diff options
| author | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-01-22 21:08:48 -0800 |
|---|---|---|
| committer | nfenwick <nfenwick@pglaf.org> | 2025-01-22 21:08:48 -0800 |
| commit | 6815f24cfc9566d3aa95269a9594e0bc3223fc2c (patch) | |
| tree | 58231c218f0f0e7a1f25defb0225e1e047d7b922 | |
| parent | 47b1031fba3b60d4e2328f5b7e88affe1aa3649d (diff) | |
| -rw-r--r-- | .gitattributes | 4 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | LICENSE.txt | 11 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | README.md | 2 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/65831-0.txt | 5481 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/65831-0.zip | bin | 89902 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/65831-h.zip | bin | 244104 -> 0 bytes | |||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/65831-h/65831-h.htm | 6480 | ||||
| -rw-r--r-- | old/65831-h/images/cover.jpg | bin | 150807 -> 0 bytes |
8 files changed, 17 insertions, 11961 deletions
diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d7b82bc --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,4 @@ +*.txt text eol=lf +*.htm text eol=lf +*.html text eol=lf +*.md text eol=lf diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..1d83a43 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #65831 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/65831) diff --git a/old/65831-0.txt b/old/65831-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index a299175..0000000 --- a/old/65831-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,5481 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of Iron Hand, Chief of the Tory League, by -Frederick Forest - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: Iron Hand, Chief of the Tory League - or, The Double Face - -Author: Frederick Forest - -Release Date: July 13, 2021 [eBook #65831] - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -Produced by: David Edwards, Susan Carr and the Online Distributed - Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (Northern Illinois - University Digital Library at http://digital.lib.niu.edu/) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IRON HAND, CHIEF OF THE TORY -LEAGUE *** - - - - - VOL. VI.] FEBRUARY 3, 1877. [NO. 68. - - IRON HAND, - - CHIEF OF THE TORY LEAGUE. - - BY FREDERICK FOREST. - - NEW YORK. - BEADLE AND ADAMS, PUBLISHERS, - 98 WILLIAM STREET. - - - - - Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1871, by - FRANK STARR & CO., - In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington. - - - - - CONTENTS - - PAGE - I. THE QUARREL. 9 - II. THE MURDERED MAN. 16 - III. THE STRANGE FACE. 21 - IV. THE NIGHT RIDE. 29 - V. THE RED WITNESS. 32 - VI. THE HOT TRAIL. 43 - VII. THE SECRET MISSION. 52 - VIII. THE HUNTED LIFE. 67 - IX. A SAVAGE FRIEND. 75 - X. THE MASK REMOVED. 82 - XI. THE UNNATURAL BROTHER. 87 - XII. THE END OF THE TRANSGRESSOR IS HARD. 89 - XIII. SMILES THROUGH TEARS. 93 - - - - - IRON HAND, - - CHIEF OF THE TORY LEAGUE: - - OR, - - THE DOUBLE FACE. - - - - - CHAPTER I. - - THE QUARREL. - - -When the colonists had acquired a mastery over the savages of the -wilderness, and assisted in breaking the French power on their -frontier, they began to feel their manhood stirring within them, -and they tacitly agreed no longer to submit to the narrow and -oppressive policy of Great Britain. Their industry and commerce -were too expansive to be confined within the narrow limits of those -restrictions which the Board of Trade, from time to time, had -imposed, and they determined to cast off these chains. Moreover, -the principles of civil and religious liberty urged them on; and, -at last, the trumpet of the Revolution was sounded, as the violent -result of their dissatisfactions. - -It was during the fourth year of this Revolution, in the year of our -Lord 1778, that our tale opens in the vicinity of Lake George, near -Fort Ann. - -In a pretty, white cottage a short distance from the fort sat two men -over their wine, discussing the politics of the day. - -One, who is destined to be our hero, was about five and twenty years -of age; he was tall and commanding; his features nicely molded and -in perfect harmony; the eyes were gray, although, at a distance, one -might mistake them for black, and his hair was dark-brown and curled -close to his head. - -Edgar Sherwood, for such was his name, was of English birth. Another -brother and he were the last of an aristocratic family. These two -had, however, some few years previous, separated on account of a -misunderstanding in regard to their paternal acres. After the death -of their father, our hero inherited the greater part of the estate. -This his brother declared to be unjust, and had sworn he would have -satisfaction. Thus they parted. - -Edgar had been treated perhaps a little unfairly by his native -country in some affairs, and becoming enraged against her he had come -to America to espouse the cause of the struggling colonists. - -The man with whom Edgar Sherwood was conversing was the father of his -betrothed; his name was Thomas Lear. He was a native of England, and -a thorough Tory. - -“Can it be possible, young man, that you are so rash as to think of -joining the Continental army?” said Thomas Lear, gazing at Edgar -Sherwood with a look of astonishment, and his face flushing to a deep -crimson. - -“It is, sir.” - -“And have you no respect for your king, or love for your family and -friends?” - -“For the former, none whatever, but for the latter a great deal of -love and respect.” - -“Well, then, how can you go to work deliberately and bring this -disgrace upon them? Why, Sherwood, it is absurd to think of doing -such a thing!” and Lear began to grow angry. - -“If it is absurd to lend one’s aid to a righteous cause, then I am -willing to be called absurd or rash, but I am determined to do this.” - -“But, do you have faith in this war? Do you believe these colonists -will ever overcome King George?” - -“Most assuredly they will!” replied Edgar Sherwood. “Why, sir, they -fight like tigers, and they never will remain conquered. What arouses -these men to arms is the love of liberty, their firesides, their -wives and children.” - -“Very well; perhaps they are good at fighting, but, where is the -money coming from to maintain this war any longer? Congress has -none.” - -“They will fight without pay; and, moreover, each soldier will -contribute his mite.” - -“Nevertheless, they are but a handful at best, and can not hold out -much longer.” - -“Ah, my good sir!” and Edgar Sherwood’s eyes sparkled with -enthusiasm, “do not be deceived in this. The colonists, though few in -number, have been compelled from the beginning to be self-reliant, -and have been made strong by their mother’s neglect. Heretofore they -have built fortifications, raised armies, and fought battles for -England’s glory and their own preservation, without England’s aid and -without her sympathy; and, think you now they can not do this again, -with twofold zeal, for themselves?” - -Thomas Lear was beginning to chafe under the young man’s patriotic -words, and perceiving that he could not persuade him to abandon his -purpose, he became very angry. - -“I ask you once more, Sherwood,” said he, “to pause and consider the -consequences; think--I entreat you--of my daughter, Imogene, before -you take this rash step.” - -“I have considered it all, sir, but my mind remains the same.” - -Lear grew deathly pale with rage at these last words. Thomas Lear was -a rich man, and he had long counted upon having Edgar Sherwood for -a son-in-law, but this could not be under these circumstances. He -dashed his wine-glass savagely upon the table, and sprung to his feet. - -“You are mad! stark mad!” he cried. “Henceforth our connection is -severed; never dare to cross my threshold again, for you are a -traitor to your king, sir--begone!” - -Having uttered these words, the old man sunk back in his chair -perfectly exhausted. - -At this moment, the door was suddenly thrown open, and Imogene -Lear--Edgar Sherwood’s betrothed--appeared upon the scene. - -“Oh, father!” she cried, casting herself at the feet of her parent, -“I implore you to have mercy! Recall your words--forgive!” - -“Never!” cried Lear. - -“Be it so!” said Edgar Sherwood, scornfully, and was gone. - -One month has passed away since the events last related, and during -this time Edgar Sherwood had become a captain in the American army, -and was stationed with his regiment at Fort Ann. - -It was a bright, clear morning in the month of September, and a -gentle breeze caused the flag of freedom to rise and fall in graceful -folds over the garrison, inspiring the heart of every loyal man with -patriotic fervor as he looked up to it. - -Within the fort, every thing seemed in commotion, but without, all -was quiet, and an observer would never have surmised that any thing -particular was going on. The soldiers were hurrying back and forth; -and some were collected in groups busily talking. - -During the past night, the commander had received information from -one of his spies that the notorious band, called the Tory League, led -by their villainous chief, Iron Hand, was preparing to attack the -house of a prominent Whig, and that it would be necessary to send a -company or two of men to secure the patriot’s safety. - -The colonel had chosen Captain Sherwood to go on this little -expedition with his company, and the men were now preparing for that -purpose. - -The Tory League was composed of Tories and Indians, whom King George, -foreseeing at the beginning of the war would be valuable allies -to him if but secured, sent over agents to enlist in his cause. -Among these agents came the man who had made himself so notorious -throughout the country under the title of Iron Hand, which name the -Indians gave him. The villainous deeds of this band and their white -chief were countless, and they had become a terror to all stanch -Whigs. - -A large reward had been offered for the capture of Iron Hand, dead or -alive, but to no profit; he was too artful for his enemy. In fact, no -one, as yet, in the Continental army had been able even to obtain a -sight of him. Search had been made for the rendezvous of the band but -without success. - -The attacks of the Tory League were always made with so much privacy -as to exclude the sufferers, not only from succor, but frequently, -through a dread of future depredations, from the commiseration of -their neighbors also. - -The soldiers received the orders to prepare for action with delight; -excitement of any kind had been scarce for the last few months around -the fort, and time dragged heavily on with them. Captain Sherwood -felt some pleasure also on being chosen for this occasion, as he had -had but little opportunity to show his valor since his enlistment. -Yet, all day long his face wore a troubled look, and his whole manner -seemed changed from usual gayety to sadness. The few who had observed -this attributed it to fear, and yet could not believe that such a man -should even know the meaning of the word. - -When evening came, and a few hours before he was to start out upon -his mission, he sat down, and, writing a short note, dispatched it to -the little white cottage on the hill. - -Imogene Lear, on receiving her lover’s note, cast a shawl about her -delicate form, and hastened to the place appointed for their meeting. -It was in a thick grove of cedars a short distance from the cottage. - -Captain Sherwood, dressed in his long military cloak, with his sword -girded to his side, was pacing to and fro in a thoughtful mood under -the shadow of the stalwart trees. - -“Edgar,” whispered Imogene, approaching with noiseless steps behind -him, and placing her little white hand upon his shoulder. - -“Imogene? It is you!” said he, turning quickly and throwing his arm -around her waist. “I was afraid you would be unable to come, my -darling.” - -“Father was asleep and I stole out unobserved, but I must not remain -long away, or he may awake and miss me.” - -“Is he as savage against me as ever?” asked Edgar. - -“Yes; but, do not let this trouble you, dear Edgar, I am the -same--as--ever.” - -“I know you are, my darling,” and he imprinted a kiss upon her cheek. - -Imogene Lear was eighteen years of age. She was tall in stature, and -most exquisitely formed. Her skin was white, even waxen white; and -now and then a tinge of the rose visited her cheek; her lips were of -that ruby red which goes with perfect health; perfectly arched brows, -and long, dark lashes, shading eyes of wonderful brilliancy and depth -of expression, made up this face suitable for an angel. - -“Let us sit down,” said Edgar, leading the way to a fallen tree. “How -are we to overcome this prejudice of your father, Imogene?” - -“I know not,” said she; “he is very angry with you, but time may -change him.” - -“Do you think he is right and I am wrong in this matter?” - -Imogene colored and did not reply. Edgar saw this, and dropping his -head, said, sorrowfully: - -“Then you think I am in the wrong?” - -“Oh, no! but you know--he--is my father.” - -“Yes, yes, I know,” said Edgar, impatiently. - -“There, dear Edgar, do not let us quarrel about this; of course you -are in the right.” - -Then the couple remained silent for some time. - -“We were to be married next month. Need this rupture between your -father and me make any difference?” - -“You would not urge me to marry against his will?” - -“Oh, no,” said Edgar, coldly. - -“We can wait awhile and he may relent.” - -“And pray how long will you wait for me?” - -“All my lifetime, if need be!” and Imogene looked him full in the -face with her beautiful eyes. - -“And will you never forget, whatever may happen?” - -“Never.” - -“My beautiful one, I believe you. Forgive me for asking you to do -wrong.” - -“You said in your note, Edgar, that you were going away to-night.” - -The same troubled look that had haunted him all day now again was -plainly visible on Edgar Sherwood’s face. - -“Yes,” said he, “but we return to-morrow morning.” - -“Are you going to battle?” asked Imogene, quickly, perceiving this -look. “Is there any thing serious about to happen?” - -“No; why do you ask?” - -“Because you seem troubled about something.” - -“I am a little--shall I tell you why?” - -“Certainly, dear Edgar, are we to have any secrets between us?” - -“But you will laugh at me if I tell you?” - -“Try me.” - -“Are you superstitious, Imogene?” - -“No, not very.” - -“Well, it is all about a strange dream that I had last night, and you -will say that I am superstitious if I tell it to you.” - -“Come, now, do not delay any longer, but tell it to me at once; my -curiosity is excited.” - -“It appeared to me as follows: - -“I seemed to be walking by the side of a lake, when, suddenly, a -shriek, which fairly chilled my blood, filled the air, and then I -thought I saw you rush past me, dressed in white, and crying, _help! -help! help!_ - -“Approaching the water you sprung into a canoe and pushed far away -from the shore. I could neither move nor speak to you, and my agony -was killing me. The canoe began to float, I thought, bearing you with -it. Then I was trying to swim to you, when, in a moment, the boat -mysteriously disappeared. I was paralyzed, and looking down into the -clear water, I thought I saw you lying upon the bottom. - -“At this moment some one behind me laughed--laughed as only a fiend -could laugh. Turning around, I thought I saw my own image, and I -started back a step. The apparition approached, and pointing down at -you, said: ‘Look, look, this shall be your grave also! Beware of your -shadow!’ and then it vanished. - -“I awoke. Cold perspiration stood in great beads upon my forehead. -You will tell me that I ought not to let this trouble me, as it was -only a dream; nevertheless, I can not help it; it has taken a strong -hold upon me, and I can not shake it off.” - -“It was strange,” mused Imogene. “I hope nothing will happen to you, -Edgar, for if I could hear that you were--well, never mind what--I -should die with grief.” - -The couple now observed that there was a light in the cottage. - -“I must go now,” said Imogene, starting up, half-affrighted lest her -father should miss her. - -“I will go part way with you,” and they moved away. - -As they arrived near the house, they stopped a moment before parting, -and Edgar happened to cast a glance back to the woods. - -There, standing by a huge tree, where the moonlight fell upon him, -was the form of a man--a perfect copy in every respect of Edgar -Sherwood. - -“Do you see it?” whispered Imogene, trembling and turning ashy pale. - -“Yes.” - - - - - CHAPTER II. - - THE MURDERED MAN. - - -It was near midnight when Captain Sherwood and his men arrived in the -vicinity of the Whig’s house. They had miscalculated the distance -from the fort, and were later than was designed. - -The Whig’s residence was one of the old-fashion farmhouses common -in those days, and on all sides of it was a thick growth of foliage -which, at a short distance, completely hid it from view. - -The soldiers marched in single file cautiously up the road that led -to the front of the house and halted. All was quiet and dark around -the place. Captain Sherwood advanced a few steps and listened--the -low, melancholy howl of a dog broke the stillness. Then he approached -the front door to knock, but finding it open, entered. - -The lower rooms of the house were dark and deserted; the furniture -was scattered about in great disorder. Again the captain heard -the howl of a dog which seemed to come from over his head, and -hastening up the stairs he entered one of the upper rooms, where a -horrid spectacle met his sight. There, on the floor, lay an old man -weltering in his blood--dead. His body was horribly mangled and the -scalp torn from his head. A faithful Newfoundland dog was standing -with his forepaws upon the dead man’s breast, mourning over him. - -Captain Sherwood turned away sick at heart, and darted down the -stairs back to his men. - -“The villains have been here,” said he, “and sacked the house. -The old man lies dead upon the floor; the rest of the family were -probably taken prisoners. Let War-Cloud hunt out their trail, for we -must shoot every man of this gang.” - -The soldiers were furious at this new outrage, and manifested their -willingness to follow the Tory League to the end of the earth, for -vengeance. In a few moments War-Cloud--the scout--gave the signal -that he had found the trail, and the company started off in pursuit. -Every foot of the ground was familiar to the scout, and he had no -difficulty in leading the way. - -All night long they hurried on in pursuit, over hills and valleys, -through woods, and across plains. The trees, clad in their autumnal -garb, looked like iron warriors in the moonlight, and every now and -then, as a slight wind whirled the leaves to the ground, the troops -would stop and listen for their enemy. - -The night wore on until the moon having completed her course, left -the land in darkness--but darkness not long to last, for soon the -orient heralded the approach of dawning day. - -As the eastern horizon began to show these signs, the soldiers, being -fatigued, halted upon the summit of a high hill. Their tramp had been -a long one, but still there were no signs of the Tory League save -their trail, which they seemed to have taken no pains to conceal. -The League had undoubtedly got a good start and were improving their -advantage. - -Captain Sherwood and War-Cloud withdrew a short distance from the -troops, to a cliff that jutted out from the general line of the -mountain. Here they could command a view of an entire valley to the -distance of many miles. It was quite level and presented a beautiful -scene. The surface was covered with a carpet of bright green, -enameled by flowers that gleamed like many-colored gems, and here and -there the willow mingled its foliage in soft shady groves, forming -inviting retreats. A stream, like a silver serpent, bisected the -valley--not running in a straight course, but in luxuriant windings, -as though it loved to tarry in the midst of the bright scene. - -War-Cloud, after scanning the whole plain before him for some time, -turned to the captain with delight. - -“Look, chief!” said he, pointing to that part of the valley almost -below them. “See! white and red devils right there.” - -Yes, there was the Tory League sure enough, quietly seated upon the -ground, enjoying their morning meal in full sight of the captain. - -It was a motley crowd, indeed. There were white men dressed -in British uniforms and others merely in loose hunting-shirts -and breeches, together with the dusky savages who were in full -war-costume--that is, naked to the waist, and painted over the breast -and face so as to render them as frightful as possible. Their heads -were closely shaven over the temples and behind the ears--a patch -upon the top was cropped short, but in the center of the crown, one -long lock of hair remained uncut, which was intermingled with plumes -and plaited so as to hang down the back. - -“Surely,” said the captain, “this is but a small part of the Tory -League, for there are hardly more than seventy-five men here, and the -band is said to number two or three hundred.” - -“We’ll make the snakes these many less!” said the scout. - -“Yes, we’ll give the villains their deserts in a short space of -time; but where are the prisoners?” exclaimed the captain, glancing -searchingly over the band. - -“There!” said War-Cloud, his practiced eye observing them at once, -seated beneath the shade of a willow tree. “Three women.” - -“To their rescue at once!” cried the captain, dashing away to his -company. “Up, up, every man of you, and follow me!” - -The path that led from the cliff to the valley was nearly half a mile -in length before it reached the level below, winding through a growth -of young trees which completely hid the soldiers from view. - -Down, down the mountain’s side they hurried faster and faster, until -at length they burst forth upon the open plain within a few hundred -yards of the enemy. - -“Now, my brave fellows!” shouted Captain Sherwood, wielding his -sword above his head, “teach these British villains and red rascals -decency!” and away the whole troop rushed wildly upon the foe. - -This was a surprise to the Tories and Indians, and a general panic -seized upon them. Unmindful of every thing but their own safety, they -took to flight, leaving their prisoners. But, after fleeing a short -distance, and finding themselves hard pressed by their foe, they -turned about like hunted game at bay to give battle. - -But a moment elapsed, and full two hundred men were engaged in deadly -conflict. - -Crack--crack--crack, went the rifles, and a sulphury smoke spread a -cloud upon the air. As the vapory mass cleared away, some were seen -dashing at each other with their empty guns, some twanging their bows -from a distance, and others grappling in hand-to-hand combat. - -Neither bugle nor drum sent forth its inspiring notes; no cannon -rolled its thunder; no rocket blazed; but every now and then the wild -war-whoop rung out upon the air, making the blood of the listener run -cold. And then came the fierce charging cheer of the troops, and the -cries of triumph and vengeance. - -While the fight was raging, War-Cloud, observing two Indians making -for their prisoners, lashed under the willow tree, uttered the -war-cry and started after them at full speed. The savages looked -behind them, and seeing but one adversary, gave fight. War-Cloud -whirled his tomahawk at the foremost one’s head, but the savage -with a quick movement evaded the weapon and sprung forward with his -knife. Then there was a desperate struggle of life and death. The -bodies of the combatants seemed twined around each other; then one of -them fell heavily to the ground. War-Cloud’s antagonist had fallen. -But before the scout could whirl about, the other Indian--an active -warrior--rushed upon him and bore him down. His knee was pressed on -War-Cloud’s breast, and his arm raised on high to drive the deadly -blade into his heart! but at this instant Captain Sherwood’s trusty -rifle sounded on the air--the savage dropped dead, and the scout was -saved. - -At length, after an hour of hard fighting, the Tories were completely -routed; and but few ever lived to tell the tale of their disaster. -After the excitement was over, and while the soldiers were looking -after their dead and wounded, the white captives, who had been silent -observers of the fray, were released from their fetters. Their joy -was great at being restored to liberty again, but their grief was -greater for their murdered father. The story of the captives was to -this effect: - -At an early hour in the evening, and while the old man and his -three daughters were gathered round their fireside chatting, their -Newfoundland dog sprung to his feet and rushed toward the door, -growling fiercely. - -His growl shortly increased to a bark--so earnest, that it was -evident some one was outside. The door was shut and barred; but the -old man, thinking perhaps it might be the soldiers whom he expected, -pulled out the bar, and opened the door without inquiring. - -He had scarcely shown himself, when the wild whoops of Indians rung -on their ears, and a blow from a heavy club prostrated him upon the -threshold. In spite of the terrible onset of the brave dog, the -savages, white and red, rushed into the house yelling fearfully, and -brandishing their weapons. In less than five minutes the house was -plundered of every valuable article. The old man, partly recovering, -had seized his gun and mounted the stairs, where he was met and -butchered outright. When the marauders had finished plundering, they -seized their prisoners and made off in haste. - -Such was the tale of the three females. - -The soldiers were soon collected into ranks, and were ready for -marching orders. They had been triumphant, and were in good spirits. -Nearly every man of their foe lay dead or dying upon the field, while -they had lost but three men and only five wounded. However, in the -midst of their exultations, a murmur ran through the crowd, and every -man looked at his companion inquiringly. “What had become of their -brave leader, Captain Sherwood?” each asked, in a whisper. He had -disappeared from their midst. - -An hour was spent in search for him; the valley and surrounding woods -were scoured in vain, for he was not found. The troops were obliged -to turn their steps homeward without him. It was nearly evening when -they arrived at the fort, where they were hailed with loud shouts -from their comrades when the news of victory was proclaimed. But, -afterward, when it was found that the captain was missing, a shade of -sadness seemed to fall on all. Immediately scouts were sent in all -directions to search for him. - - - - - CHAPTER III. - - THE STRANGE FACE. - - -The ladies of the garrison for some time had been suffering _ennui_, -and after holding a consultation, they resolved to petition for -some change to break the monotonous life. Accordingly, when all -their feminine forces were brought to bear upon the officers, -they forthwith yielded, and it was determined that the following -night--the night after the soldiers’ return--should be a gala -occasion; a night devoted to Terpsichore. - -The ladies set to work with an ardent zeal, decorating the hall -where the ball was to be held. It was a long barracks used for the -officers’ mess-room. The regimental flags were placed here and there -about the room, and foliage, brought from the woods, ornamented the -walls, so that in a short time the place had assumed quite a festive -appearance. - -During the afternoon of this day, and while everybody in the fort -seemed to be talking about him, Captain Sherwood made his appearance. -He was pale, and looked fatigued; his uniform showed marks of hard -usage, being badly torn and bespattered with blood. - -An eager crowd was soon collected around him to listen to his -exploits. All were greatly surprised upon learning that he had not -been taken prisoner as was supposed. His story was as follows: - -During the battle he had come in hand-to-hand combat with an Indian -who appeared to be the leader of the Tory party, as Iron Hand himself -was not with them. He finally managed, after a hard contest, to wound -the arm of his antagonist, whereupon the savage turned about and took -to flight. The captain hotly pursued, and in a few moments, both were -separated from the main body of the combatants in a secluded portion -of the woods; however, the officer was fast gaining ground on the -Indian, and in a few moments would have had him in his power, when -suddenly he received a shot from some unseen foe. Staggering forward -he fell, and this was the last he remembered. - -He had fainted, and when he recovered, he found himself prone in -a hole in the earth about four or five feet deep, with a heap of -hemlock boughs covering the top. The dirt had been just thrown out, -and whoever had dug the hole had undoubtedly intended it for his -grave. But they probably had been frightened away, and consequently -left their work only half accomplished. - -When the captain had thoroughly revived, and became aware of his -situation, he managed to crawl out of the horrid place and drag -himself to a stream near by, where he quaffed a draught which started -his blood on the regular course again and restored vitality. - -After bathing a wound in his leg--which was not serious, as the ball -had merely cut the flesh--and bandaging it up with his handkerchief, -he started for the garrison, where he had arrived, weak and exhausted -from loss of blood and want of food. - -Every attention was now paid to him, for Captain Sherwood had become -a great favorite with all since his first entering the fort. The -surgeon was summoned immediately to dress his wound, and the cooks of -the garrison vied with each other in serving up their best dish for -the gallant officer in the quickest possible time. The ladies offered -their services also, but the captain declared that he would not have -any thing more done for him. He was as well as any of them, he said, -having partaken of a good dinner, and to prove this, he marched to -the mess-room and spent the remainder of the afternoon in assisting -the fair ones arranging the hall for the evening entertainment. - -And now, dear reader, while our hero is there amusing himself, let us -transport ourselves from the fort to a pretty, white cottage, which -stands half-way down the side of a large hill three miles in the -distance. - -It was near sunset. A sunset more brilliant than common. The western -sky was filled with masses of colored clouds, on which gold and -purple and blue mingled together in gorgeous magnificence; and in -which the eye of the beholder could not fail to note the outlines of -strange forms, and fancy them bright and glorious beings of another -world. It was a picture to gladden the eye, to give joy to the heart -that was sad, and make happier the happy. - -All this beauty was not unobserved. Eyes were dwelling upon -it--beautiful eyes--and yet there was a sadness in their look, that -ill-accorded with the picture on which they were gazing. Though -apparently regarding the sunset, the thoughts which gave them -expression were drawn from a far different source. The heart within -was dwelling upon another object. - -The owner of those eyes was a beautiful girl, or rather a -fully-developed woman. She was tall and majestic, of soft graces and -waving outlines. The lady was Imogene Lear. She was walking backward -and forward in a little garden at the back of the house, as if -waiting for the arrival of some one. - -Every now and then her eyes sought the grove of cedars at the foot -of the inclosure, through whose slender trunks gleamed the silvery -surface of a stream. Upon this spot they rested from time to time, -with an expression of strange interest. No wonder that to those eyes -that was an interesting spot--it was there where love’s first vows -had been uttered and two young hearts plighted forever. - -Often as she gazed at this place a look of sadness would steal over -her face as if some thought were flying through her brain that was -unpleasant, and it brought with it clouds upon her brow, and imparted -an air of uneasiness. What was that thought? - -Ah! a stern father caused it. No longer could she meet that lover, -who had rendered this grove sacred, openly as in former times, but -was obliged to resort to deceit and have their interviews in secret. - -Sometimes she had been half tempted to forsake her home and go with -Edgar Sherwood. But no, she could not do that; sober thought always -brought her back to reason, and she would determine again to stay -by him and tend him in his old age, for she was his only child and -comfort, and then before this trouble he had ever been very kind to -her and undoubtedly, ere long, he would relent and give his consent -to her marriage with Edgar. - -Such were the thoughts she consoled herself with. - -Imogene Lear was naturally open and frank, and the deceit which -she now practiced on her father was something altogether new and -foreign to her noble nature, and it troubled her exceedingly, but -then her love for Edgar Sherwood was strong, and love prevailed over -conscience. - -While continuing her walk up and down the garden path she stopped -short, as if having taken some sudden resolution. - -“I will go--I ought to gratify him!” she muttered to herself. Sitting -down upon a bench near by, and opening a folded slip of paper, she -read: - - “DEAR IMOGENE--I have just returned from the war-path safe, and - wish to see you very much. We are to have a ball at the garrison - to-night. You must come--do not refuse, dearest one. If you do I - shall be miserable all the evening. As soon as your father has - retired for the night, hasten to our old place of meeting with your - brave steed, where I shall be in waiting. Adieu, my dearest, for a - few hours. - E.” - -When she had finished reading the note, she pressed it to her lips -and kissed it fervently. - -“No, Edgar, I will not refuse: I will go!” she murmured, and -thrusting the letter into her bosom, she glided softly into the house. - -A few hours after sunset, and when it was dark, Imogene again stole -forth into the garden. This time she was closely muffled in an ample -cloak and her head was donned with a riding-hat. - -After proceeding a short distance she stopped and listened. Perfect -stillness reigned around the cottage. Then there came a low whistle -from the lower end of the garden, and she tripped along over the -sanded walk to the place, on reaching which she called: - -“Jeff?” - -“Here, lady,” answered a man, stepping a little more into the light. -He was her trusty servant. - -“All saddled?” - -“Yes, Miss Imogene.” - -“Is _he_ here?” - -“Out there on the road waiting.” - -The man assisted his mistress to mount, and the next moment, giving -her steed a tap with her whip, she dashed away to meet her lover. - -As Edgar and Imogene met, their eyes sparkled with the thought of -love, but neither gave utterance to their thoughts until their horses -had borne them away from the cottage. Edgar was the first to speak. - -“Were you intending to ride over to the garrison to-night, Imogene?” -he said. - -“No, not until I received your note.” - -“My note?” and Edgar looked puzzled. - -“Yes.” - -“Why, Imogene, I sent you no note.” - -“I have got it in my pocket.” - -“Let me see it.” - -She handed the note to him which she had received, and he ran his eye -over the contents. - -He looked astonished. - -“By Heavens!” he exclaimed, “somebody is plotting against us; but, -thank God, I was in time to frustrate their plan!” - -“Then you really did not write it?” and Imogene appeared frightened. - -“I never saw this note before--I did not even know you were going to -the fort until I met your servant on the edge of the grove, who said -you would be ready in a few moments, and then hastened away before I -could speak to him.” - -“Who could have done this? Oh, Edgar, I fear there is some dreadful -mystery about this!” - -“No, no, Imogene! there is nothing of the kind,” he said, observing -her alarm; “do not let this frighten you. Undoubtedly some one of -your servants did this with no good design, but he will not dare try -the same trick again.” - -Here a new thought seemed to enter Imogene’s brain and she asked, -quickly: - -“Your dream, Edgar? has any thing come from it?” - -“No,” replied he, forcing a laugh; “how foolish I was to let a silly -dream trouble me!” - -“I am very glad; it annoyed me much.” - -“Let it be forgotten, dearest, for it was nothing more than a common -dream, although at the time I was quite certain it was a vision--a -presentiment.” - -They were now entering a straggling patch of woods, which stood at -either side of the road but a short distance from fort. Imogene -was about to speak again, when her quick ears caught a sound that -appeared odd to her. It was but a slight rustling among the autumnal -leaves that were lying in heaps along the roadside, and might have -been caused by the wind had there been any, but not a breath was -stirring. Something else had caused it. What could it be? - -Edgar and Imogene turned their heads simultaneously and looked -behind. At the same moment each caught a glance of the face and -form they had seen a few nights previous in the grove near the -cottage--the face that Edgar had declared he had seen in his dream! -There it stood in the middle of the road, wrapped in a white, shaggy -cloak, which gave the mysterious form a frightful appearance, and the -face, pale and motionless, gazing after them. - -In a moment it had disappeared, and Edgar and Imogene each drew -a long breath. Captain Edgar Sherwood was no coward--was a brave -man, and had often stood face to face with death; but this was an -apparition, something mysterious which he could not understand. His -lips grew white, and the perspiration leaped into drops upon his -forehead. He was about to turn his horse’s head and ride back to -where the specter had stood, but Imogene was very much agitated, and -urged him forward to the fort. - -Around the entrance of the garrison a large crowd of soldiers were -collected, to observe the guests as they arrived, and when Edgar and -Imogene passed through the men gave them a loud and hearty cheer. -This seemed to awaken the couple from the lethargy into which they -had fallen after beholding the apparition. - -Dismounting, they hurried to the ball-room, where they found a gay -assembly. The hall was brilliantly lighted and handsomely decorated. -The music, which consisted of the regimental band, was playing a -waltz, while a throng of dancers whirled round the room. - -There was a large number of persons present, composed of the officers -and their ladies, and the patriots dwelling in the neighborhood. It -was a merry company, and one that seemed to dispel all troubles from -the minds of our hero and heroine. - -Imogene had hardly entered the room before she became the center of -attraction. The captain led her to the upper end of the room, where -they joined Colonel Hall, the commander of the garrison, and his lady. - -Now it was that the wound in his leg annoyed the captain, for it kept -him from engaging in the dance with Imogene. In order to keep the -knowledge of this from her, he was obliged to find a partner for her -among the lieutenants. A lucky accident for them, and the fortunate -one appreciated it, too. - -While the dance was going on, and when the company seemed in the -hight of enjoyment, a man dressed in the garb of a hunter, entered -the hall, and forced his way to the colonel. It was a noted American -spy, Hank Putney by name, who had been dispatched the day previous -to search for Captain Sherwood. He whispered a few words to the -commander, and both retired from the room together, but so quietly -that no one perceived them. - -Upon leaving the hall, they directed their steps to the colonel’s -head-quarters, where the following conversation took place between -them: - -“You say that you have news of importance, Putney?” said the colonel, -handing the scout a seat. - -“Indeed, very important, colonel,” answered Putney, taking a folded -paper from his pocket and laying it upon the table. “If ye’ll just -run yer eye over that, perhaps ye’ll understand what it is.” - -Colonel Hall took up the paper, and with some difficulty managed -to read the poorly-written and badly-spelled document. It was a -description of the notorious Iron Hand. - -“Well, really, this is good news, Putney. How did you succeed in -obtaining a sight of him?” - -“Oh, easy enough! The band forgot to cover their trail this time, and -I tracked ’em. But look ye again at th’ paper. Do ye not know him? -You’ve seen him a hundred times.” - -The colonel read the description over again carefully, then paused -for a moment in thought. - -“There is a man in the garrison,” said he, “who answers to this -description, but then of course we should be mad to think it meant -Captain Edgar Sherwood!” - -“I thought ye’d know him!” said Putney, and his eye twinkled with -satisfaction. “No madness about it, colonel. He’s the man--this -villain Iron Hand and our cap’n are one!” - -“Why, man, it is impossible!” cried the colonel, starting to his -feet, with astonishment. “What! Sherwood a British spy! No, no, no!” - -“Sartin, sir, sartin! Bill Hawkins and I saw him in their camp -yesterday, and he war their leader. I took down his description, and -we’ll sw’ar to it.” - -Colonel Hall paced up and down the floor in great agitation. Every -little circumstance which had taken place during the past few days -again appeared to him, but in a changed form. After a few moments’ -thought, he was obliged to admit that some things had transpired -which looked suspicious. Sherwood’s story about being nearly buried, -might be only a fabulous invention gotten up to cloak his real -actions, and the wound, perchance, he may have received in the fray. - -It also occurred to him now, that Sherwood, during the past month, -had been frequently absent from the fort, sometimes for a day and -night together. Then, again, the father of his betrothed, Thomas -Lear, was known to be a stanch Tory, and although it was reported -that Sherwood and he had quarreled when the former entered the -American army, yet this might have been done for the purpose of -carrying out their deception. - -“I suspect that’s why the cap’n was late with th’ soldiers th’ night -th’ Tories attacked the Whig’s house, ’cause he war waitin’ for ’em -to finish th’ job,” said Putney, adding additional fuel to the fire. - -“Great heavens!” exclaimed the colonel, stopping short in his walk. -“Have we all been blinded by this villain? Can it really be that -Sherwood is a traitor?” - -“He’s Iron Hand, I’m sure o’ that!” again added Putney. - -“Well, man,” Colonel Hall turned about so as to face the scout, “I -shall have him arrested at once, but if it turns out that the charge -is false, you shall be punished in his stead. Now I ask you once -more, are you sure he is the man?” - -Putney turned very pale, but answered: - -“I am.” - -The colonel then dispatched him for an officer. In a short time, -guards began to appear at the different places of ingress and exit -to the ball-room. The assembly noticed this and the dance stopped -suddenly. A sergeant entered the room, and informed Captain Sherwood -that the colonel requested his presence. The company stood still with -astonishment. What had happened--were the British approaching? - -In a moment the news spread like wild-fire in the assembly, that -Captain Edgar Sherwood was arrested, and imprisoned on a charge of -being the Tory chieftain, Iron Hand, and a British spy! At this -announcement, a loud shriek burst forth from the upper end of the -room, and Imogene Lear sunk fainting to the floor. - - - - - CHAPTER IV. - - THE NIGHT RIDE. - - -The night had turned out dark and drear, and the lowering clouds -denoted the approach of a storm. The last echo of the booming gun had -scarcely died away, warning the inmates of the fort that it was time -for all unnecessary lights to be extinguished, and for all nightly -revels to cease. - -The shrill cry of the sentinel’s “All’s well” had passed from mouth -to mouth, denoting the security of the hour, and the non-apprehension -of an attack. The lights in the different quarters were gradually -extinguished, showing a reluctance of the occupants to abandon their -evening amusements. - -As the last glimmer died away, the battlements of the fort were -wrapped in an almost impenetrable gloom. Nothing broke the deathlike -stillness, save the measured tread of the guard as he walked his -lonely post, or the hooting of the owl, as it rung upon the silence -of the night from the depth of the neighboring forest. - -Suddenly one of the postern gates opposite the residence of the -commandant was thrown open, from which issued a flood of light, -making the surrounding darkness more intense, and revealing a -small group of officers and ladies, on the countenances of whom -were depicted gloom and sadness, caused by the extraordinary and -unlooked-for proceedings of the earlier part of the evening. They had -just emerged from their dwelling to witness the departure of Miss -Lear, after having made ineffectual efforts to induce her to postpone -her journey till morning. - -Imogene, wrapped in a heavy military cloak, and leaning upon the -arm of the garrison commander, followed by the rest of the company, -moved toward her steed, which, in charge of one of the soldiers, -stood outside of the gate, champing his bit and pawing the ground -impatiently. - -Refusing all proffered assistance, she leaped gayly into the saddle, -and tried, by assuming a more genial appearance which ill-bespoke the -agony that wrung her heart, to banish the thoughts that clouded the -brows and dampened the feelings of all present. - -Her horse, a noble animal of coal-black color, long, flowing tail -and mane, with limbs of most delicate proportions, and whose general -symmetry of form defied the criticism of the most observant, and -denoted a capability of excessive endurance, feeling again his -accustomed burden, seemed to partake of the happier moments of his -mistress, and commenced to curvet and gambol about to the extreme -annoyance of his attendant. - -After portraying to Imogene the numerous dangers that might befall -her on the road, Colonel Hall made an urgent but fruitless appeal to -her to remain at the fort during the night, or else to accept of an -escort to her father’s house. With an ill-affected smile, Imogene -tried to allay the apprehensions of her friends by making light of -them, then waving a parting farewell to the assembled company, in a -few moments afterward she was buried in the gloom. - -The assemblage waited until the rattling of her horse’s hoofs had -died away in the distance, then slowly returned to the apartment -which they had left a few minutes previous. Each member of the -assembly seemed deeply engaged with his own respective thoughts, the -uppermost of which was, no doubt, the surprising scenes that had -transpired during the evening. - -The silence was finally broken by Colonel Hall, who had been -for several moments seemingly absorbed in a deep, meditative -mood, turning abruptly toward a young officer, who, in a fit of -abstraction, was standing with one arm leaning on the mantel, whom he -addressed as follows: - -“Lieutenant Mansfield, I have resolved to dispatch a body of horse -to follow the direction taken by Miss Lear, in case she should -be molested, as I have apprehensions of the safety of the route -which she must traverse, for you are aware that it is only a few -days ago that those three Tory spies, now immured in the bastion, -were captured in the vicinity of her father’s residence. Should it -be agreeable, I will give the command of the troops to you; but -remember, the matter is optional.” - -“Colonel, I am at your service, and nothing would be more pleasing -to me than to be the protector of virtue, and if possible, in -the performance of my duty, to rid the country of some of those -bloodthirsty desperadoes that are such a scourge to society.” - -“Those are soldierly sentiments, lieutenant,” answered Colonel Hall. - -“The sentiments of the entire garrison,” responded the lieutenant. - -“I am pleased to learn that such chivalrous feelings pervade the -breasts of the men under my command,” said the colonel; “however, -lieutenant, as the time passes rapidly by, and several minutes have -already elapsed since the departure of Miss Lear, it would be well to -make preparations as speedily as possible.” - -The lieutenant making a low bow, retired to perform the wishes of his -commander. In a moment afterward, the troopers, armed to the teeth, -and mounted on their caparisoned chargers, looking like so many -grim specters, dashed through the open gate and were soon lost to -view. The gate creaked on its rusty hinges as it swung back into its -customary place, and silence again reigned supreme. - - - - - CHAPTER V. - - THE RED WITNESS. - - -Imogene, after her departure from the fort, sped rapidly onward, -heedless of the extended branches and immense brambles that -threatened every moment to drag her from her saddle. Collecting her -confused thoughts, which were exceedingly harassed by her multiplied -troubles, she checked the impetuosity of her steed, and compelling -him to assume a more moderate gait, fell into a revery. - -“Can it be possible,” she murmured, “that Colonel Hall could have -had any intimation of impending danger? he seemed to persist so -strongly that I should remain in the fort till daylight!” Immediately -recovering herself, she exclaimed: - -“A truce to such thoughts! It is only the wandering of my disordered -imagination, that turns every harmless tree into a robber, and every -neighboring bush into the lurking-place of some concealed assassin. -However, I must confess that when I first entered the forest, an -indescribable feeling of dread seemed to chill my very blood; but I -must scout such ideas, which if I do not, they will entirely unnerve -me, and render me unfit to enter the presence of my father, who -must not receive from me even the slightest suspicion of Edgar’s -misfortune.” - -In vain did she endeavor to shake off the gloomy feeling that -possessed her. The moon, which had been concealed during the earlier -part of the evening behind the immense banks of clouds that had -obscured the heavens, now became occasionally visible, and its fitful -beams served only to render the intense darkness of the woods more -apparent, and lend a more spectral appearance to surrounding objects. - -Imogene, having relapsed into her former mood, rode slowly along the -well-beaten path, unmindful of the cold, keen wind that swept through -the surging forest, causing the stanch old oaks to gently bend their -hoary tops to the blast. - -The deep baying of her father’s hounds awakened her, at length, from -her musings. Congratulating herself upon having reached the terminus -of her journey in safety, she tried to smile at the absurd fears of -her friends, when her steed, with a snort of terror, made a sudden -pause, throwing himself back on his haunches, almost unseating his -mistress. - -Imogene peered into the darkness beyond, but in consequence of the -intensity of the gloom, was unable to ascertain the cause of her -horse’s fear, and vainly endeavored to urge her trembling animal -forward, at first, by gentle applications of the whip, and finally -by kind words and caresses, but with like success. It was with the -utmost difficulty that she succeeded in calming his excitement, and -preventing him from dashing headlong into the surrounding woods. - -At that moment, the moon, which had been hidden for a short time -by a passing cloud, again burst forth, lighting up the surrounding -darkness, and by the aid of the few faint beams that struggled -through the dense foliage overhead, Imogene perceived a man at a few -yards distant, standing on the side of the road, partly concealed -behind a tree. - -Seeing that he was discovered, he stepped into the middle of the -path, as if he desired to speak. He appeared to be advanced in years, -with long, flowing, silvery locks, and with little or no beard. His -frame was still strong and sinewy, though somewhat bent, apparently -both by age and toil. His countenance, however, bore but few traces -of either age or suffering, and had quite a prepossessing look, were -it not for the expression of his eyes, which were cold and repelling, -but with a glance sharp and piercing that seemed to read the inmost -secrets of any object on which it was cast. - -These organs were nearly concealed by a pair of black, shaggy brows, -that ill-accorded with the excessive whiteness of their owner’s -hair. The stranger, noticing the anxious and half-affrighted look of -Imogene, broke the silence by saying: - -“Young lady, be not afraid; I am but a poor, harmless old man who has -been traveling nearly the entire day over hill and dale, and am only -seeking some fit habitation where I may rest my weary limbs.” - -Imogene gazed upon the singular being before her, for some moments -in silence, unable to utter a word, so sudden was the shock of his -unexpected appearance. Recovering herself at length, she replied: - -“For what reason, my good sir, are you, at such an hour in a place so -isolated. Do you not fear any danger?” - -“I entered these woods to seek shelter from the impending storm which -threatened to take place during the earlier part of the evening,” -he answered. “As for danger, why should I fear? Who would think of -injuring a harmless old man like me? No, no, these freebooters of the -road look for higher game than I, in my poverty, could offer!” - -These last words were uttered in such a sarcastic tone that -Imogene, who had been adjusting her horse’s bridle, looked up with -astonishment and bent her penetrating gaze upon the speaker, but -seeing his harmless and abject appearance, her features relaxed and -softened into a look of pity. - -Desiring to terminate the conversation, she said: - -“My friend, these woods are not a suitable spot for either of us, -and as you remarked that you were seeking for a place of shelter and -safety, I will direct you where your wishes will be gratified. Follow -this path, without deviating either to the right or left, and you -will reach the habitation of my father, where you will find a place -to rest yourself. Lead on, I will follow.” - -Up to this moment, the stranger had not moved from the position he -had first assumed; but seeing the intention of Imogene to proceed, he -drew back a step and raised his hand, motioning her to stop. She did -as he requested. - -“Before I accept your kind invitation,” continued the old man, “I -would wish to know, good lady, to whose generosity I am indebted; -whether it be friend or foe.” - -“That matters not,” replied Imogene; “it is sufficient that you are -homeless and in want. I consider not whether the recipient of my -charity be friend or enemy, neither do I care. You seek assistance, -and that assistance I offer you--what more is necessary? I am not -your enemy, nor do I bear hostile feeling to anybody. Let this answer -suffice.” - -The energy with which Imogene uttered these words caused the rich -blood to suffuse her countenance, which lent an additional charm to -her excessive beauty. The stranger sent an admiring look upon the -beautiful young girl, but it passed like a flash as he resumed the -conversation. - -“Young lady, pray forgive my hesitancy; but, as you are aware, in -these troublesome times a man is at a loss to know whom to trust, -and I am afraid that should I fall into the hands of some, I might -receive a reception disagreeable to my nature,” at this he turned -an inquisitive look upon his companion, as if he sought to elicit a -reply to his somewhat equivocal answer. - -“You doubt, then, the honesty of my hospitable offers,” returned -Imogene, with some animation. - -“No, no, young lady; you misconstrue my meaning. I doubt not your -upright intentions; but, as I said before, you know a person can not -be too scrupulous in these matters.” - -“In order not to deprive you of the comforts which you seem to need, -I will endeavor to dispel your ungrounded fears by giving you the -requisite information. The house to which I have directed you is the -residence of Thomas Lear, and--” - -At the last-mentioned name, the stranger started back with a look of -surprise. - -“Then you are Imogene, the daughter of old Lear, the Tory?” he -exclaimed. - -These words were uttered in a much different key. A strong, manly -voice had taken the place of the weak, wheezing tone of the old man. -The hot blood mantled the brow of Imogene, as she quickly retorted to -this seemingly insulting language: - -“Though Thomas Lear should be a supporter of the king’s cause, his -daughter, at least, should be free from insult. He is my father, and -I wish not to hear his name spoken of in so wanton and disrespectful -a manner. I have directed you to a harbor of safety, where you may -find a place of rest, and provide for your wants. If you wish to -avail yourself of my offer you may do so, but you must use your own -discretion in the matter. I have already tarried too long--I must -depart.” - -“A word with you, Miss Lear, for such you have acknowledged yourself -to be, before you go,” replied the stranger; and drawing nearer to -Imogene, he whispered, in a subdued undertone, a few words which -seemed to make her recoil with an expression of horror. - -“Away, vile wretch! Is it thus you would repay my kindness? Begone!” -She cast upon him such a look of disgust and contempt that he seemed -to writhe under her stinging rebuff. - -“You reject, then, my offer?” he replied. - -“I refuse to parley with such a despicable creature. Make way; I must -leave this spot.” - -“Not quite so fast, young lady. I wish to allow you a moment to -reconsider your decision,” returned the old man without moving from -his position in the center of the path. - -“You have heard my answer.” - -“You persist in your refusal? - -“I do.” - -The stranger gave a low, short whistle, and immediately disappeared -in the brushwood. Before Imogene could recover from her surprise at -this sudden disappearance, her horse’s bridle was seized by an armed -ruffian, while two others confronted her with drawn weapons. Imogene -was immediately alive to the danger that threatened her. - -“What means this outrage--this detention?” she exclaimed in an -excited manner. - -“It means,” returned one of the party, who appeared to be the leader, -in a gruff voice, “that you’re our prisoner.” - -At this juncture one of the men raised his hand as a signal for -all to remain silent. In an instant every one assumed a listening -attitude, intent on catching the slightest sound. At first nothing -could be heard, save the sighing of the wind through the trees, but -the practiced ears of the desperadoes quickly distinguished the -clatter of approaching hoofs. - -“What’s that?” exclaimed the man who had given the signal of alarm, -casting an inquiring look at his leader. - -“It’s a party o’ those cursed rebels from the fort, and we must go -into the woods until they pass, or they’ll be on our backs in no -time.” - -As he said this, he turned toward Imogene, and, drawing a pistol from -his belt, ordered her to dismount. - -“Dismount, I tell ye,” cried the ruffian, in a voice husky with rage, -seeing that Imogene utterly disregarded his command, “or by th’ -light o’ Heaven, I’ll put this piece o’ lead through yer brain; for -I’ve promised to deliver yer body, dead or alive, and I’ll do so, -should it cost me my life.” - -Imogene looked at the villain, and saw by the fierce expression of -his countenance and the malignant fire that sparkled in his eye, that -he was capable of any enormity possible to humanity, and would not -hesitate an instant to put his threat into execution. - -There was no one to succor her; she beheld only the other villains, -his accomplices in crime. Oh, how she wished that her noble Edgar was -by her side, were it but for a moment. - -“Make haste,” exclaimed the ruffian, impatiently. - -“I refuse,” replied Imogene, with vehemence. - -In an instant, before she could divine their intention, a large -mantle was suddenly cast over her head to prevent her from making any -outcry, and she was forcibly dragged from her saddle and borne into -the woods. In a moment afterward the man who had held the rein of -Imogene’s steed, uttering a cry of pain, dashed after them. - -“What’s all this noise about?” sharply asked the ruffian leader, -casting a savage look upon his comrade. - -“The horse! the horse!” was all he could ejaculate, and holding up -his hand which was sadly cut and mangled, “see there,” he cried, -with an oath, “that infernal brute almost wrenched my arm out of its -socket with his teeth,” and holding tightly on the wounded member, he -groaned aloud with the excruciating pain. - -“Ye’d better stop that howlin’ o’ yours, afore ye bring th’ whole -rebel pack down upon us,” was the consoling remark. The wounded man, -with a look of pain and hatred, obeyed. - -The heavy tramp of horses denoted the rapid advance of the troopers, -and the bushes had hardly closed on the form of the last of the -retreating rascals, when they rode swiftly by the hiding-place of -their foe, looking like so many ghostly images, as the moonbeams -faintly reflected on their clanking sabers, and the garnished -trappings of their steeds. - -When the last sound of the retreating horsemen had died away in the -distance, the leader of the party noiselessly emerged from his place -of concealment, and took a short, quick survey of the surroundings. - -Upon observing their freedom from all immediate danger, he ordered -his companions to mount with all possible expedition. Carefully -placing the swooning and almost inanimate form of Imogene on the back -of his own horse, he exclaimed: - -“Now, then, put yer horses to the test, for we must place many miles -betwixt us and this spot afore daylight; for that bloody red-skin, -War-Cloud, is at th’ fort, and if he gets on our trail, only a -miracle ’ll save us from goin’ under. Should th’ rebel dogs overtake -us, they’ll show us no quarters.” - -In obedience to the command of their captain, one of the party rode -some distance in advance, in order to keep a sharp look-out for any -signs of danger; the leader with his helpless burden occupied the -center; while the wounded man, who was engaged in binding up his -lacerated hand, guarded the rear. - -In this manner they proceeded for several miles in silence, not a -sound breaking the deep and deathlike stillness of the forest, except -the dull echoes of the horses’ tread. - -They had almost reached the verge of the woods through which they -were traveling, and were about to enter upon the highway, in order -to pursue their way more rapidly, trusting to the darkness as a -safeguard against their being observed, and the proximity of the -woods into which they could plunge in case of the approach of any -suspicious party, when the man in front gave a low whistle as a -signal to halt. - -Riding back to his companions, he pointed out to them through the -trees, a faint, glimmering light that appeared to issue from a large -house near the roadside, but so nearly hidden in an angle of the -woods, that they almost came upon it unawares. This was no other than -the residence of the old Whig who had been so cruelly murdered during -the visit of Iron Hand’s band the evening previous. - -After debating among themselves for several moments the one who -had first given the alarm agreed to go and reconnoiter the place. -Dismounting, he hastened across the road, and disappeared in the -shadows of the trees that nearly surrounded the habitation. - -His friends, in their place of concealment, anxious to hear the -result. After an elapse of about half an hour he returned, and -informed his comrades that the house was apparently empty, and -that the inmates had either fled or been taken captives, as he had -minutely examined several of the apartments, and there was not a -single sound to denote the presence of any living being about the -premises. - -At this piece of intelligence, the three ruffians concluded that -instead of proceeding further on their journey, as both themselves -and their horses were greatly fatigued by their rapid traveling, -to take up their abode for the remainder of the night in their -newly-discovered place of shelter. - -The trio advanced cautiously until they reached the house, where they -dismounted and securely fastened their animals. The horses, together -with the still insensible person of Imogene, were left in charge of -the wounded member of the party, while the other two entered the -building. - -All was silence within. At the end of a large hall into which they -had ushered themselves, was a wide stair-case leading to the room -where the light was first discovered. Looking into several smaller -apartments without seeing any suspicious sign, the two worthies -concluded that the place was still unoccupied, and immediately -prepared to proceed to the room above, in order to ascertain the -cause of the light which they had seen. - -As they ascended, the stairs creaked and groaned, sending forth at -every step a hollow, dismal sound, whose echoes broke the monotonous -stillness, and lent additional horror to the deep gloom that pervaded -the entire place. - -Entering the chamber, a scene of terrible confusion was spread before -their eyes. Broken and disarranged furniture was scattered in every -direction, while on the end of the mantel near one of the windows, -stood a light with the flame just flickering in the socket. This it -was that first attracted the attention of the abducting party. - -It was obvious by the great disorder everywhere visible, that the -inmates had decamped in haste, as not a single piece of furniture had -been removed, and that the house had been recently abandoned, either -in consequence of a real or expected attack. - -It was also apparent that the place had not been deserted more than -an hour or two. Evidently the last resident entertained little -apprehension of an unwelcome visit, as the light in the apartment was -so placed that its rays could be easily distinguished by the least -observant passing that way. - -Could it be that the inmates had heard their approach and had -secreted themselves until they had fairly entrapped their victims? -As this thought suggested itself to the minds of the two ruffians, -a cold perspiration bathed their brows, and they were on the point -of beating a hasty retreat; but being reassured by the prevailing -quietude, they endeavored, with an air of assumed bravado, to rally -their drooping courage. - -In a noiseless, but faltering manner, they commenced an examination -of the apartment. One of them gave a sudden bound, accidentally -knocking over a chair in his fright, as he trod on some small, hard -object lying on the floor. - -“Curse on ye!” exclaimed his companion, in a tone of mingled alarm -and anger, “ye’ll bring th’ whole neighborhood about our ears.” - -Assuring themselves, however, that the noise had not aroused anybody, -they continued their search. As the ruffian who had been startled so -suddenly, stooped down to ascertain the cause of his alarm, the dim -rays of the candle reflected on a richly-mounted dagger. - -He picked it up, and was about to place it in his girdle, when his -comrade, the leader of the party, who was watching his movements, -caught sight of the glittering blade. - -“What’s that?” he asked, as he rudely grasped the arm of the other. - -“Only a knife.” - -“By heavens, I’ve seen that knife afore!” he soliloquized, as they -both minutely examined the instrument by the aid of the candle’s -faint and flickering flame. - -The handle of the weapon was tastefully ornamented with -mother-of-pearl and several beautiful and sparkling brilliants, -denoting that the owner was of no ordinary rank. They held it closer -to the light in order to inspect what appeared to be spots of rust on -the keen but peculiar-shaped blade. - -“Blood! as I’m a livin’ man.” - -“And fresh blood at that,” replied the other, as he scrutinized it -more closely. - -“See!” was the excited exclamation. - -“What?” - -“Those letters,” answered the leader, as he pointed to the initials -“I. H.” handsomely engraved on the hilt of the weapon. - -“Wal, what of ’em?” - -“Don’t yer know?” - -After slowly repeating the letters over several times in his -endeavors to unravel the enigma, the other quickly exclaimed: - -“I have it--the knife’s our chief’s.” - -“Sartinly.” - -“Wonder how it came here?” - -“Th’ chief hisself or some of th’ league have been around and at -work.” - -They then proceeded without delay to look about them for some traces -of a _melée_. The walls were besmeared in several places with clots -of blood, giving unmistakable signs of an encounter, while in the -center of the floor was a small pool of human gore not yet dry, -denoting that the victim, whether dead or wounded, had been but -recently removed. - -The expiring flame of the candle threw a sickly glare over the -apartment, wrapping every thing in a ghostly gloom. The ruffians, -though steeled to scenes of blood and murder, could not drive away -the indescribable feeling of awe that crept over them as they stood -there alone. - -The bloody weapon of their chieftain, the not-to-be-mistaken marks -of a recent combat, the light, the deserted house with its entire -contents intact--all these, to the minds of the ruffians, were an -unbroken chain of circumstances which to them was an inexplicable -mystery. - -Murder and rapine in their direst forms they could look upon -unflinchingly, but to be there alone, with nothing but the dumb and -sanguinary witnesses of the slaughtered victim around them, was more -than their treacherous souls could withstand. - -Filled with superstitious fears, they hastened precipitately down the -stairs, casting occasional furtive glances behind them, and ceased -not their hasty retreat until they had reached their horses, which -quickly mounting, they drove their rowels into their flanks and in a -moment were dashing down the road in hurried flight. - -Not a word was uttered until they were satisfied that they had placed -themselves beyond the reach of all danger, real or imaginary, when -they checked their steeds, and related to their wondering and almost -bewildered comrade what they had seen. - -After a short and silent ride, the party finally reached a small, -but pretty and tasteful, dwelling, surrounded by neat and beautiful -grounds. It presented no appearance of wanton injury and desolation, -and was quite a pleasing contrast to the numerous forsaken and -half-burned houses that everywhere abounded in that part of the -country. - -This pleasant retreat was evidently abandoned by its former -occupants, as the three ruffians approached it unhesitatingly, -without using their customary precautions. The place was, no doubt, -one of the many resorts belonging to the band of which these men were -members, and had been spared from the general waste to be reserved -for this purpose. - -Having made secure the apartment in which Imogene was placed, so as -to prevent escape, the trio, before a large, crackling wood fire -which they had enkindled on the hearth, prepared to make themselves -as comfortable as circumstances would permit. - -After discussing the creature comforts with appetites rendered -extremely sharp by their weary ride, two of the party, while the -other mounted guard for the night, rolled themselves in their -blankets and were soon buried in slumber. - - - - - CHAPTER VI. - - THE HOT TRAIL. - - -After leaving the fort, the dragoons followed the well-worn but -solitary path leading to the residence of Mr. Lear, which they were -certain Imogene had taken. - -Onward they swiftly rode, hoping at every moment to overtake their -intended charge. Though they frequently listened to catch the -slightest sound, however, nothing was audible save the monotonous -rattling of their sabers. - -The deep baying of hounds, the same that had awakened Imogene from -her reverie, told them they were near their journey’s end. In a few -moments afterward the dragoons drew up their panting steeds before -the residence of Thomas Lear. - -All was still. The lieutenant dismounted and rapped loudly on the -door with the hilt of his saber. Finding that the summons was -unanswered, he repeated his rap with redoubled vehemence. The echo -had hardly died away when the door was partly opened, and a negro -domestic peering cautiously out inquired the reason of their visit at -such an unseemly hour. - -Hearing, in reply to her question, the deep, heavy tones of a man’s -voice, and seeing the person himself garbed in the habiliments of a -continental soldier, she was about to quickly close the door in her -fright; but the assurance that she was to be in no wise molested -filled her with more confidence, and after some hesitancy she -admitted the strange visitors. - -Upon making inquiries, the lieutenant was astounded to find that -Imogene had not yet returned, and was on the point of dispatching -some of his men to scour the woods in the vicinity, when her steed, -riderless and with saddle and girth nearly torn from his back, came -dashing up the lawn. - -Mr. Lear, on hearing the loud tones of the conversation carried on -below, hurried down-stairs. Seeing a party of soldiers congregated -before his house, his mind was filled with forebodings of some -impending calamity. - -“What is the meaning of this unseasonable visit?” he eagerly -inquired, turning to the lieutenant of the dragoons. - -“We have come in obedience to the command of Colonel Hall, to -ascertain whether Miss Lear has yet arrived from the fort, which she -persisted in leaving this evening unattended.” - -“Imogene at the fort! What mean you--how came she there?” - -“She was at the ball, sir.” - -“At the ball! You mystify me--explain yourself;” but just at that -moment, catching sight of the riderless steed, he started back with -an agonizing groan. “I understand,” he murmured, “something has -happened to Imogene.” - -“Indeed, sir, I fear there has been foul play.” - -“No, no, there must be some dreadful mistake here!” exclaimed the old -man, nervously grasping the arm of the officer. “Who could be so base -as to harm my child?” - -“In truth, the affair is enveloped in profound mystery. We have -examined the horse and find no traces of blood, and I greatly fear -that your daughter has been--” - -“What?” cried Mr. Lear, seeing the soldier hesitate. - -“Abducted.” - -“Oh! my God! what new villainy is this!” and the sorrow-stricken -parent staggered at the fearful intelligence. Clutching the -lieutenant with feverish suddenness, he frantically exclaimed: - -“Oh! save my daughter, my darling girl! Reclaim her from the hands of -those merciless fiends, and my property, my life, my all is yours! -Oh! my child! my child! my child!” and with a heartrending cry, the -poor afflicted father reeled, then sunk to the floor. - -Leaving the grief-stricken old man in the care of his weeping -servants, with the assurance that nothing would be left undone to -recover Miss Lear from the hands of her abductors, the lieutenant -vaulted into his saddle, and in company with his men hurried back to -the fort to impart to the commandant the unwelcome news. - -“Lieutenant,” said Colonel Hall, after the officer had related to -him what had taken place, “you will hold yourself and command in -readiness to start at break of day, in pursuit of these villains.” - -The dragoon was about departing, when the colonel stopped him. - -“The Indian, War-Cloud, is still in the garrison, is he not?” he -asked. - -“He is, sir.” - -“Send him to me, then, without delay.” - -The officer bowed and retired. The Indian quickly obeyed the summons. - -War-Cloud was a chief of the Oneidas. Although a great part of his -tribe went over to the British with the Five Nations, of which it was -a member, he always remained a stanch friend of the Americans, and an -inveterate foe of the Mohawks. - -He was one of the most trustworthy scouts attached to the Continental -army, and in that capacity had performed invaluable service in the -cause of liberty. - -To Captain Sherwood he was especially attached, and would have been -ready at any moment to sacrifice his life in his behalf. A large, -crackling wood-fire shed its rays about the room which he entered. - -As the Indian stood there, calmly awaiting the pleasure of his -commander, with his arms quietly folded on his breast, with the -beautiful war-plumes that decorated his head drooping over his -countenance so as to give a more somber shade to his finely-molded -features, he looked like some brazen colossus and the _beau-ideal_ of -a true warrior. - -Colonel Hall was pacing up and down the apartment, deeply absorbed in -meditation. He stopped a moment and looked up. - -“Ah!” he exclaimed, as he beheld his visitor, “you have come!” - -Placing a chair near the table for the scout, he seated himself -opposite. - -“I suppose you are aware of the reason that has caused me to send for -you?” continued the colonel. - -The Indian bowed in response. - -“You have already heard of the abduction of Miss Lear?” - -“War-Cloud knows all,” answered the scout. - -“Then you will hold yourself ready to accompany the troopers on the -trail of the abductors in the morning.” After giving the Indian his -instructions, the commander dismissed him. - -The remainder of the night was spent by a greater part of the inmates -of the fort, in a state of feverish excitement. It was deemed prudent -to withhold the knowledge of Imogene’s abduction from Captain -Sherwood, until more particulars of her fate were obtained. - -The next morning, just as the bright sun commenced to tint the -neighboring hill-tops and light up the eastern horizon, witnessed the -departure of the dragoons from the fort. - -They immediately took the path of the previous evening, which they -slowly followed, scrutinizing every foot of the ground minutely, -until they reached the spot where Imogene had been stopped by her -abductors. This they knew by the trampled state of the earth. - -Dismounting, War-Cloud made a careful examination of the numerous -footprints, while the remainder of the company patiently awaited the -result of his investigation. - -Quickly beckoning the commander to his side, the scout pointed to -several deep prints in the soft soil. - -“Well, what’s peculiar about them?” asked the officer, inspecting -them closely. - -“White man’s tracks.” - -“White men’s! How know you that?” - -“See!” exclaimed the scout, as he directed the officer’s attention -to several nearly erased marks, “Indian no wear boots--Indian wear -moccasin.” - -Sure enough, there, in the loose earth, were imprinted the faint -outlines of boot-traces. Penetrating the trampled bushes on either -side of the path, War-Cloud at length came upon the spot where the -inanimate form of Imogene had been placed during the passage of the -dragoons. - -These signs not only satisfied the party that they had struck upon -the right trail, but also gave convincing proof that the abductors -were white men, not Indians, as at first supposed. - -Without stopping to waste any more time in words, the dragoons -started on the trail, with War-Cloud a short distance in advance. The -traces of the fugitives were so broad and plain, and so little care -had been taken to conceal them, that they could be followed with but -little difficulty. - -However, as the troopers entered deeper into the heart of the forest, -their progress became slower and more difficult, and the trail less -distinct. - -At length, however, they reached the deserted house where the -abducting party had stopped the previous evening. They surrounded the -building, but this precaution was unnecessary, as a hasty examination -showed that their intended victims had departed several hours before. - -The old trail was again resumed, which led them to the dwelling in -which we left Imogene and her abductors in the previous chapter. - -It was now dark, and the obscurity and quietude in which the -house was buried seemed to foreshadow another disappointment. The -lieutenant knocked loudly at the door; no answer. He knocked again; -still no answer. He was about to effect an entrance by force, when -the shadow of a man was observed to flit across the lawn. - -The dragoons started in hurried pursuit. Through the dim twilight -the fugitive was hardly distinguishable. He had almost reached the -woods--in another moment he would be safe, when the sharp, whip-like -report of War-Cloud’s rifle was heard, and the fleeing man fell to -the dust. - -The next instant he was surrounded by his pursuers, who made a litter -for him with their rifles, and carried him to the house. The injured -man was bleeding copiously, and appeared to be seriously, if not -mortally wounded. - -“Who are you, and what were you doing here?” inquired the lieutenant, -after seeing that the sufferer’s position had been made as -comfortable as possible. - -“What’s thet to ye?” was the surly reply. - -“Come, come, my good fellow, you had better be a little more -communicative, for I think your time is growing short.” - -“What’s thet ye say?” exclaimed the man, with a sudden start. - -“I fear your injury is fatal.” - -“Do ye think so?” - -“I do.” - -“If thet’s the case, Tom Turley had better tell all afore he goes -under, for he hez a purty good deal thet weighs on his mind.” - -“Be brief.” - -“Send yer cap’n to me; I’ll tell no other.” - -“I am the sole commander here.” - -To this the man uttered a guttural, unintelligible response and -then remained quiet. The lieutenant perceived that nothing could be -elicited from him, except by the closest interrogating. - -“Who are you?” - -“I’m one of the Tory League,” answered the man, in a low whisper. - -At the mention of this name, a scowl darkened the brows of the -dragoons that were crowded around. - -“How came you with that wound?” asked the officer, seeing one of the -hands of the Tory ill-bandaged and bloody. - -“I got bit by a horse belongin’ to a gal thet myself and two more of -the band wor carryin’ off.” - -“What!” exclaimed the lieutenant, springing suddenly to his feet; -“you, then, were one of the abductors of Miss Lear?” - -“Thet’s the name, but--quick--water! water!” A drink was immediately -given him. - -“Who were your companions, and where are they? Tell me what has -become of Miss Lear!” but before any reply could be made to these -questions, a short, burly individual, a surgeon, had elbowed his way -through the crowd and reached the wounded man. - -He had accompanied the dragoons on the expedition, evidently more -for the sake of adventure than from any expectation that his medical -services would be required. - -He had joined in the pursuit on foot, and it was several minutes -after the dragoons had returned to the house, before he made his -appearance. - -Thrusting back the men who were collected around, eager to hear what -the Tory had to say, he proceeded to examine the man’s wound. - -The ball had entered the upper part of the shoulder, but striking the -blade, had taken a downward course and come out at the back. - -“It’s only a flesh wound,” said the surgeon, after he had finished -bandaging the injury; “the man has bled profusely, which has made -him weak, but in a few hours he will be all right again.” - -“What! then I’ll yet live?” exclaimed the man, with a nervous -shudder, a deathlike pallidness overspreading his countenance. - -“Why, certainly! you are worth a dozen dying men.” - -At these words the man sunk back with a groan. - -“But, my good fellow, why do you speak in this manner?” asked the -surgeon; “you don’t wish to die, do you?” - -“He’s one of the Tory League, doctor, and thought he wor goin’ -under,” ventured to say one of the soldiers. - -“One of the Tory League, eh?” exclaimed the surgeon, with a look of -surprise. “Ah! I understand his wish to die; he’s afraid that he has -escaped one mode of dying to suffer a worse, which he has deserved a -hundred times for his black deeds.” - -With an almost superhuman effort, the wounded man sprung to his feet, -his face livid with passion. - -“Ye’ve desaved me!” he fairly shrieked, pointing his bloody hand at -the commander of the dragoons. - -“I told you what I conscientiously thought to be true. I believed you -to be dying and I told you so. You betrayed yourself,” calmly replied -the lieutenant. - -“Ye lie! Ye’ve desaved me, I tell ye!” and with a howl of rage, the -ruffian, a fiendish look overspreading his scowling brow, drew forth -a dagger he had concealed in his bosom, and sprung at the officer. - -In an instant, he was seized by a dozen hands, and disarmed before he -could carry out his design. The villain, seeing his plans frustrated, -cast a diabolical look at his intended victim, then settled into a -dogged quietude. - -“Answer the questions I put to you,” said the lieutenant, approaching -the Tory, “and you are a free man, though you should have merited a -thousand deaths for your bloody acts.” - -The man only looked at his interlocutor, but made no answer. - -“Tell me who were your companions, and what they have done with Miss -Lear,” continued the officer, “and on my honor as a soldier, the -moment I feel assured that you have spoken the truth, you will be at -liberty to depart unmolested.” - -“Ye’ve desaved me once, and ye shan’t do it again.” - -“I repeat my question. Will you or will you not tell me the names of -your companions, and whither they have taken the young lady?” - -“I’ll not!” - -“Bring the prisoner without!” commanded the lieutenant, in a stern -voice. - -The order was promptly obeyed, and the Tory was conducted to the -green in front of the dwelling. - -The moon had already arisen, and its bright beams rendered the night -almost equal to day. A towering oak stood a few yards from the door, -and under its spreading branches the soldiers had collected in a -group, forming quite a picturesque scene. - -A strong rope was cast over one of the largest limbs, and a dragoon -quietly formed a sliding noose at the end. A small cask was brought -from the house and placed directly under the hanging cord. - -The prisoner watched these ominous preparations with suspicion. The -officer now approached him again. - -“Will you answer the question that I have asked you?” he said. - -“I’ve tol’ ye once; ask me no more.” - -“Men, do your duty!” - -In an instant the prisoner’s hands were pinioned behind him, and the -rope placed around his neck. - -“Mount,” said the officer. - -The prisoner reluctantly placed himself on the cask. He now began to -surmise the true meaning of what was going on, though at first he -had half-suspected it was only a resort to the old ruse of extorting -information. - -“What are ye goin’ to do wid me?” he asked, in a trembling tone. - -“You shall see presently,” was the answer. - -“What does all this mean?” inquired the Tory, now thoroughly alarmed -at the manner of the soldiers. - -“That you are going to suffer a penalty that you have too often -eluded, and which you merit but too well,” answered the officer. - -“Ye’re not goin’ to put me to death?” - -“If you answer me what I have already asked you, no; but if you -refuse, yes!” - -“If I answer yer questions am I free?” - -“You are.” - -“If I refuse?” - -“Then you die.” - -“Will you show me no mercy?” - -“Think not of mercy, but of your God!” - -“Look yere cap’n,” said the Tory, who, though a miscreant, was no -coward; “though ye wor to slice and quarter me, ye couldn’t make Tom -Turley blow on his comrades.” - -He had scarcely finished uttering these last words when the support -was knocked from under him by a violent blow, and he was left -dangling in the air. - -He struggled violently for several moments, then uttered a piercing -shriek: - -“Help! help! cut the rope! Oh, God! mercy! mercy! mercy! Iron -Hand!--old man!--Hank Put--! I’ll t--t--t--” His voice was hushed. -The words, whatever they were, assumed only a gurgling sound in his -throat, then died away in nothingness. - -His limbs were slowly contracted, then as slowly straightened out -again. His hands were tightly clenched. The finger-nails penetrated -the flesh, making wounds from which nearly stagnant blood slowly -oozed, pattering in drops on the leaves below. - -He made a spasmodic effort to release his arms, but they fell -quivering by his side. A slight, convulsive shudder shook his frame, -and the soul of the Tory passed to its Maker. - -Just at that moment a blast of wind, like a solemn dirge, swept -through the forest, chanting, as it were, the dead man’s requiem. The -body was left swinging in the breeze, as a warning to all evil-doers, -or until chance should direct the footsteps of some stragglers to the -spot. - -Thoughtful, and pondering on the ruffian’s dying words, the dragoons -returned to the house, there to deliberate what next should be done. -After a short debate, they concluded to go back to the fort in the -morning, as it was evident that the abducting party had either -discovered their approach and fled or had departed before their -arrival. - -In either case they would reach the British lines before daylight, -and as it was impossible to follow the trail by night, the dragoons -were obliged to abandon the pursuit. - -Making themselves as comfortable as possible, the troopers waited -patiently until dawn, when they returned to the fort to make known -the result of the expedition. - - - - - CHAPTER VII. - - THE SECRET MISSION. - - -The cool night air awakened Imogene from the unconscious state into -which she had fallen when first seized by her abductors. - -Staring wildly around the apartment in which she was confined, she -was unable to account for her strange position. Pressing her hot -hands to her throbbing temples she tried to collect her scattered -thoughts. - -The recollection of the events of the past evening appeared to her -like a terrible dream. Like a flash the thought occurred to her that -she had been abducted. To think of such a thing almost crazed her -brain. - -“Where am I?” she wildly exclaimed, springing toward the ruffian who -was keeping guard at her chamber door. - -Without heeding her question, he made a commanding gesture for her to -remain silent. She tried to draw him into conversation, but in vain. - -Seeing she could not gain any information, she seated herself on the -rude couch that had been prepared for her, and commenced to reflect. - -The excitement and fatigue of the past few hours, however, were too -much for her delicate frame, and in a few moments she fell into a -gentle slumber. - -The guard, seeing his charge asleep, closed the door of the chamber -gently, and being wearied, seated himself near the fire. After -fruitless endeavors to keep his heavy eyelids from closing, he was -finally obliged to succumb to his drowsiness. - -His head fell heavily on his breast, his arms hung listlessly by his -side, and in a few moments he was slumbering heavily. Imogene’s sleep -was light and fitful. Her dreams were haunted by the transactions of -the past night. - -In a short time she awoke. Hearing no movement outside, she listened -attentively for the monotonous tread of her guard, but it had ceased. -Nothing broke the awful stillness save the heavy breathing of the -sleeping ruffians. - -Rising quickly, she peered cautiously out, and there, by the dim -light of the dying embers, she perceived her abductors wrapped in -sound slumber. - -Hastily procuring what articles were necessary to protect her against -the chill air of the evening, she wrapped her shawl around her -person, and quietly entered the dimly lighted room. Stepping lightly -over the sleeping forms of her captors, she fled down the stairs. - -The cool air fanned her fevered brow, and seemed to impart new -strength to her exhausted frame. The inspiring hopes of escaping from -her villainous captors had a salutary effect. Vaulting on the back of -one of the horses that stood ready equipped, she dashed away from the -house. - -The clattering of the horse’s hoofs aroused her guard. Looking around -him in a bewildered manner, he hurried to where his prisoner was -confined, only to find her gone. - -“Awake! awake! to horse! to horse!” he frantically cried, applying -his foot in no gentle manner to the sleeping forms of his companions. - -“What’s up?” asked they, in a single breath, springing to their feet. - -“Our prisoner’s escaped!” - -“The prisoner escaped!” they both exclaimed in one voice. - -“Yes; look for yerselves!” answered the other, pointing to the -vacated chamber. - -“To yer horses! We must hev the gal again, dead or alive!” cried the -ruffian leader, hurrying to where the animals were picketed. - -When they reached the spot, there were but two horses, the third was -gone. Imogene had unconsciously selected the animal belonging to the -wounded member of the party, and the owner had no other alternative -than to follow in the pursuit on foot, or go back to the house and -await the return of his comrades. He chose the latter. - -He slowly retraced his steps, muttering imprecations loud and deep. -The mounted ruffians hurried in pursuit of Imogene, hoping every -moment to catch some sound that would direct them. - -The chase was fruitless. They scoured the forest for miles around, -but were finally obliged to abandon the search. Chagrined and -disappointed by their ill-success, they were slowly returning to -where they had left their companion that morning. - -The day was drawing gradually to a close. The sun had already -disappeared behind the western hills, when the two ruffians were -suddenly confronted by a female--it was Imogene. - -It appears that after leaving the house, she wandered, she knew not -whither, until chance directed her attention to a small cavity near -the roadside, where she lay concealed during the greater part of the -day without being discovered by her pursuers. - -The shades of night were fast approaching, wrapping the grand old -forest in a somber gloom, when Imogene awakened to a sense of her -lonely situation. As she pondered on her isolated condition, her mind -was filled with fear and dreadful forebodings. - -The thought, that she was there alone in that gloomy forest, a prey -to wild beasts and starvation, almost distracted her. She almost -wished that she had not effected her escape, and was about to give -vent to her wild grief, when the tread of horses attracted her -attention. - -She paused and listened. Her ears had not deceived her. There was -no mistaking the sound--some one was approaching. She quickly hid -herself in the bushes, where she could get a view of the passers-by. - -She had not long to wait; the footsteps steadily approached, and the -next instant two horsemen loomed up in the distance. What was it -that made Imogene start, and sent the hot blood coursing through her -veins, as she caught sight of the foremost stranger? - -“No--yes--it must be--it is _he_!” she murmured to herself. She -could with difficulty refrain from uttering a cry of joy, as she -recognized in the form of one of these men, the pretended American -scout and patriot--Hank Putney. - -The sight of the scout reanimated her and restored her drooping -spirits, and she quickly determined to discover herself to him and -claim his protection until she should reach some place of safety. - -At the sudden appearance of Imogene, after her recapture had been -given up as hopeless, the scowl that darkened the brows of the two -ruffians gave place to a look of savage joy. - -It was evident to Putney, for it was indeed he, that Imogene had not -yet recognized him as being one of her abductors, for what other -reason could possibly have induced her to surrender herself into his -hands unless it was that she still deemed him to be the character he -had so basely assumed--a stanch American patriot, and the thought -seemed to give infinite pleasure to the ruffian. - -“So we’ve found ye at last,” he growled. - -“Oh, Hank!” exclaimed Imogene, with delight, without noticing his -rough salutation, as she approached the scout, her hands extended to -welcome him, “I am so glad to have met you.” - -“Yes?” answered Putney, with a sinister smile on his countenance. - -“I have been in this dreary place the entire day, without either -food or drink,” and Imogene shuddered as she commenced to relate the -particulars of her abduction and escape, but the scout interrupting -her, replied: - -“I know all about it.” - -“Have you captured some of the miscreants?” - -“Not exactly.” - -“Then you have been informed of their vile plot?” - -“That neither.” - -“In what manner, then, did you acquire this knowledge? You puzzle -me, Hank--I can not understand you,” said Imogene, growing a little -nettled at his cold, formal manner. - -“That’ll all be explained to ye soon enough. In the meanwhile ye’ll -mount and foller us,” he responded, at the same time making a gesture -to his comrade to lead forward Imogene’s steed, which she had -fastened near her place of concealment. - -Depressed by the mysterious manner of Putney, Imogene, with a -heavy heart, mechanically obeyed his order. The two ruffians -stationed themselves on either side of her. These precautions looked -suspicious, and a chill of fear crept over Imogene, as she witnessed -them. - -However, she quietly accompanied her companions, following wherever -they led. During their journey she endeavored to draw her taciturn -escort into a conversation, but without success. After a weary ride -of several miles, stopping suddenly, she exclaimed: - -“I will proceed no further, until you tell me whither you are leading -me!” - -“Ye won’t, eh! I’ll see about that.” - -“What do you mean, sir?” - -“That, willin’ or unwillin’, ye must foller me.” - -“Where?” - -“To th’ place ye left this mornin’.” - -“Not back to the haunt of my villainous abductors?” - -“’Xactly.” - -“Oh, no, Hank! You do not--you can not mean this! Tell me that you -are but jesting!” wildly exclaimed Imogene, now thoroughly alarmed at -the villain’s words. - -“It’s th’ truth.” - -“Then you are concerned in this plot?” - -“If ye’ll hev it so, I am.” - -“What! You do not mean to tell me, Hank, that _you, you_ are a -traitor--that _you_ are one of these ruffians!” - -The Tory hesitated a moment before answering, but feeling assured -that he had nothing to fear in revealing his true character to -his captive, as it was beyond her power to do him harm, he turned -abruptly and replied: - -“Yes. Hereafter ye’ll know me, not as Hank, th’ American scout and -patriot, but as Putney, th’ spy of th’ Tory League!” - -This announcement, like the sting of some venomous serpent, sunk -deep into the heart of Imogene. For a moment she seemed completely -paralyzed. - -“Great Heavens! then I am lost!” she murmured, seeing how basely she -had been betrayed, and how unwarily she had surrendered herself into -the clutches of the villains. - -The fact that Hank Putney and the leader of her abductors were one -and the same person, was more than she could seem to realize. To her, -the greatness of the man’s crime was only equaled by his perfidy. - -Her spirit was almost crushed by the acknowledged treachery of him in -whom she had reposed so much confidence, and she resigned herself to -her fate. - -The party continued the remainder of their journey in silence. The -moon had risen bright and full, when they arrived near the house in -which the ruffians had left their companion to await their return. - -As they emerged from the forest to cross the lawn leading to the -dwelling, a slight breeze shook the tall pines--a peculiar sound -reached their ears--the lengthened shadow of a human body stretched -across the moonlit sward, reaching nigh to their very feet in its -vacillating course. - -They stopped--looked up--when, oh, horror! they beheld a spectacle -sufficient to harrow up their very souls. - -There, pendent between heaven and earth, with its form clearly -outlined against the bright sky, was a black, frightful, hideous -corpse, once their own cheerful comrade, now no more. - -As it slowly swayed to and fro, moved by the gentle wind, with the -pale moonbeams reflecting on the grim, distorted countenance, with -features ghastly and repulsive, with eyes staring and glassy, that -seemed to protrude from their sockets in their endeavors to pierce, -as it were, the impenetrable darkness that enveloped the path of the -soul, the ill-boding, shrill screams of the birds of prey, as they -struggled and fought over their ghostly banquet of flesh, was a sight -too dreadful to look upon. - -The ruffians turned their heads in disgust from the horrible sight, -and dragging more than leading Imogene, who seemed chained to the -spot by some terrible fascination, they hurried away. - -The ominous cries of the carnivorous birds still rung in their -ears--sounds that penetrated the deepest chambers of their own -dark hearts, pricking their consciences with the knowledge of the -loathsome deeds there secreted. - -On, on they hurried, through brier, bramble, and thicket, stopping -not even to cast a single glance behind them, lest they should -again see the spectral figure of their late companion, until they -had satisfied themselves that they had nothing to fear from ghost or -human, when they reined in their panting steeds to recover breath. - -“Oh, God! thet wor awful!” exclaimed Putney, in a husky voice. “Poor -Tom wor a plucky one; but that wor an awful death to die!” and he -covered his face with his brawny hands, trying to shut out the -terrible scene from his imagination. - -The corpse was that of their companion, to whom, that morning, the -dragoons had administered such summary justice. - -After a moment of respite, Putney gave the signal to again press -onward. Over fallen trees, through swamp and morass, up the steep -hill and across the valley, they hurried with a precipitation which -naught but their superstitious fears could have created. - -Their progress was at length arrested by the small stream that flowed -into Lake George, between Forts William Henry and George. One of the -party reconnoitered the bank for some distance to find a fordable -place. - -Finally the desired spot was discovered, and they succeeded in -passing over in safety, receiving only a slight wetting. They were so -near the forts, that the distant roll of the drums and winding of the -bugles could be heard distinctly. - -Putney urged the party to their utmost celerity. He was in great -trepidation lest he should come across some scouting party returning -to the fort. However, the crisis passed safely over, and they -breathed freely as they escaped beyond the American lines. - -After a short but wearisome ride, Putney signaled the party to -halt and dismount. The spot at which they stopped was at the base -of a large hill, possessed, in no respect, of any peculiarities to -distinguish it from the landscape of the surrounding country. - -Putney pushed his way through a large clump of bushes that grew some -distance back from the roadside, and made a sign for the others to -follow him. - -They proceeded cautiously along a secret path that wound around the -base of the mountain, and at length stopped before a large cavity -partly concealed by shrubbery. - -Putney knocked on a small door that barred what appeared to be the -entrance to a cave. The bolts were slowly withdrawn, and the door -cautiously opened by a dark, sullen-looking man, who held a large -bunch of keys in his hand. - -A nod of recognition was exchanged between this personage and Putney, -and the party was allowed to enter. The place into which they were -introduced, bore a dismal, somber appearance. - -Benches were scattered promiscuously about, while on the side walls -were hung all sorts of martial implements. Not a single person, -however, was visible: all was as quiet as the grave. - -They were conducted along a large corridor dimly lighted a by a -single lantern, whose feeble glare served only to heighten the -gloominess of the situation. - -Imogene was ushered into a brilliantly illuminated apartment, which, -from all appearances, had, no doubt, been fitted up for her special -reception. - -She gazed about her with a half-bewildered air. The apartment was a -magnificent one. There was a lavish display of grandeur, unsurpassed -in many of our wealthiest drawing rooms. - -From the ceiling hung a beautiful pendent, with variegated lights. -The tapestried walls were grandiosely decorated in the richest and -most artistic manner. - -In the center of the room stood a table with vases, containing the -choicest and rarest flowers, whose fragrant exhalations perfumed the -whole apartment, serving to dispel the disagreeable odors emanating -from the naturally damp walls. - -The whole appearance of the place was strikingly at variance with -the rest of the interior of this mysterious cavern. Recovering from -her fit of abstraction into which she had fallen, Imogene rushed to -the door of her prison, for this we must term it, to try and gain an -egress, but it was securely barred. - -She then turned her attention to the walls, lest perchance there -might be some secret avenue to escape, but her hopes in that -direction were speedily blasted. - -Again she returned to her prison door, and with frantic energy shook -it violently, but it was proof against her feeble strength. - -In an agony of despair, she cried aloud for assistance; however, -naught save the echoes of her own voice gave back an answer. - -“Lost! lost! lost!” she cried! “May Heaven defend and guide me in -this, my hour of peril!” - -The exertions she had made were too much for her delicate and -exhausted frame. Tottering to a small couch that stood at the further -end of the room, she cast herself upon it, and burying her face in -her hands, gave vent to her grief. - -Gradually a sense of drowsiness stole over her, and succumbing to -nature’s wants, she soon was lost in slumber. How long she remained -thus, she knew not, when she was awakened by the creaking of her -prison door as some person entered. - -Remaining silent, she listened. The footsteps approached the middle -of the apartment, then stopped. She started in alarm from her -reclining posture and confronted her silent visitor. - -He was a tall and stately personage, with an authoritative and -commanding mien. His face was carefully concealed in the folds of an -ample cloak that fell gracefully from his shoulders. - -“Why this intrusion, sir?” - -“No intrusion, fair lady, only a friendly visit.” - -At the sound of the stranger’s voice Imogene involuntarily drew back. - -“That voice--surely I have heard it before--it is so like _his_!” she -whispered to herself. “Who are you, sir?” - -“Behold!” exclaimed the stranger, throwing off his disguise. - -“Great Heavens! Maurice!” and Imogene, trembling in every joint, -staggered against the wall for support. - -“Yes, Imogene!” replied her visitor, making a bow, half courteous, -half ironical--“it is I.” - -“For what reasons are you here?--you, whom all thought to be hundreds -of leagues hence?” - -“To express my love to you. Yes, Imogene--it is the great love I bear -you that has placed me here, and made me what you see me.” - -“Are you a voluntary inmate of this horrid place?” - -“I am.” - -“And these wretched men that brought me hither?” - -“Are my subordinates.” - -“But they, according to their own confession, are members of that -notorious band called the Tory League. Are you then, numbered among -their associates?” - -“I am--their leader.” - -“Do you mean to tell me that _you_--but I dare not mention that -terrible name; the very thought of it makes my blood run cold with -horror.” - -“It is but too true--I _do_ bear that name which none have learned -to repeat, save to visit with curses and execrations the head of its -possessor--Iron Hand.” - -“Yes, yes; that dreadful synonym for bloody murder and rapine.” - -“Imogene, you judge me too harshly. Though hated by mankind; though -my name be whispered in accents of fear and loathing, yet I am not -so bad as the world would have me. One thing always has sustained -me when on the very verge of despair, and like a celestial guide, -has directed my footsteps, and bid me hope when all around me was -ingulfed in misery and darkness--it is the thought, that you might -yet look upon me more kindly; that you might at some future day, even -learn to love me.” - -“Talk not to me of love! Know you not that I am already -betrothed--that my hand is already plighted to another?” - -“Ay! I know it but too well. It is that that has compelled me to have -recourse to these extreme measures; it is the burning love that is -consuming me, that has goaded me on to undertake that which in my -better moments I would scorn to do.” - -“Is it to avow your vile passion that you have torn me from my happy -home, and brought sorrow to the heart of my venerable father? Is it -for that purpose that you have seduced America’s sons from their -allegiance--that you have enlisted in your service the silvery locks -of age, and made them subservient tools for the furtherance of your -diabolical schemes? It is for this, then, that you have outraged -propriety, modesty, and the laws of God and man? Is it thus you -expect to be successful? You speak of love; yes, it is like that the -hawk bears the dove, merely to toy with its victim for a time, then -to rend it in pieces with its talons. Thank God! I have penetrated -your disguise, and understand your villainous designs--I am no longer -deceived. Your heart is black and treacherous, your soul stained -with crimes innumerable, and honor has fled the breast of one so -corrupted!” - -The Tory chieftain drew back at the passionate energy of Imogene’s -manner. His rage stood revealed in his pale and distorted face; but -suppressing his anger--he thought it policy--he replied with affected -composure: - -“You know not, Imogene, how I have loved and love you. Even supposing -that I have acted with any rashness in this, why will you insist on -my suffering for it? Why should reproaches be added to rejection, as -if to make the cup of bitterness more full? Come, Imogene, we must -yet be friends. I do not press you for an immediate answer; but tell -me you will think of me, and think more kindly, and I will be happy. -I go now, but will return on the morrow to receive my answer.” - -Bowing low, he turned to depart. - -“Hold! hold, sir!” exclaimed Imogene. “I wish to be harassed no -further by these unwelcome visits. Your very presence fills me with a -loathsome feeling I can not express. You can not deceive me by your -duplicity. I know your purposes are vile. Hear then my answer. It is -irrevocable and absolute. I hate you! I despise you! My soul tells me -that you are worse than you appear. You have bribed a villain with a -heart as black as your own, to deliver me into your power. Think you -that vengeance sleepeth? No! its loud cry will rise to Heaven until -you perish beneath its withering influence!” - -As she spoke these words, with an energy beyond what she had ever -shown, the fire that smoldered on the hearth fell in, and caused a -sudden light to fill the place. - -It shone ruddy brown upon the beautiful but stern face and uplifted -arm of Imogene, and gave to her the appearance of an angel denouncing -on the head of the villain before her the sentence of eternal woe. - -It glared likewise upon the pale countenance of the Tory, and gave -to his distorted features a look of ghastliness and fear that might -have suited such an occasion well. - -The awe-inspiring picture lasted but for a second, then vanished. -The fire again sunk low, the light grew dim. It came like a dismal -vision, and like a vision faded. - -This was more than her visitor had expected. He felt how thoroughly -he was despised, and for a moment was speechless; but quickly -recovering himself, a Satanic look overspread his countenance, and -his eyes glared with a furious fire as he fairly hissed these words -between his teeth: - -“You have given me _your_ answer, now list ye to _mine_! When we were -but mere children together, you rejected my boyish love--you looked -down upon me with scorn and contempt as you do now--you spurned -me from you as though I were a dog, without pity, without mercy! -Think you that I am impervious to such wrongs, such insults? Think -you that you can with impunity beard the lion in his den, without -reaping the result of your audacity? Mark ye! I will give you three -days to reconsider your rash decision; at the expiration of that -time, I will return for a final answer. Should you refuse me, then -you are mine--mine, body and soul. There is no one to whom you can -appeal for assistance--none that can help you. I alone possess that -power, and should you disdain to avail yourself of it, then you are -irretrievably lost!” and with a demoniac laugh, the Tory rushed from -the place. - -Imogene gazed for a moment with a wild stare after the retreating -form of her late visitor, then reeled, and sunk swooning to the floor. - - * * * * * - -The morning succeeding the arrest of Captain Sherwood dawned clear -and beautiful. The bright sunbeams struggled through the narrow, -grated window of Edgar’s cell, and brilliantly illuminated the -apartment. - -When he gazed about him, and beheld the joyful sunlight streaming -athwart the floor of his prison, his feelings were too painful for -description--it seemed, as it were, that every thing mocked him. - -“Would that I could dispel these gloomy thoughts that possess me,” he -murmured. “There is an indescribable something--a feeling of sadness -I can not banish. Shake it off I can not--it clings to me despite my -efforts, and I feel as though it were a precursor of some terrible -affliction about to befall me.” - -While these despondent thoughts occupied his mind, he remained -leaning with his shoulder against the wall, and gazing with a -troubled look upon the decaying fire, when Colonel Hall entered the -cell. - -“Ah, good-morning, colonel,” exclaimed Edgar; “I am so glad to see -you; your presence makes me feel less sad.” - -“Good-morning, captain; I hope you are well.” - -“Yes, colonel, well in body, though not in spirit. But why do _you_ -look so sad? Are you in trouble?” - -“Yes, captain, I am.” - -“Then we are companions in misfortune.” - -“Would to God that we were!” - -“Why? Do you so commiserate the unhappiness of others, that you are -willing to share it with them?” - -“The affliction is not so much my own, captain, as my friend’s.” - -“Your friend! Ah! then there is another to whom you may offer -condolence. May I inquire his name?” - -“Alas! you know it but too well; the person is--yourself!” - -“Myself! Is there then some new tale of woe--some additional sorrow -to be added to my already heavy burden? Tell it me, I beseech you, -colonel--keep me not in suspense.” - -“Calm yourself, Captain Sherwood, that you may listen to me.” - -Drawing his seat close to that of Edgar, Colonel Hall, in as gentle -a manner as possible, related to him Imogene’s sudden and mysterious -disappearance, the success of the party that he had dispatched in -search of her, and their return to the fort that morning. - -At the conclusion of this sad intelligence, Edgar uttered a deep -groan. His head sunk forward on his knees in an access of deep -emotion, and his eyes were fixed with a vacant stare on the floor. - -For several moments, silence, gloomy and profound, reigned. Raising -his head slowly, his face, which was now pale and haggard, presented -a picture of despair. - -“What have they done with her?” he faintly asked. - -“At present I am unable to answer you. The prisoner that was -captured, and from whom the information which I have imparted to -you was elicited, remained reticent on that point. However, I will -use the most strenuous exertions to have the mystery unraveled in -a satisfactory manner. Too long has the border ran with the blood -of the victims of these cut-throats. I will have them hunted down -wheresoever they be, till they pay the penalty of their villainous -deeds,” exclaimed Colonel Hall, in an emphatic tone, a stern look -settling on his brow. - -“Heaven bless and reward you, colonel, for your kindness to me.” - -“Mention it not, Captain Sherwood, I beg of you. I have done no -more to you, than I would have expected you to do me under like -circumstances. I must tarry no longer, however, as the time flies -swiftly by, and my men are under orders, impatiently awaiting my -commands.” - -His hand was already on the latch of the cell-door, when Edgar again -addressed him. - -“A word more, Colonel Hall, before you go. I have another--a final -request to make of you; should you accede to it, you will confer upon -me an inestimable boon.” - -“Well, what may it be?” - -“That you will allow my friend, War-Cloud, to visit me here alone.” - -“Captain, any thing within my power that will tend to alleviate the -rigorousness of your unpleasant position I will willingly do--your -request I grant.” - -“Thanks! thanks!” - -But a short interval elapsed after the departure of Colonel Hall, -when the door opened and War-Cloud entered. Edgar, seizing the hand -of his friend with warmth, and wringing it cordially, led him to a -seat beside his own, near the fire. - -“I have a purpose, my friend, in thus sending for you,” said Edgar. -“You are aware of my helpless situation, unable assist myself, or -even her who is dearer to me than life itself; for this reason have -I sought you, as the only one to whom I could unhesitatingly reveal -my grave suspicions. I also have a plan to unfold. Should it succeed, -every thing may again be righted; however, its undertaking entails -many hazards, perhaps death.” - -“War-Cloud is always ready to aid his white brother.” - -“Thanks, my faithful friend! To you, then, will I confide my -suspicion--in you do I place my last, my forlorn hope. Draw near to -me, that not a single word I speak may escape you; for should this -fail, then all is lost!” - -Looking cautiously around to see that he could not be overheard, -Edgar commenced in a low, whispering tone to disclose to the scout -the plan of which he had spoken. - -It was evident by the startled manner of War-Cloud, so foreign to -his natural stoicism, that he was a listener to a disclosure that -surpassed his most extravagant conceptions. - -After a long conversation, they both arose. The sad, dejected -features of Edgar were now lighted up by a more hopeful look, while -on the countenance of War-Cloud there was an expression of settled -determination to be successful in this enterprise, could human -efforts effect such a result. - -Moving toward the door, their eyes met, and in that gaze each read -the depth of friendship’s love. The two friends clasped hands -affectionately, and with a mutual farewell, the next moment the -Indian was gone. - -The following morning anxious inquiries were made at the fort -concerning the whereabouts of War-Cloud, but he was nowhere to be -found. - -He had quietly made his exit, unknown to any of the garrison; but -as these sudden and mysterious disappearances were of no uncommon -occurrence, they created no suspicion. - - - - - CHAPTER VIII. - - THE HUNTED LIFE. - - -We will again return to the fort. It was the day subsequent to the -arrest of Captain Sherwood and the disappearance of Imogene Lear. - -These unlooked-for events had furnished sufficient matter for the -gossips of the garrison; but now something else had turned up which -bid fair to overwhelm them. - -In fact, the whole community was wild with excitement about an -apparition that a dozen or more affirmed to have seen the previous -night, pacing to and fro upon the parapets. - -The soldiers became superstitious, and were collected here and there -in groups of three or four discussing the matter. - -“I tell yer,” exclaimed a burly-looking fellow of one of these -crowds, “my eyes never cheated me yet, nor did they last night. It -wor he; I am sure of it!” - -“But, Tompkins,” said another, “how could it have been the cap’n? for -I kept close guard at his cell-door all night, and I am certain he -_was_ there, too.” - -“Can’t help it, if ye did,” chimed in Putney, the scout. “Bill and I -saw Sherwood on th’ parapets, as sartin as we live. He wor all-fired -pale, and wore a long, white, shaggy cloak that looked awful enough -to make one’s teeth chatter and the hair to stand up straight.” - -“I reckon that’s so, Put,” said Bill; “my legs shake just a leetle -now.” - -“I wouldn’t take that post on the parapets for half the world,” said -a third man. - -“’Cause you’re a scarish one,” growled the man opposite him. “You’d -ought to be a woman! I’d take it for nothing, and if the ghost came -near me he’d catch some cold lead for his trouble.” - -At this remark the crowd enjoyed a short laugh at the “scared -fellow’s” expense. - -“This cap’n is a tricky one, comrades,” said Putney, “and ye’d all -better look out for him in the futer, or he’ll fix some of ye.” - -“He’s the devil’s own!” added Bill. - -Such was the talk concerning the ghost, or whatever it might be, -which they had seen. All who had witnessed the phenomenon declared -that it was Captain Sherwood; but when the mystery was examined into, -it was proved beyond doubt that the captain had never left his cell -once during the night. - -This was strange indeed, and no one could solve the enigma. The -captain began to be regarded with superstitious awe. He heeded it -not; there were more serious troubles that weighed upon his mind. - -It was the day on which his trial was to take place; and as the hour -for assembling the court approached, he began to grow a little uneasy. - -He had hitherto forgotten his own danger in his great sorrow for -the lost Imogene; but now, he awoke to a clear sense of his own -condition, and took a glance at the means that were to extricate him -from it. - -The situation was indeed becoming alarming, for he was well aware -that should it in any way be proved that he was the dreaded Iron -Hand, his life would be worthless. - -“What could he do?” he asked himself. “There is some terrible -mistake, and I fear me it will not be rectified until too late!” - -The moment at length arrived, and a court was detailed to examine -into his case. Upon its decision the fate of Edgar Sherwood rested. - -The assembly was quite large, consisting of the troops and nearly -all the civilians living in the vicinity. There were three judges, -clad in the martial vestments of their profession, and maintaining a -gravity worthy of the occasion, and becoming their rank. - -In the center was a venerable-looking man, whose whole exterior bore -the stamp of long-tried military habits. It was Colonel Hall, who -was the presiding justice of the court. His associates were officers -selected from the troops that garrisoned the forts situated near Lake -George. - -Their demeanor was mild, but bore a grave reserve. Before these -arbiters, Edgar Sherwood was ushered, under the custody of two armed -men. - -A profound and awful silence succeeded his entrance, while every eye -was turned upon him. Then Colonel Hall arising, spoke in the deep -tones of one used to wield authority: - -“Let the prisoner advance.” - -Edgar proceeded with a firm step into the center of the apartment. -All was now anxiety and eager curiosity. - -“Captain Sherwood, you are aware of the reason for this tribunal, are -you not?” - -“I am.” - -“Perhaps it would be prudent,” said one of the judges, “to inform the -prisoner, that he is not bound to answer any questions that will aid -in his own condemnation.” - -Edgar nodded, and Colonel Hall proceeded. - -“You are charged, sir, with being an officer in his majesty’s -service, and of remaining in the Continental army in disguise, for -the purpose of acting as spy. What have you to say to this?” - -“That it is false!” exclaimed Edgar, in a tone that echoed throughout -the room. - -“On what ground?” - -“On the ground of my conduct heretofore.” - -“This, undoubtedly, will have some weight, sir, but not sufficient to -counterbalance the testimony of witnesses. Have you any other?” - -Edgar paused, and seemed to commune with himself for a moment, then -answered with a look of dejection: - -“No, none. I am deserted, and there is no one to speak in my behalf. -Let the case take its course--I must abide your decision!” - -“But, take time to reflect, sir; you must have something more to -offer in defense!” said the judge, quickly. - -“Nothing.” - -At this, there was a frightful calmness in the manner of the judge -that seemed to appall the assemblage, and a murmur of pity arose from -some. - -The silence lasted but for a moment, and then the witnesses for the -prosecution were ordered by the justice to come forward. - -Hank Putney, the scout, was the first called. - -“Do you know the prisoner?” asked the judge. - -“I do,” returned the man, casting a careless glance at Edgar. - -“How long have you known him?” - -“Wal, let me see,” and he began to count his fingers; -“about--about--I reckon since Jenuary last.” - -“During this time, have you ever noticed any thing suspicious in his -conduct that would lead you to believe him a British spy?” - -“Yes, yer honor, somethin’ tarnation strong, I should say.” - -“State it.” - -“Wal, it wor th’ day afore yesterday that it happened. Bill Hawkins -and I wor sent out to s’arch for him, as ye thought him either taken -prisoner or shot, one or t’other; but ’twas no such thing. About -night, we come across a band o’ these Tory and red-skin devils, and -there, right in th’ middle of ’em, wor our cap’n lookin’ as big as -all yer honors put together. He wor ev’dently their boss, for th’ -devils wor all obeyin’ his orders, and trottin’ their legs off to -serve him.” - -“Now, my man, you are aware that you are under oath?” - -“Oh sartin, yer honor!” - -“Are you positive that the prisoner before you and the man you saw as -a leader in the Tory camp, are one and the same person?” - -“Sartin, as my name is Hank Putney!” - -“That will do.” - -During the scout’s examination, the most intense interest prevailed -among the listeners, for it was understood that the whole case rested -mainly upon his testimony. - -The accusation was so plain, the facts so limited, the proof so -obvious and the penalty so well established, that escape at once -seemed impossible. - -The next witness was Putney’s companion, Bill Hawkins. His testimony -fully corroborated the scout’s in every respect. He swore that he had -seen Captain Sherwood in the midst of the Tories, in command of the -band known as the Tory League. - -“How do you know that he was in command, and that he is their chief, -Iron Hand?” asked the justice. - -“Heard the red-skins call him that name,” replied Bill. - -“Was he, at this time, dressed in the uniform of the Continental -army?” - -“No, not exactly. He had on huntin’ clothes like the Injuns. He also -wore a white, shaggy jacket, jist like the ghost had last night.” - -“Never mind, Hawkins, what the ghost had, but the prisoner,” said the -justice, smiling. “You think he was clothed in some garment made of -white, shaggy fur?” - -“Yes, yer honor, jist that.” - -“Are there any more to testify in this case?” asked the judge, -glancing around the room. - -There was a brief silence, and then Putney, with the assistance of a -soldier, conducted a man to where the judges were seated. - -The stranger stopped and looked around him at the crowd in wild -dismay, until at length his eyes rested upon the prisoner, when he -gave a sudden start, but immediately recovered himself. - -However, all perceived this strange conduct on the part of the new -witness. - -“Who is this you have here?” asked the judge. - -“A prisoner we captur’d last night,” said Putney. “I calc’late he’s -one of th’ cap’n’s gang; he seems to know him.” - -“My man, who are you?” said the judge, “and what do you know about -the prisoner?” - -The stranger hung his head, but did not reply. - -“Speak out, I conjure you!” cried the judge. “If you can give any -information in this matter, that will serve to clear up the mystery, -you shall be set at liberty.” - -These words seemed to take effect upon him, and he appeared to be -more at ease. - -“Do you know the prisoner?” again asked the judge, eagerly. - -“Shall I have my liberty if I tell?” - -“Yes, I pledge you my word you shall.” - -The man again held down his head, and after some moments, ventured -a sly glance at Edgar, who all the time seemed to be regarding him -with astonishment. Turning alternately red and pale, apparently doing -battle with himself, he replied: - -“He’s the Tory chief, Iron Hand.” - -“My God!” cried Edgar, starting to his feet with a savage look. “What -new enemy is this that dare utter lies so foul! Merciful Heaven! is -there no hope for me? Am I to be condemned on the testimony of such -villains?” - -The stranger, with a look of fear depicted on every lineament of his -face, sprung behind the soldier. - -“Keep him off! keep him off!” he screamed, “he’ll kill me!” - -For a short time the court-room was a scene of intense excitement, -and the judges arose to quell it. - -“Remand your prisoner,” said the justice, to the officer who was in -charge of Edgar. - -After a short consultation, the tribunal gave their verdict against -Edgar; and Colonel Hall, though his heart bled with pity for the -sad fate of his young friend, saw before him nothing save his -stern, uncompromising duty, and with trembling hand, signed the -death-warrant. - -It briefly stated, that Edgar Sherwood had been detected within the -American lines, as a British spy in disguise, and that thereby, -according to the laws of war, he was liable to suffer death, and that -the court adjudged him to the penalty--sentencing him to be executed -by hanging, on the morning of the following day. - -The sentence of the court was communicated to the prisoner, who -received it with perfect resignation. The assembly dispersed, and the -judges retired to their own quarters with unmoved exterior, and the -consciousness of dispassionate integrity. - - * * * * * - -It was on the night after the trial, that a solitary traveler might -have been seen pursuing his way through a thick wood situated about -ten miles from the fort. - -He was possessed of a powerful frame, being full six feet in hight, -and was clad in a hunter’s garb, consisting of shirt and breeches -made of skins. - -In his girdle was placed an ugly-looking knife. His head was adorned -with a fur cap that hung down over the upper part of his face, which -gave him a somewhat singular appearance. His hair was coarse, matted, -and fiery red. - -As he proceeded on his way, his conduct to any observer would have -appeared decidedly suspicious. Every now and then he would stop and -listen attentively, and after casting a searching glance about him to -satisfy himself that no one was following him, he would move on again. - -The night was quite dark; an easterly wind, accompanied by a chilling -dampness, gave unerring notice of an approaching storm. But the -traveler, heeding it not, pushed on with long strides, until at -length he reached a mysterious-looking hut standing at the foot of a -hill and hemmed in with large rocks and stunted oaks, whose foliage -nearly concealed it from view. - -Here he stopped and gave a peculiar whistle. The door was cautiously -opened, and an armed man appeared at the entrance. - -“Hank!” said he, in a whisper. - -“Here, chief--open th’ door,” answered our friend, Hank Putney, the -scout. - -The door was now thrown wide open to permit the traveler to enter, -and then closed and securely barred. The two men uttered no words of -greeting, but approaching one side of the room, they sat down before -a half-extinguished fire. - -“You must be nearly chilled through, Hank,” said the man. “Here, take -some of this,” and he handed the scout a flask. - -Putney seized it with avidity, and placing it to his mouth, took a -deep draught. - -“That’s right good old stuff,” said he, smacking his lips, as he -returned the bottle. - -“Yes; this is the cordial our Whig neighbor had stored away in his -cellar,” said the Tory, chuckling. - -“Ha! ha! ha!” roared Putney; “he wor a clever old chap to keep it for -yer, chief.” - -“Very accommodating indeed, I should say, for it was just what my -larder was sadly deficient in at the time,” and he indulged in -another suppressed laugh. “But come, tell me what news you bring, -Hank, for I am getting impatient.” - -“Wal, it’s all right!” exclaimed the scout, bringing his fist down on -the palm of his hand. “He’s to be hanged to-morrow!” - -“What! have they convicted him then, of being Iron Hand, and a -British spy?” - -“Yes.” - -“Capital! Give me your hand, worthy friend; you have done me -inestimable service,” and the Tory chieftain seized the hand of his -companion, with apparent cordiality. - -“Yer writin’, chief, and my swearin’, are goin’ to stretch his -windpipe to-morrow mornin’,” continued Putney, with a swaggering air. - -“Ha! ha! ha! Well, that is a good joke, and well played, Hank.” - -The man’s small gray eyes sparkled with delight, and he could hardly -restrain himself, so great was his joy at this piece of news. - -“What fortune!” cried he; “just what I wanted. Here, let us drink our -fill--drink to the man who dies to-morrow.” - -“Here it goes then!” and Hank raised the bottle to his lips. “That -his journey in th’ world herearter may be a jolly one!” - -“Ay, my worthy fellow.” - -As the fire, at intervals, brightened up and filled the room with a -red light, it cast the forms of the men in fantastic shadows upon the -wall. - -Theirs were strange pictures--faces that portrayed the evil side of -human nature, and any one observing them while hate and joy beamed -thereon, would have involuntarily retreated with a feeling of horror -and disgust. - -“How about the ghost, Hank, did you see it?” asked the chief, with a -roguish twinkle in his eye. - -“Ye devils, didn’t I though! Ha! ha! ha! ye played yer part well, -chief,” and Putney’s sides shook with laughter. - -“The fools,” said Iron Hand. “You can frighten them all to madness.” - -“They reckon the cap’n’s a wizard, and ’ll bring ruin to ’em all.” - -Iron Hand apparently did not hear this last remark, but sat musing -for some moments before he spoke. - -“Did they condemn him on your testimony alone, Hank?” - -“Mine and Bill Hawkins’, th’ chap I had with me th’ t’other day when -I got th’ writin’.” - -“He believed he swore to the truth?” - -“Oh, o’ course!” - -There was another pause. - -“I thought I’d make it a bit stronger, howsomever, so I brought down -one of th’ League from th’ lower camp,” continued Putney. “We made -him believe that he wor my prisoner. It wor Sandy Jim, and he’s a -trump. He swore that th’ prisoner was Iron Hand, and they let him go -for doin’ it.” - -“You have done this job so far, Hank, in superb style; you are my -best man in the whole band. Now if you will go back and aid in -bringing our plan to a successful issue, you shall be a rich man the -day you return and prove to me that this mortal enemy of mine is -_dead_!” - -“Agreed!” cried Putney. “I’d better start now, or th’ mornin’ will -overtake me afore I get back to th’ fort,” and with a parting -farewell the two men separated. - - - - - CHAPTER IX. - - A SAVAGE FRIEND. - - -After his interview with Hank Putney, Iron Hand set out hastily to -return to the rendezvous of his band. As he hurried along, a smile of -exultation overspread his countenance, and he seemed to experience a -secret feeling of joy at the success of his deep-laid schemes. - -He would occasionally indulge in a low, smothered laugh, as some -point of his plot more subtle than the rest would recur to his mind. -As he drew near to the cave, he found his lieutenant at the entrance -awaiting his approach. - -“Well, lieutenant,” he exclaimed, addressing that officer, “what -news?” - -“There is a new applicant, an Indian, sir, who is desirous of joining -the band.” - -“A new recruit, eh, and an Indian too! This is strange intelligence. -What do you know of him?” - -“Nothing further, than he says that he has been forced to fly from -beyond the lines of our enemy, the rebels. Indeed, he seemed ardently -desirous of being enrolled as a member, and appears to bear a deep -hatred toward his persecutors.” - -“Is this all the knowledge you have of this fellow?” - -“It is, sir.” - -“You will send him to me then, immediately. But look ye, lieutenant, -should he be admitted to the League, you will keep a vigilant watch -on his movements.” - -In a few moments afterward, Iron Hand was confronted in his -apartments by this new aspirant for predatory honors. - -“What reasons bring you within the precincts of this camp?” asked the -Tory chieftain, as he bent upon his visitor a cool, calculating gaze, -as though he would read his innermost, thoughts. - -The Indian gave an explanation of his actions in a brief and -apparently satisfactory manner, for at its conclusion Iron Hand -exclaimed: - -“Ah, I understand! you seek to become one of us in order that you may -find an occasion to revenge yourself?” - -The Indian bowed in response. - -“Then you have not sought in vain,” he continued; “for we are about -to attack a party of these rebels this very night, and there you will -have an ample opportunity to glut your vengeance. You may report -yourself to my lieutenant, who will appoint you your station.” - -As the Indian was about to depart, the Tory chief arose quickly and -approached him. Laying his hand on his shoulder, he whispered: - -“The reward is, for those who perform their duty faithfully and do -not neglect the interest of the band--pillage, plunder, and wealth; -but for a traitor--death!” - -With this warning injunction, the newly-enrolled member withdrew to -prepare himself to take part in the coming _melée_. - -The different members of the band were in a state of bustle and -confusion, making preparations for the expected encounter. This new -enterprise was originated, not with the usual design of pillaging, -but for the purpose of attacking a small party of the enemy that -were encamped midway between the rendezvous of the League and the -American lines, and whom, on account of their proximity, it was -deemed expedient to remove, as the retreat of the band was liable at -any moment to be discovered by them. - -At midnight they set out, and stealthily made their way through the -forest to the appointed place of attack. Their foe, lulled into -a feeling of security against attack, and little dreaming of the -presence of their deadly opponents, were slumbering calmly. - -At a preconcerted signal, out flashed the fire of a hundred rifles, -whose sharp crack went reverberating through the forest. - -The attacked party, though completely taken by surprise, fought -bravely, and it was not until overwhelmed by superior numbers that -they slowly retreated, obstinately disputing every foot of the ground. - -Iron Hand watched every action of the strange Indian. - -“See, with what a desperate vim this fellow strikes!” he exclaimed, -as he observed the Indian, heedless of danger, throw himself -recklessly upon the foe. “These other rascals fight for plunder only, -but he seems to battle for the hatred he bears those rebels. This is -my man--I will trust him,” he murmured to himself; “he will be of -valuable service to me personally, do I but play well my part.” - -At the command of the chief the pursuit was discontinued, and the -Tories, jubilant over their success, returned to the cave. The quiet, -calm demeanor of the strange Indian was quite a striking contrast to -the boisterous hilarity of his companions. - -For a long time, the chief topic of conversation among the members of -the Tory League, was the fearless intrepidity of their new comrade, -who bore with unblushing indifference the plaudits thus bestowed upon -him. - - * * * * * - -Imogene was awakened from the swoon into which she had fallen after -the termination of her interview with Iron Hand, by the touch of some -cold object. - -As she raised herself slowly, she just succeeded in catching a view -of the figure of a man--an Indian, she knew by his peculiar dress and -the feathers that adorned his head--as he glided swiftly from the -apartment. - -“Who could this mysterious visitor be?” she asked herself. - -While arising from her reclining position she felt something in her -hand--it was a small piece of paper carelessly folded. - -Opening it hastily, she with difficulty managed to decipher from the -rude, scrawling characters, the following significant warning: - -“Be watchful--a friend is near.” - -Startled beyond measure by the contents of this anonymous note, -she was obliged to read it over repeatedly before she could fairly -realize its import. - -In vain did she strive to give herself a satisfactory answer as to -who this unknown friend could be. Of such a person sufficiently near -to be of service to her, she knew not. - -This inspiring news, vague though it was, revived her drooping -spirits. Pressing the billet fervently to her lips, she placed it -safely in her bosom, as though it were a gem of the richest order. - -The nearly extinct sparks of hope that lay dormant within her breast, -were again enkindled into a flame. Oh, how slowly the hours, which -to her seemed like years, glided by, as in a state of feverish -excitement, she anxiously awaited the arrival of that promised -assistance which came not. - -Night was fast approaching; the evening of that day on which the Tory -chieftain had threatened to visit her, to receive her final answer. -Imogene sat musing, trying to picture to herself the result of the -terrible drama in which she was acting so conspicuous, but yet so -unwilling a part. - -“Perhaps her new-found friend had been detected in his gallant -attempts to aid her, and was now suffering the penalty of his -generosity?” she thought. - -While thus battling with her despondent feelings, she was startled -by hearing a gentle, catlike footstep on the floor. Starting back -half-affrighted, she beheld approaching her the bearer of the -mysterious note. - -There was no mistaking his identity, for there was the same -peculiar dress, the same drooping war-locks. The stranger advanced -unhesitatingly, and as he entered into the circle of light projected -by the lamp, he threw off his disguise, displaying to view the -features of our old and trusty friend, the faithful scout and -patriot--War-Cloud. - -For a moment Imogene was speechless. - -“What! War-Cloud, you here, too!” she exclaimed, at length, with a -look of amazement. - -She was about to speak further, but the scout raised his finger with -a significant gesture, warning her to remain quiet. In answer to her -anxious, inquiring look, he related in a few hurried sentences the -ruse he had practiced to enable him to join the band, and how he -accidentally learned of her presence in the cave, through two Tories -whose services he had enlisted in a conspiracy he had formed for the -abduction of Iron Hand. - -Imogene listened with wrapt attention. At the conclusion, War-Cloud -ordered her to be prepared to take her departure at midnight, and -then withdrew from the place as noiselessly as he had entered. - -Finding herself once more alone, Imogene, assuming an attitude of -prayer, poured out her soul in fervent thanksgiving to Him who is the -dispenser of all blessings. - -The scout hastened back to his accomplices, of whom he had spoken. It -appears that immediately after joining the League, he had noticed, -with his natural keen perception, a lurking spirit of dissatisfaction -among several members of the band, especially among two in particular. - -By fomenting this turbulent spirit, and by promises of sharing the -bounteous reward offered for the capture of the Tory chieftain, he -had succeeded in bringing them over to his views, at the same time -without permitting them to obtain even an inkling of his own real -character. - -With their plans thus well matured, the conspirators prepared to put -them into execution. Scarcely had the gun from one of the neighboring -frontier forts boomed the hour of midnight, when they quietly arose, -and stepping carefully over the bodies of their sleeping companions, -hurried to the apartment of Imogene, who, fearful that every moment -would herald the advent of her detested suitor, Iron Hand, was -impatiently awaiting them. - -The crisis of their undertaking had now arrived. To succeed in -leaving the place without causing any alarm, was the only difficulty. -As soon as they arrived at the mouth of the cave, the sentinel -stationed there hailed them, but with the rapidity of lightning, -War-Cloud sprung upon him, and bearing him to the earth, firmly -secured him. - -The next moment Imogene, under the guidance of one of the Tories, -waving a hasty adieu, was gone. The scout and his companion returned -to their places among their slumbering comrades, there to abide their -time for the carrying out of the rest of their plan. - -As soon as he felt assured that Imogene had reached a safe distance, -the scout arose, and seizing his rifle, hastened to the entrance of -the rendezvous and discharged it. In an instant every member of the -band was on his feet, inquiring the cause of the alarm. - -Motioning his companion to keep close to him, War-Cloud, uttering a -loud cry, dashed into the apartment of the chief. On hearing of his -prisoner’s escape, Iron Hand, with an oath, rushed into Imogene’s -late place of confinement, only to find that the bird had flown. - -At this discovery, his frenzy knew no bounds. Uttering a yell of -rage, he bade War-Cloud and his companion to mount and follow him. -For a time the Tory’s chieftain’s usual cunning seemed to have -deserted him, for without seeming to harbor the slightest suspicion -of treachery, he ordered War-Cloud to lead the way. - -By the aid of the full autumnal moon, which ever and anon shot, like -a flying ghost, from one dark mass of vapor to another, the trail of -the fugitives was followed without difficulty. - -It was necessary to overtake them before they should reach the -American lines, or else all was lost. On, on, they rode, until they -were almost within gunshot of the enemy, when through an intervening -space in the trees, Iron Hand spied the fleeing forms of Imogene and -her guide. - -With a cry of exultation, the Tory, plunging his rowels deep into -the reeking sides of his steed, hurried in pursuit of them, closely -followed by his two companions. Imogene heard the cry and looked -back. She saw the Tory, and understood the demoniac expression of his -countenance. She cast her eyes on the face of her companion, but upon -it was stamped a look of calm indifference. - -Oh, for a few short moments, and she would again be free! How -agonizing the thought that she was thus to be retaken! and, too, -within sight of the very camp-fires of her friends. Once more did she -sum up courage to steal another glance at her pursuers. They were -gaining upon her slowly but surely. - -In vain did she endeavor to accelerate the speed of her panting -animal. Another instant and she would again be within the power of -her detested captor! She could almost feel his hot breath. - -“Ha! ha! fair rebel,” he exclaimed with a malignant laugh, “captured -at last!” - -As he was on the point of laying hold of the bridle of Imogene’s -steed, he felt himself seized on either side by an iron grasp, while -a brace of pistols were presented at his head. - -“Villains! What means this?” he cried, struggling to free himself. - -“That the tables are turned, chief, and you’re our prisoner,” replied -War-Cloud, raising his weapon in a threatening manner. - -“Ah, treason! You--” but before he could complete his sentence, he -was dragged from his horse, disarmed, and firmly bound. - -The Tory made a desperate attempt to regain his liberty, but, seeing -how futile were his efforts, he sullenly resigned himself to his fate. - -In a short time the party reached the American outposts, by whom they -were conducted to the nearest frontier garrison, to the commander -of which, War-Cloud related his adventures, and at the same time -requested an escort to conduct his prisoner to Fort Ann the next -morning, which was readily granted. - -After paying his companions that had assisted him in Iron Hand’s -capture, their portion of the reward, and exacting from them a -promise that they would engage no longer in their former occupation, -he dismissed them. - - - - - CHAPTER X. - - THE MASK REMOVED. - - -While all in the garrison were bathed in quiet sleep, the slumbers of -Captain Sherwood were broken. After spending a night of restlessness, -he arose unrefreshed from the rude bed where he had thrown himself, -and walked to his prison window. - -That brilliant luminary, the sun, like a ball of golden fire, was -just beginning to light up the eastern sky, giving promise of another -bright autumnal day. As Edgar looked out upon the beautiful landscape -painted by his Creator, a feeling of awe which he had never before -experienced, crept over him. - -Every thing seemed to assume a more beautiful aspect, now that he -was soon to be parted from them forever; they began to find a more -precious place in his affections. It almost drove him to despair to -think that he was to die so soon. Ay! before his course was run; to -die a disgraceful--a traitor’s death! - -“Oh! my God!” he exclaimed, dropping his head upon his breast, “have -mercy on me! If I must die, let me leave a spotless name behind me!” -unable any longer to control his feelings, he gave way to his grief. - -“My life is fated!” exclaimed he, at length. “A dark shadow is cast -before me; but I will show them that I can die like a man!” and with -these words Captain Sherwood prepared himself to meet his doom like a -hero. - -He paced up and down his cell in deep abstraction. He was thinking -over his whole life, and it was one that had experienced some -vicissitudes. As his thoughts flew on, they gradually came back to -the present. - -“What could have become of his beautiful Imogene?” he asked -himself for the hundredth time; “and again, his faithful friend, -War-Cloud--where was he all this time?” - -After putting one suspicious circumstance with another, he fully -believed that some one was plotting against him. It was not those -men who had sworn his life away, but some profound villain of whom -they were but tools. - -“Can it be possible,” he mused, “that Imogene may be even at this -moment in the power of this villain, whosoever he may be!” - -The remembrance of his frightful dream flashed across his mind. - -“Great Heavens!” he cried, “it was a presentiment--a true one! Oh! -oh! oh! she is dead--I shall go mad!” and he staggered against the -wall of his cell for support. - -Just then the first beams of the morning sun stole in through the -window. This little circumstance, slight as it may seem, reanimated -the captain. - -“It is an emblem of hope,” said he, recovering himself. - -There is no more delusive phantom than hope; and it seems to be the -happy privilege of all to cull whatever pleasures can be gathered -from its indulgence. What we think ought to be, we are fond to think -will be. - -Thus it was with our hero--he hoped that something might happen -before the appointed hour for his execution to extricate him from his -terrible dilemma. - -Time, however, passed away. As the hours flew swiftly by, every blow -of the clock’s brass hammer sounded like a death-knell upon the heart -of the prisoner. Shortly there was heard a great noise without--the -creaking of timbers, and the sound of the hammer and saw. - -Edgar grew pale and approached the window. There it was--that horrid -machine of human vengeance--the gibbet, glaring before his eyes, like -an evil conscience harassing the soul of a dying man. - -The cold sweat burst from his burning brow. He had felt before that -it was hard for one so young as he to die a death of infamy; but to -spend his last moments alone and unpitied; to know that all near him -thought his fate merited; that in a few hours he was to be conducted -from the gloom of his cell to the gallows, there to meet the gaze of -a curious multitude, as if he were a beast led to slaughter; and then -to take his departure of life, amidst the jeers and scoffs of his -fellow-creatures--this, indeed, was death--terrible death. - -A short time previous to the execution, Edgar was aroused by hearing -a slight tap on his cell door, and the next instant a man was ushered -into the apartment. - -The stranger was a minister. His face was one of awful gravity. - -In stature he was above the size of ordinary men, though his -excessive leanness might contribute in deceiving as to his hight; his -countenance was sharp and unbending, and every muscle seemed set in -the most rigid compression; his eyes were concealed beneath a pair of -enormous green spectacles, which gave these organs a very singular -look. - -His coat was black, and his breeches and stockings were of the same -hue, his shoes were without luster, and half concealed beneath their -huge, plated buckles. - -“I have come,” said the divine, nodding to Edgar, “to pray with you.” - -Edgar bowed his head, and the two knelt down. The good man’s sonorous -voice filled the cell with solemn words. Edgar’s heart beat with wild -emotions, and he now felt that every throb was but another herald -warning him of death’s near approach. - -Upon rising from prayer, he ventured near the window once more and -cast another glance at the gallows. A large crowd was collected about -it, eagerly waiting to witness the death of Iron Hand, the British -spy. - -“These are heartless people!” said the minister, looking over Edgar’s -shoulder. “But be firm, my poor brother; there is mercy for all -before the great Throne of Justice.” - -The multitude did not have long to wait. A few moments prior to the -expiration of the appointed hour, the prisoner, guarded by several -soldiers, came forth. - -He was slightly pale, but stood erect, and marched forward with a -firm, military step. Approaching the scaffold, they went slowly up -the stairs to the platform. - -The vast concourse of people were now as one, silent and motionless. -Nothing broke the stillness save the hanging rope, which trembled and -squeaked as a slight wind swayed it back and forth. - -The soldiers of the garrison were drawn up in a square around the -gallows, while outside of the guard was the populace. Every elevated -place was thronged with spectators. - -Edgar advanced to the front of the platform to say a few parting -words, but the reports of several rifles in quick succession -prevented him. All turned simultaneously to look from whence they -came. - -A horseman was seen in the distance approaching with flying speed. -On, on, he comes--now for a moment lost to view as he plunges through -some grove of trees, then quickly emerges again, leaping forth on -the open ground, growing larger and larger, until at length he is -near enough to be recognized by all, when the cry of “War-Cloud! -War-Cloud!” rung upon the air. - -The steed, foaming and gray with dust, with nostrils dilated and eyes -flashing fire, dashed by the guard and halted before the scaffold. -The scout leaped from the faithful charger, and springing up the -steps seized the executioner’s arm. - -“Hold, my pale-face brother!” he cried. - -At these words the spectators were struck with amazement, and gazed -about them for an explanation. At the expiration of a few moments, -four more horsemen arrived. They were dragoons, and with them rode -a man lashed to his horse, and behind him, on a white steed, came a -female. - -The party halted, and awaited War-Cloud’s orders. As Edgar caught -sight of the unknown lady, he gave a sudden start, and the color -faded from his cheek. - -“Can it be she?” he murmured to himself. - -He had surmised correctly; it was in truth Imogene Lear. As she -approached him their eyes met. The recognition was mutual. The next -instant, shedding tears of joy, they were clasped in each other’s -arms. - -The scout now advanced, and untied the cords that bound the horseman, -and ordered him to alight. The prisoner obeyed; he offered no -resistance. His head was bowed down upon his breast, and he appeared -to be completely crushed in spirit. - -With the aid of two of the dragoons, War-Cloud assisted him up on the -scaffold, and then quickly removed the muffler that had heretofore -concealed the prisoner’s face from view. - -“My God!” exclaimed Edgar, starting back. “That countenance--it is -he--it is Maurice, _my brother_!” and reeling, would have fallen, had -he not been supported by the scout. - -On beholding the face thus exposed to their gaze, the spectators -stood aghast. - -_The features were an exact counterpart in every respect, of those of -Edgar Sherwood._ - -That these two men were brothers could not now be doubted, and all -seemed to comprehend, in an instant, the mistake that had been made. -The great mystery was at length solved. It was, indeed, a--DOUBLE -FACE. - -Imogene now related the cause of her sudden and mysterious -disappearance, the treachery of Hank Putney and his implication in -the conspiracy for her abduction, and lastly confirmed the statement, -that the prisoner before them was the dreaded Iron Hand, by his own -confession during their interview in the cave of the Tory League. - -At the conclusion, Colonel Hall arose, and congratulated the -multitude on the happy termination of what had almost succeeded in -becoming a tragedy. - -He had scarcely finished, when a low murmur of applause ran through -the assembly, which at length broke forth into lusty cheers. All -now turned toward the spot where Hank Putney had been seen only a -few moments before, among the most clamorous for Captain Sherwood’s -execution; but the traitor, seeing the turn events were taking, had -fled. - -Although Edgar Sherwood had been condemned to suffer death for his -brother’s crimes, nevertheless how little was known concerning the -deep plot that had been laid to bring about this dreadful mistake. - - - - - CHAPTER XI. - - THE UNNATURAL BROTHER. - - -Maurice Sherwood, _alias_ Iron Hand, who had committed so many -villainous deeds in the past few years, and whose name had become -such a terror to every household, now stood before them, pale and -trembling. - -Five years previous he had sworn vengeance against his brother, who -had never seen him during all this time to know him, and who had -believed him to be hundreds of miles away. How near this threat had -come to being carried out, the reader already knows. - -The desperado’s plans had been skillfully concocted, but a just -Providence could not look down upon and sanction the success of a -scheme so wicked; thus it was this villain had been baffled in the -very last act of his drama. - -It had been his design to kill his brother secretly, and this he had -attempted during the battle related in one of the foregoing chapters. -For could he but remove Edgar from his path, the immense estate which -he owned in England would, by the conditions of the father’s will, be -inherited by himself. - -However, after this should be accomplished, there was still another -object he had in view, and that was to obtain the hand of Imogene -Lear. It was she who had first innocently caused the feud between the -two brothers. - -Maurice had sought her hand when both families resided in England, -but had been rejected and his brother accepted. Upon seeing himself -thus supplanted by his brother Edgar in the affections of one whom -he loved so passionately, his rage was unbounded, and the anger -that rankled in his heart soon grew into virulent hatred, which was -appeased only by deeds of bloodshed. - -He had intended, therefore, after the death of Edgar to stigmatize -him by casting upon his memory the odious name of Iron Hand, which he -himself possessed, and thus he hoped that when his brother should -have been proved a British spy and a murderer, that Imogene would -renounce him. - -He, in the mean time, would return to England, and after having -possessed himself of the inheritance, would again sue for her hand. - -Seeing how signally he had failed in both his attempt to slay Captain -Sherwood and in his effort to decoy Imogene to his power by the aid -of the forged letter which he had pretended to be from her betrothed, -Iron Hand determined to secure her by force, and for that purpose had -selected three of his band, together with Hank Putney, who at the -time was serving him in the American garrison in the capacity of a -spy, as their leader, while he himself assumed the role of the old -man to assist in the undertaking. - -It was while in this guise that he met Imogene on her return to her -father’s house, and whispered those words that caused her to start -back with such a look of horror and disgust. He intimated to her -his knowledge of Maurice Sherwood’s whereabouts, and had proposed, -as Edgar was then accused of being a traitor, to restore amicable -relations between them. - -Had she accepted his offer, he would have then and there revealed to -her his true character, and afterward trusted to his natural tact for -a reconciliation; but her answer taught him how thoroughly he was -detested, and from that moment he desperately resolved to carry out -his plans to the bitter end. - -When Edgar Sherwood had first been arrested, he had half-suspected -that it was his twin-brother Maurice who was at the bottom of the -mystery, and it was to ascertain if his suspicions were correct -that he had dispatched his faithful friend, War-Cloud, on his -secret mission, which was so fruitful in its results, and which -had succeeded in saving from an ignominious death one of America’s -noblest sons, and in bringing to justice the guilty. - - - - - CHAPTER XII. - - THE END OF THE TRANSGRESSOR IS HARD. - - -It was the day following that which was to have witnessed the -execution of Captain Sherwood. - -The morning which had first given promise of a beautiful day turned -out to be quite disagreeable, and during the afternoon there was a -succession of showers. The night was dark and stormy, and vast clouds -covered the heavens. - -Occasionally, by the assistance of a flash of lightning, Iron Hand -might have been seen sitting in his cell--the one in which his -brother had been confined. His head was bowed down upon his knees, -and his whole appearance was that of despair. - -He finally arose, and approaching the grated window, looked out into -the darkness. The storm was turning every thing into wild disorder. -He seemed to experience a feeling of consolation in seeing nature -partake of the tumult that reigned within his own heart. - -The thunder growled in the air like the passion and anger in his -thoughts; he howled as the hurricane howled, and his voice was lost -in the great voice of Nature, who also seemed to groan with despair. - -This desperate man’s imagination was a fertile one, and he soon -recovered from his dejection and began to put his brains to work in -order to concoct some plan of escape. He reclined upon his pallet of -straw and thought earnestly. - -The hours passed on until the night was well advanced. - -At length his attention was attracted by hearing a gentle tap at his -window. He started quickly to his feet and listened. Again was the -noise repeated. - -As he was hurrying across the room to ascertain its cause, there -burst forth a peal of thunder accompanied by a flash of lightning, -and by the aid of its sickly glare he saw the face of a man appear -behind the bars. - -He sprung to the window. - -“Hank!” - -“Yes, chief!” said Hank Putney, for it was he; “but be quiet! be -quiet! I must have time to file through these bars. Only take care -that I am not seen through th’ gratin’ of th’ door.” - -“Oh! that is all secure; it is too dark for the sentinel to see you, -and I will stand with my back against the door.” - -“Be ready at the first signal.” - -“Ay, my trusty fellow; but make haste;” and he retreated to the door, -where he placed himself in such a position that no person without the -cell could possibly obtain a view of the window. - -Amidst the moaning of the storm Iron Hand could hear the grinding of -the file upon the bars, and by the light of every flash he perceived -the form of Hank Putney. - -An hour was spent in breathless suspense; the cold sweat stood upon -his brow, and his heart beat quick at every movement he heard in the -corridor. - -There are hours which seem a year. - -At the expiration of an hour, Hank tapped again. Iron Hand hastened -to the window. Two of the huge iron bars were removed, forming an -opening large enough for a man to pass through. - -“Are ye ready?” asked Hank, in a low tone. - -“Yes.” - -“Then wait till I slide down the rope, ’cause it won’t hold us both; -and I’ll get off the walls, and ye can jine me in the woods jist on -top of the hill.” - -With these parting words, Putney slid down the rope out of Iron -Hand’s sight. - -When the Tory thought a sufficient time had elapsed for his faithful -ally to have reached a place of safety, he passed through the -window, and seizing the dangling rope, began to descend slowly. -Notwithstanding the weight of his body, the blast of the hurricane -made him wave in the air. - -The heavy tramp of approaching footsteps was borne to his ears by the -wind. He stopped and listened. The patrol were passing along beneath -him, laughing and talking. It was a terrible moment for the fugitive -as he remained there suspended, motionless and breathless; but the -soldiers soon passed, and the noise of their retreating footsteps, -together with the murmur of their voices, soon died away. - -Breathing a sigh of relief, he continued his descent. He shortly -found himself standing upon one of the parapets of the fort. Iron -Hand knew perfectly well where he was; for he had been upon this same -wall before and reconnoitered; it was the time when those who had -seen him had taken him for the captain’s ghost. - -The wall was high from the outside, and he knew it would be madness -to leap off. But about thirty yards from where he was standing, there -was an angle where little steps were cut into the rocks leading to -the ground. Could he but reach this place without being perceived, he -would be safe. - -The storm had increased, the flashes succeeded each other more -rapidly, and the thunder growled fiercely. Iron Hand crawled -cautiously on his hands and knees, and was near the angle, when there -came a bright flash which lighted up the whole heavens. - -The sentinel stationed on the wall opposite caught sight of him and -fired. The Tory chieftain sprung to his feet, and clasping his hands -to his side, he staggered a moment, then uttering a deep groan, fell -to the ground within the fort. The report of the sentinel’s rifle -aroused the whole garrison, who hastily seized their arms, thinking -an attack had been made for the rescue of Iron Hand. - -A file of soldiers hastened to the threatened spot, where they found -the bloody and apparently lifeless form of the Tory. Two stalwart -soldiers lifted him and bore him to the guard-house. The ball had -entered his side and the blood was running freely from the wound. - -“He’s not dead; run for the surgeon!” said one, feeling his pulse. - -An eager crowd was soon gathered around, and by the dim light -afforded by one or two torches the scene presented a weird -appearance. In a few moments the surgeon was at the side of the -wounded man, and applying some restoratives he soon became conscious -again. Opening his eyes with a wild stare, Iron Hand glanced around -upon the assembly. - -“Where am I?” he asked. - -“Here, in the fort,” said the surgeon. - -Raising himself, he looked around him again, and then uttering a wild -cry, fell backward. - -“What is this strange feeling that comes over me?” he asked in a -husky whisper, pressing his hands on his bloody wound. “Am I dying?” - -“I fear you are,” responded the surgeon. - -“What! dying did you say?” he repeated, in a hollow voice. “My God! -must I die?” - -“Yes; make your peace with your Maker, for you have but an hour or so -longer to live.” - -A shudder shook the man’s whole frame, and his eyes glared wildly. - -“Where is the man that shot me?” he shrieked, pulling a dirk from his -belt. - -“No, no, my man,” said the surgeon; “you should think of something -else now instead of vengeance.” - -“But--but--” the rest of his sentence was inaudible. - -Just then the crowd parted to make way for two newcomers, who were -drenched with rain. They were Edgar Sherwood and Imogene Lear. - -“Maurice!” said Edgar in a low tone, approaching the dying man. - -“Great God!” said Iron Hand. “It is he! it is he! I know that voice! -Oh! oh! he will kill me, and I can not move. Let me escape--hide me, -for I shot him once. I have been his evil shadow all his life!” and -he struggled violently to raise himself. - -“He raves,” said the surgeon; “we must get that dagger from him, or -he may do some mischief.” - -But just then the madman dropped the weapon upon the floor. - -His face was distorted with agony; his glassy eyes were fixed -apparently on some distant object. - -“Look! look!” he whispered, pointing to a window at the further end -of the room. - -All eyes were quickly turned toward the place indicated, but there -was nothing strange there. - -“It is the old Whig! look! look! see that gaping wound--the gash upon -his temple! It was I that did it--I killed him! Hark! hear how he -cries for vengeance! See! he comes this way! Oh, horror, horror! he -stretches out his hands to seize me--I feel their icy grasp! Oh God! -I am dy--dying!” and with a piercing shriek, he fell back upon his -couch. - -The assemblage gazed upon the expiring man in gloomy silence. It was, -indeed, a horrible sight to see him writhing in such agony. Edgar and -Imogene, their hearts bowed down with sorrow, turned away; they could -not endure the sight. - -It lasted, however, but a few moments more. The impress of the hand -of Death was on his pallid brow, and straightening out his stiffening -limbs, he gave one long, struggling gasp, then all was over. - -The surgeon sprung to his side, but the Tory chieftain was--_dead_. - - - - - CHAPTER XIII. - - SMILES THROUGH TEARS. - - -On one bright spring morning about six months after the events -previously related, the woods in the vicinity of Fort Ann were filled -with a brilliant assemblage of Continental officers and their ladies, -who were all in a merry mood, for there was a wedding to take place -between Captain Edgar Sherwood and Imogene Lear. - -The whole week had been occupied in preparing the grove for this -important occasion. Seats had been erected for the guests, and under -the shade of a giant oak a picturesque bower twined with wild roses -and luxuriant foliage, had been constructed for the reception of the -clergyman. The regimental band also had found a place near at hand -made for their benefit. - -In a word, every thing had been arranged with the idea of making -the captain’s wedding a grand affair. It was not to be in a gloomy -church, or a fashionable drawing-room crowded to suffocation, but in -a grand old forest, under the bright light of heaven. - -The troops of the garrison were drawn up in a long line on either -side of the walk leading to the bower, and, stationed here and there -along the way, were young girls dressed in white, and holding baskets -of flowers to strew before the bride and groom as they passed. - -Every thing was in readiness. The shrill notes of a bugle heralded -the approach of Edgar and Imogene; and presently they entered the -grove attended by the hymeneal retinue. While the little party moved -slowly forward toward the bower, the surrounding woods resounded with -the melodious and thrilling notes of the band, and the birds sung -their sweetest. - -It was a beautiful sight to behold these two young lovers approaching -the altar to pledge their hearts to each other, and to take those -mutual vows of fidelity before God and man. - -When they arrived at the bower, an old man came forward with feeble -steps, and taking the hand of each he placed them together and -murmured: - -“My children, I bless you; may Heaven look down upon and prosper this -union!” - -It was Thomas Lear, Imogene’s father. - -The reader must not be surprised at this, for a revolution had taken -place in the old man’s politics since the opening of our story. Being -naturally an enthusiastic admirer of justice and a lover of personal -and political freedom, he had been, at length, aroused by the feeling -of liberty that was everywhere prevalent, and was now a stanch -believer in the war for independence. - -This radical change had not come about spontaneously but gradually, -growing out of observation. He had perceived the injustice of the -mother country toward her most promising child, and finally became -one of the most devoted adherents to the cause of the Colonies. - -The minister now performed the marriage ceremony, and our hero and -heroine were pronounced man and wife. In an instant, the dreadful -Past, with all its woes and sorrows, was buried in the deepest -recesses of oblivion, leaving the happy Present, as it were, like -an insurmountable barrier between it and the bright and promising -Future, which dawned fair and beautiful upon the horizon of their -happiness. - -Their more intimate friends--among whom were Colonel Hall and -War-Cloud--pressed around the happy couple to congratulate them, -while the soldiers gave three hearty cheers for their brave captain -and his lady, making the woods, hills, and valleys ring with the echo -of a thousand voices. - - * * * * * - -There now remains for us to add but a short epilogue and we will -have finished. Captain Sherwood fought bravely during the remainder -of the Revolution, and when the war was ended, and our country had -just entered upon its newborn career of unrivaled greatness, he and -Imogene took up their residence in the city of the Manhattans, where -they spent many quiet and peaceful days while floating down the -stream of life to the harbor of old age. - -War-Cloud frequently paid them visits, bringing with him pretty and -costly furs for the “little ones,” denoting that he had again taken -to hunting the beast instead of Tories. - -Hank Putney never made his appearance at the fort again; but we -believe he became the chief of the Tory League after the death of -Iron Hand, and during some quarrel between him and his ruffians he -was killed. - -The band soon after was exterminated, and nothing now remains of -their former power, save the history of their many villainous deeds, -which is written in blood! - - - THE END. - - - - - 1776. Dollar Books for a Dime! 1876. - - BEADLE AND ADAMS, PUBLISHERS, NEW YORK. - - - Lives of Great Americans. - - In these charming and picturesque books are presented complete and - authentic biographies of many of the men who have added luster to - the Republic by their lives and deeds. The series embraces: - - 1. George Washington. 4. Ethan Allen. - 2. John Paul Jones. 5. Marquis De Lafayette. - 3. Mad Anthony Wayne. 6. Daniel Boone. - 7. Israel Putnam. (“Old Put.”) - - These beautiful books are complete in one volume--one hundred large - 12mo. pages each, and sold by all newsdealers; or sent, post-paid, - to any address, on receipt of price--ten cents each, by - - BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York. - - - Miscellaneous Dime Books. - - CONTENTS DIME MELODIST. - - Bonnie Eloise, Softly, ye night winds, - Sleeping I dreamed, Far on the deep sea, - Fare thee well, Katy, My sighs to thee, - Love me little, A flower that bloometh, - Strike the light guitar, Anna Bell, - My love is a saileur, Swinging all day long, - Some one to love, Work, work, - The hazel dell, Wild Tiadatton, - Oft in the stilly night, A hundred years ago, - The old folks are gone, Widow Machree, - My soul in one sigh, Dream of thee no more, - Mother, sweet mother, Mary of Lake Enon, - The good by at the door, Mary of the glen. - Be quiet do, or I’ll call, Carry me to Tennessee, - Round for 3 voices, Rime, bome, bell, - Leaves that fall in spr’g, Whisper what thou feel, - The female smuggler, Like a soldier die, - Where is home? Old Josey, - Ettie May, Why do I weep, - Keemo Kimo, Bonnie blue e’e, - In the wild chamois’, Winsome Winnie, - I had a gentle mother, Scenes that are bright, - Poor Thomas Day, A lowly youth, - Pretty Nelly, One cheering word, - ’Tis the witching hour, The low-backed car, - Forgive but don’t forget, Hope on hope ever, - Thou art mine, love, The mother’s smile, - Darkness on the mou’n, Marion Lee, - Once upon a time, Annie Lowe, - Dearest spot of earth, One parting song. - - - CONTENTS DIME SCHOOL MELODIST. - - A boat, a boat, Lightly row, - A farmer’s life, Little cottage, - A smile from thee, Merry sleigh ride, - Blow, blow, blow, Morning rambles, - Bonny Eloise, Morning call, - Bright rosy morning, Morning has come, - Busy bee, Murmur gentle lyre, - Canadian boat song, Music murmuring, - Chairs to mend, Oh, dear, what can the matter be! - Chimney nook, Over hill, over dale, - Day is fading, Over the summer sea, - Elements of music, Peaceful slumbering, - Ettie May, Round for four voices, - Ever of thee, Row, fishermen, row, - Far o’er hill and dell, Scotland’s burning, - Fare thee well, Kitty, See our oars, - Flowers and sunshine, Song of the mountain, - Flow gently, sweet Af’n, Spring is here, - Gallant and gayly, Smiling May, - Gentle troubadour, Sweet birds are singing, - Happy schoolboy, Switzer’s song of home, - Hark, ’tis the bells, The sleigh ride, - Harvest time, The invitation, - Haste thee winter, The river, - House that Jack built, The bell doth toll, - Hazel Dell, Time to walk, - I love the merry sunshine, Tyrolese evening hymn, - I’d choose to be a daisy, Vesper bell, - In words of joy, We are all noddin’, - Joy of Innocence, When tempted to wander, - Joy, freedom to-day, Working lay. - - - DIME GUIDE TO CURLING AND SKATING. - - 1 Complete Manual for the Ice: giving all the laws of the popular - game of “Curling,” with Complete Diagrams; also, explicit - instructions for Skating, with a Guide to all the “figures” and - movements made on skates, and embracing also the laws of the - Skater’s Club of New York. Edited by HENRY CHADWICK. - - - DIME ROBINSON CRUSOE. - - A beautifully illustrated edition, printed in large octavo, double - columns, with numerous illustrations from original designs by - GEORGE WHITE: comprising the text of one of the best and latest - London editions, and printed in a style of great neatness and - beauty--thus constituting one of the most charming and cheapest - editions of this celebrated book ever offered to the public. - - - DIME JOKE BOOKS. - - No. 1--POCKET JOKE BOOK. - No. 2--JIM CROW JOKE BOOK. - No. 3--PADDY WHACK JOKE BOOK. - - ☞ The above books are for sale by all newsdealers; or will be sent, - postpaid, to any address, on receipt of price, TEN CENTS EACH, by - BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York. - - - - - DIME HAND-BOOKS OF - GAMES AND PASTIMES. - - The Dime Hand-Books of Games and Popular Hand-Books cover a - variety of subjects, and are especially adapted to their end. Each - volume 100 pages 12mo., sent postpaid on receipt of price by the - publishers, BEADLE AND ADAMS, 98 William Street, New York. - - - DIME BOOK OF 100 GAMES. - - Comprising Forfeits and Conundrums, for Social Parties and Home - Amusement, Games for Children, Games for Young People, Games for - the Middle-aged, Games for the Aged. - - CONTENTS. - - Acted Verbs, Acting Rhymes, A Literary Game, Animal, Vegetable or - Mineral, A Simple Trick, Aunt Sue’s Toilet, Birds Fly, Blind-man’s - Buff, Blowing the Feather, Book Notices, Buz, Confidential Answers, - Consequences, Conundrums, Conversation Cards, Crooked Answers, Crow - In the Farmer’s Cornfield, Earth, Air or Water, Famous Numbers, - Forfeits, Fox and Geese, Going on a Journey, Going to Jerusalem, - Green, Yellow, Blue and Pink, Guess any Number Thought of, Hats on, - Hieroglyphics, Holding the Handkerchief, Hot and Cold, How, When - and Where, Imitation, I’ve been Shopping, Magic Numbers, Making up - a Cargo, Noted Personages, One Old Ox, Orange and Lemon, Pairs, - Passing the Scissors, Post Office, Presenting Gifts, Proverbs, - Puss in the Corner, Ship from China, Stage-coach, The Apprentice, - the Birdcatcher, The Bird Merchant, The Board of Trade, The - Bouquet, The Christmas Bag, The Christmas Pie, The Clairvoyant, - The Conjunction, The Grand Mufti, The Hatchet, The Hidden Word, - The Magic Wand, The Quaker’s Meeting, The Revolving Tea-table, The - Shoemaker, The Silent Orchestra, The Trades, The Whistle, The Wild - Beast Show, the Woodman, Think of a Word, Touching an Article, - Uncle Zeb’s Dinner, What and Why, Whisking the Handkerchief, What - Did He Give You, What is my Thought Like, What’s the Price of Wheat. - - FORFEITS.--A Song, The Will, Good Advice, Comparisons, The Secret, - The Confidential Answer, The First Letters, The Deaf Man, The - Pilgrim, The Clock, ’Twas I, The Parrot, Nunfashion Kiss, The Two - Chairs, The Twister, Four Corners, To kiss a Box inside and out - without opening it, To put Yourself through the Keyhole, To spell - Constantinople, Kiss, Tap and Box, A Rabbit’s Kiss, Back to Back, - Pinching, Feeding, Blindfold, the Quaker. - - CONUNDRUMS. - - - DIME CHESS INSTRUCTOR. - - A complete hand-book of instruction, giving the entertaining - mysteries of this most interesting and fascinating of games. - - CONTENTS. - - NAMES.--Placing the Chessmen, Powers and Moves of the Chessmen, - Capturing Power of the men, Illustrations of the Moves, The - Technical Terms of Chess, Technical Terms Illustrated, The Laws of - Chess, Preliminary Games, with Notes, Checkmate--End-Games, How to - Queen a Pawn, Maxims and Advice for Chess Students, King Bishop’s - Opening, The Gluoco Piano, Philldor’s Defence, Petroff’s Defence, - Ray Lopez Knight’s Game, Scotch Gambit, Evans Gambit, King’s - Bishop’s Gambit, King’s Knight’s Gambit, Salvio and Cochrane’s - Defences, Muzi-Gambit, Allgaier Gambit, Cuuningham Gambit, Queen’s - Gambit, Miscellaneous Openings, Illustrative Games. - - - DIME HAND-BOOK OF CROQUET. - - A complete Guide to the Principles and Practice of the game. By - EDMUND ROUTLEDGE. Giving also, the rules proposed by various - American writers on the game. ILLUSTRATED. - - CONTENTS. - - MATERIALS OF THE GAME.--The Mallets, The Balls, The Hoops, The - Posts, Clips. - HOW THE GAME IS PLAYED. - PARLOR CROQUET. - HINTS TO YOUNG PLAYERS. - RULES OF THE GAME.--Striking, Order of Playing, The Croquet, the - Posts, the Rover. - CROQUET TERMS. - - - DIME BASE-BALL PLAYER FOR 1876. - - Containing the Professional Club Records for 1875, of each - individual club; also the Records of the Best Games played by each - of the prominent Amateur Clubs of the country; together with the - Scores of the Model Games played by each class of the fraternity - during 1875. Also, full instructions in the new points of play, - and the new codes of Playing Rules of the Amateur and Professional - Associations, Batting and Pitching averages, etc. Edited by Henry - Chadwick. - - - DIME BOOK OF CRICKET AND FOOTBALL. - - A desirable Cricketer’s Companion, containing complete instructions - in the elements of Bowling, Batting and Fielding; also the - Revised Laws of the game; Remarks on the Duties of Umpires; the - Mary-le-Bone Cricket Club Rules and Regulations; Bets, etc., etc. - By HENRY CHADWICK, author of “Base-ball Player.” - - - DIME GUIDE TO SWIMMING. - - Embracing all the rules of the art for both sexes. Illustrated. By - Captain PHILIP PETERSEN. - - The following is the contents: - - Advisory Instructions, Rules upon entering the water, Temperature - of the water, Temperature of the body, Time for the swim, the - Start, Learning the Hand-stroke, Learning the Leg-stroke, General - Directions for Attitude, Management of the Breath, Plunging, the - Header, Leaping from a Hight, a Shallow Dive, Deep Diving, How to - Come to the Surface, Swimming on the Back, the “Steamer,” Floating, - Hand-over-hand Swimming, Swimming from a Boat, Precautions for - a Short Swim, the Cramp, How to Swim in Times of Danger, the - “Washing-tub,” “Creeping,” Sea-bathing--how to manage the Waves, - the Tides, etc., A Chapter for the Ladies, A Specimen Female - Swimming-school, How to Manage Cases of Drowning, Dr. Franklin’s - “Code” for Swimmers, Concluding Remarks. - - - DIME HAND-BOOK OF YACHTING AND ROWING. - - A Complete Manual of the Science and Practice of the two Pastimes. - - CONTENTS. - - ON YACHTING.--The Yacht Clubs of England, The Yacht Clubs of - America, Other Yacht Clubs, Learning to Sail a Boat, On Steering, - Regattas and Races, Sailing Regulations, Glossary of Nautical Terms. - - ON ROWING.--English Laws of Boat-racing, New York Clubs, Hints to - Rowers, The Great Boat Race of 1867--Oxford versus Cambridge. - - THE GREAT OCEAN YACHT RACE OF DECEMBER, 1867.--The Start from New - York, The Logs of the Yachts. - - THE HARVARD AND YALE COLLEGE CONTESTS. - - - DIME RIDING AND DRIVING. - - Comprising complete rules for the Management of the Horse, under - the Saddle and in Harness also, a Special Chapter on Female - Horsemanship. - - CONTENTS. - - RIDING.--The Accouterments and Aids Required, Mounting and - Dismounting, Management of the Seat and Reins, the Ordinary Paces, - Vices, The Ride, Female Horsemanship. - - DRIVING.--Driving a Single Horse, The Reins, Driving a Pair of - Horses, Bearing Reins. - - - DIME HAND-BOOK OF PEDESTRIANISM. - - Giving the Rules for Training and Practice in Walking, Running, - Leaping, Vaulting, etc., etc.; together with a full account of the - Great Weston Feat. Edited by HENRY CHADWICK. - - These books are for sale by all newsdealers; or sent, postpaid, to - any address, on receipt of ten cents each, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, - Publishers, 95 William Street, New York. - - - New Twenty Cent Novels. - - BEADLE AND ADAMS’ new Twenty Cent Novels’ series will embrace none - but NOTED WORKS OF NOTED AUTHORS, chiefly in the field of a purely - American romance, of marked originality and high Interest--price, - size and literary character all adapting them to the widest - circulation. Those seeking for THE BEST AMERICAN NOVELS will find - them in this series. - - 1. Overland Kit. By Albert W. Aiken. - 2. Rocky Mountain Rob. By Albert W. Aiken. - 3. Kentuck, the Sport. By Albert W. Aiken. - 4. Injun Dick. By Albert W. Aiken. - 5. The Scalp Hunters. By Capt. Mayne Reid. - 6. The Prairie Mazeppa. By Albert W. Aiken. - 7. The Silent Hunter. By Percy B. St. John. - 8. The Man from Texas. By Albert W. Aiken. - 9. The Red Rajah. By Frederick Whittaker. - 10. The Winged Whale. By Albert W. Aiken. - 11. Idaho Tom. By Oll Coomes. - 12. The White Squaw. By Capt. Mayne Reid. - 13. The California Detective. By Albert W. Aiken. - 14. Maum Guinea. By Mrs. M. V. Victor. - 15. The Wolf Demon. By Albert W. Aiken. - - Sold by all newsdealers; or sent, postpaid, to any address, - on receipt of price--Twenty Cents Each, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, - Publishers, 98 William Street, New York. - - - Twenty-five Cent Novels. - - The wide-spread demand for popular books at such rates as places - them within the reach of all, has impelled Messrs. BEADLE AND - ADAMS to introduce to their extensive lists of cheap publications - a new and highly attractive series, comprising only the choicest - productions of fiction and romance, of the leading living American - writers who are now “the Stars” of the popular weeklies, and whose - creations are the admiration of all who demand strength of story, - originality of character, and that subtle interest of plot and - construction which separates the masters of the pen from the common - writer. This series contains superb stories by Mrs. May Agnes - Fleming, Mrs. M. V. Victor, Mrs. Jennie Davis Burton, Bartley T. - Campbell, Margaret Blount, Mrs. Mary Reed Crowell, etc., etc. Each - volume a complete novel, and sold at the remarkably cheap price - indicated above. The first issues are: - - 1. The Dark Secret. By Mrs. May Agnes Fleming. - 2. The Maddest Marriage Ever Was. By Mrs. Jennie Davis Burton. - 3. A Woman’s Heart. By Mrs. M. V. Victor. - 4. An Awful Mystery. By Mrs. May Agnes Fleming. - 5. The Pride of the Downes. By Margaret Blount. - 6. Victoria. By Mrs. May Agnes Flaming. - 7. The Dead Letter. By Seely Regester. - 8. Strangely Wed. By Mrs. Jennie Davis Burton. - 9. Romance of the Green Seal. By Mrs. Catharine A. Warfield. - 10. Erminie. By Mrs. May Agnes Fleming. - 11. Love in a Maze. By Mrs. E. F. Ellet. - 12. The Twin Sisters. By Mrs. May Agnes Fleming. - 13. Forced Vows. By Mrs. Lillie Devereux Umsted Blake. - 14. Vials of Wrath. By Mary Reed Crowell. - 15. Annie Temple. By Rev. J. H. Ingraham. - - Sold by all newsdealers and booksellers: or sent, post-paid, on - receipt of price, twenty-five cents per volume, by BEADLE AND - ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York. - - - - - Young People’s Hand-Books - - - The Dime Hand-Books for Young People cover a wide range of - subjects, and are especially adapted to their end. They constitute - at once the cheapest and the most useful works yet put into the - market for popular circulation. Each volume 100 pages 12mo., - sent-postpaid on receipt of price, by the publishers, BEADLE AND - ADAMS, 98 William Street, New York. - - - No. 1.--DIME GENTS’ LETTER-WRITER, - - And Practical Guide to Compositions, embracing forms, models, - suggestions and rules for the use of all classes, on all occasions; - also a list of improper words and expressions, together with their - correct forms; and also a complete dictionary of mottoes, phrases, - idioms, etc. BY LOUIS LEGRAND, M. D. - - CONTENTS. - - COMPOSITION.--The secret of a good letter; directions to a novice; - the rules of composition, etc. - - GENERAL ADVICE TO LETTER-WRITERS. - - LETTERS OF BUSINESS. - - LETTERS OF PLEASURE AND FRIENDSHIP. - - LETTERS OF LOVE.--Hints and suggestions; a declaration; answer; a - briefer declaration of attachment; answer; real love-letters of - eminent personages, etc. - - LETTERS OF DUTY, OF TRUST, Etc.--What they are and how to write - them; forms, etc.; advice from a lady to her friend; a complaint at - silence; communicating distressing news; to parents, informing of - their son, etc. - - LETTERS OF RELATIONSHIP.--Family correspondence; its sacred - character and proprieties; examples of real letters, etc. - - LETTERS OF VARIOUS OCCASIONS.--A certificate of character; - another, for a maid; another, for a clerk; application for a - school-teacher’s place; soliciting a vote; declining a nomination; - a girl applying for a place; another; application for a governess’ - situation, etc. - - WRITING FOR THE PRESS. - - IMPROPRIETIES OF EXPRESSION. - - PHRASES, MOTTOES, IDIOMS, ETC. - - - No. 2.--DIME BOOK OF ETIQUETTE. - - For Ladies and Gentlemen; being a guide to true gentility and - good-breeding, and a complete directory to the usages and - observances of society. Including etiquette of the Ball-room, of - the Evening Party, the Dinner Party, the Card and Chess Table, of - Business, of the Home Circle, etc., etc. Prepared expressly for the - “Dime Series,” by a Committee of Three. - - CONTENTS. - - ENTRANCE INTO SOCIETY.--Confidence vs. bashfulness; kindness vs. - rudeness; the bores of society, how to treat them. - - ON DRESS AND ORNAMENTS.--The vulgarity of “flash” attire; - simplicity in dress a mark of good breeding. - - ON VISITS, INTRODUCTIONS, ETC.--The law of politeness a law of - kindness; when visits are proper; introductions, presentations, - etc., and forms. - - EVENING PARTIES, DANCES, ETC.--The etiquette of the ball-room; - general directions for the same. - - GAMES OF CARDS, CHESS, ETC.--When proper and how conducted; general - rules of the games; the ill-breeding of betting or bragging. - - ON CONVERSATION.--Its usefulness and good results; how to comport - yourself; directions for it. - - ON LETTER AND NOTE WRITING.--Proprieties and improprieties of the - same; general directions for a good letter. - - HOW TO GIVE AND RECEIVE INVITATIONS.--General usage in all cases. - - ON ENTERTAINMENTS.--Etiquette of the table; how to serve a guest, - and how to be served; special directions. - - ON PERSONAL CLEANLINESS.--A word to the laborer; on religion and - respect for age; on theaters, promenades, etc.; on love, courtship - and marriage; the laws of home etiquette; special advice to ladies; - general observations and closing chapter. - - - No. 3.--DIME BOOK OF VERSES. - - Comprising Rhymes, Lines and Mottoes, for Lovers and Friends; - Valentines, Album Pieces, Great Verses, Birthday Lines, and poetry - for Bridals, Births, Mourning, Epitaphs, etc. - - CONTENTS. - - VERSES FOR ALBUMS. - - MOTTOES AND COUPLETS. - - ST. VALENTINE VERSES. - - BRIDAL AND MARRIAGE VERSES. - - VERSES ON BIRTHS AND INFANCY. - - VERSES TO SEND WITH FLOWERS. - - VERSES OF LOVE AND AFFECTION. - - HOLIDAY VERSES. - - BIRTHDAY VERSES. - - EPITAPHS AND MOURNING VERSES.--For all ages and classes. - - THE LOVER’S CASKET. - - ☞ This little volume is a veritable pocket companion. It is - everybody’s poet. It is for all occasions, for old and young, for - male and female. It will be treasured like a keepsake and used like - a dictionary. - - - No. 4.--DIME BOOK OF DREAMS. - - Their Romance and Mystery; with a complete interpreting Dictionary. - Compiled from the most accredited sources for the “Dime Series.” - - CONTENTS. - - INTRODUCTORY. - - THE ROMANCE OF DREAMS.--Embodying dreams of all kinds and - characters, with the construction placed upon them by the - most eminent authorities, and narratives of the extraordinary - fulfillment of them. - - THE PHENOMENA OF DREAMS.--A physician’s views on the subject, - giving a rational solution of the phenomena, with instances cited - in proof. - - MRS. CATHARINE CROWE’S TESTIMONY.--Favoring the supernatural nature - of dreams and a belief in their revelations. - - DICTIONARY OF DREAMS.--Comprising the most complete - interpretation-Dictionary ever prepared, embracing the whole - Alphabet of subjects. - - ☞ It is a volume full of interest even to the general reader, - being, in that respect, something like Mrs. Crowe’s “Night Side - of Nature,” and Robert Dale Owen’s “Footfalls on the Boundary of - Another World.” - - - No. 5.--DIME FORTUNE-TELLER. - - COMPRISING THE ART OF FORTUNE-TELLING, HOW TO READ CHARACTER, ETC. - - CONTENTS. - - FORTUNE-TELLING BY CARDS.--Dealing the Cards by Threes, Dealing - the Cards by Sevens, Dealing the Cards by Fifteens, The Twenty-one - Cards, The Italian Method, Present, Past and Future, Another Method - of Consulting the Cards, To Know if you will Get your Wish, The - English Method of Consulting the Cards. - - HOW TO TELL A PERSON’S CHARACTER BY MEANS OF CABALISTIC - CALCULATIONS. - - PALMISTRY, OR TELLING FORTUNES BY THE LINES OF THE HAND. - - FORTUNE-TELLING BY THE GROUNDS IN A TEA OR COFFEE CUP. - - HOW TO READ YOUR FORTUNE BY THE WHITE OF AN EGG. - - DREAMS AND THEIR INTERPRETATION. - - - No. 6.--DIME LADIES’ LETTER-WRITER. - - Giving the various forms of Letters of School Days, Love and - Friendship, of Society, etc. - - CONTENTS. - - HOW TO WRITE AND HOW NOT TO WRITE. - HOW TO PUNCTUATE, CAPITALIZE, Etc. - LETTERS OF CHILDHOOD. - LETTERS OF SCHOOL DAYS. - LETTERS OF FRIENDSHIP. - LETTERS OF COURTSHIP AND LOVE. - LETTERS OF SOCIETY: INVITATIONS, INTRODUCTIONS, ETC. - LETTERS OF SYMPATHY. - LETTERS OF BUSINESS. - WRITING FOR THE PRESS. - RULES FOR SPELLING. - PROVERBS FROM SHAKSPEARE. - POETIC QUOTATIONS. - WORDS ALIKE IN SOUND, BUT DIFFERENT IN MEANING AND SPELLING. - EXPLANATION OF THE MOST COMMON ABBREVIATIONS OF WORDS. - FRENCH QUOTATIONS AND PHRASES. - SPANISH WORDS AND PHRASES. - ITALIAN WORDS AND PHRASES. - - - No. 7.--DIME LOVERS’ CASKET. - - A Treatise and Guide to Friendship, Love, Courtship and Marriage. - Embracing also a complete Floral Dictionary, etc. - - CONTENTS. - - FRIENDSHIP.--Its Personality, Between Man and Woman, Close - Communion Proper, Letters, A Warning, Excellent Advice, A Prime - Point, Allow no Improper Intimacy, Special to Young Men, Something - to Avoid, Gallantries, Gifts, Beware of Love, Correspondence. - - LOVE.--The Dawn of Love, Love’s Secretiveness, Confidences, The - First Consciousness of Love, A Man’s Way, A Woman’s Way, Unworthy - Objects of Love by Woman, Unworthy Objects of Man’s Love, How to - Avoid Mistakes. - - COURTSHIP.--The Door Ajar, Disengaged, Engaged: at what age is - it proper, Engagement not to be protracted, The Wooing Time, The - Proposal, Asking Papa, The Rights of a Parent, Engaged, Proposal - Rejected, Breaking off an Engagement. - - MARRIAGE.--The Proper Time, Various forms of Marriage, The - Trousseau, Presents, Bouquets, The Bridesmaids, The Bridegroomsmen, - The Bride, The Bridegroom, the Certificate, Alter the Ceremony, The - Wedding Breakfast, “Cards” or “No Cards,” Notes Congratulatory. - - AFTER MARRIAGE.--Something to be Read Twice, Twelve Golden - Life-Maxims, A Talk with the Unmarried. - - MISCELLANEOUS.--Language of the Handkerchief, Language of the - Fan, Language of the Cane, Language of Finger Rings, Wedding - Anniversaries, viz.: The Paper Wedding, Wooden Wedding, Tin - Wedding, Crystal Wedding, Linen Wedding, Silver Wedding, Golden - Wedding. - - THE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS.--How to Use the Vocabulary, The - Vocabulary. I--Flowers, The Vocabulary. II--Sentiments. - - - No. 8.--DIME BALL-ROOM COMPANION. - - And Guide to Dancing. Giving Rules of Etiquette, Hints on Private - Parties, Toilets for the Ball-room, etc. - - CONTENTS. - - ETIQUETTE.--Arrangements, Private Parties, The Parlor or Dancing - Apartment, Music, Refreshments, Ladies’ Toilets, Gentlemen’s Dress, - The Guests. - - MASQUERADES. - - PROMENADE CONCERTS. - - SOCIABLES. - - ORDER OF DANCING. - - SPECIAL RULES OF CONDUCT. - - SQUARE DANCES--Plain Quadrille, Double Quadrille, The Nine Pin, The - Lanciers, The Caledonians, The Prince Imperial, The Virginia Reel, - The Spanish Dance, La Tempete. - - ROUND DANCES.--The Waltz a Trois Temps, Waltz in Double Time, - Cellarius or Mazourka Waltz, The Schottische, The Polka, the Galop, - Redowa, Polka Redowa, Esmeralda, Danish Polka, The Varsoviana. - - ☞ These books are for sale by all newsdealers; or will be sent, - postpaid, to any address, on receipt of price, TEN CENTS EACH, by - - BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers. - 98 William Street, New York. - - - - - FAMILY HAND-BOOKS. - - - The Dime Family Series (Nos. 1 to 5 inclusive) aim to supply a - class of text-books and manuals fitted for every person’s use--the - old and the young, the learned and the unlearned. They are of - conceded value. Each volume 100 pages, 12mo., sent postpaid on - receipt of price by the publishers, BEADLE AND ADAMS, 98 William - Street, New York. - - - No. 1.--DIME COOK BOOK: - - Or, the Housewife’s Pocket Companion. Embodying what is most - Economic, most Practical, most Excellent. Revised and enlarged - edition. 100 pp. 12mo. By Mrs. VICTOR. - - - EXTRACTS FROM CONTENTS. - - BREAD.--Potato, Brown, Bran, Water, Rye and Indian, Wheat and Rye, - Milk, Rising, Buttermilk Bread, Bread Biscuit or Rolls, French - Rolls, Soda Biscuits, etc., etc. - - HOT BREAD AND CAKES.--Short, Corn, Johnny, Apple Johnny, Griddle, - Rich Griddle, Buckwheat, Rice Griddle, Corn Griddle, and Tomato - Griddle Cakes, Bannock, Waffles, Muffins, Apple Fritters, Rye - Fritters, etc., etc. - - OTHER BREAKFAST DISHES.--Toast, Dry Toast, Buttered Toast, Milk - Toast, Fried Rice, Omelet, Scrambled, Poached and Boiled Eggs, - Wheaten Grits, Hominy, Samp, Hasty Pudding. - - MEATS.--Roasting, Boiling, Frying; sixteen various methods for - preparing same. - - VEAL.--Boiled Veal, Fried Chops, Veal Pie, Leg of Veal, Loin of - Veal, Shoulder of Veal, Calves’ Feet, Calf’s Head and Liver. - - MUTTON.--Mutton Chops, Chops as Beefsteaks, Neck of Mutton, - Shoulder of Mutton, Leg of Mutton, Haunch of Mutton, Saddle of - Mutton, Mutton Cutlets, Irish Stew, Leg of Lamb, etc. - - PORK.--Pork Steaks, To Fry Pork, To Roast Pork, Spare Ribs of Pork, - To Boil a Ham, Pig’s Feet, Souse, Head Cheese, Fine Sausages, - Pickle for Hams, Salting Pork, To Melt Lard. - - POULTRY AND GAME.--Roast and Boiled Turkey, Roast and Baked Goose, - Ducks, Roast Fowl, Chickens Boiled, Fowl Broiled, To Fricassee a - Fowl, Chicken Pie, To Cook Pigeons, etc. - - FISH.--To Fry Fresh Fish or Eels, Baked Shad, To Broil Fresh Fish, - Fresh Codfish, Salt Codfish, Codfish Balls, Stewed Oysters, Fried - Oysters, Pickled Oysters, Chowder. - - NICE BREAKFAST DISHES.--Fresh Meat, Griddles, Clam Griddles, Oyster - Pancakes, Fish Balls, Codfish Toast, Rice Balls, Hashed Mutton, - Head Cheese, A New Breakfast Dish. - - SOUPS.--Beef, Vermicelli, Pea, Bean, Split Peas and Barley, - Vegetable and Rice, Tomato. - - VEGETABLES.--Twenty different varieties. - - SAUCES.--White, Caper for Fish, Egg, Plain Butter, Cranberry, - Apple, Sweet. - - SALADS.--Radishes, Celery. - - PIES.--Twenty-five different varieties. - - PUDDINGS.--Christmas Plum Pudding, and eighteen other recipes. - - CAKES.--Thirty-four recipes. - - TEA, COFFEE, CHOCOLATE.--Eight recipes. - - JELLIES, PRESERVES, ETC.--Forty-one recipes. - - PICKLES.--To Pickle various kinds of Vegetables and Fish. - - ICE CREAM.--How to make it. - - OYSTERS AND OTHER SHELL-FISH. - - THE CARVER’S MANUAL.--General directions for Carving. - - MISCELLANEOUS.--Chicken and Plum Pudding, Potato Muffins, Drop - Biscuit, etc., etc. - - - No. 2.--DIME RECIPE BOOK: - - A Companion to the Dime Cook Book. A Directory for the Parlor, - Nursery, Sick Room, Toilet, Kitchen, Larder, etc. Revised and - enlarged edition. By Mrs. Victor. - - EXTRACTS FROM CONTENTS. - - THE PARLOR.--To choose Carpets, Directions for Carpets, To clean - Turkey Carpets, Moth in Carpets, To extract Oil or Spermaceti - from Carpets, etc., To make Stair Carpets last, Cheap Carpet, - To wash Carpets, to sweep Carpets, House Cleaning, to clean - Looking-glasses, Oil Paintings, Mahogany, etc., To preserve Gilding - and clean it, To take Stains out of Mahogany, to clean Brass - Ornaments, Marble, Lamp, Paint, To polish Mahogany, To remove - Grease from Books, To prevent Mold in Books, Paste, Ink, and - Leather, To clean Silver-plated Candlesticks, To remove Rust, etc. - - THE NURSERY AND SICK ROOM.--Clothing of Infants, Waking Suddenly, - Restlessness at Night, Ointment for Seurf in the Heads of Infants, - Teething, Vaccination, Worms in Children, About Children, Hair of - Children, Hooping Cough, Dysentery, Scarlet Fever, Putrid Sore - Throat, etc., A Cure for Burns, Scalds, Body in Flames, and seventy - more recipes. - - FOOD FOR THE SICK.--A Strengthening Jelly for Invalids, Mutton - Custard for Bowel Complaints or Consumptive Cases, Chicken, Beef, - etc., Toast Water, Rice Jelly, Bread Jelly, Calves’ Feet Broth, - Panada, Beef Tea, Wine Whey, Water Gruel, Milk Porridge, Rice - Gruel, Medicated Prunes. - - THE TOILET; THE HAIR.--To remove Dandruff, A Capital Pomade, - Twiggs’ Receipt for the Hair, Bandoline for the Hair, Hair-curling - Liquid, Oil of Roses. - - THE TEETH.--To clean the Teeth and Gums, Quinine Tooth Powder, - Prepared Charcoal, Peruvian Bark Powder, Homeopathic Chalk, Cuttle - Fish Powder, Lip Salve. - - THE HANDS.--To remove Stains from the Hands, To improve the Hands - and Arms, Ointment for the Hands, Chapped Hands. - - THE COMPLEXION.--To preserve It, Wash for a Blotched Face, To - remove Sunburn, Blotches, Freckles, Pimples, Kalydor for Complexion. - - COSMETICS, PERFUMES, Etc.--Face Powder, Pearl Powder, Rowland’s - Macassar Oil, and twenty more recipes. - - CARE OF CLOTHING.--Furs, Woolen, Silk, Gloves, Ribbons, Lace, - Bonnets, etc. - - THE KITCHEN.--To can Fruit, Pears, Quinces, Berries, Peas, Beans, - Tomatoes, Green Corn, To preserve Fruit Jellies from Mold, To - prevent “Graining,” and seventy-five more recipes. - - MELANGE. - - HOW TO MAKE BUTTER AND CHEESE. - - PROCESS OF WINE-MAKING. - - MISCELLANEOUS.--To mend China, To get rid of Bedbugs and - Cockroaches, To make Ink, To manufacture Candles, To repair Broken - Glass, and a hundred other useful recipes. - - - - - THE ILLUMINATED DIME - POCKET NOVELS! - - PUBLISHED SEMI MONTHLY. - - Comprising the best works only of the most popular living writers - in the field of American Romance. Each issue a complete novel, with - illuminated cover, rivaling in effect the popular chromo, yet sold - at the standard price, TEN CENTS. - - - NOW READY, AND IN PRESS. - - =No. 1--Hawkeye Harry, the Young Trapper Ranger.= By Oll Coomes. - - =No. 2--Dead Shot=; or, The White Vulture. By Albert W. Aiken. - - =No. 3--The Boy Miners=; or, The Enchanted Island. By Edward S. - Ellis. - - =No. 4--Blue Dick=; or, The Yellow Chief’s Vengeance. By Capt. - Mayne Reid. - - =No. 5--Nat Wolfe=; or, The Gold-Hunters. By Mrs. M. V. Victor. - - =No. 6--The White Tracker=; or, The Panther of the Plains. By - Edward S. Ellis. - - =No. 7--The Outlaw’s Wife=; or, The Valley Ranche. By Mrs. Ann S. - Stephens. - - =No. 8--The Tall Trapper=; or, The Flower of the Blackfeet. By - Albert W. Aiken. - - =No. 9--Lightning Jo, the Terror of the Santa Fe Trail.= By Capt. - Adams. - - =No. 10--The Island Pirate.= A Tale of the Mississippi. By - Captain Mayne Reid. - - =No. 11--The Boy Ranger=; or, The Heiress of the Golden Horn. By - Oll Coomes. - - =No. 12--Bess, the Trapper.= A Tale of the Far South-west. By - Edward S. Ellis. - - =No. 13--The French Spy=; or, The Fall of Montreal. By W. J. - Hamilton. - - =No. 14--Long Shot=; or, The Dwarf Guide. By Capt. Comstock. - - =No. 15--The Gunmaker of the Border.= By James L. Bowen. - - =No. 16--Red Hand=; or, The Channel Scourge. By A. G. Piper. - - =No. 17--Ben, the Trapper=; or, The Mountain Demon. By Maj. Lewis - W. Carson. - - =No. 18--Wild Raven, the Ranger=; or, The Missing Guide. By Oll - Coomes. - - =No. 19--The Specter Chief=; or, The Indian’s Revenge. By Seelin - Robins. - - =No. 20--The B’ar-Killer=; or, The Long Trail. By Capt. Comstock. - - =No. 21--Wild Nat=; or, The Cedar Swamp Brigade. By Wm. R. Eyster. - - =No. 22--Indian Jo, the Guide.= By Lewis W. Carson. - - =No. 23--Old Kent, the Ranger.= By Edward S. Ellis. - - =No. 24--The One-Eyed Trapper.= By Capt. Comstock. - - =No. 25--Godbold, the Spy.= A Tale of Arnold’s Treason. By N. C. - Iron. - - =No. 26--The Black Ship.= By John S. Warner. - - =No. 27--Single Eye, the Scourge.= By Warren St. John. - - =No. 28--Indian Jim.= A Tale of the Minnesota Massacre. By Edward - S. Ellis. - - =No. 29--The Scout.= By Warren St. John. - - =No. 30.--Eagle Eye.= By W. J. Hamilton. - - =No. 31--The Mystic Canoe.= A Romance of a Hundred Years Ago. By - Edward S. Ellis. - - =No. 32--The Golden Harpoon=; or, Lost Among the Floes. By Roger - Starbuck. - - =No. 33--The Scalp King.= By Lieut. Ned Hunter. - - =No. 34--Old Lute, the Indian-fighter=; or, The Den in the Hills. - By E. W. Archer. - - =No. 35--Rainbolt, the Ranger=; or, The Demon of the Mountain. By - Oll Coomes. - - =No. 36--The Boy Pioneer.= By Edward S. Ellis. - - =No. 37--Carson, the Guide=; or, the Perils of the Frontier. By - Lieut. J. H. Randolph. - - =No. 38--The Heart Eater=; or, The Prophet of the Hollow Hill. By - Harry Hazard. - - =No. 39--Wetzel, the Scout=; or, The Captive of the Wilderness. - By Boynton Belknap. - - =No. 40--The Huge Hunter=; or, The Steam Man of the Prairies. By - Ed. S. Ellis. - - =No. 41--Wild Nat, the Trapper.= By Paul Prescott. - - =No. 42--Lynx-cap=; or, The Sioux Track, By Paul Bibbs. - - =No. 43--The White Outlaw=; or, The Bandit Brigand. By Harry - Hazard. - - =No. 44--The Dog Trailer.= By Frederick Dewey. - - =No. 45--The Elk King.= By Capt. Chas. Howard. - - =No. 46--Adrian, the Pilot.= By Col. Prentiss Ingraham. - - =No. 47--The Man-hunter.= By Maro O. Rolfe. - - =No. 48--The Phantom Tracker.= By Frederick Dewey. - - =No. 49--Moccasin Bill.= By Paul Bibbs. - - =No. 50--The Wolf Queen.= By Captain Charles Howard. - - =No. 51--Tom Hawk, the Trailer.= By Lewis Jay Swift. - - =No. 52--The Mad Chief.= By Captain Chas. Howard. - - =No. 53--The Black Wolf.= By Edwin E. Ewing. - - =No. 54--Arkansas Jack.= By Harry Hazard. - - =No. 55--Blackbeard.= By Paul Bibbs. - - =No. 56--The River Rifles.= By Billex Muller. - - =No. 57--Hunter Ham.= By J. Edgar Iliff. - - =No. 58--Cloudwood=; or, The Daughter of the Wilderness. By J. M. - Merrill. - - =No. 59--The Texas Hawks.= By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. - - =No. 60--Merciless Mat.= By Capt. Chas. Howard. - - =No. 61--Mad Anthony’s Scouts.= By Emerson Rodman. - - =No. 62--The Luckless Trapper=; or, The Haunted Hunter. By - William R. Eyster. - - =No. 63--The Florida Scout=; or, The Princess of the Everglades. - By Jos. E. Badger, Jr. - - =No. 64--The Island Trapper.= By Capt. Chas. Howard. Ready - - =No. 65--Wolf-Cap.= By Capt. Chas. Howard. Ready - - =No. 66--Rattling Dick.= By Harry Hazard. Ready Jan. 2d. - - =No. 67--Sharp-Eye.= By Major Max Martine. Ready - - =No. 68--Iron Hand.= By Frederick Forest. Ready - - =No. 69--The Yellow Hunter.= By Capt. Chas. Howard. Ready Feb. - 13th. - - =No. 70--The Phantom Rider.= By Maro O. Rolfe. Ready Feb. 27th. - - =No. 71--Delaware Tom.= By Harry Hazard. Ready March. 18th. - - ☞ BEADLE’S DIME POCKET NOVELS are always in print and for sale by - all newsdealers; or will be sent, post-paid, to any address; single - numbers, ten cents; six months (13 Nos.) $1.25; one year (26 Nos.) - $2.50 Address, =BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, - New York=. - - - - - Transcriber’s Notes - - The Table of Contents at the beginning of the book was created by - the transcriber. - - Inconsistencies in hyphenation such as “post-paid”/“postpaid” have - been maintained. - - Minor punctuation and spelling errors have been silently corrected - and, except for those changes noted below, all misspellings in the - text, especially in dialogue, and inconsistent or archaic usage, - have been retained. - - Page 59: “whose feeble glare served only to highten” changed to - “whose feeble glare served only to heighten”. - - Page 78: “Who could this mystersous” changed to “Who could this - mysterious”. - - Page 79: “The crisis of thier” changed to “The crisis of their”. - - Page 88: “at the bottom of the mysttery” changed to “at the bottom - of the mystery”. - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IRON HAND, CHIEF OF THE TORY -LEAGUE *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm -concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, -and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following -the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use -of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for -copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very -easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation -of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project -Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away--you may -do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected -by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark -license, especially commercial redistribution. - -START: FULL LICENSE - -THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE -PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK - -To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free -distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work -(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full -Project Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at -www.gutenberg.org/license. - -Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works - -1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to -and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property -(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all -the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or -destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your -possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a -Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound -by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the -person or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph -1.E.8. - -1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be -used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who -agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few -things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See -paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this -agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. - -1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the -Foundation" or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection -of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual -works in the collection are in the public domain in the United -States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the -United States and you are located in the United States, we do not -claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, -displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as -all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope -that you will support the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting -free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm -works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the -Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with the work. You can easily -comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the -same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg-tm License when -you share it without charge with others. - -1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern -what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are -in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, -check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this -agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, -distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any -other Project Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no -representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any -country other than the United States. - -1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: - -1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other -immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear -prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work -on which the phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the -phrase "Project Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, -performed, viewed, copied or distributed: - - This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and - most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no - restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it - under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this - eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the - United States, you will have to check the laws of the country where - you are located before using this eBook. - -1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is -derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not -contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the -copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in -the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are -redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase "Project -Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply -either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or -obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg-tm -trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted -with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution -must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any -additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms -will be linked to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works -posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the -beginning of this work. - -1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm -License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this -work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. - -1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this -electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without -prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with -active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project -Gutenberg-tm License. - -1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, -compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including -any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access -to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format -other than "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official -version posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm website -(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense -to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means -of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original "Plain -Vanilla ASCII" or other form. Any alternate format must include the -full Project Gutenberg-tm License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. - -1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, -performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works -unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. - -1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing -access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works -provided that: - -* You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from - the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method - you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed - to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he has - agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid - within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are - legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty - payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in - Section 4, "Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg - Literary Archive Foundation." - -* You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies - you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he - does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm - License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all - copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue - all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg-tm - works. - -* You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of - any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the - electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of - receipt of the work. - -* You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free - distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. - -1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work or group of works on different terms than -are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing -from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of -the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the Foundation as set -forth in Section 3 below. - -1.F. - -1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable -effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread -works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project -Gutenberg-tm collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may -contain "Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate -or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other -intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or -other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or -cannot be read by your equipment. - -1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right -of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project -Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project -Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all -liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal -fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT -LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE -PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE -TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE -LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR -INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH -DAMAGE. - -1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a -defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can -receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a -written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you -received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium -with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you -with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in -lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person -or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second -opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If -the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing -without further opportunities to fix the problem. - -1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth -in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO -OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT -LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. - -1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied -warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of -damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement -violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the -agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or -limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or -unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the -remaining provisions. - -1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the -trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone -providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in -accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the -production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm -electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, -including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of -the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this -or any Project Gutenberg-tm work, (b) alteration, modification, or -additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any -Defect you cause. - -Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm - -Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of -electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of -computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It -exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations -from people in all walks of life. - -Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the -assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's -goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will -remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure -and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future -generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see -Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at -www.gutenberg.org - -Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation - -The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit -501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the -state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal -Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification -number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by -U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. - -The Foundation's business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, -Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up -to date contact information can be found at the Foundation's website -and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact - -Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg -Literary Archive Foundation - -Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without -widespread public support and donations to carry out its mission of -increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be -freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest -array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations -($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt -status with the IRS. - -The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating -charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United -States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a -considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up -with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations -where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND -DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular -state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate - -While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we -have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition -against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who -approach us with offers to donate. - -International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make -any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from -outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. - -Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation -methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other -ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To -donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate - -Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works - -Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project -Gutenberg-tm concept of a library of electronic works that could be -freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and -distributed Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of -volunteer support. - -Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed -editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in -the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition. - -Most people start at our website which has the main PG search -facility: www.gutenberg.org - -This website includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. diff --git a/old/65831-0.zip b/old/65831-0.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 2892ea8..0000000 --- a/old/65831-0.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/65831-h.zip b/old/65831-h.zip Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index 96bab07..0000000 --- a/old/65831-h.zip +++ /dev/null diff --git a/old/65831-h/65831-h.htm b/old/65831-h/65831-h.htm deleted file mode 100644 index 6fd2a71..0000000 --- a/old/65831-h/65831-h.htm +++ /dev/null @@ -1,6480 +0,0 @@ -<!DOCTYPE html PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" - "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd"> -<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" xml:lang="en" lang="en"> - <head> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html;charset=utf-8" /> - <meta http-equiv="Content-Style-Type" content="text/css" /> - <title> - Iron Hand, Chief of the Tory League, by Frederick Forest—A Project Gutenberg eBook - </title> - <link rel="coverpage" href="images/cover.jpg" /> - <style type="text/css"> - -body { - margin-left: 10%; - margin-right: 10%; -} - - h1,h2 { - text-align: center; /* all headings centered */ - clear: both; - margin-top: 1.5em; - margin-bottom: 1em; - word-spacing: 0.2em; - letter-spacing: 0.1em; - line-height: 1em; - font-weight: normal; - -} - -h1 {font-size: 200%; line-height: 3em;} -h2 {font-size: 100%; line-height: 1.4em;} - -p { - margin-top: .51em; - text-align: justify; - margin-bottom: .49em; - text-indent: 1em; -} - -.p2 {margin-top: 2em;} -.p4 {margin-top: 4em;} -.p6 {margin-top: 6em;} -.p10 {margin-top: 10em;} - -.pb6 {margin-bottom: 6em;} -.pb10 {margin-bottom: 10em;} - - -.negin1 {padding-left: 1em; text-indent: -1em; text-align: justify;} - -.noindent {text-indent: 0em;} -.pg-brk {page-break-before: always;} - -div.chapter {page-break-before: always;} -h2.nobreak {page-break-before: avoid;} - -.pfs240 {font-size: 240%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs180 {font-size: 180%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs135 {font-size: 135%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs120 {font-size: 120%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs100 {font-size: 100%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs90 {font-size: 90%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs80 {font-size: 80%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} -.pfs60 {font-size: 60%; text-align: center; text-indent: 0em; word-spacing: 0.3em;} - -.fs60 {font-size: 60%; font-style: normal;} -.fs70 {font-size: 70%; font-style: normal;} -.fs80 {font-size: 80%; font-style: normal;} -.fs90 {font-size: 90%; font-style: normal;} -.fs120 {font-size: 120%; font-style: normal;} -.fs150 {font-size: 150%; font-style: normal;} - -.pad1 {padding-left: 1em;} -.pad4 {padding-left: 4em;} -.pad6 {padding-left: 6em;} - -.pad35pc {padding-left: 35%;} - -.bold {font-weight: bold;} - - -hr { - width: 33%; - margin-top: 2em; - margin-bottom: 2em; - margin-left: 33.5%; - margin-right: 33.5%; - clear: both; -} - -hr.tb {width: 45%; margin-left: 27.5%; margin-right: 27.5%;} -hr.chap {width: 65%; margin-left: 17.5%; margin-right: 17.5%;} -hr.full {width: 95%; margin-left: 2.5%; margin-right: 2.5%;} -hr.r20 {width: 20%; margin-left: 40%; margin-right: 40%;} -hr.r20a {width: 20%; margin-left: 40%; margin-right: 40%; - margin-top: 0em; margin-bottom: 0.1em;} - -div.chapter {page-break-before: always;} -h2.nobreak {page-break-before: avoid;} - -table { - margin-left: auto; - margin-right: auto; -} - -table.autotable { border-collapse: collapse; } -table.autotable td, -table.autotable th { padding: 4px; } - -.tdl {text-align: left;} -.tdr {text-align: right;} -.tdc {text-align: center;} - -.br {vertical-align: middle; border-right: solid thin;} - -.pagenum { /* uncomment the next line for invisible page numbers */ - /* visibility: hidden; */ - position: absolute; - color: #A9A9A9; - left: 92%; - font-size: smaller; - text-align: right; - font-style: normal; - font-weight: normal; - font-variant: normal; - text-indent: .5em; -} - -/* poetry line number */ - -/* blockquote (/# #/) */ -.blockquot { margin: 1.5em 5% 1.5em 5%; } - -.blockquotx { margin: .4em 0 0 0; font-size: 90%; text-indent: .7em; - line-height: 1.2em; letter-spacing: .03em;} - -/* general placement and presentation */ -.center {text-align: center; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;} - -.right {text-align: right; margin-right: 1em;} - -.smcap {font-variant: small-caps;} -.allsmcap {font-variant: small-caps; text-transform: lowercase;} - -.gesperrt {letter-spacing: 0.2em; - margin-right: -0.2em;} - -em.gesperrt {font-style: normal;} - - -/* Images */ - -img { - max-width: 100%; - height: auto; -} -img.w100 {width: 100%;} - - -.figcenter { - margin: auto; - text-align: center; - page-break-inside: avoid; - max-width: 100%; -} - - -/* Transcriber's notes */ -.transnote {background-color: #E6E6FA; - color: black; - font-size:smaller; - padding:0.5em; - margin-bottom:5em; - font-family:sans-serif, serif; } - - -/* for inserting info from TN changes */ -.corr { - text-decoration: none; - border-bottom: thin dotted gray; -} - -.x-ebookmaker .corr { - text-decoration: none; - border-bottom: none; - } - -/* Illustration classes */ -.illowp47 {width: 47%;} - - </style> - </head> -<body> - -<div style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of Iron Hand, Chief of the Tory League, by Frederick Forest</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online -at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you -are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the -country where you are located before using this eBook. -</div> - -<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: Iron Hand, Chief of the Tory League</p> -<p style='display:block; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0;'>or, The Double Face</p> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:1em; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Frederick Forest</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: July 13, 2021 [eBook #65831]</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>Character set encoding: UTF-8</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Produced by: David Edwards, Susan Carr and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (Northern Illinois University Digital Library at http://digital.lib.niu.edu/)</div> - -<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IRON HAND, CHIEF OF THE TORY LEAGUE ***</div> - -<div class="figcenter illowp47" id="cover" style="max-width: 62.5em;"> - <img class="w100" src="images/cover.jpg" alt="" /> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs90 pg-brk"><span class="smcap">Vol. VI.</span>] <span class="pad6">FEBRUARY 3, 1877.</span> <span class="smcap pad6">[No. 68.</span></p> - -<h1>IRON HAND,<br /> -<span class="fs60">CHIEF OF THE TORY LEAGUE.</span></h1> - -<hr class="r20 p6 x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs120">BY FREDERICK FOREST.</p> - -<hr class="r20 pb6 x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs100 p4">NEW YORK.<br /> -<span class="fs120">BEADLE AND ADAMS, PUBLISHERS,</span><br /> -<span class="fs70">98 WILLIAM STREET.</span></p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs90 p10 pb10 pg-brk">Entered according to Act of Congress, in the year 1871, by<br /> -<span class="gesperrt">FRANK STARR & CO.</span>,<br /> -In the office of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CONTENTS">CONTENTS</h2> -</div> - -<table class="autotable fs90" width="85%" summary=""> -<tr> -<td class="tdr"></td> -<td class="tdl"></td> -<td class="tdr fs80">PAGE</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">I.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE QUARREL.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_I">9</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">II.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE MURDERED MAN.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_II">16</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">III.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE STRANGE FACE.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_III">21</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">IV.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE NIGHT RIDE.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_IV">29</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">V.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE RED WITNESS.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_V">32</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VI.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE HOT TRAIL.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VI">43</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VII.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE SECRET MISSION.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VII">52</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">VIII.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE HUNTED LIFE.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_VIII">67</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">IX.</td> -<td class="tdl">A SAVAGE FRIEND.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_IX">75</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">X.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE MASK REMOVED.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_X">82</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XI.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE UNNATURAL BROTHER.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XI">87</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XII.</td> -<td class="tdl">THE END OF THE TRANSGRESSOR IS HARD.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XII">89</a> </td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdr">XIII.</td> -<td class="tdl">SMILES THROUGH TEARS.</td> -<td class="tdr"><a href="#CHAPTER_XIII">93</a> </td> -</tr> -</table> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">[Pg 9]</span></p> - -<p class="pfs180">IRON HAND,</p> - -<p class="pfs240">CHIEF OF THE TORY LEAGUE:</p> - -<p class="pfs80">OR,</p> - -<p class="pfs135">THE DOUBLE FACE.</p> - -<hr class="r20 x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_I"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER I</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE QUARREL.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">When</span> the colonists had acquired a mastery over the savages -of the wilderness, and assisted in breaking the French -power on their frontier, they began to feel their manhood -stirring within them, and they tacitly agreed no longer to -submit to the narrow and oppressive policy of Great Britain. -Their industry and commerce were too expansive to be confined -within the narrow limits of those restrictions which the -Board of Trade, from time to time, had imposed, and they -determined to cast off these chains. Moreover, the principles -of civil and religious liberty urged them on; and, -at last, the trumpet of the Revolution was sounded, as the -violent result of their dissatisfactions.</p> - -<p>It was during the fourth year of this Revolution, in the -year of our Lord 1778, that our tale opens in the vicinity -of Lake George, near Fort Ann.</p> - -<p>In a pretty, white cottage a short distance from the fort -sat two men over their wine, discussing the politics of the -day.</p> - -<p>One, who is destined to be our hero, was about five and -twenty years of age; he was tall and commanding; his -features nicely molded and in perfect harmony; the eyes -were gray, although, at a distance, one might mistake them -for black, and his hair was dark-brown and curled close to -his head.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">[10]</span></p> - -<p>Edgar Sherwood, for such was his name, was of English -birth. Another brother and he were the last of an aristocratic -family. These two had, however, some few years -previous, separated on account of a misunderstanding in regard -to their paternal acres. After the death of their father, -our hero inherited the greater part of the estate. This his -brother declared to be unjust, and had sworn he would have -satisfaction. Thus they parted.</p> - -<p>Edgar had been treated perhaps a little unfairly by his -native country in some affairs, and becoming enraged against -her he had come to America to espouse the cause of the -struggling colonists.</p> - -<p>The man with whom Edgar Sherwood was conversing was -the father of his betrothed; his name was Thomas Lear. -He was a native of England, and a thorough Tory.</p> - -<p>“Can it be possible, young man, that you are so rash as to -think of joining the Continental army?” said Thomas Lear, -gazing at Edgar Sherwood with a look of astonishment, and -his face flushing to a deep crimson.</p> - -<p>“It is, sir.”</p> - -<p>“And have you no respect for your king, or love for your -family and friends?”</p> - -<p>“For the former, none whatever, but for the latter a great -deal of love and respect.”</p> - -<p>“Well, then, how can you go to work deliberately and -bring this disgrace upon them? Why, Sherwood, it is absurd -to think of doing such a thing!” and Lear began to -grow angry.</p> - -<p>“If it is absurd to lend one’s aid to a righteous cause, then -I am willing to be called absurd or rash, but I am determined -to do this.”</p> - -<p>“But, do you have faith in this war? Do you believe -these colonists will ever overcome King George?”</p> - -<p>“Most assuredly they will!” replied Edgar Sherwood. -“Why, sir, they fight like tigers, and they never will remain -conquered. What arouses these men to arms is the love of -liberty, their firesides, their wives and children.”</p> - -<p>“Very well; perhaps they are good at fighting, but, where -is the money coming from to maintain this war any longer? -Congress has none.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">[11]</span></p> - -<p>“They will fight without pay; and, moreover, each soldier -will contribute his mite.”</p> - -<p>“Nevertheless, they are but a handful at best, and can not -hold out much longer.”</p> - -<p>“Ah, my good sir!” and Edgar Sherwood’s eyes sparkled -with enthusiasm, “do not be deceived in this. The colonists, -though few in number, have been compelled from the beginning -to be self-reliant, and have been made strong by their -mother’s neglect. Heretofore they have built fortifications, -raised armies, and fought battles for England’s glory and their -own preservation, without England’s aid and without her -sympathy; and, think you now they can not do this again, -with twofold zeal, for themselves?”</p> - -<p>Thomas Lear was beginning to chafe under the young man’s -patriotic words, and perceiving that he could not persuade -him to abandon his purpose, he became very angry.</p> - -<p>“I ask you once more, Sherwood,” said he, “to pause and -consider the consequences; think—I entreat you—of my -daughter, Imogene, before you take this rash step.”</p> - -<p>“I have considered it all, sir, but my mind remains the -same.”</p> - -<p>Lear grew deathly pale with rage at these last words. -Thomas Lear was a rich man, and he had long counted upon -having Edgar Sherwood for a son-in-law, but this could not -be under these circumstances. He dashed his wine-glass savagely -upon the table, and sprung to his feet.</p> - -<p>“You are mad! stark mad!” he cried. “Henceforth our -connection is severed; never dare to cross my threshold again, -for you are a traitor to your king, sir—begone!”</p> - -<p>Having uttered these words, the old man sunk back in his -chair perfectly exhausted.</p> - -<p>At this moment, the door was suddenly thrown open, and -Imogene Lear—Edgar Sherwood’s betrothed—appeared upon -the scene.</p> - -<p>“Oh, father!” she cried, casting herself at the feet of her -parent, “I implore you to have mercy! Recall your words—forgive!”</p> - -<p>“Never!” cried Lear.</p> - -<p>“Be it so!” said Edgar Sherwood, scornfully, and was -gone.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">[12]</span></p> - -<p>One month has passed away since the events last related, -and during this time Edgar Sherwood had become a captain -in the American army, and was stationed with his regiment -at Fort Ann.</p> - -<p>It was a bright, clear morning in the month of September, -and a gentle breeze caused the flag of freedom to rise and fall -in graceful folds over the garrison, inspiring the heart of every -loyal man with patriotic fervor as he looked up to it.</p> - -<p>Within the fort, every thing seemed in commotion, but -without, all was quiet, and an observer would never have surmised -that any thing particular was going on. The soldiers -were hurrying back and forth; and some were collected in -groups busily talking.</p> - -<p>During the past night, the commander had received information -from one of his spies that the notorious band, called -the Tory League, led by their villainous chief, Iron Hand, -was preparing to attack the house of a prominent Whig, and -that it would be necessary to send a company or two of men -to secure the patriot’s safety.</p> - -<p>The colonel had chosen Captain Sherwood to go on this -little expedition with his company, and the men were now -preparing for that purpose.</p> - -<p>The Tory League was composed of Tories and Indians, -whom King George, foreseeing at the beginning of the war -would be valuable allies to him if but secured, sent over agents -to enlist in his cause. Among these agents came the man -who had made himself so notorious throughout the country -under the title of Iron Hand, which name the Indians gave -him. The villainous deeds of this band and their white chief -were countless, and they had become a terror to all stanch -Whigs.</p> - -<p>A large reward had been offered for the capture of Iron -Hand, dead or alive, but to no profit; he was too artful for -his enemy. In fact, no one, as yet, in the Continental army -had been able even to obtain a sight of him. Search had -been made for the rendezvous of the band but without success.</p> - -<p>The attacks of the Tory League were always made with so -much privacy as to exclude the sufferers, not only from succor, -but frequently, through a dread of future depredations, from -the commiseration of their neighbors also.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">[13]</span></p> - -<p>The soldiers received the orders to prepare for action with -delight; excitement of any kind had been scarce for the last -few months around the fort, and time dragged heavily on -with them. Captain Sherwood felt some pleasure also on being -chosen for this occasion, as he had had but little opportunity -to show his valor since his enlistment. Yet, all day long his -face wore a troubled look, and his whole manner seemed -changed from usual gayety to sadness. The few who had -observed this attributed it to fear, and yet could not believe -that such a man should even know the meaning of the word.</p> - -<p>When evening came, and a few hours before he was to -start out upon his mission, he sat down, and, writing a short -note, dispatched it to the little white cottage on the hill.</p> - -<p>Imogene Lear, on receiving her lover’s note, cast a shawl -about her delicate form, and hastened to the place appointed -for their meeting. It was in a thick grove of cedars a short -distance from the cottage.</p> - -<p>Captain Sherwood, dressed in his long military cloak, with -his sword girded to his side, was pacing to and fro in a -thoughtful mood under the shadow of the stalwart trees.</p> - -<p>“Edgar,” whispered Imogene, approaching with noiseless -steps behind him, and placing her little white hand upon his -shoulder.</p> - -<p>“Imogene? It is you!” said he, turning quickly and throwing -his arm around her waist. “I was afraid you would -be unable to come, my darling.”</p> - -<p>“Father was asleep and I stole out unobserved, but I must -not remain long away, or he may awake and miss me.”</p> - -<p>“Is he as savage against me as ever?” asked Edgar.</p> - -<p>“Yes; but, do not let this trouble you, dear Edgar, I am -the same—as—ever.”</p> - -<p>“I know you are, my darling,” and he imprinted a kiss -upon her cheek.</p> - -<p>Imogene Lear was eighteen years of age. She was tall in -stature, and most exquisitely formed. Her skin was white, -even waxen white; and now and then a tinge of the rose -visited her cheek; her lips were of that ruby red which goes -with perfect health; perfectly arched brows, and long, dark -lashes, shading eyes of wonderful brilliancy and depth of -expression, made up this face suitable for an angel.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">[14]</span></p> - -<p>“Let us sit down,” said Edgar, leading the way to a fallen -tree. “How are we to overcome this prejudice of your -father, Imogene?”</p> - -<p>“I know not,” said she; “he is very angry with you, but -time may change him.”</p> - -<p>“Do you think he is right and I am wrong in this matter?”</p> - -<p>Imogene colored and did not reply. Edgar saw this, and -dropping his head, said, sorrowfully:</p> - -<p>“Then you think I am in the wrong?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no! but you know—he—is my father.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, yes, I know,” said Edgar, impatiently.</p> - -<p>“There, dear Edgar, do not let us quarrel about this; of -course you are in the right.”</p> - -<p>Then the couple remained silent for some time.</p> - -<p>“We were to be married next month. Need this rupture -between your father and me make any difference?”</p> - -<p>“You would not urge me to marry against his will?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no,” said Edgar, coldly.</p> - -<p>“We can wait awhile and he may relent.”</p> - -<p>“And pray how long will you wait for me?”</p> - -<p>“All my lifetime, if need be!” and Imogene looked him -full in the face with her beautiful eyes.</p> - -<p>“And will you never forget, whatever may happen?”</p> - -<p>“Never.”</p> - -<p>“My beautiful one, I believe you. Forgive me for asking -you to do wrong.”</p> - -<p>“You said in your note, Edgar, that you were going away -to-night.”</p> - -<p>The same troubled look that had haunted him all day now -again was plainly visible on Edgar Sherwood’s face.</p> - -<p>“Yes,” said he, “but we return to-morrow morning.”</p> - -<p>“Are you going to battle?” asked Imogene, quickly, perceiving -this look. “Is there any thing serious about to happen?”</p> - -<p>“No; why do you ask?”</p> - -<p>“Because you seem troubled about something.”</p> - -<p>“I am a little—shall I tell you why?”</p> - -<p>“Certainly, dear Edgar, are we to have any secrets between -us?”</p> - -<p>“But you will laugh at me if I tell you?”</p> - -<p>“Try me.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">[15]</span></p> - -<p>“Are you superstitious, Imogene?”</p> - -<p>“No, not very.”</p> - -<p>“Well, it is all about a strange dream that I had last night, -and you will say that I am superstitious if I tell it to you.”</p> - -<p>“Come, now, do not delay any longer, but tell it to me at -once; my curiosity is excited.”</p> - -<p>“It appeared to me as follows:</p> - -<p>“I seemed to be walking by the side of a lake, when, suddenly, -a shriek, which fairly chilled my blood, filled the air, -and then I thought I saw you rush past me, dressed in white, -and crying, <em>help! help! help!</em></p> - -<p>“Approaching the water you sprung into a canoe and -pushed far away from the shore. I could neither move nor -speak to you, and my agony was killing me. The canoe began -to float, I thought, bearing you with it. Then I was trying -to swim to you, when, in a moment, the boat mysteriously -disappeared. I was paralyzed, and looking down into the clear -water, I thought I saw you lying upon the bottom.</p> - -<p>“At this moment some one behind me laughed—laughed -as only a fiend could laugh. Turning around, I thought I -saw my own image, and I started back a step. The apparition -approached, and pointing down at you, said: ‘Look, look, -this shall be your grave also! Beware of your shadow!’ and -then it vanished.</p> - -<p>“I awoke. Cold perspiration stood in great beads upon -my forehead. You will tell me that I ought not to let this -trouble me, as it was only a dream; nevertheless, I can not -help it; it has taken a strong hold upon me, and I can not -shake it off.”</p> - -<p>“It was strange,” mused Imogene. “I hope nothing will -happen to you, Edgar, for if I could hear that you were—well, -never mind what—I should die with grief.”</p> - -<p>The couple now observed that there was a light in the -cottage.</p> - -<p>“I must go now,” said Imogene, starting up, half-affrighted -lest her father should miss her.</p> - -<p>“I will go part way with you,” and they moved away.</p> - -<p>As they arrived near the house, they stopped a moment before -parting, and Edgar happened to cast a glance back to -the woods.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">[16]</span></p> - -<p>There, standing by a huge tree, where the moonlight fell -upon him, was the form of a man—a perfect copy in every -respect of Edgar Sherwood.</p> - -<p>“Do you see it?” whispered Imogene, trembling and turning -ashy pale.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_II"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER II</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE MURDERED MAN.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">It</span> was near midnight when Captain Sherwood and his -men arrived in the vicinity of the Whig’s house. They had -miscalculated the distance from the fort, and were later than -was designed.</p> - -<p>The Whig’s residence was one of the old-fashion farmhouses -common in those days, and on all sides of it was a -thick growth of foliage which, at a short distance, completely -hid it from view.</p> - -<p>The soldiers marched in single file cautiously up the road -that led to the front of the house and halted. All was quiet -and dark around the place. Captain Sherwood advanced a -few steps and listened—the low, melancholy howl of a dog -broke the stillness. Then he approached the front door to -knock, but finding it open, entered.</p> - -<p>The lower rooms of the house were dark and deserted; the -furniture was scattered about in great disorder. Again the -captain heard the howl of a dog which seemed to come from -over his head, and hastening up the stairs he entered one of -the upper rooms, where a horrid spectacle met his sight. There, -on the floor, lay an old man weltering in his blood—dead. His -body was horribly mangled and the scalp torn from his head. -A faithful Newfoundland dog was standing with his forepaws -upon the dead man’s breast, mourning over him.</p> - -<p>Captain Sherwood turned away sick at heart, and darted -down the stairs back to his men.</p> - -<p>“The villains have been here,” said he, “and sacked the -house. The old man lies dead upon the floor; the rest of the -family were probably taken prisoners. Let War-Cloud hunt -out their trail, for we must shoot every man of this gang.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">[17]</span></p> - -<p>The soldiers were furious at this new outrage, and manifested -their willingness to follow the Tory League to the end -of the earth, for vengeance. In a few moments War-Cloud—the -scout—gave the signal that he had found the trail, and -the company started off in pursuit. Every foot of the ground -was familiar to the scout, and he had no difficulty in leading -the way.</p> - -<p>All night long they hurried on in pursuit, over hills and -valleys, through woods, and across plains. The trees, clad -in their autumnal garb, looked like iron warriors in the -moonlight, and every now and then, as a slight wind whirled -the leaves to the ground, the troops would stop and listen for -their enemy.</p> - -<p>The night wore on until the moon having completed her -course, left the land in darkness—but darkness not long to last, -for soon the orient heralded the approach of dawning day.</p> - -<p>As the eastern horizon began to show these signs, the soldiers, -being fatigued, halted upon the summit of a high hill. Their -tramp had been a long one, but still there were no signs of the -Tory League save their trail, which they seemed to have taken -no pains to conceal. The League had undoubtedly got a good -start and were improving their advantage.</p> - -<p>Captain Sherwood and War-Cloud withdrew a short distance -from the troops, to a cliff that jutted out from the general -line of the mountain. Here they could command a view -of an entire valley to the distance of many miles. It was -quite level and presented a beautiful scene. The surface was -covered with a carpet of bright green, enameled by flowers -that gleamed like many-colored gems, and here and there the -willow mingled its foliage in soft shady groves, forming inviting -retreats. A stream, like a silver serpent, bisected the -valley—not running in a straight course, but in luxuriant -windings, as though it loved to tarry in the midst of the bright -scene.</p> - -<p>War-Cloud, after scanning the whole plain before him for -some time, turned to the captain with delight.</p> - -<p>“Look, chief!” said he, pointing to that part of the valley -almost below them. “See! white and red devils right -there.”</p> - -<p>Yes, there was the Tory League sure enough, quietly seated<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">[18]</span> -upon the ground, enjoying their morning meal in full sight of -the captain.</p> - -<p>It was a motley crowd, indeed. There were white men -dressed in British uniforms and others merely in loose hunting-shirts -and breeches, together with the dusky savages who -were in full war-costume—that is, naked to the waist, and -painted over the breast and face so as to render them as frightful -as possible. Their heads were closely shaven over the -temples and behind the ears—a patch upon the top was -cropped short, but in the center of the crown, one long lock -of hair remained uncut, which was intermingled with plumes -and plaited so as to hang down the back.</p> - -<p>“Surely,” said the captain, “this is but a small part of the -Tory League, for there are hardly more than seventy-five men -here, and the band is said to number two or three hundred.”</p> - -<p>“We’ll make the snakes these many less!” said the scout.</p> - -<p>“Yes, we’ll give the villains their deserts in a short space -of time; but where are the prisoners?” exclaimed the captain, -glancing searchingly over the band.</p> - -<p>“There!” said War-Cloud, his practiced eye observing -them at once, seated beneath the shade of a willow tree. -“Three women.”</p> - -<p>“To their rescue at once!” cried the captain, dashing away -to his company. “Up, up, every man of you, and follow -me!”</p> - -<p>The path that led from the cliff to the valley was nearly -half a mile in length before it reached the level below, winding -through a growth of young trees which completely hid -the soldiers from view.</p> - -<p>Down, down the mountain’s side they hurried faster and -faster, until at length they burst forth upon the open plain -within a few hundred yards of the enemy.</p> - -<p>“Now, my brave fellows!” shouted Captain Sherwood, -wielding his sword above his head, “teach these British villains -and red rascals decency!” and away the whole troop -rushed wildly upon the foe.</p> - -<p>This was a surprise to the Tories and Indians, and a general -panic seized upon them. Unmindful of every thing but -their own safety, they took to flight, leaving their prisoners.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">[19]</span> -But, after fleeing a short distance, and finding themselves hard -pressed by their foe, they turned about like hunted game at -bay to give battle.</p> - -<p>But a moment elapsed, and full two hundred men were engaged -in deadly conflict.</p> - -<p>Crack—crack—crack, went the rifles, and a sulphury smoke -spread a cloud upon the air. As the vapory mass cleared -away, some were seen dashing at each other with their empty -guns, some twanging their bows from a distance, and others -grappling in hand-to-hand combat.</p> - -<p>Neither bugle nor drum sent forth its inspiring notes; no -cannon rolled its thunder; no rocket blazed; but every now -and then the wild war-whoop rung out upon the air, making -the blood of the listener run cold. And then came the fierce -charging cheer of the troops, and the cries of triumph and -vengeance.</p> - -<p>While the fight was raging, War-Cloud, observing two Indians -making for their prisoners, lashed under the willow tree, -uttered the war-cry and started after them at full speed. The -savages looked behind them, and seeing but one adversary, -gave fight. War-Cloud whirled his tomahawk at the foremost -one’s head, but the savage with a quick movement -evaded the weapon and sprung forward with his knife. Then -there was a desperate struggle of life and death. The bodies -of the combatants seemed twined around each other; then -one of them fell heavily to the ground. War-Cloud’s antagonist -had fallen. But before the scout could whirl about, the -other Indian—an active warrior—rushed upon him and bore -him down. His knee was pressed on War-Cloud’s breast, and -his arm raised on high to drive the deadly blade into his -heart! but at this instant Captain Sherwood’s trusty rifle -sounded on the air—the savage dropped dead, and the scout -was saved.</p> - -<p>At length, after an hour of hard fighting, the Tories were -completely routed; and but few ever lived to tell the tale of -their disaster. After the excitement was over, and while the -soldiers were looking after their dead and wounded, the white -captives, who had been silent observers of the fray, were released -from their fetters. Their joy was great at being restored -to liberty again, but their grief was greater for their<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">[20]</span> -murdered father. The story of the captives was to this effect:</p> - -<p>At an early hour in the evening, and while the old man -and his three daughters were gathered round their fireside -chatting, their Newfoundland dog sprung to his feet and rushed -toward the door, growling fiercely.</p> - -<p>His growl shortly increased to a bark—so earnest, that it -was evident some one was outside. The door was shut and -barred; but the old man, thinking perhaps it might be the -soldiers whom he expected, pulled out the bar, and opened -the door without inquiring.</p> - -<p>He had scarcely shown himself, when the wild whoops of -Indians rung on their ears, and a blow from a heavy club prostrated -him upon the threshold. In spite of the terrible onset -of the brave dog, the savages, white and red, rushed into the -house yelling fearfully, and brandishing their weapons. In -less than five minutes the house was plundered of every -valuable article. The old man, partly recovering, had seized -his gun and mounted the stairs, where he was met and butchered -outright. When the marauders had finished plundering, -they seized their prisoners and made off in haste.</p> - -<p>Such was the tale of the three females.</p> - -<p>The soldiers were soon collected into ranks, and were ready -for marching orders. They had been triumphant, and were -in good spirits. Nearly every man of their foe lay dead or -dying upon the field, while they had lost but three men and -only five wounded. However, in the midst of their exultations, -a murmur ran through the crowd, and every man looked -at his companion inquiringly. “What had become of their -brave leader, Captain Sherwood?” each asked, in a whisper. -He had disappeared from their midst.</p> - -<p>An hour was spent in search for him; the valley and surrounding -woods were scoured in vain, for he was not found. -The troops were obliged to turn their steps homeward without -him. It was nearly evening when they arrived at the fort, -where they were hailed with loud shouts from their comrades -when the news of victory was proclaimed. But, afterward, -when it was found that the captain was missing, a shade of -sadness seemed to fall on all. Immediately scouts were sent -in all directions to search for him.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">[21]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_III"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER III</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE STRANGE FACE.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">The</span> ladies of the garrison for some time had been suffering -<i lang="la" xml:lang="la">ennui</i>, and after holding a consultation, they resolved to -petition for some change to break the monotonous life. Accordingly, -when all their feminine forces were brought to bear -upon the officers, they forthwith yielded, and it was determined -that the following night—the night after the soldiers’ -return—should be a gala occasion; a night devoted to Terpsichore.</p> - -<p>The ladies set to work with an ardent zeal, decorating the -hall where the ball was to be held. It was a long barracks -used for the officers’ mess-room. The regimental flags were -placed here and there about the room, and foliage, brought -from the woods, ornamented the walls, so that in a short time -the place had assumed quite a festive appearance.</p> - -<p>During the afternoon of this day, and while everybody in -the fort seemed to be talking about him, Captain Sherwood -made his appearance. He was pale, and looked fatigued; his -uniform showed marks of hard usage, being badly torn and -bespattered with blood.</p> - -<p>An eager crowd was soon collected around him to listen to -his exploits. All were greatly surprised upon learning that -he had not been taken prisoner as was supposed. His story -was as follows:</p> - -<p>During the battle he had come in hand-to-hand combat -with an Indian who appeared to be the leader of the Tory -party, as Iron Hand himself was not with them. He finally -managed, after a hard contest, to wound the arm of his antagonist, -whereupon the savage turned about and took to -flight. The captain hotly pursued, and in a few moments, -both were separated from the main body of the combatants in -a secluded portion of the woods; however, the officer was -fast gaining ground on the Indian, and in a few moments -would have had him in his power, when suddenly he received<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">[22]</span> -a shot from some unseen foe. Staggering forward he fell, and -this was the last he remembered.</p> - -<p>He had fainted, and when he recovered, he found himself -prone in a hole in the earth about four or five feet deep, with -a heap of hemlock boughs covering the top. The dirt had -been just thrown out, and whoever had dug the hole had undoubtedly -intended it for his grave. But they probably had -been frightened away, and consequently left their work only -half accomplished.</p> - -<p>When the captain had thoroughly revived, and became -aware of his situation, he managed to crawl out of the horrid -place and drag himself to a stream near by, where he -quaffed a draught which started his blood on the regular course -again and restored vitality.</p> - -<p>After bathing a wound in his leg—which was not serious, -as the ball had merely cut the flesh—and bandaging it up with -his handkerchief, he started for the garrison, where he had -arrived, weak and exhausted from loss of blood and want of -food.</p> - -<p>Every attention was now paid to him, for Captain Sherwood -had become a great favorite with all since his first entering -the fort. The surgeon was summoned immediately to dress -his wound, and the cooks of the garrison vied with each other -in serving up their best dish for the gallant officer in the -quickest possible time. The ladies offered their services -also, but the captain declared that he would not have any -thing more done for him. He was as well as any of them, -he said, having partaken of a good dinner, and to prove this, -he marched to the mess-room and spent the remainder of the -afternoon in assisting the fair ones arranging the hall for the -evening entertainment.</p> - -<p>And now, dear reader, while our hero is there amusing himself, -let us transport ourselves from the fort to a pretty, white -cottage, which stands half-way down the side of a large hill -three miles in the distance.</p> - -<p>It was near sunset. A sunset more brilliant than common. -The western sky was filled with masses of colored clouds, on -which gold and purple and blue mingled together in gorgeous -magnificence; and in which the eye of the beholder could -not fail to note the outlines of strange forms, and fancy them<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">[23]</span> -bright and glorious beings of another world. It was a picture -to gladden the eye, to give joy to the heart that was sad, -and make happier the happy.</p> - -<p>All this beauty was not unobserved. Eyes were dwelling -upon it—beautiful eyes—and yet there was a sadness in their -look, that ill-accorded with the picture on which they were -gazing. Though apparently regarding the sunset, the thoughts -which gave them expression were drawn from a far different -source. The heart within was dwelling upon another object.</p> - -<p>The owner of those eyes was a beautiful girl, or rather a -fully-developed woman. She was tall and majestic, of soft -graces and waving outlines. The lady was Imogene Lear. -She was walking backward and forward in a little garden at -the back of the house, as if waiting for the arrival of some one.</p> - -<p>Every now and then her eyes sought the grove of cedars -at the foot of the inclosure, through whose slender trunks -gleamed the silvery surface of a stream. Upon this spot they -rested from time to time, with an expression of strange interest. -No wonder that to those eyes that was an interesting -spot—it was there where love’s first vows had been uttered -and two young hearts plighted forever.</p> - -<p>Often as she gazed at this place a look of sadness would -steal over her face as if some thought were flying through -her brain that was unpleasant, and it brought with it clouds -upon her brow, and imparted an air of uneasiness. What -was that thought?</p> - -<p>Ah! a stern father caused it. No longer could she meet -that lover, who had rendered this grove sacred, openly as in -former times, but was obliged to resort to deceit and have -their interviews in secret.</p> - -<p>Sometimes she had been half tempted to forsake her home -and go with Edgar Sherwood. But no, she could not do -that; sober thought always brought her back to reason, and -she would determine again to stay by him and tend him in -his old age, for she was his only child and comfort, and then -before this trouble he had ever been very kind to her and -undoubtedly, ere long, he would relent and give his consent -to her marriage with Edgar.</p> - -<p>Such were the thoughts she consoled herself with.</p> - -<p>Imogene Lear was naturally open and frank, and the deceit<span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">[24]</span> -which she now practiced on her father was something -altogether new and foreign to her noble nature, and it troubled -her exceedingly, but then her love for Edgar Sherwood -was strong, and love prevailed over conscience.</p> - -<p>While continuing her walk up and down the garden path -she stopped short, as if having taken some sudden resolution.</p> - -<p>“I will go—I ought to gratify him!” she muttered to herself. -Sitting down upon a bench near by, and opening a -folded slip of paper, she read:</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> - -<p>“<span class="smcap">Dear Imogene</span>—I have just returned from the war-path safe, -and wish to see you very much. We are to have a ball at the -garrison to-night. You must come—do not refuse, dearest one. -If you do I shall be miserable all the evening. As soon as your -father has retired for the night, hasten to our old place of meeting -with your brave steed, where I shall be in waiting. Adieu, my -dearest, for a few hours.</p> - -<p class="right">E.”</p> -</div> - -<p>When she had finished reading the note, she pressed it to -her lips and kissed it fervently.</p> - -<p>“No, Edgar, I will not refuse: I will go!” she murmured, -and thrusting the letter into her bosom, she glided softly into -the house.</p> - -<p>A few hours after sunset, and when it was dark, Imogene -again stole forth into the garden. This time she was closely -muffled in an ample cloak and her head was donned with a -riding-hat.</p> - -<p>After proceeding a short distance she stopped and listened. -Perfect stillness reigned around the cottage. Then there -came a low whistle from the lower end of the garden, and -she tripped along over the sanded walk to the place, on -reaching which she called:</p> - -<p>“Jeff?”</p> - -<p>“Here, lady,” answered a man, stepping a little more into -the light. He was her trusty servant.</p> - -<p>“All saddled?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, Miss Imogene.”</p> - -<p>“Is <em>he</em> here?”</p> - -<p>“Out there on the road waiting.”</p> - -<p>The man assisted his mistress to mount, and the next moment, -giving her steed a tap with her whip, she dashed away -to meet her lover.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">[25]</span></p> - -<p>As Edgar and Imogene met, their eyes sparkled with the -thought of love, but neither gave utterance to their thoughts -until their horses had borne them away from the cottage. -Edgar was the first to speak.</p> - -<p>“Were you intending to ride over to the garrison to-night, -Imogene?” he said.</p> - -<p>“No, not until I received your note.”</p> - -<p>“My note?” and Edgar looked puzzled.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Why, Imogene, I sent you no note.”</p> - -<p>“I have got it in my pocket.”</p> - -<p>“Let me see it.”</p> - -<p>She handed the note to him which she had received, and -he ran his eye over the contents.</p> - -<p>He looked astonished.</p> - -<p>“By Heavens!” he exclaimed, “somebody is plotting against -us; but, thank God, I was in time to frustrate their plan!”</p> - -<p>“Then you really did not write it?” and Imogene appeared -frightened.</p> - -<p>“I never saw this note before—I did not even know you were -going to the fort until I met your servant on the edge of the -grove, who said you would be ready in a few moments, and -then hastened away before I could speak to him.”</p> - -<p>“Who could have done this? Oh, Edgar, I fear there is some -dreadful mystery about this!”</p> - -<p>“No, no, Imogene! there is nothing of the kind,” he said, -observing her alarm; “do not let this frighten you. Undoubtedly -some one of your servants did this with no good design, -but he will not dare try the same trick again.”</p> - -<p>Here a new thought seemed to enter Imogene’s brain and -she asked, quickly:</p> - -<p>“Your dream, Edgar? has any thing come from it?”</p> - -<p>“No,” replied he, forcing a laugh; “how foolish I was to -let a silly dream trouble me!”</p> - -<p>“I am very glad; it annoyed me much.”</p> - -<p>“Let it be forgotten, dearest, for it was nothing more than -a common dream, although at the time I was quite certain it -was a vision—a presentiment.”</p> - -<p>They were now entering a straggling patch of woods, which -stood at either side of the road but a short distance from<span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">[26]</span> -fort. Imogene was about to speak again, when her quick ears -caught a sound that appeared odd to her. It was but a slight -rustling among the autumnal leaves that were lying in heaps -along the roadside, and might have been caused by the wind -had there been any, but not a breath was stirring. Something -else had caused it. What could it be?</p> - -<p>Edgar and Imogene turned their heads simultaneously and -looked behind. At the same moment each caught a glance -of the face and form they had seen a few nights previous in -the grove near the cottage—the face that Edgar had declared -he had seen in his dream! There it stood in the middle of -the road, wrapped in a white, shaggy cloak, which gave the -mysterious form a frightful appearance, and the face, pale and -motionless, gazing after them.</p> - -<p>In a moment it had disappeared, and Edgar and Imogene -each drew a long breath. Captain Edgar Sherwood was no -coward—was a brave man, and had often stood face to face -with death; but this was an apparition, something mysterious -which he could not understand. His lips grew white, and -the perspiration leaped into drops upon his forehead. He was -about to turn his horse’s head and ride back to where the -specter had stood, but Imogene was very much agitated, and -urged him forward to the fort.</p> - -<p>Around the entrance of the garrison a large crowd of soldiers -were collected, to observe the guests as they arrived, and -when Edgar and Imogene passed through the men gave them -a loud and hearty cheer. This seemed to awaken the couple -from the lethargy into which they had fallen after beholding -the apparition.</p> - -<p>Dismounting, they hurried to the ball-room, where they -found a gay assembly. The hall was brilliantly lighted -and handsomely decorated. The music, which consisted of -the regimental band, was playing a waltz, while a throng of -dancers whirled round the room.</p> - -<p>There was a large number of persons present, composed of -the officers and their ladies, and the patriots dwelling in the -neighborhood. It was a merry company, and one that seemed -to dispel all troubles from the minds of our hero and heroine.</p> - -<p>Imogene had hardly entered the room before she became<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">[27]</span> -the center of attraction. The captain led her to the upper -end of the room, where they joined Colonel Hall, the commander -of the garrison, and his lady.</p> - -<p>Now it was that the wound in his leg annoyed the captain, -for it kept him from engaging in the dance with Imogene. In -order to keep the knowledge of this from her, he was obliged -to find a partner for her among the lieutenants. A lucky accident -for them, and the fortunate one appreciated it, too.</p> - -<p>While the dance was going on, and when the company -seemed in the hight of enjoyment, a man dressed in the garb -of a hunter, entered the hall, and forced his way to the colonel. -It was a noted American spy, Hank Putney by name, who had -been dispatched the day previous to search for Captain Sherwood. -He whispered a few words to the commander, and -both retired from the room together, but so quietly that no -one perceived them.</p> - -<p>Upon leaving the hall, they directed their steps to the colonel’s -head-quarters, where the following conversation took -place between them:</p> - -<p>“You say that you have news of importance, Putney?” -said the colonel, handing the scout a seat.</p> - -<p>“Indeed, very important, colonel,” answered Putney, taking -a folded paper from his pocket and laying it upon the table. -“If ye’ll just run yer eye over that, perhaps ye’ll understand -what it is.”</p> - -<p>Colonel Hall took up the paper, and with some difficulty -managed to read the poorly-written and badly-spelled document. -It was a description of the notorious Iron Hand.</p> - -<p>“Well, really, this is good news, Putney. How did you -succeed in obtaining a sight of him?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, easy enough! The band forgot to cover their trail -this time, and I tracked ’em. But look ye again at th’ paper. -Do ye not know him? You’ve seen him a hundred times.”</p> - -<p>The colonel read the description over again carefully, then -paused for a moment in thought.</p> - -<p>“There is a man in the garrison,” said he, “who answers -to this description, but then of course we should be mad to -think it meant Captain Edgar Sherwood!”</p> - -<p>“I thought ye’d know him!” said Putney, and his eye -twinkled with satisfaction. “No madness about it, colonel.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">[28]</span> -He’s the man—this villain Iron Hand and our cap’n are -one!”</p> - -<p>“Why, man, it is impossible!” cried the colonel, starting -to his feet, with astonishment. “What! Sherwood a British -spy! No, no, no!”</p> - -<p>“Sartin, sir, sartin! Bill Hawkins and I saw him in their -camp yesterday, and he war their leader. I took down his -description, and we’ll sw’ar to it.”</p> - -<p>Colonel Hall paced up and down the floor in great agitation. -Every little circumstance which had taken place -during the past few days again appeared to him, but in a -changed form. After a few moments’ thought, he was obliged -to admit that some things had transpired which looked -suspicious. Sherwood’s story about being nearly buried, -might be only a fabulous invention gotten up to cloak his -real actions, and the wound, perchance, he may have received -in the fray.</p> - -<p>It also occurred to him now, that Sherwood, during the past -month, had been frequently absent from the fort, sometimes -for a day and night together. Then, again, the father of his -betrothed, Thomas Lear, was known to be a stanch Tory, -and although it was reported that Sherwood and he had quarreled -when the former entered the American army, yet this -might have been done for the purpose of carrying out their -deception.</p> - -<p>“I suspect that’s why the cap’n was late with th’ soldiers -th’ night th’ Tories attacked the Whig’s house, ’cause he war -waitin’ for ’em to finish th’ job,” said Putney, adding additional -fuel to the fire.</p> - -<p>“Great heavens!” exclaimed the colonel, stopping short in -his walk. “Have we all been blinded by this villain? Can -it really be that Sherwood is a traitor?”</p> - -<p>“He’s Iron Hand, I’m sure o’ that!” again added Putney.</p> - -<p>“Well, man,” Colonel Hall turned about so as to face the -scout, “I shall have him arrested at once, but if it turns out -that the charge is false, you shall be punished in his stead. -Now I ask you once more, are you sure he is the man?”</p> - -<p>Putney turned very pale, but answered:</p> - -<p>“I am.”</p> - -<p>The colonel then dispatched him for an officer. In a short<span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">[29]</span> -time, guards began to appear at the different places of ingress -and exit to the ball-room. The assembly noticed this and -the dance stopped suddenly. A sergeant entered the room, -and informed Captain Sherwood that the colonel requested his -presence. The company stood still with astonishment. What -had happened—were the British approaching?</p> - -<p>In a moment the news spread like wild-fire in the assembly, -that Captain Edgar Sherwood was arrested, and imprisoned -on a charge of being the Tory chieftain, Iron Hand, -and a British spy! At this announcement, a loud shriek burst -forth from the upper end of the room, and Imogene Lear sunk -fainting to the floor.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_IV"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER IV</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE NIGHT RIDE.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">The</span> night had turned out dark and drear, and the lowering -clouds denoted the approach of a storm. The last echo -of the booming gun had scarcely died away, warning the inmates -of the fort that it was time for all unnecessary lights to -be extinguished, and for all nightly revels to cease.</p> - -<p>The shrill cry of the sentinel’s “All’s well” had passed -from mouth to mouth, denoting the security of the hour, and -the non-apprehension of an attack. The lights in the different -quarters were gradually extinguished, showing a reluctance -of the occupants to abandon their evening amusements.</p> - -<p>As the last glimmer died away, the battlements of the fort -were wrapped in an almost impenetrable gloom. Nothing -broke the deathlike stillness, save the measured tread of the -guard as he walked his lonely post, or the hooting of the -owl, as it rung upon the silence of the night from the depth -of the neighboring forest.</p> - -<p>Suddenly one of the postern gates opposite the residence -of the commandant was thrown open, from which issued a -flood of light, making the surrounding darkness more intense, -and revealing a small group of officers and ladies, on the -countenances of whom were depicted gloom and sadness,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">[30]</span> -caused by the extraordinary and unlooked-for proceedings of -the earlier part of the evening. They had just emerged from -their dwelling to witness the departure of Miss Lear, after -having made ineffectual efforts to induce her to postpone her -journey till morning.</p> - -<p>Imogene, wrapped in a heavy military cloak, and leaning -upon the arm of the garrison commander, followed by the -rest of the company, moved toward her steed, which, in charge -of one of the soldiers, stood outside of the gate, champing -his bit and pawing the ground impatiently.</p> - -<p>Refusing all proffered assistance, she leaped gayly into the -saddle, and tried, by assuming a more genial appearance which -ill-bespoke the agony that wrung her heart, to banish the -thoughts that clouded the brows and dampened the feelings -of all present.</p> - -<p>Her horse, a noble animal of coal-black color, long, flowing -tail and mane, with limbs of most delicate proportions, and -whose general symmetry of form defied the criticism of the -most observant, and denoted a capability of excessive endurance, -feeling again his accustomed burden, seemed to partake -of the happier moments of his mistress, and commenced to -curvet and gambol about to the extreme annoyance of his -attendant.</p> - -<p>After portraying to Imogene the numerous dangers that -might befall her on the road, Colonel Hall made an urgent -but fruitless appeal to her to remain at the fort during the -night, or else to accept of an escort to her father’s house. -With an ill-affected smile, Imogene tried to allay the apprehensions -of her friends by making light of them, then waving -a parting farewell to the assembled company, in a few moments -afterward she was buried in the gloom.</p> - -<p>The assemblage waited until the rattling of her horse’s -hoofs had died away in the distance, then slowly returned to -the apartment which they had left a few minutes previous. -Each member of the assembly seemed deeply engaged with -his own respective thoughts, the uppermost of which was, no -doubt, the surprising scenes that had transpired during the -evening.</p> - -<p>The silence was finally broken by Colonel Hall, who had -been for several moments seemingly absorbed in a deep,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">[31]</span> -meditative mood, turning abruptly toward a young officer, -who, in a fit of abstraction, was standing with one arm leaning -on the mantel, whom he addressed as follows:</p> - -<p>“Lieutenant Mansfield, I have resolved to dispatch a -body of horse to follow the direction taken by Miss Lear, in -case she should be molested, as I have apprehensions of the -safety of the route which she must traverse, for you are aware -that it is only a few days ago that those three Tory spies, now -immured in the bastion, were captured in the vicinity of her -father’s residence. Should it be agreeable, I will give the -command of the troops to you; but remember, the matter is -optional.”</p> - -<p>“Colonel, I am at your service, and nothing would be more -pleasing to me than to be the protector of virtue, and if possible, -in the performance of my duty, to rid the country of -some of those bloodthirsty desperadoes that are such a scourge -to society.”</p> - -<p>“Those are soldierly sentiments, lieutenant,” answered Colonel -Hall.</p> - -<p>“The sentiments of the entire garrison,” responded the -lieutenant.</p> - -<p>“I am pleased to learn that such chivalrous feelings pervade -the breasts of the men under my command,” said the -colonel; “however, lieutenant, as the time passes rapidly by, -and several minutes have already elapsed since the departure -of Miss Lear, it would be well to make preparations as speedily -as possible.”</p> - -<p>The lieutenant making a low bow, retired to perform the -wishes of his commander. In a moment afterward, the -troopers, armed to the teeth, and mounted on their caparisoned -chargers, looking like so many grim specters, dashed through -the open gate and were soon lost to view. The gate creaked -on its rusty hinges as it swung back into its customary place, -and silence again reigned supreme.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">[32]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_V"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER V</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE RED WITNESS.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Imogene</span>, after her departure from the fort, sped rapidly -onward, heedless of the extended branches and immense -brambles that threatened every moment to drag her from her -saddle. Collecting her confused thoughts, which were exceedingly -harassed by her multiplied troubles, she checked the -impetuosity of her steed, and compelling him to assume a -more moderate gait, fell into a revery.</p> - -<p>“Can it be possible,” she murmured, “that Colonel Hall -could have had any intimation of impending danger? he -seemed to persist so strongly that I should remain in the -fort till daylight!” Immediately recovering herself, she exclaimed:</p> - -<p>“A truce to such thoughts! It is only the wandering -of my disordered imagination, that turns every harmless tree -into a robber, and every neighboring bush into the lurking-place -of some concealed assassin. However, I must confess -that when I first entered the forest, an indescribable feeling -of dread seemed to chill my very blood; but I must scout -such ideas, which if I do not, they will entirely unnerve me, -and render me unfit to enter the presence of my father, who -must not receive from me even the slightest suspicion of Edgar’s -misfortune.”</p> - -<p>In vain did she endeavor to shake off the gloomy feeling -that possessed her. The moon, which had been concealed -during the earlier part of the evening behind the immense -banks of clouds that had obscured the heavens, now became -occasionally visible, and its fitful beams served only to render -the intense darkness of the woods more apparent, and -lend a more spectral appearance to surrounding objects.</p> - -<p>Imogene, having relapsed into her former mood, rode -slowly along the well-beaten path, unmindful of the cold, -keen wind that swept through the surging forest, causing the -stanch old oaks to gently bend their hoary tops to the -blast.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">[33]</span></p> - -<p>The deep baying of her father’s hounds awakened her, at -length, from her musings. Congratulating herself upon having -reached the terminus of her journey in safety, she tried -to smile at the absurd fears of her friends, when her steed, -with a snort of terror, made a sudden pause, throwing himself -back on his haunches, almost unseating his mistress.</p> - -<p>Imogene peered into the darkness beyond, but in consequence -of the intensity of the gloom, was unable to ascertain -the cause of her horse’s fear, and vainly endeavored to -urge her trembling animal forward, at first, by gentle applications -of the whip, and finally by kind words and caresses, -but with like success. It was with the utmost difficulty -that she succeeded in calming his excitement, and preventing -him from dashing headlong into the surrounding -woods.</p> - -<p>At that moment, the moon, which had been hidden for a -short time by a passing cloud, again burst forth, lighting up -the surrounding darkness, and by the aid of the few faint -beams that struggled through the dense foliage overhead, -Imogene perceived a man at a few yards distant, standing -on the side of the road, partly concealed behind a tree.</p> - -<p>Seeing that he was discovered, he stepped into the middle -of the path, as if he desired to speak. He appeared to be -advanced in years, with long, flowing, silvery locks, and -with little or no beard. His frame was still strong and sinewy, -though somewhat bent, apparently both by age and toil. -His countenance, however, bore but few traces of either age -or suffering, and had quite a prepossessing look, were it not for -the expression of his eyes, which were cold and repelling, -but with a glance sharp and piercing that seemed to read the -inmost secrets of any object on which it was cast.</p> - -<p>These organs were nearly concealed by a pair of black, -shaggy brows, that ill-accorded with the excessive whiteness -of their owner’s hair. The stranger, noticing the anxious -and half-affrighted look of Imogene, broke the silence by saying:</p> - -<p>“Young lady, be not afraid; I am but a poor, harmless -old man who has been traveling nearly the entire day over -hill and dale, and am only seeking some fit habitation where -I may rest my weary limbs.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">[34]</span></p> - -<p>Imogene gazed upon the singular being before her, for -some moments in silence, unable to utter a word, so sudden -was the shock of his unexpected appearance. Recovering -herself at length, she replied:</p> - -<p>“For what reason, my good sir, are you, at such an hour -in a place so isolated. Do you not fear any danger?”</p> - -<p>“I entered these woods to seek shelter from the impending -storm which threatened to take place during the earlier -part of the evening,” he answered. “As for danger, why -should I fear? Who would think of injuring a harmless -old man like me? No, no, these freebooters of the road -look for higher game than I, in my poverty, could offer!”</p> - -<p>These last words were uttered in such a sarcastic tone that -Imogene, who had been adjusting her horse’s bridle, looked up -with astonishment and bent her penetrating gaze upon the -speaker, but seeing his harmless and abject appearance, her features -relaxed and softened into a look of pity.</p> - -<p>Desiring to terminate the conversation, she said:</p> - -<p>“My friend, these woods are not a suitable spot for either -of us, and as you remarked that you were seeking for a place -of shelter and safety, I will direct you where your wishes -will be gratified. Follow this path, without deviating either -to the right or left, and you will reach the habitation of my -father, where you will find a place to rest yourself. Lead on, -I will follow.”</p> - -<p>Up to this moment, the stranger had not moved from the -position he had first assumed; but seeing the intention of -Imogene to proceed, he drew back a step and raised his hand, -motioning her to stop. She did as he requested.</p> - -<p>“Before I accept your kind invitation,” continued the old -man, “I would wish to know, good lady, to whose generosity -I am indebted; whether it be friend or foe.”</p> - -<p>“That matters not,” replied Imogene; “it is sufficient that -you are homeless and in want. I consider not whether the -recipient of my charity be friend or enemy, neither do I care. -You seek assistance, and that assistance I offer you—what -more is necessary? I am not your enemy, nor do I bear hostile -feeling to anybody. Let this answer suffice.”</p> - -<p>The energy with which Imogene uttered these words -caused the rich blood to suffuse her countenance, which lent<span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">[35]</span> -an additional charm to her excessive beauty. The stranger -sent an admiring look upon the beautiful young girl, but it -passed like a flash as he resumed the conversation.</p> - -<p>“Young lady, pray forgive my hesitancy; but, as you are -aware, in these troublesome times a man is at a loss to know -whom to trust, and I am afraid that should I fall into the -hands of some, I might receive a reception disagreeable to my -nature,” at this he turned an inquisitive look upon his companion, -as if he sought to elicit a reply to his somewhat -equivocal answer.</p> - -<p>“You doubt, then, the honesty of my hospitable offers,” -returned Imogene, with some animation.</p> - -<p>“No, no, young lady; you misconstrue my meaning. I -doubt not your upright intentions; but, as I said before, you -know a person can not be too scrupulous in these matters.”</p> - -<p>“In order not to deprive you of the comforts which you -seem to need, I will endeavor to dispel your ungrounded fears -by giving you the requisite information. The house to which -I have directed you is the residence of Thomas Lear, -and—”</p> - -<p>At the last-mentioned name, the stranger started back with -a look of surprise.</p> - -<p>“Then you are Imogene, the daughter of old Lear, the -Tory?” he exclaimed.</p> - -<p>These words were uttered in a much different key. A -strong, manly voice had taken the place of the weak, wheezing -tone of the old man. The hot blood mantled the brow -of Imogene, as she quickly retorted to this seemingly insulting -language:</p> - -<p>“Though Thomas Lear should be a supporter of the king’s -cause, his daughter, at least, should be free from insult. He -is my father, and I wish not to hear his name spoken of in so -wanton and disrespectful a manner. I have directed you to a -harbor of safety, where you may find a place of rest, and provide -for your wants. If you wish to avail yourself of my offer -you may do so, but you must use your own discretion in the -matter. I have already tarried too long—I must depart.”</p> - -<p>“A word with you, Miss Lear, for such you have acknowledged -yourself to be, before you go,” replied the stranger; -and drawing nearer to Imogene, he whispered, in a subdued<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">[36]</span> -undertone, a few words which seemed to make her recoil with -an expression of horror.</p> - -<p>“Away, vile wretch! Is it thus you would repay my kindness? -Begone!” She cast upon him such a look of disgust -and contempt that he seemed to writhe under her stinging rebuff.</p> - -<p>“You reject, then, my offer?” he replied.</p> - -<p>“I refuse to parley with such a despicable creature. Make -way; I must leave this spot.”</p> - -<p>“Not quite so fast, young lady. I wish to allow you a -moment to reconsider your decision,” returned the old man -without moving from his position in the center of the path.</p> - -<p>“You have heard my answer.”</p> - -<p>“You persist in your refusal?</p> - -<p>“I do.”</p> - -<p>The stranger gave a low, short whistle, and immediately -disappeared in the brushwood. Before Imogene could recover -from her surprise at this sudden disappearance, her horse’s -bridle was seized by an armed ruffian, while two others confronted -her with drawn weapons. Imogene was immediately -alive to the danger that threatened her.</p> - -<p>“What means this outrage—this detention?” she exclaimed -in an excited manner.</p> - -<p>“It means,” returned one of the party, who appeared to -be the leader, in a gruff voice, “that you’re our prisoner.”</p> - -<p>At this juncture one of the men raised his hand as a signal -for all to remain silent. In an instant every one assumed a -listening attitude, intent on catching the slightest sound. At -first nothing could be heard, save the sighing of the wind -through the trees, but the practiced ears of the desperadoes -quickly distinguished the clatter of approaching hoofs.</p> - -<p>“What’s that?” exclaimed the man who had given the signal -of alarm, casting an inquiring look at his leader.</p> - -<p>“It’s a party o’ those cursed rebels from the fort, and we -must go into the woods until they pass, or they’ll be on our backs -in no time.”</p> - -<p>As he said this, he turned toward Imogene, and, drawing -a pistol from his belt, ordered her to dismount.</p> - -<p>“Dismount, I tell ye,” cried the ruffian, in a voice husky -with rage, seeing that Imogene utterly disregarded his command,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">[37]</span> -“or by th’ light o’ Heaven, I’ll put this piece o’ lead -through yer brain; for I’ve promised to deliver yer body, dead -or alive, and I’ll do so, should it cost me my life.”</p> - -<p>Imogene looked at the villain, and saw by the fierce expression -of his countenance and the malignant fire that -sparkled in his eye, that he was capable of any enormity possible -to humanity, and would not hesitate an instant to put -his threat into execution.</p> - -<p>There was no one to succor her; she beheld only the other -villains, his accomplices in crime. Oh, how she wished that -her noble Edgar was by her side, were it but for a moment.</p> - -<p>“Make haste,” exclaimed the ruffian, impatiently.</p> - -<p>“I refuse,” replied Imogene, with vehemence.</p> - -<p>In an instant, before she could divine their intention, a -large mantle was suddenly cast over her head to prevent her -from making any outcry, and she was forcibly dragged from -her saddle and borne into the woods. In a moment afterward -the man who had held the rein of Imogene’s steed, uttering a -cry of pain, dashed after them.</p> - -<p>“What’s all this noise about?” sharply asked the ruffian -leader, casting a savage look upon his comrade.</p> - -<p>“The horse! the horse!” was all he could ejaculate, and -holding up his hand which was sadly cut and mangled, -“see there,” he cried, with an oath, “that infernal brute almost -wrenched my arm out of its socket with his teeth,” and -holding tightly on the wounded member, he groaned aloud -with the excruciating pain.</p> - -<p>“Ye’d better stop that howlin’ o’ yours, afore ye bring th’ -whole rebel pack down upon us,” was the consoling remark. -The wounded man, with a look of pain and hatred, obeyed.</p> - -<p>The heavy tramp of horses denoted the rapid advance of -the troopers, and the bushes had hardly closed on the form of -the last of the retreating rascals, when they rode swiftly by the -hiding-place of their foe, looking like so many ghostly images, -as the moonbeams faintly reflected on their clanking sabers, -and the garnished trappings of their steeds.</p> - -<p>When the last sound of the retreating horsemen had died -away in the distance, the leader of the party noiselessly -emerged from his place of concealment, and took a short, -quick survey of the surroundings.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">[38]</span></p> - -<p>Upon observing their freedom from all immediate danger, -he ordered his companions to mount with all possible expedition. -Carefully placing the swooning and almost inanimate -form of Imogene on the back of his own horse, he exclaimed:</p> - -<p>“Now, then, put yer horses to the test, for we must place -many miles betwixt us and this spot afore daylight; for that -bloody red-skin, War-Cloud, is at th’ fort, and if he gets on -our trail, only a miracle ’ll save us from goin’ under. Should -th’ rebel dogs overtake us, they’ll show us no quarters.”</p> - -<p>In obedience to the command of their captain, one of the -party rode some distance in advance, in order to keep a sharp -look-out for any signs of danger; the leader with his helpless -burden occupied the center; while the wounded man, who -was engaged in binding up his lacerated hand, guarded the -rear.</p> - -<p>In this manner they proceeded for several miles in silence, -not a sound breaking the deep and deathlike stillness of the -forest, except the dull echoes of the horses’ tread.</p> - -<p>They had almost reached the verge of the woods through -which they were traveling, and were about to enter upon the -highway, in order to pursue their way more rapidly, trusting -to the darkness as a safeguard against their being observed, -and the proximity of the woods into which they could plunge -in case of the approach of any suspicious party, when the -man in front gave a low whistle as a signal to halt.</p> - -<p>Riding back to his companions, he pointed out to them -through the trees, a faint, glimmering light that appeared to -issue from a large house near the roadside, but so nearly hidden -in an angle of the woods, that they almost came upon it -unawares. This was no other than the residence of the old -Whig who had been so cruelly murdered during the visit of -Iron Hand’s band the evening previous.</p> - -<p>After debating among themselves for several moments the -one who had first given the alarm agreed to go and reconnoiter -the place. Dismounting, he hastened across the road, -and disappeared in the shadows of the trees that nearly surrounded -the habitation.</p> - -<p>His friends, in their place of concealment, anxious to hear -the result. After an elapse of about half an hour he returned,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">[39]</span> -and informed his comrades that the house was apparently -empty, and that the inmates had either fled or been taken -captives, as he had minutely examined several of the apartments, -and there was not a single sound to denote the presence -of any living being about the premises.</p> - -<p>At this piece of intelligence, the three ruffians concluded -that instead of proceeding further on their journey, as both -themselves and their horses were greatly fatigued by their -rapid traveling, to take up their abode for the remainder of -the night in their newly-discovered place of shelter.</p> - -<p>The trio advanced cautiously until they reached the house, -where they dismounted and securely fastened their animals. -The horses, together with the still insensible person of Imogene, -were left in charge of the wounded member of the party, -while the other two entered the building.</p> - -<p>All was silence within. At the end of a large hall into -which they had ushered themselves, was a wide stair-case -leading to the room where the light was first discovered. -Looking into several smaller apartments without seeing any -suspicious sign, the two worthies concluded that the place was -still unoccupied, and immediately prepared to proceed to the -room above, in order to ascertain the cause of the light which -they had seen.</p> - -<p>As they ascended, the stairs creaked and groaned, sending -forth at every step a hollow, dismal sound, whose echoes -broke the monotonous stillness, and lent additional horror to -the deep gloom that pervaded the entire place.</p> - -<p>Entering the chamber, a scene of terrible confusion was -spread before their eyes. Broken and disarranged furniture -was scattered in every direction, while on the end of the -mantel near one of the windows, stood a light with the flame -just flickering in the socket. This it was that first attracted -the attention of the abducting party.</p> - -<p>It was obvious by the great disorder everywhere visible, -that the inmates had decamped in haste, as not a single piece -of furniture had been removed, and that the house had been recently -abandoned, either in consequence of a real or expected -attack.</p> - -<p>It was also apparent that the place had not been deserted -more than an hour or two. Evidently the last resident<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">[40]</span> -entertained little apprehension of an unwelcome visit, as -the light in the apartment was so placed that its rays could -be easily distinguished by the least observant passing that -way.</p> - -<p>Could it be that the inmates had heard their approach and -had secreted themselves until they had fairly entrapped their -victims? As this thought suggested itself to the minds of the -two ruffians, a cold perspiration bathed their brows, and they -were on the point of beating a hasty retreat; but being reassured -by the prevailing quietude, they endeavored, with an -air of assumed bravado, to rally their drooping courage.</p> - -<p>In a noiseless, but faltering manner, they commenced an -examination of the apartment. One of them gave a sudden -bound, accidentally knocking over a chair in his fright, as he -trod on some small, hard object lying on the floor.</p> - -<p>“Curse on ye!” exclaimed his companion, in a tone of -mingled alarm and anger, “ye’ll bring th’ whole neighborhood -about our ears.”</p> - -<p>Assuring themselves, however, that the noise had not -aroused anybody, they continued their search. As the ruffian -who had been startled so suddenly, stooped down to ascertain -the cause of his alarm, the dim rays of the candle reflected -on a richly-mounted dagger.</p> - -<p>He picked it up, and was about to place it in his girdle, -when his comrade, the leader of the party, who was watching -his movements, caught sight of the glittering blade.</p> - -<p>“What’s that?” he asked, as he rudely grasped the arm of -the other.</p> - -<p>“Only a knife.”</p> - -<p>“By heavens, I’ve seen that knife afore!” he soliloquized, -as they both minutely examined the instrument by the aid of -the candle’s faint and flickering flame.</p> - -<p>The handle of the weapon was tastefully ornamented with -mother-of-pearl and several beautiful and sparkling brilliants, -denoting that the owner was of no ordinary rank. They held -it closer to the light in order to inspect what appeared to be -spots of rust on the keen but peculiar-shaped blade.</p> - -<p>“Blood! as I’m a livin’ man.”</p> - -<p>“And fresh blood at that,” replied the other, as he scrutinized -it more closely.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">[41]</span></p> - -<p>“See!” was the excited exclamation.</p> - -<p>“What?”</p> - -<p>“Those letters,” answered the leader, as he pointed to the -initials “I. H.” handsomely engraved on the hilt of the weapon.</p> - -<p>“Wal, what of ’em?”</p> - -<p>“Don’t yer know?”</p> - -<p>After slowly repeating the letters over several times in -his endeavors to unravel the enigma, the other quickly exclaimed:</p> - -<p>“I have it—the knife’s our chief’s.”</p> - -<p>“Sartinly.”</p> - -<p>“Wonder how it came here?”</p> - -<p>“Th’ chief hisself or some of th’ league have been around -and at work.”</p> - -<p>They then proceeded without delay to look about them for -some traces of a <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">melée</i> . The walls were besmeared in several -places with clots of blood, giving unmistakable signs of an -encounter, while in the center of the floor was a small pool -of human gore not yet dry, denoting that the victim, whether -dead or wounded, had been but recently removed.</p> - -<p>The expiring flame of the candle threw a sickly glare over -the apartment, wrapping every thing in a ghostly gloom. The -ruffians, though steeled to scenes of blood and murder, could -not drive away the indescribable feeling of awe that crept -over them as they stood there alone.</p> - -<p>The bloody weapon of their chieftain, the not-to-be-mistaken -marks of a recent combat, the light, the deserted house -with its entire contents intact—all these, to the minds of the -ruffians, were an unbroken chain of circumstances which to -them was an inexplicable mystery.</p> - -<p>Murder and rapine in their direst forms they could look -upon unflinchingly, but to be there alone, with nothing but -the dumb and sanguinary witnesses of the slaughtered victim -around them, was more than their treacherous souls could -withstand.</p> - -<p>Filled with superstitious fears, they hastened precipitately -down the stairs, casting occasional furtive glances behind -them, and ceased not their hasty retreat until they had reached -their horses, which quickly mounting, they drove their rowels<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">[42]</span> -into their flanks and in a moment were dashing down the -road in hurried flight.</p> - -<p>Not a word was uttered until they were satisfied that they -had placed themselves beyond the reach of all danger, real or -imaginary, when they checked their steeds, and related to -their wondering and almost bewildered comrade what they -had seen.</p> - -<p>After a short and silent ride, the party finally reached a -small, but pretty and tasteful, dwelling, surrounded by neat -and beautiful grounds. It presented no appearance of wanton -injury and desolation, and was quite a pleasing contrast to -the numerous forsaken and half-burned houses that everywhere -abounded in that part of the country.</p> - -<p>This pleasant retreat was evidently abandoned by its former -occupants, as the three ruffians approached it unhesitatingly, -without using their customary precautions. The -place was, no doubt, one of the many resorts belonging to -the band of which these men were members, and had been -spared from the general waste to be reserved for this purpose.</p> - -<p>Having made secure the apartment in which Imogene was -placed, so as to prevent escape, the trio, before a large, crackling -wood fire which they had enkindled on the hearth, prepared -to make themselves as comfortable as circumstances -would permit.</p> - -<p>After discussing the creature comforts with appetites rendered -extremely sharp by their weary ride, two of the party, -while the other mounted guard for the night, rolled themselves -in their blankets and were soon buried in slumber.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">[43]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_VI"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER VI</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE HOT TRAIL.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">After</span> leaving the fort, the dragoons followed the well-worn -but solitary path leading to the residence of Mr. Lear, -which they were certain Imogene had taken.</p> - -<p>Onward they swiftly rode, hoping at every moment to overtake -their intended charge. Though they frequently listened -to catch the slightest sound, however, nothing was audible -save the monotonous rattling of their sabers.</p> - -<p>The deep baying of hounds, the same that had awakened -Imogene from her reverie, told them they were near their journey’s -end. In a few moments afterward the dragoons drew -up their panting steeds before the residence of Thomas Lear.</p> - -<p>All was still. The lieutenant dismounted and rapped -loudly on the door with the hilt of his saber. Finding that -the summons was unanswered, he repeated his rap with -redoubled vehemence. The echo had hardly died away -when the door was partly opened, and a negro domestic peering -cautiously out inquired the reason of their visit at such -an unseemly hour.</p> - -<p>Hearing, in reply to her question, the deep, heavy tones of -a man’s voice, and seeing the person himself garbed in the -habiliments of a continental soldier, she was about to quickly -close the door in her fright; but the assurance that she was -to be in no wise molested filled her with more confidence, and -after some hesitancy she admitted the strange visitors.</p> - -<p>Upon making inquiries, the lieutenant was astounded to -find that Imogene had not yet returned, and was on the point -of dispatching some of his men to scour the woods in the -vicinity, when her steed, riderless and with saddle and girth -nearly torn from his back, came dashing up the lawn.</p> - -<p>Mr. Lear, on hearing the loud tones of the conversation -carried on below, hurried down-stairs. Seeing a party of soldiers -congregated before his house, his mind was filled with -forebodings of some impending calamity.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">[44]</span></p> - -<p>“What is the meaning of this unseasonable visit?” he -eagerly inquired, turning to the lieutenant of the dragoons.</p> - -<p>“We have come in obedience to the command of Colonel -Hall, to ascertain whether Miss Lear has yet arrived from the -fort, which she persisted in leaving this evening unattended.”</p> - -<p>“Imogene at the fort! What mean you—how came she -there?”</p> - -<p>“She was at the ball, sir.”</p> - -<p>“At the ball! You mystify me—explain yourself;” but -just at that moment, catching sight of the riderless steed, he -started back with an agonizing groan. “I understand,” he -murmured, “something has happened to Imogene.”</p> - -<p>“Indeed, sir, I fear there has been foul play.”</p> - -<p>“No, no, there must be some dreadful mistake here!” exclaimed -the old man, nervously grasping the arm of the officer. -“Who could be so base as to harm my child?”</p> - -<p>“In truth, the affair is enveloped in profound mystery. -We have examined the horse and find no traces of blood, -and I greatly fear that your daughter has been—”</p> - -<p>“What?” cried Mr. Lear, seeing the soldier hesitate.</p> - -<p>“Abducted.”</p> - -<p>“Oh! my God! what new villainy is this!” and the sorrow-stricken -parent staggered at the fearful intelligence. -Clutching the lieutenant with feverish suddenness, he frantically -exclaimed:</p> - -<p>“Oh! save my daughter, my darling girl! Reclaim her -from the hands of those merciless fiends, and my property, -my life, my all is yours! Oh! my child! my child! my -child!” and with a heartrending cry, the poor afflicted father -reeled, then sunk to the floor.</p> - -<p>Leaving the grief-stricken old man in the care of his weeping -servants, with the assurance that nothing would be left -undone to recover Miss Lear from the hands of her abductors, -the lieutenant vaulted into his saddle, and in company with -his men hurried back to the fort to impart to the commandant -the unwelcome news.</p> - -<p>“Lieutenant,” said Colonel Hall, after the officer had related -to him what had taken place, “you will hold yourself -and command in readiness to start at break of day, in -pursuit of these villains.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">[45]</span></p> - -<p>The dragoon was about departing, when the colonel stopped -him.</p> - -<p>“The Indian, War-Cloud, is still in the garrison, is he -not?” he asked.</p> - -<p>“He is, sir.”</p> - -<p>“Send him to me, then, without delay.”</p> - -<p>The officer bowed and retired. The Indian quickly -obeyed the summons.</p> - -<p>War-Cloud was a chief of the Oneidas. Although a great -part of his tribe went over to the British with the Five Nations, -of which it was a member, he always remained a -stanch friend of the Americans, and an inveterate foe of the -Mohawks.</p> - -<p>He was one of the most trustworthy scouts attached to -the Continental army, and in that capacity had performed invaluable -service in the cause of liberty.</p> - -<p>To Captain Sherwood he was especially attached, and -would have been ready at any moment to sacrifice his life in -his behalf. A large, crackling wood-fire shed its rays about -the room which he entered.</p> - -<p>As the Indian stood there, calmly awaiting the pleasure of -his commander, with his arms quietly folded on his breast, -with the beautiful war-plumes that decorated his head drooping -over his countenance so as to give a more somber shade -to his finely-molded features, he looked like some brazen -colossus and the <i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">beau-ideal</i> of a true warrior.</p> - -<p>Colonel Hall was pacing up and down the apartment, -deeply absorbed in meditation. He stopped a moment and -looked up.</p> - -<p>“Ah!” he exclaimed, as he beheld his visitor, “you have -come!”</p> - -<p>Placing a chair near the table for the scout, he seated himself -opposite.</p> - -<p>“I suppose you are aware of the reason that has caused -me to send for you?” continued the colonel.</p> - -<p>The Indian bowed in response.</p> - -<p>“You have already heard of the abduction of Miss Lear?”</p> - -<p>“War-Cloud knows all,” answered the scout.</p> - -<p>“Then you will hold yourself ready to accompany the -troopers on the trail of the abductors in the morning.” After<span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">[46]</span> -giving the Indian his instructions, the commander dismissed -him.</p> - -<p>The remainder of the night was spent by a greater part -of the inmates of the fort, in a state of feverish excitement. -It was deemed prudent to withhold the knowledge of Imogene’s -abduction from Captain Sherwood, until more particulars -of her fate were obtained.</p> - -<p>The next morning, just as the bright sun commenced to -tint the neighboring hill-tops and light up the eastern horizon, -witnessed the departure of the dragoons from the fort.</p> - -<p>They immediately took the path of the previous evening, -which they slowly followed, scrutinizing every foot of the -ground minutely, until they reached the spot where Imogene -had been stopped by her abductors. This they knew by the -trampled state of the earth.</p> - -<p>Dismounting, War-Cloud made a careful examination of -the numerous footprints, while the remainder of the company -patiently awaited the result of his investigation.</p> - -<p>Quickly beckoning the commander to his side, the scout -pointed to several deep prints in the soft soil.</p> - -<p>“Well, what’s peculiar about them?” asked the officer, inspecting -them closely.</p> - -<p>“White man’s tracks.”</p> - -<p>“White men’s! How know you that?”</p> - -<p>“See!” exclaimed the scout, as he directed the officer’s attention -to several nearly erased marks, “Indian no wear boots—Indian -wear moccasin.”</p> - -<p>Sure enough, there, in the loose earth, were imprinted the -faint outlines of boot-traces. Penetrating the trampled bushes -on either side of the path, War-Cloud at length came upon -the spot where the inanimate form of Imogene had been placed -during the passage of the dragoons.</p> - -<p>These signs not only satisfied the party that they had struck -upon the right trail, but also gave convincing proof that the -abductors were white men, not Indians, as at first supposed.</p> - -<p>Without stopping to waste any more time in words, the -dragoons started on the trail, with War-Cloud a short distance -in advance. The traces of the fugitives were so broad and -plain, and so little care had been taken to conceal them, that -they could be followed with but little difficulty.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">[47]</span></p> - -<p>However, as the troopers entered deeper into the heart of -the forest, their progress became slower and more difficult, and -the trail less distinct.</p> - -<p>At length, however, they reached the deserted house where -the abducting party had stopped the previous evening. They -surrounded the building, but this precaution was unnecessary, -as a hasty examination showed that their intended victims had -departed several hours before.</p> - -<p>The old trail was again resumed, which led them to the -dwelling in which we left Imogene and her abductors in the -previous chapter.</p> - -<p>It was now dark, and the obscurity and quietude in which -the house was buried seemed to foreshadow another disappointment. -The lieutenant knocked loudly at the door; no -answer. He knocked again; still no answer. He was about -to effect an entrance by force, when the shadow of a man was -observed to flit across the lawn.</p> - -<p>The dragoons started in hurried pursuit. Through the dim -twilight the fugitive was hardly distinguishable. He had almost -reached the woods—in another moment he would be -safe, when the sharp, whip-like report of War-Cloud’s rifle -was heard, and the fleeing man fell to the dust.</p> - -<p>The next instant he was surrounded by his pursuers, who -made a litter for him with their rifles, and carried him to the -house. The injured man was bleeding copiously, and appeared -to be seriously, if not mortally wounded.</p> - -<p>“Who are you, and what were you doing here?” inquired -the lieutenant, after seeing that the sufferer’s position had been -made as comfortable as possible.</p> - -<p>“What’s thet to ye?” was the surly reply.</p> - -<p>“Come, come, my good fellow, you had better be a little -more communicative, for I think your time is growing short.”</p> - -<p>“What’s thet ye say?” exclaimed the man, with a sudden -start.</p> - -<p>“I fear your injury is fatal.”</p> - -<p>“Do ye think so?”</p> - -<p>“I do.”</p> - -<p>“If thet’s the case, Tom Turley had better tell all afore he -goes under, for he hez a purty good deal thet weighs on his -mind.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">[48]</span></p> - -<p>“Be brief.”</p> - -<p>“Send yer cap’n to me; I’ll tell no other.”</p> - -<p>“I am the sole commander here.”</p> - -<p>To this the man uttered a guttural, unintelligible response -and then remained quiet. The lieutenant perceived that nothing -could be elicited from him, except by the closest interrogating.</p> - -<p>“Who are you?”</p> - -<p>“I’m one of the Tory League,” answered the man, in a -low whisper.</p> - -<p>At the mention of this name, a scowl darkened the brows -of the dragoons that were crowded around.</p> - -<p>“How came you with that wound?” asked the officer, seeing -one of the hands of the Tory ill-bandaged and bloody.</p> - -<p>“I got bit by a horse belongin’ to a gal thet myself and -two more of the band wor carryin’ off.”</p> - -<p>“What!” exclaimed the lieutenant, springing suddenly to -his feet; “you, then, were one of the abductors of Miss -Lear?”</p> - -<p>“Thet’s the name, but—quick—water! water!” A drink -was immediately given him.</p> - -<p>“Who were your companions, and where are they? Tell -me what has become of Miss Lear!” but before any reply could -be made to these questions, a short, burly individual, a surgeon, -had elbowed his way through the crowd and reached -the wounded man.</p> - -<p>He had accompanied the dragoons on the expedition, evidently -more for the sake of adventure than from any expectation -that his medical services would be required.</p> - -<p>He had joined in the pursuit on foot, and it was several -minutes after the dragoons had returned to the house, before -he made his appearance.</p> - -<p>Thrusting back the men who were collected around, eager -to hear what the Tory had to say, he proceeded to examine -the man’s wound.</p> - -<p>The ball had entered the upper part of the shoulder, but -striking the blade, had taken a downward course and come -out at the back.</p> - -<p>“It’s only a flesh wound,” said the surgeon, after he had -finished bandaging the injury; “the man has bled profusely,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">[49]</span> -which has made him weak, but in a few hours he will be all -right again.”</p> - -<p>“What! then I’ll yet live?” exclaimed the man, with a -nervous shudder, a deathlike pallidness overspreading his -countenance.</p> - -<p>“Why, certainly! you are worth a dozen dying men.”</p> - -<p>At these words the man sunk back with a groan.</p> - -<p>“But, my good fellow, why do you speak in this manner?” -asked the surgeon; “you don’t wish to die, do you?”</p> - -<p>“He’s one of the Tory League, doctor, and thought he wor -goin’ under,” ventured to say one of the soldiers.</p> - -<p>“One of the Tory League, eh?” exclaimed the surgeon, -with a look of surprise. “Ah! I understand his wish to die; -he’s afraid that he has escaped one mode of dying to suffer a -worse, which he has deserved a hundred times for his black -deeds.”</p> - -<p>With an almost superhuman effort, the wounded man sprung -to his feet, his face livid with passion.</p> - -<p>“Ye’ve desaved me!” he fairly shrieked, pointing his -bloody hand at the commander of the dragoons.</p> - -<p>“I told you what I conscientiously thought to be true. I -believed you to be dying and I told you so. You betrayed -yourself,” calmly replied the lieutenant.</p> - -<p>“Ye lie! Ye’ve desaved me, I tell ye!” and with a howl -of rage, the ruffian, a fiendish look overspreading his scowling -brow, drew forth a dagger he had concealed in his bosom, and -sprung at the officer.</p> - -<p>In an instant, he was seized by a dozen hands, and disarmed -before he could carry out his design. The villain, seeing -his plans frustrated, cast a diabolical look at his intended -victim, then settled into a dogged quietude.</p> - -<p>“Answer the questions I put to you,” said the lieutenant, -approaching the Tory, “and you are a free man, though you -should have merited a thousand deaths for your bloody acts.”</p> - -<p>The man only looked at his interlocutor, but made no answer.</p> - -<p>“Tell me who were your companions, and what they have -done with Miss Lear,” continued the officer, “and on my -honor as a soldier, the moment I feel assured that you have -spoken the truth, you will be at liberty to depart unmolested.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">[50]</span></p> - -<p>“Ye’ve desaved me once, and ye shan’t do it again.”</p> - -<p>“I repeat my question. Will you or will you not tell me -the names of your companions, and whither they have taken -the young lady?”</p> - -<p>“I’ll not!”</p> - -<p>“Bring the prisoner without!” commanded the lieutenant, -in a stern voice.</p> - -<p>The order was promptly obeyed, and the Tory was conducted -to the green in front of the dwelling.</p> - -<p>The moon had already arisen, and its bright beams rendered -the night almost equal to day. A towering oak stood -a few yards from the door, and under its spreading branches -the soldiers had collected in a group, forming quite a picturesque -scene.</p> - -<p>A strong rope was cast over one of the largest limbs, and a -dragoon quietly formed a sliding noose at the end. A small -cask was brought from the house and placed directly under -the hanging cord.</p> - -<p>The prisoner watched these ominous preparations with suspicion. -The officer now approached him again.</p> - -<p>“Will you answer the question that I have asked you?” he -said.</p> - -<p>“I’ve tol’ ye once; ask me no more.”</p> - -<p>“Men, do your duty!”</p> - -<p>In an instant the prisoner’s hands were pinioned behind him, -and the rope placed around his neck.</p> - -<p>“Mount,” said the officer.</p> - -<p>The prisoner reluctantly placed himself on the cask. He -now began to surmise the true meaning of what was going -on, though at first he had half-suspected it was only a resort -to the old ruse of extorting information.</p> - -<p>“What are ye goin’ to do wid me?” he asked, in a trembling -tone.</p> - -<p>“You shall see presently,” was the answer.</p> - -<p>“What does all this mean?” inquired the Tory, now thoroughly -alarmed at the manner of the soldiers.</p> - -<p>“That you are going to suffer a penalty that you have too -often eluded, and which you merit but too well,” answered -the officer.</p> - -<p>“Ye’re not goin’ to put me to death?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">[51]</span></p> - -<p>“If you answer me what I have already asked you, no; -but if you refuse, yes!”</p> - -<p>“If I answer yer questions am I free?”</p> - -<p>“You are.”</p> - -<p>“If I refuse?”</p> - -<p>“Then you die.”</p> - -<p>“Will you show me no mercy?”</p> - -<p>“Think not of mercy, but of your God!”</p> - -<p>“Look yere cap’n,” said the Tory, who, though a miscreant, -was no coward; “though ye wor to slice and quarter me, ye -couldn’t make Tom Turley blow on his comrades.”</p> - -<p>He had scarcely finished uttering these last words when the -support was knocked from under him by a violent blow, and -he was left dangling in the air.</p> - -<p>He struggled violently for several moments, then uttered a -piercing shriek:</p> - -<p>“Help! help! cut the rope! Oh, God! mercy! mercy! -mercy! Iron Hand!—old man!—Hank Put—! I’ll t—t—t—” -His voice was hushed. The words, whatever they -were, assumed only a gurgling sound in his throat, then died -away in nothingness.</p> - -<p>His limbs were slowly contracted, then as slowly straightened -out again. His hands were tightly clenched. The -finger-nails penetrated the flesh, making wounds from which -nearly stagnant blood slowly oozed, pattering in drops on the -leaves below.</p> - -<p>He made a spasmodic effort to release his arms, but they -fell quivering by his side. A slight, convulsive shudder shook -his frame, and the soul of the Tory passed to its Maker.</p> - -<p>Just at that moment a blast of wind, like a solemn dirge, -swept through the forest, chanting, as it were, the dead man’s -requiem. The body was left swinging in the breeze, as a warning -to all evil-doers, or until chance should direct the footsteps -of some stragglers to the spot.</p> - -<p>Thoughtful, and pondering on the ruffian’s dying words, the -dragoons returned to the house, there to deliberate what next -should be done. After a short debate, they concluded to go -back to the fort in the morning, as it was evident that the -abducting party had either discovered their approach and -fled or had departed before their arrival.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">[52]</span></p> - -<p>In either case they would reach the British lines before -daylight, and as it was impossible to follow the trail by night, -the dragoons were obliged to abandon the pursuit.</p> - -<p>Making themselves as comfortable as possible, the troopers -waited patiently until dawn, when they returned to the fort to -make known the result of the expedition.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_VII"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER VII</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE SECRET MISSION.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">The</span> cool night air awakened Imogene from the unconscious -state into which she had fallen when first seized by her abductors.</p> - -<p>Staring wildly around the apartment in which she was confined, -she was unable to account for her strange position. -Pressing her hot hands to her throbbing temples she tried to -collect her scattered thoughts.</p> - -<p>The recollection of the events of the past evening appeared -to her like a terrible dream. Like a flash the thought occurred -to her that she had been abducted. To think of such -a thing almost crazed her brain.</p> - -<p>“Where am I?” she wildly exclaimed, springing toward -the ruffian who was keeping guard at her chamber door.</p> - -<p>Without heeding her question, he made a commanding gesture -for her to remain silent. She tried to draw him into -conversation, but in vain.</p> - -<p>Seeing she could not gain any information, she seated herself -on the rude couch that had been prepared for her, and -commenced to reflect.</p> - -<p>The excitement and fatigue of the past few hours, however, -were too much for her delicate frame, and in a few moments -she fell into a gentle slumber.</p> - -<p>The guard, seeing his charge asleep, closed the door of -the chamber gently, and being wearied, seated himself near -the fire. After fruitless endeavors to keep his heavy eyelids -from closing, he was finally obliged to succumb to his drowsiness.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">[53]</span></p> - -<p>His head fell heavily on his breast, his arms hung listlessly -by his side, and in a few moments he was slumbering heavily. -Imogene’s sleep was light and fitful. Her dreams were -haunted by the transactions of the past night.</p> - -<p>In a short time she awoke. Hearing no movement outside, -she listened attentively for the monotonous tread of her -guard, but it had ceased. Nothing broke the awful stillness -save the heavy breathing of the sleeping ruffians.</p> - -<p>Rising quickly, she peered cautiously out, and there, by -the dim light of the dying embers, she perceived her abductors -wrapped in sound slumber.</p> - -<p>Hastily procuring what articles were necessary to protect -her against the chill air of the evening, she wrapped her -shawl around her person, and quietly entered the dimly lighted -room. Stepping lightly over the sleeping forms of her captors, -she fled down the stairs.</p> - -<p>The cool air fanned her fevered brow, and seemed to impart -new strength to her exhausted frame. The inspiring -hopes of escaping from her villainous captors had a salutary -effect. Vaulting on the back of one of the horses that stood -ready equipped, she dashed away from the house.</p> - -<p>The clattering of the horse’s hoofs aroused her guard. -Looking around him in a bewildered manner, he hurried to -where his prisoner was confined, only to find her gone.</p> - -<p>“Awake! awake! to horse! to horse!” he frantically cried, -applying his foot in no gentle manner to the sleeping forms -of his companions.</p> - -<p>“What’s up?” asked they, in a single breath, springing to -their feet.</p> - -<p>“Our prisoner’s escaped!”</p> - -<p>“The prisoner escaped!” they both exclaimed in one voice.</p> - -<p>“Yes; look for yerselves!” answered the other, pointing -to the vacated chamber.</p> - -<p>“To yer horses! We must hev the gal again, dead or -alive!” cried the ruffian leader, hurrying to where the animals -were picketed.</p> - -<p>When they reached the spot, there were but two horses, the -third was gone. Imogene had unconsciously selected the -animal belonging to the wounded member of the party, and -the owner had no other alternative than to follow in the pursuit<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">[54]</span> -on foot, or go back to the house and await the return of -his comrades. He chose the latter.</p> - -<p>He slowly retraced his steps, muttering imprecations loud -and deep. The mounted ruffians hurried in pursuit of Imogene, -hoping every moment to catch some sound that would -direct them.</p> - -<p>The chase was fruitless. They scoured the forest for miles -around, but were finally obliged to abandon the search. -Chagrined and disappointed by their ill-success, they were -slowly returning to where they had left their companion -that morning.</p> - -<p>The day was drawing gradually to a close. The sun had already -disappeared behind the western hills, when the two ruffians -were suddenly confronted by a female—it was Imogene.</p> - -<p>It appears that after leaving the house, she wandered, she -knew not whither, until chance directed her attention to a -small cavity near the roadside, where she lay concealed during -the greater part of the day without being discovered by -her pursuers.</p> - -<p>The shades of night were fast approaching, wrapping the -grand old forest in a somber gloom, when Imogene awakened -to a sense of her lonely situation. As she pondered on her -isolated condition, her mind was filled with fear and dreadful -forebodings.</p> - -<p>The thought, that she was there alone in that gloomy forest, -a prey to wild beasts and starvation, almost distracted -her. She almost wished that she had not effected her escape, -and was about to give vent to her wild grief, when the -tread of horses attracted her attention.</p> - -<p>She paused and listened. Her ears had not deceived her. -There was no mistaking the sound—some one was approaching. -She quickly hid herself in the bushes, where she could -get a view of the passers-by.</p> - -<p>She had not long to wait; the footsteps steadily approached, -and the next instant two horsemen loomed up in the distance. -What was it that made Imogene start, and sent the hot blood -coursing through her veins, as she caught sight of the foremost -stranger?</p> - -<p>“No—yes—it must be—it is <em>he</em>!” she murmured to herself. -She could with difficulty refrain from uttering a cry of joy, as<span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">[55]</span> -she recognized in the form of one of these men, the pretended -American scout and patriot—Hank Putney.</p> - -<p>The sight of the scout reanimated her and restored her -drooping spirits, and she quickly determined to discover herself -to him and claim his protection until she should reach -some place of safety.</p> - -<p>At the sudden appearance of Imogene, after her recapture -had been given up as hopeless, the scowl that darkened the -brows of the two ruffians gave place to a look of savage joy.</p> - -<p>It was evident to Putney, for it was indeed he, that Imogene -had not yet recognized him as being one of her abductors, for -what other reason could possibly have induced her to surrender -herself into his hands unless it was that she still deemed -him to be the character he had so basely assumed—a stanch -American patriot, and the thought seemed to give infinite pleasure -to the ruffian.</p> - -<p>“So we’ve found ye at last,” he growled.</p> - -<p>“Oh, Hank!” exclaimed Imogene, with delight, without -noticing his rough salutation, as she approached the scout, -her hands extended to welcome him, “I am so glad to have -met you.”</p> - -<p>“Yes?” answered Putney, with a sinister smile on his countenance.</p> - -<p>“I have been in this dreary place the entire day, without -either food or drink,” and Imogene shuddered as she commenced -to relate the particulars of her abduction and escape, -but the scout interrupting her, replied:</p> - -<p>“I know all about it.”</p> - -<p>“Have you captured some of the miscreants?”</p> - -<p>“Not exactly.”</p> - -<p>“Then you have been informed of their vile plot?”</p> - -<p>“That neither.”</p> - -<p>“In what manner, then, did you acquire this knowledge? -You puzzle me, Hank—I can not understand you,” said Imogene, -growing a little nettled at his cold, formal manner.</p> - -<p>“That’ll all be explained to ye soon enough. In the meanwhile -ye’ll mount and foller us,” he responded, at the same -time making a gesture to his comrade to lead forward Imogene’s -steed, which she had fastened near her place of concealment.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">[56]</span></p> - -<p>Depressed by the mysterious manner of Putney, Imogene, -with a heavy heart, mechanically obeyed his order. The two -ruffians stationed themselves on either side of her. These -precautions looked suspicious, and a chill of fear crept over -Imogene, as she witnessed them.</p> - -<p>However, she quietly accompanied her companions, following -wherever they led. During their journey she endeavored -to draw her taciturn escort into a conversation, but without -success. After a weary ride of several miles, stopping suddenly, -she exclaimed:</p> - -<p>“I will proceed no further, until you tell me whither you -are leading me!”</p> - -<p>“Ye won’t, eh! I’ll see about that.”</p> - -<p>“What do you mean, sir?”</p> - -<p>“That, willin’ or unwillin’, ye must foller me.”</p> - -<p>“Where?”</p> - -<p>“To th’ place ye left this mornin’.”</p> - -<p>“Not back to the haunt of my villainous abductors?”</p> - -<p>“’Xactly.”</p> - -<p>“Oh, no, Hank! You do not—you can not mean this! -Tell me that you are but jesting!” wildly exclaimed Imogene, -now thoroughly alarmed at the villain’s words.</p> - -<p>“It’s th’ truth.”</p> - -<p>“Then you are concerned in this plot?”</p> - -<p>“If ye’ll hev it so, I am.”</p> - -<p>“What! You do not mean to tell me, Hank, that <em>you, you</em> -are a traitor—that <em>you</em> are one of these ruffians!”</p> - -<p>The Tory hesitated a moment before answering, but feeling -assured that he had nothing to fear in revealing his true character -to his captive, as it was beyond her power to do him -harm, he turned abruptly and replied:</p> - -<p>“Yes. Hereafter ye’ll know me, not as Hank, th’ American -scout and patriot, but as Putney, th’ spy of th’ Tory League!”</p> - -<p>This announcement, like the sting of some venomous serpent, -sunk deep into the heart of Imogene. For a moment -she seemed completely paralyzed.</p> - -<p>“Great Heavens! then I am lost!” she murmured, seeing -how basely she had been betrayed, and how unwarily she had -surrendered herself into the clutches of the villains.</p> - -<p>The fact that Hank Putney and the leader of her abductors<span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">[57]</span> -were one and the same person, was more than she could -seem to realize. To her, the greatness of the man’s crime -was only equaled by his perfidy.</p> - -<p>Her spirit was almost crushed by the acknowledged treachery -of him in whom she had reposed so much confidence, and -she resigned herself to her fate.</p> - -<p>The party continued the remainder of their journey in silence. -The moon had risen bright and full, when they arrived -near the house in which the ruffians had left their companion -to await their return.</p> - -<p>As they emerged from the forest to cross the lawn leading -to the dwelling, a slight breeze shook the tall pines—a peculiar -sound reached their ears—the lengthened shadow of a -human body stretched across the moonlit sward, reaching nigh -to their very feet in its vacillating course.</p> - -<p>They stopped—looked up—when, oh, horror! they beheld -a spectacle sufficient to harrow up their very souls.</p> - -<p>There, pendent between heaven and earth, with its form -clearly outlined against the bright sky, was a black, frightful, -hideous corpse, once their own cheerful comrade, now no -more.</p> - -<p>As it slowly swayed to and fro, moved by the gentle wind, -with the pale moonbeams reflecting on the grim, distorted -countenance, with features ghastly and repulsive, with eyes -staring and glassy, that seemed to protrude from their sockets -in their endeavors to pierce, as it were, the impenetrable darkness -that enveloped the path of the soul, the ill-boding, shrill -screams of the birds of prey, as they struggled and fought -over their ghostly banquet of flesh, was a sight too dreadful -to look upon.</p> - -<p>The ruffians turned their heads in disgust from the horrible -sight, and dragging more than leading Imogene, who seemed -chained to the spot by some terrible fascination, they hurried -away.</p> - -<p>The ominous cries of the carnivorous birds still rung in -their ears—sounds that penetrated the deepest chambers of -their own dark hearts, pricking their consciences with the -knowledge of the loathsome deeds there secreted.</p> - -<p>On, on they hurried, through brier, bramble, and thicket, -stopping not even to cast a single glance behind them, lest<span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">[58]</span> -they should again see the spectral figure of their late companion, -until they had satisfied themselves that they had nothing -to fear from ghost or human, when they reined in their -panting steeds to recover breath.</p> - -<p>“Oh, God! thet wor awful!” exclaimed Putney, in a -husky voice. “Poor Tom wor a plucky one; but that wor -an awful death to die!” and he covered his face with his -brawny hands, trying to shut out the terrible scene from his -imagination.</p> - -<p>The corpse was that of their companion, to whom, that -morning, the dragoons had administered such summary justice.</p> - -<p>After a moment of respite, Putney gave the signal to again -press onward. Over fallen trees, through swamp and morass, -up the steep hill and across the valley, they hurried with a -precipitation which naught but their superstitious fears could -have created.</p> - -<p>Their progress was at length arrested by the small stream -that flowed into Lake George, between Forts William Henry -and George. One of the party reconnoitered the bank for -some distance to find a fordable place.</p> - -<p>Finally the desired spot was discovered, and they succeeded -in passing over in safety, receiving only a slight wetting. -They were so near the forts, that the distant roll of the drums -and winding of the bugles could be heard distinctly.</p> - -<p>Putney urged the party to their utmost celerity. He was -in great trepidation lest he should come across some scouting -party returning to the fort. However, the crisis passed safely -over, and they breathed freely as they escaped beyond the -American lines.</p> - -<p>After a short but wearisome ride, Putney signaled the party -to halt and dismount. The spot at which they stopped was -at the base of a large hill, possessed, in no respect, of any peculiarities -to distinguish it from the landscape of the surrounding -country.</p> - -<p>Putney pushed his way through a large clump of bushes -that grew some distance back from the roadside, and made a -sign for the others to follow him.</p> - -<p>They proceeded cautiously along a secret path that wound -around the base of the mountain, and at length stopped before -a large cavity partly concealed by shrubbery.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">[59]</span></p> - -<p>Putney knocked on a small door that barred what appeared -to be the entrance to a cave. The bolts were slowly withdrawn, -and the door cautiously opened by a dark, sullen-looking -man, who held a large bunch of keys in his hand.</p> - -<p>A nod of recognition was exchanged between this personage -and Putney, and the party was allowed to enter. The -place into which they were introduced, bore a dismal, somber -appearance.</p> - -<p>Benches were scattered promiscuously about, while on the -side walls were hung all sorts of martial implements. Not -a single person, however, was visible: all was as quiet as the -grave.</p> - -<p>They were conducted along a large corridor dimly lighted -a by a single lantern, <ins class="corr" id="tn59" title="Transcriber’s Note—“whose feeble glare served only to highten” changed to “whose feeble glare served only to heighten”.">whose feeble glare served only to heighten</ins> -the gloominess of the situation.</p> - -<p>Imogene was ushered into a brilliantly illuminated apartment, -which, from all appearances, had, no doubt, been fitted -up for her special reception.</p> - -<p>She gazed about her with a half-bewildered air. The -apartment was a magnificent one. There was a lavish display -of grandeur, unsurpassed in many of our wealthiest drawing -rooms.</p> - -<p>From the ceiling hung a beautiful pendent, with variegated -lights. The tapestried walls were grandiosely decorated in -the richest and most artistic manner.</p> - -<p>In the center of the room stood a table with vases, containing -the choicest and rarest flowers, whose fragrant exhalations -perfumed the whole apartment, serving to dispel the -disagreeable odors emanating from the naturally damp -walls.</p> - -<p>The whole appearance of the place was strikingly at variance -with the rest of the interior of this mysterious cavern. -Recovering from her fit of abstraction into which she had -fallen, Imogene rushed to the door of her prison, for this we -must term it, to try and gain an egress, but it was securely -barred.</p> - -<p>She then turned her attention to the walls, lest perchance -there might be some secret avenue to escape, but her hopes -in that direction were speedily blasted.</p> - -<p>Again she returned to her prison door, and with frantic<span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">[60]</span> -energy shook it violently, but it was proof against her feeble -strength.</p> - -<p>In an agony of despair, she cried aloud for assistance; -however, naught save the echoes of her own voice gave -back an answer.</p> - -<p>“Lost! lost! lost!” she cried! “May Heaven defend and -guide me in this, my hour of peril!”</p> - -<p>The exertions she had made were too much for her delicate -and exhausted frame. Tottering to a small couch that -stood at the further end of the room, she cast herself upon -it, and burying her face in her hands, gave vent to her grief.</p> - -<p>Gradually a sense of drowsiness stole over her, and succumbing -to nature’s wants, she soon was lost in slumber. -How long she remained thus, she knew not, when she was -awakened by the creaking of her prison door as some person -entered.</p> - -<p>Remaining silent, she listened. The footsteps approached -the middle of the apartment, then stopped. She started in -alarm from her reclining posture and confronted her silent -visitor.</p> - -<p>He was a tall and stately personage, with an authoritative -and commanding mien. His face was carefully concealed -in the folds of an ample cloak that fell gracefully from his -shoulders.</p> - -<p>“Why this intrusion, sir?”</p> - -<p>“No intrusion, fair lady, only a friendly visit.”</p> - -<p>At the sound of the stranger’s voice Imogene involuntarily -drew back.</p> - -<p>“That voice—surely I have heard it before—it is so like -<em>his</em>!” she whispered to herself. “Who are you, sir?”</p> - -<p>“Behold!” exclaimed the stranger, throwing off his disguise.</p> - -<p>“Great Heavens! Maurice!” and Imogene, trembling in -every joint, staggered against the wall for support.</p> - -<p>“Yes, Imogene!” replied her visitor, making a bow, half -courteous, half ironical—“it is I.”</p> - -<p>“For what reasons are you here?—you, whom all thought -to be hundreds of leagues hence?”</p> - -<p>“To express my love to you. Yes, Imogene—it is the -great love I bear you that has placed me here, and made -me what you see me.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">[61]</span></p> - -<p>“Are you a voluntary inmate of this horrid place?”</p> - -<p>“I am.”</p> - -<p>“And these wretched men that brought me hither?”</p> - -<p>“Are my subordinates.”</p> - -<p>“But they, according to their own confession, are members -of that notorious band called the Tory League. Are you -then, numbered among their associates?”</p> - -<p>“I am—their leader.”</p> - -<p>“Do you mean to tell me that <em>you</em>—but I dare not mention -that terrible name; the very thought of it makes my -blood run cold with horror.”</p> - -<p>“It is but too true—I <em>do</em> bear that name which none have -learned to repeat, save to visit with curses and execrations -the head of its possessor—Iron Hand.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, yes; that dreadful synonym for bloody murder -and rapine.”</p> - -<p>“Imogene, you judge me too harshly. Though hated by -mankind; though my name be whispered in accents of fear -and loathing, yet I am not so bad as the world would have me. -One thing always has sustained me when on the very verge -of despair, and like a celestial guide, has directed my footsteps, -and bid me hope when all around me was ingulfed -in misery and darkness—it is the thought, that you might -yet look upon me more kindly; that you might at some -future day, even learn to love me.”</p> - -<p>“Talk not to me of love! Know you not that I am already -betrothed—that my hand is already plighted to another?”</p> - -<p>“Ay! I know it but too well. It is that that has compelled -me to have recourse to these extreme measures; it is the -burning love that is consuming me, that has goaded me on to -undertake that which in my better moments I would scorn to -do.”</p> - -<p>“Is it to avow your vile passion that you have torn me from -my happy home, and brought sorrow to the heart of my venerable -father? Is it for that purpose that you have seduced -America’s sons from their allegiance—that you have enlisted -in your service the silvery locks of age, and made them subservient -tools for the furtherance of your diabolical schemes? -It is for this, then, that you have outraged propriety, modesty,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">[62]</span> -and the laws of God and man? Is it thus you expect to be -successful? You speak of love; yes, it is like that the hawk -bears the dove, merely to toy with its victim for a time, then -to rend it in pieces with its talons. Thank God! I have penetrated -your disguise, and understand your villainous designs—I -am no longer deceived. Your heart is black and treacherous, -your soul stained with crimes innumerable, and honor -has fled the breast of one so corrupted!”</p> - -<p>The Tory chieftain drew back at the passionate energy of -Imogene’s manner. His rage stood revealed in his pale and -distorted face; but suppressing his anger—he thought it policy—he -replied with affected composure:</p> - -<p>“You know not, Imogene, how I have loved and love you. -Even supposing that I have acted with any rashness in this, -why will you insist on my suffering for it? Why should reproaches -be added to rejection, as if to make the cup of bitterness -more full? Come, Imogene, we must yet be friends. I -do not press you for an immediate answer; but tell me you -will think of me, and think more kindly, and I will be happy. -I go now, but will return on the morrow to receive my answer.”</p> - -<p>Bowing low, he turned to depart.</p> - -<p>“Hold! hold, sir!” exclaimed Imogene. “I wish to be harassed -no further by these unwelcome visits. Your very presence -fills me with a loathsome feeling I can not express. You -can not deceive me by your duplicity. I know your purposes -are vile. Hear then my answer. It is irrevocable and absolute. -I hate you! I despise you! My soul tells me that -you are worse than you appear. You have bribed a villain -with a heart as black as your own, to deliver me into your -power. Think you that vengeance sleepeth? No! its loud -cry will rise to Heaven until you perish beneath its withering -influence!”</p> - -<p>As she spoke these words, with an energy beyond what she -had ever shown, the fire that smoldered on the hearth fell in, -and caused a sudden light to fill the place.</p> - -<p>It shone ruddy brown upon the beautiful but stern face and -uplifted arm of Imogene, and gave to her the appearance of -an angel denouncing on the head of the villain before her the -sentence of eternal woe.</p> - -<p>It glared likewise upon the pale countenance of the Tory,<span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">[63]</span> -and gave to his distorted features a look of ghastliness and -fear that might have suited such an occasion well.</p> - -<p>The awe-inspiring picture lasted but for a second, then vanished. -The fire again sunk low, the light grew dim. It came -like a dismal vision, and like a vision faded.</p> - -<p>This was more than her visitor had expected. He felt how -thoroughly he was despised, and for a moment was speechless; -but quickly recovering himself, a Satanic look overspread -his countenance, and his eyes glared with a furious fire -as he fairly hissed these words between his teeth:</p> - -<p>“You have given me <em>your</em> answer, now list ye to <em>mine</em>! -When we were but mere children together, you rejected my -boyish love—you looked down upon me with scorn and contempt -as you do now—you spurned me from you as though -I were a dog, without pity, without mercy! Think you that -I am impervious to such wrongs, such insults? Think you -that you can with impunity beard the lion in his den, without -reaping the result of your audacity? Mark ye! I will -give you three days to reconsider your rash decision; at the -expiration of that time, I will return for a final answer. -Should you refuse me, then you are mine—mine, body and -soul. There is no one to whom you can appeal for assistance—none -that can help you. I alone possess that power, and -should you disdain to avail yourself of it, then you are irretrievably -lost!” and with a demoniac laugh, the Tory rushed -from the place.</p> - -<p>Imogene gazed for a moment with a wild stare after the -retreating form of her late visitor, then reeled, and sunk -swooning to the floor.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>The morning succeeding the arrest of Captain Sherwood -dawned clear and beautiful. The bright sunbeams struggled -through the narrow, grated window of Edgar’s cell, and brilliantly -illuminated the apartment.</p> - -<p>When he gazed about him, and beheld the joyful sunlight -streaming athwart the floor of his prison, his feelings were too -painful for description—it seemed, as it were, that every thing -mocked him.</p> - -<p>“Would that I could dispel these gloomy thoughts that -possess me,” he murmured. “There is an indescribable something—a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">[64]</span> -feeling of sadness I can not banish. Shake it off I -can not—it clings to me despite my efforts, and I feel as -though it were a precursor of some terrible affliction about to -befall me.”</p> - -<p>While these despondent thoughts occupied his mind, he remained -leaning with his shoulder against the wall, and gazing -with a troubled look upon the decaying fire, when Colonel -Hall entered the cell.</p> - -<p>“Ah, good-morning, colonel,” exclaimed Edgar; “I am -so glad to see you; your presence makes me feel less sad.”</p> - -<p>“Good-morning, captain; I hope you are well.”</p> - -<p>“Yes, colonel, well in body, though not in spirit. But -why do <em>you</em> look so sad? Are you in trouble?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, captain, I am.”</p> - -<p>“Then we are companions in misfortune.”</p> - -<p>“Would to God that we were!”</p> - -<p>“Why? Do you so commiserate the unhappiness of -others, that you are willing to share it with them?”</p> - -<p>“The affliction is not so much my own, captain, as my -friend’s.”</p> - -<p>“Your friend! Ah! then there is another to whom you -may offer condolence. May I inquire his name?”</p> - -<p>“Alas! you know it but too well; the person is—yourself!”</p> - -<p>“Myself! Is there then some new tale of woe—some additional -sorrow to be added to my already heavy burden? -Tell it me, I beseech you, colonel—keep me not in suspense.”</p> - -<p>“Calm yourself, Captain Sherwood, that you may listen to -me.”</p> - -<p>Drawing his seat close to that of Edgar, Colonel Hall, in -as gentle a manner as possible, related to him Imogene’s sudden -and mysterious disappearance, the success of the party -that he had dispatched in search of her, and their return to -the fort that morning.</p> - -<p>At the conclusion of this sad intelligence, Edgar uttered a -deep groan. His head sunk forward on his knees in an access -of deep emotion, and his eyes were fixed with a vacant -stare on the floor.</p> - -<p>For several moments, silence, gloomy and profound, reigned.<span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">[65]</span> -Raising his head slowly, his face, which was now pale and -haggard, presented a picture of despair.</p> - -<p>“What have they done with her?” he faintly asked.</p> - -<p>“At present I am unable to answer you. The prisoner -that was captured, and from whom the information which I -have imparted to you was elicited, remained reticent on that -point. However, I will use the most strenuous exertions to -have the mystery unraveled in a satisfactory manner. Too -long has the border ran with the blood of the victims of -these cut-throats. I will have them hunted down wheresoever -they be, till they pay the penalty of their villainous -deeds,” exclaimed Colonel Hall, in an emphatic tone, a stern -look settling on his brow.</p> - -<p>“Heaven bless and reward you, colonel, for your kindness -to me.”</p> - -<p>“Mention it not, Captain Sherwood, I beg of you. I have -done no more to you, than I would have expected you to do -me under like circumstances. I must tarry no longer, however, -as the time flies swiftly by, and my men are under orders, -impatiently awaiting my commands.”</p> - -<p>His hand was already on the latch of the cell-door, when -Edgar again addressed him.</p> - -<p>“A word more, Colonel Hall, before you go. I have -another—a final request to make of you; should you accede -to it, you will confer upon me an inestimable boon.”</p> - -<p>“Well, what may it be?”</p> - -<p>“That you will allow my friend, War-Cloud, to visit me -here alone.”</p> - -<p>“Captain, any thing within my power that will tend to alleviate -the rigorousness of your unpleasant position I will -willingly do—your request I grant.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks! thanks!”</p> - -<p>But a short interval elapsed after the departure of Colonel -Hall, when the door opened and War-Cloud entered. Edgar, -seizing the hand of his friend with warmth, and wringing it -cordially, led him to a seat beside his own, near the fire.</p> - -<p>“I have a purpose, my friend, in thus sending for you,” -said Edgar. “You are aware of my helpless situation, unable -assist myself, or even her who is dearer to me than life itself; -for this reason have I sought you, as the only one to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">[66]</span> -whom I could unhesitatingly reveal my grave suspicions. I -also have a plan to unfold. Should it succeed, every thing -may again be righted; however, its undertaking entails many -hazards, perhaps death.”</p> - -<p>“War-Cloud is always ready to aid his white brother.”</p> - -<p>“Thanks, my faithful friend! To you, then, will I confide -my suspicion—in you do I place my last, my forlorn hope. -Draw near to me, that not a single word I speak may escape -you; for should this fail, then all is lost!”</p> - -<p>Looking cautiously around to see that he could not be overheard, -Edgar commenced in a low, whispering tone to disclose -to the scout the plan of which he had spoken.</p> - -<p>It was evident by the startled manner of War-Cloud, so -foreign to his natural stoicism, that he was a listener to a disclosure -that surpassed his most extravagant conceptions.</p> - -<p>After a long conversation, they both arose. The sad, dejected -features of Edgar were now lighted up by a more hopeful -look, while on the countenance of War-Cloud there was an -expression of settled determination to be successful in this enterprise, -could human efforts effect such a result.</p> - -<p>Moving toward the door, their eyes met, and in that gaze -each read the depth of friendship’s love. The two friends -clasped hands affectionately, and with a mutual farewell, the -next moment the Indian was gone.</p> - -<p>The following morning anxious inquiries were made at the -fort concerning the whereabouts of War-Cloud, but he was -nowhere to be found.</p> - -<p>He had quietly made his exit, unknown to any of the garrison; -but as these sudden and mysterious disappearances were -of no uncommon occurrence, they created no suspicion.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">[67]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_VIII"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER VIII</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE HUNTED LIFE.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">We</span> will again return to the fort. It was the day subsequent -to the arrest of Captain Sherwood and the disappearance -of Imogene Lear.</p> - -<p>These unlooked-for events had furnished sufficient matter -for the gossips of the garrison; but now something else had -turned up which bid fair to overwhelm them.</p> - -<p>In fact, the whole community was wild with excitement -about an apparition that a dozen or more affirmed to have -seen the previous night, pacing to and fro upon the parapets.</p> - -<p>The soldiers became superstitious, and were collected here -and there in groups of three or four discussing the matter.</p> - -<p>“I tell yer,” exclaimed a burly-looking fellow of one of -these crowds, “my eyes never cheated me yet, nor did they -last night. It wor he; I am sure of it!”</p> - -<p>“But, Tompkins,” said another, “how could it have been -the cap’n? for I kept close guard at his cell-door all night, -and I am certain he <em>was</em> there, too.”</p> - -<p>“Can’t help it, if ye did,” chimed in Putney, the scout. -“Bill and I saw Sherwood on th’ parapets, as sartin as we -live. He wor all-fired pale, and wore a long, white, shaggy -cloak that looked awful enough to make one’s teeth chatter -and the hair to stand up straight.”</p> - -<p>“I reckon that’s so, Put,” said Bill; “my legs shake just -a leetle now.”</p> - -<p>“I wouldn’t take that post on the parapets for half the -world,” said a third man.</p> - -<p>“’Cause you’re a scarish one,” growled the man opposite -him. “You’d ought to be a woman! I’d take it for nothing, -and if the ghost came near me he’d catch some cold lead for -his trouble.”</p> - -<p>At this remark the crowd enjoyed a short laugh at the -“scared fellow’s” expense.</p> - -<p>“This cap’n is a tricky one, comrades,” said Putney, “and<span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">[68]</span> -ye’d all better look out for him in the futer, or he’ll fix some -of ye.”</p> - -<p>“He’s the devil’s own!” added Bill.</p> - -<p>Such was the talk concerning the ghost, or whatever it -might be, which they had seen. All who had witnessed the -phenomenon declared that it was Captain Sherwood; but -when the mystery was examined into, it was proved beyond -doubt that the captain had never left his cell once during -the night.</p> - -<p>This was strange indeed, and no one could solve the enigma. -The captain began to be regarded with superstitious awe. He -heeded it not; there were more serious troubles that weighed -upon his mind.</p> - -<p>It was the day on which his trial was to take place; and -as the hour for assembling the court approached, he began to -grow a little uneasy.</p> - -<p>He had hitherto forgotten his own danger in his great sorrow -for the lost Imogene; but now, he awoke to a clear sense -of his own condition, and took a glance at the means that -were to extricate him from it.</p> - -<p>The situation was indeed becoming alarming, for he was -well aware that should it in any way be proved that he was -the dreaded Iron Hand, his life would be worthless.</p> - -<p>“What could he do?” he asked himself. “There is some -terrible mistake, and I fear me it will not be rectified until -too late!”</p> - -<p>The moment at length arrived, and a court was detailed to -examine into his case. Upon its decision the fate of Edgar -Sherwood rested.</p> - -<p>The assembly was quite large, consisting of the troops and -nearly all the civilians living in the vicinity. There were -three judges, clad in the martial vestments of their profession, -and maintaining a gravity worthy of the occasion, and becoming -their rank.</p> - -<p>In the center was a venerable-looking man, whose whole exterior -bore the stamp of long-tried military habits. It was -Colonel Hall, who was the presiding justice of the court. -His associates were officers selected from the troops that garrisoned -the forts situated near Lake George.</p> - -<p>Their demeanor was mild, but bore a grave reserve. Before<span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">[69]</span> -these arbiters, Edgar Sherwood was ushered, under the -custody of two armed men.</p> - -<p>A profound and awful silence succeeded his entrance, -while every eye was turned upon him. Then Colonel Hall -arising, spoke in the deep tones of one used to wield authority:</p> - -<p>“Let the prisoner advance.”</p> - -<p>Edgar proceeded with a firm step into the center of the -apartment. All was now anxiety and eager curiosity.</p> - -<p>“Captain Sherwood, you are aware of the reason for this -tribunal, are you not?”</p> - -<p>“I am.”</p> - -<p>“Perhaps it would be prudent,” said one of the judges, -“to inform the prisoner, that he is not bound to answer any -questions that will aid in his own condemnation.”</p> - -<p>Edgar nodded, and Colonel Hall proceeded.</p> - -<p>“You are charged, sir, with being an officer in his majesty’s -service, and of remaining in the Continental army in -disguise, for the purpose of acting as spy. What have you -to say to this?”</p> - -<p>“That it is false!” exclaimed Edgar, in a tone that echoed -throughout the room.</p> - -<p>“On what ground?”</p> - -<p>“On the ground of my conduct heretofore.”</p> - -<p>“This, undoubtedly, will have some weight, sir, but not -sufficient to counterbalance the testimony of witnesses. Have -you any other?”</p> - -<p>Edgar paused, and seemed to commune with himself for -a moment, then answered with a look of dejection:</p> - -<p>“No, none. I am deserted, and there is no one to speak -in my behalf. Let the case take its course—I must abide -your decision!”</p> - -<p>“But, take time to reflect, sir; you must have something -more to offer in defense!” said the judge, quickly.</p> - -<p>“Nothing.”</p> - -<p>At this, there was a frightful calmness in the manner of -the judge that seemed to appall the assemblage, and a murmur -of pity arose from some.</p> - -<p>The silence lasted but for a moment, and then the witnesses -for the prosecution were ordered by the justice to -come forward.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">[70]</span></p> - -<p>Hank Putney, the scout, was the first called.</p> - -<p>“Do you know the prisoner?” asked the judge.</p> - -<p>“I do,” returned the man, casting a careless glance at Edgar.</p> - -<p>“How long have you known him?”</p> - -<p>“Wal, let me see,” and he began to count his fingers; -“about—about—I reckon since Jenuary last.”</p> - -<p>“During this time, have you ever noticed any thing suspicious -in his conduct that would lead you to believe him a -British spy?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, yer honor, somethin’ tarnation strong, I should say.”</p> - -<p>“State it.”</p> - -<p>“Wal, it wor th’ day afore yesterday that it happened. -Bill Hawkins and I wor sent out to s’arch for him, as ye -thought him either taken prisoner or shot, one or t’other; -but ’twas no such thing. About night, we come across a -band o’ these Tory and red-skin devils, and there, right in -th’ middle of ’em, wor our cap’n lookin’ as big as all yer -honors put together. He wor ev’dently their boss, for th’ -devils wor all obeyin’ his orders, and trottin’ their legs off -to serve him.”</p> - -<p>“Now, my man, you are aware that you are under oath?”</p> - -<p>“Oh sartin, yer honor!”</p> - -<p>“Are you positive that the prisoner before you and the -man you saw as a leader in the Tory camp, are one and the -same person?”</p> - -<p>“Sartin, as my name is Hank Putney!”</p> - -<p>“That will do.”</p> - -<p>During the scout’s examination, the most intense interest prevailed -among the listeners, for it was understood that the -whole case rested mainly upon his testimony.</p> - -<p>The accusation was so plain, the facts so limited, the proof -so obvious and the penalty so well established, that escape at -once seemed impossible.</p> - -<p>The next witness was Putney’s companion, Bill Hawkins. -His testimony fully corroborated the scout’s in every respect. -He swore that he had seen Captain Sherwood in the midst of -the Tories, in command of the band known as the Tory -League.</p> - -<p>“How do you know that he was in command, and that he -is their chief, Iron Hand?” asked the justice.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">[71]</span></p> - -<p>“Heard the red-skins call him that name,” replied Bill.</p> - -<p>“Was he, at this time, dressed in the uniform of the Continental -army?”</p> - -<p>“No, not exactly. He had on huntin’ clothes like the Injuns. -He also wore a white, shaggy jacket, jist like the ghost -had last night.”</p> - -<p>“Never mind, Hawkins, what the ghost had, but the prisoner,” -said the justice, smiling. “You think he was clothed -in some garment made of white, shaggy fur?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, yer honor, jist that.”</p> - -<p>“Are there any more to testify in this case?” asked the -judge, glancing around the room.</p> - -<p>There was a brief silence, and then Putney, with the assistance -of a soldier, conducted a man to where the judges -were seated.</p> - -<p>The stranger stopped and looked around him at the crowd -in wild dismay, until at length his eyes rested upon the prisoner, -when he gave a sudden start, but immediately recovered -himself.</p> - -<p>However, all perceived this strange conduct on the part of -the new witness.</p> - -<p>“Who is this you have here?” asked the judge.</p> - -<p>“A prisoner we captur’d last night,” said Putney. “I calc’late -he’s one of th’ cap’n’s gang; he seems to know him.”</p> - -<p>“My man, who are you?” said the judge, “and what do you -know about the prisoner?”</p> - -<p>The stranger hung his head, but did not reply.</p> - -<p>“Speak out, I conjure you!” cried the judge. “If you can -give any information in this matter, that will serve to clear up -the mystery, you shall be set at liberty.”</p> - -<p>These words seemed to take effect upon him, and he appeared -to be more at ease.</p> - -<p>“Do you know the prisoner?” again asked the judge, eagerly.</p> - -<p>“Shall I have my liberty if I tell?”</p> - -<p>“Yes, I pledge you my word you shall.”</p> - -<p>The man again held down his head, and after some moments, -ventured a sly glance at Edgar, who all the time seemed -to be regarding him with astonishment. Turning alternately -red and pale, apparently doing battle with himself, he -replied:</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">[72]</span></p> - -<p>“He’s the Tory chief, Iron Hand.”</p> - -<p>“My God!” cried Edgar, starting to his feet with a savage -look. “What new enemy is this that dare utter lies so foul! -Merciful Heaven! is there no hope for me? Am I to be condemned -on the testimony of such villains?”</p> - -<p>The stranger, with a look of fear depicted on every lineament -of his face, sprung behind the soldier.</p> - -<p>“Keep him off! keep him off!” he screamed, “he’ll kill -me!”</p> - -<p>For a short time the court-room was a scene of intense excitement, -and the judges arose to quell it.</p> - -<p>“Remand your prisoner,” said the justice, to the officer who -was in charge of Edgar.</p> - -<p>After a short consultation, the tribunal gave their verdict -against Edgar; and Colonel Hall, though his heart bled with -pity for the sad fate of his young friend, saw before him nothing -save his stern, uncompromising duty, and with trembling -hand, signed the death-warrant.</p> - -<p>It briefly stated, that Edgar Sherwood had been detected -within the American lines, as a British spy in disguise, and -that thereby, according to the laws of war, he was liable to -suffer death, and that the court adjudged him to the penalty—sentencing -him to be executed by hanging, on the morning -of the following day.</p> - -<p>The sentence of the court was communicated to the prisoner, -who received it with perfect resignation. The assembly -dispersed, and the judges retired to their own quarters with -unmoved exterior, and the consciousness of dispassionate integrity.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>It was on the night after the trial, that a solitary traveler -might have been seen pursuing his way through a thick wood -situated about ten miles from the fort.</p> - -<p>He was possessed of a powerful frame, being full six feet -in hight, and was clad in a hunter’s garb, consisting of shirt -and breeches made of skins.</p> - -<p>In his girdle was placed an ugly-looking knife. His head -was adorned with a fur cap that hung down over the upper -part of his face, which gave him a somewhat singular appearance. -His hair was coarse, matted, and fiery red.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">[73]</span></p> - -<p>As he proceeded on his way, his conduct to any observer -would have appeared decidedly suspicious. Every now and -then he would stop and listen attentively, and after casting a -searching glance about him to satisfy himself that no one was -following him, he would move on again.</p> - -<p>The night was quite dark; an easterly wind, accompanied -by a chilling dampness, gave unerring notice of an approaching -storm. But the traveler, heeding it not, pushed on with -long strides, until at length he reached a mysterious-looking -hut standing at the foot of a hill and hemmed in with large -rocks and stunted oaks, whose foliage nearly concealed it from -view.</p> - -<p>Here he stopped and gave a peculiar whistle. The door -was cautiously opened, and an armed man appeared at the -entrance.</p> - -<p>“Hank!” said he, in a whisper.</p> - -<p>“Here, chief—open th’ door,” answered our friend, Hank -Putney, the scout.</p> - -<p>The door was now thrown wide open to permit the traveler -to enter, and then closed and securely barred. The two -men uttered no words of greeting, but approaching one side -of the room, they sat down before a half-extinguished fire.</p> - -<p>“You must be nearly chilled through, Hank,” said the -man. “Here, take some of this,” and he handed the scout a -flask.</p> - -<p>Putney seized it with avidity, and placing it to his mouth, -took a deep draught.</p> - -<p>“That’s right good old stuff,” said he, smacking his lips, as -he returned the bottle.</p> - -<p>“Yes; this is the cordial our Whig neighbor had stored -away in his cellar,” said the Tory, chuckling.</p> - -<p>“Ha! ha! ha!” roared Putney; “he wor a clever old chap -to keep it for yer, chief.”</p> - -<p>“Very accommodating indeed, I should say, for it was just -what my larder was sadly deficient in at the time,” and he indulged -in another suppressed laugh. “But come, tell me -what news you bring, Hank, for I am getting impatient.”</p> - -<p>“Wal, it’s all right!” exclaimed the scout, bringing his fist -down on the palm of his hand. “He’s to be hanged to-morrow!”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">[74]</span></p> - -<p>“What! have they convicted him then, of being Iron -Hand, and a British spy?”</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Capital! Give me your hand, worthy friend; you have -done me inestimable service,” and the Tory chieftain seized -the hand of his companion, with apparent cordiality.</p> - -<p>“Yer writin’, chief, and my swearin’, are goin’ to stretch -his windpipe to-morrow mornin’,” continued Putney, with a -swaggering air.</p> - -<p>“Ha! ha! ha! Well, that is a good joke, and well played, -Hank.”</p> - -<p>The man’s small gray eyes sparkled with delight, and he -could hardly restrain himself, so great was his joy at this -piece of news.</p> - -<p>“What fortune!” cried he; “just what I wanted. Here, -let us drink our fill—drink to the man who dies to-morrow.”</p> - -<p>“Here it goes then!” and Hank raised the bottle to his -lips. “That his journey in th’ world herearter may be a jolly -one!”</p> - -<p>“Ay, my worthy fellow.”</p> - -<p>As the fire, at intervals, brightened up and filled the room -with a red light, it cast the forms of the men in fantastic -shadows upon the wall.</p> - -<p>Theirs were strange pictures—faces that portrayed the evil -side of human nature, and any one observing them while hate -and joy beamed thereon, would have involuntarily retreated -with a feeling of horror and disgust.</p> - -<p>“How about the ghost, Hank, did you see it?” asked the -chief, with a roguish twinkle in his eye.</p> - -<p>“Ye devils, didn’t I though! Ha! ha! ha! ye played yer -part well, chief,” and Putney’s sides shook with laughter.</p> - -<p>“The fools,” said Iron Hand. “You can frighten them all -to madness.”</p> - -<p>“They reckon the cap’n’s a wizard, and ’ll bring ruin to -’em all.”</p> - -<p>Iron Hand apparently did not hear this last remark, but -sat musing for some moments before he spoke.</p> - -<p>“Did they condemn him on your testimony alone, Hank?”</p> - -<p>“Mine and Bill Hawkins’, th’ chap I had with me th’ -t’other day when I got th’ writin’.”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">[75]</span></p> - -<p>“He believed he swore to the truth?”</p> - -<p>“Oh, o’ course!”</p> - -<p>There was another pause.</p> - -<p>“I thought I’d make it a bit stronger, howsomever, so I -brought down one of th’ League from th’ lower camp,” continued -Putney. “We made him believe that he wor my -prisoner. It wor Sandy Jim, and he’s a trump. He swore -that th’ prisoner was Iron Hand, and they let him go for -doin’ it.”</p> - -<p>“You have done this job so far, Hank, in superb style; -you are my best man in the whole band. Now if you will -go back and aid in bringing our plan to a successful issue, -you shall be a rich man the day you return and prove to me -that this mortal enemy of mine is <em>dead</em>!”</p> - -<p>“Agreed!” cried Putney. “I’d better start now, or th’ -mornin’ will overtake me afore I get back to th’ fort,” and -with a parting farewell the two men separated.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_IX"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER IX</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">A SAVAGE FRIEND.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">After</span> his interview with Hank Putney, Iron Hand set -out hastily to return to the rendezvous of his band. As he -hurried along, a smile of exultation overspread his countenance, -and he seemed to experience a secret feeling of joy -at the success of his deep-laid schemes.</p> - -<p>He would occasionally indulge in a low, smothered laugh, -as some point of his plot more subtle than the rest would -recur to his mind. As he drew near to the cave, he found -his lieutenant at the entrance awaiting his approach.</p> - -<p>“Well, lieutenant,” he exclaimed, addressing that officer, -“what news?”</p> - -<p>“There is a new applicant, an Indian, sir, who is desirous -of joining the band.”</p> - -<p>“A new recruit, eh, and an Indian too! This is strange -intelligence. What do you know of him?”</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">[76]</span></p> - -<p>“Nothing further, than he says that he has been forced -to fly from beyond the lines of our enemy, the rebels. Indeed, -he seemed ardently desirous of being enrolled as a -member, and appears to bear a deep hatred toward his persecutors.”</p> - -<p>“Is this all the knowledge you have of this fellow?”</p> - -<p>“It is, sir.”</p> - -<p>“You will send him to me then, immediately. But look -ye, lieutenant, should he be admitted to the League, you will -keep a vigilant watch on his movements.”</p> - -<p>In a few moments afterward, Iron Hand was confronted -in his apartments by this new aspirant for predatory honors.</p> - -<p>“What reasons bring you within the precincts of this -camp?” asked the Tory chieftain, as he bent upon his visitor -a cool, calculating gaze, as though he would read his innermost, -thoughts.</p> - -<p>The Indian gave an explanation of his actions in a brief -and apparently satisfactory manner, for at its conclusion -Iron Hand exclaimed:</p> - -<p>“Ah, I understand! you seek to become one of us in order -that you may find an occasion to revenge yourself?”</p> - -<p>The Indian bowed in response.</p> - -<p>“Then you have not sought in vain,” he continued; “for -we are about to attack a party of these rebels this very night, -and there you will have an ample opportunity to glut your -vengeance. You may report yourself to my lieutenant, who -will appoint you your station.”</p> - -<p>As the Indian was about to depart, the Tory chief arose -quickly and approached him. Laying his hand on his shoulder, -he whispered:</p> - -<p>“The reward is, for those who perform their duty faithfully -and do not neglect the interest of the band—pillage, -plunder, and wealth; but for a traitor—death!”</p> - -<p>With this warning injunction, the newly-enrolled member -withdrew to prepare himself to take part in the coming -<i lang="fr" xml:lang="fr">melée</i> .</p> - -<p>The different members of the band were in a state of bustle -and confusion, making preparations for the expected encounter. -This new enterprise was originated, not with the -usual design of pillaging, but for the purpose of attacking a<span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">[77]</span> -small party of the enemy that were encamped midway between -the rendezvous of the League and the American lines, -and whom, on account of their proximity, it was deemed -expedient to remove, as the retreat of the band was liable -at any moment to be discovered by them.</p> - -<p>At midnight they set out, and stealthily made their way -through the forest to the appointed place of attack. Their -foe, lulled into a feeling of security against attack, and little -dreaming of the presence of their deadly opponents, were -slumbering calmly.</p> - -<p>At a preconcerted signal, out flashed the fire of a hundred -rifles, whose sharp crack went reverberating through the forest.</p> - -<p>The attacked party, though completely taken by surprise, -fought bravely, and it was not until overwhelmed by superior -numbers that they slowly retreated, obstinately disputing every -foot of the ground.</p> - -<p>Iron Hand watched every action of the strange Indian.</p> - -<p>“See, with what a desperate vim this fellow strikes!” he -exclaimed, as he observed the Indian, heedless of danger, -throw himself recklessly upon the foe. “These other rascals -fight for plunder only, but he seems to battle for the hatred he -bears those rebels. This is my man—I will trust him,” he -murmured to himself; “he will be of valuable service to me -personally, do I but play well my part.”</p> - -<p>At the command of the chief the pursuit was discontinued, -and the Tories, jubilant over their success, returned to the cave. -The quiet, calm demeanor of the strange Indian was quite a -striking contrast to the boisterous hilarity of his companions.</p> - -<p>For a long time, the chief topic of conversation among the -members of the Tory League, was the fearless intrepidity of -their new comrade, who bore with unblushing indifference the -plaudits thus bestowed upon him.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>Imogene was awakened from the swoon into which she had -fallen after the termination of her interview with Iron Hand, -by the touch of some cold object.</p> - -<p>As she raised herself slowly, she just succeeded in catching -a view of the figure of a man—an Indian, she knew by his -peculiar dress and the feathers that adorned his head—as he -glided swiftly from the apartment.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">[78]</span></p> - -<p>“<ins class="corr" id="tn78" title="Transcriber’s Note—“Who could this mystersous” changed to “Who could this mysterious”.">Who could this mysterious</ins> -visitor be?” she asked herself.</p> - -<p>While arising from her reclining position she felt something -in her hand—it was a small piece of paper carelessly folded.</p> - -<p>Opening it hastily, she with difficulty managed to decipher -from the rude, scrawling characters, the following significant -warning:</p> - -<p>“Be watchful—a friend is near.”</p> - -<p>Startled beyond measure by the contents of this anonymous -note, she was obliged to read it over repeatedly before she -could fairly realize its import.</p> - -<p>In vain did she strive to give herself a satisfactory answer -as to who this unknown friend could be. Of such a person -sufficiently near to be of service to her, she knew not.</p> - -<p>This inspiring news, vague though it was, revived her drooping -spirits. Pressing the billet fervently to her lips, she -placed it safely in her bosom, as though it were a gem of the -richest order.</p> - -<p>The nearly extinct sparks of hope that lay dormant within -her breast, were again enkindled into a flame. Oh, how slowly -the hours, which to her seemed like years, glided by, as in a -state of feverish excitement, she anxiously awaited the arrival -of that promised assistance which came not.</p> - -<p>Night was fast approaching; the evening of that day on -which the Tory chieftain had threatened to visit her, to receive -her final answer. Imogene sat musing, trying to picture -to herself the result of the terrible drama in which she -was acting so conspicuous, but yet so unwilling a part.</p> - -<p>“Perhaps her new-found friend had been detected in his -gallant attempts to aid her, and was now suffering the penalty -of his generosity?” she thought.</p> - -<p>While thus battling with her despondent feelings, she was -startled by hearing a gentle, catlike footstep on the floor. -Starting back half-affrighted, she beheld approaching her the -bearer of the mysterious note.</p> - -<p>There was no mistaking his identity, for there was the -same peculiar dress, the same drooping war-locks. The -stranger advanced unhesitatingly, and as he entered into the -circle of light projected by the lamp, he threw off his disguise, -displaying to view the features of our old and trusty -friend, the faithful scout and patriot—War-Cloud.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">[79]</span></p> - -<p>For a moment Imogene was speechless.</p> - -<p>“What! War-Cloud, you here, too!” she exclaimed, at -length, with a look of amazement.</p> - -<p>She was about to speak further, but the scout raised his -finger with a significant gesture, warning her to remain quiet. -In answer to her anxious, inquiring look, he related in a few -hurried sentences the ruse he had practiced to enable him to -join the band, and how he accidentally learned of her presence -in the cave, through two Tories whose services he had -enlisted in a conspiracy he had formed for the abduction of -Iron Hand.</p> - -<p>Imogene listened with wrapt attention. At the conclusion, -War-Cloud ordered her to be prepared to take her departure -at midnight, and then withdrew from the place as noiselessly -as he had entered.</p> - -<p>Finding herself once more alone, Imogene, assuming an -attitude of prayer, poured out her soul in fervent thanksgiving -to Him who is the dispenser of all blessings.</p> - -<p>The scout hastened back to his accomplices, of whom -he had spoken. It appears that immediately after joining -the League, he had noticed, with his natural keen perception, -a lurking spirit of dissatisfaction among several members of -the band, especially among two in particular.</p> - -<p>By fomenting this turbulent spirit, and by promises of -sharing the bounteous reward offered for the capture of the -Tory chieftain, he had succeeded in bringing them over to -his views, at the same time without permitting them to obtain -even an inkling of his own real character.</p> - -<p>With their plans thus well matured, the conspirators prepared -to put them into execution. Scarcely had the gun from -one of the neighboring frontier forts boomed the hour of -midnight, when they quietly arose, and stepping carefully -over the bodies of their sleeping companions, hurried to -the apartment of Imogene, who, fearful that every moment -would herald the advent of her detested suitor, Iron Hand, -was impatiently awaiting them.</p> - -<p><ins class="corr" id="tn79" title="Transcriber’s Note—“The crisis of thier” changed to “The crisis of their”.">The crisis of their</ins> -undertaking had now arrived. To succeed -in leaving the place without causing any alarm, was -the only difficulty. As soon as they arrived at the mouth of -the cave, the sentinel stationed there hailed them, but with<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">[80]</span> -the rapidity of lightning, War-Cloud sprung upon him, and -bearing him to the earth, firmly secured him.</p> - -<p>The next moment Imogene, under the guidance of one of -the Tories, waving a hasty adieu, was gone. The scout and -his companion returned to their places among their slumbering -comrades, there to abide their time for the carrying out of -the rest of their plan.</p> - -<p>As soon as he felt assured that Imogene had reached a safe -distance, the scout arose, and seizing his rifle, hastened to the -entrance of the rendezvous and discharged it. In an instant -every member of the band was on his feet, inquiring the cause -of the alarm.</p> - -<p>Motioning his companion to keep close to him, War-Cloud, -uttering a loud cry, dashed into the apartment of the chief. -On hearing of his prisoner’s escape, Iron Hand, with an oath, -rushed into Imogene’s late place of confinement, only to find -that the bird had flown.</p> - -<p>At this discovery, his frenzy knew no bounds. Uttering -a yell of rage, he bade War-Cloud and his companion to mount -and follow him. For a time the Tory’s chieftain’s usual cunning -seemed to have deserted him, for without seeming to -harbor the slightest suspicion of treachery, he ordered War-Cloud -to lead the way.</p> - -<p>By the aid of the full autumnal moon, which ever and -anon shot, like a flying ghost, from one dark mass of vapor to -another, the trail of the fugitives was followed without difficulty.</p> - -<p>It was necessary to overtake them before they should reach -the American lines, or else all was lost. On, on, they rode, -until they were almost within gunshot of the enemy, when -through an intervening space in the trees, Iron Hand spied -the fleeing forms of Imogene and her guide.</p> - -<p>With a cry of exultation, the Tory, plunging his rowels -deep into the reeking sides of his steed, hurried in pursuit of -them, closely followed by his two companions. Imogene -heard the cry and looked back. She saw the Tory, and understood -the demoniac expression of his countenance. She -cast her eyes on the face of her companion, but upon it was -stamped a look of calm indifference.</p> - -<p>Oh, for a few short moments, and she would again be free!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">[81]</span> -How agonizing the thought that she was thus to be retaken! -and, too, within sight of the very camp-fires of her friends. -Once more did she sum up courage to steal another glance at -her pursuers. They were gaining upon her slowly but -surely.</p> - -<p>In vain did she endeavor to accelerate the speed of her panting -animal. Another instant and she would again be within -the power of her detested captor! She could almost feel -his hot breath.</p> - -<p>“Ha! ha! fair rebel,” he exclaimed with a malignant laugh, -“captured at last!”</p> - -<p>As he was on the point of laying hold of the bridle of Imogene’s -steed, he felt himself seized on either side by an iron -grasp, while a brace of pistols were presented at his head.</p> - -<p>“Villains! What means this?” he cried, struggling to free -himself.</p> - -<p>“That the tables are turned, chief, and you’re our prisoner,” -replied War-Cloud, raising his weapon in a threatening manner.</p> - -<p>“Ah, treason! You—” but before he could complete his -sentence, he was dragged from his horse, disarmed, and firmly -bound.</p> - -<p>The Tory made a desperate attempt to regain his liberty, -but, seeing how futile were his efforts, he sullenly resigned -himself to his fate.</p> - -<p>In a short time the party reached the American outposts, -by whom they were conducted to the nearest frontier garrison, -to the commander of which, War-Cloud related his adventures, -and at the same time requested an escort to conduct his prisoner -to Fort Ann the next morning, which was readily granted.</p> - -<p>After paying his companions that had assisted him in Iron -Hand’s capture, their portion of the reward, and exacting from -them a promise that they would engage no longer in their former -occupation, he dismissed them.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">[82]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_X"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER X</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE MASK REMOVED.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">While</span> all in the garrison were bathed in quiet sleep, the -slumbers of Captain Sherwood were broken. After spending -a night of restlessness, he arose unrefreshed from the rude bed -where he had thrown himself, and walked to his prison window.</p> - -<p>That brilliant luminary, the sun, like a ball of golden fire, -was just beginning to light up the eastern sky, giving promise -of another bright autumnal day. As Edgar looked out upon -the beautiful landscape painted by his Creator, a feeling of -awe which he had never before experienced, crept over him.</p> - -<p>Every thing seemed to assume a more beautiful aspect, now -that he was soon to be parted from them forever; they began -to find a more precious place in his affections. It almost drove -him to despair to think that he was to die so soon. Ay! before -his course was run; to die a disgraceful—a traitor’s death!</p> - -<p>“Oh! my God!” he exclaimed, dropping his head upon his -breast, “have mercy on me! If I must die, let me leave a -spotless name behind me!” unable any longer to control his -feelings, he gave way to his grief.</p> - -<p>“My life is fated!” exclaimed he, at length. “A dark shadow -is cast before me; but I will show them that I can die like -a man!” and with these words Captain Sherwood prepared -himself to meet his doom like a hero.</p> - -<p>He paced up and down his cell in deep abstraction. He -was thinking over his whole life, and it was one that had -experienced some vicissitudes. As his thoughts flew on, they -gradually came back to the present.</p> - -<p>“What could have become of his beautiful Imogene?” he -asked himself for the hundredth time; “and again, his faithful -friend, War-Cloud—where was he all this time?”</p> - -<p>After putting one suspicious circumstance with another, he -fully believed that some one was plotting against him. It<span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">[83]</span> -was not those men who had sworn his life away, but some profound -villain of whom they were but tools.</p> - -<p>“Can it be possible,” he mused, “that Imogene may be -even at this moment in the power of this villain, whosoever -he may be!”</p> - -<p>The remembrance of his frightful dream flashed across his -mind.</p> - -<p>“Great Heavens!” he cried, “it was a presentiment—a -true one! Oh! oh! oh! she is dead—I shall go mad!” and -he staggered against the wall of his cell for support.</p> - -<p>Just then the first beams of the morning sun stole in -through the window. This little circumstance, slight as -it may seem, reanimated the captain.</p> - -<p>“It is an emblem of hope,” said he, recovering himself.</p> - -<p>There is no more delusive phantom than hope; and it -seems to be the happy privilege of all to cull whatever -pleasures can be gathered from its indulgence. What we -think ought to be, we are fond to think will be.</p> - -<p>Thus it was with our hero—he hoped that something -might happen before the appointed hour for his execution to -extricate him from his terrible dilemma.</p> - -<p>Time, however, passed away. As the hours flew swiftly -by, every blow of the clock’s brass hammer sounded like a -death-knell upon the heart of the prisoner. Shortly there -was heard a great noise without—the creaking of timbers, -and the sound of the hammer and saw.</p> - -<p>Edgar grew pale and approached the window. There it -was—that horrid machine of human vengeance—the gibbet, -glaring before his eyes, like an evil conscience harassing -the soul of a dying man.</p> - -<p>The cold sweat burst from his burning brow. He had -felt before that it was hard for one so young as he to die -a death of infamy; but to spend his last moments alone and -unpitied; to know that all near him thought his fate merited; -that in a few hours he was to be conducted from the gloom -of his cell to the gallows, there to meet the gaze of a curious -multitude, as if he were a beast led to slaughter; and then -to take his departure of life, amidst the jeers and scoffs of -his fellow-creatures—this, indeed, was death—terrible death.</p> - -<p>A short time previous to the execution, Edgar was aroused<span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">[84]</span> -by hearing a slight tap on his cell door, and the next instant -a man was ushered into the apartment.</p> - -<p>The stranger was a minister. His face was one of awful -gravity.</p> - -<p>In stature he was above the size of ordinary men, though -his excessive leanness might contribute in deceiving as to his -hight; his countenance was sharp and unbending, and every -muscle seemed set in the most rigid compression; his eyes -were concealed beneath a pair of enormous green spectacles, -which gave these organs a very singular look.</p> - -<p>His coat was black, and his breeches and stockings were -of the same hue, his shoes were without luster, and half -concealed beneath their huge, plated buckles.</p> - -<p>“I have come,” said the divine, nodding to Edgar, “to -pray with you.”</p> - -<p>Edgar bowed his head, and the two knelt down. The -good man’s sonorous voice filled the cell with solemn words. -Edgar’s heart beat with wild emotions, and he now felt that -every throb was but another herald warning him of death’s -near approach.</p> - -<p>Upon rising from prayer, he ventured near the window -once more and cast another glance at the gallows. A large -crowd was collected about it, eagerly waiting to witness the -death of Iron Hand, the British spy.</p> - -<p>“These are heartless people!” said the minister, looking -over Edgar’s shoulder. “But be firm, my poor brother; there -is mercy for all before the great Throne of Justice.”</p> - -<p>The multitude did not have long to wait. A few moments -prior to the expiration of the appointed hour, the prisoner, -guarded by several soldiers, came forth.</p> - -<p>He was slightly pale, but stood erect, and marched forward -with a firm, military step. Approaching the scaffold, they -went slowly up the stairs to the platform.</p> - -<p>The vast concourse of people were now as one, silent and -motionless. Nothing broke the stillness save the hanging rope, -which trembled and squeaked as a slight wind swayed it back -and forth.</p> - -<p>The soldiers of the garrison were drawn up in a square -around the gallows, while outside of the guard was the populace. -Every elevated place was thronged with spectators.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">[85]</span></p> - -<p>Edgar advanced to the front of the platform to say a few -parting words, but the reports of several rifles in quick succession -prevented him. All turned simultaneously to look -from whence they came.</p> - -<p>A horseman was seen in the distance approaching with flying -speed. On, on, he comes—now for a moment lost to -view as he plunges through some grove of trees, then quickly -emerges again, leaping forth on the open ground, growing -larger and larger, until at length he is near enough to be recognized -by all, when the cry of “War-Cloud! War-Cloud!” -rung upon the air.</p> - -<p>The steed, foaming and gray with dust, with nostrils dilated -and eyes flashing fire, dashed by the guard and halted before -the scaffold. The scout leaped from the faithful charger, and -springing up the steps seized the executioner’s arm.</p> - -<p>“Hold, my pale-face brother!” he cried.</p> - -<p>At these words the spectators were struck with amazement, -and gazed about them for an explanation. At the expiration -of a few moments, four more horsemen arrived. They were -dragoons, and with them rode a man lashed to his horse, and -behind him, on a white steed, came a female.</p> - -<p>The party halted, and awaited War-Cloud’s orders. As -Edgar caught sight of the unknown lady, he gave a sudden -start, and the color faded from his cheek.</p> - -<p>“Can it be she?” he murmured to himself.</p> - -<p>He had surmised correctly; it was in truth Imogene Lear. -As she approached him their eyes met. The recognition was -mutual. The next instant, shedding tears of joy, they were -clasped in each other’s arms.</p> - -<p>The scout now advanced, and untied the cords that bound -the horseman, and ordered him to alight. The prisoner -obeyed; he offered no resistance. His head was bowed down -upon his breast, and he appeared to be completely crushed in -spirit.</p> - -<p>With the aid of two of the dragoons, War-Cloud assisted -him up on the scaffold, and then quickly removed the muffler -that had heretofore concealed the prisoner’s face from view.</p> - -<p>“My God!” exclaimed Edgar, starting back. “That countenance—it -is he—it is Maurice, <em>my brother</em>!” and reeling, -would have fallen, had he not been supported by the scout.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">[86]</span></p> - -<p>On beholding the face thus exposed to their gaze, the spectators -stood aghast.</p> - -<p><em>The features were an exact counterpart in every respect, of those -of Edgar Sherwood.</em></p> - -<p>That these two men were brothers could not now be -doubted, and all seemed to comprehend, in an instant, the -mistake that had been made. The great mystery was at -length solved. It was, indeed, a—<span class="smcap">Double Face</span>.</p> - -<p>Imogene now related the cause of her sudden and mysterious -disappearance, the treachery of Hank Putney and his implication -in the conspiracy for her abduction, and lastly confirmed -the statement, that the prisoner before them was the -dreaded Iron Hand, by his own confession during their interview -in the cave of the Tory League.</p> - -<p>At the conclusion, Colonel Hall arose, and congratulated -the multitude on the happy termination of what had almost -succeeded in becoming a tragedy.</p> - -<p>He had scarcely finished, when a low murmur of applause -ran through the assembly, which at length broke forth into -lusty cheers. All now turned toward the spot where Hank -Putney had been seen only a few moments before, among the -most clamorous for Captain Sherwood’s execution; but the -traitor, seeing the turn events were taking, had fled.</p> - -<p>Although Edgar Sherwood had been condemned to suffer -death for his brother’s crimes, nevertheless how little was -known concerning the deep plot that had been laid to bring -about this dreadful mistake.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">[87]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XI"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER XI</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE UNNATURAL BROTHER.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">Maurice Sherwood</span>, <i lang="la" xml:lang="la">alias</i> Iron Hand, who had committed -so many villainous deeds in the past few years, and whose -name had become such a terror to every household, now stood -before them, pale and trembling.</p> - -<p>Five years previous he had sworn vengeance against his -brother, who had never seen him during all this time to know -him, and who had believed him to be hundreds of miles away. -How near this threat had come to being carried out, the reader -already knows.</p> - -<p>The desperado’s plans had been skillfully concocted, but a -just Providence could not look down upon and sanction the -success of a scheme so wicked; thus it was this villain had -been baffled in the very last act of his drama.</p> - -<p>It had been his design to kill his brother secretly, and this -he had attempted during the battle related in one of the foregoing -chapters. For could he but remove Edgar from his -path, the immense estate which he owned in England would, -by the conditions of the father’s will, be inherited by himself.</p> - -<p>However, after this should be accomplished, there was still -another object he had in view, and that was to obtain the -hand of Imogene Lear. It was she who had first innocently -caused the feud between the two brothers.</p> - -<p>Maurice had sought her hand when both families resided -in England, but had been rejected and his brother accepted. -Upon seeing himself thus supplanted by his brother Edgar -in the affections of one whom he loved so passionately, his -rage was unbounded, and the anger that rankled in his heart -soon grew into virulent hatred, which was appeased only by -deeds of bloodshed.</p> - -<p>He had intended, therefore, after the death of Edgar -to stigmatize him by casting upon his memory the odious -name of Iron Hand, which he himself possessed, and thus he<span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">[88]</span> -hoped that when his brother should have been proved a British -spy and a murderer, that Imogene would renounce him.</p> - -<p>He, in the mean time, would return to England, and after -having possessed himself of the inheritance, would again sue -for her hand.</p> - -<p>Seeing how signally he had failed in both his attempt to -slay Captain Sherwood and in his effort to decoy Imogene to -his power by the aid of the forged letter which he had pretended -to be from her betrothed, Iron Hand determined to -secure her by force, and for that purpose had selected three -of his band, together with Hank Putney, who at the time was -serving him in the American garrison in the capacity of a -spy, as their leader, while he himself assumed the role of the -old man to assist in the undertaking.</p> - -<p>It was while in this guise that he met Imogene on her return -to her father’s house, and whispered those words that -caused her to start back with such a look of horror and disgust. -He intimated to her his knowledge of Maurice Sherwood’s -whereabouts, and had proposed, as Edgar was then -accused of being a traitor, to restore amicable relations between -them.</p> - -<p>Had she accepted his offer, he would have then and there -revealed to her his true character, and afterward trusted to -his natural tact for a reconciliation; but her answer taught -him how thoroughly he was detested, and from that moment -he desperately resolved to carry out his plans to the bitter -end.</p> - -<p>When Edgar Sherwood had first been arrested, he had -half-suspected that it was his twin-brother Maurice who was -<ins class="corr" id="tn88" title="Transcriber’s Note—“at the bottom of the mysttery” changed to “at the bottom of the mystery”.">at the bottom of the mystery</ins>, -and it was to ascertain if his -suspicions were correct that he had dispatched his faithful -friend, War-Cloud, on his secret mission, which was so fruitful -in its results, and which had succeeded in saving from an ignominious -death one of America’s noblest sons, and in bringing -to justice the guilty.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">[89]</span></p> - -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XII"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER XII</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">THE END OF THE TRANSGRESSOR IS HARD.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">It</span> was the day following that which was to have witnessed -the execution of Captain Sherwood.</p> - -<p>The morning which had first given promise of a beautiful -day turned out to be quite disagreeable, and during the afternoon -there was a succession of showers. The night was -dark and stormy, and vast clouds covered the heavens.</p> - -<p>Occasionally, by the assistance of a flash of lightning, Iron -Hand might have been seen sitting in his cell—the one in -which his brother had been confined. His head was bowed -down upon his knees, and his whole appearance was that of -despair.</p> - -<p>He finally arose, and approaching the grated window, -looked out into the darkness. The storm was turning every -thing into wild disorder. He seemed to experience a feeling -of consolation in seeing nature partake of the tumult that -reigned within his own heart.</p> - -<p>The thunder growled in the air like the passion and anger -in his thoughts; he howled as the hurricane howled, and his -voice was lost in the great voice of Nature, who also seemed -to groan with despair.</p> - -<p>This desperate man’s imagination was a fertile one, and he -soon recovered from his dejection and began to put his brains -to work in order to concoct some plan of escape. He reclined -upon his pallet of straw and thought earnestly.</p> - -<p>The hours passed on until the night was well advanced.</p> - -<p>At length his attention was attracted by hearing a gentle -tap at his window. He started quickly to his feet and listened. -Again was the noise repeated.</p> - -<p>As he was hurrying across the room to ascertain its cause, -there burst forth a peal of thunder accompanied by a flash -of lightning, and by the aid of its sickly glare he saw the face -of a man appear behind the bars.</p> - -<p>He sprung to the window.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">[90]</span></p> - -<p>“Hank!”</p> - -<p>“Yes, chief!” said Hank Putney, for it was he; “but be -quiet! be quiet! I must have time to file through these -bars. Only take care that I am not seen through th’ gratin’ -of th’ door.”</p> - -<p>“Oh! that is all secure; it is too dark for the sentinel to -see you, and I will stand with my back against the door.”</p> - -<p>“Be ready at the first signal.”</p> - -<p>“Ay, my trusty fellow; but make haste;” and he retreated -to the door, where he placed himself in such a position that -no person without the cell could possibly obtain a view of -the window.</p> - -<p>Amidst the moaning of the storm Iron Hand could hear the -grinding of the file upon the bars, and by the light of every -flash he perceived the form of Hank Putney.</p> - -<p>An hour was spent in breathless suspense; the cold sweat -stood upon his brow, and his heart beat quick at every movement -he heard in the corridor.</p> - -<p>There are hours which seem a year.</p> - -<p>At the expiration of an hour, Hank tapped again. Iron -Hand hastened to the window. Two of the huge iron bars -were removed, forming an opening large enough for a man to -pass through.</p> - -<p>“Are ye ready?” asked Hank, in a low tone.</p> - -<p>“Yes.”</p> - -<p>“Then wait till I slide down the rope, ’cause it won’t hold -us both; and I’ll get off the walls, and ye can jine me in the -woods jist on top of the hill.”</p> - -<p>With these parting words, Putney slid down the rope out -of Iron Hand’s sight.</p> - -<p>When the Tory thought a sufficient time had elapsed for -his faithful ally to have reached a place of safety, he passed -through the window, and seizing the dangling rope, began to -descend slowly. Notwithstanding the weight of his body, -the blast of the hurricane made him wave in the air.</p> - -<p>The heavy tramp of approaching footsteps was borne to -his ears by the wind. He stopped and listened. The patrol -were passing along beneath him, laughing and talking. It -was a terrible moment for the fugitive as he remained there -suspended, motionless and breathless; but the soldiers soon<span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">[91]</span> -passed, and the noise of their retreating footsteps, together -with the murmur of their voices, soon died away.</p> - -<p>Breathing a sigh of relief, he continued his descent. He -shortly found himself standing upon one of the parapets of -the fort. Iron Hand knew perfectly well where he was; -for he had been upon this same wall before and reconnoitered; -it was the time when those who had seen him had taken -him for the captain’s ghost.</p> - -<p>The wall was high from the outside, and he knew it would -be madness to leap off. But about thirty yards from where -he was standing, there was an angle where little steps were -cut into the rocks leading to the ground. Could he but -reach this place without being perceived, he would be safe.</p> - -<p>The storm had increased, the flashes succeeded each other -more rapidly, and the thunder growled fiercely. Iron Hand -crawled cautiously on his hands and knees, and was near -the angle, when there came a bright flash which lighted up -the whole heavens.</p> - -<p>The sentinel stationed on the wall opposite caught sight -of him and fired. The Tory chieftain sprung to his feet, and -clasping his hands to his side, he staggered a moment, then -uttering a deep groan, fell to the ground within the fort. -The report of the sentinel’s rifle aroused the whole garrison, -who hastily seized their arms, thinking an attack had been -made for the rescue of Iron Hand.</p> - -<p>A file of soldiers hastened to the threatened spot, where -they found the bloody and apparently lifeless form of the -Tory. Two stalwart soldiers lifted him and bore him to the -guard-house. The ball had entered his side and the blood -was running freely from the wound.</p> - -<p>“He’s not dead; run for the surgeon!” said one, feeling -his pulse.</p> - -<p>An eager crowd was soon gathered around, and by the dim -light afforded by one or two torches the scene presented a -weird appearance. In a few moments the surgeon was at -the side of the wounded man, and applying some restoratives -he soon became conscious again. Opening his eyes -with a wild stare, Iron Hand glanced around upon the assembly.</p> - -<p>“Where am I?” he asked.</p> - -<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">[92]</span></p> - -<p>“Here, in the fort,” said the surgeon.</p> - -<p>Raising himself, he looked around him again, and then -uttering a wild cry, fell backward.</p> - -<p>“What is this strange feeling that comes over me?” he -asked in a husky whisper, pressing his hands on his bloody -wound. “Am I dying?”</p> - -<p>“I fear you are,” responded the surgeon.</p> - -<p>“What! dying did you say?” he repeated, in a hollow -voice. “My God! must I die?”</p> - -<p>“Yes; make your peace with your Maker, for you have -but an hour or so longer to live.”</p> - -<p>A shudder shook the man’s whole frame, and his eyes -glared wildly.</p> - -<p>“Where is the man that shot me?” he shrieked, pulling -a dirk from his belt.</p> - -<p>“No, no, my man,” said the surgeon; “you should think -of something else now instead of vengeance.”</p> - -<p>“But—but—” the rest of his sentence was inaudible.</p> - -<p>Just then the crowd parted to make way for two newcomers, -who were drenched with rain. They were Edgar -Sherwood and Imogene Lear.</p> - -<p>“Maurice!” said Edgar in a low tone, approaching the -dying man.</p> - -<p>“Great God!” said Iron Hand. “It is he! it is he! I -know that voice! Oh! oh! he will kill me, and I can not -move. Let me escape—hide me, for I shot him once. I -have been his evil shadow all his life!” and he struggled violently -to raise himself.</p> - -<p>“He raves,” said the surgeon; “we must get that dagger -from him, or he may do some mischief.”</p> - -<p>But just then the madman dropped the weapon upon the -floor.</p> - -<p>His face was distorted with agony; his glassy eyes were -fixed apparently on some distant object.</p> - -<p>“Look! look!” he whispered, pointing to a window at the -further end of the room.</p> - -<p>All eyes were quickly turned toward the place indicated, -but there was nothing strange there.</p> - -<p>“It is the old Whig! look! look! see that gaping wound—the -gash upon his temple! It was I that did it—I killed him!<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">[93]</span> -Hark! hear how he cries for vengeance! See! he comes this -way! Oh, horror, horror! he stretches out his hands to seize -me—I feel their icy grasp! Oh God! I am dy—dying!” and -with a piercing shriek, he fell back upon his couch.</p> - -<p>The assemblage gazed upon the expiring man in gloomy -silence. It was, indeed, a horrible sight to see him writhing -in such agony. Edgar and Imogene, their hearts bowed -down with sorrow, turned away; they could not endure the -sight.</p> - -<p>It lasted, however, but a few moments more. The impress -of the hand of Death was on his pallid brow, and straightening -out his stiffening limbs, he gave one long, struggling gasp, -then all was over.</p> - -<p>The surgeon sprung to his side, but the Tory chieftain was—<em>dead</em>.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"> -<h2 class="nobreak" id="CHAPTER_XIII"><span class="gesperrt">CHAPTER XIII</span>.<br /> -<span class="fs70">SMILES THROUGH TEARS.</span></h2> -</div> - -<p><span class="smcap">On</span> one bright spring morning about six months after the -events previously related, the woods in the vicinity of Fort -Ann were filled with a brilliant assemblage of Continental -officers and their ladies, who were all in a merry mood, for -there was a wedding to take place between Captain Edgar -Sherwood and Imogene Lear.</p> - -<p>The whole week had been occupied in preparing the grove -for this important occasion. Seats had been erected for the -guests, and under the shade of a giant oak a picturesque bower -twined with wild roses and luxuriant foliage, had been constructed -for the reception of the clergyman. The regimental -band also had found a place near at hand made for their benefit.</p> - -<p>In a word, every thing had been arranged with the idea of -making the captain’s wedding a grand affair. It was not to -be in a gloomy church, or a fashionable drawing-room crowded -to suffocation, but in a grand old forest, under the bright light -of heaven.</p> - -<p>The troops of the garrison were drawn up in a long line on<span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">[94]</span> -either side of the walk leading to the bower, and, stationed -here and there along the way, were young girls dressed in -white, and holding baskets of flowers to strew before the bride -and groom as they passed.</p> - -<p>Every thing was in readiness. The shrill notes of a bugle -heralded the approach of Edgar and Imogene; and presently -they entered the grove attended by the hymeneal retinue. -While the little party moved slowly forward toward the bower, -the surrounding woods resounded with the melodious and -thrilling notes of the band, and the birds sung their sweetest.</p> - -<p>It was a beautiful sight to behold these two young lovers -approaching the altar to pledge their hearts to each other, and -to take those mutual vows of fidelity before God and man.</p> - -<p>When they arrived at the bower, an old man came forward -with feeble steps, and taking the hand of each he placed them -together and murmured:</p> - -<p>“My children, I bless you; may Heaven look down upon -and prosper this union!”</p> - -<p>It was Thomas Lear, Imogene’s father.</p> - -<p>The reader must not be surprised at this, for a revolution -had taken place in the old man’s politics since the opening of -our story. Being naturally an enthusiastic admirer of justice -and a lover of personal and political freedom, he had been, at -length, aroused by the feeling of liberty that was everywhere -prevalent, and was now a stanch believer in the war for independence.</p> - -<p>This radical change had not come about spontaneously but -gradually, growing out of observation. He had perceived -the injustice of the mother country toward her most promising -child, and finally became one of the most devoted adherents -to the cause of the Colonies.</p> - -<p>The minister now performed the marriage ceremony, and our -hero and heroine were pronounced man and wife. In an instant, -the dreadful Past, with all its woes and sorrows, was buried in -the deepest recesses of oblivion, leaving the happy Present, -as it were, like an insurmountable barrier between it and the -bright and promising Future, which dawned fair and beautiful -upon the horizon of their happiness.</p> - -<p>Their more intimate friends—among whom were Colonel -Hall and War-Cloud—pressed around the happy couple to<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">[95]</span> -congratulate them, while the soldiers gave three hearty cheers -for their brave captain and his lady, making the woods, hills, -and valleys ring with the echo of a thousand voices.</p> - -<hr class="tb" /> - -<p>There now remains for us to add but a short epilogue and -we will have finished. Captain Sherwood fought bravely -during the remainder of the Revolution, and when the war -was ended, and our country had just entered upon its newborn -career of unrivaled greatness, he and Imogene took up -their residence in the city of the Manhattans, where they spent -many quiet and peaceful days while floating down the stream -of life to the harbor of old age.</p> - -<p>War-Cloud frequently paid them visits, bringing with him -pretty and costly furs for the “little ones,” denoting that he -had again taken to hunting the beast instead of Tories.</p> - -<p>Hank Putney never made his appearance at the fort again; -but we believe he became the chief of the Tory League after -the death of Iron Hand, and during some quarrel between him -and his ruffians he was killed.</p> - -<p>The band soon after was exterminated, and nothing now -remains of their former power, save the history of their many -villainous deeds, which is written in blood!</p> - -<p class="pfs80 p4">THE END.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs100 pg-brk">1776. <span class="pad4">Dollar Books for a Dime!</span> <span class="pad6">1876.</span></p> - -<hr class="r20a x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs100 bold">BEADLE AND ADAMS, PUBLISHERS, NEW YORK.</p> - -<hr class="r20a x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs90">Lives of Great Americans.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>In these charming and picturesque books are presented complete and authentic biographies of -many of the men who have added luster to the Republic by their lives and deeds. The series -embraces:</p> -</div> - -<table class="autotable" width="85%" summary=""> -<tr> -<td class="br">1. George Washington.</td> -<td class="br">3. Mad Anthony Wayne.</td> -<td class="tdl">5. Marquis De Lafayette.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">2. John Paul Jones.</td> -<td class="br">4. Ethan Allen.</td> -<td class="tdl">6. Daniel Boone.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="tdc" colspan="3">7. Israel Putnam. (“Old Put.”)</td> -</tr> -</table> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>These beautiful books are complete in one volume—one hundred large 12mo. pages each, and -sold by all newsdealers; or sent, post-paid, to any address, on receipt of price—ten cents each, by</p> -</div> - -<p class="fs90 right">BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.</p> - -<hr class="full x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs135">Miscellaneous Dime Books.</p> - -<hr class="r20a x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">CONTENTS DIME MELODIST.</p> - -<table class="autotable" width="85%" summary=""> -<tr> -<td class="br">Bonnie Eloise,</td> -<td class="br">Leaves that fall in spr’g,</td> -<td class="br">Softly, ye night winds,</td> -<td class="tdl">Whisper what thou feel,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Sleeping I dreamed,</td> -<td class="br">The female smuggler,</td> -<td class="br">Far on the deep sea,</td> -<td class="tdl">Like a soldier die,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Fare thee well, Katy,</td> -<td class="br">Where is home?</td> -<td class="br">My sighs to thee,</td> -<td class="tdl">Old Josey,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Love me little,</td> -<td class="br">Ettie May,</td> -<td class="br">A flower that bloometh,</td> -<td class="tdl">Why do I weep,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Strike the light guitar,</td> -<td class="br">Keemo Kimo,</td> -<td class="br">Anna Bell,</td> -<td class="tdl">Bonnie blue e’e,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">My love is a saileur,</td> -<td class="br">In the wild chamois’,</td> -<td class="br">Swinging all day long,</td> -<td class="tdl">Winsome Winnie,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Some one to love,</td> -<td class="br">I had a gentle mother,</td> -<td class="br">Work, work,</td> -<td class="tdl">Scenes that are bright,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">The hazel dell,</td> -<td class="br">Poor Thomas Day,</td> -<td class="br">Wild Tiadatton,</td> -<td class="tdl">A lowly youth,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Oft in the stilly night,</td> -<td class="br">Pretty Nelly,</td> -<td class="br">A hundred years ago,</td> -<td class="tdl">One cheering word,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">The old folks are gone,</td> -<td class="br">’Tis the witching hour,</td> -<td class="br">Widow Machree,</td> -<td class="tdl">The low-backed car,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">My soul in one sigh,</td> -<td class="br">Forgive but don’t forget,</td> -<td class="br">Dream of thee no more,</td> -<td class="tdl">Hope on hope ever,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Mother, sweet mother,</td> -<td class="br">Thou art mine, love,</td> -<td class="br">Mary of Lake Enon,</td> -<td class="tdl">The mother’s smile,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">The good by at the door,</td> -<td class="br">Darkness on the mou’n,</td> -<td class="br">Mary of the glen.</td> -<td class="tdl">Marion Lee,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Be quiet do, or I’ll call,</td> -<td class="br">Once upon a time,</td> -<td class="br">Carry me to Tennessee,</td> -<td class="tdl">Annie Lowe,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Round for 3 voices,</td> -<td class="br">Dearest spot of earth,</td> -<td class="br">Rime, bome, bell,</td> -<td class="tdl">One parting song.</td> -</tr> -</table> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">CONTENTS DIME SCHOOL MELODIST.</p> - -<table class="autotable" width="85%" summary=""> -<tr> -<td class="br">A boat, a boat,</td> -<td class="br">Flowers and sunshine,</td> -<td class="br">Little cottage,</td> -<td class="tdl">Song of the mountain,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">A farmer’s life,</td> -<td class="br">Flow gently, sweet Af’n,</td> -<td class="br">Merry sleigh ride,</td> -<td class="tdl">Spring is here,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">A smile from thee,</td> -<td class="br">Gallant and gayly,</td> -<td class="br">Morning rambles,</td> -<td class="tdl">Smiling May,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Blow, blow, blow,</td> -<td class="br">Gentle troubadour,</td> -<td class="br">Morning call,</td> -<td class="tdl">Sweet birds are singing,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Bonny Eloise,</td> -<td class="br">Happy schoolboy,</td> -<td class="br">Morning has come,</td> -<td class="tdl">Switzer’s song of home,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Bright rosy morning,</td> -<td class="br">Hark, ’tis the bells,</td> -<td class="br">Murmur gentle lyre,</td> -<td class="tdl">The sleigh ride,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Busy bee,</td> -<td class="br">Harvest time,</td> -<td class="br">Music murmuring,</td> -<td class="tdl">The invitation,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Canadian boat song,</td> -<td class="br">Haste thee winter,</td> -<td class="br">Oh, dear, what can the matter be!</td> -<td class="tdl">The river,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Chairs to mend,</td> -<td class="br">House that Jack built,</td> -<td class="br"></td> -<td class="tdl">The bell doth toll,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Chimney nook,</td> -<td class="br">Hazel Dell,</td> -<td class="br">Over hill, over dale,</td> -<td class="tdl">Time to walk,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Day is fading,</td> -<td class="br">I love the merry sunshine,</td> -<td class="br">Over the summer sea,</td> -<td class="tdl">Tyrolese evening hymn,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Elements of music,</td> -<td class="br">I’d choose to be a daisy,</td> -<td class="br">Peaceful slumbering,</td> -<td class="tdl">Vesper bell,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Ettie May,</td> -<td class="br">In words of joy,</td> -<td class="br">Round for four voices,</td> -<td class="tdl">We are all noddin’,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Ever of thee,</td> -<td class="br">Joy of Innocence,</td> -<td class="br">Row, fishermen, row,</td> -<td class="tdl">When tempted to wander,</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Far o’er hill and dell,</td> -<td class="br">Joy, freedom to-day,</td> -<td class="br">Scotland’s burning,</td> -<td class="tdl"></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">Fare thee well, Kitty,</td> -<td class="br">Lightly row,</td> -<td class="br">See our oars,</td> -<td class="tdl">Working lay.</td> -</tr> -</table> - -<p class="pfs90 bold p2">DIME GUIDE TO CURLING AND SKATING.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>1 Complete Manual for the Ice: giving all the laws of the popular game of “Curling,” with -Complete Diagrams; also, explicit instructions for Skating, with a Guide to all the “figures” -and movements made on skates, and embracing also the laws of the Skater’s Club of New -York. Edited by <span class="smcap">Henry Chadwick</span>.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold p2">DIME ROBINSON CRUSOE.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>A beautifully illustrated edition, printed in large octavo, double columns, with numerous illustrations -from original designs by <span class="smcap">George White</span>: comprising the text of one of the best and -latest London editions, and printed in a style of great neatness and beauty—thus constituting -one of the most charming and cheapest editions of this celebrated book ever offered to the public.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="r20a x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME JOKE BOOKS.</p> - -<p class="pad35pc noindent">No. 1—POCKET JOKE BOOK.<br /> -No. 2—JIM CROW JOKE BOOK.<br /> -No. 3—PADDY WHACK JOKE BOOK.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p class="noindent"><span class="fs150">☞</span> The above books are for sale by all newsdealers; or will be sent, postpaid, to any address, -on receipt of price, <span class="allsmcap">TEN CENTS EACH</span>, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, -New York.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs90 pg-brk">DIME HAND-BOOKS OF<br /> -<span class="fs120">GAMES AND PASTIMES.</span></p> - -<hr class="r20a x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>The Dime Hand-Books of Games and Popular Hand-Books cover a variety of subjects, and are -especially adapted to their end. Each volume 100 pages 12mo., sent postpaid on receipt of price -by the publishers, BEADLE AND ADAMS, 98 William Street, New York.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME BOOK OF 100 GAMES.</p> - -<p class="center noindent">Comprising Forfeits and Conundrums, for Social Parties and Home Amusement, Games for Children,<br /> -Games for Young People, Games for the Middle-aged, Games for the Aged.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>Acted Verbs, Acting Rhymes, A Literary Game, Animal, Vegetable or Mineral, A Simple -Trick, Aunt Sue’s Toilet, Birds Fly, Blind-man’s Buff, Blowing the Feather, Book Notices, Buz, -Confidential Answers, Consequences, Conundrums, Conversation Cards, Crooked Answers, Crow -In the Farmer’s Cornfield, Earth, Air or Water, Famous Numbers, Forfeits, Fox and Geese, Going -on a Journey, Going to Jerusalem, Green, Yellow, Blue and Pink, Guess any Number Thought of, -Hats on, Hieroglyphics, Holding the Handkerchief, Hot and Cold, How, When and Where, Imitation, -I’ve been Shopping, Magic Numbers, Making up a Cargo, Noted Personages, One Old Ox, -Orange and Lemon, Pairs, Passing the Scissors, Post Office, Presenting Gifts, Proverbs, Puss in the -Corner, Ship from China, Stage-coach, The Apprentice, the Birdcatcher, The Bird Merchant, The -Board of Trade, The Bouquet, The Christmas Bag, The Christmas Pie, The Clairvoyant, The Conjunction, -The Grand Mufti, The Hatchet, The Hidden Word, The Magic Wand, The Quaker’s -Meeting, The Revolving Tea-table, The Shoemaker, The Silent Orchestra, The Trades, The -Whistle, The Wild Beast Show, the Woodman, Think of a Word, Touching an Article, Uncle -Zeb’s Dinner, What and Why, Whisking the Handkerchief, What Did He Give You, What is my -Thought Like, What’s the Price of Wheat.</p> - -<p>FORFEITS.—A Song, The Will, Good Advice, Comparisons, The Secret, The Confidential -Answer, The First Letters, The Deaf Man, The Pilgrim, The Clock, ’Twas I, The Parrot, Nunfashion -Kiss, The Two Chairs, The Twister, Four Corners, To kiss a Box inside and out without -opening it, To put Yourself through the Keyhole, To spell Constantinople, Kiss, Tap and -Box, A Rabbit’s Kiss, Back to Back, Pinching, Feeding, Blindfold, the Quaker.</p> -<p>CONUNDRUMS.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME CHESS INSTRUCTOR.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p class="center">A complete hand-book of instruction, giving the entertaining mysteries of this most interesting<br /> -and fascinating of games.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>NAMES.—Placing the Chessmen, Powers and Moves of the Chessmen, Capturing Power of the -men, Illustrations of the Moves, The Technical Terms of Chess, Technical Terms Illustrated, The -Laws of Chess, Preliminary Games, with Notes, Checkmate—End-Games, How to Queen a Pawn, -Maxims and Advice for Chess Students, King Bishop’s Opening, The Gluoco Piano, Philldor’s Defence, -Petroff’s Defence, Ray Lopez Knight’s Game, Scotch Gambit, Evans Gambit, King’s Bishop’s -Gambit, King’s Knight’s Gambit, Salvio and Cochrane’s Defences, Muzi-Gambit, Allgaier -Gambit, Cuuningham Gambit, Queen’s Gambit, Miscellaneous Openings, Illustrative Games.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME HAND-BOOK OF CROQUET.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>A complete Guide to the Principles and Practice of the game. By <span class="smcap">Edmund Routledge</span>. Giving -also, the rules proposed by various American writers on the game. <span class="smcap">Illustrated.</span></p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="noindent">MATERIALS OF THE GAME.—The Mallets, The Balls, The Hoops, The Posts, Clips.<br /> -HOW THE GAME IS PLAYED.<br /> -PARLOR CROQUET.<br /> -HINTS TO YOUNG PLAYERS.<br /> -RULES OF THE GAME.—Striking, Order of Playing, The Croquet, the Posts, the Rover.<br /> -CROQUET TERMS.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME BASE-BALL PLAYER FOR 1876.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>Containing the Professional Club Records for 1875, of each individual club; also the Records of the -Best Games played by each of the prominent Amateur Clubs of the country; together with the -Scores of the Model Games played by each class of the fraternity during 1875. Also, full instructions -in the new points of play, and the new codes of Playing Rules of the Amateur and -Professional Associations, Batting and Pitching averages, etc. Edited by Henry Chadwick.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME BOOK OF CRICKET AND FOOTBALL.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>A desirable Cricketer’s Companion, containing complete instructions in the elements of Bowling, -Batting and Fielding; also the Revised Laws of the game; Remarks on the Duties of Umpires; -the Mary-le-Bone Cricket Club Rules and Regulations; Bets, etc., etc. By <span class="smcap">Henry Chadwick</span>, -author of “Base-ball Player.”</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME GUIDE TO SWIMMING.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p class="noindent">Embracing all the rules of the art for both sexes. Illustrated. By Captain <span class="smcap">Philip Petersen</span>.</p> - -<p>The following is the contents:</p> - -<p>Advisory Instructions, Rules upon entering the water, Temperature of the water, Temperature -of the body, Time for the swim, the Start, Learning the Hand-stroke, Learning the Leg-stroke, -General Directions for Attitude, Management of the Breath, Plunging, the Header, Leaping from -a Hight, a Shallow Dive, Deep Diving, How to Come to the Surface, Swimming on the Back, the -“Steamer,” Floating, Hand-over-hand Swimming, Swimming from a Boat, Precautions for a -Short Swim, the Cramp, How to Swim in Times of Danger, the “Washing-tub,” “Creeping,” -Sea-bathing—how to manage the Waves, the Tides, etc., A Chapter for the Ladies, A Specimen -Female Swimming-school, How to Manage Cases of Drowning, Dr. Franklin’s “Code” for Swimmers, -Concluding Remarks.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME HAND-BOOK OF YACHTING AND ROWING.</p> - -<p class="pfs90">A Complete Manual of the Science and Practice of the two Pastimes.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>ON YACHTING.—The Yacht Clubs of England, The Yacht Clubs of America, Other Yacht -Clubs, Learning to Sail a Boat, On Steering, Regattas and Races, Sailing Regulations, Glossary of -Nautical Terms.</p> - -<p>ON ROWING.—English Laws of Boat-racing, New York Clubs, Hints to Rowers, The Great -Boat Race of 1867—Oxford versus Cambridge.</p> - -<p>THE GREAT OCEAN YACHT RACE OF DECEMBER, 1867.—The Start from New York, The -Logs of the Yachts.</p> - -<p>THE HARVARD AND YALE COLLEGE CONTESTS.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME RIDING AND DRIVING.</p> - -<p class="pfs90">Comprising complete rules for the Management of the Horse, under the Saddle and in Harness<br /> -also, a Special Chapter on Female Horsemanship.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>RIDING.—The Accouterments and Aids Required, Mounting and Dismounting, Management of -the Seat and Reins, the Ordinary Paces, Vices, The Ride, Female Horsemanship.</p> - -<p>DRIVING.—Driving a Single Horse, The Reins, Driving a Pair of Horses, Bearing Reins.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">DIME HAND-BOOK OF PEDESTRIANISM.</p> - -<p class="pfs90">Giving the Rules for Training and Practice in Walking, Running, Leaping, Vaulting, etc., etc.;<br /> -together with a full account of the Great Weston Feat. Edited by <span class="smcap">Henry Chadwick</span>.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>These books are for sale by all newsdealers; or sent, postpaid, to any address, on receipt of ten -cents each, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 95 William Street, New York.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="full x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs135">New Twenty Cent Novels.</p> - -<hr class="r20a x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p><span class="smcap">Beadle and Adams’</span> new Twenty Cent Novels’ series will embrace none but <span class="allsmcap">NOTED WORKS OF -NOTED AUTHORS</span>, chiefly in the field of a purely American romance, of marked originality and -high Interest—price, size and literary character all adapting them to the widest circulation. Those -seeking for <span class="smcap">The Best American Novels</span> will find them in this series.</p> -</div> - -<table class="autotable" width="85%" summary=""> -<tr> -<td class="br">1. Overland Kit. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -<td class="tdl">9. The Red Rajah. By Frederick Whittaker.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">2. Rocky Mountain Rob. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -<td class="tdl">10. The Winged Whale. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">3. Kentuck, the Sport. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -<td class="tdl">11. Idaho Tom. By Oll Coomes.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">4. Injun Dick. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -<td class="tdl">12. The White Squaw. By Capt. Mayne Reid.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">5. The Scalp Hunters. By Capt. Mayne Reid.</td> -<td class="tdl">13. The California Detective. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">6. The Prairie Mazeppa. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -<td class="tdl"></td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">7. The Silent Hunter. By Percy B. St. John.</td> -<td class="tdl">14. Maum Guinea. By Mrs. M. V. Victor.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">8. The Man from Texas. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -<td class="tdl">15. The Wolf Demon. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -</tr> -</table> - - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>Sold by all newsdealers; or sent, postpaid, to any address, on receipt of price—Twenty Cents -Each, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="full x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs135">Twenty-five Cent Novels.</p> - -<hr class="r20a x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>The wide-spread demand for popular books at such rates as places them within the reach of all, -has impelled Messrs. <span class="smcap">Beadle and Adams</span> to introduce to their extensive lists of cheap publications -a new and highly attractive series, comprising only the choicest productions of fiction and -romance, of the leading living American writers who are now “the Stars” of the popular weeklies, -and whose creations are the admiration of all who demand strength of story, originality of -character, and that subtle interest of plot and construction which separates the masters of the pen -from the common writer. This series contains superb stories by Mrs. May Agnes Fleming, -Mrs. M. V. Victor, Mrs. Jennie Davis Burton, Bartley T. Campbell, Margaret Blount, Mrs. Mary -Reed Crowell, etc., etc. Each volume a complete novel, and sold at the remarkably cheap price -indicated above. The first issues are:</p> -</div> - -<table class="autotable" width="95%" summary=""> -<tr> -<td class="br">1. The Dark Secret. By Mrs. May Agnes Fleming.</td> -<td class="tdl">8. Strangely Wed. By Mrs. Jennie Davis Burton.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">2. The Maddest Marriage Ever Was. By Mrs. Jennie Davis Burton.</td> -<td class="tdl">9. Romance of the Green Seal. By Mrs. Catharine A. Warfield.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">3. A Woman’s Heart. By Mrs. M. V. Victor.</td> -<td class="tdl">10. Erminie. By Mrs. May Agnes Fleming.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"></td> -<td class="tdl">11. Love in a Maze. By Mrs. E. F. Ellet.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">4. An Awful Mystery. By Mrs. May Agnes Fleming.</td> -<td class="tdl">12. The Twin Sisters. By Mrs. May Agnes Fleming.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">5. The Pride of the Downes. By Margaret Blount.</td> -<td class="tdl">13. Forced Vows. By Mrs. Lillie Devereux Umsted Blake.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">6. Victoria. By Mrs. May Agnes Flaming.</td> -<td class="tdl">14. Vials of Wrath. By Mary Reed Crowell.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br">7. The Dead Letter. By Seely Regester.</td> -<td class="tdl">15. Annie Temple. By Rev. J. H. Ingraham.</td> -</tr> -</table> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>Sold by all newsdealers and booksellers: or sent, post-paid, on receipt of price, twenty-five -cents per volume, by BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs135 pg-brk">Young People’s Hand-Books</p> - -<hr class="r20a x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>The Dime Hand-Books for Young People cover a wide range of subjects, and are especially -adapted to their end. They constitute at once the cheapest and the most useful works yet put -into the market for popular circulation. Each volume 100 pages 12mo., sent-postpaid on receipt -of price, by the publishers, BEADLE AND ADAMS, 98 William Street, New York.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 1.—DIME GENTS’ LETTER-WRITER,</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>And Practical Guide to Compositions, embracing forms, models, suggestions and rules for the use -of all classes, on all occasions; also a list of improper words and expressions, together with their -correct forms; and also a complete dictionary of mottoes, phrases, idioms, etc. <span class="smcap">By Louis Legrand</span>, -M. D.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="negin1">COMPOSITION.—The secret of a good letter; -directions to a novice; the rules of composition, -etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">GENERAL ADVICE TO LETTER-WRITERS.</p> - -<p class="negin1">LETTERS OF BUSINESS.</p> - -<p class="negin1">LETTERS OF PLEASURE AND FRIENDSHIP.</p> - -<p class="negin1">LETTERS OF LOVE.—Hints and suggestions; -a declaration; answer; a briefer declaration -of attachment; answer; real love-letters of -eminent personages, etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">LETTERS OF DUTY, OF TRUST, Etc.—What -they are and how to write them; forms, etc.; -advice from a lady to her friend; a complaint -at silence; communicating distressing news; -to parents, informing of their son, etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">LETTERS OF RELATIONSHIP.—Family correspondence; -its sacred character and proprieties; -examples of real letters, etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">LETTERS OF VARIOUS OCCASIONS.—A -certificate of character; another, for a maid; -another, for a clerk; application for a school-teacher’s -place; soliciting a vote; declining a -nomination; a girl applying for a place; another; -application for a governess’ situation, etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">WRITING FOR THE PRESS.</p> - -<p class="negin1">IMPROPRIETIES OF EXPRESSION.</p> - -<p class="negin1">PHRASES, MOTTOES, IDIOMS, <span class="smcap">Etc.</span></p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 2.—DIME BOOK OF ETIQUETTE.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>For Ladies and Gentlemen; being a guide to true gentility and good-breeding, and a complete directory -to the usages and observances of society. Including etiquette of the Ball-room, of the -Evening Party, the Dinner Party, the Card and Chess Table, of Business, of the Home Circle, -etc., etc. Prepared expressly for the “Dime Series,” by a Committee of Three.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p class="negin1">ENTRANCE INTO SOCIETY.—Confidence vs. -bashfulness; kindness vs. rudeness; the bores -of society, how to treat them.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ON DRESS AND ORNAMENTS.—The vulgarity -of “flash” attire; simplicity in dress a -mark of good breeding.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ON VISITS, INTRODUCTIONS, <span class="smcap">Etc.</span>—The -law of politeness a law of kindness; when -visits are proper; introductions, presentations, -etc., and forms.</p> - -<p class="negin1">EVENING PARTIES, DANCES, <span class="smcap">Etc.</span>—The etiquette -of the ball-room; general directions -for the same.</p> - -<p class="negin1">GAMES OF CARDS, CHESS, <span class="smcap">Etc.</span>—When proper -and how conducted; general rules of the -games; the ill-breeding of betting or bragging.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ON CONVERSATION.—Its usefulness and good -results; how to comport yourself; directions -for it.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ON LETTER AND NOTE WRITING.—Proprieties -and improprieties of the same; general -directions for a good letter.</p> - -<p class="negin1">HOW TO GIVE AND RECEIVE INVITATIONS.—General -usage in all cases.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ON ENTERTAINMENTS.—Etiquette of the -table; how to serve a guest, and how to be -served; special directions.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ON PERSONAL CLEANLINESS.—A word to -the laborer; on religion and respect for age; -on theaters, promenades, etc.; on love, courtship -and marriage; the laws of home etiquette; -special advice to ladies; general observations -and closing chapter.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 3.—DIME BOOK OF VERSES.</p> - -<p class="pfs90">Comprising Rhymes, Lines and Mottoes, for Lovers and Friends; Valentines, Album Pieces, Great<br /> -Verses, Birthday Lines, and poetry for Bridals, Births, Mourning, Epitaphs, etc.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p>VERSES FOR ALBUMS.</p> - -<p>MOTTOES AND COUPLETS.</p> - -<p>ST. VALENTINE VERSES.</p> - -<p>BRIDAL AND MARRIAGE VERSES.</p> - -<p>VERSES ON BIRTHS AND INFANCY.</p> - -<p>VERSES TO SEND WITH FLOWERS.</p> - -<p>VERSES OF LOVE AND AFFECTION.</p> - -<p>HOLIDAY VERSES.</p> - -<p>BIRTHDAY VERSES.</p> - -<p>EPITAPHS AND MOURNING VERSES.—For -all ages and classes.</p> - -<p>THE LOVER’S CASKET.</p> - -<p><span class="fs150">☞</span> This little volume is a veritable pocket companion. -It is everybody’s poet. It is for all -occasions, for old and young, for male and female. -It will be treasured like a keepsake -and used like a dictionary.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 4.—DIME BOOK OF DREAMS.</p> - -<p>Their Romance and Mystery; with a complete interpreting Dictionary. Compiled from the most -accredited sources for the “Dime Series.”</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p class="negin1">INTRODUCTORY.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE ROMANCE OF DREAMS.—Embodying -dreams of all kinds and characters, with the -construction placed upon them by the most eminent -authorities, and narratives of the extraordinary -fulfillment of them.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE PHENOMENA OF DREAMS.—A physician’s -views on the subject, giving a rational -solution of the phenomena, with instances cited -in proof.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MRS. CATHARINE CROWE’S TESTIMONY.—Favoring -the supernatural nature of dreams -and a belief in their revelations.</p> - -<p class="negin1">DICTIONARY OF DREAMS.—Comprising the -most complete interpretation-Dictionary ever -prepared, embracing the whole Alphabet of -subjects.</p> -</div> - -<p class="negin1"><span class="fs150">☞</span> It is a volume full of interest even to the -general reader, being, in that respect, something -like Mrs. Crowe’s “Night Side of Nature,” -and Robert Dale Owen’s “Footfalls on -the Boundary of Another World.”</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 5.—DIME FORTUNE-TELLER.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">COMPRISING THE ART OF FORTUNE-TELLING, HOW TO READ CHARACTER, ETC.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="negin1">FORTUNE-TELLING BY CARDS.—Dealing -the Cards by Threes, Dealing the Cards by -Sevens, Dealing the Cards by Fifteens, The -Twenty-one Cards, The Italian Method, Present, -Past and Future, Another Method of -Consulting the Cards, To Know if you will -Get your Wish, The English Method of Consulting -the Cards.</p> - -<p class="negin1">HOW TO TELL A PERSON’S CHARACTER -BY MEANS OF CABALISTIC CALCULATIONS.</p> - -<p class="negin1">PALMISTRY, OR TELLING FORTUNES BY -THE LINES OF THE HAND.</p> - -<p class="negin1">FORTUNE-TELLING BY THE GROUNDS IN -A TEA OR COFFEE CUP.</p> - -<p class="negin1">HOW TO READ YOUR FORTUNE BY THE -WHITE OF AN EGG.</p> - -<p class="negin1">DREAMS AND THEIR INTERPRETATION.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 6.—DIME LADIES’ LETTER-WRITER.</p> - -<p class="center">Giving the various forms of Letters of School Days, Love and Friendship, of Society, etc.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="noindent">HOW TO WRITE AND HOW NOT TO WRITE.<br /> -HOW TO PUNCTUATE, CAPITALIZE, Etc.<br /> -LETTERS OF CHILDHOOD.<br /> -LETTERS OF SCHOOL DAYS.<br /> -LETTERS OF FRIENDSHIP.<br /> -LETTERS OF COURTSHIP AND LOVE.<br /> -LETTERS OF SOCIETY: INVITATIONS, INTRODUCTIONS, <span class="smcap">Etc.</span><br /> -LETTERS OF SYMPATHY.<br /> -LETTERS OF BUSINESS.<br /> -WRITING FOR THE PRESS.<br /> -RULES FOR SPELLING.<br /> -PROVERBS FROM SHAKSPEARE.<br /> -POETIC QUOTATIONS.<br /> -WORDS ALIKE IN SOUND, BUT DIFFERENT IN MEANING AND SPELLING.<br /> -EXPLANATION OF THE MOST COMMON ABBREVIATIONS OF WORDS.<br /> -FRENCH QUOTATIONS AND PHRASES.<br /> -SPANISH WORDS AND PHRASES.<br /> -ITALIAN WORDS AND PHRASES.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 7.—DIME LOVERS’ CASKET.</p> - -<p class="center">A Treatise and Guide to Friendship, Love, Courtship and Marriage. Embracing also a complete -Floral Dictionary, etc.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="negin1">FRIENDSHIP.—Its Personality, Between Man -and Woman, Close Communion Proper, Letters, -A Warning, Excellent Advice, A Prime -Point, Allow no Improper Intimacy, Special -to Young Men, Something to Avoid, Gallantries, -Gifts, Beware of Love, Correspondence.</p> - -<p class="negin1">LOVE.—The Dawn of Love, Love’s Secretiveness, -Confidences, The First Consciousness of -Love, A Man’s Way, A Woman’s Way, Unworthy -Objects of Love by Woman, Unworthy -Objects of Man’s Love, How to Avoid -Mistakes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">COURTSHIP.—The Door Ajar, Disengaged, Engaged: -at what age is it proper, Engagement -not to be protracted, The Wooing Time, The -Proposal, Asking Papa, The Rights of a Parent, -Engaged, Proposal Rejected, Breaking off -an Engagement.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MARRIAGE.—The Proper Time, Various forms -of Marriage, The Trousseau, Presents, Bouquets, -The Bridesmaids, The Bridegroomsmen, -The Bride, The Bridegroom, the Certificate, -Alter the Ceremony, The Wedding Breakfast, -“Cards” or “No Cards,” Notes Congratulatory.</p> - -<p class="negin1">AFTER MARRIAGE.—Something to be Read -Twice, Twelve Golden Life-Maxims, A Talk -with the Unmarried.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MISCELLANEOUS.—Language of the Handkerchief, -Language of the Fan, Language of -the Cane, Language of Finger Rings, Wedding -Anniversaries, viz.: The Paper Wedding, -Wooden Wedding, Tin Wedding, Crystal -Wedding, Linen Wedding, Silver Wedding, -Golden Wedding.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE LANGUAGE OF FLOWERS.—How to -Use the Vocabulary, The Vocabulary. I—Flowers, -The Vocabulary. II—Sentiments.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 8.—DIME BALL-ROOM COMPANION.</p> - -<p class="center">And Guide to Dancing. Giving Rules of Etiquette, Hints on Private Parties, Toilets for the -Ball-room, etc.</p> - -<p class="pfs60">CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="negin1">ETIQUETTE.—Arrangements, Private Parties, -The Parlor or Dancing Apartment, Music, Refreshments, -Ladies’ Toilets, Gentlemen’s -Dress, The Guests.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MASQUERADES.</p> - -<p class="negin1">PROMENADE CONCERTS.</p> - -<p class="negin1">SOCIABLES.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ORDER OF DANCING.</p> - -<p class="negin1">SPECIAL RULES OF CONDUCT.</p> - -<p class="negin1">SQUARE DANCES—Plain Quadrille, Double -Quadrille, The Nine Pin, The Lanciers, The -Caledonians, The Prince Imperial, The Virginia -Reel, The Spanish Dance, La Tempete.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ROUND DANCES.—The Waltz a Trois Temps, -Waltz in Double Time, Cellarius or Mazourka -Waltz, The Schottische, The Polka, the Galop, -Redowa, Polka Redowa, Esmeralda, Danish -Polka, The Varsoviana.</p> -</div> - -<p><span class="fs150">☞</span> These books are for sale by all newsdealers; or will be sent, postpaid, to any address, on -receipt of price, <span class="allsmcap">TEN CENTS EACH</span>, by</p> - -<p class="right bold">BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers.<span class="pad1"> </span><br /> -98 William Street, New York.</p> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs135 pg-brk">FAMILY HAND-BOOKS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p>The Dime Family Series (Nos. 1 to 5 inclusive) aim to supply a class of text-books and manuals -fitted for every person’s use—the old and the young, the learned and the unlearned. They are of -conceded value. Each volume 100 pages, 12mo., sent postpaid on receipt of price by the publishers, -BEADLE AND ADAMS, 98 William Street, New York.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 1.—DIME COOK BOOK:</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="center">Or, the Housewife’s Pocket Companion. Embodying what is most Economic, most Practical, most -Excellent. Revised and enlarged edition. 100 pp. 12mo. By Mrs. <span class="smcap">Victor</span>.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs60">EXTRACTS FROM CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="negin1">BREAD.—Potato, Brown, Bran, Water, Rye and Indian, Wheat and Rye, Milk, Rising, Buttermilk -Bread, Bread Biscuit or Rolls, French Rolls, Soda Biscuits, etc., etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">HOT BREAD AND CAKES.—Short, Corn, Johnny, Apple Johnny, Griddle, Rich Griddle, -Buckwheat, Rice Griddle, Corn Griddle, and Tomato Griddle Cakes, Bannock, Waffles, Muffins, -Apple Fritters, Rye Fritters, etc., etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">OTHER BREAKFAST DISHES.—Toast, Dry Toast, Buttered Toast, Milk Toast, Fried Rice, -Omelet, Scrambled, Poached and Boiled Eggs, Wheaten Grits, Hominy, Samp, Hasty Pudding.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MEATS.—Roasting, Boiling, Frying; sixteen various methods for preparing same.</p> - -<p class="negin1">VEAL.—Boiled Veal, Fried Chops, Veal Pie, Leg of Veal, Loin of Veal, Shoulder of Veal, Calves’ -Feet, Calf’s Head and Liver.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MUTTON.—Mutton Chops, Chops as Beefsteaks, Neck of Mutton, Shoulder of Mutton, Leg of -Mutton, Haunch of Mutton, Saddle of Mutton, Mutton Cutlets, Irish Stew, Leg of Lamb, etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">PORK.—Pork Steaks, To Fry Pork, To Roast Pork, Spare Ribs of Pork, To Boil a Ham, Pig’s -Feet, Souse, Head Cheese, Fine Sausages, Pickle for Hams, Salting Pork, To Melt Lard.</p> - -<p class="negin1">POULTRY AND GAME.—Roast and Boiled Turkey, Roast and Baked Goose, Ducks, Roast -Fowl, Chickens Boiled, Fowl Broiled, To Fricassee a Fowl, Chicken Pie, To Cook Pigeons, etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">FISH.—To Fry Fresh Fish or Eels, Baked Shad, To Broil Fresh Fish, Fresh Codfish, Salt Codfish, -Codfish Balls, Stewed Oysters, Fried Oysters, Pickled Oysters, Chowder.</p> - -<p class="negin1">NICE BREAKFAST DISHES.—Fresh Meat, Griddles, Clam Griddles, Oyster Pancakes, Fish -Balls, Codfish Toast, Rice Balls, Hashed Mutton, Head Cheese, A New Breakfast Dish.</p> - -<p class="negin1">SOUPS.—Beef, Vermicelli, Pea, Bean, Split Peas and Barley, Vegetable and Rice, Tomato.</p> - -<p class="negin1">VEGETABLES.—Twenty different varieties.</p> - -<p class="negin1">SAUCES.—White, Caper for Fish, Egg, Plain Butter, Cranberry, Apple, Sweet.</p> - -<p class="negin1">SALADS.—Radishes, Celery.</p> - -<p class="negin1">PIES.—Twenty-five different varieties.</p> - -<p class="negin1">PUDDINGS.—Christmas Plum Pudding, and eighteen other recipes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">CAKES.—Thirty-four recipes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">TEA, COFFEE, CHOCOLATE.—Eight recipes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">JELLIES, PRESERVES, <span class="smcap">Etc.</span>—Forty-one recipes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">PICKLES.—To Pickle various kinds of Vegetables and Fish.</p> - -<p class="negin1">ICE CREAM.—How to make it.</p> - -<p class="negin1">OYSTERS AND OTHER SHELL-FISH.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE CARVER’S MANUAL.—General directions for Carving.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MISCELLANEOUS.—Chicken and Plum Pudding, Potato Muffins, Drop Biscuit, etc., etc.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs90 bold">No. 2.—DIME RECIPE BOOK:</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p class="center">A Companion to the Dime Cook Book. A Directory for the Parlor, Nursery, Sick Room, Toilet, -Kitchen, Larder, etc. Revised and enlarged edition. By Mrs. Victor.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs60">EXTRACTS FROM CONTENTS.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p class="negin1">THE PARLOR.—To choose Carpets, Directions for Carpets, To clean Turkey Carpets, Moth in -Carpets, To extract Oil or Spermaceti from Carpets, etc., To make Stair Carpets last, Cheap Carpet, -To wash Carpets, to sweep Carpets, House Cleaning, to clean Looking-glasses, Oil Paintings, -Mahogany, etc., To preserve Gilding and clean it, To take Stains out of Mahogany, to clean Brass -Ornaments, Marble, Lamp, Paint, To polish Mahogany, To remove Grease from Books, To prevent -Mold in Books, Paste, Ink, and Leather, To clean Silver-plated Candlesticks, To remove Rust, etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE NURSERY AND SICK ROOM.—Clothing of Infants, Waking Suddenly, Restlessness at -Night, Ointment for Seurf in the Heads of Infants, Teething, Vaccination, Worms in Children, -About Children, Hair of Children, Hooping Cough, Dysentery, Scarlet Fever, Putrid Sore Throat, -etc., A Cure for Burns, Scalds, Body in Flames, and seventy more recipes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">FOOD FOR THE SICK.—A Strengthening Jelly for Invalids, Mutton Custard for Bowel Complaints -or Consumptive Cases, Chicken, Beef, etc., Toast Water, Rice Jelly, Bread Jelly, Calves’ -Feet Broth, Panada, Beef Tea, Wine Whey, Water Gruel, Milk Porridge, Rice Gruel, Medicated -Prunes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE TOILET; THE HAIR.—To remove Dandruff, A Capital Pomade, Twiggs’ Receipt for -the Hair, Bandoline for the Hair, Hair-curling Liquid, Oil of Roses.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE TEETH.—To clean the Teeth and Gums, Quinine Tooth Powder, Prepared Charcoal, Peruvian -Bark Powder, Homeopathic Chalk, Cuttle Fish Powder, Lip Salve.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE HANDS.—To remove Stains from the Hands, To improve the Hands and Arms, Ointment -for the Hands, Chapped Hands.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE COMPLEXION.—To preserve It, Wash for a Blotched Face, To remove Sunburn, Blotches, -Freckles, Pimples, Kalydor for Complexion.</p> - -<p class="negin1">COSMETICS, PERFUMES, Etc.—Face Powder, Pearl Powder, Rowland’s Macassar Oil, and -twenty more recipes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">CARE OF CLOTHING.—Furs, Woolen, Silk, Gloves, Ribbons, Lace, Bonnets, etc.</p> - -<p class="negin1">THE KITCHEN.—To can Fruit, Pears, Quinces, Berries, Peas, Beans, Tomatoes, Green Corn, To -preserve Fruit Jellies from Mold, To prevent “Graining,” and seventy-five more recipes.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MELANGE.</p> - -<p class="negin1">HOW TO MAKE BUTTER AND CHEESE.</p> - -<p class="negin1">PROCESS OF WINE-MAKING.</p> - -<p class="negin1">MISCELLANEOUS.—To mend China, To get rid of Bedbugs and Cockroaches, To make Ink, -To manufacture Candles, To repair Broken Glass, and a hundred other useful recipes.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<p class="pfs120 pg-brk">THE ILLUMINATED DIME<br /> -<span class="fs150">POCKET NOVELS!</span></p> - -<p class="pfs80">PUBLISHED SEMI MONTHLY.</p> - -<div class="blockquotx"> -<p>Comprising the best works only of the most popular living writers in the field -of American Romance. Each issue a complete novel, with illuminated cover, -rivaling in effect the popular chromo, yet sold at the standard price, <span class="allsmcap">TEN CENTS</span>.</p> -</div> - -<p class="pfs135">NOW READY, AND IN PRESS.</p> - -<table class="autotable" width="95%" summary=""> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 1—Hawkeye Harry, the Young Trapper Ranger.</span> By Oll Coomes.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 37—Carson, the Guide</span>; or, the Perils of the Frontier. By Lieut. J. H. Randolph.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 2—Dead Shot</span>; or, The White Vulture. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 38—The Heart Eater</span>; or, The Prophet of the Hollow Hill. By Harry Hazard.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 3—The Boy Miners</span>; or, The Enchanted Island. By Edward S. Ellis.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 39—Wetzel, the Scout</span>; or, The Captive of the Wilderness. By Boynton Belknap.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 4—Blue Dick</span>; or, The Yellow Chief’s Vengeance. By Capt. Mayne Reid.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 40—The Huge Hunter</span>; or, The Steam Man of the Prairies. By Ed. S. Ellis.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 5—Nat Wolfe</span>; or, The Gold-Hunters. By Mrs. M. V. Victor.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 41—Wild Nat, the Trapper.</span> By Paul Prescott.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 6—The White Tracker</span>; or, The Panther of the Plains. By Edward S. Ellis.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 42—Lynx-cap</span>; or, The Sioux Track, By Paul Bibbs.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 7—The Outlaw’s Wife</span>; or, The Valley Ranche. By Mrs. Ann S. Stephens.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 43—The White Outlaw</span>; or, The Bandit Brigand. By Harry Hazard.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 8—The Tall Trapper</span>; or, The Flower of the Blackfeet. By Albert W. Aiken.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 44—The Dog Trailer.</span> By Frederick Dewey.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 9—Lightning Jo, the Terror of the Santa Fe Trail.</span> By Capt. Adams.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 45—The Elk King.</span> By Capt. Chas. Howard.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 10—The Island Pirate.</span> A Tale of the Mississippi. By Captain Mayne Reid.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 46—Adrian, the Pilot.</span> By Col. Prentiss Ingraham.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 11—The Boy Ranger</span>; or, The Heiress of the Golden Horn. By Oll Coomes.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 47—The Man-hunter.</span> By Maro O. Rolfe.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 12—Bess, the Trapper.</span> A Tale of the Far South-west. By Edward S. Ellis.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 48—The Phantom Tracker.</span> By Frederick Dewey.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 13—The French Spy</span>; or, The Fall of Montreal. By W. J. Hamilton.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 49—Moccasin Bill.</span> By Paul Bibbs.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 14—Long Shot</span>; or, The Dwarf Guide. By Capt. Comstock.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 50—The Wolf Queen.</span> By Captain Charles Howard.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 15—The Gunmaker of the Border.</span> By James L. Bowen.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 51—Tom Hawk, the Trailer.</span> By Lewis Jay Swift.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 16—Red Hand</span>; or, The Channel Scourge. By A. G. Piper.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 52—The Mad Chief.</span> By Captain Chas. Howard.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 17—Ben, the Trapper</span>; or, The Mountain Demon. By Maj. Lewis W. Carson.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 53—The Black Wolf.</span> By Edwin E. Ewing.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 18—Wild Raven, the Ranger</span>; or, The Missing Guide. By Oll Coomes.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 54—Arkansas Jack.</span> By Harry Hazard.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 19—The Specter Chief</span>; or, The Indian’s Revenge. By Seelin Robins.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 55—Blackbeard.</span> By Paul Bibbs.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 20—The B’ar-Killer</span>; or, The Long Trail. By Capt. Comstock.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 56—The River Rifles.</span> By Billex Muller.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 21—Wild Nat</span>; or, The Cedar Swamp Brigade. By Wm. R. Eyster.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 57—Hunter Ham.</span> By J. Edgar Iliff.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 22—Indian Jo, the Guide.</span> By Lewis W. Carson.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 58—Cloudwood</span>; or, The Daughter of the Wilderness. By J. M. Merrill.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 23—Old Kent, the Ranger.</span> By Edward S. Ellis.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 59—The Texas Hawks.</span> By Jos. E. Badger, Jr.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 24—The One-Eyed Trapper.</span> By Capt. Comstock.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 60—Merciless Mat.</span> By Capt. Chas. Howard.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 25—Godbold, the Spy.</span> A Tale of Arnold’s Treason. By N. C. Iron.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 61—Mad Anthony’s Scouts.</span> By Emerson Rodman.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 26—The Black Ship.</span> By John S. Warner.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 62—The Luckless Trapper</span>; or, The Haunted Hunter. By William R. Eyster.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 27—Single Eye, the Scourge.</span> By Warren St. John.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 63—The Florida Scout</span>; or, The Princess of the Everglades. By Jos. E. Badger, Jr.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 28—Indian Jim.</span> A Tale of the Minnesota Massacre. By Edward S. Ellis.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 64—The Island Trapper.</span> By Capt. Chas. Howard. Ready</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 29—The Scout.</span> By Warren St. John.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 65—Wolf-Cap.</span> By Capt. Chas. Howard. Ready</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 30.—Eagle Eye.</span> By W. J. Hamilton.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 66—Rattling Dick.</span> By Harry Hazard. Ready Jan. 2d.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 31—The Mystic Canoe.</span> A Romance of a Hundred Years Ago. By Edward S. Ellis.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 67—Sharp-Eye.</span> By Major Max Martine. Ready</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 32—The Golden Harpoon</span>; or, Lost Among the Floes. By Roger Starbuck.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 68—Iron Hand.</span> By Frederick Forest. Ready</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 33—The Scalp King.</span> By Lieut. Ned Hunter.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 69—The Yellow Hunter.</span> By Capt. Chas. Howard. Ready Feb. 13th.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 34—Old Lute, the Indian-fighter</span>; or, The Den in the Hills. By E. W. Archer.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 70—The Phantom Rider.</span> By Maro O. Rolfe. Ready Feb. 27th.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 35—Rainbolt, the Ranger</span>; or, The Demon of the Mountain. By Oll Coomes.</td> -<td class="tdl"><span class="bold">No. 71—Delaware Tom.</span> By Harry Hazard. Ready March. 18th.</td> -</tr> -<tr> -<td class="br"><span class="bold">No. 36—The Boy Pioneer.</span> By Edward S. Ellis.</td> -<td class="tdl"></td> -</tr> -</table> - -<div class="blockquotx"> - -<p><span class="fs150">☞</span> <span class="smcap">Beadle’s Dime Pocket Novels</span> are always in print and for sale by all newsdealers; or will be sent, -post-paid, to any address; single numbers, ten cents; six months (13 Nos.) $1.25; one year (26 Nos.) $2.50 -Address, <span class="bold">BEADLE AND ADAMS, Publishers, 98 William Street, New York</span>.</p> -</div> - -<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" /> - -<div class="chapter"></div> - -<div class="transnote"> -<p class="center bold">Transcriber’s Notes</p> - -<div class="blockquot"> -<p>The Table of Contents at the beginning of the book was created by -the transcriber.</p> - -<p>Inconsistencies in hyphenation such as “post-paid”/“postpaid” -have been maintained.</p> - -<p>Minor punctuation and spelling errors have been silently corrected -and, except for those changes noted below, all misspellings in the -text, especially in dialogue, and inconsistent or archaic usage, -have been retained.</p> -</div> - -<ul> -<li><a href="#tn59">Page 59</a>: “whose feeble glare served only to highten” changed to “whose feeble glare served only to heighten”.</li> - -<li><a href="#tn78">Page 78</a>: “Who could this mystersous” changed to “Who could this mysterious”.</li> - -<li><a href="#tn79">Page 79</a>: “The crisis of thier” changed to “The crisis of their”.</li> - -<li><a href="#tn88">Page 88</a>: “at the bottom of the mysttery” changed to “at the bottom of the mystery”.</li> -</ul> - -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK IRON HAND, CHIEF OF THE TORY LEAGUE ***</div> -<div style='text-align:left'> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will -be renamed. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United -States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. Special rules, set forth in the General Terms of Use part -of this license, apply to copying and distributing Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works to protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG™ -concept and trademark. Project Gutenberg is a registered trademark, -and may not be used if you charge for an eBook, except by following -the terms of the trademark license, including paying royalties for use -of the Project Gutenberg trademark. If you do not charge anything for -copies of this eBook, complying with the trademark license is very -easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose such as creation -of derivative works, reports, performances and research. Project -Gutenberg eBooks may be modified and printed and given away--you may -do practically ANYTHING in the United States with eBooks not protected -by U.S. copyright law. Redistribution is subject to the trademark -license, especially commercial redistribution. -</div> - -<div style='margin:0.83em 0; font-size:1.1em; text-align:center'>START: FULL LICENSE<br /> -<span style='font-size:smaller'>THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE<br /> -PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK</span> -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -To protect the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting the free -distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work -(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase “Project -Gutenberg”), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full -Project Gutenberg™ License available with this file or online at -www.gutenberg.org/license. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg™ -electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to -and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property -(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all -the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or -destroy all copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in your -possession. If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a -Project Gutenberg™ electronic work and you do not agree to be bound -by the terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person -or entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.B. “Project Gutenberg” is a registered trademark. It may only be -used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who -agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few -things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See -paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project -Gutenberg™ electronic works if you follow the terms of this -agreement and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works. See paragraph 1.E below. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation (“the -Foundation” or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection -of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works. Nearly all the individual -works in the collection are in the public domain in the United -States. If an individual work is unprotected by copyright law in the -United States and you are located in the United States, we do not -claim a right to prevent you from copying, distributing, performing, -displaying or creating derivative works based on the work as long as -all references to Project Gutenberg are removed. Of course, we hope -that you will support the Project Gutenberg™ mission of promoting -free access to electronic works by freely sharing Project Gutenberg™ -works in compliance with the terms of this agreement for keeping the -Project Gutenberg™ name associated with the work. You can easily -comply with the terms of this agreement by keeping this work in the -same format with its attached full Project Gutenberg™ License when -you share it without charge with others. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern -what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are -in a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, -check the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this -agreement before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, -distributing or creating derivative works based on this work or any -other Project Gutenberg™ work. The Foundation makes no -representations concerning the copyright status of any work in any -country other than the United States. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other -immediate access to, the full Project Gutenberg™ License must appear -prominently whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg™ work (any work -on which the phrase “Project Gutenberg” appears, or with which the -phrase “Project Gutenberg” is associated) is accessed, displayed, -performed, viewed, copied or distributed: -</div> - -<blockquote> - <div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> - This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most - other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions - whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms - of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online - at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you - are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws - of the country where you are located before using this eBook. - </div> -</blockquote> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg™ electronic work is -derived from texts not protected by U.S. copyright law (does not -contain a notice indicating that it is posted with permission of the -copyright holder), the work can be copied and distributed to anyone in -the United States without paying any fees or charges. If you are -redistributing or providing access to a work with the phrase “Project -Gutenberg” associated with or appearing on the work, you must comply -either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 or -obtain permission for the use of the work and the Project Gutenberg™ -trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg™ electronic work is posted -with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution -must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any -additional terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms -will be linked to the Project Gutenberg™ License for all works -posted with the permission of the copyright holder found at the -beginning of this work. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg™ -License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this -work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg™. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this -electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without -prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with -active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project -Gutenberg™ License. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, -compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including -any word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access -to or distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg™ work in a format -other than “Plain Vanilla ASCII” or other format used in the official -version posted on the official Project Gutenberg™ website -(www.gutenberg.org), you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense -to the user, provide a copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means -of obtaining a copy upon request, of the work in its original “Plain -Vanilla ASCII” or other form. Any alternate format must include the -full Project Gutenberg™ License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, -performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg™ works -unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing -access to or distributing Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -provided that: -</div> - -<div style='margin-left:0.7em;'> - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from - the use of Project Gutenberg™ works calculated using the method - you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is owed - to the owner of the Project Gutenberg™ trademark, but he has - agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments must be paid - within 60 days following each date on which you prepare (or are - legally required to prepare) your periodic tax returns. Royalty - payments should be clearly marked as such and sent to the Project - Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the address specified in - Section 4, “Information about donations to the Project Gutenberg - Literary Archive Foundation.” - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies - you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he - does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg™ - License. You must require such a user to return or destroy all - copies of the works possessed in a physical medium and discontinue - all use of and all access to other copies of Project Gutenberg™ - works. - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of - any money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the - electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days of - receipt of the work. - </div> - - <div style='text-indent:-0.7em'> - • You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free - distribution of Project Gutenberg™ works. - </div> -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project -Gutenberg™ electronic work or group of works on different terms than -are set forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing -from the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the manager of -the Project Gutenberg™ trademark. Contact the Foundation as set -forth in Section 3 below. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable -effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread -works not protected by U.S. copyright law in creating the Project -Gutenberg™ collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may -contain “Defects,” such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate -or corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other -intellectual property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or -other medium, a computer virus, or computer codes that damage or -cannot be read by your equipment. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the “Right -of Replacement or Refund” described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project -Gutenberg™ trademark, and any other party distributing a Project -Gutenberg™ electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all -liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal -fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT -LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE -PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE -TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE -LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR -INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH -DAMAGE. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a -defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can -receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a -written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you -received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium -with your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you -with the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in -lieu of a refund. If you received the work electronically, the person -or entity providing it to you may choose to give you a second -opportunity to receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If -the second copy is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing -without further opportunities to fix the problem. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth -in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you ‘AS-IS’, WITH NO -OTHER WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT -LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied -warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of -damages. If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement -violates the law of the state applicable to this agreement, the -agreement shall be interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or -limitation permitted by the applicable state law. The invalidity or -unenforceability of any provision of this agreement shall not void the -remaining provisions. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the -trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone -providing copies of Project Gutenberg™ electronic works in -accordance with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the -production, promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg™ -electronic works, harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, -including legal fees, that arise directly or indirectly from any of -the following which you do or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this -or any Project Gutenberg™ work, (b) alteration, modification, or -additions or deletions to any Project Gutenberg™ work, and (c) any -Defect you cause. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg™ -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ is synonymous with the free distribution of -electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of -computers including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It -exists because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations -from people in all walks of life. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the -assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg™’s -goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg™ collection will -remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project -Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure -and permanent future for Project Gutenberg™ and future -generations. To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation and how your efforts and donations can help, see -Sections 3 and 4 and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non-profit -501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the -state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal -Revenue Service. The Foundation’s EIN or federal tax identification -number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent permitted by -U.S. federal laws and your state’s laws. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Foundation’s business office is located at 809 North 1500 West, -Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email contact links and up -to date contact information can be found at the Foundation’s website -and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ depends upon and cannot survive without widespread -public support and donations to carry out its mission of -increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be -freely distributed in machine-readable form accessible by the widest -array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations -($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt -status with the IRS. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating -charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United -States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a -considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up -with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations -where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To SEND -DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any particular state -visit <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org/donate/">www.gutenberg.org/donate</a>. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we -have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition -against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who -approach us with offers to donate. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make -any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from -outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Please check the Project Gutenberg web pages for current donation -methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other -ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. To -donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate -</div> - -<div style='display:block; font-size:1.1em; margin:1em 0; font-weight:bold'> -Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg™ electronic works -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project -Gutenberg™ concept of a library of electronic works that could be -freely shared with anyone. For forty years, he produced and -distributed Project Gutenberg™ eBooks with only a loose network of -volunteer support. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Project Gutenberg™ eBooks are often created from several printed -editions, all of which are confirmed as not protected by copyright in -the U.S. unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not -necessarily keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper -edition. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -Most people start at our website which has the main PG search -facility: <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. -</div> - -<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'> -This website includes information about Project Gutenberg™, -including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary -Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to -subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. -</div> - -</div> - -</body> -</html> diff --git a/old/65831-h/images/cover.jpg b/old/65831-h/images/cover.jpg Binary files differdeleted file mode 100644 index c214d0f..0000000 --- a/old/65831-h/images/cover.jpg +++ /dev/null |
