; layie down, or I shalttum- ble." Bill Brace, pressed heavily upon his companion, who laid him upon the ground in a partial swoon.S Nick moved from the spot, the dogs jump- ing about biu., "Sebasti id 1,Sebastian ! What, ho ! Sebas- tian !" helihouted. Snuggle .darted forward to the cluster of pines an.;eommeneed barking. Nick hurried to him at once ; he found the youth lyingin- sensible, with his bow in his left hand. He raised him tenderly in hie arms, Poor lad ! poor lad I" he muttered.." He's seen that terrible fightand it's beentoo much, for his nerves." Then to T'athaway,''He' not a strong boy, mister ; he hasn't been very well. lately. Measles or sumthin'; and 'tisn't .the measles, neither."' A smilecurled the lips of the gray hunter ; but the moment he obtained fair viewr of Sebastiap's face, it gave p1i4e to an expression of sympathy and surprise..- "A bois bruid f"'Ee murmured, "What kind of a;oy " asked iek, some-} what startled., "4 ABois brtl,epgeted Pathaway. 'He's a good boy,=whatever kind of a boy he may be besides. He's so kind, so gentle, and then he's got sich sperit! He's limpy as a rag now, but he'll stiffen up by-and-by, and be as peart and brave as a Camanche chief. His systum is let down, and you can't tell what folks is when their systum s is down. He isn't a coward, not a bit on't. 0 Lord I no I" " Are you his father, and is he your son ?" asked Jack Wiley, with a sneer. " His cheeks are a leetle tawny, I observe." "If I'n his father, he's my son, I allow; contrawise, no," responded Nicholas, curtly. Sebastian began to revive ; his large, soft eyes opened upon Nick. A shudder shook his slight person. " Don't think on't, boy, don't think on't ; it's past now and over, and nobody's killed. Somebody'd been killed, if their wounds had been mortal, but they, wasn't. Cheer up ! sick things happen every day, on'y you don't see 'em." " What's happened, Nicholas ?" he asked, in a faint voice. " Nothin' of no consequence ; a spugilistic display, in which one o' the parties got con- demnedly injured. How do you feel now, little 'un ?" There was much of tenderness in Nick's voice. The boy put his 'hands over his eyes and held them there a moment. Pathaway regarded him with both pity and admi-ation. Thosemall hands seemed so un- fit for the wilderness ; the feet and the form, too, were so ederinate. "A pretty lad! a pretty' lad " murmured the gray hunter. "But tod, delicately reared to endure the .ardships; of. this kind of life. He should go back to his*uiet' home on the banks of Red River, or 'wherever that home may bey" " Can you walk now?" asked Nicholas. Then to Pathaway: " Ak! si;, sich a walker as he is when he's in his natural health ! He rides, too, like a monkey. The hoss ish't bri- dled yet that can throw him off. He's never so much stouter than he looks. He come of a 'ristocratic family, and wasn't put to work like others of 'his age. His father was a French count, an english duke, a Rooshan prince in disguise, or some ich character; I don't dis- recollect his title exactly. His mother was a half-breed of"very high caste-; the most beau- tiful specinint of, womankind that was ever seen. Bow do you feelnow, little'un? Hasn't' your walkers'got sti enough to stan' on? If you can't toddle up .the h1ill, I can carry ye, well's not ; rather like to carry boys of your age upmounting" Ni holastoked at the boy very earnestly, who, by ,tb aid of bis friendly hand, arose. Durig this time he had not become conscious of the presence of thegray hunter ; but now, perceiving hiinwas greatlysurprised, changed color an would have ,fallen, had he not been sup ported by the trapper. "7What now, sonny? Do you ,feel the dis- temper coming' on ag'in ?" -Theki, addressing Pathaway: "He's been subject to these 'tacks '1 a I ~1 c}- r I I t. " '? {_ d I ' I I i y . t ;2 4 # page: 18-19[View Page 18-19] r1 PATHAWAY; OR, THE] ever since he had the whoopin'-cough two year ago and up'ards. It didn't clear off well, the cough didn't ; but settled in his constitution, 'specially his limbs. The whole village took it to once, and whooped so like p'ison that all the Injins in the kentry took to their heels. It's a disease that never ought to be 'lowed the, north side o' the Rocky Mountains." While Nick was making these apologies and explanations, he held the youth upon his left arm and poured some whisky into his mouth. The fiery liquid went burning down his throat, producing a paroxysm of strangulation, which, though attended with danger, had the effect to restore him to consciousness. 'He smiled faint- ly, and said that he was quite well again. "Sartin !" responded Nick, good-naturedly. "'Twant nothing' in the world but appleplexy, which isn't serious till you've had it a few times.' My brother, Doctor Whiffiles, used to cure it 'thout diffikilty with red precipity and yaller ochre." "' Not a common remedy," remarked Patha- way. "Yes, it wasn't a common.remedy ; it wa'n't known to nobody but my brother, and the se- cret died with him. Will inform ye some time how be came to a full stop., Ah! your legs is a little shaky yet, but they'll grow stronger with use, and longer, too. Lean on me, and don't be afraid of tirin' inc." " You'd better have a nuss and a wagon for him !" said Wiley, squinting maliciously. " I know folks," retorted Nick, invidiously, "who need a cart and a hangman ; though, mind ye, I don't say I've seen any sich to- night." " Children should have their suppers early, and be put to bed," added squint-eyed Jack pretending not to notice the innuendo conveyed in the trapper's reply. "I never liked puny milk-sop boys, that faint' away like gals, and turn pale at the sight o' blood. Boys a'n't what they used to be afore the settlements got so thick." " Everything changes !" said Pathaway. " There are free trappers who a're not what they should be." " I a'n't in no hurry to quarrel with you, mister. You can wait Jack Wiley's time, can't ye ?" The squint-eyed'growled and looked askance at the hunter ; there was both malice and menace in his fa'ce. Sebastian toiled slowly up the ascent, assist- ed by the careful Nick. They reached the plateau, and entered the hut. The fire was renewed, and the parties were soon more pal- pally revealed to each other in the bright glare. The youth's' eyes often wandered to l'athaway, who, in turn, as often looked at the boy. While he felt compassion for his weak.. ness, he admired his uncommon beauty. He received with. courtesy Nick's abundant pro- teslations respecting ~the lad's bravery and MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 19 hardihood, while at the same time he more than half doubted the trapper's ingenuousness. The latter bestirred himself with cheerful ala- erity in preparing a comfortable supper, of which the gray hunter and Sebastian partoolk sparingly, while Jack Wiley devoured not only his own proportion, but infringed upon that of his neighbors. Inffact, he was blessed with the appetite of a fasting bear, and swallowed the roasted buffalo-meat with astonishing fiei- lity. Sebastian, at first, honored this individual with but little attention ; but when the fire. light revealed his features, he became the ob- ject of closer notice, which was returned on his part by long and stupid stares, which did not interfere at all with the process of miasti- cation.' The gray hunter, having finished his abstemious repast, threw himself carelessly upon a buffalo skin, which his thoughtful host spread for his accommodation. Wiley, pro- vided with a pipe by the same hand, and dis- posed of in similar fashion, abandoned hitt- self contentedly to the dreamy enjoyment of smoke, sustained and kept in countenance by his entertainer. The youth, drawing a scarlet blanket about him, snuggled cosily and timidly into a corner of the hut, anxious, visibly, to shun observa- tion ; while Nick, as if by accident, but pro- bably with a view to favor his wishes, placed himself partially between him and his guest. CHAPTER VI. THE DEVIL'S GATE. Conversation flagged. The pipe dropped from Jack Wiley's lips, he sank back into a horizontal position, and slept. The others soon followed his example, and everything was quiet in the solitary hut. Wiley opened his eyes, raised his head, contemplated the sleepers a moment, then arose and walked out softly. The dog Smuggler aroused a little, but seeigg no occasion for watching his was- ter's guest, returned again to his canine dreams. Free of the hut, Wiley crossed the plateau rapidly. Nick's horse was! grazing with equine satisfaction -upon its -margin. " It's not 'a handsome beast I" muttered Jack, "but he has good p'ints. His mane is rather shaggy, but his tail is a beauty, and them is nice legs, too, for speed - they're anyooth, clean, and parfict in the "ints. I like that back, the small head, and ine curve of the neck. 'Twouldbe almost wicked to leave sich a creetur ahind. -I owe the queer feller a good turn, I know; but friendslizg shouldn't interfere with mere matters o' business." Wiley turned the axes of his non-coinci- dent eyes as nearly upon the horse as possible, with a longing, wishful expression. 'hen un- buttoning his hunting-shirt, drew forth a stout lariat that was passed several times.around his person for concealment. He walked confi- dently up to the animal, who'suffered him to 1- 0 -'I f }t I 1 * 'l e i' *" r (i page: 20-21[View Page 20-21] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. approach and adjust the lariat about his neck and nose, This preliminary attended to, Wi- ley leaped upon his back. Shagbark-we will conform to the humor of Nick in the matter of names-started off well enough, and went fifty rods, perhaps, as kindly as a horse could, when he came to a full stop, thrust out his fore-feet, depressed his head between them, threw up his hinder part with a quickness and energy that sent the horse-stealer somer- saulting over his neck. Jack alighted upon his shoulders with a shock that struck sparks o fire from his squint-eyes. For a brief space ho saw nothing but a starry host dancing, cur- veting through the air in the most fantastic M mainer. Nick Whiffles, meantime, had slumbered s lightly as the ungrateful trapper, and arose and followed him soon after his unceremoni- ous exit. From the cover of the cotton-woods he .saw him seize and mount Shagbark, and ride away, as described. Now the man that the Indianis called Doubledark was not one to submit tamely to the loss of his property, es- pecially when that property was a favorite horse. So, returning to the but for his arms, he ;pursued the offender, and witnessed with feelings which "we will leave entirely to the imagination, the ingrate's misadventure. I knowed he'd do it !" quoth Nick, with pride. noI'd never forgive him if he hadn't. He'd no right to let himself be stole by that mean skunk, who'll git into a prison diffikilty soon if a work o' grace don't take place in his nioril nater. The traitor ! the runagade! to forgit the fate I've saved him from this night. He'll have to be hanged-he'll never be any better till he's hanged." "Them's some o' the tricks that tall critter larned ye, elh . I'll thrash that kind o' stuff out of ye when I git ye into the mountains. Whoa"t stan' still! You won't do that thing so easy again. There-now put ahead !" said Jack, recovering himself and reniountimg. lIe's on again, by mighty ! We'll, if he can stick on, he shall be welcome to him. I'll never own a hoss that'll let sick a scoundrel ride him." While Nick was speaking, Shagbark was proving that his training had not been invain. .tiaving made a few wild plunges forward, he mreared straight upon his hinder feet, made a splendid pirouette, dashed to the right, then to the left, and ended by throwing himself down, and rolling over. had not the horse- stealer beep very agile, he would not have escaped without 'broken bones. As it was, he sustained bruises of the flesh and abrasions of the skin. I'll never yield a p'it-if I can't ride ye, I'll lead ye !" exclaimed Jack, advancing to regain the end of the lariat, which trailed upon the ground. Shagbark, if not wise as a serpent, yet wise as his master could make him, now thoroughly in the mood of display- t ing his qualities, suddenly turned tail upon his admirer, and planting both feet on his chest, knocked what breath out of him that happened to be in him at the time, and left him doubled up in the shape of a half-moon, on the plateau.- Had pot the force of those' retributive feet been nearly spent before they reached bim, Jack Wiley would have never thrown lariat over horse again. Nick Whiffles lay down in the grass, and enjoyed-one of those silent and smothered, yet satisfactory laughs, that sometimes come upon one almost irresistibly, whose outward expres- sion is impossible or unallowable. Shagbark having performed this feat, went caperingback to his grass, with the lariat trail- ing under his feet. After rolling about a while, like a man suf- fering the purgatorial pains'of bilious colic, Wileyarose, and with bent figure and muttered imprecations, started off across the country in the direction of Trapper Valley. " I wasn't greatly mistaken in his charac- ter,",soliloquized Nick, as he tracked Wiley on his devious way. " There's sunthin' inside of 'me that callers tells me when a nian can be trusted. I wonder what 'tis what tells people who is to be trusted and who isn't. I plucked him like a brand from the bnrnin', and I don't know that I'm sorry for it; I'n oi'y sorry that there's sich base ingratitude in tlhe world. But it don't trouble me-nothin' troubles inc. I take the world as I find it. .It's a good world, I allow, as good as the Master o''Life could make, for I know that he's so good and true that he'd made a better one if he could. There's bad folks in it-sartin, there's bad folks in it ; but all these things'll come right- in the course o' natur'. Wonder where lie's going' ?" As there was no one to answer the trapper s last interrogation, he was obliged to depend on himself for a suitable response; and after dogging him up hill and down through gully, ravine, and defile, he stood at last on the emi- nence overlooking Trapper Valley, while JaZik Wiley was making his way down the declivity toward Devil's Gate. '' He don't 'pear to be so much afeared o' the hopgobhns as lie was two or three hours ago," muttered Nicholas. " I think I'm on the track of them ,I've been lookin'" for. I'll git at the mystery at last-people callers gi at mysteries when they try. I'll just keep the gentleman iii sight. There isn't no harm in known' the kind o' company lie keeps, and it may do a heap o' good. I must hurry, for it's near daylight ; and I don't b'hieve 'it's a safe place to explore when the sun is shinin'." The ground which the parties were now traversing was cut up and rendered danger- ous by yawning chasms; jagged rocks, rifts, and gulches. 'There were marks everywhere around him of volcanic convulsions, that had,- at some period of the world's history, up- I PATHWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 4 "t ' ;+ . r{ } a A 1 _ , i 1 t 1 r t s %s fi ' . \i I 21 4 heaved the foundations of the mountains, and unveiled-he had known -her outward forms cast forth glowing streams of melted rock and only.- There might be a subtle areanum tran- earth. Frequently Wiley was lost to view, sending all his practical notions, to which he hidden by the rugged inequalities of the de- was a stranger. There was no weak blood in scent. Nick followed. the horse-stealer with Nick Whiffles-he could not be a coward any all that philosophical patience for which lie more than he could be mean, and the latter was renowned, although the undertaking cost was among the impossibilities ; but there is a him much laborand some bruises and scratch- wholesome regulator that governs the abstruse es from the sharp and flinty surfaces. He machinery df man when the common safe- drew near the valley, and saw Wiley disap- guards fail. ear through a gigantic arehway of rocks. Nicholas felt a thrill of cold---a shivering of 'Twas rightly named," said Nick, gazing the nerves that was uncomfortable, and turned at -the gloomy portal with interest. " If it to retrace his steps, anxious for the open sky don't look like the Devil's Gate, I'm no judge, and familiar landmarks. He had not made nimd don't know a common door from an open- much progress, when he became aware that he ing in the clouds." ' was not alone in the tunnel. He heard scratch- The two sides of the gate were formed by ing sounds on the rocks, like a dog or larger towering columns of basalt, which, leaning animal scrambling over them. The darkness toward each other, met at the top. Other was too great to allow him to see farralthough shafts of the same formation, some larger, he was extremely desirous to know what kind some smaller, filled up the picture, and being of companionship he was keeping. He was crowded closely together, left but one main naturally sharp-sighted; and, getting accus- entrance to the mysteriousregion called Lost tomed to the midnight sombreness, he was Trapper Valley. When the object of his pur- able to discern an object moving along a lit- suit had passed out of sight, the curiosity of tie in advance, in a parallel line with himself. Nicholas was so much excited, that he was un- At first, he was disposed to think it a person willing to return without making further ex- creeping upon the hands and knees-but he plorations. Advancing, he stood upon the soon abandoned this idea as incorrect. To weird portal, while the mimic city loomed up satisfy his doubts, he threw a small stone at before him in the northern quarter. II went it, and it was answered by a threatening. forward, but darkness was before him. It, growl. seemed to him that he was entering a subter- Nick paused ; his position was most unen- ranean region. The air was chilly and freight- viable. He was undecided whether to advance ed with damp vapor, while the footing was or retreat ; but, as the bear kept on, he con- dangerous. He had proceeded but a short eluded to proceed, believing that there was distance, when he made a misstep, and receiv- more safety before than behind him, for the ed a fall that bewildered him ; but becoming glimpse be had obtained of the vestibule' of clear in ia moment, went on again. He paused Trapper Valley had impressed him unfavora- now and then amid his stumblings and ,blun- bly. Nick felt his way-along, guiding himself derings, and tried to see the stars overhead, by the pointed rocks on his left, narrowly es- but could not. Very cautious persons would gaping several dangerous rifts and pitfalls. have abandoned the adventure ; but Niek, He reached, to his satisfaction, the portals of like Napoleon, trusted in his star. He had the Devil's gate, and was congratulating him- escaped so many perils, that he seriously self on his good luck, when a muttered growl doubted whether a real misfortune could'be- a few paces to his right, caused him 'to start, fall him. His strangely-constituted mind had grasp his rifle, and half unsheath his ;bowie- acquired such a strong belief in a protecting knife. Providence, that the apprehension of evil sel- Standing by one of the prismoids of basalt, dom or never obtruded. looking over his left shoulder with open mouth, After considerable groping, the trapper was the bear-a grizzly of formidable size. found himself in a spot where he could obtain The trapper partly raised his rifle-at which a glimpse of the sky through the branches movement Bruin growled savagely, showing of large, over-hanging trees. Hearing a his- rows of teeth like spears of ivory. sing and roaring noise, he proceeded, and dis- Nick knew the nature of the akimal-that covered the cause of the same in a hot spring he was tenacious of life, and nearly impervi- that threw water to the height of several feet, ous to the assaults of man. The pain of a ri- emitting clouds of steam which stood over fle ball excites his fury without depriving him tihe, spot like a misty canopy. Whatever feel- of the power of doing mischief--that it was ings of superstition inhered to Nick were seldom, indeed, he could be brought down by awakened. How did he know but the tradi- a single shot. tions of the red men were true ?. He had lived " No, no ! it won't do !" muttered-'the trap- and communed With Nature less than forty per. "He's an animile that don't ' admit of a years, and -did not know her thoroughly; -ead shot. Besides, it isn't light enough to do some of her secrets, Iquestionless, were hidden that kiud o' shootin' that decides the question from his perceptions. He had not seen her of life and death. I.allerashad a knack o' run- r page: 22-23[View Page 22-23] If' AII PATHAWAY ; OR, TILE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. Pin' into prison diffikilties, and never shall outgrow it. But I've squeaked out of so many dangers, that I don't believe I was pre- eerved for bear-meat at last. If I should be devoured by this critter, I wonder if they'd git hold on't down in the clearin's and put it into the tattlin' newspapers. I'd bother 'em, I al- lw, 'cause there s nobody but the bear to tell oa't!" Nick smiled grimly; he derived melancholy s4tisthction from the conceit. He was still f4ll of his old quaintness--it was ready to flow out of the comical corners of his mouth, to twinkle at you from his genial eyes. Danger could not change the spirit that was in him ; nuder all circumstances, he was Nick Whiffles, the unique, the whimsical. Peril, from man of beast, could dash him for a moment only ; ie reacted'like an india-rubber ball. Come, now, don't threaten too much I" h added, addressing bruin, who was making very hostile demonstrations ; "for there's a stiekn' pint in- human natur, beyond which patience isn't vartue. If you was'nt so good atrunnin' up hill, I'd give ye apill right un- der your ear-I would, by mighty Snarl, if yo want toI I killed two of your brothers last fal. You're nothin' but an over-growed dog, anyway, and out o' shape at that. Your nose ooks as though 'twas made to pick the leav- ins out of a sink-spout, and your hind feet is ast.loig as a hosse's head 1" :Brun arose and sat upon his haunches, his fote-feet hanging down like the flippers of a seal, while his back rested against the pillar of basalt. Nick would have retreated; but he stood, unfortunately, in the Devil's Gate, and could not safely go in any other direction than through the tunnel toward Trapper Valley- a locality he did not then care to visit. He maintained his post, keeping his eyes stead- ifl upon the bear. He cautiously cocked his rifle but did notpoint it, fearing to make any movement to further excite the ire and suspi- eibn of bruin. "I don't like to be stared at in that way, you mint nt" Never seed me afore, did ye?9 Like to eat ime, perhaps-but 'twould be the tough- esf mouthful that ever you got hold of. Never e e across Nick Whillies in your travels, eh? Ra ther prepossessin' in my 'pearance, I cal- kilte; but Iwarn ye that ye'll find more grease on my huntin -shirt than on any part o' my system. Haven't had much time to slick -up, lately." Bruin now stood singularly erect, and took two steps toward Nicholas, who leveled his rifle. " Do that 'in, old boy, and you and I'll have a p'isondiikity, right off!' The ,bear did not stir, but stood up straight as a man. As the two confronted each other, the first glow of morning appeared in the west : and a few golden threads of light, the aaat-cereura of the coming sun, fell upon the columns, towers, and galls of the mimic city. The form of the bear sank to the earth, and the figure of a human being arose. Nick re- coiled against one of the columns of the moun- tain gate. " An Injin, I swear to gracious ! Who are ye, redskin? What you masqueradin' in that shape for? You'll git into diffikilty sometime in that wayI!" "Doubledark is brave. He does not fear the teeth of the bear, and walks with a big heart in the valley of the Thunder-Spirit !" r =- plied the figure that had uprisen from the skin of the bear. " It is Mult'nomah, chief of the Shoshonis !" exclaimed Nick. " Glad to see ve, though this is the last place of all the world where I should look for ye. Your people are not often found in this neighborhood, on account of the stories that are told, about what is seen and heard hereabouts." " There is a Manito dwells here that we must not offend !" answered Multnomah, look- ing searchingly at Nick. " The Shoshonis make war upon men, not upon spirits-tlie first can be seen and handled, the last are like the wind, invisible, and too fine for the touch of mortals. Doubledark believes in a Manito of the mountains ?" The Shoshoni, who had advanced and sha- ken hands-with the trapper, now regarded him with searching intensity. The question was intended to draw out infinitely more than it expressed. Nick became quaint in a moment --his eyes- said, plainly : "I am a pump ; work the handle, and out it comes." In fact the trapper thrust his right arm downward, in imitation of the arm of a pump. "Ever see one of 'em ?" " At Selkirk," said the Indian, with a smile. "Very good--fetch water-cool when it comes up. Wah! My brother is not a fool. He knows which way the buffalo goes by the track, he can tell when the winds will rush down the . mountains by the looks of the clouds, and he learns by the setting of the sun what the wea- ther will be to-morrow."- "Red brother,ryourwwords are sensible- they tickle the ears of Doubledark. I despise a fool, by mighty! Redskin, the air isn't good here-let us be walkin'." "No," said Multnomah, shaking his head ; "air bad-couldn't live here long. Wal! Brother, why did you come in to such bad air ?" Nick had started off up the mountain side, but upon hearing this interrogatory, stopped short, and showed a wide, quizzical mouth to the Shoshone. "I went to see the Thunder-Spirit," he re- sponded. " Doubledark is too dark ! he does not deal openly with his brother-his thoughts are shut up. We cannot walk together." " Shoshone, there have been strange rumors I: PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. about Trapper Valley-they have reached my ears.- Is Mutnomali discreet ?" The Shoshon6 made i o reply. A scornful smile curled his lips. " I understand; it was ag'in the grain, and it wasn't right, I allow, to question the discreet- ness of a Shoshone chief. Give us your hand, redskin, and we'lL make a clean thing on't. There ain't many white men that can be trust- ed fully ; but I know the kind o' stuff you're made on. We've camped together many a night, Injin ; we've looked at the stars and the moon at the same time, and wondered how the sky come to be, and how long it had been. We've hunted in company, slept at the same fire, and eaten of the same buffaler off the same ,piece o' bark, roasted over the same blaze, and on the same stick. Once, Injn, we starved to- gether, and feasted on half-starved dog at the eend of our fast. That was in the neighbor- hood of Beer Spring. We've trapped beaver on the Yellow Stone and at the headwaters of Salmon River, and never quarreled. And, speaking' of trappin', reminds me that I've lost traps hereabouts-at a place edlled Black Rock, and at Otter Creek, near the Red Sand- stone Cliffs." "Doubledark has lost traps. Is he the only one who has reason to complain? Have not others lost traps and peltries ? Is there not niore to be said, white man ?" answered Mult- nomah, with earnestness. "mNot on'y raps, bt them that set 'em-not on'y peltries but them that owned 'emh, have disappeared, and there's nobody to explain it." " The bad Monito is to blame, brother," said the Shoshon4. "Injin, neither you nor I believe in sick nonsense. The Thunder-Sperit would cease to be herd if you should quinch the volcanic fires that burn in the mountains. It isn't the sperits out the body that we have to -fear ; it's the sperits in the body that does the mischief. I've had more trouble with them I could see, than with them I couldn't. Redskin, my eyes have not been shet." "Isee that they have been open ; and I am glad." "Injin, I've been watchin' these mountains. They have dark secrets, if they'd on'y tell 'em; but they are mute, and what we don't know we must l'arn for ouselves. There are them that walk up and down by night, and disappear in out-of-the-way places. They don't seem to be afraid of the bad Manito. No one that sees 'em knows where they come from, where the go to, or what their business is." "Now, Doubledark is not dark ; he speaks plainly to his friends. Are they white^ or red:?" "Injin, Nick Whiffles is a man of truth; his talk is not crooked. Their skins is white, but their hearts is black. I'm sorry to say it, by gracious; but so it is, and there's no gettin' round it." " There are bad men among all nations. 23 There are red men whose ways are not straight. The bad white men inhabit the mountain of rocks and the valley below. This iq why you found the Shoshone in disguised" " Your purpose- was the same as mine, I reckon. You wanted to look into the myste- ries of the valley, as 'twere, and see what you could see. The critter you call Doubledark was there on the same arrand. What's the use o' minmc' matters, Injin There's a set o' prison rascals prowling' about in this region, doin' a heap o'mlisehief ; and I'm oin' to hunt till I find and bring em' to justice. I'm on their trail; I've slow-tracked 'em. They've ,done things that make my blood bile lkethe waters Of a hot spring. I shall hound 'em, and camp on their path till I discover their se- cret lurkin'-place. There's deeds that must be punished--wrongs that must be avenged-. accounts that must be wiped out and choked out with the halter. I know there's danger-- 'twouldn't be exeitin' if therewasn't-.and some have paid dearly for their curiosity., But it don't frighten me-it can't skeerNiek Whiffles -you can't skeer him. 0 Heaven, no! In- n, let us devote ourself to this work ; let us dog out these condemned scoundrels, ,and purge the mountains of sich a load of wick- edness. "But the Thunder-Spirit I" queried Mult- nomah. "May go to thunder 1" retorted Nick,,em- phatically. "Doubledark, the Great Spirit, willed that we should meet; he wills everything-men, as well as the clouds and the rain. He said : 'To-night the pale-face and red-face shall meet, and speak truly to each other.' It is good that bad men s ould be punished., You see this bear-skin ?" The Shoshone had rolled up the skin, and fastened it to his back. "In it I have prowled among the rocks, and seen men go in and out at the dark gate. To-night, something seemed to tell me to enter, and seek out these bad spirits." ".What did you see ?" demanded Nick. "1I saw the hot-spring throwing up water and smoke."-1 " Whatelse ? I observed that myself and don't feel much wiser for it. "I went a long way among at masses of rocks, that the Great Spirit had hurled down from the mountains in his anger, or broken u from the foundations of the valley. Then came to running water,-that whirled and eddied among the ledges, and passed out of sight in a black abyss. Afterward, I crossed a gulch, and found a,spot where the grass grew, and the wormwood was rank and tangled, supported by the wash of the mountains in the ryiny seasons. Beyond this were trees-some old, and gnarled, and twisted ; others dwarfed, and wounded by the descent of rocks from the cliffs above. Multnomah paused on the, m r- gin of this wood." " What happened the. P" 1 i page: 24-25 (Illustration) [View Page 24-25 (Illustration) ] I PATIIAWAY ; ORt, T11E MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 24 "d 's Very dirt there-like the silent pas- skge t* pth land of souls. I could see but a little strip of the sky. If a Shoshone could he ffW id, Multnomah would have had fear. Fo time he 'stood still, and thought of all the tales he had heard-of the valley. He tried to hear the voice of his friendly Manito, telling hir what to do. Then there was the sound of steps ; And he laid down upon the earth, and saw people of your nation. They looked like free trappers. Their beards were long ; their hair hung upon their shoulders"; 'their belts were heavy with knives and pistols, and they walked with a -swaggering gait, like the red smi, when his heart has grown big with fire water. They drove along before then a man and a woman. The man was Pontneuf, a Ca- nadian voyageur; the woman was his daughter, very young, 'and:fair as the new moon. The hahda of Portneuf were bound, and his head 'bug 'despairingly upon'his breast, his dangh. ter clinging to lim, weeping. The heart of Mlnitehoniah Was moved." "I *Iaow the man well, and a rightiaerry, loaiipanion he need Sto be. I've'boated with hirhmole nor once,and. his songs were allers eetifl and hearty,:as, le,tugge.d ,t!the oar.r His darter-Nanny, I call her-was a parfect' ngem in'the way offembinine;gdods... Ingin, it makes me melancholy, by mighty! She's too 3oingand pooty:f1 'thela'fete she's likely to meet with. It kind o' chills me as I think on't.' It-pitstn ish'misd of i amthin' horrible that *itheeteds one dark night,,at 'Black Rock. It e8*unoman, $est'as. man this case, and lovely; 4avh irUg1a'angel, that was egnsarned in it. I eke dthe men who did it; I can recall their 'ngiyeo'iiuntenanees as I saw 'enm in the torch- iltr'iw s e held up her. little. hapands! I beautiful sher asked for merey! 1cr "*&ds thrilled through me like'arrers, but they 4tlllibilnted fromthehard hearts of 4he inoun- "teth itdbbers, 'Pears to 'ae I can see then white arms *avin' to and fro in the air, like the whit ' ings of a fiutterin' dove. Injin f I 'W*Iaiready'tobutst;with pity 'and rage. The petspiration rolled down me like glass beads. :ff did'y had' dne trudty'friend with 'me, I'd tackled 'em, though -they was six. Asw'twas,I t edi reskydea-+pitehin' into 'em like a can-. W60 4$s3J. ]ButI did better nor tiat; I pressed idPw tdy ehokin' feeling's, and was prudent. Shosliond, them hardened critters wrapped the al i h loak,-ith a stone isn't, and threw her mto thowater, which was dark and deep.- She knew tthin'. about-it,:though, for she'd gone intosa dead'faint; which was a good thing for Sher. She nank 'in aninstant. sA few bubbles "iarked the Fspot where e went down, and then the water glassed 'oder smooth, as if t6thin',had happened. The murderers turned natd hurried away, while I slipped into the teama, and dragged the precious offering' from its cold baptism to the. shore. Thankfortin, I saved her ! Redskin, you can't tell the satis- faetion that that night's work has 'give me. There never was sich beauty, sich goodness, sick truth, sick courage, and fortitude as her'n. 0 Lord, no !" " What did Doubledark do with her ?" Nick Whiffles seemed taken by surprise; -he did not answer with his usual promptness and heartiness. "Sent her home' to her parents-her breth- ers, I mean ; and 'twasn't her brethers, neither. She had friends, you know, Injin, somewhere' up in the mountains; end "tWasn't so much in the mountains as in the settlements." " Wa !" said the Shoshone. Without heeding this laconic rejoinder, Nick continued : "Ever sinee that sarcumstande, which didn't happen many months'ago, I've set myself to work to'find the perpetrators of the deed, and bring 'em' to a reckonitt'. Go on with your story, 'Injin." The Frenchman and his daughter passed out of my sight among the rocks,' and I saw ther no mote.- I went back ; I met Double- dark, whoknows what then happened."' In friendly and confidentiall conversation, Nick and the Shoshone pursued their Way to- ward the plateau. CHAPTER VII. 'a CANON. The gray hunter slept, unconscious of the e't of Jaak and 'Nick. His sleep was trou- bled.- The exciting, scene through which, he had recently passed gave a -coloring to his dreams. Bill 'debe,,Ben Joice,'and Zene Beck had a place in his thoughts, and harassed him for a long time ; then 'he slumbered more peacefully. 'Anon, his lips moved ;. his coun- tenance assumed a differentexpressiohn-softer, milder, more earnest. The burden of his dream had changed.' It seemed to him that a gentle hand touched his forehead ; that a fair face'bent over him; that bright eyes beamed abovehim like love's tender:starlight. "Una! Una !" lie cried, springing to his feet, and stretching forth ihas arms in a trans. port of emotion. This action thoroughly awakened him. He panted, clasped his brow with both hands';. then,'looking about, saw the boy sleeping tranquilly' in' his scarlet blanket. "I clasp-what is.it that I clasp? No breathing fromwithin my grasp * * - * * * * And art thoui, dearest, changed so much, As ajeet my eye, yet mock my touch ?" he murmured. Then, recollecting himself, he added: " These vagaries are a shame upon my man- hood I Time should have taught me resigna- tion. Pshaw ! I am weaker than yonder boy." He sat down' upon his couch, supporting his head with his'hands, and appeared to plunge into a world of abstraction, where, doubtless, he found remembered landmarks, and scattered mementos of past joys and sorrows. 6.4 0s Co ai S., r page: 26-27[View Page 26-27] I ; L{ x 't 0 t i r } ;i ' :: '' : - F, . r :,, F S i' r ts f i . , r 6- 6 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE: Sebastian opened his eyes, and looked at him timidly. The youth must have been cold, for a shiver ran over him, which was followed by a trembling of his whole frame. His cheeks were burning red, while his eyes shone unnaturally bright. He did not close them again till morning'; but, remaining wakeful, continued to observe the movements of the gray hunter. Possibly, the lad was afraid ; but the two dogs lay at his feet, and their strength and sagacity were no mean protection, even against greater odds. When the sun streamed its rays into the hut, Sebastian arose, and was passing out, when Pathway, starting from his reverie, addressed him: "1Have you slept well, my lad? Your nerves are not strong, I think ?" "1I did not dream ; the sleep that is without dreams is the sweetest, I've heard," answered Sebastian, carelessly. "Dreams ?" repeated Pathaway, coloring. Then, with a smile : "You are right, my boy,; dreamless slumber is best. Dreams are unin- vited guests, that intrude *upon harassed minds." Sebastian stood in the door of the hut ; the sunshine fell like gold upon his face and hair. " He might pass for an Anchises or Adon- nis," murmured Pathaway. "What is your name, youth ?" he added. "Sebastian Delaunay," returned the boy, indifferently. "Was your mother handsome, boy ?" Sebastian smiled ; and his brown cheeks took a deeper color. "Her face was darker than mine ; her- hair was long and black ; her eyes large and dreamy. To me, hunter, she was beautiful, though she was a dweller in lodges and wig- wams." " But your father-" " Had a. skin like yours," interrupted Se- bastinn, turning his back to his interrogator, as if tired of the subject.- "'You have your mother's voice, lad, I should say." Sebastian beat upon the ground with his' moccasined foot. " You called the honest trapper 'uncle,' if I remember rightly ?" "I called him uncle," said Sebastian, lacon- ically-then walked from the hut. He was gone a considerable time, and, when lie returned, found Pathaway standing at the door. "1Where is my entertainer? I have looked for him in vain," he said, as Sebastian ap- proached. "He left in the night to follow the fellow Wiley, I suspect. I shall be anxious about him if he does not come back soon ; but lie is wise, and can take care of himself." The youth paused, and uttered an exclama- tion of terror. Pathaway looked up,-and saw 3 MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 27 Nick coming, with a grizzly bear walking qui- etly beside him.- Both Sebastian and the hunter felt an inclination to retire into the hut. "0 uncle Nick ! do not come near with that frightful beast," cried Sebastian. " Don't be afeard ; I've magnetized the critter, and got him under subjection. Cu- r'ous, isn't it, what power there is in the will? Wouldn't believed it, 'less I'd seen it done. Howsomnever, he'd been tamed some afore I got him. Bought him of an Injii ; and he's got some queer tricks, I allow I can make him stan' up on his hind legs e'ena- most as straight as a man-shake hands with his fore-paws-tell the time o' day by the sun -run, trot, or gallop-lay down or -git up- and do anything that a dog can !" ".Keep him at a proper distance," said Pathaway ; " for I never was partial to that kind of animal." Sebastian ran into the but for his bow, and came out with n arrow upon his string. ' Up, you p'son critter, on to your hind legs, and let's dance the war-dance together!" said Nick, beginning to chant, in a monotonous manner, an Indian scalp-dance. The bear reared ; and, standing quite erect, danced, in time and tune, with ludicrous gravity. The gray hunter and the youth laughed in con- cert. "A wonderful bear, truly S" remarked Pathaway. " Hunter, nothin' of the common kind comes up to my idee. You mightn't think it, but he can be trusted as well as any dog-not exceptin' Misfortin and Smuggler, who are the most knowin'est speciments of their race. He'll be good company for Sebastian when I go to look arter my traps." The boy shook his head, and looked star- tled at this announcement. "I like the dogs much better, Nicholas," he replied. "The- dogs are extr'ordiner in their line ; but they haven't the sagacity of this 'ere bruin. Sa, bow-wow, you shaggy animile." he bear growled, very much like the copy Nick had set him. " There ! that's enough for this time," said Nicholas. "fLay down, and be quiet. Mis- fortin, stop barkin'; Smuggler,. straighten your back down, and be .civil to strangers. You don't have sich distinguished company every day." "Give him something to eat," said Patha- way, with a quiet-laugh. "I He devoured half a buffaler cow not ten minutes ago. If you's to offer him the ni- cest slice ever cut from a sirline, lie wouldn't so much as turn it over with his nose. Come away, dogs, and don't tamper with him; for his temper isn't alleys even.-Now, stranger, I allow it's time to apologize , and tend to the duties o' hospitality."- page: 28-29[View Page 28-29] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 29 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. Nick with thme assistance of Sebastian, pro- The two adventurers shook hands, and the ceeded to prepare a tolerable breakfas t: Path- gray hunter went. his way-the trapper, watch- away, as on the previous night, ate but spar- inghim as he struck off to e t d ugly. When their sim pie meal was ended, disappeared. tenrhat n Nicholas and the hunter went away together, Pathaway entered a long reach of timber on and walked upon- the plateau a long time. the eastern slope of the mountain ;- and, after The youth looked for the bear, buthe had a walk of an hour, reached a small prairie at disappeared. the base, which lie crossed. This brought "I must part with- you for the present," him to a lake of stagnant water-skirting said Pathaway, after an earnest conversation which, still bearing to the east, lie struck the with Nick. nIf so accident befall me, I will lowest swell of the range just as the sun passed return again to your hut." the meridian, anid began to pour hsis rays from "Every man knows his own business best ; the western quarter of the heavens. Ascend- but I am sorry to have you leave me to-day. ing the swell, he beheld at his feet deep You won't take it onkind of me if I warn you canon, running to the -northwest. Years ago, to be cautious. The ruffian, Bill Brace, won't it hid probably been a conduit for water; forget the floggiig' you give him. The re- but now green grass was growing i1 it. Fa- membrance on't will be like a Medican saddle tigued, Pathaway stopped to rest : the scene, on the sore back of a mustang. He'll be res- too, was one that invited him to stay, for it tive under it as a colt unbroke. And this possessed that wild beauty which lie admired. isn't all," added Nick, depressing his voice : 1"How picturesque !lhowv grand.! how re- "there's sunthin' to be feared in the mountains freshing !" he exclaimed. Iow far apart are and valleys of this region. The lonely tiap- earth and sky-how pure the air between! I per sometimes gits lost, and never comes back feel exalted 'by this solitary companionship to his lodge. Caches are often opened and with Nature ; 'I stretch out my arms, and robbed. It isn't a safe neighborhood for the commune with her when all other companion- young and inexperienced in this perilous line ship is denied." and business." Pathaway sighed, and gazed. downward at "I thank you, mountaineer, for your friend- the grassy beta of the canon. He saw,- ad- ly counsel; be assured it is appreciated. I vancing from the western outlet, a trapper, am not so new in the wilderness as not to staggering under a great load of peltries. His know what places to shun, and which to seek. burden was heavy, but he bore it with a will ; My life is not purposeless. I am not a mere for every pound that pressed upon his shoul- waif wafted hither by chance winds. I know ders was a voucher of his success. When what I would accomplish ; I am strong and quite blown, he rested the package against a confident in myself ; I know what my'mind jutting rock, or the convenient branch of a can plan, and what my body can execute." dwarf pinon, whose tenacious roots'found a "Your body isn't very large, though I al- foothold in the rifts and crevices; then he low it's put up in good shape," remarked toiled on, singing the chorus of a Canadian Nick. boat-song, or snatches of mountain melodies. It isn't the body that has power-it is the "le is rejoicing," thought Patlawa,"in spirit that is in it. It is the mind that gives the hard-earned fruits of his labors. To ob- miomentum and force to the physical frame. tam that package of furs, he has suffered in- When a man is fighting in a good cause, the credible hardships, and braved many dangers. soul itself takes part in the contest ; it flies Sing on, stout heart--you have a right to be into the fists and arms, converting the muscles merry. Alas ! your class lacks one virtue ; into ion: it makes one invincible." and that is, the virtue of frugality. In a month "yThat's so-es' so u " said Nich thoughtful- or two, yonder trapper, now comparatively ly. "I've frequently thought in the same rich, may return to his old haunts with scarce- way; but I couldn't express it a quarter so ly a coat to is back,eoaviihg squandered te well, though Doctor Whifles could a handl'ed proceeds of his peltrie in dissipation and the subject like a pill-box. There is some- prodigality"i thin' in larnin' by mighty !. But I can't have The report of a carbine interrupted Patla- .patience with them p'ison newspapers down in way's reflections. Smoke pufed out from the clearin's, that meddle with private affairs, among the rocks on the otler side of the c- and drag the histories of folks afore the public on, and sailed upward, whiteand misty. The in a ludickerous light, takin' off their style o' lonely trapper fell upon his face, and his talkin', and makin' fun o' their queer p'ints. hands clutched the grass convulsively. Path- I have." quoth Nick, shaking his head serious- away instantly changed Isis position, crouch- ly, "been condemnedly injured by them as iig low upon the ground. Two as sprang never seed me. I have," b mighty !" from the ledges, ran to t.e fallen, man, and " If a man will be Nick Whiffes, he must cut the pack from his shoulders. mOn of be famous," answered Pathaway. "Adieu, them pushed him with his foot to see if life mountaineer, adieu! we shall soon see each remained in him.we other again." "He ' t - He won't set no more traps," he said. 28 . "His foot has pressed the last spring, and he's skinned his last beaver. It's a heavy pack, Ben, and the heaviest share belongs to me for doin' the business. Wasn't it my powder, and my lead, and mny carbine, and my aim that fixed him ?s" "All that may be, Zene Beck ; but-the free mountaineers make a fair thing of the 1lun- der. We have our laws, you know, and the cap'n'11 see that they're carried out. As for shootin' him, couldn't I done the something myself, and not made no fuss about it, eithous, Conic, conic ! it won't do to be avaricious, Zene. I carry arms as well as you; and many think me the better man," answered Ben Joice, gruiffy. "Don't provoke me, Ben Joice lI'm a good enough friend when there's no property at stake ; but friendship stops where property begins. One-third for you-two-thirds for mse; or; the bowie-knife for both !" retorted Zene, with sullen ferocity, planting his left foot on the peltries, and drawing his knife with his right hand. As quickly as might be, the other imitated *is.example, and their -murderous blades re- flected the rays of the sun like glancing mir- rors. They struck, they parried, they made fearful plunges at each other, and both exert- ed themselves to the utmost to inflict a mor- tal injury. They had exchanged several flesh-wounds ; and the affray would have ter- minated tragically, had not a man, with a red sash around his waist, leaped from the rocks, and-shouted, in a loud voice : " Hold there, brawlers! Put up your wea- pons. Are ye so hard-up for amusement that ye must quarrel among yourselves? Who was the aggressor ?" "'Twas about the peltries," growled Beck. " "I'll settle the matter for ye, you black- guards! Ho, there, fellows 1-come here." The man in the sash waved his hand authori- tativel-, and a dozen men poured down into the canon, as though they had been vomited out of the earth. CHAPTER VIII. A RESURRECTION. Pathaway perceived that the leader of these wild and uncouth men exercised a strong as- cendency over them. His word was law-his will paramount. The combatants separated sullenly, without disputing his authority. By his order, the pack of peltries was carried up among the rocks, by two of his fellows. "4You and Ben are at your old tricks again," said the captain, addressing Zene Beck. "You can't be quiet, and do mischief only when you're told. There's been a little too much o this lately ; and the trappers and Ingins are talkin' about Trapper Valley, and the whole country hereabouts. This body musn't be left here exposed ; it '11 be found, and then there'll be more surmises and rumors afloat A Find a convenient place, some of ye, and bury him." Instantly, several men set off in different directions, and Boon discovered a suitable spot for their purpose; it was a deep hollow, at the bottom of a gulch, which intersected the canon at right angles, and'not far from Pathaway. The body of the unfortunate trapper was dragged to the gulch. "He's got done with that huntin'-shirt., I reckon 1" said an ill-clad fellow. "Wat good '11 it do him, if we put him to bed with it on?' The body was instantly despoiled of the coveted garment, and then thrown into the hollow. Pathaway, by creeping a few yards, was able to see these movements, and to hear the conversation of the outlaws. Feelings mournfully unpleasant crowded upon him ; he. was affected, he knew not why. ie felt a sin- glar sympathy for the victim of this wrong. u obtained a casual glimpse of the face as they cast him into his rough grave. The fea- tures, hie thought, were placid, like one sleep- irg, and without the usual painful expression attendant upon death by gunshot wounds. The hollow was a depression between two ledges of red sand-stone, some eight feet in length, and three and a half in depth. One of the men cut some boughs from a pinon with his hatchet ; while another, with lessgentle- ness, east upon these some flat rocks and frag- meats of a decayed tree. Just over the place of sepulchre, the earth upon the steep wall4f the canon was loose, and the grim undertakers scratched it down upon the trapper. Present- ly, the grave was filled, the burial complete: It appeared an ill way of dying, a melafr1 holy end to a merry life; but a lingering death by disease, a wasting consumption, or a loathsome epidemic, are really things more dreadful. Pathaway's sympathies increased ; a nervous excitement stole over him. The few moments consumed in covering the mur- dered man with earth were to him intolerably long. Indignation and a terrible fever of imi- patience preyed upon him. Every bough, and rock, and.handful of earth that they cast 'on him, seemed.pressing upon his own breasi~ in vain, he attempted to quell his over-tive sensibilities ; in vain, he recalled the traigseal scenes he had witnessed on the prairies, and in the recesses of the ranges ; he derived no con- solation and fortitude from the same. He pressed his lheated forehead to the ground, to cool it, and, closing his eyes, resolved not to look again. In that position lie remained sone time. Then he glanced down the gulch again. It was empty; but there was the trapper's grave, with that sickly, warning freshness u porn it that always attaches to the newly-raised f mound, and impresses one with mournfulness unspeakable, especially when it is heaped over our beloved. Ahl the fresh earth over a grave says so plainly: "Man, you are mortal I" Pathaway looked anxiously down the canon, and saw the outlaws filing off to the Tight, r. I page: 30-31[View Page 30-31] so PATHAWAY ; OR,. THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 1 through a narrow defile, the hindmost stagger- ing beneath the weight of the dead trapper's peltries. The gray hunter darted down into the gulch, and, with his naked hands, began to dig the earth from the body. A frantic zeal, a terrible haste marked his movements. He labored like one upon whose efforts depended the matter of life and death. His face was pale, his lips compressed, and perspiration poured from his brow. A person, coming upon im suddenly while thus employed, would have pronounced him mad. . He scattered the earth ; he hurled away the stones ; he cast out the boughs and rotten fragments of wood, and, grasping the body by the shoulders, dragged it, with herculean strength, from beneath the mass that yet re- mained. Panting, he paused, glancing hur- riedly about for water ; he saw a small stream trickling down into the gulch above. He seized the unconscious form, and carried it there. He placed his hand upon the trapper's heart; it beat--he lived!i He held hishead under the descending rivulet, and let it fall upon his face, which was covered with earth, disfiguring every feature. The dash of the water upon him made him gasp, and brought back a portion of latent life. Pathaway cleansed the dirt from his wound. 'The ball had struck his head, near the occipital bone, and glanced along the skull, benumbing and suspending, for the time, all the functions of life. He had sustained other injuries upon various portions of his person, from the rocks that were thrown upon him ; but Pathaway doubted not that he possessed sufficient vi- tality ultimately to recover. The man's beard was quite long and heavy, but he was much younger than the gray hunter had at first thought. He judged that he was about twenty-eight,- or maybe younger. His features were strongly marked, and his frame gave every indication of manlyhardihood. A nearer view certainlygave Pathaway a more fa- vorable impression of the man, increasing, also,' that strange interest that had urged him to such efforts for his resurrection and resuscita- tion. He did not relax his exertions. Wiping his soiled lips and beard, he poured some spirit into his mouth from his flask. The trapper's blood felt the grateful stimulant, and revtved. His chest heaved ; and he moved his limbs, opened his eyes, and sat up. "How do you feel? Ain you not better ?" asked Pathaway, gently. .The man looked at him vacantly ; there was no soul, no language, no comprehension, in those orbs. " The concussion has affected his brain ; his mind is absent," muttered Pathaway, and un- consciously put his hand to his own head, as if the wound was there. He then resumed his friendly ministrations ; but though the young trapper evidently gained strength, no ray of intelligence returned to illuminate his dull face. Pathaway took off his own frock, and V. I put it on him, and assisted him to arise. He could stand without difficulty, but wanted that reason which was necessary to guide his foot- steps across mountains and prairies, as hereto- fore. The spectacle of his helplessness made the gray hunter inexpressibly sad. He tried every artifice to awaken his memory and arouse his intellect, but without success. He elicited only an idiotic stare or a childish smile. " Poor fellow ! poor fellow ! I trust this will be but temporary. What shall I do with him? Providence has cast him upon-me, and I'll take care of him. Yes, it was Providence that filled me with such a fury of zeal to unearth him, and save him from his horrible entombment. We are watched over, even in the wilderness." Pathaway led the trapper to a sheltered spot, and making him a couch of boughs upon the soft grass, laid him upon it, and spread his own blanket over him; then sitting by his side, watched him till he fell into a heavy sleep. CHAPTER IX. THE WOUNDED TRAPPER FINDS FRIENDS. Pathaway awoke the wounded man at the expiration of two hours. He had but little fever, while his strength was not greatly im- paired by his injuries. His benefactor killed a prairie-chicken, and, roasting it, gave him such portions as were tender and palatable, and least iely to disturb the system. He obeyed the hunter with the docility of a child, but gave no indications- of returning reason. The hem- horrage from his wound had been slight ; but a closer examination showed a deep indentation in the skull, which convinced Pathdway that he could be no better, in a mental point of view, without the aid of skillful surgery. , He reared a temporary shelter, and passed the long night \with his patient, watching every symptom, and doing everything.that hislimited means would allow for his comfort. In the morning, still less fever remained, and Pathaway determined to return with him, by easy stages, to Nick Whifues' hut. He walked very well. The birds and the sunshine pleased him ; he heard with delight the songs of the feathered choristers, and smiled when the golden rays, warm and sportive, fell upon his face. He muttered about rivers and moun- tains, lakes and prairies, trappers and peltries ; but there was no coherency in his wandering fancies. Pathaway called his attention to the lake as they passed it; he-stretched out his hands, and manifested a momentary inter- est, but it was evanescent as smoke. He next pointed to the timber, but with no better re- sults. Despairing of drawing forth any signs of intelligence, Pathaway pursued the way toward Nick's hut, in a frame of mind far from cheerful. It was past noon when lie reached it ; and his disappointment was great on finding it deserted. There it stood, bare and inhospitable ; there was no one at the door to give him a welcome, or light the friendly f 8 Y [ig Yet "a ff E-r r r L 6 r 1 PATIIAWAY ; OR, THE: cam p-fire. Nick had changed his quarters ; for the free trapper, in dangerous neighborhoods,. seldom camps many days in the same place, and sometimes is compelled to seek. a new camping-ground nightly. Pathaway picked up a piece of birch bark in the hut, with unique characters printed upon it with charcoal, in crooked capitals : GONE TO THE NOR TH. SEED SIGNS OF A PISON DIFFIKILTY. The execution of this rather vague an- nouncement was such that Pathaway could not repress a smile. Nick's early education had clearly been of a hurried and imperfect kind, which fact was sufficiently attested by the zig-zag cut of his letters, and the-pecu- liarity of his spelling. It was too late in the day, and the wounded man was too much fa- tigued for a new tramp, based upon instruc- tions so meagre ; so the gray hunter made preparations to remain there till the next day. While he was thus employed, he heard the baying of a dog, and looking out, saw Nick approaching through the cottonwoods, mount- ed, and attended by one of his dogs. It was a pleasant surprise. "I forgot somethin', and cote back arter it," said the trapper, "and it's licky I did, prehaps. Got back sooner'n you expected, I reckon. Hillo ! who ye got there-one of gur kind, I s'pose ?" Nick dismounted, shook hands with Path- away, then turning to the wounded trapper, said: " How'd 'e do, stranger ? You're welcome to my but ; and 'tisn't mine, either, 'cause I desarted it ; but you're safe here, and not al- together safe, neither ; for there's a pesky sight of danger hereabouts from both red and white." "4Mountains, beavers, otters, traps, and lakes !" said the wounded trapper, with a meaningless stare. ' "Jes' so, brother--jes' so ! That's clear Ingin, and not so clear,"arter all. Been out on your own hook, I allow ?" returned Nick, with a puzzled look. Horses, halters, and horse-stealers !" mut- tered the trapper, latlessly. "'Zaetly, mister ; it's all right, I'll be bound, though I can't see the drift on't, by mighty. Howsomnever, if you're disposed to make gamut of me, I don't keer no great about it, for they've had me in.the newspapers down in the clearin's, and done a heavy busi- ness with me in that line. I say, Pathaway, what's the matter with the feller's eyes ? His face has a gone-away look, I allow." " He has fallen among thieves," responded the gray hunter. He was shot at and robbed in a canon."- Pathaway related circumstantially the facts of the ease, to which Nick listened with much interest.- "It's a cruel thing," he.said, shaking his I MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 31 head, " to rob the honest trapper of his hard- earned gains ; but when murder is added to robbery, it becomes a terrible thing. So this poor critter has lost the light o' reason. It's a mournful spettakle to be an idiot, and that isn't jest the tarm, either ; but you know what I mean, which makes it all the same. Honest men allers understan' each other, though the words mayn't all be fitted into place like the bricks in a buildin'. I had a relation that was a fool. And sich a fool as he was ! 0 Lord, yesI He cried himself to death for the moon ; but what he thought it was, and what he wanted to do with it; I dunno, by mighty ! _ Perhaps he 'magined 'twas sunthin' to eat ; I dare say !" added Nick, reflectively, unconsciously lowering his voice, "the poor, vacant critter thought 'twas sunthin' to eat. An idiot, you know, loves eating' better nor a wise man does his sweet- heart." The wounded man started, smiled sadly,, then sang, in a voice inexpressibly plaintive, the following words: . " My sweetheart was a prairie-flower- She dwelt beside the flowing water ; I stole by moonlight to her bower- -'I loved a wandering trapper's daughter. Oh, the trapper's daughter ! - Her eyes were like soft star-beams gleaming, Her mouth was small, her lips were sweet, Her face was ever on me beaming- I fell, and worshiped at her feet. Oh, the trapper's daughter !" The poor fellow sang these simple words with touching sweetness. "The words sound nat'ral and sensible," ob- served Nick, " but he hasn't got back yet. It's mechanical; his mind has no mQ p-t- do with it than the fiddle has to do with tnakin' the music, when-it's' in the hands of a skillful player. He's been in love, it 'pears, which took hold on him powerful. Doctor Whiffles had a case on't that nullified all his doctor- stuff. 'Twas a woman~ and the case was of three years' stannin', which made it--what the fakilWt call--chronic. She lost a heap o' flesh, and. in fack, parted with nighabout all on't. She kept herself so wet up with cryin', that she had to be wrung out every day as reg'lar as sunrise. Her sobs was like the soughin' of the wind through the defiles in the mountains when there's a tempest. She sung sich tetchin' ditties, that sev'ral of her sisters was so melted that they never was worth much arterwards. To cure her, the doctor was obleeged to marry her himself. 'Twas amiazin' how she picked up her crumbs arter that. She weighed two hunderd pounds and up'ards the last time I seed her. To look at her, you'd never knowed that her heart had been broke." "'Oh, the trapper's daughter-- Oh, the trapper's daughter !" sang the wounded man, catching up the cho- rus of his song, and prolonging it with his strangely melancholy intonations. tS 1 f ' ;y i 5 : ' .e r r 1 page: 32-33 (Illustration) [View Page 32-33 (Illustration) ] c t t . 6 _ t , i } t i 2, a 4 3 i s x 1 i r R " f PATIAWAY ; OR, T.HE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. "iThat makes me feel bad, I swear to graci- ous !"~ Then to Pathaway, with emphasis, and gesticulating with his right haud : "This can't go on; it must and shall be stopped! These mountain robbers have had their way long enough. Nobody's safe-I a'n't, you a'n't, and he isn't. We can't tell when, our turn'll come. We may be shot down like bufferler in the fust pass we comic to." "You say truly," answered Pathaway, ear- nestly. " These outrages must cease. This man's misfortune appeals to me witli irresist- ible . power ; it strengthens a purpose by no means new. . The mysterious baniditti of Trapper Valley must be traced to their ken. nel,-and made. to feel that they cannot coin- mit crime with- impunity, even in the wilder- ness." " They're too liy to work like 'honest trap- persand hunters.,: They scorn the slow pro- cess of trappin' beaver and otter, choosin' to pounce upon the hard-eirne4 gains of others, rather than encounter the dangers and toils of the reg'lar business. But see ! lie's flushin' -up. The worrinieit of walkin', together with his wound and other injuries, has produced fever, which mustn't be neglected. We'll put him on to Shagbark, and be off." " Shagbark ?" repeated Pathaway, inquir- ingly.I "1This fine animile !" responded Nick, strok- ing - his horse's mane. " He's cfried me through thick and thin, and he'll carry him. For speed, nothin' can tetch him. ' Wouldn't 'magine it, would ye ? Notice thera legs- look like pipe-stems, but they're powerful strong, and move like drumsticks when you git 'eni started. He's taken me.'from danger rnore nor once; a nd it'll be asad day for us both when: we. part, Coine, my, friend, we want ye to ride., 'll giveye i helpia' hand to mount. That's. it--quite strong, a'n't ye ?' Now, take the reins-rail right Now, we'll' toddle along nicely." The trapper, after being assisted to the saddle, was visibly; pleased with the change. It revived, for the:intant, old recollections. "Horses and running water, green grass and trees, prairies and !buffaloes. Bring up the peltries. Where's the pistols ? Takce care of the chasms there !" he muttered, then looked wishfully at Nick, who replied, sooth- ingly : SiEverything's jest as you want it. hold on fast, and I'll- lead the hoss---and IT won't lead him, neither, for'he'll foller me-like a .-o saying, Nicholas led the way, while Path- away walked beside the trapper, to steady him if his strength failed., Shagbark manifested great sagacity in going down steep declivities and up rough ascent s; never stumbling or making a misstep. If his master-unconsciously got too far in advance, lie admonished him of the fact by a low whin- ny. As they went along, they saw a grizzly bear perched upon a cliff, looking down upon them. They passed beneath him unmolested, while Smuggler, instead of manifesting fear or a disposition to worry him, trotted quietly along'at Nick's heels.' =Path way scrutinized it sharply, but made no remark. To meet Brinain that country was not an uncommon occurrence, yet there'was something peculiar in the fixed position of this one. Pathaway grew more thoughtful; his gaze wandered oftener to his guide-he was begirming to see tn its, in 'the man worthy of study, and which were fast awakening interest and curiosity. Glancing backward for a parting view of the bear, he saw hio .clambering over dizzy heights and close to the brinks of precipices. Had, Nick been near enough, the gray hunter would probably have called his notice to the cool 'audacity of the animal, which kept in sight till they reached the place of their des- tination, and were greeted by the great voice'of Misfortuneand the pleasanter one of Sebas- tian, who, having heard the story of the wounded trapper's calamity, manifested an amiable disposition to render his condition as comfortable as possible. If the, youth had never'before shown address and quickness, in Pathaway's estimation he now manifested those qualities. c performed things' so deftly- his touch toothed the couch of the unfor- tunate so adroitly, and with such earnest good- will and sympathy. " The bpy'il do for him almost as well's a woman," said'Nick, with pride. -"I've trained him to be reg'lar 'handy about the camp. Sich cooking' as: he'll do, and out o' iyothin, neither, and not nothin' either, 'cause it's gin- er'ly bufferler 'and other things, and not so much other things as bufferler. It's a knack ; some folks has knacks And some hasn't. Jes' give him a little salt and a perarie-chicken, and he'll nake a dish fit for "a president or a sick ian ; and 'tisu't a dish, neither, for we hia'n't got a dish, by mighty. .Don't own no- thin' in the.housekeepin' line but a stew-pan and a camp-kittle. But that'senough for him; he'd make 'a turkle-soup in a piece o' birch- bark if he on'y had the turkle. Don't foller his legs round quite so sharp, stranger, 'cause lie's iuther modest, and 'll think sunthin's the matter of 'em." "You seem to be very fond of him, my friend !" observed Pathaway, noticing the ad- miring glances lie threw upon the boy. 'Yes, in part, in part !" quoth Nick, in a matter-of-fact manner, "and not so much iii part as. in other ways. Then," he added, par- saigiit his former train of thought, "there's a brile--you never see sich a boy for a brile." The subject of these encpmimnis was seen to avert his ace, ad .Pathaway thought he ighed. Peralpsie overheard the flattering things his friend was saying of him. ' File's so like my step-mother, who used to 'irile, and stew, and roast, and finally briled, stewed, and roasted herself. into her grave. $2 I Ii '91 ,at r, 3 f T 3 ' 14 ,s i T F h page: 34-35[View Page 34-35] ' I' PATHAWAY ; OR, THE He can shoot an arrer, can Sebastian. He can hit an objeck of consider'ble magnitude at a short distance. He strikes a beautiful at- titude when he shoots ; there's a good 'cal in that, you know, for it brings out the nat'ral' cemetary of the systum-also of the legs." " The man ,has considerable fever, Uncle Nick I" said Sebastian, approaching. " I obsarved it, my lad, and I'm glad it's fever instead o' consumption; ,for I know how to treat a fever, and I don't consumption. I know sartin roots and yarbs that are p'ison on fever. I'll set right off arter 'em, and we'll have 'em biled up.in a twinklin' I" Nicholas took his gun and hatchet, and, started on this benevolent mission. He came back, staggering under a load of medicinal plants, some of which had attained the size of respectable bushes. "I got a little more nor I wanted, jes' to show a strong front to the inemy ; though we musn't give him so much that the fever won't have room to turn. A fever wants a little el- bow-room, in course." Talking in his genial and humorous way, Nick assorted the remedies, and instructed Sebastian how to prepare and administer them, although his notions were rather exag- gerate1 in regard to quantity-a fallacy which Sebastian had much trouble in correcting. But the plants, madeinto a decoction, and given to the patient, really had a salutary ef- feet. A gentle perspiration broke out upon the surface of the body,'his restlessness gra- dually subsided ;, and anon he slept peace- fully, unconscious of himself and all the world. CHAPTER X. TRAPPER VALLEY. The next day, after the morning'meal, and an earnest conversation with Sebastian, Nick prepared to leave camp. Pathaway asked him where he was .going, when he proceeded to speak of Pontneuf; whose capture by the outlaws, he affirmed, had occasioned him much anxiety. " Pm goin'," he went on to say, "to ex- p.ore Trapper Valley-though I warrant it'll be slow work. There's a hunderd places where a thousan' men could hide 'thout diffi- kilty. The sides of the mountain are full of' rifts and caves, which can be diskivered on'y by s'archin' ; and when found, it would bother one 'td go to 'em ag'in of a dark night." "N iicholas," interposed Sebastian," you are going'to expose yourself to danger. Do not-, rashly put your life in the power of those.law- less men." " It's an errand of marcy, Sebastian. Think of Pontneuf and his darter-especially of the darter,". replied Nick, with a sigh of commis- eration. " I have thought, Uncle Nick," answered Sebastian, quickly. "It is terrible I--it makes MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 85 me shiver ! But you cannot reach her-I know you cannot." "It looks onpossible, and not onpossible, neither-for chance favors folks a thousand times when they don't expect it. If we should despair and give up when a thing looks hard, nothin' would be done, I allow. I knowed an instance," he added, impressively, " where a person e'enamost despaired ; but that indi- vidooal waited, and he done a thing that'll al- lers rejoice his heart--that'll be a comfort to him-a life-long comfort.'' The youth took the trapper's hand, and re- plied : "It is a good and geperous spirit that promptsyou. If I could attend you and share the dangers, I wouldn't complain, Uncle Nick."' Then to Pathaway, who was regarding this scene with interest : "I'm , obliged to take care of Uncle Nicho- las-he'd run straight into danger if 'twasn't for me-though, in a case of this kind, it don't seem right to oppose him. T hope, sir, that you'll not allow. him to go alone. Two, it appears to me, would incur less risk than one." " Certainly I'll go," responded Pathaway. It is a case that enlists my sympathy. When woman is in danger, man must not pause to reason," "He's a knowin' and a safe man,,but I'm afeard to leave you alone, Sebastian. They've diskivered iny old camp, and they'll find this, Should they come while I'm gone, what would becomeon ye?" The youth's brown eheeka paled, and an in- voluntary shiver shook his person. " Clearly, he has a great horror of these outlaws," remarked Pathaway, regarding the boy closely. "Yes," answered Niek, bstily; "he's afeard of 'em, for they give-him'a right smart fright,' once-though, fortinitly,,,he got away from 'em by running' like an Ingin and he didn't run, neither, for he was mounted on my boss--and, come to' think on't, 'twasn't my hoss, but his'n." "A race for life ?" said Pathaway. "It-,was; but he got away, as you see," an; swered the trapper. "Leavie. the dogs with me, and I shall do very well," said Sebastian. " Sartin, and I'll try and not be gone long. Take good care of the sick man and don't be afeard. 'Tisn't for to Trapper Valley, and one orb oth of us 'II come back afore night." " Then go; 'the dogs will take ca'e of me, and I can shoot very well, too, you know." Nick started once or twice, going back as often to give additional advice or instruction ; fairly 'on the way, he seemed to -lose his anx- iety for'-the youth, which gave place to the excitement of his new and hazardous under- taking. He was not very sanguine that he should be successful, but was confidentathat a careful survey of the Valley might shed ad- 4'f 4 'S "4 -. A r , , ; . .- , t t .R . ; : '. 1 nt , . " . page: 36-37[View Page 36-37] 86 ' PATHAWAY;- OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS.7 ditional light upon its mysteries. On this oc- casion he intended to make the attempt in open-daylight, and'trust to his experience and sagacity for eluding observation and detection. They arrived at the Devil's Gate without accident, having made the necessary descent with that'degree of cautiousness that circum- stances demanded. Nick crossed the portals -of the gate, followed by Pathaway-who was particularly struck with the formation of the place, especially the basaltic shafts and the tuuel-like passage. Having encountered be- fore the difficulties of this entrance, Nick had now less trouble than his companion in over- coming them. They reached the boiling spring, which Nick named the "Devil's Camp- Kettle." Pursuing their way, they scaled great rocks, swung themselves across chasms, and Inally reached the stream of water spoken of by the Shoshond. Crossing this on the stones, they found themselves in a strip of timber of con- siderable extent. The Valley was not very wide at that point ; but farther on, it stretched out to the right and left. Nick suddenly stopped, and Pathaway, look- ing up, saw a grizzly bear a few yards. in ad- vance of them. The bear turned around and growled, manifesting a decided disposition to dispute their progress. "It looks like the one we saw lhst night," said Pathaway. " Bears are as thick as blackberries here- abouts, at this season of the year," said'Nich- olas., "This is not a very safe place for bruin," said the gray hunter, scrutinizing the bear, closely " I now it, mister ; but the critters haven't got no discreetion. It must be a young bear, or it 'd never make.its way to TrapperValley. But, then, the varmints are good for climbin', and can scramble up the mountain a pesky sight quicker'n you nor I can. But see : he don't 'pear:willin' to-let us- pass, so we'll 'es' turn to the right and shift over toward t'other side." " A very dogmatic bear," rejoined Patha- way. 'Yes ; and ,I told him so t'other day. . Sez I: ' You're nothin' but an overgrown dog.' Pathaway smiled., Th'e trapper struck off in the manner pro- posed, leaving bruin to enjoy his supremacy. " Thatresembles your tame bear," Pathaway remarked. " Summat.-summat," quoth Nick, careless- ly; "but lie's a good 'eal bigger ; and not bigger, either, but a size smaller. The var- nmmt that I had b'longed to an Ingin friendo' mine, who took him off the Lord on'y knows where." " I perceive that I was mistaken !" said Pathaway, drily. -T parties had proceeded about a hundred rods en a strange spectacle met their sight.' It was a man, mounted upon a horse, his hands tied behind him, and a rope about his neck, which rope was fastened to a limb overhead. They hastened to examine this singular ob- ject. That the person had been in this posi- tion a considerable time, was quite obvious. The horse, pinched with hunger, had gnawed the grass down to the roots, and eaten the lower branches of the trees as far as he could stretch his neck. The poor animal stood with head depressed, presenting a most melancholy figure, with his distinctly-defined ribs and gaunt outlines. The unfortunate individual on his back was in-a still sorrier plight. His face was haggard, his eyes bloodshot, and his expression as hopeless as despair could render it. " En 'nom Dieu have pity on me, gentle- men !" he exclaimed, in a faint voice. - Pathaway sprang forward and cast the noose from his neck. The revulsion from horror to hope was too great ; the man gasped-two hot tears coursed down his ghastly cheeks, and he fell senseless into the arms of the hunter, who immediately placed him upon the ground, while Nick ran for some water, which he brought in his cap and dashed upon him. " He's- gone, I do believe !" said the trap- per. 4"And that poor animile under the tree has stood stock still in his tracks two whole days, I'll be bound ! See how his feet have worn into the site by a constant takin' 'em up and puttin' 'em down! Now, isn't that what ye call patience and obedience to the will o' man ? I'll wager my rifle that this poor feller's his master, and that they've growed attached to each other by long companionship. For faithfulness, give me a hoss, I say ! I love a hoss, by gracious !" " I'm with you, heart and soul ! The horse is is noble animal. Heavens ! what tortures both man and beast have suffered during the long, dreary, and frightfully monotonous hours they have been here !" answered Patha- way, with warmth. " He don't come out on't. 'Twas too sud- dint-the relief was. It has done his business quicker nor the rope." "His heart beats-there's a tremulous mo- tion of the pulse-a slight swelling of the throat-a faint flush upon his hollow cheeks. His eyes unclose-pour some water upon his lips." The man came back to consciousness with a sobbing sigh, and a thrill and quiver of the limbs, as the first wave of memory dashed upon his brain. "He musn't see the horse nor the tree," said Pathaway, considerately. " I allow not. The sight would bring back too forcibly the recollection of his awful diffi- kilty., I'll lead the faithful hes to the water while you 'tend to his master.'" q " Go-on, and I'll carry the unfortunate fel- low in my arms till he is able to help himself a little!" I, I Pathaway lifted the man with case, and bor him after Nick until he had reached the stream by which time he was quite conscious. Th hunter then mixed some spirits and water which the sufferer swallowed with famishin avidity. A hard biscuit that Nick had in hi pocket, softened in the -stream, was then giver hmn, which he devoured with that greedy haste that characterizes every stage of starve tion. The horse, meanwhile, was quenching his thirst with the clear, running water. No more-no more !" said Nicholas. "To much on't, arter a starve, isn't no better fo hosses nor 'tis for men.".-, Still compassionate and true to his kindly nature, the trapper divided his remaining bis- cuits with the horse ; and surely the animal was grateful-he expressed it in his eyes and ears, and in the manner in which he-rested his neck upon Nick's shoulder and whinnied. " Don't talk to me about animiles !" cried N ick. " I've studied 'em, and I know 'em. I've summered and wintered with'em ; feasted and starved, slept and waked with 'em; tend- ed 'em when they's sick, and cussed be the mnan who beats his hoss !" He struck himself upon the hip, and looked upward, confident that strong language would be forgiven on such a subject, then his face beamed mildly and lovingly upon the horse, and he thought how many miles he had been carried by his brethren.i Pathaway began to admire Nick Whiffles-- there was tenderness and simplicity in him- and those virtues cover a multitude of human sins. He who cannot feel for a beast is a beast. ".The friend of the hoss and the dog is the friend of everybody. He who abuses one or t'other, will abuse all human kind. Them is my sentiments,,by mighty I" " Mon Dieu!" said the owner of the horse. Is that you, Neck Wheefles, or is this one grand dream-one ver' great deception ?" "Pontneuf, I swear to gracious!' I didn't know ye-the. condemned hanging' has took the nat'ralness all out of ye !" The voyageur grew pale at the mention of hanging, and nervously put his hand to his neck, around which was a purple;line distinct- y defined, the cord having been drawn straight, so that the least motion to the right or left, or any direction, produced a degree of strangula- "I heerd about your misfortin, and he and I ventured into the Valley to see if we could git any clue of your whereabouts. I'm afeard to ask ye about Nanny. 'Tisn't a subject that ean be pleasant to ye. But there'll be time eriough ;. you can tell the whole story arter we git ye out o' this condemned onnat'ral place.'But we must leave the hoss, though I hateto have ye part with the critter, because he didn't part with you when martin' would a been sartin death 'to ye. There isn't no help for't, :but there's plenty d' gras and water, and 'tien't like leaving' him to starve." , V. e Nicholas took Pontneuf upon his shoulders a, and carried him across the stream. o " Put me down, mon ami; you s'all take hold r, my arm, and I will walk. My legs is ver' weak g and cramp ; I set so long-so 'ver'. long I I s zank you, Monsieur Neek Wheefles." a The trapper placed Pontneuf upon his feet, y but his limbs were sostiff and paralyzed that - he could make no progress ; so Nick carried him again. Looking back after making their way a, considerable distance, Pathaway per- o ceived, much to his surprise, that the voy- r ageur's horse was following, which circum- stance he communicated to its owner. "Bon cheval! bon cheval ! he fuller me every- where as I s'all go. He will riot leave me ne- l vare, nevare !" said Pontneuf, earnestly. " The critter'll break his neck if he isn't pesky keerful. It's about as much as humans can do .to steer theirselves over these rocks. Hold on to me tighpt, old boy, and I'l git ,ye outso' this little diflikilty afore-long,, Here's the Devil's Camp-Kittle, and a few steps ahead is Devil's Gate." Assisted by Pathaway, and lightening the task by his cheery reniarks, Nick emerged in safety from the dark tunnel, and placed his friend on firmer and smoother footing. While resting, they heard the horse neigh, and pre sently the creature appeared uninjured, ap- parently, by slip or fall. Pontneuf staggered to meet his favorite, and throwing both arms around his neck, hugged him, and shed tears ; while the animal returned these caresses by low, expressive whinnies that- could not be misinterpreted. " His bones begin to show," quoth Nick, "but bones wont hurt a hoss, as long as they're in jints ; but if they's:all in one pieee, the crit- ter would be stiff-like and onpliable." Pathaway turned inquiringly to Nick, but the latter's peculiar visage was so quiet and honest, that he was puzzled to know whether he was in jest or earnest. Each, taking an arm of the voyageur, helped him up the ascent, and in half.an hour they were clear of the myste- rious precincts of Trapper Valley. Pontneuf glanced back at it with a shudder. He was thinking of what he had suffered-and of his daughter Ninon. A thousand 'distressing thoughts went whirling through the voyageur's brain ; he pictured his darling girl in the out- law lair, subjected to indignities that wrung his paternal nature. He fell upon his face and, gave himself up to emotions that were not dis- honorable to him as a man and a father. -,He was permitted to indulge in this outburst of grief without interruption. Calmer for the in- ternal storm, and his spirit washed and pu'- fied, as it were, with tears, he arose. must pardon ie ver'.much! I cry like one child. I nevare -was so weak, nesare!? Oh ! ma jolie Ninon!"' " You are understood-you are understood," said Pathaway, sympathetically, the steriess page: 38-39[View Page 38-39] I 38 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. that had rested Upon his features for the last of which was relieved by stripes of black. She few moments, relaxing, wore upon her head a dark cap with long, red wSh's wort ryin' for, the gal is, but we plumes, that swayed gracetullyto and fro to must try and do eomethin' better nor to cry for the: motions of the body. Her hands were hit though Ithink more on ye, Pontneuf, for covered with black gauntlets, but whether those doiii' it. But we must go on; Sebastian will hands were small, Pathaway was too' far dis- be expectin' us, and I don't keer to expose the taut to determine; neithercould he decide re- lad tofright and 'danger. He's young, you specting the beauty of her features, but was in- know to Iathaway-" the boy is amazin' lined to believe them handsome. Whether young." Nick's eyes were sharper, or whether he was They resumed their way, and were passing more partial to the sex, we do not know ; but sres mentioned, when theibi- he afirmed with the greatest confidence that tu grizzly bear was described in a mesquit she was as "pooty as a pictur !" He shook his qit uite near them. head as he said it, and looked inquiringly at h e cimednath. y, "that myste- then voyageur, who was seized with a sudden " h rio "e x bear again edPIa", m' fit of trembling, and laid closer to the ground. rThe bear arose straight upon his hind feet, The men who followed in the train of the and moved his fore paws as if swimming in the young womn were ten in number, of a hybrid airn The circumstance struck the voyageur as appearance. In short, they had that rough bir Thextraordinaer. and swaggerin air that marked them of law- beFlat vero your faces inhewormwood!" cried less habits and adventurous fortunes. Their aNick,*ith unusual vehemence, or suiting the equipments and habiliments corresponded action to' themandatestretched the French- with those that Pathaway had seen in the matupon the earth with unceremonious quick- canon. nea. "There'sathe unlucky hons !" le mut- "'Tis Carl6ta I" whispered the Frenchman, tired. " There d yin a disturbed manner; "Carlta, the outlaw's Domuchan not give yourself some pain; I can daughter." mang ghi oaritelnf Down, aphnis, "I thought so," muttered Nick. "I was. downy" said the Frenchman, rising upon his eenampst sartin they was birds of a feather. elbow. There must be another entrance to the Valley, Fhe horse immediately sank upon his knees, accessible by both man and beast." the upon his shoulders, as if in the act of " You are right, mon frere. There is an en- rollingthen quietly settled upon his side, and trance far below ; they took me through it, was still with his large,'brown eyes fixed but it was in the night, and ver' dark. We guiea followed what they called the Trapper Trace. on his master. e" whispered Pathaway. Then, le diable! who s'all know where we 'YhNt did you seed ik. ' went?" , Yothin'," answered Nik.added the hunter. Carlta end her followers were now hidden 'iNo," replied Nicholas, "I didn't hear nor from view. The parties arose, from their re- see nothing' neither, but I know there's diffi- cumbent position, and pursued their way to- kilte ahead, if we don't look sharp. I can tell ward Nick's new camp. by my feelin's when there's dangerun the neigh- borhood; and not by my feen's, either, so CHAPTER XI. much as by other things." SEBASTIAN ias VISiTOxtS. athaway lifted hihhead carefully to take a After the departure of Nick and Pathaway, seacndlook at the bear, but he had disap- the wounded trapper arose ; and Sebastian led secon 0 abhyaa him out' into the sunshine, in the golden heard the clattering of hoofs, brightness of which he still manifested a child- an after waiting in a state of suspense about ish leasure. There was a large tree just back five minuts, a y of horsemen came into of the camp, beneath which the youth spread fivefro minutes a party o quarter, and rode on- Nick's blanket, and upon whi his patient ward ,to the east in a line paraelwith Trap- reclined. He gazed up into the sky 'with perValley Theypa sedpwithin ten rods of strange curiosity, and at every object around erck ale hy passed thu afford- him, as if they were new revelations, and had cda good opportune forobservation. The butnow burst upon his senses. Cool breezes, most striangt u m - ofohe group was a young wafted from the mountain-sides, loaded with woman, whoor e with peculiar ease and bold- the breath of trees and flowers, swept gently ness,mand, in fact, took the lead of the caval- across his face, refreshing him with their balm- cae, flei dress was of a characters uncom- mess, moving the dark locks noon his tem- cnan, that it is a matterof difficulty to describe ,ple. His ast world had faded from his it h but i t was picturesque, with a memory, and the one he now lived in was in. tcbthofewilderness wildness. The person of fantile and full of novelty. The past, with th female eestrienne was not large, but him, was dim, fragmentary, and chaotic, like hpefy and astreeable to the eye. From the one's recollections of the scenes of infancy and w t upward, her figure was distinctly outlined half-forgotten childhood. Yet there must byher elesefittinchabit of red cloth, the glare have been fitful flashes of his former existence S I:r 'yE t x, , 7a r "i ' .t :% . { .¢i+; ;q T PATHAWAY ; OR, THE among mountains and streams, upon lakes and prairies, and of a love that, at some period, had absorbed his thoughts, and influenced the actions of his life ; for Sebastian, as he re- turned to the camp, heard him singing : " My sweet-heart was a prairie-flower- She dwelt beside the flowing water; I stole at midnight to her bower- I loved a wandering trapper's daughter Oh ! the trapper's- daughter !" The words and the plaintive voice affected the youth. He sighed, and tears started to his eyes. His breast heaved like a woman's. There was much tenderness in the boy. Pos- sibly, the voice was like one he had heard somewhere ; who knows? There are a thou- sand things that make us sad without our knowing why. Sometimes a single tone makes us thrill. Why is it? Because it connects" us mysteriously with the past. ' How inexplicable is that passion which even the extinction of reason cannot smother ; that will break out like hidden fire, glow up a mo- ment with -a touch of its former fervor, and then die away like the transient flame of a wisp of burning flax!, The mournful chorus followed Sebastian to the hut : " Oh ! the trapper's daughter !" " Wondrously like!' murmured the lad. "The same mouth ; the same reflective eyes and massy brow ; and," he added, thoughtful-, ly, " has loved a trapper's daughter!" The boy fell into a; it of musing; it became him, too ; for his face had a touching beauty, rendered yet more beautiful by the drooping wing of Melancholy. Brightening, by-and-by, he called the dogs and fed them--talking to them, meanwhile, as if they were creatures. capable of conmpre- hending human speech. V, "'Smuggler, you are over-modest. Take that bit ; it is for you. Misfortune, you are overbearing ;tyou are what, among men, is, called a tyrant. Eat what I give you, and be content. You have a bad name, sir---but lit- tle betters than your former one.; though Ca- lamity and Misfortune mean much the same thing. I wish uncle Nick would still call you' Calamity; for I like not to be followed by a dog called Misfortune--a dog that follows- a great many people. Old friends are you and Nicholas ! He has told me a great many sto- ries about you--how faithful you have been to him, and how many.'condemned little diffi.' kilties' you both got into and got out of,. You don't look like-an old'dog, either. And as for beauty-ah ! you're not handsome, sir-you're not handsome ! You are ,shaggy, and look sour, and never wag your'tail on anybody but Kek and me. But thou art a very honest dog-a very honest dog, indeed !" . " Wah ! wah !" 's It was a rough voice that uttered these sounds-a voice that made Sebastian turn with a convulsive start. Two men entered the hut-Ben Joice and Zene Beck-who, though I , MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 89 often biekerug and quarreling were kindred natures, and hunted in couples. "Ingin boy--ialf-breed--alone in cam eat him up-swaller him whole. Ugh! ugh!" added Ben Joice, imitating the Indian style of communication, and assuming a threatening aspect for the purpose of playing upon the lad's fears, who drew back toward the dogs, and stood motionless as a statue. " Young-tender-build fire-roast him., Wah !" continued Ben, making a horribly ugly face. Zene Beck, perceiving that Sebastian seemed ready to fall down with terror, burst into a loud laugh. " White men-great chiefs--might, war- riors-half-Ingin boy prisoner-- o wit us- walk prairies-slow fre-burn--baim-wa-wa I" added Ben. "There ! Stop, Ben,.or you'll frighten the little yaller varmint to death."' Then to Se- bastian: "Fly round, you half-breed saawn, and cook somethin' to eat. 'There's a piece o' bufferler ; knife it off in a minute and puti it. to the fire," said Zene Beck. "Not too fast. Who keeps camp ?" said Ben. Sebastian tried to -speak, but at first his voice was so low as to-be inaudible. "Speak up, you chicken! !What's the mat- ter, eh ? Don't ye know anything ?" groped Ben, making an ominous rattling"with his w'ea- pons. " Nick Whiffles !" said Sebastian, distinctly. Joice and Beck exchanged glances. It was clear that they did not relish this information. Zene scowled and shook his head. " Pooh ! pooh!" exclaimed Joiee. " Ain't afeard of a name, be ye ? Don't care nofe for Nick Whiffles.nor I do for a bufferlercualf. Let's sarch round and see if he's got anything drinkable 'bout the primises." "I advise you not to meddle much among Uncle Nick's things," said sebastian, whose emotions did not appear to arise from a re"al spirit of cowardice. "Zene, masticate that little yaller boy!. Bone him-bolt him! I'l. take a peep undr this pile o' boughs, and in the corners gier'ly, Sieh critters as this lank Nick Whifes alters keep some choice sperrits agin acidents." Joice went feeling- about in every corner of the camp, and finally -lighted upon a keg of 'whisky, which Nick had kept Carefully for ur- gent occasions. He gave a loud whoop at this discovery, with along addition of erabbed In- dian, which was finally choked offly a stream of the much-prized liquor, which went down his throat with that peculiar sopnd character- istie of drinking from such a vessel. After a frightful draught, he passed the keg to Beek, smacked hia lips, drewthe sleeve of his hunt- ing-shirt across his beard, and having enjoyed the flavor a moment in silence, asked - tian Where's he gone ? When'll he come back ?" page: 40-41 (Illustration) [View Page 40-41 (Illustration) ] PATHAWAY ; Or, TILE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. Tnderstailding him to refer to Nick, Sebas- tian replied that he would return soon. Thenawe must hurry up. Fix the fire and g0 @eoQkin'. you smoothed=skinned half-and- half I Step quick, too. I cut a young Ingin's ears oi once for not steppin' quick enough." "Don't threaten me," answered Sebastian, pointing at the dogs. "Bah I 'Speet I'm afeard of a couple o' Pupil? I've fit with grizzly bears, I have; clinched right in with 'em on equal tarnis, with no weepons but my teeth and nails, I'll' take the varmints by the scruff of their necks, and hold 'em up as I would a couple o' kittens,- and knock their heads together wounded hard, too !" " That dog"--pointing to Misfortune, whose back was bristling, and whose eyes were flam- ing with mischief-"but waits my command to tear; you in pieces !" answered Sebastian, with sudden sprit., " iliti-to !y , My son John !" exclaimed Ben, tith1 znueh ffeected humor, but prudent- Iji 4lling ack a little from the neighborhood of. isfortune. 'Ehe -homely cuss does look, ugly," said 'Zee, setting down th keg and -retreating, also. 'ton ftlet's make a row till we've had our grub, Artere *0git through with that, we'll 0ok roe d for the spies ; and I warn ye, afyejband, thatI'll stan! no gammon about the division." As it happened, Zene placed-the keg upon th' spot where ,oth'had previously laid their iies. The dogs, as if by mtual agreement, seeing their master's, property endangered, pted.themselves bytheyeg, one on each' ide, sfortuneoeruchiung dpeetly upon he rifles. the rifian-trappers did not observe this nve- pient at "h time, nor did they see Sebastian When homade a motion toward'them with his w'want something to eat; I haveno. Ae"okto cooking it, provided you will be. quiet. Give ineyoirn hunting-lknife"-to Joice -"and I'll out, some nice slices from this hu'mp:' .he"fellow threv hi henting-kirfe at Sebas- tiaws fee, lsojlieked it tm, and after'sawing away at 1iin p afewimnutes; complained that it ras' ull, and 'aked Jelk for his; the latter gave hinmite haprement, growling at his $ sitess. Itexelen cut the ett'gtuic kly, it, did.offuatiftheidtves.:!e ad ssed him- self to the :task Masigned him with seeming alderity, and his lawless and uninvited guests were ' aedify' 'einpployed in masticatinig large and deicious tteaks of bufflol6 humep. Pres- ently, -at a natural consequence; they grew thn'sty ; and Ben arose to look for the keg of Whisky, and saw two sets of threatening eyes fled upon him; while the vessel that con- talked the devoted treasure was lying between thet. CHAPTER XII. WHICH TREATS OF VARIOUS MATTERS. The drenching draught that Ben Joice had swdllowed was operating ' upon' his brain, -arousing'what was vicious within hiin, making him valorous, boastful, and ready to quarrel with whoever or whatever might be disposed to take offence eAthis conduct. He stared at the dogs with stupid wonder, then with fierce and fast kindling ire. He took a hesitating and ex- perimental'step foi'ward, but the prestige of the dog Misfortnne -became so ominous that he paused, doubting the propriety ofa farther ad- vance. 'Finding that he could use his tongue with less danger than his feet. he emptied upon them from hislawless mouth a torrent of invec- tive of which persons of his type only are nias- ter ; but which, so far from intimidating his canine opponents, served but to inflame their ferocity. They arose warily to their feet, and displayed their teeth in concert. " Don't provoke them, if you value life !" said Sebastian, warningly. Joiee stepped back; brimming with wrath. To, rob a 'wild, free trapper of his whisky, especially when under its influence, is to give mortal offence. His keen and whetted appe- tite. longs for the maddening potion, and brooks not patiently the thwarting of his de- sires. Benifelt in.his belt for a pistol, but dis- covered, to. his chagrin, that the weapon was not there. 'Give re your pistols, Zene, and I'll fix them ere brutes quicker'n an Ingin can take a Akblp I" Joiee stretched his hand backward without .taking his eyes from the dogs. "Left 'em at camp," answered Zene. "Bill Brace wanted 'em'." "Curse -the luck ! I left mine, too. That's alles the way; when you want a thing you hadn't got it. Look at them confounded pups, will re+ They're layin' right on our weepons, and thete's that keg' o' sperrit right atween 'em." "Pups! precious nice pups! bull-dogs, I should say. Now look here, Ben.; I've heerd of Nic'k'Whiffles'- dogs. That savagerous look- in' trieis the same critter that he used to call Calainity, I'll bet' two hoss-loads o' peltries ! lIe's An: aWful varmint, and I shouldn't care to tackle' hinif I : had forty pistils. Hillo ! 'where's my -khiife '" Zene felt for his favorite weapon. "You little mixed-up Ingin heathenswhere's my knife-?" he asked, turning threateningly to Sebastian,who 'had edged toward the dogs, and now stoodbeSide them. " A trick! ta trick I" cried Joice, furiously. " Toss 'em here, you traitor ! Don't play with the grizzly's claws, 'less you want to be tore to pieces." Ben swelled out his chest, scowled, and dis- torted his mouth to subdue the boy with fear ; but he quietly held up the weapons in his right 40 %k 1 " i f 'f r ' 3' J ' O '5 L-4 mA td b 5, r c 1' page: 42-43[View Page 42-43] r s C" 'Y f. r r r 1 ,'Sr .is {3 n alt{Y Tiff ; . Kf 5 a PATHAWAY ; OR, THE] hand, saying, with a calmness that took them by surprise : " Attempt to take them, and I'll launch these dogs upon you like lightning ! I have only to exclaim, sharply, ' down with the brutes!' and they dart at you like panthers." Ben Joice puffed the breath slowly from his dilated chest, stared a moment at Sebastian, and swallowing his rage,"went slowly back to his meal. Though baffled, he was not conquered, and as he sent installment after installment into that craving gulf, the stomach, he growled be- tween the mouthfuls, leering at the youth from under his beetling brows in a manner that boded no good. Presently he began to talk with Zene in a fashion calculated to terrify the listener. His companion fell into his vein, and as the liquor worked more potently, they told frightful stories, and boasted of their lawless exploits in the mountains ; of bloody feuds with brother trappers ; of unprovoked encounters with the Indians, and finally of robberies and assassin- ations in the lonely passes, closing with an un- feeling allusion to the man they had shot in the caion. " We'd had a fine time at euttin' and slash- in' if Cap'n Dick hadn't interfered," remarked Joice. "A devil of a boy. is Cap'n Dick ! He'll have his own way, if it costs a man or two." " Don't talk of our quarrel; because you's in the wrong, Ben. I've been sorry, sometimes, that we did that. - A smart trapper was An- drew Jeanjean. I knowed him several years ago. He 'peard a hearty, honest chap, allers quiet enough, if you minded your business and didn't ineddle with his'n. I b'longed to a bri- gade with him a short time, and that was the way I happened to know him. We had a lit- tle trouble once, for he usedd me of takin' beaver and otter from his traps, which," added Zene, ingenuously, " I sartinly did. I told him- he lied, when he knocked me down without ceremony.\ If he hadn't done that, I don't think he'd be sleepin' down in the canon." "Bah! there allers was a white stripe in you. You must l'arn to look upon these things as matters of business. We're the lords o' the sile, and all that don't b'long to our jolly boys is our prey, and must pay tribute to us. A conscience, Zene Beck, is a useless piece o' lum- ber to be totin'. about in the mountains." Then turning his dogged eyes to Sebastian, added, still addressing Zene : "I'll git ye to go out, and dig a hole to put that sparrow-legged boy in." The sparrow-legged boy, although very pale, was more self-possessed than could have been anticipated at the outset, and did not appear to heed this sinister observation. It must not be supposed that the anger of Joice had cooled ; on the contrary, their villainous conversation had excited and rendered it more dangerous, though, perhaps, less impetuous. In fact, both Y _, a i 1 1 , r' t 5. !; , - r, 3F' n r' , . i," Z i t MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 43 the ruffians were racking their brains for an ar- tifice or expedient by which to free themselves from their awkward dilemma. "Poor Jeanjean !" said Beck, perceiving that this topic affected Sebastian." I dreamed about him last night. But 'twas in the way o' busi- ness, as you say ; and arter all, it don't make no great difference whether we pop over a buffaler or a man.--Yah ! yah !" Zene Beck suddenly thrust his head in the direction of Sebastian, and making a horrible face, perpetrated the last exclamations in a style that would have startled one unused to the freaks of free trappers. The boy recoiled. * Wah ! wah !" vociferated Joice, with an ex- plosiveness that was yet more alarming. A slight thrill ran over the boy, but he grasped the knives more firmly. There was a rustling of leaves, a crackling of twigs -breaking 'beneath footsteps. A pale, haggard face presented itself at the door ; the eyes were large, fixed, and expressionless. It was the wounded trapper. The bandage had slipped from his head, and there were fresh, red stains upon his hair around the wound. The features of the ruffians blanched with horror. Believing that they saw before them the ghost of the murdered trapper, they sprang through the side-of the camp as if its frail walls were pasteboard, and ran from the spot as if pursued by an avenging angel. Sebastian heard them bounding away with the speed of hunted buffaloes, and clasping his brow with his hands, stood motionless a long time. When, at length, he looked up, the wounded man had not changed his attitude, nor his stony vacancy of eye and face. By-and-by he timidly approached the dogs, and as they did not repel his -advances, he sat down by Smuggler, stroked his glossy coat with childlike satisfaction and curiosity. The instinct of the animals told them that Andrew Jeanjean was one to be dealt gently with. Oc- casionally he paused, as if a laggard ray of reason had overtaken him, but could find no fitting entrance to the temple of Understand- ing. Usually, when this occurred, he mutter- ed, and sang snatches of " The Trapper's Daughter." Sebastian, having in a measure recovered from his trepidation, looked out anxiously for Nick ; but perceiving no welcome sign of his coming, consoled himself as best he could, un- der the circumstances. "It's not time, yet," he said. "Trapper Valley is a long walk from here." Anon he added, complainingly. "Am I never to lose sight of those fearful men ? They pass before me like spectres. Their appearance revives recollections that fill me with terror. But I must struggle to be, brave and, cheerful on Nick's account as well as my own. Kind, quaint Nick ! His presence makes me feel safe, and sometimes content-almost happy. And why not quite happy ?" he continued, amusingly. t page: 44-45[View Page 44-45] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 45 The .youth stopped, as if to find an answer to this question. He went on : "Then comes this man Pathaway. What shall I say of this man Pathaway ?" Sebastian was troubled. This query per- plexed' hin, apparently, more than the pre- vious one. He stood with clasped hands and bent head, thinking of it a long time; then he paced slowly back and forth under the trees before the camp, pursuing, perhaps, the same train of thought, which was finally interr-upt- ed by the return of Nick and Pathaway, ac- companied by the French voyageur. 4"What's the diffikilty, little 'un ?" inquired Nicholas, glancing about curiously. "Been nmakin' a holein the side o' the camp, hain't ye? That's to let more oxygin in, I s'pose." "I've had visitors, Nicholas," answered Se- bastian, with a perceptible shiver. "Unwel- come guests, I assure you-Ben Joice and Ze- nass Beck. They revived such-" "Yes, I understan' !" interposed Nick. "They've frightened ye about to death, I'll be bound. I wish I'd been here, by mighty! Wouldn't they ketehed it ? Wouldn't they got' sunthin' ?" he added, raising his voice and his hands at the same moment, " wouldn't they got sunthuin' that they never got afore, and wouldn't never hadl ro need on ag'in ? Did they hurt you, sonny? Did they lay a finger on ye, unbug? If they did, jes' say the word, and my head sha'n't- touch blanket ag'in till the mean skunkshave got their desarts. Where was Smuggler ? Where, on airth was Misfor- tin?" "Present and faithful. They behaved nobly. They've been a credit to you, Uncle Nick. Look and satisfy yourself." Sebastian pointed to the keg and the trap- per's rifles. The whole truth suggested itself to Nick at once. His kindly countenance beamed benev- olently upon his canine friends. "I have observed," said Pathaway, "that you display singular tastein the names of your dogs and Horse." Although -the gray hunter addressed this re- mark to Nick, his attention was fixed upon Se- bastian with a wondering, perplexed intensity- that was almost painful._ " Yes," answered Nick, mildly, "I have my idees. everybody has his idees. I change- the names of my animiles, 'eationally, same as' the Ingins change the names of, their braves. Thhit critter's name used to be Calamity.; but arter I got into the p'ison newspapers, I changed it to Misfortin." At lihat moment, ,Portneuf, who bad been carried by Daphnis the latter part of the way, caught sight of the wounded trapper, and evinced considerable surprise. " Ah! what do I see ! It is my ver' good friend, Andrew Jeanjean ! Mon Dieu-! - Is'all be ver' much amaze. What has happen ?" " This," said Nick to Sebastian,-"is Port- neuf, the voyageur. We found him in a dread- ful plight-with a rope round his neck, and his horse for his executioner. He was starvin' and sufferin' horribly. Look at him, sonny, and see what terrible goin's on there is down in Trapper Valley. " Oh ! oh !" exclaimed Sebastian. " And, Ptoo, for that matter,' and all the rest of the alph bit. A day or two in that po- sition will put white threads in the blackest hair, I allow. But don't think' on't-don't think ot! It's too much for a lad who's so ruinated, as 'twere, by the scarlet fever; and not so much by the scarlet fever as by other things neither."- There was something in the tenderness with which Nick treated the boy, and the readiness with which he made excuses for his girlish weaknesses, that excited in a pre-eminent man- ner the interest of Pathaway. He had ob- served, as who would not, that the trapper's apologies were not always consistent, but al- most without exception contradictory, and that he unconsciously mixed them with the ludicrous. " Ninon ?" queried Sebastian, earnestly. Nicholas shook his head sorrowfully. " Nothin' yet---nothin' yet, but we're all hopin' for the best ; and," he added, philoso- phically, " when sevril people hope for a thing airnest, it's apt to happen. I've obsarved it time arter time, and the cowincidence was startlin'; and not startlin' neither, but oncom- mon ; and not so much oncoinmon," he con- tinued, reverentially, in a lower voice, " as providential." " Who is this Jeanjean?" asked Pathaway, addressing the voyageur, "A trapper, and once a bourgeois I knew him ver' well." - Then to Jeanjean: - How do you do, mon, friend? Ah ! how pale ! I nevare s all see you so pale !", "Oh ! the trapper's daughter- Oh ! the trapper's daughter !" sang Jeanjean, in accents more plaintive than ordinary. " I s'all bd so-what you call him-aston- ish!" said Portneuf, quite bewildered by the strange manner of the trapper. " He's been in a condemned little diffikilty ; and' not so little, neither, for it upset all his fakilties , and nighabout snuffed the candle of his life,"-answered Nick, explanatorily. ."You see aman afore ye that's been shot, exassinat- ed, killed,.buried, resurrectionized, and resuf- focated, all. o' which happened in a lonesome caiion not fur from Trapper Valley. This is the man"-pointing to Pathaway-" who did it; and that isn't what I mean, neither; but that he dug him up and brung him to. Sebas- tian, we must go to cooking ; for the French- man's stomich is as, holler as a drum, and hol- lerer too; for a drum's full o' air, and I'll be hanged if he looks as if he had a thimble full on't-to spare. 1tattle out the camnp-kettle and stew-pan, and nnd andnot hit 'em ag'in them brittle legs o' your'n. There's no Doctor I 11'' Whiffles here to set bones. He was what is called a nat'ral bone-setter. Be in a hurry, lad, for we've got the condemndest stumich to cook for that ever darkened a camp-door. Our family's increasin', sonny. We'll have a hospital here by-and-by, by mighty ! Spent a year in a hospital once, I did, when I's a boy, studyin' doctor stuff. That was down in the' clearin's, afore I took to the bush. The hos- pital I was in was suntimes called an Infarm- lty".-... . " Infirmary," suggested Sebastian. "'Bliged io ye, little 'un. Remember the head of the 'stablishment very well. Seems as if I could see him smokin' his short pipe ; for a confarmed smoker of the narcootic weed was the doctor. There wasn't his equal in tell- in' stories, neither. To hear him, you'd think that he'd conquered all the disorders, com- plaints, maladies,. eperdemics, plagues, 'rup- tions, and other sicknesses that humans is sub- jeck to. He hated minerils dreadful, and said that all sorts o' calomy-another slice, little 'un-red lead, blue-pill, and canine was p'ison to the system. Arter I'd been there awhile, the doctor used to let me try my hand at them that he was practicin' at. ,You'd oughter seen," added Nick, holding out the stew-pan in one hand, and a fagot in the other, " the fixin's he had in his infarmity-the het baths, the cold baths, and the b'ilers ; 'specially the b'ilers-steam-}oxes he tarmed'um; butthey's reg'lar b'ilers, by mighty ! You see there's some affections-don't cut your fingers, sonny -that won't come out 'cept by b'ilin'. We used to bile 'em right smart ! Igot to be mas- ter b'iler afore three- months. Well, as I's sain'-don't step into the kittle, boy, and don't be lookin' at me so queer-he let me' have a chance now and then at 'em. He hap- pened to have 'mong his patients an Irishman with a bad leg, which was a fever-sore or some- thin' o' that natur. The doctor had a good 'cal o' country practice, and was often gone a week at a time, like an old-fashioned Methodist. minister on a circuit. This was about the, time when the hot-crop systum begun to be in vogue, which was many years ago. Now the doctor didn't go by guess-work, but allers had a plan which he follered. He cured every- thing with a Lobely course o' medicine, the- botanic name of which was screw-auger. A course o'-medicine was a 'metic, and a 'metie was a course o' medicine."- "I'm goin' away,' sez the doctor, arter he'd showed me the patient. "' Very well,' sez I. "'This is a bad leg,' sez he. "' It's a condemned bad leg !' sez I. "'He must throw it up,' sez he.- "'Nothin' more nor less,' sez I. " ' Give him a 'metic every day till I git back,' sez he. "'Will it 'feet the leg ?' sez I. "''Twon't 'feet nothin' else,' sez he. 'And be sure,' to keep him in a horizontal position. "' As horizontal as you please,' sez I. ' Then the doctor got into his wide one-hoss .gig, like that my gran'father traveled in in Centril Afriky, tetched up his old white hoss, and trundled away, saddle-bags, Lobely, kian, and all.' Nick gave the stew-pan a shake, and set it over the fire again. " Well," he added, " I went at the critter. The doctor was gone:sixteen days, and I puked the patient every day, by mighty! .Boy, put on another' stiek o' wood, and tend a little closter to your brile ; a brile has to be-looked arter." " How did this treatment affect him?" asked Pathaway, with a half-smile. " Powerful ! powerful ! 'Long toward the last don't I tied his well leg to the bed-post for fear thewrong one would come up. But not'- stannin' all the skill I laid out on the onnater- alized furriner, the lame limb didn't come up; but he fell away like p'ison durin' the time." Nick gave the stew-pan an extra shake, glanced quizzically' at Pathaway, then added, reflectively : " But it oughter done his business ! 'Twasn't no fault o' mine ; I gin him enough o'. the condemned stuff. There T!that sparrow-legged boy has dropped his meat in the ashes ! The doctor was summat astonished when he got home, for he didn't speet to be gone but a week when he went away. There was a little pucker,, as 'twere, round the corners of his mouth when I told-him what I'd done ; but he lighted his pipe and smoked right on, as usual. "', I think I'm well qualified- to . practise doctor-stuff,' sez I. ' I think you be,' sez he, ' but there's one piece o' information I want to give ye ; which is, that all diseases is brung about by humors. No matter what a -person complains on, de- pend on't 'tis humors.' "I'm everlastin'ly obleeged to ye,' sez I, and the very next 'day left the doctor's, In- farmity, snatisfied that it wouldn't be safe for me to 'i'arn any more. Give me good food, good air, and good exercise, and I don't care for physic, by gracious! The human stomich never was intended for a slop-bowl," Profoundly impressed with this idea, the trapper pondered a moment, and finished his train of thought by saying, with more than ordinary feeling, "Oh Lord, no ! The gray hunter seemed not to notice Nick's closing remarks ; his eyes wandered with the same perplexed and half-painful inquisitiveness from him to the youth, and from the youth- to him; but they dwelt longest upon the youth. CHAPTER XIII. TH EPOR'LoR'N TRAPPER. Nick's little camp was like a grain 'of sand in the' wilderness-the ranges stretched so far ; the prairies were so wide ; the rivers and I 44 1 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN, OUTLAWS.( n 1 4r} 1I''. El 4 page: 46-47[View Page 46-47] 46 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. lakes so many,; the borders of civilization so be an oncomfortable, narvous dubiousness. distant. The sun went down upon the soi- You remind him, apperiently, of sunthin' he tary hut as if loth to lose sight of it and trust can't think of.. There's trouble on the young- it alone in the darkness, its rays lingering ster's mind, weighing down his sperrits, mak- tremulously upon the isolated threshold. ing him look like a clouded spring mornin'. Portneuf was gaining strength and spirit He don't sleep well o' nights ; he dreams and under the ministrations of the trapper and Se- starts and matters like a murderer ; and not bastian. He was beginning to relate his adven- like a murderer, neither ; but more ,like a tures with the outlaws of Tapper Trrace, when young feller that's been disapp'inted in love. the dogs sprang ip and barked, and the griz- It's a terrible thing, my lad, to be disapp'inted zly bear appeared at the door. His, coming in love,!" was so unexpected that all save Nick were Nick stopped suddenly and fetched a sigh startled. 1 from the lowest depths of his chest-a half- "Don't be skeerd !" said the trapper. "'Tis regretful, half-sentimental sort of sigh ; such the Shoshonie's tame - bear; -got away from as spring up from old remembrances, partly him, I;allow. Guess I'll drive the critter home. buried, partly above ground. Go 'long there, you valmint !" The youth was agitated. Nick had touched Nicholas uttered these words hurriedly and a responsive chord in his impromptu rami- with uncommon trepidation, for him-anxious, blngs on the borders of the unfathomable apparently, that the animal should not attract world of the emotions. He turned his back particular attention. Seizing the first conve- to Nick to hide his perturbation. The trap- nient fagot, he ran from the : camp, the bear per shook his head as if he had his thoughts, retreating, growling before him. Very soon but would not speak their . . man and bear were out of sight and hearing. "Mountaineer," said Sebastian, presently, Nick was gone but a short time, returning with affected cheerfulness, " were you ever somewhat cloud and meditative, but perceiv- ' disappointed in love' ?" ing that both Pathaway and Sebastian were Nicholas was walking toward the camp when watching him, he assumed to be very cheerful. this question was proposed, but it arrested It was no hard matter to see that he was tak- him as suddenly as if a Mexican lasso had ing unusual precautions'concerning the safety been thrown over his head. of his horse, calling him in from his grazing " Disapp'inted, lad, disapp'inted ? We're grounds and fastening him close to the door, all more nor less disappointed. ; Yes !"-with While he was performing the last-named oper- a long inspiration-" yes, I might say I've ation, Sebastian stole to his side and whis been .disapp'inted. There is -times when. a tiered : vision o' curls, bright eyes, a light figger, and "I know there is danger at hand, Nicholas !" a pooty mouth, comes over me with malan- " Bless you, no I .There isn't an artom o' holy airnestness. But we won't speak on't diflikilty, and not that, neither, for it's a world now. When there's opportunity, I'll tell ye o' diffikilties, and there allers will be more nor a story, prehaps ; and prehaps I won't, nei- less on'em, 'specially more'; and that isn't much ther ; for what's the good o' mopin' and, fret- arter all. I could tell ye tales o' diffikilties, tin' over what's past and gone ? My way is my pooty boy, that wouldlast from now till to laugh at old diffikilties, and brxce up to to-morrer morning" thout repeatin' nary one. meet the new." Always bear one thing in mind," 'he added, Nick and Sebastian had scarcely entered more earnestly, "that whatever the diffikilty the camp, when the, dogs signified. by their is, there's one near ye that won't be afeard to conduct that some one approached, 1Iick meet it." stepped out and met a man at the door, who " I'm so certain of it ! I'm so certain of it !" came in at his invitation. responded Sebastian, warmly. Then, hesitat- The personnel of this visitor was not en- ingly, and depressing his voice : "But this aging. Heb ad a run-down, beggarish, not- man Pathaway. I hope you will-" doing-well look, which, while it did not great- " Jes' soI jes' so !" returned Nick, thought- ly appeal to the sympathies of the parties, in fully. "I'll cae for hin as though he's my no way added to his welcome. Several rusty natril son ; though he's one the sort that don't traps were slung upon his back. His arms need much takin' care on. You see him take consisted of an old fowling piece, with a frac- care of hisself not long ago, in a way, too, that tured stock tied up with strips of undressed was stunning' to look at. But let us go in; skin, and a hunting-knife with a saw-edged the man we're talkin' about has got his eyes and battered blade. His garments served to on us now. "le obsarves everything; he cover him, which was all that could be said of watches you; it has struck me summat sing'- them ; in fact, they hung around him in be- lar how lie watches you." smutched and unsightly tatters. His face, "He feels contempt, perhaps, for my weak- hands, and neck, were superfluously dirty ; ness," answered Sebastian, coloring, and ques while his hair was in a state of studied disor- tioning with his eyes. der, as if stuck up and matted to meet the "It would 'pear to be contempt, at times, demands of some new backwoods fashion, but there is moments when it really seems to which outstripping all others, had -one on to PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. . 47 the extreme of wildness. There was not that thinness and squalor of the face which ought, fittingly to have accompanied the setting of this free-trapper gem. Despite, his outside shabbiness, 'he had, clearly, been well fed. Immediately upon his introduction, he took a leisure survey of the partied within; then laying aside his gun, and throwing down his traps, greeted the parties with: "How are ye, -critters 9" Well's common, thank'e. Hope you loft your folks- well,?". answered Nick, ungra- ciously. eou a'n't seen no folks lately, 'ept Ingins. Been starvin' and hidin' on the Saskatchewan peraries near the extreme tip o' the South Branch. Had an awful time with the Black- feet. Glad to see white critters ag'in. I'm ruther run down in p'int o' clothes, but I don't s'pose it'll make no odds amongg Christians." It was visible from the manner of the gray hunter that he was not pleased with this new- comer. He observed that Sebastian watched him continually, and started at-the first sound of his voice, as persons sometimes start at sight of a serpent. "How unfitted," he thought, "is thislad for the life he is leading! He has no nerve ; his sensibilities are shoe ed bf the slightest circumstance ; he is weaker than a love-sick girl. And yet-and yet," mused Pathaway,."his wild beauty-faseinates mue in spite of myself. - If I feel a passing emotion of contempt, it yields to something strange and inexplicable that renders me melancholy and follows me in haunting dreams." "What's your name ?" inquired Nick,, sharply. "Hendricks, 'mong civilized critters," re- plied the person questioned, glancing at Port- neuf. "How happened ye to stumble on my camp ?" continued Nicholas, in the same tone._ " ueer question to ask, brother, when you know that a hun gryfree trapper can smel a piece o' meat a dozen miles. Don't begrudge a feller being' somethin' to eat and a fire to warm him by, do ye ?" Hendricks, turning his eyes. slowly from Portneuf, met the fixed looks of Sebastian. A change came over him at once ; his under jaw fell, his mouth remained open in a mingled expression of wonder, curiosity, and something else that might have been construed into fear. This passed quickly away, but Hendricks had seen or aprehended that which-be could not forget. Had his swarthy features been freed from dirt and tan, they would have been found paler than Andrew Jeanjean's. Nick, who was busy with the fire, heaping the brands together and feeding it with sticks, did not notice the sudden perturbation of his visitor;. but with Pathaway, who was unoc- cupied, it did not pass without observation ; yet it was a thing to which he had no clue to guide him to its meaning. "I don't begrudge nobody nothin'," quoth Nick.. "Them as comes to my camp hungry and tired shall be fed and rested, if I've got the means of doin' it. , An honest, unlucky trapper never went away from my lodge dis- satisfied." " I'm sich a one as you describe, but I can't say my welcome has been o' the warmest," replied Hendricks, with less confidence than before. "I dunno, I dunno !" responded Nicholas, doubtingly. "I ain't your jedge, and l'm glad don't, for I mightjedge ye too bard. But you haven't -got that open, straight' forrard look that I like, I swear to gracious !" Hendricks started up in a huff, scowling in an unfriendly manner at Nick., "You want to fasten a quarrel on me, Nick Whiffles !" he said, bitinghis under lip. "You know me then, it 'pears ?" returned Nicholas, quietly. " You ain't sich a stranger in the Nor'weet that it need to surprise ye," answered Hen- dricks, measuring Nk from head to foot with his 'eyes. "It. may be safe for ye," he re- sumed, "to insult me here with your friends 'round ye, but if we stood hand to hand on some lonely perarie or' in a dark pass, your tongue wouldn't, run on, so free, 1 reckon. But," he went on, picking up his traps and fowling-piece, "I'll remember 'this a in ye, and if you git any good on't you'll be wel- come to it." " You'd better eat afore ye go, for I'don't want anybody to go from my camp hungry. And," added Nicholas, looking quizzically at Hendrick's rotund. face, "you must a been 'thout food a long time, 'edgin' by your 'pear- ance. - You've lost a leap o' flesh, that's plain, and I ,shouldn't wonder if you'dbeen fasten' more nor a week. Nick's irony was not without its effect upon its object. At..one moment he seemed ready to push matters to an unpleasant crisis, while at the next other emotions agitatedhim. When he looked, at Nick, he was manifestly disposed to quarrel with him; but when his regards strayed to Sebastian, which they did furtively and often, his belligerent feelings were diverted to a different channel. Master- ing whatever impulses rebelled against the movement, he threw down his traps, replaced his gun and said, doggedly,: " see that my room is better nor my com- pany, but I'll only stay long enough to swaller a cut from yonder piece o', meat,; pervidin,' allers, you think you cant spare it to an unfor- tinit devil who has lost his peltries and most of his traps in one way and another, atween Ingins and dishonest white men." " Jes' so!, Here's a knife, here's a stick, there's a fire ; you can cut, roast, and eat, to suit yourself.d " ah!'' grunted Hendricks, and without farther invitation commenced . operations, cooking and eating in grim silence. Patha- way was well assured that the manwos not at I1 I I i.nW B S }' rrrnnn t y 8 F i 4 " , rt. 't {; page: 48-49 (Illustration) [View Page 48-49 (Illustration) ] '8PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. his ease ; he did not eat as hungry men. eat, swallowing his food mechanically and without relish. having finished' his xe l,:le 1ung his rusty traps upo.hit s boulders, and took hisgun preparatory totakig leave. ; "You're welcome to ;tay, stranger,-if you' can put up with our 'coimmodations," said Nick. .. - 'Your welcome domes too late-just a leetle too later You've. pressed the cold shoulder agin me, Mr. Niek,. an it'll be strange:if ouit trailsashouldn't cross each other somewhere- aforp we die..' Xlendrink's gaze rested as if byiriesigtible attrctioa upon Sebastian, who had slirnkain rnerand was half hidden from. view by the. poson'of l'ortneuf, The'lad's weakness w ye t upon him-that unaceountable' ezitenent and pall for that sometime es rentler him objectt of remark to Pathaway, whose iieter-attentive eyes allowed othingto oscapp unnotined. The tableau %ofhieW'he formed a part at that instant inteested ,him much. The }ar nestness of P i tneuid the dull iixedries o0 Jeanjean, the poorly-concealed dislike of iMk, together with the sirigular department of 'the boy, andale varying expires io ofx nrieks, were. things that struck himnas pejulier, and" signiicaxit of mystery and.istist. The vayfaring, shabby trapper turned i his heel arted sinister look at Nick, and mnuttering",When we meet again, perhaps I may bethe: athetginer Anid you the'unlucky trapper. goodd night to ye all; Wah'!" Hendricks dearted'hastilyasif glad to be gon, yet iripe led by a strgprotive to'stay. Clear of the. camp, the walked off- with- a strong atd:hasty step; that indicated neither fasting nor physgabinabity. But his' pres- ence had left an impfesii9napon the'parties, like that often induced by the notespf aan evil" bird upon minds Tthat. believe insigns anal omens. "A strange visitor,",re arked 'atha waj, wishing tobreak the oppressive-silende. " And I thought, top, that y d'sliglhtly deriytte4 , friend Ni'cholas, fro your, tate4 kinduess and hospitality." "=There is tlln. in the world, Pathaway, that we take a Iirejpc,ie g in at %fust sight: Our two naturs'quarrel, as 'twere, the minutes they dome withi. teehia, distance-; they're like ile .ddwater ; they ,can't uli. ,1nsuy case, t4t ichp was one of 'em, and::I'm jglad he's left ti-.;i e. been tryin' and' parplexin and spiArrih' miy men'ry to inen nbe' if l'y seen him, ad when and 'ere.", Nick stroked his beard ;ahd g aed a f tl crackling'embers at hid.feet. ebastin stole to his side and whispered in his ear,; 'ie sprium.to iis feet as.f a rattlesnake had: stung hsiul. An ominous frown gathered upon, his before placid brow ; his eyes flashed with sudden, and deep indignation. lie stood a moment with- his teeth, set hard together, struggling with amazement, incredulity, and anger-three foes to calmness thag beset him at once. He took his rifle from its place as if he wou1id crush the iron barrel with his fingers; his muscular arm shook as he held it. The dog Calamity leaped to his feet and to his master with a low, savage howl, which he re- peated at intervals. This 'metamorplosis in the person and prestige of Nick was so 'udden that Pathaway was greatly surprised, as he had deemed the quaint trapper. incapable of such a manifestation.'- He no longer doubted if, ever he had been dubious on that point -that;humor and strength of character might be united. "'Mountaineer ! .mountaineer !" exclsimed Sebastian entl'e'tin gly and warningly, in a tone that hkid'ingre firmnes and energy in it than, he hagd yet displayed before Pathaway. "d not go! do iot goIsay?" ."My pistils'! my pistils !" said the trap- per,; hoarsely. "Nieholas ! hear me, Nicholas ! If you have regard for me, Nicholas ?" added the youth, his oicegrowing clearer and stronger. " Yr"hin'derme-you hinder me !"an- a wypred -tli Itrapper," _impatiently; "Every n onteu .ou are delayin' the vengeance of leaven: ".et go of me, lad !" V ick: shook off Sebastian's small hand' omewhat roughly. "It-is not for myself that I am speaking ! it is for y, for oi that"I am pleading," re- turned Sebastian. "For 'One'?"'lie responded, stretching out his disengaged -afm. "Fory me ? Is the life of Nick Whiffles, then;,worth so much that it's, too precious to be risked in the- cause of justice! Is' it of sichvally that' it shouldn't be Hazarded when, the best-of my natur calls to me to go forth to wipe out an old account, and puiish then is the Master o' LLife has set aside as vessels o' wrath fitted up for destrue- tion ?" Nick looked commanding and notably ma- jestic in his honest and flaming indignation. He reached for his pistols and thrust them into hi belt as if he vere driving daggers into the ,object of his resentment. IDon't 'follow him-don't follow !" per- sistod Sebastian, with increasing resolution and earaestness.e so : 4Foller ? I'll foller him to 'the ends o' the aidti if I can place my foot on his trail !" Nick turned'to go. Sebasianisp'ang between him and the door. " Yon sea/ not !" cried the youth, authori- tatively,'while his eyes beamed with singular brigljtness., His clear accents thrilled Path- away. 'ie:1k 'azed at the boy a moment, then st.ooping with the quickness of thought, lifted hind bodily, set hiin gently aside, and sprang from the camp, Calamity darting after him, sharing evidently in his excitement. Pathaway heard Nick say, "Come, Calam- 21 r t yY lviq 1 Y F1' sus . 5 48 : 1 r" At[ iYT S £ .i i" page: 50-51[View Page 50-51] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. .1 ity 1" and before he had recovered from his cause you have reason that my anger burns so bewilderment, the trapper's steps had ceased savage ag'in him. to be heard. " But to pursue him to-night," remonstrated -- Sebastian, "would be to expose yourself to CHAPTER XIV. needless danger. You may be certain that N IC K 'S R E N R S E. some of his comrades are not far distant. Sebastian, confounded for the instant, but Why should you, then, in seeking that retri- quickly recovering, ran after Nicholas ; but ' bution which Heaven will certainly vouchsafe, perceiving the folly of pursuit, stopped and peril your own existence ?- You must reach leaned against a tree, like one dizzy, sick, and him by slow and wary movements ; by tireless faint. Pathaway looked about for his weapon; watching; by learning his habits and his while Jeanjean began to sing : haunts ; and I am sure there are those who "Her eyes were like soft starlight gleaming will assist you in an enterprise so laudable.' At midnight, on the sleeping water,; "Many, many !" said Pathaway, drawing Her face was ever on me beaming ; near. "Providing you refer to those lawless I could but love the trapper's daughter... -. Oh, the trapper's daughter !" men who ,nfest this region of country. OI, for Pathaway remained irresolute and undecided, one, have 'devoted myself to the work, and so much was he affected by the wild plaintive- will permit no circumstance to divert me from ness of Jeanjean's song, following as it did the it. The person who has just left us I know scene that had just transpired. not, but I perceived that his presence "-here "Ninon, ma jolie !" cried the Frenchman, he looked at Sabastian-" affected some of us covering his eyes. unpleasantly. I agree with this singularly Jeanjean's-glassy orbs flickered up like the sensitive youth, that to follow him to-night flame of.an expiring fire. " Ninon, ma jolie !" ' would result in no good. Prudence is as ne- he muttered, dreamily, and the fire in his eyes cessary as courage." went out again. - "It is hard," returned Nick, slowly, "to Pathaway stepped to the door, and saw! master a feelin' that has been pent up in us a Nick returning softly, who, seeing Sebastian- long time ; but. I a'n't so wise that I can't leaning against the tree, hastened to him like l'arn moderation, and take counsel from them one stricken with sudden remorse. }Ie touched that is my friends. I'll go to the top of yen- the boy upon the awn, and said, tenderly : der hill, howsomnever, and I may see which "Forgive rough Nick, my child ! Forgive way the critter goes ; for my old companion, rough Nick ! He didn't mean to wound you; the moon, is shinin' right beautiful." lie wouldn't ; he couldn't wound you; it isn't With these words Nick and the dog--which in his heart to do it. 0 L rd, no!" had shown much impatience at this delay-set The trapper waited for a response, but re- off toward the hill referred to by the former, eciving none, and hearing his breathing grow leaving Pathaway and Sebastian together. shorter and shorter, added in alarm: Pathaway took the lad's hand. "You are angry; angry with a man that "You manifest," he observed, "an extra- would die for ye ; and you a'n't angry, neith- ordinary interest in yonder trapper. Were er ; you're faintin'. Don't faint ! don't !" you his son, I might account for it, but as it Sebastian smiled faintly, murmuring: is, it is quite inexplicible. You are as dissimi- "I thought you had gone, Nick." ilar in character as in person. Whence, then, "I am, child, I am; and not gone,neither, but springs this strange sympathy and friend- goin'. .The fact is, I wassunimat rough withve, ship?' and was afeard you might think on't onpleasaat- " I have experienced his kindness in such , lv, so to speak. But you know 'twas for your marked manner, that to have less affection for sake that my natur was so stirred. I was think- him would be black ingratitude. Besides," in' "-then, in alower tone--" the man Patha- said Sebastian, "he once saved my life." way is lookin';. he's allers lookin'." Then "Boy, your hand trembles in mine. Banish louder, that Pathaway might hear : "Cheer this effeminate weakness. Remember that up, little 'un ! I didn't mean to hurt ye, I'm courage is a necessary ingredient in human sure. Which foot was it I stepped on? Corns character ; cowardice renders one pitiable." are p'ison things to have, 'cause they're allers The youth suddenly withdrew his hand, liable to be trod on. Have had one on my which was glowing as with fever. thumb toe goin' on now twenty year, that's "Contemptible, you might have said," lie powerful full of animosity at times. There! go answered, with affected carelessness. - "But I in, and don't trouble yourself about Nick am not such a craven as you may think me. Whiffies."- My body may be delicate and girlish. but my Nick stopped and whispered : spirit is brave as that of boys of my age gen- " Are you angry? Can't you forgive my rallyy" onpoliteness ?" " What is your age ?" asked Pathaway, now " I so feared for your safety ! r'have such quite absorbed in contemplating and question- a horror of that man !" answered Sebastian. ing the youth. " And you have reason," answered Nick- " Thirteen, perhaps ; possibly fourteen," aa- relapsing into his former fierceness. It is be, swered Sebastian, with hesitation. page: 52-53[View Page 52-53] PATHAWAY ; OR, TIE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOtINTAIN OUTLAWS. "Older, older! And yet "-he spoke re- flectively--" you are young enough." "Yes, young and petted, and fit only for the society of boys," answered Sebastian, playfully. " Boy !" exclaimed Pathaway, " your face is to me a perpetual mystery, and your char- acter is equally bewildering. Nature made'a mistake .when she did not make you a iwo- man." "6I have heard that Nature never makes mistakes," replied the lad, laughing. "Though you laugh, you are still excited. You are panting and trembling, as if fear was with you an unconquerable propensity. Come, come, boy, be something besides a chicken ; for I cannot love a coward, though there are moments when I feel strangely attracted to on." "I only ask that you won't ridicule me," Sebastian replied, curtly. " I should seek a different object for ridi- cule," returned Pathaway, somewhat piqued. "Ai ! look yonder. There is Nick and that omnipresent bear. Observe that bruin stands erect upon his hind feet, and disputes, seem- ingly, the progress of Nick." Sebastian looked, and beheld the object to which his attention had been directed. The bear was indeed standing strikingly straight, while the dog was walking suspiciously around it. The man and the beast confronted each other a short time, then the former turned to retrace his steps, while the latter walked lei- surely away. As the trapper approached, Pathaway strolled meditatively in another direction, Sebastian watching him earnestly as he went. The gray hunter was in one of those half- melancholy, half-complaining moods that of- ten visit persons of a certain temperament. He wished to be alone, for there are seasons in life when solitude is a luxury preferable to the allurements of human society. He felt his nature deeply stirred within him without know- ing why. The youth gave him both pain and pleasure-excited both admiration and con- tempt; yet that contempt was so modified with compassion, so transient in duration, and so seldom experienced, thatt the word express- ed infinitely tdo much. Sebastian was evi- dently a link connecting him with the past, in some way known to himself only. Possibly he possessed a face bearing similitude to one that had entered the charmed circle of his life at some period of his past history. The lad's skin bore the signature of two races ; one, a persecuted and little-eared-for race. How. then, could such a youth revive memories of former days? Perhaps it was the extraordi- nary beauty of his face that pointed as an in- dex to the past. The true key to his feelings, however, at present we are only left to conjec- ture. 'Proceeding to a spot where he was concealed, apparently, from ~human observation, he sat down upon a luxuriant carpet of grass, and indulged in that train of reflection that circum- stances had called up, the moon shedding her mild light around him, and a host of silvery stars looking down upon him through fiels of immeasurable space. CHAPTER XV. BILL BRACE. A figure working its way through the tan- gled grass ; a form crouching behind bushes ; a grim shape hiding behind rocks ; a dark shadowcreeping close to the earth; a head, now raised, now depressed ; eyes shining with the cunning of the mousing cat and the eager- ness of the hungry wolf; a strong and vindic- tive arm, and a hand clutching a knife. Bill Brace, after his combat with the gray hunter, had been conveyed by his compamons to a deserted Indian lodge in the neighbor- hood, to recover from his injuries ; and to meditate too, as it proved, on the means of re- taliation. It was not the nature of this hy- brid to forgive the man who had the nerve and muscle to conquer him. He considered it an insult that could be balanced by the life of his vanquisher alone-nothing else would be an equivalent. Bruised in body and spirit, lie tossed on his blanket in the lonely lotke, thinking more of vengeance than recovery- wishing for the latterly because it was ne- ceesary to the former. Supplied with food and other necessaries by his comrades, lie passed several days in comparative solitude; Ben Joice and Zenas Beck being absent most of the time-usually not returning till night,,, and not uniformly at that time. Gifted, with a body of iron hardihood, and an unimpaired constitution, a few days sufficed to put him upon his- feet again. Although not fully re- stored, and still suffering from his recent -fagel- lation, he commenced searching for Pathaway ; and discovered the new camp of Nick Whif- fles on the afternoon of the day upon which the visit was made to Trapper Valley, and Portneuf rescued. concealed in the bushes he witnessed the return of the parties ; and from that moment, his wrath burning with fresh fervor, he watched the little camp with tireless intensity, waiting an opportunity to ex- cente his sinister design. The coming and de- parture of Hendricks, with the attending cir- cumstances, produced a diversion in his favor. He saw, with a malignant joy known only to such as he, Pathaway leave Sebastian and Nick, and. seek the solitary spot of which muei- tion has been made. It was Bill Brace that -rouched in the grass -that hid behind rocks and bushes ; it was his burly form that crept, shadow-like, close to the ground ; his head that was now raised, now depressed; and his vengeful arm that held the glittering steel. How patient is vengeance in the pursuit of its object ; and how shrinking, timid, and impatient is some- times-virtue when engaged in the best of causes. I r n t 3 t tt _1 t 3 40 tr. f 7 t r How happens it, I wonder, that the bad pas- sions often burn more deeply, and possess more iron. energy of determination, than the good? The heart of Bill Brace beat fast with ex- pectation. There was a wild, malevolent ex- citement in his breast, as he wormed, serpent- like, along the earth, and drew nearer to the victim of his resentment. He felt that sav- age delight that the Indian experiences when he tears the scalp from his fallen enemy. It was fortunate for Pathaway that the - man had no weapon but his knife ; for the distance was now so short between them,.that even a pistol would have proved a fatal instrument in the practiced hand of Brace. lie crawled on-on hand, on knee, now bent like a worm, now prone on his face-seeing, knowing, realizing, and absorbed in but one thing, and that-murder ! Every sense was strained up-to that ; ev'ey -nerve and muscle was enlisted in that. 1\earer-nearer-but a few yards from Pathaway's back:! No noise had betrayed his coming : no rustle of leaves ; no tell-tale crackling of twigs; no careless striking of feet against loose stones. Bill Brace arose and walked upon his knees, with his weapon raised for the fatal blow! The gray hunter was still unconscious of danger: he sat leaning forward, his eyes fixed gloomily upon the ground ; his thoughts and fancies might have been far away. Brace was witln striking distance ; he threw up his arm vet higher-it was about to fall! The weapon was not fated to descend-at least in themanner intended.' Sebastian De- launay sprang between the two, and received' the point of the weapon in his arm. The baf- fled assassin turned and fled. Pathaway sprang to his feet-saw him bound- ing away, and the youth standing in the atti- tude in which he had received the wound : his right hand stretched out toward the spot where Brace had stood-the other held like a shield over Pathaway. Red drops trickled from the right arm and pattered upon the ground. Be- fore the gray hunter had time to take in the scene, Nick Whiffles rushed to the place, pale and alarmed. "I s'pected a p'ison diflikilty to-night, and it's come !" he exclaimed. " Hurt bad, ain't ye, little 'un ? Arm hacked most off, I s'pose. What did you 'magine you could do with an arm no bigger nor a pipe-stem ?" " It would seem that he has done much with it," answered Pathaway, who now understood what had happened. " He has received the blow intended for me, without doubt. Brave youth ! I hope you will forgive the injustice, I have done vou." The outstretched arms sank slowly to Se- bastian's side ; he tottered, and was received, fainting, by Nick, who hurried with him to camp. "Take off his coat," said Pathaway. " Not for the world ! returned Nick, hastily. " He'd take a cold that he'd never git over long's he lives ! I know his natur', which you don't-beggin' your pardon." In quite a flutter, Nic k cut open the sleeve of the boy's coat, and hurriedly commencedband- aging the wound. The gray hunter observed that ,the arm was small and delicate, and where not stained with blood, it was singularly white for a half-breed. A doubt, a vague, startling doubt-went floating through his brain like a cloud. Sebastian opened his eyes with a shudder and complained of being cold. Nick finished tMA dressing of the wound as if it was something that could not be completed with too much dispatch-then fastened the severed sleeve at the wrist. Pathaway hung over him anxiously, ready to render him every aid in his power ; but the trapper claimed the right of surgeon and nurse ; so that he could do lit tle else than express his thanks and sympathy. "1I'm.afraid,", said Pathaway, " that the bandage is too loose to check the bleeding- You put it on rather hastily." "Not at all-not at all !" answered Nick. "You never see a boy stop bleeding' as quick as he does. He can stan' cuts and bruises be- yond all account ; and not bruises, either, but euts. It's on'y eperdemies and other outrage- ous diseases that takes him down. Give him a fever, and 'twduld go pesky-hard with him, he's so small of his age ; for a fever requires so% muck room to stir about in, that a good 'eal o' trouble might be anticipated. But this little diffikilty isn't nothin'." The youth was lying with his eyes closed, but Pathaway perceived that he smiled faintly at the remarks of Nick. " There's sich a healin' power in boys," added Nick, watching every change in Sebas. tian's countenance. " I r'ally believe if you'd a cut my fingers and toes off at night, when I's ten years old, that they'd sprouted out ag'in by mornin'. All our family was jes' so. How do ye feel now, sonny ?" "Very well," said Sebastian. "The little diffikilty don't pain ye any, does it?" "No, Uncle Nicholas," answered Sabastian, cheerfully. " What did I tell ye ?" asked Nick, turning triumphantly tp Pathaway. " You are wonderful people, both," uttered the latter, with warmth. ." But I should feel grieved indeed," he added, " should this brave and disinterested boy suffer serious injury on my account. I am heartily grateful, believe me." * " Sebastian's color heightened, and he was about to speak, when Nick stopped lim. " Don't trouble yourself $o answer, for I know how to do it better nor you. Boys never know what to say in sudden emergencies . The truth is, friend. Pathaway, he's done nothin' more'n common, and he'll forget it afore hiO arm gits well. You don't knowswhat a tollerhe is; 58 page: 54-55[View Page 54-55] .PATHAWAY; OR, TIIE MOJNTAIN OUTLAWS. bes callers swin' somebody's life ; and not Pathaway was for a time perplexed respecting a r., neitber, but whenever he has a chance. the regulation of his conduct. His first care 'Tisn't rortIh mentioning . Wonder what o'clock was to see if he of the sash was unattended,' 'tis ,+" or if there was any convenient lurking-place Nicholas looked around, as if to know " what for his wild fellows. Having satisfied himself o'clock 'tis," was the absorbing topic of his that his men, if in the neighborhood, were thoughts. not very near, he resolved not to shun the " Used to run a watch, once, but 'twasn't one meeting that now seemed inevitable ; for the o the little stunted consarns that folks carry object of his attention had. discovered him and now-a-days. 'Twould go like a trottin' horse not changed his course. There was a verdant when it got started. It' got out o' order arter, level at the bottom of a hill, and both reached a while. Tried to fix it, but arter tinkering' on it at the same moment ; they paused within it a couple o' days, I sold the in'ards to a Sioux pistol-shot of each other, wary and guarded, chief, and closed out the rest o' the consarn to but neither inclined to take the initiative in a a uaw, who wore part on't for a brooch, and any act of hostility. use the rest for a stew-pan. It's getting' late ; He of the red sash was dressed as we have I'm sleepy, by mighty !" previously described, armed with a double- Nicholas yawned, gave Sebastian sorme wa- barreled gun and a suspicious profusion of ter, and, afer covering him with his blanket, side-arms. stretched himself composedly at his feet. " Peace or war ?" demanded Pathaway. Portneuuf and Jeanjean were already slum- " Jest as it pleases ye, mister ; a'n't par- bering, the terrible ordeal to which the former ticular. Don't be skeerd," returned the other, had been exposed, rendering sleep an over- gruffly. vering necessity. The camp-fire flickered "Rest easy on that point ; I'm not often otr, an the night went on ; but restless, and frightened," answered Pathaway, with compo- unsolicitous of repose, Pathaway reclined, mus- sure. ing, at the door. The parties - so opposite in character- walked toward each other as if by a common CHAPTER XVI. impulse. Pathaway had a vague idea that he CAPTAIN DICK. tecognized the voice, and scrutinized the man's On the following morning Pathaway left the face sharply ; his features came, one y one to camp. ostensibly to hunt for game, but really his recollection, presenting to him -e face of 'because his nature would not allow him to re- the shabby trapper, Hendricks, the visitor at mainidle ; he had a strong curiosity, too, to Nick's camp on the previous night.- make himself acquainted with the prominent "You have repaired your ill luck very soon, landmarks and peculiarities of the country. I think, friend Hendricks !" he remarked, Possibly he had no special object in view, but' dryly. followed those unquestioned impulses. that so " Oh, you haven't forgot me! ~ Sharp eyes, frequently impel men to action, and reach not eh? What do you think of me, critter ?" re- only to the denizens of cities, but to the far turned Hendricks, staring inquisitively at the fastnesses of the mountains. hunter. Although of a reflective turn of mind, it The latter stepped back, and commenced a was seldom that Pathaway was so abstracted fresh survey of the questioner in a manner and disposed to reverie as on that occasion. that could not but have been annoying to the 14 walked scarcely seeing the ground- he subject of it. traversed ; hill and valley, water and tim- "I fear my opinion, if avowed, would not bet', seemed to pass him as objects float by us be flattering. You have plenty of muscle and in dreams. Once a mountain sheep offered more assurance. You may have brute cour- him a fair mark, but he did not look through age, but you are not handsome. In short, the- sights; an antelope bounded across his friend Hendricks, you do not impress me fa- path within easy range, but the deadly rifle vorably." did not leap to his shoulder. Perchance the - " Um !" growled Hendricks. "What's your gray hunter was thinking of Sebastian and the business hereabouts ?"y wounded arm; but why the brown-faced youth , " To hunt, to trap, in fact, to do as I please," should form a prominent picture on the can- answered Pathaway, meeting the axes of Hen- vas of his min , is a question that gives rise drinks' eyes steadily. to fresh queries. "Quite an independent character, it 'pears,,' Whatever was the tenor of his thoughts, he replied Hendricks, grimly. was recalled to the realities around him by the "Entirely so. Able to take care of myself,, appearance of .a man slowly descending the I fear neither ruffians, robbers, nor outlaw slope of a hill and coming directly toward trappers." him. He reminded him at once of the person Pathaway's manner was quiet, but there he had seen in the canon, wearing the red sash was meaning in the tones of his voice. and exercising so much authority over those " Don't carry too high hand nor too high wild characters that acknowledged him their head, youngster, for you're with a critter now leader. here was an unexpected event,. and that knows how to tame such fiery and mettle. PATHAWAY; OR, THE D Bome colts. You're not old enough yet, to put on airs and play the veteran mountaineer. Boy, out o' pity for ye, I tell ye that you'd better go home. 'Tisn't every one I'd do .so much for ; but you're such a spirited grower, and ruffle your feathers so quick, that you rather 'muse me than t'otherwise. Jest take Nick Whiffles and leave the country, and you will git no harm from me." The outlaw leaned on his gun, and chewed away at his quid violently. "But if I choose to stay ?" queried Patha- way, slowly, advancing a little closer to Ilien- drick, andbringing his eyes to bear upon him at point-blank range. Choose !" exclaimed hendiicks, his eyes flaring up like half-extinguished coals, "there's no choice about it. When I say 'Go!' folks go ; they disappear and are seen here no more ; when I say 'Stay !' they stay. The word of Captain Dick is law !" The ,ran drew himself up with something of pride and dignity. Conscious authority invested him for the moment with a certain wild impressiveness. He had controlled his fellows so long and so entirely, that resistance to his will was a species of audacity that he could not endure. The gray hunter met his flaming looks with- out shrinking. As Captain Dick grew more impierious, lie, if possible, grew more calm and stronger in his self-possession. "Captain Dick," lie replied, with a slight' smile, "you, will find no subject in me. I neither regard your authority nor fear your menaces. I have heard of you ; report speaks badly of your character. Wicked deeds have been committed in the neighborhood of Trap- per Valley."- "Have you got any brains ?" asked Hen- dricks, turning sharply upon Pathaway, and attempting to quell him with the glances of his inflamed eyes. " Do you know the natur o' the critter you're dealing' with ? Perhaps you've got tired livin', and want to be put out the way ; and ag'in, you may be disordered in the head." He leered at the hunter like one whose emo- tions are, divided between amazement and wrath ; the latter, arising from the young man's bold words, the other called into play { by his singular self-control. "As to the matter of brains," answered Pathaway, "I believe I have nothing to ap- prehend in regard to quantity ; of the quality you shall yourself judge." -~ Yes, I'll examine 'em by-and-by !" rejoined Hendricks, touching a large pistol with the tip of his finger, and contracting his forehead, till his shaggy brows met. " I may safely say," he went on, with frightful humor, " that I'll look into 'em." "I shall return all your favors. Be careful of your fingers, Captain; they have nechani. calfy wandered to a weapon that is often dan- gerous.'' MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 65 - When a man meets a prowling beast in the forest," replied the outlaw, with a kind of savage self-restraint indicative of the smother. ed lire burning within, "he is wise enough notto wantonly provoke his anger ; but-you, mister, are anxious to thrust your neck under his paws. You dropped somethin' about robbers and outlaws.. What did you mean ?" Hendricks advanced his face nearer to that of the young man, and flamed on him more fiercely with his glittering eyes. Pathawi y leaned forward as if willing to en- gage in the contest of glances. "You ask my meaning, nor will I long keep you in suspense. I ai glad of this opportu. nity of meeting you face to face.' 1 have wished such a chance for many days. By the phrase I made use of, I referred to such as you." " What am I ?" asked Hendricks, hoarsely. "An outlaw-an assassin, and the leader of assassins-a mountain-robber-a despoiler of trappers and hunters, and false alike to white and red men. It is a pleasure," lie continued, in the same unruffled manner, " to meet you to-day, and thrust these unwelcome truths in- to your face-to tell you what a scoundrel you are, and how richly you deserve death at the hands of the hangman." The mountaineer's tawny face bleached bo. fore the steady gaze of Pathaway. He was astounded ! Such language from one that he considered little else than a boy, struck him as something so much out of the common course of events that he had no reserve force of philosophy to meet it. He remained in a sort of stagnation of consternation. But his color flashed back presently, and with it the full tide of his anger. " Do you know what you' have done ?" he demanded, almost in a whisper. "Do you understand that you have committed suicide" " I know well'what I do ; I have measured myself and you ; and I," he added, suddenly straightening his person, and speaking in a voice that was nearly as penetrating as steel, "am the better man !" If one of the mountains before him had suddenly moved down to the prairies ; if the lake at his left had dried up, while he was looking at it; if the stream away at his right had turned and run.backward, he could not have evinced such blank incredulity. He tried to get vent in a mocking laugh that was like the report of a pistol. " I must take breath ; this chokes me up like a sudden cold. Wait; don't be in hurry. I'll kill you presently at my leisure. I heed fannin', critter !" "More than that ; you need punishment." " Bring the man i bring the man !" cried Hendricks. " He is here." " Where ?"--contemptuously. " Look at me, and you will see hubI " to- torted Pathaway, with. a piercing glands. page: 56-57[View Page 56-57] PATIAWAY; OR, THE MOUTAN OUTLAWS.; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. " You---you!" muttered Hendricks, mock- izgly. "Try me I" was the quiet response. You' The two men stared silently at each other. The contest had already begun-in the mind; it had not reached the muscles. Thus far in the fight the gray hunter had sustained himself, and he was every moment growing firmer. His prestige was having its effect on Hendricks. When -where - how ?" asked the latter, eagerly. When-where-how you please," answered Pathaway, his nostrils dilating, his lips curling. "The weepons-the weepons?" interrogated the outlaw, quickly, with latent remains of doubt upon his face. '"You may choose from the whole variety the world affords-swivels, blunderbusses, mus- kets, rifles, carbines, pistols, swords, bowie- knives, or, if you will, the hard muscle." The gray hunter spoke slowly, distinctly, and as composedly as if discussing the ordinary natters of life. " Umn!" -- A drop or two of the ludicrous diluted the ruffian's wrath. Was ever such a piece of temer- ity heard of! Ought he to be amused, orshould lie allow his resentment to rise till it ran over ? It was the strangest thing ! It was terribly presumptuous, too. But he would take his tine; he would show this silly, audacious boy what it was to provoke the sovereign of the mountains. He would t hurry; lie would hold his indignation down a space, and give the insulter opportunity to realize what he had done. " I don't know," lie said, doubling his brawny fist and thrusting it within an inch of Pathaway's nose, " what on airth keeps me from sp'ilin' the shape of your head with this 'ere wful striker ; but I s'pose it's the same thing-that keeps the cat from eatin' the mouse till it's played with it and tossed it about with its paws." OYou haven't named the weapons, brag- " = t." hendricks made aprovoking grimace ; and, 'esudenly thrusting is arm farther forward, -aught the 'young man's nose between his tthidnb and finger. Pathaway's fist darted out in i straight line from his shoulder, and, Hen- drioks fell upon his back with a violence that made'his joints crack. He lay stmned an in- ~tant, then arose, bewildered, holding his hands to his head, standing unsteadily. It appeared to the outlaw that he had never seen so'nany electric sparks in his life as now danced about before him. He was like the ox once felled by the axe in the shambles, which, sponging blindly to -his feet, in a flurry of n ways wildly to and fro with-depressed 1etapd~startig'eyes.. 'Hendricks sat down upon the ground, and waited quietly for the mist to clear away. his face was ,very pale when he took his hands away and looked up at Pathaway. The" stormy part of his wrath had given place to a deeper, more deadly feeling. His moderation was perfectly understood by the hunter, who, well acquainted with the pray o human pas- sions, knew what that calmness boded. " This, of course," he said, huskily, " must be answered for. 'There follers a squarin' up atween us. I might refuse to fight ye, and yet have ye in my power ; but my vengeance wouldn't be complete: I must punish you myself with my own hand. I've been summmiat mistaken in ye, I'll grant, which makes it worse for you. You took me onawares, and struck rigft- hard ; but the bowie-kuife will strike deeper, and to that weapon I hold ye." " Let it be so ; I accept. - I will vanquish you with that as I have with this." Patha- way held up his clenched hand. Hendricks drew forth a large bowie, and af- ter feeling its edge, placed it on the ground beside him. The action, in the usual tenor of life's events, would have been simple and passed unnoticed ; but in this instance there was that in it to make one shrink : so much do the motives of man color his acts., Every- thing has a meaning ; and it is the meaning of everything that we look after. " don't hurry, Captain," continued. Patha- way. " There's time enough. If one of us dies between now and to-morrow morning, will not that be sufficiently soon ? Candidly, do you think either of us shall want less time than that for preparation ? As for you, there are some bad jobs on your hands that'll have to be accounted for. Blood, you know, is never silent ; it will always cry out for ven- geance; and try as you will, you cannot bury and smother it. Perhaps the Infinite Judge will ask you: 'Where is Portneuf, the voya- geur? Where is Andrew Jeanjean, the trap- per ?' What answer will you make, Captain Dick ?" "I see that you know too much-too much !" returned Hendricks, rising. "A voice like, yours must be stopped ; the worms must have cold tongue to feed on." Captain Dick threw his pistols upon the ground, unbuckled his belt, and east it from him.' " Stop a moment ! We cannot meet now on equal terms. I know the effect of such a blow as I have given you. Your limbs are weak; your arms have lost half their strength ; your eyes are unsteady. Should we engage as you are, I should kill you at the first pass. Meet me to-morrow night, just as the sun is setting, and your sun and it'may set at the same time-the first, in glory and brightness ; the last, in perdition and darkness." The clear, deep tones of Pathaway had a touch of solemnity ; they were like 'the voice ; , 9 _,£ i a v' ,, J +sj F _ 'FiF .{R 1 i of an accuser confident in the triumph of truth and justice., " It's but an artifice !" muttered the Cap- F a Y PATIIAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. _ 57 tain. ~ "To-morrow night, as the sun is setting, I will meet you on this level with a single wea- pon, and that shall'be this." The hunter touched the bowie-knife at his belt. The outlaw stood scowling a few moments, then said : "Let it be to-night-to-night !" "To-night be it. Do not doubt me ; with- out fail I will be here. God help him that falls! and that will be you!" "I doubt whether to trust you," said Hen- dricks, fingering his shaggy beard, while his lawless spirit cheafed within him like a caged beast to which captivity is irksome. "Will you come alone ?" he asked, suspi- ciously. 'Alone," replied Pathaway. " And you ?" " Shall need no witness," added Hendricks, fiercely, as if completing the hunter's last sen- tence. " You are not over-scrupulous, Captain Dick, and taking your word is more danger- ous than meeting you. Keep away your 'fel- lows; I shall be watching-I shall be well assured on that point. Some men can be trusted ; you are not of that kind. Do I strike well, Captain ?" The grey hunter smiled derisively, while' Hendricks' brow was knit into a score of wrinkles. "'Twas a foul blow, and shall prove the dear- est you ever struck ! Enjoy your triumph, critter, and don't think to sneak away 'thout .hearin' ag'in from Cap'n Dick. If you hope to give me the slip, you'll be disapp'inted ; for every pass and defile will see you, if you start. Well, won'tt matter much, ' he ad ed, with a sardonic laugh, " for a rifle ball will do our business jest as well, and save me trou- le. At sunset, youngster,'at sunset'!" My memory is good," returned Patha- way. " Adieu, valorous Captain, till then." The trapper-outlaw walked a short distance, then looking over his shoulder, muttered : "There'll be one cock the less to crow in the mornin' !" A laugh expressive of his malignancy and humiliation accompanied this remark-a start- ling, unnatural sound rattling up from the chest, like the threatening growl of an animal. Pathawa made no answer, but turned his face toward Nick Whiffle's camp. CHAPTER XVIL THE DUEL. The departing sunlight lay in horizontal beams upon the earth, quivering like long tongues of fire upon the grass. The descend-' ing orb never looked more like a deity worthy the worship of man. It sank with golden majesty below the western verge. Pathaway stood on the grassy level where he had met Hendricks. Twilight fell like a far-stretching, vapory cloud, wrapping every object in a shadowy mantle. That inipressivo silence that sometimes follows the dyinIg day, rested upon the spot. The leaves hung mo- tionless upon the trees, and the long spires of grass stood still and stirless. The quietude spoke to the heart of the young man 9s with a voice. His finer sympathies held commun- ion with Nature, and recognized her noiseless footsteps around him. He stood with folded arms looking toward the slope where he was in momentary expect- ancy of seeing Hendricks ; and that person- age presently appeared. He soon reached the level. " I have waited you," said Pathaway, as the trapper-outlaw drew near. "I feared you had thought it best to forget this appointment." " I .have come to fight, not to talk !" re- torted Hendricks, gruffly. " You shall be satisfied, Captain Dick." The parties laid aside their belts and pis- tols. Hendricks threw off his hunting shirt, displaying an arm bare and brawny. "The terms of this duel-" began the gray hunter. " Are to the victor life, to the vanquished death !" interposed Hendricks. " I expected as much, and came fully pre- pared for such terms." The hunter took off his gray frock, but without bluster or any at- tempt at effect;. his chest was full and round- ed, his arms shapely, yet without uncommon development of muscle. His antagonist ob- served him with dogged curiosity and impa- tient and insolent eagerness,,as if already as- sured of victory, and unwilling to delay it. Pathaway was pale, and a change had grad- ually taken place in his expression; his eyes were blazing with a light that Hendricks had not before seen in them. He grasped his weapon, and the two regarded each other war- ily ; then Hendricks sprang forward, and their blades met. A sharp and angry clamor rang through the air, disturbing the soft repose of the spot. It soon became apparent that Cap- tain Dick was resolved to make the contest, a short one, and end it by a bold and vigorous onset. He wielded the terrible instrument he had chosen with, great skill and rapidity; it waved on every side like lightning, and on every side met opposing steel. His fierce lunges at the hunter's breast were turned away as with a shield of iron. Pathaway acted on the defensive only, now retreating, now leaping nimbly to the right or left, now warding a blow from his face, now from his neck, chest, side, and limbs, perform- ing all these feats with an ease and adroitness that proved him equal to the emergency. Captain Dick perceived that he.was spend- 'ing his strength in vain, and suspended his furious assaults to take breath. Pathaway si. page: 58-59[View Page 58-59] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 59 gently awaited the, renewal of the combat ; but it was not difficult to see that he was be- couing interested in the terrible game. The outlaw's first confidence was gone ; and to lose shad in such a trial, is to lose much. Victory is half won, when one does not doubt himself. Doubt is the enemy of success. H*idricks advanced to continue the contest with much more cautiousness and much less assurance. Pathaway now began to press him, and to exhibit a skill and quickness that cowed the impetuosity of his antagonist, and 'made his ruffian heart beat fast with apprehension. " I have you, captain I" said Pathaway, with startling emphasis. " You are mine-I am your master !" Hendricks' weapon flew from his hand into the air, falling on the grass at some distance ; he stood before the hunter,unarmed, and pant. panting like an overworked ox. Pathaway stood with his knife pointed at his breast, emern, firm, and threatenin as a minister of vengeance. The color faded from Hendricks' face, and he seemed to feel already the 'touch of death. As they confronted each other, the one with a proud glow of triumph, the other with wild consternation, the voice of a woman arrested the hand of Pathaway, and almost in- stantly a female form was interposed between him a'ud Hendricks. " Hold !" she cried. " Would you kill an. unarmed man-? It is me that you strike when you strike him." Pathaway looked at the face that was turn- ed rebukingly upon him, and recognized the young woman that Portneuf had called Car- 6ta. 'ie drew back, and answered, gracefully: " For your sake I spare him, though his life, by the terms of our meeting, is forfeit to me." " And what good would his life do you ?" asked Carl6th. " Ask Portneuf, or Andrew Jeanjean that lquestiod," answered the hunter, sternly. " Your meaning is dark," said Carl6ta, changing color. " So was the trapper's grave in the lonely cai on !" retorted Pathaway, with a searching look. Carldta put her hand to her brow dubiously, gazing fixedly at the hunter, whose counte- nance appeared to fascinate her. " Hush ! hush ! no more. You are trifling withthat-with that which you ought to val- ne," responded Carldta, quickly, and with earnestness. A warning glance accompanied this remark. - "Believe me, young woman, I shall put no restraint upon my tongue while truth compels me to speak, and my arm is able to make good my words. I said tiat this ruffian's life was forfeit to me ; it is, and, not to me alone, but to the law ; for law reaches'to every country, however remote from the great centres of civ- ilization. The presence of human beings makes law even in the wilderness." " Foolhardy young man!" answered Carl6ta, " I would have given your-own: life for his, and you must attribute what may happen to your imprudence." Cari6ta waved'her hard, and immediately a score of men arose front the grass and bushes. Pathaway was instantly surrounded by a set of fellowswho would have graced the deck of a pirate-ship. The outlaw-trapper laughed triumphantly, for the vision of sudden death had passed. Men grow brave after danger, and lawless passion is insolent. We oscillate like pendulums from one idea to another. The cheek that is now pale with terror will soon be flushed with pride. Sudden deliverance often produces a revulsion that reaches to the very extreme of opposite emotion. Hendricks was now disposed to, abuse his power, forgetful of the clemency of.his con- queror. Pathaway, however much disturbed inwardly, maintained his composure, quietly pat on his coat, and while doing so, dexterously managed to conceal his knife about his person. " Well, miss or madam," he said, with some bitterness, " I seem to be your prisoner. ~ At your request, I spared the life of this burly ruffian. What reward shall I receive for my gallantry ?" Pathaway, as he stood erect in his manly beauty, was an object of no ordinary interest to the girl Carldta ; and lie, in turn, did not look upon her without curiosity mingled with pity. What was her history? What wayward ate had given her such a life ? What imper- ative -circumstances had shaped her course, making her the friend, companion, accomplice, and leader of outlaws ?e, I thought, as every man does when lie sees a misdirected woman, what she might have been under different au- spices. " A little spot of earth somewhere near Trapper Trace !" she, replied, in a low voice, stud ying his features. "It's what we shall all want," muttered Pathaway. - " Critter, it's what some won't want long !" said Hendricks, with vindictiveness. "I don't know-I don't know, Captain Dick," responded the hunter, looking signifi- cantly around him. "I have seen those whose bodies will at last rest in air." " You count on our bein' hanged ; but sich a thing won't be in your day. If any on us ever come to the halter, it'll be arter you are past seem' the sight." oThen to his men: "Critters, form ! Set your faces toward Trap- per Trace, and keep a sharp look-out for this pork-eater. By-the-way, lads, that confounded Frenchman got-clear in some way ; found him last night, or his ghost, at Nick Whiffles' camp. 'Twon't do to make another sich bunglin' job as that. Go ahead, boys, go ahead ! Carl6ta, you come in the nick o' time. You see I was- taken dizzy of a sudden, and this critter took advantage on't."- -A smile flitted over Pathaways lips. Some of the men shrugged their shoulders and leered at each other. The parties were soon in motion. Ascend- ing the hill. surrounded by his captors, the gray hunter, to his surprise, saw horses enough to mount them all in the valley on the other side. The outlaw trappers had left them there, in order that their fhrther advance might be less conspicuous. In a short-time, thev'were all in the saddle. Pathaway found hiimself riding beside CarhSta. He had never been placed in a position so peculiar, and one so' well calculated to awaken serious reflection. The night had fully set in ; but it was not so dark but he could see very well the person of his companion. She was dressed as he had seen her on the previous day. Of her face and figure he was able to form a more accu- rate judgment. That she was physically gifted by nature, lie was not long in perceiving. Her swelling bust aid rounded arms were fine spe- cimens of developed womanhood ; while her figure generally, indicated litheness and activ- ity. Her light-brown hair was kept in place by a velvet band, but was allowed to flow in curls upon her neck and shoulders. Her fea- tures were regular, but strongly marked, and possessed of a wild and daring beauty. Her eyes were darker than her hair, exceedingly quick and penetrating. She sat her horse as if she had been accustomed to the saddle from- childhood. She controlled her beast with a firm, strong hand, and rode as fearlessly as any of her lawless followers. Pathaway noticed her particularly ; for he was desirous to know if he could base hopes of escape upon her wo- manly instincts. " This is a strange life for one of your sex," said the gray, hunter, watching her counte- nance, to see if it gave any indication of the qualities which would operate in his favor. "And yours, perhaps, appears strange to me. What other life can be so free ?" she answered, with a sharp pull at her bridle-rein. " Free indeed ! too free-too free !" returned Pathaway. " From your point of view, yes ; but people have to be just what their surroundings make them." She glanced at the hunter inquiringly,,who, leaning toward her, replied : " The surroundings must be bad that force one of your sex to become what you appear to be.", "What kind of a creature do you consider me ?" she asked, petulantly. , " A misdirected woman-the accomplice of crime and robbery." " You are plain-spoken, sir !" retorted Car- l6ta, tartly. "Do not mince matters ; it is too late to be dainty in regard to the character of the solitary and predatory horde of which you are a mem- ber. Look at these fellows around you; they are lawless and intractable as Indians ; faith- less as the wandering Arabs of the desert." " I care not to talk of this subject. There are other matters that might employ your thoughts more profitably." "I understand you. You would say that I should be thinking of dying, and what comes after death. Believe me. my life has not been so bad that I need to trouble with late remorse And after all," he added, "it is not wanly to whine and lament at the approach of man's last enemy. I speak sincerely, for I doubt not that my end is near ; and with you, woman, will lie the c'ime of my murder." "CLou talk coolly of a subject that generally pales the cheek of the stoutest," responuicd Carluta. "My own will be pale, questionless, when that hour arrives-; but I trust it will not he with coivard fear, but that wholesome awe which will fall upon one as he enters the por- tals of that other world of which this is the threshold." " We who dwell in the mountains know of but one world. There-there ! let us not speak together farther. I wish not to have other than accustomed thoughts. I would think of my horse, of the mountains and prairies, of a wild and irresponsible life of freedom." Carl6ta pointed toward her companions, and added: ." We are a community by ourselves -ai world by .ourselves ; we make our own laws, and acknowledge fealty to no outside legis- lation. I know that the world is very large, and there are many dwellers in it; but they are strangers to me, and I to them." " But that is no good reason why you should become beasts of prey." said Pathaway, with earnestness. " It is a law of Nature;" Carl6ta continued, emphatically, "'that one animal should live at the expense of another. The fish in the water, the beasts in the forest, the birds in the air, devour each other. The spider weaves its web to catch the unsuspecting fly ; the panther crouches in his covert to spring upon the deer ; the hawk swoops down ulpot the chicken ; and following the great law of Nature, manpreys upon man. Why should we scorn the teacli- ings of Nature ? How shall we resist the mo- mentum which she has given to all animate ,things. Even vegetable life flourishes best upon the decay of last year's growth." Carldta's face flushed, and a wild enthusiasm beamed from every feature. Pathaway gazed at her in mute ast nishment. " Is it possin.e I is it possible !" he mur- mured. " Can a mind so gifted be so perverted. Whence this knowled c-this flowing speech- this aptness of simile-this command of lan- guage? Woman," he went on, addressing her in a regretful tone, "you make me inexpres- sibly sad. I see what you are, but I think what you might have been I What you might have PATIIAWAY ; OR, TiE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. page: 60-61[View Page 60-61] 60 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. been, but are not. Alas! how wayward is hu- was he guarded, that no practicable chance man nature. In contemplating you I forget, presented ; and after entering the bridle- myself, and exclaim mentally : 'Her fate is path just mentioned, that experiment could worse than mine, though a violent death looks not be tried with any hope of success-for me in the face.'" . rocks and beetling cliffs towered on either Carl6ta mused, playing with her riding-whip hand. nervously : Carl6ta, through accident or design, was " It has never been my fortune to meet one now riding directly before him, and the party like you before. To what genus do you be- traveled at a slow pace. Pathaway wished to long?" She asked, presently, in a voice di- renew his conversation with the young wo- vided between curiosity and badinage. man, still anxious to make an impression that "I am but a humble member of the great should be favorable to him. family of man, and not a beast of prey, like "This is a wild tract of country," he re- those around me. I am an animal, but a hu- marked, availing himself of a moment when man and humane one, I trust." Oarldta's face was casually turned toward him. "And I," rejoined Carl6ta, bitterly, "am the " What part of your territory may we now be animal in a wild and uncultivated state !" in ?" "And I, it would appear, your lawful prey. " The trail we are traveling is called Trap- When," he added, sarcastically, " shall you per Trace. It took its name from the legend make a meal of me " 'of a white trapper, who was the first to explore Carldta reddened, then smiled, and deigned this solitary region. This trapper became in- to glance at the person of Pathaway. volved in the intricacies of the mountains; " I wash my hands of this matter," she an- and it was not until after wandering about some swered, by-apd-by, with evident hesitation and two months, in the midst of winter, and suffer- chagrin. " You will be dealt with according to ing incredible hardship, that he was able to the laws of our community, and by those of make his way out again, famished and frost- your own sex. Don't hope anything from me." bitten."- "One cannot help expecting kindness from "Had this thing occurred recently, his dis- woman," rejoined Pathaway, quickly. "Pity appearance could be more easily accounted should ever dwell in her bosom. I must, I for," returned Pathaway. will trust in you !" "Without doubt," replied Carldta, with a The gray hunter turned his handsome face toss of the head. to Carlota with a manly glow upon it. "Trapper Trace, I suspect, leads to Lost "It is, it will be in vain ! I command-yes, Trapper Valley. I've heard that more than I command you to dismiss such thoughts," she one trapper' has lost his way in these soli- replied, with more authoritativeness and fervor tudes." than she had yet displayed. "Quite possible !" said Carl6ta. " You forget, fair outlaw, you command these "Nor is it very surprising," resumed the- rufians, not me." gra hunter, " that one should not be able to "Outlaw and ruffians !" muttered Carl6ta, find this. thread-like path after entering the annoyed and vexed. - Valley, with its hundred indentations and ap- "Yes," resumed Pathawaf, bending toward parent outlets. " I- think," he added, ironi- her, and speaking softly, "you will save me ! dally, "that there should be huts of refuge You will lead me unscathed from the midst of erected in this bewildering region, and a ken- your lions." nel of St. Bernard' dogs kept in training for "No! I tell you no !" she answered,hurriedly, the rescue of lost and forlorn trappers and with marked emphasis, and touching her horse hunters." with the whip, galloped to the side of Hen- While thus conversing, the Trace gradually drieks, leaving Pathaway in a whirl of doubt widened ; and Pathaway pressed forward to and agitation. - Carl6ta's side. "Trapper Valley," said the latter, pointing CHAPTER XVIII. to a village of smoky huts that suddenly ap- T R A P P E R T R A c E. peared before them as the bridle-path opened The way became more difficult, and the upon the valley in question. night darker; but after winding about aniong Pathaway gazed at this unexpected scene mountains, crossing ravines, strips of bottom- with unfeigned surprise. land and timber, they entered, a narrow bri- " I supposed," he said to his conductress, di.path-so narrow, indeed, that they were "that the lair of the mountain outlaws was obliged to ride in single file. Pathaway's farther up, in some rough-hewn cavern among mind teemed with plans of escape ; but no the rocks." feasible opportunity seemed likely to occur. " Those who go farther seldom return," an- Once or twice he thought seriously, when in a swered Carl'ota, in a low voice. " Dismount !" more open country, to spur his horse and The gray hunter obeyed with alacrity, and dash off at full speed, -trusting to luck and offered his hand to Carlota; but refusing the the darkness to aid his flight.. But so closely proffered gallantry,;she sprang lightly to the I t ii 1' A I(1 V } 9e k A 61 PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. ground without such aid. Looking around, he beheld frowns on the faces of half-a-dozen surly fellows, and Hendricks himself scowled, as if little pleased with the familiarity of his prisoner. "Shall I not hear from-shall I not see you again ?" Pathaway asked, in a whisper. Carlota made no nnser; but holding up her habit daintily, disappeared in one of the huts. He gazed after her earnestly, as if his last hope had vanished with her. "Go along, critter!" growled Hendricks, pushing him in the direction of a hut that seemed stronger than the others. "There's no help fur ye now. If you'd minded your own consarns and let us alone, there'd been no trouble ; but you've seen fit to act as spy and look arter matters- with which you'd no right to meddle nor make. You and Nick Whifflies have been sneakin' about this-'ng time ; and in my 'pinion, had something' to do with the escape o#' the Frenchman. Perhaps yon thought I didn't know him when I see him last night at Nick's hut ?" "I knew that something, terrified you,'. an- swered Pathaway. "'Tis false ! I was never afeard !" retorted Hendricks, angrily. {cI saw you staring at the empty air as if you saw a ghost," said Pathaway, resolved to try an experiment. "That's a lie, too ; for I's lookin' at the boy !"d "Boy !" repeated the hunter, with affected surprise. "1Yes, the handsome boy," dded-Captain Dick, with an inquiring loo. Pathaway shook his head dubiously. "You must have seen what the rest of us did not," lie said, with a perplexed air._ "Bali! do you think I'm blind ? I saw him as plainly as I see you. Don't fool with me, mister ; for I ha'n't much patience, and don't bear contradiction very well when I can have things my own way." "I'm afraid you have a bad ednscience, Cap- tain Hendricks," said Pathaway, reflectively. "Bad consciences createa thousand fantastic shapes in the minds of wicked men. However, I am not your judge ; and I dare say bt too many things are real that appear to inc illuso- ry. You know best whom you have injured, andl what shapes have a right tohaunt you." Hendricks tried to laughs coutenptioushy hut there was more of fear than contempt in the hollow sounds that came from his throat. To save his character for courage, thowever,lhe let oft a volley of oaths ; in spite of which his face was pale and his terror obvious. " Go in, critter," lie added, pointing to the .hut, " and don't play off on me. As for wrongin' a boy of his age, I never did. Do von think we're land-pirates, that we must,' kill every child we see ?" ", can't comprehend you, Captain Hen- drieks," answered the hunter, impressively. The devil you can't !" cried the captain, furiously. "fI have heard," resumed Pathaway, with a shiver, "that murdered people can't rest. I don't make the remark as having any allusion to you, Captain; but doubtless you hav e heard the sanie. It does, in truth, seen just that the ghosts of the murdered should dog their murderers day and iight, and give them no pence. Some have been thus driven to con- fess crime, and cast themselves into the teeth of that terrible monster, LAW-that grim dra- gon that devours without remorse." "No more sich trumpery stuff!" exclaimed hendricks. "No sensible person believes in ghosts. When a man dies, that's the last of him ; and I'm glad- on't. What kind of a life do you s'pose a eritter'd lead carter he'd rubbed out a man or two in skrimmages or t'other- wise, if their ghosts could come back ag'in, looking' as pleas death, with eyes fixed and glassy." "'la .afraid it's too true!" said Pathaway, in a low voice. "I had the misfortune to kill a an in a duel, and his face," he added, so- iunly, "I won't leave ine ; it follows, follows, follows ! f Jack Wiley! Jack Wiley !" cried Hen- dric s. "Here, Jack ; take care of this feller till morning . If you let him git away, I'll string you up higher'a Haman!" sr this time Pathaway was in the hut, and the person called arose from the floor, where he hd been sleeping. "'Tend to business now, Jack, and rub your eyes arterwards," added the captain. " Here's a spy i' critter that's goin' to step out afore the sun sets ag'in, and I want you to keep a shar seye on hi till he's wanted." "Jest as you say, Cap'n-" grunted Jack. estHas lie got any, weeoies about him ?" he asked, stirring the fire that was burning in the centre of the hut. "cYou can see for yourself thathe's got nothin' but his hands," replied Hendricks. nout if you're afraid you can't keep him with your pistols and your gun, call up one or two of the boys to help." "Why don't you do for him to-nmght, and that'll save the trouble of watchin'?- It's very simple-a half-ounce o' lead, you know." Do as I tell ye !" answered Hendricks, sharply, and without stopping to parley longer with his subordinate, walked aw.av. The fire flared up brightly. Wiiey looked at the face of his prisoner. It's you, is it ?" he said. "Seed you with that tall hunter and the boy. Your name's Pathaway, Runaway, or some sich name. Well, you've gt into a nice fix, now. Don't expect to live long, doa ye ?" " 1 don't despair entirely." "You'd better. The best advice I can give ye, is to make up your mind to sleep soundly in this 'ere valley." " No ; I cannot resign myself to that ! I page: 62-63[View Page 62-63] 62 TATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. am young yet, and there ought to be many good years of life before me. The gray hunter glanced at Wiley, to see i there was compassion in his 'face ; but it was as sombre as the walls of the hut. "You look like an honest man, Mr. Wiley ?' " But I ain't;' I'm a scoundrel ! I don't thank no man to call me honest. Set down, and don't be starin' about as if you's lookin for a hole to dodge out on. These playthings ' -he looked at his pistols--" has got lead in 'em, and powder ahind it."- The gray hunter seated himself by the fire, Jack Wiley having already taken a position near the door, with his pistols and rifle beside him. " When we met before, it was in a friendly manner, and in company with one who had done you an important service. Let us be reasonable. Fortune has thrown me into your power ; let us talk over the matter calmly, and it may appear that you cannot do a better thing than to befriend me. There is no per- son so assured in good luck but the time may come when he, may nped friends. Tell me how much it is worth to you to stay here and be an outlaw, with a vision of the gallows'con- tinually before you, and I will make it twice that sum beyond the mountains, where, instead of a haunting shadow of a felon's death, you shall have peace and security. Contrast that with your present condition." " Does freedom go for nothin', eh ?" " Does your neckgo for nothing ?" returned Pathaway. " Can you sleep without dreaming of halters ? Is it not better to feel like an honest man than like a rogue ? Were I in your place, Jack Wiley, I should strangle in my dreams." " But you won't ! you'll strangle wide awake ! Uh !" - Wiley yawned, and looked sleepily at the hunter. " It's all very pooty," he added ; " but you can't go I Why can't ye ? 'Cause you can't!" " You don't talk like a man of sense. You speak -like one whose brain 'is muddled with liquor. What greater freedom do you want, than the freedom of the whole civilized world, with money in your purse and a good coat to your back ?" " You don't understand me at all, Mr. Patha- way, nor how a mountaineer likes the life he's a)lers been used to. What could a rough fel- ler like me do lown in the settlements ? What would Jack Wiley be good for, there ? . Who'd1 think anything of him, eh ? Could he wear rat-skin gloves, and stiff hats, and shiny boots? Could he go into drawin'-rooms any more nor a grizzlf bear ? Would anybody tike off their hat~ to him ? No ; they'd laugh, and say : ' There comes a wild varmint from the moun- tains ! That 'd be minhty fine, wouldn't it? I could stan' that, couldn't I ?. Wah! wal l!" "Not so bad as that," 'replied Pathaway, considerably staggered by this argument. " One soon learns the ways of civilized f life." " No civilization for me ! Give me the Nor'- west and the red Ingin beauties, and I'm satis- fied. None o' your pale, sickly lqokin' white squaws for Jaek Wiley ; there's no sweetness in sich; it's bleached out of 'em by the clear- in's. The brown beauties forever ! So don't talk no more. You're in for it and can't help it ; so make up your mind, and hang like a reasonable being . What's the use botlierin' me ? Want to get me into a scrape, I s'pose ? The captain is a devil of a feller when he's disapp'inted, and the distance is long that 'd prevent his findin' me if I should play him a trick. When you go a swimmin' in cold water, you musn't stan' shiverin' on the bank, but plunge right in, and it's all over in an instant. It's jes' sc with hangin'." " I hoped," said Pathaway, regretfully, " that you had a heart, to be touched by the misfortunes of a fellow-creature, but perceive that I wab mistaken. I was about to offer you a thousand dollars for freedom." "A thousand dollars !" repeated Jack, slow- ly. " That's a right smart pile, mister. There's a good many drunken frolics in a thou- sand dollars-a tearin' visit to Selkirk or Mon- treal." ",A thousand, in gold !" added the hunter. "Do you happen to have it about ye ?" asked Wiley, with a quick look. "Thank Heaven, no ! I'm not so silly a fish. If I had so much money on my person, I should be wise enough to keep it to myself. I would not offer a reward for my own mur- der, by proclaiming such a fact. Therecyou look more comfortable now ; you startled m a moment ago by the eagerness of your eyes. I have not sufficient money in my pocket to buy a pint of your beloved beverage, whisky; but I know where to find it, Jack." " Don't bother ! lay down and go to sleep, so that .your narves ma be 'strong in the mornin'. I'm not the kind o' bird' that's ketched with salt or chaff." " Well, have your own way," said Pathaway, sternly. " That bullet head of yours willrun your 'head into a noose, yet. 1 may not be ' resent to see it, but feel assured that it will e so. I will no longer attempt to appeal to your cupidity or to touch your humanity. You have proved yourself a heartless wretch in the hour of my need, but it's not impossi.. ble that the next revolution in the wheel of fortune may change our relative positions. "Sartin it '11 change 'em!" interrupted Jack, with brutal indifference. "You'll be up and I'll be down ; but your toes won't tet.h the ground, and mine will." To this allusion Pathaway made no reply, but disposing his person as comfortably as he could, began to think those thoughts that those think who feel they are approaching the I ,vo - .a cs s- z y PATHAWAY ; OR, THE crowning and last pain of human life, with all' its after revelations. CHAPTER XIX. CARLOTA. Persons in positions.of danger are prone to, think of the good and evil of their lives, and to draw a balance in favor of one-or the other. Pathaway did not attempt a very nice adjust- ment of his moral accounts ; but felt, as all right-thinking men do in seasons of extremity, genuine regret that his life had been so barren of results, and so little productive of happi- ness to others. Because he indulged in re- flections of this kind, he did not abandon all hope of escape, but revolved many plans, in his mind. Wiley maintained his position near the en- trance of the hut, with his weapons ostenta- tiously paraded beside him ; but the man was heavy with sleep. Ilis recent visit to the world of dreams, and his sudden recall by Captain Hendricks, had left a lethargy upon his brain that continually urged him to a re- lapse into the same oblivious state. His first nap was to him like the first glass of the ine- briate-giving him a strong inclination to a second. But he had a duty to perform which it would be dangerous to neglect. Mentally, he firmly determined that sleep should not close his eyelids till he was relieved of his charge. To keep the invidious enemy at arm's length, he arose and stood upon his feet ; tiring of that position, and feeling forti- fied against surprise, he resumed his seat and smoked-stealing, without seeming to do so, frequent glances at his prisoner, to see if he would not so far forget his troubles as to yield to the soothing power of slumber; for it ap- peared to him that a sleeping man was more easily guarded than one wide awake. -As the night wore on, the gray hunter seem- ed disposed to accommodate his keeper ; his head gradually sank upon the floor, and his respiration was certainly indicative of slumber. Jack rejoiced at this, and .though resolutely bent upon wakefulness, naturally employed less effort to maintain that condition. .Ie be- gan to nod, but had at first frequent brighten- ings-up ; the latter grew less frequent, until his chin rested upon his chest, and he was fairly conquered. It was when his heavy breathing gave notice of this fact, that Patha- way's eyes unclosed. The sleep was genuine ; there was no mistaking it. Pathaway raised himself upon his elbow, in effecting which his foot unintentionally came in contact with a fagot, making a slight noise that was sufficient to startle the. sentinel, who .straightened up galvanically and yawned. Pathaway fell back to his former position, and Jack, having an in- distinct consciousness that all was right, was overpowered again in aninstant. There's no- thing one covets so much as sleep when it is forbidden; it becomes a thing inexpressibly MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. .68 desirable, and to Wiley it was more-irresisti- ble. Warned by his previous experiment, the prisoner acted with greater carefulness and quickness. As if by a single movement, he was on his feet and advancing upon Wiley, who, unfortunately for the former, carried into his dreams a wholesome fear of the wrath of Captain Hendricks. Pathaway was not con- scious that he made the slightest poise ; but something warned his watcher of danger-his instincts or his previously whetted sensibilities -for he sprang up like an automaton operated by springs, yet too late for successful resist- ance ; for the hand of the young man was at his throat before he could grasp a weapon. He bore him to the ground, and the fellow felt fingers of steel upon his mouth before he could give the alarm, and knees planted like"iron posts upon his chest. "Be silent !" said Pathaway. "One sound from your lips seals your fate. Mind what I say ! It is with me a matter of life and death ; and if necessity calls for it, I shall not hesitate to sacrifice you as I would a beast of prey I" Pathaway took his hand from Viley's mouth, and drew a bowie that he had concealed at his back, between his hunting-frock and person. The brightness of the blade dazzled the eyes of the outlaw, and was the strongest argument for his silence that could have been employed. Jack knew his man; he saw his nerve, his power, his quickness of action, his firmness of purpose, at a glance ; it was revealed to him by the blazing light in his eyes. He would have spoken and said: .I give up! . give up !" but could not, for the metallic fin- gers pressed him to suffocation. , He made a consenting movement of the head, and the hunter relaxed the rigor of his grasp. " For God's sake, don't kill me !" he gasped. "Your life," answered Pathaway, " depends entirely on your obedience. Open your mouth ---you must be= gagged." Wiley wished to remonstrate, but deadly fear kept him mute. He obeyed the imperious order with a helpless, humiliated reluctance that needed no interpreter. The - hunter crowded in without ceremony a large piece of buckskin, cut from the ruffian's own hunting- frock. There was no feminine delicacy or softness about the operation ; it was prompt, rough, and efficacious. 1" Turn'upon your faceI" said Pathaway, withdrawing his weight fromhis chest. With a sullen rattling in his thrott--the new application was too thoroughly made to pro- duce anything but an uncomfortable sense of strangulation-Wiley -rolled over, *hen the hunter cut two stout strips from the back of the garment that had already contributed to his convenience, with one of which he.tied his wrists, while the other performed the same of- fice for his feet. It was not an emergency that allowed of being careful -about trifles, and it page: 64-65 (Illustration) [View Page 64-65 (Illustration) ] 64 PATIAWAY ; OR, TILE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. may be confidently asserted that the ligatures "But if I choose to raise my voice and say : were not daintily applied ;- therefore, if they "Ho-" were tightly drawn, and the hard knots sank "Pathaway sprang forward, and put-"his into the flesh, the circumstances furnished a hand over her mouth. ready excns'e. "Emergencies require prompt action," he When Wiley floundered over upon his back said, with sternness. again, his squint eye had a more marked obli-. She did not stir, made no effort to shake quity than usual. He tried to form words, him off, but stood, calm, disdainful, dignified. which resulted only in a kind of pectoral mar- Pathaway held her by the wrist. mur. The hunter bent %over hint a moment, " Before the matter of life and death, all other with a smile of, triumph had contempt. subjects sink into insignificance," he added. " You see, rascal," he said, " that things " We even sacrifice other lives to save our change sometimes quicker than we anticipate. own." Not long since you were my jailor ; now it is' " I know !" returned Carl6ta, coldly. " Car- -different. Had-you' been the prisoner and I l6ta,'the wild girl of the niountains, cannot be the sleepy sentinel, you would have killed me." influenced by menace." The young'hunter paused,.thrust Jack's pis- " Then, by Heaven! I will use.the strength tols into his'belt, appropriated his ammuni- that Nature has given me to some purpose !" tion, and took his rifle, then added: Pathaway threw his right arm around her "One blow would end your miserable exist- waist, and was in the act of covering her ence, but JI forbear. I shall stop at the out- mouth with his left hand, when she said side of the hut' a short time to see -how you " Stop !" with so much imperiousness, that the behave. If you struggle and try to get out- last movement was arrested. I'll-isit you again !" "What would you have ?" she asked, in a There was too much meaning in the man's voice that, through some emotion, was tremu- voice to admit of doubt, although the threat Ious. "Is there nothing to compel woman was used more to intimidate than' otherwise ; but threats? Did I say I would betray you ?" for the hunter did not .stop at the door only She looked deprecatingly at the hunter. long enough to determineupon the direction to " You were about to call for help-to sound pursue; then moved quickly and softly away. the alarm through'the encampment," returned The night lay still .anddark on the outlaw Pathaway. encampment.' The ,supper-fires had waned "You did not allow me to proceed ; my and -died out,:afid the gorged and weary moun- say remained unsaid. I was about to tell you taineers were wrapped-in slumber. ' he hour thatI had only to call out, 'Ho; mountain- was favorable,.and Pathaway's heart beat fast eers-'" with gratitude, as his eyes swept from hut to "for, God's sake, girl, desist !" cried the hut and- took in the scene. They had long hunter, 'again stopping her. been used to security, which had never been "Did I raise my vice above its natural disturbed, probably, by the intrusion of ene- tone ?" she, asked, in a voice of rebuke. mies since they adopted their: lawless trade. " Could I not have shrieked before this as wo- In their 'fastnses they were safe, and Sleep man only can shriek ? Was it in your power, came to themmwithout the companionship of or is it now, to hinder me from sending a Fear. thrill of life and activity through yonder si- The young man remembered the stories he lent camp ?" had heard of the difficulty of gettingout of . Carlota drew' herself up' more and more, the valley when once in it ; but he apprehend- and spoke in the voicer:of a Woman who feels ed no serious trouble in finding Trapper Trace herself wounded in a sensitive part of her na- -the key to the home of the outlaws. He .ture. passed onward rapidly, and the huts were fad- " Carl6ta !" answered''Pathaway, changing ing from view, When a figure-appeared in the his manner to one.more friendly, " I believe I darkness. It was a woman-it, was Carldta ! have mistaken you';,if I have, forgive me, Pathaway experienced a sickening sense of die- and allow me to depart without delay. Con- appointment, Was he. perceived?, Possibly, aider my position. einember that at your not.' He' stood 'still, hoping that the, night request I spared the life of Hendricks-your would prove his shield. She had discovered father,, husband,'or, lover, I know not which. him-she Approached, with uncertainty at first, I appeal to your complassion ; I throw myself with decision as she drew near. Her manner upon your mercy!" was indicative'of surprise. - "Not till threats had failed ; ,not till you Be silent !" said Pathaway, authoritative- had laid a rough hand upOn me !" answered ly, in tones suppressed"and penetrating. . the girl, gloomily. "Do, you command ?" answered Carl6ta, "It was the instinct ofself-preservation-- haughtily. an instinct ever active 'and always pardon- " You are a woman; do not force me to able." treat you as if you were not. I am escaping, "But not easily forgotten," she said, in as- and I eil not be baffled !" cents slightly sneering. ; ; 4 ' : ' r 4,, . :,% p L , ,c :,- - " page: 66-67[View Page 66-67] PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAW' " Girl! girl ! every moment is inexpressib- "It is as I suspee ly valuable. You are detaining me in the ing the ground with h very jaws of death." and intentions are ea Have you asked my assistance ?" asked joining at this mome Carl6ta, with a proud glance at the young man. successfulreturn with " Yes, I have-I do !" returned the hunter, at your back-a par earnestly. from the nearest mil "And if I interpose no obstacle, will you heard rumors that a find your way from the Valley, think you ?" sent against us by th "Do -not doubt it ! . Once in the bridle- meat. In this manner path, and I am safe ; for I am hardy, experi- my good offices." enced, and wift." I will promise," r "I have heard of your exploits. Yo\ are "to lead no troops or a brave and steady, but you do not understand but I cannot pledge the ways of woman. Follow me " Trapper Valley myself Carl'ta turned and walked from the en- Carota," he added, N campment toward Trapper Trae, Pathaway own presence here may treading in her footsteps with silent yet ex- with my movements. cessive surprise. "Enough! enough! Presently they came to a hors ade n erpe h il e bridled. compliment cannot dec " What means this ?" Pathaway inquired, will make me angry. "Can you not imagine why this animal is exact nothing. Remain here ?" answered Carlota, curtly. and I will scnd you o "Dare I believe that you meditated my es- faithfully to the camp cape, and provided this horse for the pur- "Woman will be wo pose ?" away. "Pardon me, "Believe what you will; the creature is subject of which it now yours." speak; -it has too long "'This is kind-this is generous! I com- citement of the night. plained too soon of your ingratitude." man's daughter I woul "Say nothing !" replied the girl, proudly. "This is no time f "A mistake once made is made forever." She ing," replied Carl6ta, h paused and struggled with some powerful feel- startled by the query ing. " I will provide you with a guide," she know this Ninon ?" she added. voice. Pathaway looked up uneasily; she noticed -"I never saw her," the -lance, and coloring, remarked: the claims of. common "Still suspicious of treachery. Your sex strongly in her behalf. is ever ready to do injustice to ours. You fate? Will you, can 4 tempt me to abandon you. Don't answer, for her? Portneuf escape the night wears on. I must exact one condi- "Hendricks was right tion of you."to fear from you. This "Condition ? I thought a woman was un- betrayed him; but no conditional; that what she does is on trust Do not stir till the guide and free." Carl6ta walked away "In matters that relate only to herself, it out of sight, hidden by Smay be so ; but where others are concerned, terposing trees. . it is different. These men must not be betray- ed. You must promise that you will not re- turn with hostile intentions." CHAPTE Clrl6ta considered him with earnest atten- INDIAN tion. It being dark, she advanced her face Pathaway awaited the close to his to catch its expression. ised guide, not without Do you hesitate ?" she asked. Perhaps she had change " You put me in a painful position," an- send, not a guide, but swered Pathaway, much embarrassed. "While take him back to eaptiv I do not wish to refuse a request of my bene- ces. His anxiety grew factress, I should be wanting in duty to man- and his doubts a be kind did I give the pledge you require. It when the sound of hor would give me pleasure, truly, to drive out him that some one app these bad -men and bring safety to the lone pistol, an unnecessary hunter and trapper, and avenge the wrongs of horseman proved the those who have fallen victims to their wanton- Indian boy of fourteen ness and cupidity." age. VS. 67 ted 1" said Carl6ta, beat- er foot. "Your thoughts sily read. You are're- -nt in anticipation of a overpowering numbers 'ty of soldiers, perhaps, itary post ; for I have n expedition' was to: be United States govern. you purpose to 'repay eplied Pathaway anon, rmed men against you; my word not to vsit f. And you forget, fair, playfully, " that your have something to do Charms like yours--." Don't insult me !":in- ientfully. "An empty eive me, but hypocrisy I waive all pledges!; I n here a few moments, ne that will guide you of your friend." nan !" murmured Path. Carlkta, there is one were unmanly not to escaped me in the ex. It is of the French- I ask ?" or continued question. urriedly, and evidently " Do you-do' you added, dropping her said Pathaway, " but humanity appeal to me What.has been .her ou do nothing to save d ; I have seen him." ; he has indeed much is the first time I ever matter ; it is done. e joins you." quickly and was soon the darkness and in- R XX. JOE. coming of the prom- t feelings of distrust. d her mind and would a party of outlnwa to ity ana its consequen. momentarily greater, gun to assume reality, 'ses' feet admonished reached. He drew a precaution, - for the expected guide -- an or fifteen 'years of page: 68-69[View Page 68-69] 68 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. "Come from white squaw ; show pale face the way," said the boy, taking his place in ad- vance . "Carl6ta' sent you," said Pathaway, quite assured that there was no mistake. " Joe tell you once ; no tell same thing twice. Ingin no ask question ; white man ask question," answered the boy, curtly. Perceiving that his guide was not disposed to talk, the gray hunter followed him silently, thinking of Carl6ta, of Sebastian, Nick, and many other things connected with his recent experiences. It was near morning, and the young Indian made what haste he could, urging his horse to a gallop when the way permitted. In many places the path was dlancrous, but the ani- malsi appeared accustomed' t traveling it, and bore them onward with sure and trusty feet. The day dawned at the moment they were leaving the Trace, amid at this point the-hunter supposed that his guide would leave him ; but he kept on before, choosing with evident skill the most accessible ways, and directing his course, as he' could readily perceive, toward the spot where he had met Hendricks the pre- vious night. The sun was high in the hea- vens when they reached the scene of the con- test.- "Here, I suppose, we shall part," said Path- away.. "No part; Joe go on," replied the boy, composedly.,. - - " But you'll be missed. What account will you give of your absence ? If Captain Hen- dricks should know of your agency in this matter, I fear you would not come off with whole skin." "Joe no 'fraid Cap'n. Go with you to white man's camp-Nick, you call him." Joe glanced at Pathaway, then looked fixed- ly at 'his horse's head.' "6Did your mistress-did Carl6ta bid you attend me so far ?"asked the hunter. " Tole mnc stay longr's I pleased. Peirhaps Joe no go back ; perhaps he go here. there, everywhere-no know where he go. Be war- rior sometime." "Then you are at liberty to do as you wish V" answered the hunter, who had been so rncuh preoccupied during the ride that he had bestowed little notice upon Joe ; but now thought it worth while to observe him more closely. He was a well-clad, *ell-formed lad, who looked capable of making his way in the world as efficiently as any of his race. His long black hair hung straight and curlless upon his face and neck. He was quite dark, even for an Indian, andold enough to delight in paint and plumes. He had, clearly, been a favorite at the Valley, else he would not have been tricked out so bravely. -spoke only for your good. I care not to urge you toreturn to those lawless men ; but you are too young to go on the war-path, and your, tribe may be distant," added Pathaway, presently. " Can hunt, fish, take care hisself, Joe can. No need mind 'bout Joe." "How loing since you left your people ?" asked Patbaway. "Two, three,'four moons ago. White squaw give me clothes. Plenty to eat ; no work ; Joe no like work. Let squaw do work." The young Indian touched his horse with his hand and quickened his movements, so that the hunter was obliged put his own into. a gallop to keep pace with him. In a short time they rode up to Nick. Whifiles' hut. Nick stood in the door, rifle in hand. His pleasure and astonishment were- about equal. eI'd about give ye up, by gracious !" he exclaimed. "Took a tramp arter ye last night and was jest -startin' ag'in. Reckoned you'd turn up ; told Sebastian so, but he wouldn't hear to it, as 'twere, and nothmin' would pacify him. Consarned funny boy, he is ! And not funny, neither, but peculiar constituted. He' didn't sleep a wink last night; but jest set by the fire and moped, goin' to the door every five minutes to look and listen. - Been on the war-path, I allow ? Come back with two hosses and a prisoner. Well, you're welcome,-ariyway. What's been the difikilty?" Sebastian came out while Nick was making these observations ; his first impulse, obvi- ously, was to run and seize Pathaway's hand, but he checked it, and stopped in an attitude indicative of surprise and joy. The hunter hastened to greet him. "What kind o' baggage you got here ?" asked Nick, eyeing the Indian sharply. Joe had not dismounted; he was looking earnestly at Sebastian. "This dark-skinned youth has been my guide from Trapper Valley," replied Patha- way. Trapper Valley !" exclaimed Seba'stian, clasping his hands, recoiling, and fixing his attention upon the guide. The hunter observed the start and sudden change of attitude. " So you have been in the Valley and got back alive ?" said Nick ; " and that's 'stomish- ii'. Ingin boy"-to Joe-" hop down anid let- me see what you look like." The boy did not honor this mandate with the least attention; but immediately,, in obe- dience to a sign from Iatlhaway, sprang light- ly to the ground. "A right nice-'pearin' boy ; though I must say, there's a slight tetch of dandyism about him, and uses more paint nor is'needful on common occasions. Trot round a little, young- ster, and let me see your paces," added Nick, eyeing the boy in his own whimsical manner, who, during this address, was staring at Se- bastian. In fact, a duel of eyes was persist- PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS.-69 ently going on between the half-breed and sunset, on the very spot where we then stood,. Joe. which was a beautiful level, coyered withway- So you've been to the Valley ?" said ing grass. We met; I was-the, victor ; my Nick, abruptly changing th subject. "Jest adversary stood disarmed before me." turn but the beasts, and let le hear all about Up to this point, the Indian boy had shown it. My own a1imile is gender, and they 'l little interest ; ho now looked steadily at Path- soon make friends, I allow. No danger their away. running' off. That's it ! throw the bridles and 'iHendricks was at my mercy, when a wo- saddles down there. Now, sir, what have you man interposed to save him." seen and heerd ?" "Carldta! Carl.ta._!" muttered Portneuf, Sebastian pointed at Pathaway's hunting- who had joined them a moment before ; for frock with pmething like a cry of terror ; this conversation took place outside .of the Nick, following the direction of the lad's fin- hut. ger, observed that there were several perfora- "Yes, it was the girl Carldta ; 'and, before I tions in it, which had the appearance of hav- was aware of danger, I was surrounded by the ing been made by a sharp instrument. outlaws of Trapper Valley." A difaikilty, I swear to gracious " cried "Wicked woman !" exclaimed Sebastian. Nick. " I am, and allers was, right abbut the The yugoung Indian dartid an angry glance nitter o' diffikilties. Every man must have at him. 'em; they will come ; you can't keep 'em "I was a prisoner," returned Pathaway; off. Yes, they begin the very minute the " and, after going a short distance, was mount- crown of one's headdtouches the atmosphere. ed and -conducted to Trapper Valley by its The fast breath is drawed with diffikilty, as eastern, and to us unknown, entrance." well as the last. Then comes teethin', and " What-did you see ?" inquired Nick. whoopin'-cough, and measles-mumps, scarlet " Only a few smoke-colored huts standing fever, and vaccination. Then there's the very- not far from Trapper Trace, which is to the lord-which is sometimes worse nor the very Valley like a little rill emptying into a lake. devil-not to mention cuts,. and bumps, and All the mysteries of the place were not re- liekin's at school. Speakia' o' bumps, reminds vealed to me. They kept from me the mec that I allers had.' a pesky dispersition to knowledge of their most secret. lurking- tumble down when I's a little un. I's a fust- places.".' rate climber, but that was 'all the worse for "No doubt," said Nick. "I allow them me ; for the furder I got up, thl furder I had lurkin'-places is not fr from the spot whore to fall. There's wasn't a pair o' stairs in the we found Porteuf."u o p w house that I hadn't gone down rattlety-bang "I was placed under the guidance of Jack 'fore i's 'levenamonths old. Neighbors used Wiley, with the promise of a short shriftland to think we was l'arnin' to play the bass- a sure cord in the morning. He slept ; I drum-there was sich a continooal thumpin' overpowered and bound him, I left the hut and clatterin' about the premises. And sick and was hastening away, when I mnets-.1' a Voice as I had when I's two year old! It nWho did you meet ?" cried Sebastian, im- was so developed by p'ison diffi.il es.that it patiently.r had the power and vollum of a bassoon played The young Indian regarded the lad with a by a critter as had no regard for the human lowering brow., race. You'd oughter heerd me arter fallin' " Carl6tay the female outlaw," added Patha. from an apple-tree or a gum-spruce ! Wasn't Wray.' it music, by mighty! Sebastian, don't gape "What did she say ' what did she do 9" at that Ingin so; Ingin, don't gape at Sebas- asked Sebastian, whose interest in the narra tiaii. Have knowed boys to fall down in fits tion increased. bysstarin' at each other in that way.-You've "I did-not quite comprehend hernature. I broke the thread of my remarks by your ill dwas itsavage ehwith her at first;'but shetaught manners. Your hun~ti'-frock is a good 'eal m ae- leonh a hacked up, Pathaway." Joe's eyes glistened likelire. Nick paused, and kept glancing from the "The woman was not all dead in Ca : two -boys to the hunter in a somewhat anxious she had already s planned my escape and I fashion. came near marring the whole by sy iapetu- .To'tell you all in a few words, I encoun- osity." tered the fellow Hendricks yesterday. We "Was this--thi- Carl-ta t leader of had words ; he was insolent--..I knocked him mountain outlaws--this masculine woman-.. down." - -o was she, I soy, handsome ?" demanded .oeba- "I'm glad of that, by gracious !" interposed tian Delaunay. o d d Nick. "You'd oughter knocked him arter he The boy Joe- did not take his was dom." from Pathaway: there might have been bth fSebastian was leaning forward, listening in- curiosity and eagernes in the glitter s t "tentarato this graphic account. black. eyes. "Aarrcan a meig t'tkepe at I never thought" eeriouslyod that,",4 page: 70-71[View Page 70-71] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 71 Patliway, smiling ; " but now, as I recall her features, one by one, I pronounce her pretty. To speak more intelligibly, she has a certain wild beauty that many of our sex could not dare'with impunity. She is brilliant and dashing ; and there are those easily dazzled by such qualities." Then to Joe : " What think you, boy? Is your mistress hand- some ?" The glittering eyes suddenly sought the ground, rested there a short time, then re- turned, inquiringly, to Pathaway. "To them that like her, she -handsome ; to them that no like her, no handsome." Joe shot another eye-bolt at Sebastian. "What do you care whether she's handsome or t'otherwise, little un ? You a'n't old'nough togo courtin' yet ; and if you was, I wouldn't never give my consent for you to marry a fe- male captain of pirates. No honest gal would keep sieh company. Oh Lord, no ?" A little stream of humor purled from Nick's eyes. ' ey The long and -short on't was," he added, "she give ye a guide and a hose to ride ; and so eier ye are, safe and sound. Now I'll wa- ger "Smuggler gin a common pup, that you made a p'ison difikilty in the gal's breast; and not diffikilty neither, but a commotion in her -bussom ; and not her bussom exactly, but her heart-which is a muskle condemned apt to sit out o' kilter." Stbastian smiled, and Indian Joe changed his position uneasily. " The girl is wanting neither in sense nor beauty," remarked Pathaway ; "and I am not the man to believe that I make a conquest in every quarter where I may receive a favor. She is surely a wonderful creature, both in conversation and spirit ; and her language is sufficient evidence that she has not always as- ioatd with such characters." ",I did'nt seeher but one or two time," said Portneuf;-' " but I s'all say, that I think she look 'at me kind. She has--what you call him f-courage-le grand courage. I have 1ifee waitin" and waitin', but you have not speak of my child one time-nevare, nevare I" The 1renehman displayed much emotion. -"Believe -me, my friend, it was because I had nothing to say. I would gladly have re- lieved your paternal anxiety had it been in my-ower. Bring no news of Ninon." Thevoice of Andrew Jeanjean came plaint- ively from the hut; he was singing: "Ohl, the trapper's daughter- Oh, the trapper's daughter !" "Our camp-fire ihust rise somewhere else to-iotrow night," said Nick, thou htfully. Snmoggler came out and barked, while the hoiee (atist turned loose), which had strayed nort ist nce:from the camp,.erected their and ears,' and - evinced signs of fear. P thaway looked beyond them, and beheld amystribus grizzly bear. CHAPTER XXI. INDIAN JOE AT CAMP. A curious part assembled at the morning .neal. Individua ly, they were singularly un. like, yet each manifested a noticeable interest in the other, Nick was uneasy, though con- tinually striving to appear cheerful, endeav- oring to inspirit the rest by his humorous sal- lies and unique stories. -Pathaway was seri- ous, Portneuf sad, Sebastian timid and 'at. times agitated, Indian Joe inquisitive with his eyes, taciturn with his lips, while the face of Andrew Jeanjean wore its usual mild and un- meaning expression. Each was watchful of the other without wishing to have the fact perceived. Sebastian unquestionably, shrank from the presence of Joe- is frequent flushes and evident perturbation being a source of an- noyance and anxiety to Nick. " It's them mean chills ag'in," he said in an aside voice to Pathaway, but which was au- dible to all present ; "and not the chills, nei- ther, but the hot stage of the disorder." The gray hunter hinted that he had not be- fore referred to this particular intermittent as affecting the lad, but had alluded to whoop- ing-cough and measles as the active agents of his infirmities. "You misunderstood me, colonel !"-Nick often addressed Pathaway by this title-" you sartinly did." He shook his head gravely, as if he knew he was doomed to be misinterpreted gener- ally. " I think I know as well's another what ails hir. It's ager-ager in its most voilent and chromatic form. 'Tisn't the kind they have in the clearin's, but ager run wild in the Nor'- west. I seed a whole tribe of Ingins shook to bits with it some twenty odd year ago. Fust they shook off an arm or a leg, then the arms and legs kept right on shakin' on their own responsibility, as 'twere. It was a stirrin' spettakle, I tell ye! I passed over the ground the next day, and you couldn't -find a piece bigger'n your finger, nor two that could be put together ag'in as they 'riginally b'longed. It looked as if it had rained Ingins there for more'n a week. But the little chunks wasn't quiet by, no means ; each individooal one, quiverin' as though life depended on't. I'm 'ware that this don't 'pear natril, and I don't insist on your b'lievin' it verbattim et scatter- atim, which, by the way, is, all the Latin I haven't forgot, though Doctor Whiffles can reel it off to ye by the yard. Ah, sich a man as the doctor was for a speech ! Speeches a'n't of much 'count up here, but at Selkirk and other clearin's they carry all afore 'em. He was captain of a fire company, my brother was-that was afore ho received his degree ; and 'tiyasn't afore, neither ; for com#o think on't, I b'lieve he never got;a diplomy, though he'd oughter, by mighty?,On.the 'casion I refer to, he presented tin trumpet to the former captain. He come on with his speech all writ, and full o' confidence, though his j'ints shook like prison. I wasn't there, but e talked beautiful, barrio' losm' his place a few times,.which ruther took him off his pins, as 'twere. He wasn't a critter to be put down, not'stannin' his - condemned mem'ry, which would on'y hold a sartin number of syllables at a time. He talked of danger,' flames, and water, then of water, flames, and danger, which give it a inteestin' variety. Then the way he handled burnin' houses was prodigious, rushin' through walls o' solid blaze, scattering' firebrands right and left, res- zum' sleeping' families, and tossin' babies from the garret wonders to be ketched by the mul- titude below. What a effort that would a been if his thumb hadn't slipped at some o' the most startlin' p'ints ! Oh Lord, yes1" ".No doubt," said Pathaway, absently, for during Nick's episode he had been studying the features of Andrew Jeanjean. " What do you think we had better do ?" he added, ab- rua tly. .. - . . Ii1eholas glanced significantly at the Indian boy. " I don't think that it's a good plan to dis- cuss matters of this kind afore strangers." " I'll answer for his fidelity !" replied Path- away. "That's more'n .I'll do !" returned Nick, dryly. " An Indian s an Indian !" exclaimed Sebas- tian, pointing. Nick looked up and saw Multnomah, the Shoshone, standing at the door. " Come in, Ingin-come in! There's allers room at my table for one pnore, though I ha'n't o fairly to housekeeping . Flop down and take your chance with us. Sonny"-to' Sebastian-" can't you saw off another slice, and don't be so keerful about s'iln' your fin- gers." "No stay-no eat," answered the Shoshone, gravely. "Multnomah would speak to Dou. bledark." "He hears ye, Ingin; speak on. Any signs of a diffikilty, eh ?" "The Shoshone has hunted and trapped with Doubledark, He is his friend and brother." " True, true ! And barring' the color your skin, which isn't 'cordin' to natur-my natur, leastwise-you're as honest a human-Ingins in course is human-as can be diskivered atween here andthe Big Red. I know you've got a weakness for skulps, but the best on us has failin's." Nicholas regarded the Shoshone with friend- ly eyes--eyes that expressed far more than what he was saying. ento Pathaway : . T, ere's them that would not trust that In- gi use he isn't what he isn't, which is a white man : but, Lord bless ye, that skin o' hlis'n isn't thicker nor a sheet o' a r ; and arter-you git inside on't you can't tellthe dif- ferenee. Take that In''n and skin him, and I'll defy anybody to tell what race he b'longs to." "It is not the skin'that makes Ingindalugin inside. Nick love one thing, Multnomah an- other. The prairie wolf is not like the buffalo, nor the panther like the'antelope," said the Shoshon. "It may be so ; we won't dispute about it; but the inside of one watch is a good 'cal like the inside of another, though some'll run faster nor others: There's clocks, too, but the watch principle is in clocks, I allow." " Brother, I did not come to talk of- the way in which the Great Spirit has made us. Have you seen no clouds in the sky ? Will.it be fair to-morrow ?" Nick and the Shoshons looked at each other. "Ingin, the heavens are not clear ; there are dark places up aloft ; there are signs in the east," said the former. ,i" I am glad that Doubledark is not blind. If he sees, why is he here ? Why does he not to a covert like the birds of the air?" "Te birds leave no trail," muttered Nick, musingly. " The birds are wise. Not to man alone ,is wisdom given. Even the snake knows when his enemy is near, and creeps into its hole." While the Shoshone stood grave and digni. fled, his eyes' might occasionally be detected resting upon Sebastian and Indian;Joe; but his stoical face told no tales of his thought - "Shoshons," said Pathaway, addressing the. Indian, "speak plainly and not in the: lan- gua gof figures." " speak according to my nature," answer- ed Multnomah, proudly, and with a slight frown. - " The Master of Life never speaks to his children but in signs. . He does not -say 'There will be a storm;' but He makesthe air heavy and puts a cloud in the sky.M Re; does not say : ' It will be fair to-morrow,' but makes the sun set red, as if it-went down i a battle-field." "Where will the sky be clear ?" atked Nick. " It will not be clear, but Multnomah would o to the North. I have noticed that some birds build their nests high among the rocks in the clefts and crevices." "Birds are not fools," quoth Nick. "We learn from the meanest things," re- sponded the chief. " But man, being gifted With speech," said Pathaway, " should use it intelligibly." " My talk is to those that can understand me. Those that do not take my mean when I speak as Nature has taught me, would not be profited if I spoke in thq language of the pale faces." Then to Nick: "D6uble: dark,,you have heard ms; yon can read ;the book of the sky and the earth ?" " I can, and.I thank you,Iin,foryou page: 72-73 (Illustration) [View Page 72-73 (Illustration) ] PATHAWAY ; OR, TIHE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. t'lhrlij vkslt. I' hope it'll be a long time, abd'dttrike the trail to the happy huntin' ground ; but when you do, may the journey 1redaant, and the laud o' oulvto ypurlik- in'e That's the worst wish I wish.you or your tibe, though there's them 'mong white men as had different feeling's! ' s I- Doubledark, I have said, and I go." Maltnonah turned and stalked rapidly away. . An Ingin is' an- Ingin," muttered Nick, "and allers willbet ' "'I cin scarcely desire them different,",ob- served Pathaway. " I find much, in the char- aeter of the 'true ;type of Indian to' admire.- Their Tnethod of communication is borrowed from 'ature: The 'earth and the sky are in-' deed their books." "Books ' Vve studied a good 'cal myself. I've often looked up, when layin' carmpless ott the prairie, and seen the book ofthe .,)ievens opened wide afore me ; every, star "tellin''me which way to go to find A certain, lake or river mountain or valley." '" I have emad that, page, and experienced a deep pleasure in the solitary companionship of Nature," replied' the hunter. IInever was much of a astronomer , and don't k o# one onsternation-" - "onstellationl" whispered Sebastian.. I It takes no' odds," qnoth Nick. "It's wi4tboth ways, though the way yomd speak it ma"'be the prop}erest in a grammatical p'int. As I was ayin', I never knew one constellation, fro* anottiet' by'name as laid down in the b dl though I've named 'em'to suit .myself. OQb-I ealtheBuffaler, another the Catamount, a third the Wolf, a.fourth the Sarpent, and so onI trdividooal stars I giner'ly names arter m s hoess .favorite one, leastwise ;. sick As ggestion, Firebug,'eta.' It's a mighty savin' 0' *tudyi tMd- 'cordin' to Natu', too, which Ai ged:aohoblhtaster, and'bout the on'y-one - er bMdy for I- never went to school but t 'dbOpl;oe' days in my life. The mister caled me. up, And, sea he :t What's. that ?'sez he, p'intin' to the letter A. *'Don't know,' sez, PDtit khow, do' you?'sez he,' giving' mge 'aeut across the legs with a stick. 'Try and find OI,-e he 'i's io 'use,' blobbered I, ca-. per!' hbi* u the room.: ''We'll see to that,' 4 4,eU& WT' hat ,did your parents seed you here for? Look right at that,:si r !' I sidled tpwto the4e60lohnaster, a rubbin' the calf of one lg' then of the other, openin'my eyes-'as- wide as never I could. 'It looks like a harder,' sez -'(C h itloeks:like a harder, does-it ? Now whatit doe, it look like'. and -whaek, thael wentthe stiok overany head-and ears. 'Come orn to make misehIef4 didn't ye ?' se he;, 'to et 'bad' eanpleafre thelrisin' gineration, and' trp'qn:'the minds of the :rest o' the . lM 6.' With that Ilooked round,.and seed three. melancholy little, varnints present. The fact on't was, the rnarster was mad 'cause bi#'iastitoctien wasn't patronised mgo better. I don't care nothin' 'bout the risin' gineration, nor you anotherr !' sez, I, fairly worked up with pain and anger. And with 'that, I throwed a lead inkstand at; his, head, -and run home fast as.,my legs could carry Inc. My mother wanted ie 'to 'go ag'in the next day, but I wouldn't. 'Boys. and gals alters has to be licked,' sez she, 'when they're l arnin' to read. It's impossiblegtoit; the lIdnin' into 'em 'thout wallopin,' and the- harder ~ they're beat the' quicker they'llgit their eddication.' "I pulled up my tattered trousers, and showed her -the great welts on my legs. ' I know it' sezishe, shakin' her head sadly 'but it has, to lbe did. It's jest like whoopin' cough 'and nmeasles, and we can't help it ; but you can hide ahind the hedge, and throw stones at the marster when he goes'home in the a- ternoon.', 'y legs didn't smart much arter that, and the marster didn't stay long in the neighborhood. "Uncle.Nick, have you forgotten the grizzly bear and the Shosbon6 ?" whispered Sebas- tian. "Forg6t ?" repeated Nick. " Not a tall! But what's the us- being' niiser'ble long's we cn be t'otherwise ?, ,Depend.on't, Nick Whif- fles .don't lase his mem'ryfor trifles. When, as that Ingin said, there's signs in the airth and sky,I'm on hand to look'at 'em;and be guided by 'em., To-night we'll sleep at Black Rock." Sebastian recoiled, as if Nicholas had pushed him backward. "Black Rock!".,he repeated. "Surely you will not take 'me--that is, you will not go to auch.a dismalipot.' .The remembrance of that dark steam, a$ those frowning r ocks, togeth- er with-" "I know," iterposed Niek, hastily, " that it's a dull, pokerish-lookin' place but it may sarye us. fi- a refie for a -night. boys o' your age-oightn't to be 'afeet'd of ghosts and things." Then,.to Pathaway: -It's reported, you +sthat; a murder was compuitted there, and this spharser-legg'eAd has'got the notion into his head that mgirdredfolls come back." "'I think'you onceiformed me that you witnessed a tragedy, there ?"? 'aid Pathaway. "Almost '-; not quite. Thq loveliest,' the pootiest, and the beat O GLord, es !" The last words sien ed td i'"dpdaessed more to himself than anbody- else. "Y'ou returnedhei to:Tier' friends, if' I re- member rightly "Whatever I tole e 6so it 'twas. Yes, I sent her home, though tuas hard parting' with one so interestin',- and, so handsome ; one, 'thqut knowing' it, that had insensibly twined herself round my 'fections." "You loved her,?" queried Pathaway. " The ground she ivalked on i!" said Nick. "And wasn'tt none o' your moonshiny, wishy- washy, senti mental stuff, nuther'; but the renl, airnest, substantial, stick-to-ye principle TV 4 py ,E awl 00 ti H n " z e =1. page: 74-75[View Page 74-75] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. that never gits tired, and never wears out." Indian Joe and Sebastian glanced at each other ; then the eyes of the latter sought the earth, finally wandering back to Nick. 4 We'll go to Black Rock, Nicholas," he. said. "I should like to see the spot where you performed so brave an action." Indian Joe walked from the hut, Nick watch- ing him as he went out. " Keep sight o' that' eritter, colonel. I don't like the looks of him too well. I think 'twould be a good plan to put him under some restraint, sich as tyin' his legs and lashin' him to a saplin'. Fust thing we know, he'll be off. Likely as any way, he's come 'mong us a sort o' spy ; if I thought he had, I'd go out and choke him, by mighty ! I seed the Shoshons lookin' at hin right smart, and l's glad he's bright enough not speak out no plainer." "I am confident that lie may be trusted ; though, placed as we are, we should observe every reasonable caution," said Pathaway. "I'll go out and cross-examine him, as 'twere ; for I thought the conversation inter- ested him rayther too much, seen' he's clear Ingin, and we haven't nothin' in common." Nick arose and followed Joe, who had pro- ceeded toward the spot where the horses were grazing. The trapper approached the tawny boy with the soft, elastic step of an Indian. He touched him upon the shoulder. Joe turned, with a notable start of surprise. "You' a'n't a parfect redskin," said the trapper, quietly. " That's a kind of insex that's seldom taken onawares. An Ingin, in the reg'lar business of trail and war-path, wouldn't 'lowed me to steal a march on him." Joe put out his hands, and stepped back several paces, while the paint seemed to whiten on his face. "Joe young ; Joe never followed war-path. White man great hunter, very cunning !" The voice of the young savage was not clear, but husky with a predominant feeling. " Can't say the same of you, by gracious What you been looking' at them animiles for?" "Joe tired of stayiif in lodge. No know what pale-faces say; their talk is strange to Ingin Joe." :- " Now you're lyin', you little scamp !" ex- claimed Nick, seizing the lad by the collar, and holding him with the grasp of a vice. "I obsarved ye, you young sarpent ! You heerd and understood as well as I or the little 'un ; and you not on'y understood, but you showed too much interest by considerable." . . At this point, Nick lifted Joe sup -and set him down again several times, as if to show him his strength. "I've killed a good many Ingin boys fust an' last, off and on," quoth the trapper, care- lessly; "and I don't sleep none the.worse' for't." Joe trembled at first, but gaining courage, spoke for himself: ,:' /+ t :. ;,# ; = , , ,.;}, ; . , -._ a- i E . , " What you go to hurt Joe ? Joe boy--you man ; if Joe man and you boy, Joe no choke, no shake !" "Ingin, you know too much. I'm less dis- posed to. trust ye than I-was afore. You may be all right, but I'm blest if I believe it! Where there's any doubt, it's best to treat an honest man as if he's a rogue. Arter this, you'll consider yourself a prisoner o' war; and not o' war neither, but of sareumstances." At this announcement, Joe became highly- indignant, his anger showing itself in his flushed face and sparkling eyes. At one mo- ment, Nick believed his passion would find vent in a flood of tears, but a sharp, though evident struggle checked the impulse. lie stood with his chest heaving like a sullen and petulant woman. "What !" he exclaimed ; then checked him- self, as if he had manifested too much feeling, or said something that he ought not to. "Did you say ' What?' " demanded Nick, stroking his beard with his disengaged hand. "Have you learned so soon to talk like white folks? A mighty sha-p and obsarvin' lad you be, I allow." "Joe say, What for you 'buse Ingin boy? He friend of pale face; guide him long way ; bring him here safe ; no let bad white man hurt him." "Jes' so !" answered Nick, mildly. "Sartin -zactly. You took him from the -mean skunks, and I'm 'bleeged to ye; but men in danger don't 'stan' on nice distinctions. You know what distinctions is, don't ye, redskin-?" Joe shook his head very slowly. " In course not ! A heathen bught n't to know' flambergasted. words. I'm glad you don't ; for I don't like to see insex of your color imitatin' their betters : so, beggin' your pardon, I'll jest trot ye back to camp." With a remorseless grip upon his arm that was nearly too much for Joe's stoicism, the trapper led, or 'rather dragged, him toward the hut. " I won't hurt ye-not a bit-Oh Lord, no !" -the boy was ready to cry with pain-" nor I won't injure your feelin's, or deprive ye of none o' your nat'ral rights ; but jest tie your legs, and hitch ye up to a little tree till you're wanted ; not 'cause I've got anythin' agin ye, for I ha'n't ; but to keep ye frorn runni away." " Joe no run ; no go to the Valley ; no tell." "I know ye wont, Ingin. It isn't in the natur' o' things for ye to git away arter I've tied ye up.". Nick looked at his captive, and saw two large tears trembling upon his long lashes. " I'm glad none o' your kith and kin is here, to see that !" added Nick. "'Mong your peo- ple, cryin' is left princip'ly to the squaws. Warriors don't 'low the feelin's of their hearts to work up as fur as the eyes." Nicholas had, by this time, reached the 75 page: 76-77[View Page 76-77] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. camp. Pathaway 'came out to remonstrate with him about his treatment of the boy. "He is a mere child," he said, "and to me has thus far been faithful. I must protest against undue severity." "Sartin; it's your priverlege to pertest. But when life-is at stake, we musn't stan' at bearing' down a trifle on human natur' ; pro- vidin', allers, that Ingin natur' is of that sort. The missioners think 'tis; but, arter all that's said and done, they're heathen-not knowin' a Bible from a pack o' keerds. Howsomnever- we must git ready for a start. Portneuf, whip a string round this youngster's wrists-arter which, take a turn round a saplin' of some magnitood, and keep your eye on him till I git back ; I'm goin'- to take a look at the signs hereabouts. By'usin' my fakilties to the best advantage, I may git hints that '11 prove sar- viceable. We shall be hunted like hares,; but I trust we shall he able to put cunnin' agi cunnin', and throw the hounds from the scent." Joe unresistingly suffered his hands to be bound, though he cast, occasionally, reproach- ful glances at Pathaway. Repeating his ad- monition to the Frenchman to keep a strict watch over Joe, Nick thoughtfully left camp to test the power of his educated faculties and sharpened instincts. As soon as lie was out of sight, the gray hunter app-oached the youthful Indian, and said, soothingly:.. "Do not be grieved, my lad, at this treat- ment. You shall come to no harm. Submit patiently to the humors of Nick Whiffles, who, I am suire; will not wrong you intentionally.' He then examined the cord about his wrists, and, finding it rather tight, loosened it. Joe said nothing -neither expressed his thanks nor his resentment-4:hut stood with lowniast eyes and moody' brow. CHAPTER XXII.s NICK GETS INFORMATION ABOUT HIMSELF. All remained quiet at the little camp in theft wilderness. The day passed without bringing fresh adventure or new signs of the nearness of I enemies. The only observable difference of departure from the common routine was, that the fire was extinguished after the morning meal; nor was it lighted again till nearly night,S and then kept burning but long enough to pre- pare their simple articles of food. Both Nickc and Pathaway were outlying the camp during s the greater part of the dlay, to note those cvi- 3 denies of foes perceptible to experienced eyes f alone, and utterly invisible to the novice, how- ever developed his natural perspicacity. Many v times-did Doubledark ascend the hills and ri- ing grounds in the vicinity, and cast searching glances toward the Valley, the eastern slopes, b and the whole surrounding tract, far as his r As soon as athe unhad veiled his glories s behind the mountains, Nick led the horses to the door, and covered their feet with large strips of buffalo and deer-skin-observing ex- traordinary care in the performance. "Man," he said, "that hasn't been gifted with the instine's of the lower aniniiles, has reason to make up for't. You perceive, little un"--addressing Sebastian more Particularly -" that,I put on these bandages with the hair side out, which makes a soft cushion for the feet, and leaves no track for a pryin' Black- foot, or, what amounts to the same thing, the runagade whiteskins that have fell from the grace of their color, as' 'twre, and rendered theirselves fit marks for the fust honest rifle that can be brought to bear on 'em. Bad stuff," he muttered, musingly, "is white blood turned sour." Hie paused in his labors ; and holding a fore- foot of his horse Shagbark upon his knee, with the akin gathered upon it in folds, held by his left hand, raised his right with suggestive earnestness, as if lie would appeal to every ra- tional person's understanding, and added : "If the p'ison newspapers had got hold of them mean skunks, instead of a simple old trapper who giner'ly minds his own business, and don't keer to have his business advertised, they'd a hit it!" - Nicholas breathed better after this remark, and, with a face upon which there was dissat- isfaction, but no anger, tied a buckskin thong over the segment of buffalo skin that shielded the sharp hoof of his animal. " They have carried you ever and ever so many miles, uncle .Nick, those feet," said Se- bastian. "Younmav b'lieve it, Humbug," replied Nik deliberation. " Yes, white boy humbug !" exclaimed In- dian Joe, scornfully.- "Hullo!0 look out what you say there, red- skin, or you '11 be put mnder a trifle of restraint ag'in " At the solicitation of Pathaway, the boy- guide had been released from the ignominy of bonds-he having expressed so much faith in is integrity, that Donbledark had reluctantly yielded to his wishes. Thm horses having been duly moccasined, Sebastian was placed upon one of them, which was, of course, Nick's. "We must let the little un ride, on 'count of his arm, which is cut nighabout off; and I shouldn't wonder if mortification sets in soon. Mortification runs in the blood of the Whif heses." "Y ou told me,'" said Pathaway, quickly, with a troubled look, ."that the lad's flesh heals with remarkable readiness." "When at rest, it does; but jest let that boy stir about more 'a common on them spat'- er legs, and he'd git up the condemndest-in- lamination that you can '1nagine. I've seen ich inflammations on that lad !" T 4,, it uV k r" ra _ s l . 'c. gr t"at PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 77 "Let him ride, by all means; and, as his There was- a faint stir and quiver in the wound properly belongs to me, and should be grass on the opposite quarter of the camp ; it credited to my own flesh and blood, I will subsided ; the long spires ceased to move ex- walk beside him when practicable, and give cept in obedience to the wind, while Nick re- iaparticular attention during our flight, mained as fixed as the tree that sheltered him. however lon, it may be or difficult. Poor There was a billowy undulation in the rank Andrew Jeanjean can mount The animal that foliage again, then a tufted head lifted slowly bore me in safety fr m Trapper Valley, while above it, then a red face, with gleaming eyes my youthful guide can take the other. We and earnest, eager expression. " Misfortune" are indebted for the two to the wild girl of glanced up at his master, then at the erect, Trapper Trace, whose kindness I shall ever bronzed head. Nick gave him a gentle hint remember with gratitude." to be quiet with the breech of his rifle, which "He can jest as well run along at the horses' he held ready for instant use. The scalp- heels," answered Nick, throwing a suspicious lock of the reconnoitering savage was decor- glanceat Joe. "It's the natur' o' the varmint ated with seven plumes, and the trapper re- to run. Howsomn er, he'll perhaps be safer membered him at once as the leader of the on horseback, though I shall aie him on to party that had captured Jack Wiley. Pre- keep him from givin' usathe slip in the dark. sently, a second head arose from the herbage, Portneuf, jump oh~ to Daphnis, and lead the but it had a redundance of hair and a -white way toward Black Rock by the path I showed face to mark its nationality. e to-day. You're used to the wilderness, and " As I s'pected !" muttered Nick. "They've shall trust a good 'cal to your sharpness." made friends with the mammon of unright- Then to the gray hunter: "In regard to a eousness. That's-Bill brace, and there's some young man o' your 'cuteness, I shall have lit- o' the carrion crows of Hendricks not far off, tle to say in the way of advice-takin' it for 1'll -be. sworn. They're going to fetch the sartin that you know a trail from a bufferler- Blackfeet agin us now-bought 'em up with pathand the sign of an inem from the scram- whiskey, beads, caliker,, and nick-nacks. Well, nnof a mountain-goat or the springy step of they're allies when there's deviltry afoot. a deer or antelope. As for me, I shall be ist, dogs !" ahind and aforeand scoutin' about on every It was a.habit of Nick's, growing out of his side'; for, to tell you the truth (arid it 'twont solitary life, to speak his thoughts when alone ; do no good to conceal it), I've seen symptoms and on this occasion they were spoken so low of a prison diffikilty.",a that the words could scarcely be -said to pass "We're not women and children," answered beyond his lips. Pathway, drily. nthe Indian arose, and throwing forward his tNo," responded the trapper. bluntly, "but long, lithe body, peered into the empty hut, w're men and boys; and sich desp'ratc funny then entered with wary step, followed by Bill boys ! One's got a condemned gash, and Brace. Th were hien m theher's 'tother's got a natur in him that's aging white view for the space of a minute, then camne natur, leastwise.tClimb up, Copperface !" out with looks of disappointment, and searched The last injunction was directed to Joe, who for the trail of the departing prey. mounted with reluctance and sat awkwardly in "Gone ! gone !" exclaimed Brace. "'Tis the saddle. In spite of the remonstrances of the work o' that meddlin', lank Nick Whifles. the hunter, Nicholas secured the boy as if he What think ye, redskin ?" were captive taken in lawful warfare. "Doubledark very dark ; go and come like " Move on, Frenchman," said Doubledark. fox ; eye very sharp on long gun-shoot- " Pathawa ou'll have an eye to the boys, kill-run-no ketch him! Seven Plumes try while I will have eyes for you all." many time take his scalp. No take hissealp !" Portneuf spoke to Daphnis and'the parties Nick smiled grimly and felt of his head ; it were in motion, with the exception of Nick, still wore-its natural coverings who lingered, with the dogs at his side. He "Try take him''live ; carry to village- watched them out of sight, the muffled steps build big fire--roast-burn-make him cry- of the horses sending back no sound, and leav- tears run down like squaw. No ketch hini !" ing a trail intelligible only to the most dis- " Oh Lord, no !" thought Nick. corning eye. Withdrawing a short distance ' Hide inoods to shoot him when go by ; froih the hut, he stood motionless some ten he no-go in woods ; he goon prairie, one, two, minutes, looking now at Smuggler, now at three, four mile off. No 'shoot hint " 'alamity as they crouched at his feet, then at Not a bit on't !" said Nick, mentally. the deserted and lonely lodge. 1,"Followed his trail three days,' continued The moon had not arisen, a deep obscurity Seven Plumes, with growing earnestness, "to resting upon the wilderness, calculated to in- find him 'sleep. gome upon his camp at spire seeing of isolation, hadNick been dis- night; dog bark like devil. No find him mind was as firm as his owi steel, and he "It's the mercy o' God," thought Nihoas, posed to insulg in asuh weotns.Bu hs stthelesp -ie"wdomtoughtolas, could rely upon it as well. w " that lie's -give me wisdom enough 'to 'keep page: 78-79[View Page 78-79] 78 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MQUNTAIN OUTLAWS. PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS, out the clutches of the heathen both by day and by night." "iOne time surround his lodge with war- riors and fire ten, fifteen, twenty-five time ; hit nothin' but lodge. Byrne-by he fire his Long rifle ; kill Ingin every shot. That no good I Seven Plumes and his braves go 'way very mad. 'Nother time take pale-face priso- ner ; start, but Doubledark hide in valley *mong rocks ; steal up to prisoner-cut him loose-pale-face 'git 'way - Doubledark git 'way. Ugh!" . . 'the brow of the Blackfoot grew darker with resentment. A few twinkling stars threw a feeble iight upon his dusky face. He resem- bled a dark picture in a dark setting, with Bill Brace and-the cabin for a background. " Can't say, Blackfoot, that, I'm sorry a prisoner got away, though it seems like an in- jury to you. The critter was Jack Wiley, and belongs to Cap'n Dick's fellers. If you'd made an'eend 'o Jack, our boys would a been arter ye, and there'd been no friendship atween us ; so his meddlin' that time turned out for the best." Nick lifted the breech of his rifle a little from the leaves, and his fingers worked upon the barrel as if playing on an instrument, but a feeling, either of policy or humanity, pre- vented his sending the unerring bullet. He' scanned his lurking and persevering enemy with an interest awakened by the revelations he had heard. Had he indeed been singled out by the tawny nomads of the wilderness as a special victim of their vengeance ? Was this circumstance new to him? It was not. A wandering life, stretching over some twen- ty-five years, had taught him the peculiarities of savage nature ; given him an insight into its wiles, artifices, and obstinate persistence in dogging the footsteps of an enemy. He had been instructed unon the dangerous trapping- grounds by - sudden surprises ; by forced marches and hasty flights ; by chance rencon- tres in a hundred places, by countless contin- gencies incident to that kind of existence, un- til his sensibilities had grown sharp and his knowledge approximated to the keenness of in- stinct. Even his present position proved how much training had done for him ; he stood within a few yards of inveterate enemies--two, certainly, with more, doubtless, within call-.- one man, yet firm and confident, and conscious of his own abilities to meet emergencies. . "Seven Plumes shall have Doubledark to carry to his village," said Brace, with deter- niiination. " His skulp shall hang up in his lodge after his women and children have played with. it, and paraded it about on a pole. A pooty thing it'll be, to p'int to it and say, 'That's the akulp of Nick Whiffes !"' The trapper imagined that he could see a sinister scowl upon the Indian's forehead, which grew more malign as Brace went on. "The great Nor'west," resumed the latter, bitterly, "has rung long enough with the name of Doubledark. You can't go nowhere but you'll hear on him. Go up the Big Red, and they'll ask for fifty mile along its banks if you've seed him. Go down the' Columby, and it's the same thing over ag'in. Take a long tramp 'cross the lakes to Montreal, and the Frenchmen 'ill ask, ' Are ye 'quainted with Nick Whiffles ?' On the southern slope of the Rocky mountains they'll want to know what Nick'Whiffles is doin', and if he's coming' down that way soon. ' I know this is so, both by my own experience and what I've heerd from others." " He great warrior, great hunter, great trapper, great everything !" asserted Seven Plumes, reflectively. " Great as he is, he's yourn. Cap'n Hen- dricks says you shall have him, if he's got men enough to take him, though he don't wan't to be known much in the business him- self, for everytilin' that's done here works down into the clearin's in course o' time. He's got heaps of knives, blankets, and beads for his brothers the Blackfeet. 'Chief, bring out your braves ; let 'em swarm into every pass and valley, perarie, and bit 'o timber in this stretch o' country. There's a boy and a man with him ; the man," he added, depressing his voice. " b'longs to me." " Me know !" said Seven Plumes, quickly.. "You fought together like squaws. He knock Bill Brace down-strike dam hard ! Make face look like squaw's face when she been beat by drunken Ingin. Wah ! wah !" Seven Plumes-turned up his nose in con- tempt. Bill Brace swore an oath which would not grace our pages, exhibiting his chagrin in an unmistakable manner. " The boy," he continued, wincing, " must be taken, too. Cap'n Dick wants him, but what for, is more'n I know ; he talks about him queer, 'pearin' to be afeard on him one minute, and inquisitive 'bout him the next. Does Seven-Plumes understand ?" " Ugh, ugh !" "Then," proceeded Brace, "there's a crit- ter, a Frenchman called Portneuf, that's got to be put one side 'fore he can snuff the air of the settlements. Don't stan' on ceremony with him, chief, but lift his hair quick's you can. He's been in the Valley, and in a ha ter, too, but by some kind of deviltry or niekromaney -which Nick Whiffles may be at the bottom of, for all I know-slipped out neck and heels, hose and all. He might talk, you know. Do you hear ?" "Am I a tree or a stone?" " You may be a clod afore you know it !" muttered Nick. " Then I have spoke to the p'int, and we'll set ourselves to work to pick outthis trail. It'll go hard with us, if Ingin cunnin' and white cunnin' can't outwit him." r I f I a 1+ pis Z r 1 A " It'll go hard with me and them with me," was the conviction that forced itself upon the trapper,. if you do." The Indian and Brace now commenced a fresh examination of the spot ; while they were looking at every indentation in the earth, every wound of the'tender grass, every disturb- ance of the leaves, with their faces close to the earth, Nick silently retreated, following with cautious strides the party in which he felt so deep an interest, not so much by the trail, which was scarcely perceptible, even to him, but from perfect familiarity with the route Portneuf had taken. CHAPTER XXIII. THE YOUNG INDIAN .MAKES A STARTLING ANNOUNCEMENT. Psthaway and the lads, conducted by the Frenchman, passed over considerable ground before Nick overtook them. In the interim, the hunter, agreeably to his promise, had kept near Sebastian, watching his movements with friendly zeal, ready to assist him in case ofneed. The youth received his attentions with a sin- gular mixture of gratitude and timidity-the latter, that inexplicable shrinking that often rendered his character feminine. The eyes of Indian Joe frequently wandered to the parties, but with no pleased expression. The gray hunter noticed at length his persistent, and at times, anxious glances, and walked to his side, leaving Sebastian in the rear. " Joe," he said, in a gentle manner, "I re- gret that one who has done me a ervice should be thus treated ; but we are placed in a position so perilous that we are forced to use every reasonable precaution ; although I con- fess that were it not for our friend, the trap- per, I would not consent to this measure, but allow your limbs to remain free." " Ingin boy no 'count. He guide pale-face, but no matter. White hunter no memory. Tie Joe up like dog-he no feel-he no care---his flesh no have pain I" The boy pronounced these abrupt sentences in an aggrieved tone, and Pathaway would not have been surprised to see tears flow down his red cheeks. But his grief-if grief it were- was mingled with a spirit that would occasion- ally flash up wild and fervent. Not knowing how to' soothe a nature like his, - Pathaway kept pace with the slow movements of his horse in silence, waiting for a different mood to come over him to render him more placa- ble. "Why you walk 'side Joe? Joe no white. Go walk 'longside squaw !" The young Indian threw a scornful look backward at Sebastian. " What did you say, Joe ?" asked the hunter, glancing inquiringly at his features. " Go walk with squaw--talk with squaw, and no mind Ingin Joe, who save your life !" . "You call him a squaw," answered Patha- way,.musing, "but the term of reproach is un- merited. I know he is very contradictory in his behavior, but I do believe that he is not wanting in courage, as that wound upon his arm attests." " How ?" asked Joe, eagerly, as if thrown off his guard. " He bravely interposed that member be- tween my own person and the knife of an as- sassin -a burly ruffian called Bill Brace, whom it was once my privilege to punish for his insolence." "Bill Brace 1" repeated Joe, with a slight start. " Yes, Bill Brace ; one of the creatures of the man Hendricks. I might have been sleep- ing soundly beneath the green turf of the wil- derness,'had it not been for Sebastian Delau- nay. Even the wandering red man knows how to-repay gratitude, and bears ever inhis breast, as a sacred deposit, the remembrance of a favor." " Has no one else saved the life of the pale. face. hunter?" Joe demanded sharply, almost angrily. "Yes, Carlta--the strange girl qarldta !" responded Pathaway, sighing. " She might have been lovely in character as in person ; but now, alas ! she is Beauty run wild ." Then he added, " And wicked, too." "She saved life, but you no like her. That not the way Ingin does ; he no forget when friend come, take him by the hand and say 'you free ; here hoss with saddle, bridle, and here Ingin boy, that no betray you." "Do those cords hurt your'wrists ?" Patha- way asked, after an embarrassing silence. ".They cut into he flesh, gbut Joe no com- plain. He git pay that way for what he done." "I'll hazard the risk of freeing your hands, at any rate," said Pathaway, touched with re- morse, and immediately out the boy's'bonds with his'knife. "I will trust you ; see thatmy confidence is not abused." " Joe no make promise ; he do what he please, but no make promise. He tell pale- face, though, that that boy no boy ; he squaw- he woman !" The blood flushed up to Pathaway's brow. " Joe tell truth ; he no he--that boy, wo- man !" For some reason Pathaway did not immedi- ately answer. Perhaps he was comparing the young Indian's startling assertion with his-own thoughts, and. evidences gathered from a thousand trifling circumstances. He partially turned and threw an earnest look 'at Sebastian Delaunay ; the youth's face appeared more beautiful than ever. His large, dreamy eyes beamed with softer'light, while his wondrous symmetry of person shaped itself into a form of additional grace. The little hand, the di- minutive foot and daintily turned ankle, had new meaning for Pathaway.. He recalled the occasion of the dressing of the wounded arm, and the vague, and then almost improbable 79 page: 80-81 (Illustration) [View Page 80-81 (Illustration) ] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. suspicion that had floated dimly and distantly across the horizon of his mind,'vet with suf, ficient vividness to give him a strange thrill For a moment he forgot everything but the one absorbing conviction that Indian. Joe had forced upon him. "lIe's a tender p1ant-a delicate half-breed, I allow, but certainly. Joe, you have started an improbable conjecture," he said, presently. "Pale-face wise, bu t he no deceive 'oe. Ile -feel all the time, boy, woman; white man's heart tell him boy, woman ; but' he no want to believe what it'-say ; 'so .he go on like one in dream, now satisfied, now not ; now no: care, now care ihelr." Joe's penetrating eyes looked at Pathaway as if to read the obseurest page of his heart. In truth, the gray hunter was visibly agitated,. and Carl6ta'and °the banditti of'Trapper Val- ley were swept from his consciousness. Had " Joe indeed lfladea disclosure ?4, If the cpersen in question were indeed a woman, what was: her history,-and why was she wandering like a damsel errant in the Northern wilds? "Her eyes were like soft star-beams gleaming atitfitdg ht oh the' sleping matef; ,. , Her face was ever on me beaming, -,. evel the wandering trapper's dp4ghter. Ohthe trapper's daughter!" The voice of Andrew Jeanjeana was, lifted, monrfully unpda the night ,air, and borne away over bush and; brake. and waving grass. At that instant Nlk overtook them. " That's rutllergood u;usic," he said, "but it hasn't power toQsoothe the savage breast hereabouts; .Andrew,-lad, don't sing no.more at present, for there are heathen ears that, may ketch the sound,.and we've wore our sk-nlps. so long that we should.,be loth to part with 'em for a song ; though .a good many things has been sold fob a:song, Ive, herdd" : Then to Sebastia «.;,,. "6Are, .you ;'sleep, Sparrer-Legs f.., How's. that' p'ison gash 'o' your'n? 'Tisnz't A good, thing to get'he4 .in. THve knowed a.crn- demned difikilty to, come of s' smaller out. nor that. Are ye cmfQrttsbe, little 'ul?" Pathaway's handsome face turned. wonder- ingly, admiringly upon.-Niek ,Whiffies.. e thought he knew, now,, thq spnningcof all his are of 'Sebastian ; his womanly tenderness:of. hinti; his eoustarat" solicitude for hi -safety; his thousand attentions;,his countless artifiees. to sbiel4 himsfrom, distrust ; his infailing, never-tiring kindness,; his gentle',delicacy ; his immeasurable friendship. Here was a niystery ! And into this mystery, l'athaway passed with all his being., He no ;longer felt indifference respecting the .dangers that sur- rounded them.- Here was an object thrown upon,his care that gave an interest to flight and defeuce. - The romance, of woman was upon the wilderness. T he charm of her in- nocenee, hopelessness, and beauty gave new incentive to effort, and converted the wide-i stretching North into an arena where lances might be broken and gallant deeds performed. Already he was conscious of that enchantment that ever waits upon the presence, and lives in the voice and smiles of that softer sex to which all men, sooner or later, yield homage. He felt his maiabod. revive, and began.to take an active interest in their, nocturnal flight. By: this:time they had reached a spot where the, cu-de--sac, or, blind alley, leading to the basin which had received the'name of Black Rock, on account of the towering masses of dark rock-that hemmed ri in. Nick Whiffles had reason to reniember the place ; he had. not only lost traps there in an unexplainable manner, but ha'd'witnessed, in' addition, 'that terrible drama described in the first chapter of our tale. S4thatf obterved that Sebastian shivered the moment his shadow fell within the narrow portal. Niek was at the lad's side in an in- stant,'speaking, ina low voice, words of en- couragement. . " Under ordinary edrcumstances, this spot would be safe," said Nick, presently, " but as' things is, we can't rely entirely on its security; for the red 'heathen are leagued with our ene- mies, and, we: may expect to hear from 'em afore.the world is much older. Howsomnever, three good riflesin practiced hands, is amor- tal terror to the nat'ral varnigints. of the .ile ; so be likely, lad, and don't be east down with misgivin's or the pain of your little diffi- kilty "." kil.'m notafraid, uncle Nick," replied Se- bastian. "Not a -bit on't! not a bit on't! Should like tW hear somebody say that you're afeard, or that you're capable o' being' skeer d in any manner," answered Nick, heartily. A low, disdainful laugh came, from the di- reelion of indian Joe; .but. when the trapper looked at him sharply, he appeared as sullen nd absent as ever. - . "Ingin boys git big enough to skulp when they're about 'leven year'old !" observed Nick, contracting his brow till-there was a vertical wrinkle on the. line of, and parallel with his .nose. Whether Joe ; understood this, remark as having any application to himself, is problem- atical. A. smile - lingered an. instant on the pale lips- of Sebastian, but wbich suddenly faded as they emerged from the winding alley into the basin - CHAPTER XXIV.. piac'x r.ur. The irregular ranpart of roek that gave name to tiespot, towered around the parties in dim-end shadowy outline, resembling a rough and gigantic wall built by, some extinct race of giants,. the- uniformity.of which work was A 9 -4 to1 d " 80o page: 82-83[View Page 82-83] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 0 marred by the busy and wasting touch of Time. The dark stream upon which Nick had be- stowed the appellation of Black Run, lay be- fore them like a surface of ebony. Sebastian pressed closely to Nicholas; there was a perceptible wildness in his manner, while his face was strikingly pallid, consider- ing the mixture of his blood. The gray hun- ter purposely placed himself near the youth, and observing signs of his besetting weakness upon him, remarked to the trapper : "Our young friend has the chills again." " Not the chills, not the chills," said Nick, but the animosity of his wound. It gives him a deal o' pain, but being' of Ingin natur, in part, leastwise, he's too proud to complain. You've no idee how much torment he can stan'! I r'ally b'lieve that he could have a double tooth distracted Iby,a Selkirk doctor 'thout wincin'; and that's sayi4' a good 'eal for his fortitude, for the teeth of the Whiffleses come mighty hard. They tried to pull one for me, the doctors did, but they ained their money, by 'gracious ! Arter they'd broke several instruments and made my mouth a gorge o' blood, I told 'em, 'Hold on,' sez I, and they's right glad to 'leave go. "'Bring a lariat,' sez I. The lariat was brung. "' Put a runnin' noose round the grinder,' sez I, and they did it. "'Make t'other eend fast to a tree,' sez I, and they 'beyed the order. When this was done, taking a pistol in each hand, I sez to 'em : ' Seize me by the heels !' sez I, and b the heels they seized me. ' Now pull,' sez I, and the fust man as lets go afore the tooth's out, I'll shoot!' sez I. Then there was some pullin' and tuggin' for 'bout fifteen minutes or up'ards, and the parspiration rolled off 'em like rain from the ruff of,a house in a shower. It hurt like p'ison ! I thought to gracious every bone in my systum was coming' out; but I'd had the jump' toothache goin' on two months and was worked up to a desprit pitch. 'What's the use,' thought I, 'of havin' bones if there's to be a consarned diffikilty in 'em all the time? Might's well have no bones, as to have rotten ones. Some animiles,' I reason- ed, ' don't have no bones. There's snakes, for instance, don't have none,to brag on, and they squirm about and git over the ground like lightning' and I'm equal to a snake, anyday.' And with that I menaced 'em with my wee- pons, and the grinder came out spiteful, with a noise as loud as the crack of a rifle." Nick paused, then added, shaking his head: "I'll never have no more pulled, for it shocked my -skileton terrible ; and took out a good bit o' the narvous systum ; for the grinders, you know, are set right into the narvous system." Pathaway was not backward to perceive the tact of the trapper in leading his mind from the youth, and to divert the thoughts of the " 88 latter to a subject more agreeable than that which manifestly disturbed him. "Does your wound indeed give you so much pain ?" Pathaway asked, in a voice modulated more softly than usual ; for since the strange declaration of Indian Joe, he had felt a strong desire to hear Sebastian converse. His tones, always clear and low, were now to him more melodious, and he listened to" them with rapt attention. " You distress yourself on my account too much," he said, with a strong attempt at cheerfulness. "Uncle Nick, I believe, has spoiled me by too much petting. - If he had subjected me to more hardship, been less careful of my comfort, and more desirous of my reputation as a hunter, my person would have been seasoned to the hardships of the life to which I was born." .,. "Nonsense !" interrupted Nick, " I know what you're capable of better nor you do. You can travel, and suffer, and starve with the best of us, on a pinch ; and not on a pinch, neither, but at the shortest notice." " Can he trap ?" Pathaway inquired, me- chanically. "'Twould do you good to see him trap!" answered Nick, with unction. He'll put that foot o' his'n on the spring of a trap in a way you don't think of. Click ! 'and down it goes, and his fingers work into the jaws of the trap, break 'em down, and fix the trencher surpns- in'! He knows jest where to place the thing, too, and how to conceal it in the grass. 'Twould 'stonish ye to see the fur the lad's ketehed, fust and last. He follers up the streams as if by instine' and not by larnmn'" "He's a good shot, doubtless ?" continued the hunter, interested in the honest zeal of the trapper. "He shoots beyend everythin'! Set up a mark of some bigness a little ways off for that boy to hit, and you'll see -p'ints o' character that you don't mistrust. He had a small rifle of his own--a nice one, that I paid a hundred dollars for if I paid a cent, but 'twas stole from him whew his hoss was stole. I told you that some thievish critter took his animile, didn't I ? I's sorry for the loss, 'cause it conic of a good breed, and in size was about of a niuchness with Sparrer-Legs." Sebastian, who had been walking unsteadi- ly, tottered, and would have fallen had it not been for the friendly interposition of Patha- way, who caught him' in his arms, and in the haste of doing so, grasped him by his wound- ed arm. The pain produced by' the action probably served to recover' him; deep flush came to his cheeks, but no exclamation of suf- fering passed his lips., While the gray hunter supported him, Nick ran to the stream and broughtwater in his cap, which grateful liquid he sprinkled upon his face. The hunter, holding the hand of the injured member in his, felt something warm upon his page: 84-85[View Page 84-85] 84 PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. own, and perceived with alarm that it was stained with crimson drops. His sudden grasp had loosened the bandages and started the bleeding afresh. Nicholas detected the cir- cumstance at the same time, and appeared for a moment embarrassed. But it was for an in- stant, only, that he was nonplussed'; bringing from some mysterious pocket a yellow bandan- na of long service, by no means above suspicion in the matter of cleanliness, he bound it about Sebastian's arm outside the sleeve of his frock. Pathaway expressed dissatisfaction at this impromptu surgery, but was gravely assured that he had actednaccording to universal eus- tone in the Northwest. Sebastian was uncon- seious but a few seconds, and glanced timidly at Nick when he recovered, as if fearful of being censured for his weakness. "Forgive me, uncle Nick !" lie murmured. " Not a tallI" answered Nick. "You are angry !" said the lad, much troubled. "I have gone beyond your pa- tience." "iThe Lord love ye, no! It's that con- demned diflikilty that makes you so shaky in the j'ints." The trapper looked at the rocks and re- membered the torches that had once flashed across their rough sides and gleamed down on the 'water. His countenance grew serious. "4Necessity," lie said, addressing Sebastian, "brings us here ; but it's a .necessity that shan't last long if I can help it. I. under- stan' you obsarve, what natur is, and how some .folks feel under sartin earcumstances. This is but a temporary hidi'-place; a spot "where we stop to breathe, as 'twere, and where we'll leave the houses, prehaps. We're hunt- ed, and it's needful that d should watch the inemy. Seven-Plumes, the chief of the Black- feet, is a renowned warrior that has an on- pleasant hankering' for my hair ; and if there's a varmint cunning enough to lift it, lie's the one.,though I shall throw as many diffikilties in his way as possible ; for a man'll part with e'enamost snytihin' else more cheerfuller nor lhe will with his skulp. I can play at the game of low cunnin' as well as another ; but I'll he skinned if it's in me to take the top- knot of a dead inemy, though I've knowd white folks as would do it. Colonel, stay here and , look arter this boy ; and not too much, neither ; for you'll make him bleed an'in if you stare at him as you do sometimes. Here's the Ingin, too, who must be 'tended to, for mtofy confidence in him is, shook. The heathen chief is sharp at a trail, and may be closer than- is safe. Come, Frenchman, o with me ; for I recollect that you used to be no fool in matters o' the woods and red- skins." "fBut why not take .me for your compan- ion -" said 1'athaway, somewhat piqued. 41To be frank, because you are the stronger of the two, and rayther the quickest with your eyes and rifle, prehaps ; and you're in duty bound to stick to the boy that was will- in' to risk his own life for your'n."- Without waiting to hear further remon- strance, Nick glided away, followed by Port- neuf. The gloom of the night perceptibly light- ened, the clouds lifting and the moon appear- ing dimly, affording Pathaway a tolerable view of surrounding objects. The jagged out- lines of the rocks, separated from, and seemed to rise out of the darkness, defining their rude, strength with a boldness that was strik- ing. "nBehold," said the hunter, sweeping the basin with his finger, " the more massive, and cumbrous workmansh of Nature ! How grand and stern she is in a scene like this !" " I see no sublimity in towering rocks and bold crags ; at least, not here," answered Se- bastian, averting his eyes after a hurried glance at the points indicated. "I confess that a chilling awe creeps over me." " That comes of the force of association." returned Pathaway. "You have in your re- membrance the tale frequently alluded to by our friend, the trapper. Many places, grand and interesting naturally, become terrible by circumstances ; a spot where a murder has been committed, for instance. Cast your eyes across that dark sheet of, water and, observe how those stony peaks are graduated,' one ris- ing above another as they recede from the ba- sin. We have only to have lights and figures moving from crag to crag, to finish a wild and romantic picture.". Sebastian looked up at the hunter to see if he meant more than his words implied; but his was not a countenance easily read ; it was always calm and thoughtful, save when fired up by wrong or danger, when his mouth grew firmerin its significance, and his eyes beamed with courage and determination. " That stream is to me black and fearful !" Sebastian answered, "and the riven rocks, the looming ledges, and the pointed peaks are weird and threatening." The youth made a gesture toward the ob- jects spoken of as he severally mentioned them. The, gray hunter did not respond to this remark, keeping his eyes fixed upon the beetling rocks. "1I am almost certain," he said anon, " that I saw a human figure on yonder bluff." "It cannot be; it was but a creation of fancy," Sebastian replied, with a shudder. ".I know that the eve is easily deceived, es- pecially at night, in a-spot where the imagina- tion has free scope to roam." He stopped, then exclaimed : " It was no deception ! There it is again! Now it is out of sight." "A mountain goat, perhaps ; the spot does. not a appear accessible to men," said the youth. " ou are mistaken. If my judgment does not err, that is the very place where the out- laws entered the basin, bearing their helpless and lovely victim. What a sceneit mut have been, as they defiled into the valley, and stood by the stream, the torches gleaming in the foreground, the woman kneeling with out- stretched hands, and in the back-ground, grouped together, the accomplices of the act. What powerful motives could have led to the perpetration of such a deed ?" "" The bad passions of men," Sebastian re- plied, in a voice scarcely articulate, while the dark face of Indian Joe was thrust forward to drink in every word with an inquisitive inter- est that was unusual for one of his race to ex- hibit. "There is a Power that often thwarts the base purposes of man, which was strikingly displayed in this instance. Nick informs me," lie added, regarding Sebastian steadily, " that the womanwas beautiful. As you have been with the trapper a long time, you doubtless saw her. Was she then so handsome, good youth ? Sebastian hesitated, while a faint color stole to his cheeks. Indian Joe's dark orbs were leveled at the boy with all their deep and mysterious inten- sity. - " I saw her," he said, stammering, "and though many were pleased to think her beau- tiful, I did not fall in love with her face." "Her figure ?" queried Pathaway. " Being but a boy, I am no judge of such matters," added Sebastian, with affected play- fulness. " I never heard any one -fault her form. She certainly had no reason to com- plain of the gifts of Nature." Joe's brow now knitted into a. frown, and the long, delicate lashes that fringed his eyes quivered with some secret emotion. " I am talking while I should be acting," said Pathaway. "It will not be well to allow an enemy to surprise one who is no novice in woodcraft. I must reconnoitre yonder rocks." The hunter paused, and looked toward Joe, as if at a loss to know what disposition to make of him. " Go with you," he said, comprehending the glance with that quickness which was charac- teristic of him. " No, you must stay with-with Sebastian." The youth had regarded the gray hunter more than once with a singular admixture of doubt, curiosity, and alarm. It seemed to him that the tones of the man's voice had changed -that they were more respectful and gentle. Deference Was what he had never before shown him, however kind and friendly his manner. " I will return in a moment," said the hun- ter, and had walked several yards toward the stream, when the report of a carbiie disturbed the silence of the basin. Pathaway Staggered and fell. Sebastian sprang to his side, and either through terror, the weakness incident to his wound, or both combined, sank insen- sible to the ground. I Pathway imnediately arose, and perceiv- ing what had happened to the youth, caught him in his arms and hurried to a spot more sheltered from the aim of an enemy. As he hastened forward, he looked furtively over his shoulder and saw a little cloud of smoke rising from the crag where he had seen the figure. " He is dead ! they have killed him I" mur- mured Sebastian, almost indistinctly, as he slowly recovered. " No ! he lives ; he is with you !" said Path- away. The lad opened his eyes with a bewildered air, and seeing himself supported by the hun- ter, gently disengaged himself. "I heard a report and thought you had fallen. It could not have been fancy," Sebas- tian added, not yet quite certain what had happened. " I was struck by a spent ball, but am un- injured." "This wound, I believe, makes a child of me," replied Sebastian, with a forced smile. " My flesh, evidently, does not heal so readily as represented by Nick." "1I have observed' you attentively, my lad, and am sure that you have suffered much. Your hands,"he continued, taking the youth's in his, " are feverish. You have not com- plained enough." The boy Joe tossed his head and dilated his nostrils with unequivocal contempt. "Blood mixed !" he muttered. "Weak-- faint like squaw-child! Young Ingin go on trail; git bullet git arrow-almost kil -no cry !" Then hinting at Sebastian : "le better put on gown like white woman." " Be silent, boy !" said Pathaway, with a rebuking glance. " If your warriors do not complain of wounds, neither do they talk much. - The young men and youths who have. never been on the war-path keep mute tongues in the presence of their superiors." Joe turned his back moodily to Pathaway, but did not cease to-cast occasionally disdain- ful looks at Sebastian, and there might have been in them a portioniof hatred. The height- ened color of the lad told how keenly-he felt the taunts of Joe. Spurred perhaps by his derision, possibly because his injury gave him less pain, he arose and declared himself entire- ly recovered from his recent ill feelings, which -he. attributed partly to loss of blood, partly to the sudden shock of seeing Pthaway pros- trated by the aim of a lurking foe. " I'm sorry," he said, with a singular dis- play of spirit, " that! my rifle was stolen; for according to present appearances, I shall have occasion to use it ; andI tell oil, Colonel, I can shoot quite well. You doubt it, I see, but I will convince you at the first opportunity that offers." do page: 86-87[View Page 86-87] 56- , PATIAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. "No Ingin--no bad white man come ; you kill 'em quick !"said Joe, looking at Seas- tian's bow and quiver, which had fallen upon the ground a few yards distant. ".he bow and arrow," said Pathaway; com- ing to the rescue," are instruments not to be desjaised. Your own people, tawny Joe, have used them with geat effect. I'n not disposed to alight the eaims of the bow, which was one:ot the primitive weapons of mankind, in vogpe long before the rifle and powder were dreanmed of." "Joe," observed Sebastian, "is in ill temper. He is little pleased with the severity of Nick, but his limbs being now free, I see no reason that he should murmur." The young Indian deigned no reply. Nick and Portneuf were heard approaching. "Who fired ?" asked the former, quickly. .:Some one hidden among yonder cliffs," Pathaway replied. "2Nobody hurt, I hope ? We shall have enopgh to 'tend to 'thout ,lookin' arter gun- shot wounds." ,, ";A spent ball struck me upon the side, or ratherupon the metallic handle of my hunt- ing knife, doing .o other harm than prostrat- ing me by the shook." " That's fortinit I We can't afford to lose man nor, oy at present. The' critters, I be- liens, haven't diskivered the natril way to Bla k Run; but it 'pears they're comm' down the rocks yonder, for it couldn't been a chance shot that struck you. Dick Hendricks is in qirnest, and his new allies, the red niggers, are up and stirrih'. I should like to draw a bead on some ont'em, by righty! There'll be warm work, but I'm sartin you'ltan' bylike,a man. Whatever happens, .f you e through it, I want you to keep a still tong , in your head, and; not let the p'ison newspapers it hold on't. What's the use o' bein' held up afore the pub- lic,,and turned over and over like a brile ? I swear to gracious," added Nick, taking an old cap from the tube of his rifle and replacing it by another, "if the pesky clearing's wasn't so far off, I'd go down with a load o' peltries, and buy up ha a dozen of the condemned con- earns I" ' I think no one has spoken ill of you in the clearings,"' said Pathaway. SI've lived 'cordin to my natur, and why should a person be spoke .ill of that's lived 'cordin to his natur ? I never cheated nobody of what b'longed to him, nor sold peltry that waqtlegaly mine, nor shot a bufferler out o' waitonness, nor deserted a brother trapper in need, nor drawed bagk when there was danger, or rubbed out a heathen red-skin when self- preservation didn't demand it." "1Few of your brethren of the gun'and trap ean say as much," Patbaway replied. -1tacit consent, the two men walked a few from the rest of the parties. You saw no signs of pursuers near the cul-de-sac ?" said Pathaway, interrogative- ly. " Don't talk French, colonel, if you want to git information out o' me, for I never could talk much with the Monsbeers ; though I've picked up a few words here and there from the French vo a eu Howsomnever, to come to the pint, I diskred nothin' to excite s'pi-, cion that they'd found the entrance to Black Run. But as Seven-Plumes, Bill Brace, Hen- dricks and his crew are on our trail, we can't expect to remain long undisturbed. If there wasn't but one Ingin in the business, we could hope to outwit 'em with less trouble ; but they've got their orders to swarm into every hidin'-place, pass, valley, gulch, perarie, and timber in the whole o' this region." While Nicholas was speaking, Pathaway was thinking of Sebastian. At one moment he was tempted to tell frankly his suspicions concern- ing the sex of the youth ; but, he inwardly queried, would it be kind to refer to a subject which Nick took so much pains to conceal ? Again there was a possibility of mistake. The assertion of Indian Joe might be false ; 'and yet that could scarcely be, for there were in- numerable little circumstances to confirm it. He resolved that he would be silent, at least for the present, well assured that Sebastian was not what his garb would indicate. - " The lives of those with us and our own be- ing at stake, how shall we escape the toils 'f our enemies ?" Pathaway asked. "I thought," answer ed Nick, "pervidin' we reached this. place, we should be safe ; but you observe that human calkilations isn't callers to be depended on. A nice hidin' spot is this under common car cumstances ; but as luck'll have it, Hendricks knows the way down yon- der rocks. Turn your eyes to that crag that stands out so square and bold. Well, 'twas on that -that I see the two men, Hendricks and Bill Brace, appear with-their torches on a sar- tin night that I've mentioned afore. I remem- ber how they looked wavin' 'em, to make the glare fall upon the basin and on the surround- i' rocks. He wore, a red sash, Cap'n Dick did. Arter stannin there a minute, grim and onnat'ral, as 'twere, they vanished from sight, } to start up ag'in presently, more to the right, where you see the peaks gradooated one above another, like stairs. They toiled down slow and keerful, did Brace and Hendricks, with the four ruffians ahind 'em bringin' the lovely gal. I can very well recollect how the torches sunk and rose ag'in, as they wound down the rough way." "I would like to know," said Pathaway, ear- nestly, "what became of that woman ?" " 'm wandering' from my siubjeck," answer- ed Nick, hurriedly. " You want to know what shall we do? '11 give ye' my pinionn, then I'll hear your'n. Bear in mind, colonel, that you've been fired at, which couldn't happened if you hadn't been seen. Well, that's a dis- A PATHAWAY ; OR, TlE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 87 kivery, I allow, so that we're no longer hid, but found. Now, what can we do, hemmed up in this little pocket, with Ingins and whites prowlin' in the rocks all round us ?" " And I might ask, too, what we shall do in the open country with the whole pack on our trail ?" " We can't trust to speed," said Nick, slow- ly.- " No, no ; speed won't do ; we must put eunnin' ag'in cunnin'. If our enemies are wise as serpents, we must be wiser. - We must blind their eyes." " W ere you and I alone interested in this matter, we should have little to fear; but there are other lives, Nicholas-Sebastian and poor Andrew Jeanjean." " Nick was in the act of replying, when a fig- ure emerged from the narrow pass and ap- proached them. It was Multnomah, the Shos- hons chief. His countenance was grave, his manner dignified. " Has Doubledark forgotten the words of the Shoshons ?" he asked. "Does he scorn to go where the birds build their nests ?" 61I come here, Ingin, because I thought the place little known to white or red-skin, and would be a good spot to leave the houses, least- wise. The words of Multnomah are not like the wind that blows on unheeded ; they're laid up here."' Nick touched his head. " Seven-Plumes has told his young men, his women and children, that there will be a scalp- dance at his village before many days. The Blackfeet boys are gathering sticks to light many fires." "Let 'em gather 'em!'1 retorted Nick, con- tracting his brows. "They'd better put 'em under kiver to keep 'em dry ; for it'll belong, in my 'pinion, afore they use 'em on flesh o' mine. The Master of Lif didn't make me for fire-wood; if lie had, I should been drier and more combustible. As for the matter o' skulp, mine was made to be'carried on my head, and not on a pole ; leastwise, not on sich a pole as the varmints parade their trophies on.. don't feel consarned for myself; for I know that both savage and civilized fear this long bit o' iron which can carry death a hundred rods.' I've p'inted it many and many a time, and it never let out its fire and smoke for -nothin'; when it's voice was heerd, I know'd where to look for the bullet. It hasn't made all its speeches yet ; there's them not fur off as it must reason with and talk toit its own'riginal way." " The name of Doubledark is feared by his enemies," replied Multnomah. " Butrlook at the rattlesnake, who carries poison in his head, and is terrible when he bites ; where is his power when he is beset by the ants ; he writhes and darts his tongue in vain ; his ene- mies are so many that he cannot contend with them, and dies in agony. A cloud hangs over Black Rock ; before morning it will gather to a tempest; call your people and fly." The Shoshone spoke earnestly, almost au- thoritatively. "Yes, I'd made up my mind for that, Ingin, and was proposin' it to the colonel when you come. 1 shallcotnt on you, and I trust you won't desert us, for we need your quickeye and your true'rifle. The losses must be Ift they'll be as safe here as anywhere. What could the poor animiles do where we're goin'? Nothin'; they'd be a bother to us and no good to themselves ; for pasturage is mighty scarce, I allow, up thereaway." Nick pointed to the North, then joined Sebastian and .those that were with him. This conversation took place on the east side of the basin, and so far within the shadow of the inaccessible wall, that persons occur - ing the cliffs at the west would have been gift- ed with unusual sharpness of eyesight to see them. Multnomah 'awaited the return of the trapper silently ; and when he came, moved noiselessly toward the cut-de~sac, and was fol- lowed without questioning. They had walked, but a short distance, when Pathaway reecllect. ed that his hunting-knife had slipped from'its sheath 'while he was talking with Nick; he went back to recover it. As he stooped to take it from the ground, he saw a narrow niche in the wall of the rock, in which lay a; small package. Curiosity impelled him to take lit ; it was a beaver-skin wrapped carefully about something. He unrolled it; the wrapper con- tained, much to his surprise, the long, dark, shining tresses of a woman's hair. Holding up the silky threads to the t'aint moonlight, he examined them with mute eagerness, but not without many internal queries. U pon what head grew those wavy locks ? What hand severed and deposited them there? Did this strange waif pertain to the old mystery of Black Run, or was it a memento of some later. tragedy ? It seemed to him that he had seen tresses as soft and glossy. His lips moved ; he murmured something--'it might have been a name. - Hearing a footstep, lie thrust the hair be- heath his frock; and turning, with a start, be- held Nick Whiffes; he was embarrassed, 'and the hunter thought annoyed ; the latter met 'his steady look with suddenly-heihtened col, or, as if detected in an act that might be con- strued into weakness. Neither spoke immedi- ately. Nick was the first ,to break si- lenee. "I didn't know it was the natur ofa white man to take skulps," he said, with manifest disturbance. "I allowed, colonel,. that you had a dispersition above cruelty; and not cru- elty, neither, but trifles, as 'twere. Give itto me." The trapper hesitatingly extended hishand. "You yourself do not appear to be entirely regardless of trifles,". answered Pathaway, smiling. "It's mine," added Nick, gravely.""'If page: 88-89[View Page 88-89] A PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 'twas ayoung gal's, 'twould be diff'rent ; but then the latter crept away, and was gone some bein', as I said, mine--" -~ time. He came back and conferred earnestly "Yours !''-interrupted Pathaway. "Come, with the trapper in the language of his people. Nieholas, it's absurd to say that locks like these " The chief says," said Nick, interpreting to grew on that weather-beaten head of yours !" Pathaway, "that the Blackfeet are round us, :'Twas a good many year ago, when I's a movin' this way and that, smellin' arter our bo,, You see, colonel, my hair was long's a trail like dogs. To escape, we shall need eye woman's then, and softer nor sewing-silk." and ear,'a quick hand, a cautions foot, and si- Nick did not raise his eyes to meet the, re- lence. Portneuf, keep near Andrew Jeanjean, guards of the hunter, but kept them persistent- and see that he don't sing, and that he walks ly averted. as the rest of us do. The critter's docile, and " Your curls have faded since that time !" easily controlled. Colonel, look out for In- returned the latter, laughingly. " They are dian Joe, for I observe that he's more sulky- alniost yellow now, and each individual hair nor common." has remarkably increased in diameter." The Shoshons bent his tall figure, and "It's mine, not'stannin', and not mine, nei- moved toward the-west, the parties'treading in their, but my sweetheart's. 'Member well his footsteps. They passed over ground bro- enough when she out 'em off. 'Molly,' sez I, ken and volcanic, now surmounting rocks and ' give me a lock o' your hair,' sea I. And with crossing chasms, now winding to the right; now that I gave her one o' those meanin' looks .that to the left, now stealing along the brink of pre- was my natur when I's younger, and which cipitous crags, and finally descending by an thawed her amazin.' ' You may have 'em all,' abrupt- slope to a sparsely-timbered valley. ses she, sighin' as gentle as .a nussin' dove. All this was not effected without painstaking With that she took a pair of sheers-no,' and several alarms; nor was the distance, 'twasn't a pair- sheers, neither." He.paused when accomplished, long. The murmuring of and stimulated his memory by the friction of water was heard, and Multnomah stopped be- fiv digits upon his head, as if accuracy was side a running stream. - of the first importance. " Oh Lord ! no. " Hist !" said Nick. 'Twas a&knife she whipped it off with. 'Twas The parties became as motionless as trees. a,1itle more nor I wanted for present use, but " It is a squirrel runnin' over the leaves," I know'd 'twould keep, so I wrapped it in a said Nick, in answer to a questioning glance beaver-akin, and carter carryin' it some years, from Sebastian.. tucked it into that niche for safe keepin' ; and " I hear nothing," said the boy. it you hain't no objections, scarcely, I'll trou- -" Your .young ears are not like mine," he b ye fortt" replied. Kick reached forth his hand again, but with- - " What is it ?" asked Sebastian, anxiously. ou) trusting his eyes to encounter those of his " The leaves rustlin'; but whose afeard of friend. the rustling' o' leaves ?" Then to Multnomah, "I'll give you a trusty hand, Nicholas,- and in the same suppressed tones, " Ingin, stay that's far better than a- package of girl's hair." here !" Pathaway gras the extended member, Nick glided away with his long rifle at a an$ shook it cordially. trail. Sebastian watched him with nervous ' Your ingenuouslface, Nick Whiffles, tells eyes, and saw him stoop lower and lower as he the truth when your ingenious tongue tells a receded. The darkness finally shut him from lie.- Give it up at once, my friend. Confess view.. Each listened breathlessly for the sound that this is a memento of the torch-light trag- of his footsteps, but they sent back no tell-tale edr L"wecho.. The . Shoshone had stretched himself da 'shaw! why should I care about a wisp of upon the earth, and was lying with his ear to woman's hair?, It's no more to me -nor so the ground, giving as little sign of- vitality as, muh straw'! Keep it, colonel, if you're so if life had departed, All waited in expecta- minded, and wear it next your heart. 'Twas. tion, but of what they scarcely knew. Pre- a squaw it. come off of, and a right jaunty sently there was a bound like the spring-of a critter she was, on'y her mouth was a couple panther, then a commotion among the leaves, o' sizes too large, her nose rather flat, and her as of persons struggling. But this was of. squat nd ,dumpy. But the ribbons, short continuance ; the disturbance was quick- ,st f, beada and brooches that she used t4 ly over, and Nick shortly stood before them. wear, waa costly"in the extreme." ,He nodded to-the Indian, who gave a peculiar "Zo doubt! no doubt" answered Patha- approbative sound from the ,depths of his way,&ly. And the two, by mutual consent, chest. hasten to rejoin those they. had left. "O Uncle Nick !" gasped Sabastian. " It couldn't be helped, little 'un, and one from the war-path will never be missed where . :HAPTEIl XXV. there'sso-many. The voice of therifle couldn't, ' L I G H T £N D P U-R s U I T. be trusted hereabouts ; it peaks too loud for The parties issued from the narrow pass. safety."- Nick and the Shoshone whispered together, At that moment, an object floated down the I a PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. stream ; every eye was riveted upon it. Part of a red face, some feathers, and a tufted scalp- lock, were' for a brief time visible. " One diffikilty the less !" said Nick, quietly. "He was a foolish young warrior, to follow Doubledark," said the Shoshone. " His eyes were blinded, or he'd known the trail of Dou- bledark is a long trail." " You're right, Ingin ; thus far, my trail has been long for them as looked for me to my hurt. 'Twould been short enough if the heathen'had had their way;. but I've an eye and an ear for 'etm that shortens their days. 'Tisn't because I seek 'em that sich things happen. 'Tis'nt my natur to hurt nobody, but the Master o' Lite says to every one plainly enough: ' Take care o' yourself !' SNow if I didn't take care myself, who'd take care on me ?" While Nick was speaking, the Shoshone dragged a large canoe from the bushes, and launched it upon the stream. " Get in-get in !" said Nick. " Go fust, Sebastian, and you next, little Ingin. That's it ! Mind what you do, Jeanjean, or you'll tip the frail consarn over. You're the' boy for a paddle, Portneuf ; you used to drive a canoe right smart. 'fat hangin' affair hasn't strengthened your arms any, I take it. Path- away, you'd better sAt in the middle, with your rifle pooty consider'ble convenient. Sparrer- Legs, don't shiver as if you s'peeted a cold shower-bath. for the thing won't tip if you keep quiet. A ship o' the line isn't safer nor an In- gin bark well managed," The dogs, which, in obedience to the com- mand of their master, had crouched beside Sebastian, now stood on shore, looking wish- fully at Nick. ' "Let the animiles get in," said the latter. "There's room enough, and they'll make- too much noise running' along the bank if we don't give 'em a chance with us. I never desart my dogs, Calamity, leastwise. He's been true to me, and I'll be the same to him. Once, when there was a cussed little diffikilty with the Ingins, and he was sick, and his legs was weak, I took him up and carried him in my arms. Many and many a step has them legs took for me ; miles and miles have they trotted ahind me, my companions and my friends when there's nobody to speak to. I'd thank ye," added Nick, unconsciously raising his voice, addressing Pathaway, if any one in particular, "jest to take a p'int blank look at them eyes ; .they a'n't blue nor black, nor like a woman's lookers ; but'they're mighty good dog's eyes, and have a heap of understannin' in 'em." Calamity's grizzly eyes twinkled inquiringly. There certainly were interrogation points in them. , "I don't say that his'n's a handsome head, but it's a honest one. He does snap 'easion- ally at Smuggler, and snubs him when he's too familiar, as 'twere ; and he will bite your legs if you tread on him ; but he's got quali- 89 ties that put him on a footin' with many var- mints that go on two feet instead o' four." The dogs sprang into the little vessel, and the chief, taking his place in the stern, sent it into the middle of the-stream with a stroke of his paddle. Portneuf aided his Pfforts, and the canoe shot onward like an arrow.' Trees fringed the bank, and, casting their branches over the water, were mirrored duskily upon its surface. As the paddles sank and tose4 noiselessly, Nick, reclining in the bow of the birchen craft, with his rifle thrown forward across his arm, watched the coverts and the vistas on either side. Sebastian began to feel a sense of security, which Pathaway noticed with satisfaction, da was turning to express his thanks to -Multno- mah, when the war-cry of a Blackfoot, broke the, silence with a sharp and explosive disso- nance. The paddles of the Shoshons and the voyageur simultaneously backed water. The rifle of Nick Whiffles seemed to spring to his cheek by instinct, rather than to be placed there by his usually deliberate hands. The canoe vibrated and quivered on the stream, so abruptly was its momentum checked.. The long barrel had become fixed, and hurled forth its unerring messenger before a word' was spoken, or ere the quick eyes of Sebastian had discovered the object of his aim. The leaves stirred overhead and the rocks rang back the echo. Something fell into the stream, redden- ing its clhar surface. As the canoe swept on, Sebastian glanced backward, and beheld a long tuft-look trailing upon the water. For the next few seconds nothing was heard save the slight sound of the skillfully and rapidly fall' ing paddles. CHAPTER XXVI. ON THH WATER. Each of the Northern adventurers expected to hear the thrilling war-cry of the Blackfoot answered from -many clamorous throats,;, but, the intermountain quietude remained unbro- ken. Neither wolf, prairie-dog, nor, panther' disturbed- the deep solitude. The canoe shot steadily onward. Considerable- time elapsed before the wily trapper perceptibly relaxed his vigilance of eye and ear, or thought it prudent' to trust the sound of his voice. It was now that Pathaway had opportunity to'observe him when peril impended ; to note 'his coolness the absence of hurry and perturbation from hit deportment, and to recognize the wonderful acuteness of his senses. For himself, he mani- fested no uneasiness; it wat only when his gaze rested upon the slight-figure of Sebastian that a wave of anxiety ruffled his- features. " The branches hang low," he muttered, raising his head, an'd speaking in those inde- scribable tones that are the true index of dpn- ger, "the branches hang low, and the trees stand thick together like platoons of soldiers. I notice the timber when it grows in that way ;- t's a pooty sight to me in gin'ral, for Natur , , of Yj ' ,i i t R a page: 90-91[View Page 90-91] * PATHAWAY ; OR, THF- MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. and I are on friendly- footin'; but on sich oe- .casions as this, I see the rows of trunks and the green follyage with distrust--a ereepin' of the blood, like little mites of ice in the veins. 'Tisn't fear-you understan' the feelin', Sho- shone. Take away the 'sponsibility of per- teetin' and carin' for somebody, and I should walk this timber like a Camanche on the trail; or what's more Christian and civilized, like an old free trapper, as I be." "What do von think ?" Pathaway asked, bending toward the hunter, and unconsciously, as it would seem, in his earnestness, placing his hand on Sebastian's shoulder. The youth shrank from the touch, then smiled at his own sensitiveness." Indian Joe flashed spitefully at the hunter as he withdrew his hand. " I think that my shootin'-tube spoke ray- ther loud, and must have been heerd by them that seek us ; but the simple crack of a rifle wouldn't locate us with any great sartinty, On the water We leave no trail, but if they dis- kiver the place where we launched this canoe, they'll be houndin' arter us afore long." " Do you not know," continued Pathaway, 'some covert, nook, or hiding-place where this wounded lad can find safety ?" "I wish you and Nicholas would feel less care for me. Safety is worth no more to me than to you. This wound is comparatively of no account, only so far as it prevents me from-from defending myself. It cannot, it shall not make me burdensome 1" exclaimed Sebastian. ".Stop the craft, Ingin," said Nick, with a backward motion of his hand. "6Doubledark is a fox 1" answered the-Sho- shone. They had reached a spot where the banks were less thickly studded with trees, and which permitted a further range of vision. Nicholas pointed with his rifle to-a cluster of piion that was scarcely perceptible in the darkness and distance. " The eyes of Doubledark conquer the. 'night!"'added Multnomah. "Put the birch ashore; chief." Pathaway strained his eyes, but saw nothing to render the clump of trees an object of sus- picion. 'The vessel touched the bank ; Nick sprang out. "Wait for me, redskin, and Ill soon bring you word whether the stream is'clear." " I will go also," said Pathaway, leaping to the bank. "No," replied the trapper, "I'm afeard your foot is not light enough. You're better used to the trail of four-footed animiles than to them with two." " I am- accustomed to an active life, and eannot-remain passive when there is danger, and action is. required. Lead on, Doubledark, and possibly you'll think less lightly of my -skill.p, "I know you're mighty good at some things, colonel; but approachin' an inemy at his bi- vouae is a different matter from stannin' bold- l up to a danger that's right afore ye, and on't need to be unmasked." " I a not a novice, and do insist upon shar- ing my proportion of danger," returned Patha- way, with firmness. " Well, you're a handy lad, and I allow can be trusted-where others would be in the way." Without further discussion, Nick started off at a quick pace, followed by Pathaway. Hd the ground been even, the distance to the piiion would have been quickly and easily ac- complished ; but being rough and unequal, the task was not, unattended with difficulty. Gliding through grass and bushes without effort, apparently, Nicholas reached the mar- gin of the timber ; before which time the gray hunter had discovered light puffs of smoke occasionally mounting against the sky, or drifting fitfully along the tops of the trees. "Many eyes might be deceived," observed Nicholas, "and mistake that smoke for a vapor risin' front the ground ; but it's real smoke coming' from a fire kindled with dry leaves and sticks, fed slowly by experienced hands, to keep a clear flame. We of the wilderness under- stant these things, you see." "It is smoke, without question," the other replied., "I won't tell ye to be cautious, 'cause you've sense enough to know that we must be serpent like when w9're dealin' with the heathen that make tricks and stratagems a part o' their life. Come on, colonel, and show your p'ints." Throwing forward his thin and supple body, the trapper pushed his way into.the timber. His form had lost none of its more youthful vigor. The muscles had grown stronger with exercise, and toil had consolidated bone and sinew. While the hunter admired his noiseless loco- motion, he strove in vain to equal it. "You do 'mazin' well, colonel," he whis- pered ; "but a stick will sometimes crack and a bush shake with the most skillful of us. You'll git the knackon't with practice. Hist ! We're clost onto 'em, by mighty !"\ Nick's long finger was pointed to an open- ing in the trees, and Pathaway following its di- rection, saw dusky figures sitting by a fire so small that the blaze could have been covered by one's hand. Nicholas made a warning ges- ture to the hunter, and again moved on, with his knees to the earth and his rifle thrown out before him. Several minutes passed before they attained a position offering them a full view of the group. " Look!" said Nick, grasping Pathaway by the arm, ano putting hislips to his ear. "See that varmint with his back partly toward us ? It's Jack Wiley! The p'ison critter's forgot the service I done him. If it hadn't been for I' 1 ' t i 91 me, his skulp would be hangin' this minute in a Blackfoot lodge !" The trapper threw his rifle a trifle more in advance, and laid his cheek to the breech. "A nice chance! a nice chance !" he mut- tered. "What a pity the airth can't be re- lieved of sich a mean skunk immejiate ! Ah, colonel ! how human natur is sometimes put to it for patience !" The object of the hunter's remarks turned his face to the fire in addressing one of his savage comrades ; Pathaway recognized it at once. "They've killed some kind o' game lately, most likely, and have stopped to cook and eat. Huge feeders are Ingins, though they can fast when worst comes to worst. If you'd jest tried your skill on his 'ug'lar art'ries when you had him tied at Trapjer Trace, you wouldn't been guilty o' no great crime." Pathaway had frequently seen Indians in their war-paint, but never so completely changed from the common form of humanity as these. There were eight of them, most wickedly bedaubed and metamorphosed with various pigments and savage arts. Their visa- ges, As lighted up by the tremulous blaze, were truly startling. Pathaway thought of Sebastian, and experienced painful anxiety for his safety. " I've drawed a bead on him," said Nick, whose ire was excited by the treachery of Wi- ley. '"Shall I pull trigger, colonel?"' "No, no I" whispered Pathaway. "Such an act would be folly. Calm yourself!" " I couldn't be calmer; and not that, neither, for I'm stirred up in'ardly. Fine company he's in, isn't he ? What's more frightful nor an Ingin in his'paint; to them, I mean, that isn't 'customed to the sight. - But whatis it? On'y a little red and white clay with a streak o' black in't. Sich contrivances may do for wo- men and children, boys' leastwise ; -but full growed men, of whatsomnever color, should be 'bove it. Bunt it's their natur', and that's all we can say. Eight of 'em besides Wiley, and- quite near the stream, too. You can jes' ketch a glimpse on't runnin' like a silver thread out yender.. Wonder how we shall git by? We can try it, and if they sight us we've the consolation o' knowing' we've four good rifles." The hunter made no answer, but watched the grim group with breathless interest. A noise, so very slight that it was scarcely audi- ble, caused him to' look backward over his shoulder ; behind him stood the dog Calamity, s with his nose uplifted, and his large eyes fixed with striking intensity upon the savages, the I hairs on his head and back erect and bristling. " The dog has come I" said the hunter. a oI know it," returned Nicholas. "He'sv been stannin' ahind ye some time, but don't be s skeerd ; he's slier and more cat-like nor you g be.' The critter's follered me miles on the trail 'thout disturbin' a leaf, and nothin' suits him better. He isn't interested in common doin's, he isn't, but is in his element when there's danger. Obsarve," added Nick, in the same low whisper in which the conversation had been carried on, " how fierce - his eves glow ! He's brave, I allow ! At a motion' of my finger he'd fly into the midst of 'em, and like it amazin'. ButtI s'pose we might as well creep back, for our arrant seems to be done. Turn tail, Calamity, and heave ahead !" CHAPT74 RWXXVI. THE nRFUGE. Nick stepped silently into the canoe. The Shoshon6 glanced at the trapper's uncom- municative face and patiently waited for him to speak. " Eight of 'em," said Nick, turning his eyes anxiously to the east. "Eight, and Jack Wiley is with -'em. Daylight is coin' and their fire burns well down to the bank, but we'll try it, Ingin. It's runnin' the g'antlet, as 'twere, but that I've done afore. Step aboard, colonel. 'Twas 'mong the Crows that I run the g'antlet, Shoshond. I's fresh in the trappin'-grounds, then.^ I could took care o' myself well 'nough if I'd been alone and hadn't had a young feller with me, who wls- new from the big elearin's and not up to the ways o' the kentry. His hose was shot under him andhe was wounded in the leg. Recol- lect mighty well how he looked as he sot ,on the ground, the picter o' despair." " g This is the last o' me, Nick,' sez he. ' I've got to die,' sez he. "' I'm afeard so,!' sez I. "'I've got brethers and sisters that'll cry for me,' sez he, ' and a mother, too,' sex he. "You can't tell how the word 'mother' started me ; it tetched somethin' tender in my nature . Is mounted on a hoss as swift as the wind ; Suggestion his name was ; an odd name, but a good critter. If you should ever meet Buck Bison, Ingin, he'll tell ye the p'ints o' that animile. "'Jim,' sez I, 'I've got no mother to cry for me!' And with that I leaped from Sug- gestion's back quicker'n a wink. The Crows was then pesky nigh, mounted .most of 'em, and yellin' like a hundred catamounts. "' There shan't be no weepin' for you, Jim,' sez I, 'if I can help it,' takin' him frofn the ground and puttin' him into the saddle in halt a second. "'Good God, Nick! What are you doin'?' sez he. "' Take the reins,' sez I, 'and if there's Koss-flesh that Can save you, it's under ye.' " You never seed sick -a 'stonished look, I allow, as he give te ! He looked as if he's willin' to die hisself, then. He was' going' to ay something' that was choking' him, when ,I give Suggestion a cut, and off he darted. "'God bless you, Nick 1' was the words U I / E PATIIAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. - * page: 92-93[View Page 92-93] 92 ! PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. that came back to me as the hoss whirled him away." "And you, Nick, and you ?" interrogated Sebastian. Nicholas smoothed his beard, made a mo- tion to the Shoshons, and quietly answered : " I sot down on the ground where Jim had been a moment afore, with my arms aside me. In the fury of pursuit, two thirds o' the var- mints galloped by me ; but presently I was diskivered and surrounded with red faces, tufted heads, guns, and tomahawks. I fought 'em, and there was a few losses that scamp- ered off 'thout a' redskin to ride 'em. There was vellin's and hootin's, I swear to gracious 1 I's taken, in course, as I told ye, and there was great rejoicin's. When we reached the Crow campI's obleeged to run atween two rows o' warriors, armed with all sorts o' wee- pons, to be used for my benefit. Soon's they'd placed me and told me to run, I leaped up like a wounded bufferler, 'lighted on the head and shoulders of a copperskm, wrenched away his weepon, and cleared a path through the varmints like lightnin'. In less'n half a min- ute I's'in the timber, with the whole Nor'west afore me. My friends was surprised to see me come into camp, havin' give me up' for lost." "And the young man ?" said Sebastian, in- quiringly. " Was safe and sound, savin' the little gun- shot diffikilty in his leg. Gunshot diffikilties A'n't alleys mortal, little 'un ; I've had 'em, hind I know what they be. Keep nearer the right bank, Shoshone ; the closer we git to it the better it'll be, for the sarpents '1l be more likely to look over us." Nicholas.raised his long slim neck, and east a calculating eye toward the growth of pinon. "'Twas a noble act !" said Delaunay, with enthusiasm. " Shoshone, you can see them little' puffs misting up through the trees; other eyes might mistake 'em for wreaths of fog, but you and I, chief, know better. And the colonel, too, has an eye and a mighty knack, I allow. Frenchman, raise your paddle and let the birch drift ; the Ingin will guide it; it's his natur' to manage a canoe." There were signs of the coming day in the east-a faint tinge low down on the horizon ; a soft glow between the earth and sky. "1Now bend low, all of ye, and screen your heads as much as possible 1" suggested the ever-earefuliNick. "Let your head sink a little lower," whisp- ered Iathaway to Sebastian Delaunay. " It offers a mark to an enemy." "Why should I fear an enemy more than you ?" he answered. " I am sure you offer a better target to a marksman than I." "I care not ; I am wont to danger ; but yoti, you--" Pathaway paused. Sebastian looked up with a start. "Caution is better nor courage," said Nick Whiffles. "'Tis here, leastwise." The canoe floated steadily toward the point of danger. The stream fell off as they pro- ceeded, and the current grew quicker. Here and there white water and a broken surface told where rocks were hidden, but the Sho- shone, with a motion of his paddle, sent the vessel this way or that, shunning the danger- ous spots with the skill and ease of long prac. tice. As they neared the pines, each mind was natui'ally expectant. Even the face of Nick became more intense in expression, and the manner of the Shoshons more wary and absorb- ed in his employment. Gently the light craft drifted on. They were passing the fire, when it was drawn into an eddy and whirled around several times. Pathaway believed discovery inevitable. Glancing shoreward, he saw dusky forms, some sitting, and some standing ; Jack Wiley was prominent in the group. It was manifest, from the sudden contraction of Nick's brows, that he, too, saw the same spec- tacle. The canoe rocked, swayed to and fro, trembled an instant, then shot from the circling waters into the current, governed by the po- tent hand of the Shoshon6. Some time elapsed before a word was spok- en, during which the aria, of Portneuf aided in propelling the vessel. The roaring of a fall was heard, and the chief turned the canoe to the shore, which in that place was sterile and rocky. " Git out-hide .canoe--go no further by water," he said. The parties stepped out upon the rocks. In obedience to the direction of the chief, Nick and Portneuf lifted the canoe upon their shoulders, and carrying it several rods, stop- ped at the fall. The stream, which was nar- row, was still narrower there The water fell over the ledge some six feet in a clear, un- broken sheet. Under this fall the canoe Was thrust, and the water, shooting over it, effec- tuallv concealed it from view. " Nobody but an Ingin," said Nick, "or some one that knowed Ingin ways, would thought of sich a hidin'-place. But there you see 'tis, with a ledge shelvin' over it, and the watery elements coverin' it like a blanket. Which way now, chief, forwe trust this mat- ter wholly to you ?" " This way,'' answered Multnomah, "One at a time, and step as I do." "One at a time means Ingin file ; and by steppin' as he does, means to tread in his tracks ; and not in his tracks neither, 'cause he won't make none ; but to put your feet where he puts his'n. Don't step too long, Shoshon6, for Sparrer-Legs hasn't a long span of the leg as 'twere." -- A single ray of sunlight darted across the ranges, falling like a trail of gold toward the west. PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. " See !" said Multnomah, "the Master of Life sends us a guide. 'Tis a good sign, Dou- bledark, and we'll follow it."' "Sartin ! sartin !" said Nick. Then to Pathaway, apologetically: "'Tis the natur' of a heathen to b'lieve in signs, omens, and mani- tos, and I a'n't sure but they're right. Why shouldn't they be ? Don't-they live the near- est to natur'? Isn't natur' pooty much as the Great Spirit made it ?" "I'm not much of a causist !" responded Pathaway. " I don't know what that may happen to be, colonel, nor I don't keer much ; but it stan s ye in hand to know more nor I do on 'count o' your book-larnin'." " My sweetheartwas a prairie-flower, She dwelt beside the flowing water-; I wooed her in her wildwood bower, I loved the wandering trapper's daughter. Oh, the trapper's daughter !" It was the voice of Andrew Jeanjean, sing- ing. Nicholas sprang to stop him, but the strain was so soft and musical, and vibrated so plaintively through the trees, that he could not find it in his heart to check him till the touching burden of his song had ceased. "I've got a new idee," said.the trapper, gently ; ".and not a new idee, neither, for I've carried it about in my thinkin' orgins sev'ril days. I'm goin' to operate on that critter's head, by mighty." The trapper levelled his long forefinger at Andrew. " Pistols, traps, peltries, buffaloes, and other things !" said Jeanjean, with his unmeaning face turned to Nick. " Jes' so ! jes' so !" responded Nick, nod- ding.^ "'Specially other things ! Dr. Whif- fles used to operate a sight on broken heads. He used to japan 'em; that is, take out a piece o' bone and clap in a piece o' silver in- stead on't." "That process is called trepanning, uncle Nick," said Sebastian. " I said trapannin'; and-right well the doe- tor knew how to do it. Now I don't 'tend to go the whole figger and put in a piece o' sil- ver, but just insart the p'int o' my knife and lift up the bone where it presses on the brain. I've got a steady hand, and I'm sure I can bring back his reason, or leave him no worse off nor I found him. I won't kill hini, least- wi'e. I've sounded the diffikilty with my fin- gers, and diskivered the skull pushed right down into the soft parts. I used to know the tetchnical names of the orgins. I ha'n't for- got the titles of the two milkbranes that the thinkin' fakilties is done up in, like blankets : one's called the p'ison-matter and 'tother the do-ye-matter." "The pia mater and dura mater, I think," said Pathaway. "Sartin, so I said and so 'tis. I was well 93 varsed in these things when- I's with the old doctor that practiced Lobely. I know what he'd do, if he's here-not Dr. Whiffles, but the botany doctor-he'd give him a 'metie ; but I 'don't 'magine 'twould start the skull an artom. No, no ! it wouldn't do it, though it has a great raisin' power so far as the stumieh is con- sarned. Tread carefully, sonny, and step in the same place. Ingin, don't take sich long strides ; the boy has a diflikilty in reachin'.. He isn't set up so fur from the ground aqyou be, you know. Lower posted, so to speak0" For an hour or more, the Shoshons pursued a straight course over a hatd, unyielding soil, then, reaching the deep gulch, turned sudden- ly to the south. Nick and Pathaway looked at him inquiringly, but asked no questions. The gulch led them to a valley running to the east, which they followed till the sun was high in the, heavens. Sebastian and Indian Joe showed unmistakable signs of weariness, the former being supported the latter part of the way by Nick, and assisted by Pathaway when- ever the trapper afforded him an opportunity, which was - seldom. Joe began to lag, and Nicholas ffear'ng that he meditated leaving them, making fatigue a pretext to favor the design, made the dog Calamity, alias Misfor- tune, walk at his heels and keep guard, over his movements. The boy, clearly, entertained a great terror of the dog, and his muttered growls and dis- trusttul looks always had the effect to quicken his pace. Pathaway remnarked that he really seemed exhausted, and advised halting a few moments to give him needed rest. "An, Ingin boy git tired !" exclaimed;Niek, incredulously. "That's onreasonable, colonel. Redskin boys are calkilated mostly for run- nin'. He's makin' it, depend on't." Then to Joe, with threatening brow: "Come along, Little PisonI Don't play 'possum with an old hunter. Look at Misfor- tin; he's a smilin' at ye from ahind ; he'll have hold o' your heels next." Joe - stopped:and supported himself by a tree, then his form sank, and he gradually slid down to the root, murmuring : "Ingin Joe tired ; no walk no more." Nick stepped back and deliberately raised the lad's head from his hands in which he had rested it. "What a set o' boys we've got, by mighty ! The sarpint's cryin', or jest ready to, true's you live. You'll make a great warrior, won't you, sonny? 'Your name'll be famous 'mong your red brethren 'thout doubt !" "You are hard upon Joe," said Pathaw . " He is probably unused to walking. Child- ren among the Blackfeet are accustomed to ride from infancy, or at least as soon asthey are large enough to cling to a horse's mane. Your dog is too watchful, and really partakes of your own distrust. Call him away, Nicho- las, and I'll help Joe along." l , *u r 1I page: 94-95[View Page 94-95] 94 PATFIAWAY ; OR, TILE MOUNTAIN' OUTLAWS. " Queer boy ! condemned queer boy I" mut- tered Nick to himself. "Wabuma 1" exclaimed the Shoshone, lead- ing on again. Pathaway took the Indian youth by the arm, and with this friendly support he was able to proceed for half an hourlonger, when a sud- den turn in the valley brought them in sight of thexmimie city. "The Ingin knows what he's about," said Nicholas, in reply to an inquiring glance from Pathaway. "ie's doubledon our track and come back ag'in. The critters won't think o' loolin' for us so near home. A little ahead of us is the Devil's Gate, which is hid from view now by the objecks atween. The chief knows a hidin'-place for us up thereaways, I'll be bound." Multnomah struck to the left, and the par- ties were soon winding among towering rocks, beside which their figures looked like pigmies. Pathaway believed he now understood what the chief meant when he spoke of the birds building theirinests high up arnong the roks. 'Twas a good idee," quoth Nick. "The Shoshone is wise. Bear up a few minutes lon- ger, little 'in, and we'll be at the end of our tramp. It's hard climbin', but we'll soon con-. quer it." 1 Pausing occasionally for the parties to breathe, Multnomah ,ascended obliquely the mountain-side to a point half way to the sum- mit, and nearly opposite the Devil's Gate. At that spot the towers, walls, and columns of the mimic city were most conspicuous, rising like gigantic works of art fallen to ruins. " Doubledark, here we rest. A band of warriors might hide here. Our enemies are like dogs thrown from the scent of game by running water," said Multnomah. " All that's true enough, Ingin ; but we shall have to eat and drink the same as other folks in the course o' natur', and game can't be very abundant hereabout." " Doubledark is a hunter ; he knows the path of the mountain-sheep, and .the trail where 9e deermand the buffalo go down to the streams to drink, He is not a squaw to sit down and'starve. " " True, Shoshons! Doubledark, nor them that is with him will never starve while there's a hoof or a feather of game in the Nor'West." Pathaway examined with considerable curi- osity the retreat in which he now found him- self. He was particularly impressed with the vas monuments around him. He had seldom contemplated Nature in a wilder and grander mood. He had some difficulty in persuading himself that he-was not treading the ruins of an ancient city. But there were no marks of the chisel upon the broad surfaces of column and shaft; the walls were hewn by Nature- uptorn from the quarry beneath by a mighty strength. Multnomah had chosen for a place of con- cealment a rocky chamber at the base of one of the most imposing of the mimic castles. Nick and Portneuf covered the rough floor with a carpet of wild sage and such foliage as they could find' growing where there was suffi- cient soil for vegetation. The blankets of the parties were spread over this, furnishing a couch by no means to be despised by wearied and hunted fugitives. It is true that the iron frame of Nick had suffered little or no dimi- nution of strength ; but Sebastian and the In- dian youth were so'much exhausted, that evi- dently they could have proceeded no farther. CHAPTER XXVIII. SEX AND SEBASTIAN. Nick Whiffles attended carefully to the wounded arm, and when the -lad was as com- fortably placed as his meagre means would al- low, he seemed greatly relieved, and much of his anxiety vanished. " He needs sleep and rest arter his exer- tions," he remarked to Pathaway, as they is- sued together from the stony. portals of their hiding-place. "It's somethin' peculiar to the lad that he likes to be by hisself when any- thing ails him." Then to Multnomah : "Chief, is there any water hereabouts ? The boy must be powerful thirsty by this time." The Shoshone made an affirmative move- Inent of the head, and went to procure the el- ement in question. em"There's subject upon which I wish to talk with you," said Pathaway, drawing Nick aside. y "Well, colonel, I'm willin' tohear an man's talk when it's reasonable. Let's set down in the shade o' this wall, for I'pose it's a subjeck that can be spoke on settin' as well as stanmn'." "It is a, matter that I scarcely know how to approach," Pathaway added, with some em- barrassmenit. "Can't imaginee what 'tis, rejoined Nick, with a little start. "Never had no secrets in my life; and not in my life, neither, but none worth mentionin', lately. Some o' my family. had secrets ; an a tto' mine was full of 'em. Mysterious ;okin ritter, she was. Was al- les shaking' her head inamighty knowin' way, and puttin' her finger t" her lips.. She gcit to be so full o' information that it perduced com- bustion o' the brain, at last." ' "I have observed," continued Pathaway, "your treatment of yo nelaunay- ' " Treatment 1" exelaime Nick ; 1"ha'n't I aller treated him well)? Could I treated him better if he'd been my own brother ?" "You could not, ndeed; -and it was that very fYct, combined with the peculiar deicaev i f the boy, that first aroused my suspicions.' f The trapper's face flushed; and either an- ger or confusion, or a blending of both, strug- gled within him. " S'pioion," he said, slowly, "is a word I C PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 95 don't like to hear; for, if I understan' the you may draw a line each side o' that boy defermatibn of the word, it means a sort of close to him, and he won't niggle enou e ither mistrust that all isn't right-or, in other way to teteh. As for the matter o' hands words, is a kind o' low cunnin' about some- and feet, I don't 'member that I've seed big- thin that should be open and above-board. ger ones on an lad of his age and size. Re- Your talk don't begin well, colonel, and I collect, Colonel, I said age and size." think-we'd better let the subjeek drop; though " I admire your fidelity to your interesting I'll be condemned if I know what- the subjeck protegs, but tell you plainly that the question is settled beyond doubt in my own. mind. "I mean no offence in the world !" answer- Even Indian Joe detectedmthe ilposture at ed Pathaway, earnestly. "But I wish simply once." to say, that your tenderness of the youth; ' " Ingin Joe 'll git his ears cut off if he isn't your constant regard for his welfare ; your keerful !" returned the trapper, tartly. affection for him displayed in innumerable Pathaway waited for Nick to- cool again. ways; your ready and sometimes incongruous "It's sometimes pesky hard," he added, apologies for his weaknesses-together with anon, persuasively, "to tell a boy from adga the singular beauty of his face and form, 'the I knowed a p'ison diffikilty that growed ou of smallness of hishands and feet-have given sich a ease : 'twas an offsp'ing of Dr. Whiffles rise to the suspicion that the object of your was the subjeck of it. Fust, they tried petti- solicitude is not a boy, but a woman." coats ; then, trowsers; then, fiy, fell back Nick's embarrassment was too evident to be on petticoats ag'in." unnoticed-and with it, too, was mingled much "Believe me, my friend, I am deepl in- that was painful. Pathaway waited for him terested in the youth you call Sebastian; d to recover from the effects of his announce- I have no doubt but you are goveirined by the ment. best of motives. Rest assured that I shall do "He's asgood a boy," said Nick, doggedly, nothing to disoblige you, but everything in "as ever walked. You can see he's a boy, my power for her protection'and comfort. plain 'nough, by his clothes ; for any fool Whether she had any part in the tragedy of knows that a boy wears boy's clothes, and a al Blahk Rock, I know not, nor shall I ask I ivers als coths.They're made different, seek no disclosures from you. I did not think boy's and gal's clothes be. It's jest the diff'r- it right longer todeceive you in regard to my enee atween gowns and trowsers. Now, do convictions.' Woman ever has and ever will you s'pose if that boy had been of t'other sex, have paramount claims upon my respect and hat I' put masculine toggery on him? Oh the protection of my arm." Lord, no ! I'd as soon 'a' thought o' pettin' You mean well, Colonel, and I thank ye; a grizzly bear in a monkey-skin, or jest and you argue so well, that I should doubt contrawise - which would be a monkey in a the gender myself if I hadn't made up my .bear-skin. What do you s'pose a feminine mind. But I can't quite give in; IPre sai could do straddlin' about' mong the rocks in boy, and boy it shall be. When my grandfather browsers ? 'Twould be as ludiekerous as 'twould writ 'a thing when he's travelin', he never be for me to put on petticoats, and give myself . altered it and writ it over, if it turned out to the dainty airs of a city miss. Begin to see be never so big a lie arterwards; and he gin- how rydicerlous tis, don't ye ? Never felt er'ly put a note in the margin under sich more like laughin' nor I do now, IF swear to places to lrp em. Bt ofu' tebo' gracious !" consarned, there's no weak places to prop up Nick tried to laugh his old whimsical Once when he's travelin'--my gran'f ther-.. laugh, but the effort was a miserable fail- in Hindustan, in his hoss and shay (about ,rd. o- which hoss and shaky a song has beengrit yind "1It won't do, friend. Nicholas-the. boy is a composed, and which I'll'sing to ,ye iwlienI girl !" replied Pathaway, smiling. git time), he seed a child hangia' from a tree '"Do you, think that we Nor'westers ketch in a basket. He stopped his vehickle imme- pals in browsers as we do beavers in traps ?,iate, arter ridin' round the tree three times to minne natur' so abundant that wA haven't collect his fakilties and the facks, and writ petticoats to pet it in? 'Tisn't easy for a that all the children born in Hindostan was woman to 'pear like a boy, I tell ye. 'My old- put in baskets, and left to swing on the trees est sister tried it, for a lark, among the young till they perished or was eat up by the birds. fellers ; but the smallness of her waist, and A few paragrams,below he writ (he'd- driv into the gin'ral developments of her constitution, a village then, I s'peet) that the kentry was together with her mmcm' way o' steppin', thickly settled with a 'normously increase' brung her out to once. Now a woman don't operation, which threatened to overs step long, Colonel ; but that boy Sebastian '1l borders if some sickness-didn't put a stop to span the ground beyend all account. You'd it. My gran'father took the censs of ever oughter to see him pace-it off when he's in a kentry he driv through,'which was a work ' hurry! Ag'in, &feminine has a kind o' knit- some magnitude in some +places, 'specially tin'-wor, swingin' motion sideways ; but where they didn't hang their children in baa- I 'aU *f i page: 96-97 (Illustration) [View Page 96-97 (Illustration) ] 96 kets. Some races o' men he found mostly ex- tinct. The Tartars, for instance, was reduced to a hundred million -- which was melan- choly." Pathaway listened patiently for Nick to talk himself out of breath ; but the trapper exhibited no sign of weariness. Subject-mat- ter appeared to stretch before him as measure- less as the prairies he delighted in, and as va- ried as the Northwest. While he, was mak-, ing a longer pause than usual at a period, the hunter arose and quietly left him, to take a more careful survey of Trapper Valley and the region around..it. This conversation took place just outside the natural chamber where Sebastian was re- elining. Now it happened that there was a passage between' the rocks -that.transmitted sounds with great facility ; and thus'the youth accidentally became a party o all that passed. between the hunter and the trapper. He lis- tened with vavrying emotions, 'and sought the Shoshone at the close of the singular inter{ view. He spoke earnestly with the chief for a few moments ; and shortly after, when Nick looked for Multnomah, he could not be'found. CHAPTER XIX. A Stf OICAL OPERATION. ileantime Indian Joe,'who appeared to be sleeping, had ears that were quite 'as acute -as those of the anomalous boy:Sebastian,' and heard every word of the conversation - that passed between Nicholas and the gray hunt- er. He kept his secret, however, till the dark- ness of night veiled the scenery of Mimic' City. Leaving his concealment, he walked; in the open air ; and seeing the trapper return- ing (who had been out in tett of garie, and approached with a mountain sheep -upon his shoulders) hastened to meethim. 2 1 "Hullo ! is it-you, Little P'ison? Got over: your bad feelin's, eh-? queried Nicholas.: "Joe sleep-feel better.' He somethin' to say it the great trapper," answered the boy. lick threw down his burden, and looked curiously at Joe. -- "One04 ust allers have his eyes. open when an flatters," he replied-,-"'specially.4. _.' 4ncer Ingin like you. But speak.out;. 'our kind of insex say, ' My ears are: open, and Ill hear your talk of whatsomevrna. tur'.'. "Joe no bad Ingin ; he got heart';ie hear the pale:ace eryin' for his daughter; he'see tears renadown. - Joe know where she is: He lead Doubledark to her; Doubledark take her_ away-bring her here." Whiffles- braced his long- rifle out, before him, leaned his tall;wiry form against it, and. looked down upon the youth with an expres- sion half credulous, hal doubting. "Put a punetooation there, and wait while I sharpen .my fakilties with a trifle o' the weed." The trapper drew a small package of to- bacco from the pouch at his side, and convey- ed it deliberately to his mouth, as if the more slowly he performed , the operation 'the less tardy would be his thoughts. Making a few lazy oscillations of his.jawsover the narcotic morsel, he said: " There's some dispelsitions that I know almost at a glance, and there's others that I don't ; 'mong the last I may safely reckon your'n ; for you're a bit o' human natur' that staggers me. Dunn' all my -travelin' over mountings and peraries, over rivers and lakes, I've never struck the trail of. a heathen so puz- zliu';in.his mentual and physikal makin' up. There's been no good will atween is,.as you know,' Little P'ison, and it.strikes me as bor- derin''on the ludickerous when you come to ,me 'with sich a projeck. It does, by. light- nin' ! Joe had waited patiently for the trapper to gather his thoughts and make these remarks, but did not raise his eyes to the face. of Nick, and more than. once pressed his white teeth upon his under lip, as if in an.effort to curb a strong feeling. " Joe thought Doubledark pitied the French .pale-face ; but he was wrong; he will speak of it no more, The great chief down in the Valley will take the young squaw for his wife." ,Joe turned to go. "Don't be so techy, Little P'ison, for I ha'n't said .yes or no, yet. Want to take the bearin's o'.the case fust. The Whiffleses isn't gener'ly of a 'rash natur, though that disorder went through our family when we's young. Frn never in a hurry 'bout coming' t9 a pint when a thing is onsartin. Let's come at it, systeinatie, as 'twere. I understand' ye to say thatou 'can lead me to this' kali Jest turn the aaletrees o' your eyes on mine." The dark-brown orbs of. thi Indian youth rere firmly raised to Nick's. There might halve'been a nervous quiver in them, at first, but.it was of transient duration. "Can't read 'em, can't read 'em !" said Nicholas, shaking his'head. "They a'n't sick as I've come in contact with a great 'eal. They're both soft-and fiery, open and eunnini at the same time, timid and fierce. - Little P'ison, you're whatmy gran'father used to call a non- description." " Doubledark is afraid ! His heart grows smaller as 'he grows older. He- is' not like Seven lumes, the great, chief of the Black- foob'.nation." "And God be praised fort l I don't keer to be like a heathen neways,,savin'-and exceptin' allers 'the Shoshons, who's more of a feller bein' nor some of lighter complexions." '" To the Shoshon Joe Will go." At that Moment Andrew Jeanjean was heard singing " The Trapper's Daughter." Nick's r PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. B ' ) _ 1 j , r 4 I I ;,'E page: 98-99[View Page 98-99] PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. feelings were touched. He saw, too, at a little distance, Portneuf pacing to and fro with a melancholy air. "Young Ingin," he added, more seriously, " I ha'n't much faith in ye, as you understan', but compassion for the gal and for others, moves me. I a'n't a hard man, nor never was. Pity is no stranger to the breast of Nick Whif- fles; he's found a place at his mentual camp- fire more nor once, and will ag'in. I've risked somethin' for Beauty afore now. There was Baby Blanche, the 'dopted darter of Buck Bison ; and there was Sylveen Vander, the nat'ral darter of old Saul Vander, the Guide ; two as dainty bits of womanhood as you can find in -the world. For each of 'em I did my best. I had little gunshot diffikilties on their account, not to mention other diffikilties. But Lord bless ye, Ingin, I've got. used to''em ; shouldn't 'joy myself'thout 'em. I'll trust ye, boy, I'll trust ye ; and if you betray me to my inernies, you'll do a deed that you'll be sorry for when you start for the happy hunting- grounds. Nick Whiffles never injured you nor yourn ; and not yourn, neither; for he's been obleeged in self-preservation to bring down a redskin now and then, but 'thout malice or a forethought." Joe's face grew brighter ; his eyes sparkled with animation. "It seems to .please ye," said the trapper, musingly. " I hope it's all right, and there's no diviltry at the bottom. I've a quick eye and a quick hand, lad, and you won't die full- growed if your treachery becomes apperient afore you're ready." "Ugh !" articulated Joe, contemptuously. "Too much doubt makes a coward. When a great Ingin chief do a thing, lie no say great many words. Joe will be ready in an hour." " It'll be dark, then," said Nick, reflectively, casting his eyes toward the heavens. " We shallh need darkness, I allow. We'll go alone, Ingin. The colonel and the Frenchman may stay to look arter the wounded lad and Jean- jean. Poor Andrew ! I must patch up his head afore long. The brain's a tender pint, but I don't see why it can't be put in runnin' order well's a watch." Nick stopped and thought about it. " Doubledark will be silent. His tongue no talk 'bout goin'."' A wave of distrust rolled across the trapper's mind, but considering the object in view, he generously and unselfishly shook it off. Joe will find you behind the rocks, down there, when it's time to go." "I'll be there, boy," answered Nick, and taking up his burden, hastened to join those who were expecting his return. Selecting the daintiest portions of the sheep, he cooked them with the skill and care of one thoroughly versed in such matters, and'carried them to Sebas- tian. i "Over to the left, not fur from here, in a di- rect line, you'll find water clear' as crystal, gushing from the rock," said Nick. " You're going' away, Nick; I know by your ,looks," the youth answered, quickly. "Portneuf is grievin' for his darter." "His sorrow has touched your generous heart, uncle Nick." " Why shouldn't it, child ? If you's shut up down gender, in the valley, at the marcy of lawless men, do you think I could rest ?" re- turned the trapper, earnestly. "You could not; you would brave every- thing for my sake." "True, child,, true ! And why shouldn't I do the same for another? She's less, much less to me nor you be, yet it can't be denied that she has a claim on my exertions. Hu- manity is humanity, whether in the wilderness or other places. the colonel is here, and if I shouldn't come back; I couldn't leave ye in hands tenderer or carefuller." "-Don't talk in that strain, my friend, for such a possibility is painful. Who goes with you ?" " The young Ingin--Little P'ison, I call him. He proposed it, and I concluded to trust him." Sebastian pmused, then looking anxiously at Nick, replied : "I have misgivings, my friend ; I doubt Indian Joe. He is, in truth, a strange com- pound of sullenness, timidity, and fire. Some- times he looks at me with an expression'angry and forbidding." "I've noticed it; but it comes of the crook- edness of Ingin natur'. He can't helpwhat's in him, I s'pect, 'cause it's in his blood ; and what's in one's blood, can't very yell be got out. No two of us are alike. One takes to the bush, another to the city ; one likes his kind, another hates it. One takes on airs and haughty ways, while another wears his man- ners as he does a suit of old clothes-with ease,. and without stiffness. I know he's a queer redskin, this Ingin Joe Abut if thei'e's any truth in him, I'll give it a chance to show itself." "Let me warn you not to put too much faith in him. You have treated him with some severity, and-I am sure that he can have but little real friendship, for you, and but slight sympathy with your present purpose. If you must undertake this perilous enterprise, I entreat you to be guarded, and watchful of' the boy." I "Sartin! The Ingins call me Doubledark," said Nicholas, with some pride. "Your skill I do not doubt but who can guard against treachery ?" said the youth., " Jes' so! Treachery has to do with the heart and the motives, and we can't allern tel what them be. Hovsomnever, we'll hope for' the best. Here comes the colonel! Colonel, I'm going ' to perform that operation now on Jeanjean's head. I brought a piece o' pitch- pine for a torch, knowin' 'twould be dark afore I got back." I I 99 page: 100-101[View Page 100-101] 100 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. "The operation is so delicate, that rdil1, - iW"began-Pathaway. Yes, colonel, I allow it looks ventur'some ; but with steady narves I feel that I can man- Age it. I won't hurt him.- If I can on'yraise up them tvoplates o' the skull'"- the skull is com posed of two plates, as you probably understan' with your book-l'arnin'-if I can raise 'en a trifle, I say, his wand'ring fakilties 'I come back ata gallop, across the perairies of his present vacant . Let's go out ahind the ruins, and you shall e assistant surgeon; that is, you shall hold the torch.; and tohold a torch well requires some judgment. I'd put it off till to-morrer, and take daylight for't but nobody can\tell what a day'hl bring forth. Conie here, you Andrew Jeanjean, and I'll try to call in your wits that have gone out trap- pin', so to speak." Jeanjean followed the trapper and Pathaway, and, in.obedience to the command of the for- muer, seated himself behind a column.6f rock. Nick lighted a large splinter of the pitch-pine which he had procured for the purpose, and handed it to Pathaway, who was beginning to feel uneasy- f Nick produced a pocket-knife, nd exam- ined its edge. "It's pooty sharp, I allow," he said, with a satisfied ai; "and if wasn't', wouldn'tt make nogreat difference, for there isn't much cut- tin' to do, and if there was, 'twouldn't hurt him but little, the vitality of his system is so let down. I'd oughter been a surg'in, prehaps; but we sometimes mistake our calliui', and go blun- derin' through the whole business o' life. - I knowed a man who was once full o' the missioner spent, that arterwards become a whisky-tra- der 'mong the Ingins. Then, ag'in, I've seen them become doctors as was caikilated for honest clodhoppers, and cut across niuskles ii opening- abscesses, or destractin' bullets or splinters lodge in the flesh ; than which coin- mon sense oughter teach a person better. Agin," added -Nick, laying his left hand on Jeaujean's head, and holding the pocket-knife aloft in the other, " it has come under my oh- sarvatioi durin' sieh times as I've stopped in the clearin's, that individuals get into the pul- it that should 'a' been in the blacksmithit' lihe; for there's some sense in thumpin' on an anvil, but not an artom in hammerin' away at a Wible with a fist as big as a sledge-hammer." Nicholas approached his. instrument within six inches of Andrewv's passive 'head, when it became fied, and'the last idea appeared to ab- sorb him quite. - "When I've seen eich fists coming down spiteful on .the Word,,o' God," I've- thought to myself that, the same, force- might 'a'. driven -a spade into the sile, ondmade it ready for a pertater -;or a grain o' corn to grow. It's a q user queer world - Nicholas stopped, then sai': "Hold still, Jeanjeau I If you stir so much as the thickness of a hair, you sba'n't sing the 'Trapper's Darter' no more. Remember, Nanny, don't ye, Andrew u" " Ml jolie Ninons " muttered Jeanjean. " Jes' so !" quoth Nicholas, carefully ,separ- ating 'the half-granulated lips of the wound, and examining it with scrupulous nicety. "The fact is, Andrew, they've jest about-nade an idiot of ye, which is nigh the muchness of a fool; aia fools, my lad, a'n't of no great vally in this world. You'd better go under, and done with it, than be a fool. You can t have Nanny, if you're a fool. So don't wince !" The unfortunate Jeanjean turned his eves upon Nick with singular earnestness. The. light of the torch glowed. upon his face, inm- parting to itS gravity and fixedness a strahige intensity. The 'hand that held the pocket-knife wCnt steadily dowl, and the point of the instrument rested in.the fracture. Prtiaswythought:1"-ow many times those unshaing wyingeh have pulled' the deadly trigger. A slight moan from Jeanjean told that he suffered. - " Youxma-i-groan,Andrew : but if you stir, good-bye to-unny !"- Nick wotited quietly, taking out two or three splintbis of-one, pausing once, only to say : " Whatever comes o' this, colonel, say nio- thin' about it that can reach the p'ison news- papers.Hold-the torch a little cluster." pathiawa now thoroughly interested in the operation, Ieheld Nick's skillful surgery with surprise, ie raised the depressed .hone ; a portion of the brain exuded which Nick de- tached. "'Twill do no harm," he muttered. "Knowed a traper to lose an ounce 'thout hurtin' him. There, lad, I allow I've done ye good." " Ils expression changes !,' exlaimed Path- na , any trifle, a trifle ; but it'll be more aipperi- ent by-and-by. He must sleep, and if I a'n't mistaken, he'll wake with his sense about him. If he's keerful, and meets with no drawback, the bone will soon knit; I allow." " I confess I trembled when you began ; but my faith is now strong in your success. You have a wonderful hand at everything," said Pathawvay, apologetically. "PThere was a nat'rah bone-setter in our fami- ly, who used to pull all his bones out o' j'int jest to show what he could do, and whip .'emi in ag'in in a minute. At last, hiowsoin-' never, unfortinitly, le carried his experiments Stoo fur ;for unj'intin' his neck, one day, he wasn't able to set it ag'i. Lead Andrew in, Colonel, and wake him, arter lie's slept two or d three hours. I've got business with Ingin Joe ; k so good-night." Nick} repeated his " Good-night" earnest- ly, then hastened to the rocks where he was to meet the young Indian. I. PATHAWAY ; OR, TIHE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. S- . t 101 CHAPTER XXX. MADE. Pathaway disposed of Jeanjean in. the ma ner indicated by Nick, remaining-near him ti he had fallen into abheavy sleep. lie the looked for Sebastian, but could not find Lin Alarmed by his disappearance, he question Portneuf, from whom he derived no inform tion. le commenced a diligent search among the ruins, but without success. .Believing: possible that he had followed Nick, he d scented toward Trapper Valley. so far as h thought compatible with safety; not his ow but that of the party He retraced his step much perplexed, and was discussing the sub Ject with Portneuf, when the Shoshons ap feared. The chief was not alone ; a young Indian girl walked beside him, whose advane Patlaway beheld with increasing curiosity She was clad after the manner of her people but her garments were of stuffs richer anc finer than are usually obtained by the natives She drew near slowly, and with averted eyes. "Where is Sebastian ?" asked Pathaway turning from a brief scrutiny of this new.an( interesting addition to the party, to the Sho shone. Ask me where is last night's dew or yes- terday's rain," answered Multnomah. Pathaway stirred the brands of the not yet extinguished fire, causing them to emit a fitful flame, which threw a glare upon the girl's face. The features were classically reular, and, de- spite their tawhy tinge, han some; and not only beautiful, but familiar. "Sebastian !" exclaimed the young man. "But Sebastian no more," answered the girl, blushing. "I trust, sir-I hope that you will not misconstrue-" she stammered. "No apologies, I beg I I will misconstrue nothing. Your conduct shall be leniently judged by me," replied Pathaway, not without embarrassment. The chief walked away, and left them to- gether. "Come nearer the light," added Pathaway. The girl obeyed, with a smile and a blush. Is this indeed Indian blood that colors your hands and your cheeks ?" he asked, ner- vously taking one of her hands. "Madge, the half-breed girl, is of the same parentage as the boy Sebastian. What else could you expect, sir?"' "God only knows !" exclaimed Pathaway, dropping her hand, with a disappointment so evident that it could not be concealed. I think Nicholas informed you that my mother wasa French woman, and my father of, mixed blood ?"' "Confound, the mixed blood !" muttered. Pathaway. .Itappears to be very much, confounded," sai"dLMadge,overhearing the remark. Let me assure you," said Pathaway, "that I'FE 1 . I have not been so blind as you may have 1m. agined, in regard to your sex." "N Nor Insoeblind in regard to your suspi. ,n- cions. I noted] their commencement, and have ill watched their development from time to time. en You know not what I have suffered ; such ii. shame, such epibarrassment,sueh humiliation ! d I return to the proper garb of my sex with in. a- describable relief." Ig " Has not my deportment been considerate it and gentle ? 'EIave I not, at .least of late e- treated you-with markedJ respect ?" interro- e gated Pathaway, with-a slight tinge of remorse. n, "I do-not complain. If at first a smile of s, contempt appeared upon your lips, it after. - ward gave place to compassion. But we had best not recall those matters to-night." g "I have curiosity as well as woman," said e Pathaway, pleasantly ; "I am anxious to hear . your history." ;'He looked earnestly at the beautiful face of d Madge. . " Histories," she replied, " do not read well till we are dead. Nick Whiffles is my histo- r, ian. Honest Nick! I fear he will be be- d trayed by that Indian boy. Tell me, Mr. - Pathway, do you think we are safe ? Will not the mountain outlaws and their savage allies discover our hiding-place ? Ought this fire to blaze here 2" I " We are so shut up by rocky columns and- l walls, that I apprehend little danger of discov-- ery," replied Pathaway, reflectively. " And yet," he resumed, " I cannot conceal from you that our enemies are cunning, nor deny the fact that the pursuit will be long and skillful- ly conducted. But since you are with us, your sex will and shall stimulate us to the greatest efforts for your protection. I will not, I cannot forget that wound which you bear for me. Believe me, my gratitude is genuine and deep. You have suffered, and suffered patiently ; you have borne the pain of your wound and the hardships of our flight without murmuring. Your heroism and fortis tude call forth my warmest admiration. -Ien- treat of you'to give me a place among those you call friends. Honor me with but-half the confidence you bestow upon Nicholas, the trapper,- and I shall indeed esteem:myself happy !"- Pathaway spoke with fervor; a glow of en- thusiasm suffused his face. The girl Madge changed color, manifesting that soft confusion that woman feels when secretly pleased; but whom pride-and maidenly reserve admonish to conceal th$ 'emotion. " FriendsI 'rust we shall ever be," she an- swered; 'obut Nieholas--ah, I -have known - Nicholas a long wti 1" It would have been difficult to explain why, but this, remark -"gave the- gray hunter pain. He envied Nick tile confidence of the singular- being beside hiin.:. He felt annoyed that -he could not fill-the i'ace place in her thoughts, 1 page: 102-103[View Page 102-103] 10i PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. and have the same right to care for and pro- tect her. While these emotions were upon hiin, the Shoshone hastily came up, extin- guished the'fire and scattered the brands. " Is there danger?" asked Pathaway, quick- "Danger," responded the chief, "is never distant. The pale-faces and the red walk much to-night. The ear of the Shoshone has been to the ground, and heard the sound of feet far up the side of the mountain." 1 "Are your ears, then, so acute ? I have heard nothing." " The hunter has heard too much," returned Multnomah, looking at Madge. "He has heard the notes of the singing-bird, and he loves to listen." " What is it, Shoshon-? Which way lies the danger ?" "-It is there," said the chief, pointing to the north-west. " The white trappers are going down to the valley, perhaps, and will cross our trail on the way." " It will be fortunate for us if Seven-Plumes is not' with them, for his eyes are quick to find a trail." Multnomah made a gesture for Madge to screen herself behind a column, which she did, and the chief moved off and was soon out of sig it, Pathaway was in the act of turning to address her, when a slight noise, like that pro- duced by cocking a pistol, esused him to pause and look suspiciously into the darkness. A sharp report quickly followed. Pathaway stag ered, but did not fall. "You are uninjured. - Thank God !" ex- claimed Madge. "Yes," replied the hunter, "I believe I am unhurt." He pointed to a perforation in his frock.:, " It passed through your garments ; but," she-.added,,turning pale with alarm, " where is the bullet? I did not hear it strike the rock behind you I" -athaway unbuttoned his frock, and with a smile, drew from beneath it a package. He- held up before her a mass of dark hair, from which a bullet dropped. "Curls have often proved fatal," he said,. "to ,men's hearts ; but these, as you see, have saved mine.' For a moment, Madge was too much agitat- ed to speak; she contemplated the raven tresses with clasped hands and parted lips. " Tell me,k' she cried, when she could com- mand her voice-then suddenly checked her- self, and stood silently gazing at Pathaway. "4Be calm; that danger,.at least, is passed. I can say that I have been saved by a woman's tresses." "You are not sheltered; another shot may prove more.hurtful. Step behind a column ; it will shield you from the unseen marksman," she saki,.with-beseeehing look. "fA2t. oniy saved by a woman's curls, but by a woman's arms," added the hunter, thoughtfully ; " and that arm," he continued, " yours. But I lose time in idle talk when I should be looking for the foe. Hasten to our covert, Madge, in the mimic castle, and I'll soon bring you word how matters stand." Pathaway glanced toward the suspicious quarter with hawk-like intensity-then, stoop- ing and grasping his rifle firmly, stole noise- lessly from the spot. CHAPTER XXXI. THE RESTORATION-THE MIDNIGHT STRIFE. Madge entered the rocky. cavern, for in truth it was little else. The moonlight crept dimly in through the gaping crevices. Andrew Jeanjean was sleeping. She stood be- side him, listening anxiously to every sound without. His features, imperfectly revealed by the faint nocturnal beams, were paler than they were wont; but she noticed that they changed occasionally, responsive, doubtless, to his varying dreams. Every moment was fraught with suspense, and the time to' Madge was dismally long. She missed Nick, whose voice had become so faniiliar, and was ever so full of friendliness. During the last few hours there had been as great a change in her feelings as in her garb. She was no longer Sebastian Delaunay, obliged to act an unnatural character, and one entirely opposed to her innate delicacy. There had been a constant struggle in her bosom, which increased in a tenfold degree after meeting the gray hunter. - To Nick she had grown accus- tomed ; for he, being in her secret, the need of constant effort and watchfulness was less ur- gent. . It was after her acquaintance with Pathaway had begun, that the embarrassment of her false position became really painful. Every moment she had feared discovery, and many times was in doubt whether he had not already divined the secret of her sex. All this was past-except the maidenly shame of its recollection. She had returned to the garb worn by her sex, and though differing from that of her civilized sisters, it was well adapted 'to life in the wilderness. It was an inexpressible relief not to feel compelled to simulate masculine manners. Had danger been more distant, her feelings of relief would have been more marked and conm- plete ; but anxiety for her friends and defend- ers marred the pleasure of the metamorphosis. She expected to hear every instant the stealthy tread of Indians, or those whose presence she dreaded as much. A sing lrifle-shot rang through the rocks. Andrew J anjean started up, yawned. opened his drowsy eyes, stared at Madge, then glanced wonderingly around him. The young woman .observed him in silence, awaiting with interest the result of Nick's surgery. " Who are you ?" he asked, slowly. "Where' -where am I? Ah 1 I must have fallen 'I i l i Igg asleep on the way! I have had a long walk but I don't remember lying down. Where are my peltries, I wonder ?" W hat is the last thing you remember ?" Made asked. With a bewildered air, Andrew arose, and looked at the interrogator, who repeated her question. "The last thing I remember?" reiterated Jeanjean, reflectively. "I recollect starting from the trapping-grounds, and having my ~horse stolen as I camped at night. Let me see--then I threw my peltries across my shoul- ders, and, camie as far as here; that is, I reached a gulch or canon, which must be in this vicinity. Then-then"-Andrew put his hand to his brow-" then-everything seems to leave off abruptly. I have had darkness and confused dreams." "Have you no consciousness ofa shock, a sudden pain, the report of a gun, a fall ?" asked Madge. " All is blank !" replied Andrew, hopelessly. "To be brief, you were behet by ruffians, robbed, and left for dead, and owe your pre- servation to a brave man who witnessed the outrage." "How long ago was that ?" inquired Jean- jean. " More than a week," answered Madge. " It seems scarcely possible," said Jeanjean. " Your wound was of the head," continued Madge. " But this is no time for details. We are in danger - pursued by enemies upon whose ears the cries of mercy are lost." . I cannot realize this !" exclaimed Andrew, ,with emphasis. "How can one lose a week_ of life, yet awake to the conscious world strong, and to all appearance healthy " Jeanjean passed his hand dubiously over his head, wincing when he touched the wound. "All this is possible,".he added,-" though to me most dreamlike and improbable. I have had a concussion of the brain-a fracture of the skull, or an injury of that ,nature, doubt- less. The French voyageur joined them. " Where is Pathaway ? Where is the Sho- shone ?" he asked, hastily. "We will be be- set by enemies, and we ,s'all be killed if we don't fight ver' much." Andrew heard the sound of his voice, and remembered the father of Ninon. . "Portneuf I" he cried, seizing his hand. " What is this I s'all hear ? His senses is come back. This is astonish! This onegrand surprise -" " I am very faint-I am dizzy ! In a mo- ment I shall be calm. There--there-I am quite restored. Tell me of Ninon ?" He looked earnestly at the voyageur. "Ma jolie Ninon 2" exclaimed.Portneuf, sor- rowfully. " What has happened to Ninon ?" "Be discreet'!" whispered Madge. " Mon Dieu! , I will not tell yOU what s'all aIppen to her. They take her away-the what you calls him--robbers." " Robbers ? Ninon ?" said Andrew,'with a start. "You are imprudent! I fear the shock of this-announcement will prove too much for his newly-restored reason," said Madge,, in a low voice, to the voyageur. " My heart so full, so ver' full !" answered Portneuf, wringing his hands. "We have reason to sutppose," added Madge, " that Ninon is at Trapper Valley, whither she has been carried by some lawless free trappere. " The mountain outlaws.I" exclaimed'Jean- jean, with strong emotion. " You tell ne, girl," he continued, fixing his eyes upon Madge, "that Ninon is in the bands of rob- bers and assassins, and expect me to hear yo; with calmness. Where are nay arms? let me fly to her rescu.!" " Listen, Jeanjean ! We are at this moment exposed to deadly peril. Pathaway and, the- Shoshone are seeking our, foes alone, and in the darkness ; while the old trapper, sick Whiffles, whose name-you may have heard, is making a hazardous attempt to save Ninon," said Madge, hurriedly. -" Then my duty is heret" responded Andrew, restraining his feelings. "give me a weapon, Portneuf." "Nicholas has kept your armse carefully; they lie there by the rocks," said Madge. "I trust my wound has not deprived ne of strength and cunning," responded Andrew- and seizing his weapons,'and admonishing the girl to remain, rushed forth with the voya- geur. Madge felt it impossible to stay there quietly. Taking the bow and quiver of ar- rows which had been her com'panions for many months, she left her covert, and soon stood on the spot where she had parted from the gray hunter. No one was in sight. Mi sio City stretched out around her, toward revery point of compass, like a scene of enchant. meant. It was a grim and frowning solitude that might be broken at any moment by the gliding footsteps or piercing yells of savage foemen. Shaft, column, and wall might'eon. ceal miscreants, from whom she shrankwith indescribable dread. She glanced timidly this way and that, then advanced with'noiseless steps toward the point where Pathaway had disappeared. She heard sounds toward the Valley, which grew more distinct as she pro- ceeded. Springing upon a tottering wall, she gazed down the. mountain-side and saw, by. the aid of the 'moonlights two :persons strug. gling together on a platform of rock hanging over a precipice of a 'hundred 'feet. IZl-il- stinets assured hed that one was Pati way. She sprang toward the combatants like a a- mois, not stopping to'ask what assistance should render or what danger i ein'red. She was soon near enough to ?ereeive tt PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. page: 104-105[View Page 104-105] 1%4 PATIiAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. thd tiiiia *as engaged in a hand-to-hand en- tones of the young Indian, but without doubt- eiliitti# Witlmurn Indian of extraordinary pro- ing his good faith, followed on, momentarily rtions. whose strength and litheness seemed expecting to greet the familiar face of the i * i iig With his size. Terror paralyzed trapper. She passed the spot where they had her person when she discovered that each was camped. eQil&fring to throw the other from the ledge The report of firearms and the shouts of ibto 9 thebyss. The bow nearly dropped combatants rang in her ears, filling her with fiofi hei hand, while her respiration grew painful apprehensions for the safety of Tier thick and gasping. Her lips were parted and friends. She pictured to herself the gray p A16, the upper portion of her body thrown hunter exhausted by his recent fearful trial, forward, her whole person statue-like and in- engaged with fresh enemies, sorely pressed, teiit. Aid she could not render, had fortitude and in need of succor. "If Nick were there," and presence of mind permitted ; for the evo- she murmured. "Hasten, Joe; the brave Intios of the combatants were $a rapid, that trapper is needed. His voice and his arm a blow aimed at one might have taken effect would work wonders." upot" the other. Soon find him. He go back quick. Great u Te ovgeconcentrated his powers for a Medicine is Doubledark !" responded Joe, final effort. She saw the convulsive quivgr- quickening his -pace and winding among the it of his muscles while his form was quiescent rocks as if familiar with the way. He struck tiaZ instant in the act. He drew the hunter into a familiar path, Madge continuing to along in his grasp; both trembled on the urge him on. Thanoise of fighting men grew vers of the dizzy height. fainter and fainter, and Madge became con- MAl moaned in her horror of the dreaded scious that she had been guided a long dis- ehtaatiophe. This feeble expression of terror tance,'while a distrust of Joe began to give reached the ears of Pathaway, and in that her uneasiness. For a short time she did not ferful pause on the brink he caught sight of speak her doubts, but by-and-by the convie- the dhi t fliire of Madge. New energy tion became so strong that she. stopped-. braced is nerves ; he felt a sudden access of "Joe," she said, "you are deceiving me ! stiefith in his muscles. Disengaging his Nick Whiffles would not remain so distant right hand fith a force that would have torn when his presence is so much required yon- it from his shoulder else, he grasped his agile der. The first report of firearms-would have antagonist by the throat, closing his fingers aroused him and given the speed of a buffalo- with the rigor of steel. A moment he. held to his limbs." him palpitating and writhing, while portions " Come on, woman !" returned Joe, in tones of the persons of both hung over the chasm ; so singularly enunciated, that the fears of then the great limbs of the Indian quivered Madge were more excited. " Don't stay to and lost their terrible power. - Pathaway re- talk." Madge noticed a marked deviation in covered himself, lifted his swarthy foe, and the boy's usual style of address. hurled him down the abyss. The victor sank " I'll go no farther I" she answered, with panting upon the rock. firmness. Madge fell on her knees in a gratitude that " Most there. Joe no deceive ; tongue whs.'voeeless and deep. She was in this atti- straight," replied Joe, returning to his old tude *hen Captain Dick and the chief, Seven- manner. Phuimcs, appeared a few yards up the moun- "I will- return," said Madge, resolutely. tin, running toward the spot where the hun- She-had taken but a few steps backward, when tei. Ws lying. A warning cry from her lips Joe caught her by the wrist, saying impera- ch'ied him to spring to his feet. She then tively : heerd the whoop of the Shoshone, and saw "-you shall not ! - Joe says go, and you ulitnonah leaping like a deer to meet the go !" 6-uomrs. While bewildered with the ra- " Oh, you've grown authoritative,! But I pity if these developments, some one touch- will not tamely submit to your whims." Ster,'and turning her head, she beheld In- She attempted to shake him off, but he dhlh Joe. clung to her like a young wildcat. "No ' here ; go with Joe. Much blood "Treacherous boy !" she cried. " Is it thus, he:; ,e*re squaw no like blood," he said. - that you reward my kindness ?" let thkier by the hand, and she mechani- "Reward ? Who talks of reward ? Your eally lhowed him to lead her away. As she reward is not yet !" exclaimed Joe, in the best we 4h6 saW other figures moving to and fro, of English. aM lmeand tin elsh of steel. Madge recoiled, 1 Where is uncle Nick ?" she asked, pre- "What do I hear?" she demanded. "What etly, topping. transformation is this ? Impostor ! traitor !" 'Joe did not at once answer. " To you, woman, I ari both," retorted the "'White trapper up yonder," he replied youth, with vehemence.. ge He wits for the bog-woman." "What injury can I have done you ?" in- S dgiethought there *as bitterness in the terrogatedMadge,agitated bysurprise andfear. * .*N. PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. "The greatest injury that one woman can do another !" cried the other, passionately. " Woman ?" repeated Madge, with increas- ing amazement. "Silly creature, not to have discovered it before ! Was iny disguise, then, so perfect? Was my character so closely simulated? Was Indian 'Joe so much a boy ? Girl, girl, I am Carldta !" The white lips of.Madge grew whiter; she put out one small hand as if to thrust back something unspeakably shocking,.while with the other she covered her eyes. "Traitress !" she murmured. "So blind- ed, so deceived, so lost ! What is my crime ?" "My heart was never touched-I never loved till I saw hin!' And you-you presumed to love him !" she answered, with indescribable bitterness. "I penetrated your disguise," she went on. " I saw you start and change color when I guided him to the trapper's camp. You would have cast yourself into his arms, had you dared-the man whose life I saved--. whose existence was forfeit to the lawful lords of the mountains. What a pang, what a sting- ing, painful pang of jealousy shot through ne then ! I could have slain you, woman, with my own.hand !" " You have deceived yourself," returned Madge, in a fainting voice. "'Tis false ! I have watched you every mo- ment when he was present. Don't deny what h you know is true, but from this hour dismiss him from your thoughts. I have. you - I hold you safe. This hand"-she held up a very small hand-" can crush you. It can con- sign you to a fate more terrible than death." Carl6ta spoke with angry and vindictive en- ergy. Madge felt how fearful is a jealous wo- man ! " What would you have ?" she asked. "What would I have ?" she repeated, fierce- ly. "I would have you beyond his sight and hearing forever !" "It is my death that you desire. Be mer- ciful-" "Are your senses so disturbed thatyou can think of softening me ?" retorted Carlota, with scathing earnestness. " I was about to ask the mercy of death without dishonor," answered Madge, with dig- nity. "If you indeed consider me so much your enemy, so fatally in your way, that knife in your .belt thrust into my bosom, which I here offer, will remove me from your path, and secure that silence which is eternal."- Madge parted the fold of her dress, and pre- sented a bosom spotlessly white. Carl6ta did not touch the weapon at her side, but partly drew a small dagger from her breast, upon the silver handle of which her fingers trembled convulsively. Her color changed rapidly, alternating from crimson to white. There was a painful conflict within. " Let no false emotion of pity prevent you 105 from striking," said Madge, earnestly., "If you knew the horror I have of yonder Valley and tle ibiscreants that infest it, I am sure you would .mercifully put an end to my sus- pense." Carl6ta slowly replaced the dagger, pressed her hands upon her heart and her face, then leaned against a rock, trembling in every limb. While both stood mute and agitated 'with va- rying emotions, Dick Iendricks appeared in the mountain-path to fill up the picture. CHAPTER XXXII. THE EsCAPE-THE CAvERN. The dogs had disappeared about an hour after the departure of Nick, nor had Madge seen them since. She now thought of tie faithful creatures, and wished they were near to save her. She looked furtively around in the hope of seeing them, and would have called them, had she been able to control her voice, Hendricks stared a moment at her, and Car- 16ta then sat down upon a stone like.one ex- hausted. Carl6ta perceived that blood was flowing from the sleeve of his hunting-shirt,. and hastened to his side. " You are hurt !" sh9 exclaimed. " Not much, but faint from loss of blood," replied Hendricks. Carldta began to search for the wound; and while she was bending over him, Madge con- ceived the idea of escape. The thought no sooner crossed her mind than she put it in practice. As Hendricks and Carlota were above her, cutting off her return,.she sprang down a little path toward the Valley -with ex-. traordinary swiftness. She did ,not turn to see if she were pursued, but flew onward with feet that scarcely touched the ground. Several, times she thought she heard the.voice/of Car- ldta and the sound of pursuit; but this incited. her to greater exertion. In the perturbation of flight, she did not remember that she was. descending to Trapper Valley, nor did- that truth force itself upon her till she saw the dis- mal portals of Devil's Gate. The unwelcome sight caused her to pause. The dark mouth of the tunnel, the towering columns of basalt, the jagged rocks, the weird effect of the darkness upon all, conspired to fill her with terror. But it. was no time for hesitation or delay. She began to reason and think connectedly. Shuddering, she hurried past the gloomy en- trance to the Valley, and commenced the as- cent on the opposite side, which was far less steep and more accessible. The hope of es- cape was now really strong in the breast of Madge. In the outset, the effort was but n wild experiment, with scarcely probabilities enoughto give it the prestige of success. She beheld the space rapidly widening between her and the Valley with feelings of expectation that cannot well be imagined. - Her frame was too delicate, however, to endure long this vio- lent exercise. By the time she reached the page: 106-107[View Page 106-107] 100 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS summit of the ascent, her speed was much abated, and her panting respiration and trem- bling limbs warned her that her physical pow- ers had been severely taxed, and called imper- atively for rest. She sank upon a grassy knoll, and listening for the sound of pursuing feet, heard the tumultuous beatings of her own heart. Again and again she held her breath, and turned her ear to the Valley, to be as often startled by imaginary alarms and chance in- terruptions of the prevailing silence. She dared not remain long inactive ; but taking, as near as she could judge, th-e direc- tion of Nick's hut, went forward with more calmness, though with less speed. She thought not of-wild beasts, or of the loneliness, and sol- itude, and darkness, but of Carl6ta, Hendricks, and the dreaded Valley. 'Tis true that she had fears for Nick, and regretted that she had not had sufficient presence of mind to ask Carldta concerning him. That she had be- trayed him, she had no doubt. This reflec- tion was fraught with pain, which even her own forlorn condition could not banish nor swallow- up in its greater misery. She saw landmarks that were familiar, and a little before morning reached Niek's deserted camp. She tottered in, and completely exhausted, was glad to cast herself upon its couch of ever- greens. The sun had performed part of his diurnal journey when she awoke. How familiar the spot looked ! How many memories it re- called-some pleasant, others quite the re- verse ! Here she had been the boy.Sebastian Delaunay, acting a partrepugnant to her na- ture. She recalled numberless trifling inci- dents of her short sojourn at the camp. It was near it that she had received the wound aimed- at Pathaway, and which, in the excite- ment of the last few hours, had been entirely forgotten by her ; but the arm, now swollen and inflamed by violent exercise, reminded her of the injury. What was she now to do? Could she be long safe there ? Would not Carl6ta's ven- geance pursue her-? If she fled, which way should she fly ? These and a thousand other queries pressed upon her at once. Deter- mined to act like. a reasonable being, and to employ every rational means of preservation, she refreshed herself with food that had'been left there at the time of 'their flight. Having thus, as in duty bound, attended to the wants of nature, she resolved to seek a more secure retreat, and trust her final rescue to her friends and Providence. She recollected that in one of her rambles she had discovered a small cave, the entrance to which was nearly- concealed by bushes, and immediately went to search for it. Having found it, she conveyed to it such useful articles as had been left at" the camp-among which were her own scarlet blanket, a hatchet, a carbine, ammunition, and several other articles,.all of which had been hidden under some boughs. The food, con- sisting of dried buffalo tongues and slices of the meat prepared in a similai- manner, she also carefully conveyed to her hiding-place. The cave was situated in a wood, within sight of the camp-so that, standing in its entrance, screened by its curtain of shrubbery, she could see any one who should approach it. At first, the darkness within was almost intolerable, but her eyes soon became accus- tomed to it ; and by removing asmuch of the foliage as seemed superfluous,}she let in not only additional light, but purer-air. Having thus provided for her safety according to the dictates of judgment and the limited means circumstances allowed her, she felt that she could do no more, and awaited anxiously the developmentsof time. The -sun had passed the meridian by the time these simple preparations were com- pleted. She was felicitating herself upon her escape, when she saw some one advancing toward the camp, and thought at first it might be Nick or Pathaway ; but it proved to be Bill Brace. He neared the camp in a stealthy manner, looked in, seemed disap- pointed, then searched for a trail. Several times he came very -near the spot where Madge was concealed, but finally went away, to her great relief. The remainder of the day and the ensuing night passed without further incident. Early in the morning, how- ever, Bill Brace and Carl6ta--the latter still dressed as Indian Joe--appeared. - Madge began to tremble - for Bill Brace was leading'~the dog Smuggler by a string. There was now real cause for alarm. They would unleash the dog ; impelled by affection, he would take her trail, and come to her di- rectly. There could be no doubt-the catas- trophe was sure and at hand. Madge was filled with nervous horror. Of what avail was her escape from Carl6ta ! It was- only postponing her fate-not averting it. She gazed with palpitating heart from her covert. She saw Carl6ta go into the camp, come out again, glance searchingly from point to point, taking in the surrounding scenery with a sweeping look of her quick eyes. She made a .motion to Brace, who slipped the cord from Smuggler's neck. , Feeling him- self at liberty, the animal ran into his master's camp, smelt of the boughs where Madge had. slept, sprang -out with his nose to the ground, and ran toward the trees. Carl6ta as well as Madge watched his movements with intense interest. Smuggler was in the timber in a moment, and as quickly disappeared. " Where is he ?" asked Carl6ta. " In the bushes," said Brace. "Let us follow faster ; we shall lose Tight of him altogether," added Carl6ta. " We've lost sight of him now, but he'll turn up ag'in soon, I reckon," replied Brace, looking about him with evident perplexity. "-Slow-footed idiot !" cried the girl; " if your feet were half as fast as your tongue, you would find him. He was on her trail, I am sure." "That may be true ; but where's the critter now ?" ' . . .t Brace stopped close to the cavern. Dogs don't git out o';sight in an onnateral way, do they ? Can't sink down into the airth, nor go up into the air, can they ?" Brace stared stupidly at Carl6ta. "You have not half the sagacity of the dog, though you may be quite as much of a brute," retorted Carldta, angrily. "Beat every bush -look behind every rock and tree. We shall find both dog and girl in some hole or covert." Wh'Ie Carl6ta was speaking, she sprang for- ward and stood at the entrance of the ,ave.' Brace, meantime, ran about like one half-dis- tracted, for he dreaded the anger of Carl6ta. The critter dodged us by turnin' on his track, or round a rock ; he may be a mile from here by this time." "Brace, you have strength, but not half the cunning of' a woman. Look here ! What's this ?" Brace hurried to her'; she had parted the bushes, and was pointing downward. "You'll find the dog and the one we seek in there," she added. Then, authoritatively : " Go in, Brace, and bring them out." "I'll look in, first," replied the ruffian. "It's rather dark ; it may be a wolf's den,'-for aught I know. I'm not afeard of an inemy that I can see, but I don't like to be too ven- tur'some in the dark." Brace thrust his burly head into the open- ing, but could see nothing but blackness. "In, I tell you!" commanded Carl6ta, impa- tiently. ' The dog will tear me," said Brace, sullenly. ' What does it matter? Your flesh will heal again. 'Tisn't so tender and delicate that you need to take such good care of it." Brace slowly pushed his head and shoulders into the darkness. A growl admonished him to forbear. "4What did I tell you ?" cried Carl6ta, tri- umphantly. "She is there ; I knew it." "I can see the dog's eyes ; they blaze like coals !" "Fool! -they are not the dog's-they are her's ; they are fatally bright !" said Carlota, wildly. "Don't I know a gal's eyes from a dog's ?" retorted Brace, sharply. "Give me my rifle ; I'll shoot the critter." Carl6ta pushed the rifle with her foot, so he could reach it, then suddenly seized his arm. " Hold ! I am afraid you will make a mis- take, and rob me of my triumph. Take away your bristly head, and let me look." Madge sat shivering in the remotest limit of the cavern, but' instinctively looked up when Carl6ta looked in. The eyes of the lat- ter seemed to conquer the darkness, for she exclaimed: " Come forth, girl, come forth! I am here -Carl6ta is here. Yield, if you would save the life of your faithful dog; be obstinate, and I will order Brace to shoot him." "Have you no pity-no remorse ?" cried Madge. "For you, none ; for the man I love, a world of both!" responded Carl6ta. " It's best to make an eend o' the dog, any- way," said Brace, in whose memory was treas- ured a former insult. " Order away your ruffian, and I will obey you," said Madge, with dignity. " I feel that resistance to my fate is vain; but in common humanity, I ask you to spare the dog." " Bill Brace, harm a hair of the dog;. and I'll hold your life of less value than his !" said Carldta, imperiously, to her cringing confed- erate. Madge came out, followed by Smuggler-- who wished to make an assault upon Brace, who stood with his rifle cocked, ready for such a demonstration;. but, from feelings of mercy to the dog, Madge restrained him. "Woman! Carl6ta! I qm in your power. Dispose of me-as you will; but take me not to yonder Valley." The eyes of the two girls met with an inten- sity of emotion on the part of each-hatred, jealousy, and revenge on the one hand ; wan- der, consternation, and fear on the other. Both were formed fair by Nature, and both silently admitted the fact. " Lead on !" said Carldta to Brace. The latter shook his head sullenly, and re- plied: "I won't trust my back to the;dog, noways. As soon's I turn, the chances are two to one- that he'll spring to my shoulders, and put hi- teeth into the back of my neck. I know the natur' o' Nick Whiffles' dogs. This one isn't so savage as t'other ; but he's l'arnin' his tricks right fast. No, no; miss ! I ain't to be tore to pieces by quadrupids." " Send him away !" said' Carl6ta, sharply, to Madge. " It grieves me to part with him," she an- swered, looking hesitatingly from Brace to Smuggler, as .if measuring the chances of a combat between them. The eyes of the dog followed those of his mistress ; he was evidently ready to try his strength at her bidding. "He's a fine brute ; but you must kill him, Brace," added Carl6ta, after a moment's l'e- flection. "Go, Smuggler, go!" said Madge-" go back 'to your master." smuggler looked -at her wistfully, as if to 'divine her purpose by her features. It was not until she had repeated her command in a PATHAWAY ; or., THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 107 page: 108-109[View Page 108-109] 103 PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. more imperative voice that he obeyed, and then reluctantly-halting, now and then, to see if the order would not be revoked. " Now that you are relieved of the 'ani ul, go on," said Carluta. The mountain robber shouldered his rifle, and moved toward the east. Carl6ta and Madge followed him. CHAPTER XXXIII. SEVEN-PLUMES. The rays of the sun gleamed brightly on the varied scenery. The summits of the moun- taun-ranges were tipped with crimson and gold. The long, trembling beams of light gilded the branches of the trees, darted down into the valleys, flickered against the broad surfaces of the rocks, and painted fantastic pictures upon lake and stream. But the charms of Nature were lost upon Madge. A sense of personal peril-a vague apprehension -outweighed. all other considerations. Occa- sionally', Carlsta's eyes kindled as she glanced around her ; but if she found room in her agi- tated breast for the beautiful, she did not ex- press the sentiment. Madge watched for some softening of her expression ; but the feelings that guided her movements were too strong to yield so readily. Madge did not waste words in useless ap- peals ; but followed her silently. She noticed that Brace kept along the margin of the val- lhy, following its general course. Sometimes, the way was exceedingly rough, and her feet were wounded upon the sharp stones ; but the girl of the mountains, more used to such traveling, sprang along after Brace with light- ness and agility. If she unconsciously gained upon Madge, and left her behind, she paused for, her to come ;up-and once helped her across a chasm, tut dropped her hand sud- denly, as if the contact wounded her. They reached a spot where the valley fell' off precipitously. Madge could look dlown many feet upon -the tops of stunted trees, sterile crags, ledges of red sandstone, and shat- tered columns of basalt. Carleta paused to rest. Madge was glad to recline beneath the shade of acottonwood. It was past noon. Brace stood on the verge of a precipice, leaning upon his rifle, and looking at the scenery beneath. His face was more serious than usual. Possibly a shadow of the coming event had fallen within the circle of his consciousness, thrilling him with a vague fear. - Madge saw a figure spring from the background and pause on the brink of the abyss. So sudden and unexpected was, the intrusion; that for an instant she was not aware that Brace had disappeared. Carl6ta' uttered an exclamation of surprise. On the, spot where the outlaw was last seen stood a tall and painted form, gazing at the two girls with a grim, etultant look. Although Brace had ever been an object of abhorrence to Madge, she could not repress a chill of horror at his fate. The Indian had hurled him down the precipice._ "Treachery ! treachery !" cried Carl6ta. " Redskin, what have you done ?" "Pushed him over ; lie fall great ways- kill him dead! White squaws go with Seven- Plumes. Wigwam ten, 'leven, twenty miiles off," answered the Indian, calmly. "Seven-Plumes has deceived Dick Hen- dricks. How can he tell him a straight story, when lie meets him? He cannot ; his tongue will stammer like a squaw's,".answered Car- ldta, with wonderful self-possession. "The Bear"-Seven-Plumes pointed down the abyss-" had a bad tongue ; lie no speak truth ; lie lie to Seven-Plumes, the chief of the Blackfeet.' He say, he give-he negive. Now he no lie no more."' "The warriors of Seven-Plumes will bleed for this ! The white'chief of the Valley will cause his young men to fall like leaves when the trees are shaken by the wind in the au- tumn of the year," responded Carl6ta, with a menacing gesture. - . "Seven-Plumes no care for Cap'n Dick! He want one, two squaw ; he find one, two squaw-he take 'em. He fight for Cap'n Dick, too ; but Cap'n Dick he no give him 'nough powder, and lead and hatchet." "I will see that you have all that he agreed to give you,"replied Carl6ta, thinking diploma- cy the best policy. "No want hatchet and powder now; want squaw ;, got squaw-keep him !" Carl6ta struggled to restrain her indignation and disappointment. Fear of captivity did not operate so strongly upon her as the thwart- ' ing of her plans. "Do you hear what this redskin says ?" she demanded, almost fiercely of Madge: " he talks of his wigwam and squaws." " It is but a change of masters. I hail this new captivity with different emotions from you. Thraldom with savages -cannot be so dreadful as yonder valley and you," replied Madge. " True, I forgot ; I can hope nothing; from you. But the wife of a chief! 'Tis mon- strous.!-Seven-Plumes, name the reward that you demand for our freedom. How many rifles, how many hatchets and knives, how many pounds of powder, how much red stuff for your favorite squaws ?" The Indian knit his painted brows. His wild and intractable nature could not brook contradiction. He had enjoyed savage free- dom from infancy ; his will had been law among his people for many summers. Should, he submit to the dictum of a squaw? " Seven-Plumes is a chief. When lie speak, the great Blackfoot nation do as he say. If he say,' Go on the war-path,' to his young men, they go. If he say, ' Wash the war-paint from your faces,' they come into the wigwams with PAT11AWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 109 * clean skins. If lie say, 'Kindle the torture- a waif of thistle-down. Even our triumph is fires,' they are kindled. If lie say to squaw, short-lived and our revenge imperfect. Wo- ' Go to such a lodge and be the wife of such a man-they call you Sebastian-you exult in warrior,' she go. White squaw of the Valley, my disappointment." i come with Seven-Plumes." Then to Madge, "I am grateful for any change that takes with eyes that glowed with conscious authiori- me from your hand. Exultation over one like ty, " Pale-face girl with the painted skin, git you I do not, cannotfeel. I experience emo- up and follow the chief of the- Blackfoot na- tions of pity in seeing one so young, so gifted n and fair, so lost, so wicked, so depraved by bad There were imperiousness and genuine an- companionship." tocratic dignity in the manner of the red-man. " Oh, you look down upon Carlkta of the The wild, wayward girl pf the Valley changed mountains with lofty.compassion,,but I do not color and felt her danger, realizing, for the thank you. Your pity a another dropato first time, that there were natures as strong my resentment. If you exhibit these quali- and unbending as her own. ties to me, how much more painshave you " Chief," she said, after a little silence, skill- taken to display them to the hunter in gray. fully and artfully modulating her voice to its And that wound I How I hate you for that .most persuasive notes, " reflect that we are wound !" but girls, children, almost, while you are a '"This is no time to indulge in such feelings. inan nd a warrior, with a heart of iron ,and We are entering upon a captivity that may be an arm of steel. You are strong; we are long and dangerous ; for aught we know, life- weak; the weak look to the strong for pito- long. We may drag out years of miserable tection. The strong ought to be nagnani- servitude ; or, if we rebel, find a quicker, Mons. A brave nian is always generous-a though painful release by the fagot and light- coward always the most abusive of power. ed pile. As for this wound, he who gave it Do you hear wme, chief of the Blackfeet 7" has gone to his reward ; he lies at the bottom The smile that illuminated the swarthy vis- of yonder abyss. The birds will hover over age of the Indian was both wily and exult- the spot before to-morrow, and the wolves will aint. his rude and native pride was flattered, bicker with each other for his bones. Let his too. fate show you the end of vilhuiiny. This poor " It isewell-spoken for a squaw ! I have lis- arm, it would seem, saved a life that is dear to tened to the voices of many, but of few whose you; rather thank nee for the office, than bring talk was so cunning. Seven-Plumes is -glad it against me as a crime." you speak so well. You make him want you "Prosy and inane moralizer! I detest female more to keep his lodge and to welcome him sermonizers ! I'd rather hear behind me the when he returns from the successful trail. He long gallop of the wolf, than the voice of a kill deer with his own hands ; lie kill buffalo ; wanting wonmum.. For the brute who lies man- lie catch beaver and otter; he lay the choicest gled in the valley, I have few tears. His fall meat and the best peltries at the feet of the from the cliff has perhaps saved him a fall white squaw." from the scatfld," answered Carldta. Tears of vexation, burning, bitter tears roll- "But Nick Whifles-Ihonest Nick ! I have ed scorching down Carl6ta's cheeks. She feared-I yet shrink from asking concerning pressed the handle of the dagger in her bo- him ?" saidI Madge, anxiously. som, glanced at her own small hand and arm, Carlhta stopped on the instant. Something then at the herculean proportions of the chief. like consternation appeared upon her face. I Ie observed her with the eyes of an eagle, and "I had forgotten him-I had really forgot- smiled with satisfaction at the strength of her ten him!" she said, as if speaking to herself. spirit. Before, she was but a pebble ; now, "Where did you leave him ?" continue1 sIe was a diamond. Madge, the manner of Carldta increasing her Seven-Plumes pointed proudly to the north- apprehensions. east. "Where did I leaveuhim!" repeated the girl, " Yonder," said he, "are the Saskatchewan with lips that paled in spite of her firmness. prairies, and the best hunting-grounds of the "Yes, that is the question-where . I'll tell Blackfoot. Many warriors will -welcome the you : In a dungeon of solid rock ! No one, return of the chief. Come !" 'mows where he is but myself; no, one will Made was already on her feet, and Carl6ta carry him food; he will starve.!" reluctantly arose. She glanced toward the "Infamous !" cried Madge, indignantly. abyss then at the mountains, the hills, the "Poor Nick ! This makes me miserable, in- vales, the stretches of timber with which she deed." . iad been familiar, then followed Seven-Plumes " I did not intend this," added Carl ta, with reluctant feet. thoughtfully. "I expected to have seen him 1"Nothing happens according to our expec- long ago, but this treacherous Blackfoot has tations," she muttered. "All things'change. thwarted my plans. The trapper was hard on We are blown to and fro about the world like 'me while I was Indian Joe, and his suspicions I page: 110-111[View Page 110-111] 110 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. were not ill-founded; but even his severity the rocks, out of range of a rifle ball. Hen.' was not without a touch of good-nature. Yet drinks, who was conspicuous in the fray, was the man Doubledark is dangerous. He has the last to withdraw from the contest, though been watching us, and the mountaineers like nottill he had received a wound. . not to be'looked after too closely." Pathaway hastened to the spot where hie had "Squaw he talk too much; he talk twice left Madge, but, not finding her, hurried to where he walk but once," said the Blackfoot, the Mimie Castle where, they had camped. with a scowl of displeasure., Being equally unsuccessful in that quarter, he The captives went on, but the feet of Madge believed she had secreted herself somewhere had grown heavier, while every step, it seemed in the vicinity. He ran from covert to covert, to her, was taking her from one to whose res- seeking her, assured that she could not be far cue she ought to fly-' . off. This confidence, however, gave place to " Yes,". added Carl'ota, as if speaking to her- real alarm as his search grew more extended, self, " the people of the Valley consider him and the results no more satisfactory. He an enemy, but Carlsta is not cruel to those called her name. The name of Madge was who have not injured her. Sebastian--" the whispered among the rocks--at first, faintly ; girl's lip curled contemptuously. more loudly anon. Now, the word arose " Ca me Madge," said the other. softly and tenderly; and now, in tones husky "I am sorry that the man must, perish in with apprehension. such a lingering manner," resumed Carlsta. " Madge !"-the name grew dearer as he re- "But will not some of your people hear his peated it. As disappointment ,after disap- cries ? demanded Madge. pointment followed expectation, the maiden " His voice will fall dead and echoless on the grew more important in his estimatic i. He walls of his stony sepulchre. No, girl, no; recalled innumerable things she had said, and there is no hope for Nick, the trapper, unless remembered as many graces that had been be. I escape from this Indian." fore unappreciated. - Her beauty of person "God grant, then, that you may escape !'! was presented in a new and more fascinating said Madge, with fervor. s. form, and he resolved to atone for past neglect, " And you?" queried Carl6ta. or any want of gallantry that he might have at "In thinking of Nick I forgot myself. I any time been guilty of, the instant he had think only of the long, dreary hours before an opportunity of doing so. him ; of wasting hunger ; of scorching, agon- He felt remorse for his sometimes cruelty to izing thirst; of the craving, unspeakable tor- the boy Sebastian. Jeanjean and Portneuf tures of starvation ! You know not the ties joined in the search ; nor did they relax their that bind me to that man; you know not the efforts till the morning sun arose upon the nature of the debt I owe him; ,you know Mimic City. not-" When the parties gathered around the SI know more than I speak," interrupted mornii camp-fire to make a breakfast on the Carlita. . -flesh of the mountain-sheep that Nick had Madge threw a quick, inquisitive glance at provided, each had a depressed and anxious the girl of the mountains. oe ma expression. The Shoshone, who had been "What is mysterious to one ma be appar- outlying as a scout and sentinel, Joined them ent to another. What we cherisK as a pro- while they were eating. He could give them found secret may be borne about in the breast no information of Madge. The non-return of of an enemy.".. Nick, too, troubled Pathaway. He was well " Unfortunate as I am, driven to these wild persuaded that he-had met with ill luck. .solitudes by the force of wayward destiny, I Portneuf and Jeanjean were of the same opin- should have found in one of my own sex a ion. The restoration of the latter- seemed sister, and notan enemy," replied Madge, ready perfect so far as his mental faculties were con- to sink under the pressure of accumulated mis- cerned. He experienced some uneasiness fortunes.- from the wound, but not sufficient to prevent Carlota dis not answer, and the two walked him from wishing to engage at once with Port- wearily after the chief. neuf in an attempt to rescue Ninon and Nick ---- -provided the trapper had fallen into the CIAPTER XXXIV. hands-of the outlaws. THE SEARCH. Pathaway was familiar enough with surgery Pathaway-saw the danger that threatened to understand that quietude was imperative in Madge and himself, and sprang up to meet it. such a case, and prevailed on Jeanjean with The appearance of the Shoshone gave him much difficulty to remain at rest at the camp fresh hope and courage. The Indians with- till the following day. Having carried the stood the first onset with some -firmness; but point, the gray hunter and the Shoshon6 be- Portneuf and Andrew Jeanjean healing the gan a systematic search for the trail of Madge; firing, and rushing to the assistance of their but the hard and sterile mountain-side was friends, the red allies of Hendricks gave unyielding to human feet, and it was seldom ground, and were soon safely hidden among that the imprint of even a heavy man's foot _, could be, found. They passed around the camping-ground in circles that consecutively g grw in circumference ; and it was not until a the last reached the Valley that anything re- x seinblin the imprint of a woman's foot could be found, and then, only two or three slight impressions on softer soil, that stopped as I suddenly as they had begun.I It must be borne in mmd, that these move- ments had to be made with excessive cau- tiousness, and necessarily consumed much. time. On soil less obdurate, and without' their drawback of watchful enemies, the task ofc tracing the trail of Madge would have been comparatively easy. Signs were found near Devil's Gate, near a spring of water which had saturated the earth ; and their 1 proximity to the entrance of the Valley made Pathaway fear that she had either unwittingly 4 sought shelter in that dangerous neighbor- hood, or been conducted there by Hendricks or his men.' He wished to explore the gloomy spot; but it was already dark, rendering it im- practicable to find or follow a trace so slight and broken. With extreme reluctance, he yielded to the counsel of the Shoshon6, and re-' traced his steps to the camp at Mimic City to He dreamedof Madge more than ever that night. He saw her in peril and distress. Now4 she was with the outlaws at Trapper Valley, suffering every-species of indignity, and nowI she was in captivity to the red men, moment- arily expecting Nick and himself to come to her release. His sleep was so. disturbed dur- ing the first part of the night, that the Sho- shons was up before him in the morning. It1 was the hand of the chief that awakened him. from his first refreshing slumbers. Portneuf and Jeanjean were already stirring. " There are four of us," said the latter, " and duties for each. My wound has para- lyzed my efforts too long. Portneuf and I have made up our minds what to do: we will rescue Ninon, or perish in the attempt !" "The feeling is natural and right," said Pathaway.. "I need not warn you that the enterprise will be attended with no common danger. The voyageur has doubtless already informed you of the circumstances. The story of his own sufferings and escape give you an insight into the true character of those with whom you have to deal." " I know all, and will dare all," replied Jean'ean, with energy. " I will use no arguments to dissuade you from. your purpose, for it is laudable ; but in your zealor inon, do not forget the man who has twice periled his life for her. Re- member Nick shiffies!" " God forbid that I should forget him !" ex- claimed Jeanjean. : " My restored faculties, my consciousness of life and its responsibili- ties-everything that is dear to man-admonish me to remember him. Who that has known him can cease to think of him with pleasure?" The two menshook handswithPathaway and descendedbya long detourtothe Valley. Path- away and the Shoshon6 soon after followed by a more direct route. On the way, they were met by the dog Calamity, alias Misfortune. He had a piece of bark in his mouth, which he dropped at the hunter's feet. Pathaway picked it up, and read the following words, rudely cut with a knife : " IN A PISON DIFFIKILTY. CANT GIT -OUT, I ALLOW. TAKE GOOD KEER 0 THE DOG KALAM- ITY, AND DONT LET IT BE KNOWD DOWN IN THE cLEARINS BUT NICK WHIFFLES IS DOIN WELL." "What says the talking-bark ?". asked the Shoshone. " That our friend is in trouble, and expects no relief. Indian Joe, I fear, betrayed him." " Were the eyes of the gray hunter so dim ?" demanded the chief. "I trusted the boy because he discharged the trust that was reposed in him with fideli- ty," answered Pathaway. "Brave men are not always cunning," re- turned Multnomah. " One may have the strength of the buffalo without the knowledge of the fox or the subtlety of the ser pent. Had the pale-face asked the Shoshone, he would have told him what the smooth-faced boy was," added the Indian, with a slight gesture of contempt. "White men," responded Pathaway, "speak their thoughts, but the red - men disguise them." " Doubledark did not speak his mind to Multnomah. He did not say to his friend : 'I am going with the boy to the Valley, where the voice of the Thunder-Spirit is sometimes heard.' Had he said this, the Shoshone would have told him better." "Doubledark is reputed wise. He baffles his enemies; he has eyes that are not afraid to look at the sun." "The wise' sometimes act without wisdom. The heart of Doubledark was heavy for the pale woman. He no sleep at night, because she was before him in dreams. Heart too soft -risk too much. But Multnomah is his brother, and he goes to find him." " But Madge ?" said Pathaway. "First Nick, then Madge," replied the In- dian. "I cannot and will not object to any reason- able undertaking in behalf of the trapper, Nick ; but the helplessness of the young girl, Madge, appeals continually to my sympa- thies." They had now reached the spot where they had found the trail of Madge on the previous night. Pathaway hung anxiously over the im- printof her little feet, while the chief observed him in silence. "The Shoshons," said the young man, at length, " is older than I ; he understands what is good, and I will listen to his words." "Multnoinah knows the thoughts of .the young hunter ; he thinks of the boy4quaw:; PArtnAWAY; R, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS.X11 i r ' page: 112-113[View Page 112-113] 112, PATHAWAY ; OR, THE his spirit is heavy for the fair face of the girl. But'young men are apt to be hasty. Listen to the talk of Multnomah, and if it is no good, no take it." The chief pointed at Nick's dog, and added: "He come from Doubledark-he knows the way back." " True !" said the young man, struck with the idea. " He can, without doubt, find his master. I am ready to go." The dog, meantime, had turned toward Devil's Gate, and was looking back over his shoulder at the Indian and Pathaway. " Go on, dog, go on !" said the latter, and the animal, with ears erect, and a satisfied wag of the tail, sprang into the tunnel. The pas- sage had lost none of its gloominess since the young man visited it. Itsrough and timne-worn port s frowned grimly on them as they enter- ed, and though the morning sun was beaming brightly, its rays penetrated but a short dis- tance into the passage, falling refracted and broken on. rock and column. " Feet have walked here since the sun came up," saidaMultnomah. "How do you know-?" asked -Pathaway. "Look !" returned the chief. " Here is a sign." Trhe hunter stooped over the spot indicated by the Indian, and detected the imprint of a damp moccasmn. - .. "Yes," he answered, "some of the moun- taineers have left the Valley recently." " Let my brother be dumb. To-day they go out and they come in. Cap'n Dick watch very sharp." "My tongue is sealed," returned the young man, and threaded his way noislessly after the Shoshone, the dog keeping a few paces in ad- vance. A portion of the distance they could not see' their canine guide, but occasionally heard his feet upon the stones. They issued from the darkness without accident, and pass. ing the boiling spring, arrived at the stream, which they were about to cross, when they perceived that the dog had stopped in the middle of it. This pause was of short duration, for the moment he found that the circumstance had attracted their notice, he walked down the bed of he stream to a point where it ran be- neath an arch of sandstone, and was lost to view. Under this arch their fore-footed guide disappeared. " Dad men hide from the sunlight like owls," muttered the Indian. In a moment they were in titter darkness, guided only by thq splashing of the dog's feet in the water. Pathaway did not remember that he had ever experienced such a feeling of complete isolation. Could one be more hidden from the world? he queried. What if a frag- ment of rock should fall from the dark roof and shut there in ? He shuddered as the thought shot through his mind. He could not resist epituring some of the horrors of such a fate. The air was damp and chilly,.and the walls, MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. when he touched them in feeling his way for- ward, felt like blocks of ice. By-and-by a thread of light appeared, but which was much farther off than it at first seemed; it grew stronger as they advanced, and crept down, as they perceived, through a cleft in the rook. Both parties hailed the light of day with satisfaction. While pausing to breathe the fresher air and catch a glimpse of the upper world, Multno- mah's eyes fell uponan extinguished and half- burned torch thrust into a crevice, where it had been placed, doubtless, by some one for future use. The torch was at once lighted by means of one of Pathaway's pistols, the dog waiting for them impatiently. They, soon reached a spot where the subterranean way suddenly widened, and the ceiling was more lofty.' The stream ran onward in a narrow bed, while there was firm and comparatively dry footing to the right and left. Calamity now darted forward to the right, at right angles with the stream, and presently they heard him bark loudly. Both quickened their steps. The light fell upon a dark chasm, upon the brink of which the dog was standing. Multnomah approached it carefully, and sink- ing upon his knees, held the torch over the- abyss. . . " Nicholas ! Nicholas !" said Pathaway, in a low voice. There was no answ r to this call. "He must' be here, ' added the young man- "The instincts of the dog cannot err. Nicholas ! Nicholas !.. He spoke louder, but his voice seemed to rebound from the abyss as if the darkness below were impenetrable even to sound. Calamitybayed persistently, his heavy voice echoing over their heads like a volley of inus- ketrv. "IHullo! you there,- dog ?" hailed a voice that appeared to come from a great distance. " Could you raise any body to come arter me, old feller, or must I make up my mind to give up things of a subliunar nature in this pesky hole.". " Nick ! Nick !" shouted Pathaway. " Your friends arehere. What has happened? How fare you?" " Ls that you, Colonel? I'm glad to hear a human voice. I'm in a prison diffikilty, I swear to gracious !" said the voice that incontestibly belonged to Nick Whiffies. " You're alive, thank God !" exclaimed the hunter. " Yes, alive, but the condemned boy carried me a good 'eal out o' my depth. Here I am in a well deep, enough for the driest seasons, I allow, though there happens to be but little water in it Jest pow. I'd come up and see ye if I could, but I can't leave ; which onp'lite- ness I hope you'll excuse." "But how did you get in, and how shall we get you opt ?" inquired Pathaway. " It all come of that boy," replied the trap- I PATHAWAY ; 'OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. A I 118 per, in a melancholy voice. " And le wasn't to thirty year may be deceived by some silly much in the boy line, neither. I'm a good 'eal animile that takes it into its head to play 'pos- took down, Colonel --ever so much took sum. As I was tellin' ye, the boy went mincin' down !" along afore me like a French danin'-master, " You are, indeed," replied the hunter ; without so much as turnin' the axletrees of his "o, fear, thanwe shall be able to take you ig eyes on to me till we reached this bole. up." which was as dark as darknesescrowded in eould " Treachery's something' we aan' guard make it. As Little P'ison held his torch over ag'inst, and the best on us is liable to be took it, I thou bit the darkness hsd been rammed in by it. Wait a moment, Colonel, and lill down with a ram-rod, by mighty! Glancin' elin up the rocks where I can speak to ye to one side on't, I see a rope hangin' down. with less exertion." Nick was silent a short '*This is a well, isn't it?' see 1, 'w ere ye git time, during which Pathaway heard him toiling the water for the 'stablishment ' Then the up the rocks- - ' pesky nondeseriptionof aboy spokeIngin ag'in "I can't git no higher," he said, presently, carter the old fashion. "for it's smooth as my hand above the ldge "'Doubledsrk go,down; take hold rope- I'm standin' on. I've tried bard enough tofif U lslip alog s-come to bottom ; then let go ; a foothold and a hand-hold, but I might 'a' walk good ways ; turn fust one weyright hand, spared my strength. I don't think a human turn next 'tother way left hand; i bime-by find critter ever got into jes' sich a diffikilty afore. white woman.' I looked at him inquiring , as My gran'father prehaps come the nearest to it werer, but he stood starin' down to his feet, when he was slopped out of his sulky into-the and pesky small feet they was, though, as I crater o' Vesuvius; but then he was iblowed told ye, an wit and wisdom didn't come till out ontotearry farny ag'in by the next 'rp on. too late. $omethin' said to me 'Nick Whif- But there's been no 'ruption here, and wouldh't files, don't go down!' Then I thought ofpretty be 'f I's to stay to alletarhity.! Oh Lord, no !" Nanny, Portneuf,.and Andrew hajneau. ' Lit. Nick reflected a moment on this unaccom- tle Ingin,' sex I, in a voice that made him modating state of affairs, and went on again. tremble, I allow, 'I have my fears and doubts " I never had much faith in the boy, as you consarnin' your natur', andif you play me any know, colonel; I allers looked on him witl a o' your heathen tricks, ill skulp ye, I swear s'picious eye. 'Little Pison,'?sea I to myself to egrae4ctra! Davin' said them words, I cx- every time I seed hin, 'you a'n't- here:for no amiied the.rope to see if 'twas made sufficient good.' I had him tied more nor once, as it fast, and findin' it 'twas, trusted myself on it, won't trouble you to recollect. But when he like a fool, and went down with my torch. I come to speak about the gal; sayin; that he'd, swung about some time durin' the descent in a lead me to her, he took me at my weak p'int. way that was frightful ; but I reached the bot- If there's anything more nor another that soft. tom in safety. 'All right!' sea I, and-turned ens me, it's calico in .if.11ty. He looked to look for the, passage that I'e to foller with honest-like, and I thought I'd trust him. ae so many turning's to find the trapper's darter. took me to the Devil's Gate, ona bee line, and Would- you, b'lieye it, colonel, I thought of it wasn't the fust time b many that he'd tra- that song poor Andrew usedto sing, and didn't versed the ground, I allow. ' e ..ided me keer a straw about the danger. Holdin' m through the tunnel like little era towing a light afore me, I soon perceived that I coulda't big one, though I noticed that he got short- go a greet ways in any direction 'thout run- breathed and tired seranmblin' over the rocks. nin' plump ag'in a wall of airth and rock. Well, we reached the stream, when the lad 'Nick Whiies, you've done wrong,' something' left me awhile, syin' he'd be back ag'in. I said to me ag'in, and a little qualm come over confess I felt mighty skeery and distrustful me. I made a sweep all round me with the while he's gone, but he feared arter a time torch, but there was no passage-nosa signof with a couple o' pine torches. This looked as a passage! if he's in airnest, and the earetntance give "As the conviction cone over me, I seed me courage." the rope a glidin' up over the 'sgge° p'ints " Take one o' these here,' se he, 'and fol- like a sarpint. That p'ison boy av ed it ler me.' So I took one of the torches and fol- up !. I knowed then that I's de;iV+e& lered him; -His voice didn't sound Inginy a "'What you doing' with that ropeF' Ishout. bit, when he said that, but I was thinking' so ed. 'much of Nanny, that Ididn't reflect on-it long. "'Drawin' it up,' ses he, in aves that was Well, on he went, steppin' very'gingerly, a if.mighty lear. Ingin :boys= was nat'ra y afeard of the water. "' W et youdrawin' it up for?' ses I, kind He shivered, too,sev'ral times, which made of husky-likein the throat. me think he was a odd redskin. But it often "'So you can'tgit up,',seazhe. ha-ppesathat our wit and wisdom don't come "'You've betrayed me, ou little redskin?' - illarterwards. Good swimmersare drownded .sea I. iBut don't think that you'llgit the ad- mnighaboutas freq en, as other folks;kso old vantage of me forfresh .kou might-eramthis trappers who have trod the peraries hard on hole with p'ison di .os,' se I, 'and. you w 5. x i i , x '1 I; .{ page: 114-115[View Page 114-115] PATHAWAY ; OR, TUIH MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. cop 't keep- Nick Whiffles down I Nick eighth, andIwent of in a heavy, nightmareish Whe isn't of a natur' to be kept down.' .aee that lasted a good while. 1 -waked up MpsvA~tie eyes of Dubledark so very cleared in 3edgment, though benunibed in , 4o :;screamed gide from: above, in a body. The dog was still at his post, and would t hat syrpriased me woundedly, 'twas so you ,tlieve it, colonel, on openin' my eyes I I~ike' a*orns 'Ilas the oldt'apper could see nighabout as well asafore the torch o a blind thatibe can't distinguish theifise went out. The eye 'commodates itself te dark- the -true ness, vyou know, and people in dungeons, I've Tem-e was't' a particle of Ingin-in the heerd, see very well-arte'r awhile. -I thought voice, then; 'twas a white and girlish voie 6it time to make an effort, and T'arn if there's 'When next you want to see Ingin Joe,' any chance of escape. Seeing' the rocks were the critter went on, 'inquire for Carl ta, the pooty rough, I'didn't know but I could climb outlaw's 4duhier.' out. Finding' foothold, I mounted with a deal Co Iwas dumbfounded I~ Scarcely'o' 'trouble, but could git no higher nor here. has g sonme aeroes me as that did While I stood lookin' up wistfully, I seed was aexed and out'o' i6rts"with myself for :be: sonethin' stickin' in a crevice ; it was a piece i' toobae in bya gal, though 'the"charaqter o' birch-bark, which had apperientlybeen used Sayed with a heapo' etion and cun- rfor a torchfor it was rolled up, and one 'end mu'. on't charred with fire. I took it, and settin' Ga'sa 'e rod dust in m on the ledge where.I acm now, enaed a es- - yes, I ownaynd it goescrdds ays to my ride sage'on't with ny knife. Then picked off a S ne. it w i have nat'ra gifts fragment o' rock and rolled itup in the bark. thit' iiht f 'pit '=Iether 'uses.' Bega' a I didn't sueeed in throwing' it up at"the fust' ,y cant o do me no harm, trial, nor the second,ineither, but was obleeged ut jest to ha e 'your ~eznan's'joke; andas to go downto the bottom fort sev'ral times, 'yor 'ate'b it, ,dropthe roe ag'in, and I'll which was no slight job; but presently I got cisnh put 'this Yt-rap ofr it's oncommon it up. S''anad oinhealth, ,and my lungs 'isn't so "'Take that,' seaI to. the dog, 'and run strong h some. Pon't be aeardthat I'll hurt like p'isonl Go,' 'ses I, 'right quick to Se- ef on'E Nick Whifles-wouldn't hurt' bastion or the colonel, or somebody, and they'll o' the=female persuasion on no account ' know what to do.' R'matnnwhee you be for the present,' sex "'BowwoWP ('answered the animile. she, 'ou took the advantage of mn when l's "-'Come back with 'em,' se' I," and show nobody but poor Thgini'Joe, and now you're 'em 'the way.' ~itt y your 'ayfot. 'Howsornnever," she "'Xe 'started"off, and I've waited for him n'sy that I mea to starve with what'patience I could, though it's very you, though u y've acted theopyo othe oun- dull business do*n here, with sich prospectt casy longenough to deserve it.',' afore ne. I knew I'could depend on you-and th t .to her that wecouldn't the Ingin,and trusted that Providence would none on usstruggle ag'in Providence; pnd if befriend Nick Whiffies once inore.n 'twas so writ *n the book o' fate that I was to "Your story is a strange one," replied erish it i ind sich a manner, in that way Patbaway.' "So Carlsta was my guide. 'Twas shld perish. 'Marcy is a 'good thing in a a singular whim, surely. It seems incredible, 'woman,', 'observed, in hopes to tetch her, but I can now recall many inconsistencies in. n '.heat, andthen the light' disappe 00d above. the character of Indian Joe." am' my ear to thC rocks, I 'couldihear her "There was one among us who was not de- R _ is , i saay. Myfeelin's was 'onp peasant; I eeived, I allow," said Nicholas, "and that one ean't_4eser'be'em, For a little while, I a'llow "isn't fu off, though his natur' isn't white na- Smdie d and the . itll ty owed tur'." g uead deat looeat me The Shoshons was obviously flattered by t 'pWal, rm and.awful , this remark. e torch into acrevice andwatch- "The eyes of-the young hunter," he added, % N --ralin'in a wholesome way. I addressing Pathawa, "should have looked t rnfu21 sound above, It was Ca- into the heart of Indian Joe, and seen himself melancholy. I left lin with there as he' sees himself in the water' The 'bTht gh = eut ie ok 'iny trail and follered. Shoshon6 sees much and speaks little.""" not lie made wasn't cheerful, I '"des' so, chief! And dow perhaps you'd r' dhidt't feelinlghso lonelyandacastdown asa better look round a little, and see if u can't d o I tked tohim asif he's 'human, 'find the rope that she took away. 'It can't be "4 'an ' taled 'eordin' tohist, back ag'in, fur 'off, in course. I can' fast and thirst as which was all he could do. My torch burned 'well another, but the feelin' isn't byno'oeans F alon and went utand Isot there gloomy eomfortable."' euhnh 'tbhout=tbinlxkn" of 'an way of gittin 'Pathaway-immediately beg to search for e clikl' T ng dsn air sort ef chilled the'rope,and- found it in the Obscure back- 1iybl ; I'd been broke o' my rest several roundof the cavern, where it had been e PATHAWAY-; Ot, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. b plased by Carl6ta. To make it fast and lower one end into the shaft, was the work of a few moments. The young man feared Nick would not have strength enough to ascend, and ex- pressed himself to that effect. " Not a bit on't, colonel !" said Nicholas, as he commenced climbing. "These muskles o' mine are 'the right kind for sarvice. They've been tried a thousand times, and there isn't a weak spot in 'em. There's no useless fat on 'em. Fat, colonel, is the enemy of muskies. For strength and hardihood nothing' is wantin' but the solid flesh. Here I come, you see I" Nicholas ascended the rope hand over hand, but the gray hunter perceived that the action cost him more effort *than he was willing to acknowledge. Calamity, meantime, stood with his forefeet on the verge of the shaft, watch- ing the -progress of his master. His bushy tail wagged with satisfaction, while his large eyes sparkled with joy as he reached the sur- face.-. Pathaway and the Shoshons each caught him by an arm and drew him from his living sepulchre. The veteran did not speak, but sank upon the hard floor of the cavern. - The dog leaped upon his shoulders, licked his face, rubbed his great head against his cheeks, laid.down u pon him, rolled over, made a sound like a dumb person trying to speak, and a hundred dog-demonstrations of delight. The trapper put his arms around his neck, and for a short time rested.his' damp forehead upon it. " To Providence fust," he murmured, "to you next, and the humans arterward. These s the sentiments of Nick Whiffles, and. on this platform 'you'll find him. Yes," he re- peated, as if communing with himself, " on this here platform you'll find him.' 'Tisn't the loudest thanksgiving, " he went on serious-* ly, " that's the deepest, and the most accept- able to the Master o' Life. It may be said, prehaps it has been said, that I haven't them feelin's o' rev'rence, that dependent critters' oughter have ; but howsomenever that mayt be-and I'won't be so presumptuous as to be my own jdge-I do feel rdfor liewhen it's spared, and for the kind marcy and'pro-. teetion of the Power that can see into the e vaults of the mountings with a- clearer eye nor the sun can look down upon the peraries l at noonday." Nick drewhis brown handr slowly across his eyes. . No one interrupted him. The Shoshonec looked avely toward the murky roof above ,e hi, andPathaway was sensibly affected. - Dogs,' continued the trapper anon, " was s ade fotr man, and when they'ree well-used, - they're true and never-faili friends. Lose everything you've got, be turned out o' house i and home and become a beggar in the streets,' and your dog'll foller ye all the same. Patches i and ragson't disgust hn; he'll lick your hand te same When you've no bread to give fi its him. The dog don't turn up his nose at you -the dog don't-when you're in disgrace, and at last will howl over your grave in giniwine grief when there's not a human beim' to drop a tear on it." Nicholas placed his hand on the shaggy head, and tie eyes beneath beamed on bin with unspeakable affection.. CHAPTER XXV. THE oUTAws AT neat. Nick Whiffes arose and stood erect. " Colonel," he said, stretching out his hand, " I thank ye! '.Thank ye' is werds that is easy spoke, but not allers felt." "It would be unjust, Nicholas, to take mueh credit to myself fdr your rescue.: To the chief of the Shoshones you ae, so nmck i - debted, that it would be unpardonable in .me not to make particular mention of 1#s n me.' " It's the modesty o' youth," the trapper, and it's a thing I like to see in these days when boys think the 're en afore the have trapped beaver or brought dowi a b faler at fifty rods." Then advancing to: ult. nomah and confrontin him steadily," n,' I krow your natur' and you know mine We don't need much said atween us. . Thi isn't the fust' debt I owe ye, and i'don't know of any individooka, be the compleio of ,isaskin what it may, that I'd ruther owe: a goodturn to. We've- slept with our feet at. thelame fire, Shoshons, and took the ptter aild the beaver from the same.waters." "It is as ,Doubledark says; Miltnomash knows what is in his heart," returned the chief. "Sartin," returned Nicks "IIt's your na- tur' to be cuick at understanding thinks," The Indian did not answer, but mi g'a gesture of silence, walked quickly to tie grub. mountain stream. Nick and thehunter saw him stop and stand in a fixed and listening ast titude. P'athaway was holding the tireh, and its rays glimmered feebly against the person of the'chief, making him resemble a piece of iron statuary. "It's nat'ral to hin, aat'ral to him," whim. pered Nick. "kRed blood is quicker o' hearin' nor white, less the white is eddicated by prae- ice. He hears somethin'which you promably can't.," Now, colonel, lay down and put your ear c ' theground,pervidin'\there's an nat ragirth hereabouts, ad I'l e nu'l- c yareel hear a dsod equaltothe tkiaofa. watch.e "I'm not so much of a novie asyu' a ma no,' replied s eathaway, eomew - irund it ick's low estimateof his'powers ngthe torehinto aerfencet enea'k4 ater ned the experiment his friend. r Ya , ,. :eq . y;5 , y i 114 ., d F page: 116-117[View Page 116-117] 116 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE "Wrong, trapper, wrong for once ! I hear the distant splashin of water," he said. Nicholas stretched his person upon the floor of the cavern with a quickness that;was like the spring of a cat. For a space he was im- mobile as the solid foundation beneath him. " It is very well--very well, indeed, for a beginner," he said, approvingly., "And not that, neither, but mighty cute in one that hasn't trod the peraries many years. There is splashin' in the water I If you've, you'll yit be able to walk side an' side with the Shoshone." " Your good opinion is gratifying. A word of praise from Nick Whiffles is something to be proud of. The sounds, trapper, come this, way."_ "And the Ingin, too. It's a right good -hing, colonel, to have a critter of so much sagacity to help us in the time o' need. Now f nw from his manner, by the way he walks and the *ay he looks (and it comes of bem' with him) that he's made up his mind what to do." 47 Tho words of Multnomah verified the predietio Nicholas. "Co down the water-two, three, four. White "en." The ohief plucked the torch fom the cre- 'Ac, and swinging it to increase the baze, strode with all the rapidity compatible with wariness into the dark background. Patha- way noticed that Nick followed him with un- wavering confidence, and his own spirits arose responsive to his evident assurance. He feared, that the cave was not sufficiently capacious to afford them a secure hiding-place from those who approached ; but his apprehensions were speedily dispelled by the increasing extension of the subterranean vault. The floor was now clayey and damp. The chief turned around a sharp abutment of earth and extinguished the torch. .dsildtb Nick was as quieted as little disturbed as if in his own solitary but, a score of miles from a known enemy. Pathaway wished to question the Shoshone, but with the satisfied example of Nick before him, restrained the impulse. He was wise enough to comprehend, that if -one older and more experienced than himself was perfectly reliant on the knowledge and trustworthiness of the Shoshone, he should also manifest the same faith and "onfidence. He therefore com- posed his features, and appeared as stoical as possible. Wisdorp, perhaps, consists in imi- tating those supposed to'know more than our- aelis. this is the philosophy of the world, at least, and is acted daily by those who wish tai per well in the eyes of pseudo society. . o young man lated, maot without secret a1ety,,the development of events." It is far itZyto exercise the higher qualities of thelnan mind than to read ofthem; and for a time even the brave spirit of Pathaway MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. was agitated by suspense. The consciousness that he was armed, and supported also by two persons of tried courage and constancy, in- spired him with confidence not easily shaken. The splashing of the water was now such as to indicate the proximity of the coming ar- ties. The light from their torches, too, gum- mered on the passing stream and flickered upon the rocky roof among the drooping sta- lactites, and the large drops of water collected upon the sharp points, just read yto drop. Looking from behind the protect ing angle, Pathaway and his companions saw a man emerge from the subterranean passage, bear- ing a toch in his.right hand. It was Dick Hendricks. His left arm was bandaged and in a sling, while his features were pale from loss of blood apparently. The blaze shining on his face revealed in a striking manner the pe- cular hardness and recklessness of his nature. The hunter experienced an unpleasant thrill of astonishment at beholding the next object that presented itself. Andrew Jeanjean came after the outlaw captain, his countenance near- ly as pallid as that of the latter, and hii hands secured by a cord about the wrists. This un- expected spectacle gave the young man unal- loyed pain. He would have observed the via- ages of his comrades but for the obscurity. Walking behind the prisoner appeared three armed men. What did this portend ? A visit to such a- locality, under such circumstances, could have no good for its object, and Pathaway trembled for the trapper's fate.. Jeanjean's expression was firm and resigned -like one conscious of peril, yet resolved to meet it with becoming manliness. As Hen- dricks ushered him into the cavern, he threw an inquiring,-earnest look around him, and his cheeks, the hunter thought, grew paler. The robber captain flourished his torch till his menacing face seemed set in a circle of fire, then approached the shaft with cautious yet hasty steps. An indignant glow warmed the hunter's blood. The pulsations of his heart grew quick with expectation, nor could he refrain from drawing Nick farther behind the abutment, and whispering : "Nicholas,[ am sure I can depend on you, Nicholas, if5 kything dreadful is to be pre.' vented." "I think so, colonel, I think so !" returned Nick, pressing the young man's hand. ou haven't knowed me a great while par ally, but. you've heerd of me, and can form some idee what my natur' is." Pathaway gratefull returned the pressure of the trapper's hand, and hurried back to watch the progress of events., "Where's the rope ?" asked lHendricks, in a tote that indicated that his temper had been recently ruffed. "It's hanging' in the hole, oap'n," answered one of his fellows. I. I U 1 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 117 "Ninon, my poor Ninon !" exclaimed Jean can, dejectedly, while his breast heaved wit] emotion.I "Go down !" said Hendricks, pointing t the ropewith his torch. Andrew turned toward Hendricks and re plied :- "I have followed you hither because I could not resist your will. I came to the Valley o an errand of meroy, but unfortunately fell in to your power. From you, Richard Hen dlricks, I expect little kindness, yet I do en tr. at of you to pause before you proceed t burden your soul with another crime. Stop here in your career, restore the voyageur's daughter to liberty, and here in this deep aid secret sepulchre resolve to change your mod of life. Reflect a moment, Hendricks ; ask yourself if wrong done to a fellow-being wil bring quietude and happiness. " Go down !" repeated Hendricks, gruffly. " Life is sweet to the young," muttered Jeanjean, sighing. "1I tell you to go down 1" cried Hendricks, fiercely. "If my hands were free, you would be less insolent, Dick Hendricks !" retorted Jeaujean. " Fools !" exclaimed Hendricks, addressing his men, " untie his hands." Andrew's hands were at liberty in moment. "Now," added Hendricks, drawing a pistol, " there is nothing to hinder you from goin' down that rope. Don't trifle, for I'm busy to-day, and it-isn't safe to contradict me."' "If I am to die," said Jeanjean, struggling to maintain his composure, givee me at least a quick and decent death." " Go down, and we'll talk of that when we have more time !" retorted the captain, mo- rosely, cocking his pistol. Jeanjean looked hopelessly up at the damp roof, to the right, to the left, then down at the dark abyss, leading he knew not whither, designed, perhaps, to be his sepulchre. " Choose, whether you will go down by the law of gravitation, or by your own muscles," said the captain, advancing the muzzle of his pistol to within a few inches of Andrew's head. Pathaway beheld this scene with feelings that.he could scarcely restrain. Once he was, on the point of bounding from his hiding- place and hurling the robber ,trapper into the shaft, but the hand of Nicholas grasping his arm, kept him back. The figure of the Sho- shons rested against the abutment as if cut in relief upon the wall. The hunter could see, dimly the dusky outlines of his person, fixed and undemonstrative. , Andrew Jeanjean breathed heavily, then stooping and seizing the rope, began to de.s send. Captain Dick replaced his pistol with a grim smile, and- partly drew 'a bowie from his belt. A demon within him was tempting hiin to cut the rope. A suspicion of such a thing appeared to cross the mind of Jeanjean; - for Pathaway saw his pale, anxious &e turned i upward an instant toward the light from which oe was passing, then the pallid countenance ,o sank,.lower and lower till 'it was covered by the darkness of the abyss. The vibrationsof the rope as Andrew swung to and fro in his descent, were visible some time, then, when all d tension pon it had Ceased, it was hastily n drawn ip. - "The critter'll be safe there till-he's want- - ed," muttered Captain Dick. "There's too - many sich fellers prowlin' round' the Valley. o We must put an end to this spin' business, or the ropes are'twisted that'llhang us. None s on us will be obleeged to wait till hemp grows if I sich chaps as NickWhifles and thatyoung vag- e abond, Pathaway, are allowed to have their way. " That's true, cap'i, and I've always said l so," responded one of his followers. "I wish they were all in there," continued Hen'dricks, shaking his fl4over .the shaft. I" Our business will never flo'utish till they are out of the way. All has gone wrong since they come to this i-egion. There's Garlsta has got her head full'of strange notions, and seems to be bewitched arter this young hunter in gray. We shall have a company of United States soldiers on us next, I s'pose." He drew his hand over his ruled face im- patiently. "Then there's Seven-Plumes ; he's not to be trusted I'm afeard, We might. have ex. terminated 'em all if his red scoundrels hadn t give back at the fust fire. If I'd had a half dozen of my own fellers with me, the thing would been done. Come, boys, let's leave this devil-den and -start. up our game again. It's a long road that hasn't no turn in't. Good-by, Jeanjean I" he shouted,' hoatsely, then retreated with his fellows. "If your road isn't longer than I think 'tis, it'll have a turn soon, and a round turn, too," muttered Nick, whose feelings required instant expression. " If I'd my shootin'-iron, I allow I should drawed a bead on him, but things isn't allers as we want 'em, though I 's'p se all works for the best in the Bend.u-You seeas to be narvous, colonel." " Impatient, angry, if youwill? lied the hunter,.with a logbreath . rep The footsteps of Hendricks and his men rapidly receded. "There's somethin' in surgery " resxumed Nick, "a sight in surgery, colone I as i- morally sartin the lad's senses woul4 4ome back to him good's new ; but I's sorry, by mighty, when heerd him speak u so usn- bla and nat'ral, for if he'd continued ts he was afore, he wouldn't been in thispesky hole at all. Now you e quiet, colonel, a sd ''ll him a surprise as 'there. Strike a 'light, n, gin., and set that torch agoin5." ' The Shoshion having relighted the torch the parties proceeded ft the shaft. Nic%4hi# ing again enjoined the chief and thlster A' I page: 118-119[View Page 118-119] 118 PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAW.E MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. to silenee, seated himself on a rook with his leges hanging down into the chasm, and sang in a voice not entirely musical, a fragment of Jeaiean's ,song, having first remarked "that pooty likely he should make a good many p'ison mistakes." IiXy sweetheart was a bloomin' flower, Growing' beside some kind o water ; I lurked at midnight round her bower, -And wished, I had the trapper's darter. Oh, the trapper's darter.! Oh, the-trapper's darter !" Nick bent forward and listened, but getting no response, went on : " Her eyes was like, two stars agleamin', Her face was fair, her lips was sweet; Her smile was alleis. on me beamin', I knelt, I reckon, at-her feet. Oh, the trapper's darter ! Oh, the, trapper's darter !" "Who sings? Who, for Heaven's sake, is there ?- eried Jeanjean, whose lips surprise at irst kept mute. " Nick Whiffesind others, and the best'on't is We are at your sarvice," replied the trapper. " Here's the colonel and the Shoshons, and here'e a rope that I'm going' to fling down to eu to cerne up on. Look out fort--it's comin'. Sto a mius till I look a the fastenin.' All right i Be keerful and cool, and you'll do it. I've been dowlthere and know the natur' on't. But I had a friend--though he uses four legs instead o' $wro-a friend that stood by me; though he didn't stan' by me exactly neither, but went for' help." The tension on the rope indicated that An. drew, was, ascending. Pathaway awaited, not without trepidation, the result. Presently, af- ter several pauses, Jeanjean appeared at the top of'the shaft, and was drawn out by his friends. "'This is indeed 'ungxpected!I' he gasped, exhibiting strong emotion. 6"I had given up all hope of rescue, and bewildered and over- powered by misfortune, was striving to recon- sile my mind to my fate, when the singing of Nieholas reached ay ears." AIt was nothing .nut plain singin', and not slch as I have done, by no means. You should 'a' heard me'when my voice *as stronger, and I's more familiar with the gamit and .dimi- sinmi.quavers. Ididn't git all the words of the Trappers Darter;right, but I got the dense of *um, 1 allow, and didn't hurt the rhyme nor the reason. How's your head, Andrew ?' aven'sgedgye since I tried my surger on e." "Ibave beeninformed of your friendly-office. I aied .ot tell you, Nick Whiffles, how great my tift~a"is,' repliedJeanjean. "Yo're htly -indebted to the colonel,' too. He fo e in the condeinndest diffi- kilty, endtore the flesh from his fingers in di in'ye out, but come, let us leave this 'pMyehle.. We've been in t long; least wise, -I 'have, for my. tomnich's in 'a mournful state o' destitution, atid the soUnd o' that run. . in'water has b tantalizing' my thirst for a long " e' - The parties moved toward the outlet. Reaching the little stream, Nicholas refreshed himself b a copious draught-of its cooling waters. The Shoshone, bearing the torch, led the way, and in a little while they passed from beneath the damp and dripping arch to the open air. Jeanjean and Nick assuredly felt grateful, for moisture gathered in theireyes as they turned their facesto the golden sun. " I'snever buried alive afore-myself, but my gran'father, the historian, rode through a ken- try where the used to bury the live husbands with the dead wives, and the live wives with the dead husbands. He didn't stay there on'y long enough to bait his hoss and make 'a few memorandums a settin' in his sulky." The hunter looked at Nick to see if he really believed in his grandfather, but the trapper was gazing persistently at vacancy. The Sho- shoue east the torch into the stream, end the waters bore it hissing from sight, then spring- ing lightly from rock to rock, he guided the par- ties silently and-swiftly from Trapper Valley. CHAPTER XXXVI. THE MOUNTAINEER. The shades of night were darkening the mountains before the faint and faltering foot-" steps of the captives admonished Seven- Plumes that a halt was needful. He selected a sheltered spot, and seemed anxious to make his fair prisoners as comfortable as circum- stances would permit. He prepared for them a couch of boughs, spread his own blanket upon it, and told them to sleep. Both, as may readily be believed, were too much agi- tated by the events of the day, and their no- vel and precarious situation -to entertain for a moment the idea of slumber. Madge thought of the gray hunter and Nick ; of the first with a hope of his coming; of the second, with feel- ings of sadness and apprehension. She pie- tured to herself how brave the young man-' Pathaway-would be on the trail; how skill' fully he would discover the lightest ressure of her feet ; how fearlessly he would thread their winding course ; how generously he would sacrifice himself, and how heroically he would bear himself, when, having reached their lonely and cheerless bivouac, lie should meet their captor band 'to hand. These, it was true, were but dreams of fancy that float- ed through her mind, as she reclined upon the earth, looking at tthe changeless face of the Indian, -who had seated himself a short dis- tance from them, with his gun beside him, and his swarthy brow resting upon the palm of his hand.' Carl6ta was less calm, her countenance indi- cating varying emotions. Her cheeks, now white, now red;evidenced a storm within not easily stilled. " Night," said Seven-ln s. is the time for sleep. Let the white flowers rest."i "4Talk not of rest, treacherous chief Cap- tives cannot sleep. Send us back to 'Cr lodges, and our sorrows will pass like the clouds, and sleep will cross the thresholds of our eyes with steps lighter than the flitting of a adow," answered Carldta. " The Saskatchewan prairies lie along the river, and they are beautiful,", said the chief. " The lodge of Seven-Plumes shall be set up near the best hunting-grounds." "We are of one people-and you of another, and it cannot be," answered Carl6ta, with em- phasis. "Carlvta, the child of the mountains, would die rather than enter the lodge of an In- dian chief, to light his fire and cook his meat." Seven-Plumes composed himself in an atti- tude of rest, but deigned no reply. " Speak to him I" said Cardt a to Madge. "Change his purpose by ingenious appeals to, his pride and magnanimity." "'Tis useless; I cannot move him if I would,-and I again assure you-that I hail this captivity as light compared with that I should have suffered from you, had not matters taken this unexpected turn." "Would you he the wife of yonder beast 2"4 retorted Carlvta, angrily. -1 " Talk not ofit. I hope for a better fate; and my greatest-apprehension is, that my un- lucky star-will again place me in your hands." With a sharp epithet of reproach, Carldta turned- her back upon Madge, and tried to t shake her purpose no more, indulging bitter- ly in her' own wayward and contradictory emotions. r The night rolled on. Mildly the moon and her starry court looked down upon the wil- s derness. The prairie-dog barked, the wolf a howled, and the panther shrieked in the dis- i tance. The temporary camp was in an open spot at i -the base of a mountain, shut in on one side by o oaks, and on the other by mesquit and other n shrubbery. c Made closed her eyes and pretended to I sleep, but started at the slightest sound, and t invariably saw the fixed form of the Indian oc- t cupying the same place.* s - I'm afraid !" muttered Carl6ta, shivering. g " It is lonely and so dismal," she added, as if s speaking to herself. With these words she softly approached the chief, and with some p signs of repugnance seated herself on the v ground near him, casting ,timid glances from P aide 'to side. If her fear was feigned, it was eer- li tainly a close imitation of nature, and if Seven. w Plumes was cognizant of it,. he as well as t Madge was probably deceived if it were not . closely abodt her, and put herself in an attitude b that indicated an intention to sleep. Seven- Plumes, didnot stir, nor betray in any manner that he had seen this movement. Madge observed that Carlbta's dress careless. ]y covered a part of the Indian's gun, but had no suspicion that it was otherwise than acci- dental. Madge was now really sleepy. The fatig es nn watehings of the.last few daya hnd worn upon her naturally dlieate frame. Excitement only, had kept her. from sinning. A kindl of apathy stole over her. Carlitaand the chief gradually receded from her -vision ; a dark screen seemed let down between her aid surrounding bj cts.. She Passed from the outward world of danger and alarm to the inner one of safety and quietude. She awoke without knowing why ; awoke as sleepers often do, *ith a vague thrill of ter- ror. She glanced at Carl6ta and the chief; they sat there like two images of stone. :The moon had waned but little in the heavens, and she knew that her sleep had been of short du- ration. She turned her wandering gaze up the steep ascent of the mountain. Far, far in the mist of the night, she saw the peaks of the' eternal ranges,' stern and- cold. , She turned her regards to the opposite quarter and saw a slight tremulous motion in the mesquit. A fox or a hare lias left his covert, she thought ; and she continued to watch that in- dication of life, with an interest that -people sometimes feel in trifles. The agitation drew nearer the open space. For a few seconids it ceased ; then uprose from the foliage, a 'figure grim and eager, and smutched with blood, Made recognized, with a thrill of horror, in the sallow and ghastly face, the features' of Bill Brace. The discovery paralyzed her. A superstitious dread fell aupo aher.sensesAwig bewildering power. A slight noise alarmed Seven-Plumes, He' seized his gun, but the hands of Carlsta were already grasping it. He tried to wrest it from. ier, but she maintained her hold with deter. mined tenacity. he had seen Brace, and knew that he needed, but the delay of a see- nd, and she gained it for him. Thenext mo ent the chief was beaten 4own by. the rushing weight of the nountaineer. But the Indian was litie and supple,,and 'it was not euls o retain him in his grasp'; he vas posseed oo, of great personal strength. He quickly lipped from beneath Brace, and a fierce stug- ;le followed, of which Madg was a terrified pectator. Carldta would willingly have aided the trap- ier, but the rapid evolutions of the two-pre. rented her interposition. At leath Seven. Plumes received another fall, butghded snake. ike from under his adversary as before, and Would have been entirely free, had lot the lat. er grasped his belt and,held him tenaaiously. Brsce was, much exiausted, and the Indi rfi ed him sever yards i hias ,fetorts )reak his "bold, While' Carl~ta was tting, seantiue, to place a- weapon in the-,mous. Madge, seeing the situaten 'offsira i 'i , PATTTAWAY ; , ,OT , THE AMOUNTAIN OUTLAW,: lla - I page: 120-121[View Page 120-121] PATHAWAY ; OR,' THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. it s, E i; K sesi-el± k1t#*isg what she did - ran and euusht the Indian's hunting-knife, which had fallen to the groundin the-struggle, and gave itt )iini. ie seized it, severed the belt, and fled with a shout. Madge also ran, but in an ogp'site direction. She expected moment- arily to hear the heavy tread of Brace ; but heard only the noise of her own flight. To her aIdplaces Seemed alike, if they sheltered her- from Carl6ta ; and so she struggled on- ward, over bush and brake, through rank gds and tangled mesquit. Never before had that rugged way been pressed by feetso dainty.- She Was soon weary, and sat down in a strip of timber that skirteda small prairie. Above her was the dim itch of heaven,-studded with the palS and Melancholy stars; beneath, the dewy. earth, in the verdure of which reposed the rattlesnake; to the right and left, stretched ogt the varied scenery of the north-woods frequented by wild beasts, prairies traversed, by he buffalo, valleys where the grizzly bear nade--his home, and swanips of chaparral whewe the panther lay hidden by day. Madge, With ready apprehension, realized. the- frightful isolation of her situation,; but delicate and sensitive as she was, the name of Carl6ta was more fearful than all. The hoot- ugof an o*l in a tree overhead gave her a sadden terror ; while the cry of a far-off eats- monit produced an involuntary tremor. Pre- sently, she heard the leaping of an animal ; it came bounding toward her.; she could hear its feet strike the leaves. She doubted not that the panther-'- the shriek of Which she had heard, had scented her steps, and was coming to devour her. Her blood flowed sloggishly in her veins; she felt cold and faint. She thought of making an effort- to escape ; but what aeed could elude the arrow-like swift- nets ofan animal so dreaded-what sagacity thro hin from the trail ? She sank upon ber knees and covered her face,'and awaited, with trembling horror, the coming of the beast, The sound of leaping dreW nearer and nearer, and Madge's heart nearly ceased to beat, The tereble rbature was at hand ; in a moment, he °Wrd rend her! There was an instant of su4 tez agony of expectation. Too paws we 'lid uon her, and a convulsive shidder- $ fdibed over her frame. A great, familiar voice said,."Bow-wow 1" and Madge cried out Wi h i kp esible tef:: the dreaded animal wasti ik'* write dog Calamity! T'd a 'srnce of this, faithful creature ptede appy revulsion of feeling. Fear ad dpe deneyse place to mWore tranquil emotionS. 1 dThu *mrde l sagacity and fideli- tyof 'S og, she doibted aot, would be the me of restoring hety te those friends who hA Sani esbed So tniuoh interest In her wel- fa'. Had ihe been Well-assured of the safe-' ty t Patba b Skd Nel kWhifiles her conr. *a donfldonce would have bee quite re- stoled With the dog crouching. beside her, she waited patiently for the return of day, firm in the belief that her canine protector would not desert her. It was near morning. The shadowy ob- scurity of twilight dimmed the air and sur- rounding scenery. Madge had just awakened from'a refreshing sleep, and was looking around with a half-conscious, half-bewildered expbs- sion,- when the dog arose to his feet and as- sumed a belligerent attitude. She saw his lips quiver, his eyes light up, his long hair become erect. Madge followed the direction. of his threatening eyes, and beheld a spectacle cal- culated to inspire her with fresh alarm. This unwelcome apparition was no other than Brace, the mountaineer, who had approached by an open way, the long grass muffling the sound of his steps. His garments were torn and disor- dered, his head bare, save its natural covering, which hung matted and stained upon his fore- head, swarthy cheeks, and tawny neck. His face, where it was-not bruised and discolored, had a singularlyghastly sallowness. His eyes were glassy, and might have expressed vindic- tiveness, hate, or fear, or all combined. His, muscular body was thrown forward, and his weight appeared to rest upon his rifle. - A faint and smothered cry escaped the young woman's lips.- "I've follered - I've found ye, but you needn't be afeared," said the mountaineer, speaking slowly, and with evident exertion. Madge averted her eyes to shut out the gris- ly figure of Brace. "Keep the dog-still, gal, and hear what I've got to say." The voice of the mountaineer was so husky that she looked up. " It's cost me a good 'cal o' trouble to git here, but I'm glad to see ye afore I give lip." He paused, then went on: " I'm goin' under, gal-goin' under. The fall over the, cliff bruised me terrible.- I shouldn't been here, if I hadn't struck in the top of a tree ; the branches saved me from in- stant death, though I la stunned some time. Finally,:I come to and clambered down the tree, swearing' vengeance ag'in the Ingin; for I ketched a glimpse of him, as he pushed me over. You can't tell what I suffered fallin' ! I thought of every act of my life afore I struck the tree. You've no idee, miss, how fast a crtur can think when he's fallin' to his death. The book o' my life was open, and I read it goin' down. But when I found myself alive, my wrath turned again the Blackfoot. I drag- ged myself out o' theValley; and then I stag- gered along the trail arter the traitor. When- ever I come to a stream, I east myself into it, and swallered water like a run-down buffaler I overtook him, 'and would had my revenge, if it hadn't been for you." -It was the fear of Carlota inspired'e," said Madge. " I know her and I know you," answered Brace." At that moment, Madge perceived Carl6ta standing behind a bush- at the right of the mountaineer. , " Yes, I know ye now," added Brace, in a low, awed voice. " It wasn't I that done it ! 'Twas Cap'n Dick that did the deed. I was there when they throwed ye in, but I didn't look at your face-I didn't cake to look #t your face that night. They said you was beau- tiful, and the men was clamorm' for ye and git- tin' mutinous. The cap'n, bad as he was, didn't want to give ye up ; he wanted ye him- self, and it was himself or nobody. So lo keep peace and preserve his authority, hetook Ypto Black Run on that dreadful night with Ialf a dozen of his most reckless fellers, and you know what follered. I little thoughtI should see ye ag'mn in the land o' the living ; but you wasn't to die in that way, it 'pears. I- shouldn't knowed ye if Carl6ta hadn't told me, for I wasn't familiar with your face. I've dreamed o' them white arms o' your beatin' the air more nor once, and 'twas a deed that has troubled me-you being' a tender gal, and- *e bearded men that oughter perteet sich. Cap'n Hendricks couldn't forgit his victim so easy ; he seed ye at Nick's camp, and- your face affected him terrible. Your boy-disguise couldn't pervent him from seem' a strange re- semblance to the pooty young woman he had dealt with so cruel. He thought prehaps," continued Brace, reflectively, "that you'd say Yes, when you come to see the water running' swift and the men ready to do his biddin'." " She-she has told you this!" exclaimed Madge. ",She heard the tragedy of Black Run discussed while disguised as Indian Joe. She did not, she could not have consented to my destruction." "It is of you that I would speak, and not of her. I wanted to tell ye afore I died that I've alleys been sorry for being' there and seeing' that deed. Your forgiveness, perhaps, will'soften a little the pangs of perdition."a h "I forgive_ you freely, and as I hope 'God will forgive my own errors," said Madge. "Where is yourfirmness and courage, Bill Brace ?" cried Carl6ta, advancing. They have flowed away with my blood, and the savage natur' of the mountaineer is ebbin' with his life. I'm on the last trail, Carlota." Brace tottered as he spoke, and after ay ing unsteadily from side to side a moment, fell heavily to the earth. "It's a rough trail and a long," gasped the mountaineer. "Where are you, Car16ta?1 Can't you sata word to a nn who got his death in your sarvice P?" t' Poor fello* ! poor fellow !" muttered Car- 16ta, _+ 'The trail grows dark! -Where Is the Val- ley?"S "i " He's dying!" said Carldta, solemnly. "How black, how chilly the Valley is 1" murmured the outlaw, shuddering. "'Tis a dark Valley, indeed I" said Carlta, with a nervous tremor. "Hark !" cried Brace, starting-up. "I hear the cap'n's horn and must go." The moun- taineer fell back, gasped, and was off the trail forever. Carl6ta stood beside the body, pale as mar- ble, and as motionless. The death of one who had been faithful in her service could not but affect her. "Look I" saidMadge, impressively. . "See how bad men die. Ask, yourself if you are not the cause of his death ; if you have not added to his crimes, consequently to the.heavi- ness of his doom." " Even such as he cannot die until called for," returned Carl6ta, " andone is not respqn- sible for another's deeds." "It is morning," continued Madge, "and to me this spot is fearful. I have now a faithful protector"-pointing to the dog--'" and by his guidance shall seek those who will care for me. Will you go,:or remain with your dead ruffian?" Carl6ta's eyes flashed with indignation. "Begone ! she cried, " And may I never- more behold your face again 1" "Come, good friend," said Madge, and the dog sprang up, eager to obey her wishes. "Guide me to Nick, Calamity ; take me to Nick." The animal barked and frisked around her. Madge.followed him a few steps, then, turning to Carl6ta, said, in a friendly voice': " Carl6ta, come with me ; and if I am fortu- nate enough to find friends, you shall receive no ill-treatment from them or me." Carl6ta answered with an impatient wave of the hand, and Madge reluctantly left her. CHAPTER XXXVII. CAiiLOTA iAND MAD(GZ. A shriek from Carlota arrested the footsteps of Madge. Running back a few steps, se saw Seven-Plumes grasping her by the arm, looking triumphantly into her face. The dog wasp ringing forward to attack the Indian ; but Madge restrained him. He stopped half way between her and the savage, whom;he continued to regard insa menacing mnnmer. c lower of the Mountains," said the war- rior, with a sudden change of - expression, "fear not the:ebief of the "laekfeet. He no harm-he no carry you away." His voice was soft, and he looked in a friendly way at-Mudge. 1you give knife-you help Seven-Plumes-- and hiwmemory is good. I you go with him and be his wife, his heart very gad; but if the Flower of the Mountains says, back to my people,' then she go.", * PATHAWAY; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. its 121 r1 1 1 1 t }}E41 k j} J page: 122-123[View Page 122-123] 122 PATHAWAT ; OR, THE "It is much," answered Madge, cunningly, "to be the wife of a great chief; but my thoughts and feelings flow another way. I can- not go with you to the banks of the Saskatch- ewan.' My heart would pine and be desolate, if I were there. Chief, I cannot dwell in your lodge." "The country is pleasant," said, Seven- Plumes, persuasively. "Game is abundant, and the prairies bear many kinds of flowers. Inthe summer, the sun is very bright'; and in the winter, the air is pure and clear, and the furs of the lakes and streams keep cold at a distance." . "Birds of a kind only mate together. Seven-Plumes can woo the fairest daughters of his nation, and they will be proud of the at- tentions of'so wise a chief." Seven-Plumes was silent a moment., His voice was melancholy when he spoke again. "Your words fill the heart of the red-man' with sorrow," he said; "but you gave him liberty, and he gives you the same. But this pale girl"-he pointed to Carl6ta, and his tones were less friendly-"-shall march to the hunting-grounds of the Blackfoot."' "Chief, use your power gently," lemon-_ strated Madge. " Her skin is not the color of yours, and sehe will never be happy in your lodge." Carlota glanced earnestly at her Fair inter- cessor. "Flower of theMountains, talk not to the Blackfoot !, Your voice is soft, but it cannot prevail: the girl of the Valley goes with me. The way is long, and the bright sun tells Seven-Plumes to depart. .'There will be many feet on his trail before night ; but he cares not, for he has the cunning of the beaver." " Chief, I assisted you to escape-hear me when I -peak for the girl of the Valley,"' urged .Madge. " This palewoman no friend to you," an- swered Seven-Plumes. 4"Her heart very bit- ter, and her eyes dart fire at you. Your way is there"--he pointed as he spoke--"go in peace ." " The dog i the dogi1" exclaimed Carl&ta' stretching ler hand earnestly toward Ca- lamity. The chief drew his knife from his belt, and. tightening his grasp upon her arm, held it to her. breast. . " Let the dog come, and the girl of the Val- ley dies * 4 stern, fierce light gleamed from the eyes of Seven-Plumes eFor a moment, the ta- bleau was striking in the extreme. .The grim, threatening figure of the In dian, the irm yet sullen face of Carl6ta, and te earnest, appre- hensive, and imploring expression of Madge- all ,conspired to render the. scene an lncom- mon one. The dog gazed inquiringly at his mistress. . "Be quiet, sir -be quiet! "commanded MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. Madge ; and Calamity maintained his neutral position.. The young woman glided forward and took the hand of Seven-Plumes. "Do not harm her, chief!" she cried ; "for she acts but in accordance with the nature the* Great Spirit has given her, when she refuses to accompany you. Be brave, be generous! and for the-good service I have rendered you, giveme her freedom. I ask it as a reward I" " The woman of the Valley hates you," re- plied Seven-Plumes, scanning the features of Madge with curiosity. " I care not-I care not ! I would save her from a fate she so much dreads. Our ways will be different, and she will have no power to do me wrong." The Indian looked at Carldta, then at Madge ; and it was evident that his purpose wavered. " You yield -- you yield ! I thank you, chief. Carlota, he gives you freedom !" Carl6ta did not speak ; her bosom was heav- ing with agitation, and her eyes were down- cast. " The Flower of the Mountains has asked much ; but the chief of the Blackfeet gives it. The girl of the Valley is free ; the soft voice has prevailed." There was a conflict in, the breast of the Indian: his better nature struggling with his' baser. "Seven-Plumes will go to his young men with heaviness," he added ; " but he will smooth his face and deceive their eyes, so that they shall not know the Blackfoot has been sad. .Go! Seven-Plumes is a warrior." " Thanks, brave chief! Your name shall be mentioned with honor among the pale-faces," answered Madge, with fervor. Seven-Plumes turned on his heel and walked away. Carl6ta stood a moment irresolute, trem- bling and agitated-then cast herself into the arms of Madge, sobbing. Hot tears -coursed down her cheeks. Madge put her arms around her, and held her in a gentle embrace. She was silent at first, and allowed the pent-up feelings ,of the girl to exhaust their violence in weeping, She gradually dried her tears, and disen- gaged herself from the arms of Madge. " Let us go," she said, in a low voice. " Whither ?" Madge asked. " To the Valley. Let us hasten," Carldta answered, hurriedly.. "No-not there-not there !" cried Madge. " Calm your fears. TheValley shall be to ou as all other places , you shall pass through it harmless. We must hurry to Nick Whiffiles he is starving. I am full of remorse !" .Madge hesitated no longer; she'held out- her hand to Carl6ta. " Heaven be praised! You no longer hate me !" she said. I j PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 123 "You have nothing to fear from me. But clamored for me, as the famished wolf for its speak not of him. -Let the name of Pathaway victim !" exclaimed Madge. remain unmentioned between us. Steel, when " You-do me injustice ! Carluta never sank it is heated, yields to the blows of the ham- so low as to cater to the appetites of rude and mer; but when it hardens, it is unyielding, lawless men. I shuddered when I heard the and returns to its former unimpressibility," tale. I would have saved you and spared you Carl6ta replied. the horror of Black Rook. But even that was Even as she spoke, shame, disappointment, better than what might have happened. The flushed her cheek. authority of Hendricks was never in such peril " I forego vindictiveness and revenge," she as then. He loved you-at least, as much as went on ; "but I cannot forget my disappoint- his hard, stern nature would allow. He was meant. Prudence," she added, with trembling angry that his followers should presume to one voice, "admonishes us that there is a point that he had set apart for himself; that he linl we must not approach.". encountered much danger for ; that he had "You refer to the gray hunter as if he were brought with great peril from the distant mis- much to me and nothing to you. Who knows sion." what emotions the fair and fearless girl of "I remember-it with horror ; the midnight Trapper Valley may have awakened in his attack ; the clashing of steel; the short and breast ?"-- sanguinary struggle ; the burning of the mis- Madge uttered these words in a faltering sion-house ; the first moments of captivity ; voice, as if her heart reproached her tongue the long and hurried march ; the arrivalat the for words the hollowness of which none real- Valley ; the- proposals of the fearful man, ized more than she. Hendricks ; the eyes of the men fixed upon " No 1more, girlI" she said, plaintiyely. me with such dreadful meaning ;.the weary days "You but deepen the wound you would heal. of imprisonment ; the importunities of the Disguise it not-attempt it not-you and the outlaw-leader; his dark hints, and finally, the hunter in grayhave met before, at Red River secret night-march, and the scene at Black settlement, or some of the settlements on the Rock. Then came resuscitation following my Columbia. You will not-you cannot deny rescue by Nick, with a haunting terror of hall-. it !" consciousness, and the slow, dubious recog- Madge was confused-neither denying nor nition of my situation. But anon the honest assenting to this. ' - face of the trapper assured me., The sound of "I see it in your conscious cheeks. Tell his voice gave me confidence... What a revnl- me where." sion came ! How the consciousness of security "At the mission, near Astoria," returned thrilled my frame. You cannot comprehend Madge, reluctantly. the emotions of that moment. It appeared to Carlsta breathed hard, and pressed her hand me that the hand of Providence had interposed. convulsively to her heart. , My tears fell on the hands of my benefactor. "I saw him almost daily," Madge continued, He has proved himself worthy the full mea- "until the mission was destroyed by wicked sure of my gratitude. To prevent discovery and abandoned men. At the time of that ter- and its consequences, I threw aside the gar- rible visitation, he was away. We had parted, ments of my sex, and become the boy Sebas- as we believed, forever." tian. I was most gently cared for by Nicholas. "I comprehend," said Carl6ta, quickly. He took pride and pleasure in me, and great "You differed, doubtless, on religious mat- indeed is the debt I owe him. He sent a mes- ters. You believed, perhaps, that you could senger to the mission, but it was deserted, and be the means of, converting savages ; and, my friends were scattered, he knew not-where. while young and beautiful, had sufficient cour- It was the trapping season, and Nick was busy age and virtue to sever yourself from the great with his traps. became his constant, coin- world, to lead a life of privation and useful- panion. He taught me the use of the rifle and ness. He told his love; and you, exulting in the bow, and never was so happy as when Iex- your self-denial, sand rapt with visionary hibited aptness and skill. Months passed on, dreams, cast the chalice of happiness to the and but or the remembrance of-friends, and a ground. The world had no more to offer him, continual fear of detection by .Hendricks, and he fled to the northern trapping-grounds, should have been tolerably reconciled to my hoping in peril and excitement to forget the .wandering life. The very thought of the dark cause of his unhappiness. Bitterly has your mountaineer made me tremble. . Imagine, if folly been punished. Little did you imagine you can, the feelings that agitated me when I that the boon he asked so humbly was ,to be saw the robber-captain enter the camp of forced from you by the rough hand of the Nick Whiffles, disguised as a lost, forlorn, and mountaineer." .- starving trapper. I could with the greatest The two girls moved onward, side by side, difficulty command my emotions. ,Memory, both much affected. too, it would seem, was busy in his own brain, "You knew, then, that I was dragged hither for the ruffian-" -that I was a captive-that those wild men ,"Call him not a ruffian !" cried Carl6t, I. page: 124-125[View Page 124-125] 124 PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. I( grasping Madge by the wrist. " He is _ Carl6tamade this announcement as if it co her indescribable pain. "Itceannot be!I I will not believe it !" e: claimed Madge, with an involuntary shiver. "I was educated at Red River settlement added Carl6ta ; " that is, I learned to read an write. The Captain of the Mountaineers ha charge of me. He oame occasionally to si me.-to watch my growth and development. was taught'to call him father. He took m from the s ettlement when quite young, an brought me -to the Valley, where gradually forgot my homesickness, and -became accui tomed to the lawless manners of the mountain eers, and gained an ascendency over them Young natures are impressible and ready t take on the colors and shapes around them Is it singular, then, that I should have learns to tolerate crime and to regard the coununit of which I was a member as 'existing; outside the laws and usages of civilized society loved - authority ; I was imperious; and th power to swaf atid command the lawless trap pers pleased my vanity and overcame my serupes." I became what you see me, but I am not the depraved being that you have believed. My influence has always been exerted against acts of cruelty. If dark deeds havebeen com- mitted, they were perpetrated without my knowledge and sanction." t " " The frenehman's daughter ?" said Madge, inquiringly. "Owesl her safety, thus far, to the outlaw's daughter," replied Carlota. "On one pretext aid another, I have kept her from outrage-in- tending, when I could do so with safety, to give her her liberty. My will is not absolute at the Valley. . There are certain points with which it is dangerous to meddle." "You relieve my mind of a terrible bur-- den," answered Madge. " For one like you there is still hope. You are not, you cannot be, entirely lost to goodness and truth. The world must yet have a path that your feet can tread." "Too late!I too late !" sobbed Carlota.. Do you not doubt the claims of this man flendrieks ?" interrogated Madge. "Of late," replied the girl) g' his language has been snoh as a parent does not address to a child. I have trembled--I have doubted. I have treated him as I thought my duty, and behold in him a true and-only friend. Ihave tried to reverence and love him; but the effort, in all essential realities, has failed. As - developed into womanhood, his manner changed but I have gained an ascendancy ever his mind that he cannot entirely shake off!" -.' She stopped; -then, with evident effort, con-. tinued: "Accident brought me in contact with the young hunter, and a new and-powerful feeling ny grew into existence. I loved himm This con- fession gives inc pain, but I am forced to make at it. I assisted him to escape;- I guided him from the Valley. The history of Indian Joe x- is known to you. You are surprised to hear me express myself so intelligibly, but' I know ," what the world is ; for my reputed father has d procured me books from the settlement, id which I have read with avidity, and treasured ee with care." I Madge pressed Carl6ta's arm sympatheti- es cally. Ld " I no longer fear you," she said. " I see I in you a sister, exposed to temptation, shaken, s. but not entirely fallen. Bury the past: Fly , with me to the'settlements, leaving behind all a. that now degrades you-bad men, bad exam. o pies,demoralizing associations, and habits that detract from your womanhood. Cease to think 4 of Pathawy; I say it for your good, ad not y -to wound." e "'Twas a silly dream !" returned Carl6ta, I bitterly. "I cast from me the vainhope--I e abandon it forever."an - "'Tis best so. If there was hope, I would .tell you. Your fearless nature excited his ad- miration, but your associations shock him. Pardon, pardon me, Carldta ; I speak not sel- fishly, but as a true, true friend. He is noble ; he is brave ; he is good. I have watched him day-by day. If, as the boy Sebastian, I suf- fered shame and embarrassment, it was not_ without some reward. I was near him, and once I saved him."- - 'What happiness !" murmured Carlota. " I bear this wound forhie," resumed Madge; "and my deportment, I trust,uhas been such during our late singular companion- ship, that I shal have nothing to remember with regret. I will not referparticularly to th4 unexpectedness of his appearance, and the thrilling circumstances -under which we met. And now, Carldta, I have done. The name of- the gray hunter shall not again, in your hear-- ing, pass the portals of my lipa, to give you pain.'m p, v A slight tremor shook the person of-Carl ta. Presently, she grew calm-. They ollowed the guidance of the dog, and conversed in a friend- ly way; but the name of Pathaway was spoken no more.-. CHAPTER XXXVIIL FINALE. It was near the middle of the afternoon when Madge and Carldta neared Trapper Val- ley. They had made what speed they could ; but were necessarily faint fromlong fasting, and wearied by toiling over the rough and some- times-itiaewy The, thought of, the sup- posed danger of Nick *asa sufficient incentive to urge them onward. " Trapper Valley is at the right," said Car- ldta.. " We will descend to it by a passage V. i r known only to Hendricks and a few of his trusty followers."' Made trembled. "Shrink riot," added Carl6ta; "I will screen you from harm. Even Hendricks shall respect you, if we meet him, and yield to my present mood. Tread carefully, and grasp firmly the bushes as you go down; for the descent is steep, and perilous to careless feet." Carluta approached a spot where the Valley fell off abruptly. To a casual eye there was no practicable method of descending. Put- ping aside a mass of vines, the girl of the mountains unmasked a deep gulch --which, starting several yards from the sharp angle of the declivity, offered a pathway far less dan- gerous, though attended with sufficient diffi- culty to require all the strength and firmneps of Madge ; but imitating the example of her conductresi, she finally conquered the obsta- cles before her, 'reaching the Valley with bruised feet and lacerated hands.' " Trapper-Trace," said Carl6ta,, is they paused to breathe a moment, pointing to the east," is in that direction.. The Boiling Spring and the Mountain Gate are to the west." , Carl6ta hurried forward and soon entered a wood. I~n a short time they came to a spot where the ground was trodden hard bythe fect of a horse, while the grass was eaten to the earth, and the, foliage cropped closely. Made immediately recalled the peril of 1.ort- neuf. 'Carluta perceived the agitation conse- uent upon this discovery..aMadge turned her pale face on her guide with an expression that could not be misunderstood. "I knew it not! I knew it not!" said Car- lta, with a flush of anger. "'Twas a wanton act, and committed without my knowledge. Brace confessed it to me last night, when he perceived that his end was near." "It was cruel, cruel!" said Madge. " They are -wretches !" cried Carl6ta, indig- nantly. "Poor Portneuf! he shall have his daughter. - The girl of the Valley walked onward, with strong displeasure depicted upon her counte- nance. eA sudden cry from her caused Madge to look up. A short distance from them stood a grizzly bear upon his hind feet. "A bear ! a bear !" exclaimed Carl6ta. "Of all wild animals, I hold the bear in the great- est dread." -1 Madge did not retreat ; but placin? herself before Carl6ta, who shrank trembling from the beast, regarded it earnestly. She imagined she could see some resemblance in the' animal to the tame bear of the Shoshone.- " This creature does not appear to be fero- rious," she said. " I believe we have nothing to fear from it." "But he obstructs our passage-how can we reach Nick ?' You feared me yesterday, more than you seem to fear this savage: beast." I. s L 1 i 1 v 1 I i k r ri4 G i ;r' 4 3 . r' = !fi y'_ J f' r h i , t' 4 r r PATHAWAY ; OR, THE) MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 125 "A thousand times more I Remain quiet land observe the animal." dWoman of the 'Rock," said the bear, "the eyes of the Shoshon4 are glad to see you." " What ! does the creature talk ?" "Listen," replied Madge. "A cloud hangs over the dwelling of the Thunder-Spirit," resumed the bear. "It is black and heavy, and charged with fire and smoke. The lightning will art from east to west and from north to south. The Valley will be shaken, and the war-cry ofIthe She- shone shall roll through it." The bearskin sank to the ground, and the well-known feature of Multnomah gladdened the eyes of Madge. Unslinging the short rile that was fastened at his side,.he swung it over his head, and .shouted the war-whoop of his people. Instantly a hundred voices answered the. signal from rock and tree and bush: every covert had a cry. Then there was a rattling volley from rifles, carbines, and pis- tols. "My warriors are here. Igo to lead them against the bad pale-faces of the Valley," said the Shoshone. Multnomah bounded from the spot, and was soon heard cheering his, warriors to the fight, leaving Carluta and Madge surprised and bewildered. The combat went on at different quarters, but came nearer and nearer. " I-hear Hendricks," whispered Carluta. "He is raging and fighting like, a lion " "Heaven help the right!" urmuredMadge. Several bullets dropped near them. Ca- lamity walked, growling, around his mistress; and presently the dog Smuggler came bound- ing to her side with strong demonstrations of o. The mountaineers are losing ground," said Carl6ta. "The conflict comes this way." "Let us conceal ourselves," suggested Madge. "For my own safety I care not ; but you I will shield to the extent of my power." The two young women were deliberating which way to -fly, when Hendricks, panting, covered with ,dust, grim with powder and smoke, and bleeding from several wounds, ap- peared. The sight of Madge and Carldta was evidently unexpected. He gazed wildly frem one to the other. "Traitress!" he exclaimed, fixing his flash- ing eyes upon-Carldta; "you have, betrayed us. The Shoshone devils swarm the Valley; and it goes hard with our men, who are pushed on every side." In his right hand the robber'-eaptain held a pistol, which trembled, as if with impatience, in his nervous grasp.; " Say what you will, Richard Hendrieks- ou cannot wound me more. There is that yBch rankles deeper, here"-she laid her hand on her bosom-" than istol-ballor steel an penetrate. But spare this girl." 1 page: 126-127[View Page 126-127] PATHiAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. Hendricks turned his fierce eyes upon " ho are you ?" he demanded, gruffly. Madge put back her hair, giving the moun- taineer a full view of her features. " Look at me, miscreant, and recall the face of Una, of the Old Mission!" The outlaw recoiled, and a sickly pallor overspread his visage.' ".Do the dead come back?" he muttered. "Away I away !--come'not too near !" For an instant the shouts and the clamor of battle fell unheeded upon Hendrick's ear. In spirit he was at Black Rock, and saw the light- ed torches, the pale,,pleading face, and white arms waving in the air. "This is a foul lie I" he said, presently. "It is only a resemblance--a terrible similitude of wha, was, but will never again be. Begone, witch 1 You unnerve an arm that must must wave the longest ahd bloodiest in the fight." A olear voice rang through the wood. Madge's heart leaped with hope. Give in-give up, you white renegades, or I'll make a p'ison diffikilty among ye l" It was Nick Whiffles, surely. No one who had heard them could mistake those tones. "The spyin' scoundrel 1" 'growled Hend- ricks. "But-I'll soon meet him, wounded as I am, and the critter-shall feel that mine is 'no feeble,,arm. My men give back. CowardsI, cowards! they miss my voice ina moment. At them, boys--at them !" The mountaineer shouted the concluding or- der with startling vehemence. He pointed his pistol at Carl6ta. "Father-" " I am not your father !" interrupted the outlaw, with bitter energy. " That for her who betrays me!" He discharged the weapon, and Carl6ta sank slowly upon the breast of Madge. " Oh, Carlota, Carl6ta, lie has killed you !" shrieked Madge. Then to the mountaineer : " Know, base man, that this unfortunate girl has been true to you and your men. We have but recently escaped from the captivity of Seven-Pluines, and were as much amazed at this attack as you could have been." Hendricka darted an inquiring look at Car- l6ta. " She speaks truly," murmured the latter, faintly. "I die guiltless of that with which you charge me." At that moment the outlaws were seen fly- ing in various directions. Hendricks called loudly upon- thein to return, but they were deaf alike to threats and appeals.' " You'd oughter run in that way, I allow, long ago, by mighty ," cried Whiffles ; and im- mnediatel after, the report of his rifle was heard. The mountaineer stood .irresolute, looking from' Carl6ta to Madge,- and from Madge to Qarl6ta. Disappointment, rage, re- morse, with lingering tenderness-for the girl Carldta, held him in suspense. The savage warriors rolled ons after the re- treating foe. There was an incessant explo- sion of fire-arms, and the whoops of the red vie. tors shook the forest..- A manly figure sprang between Hendricks and the girls. It was Pathaway. A faint cry front the dying Carl6ta attested the sincerity of her love, and the power that the young man unconsciously exerted over her. "'Tis he! 'tie he!" she gasped, in tones scarcely audible. The gray hunter's arm was raised--a pis- tol was fired. Hendricks stood motionless a few seconds, then fell to the ground like an oak, the last fibre of which has- been severed by the unspairing axe., by Carlota," he articulated, painfully, " you are avenged. Dick Hendricks has fought his last battle with red man or white. It is all over-clean played out, life is. I am off for darkness in double quick time. A greater Captain than I gives the order. I have lived recklessly, and I'll die so. , No cant, no senti- mental whinin' for Dick Hendricks." The agony of his death-wound choked his utterance for an instant. " Carl6ta-," lie added, anon, " we shall go together. But :Pm sorry I raised my hand ag'in ye. I took are of ye, and loved ye; but you was no darter o' mine. I night done better by ye, but the impulse to do it wasn't born in me. Good-good--by, gal! - Good- by, world, and all that's in it. 'Tis too-too late for sorrow-too-too late for - for-", The outlaw's head sank low.upon the turf, and he added, feebly, "for vengeance !" expressing his last thought with his last breath. Carlsta stretched out-her hand to Pathaway. He knelt beside her, and took it in his own. She gazed at -hum earnestly. A calm, almost happy expression lighted - up her features. She did not speak-she could not, but a smile of inexpressible meaning flitted faintly across her lips. Her eyes fixed, and the spirit of Oar- l6ta passed from its fair tenement. No additional light was ever thrown upon her parentage and history. Her grave was hollowed in the Valley, and Madge shed tears upon it-which was the only tribute paid by affection. The first thought of Porneuf and Jeanjean, when the outlaws fled, was to look. for Ninon. The search was successful, and she kvas restored unharmed to both father and lover. It was a joyful occasion for those in whom the reader is interested, though the melancholy fate of Carl6ta affected the-spirits of Madge for a long time. On the following day, a happy party set out for the nearest settlement. Pathaway no longer called the young woman Madge, but Una, for there had beena full explanation of those matters and mysteries already under- stood by the reader ; and thus the young man recovered the woman that he had believed lost to him forever. 126 s 7 t I I PATHAWAY ; OR, THE MOUNTAIN OUTLAWS. 127 r "The p'isonest.diffikilties come to an eend at last," moralized Nik. "I've had my share of 'em,. I allow ; but alters come out right in the course of time. Come on, Humbug, for you was a humbug, little 'un, all the time you ywas a boy-and keep closer to uncle Nick. There'll be a weddin', I s'pose, down in the- clearin's. There allers is weddin's when boys and gals git together. But there's been no wedding's for me. Oh Lord, no ! We shall all be in the p'ison newspapers arter this comes off, I s'pose," quoth Nick, musingly. "No " way to stop the papers from printin' things, is there, Colonel? Jes' so;I thought not. Look out, Calamity! Don't snub Smuggler in that way. Well, Shoshon"-to Muitno- mah, who made one of the party, "notstant- nin' the difference in white and red natur', I must say that you're one to be depended on. I never see ding ins fight better nor your'n, when we whipped them pesky free-trapper robber. There won't be so many traps took, nor lives neither, carter this. Redskin, I thank nye hearty and kind, and if the good will of Nick Whifles is worth anything, you're wel- come to it. Andrew Jeanjean, my a ar can't you sing us the 'Traper's Darter?' No dili- kilty about your head, eh? No blushin' there, Nanny, for he couldn't forgit ye when he'd forgot everything else, his wits not ex- cepted. He's been true to ye in his senses and out, under ground andatop on't. I'll sing you a varse that he used to sing- about your voice, and eyes, and smiles, and sich, when I'm clear on the high notes. Colonel, you're rather close to my boy. Talkie ' it all over, I allow.- Sparrer- legs-beg your par- don," said Nick, apologetically, " ga, I mean, it rejoices my heart to see you look so bright and happy." a Made gave her hand to Nick. " It's a right small hand and a good one for a young man to own," said Nick, admir- ingly. " Take good care on, her, Colonel. She's as dear to me as my rifle, and my dogs, and the perairies, and the air that I love. Keep every diffikilty from -her pooty head, and when you're happy in- the distant clear- ins', as I know you will be, sometimes think o' Nick Whiffiles, the old trapper of the Nor'- west." He kissed the little hand, andsighed as he relinquished it. " Are you happy, Nicholas ?" asked Madge. There was a slight quivering of the trap- r's lis. "Therera a little diffikilty here," he said, laying his finger upon ,his heart; "but it won't last forever. Oh Lord, no 1" Nick' was absent-minded and sad, a short time ; but brightening up, presently, told sto- ries of his grandfather and other members of the Whiffles' family, in his ugual whimsical manner. " I hope they'll be happy," said the trap- per; the day after the ,marriage, or rather double marriage, for Ninon and Jeanjean were united at the same time, "and that there'll never be any condemned little diffikilties atween 'em. Ishall miss the little'un wound- edly. And the dogs, too, for that matter, for Sebastian understood the natur' o' dogs and animiles, and was kind to 'em, as he was to everything else. And now, Nick Whiffles," he added, addressing himself, "go back ag'in to the great Trappin' Grounds of the Nor'- west, for the air is good there and suits one better nor it does here. The clearin's-won't do for Nick Whiffies. Oh Lord, no !" Before daylight the next morning, Nick and the Shoshone were on their way to the North- ern Trapping-Grounds.
