Classic Audiobook Collection - The Border Riflemen by Albert W. Aiken ~ Full Audiobook [adventure]

Episode Date: August 25, 2023

The Border Riflemen by Albert W. Aiken audiobook. Genre: adventure Set on the raw edge of the American frontier during the Black Hawk War, The Border Riflemen follows Sadie Wescott, a spirited young settler trying to keep her family's riverside cabin safe as rumor and violence spread through the timber. When the dangerous woodsman William 'Black Will' Jackwood corners her with threats he intends to make good on, Sadie's unlikely champion appears in the form of Cooney Joe Bent, a brawling scout with a fierce sense of justice. Soon Captain Charley Melton and his mounted riflemen are riding the border country, trying to prevent open war even as hotheaded settlers and hard-bitten renegades fan the flames. Into this volatile mix steps Minneoba, the daughter of Black Hawk, whose warnings and divided loyalties reveal how close the region is to catastrophe. Betrayals for whiskey, secret messages, river chases, and bush fights pull Sadie and her friends into a widening struggle where every ally is precious and every shadowed grove may hide an enemy. And haunting the conflict is a mysterious figure whispered about as the Forest Fiend, striking from the darkness with motives no one can quite trust. For ad-free listening try our premium subscription Chapters (Approximate) (00:00:00) Chapter 01 (00:17:36) Chapter 02 (00:34:04) Chapter 03 (00:50:14) Chapter 04 (01:04:22) Chapter 05 (01:21:54) Chapter 06 (01:37:44) Chapter 07 (01:49:19) Chapter 08 (02:08:18) Chapter 09 (02:24:21) Chapter 10 (02:40:17) Chapter 11 (02:56:19) Chapter 12 (03:12:02) Chapter 13 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken The Border Souter, Cooney Joe The sun was going down behind the western hills in a flood of yellow light and a river dimpled on under the slanting rays, great fish leaping now and then from the placid surface, and the trees along the bank casting fantastic shadows into its depths. In a sheltered nook near a spot where a little creek joined, the river, a settler had built a cabin, which the hand of woman had beautified and adorned as only the hand of woman can.

Bright flowers bloomed on each side of the rustic doorway, and an English ivy vine clung to the walls and was rapidly spreading its delicate tendrils over the whole front. The cabin faced the stream, and behind it the hand of industry had cleared many acres, which now showed heavy growths. of cereals and roots, carefully cultivated. It was a sylvan spot, and one upon which the eye of the artist would linger long and pleasantly. The door opened suddenly, and a young girl holding a water-pail in her hand came out with a free, careless step, singing a merry song. She was plainly dressed, and yet there was an air of native grace about her every movement, which plainly showed that she had not always lived amid such wild surroundings. She was beautiful, not the vapid beauty of cities, but that of perfect health and a free life. Her form was untrammeled by the fashions which

cramp and deform the beautiful women of our day, and her face a little browned by exposure to the sun glowed with sunny beauty and rustic health. Maude Muleer, Wittier's Mod, was not more beautiful than this frontier damsel. Not only was her face cut in a perfect mold, but her eyes sparkled with life and vivacity, and her sunny hair, unconfined, hung about her shoulders in beautiful profusion. She left the river, turned down the creek, entered the little grove half a mile from the house, passed through it, and looked across the open field beyond. Father, she cried, are you there? No answer was returned, save the echo of her musical voice,

and she looked about her in evident surprise. Where can he have gone, she murmured. Father! As the words left her lips, there was a slight rustle in the bushes by her side, and a man came out and stood beside her. He was still young, but his strikingly, handsome face bore the marks of a life of dissipation and riot. He was quite tall, nearly six feet in his moccasins, with a face which showed unmistakable signs of Indian blood,

though somewhat remote, and a wandering black eye full of passion. He was dressed in hunting costume and held in one hand a long rifle and two small protuberances in the breast of his hunting coat showed where his pistols lay concealed. "'I thought I should meet you here, Sadie,' he said quietly. "'You don't look very glad to see me.' "'You know what I think of you, William Jackwood,' she replied, turning quickly away. "'How dare you to come here after what has happened?' He laughed a low, bitter, chilling laugh, which did not indicate enjoyment,

and his black eyes seemed to emit sparks of fire. I would not refer to our last meeting if I were you, Sadie, he said, evidently controlling himself by a violent effort. I was half crazy with liquor that night, or I would not have said what I did. See here, give me a chance to make this right with you, and I'll do it. I want to be a friend to you. I do, upon my soul. I'll ask your pardon on my knees if you'll forgive and promise not to lay it up against me.

I forgive you, she said with a cold, passionless glance. But you must not come here any more for all that. My father has told me not to have any more to say to you, and I shall obey him. The man stood grinding the butt of his rifle into the soft earth and fighting a powerful battle to keep down his heart. The girl no longer looked at him, but took up the pail and was moving on. Wait a moment, he said hoarsely.

I can't part from you like this, Sadie. You don't know what you are doing, or what will happen if you don't use me more kindly. By, I beg your pardon, but I am half mad, I can't stand it. Do you know that I worship the crime, ground you tread for your sake and would give my life at any moment if it would be of service to you? You must not speak to me in that way, Mr. Jackwood, she said in a more gentle tone.

I am truly sorry for you, if you speak the truth, but I cannot listen to you. Aside from the fact that my father does not like you, I have my own inclinations to consult, and I do not and never can love you. Then you love someone else, he cried savagely. All right, marry him if you dare, but of this be assured. The moment you stand up before the minister with any man, if it were my own brother, I will kill you both where you stand. Do you hear me?

I will kill you both. Do you dare to threaten me in that way, Will Jackwood? Oh, if my father were here, he would teach you to him. insult his daughter in that way. Do you think to frighten me by idle threats? Since you force me to say it, know that the sight of your dark face is and always has been odious to me, and that I will never speak to you again except upon compulsion under any circumstances. He caught her by the wrist with his disengaged hand and held her firmly, when she dropped the pail and struck him full in the face with her open hand.

He uttered a cry like that of an angry tiger, and letting go his hold upon the gun, caught her about the waist with his strong right arm. Powerless in his grasp, she struggled with all her strength and screamed for help. The call was not made in vain, for a quick step was heard, and a heavy body crashed through the bushes, and Sadie screamed again. "'Comein' by the mortal! Comein!' roared a horse voice. Oh, yes! Will Jackwood released her instantly and caught up his gun,

just as a short, thick-set, powerfully built man, darted from the bushes and stood beside them. He wore the fringed hunting shirt and beaded moccasins of the scout and hunter, and his long flax-colored hair was crowned by a greasy coonskin cap in the last stages of disillusion. The face was a marvel of native ugliness, but in spite of that he was greeted with a cry of joy from Sadie. Cooney Joe's hair, he yelled. What is the matter now? I have been insulted, Joe, cried Sadie, panting for breath.

By that year a pisonedritter, I'll bet. Now look out, Blackwell, because I'm going to give you the durnest lick'y, can you ever got since your mammy took ye over her knee. Here's fur ya. Before Black Will could bring his rifle to a level, the stout hunter dashed in, and his heart was beating against the broad breast of the man known as Jackwood. In a moment more they were locked in a fierce grapple, fighting in true Western style without the slightest idea of the rules of the ring. In a standoff fight, the long arms and powerful build of black will would have given him a decided advantage.

But in the close grapple, Cooney Joe was more than his equal, and loosening one hand by a violent effort, he struck his antagonist such a blow in the face that his teeth seemed to rattle in his jaws, and he staggered. Throwing himself forward with a victorious war-whoop, Cooney Joe brought him to the ground,

and the next moment was kneeling on his breast with his long brown fingers fastened on his throat in a decidedly uncomfortable way. Yeah, hip, got you that time, my sweet infant. The old coon can climb a tree yet. Say the word, Miss Westcott, and by the big meat pie I'll choke the life clean out of his pesky carcrage. Let him go for the present, Joe, she said. He has been punished sufficiently, and it will teach him that I am not friendless. Oh, shah, don't let him get off that way. Take off his belt and let me larp him with it till he howls.

No, no, don't strike him again. Take away his weapons and let him go. Hold on, said Black Will hoarsely. Don't touch the pistols, and I promise to go away at once and not make a move for revenge today that's fair said joe rising i never knowed the critter to break a fair promise miss sadie and you can trust him cooney jo stood up and black will slowly arose with an expression of fearful malice upon his dark face slowly brushing the dust from his clothing without speaking a word cooney joe had taken up his rifle and stood leaning upon it a grin of enjoyment stretching his naturally wide mouth. Curious how things come round, ain't it?

I've wanted a lick at you for nigh on to five year and never got a chance till now. Does me good, this does. Of course, you know I'll have your life for it, Joe Bent, said Blackwell in a quiet tone. Sarton, sarton, if you can get it, replied Cooney Joe. But don't forget that a little bit of you. if I see your hand go again a pistol in a strange company, I'll try to shoot first. Remember that, don't you? I'll try to remember, Joe, was the reply. Now, Miss Westcott, I will say to you

what I intended to say when this meddling fool broke in upon us. You shall never live to be the wife of another man. If I cannot have you, no one else shall, I swear by everything I hold true. pison critter ain't you will said cooney joe regarding him with a look of benign interest as a great natural curiosity i'll be individually and collectively cussed if you ain't a nice picture to go at talking about marrying a gal like miss sadie why bust my buttons if i don't think you'd rather have me i would indeed replied sabie who asked you to speak joe bent said blackwill savagely keep your distance and live in safety for twenty-four hours but after that i will take your life no matter where i meet you you rare round the awfulest kind don't you replied joe with a merry look dash my bacon if you ain't a study for a painter i've seen chaps in the theatre at st louis that reared round the stage just as you do now but somehow they always got special hail columbia in the end now git i don't want to say anything more but get black will quietly tightened his belt brought his rifle to a right shoulder shift and was off at a long slinging pace which carried him rapidly across the field there goes a pison critter miss sadie muttered cooney joe now i reckon he meant just what he said when he told me that he'd have my life but i've took a good many chances though he'll have my hair certain if i don't shoot first when we meet

"'I am sorry to have brought you into danger, Joe,' said the girl. "'Sorry, danger. Get out. Do you think I care for that little gal? Why, make it the worst you can. The chances are I get a shot afore he does. And if I miss, then it's my own fault. Where's your daddy?' I came out to find him and bring him some drink. I thought he was at work in this field. he ought to be careful said joe bent uneasily cause the engines are getting riled up awful and there's no tellin when they may break out let's try and find him there he is now cried sadie as she spoke a middle-aged man with a hoe across his shoulder appeared at the other side of the woods and came rapidly toward them as he came near he shouted cheerily to joe bent who seemed very glad to see him and they shook hands heartily mr westcott had the same air of gentility which showed itself in his daughter but like her

had adapted himself to his present surroundings and looked the picture of a genuine western farmer in stature he was almost a giant sadie rapidly recounted her meeting with black will and all that had passed between them and the face of mr westcott darkened while his hand closed convulsively upon the handle of his hoe it is a lucky thing for the black-hearted scoundrel that i was not by sadie he said or it would have gone hard with him what brings you up this way joe i sort of got a hint to get off the hunting grounds from that pernicious red devil napo who is spoiling for mischief. Are ye good friends with the injins square? Certainly, I never wronged one of them in my life. Not that it matters as much if they once rise, continued Joe, because then they won't have any friends in the white race. I've my doubts of that black will anyhow.

Two weeks ago I saw him in the Indian village, and him and that cussed ne'pope was as, thick as flies and spoiled bacon. What is the trouble with the Indians? said Westcott, uneasily. Them cussed agents robbed them like thieves, replied Joe Bent. If Blackcock would only catch and burn them, I don't believe our fellers would kick much. They act so fearful, mean. Do you know that I think the village is the best place for Miss Sadie about this time in the year?

I'll talk to you by and by, said West Scott, with a quick glance at his daughter's observant face. Come to the house and get something to eat. They quickened their steps and reached the cabin, and while Sadie said about preparing a meal, they sat outside and smoked their pipes, taking in low, eager tones. Sadie could see that their conversation was very important and woman-like, felt piqued that they kept it secret from her and hurried her preparations in a few moments the homely meal was smoking on the board and they sat down enjoying their food with keen relish but the two men dropped their conversation or rather changed it to indifferent subjects much to the disgust of sadie just as they were about to rise from the table she gave utterance to a cry of surprise and ran to the door and a moment after appeared, leading an Indian girl by the hand.

End of Chapter 1. Chapter 2 of the Border Rifleman. This is the Libervox recording. All Libervox recordings are in the public domain. For more information, or to volunteer, please visit Libravox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken. Meneobah's Warning It was a woman of this.

sack nation, but bearing unmistakable signs of white blood. Her form might almost evive with that of Sadie, and her dark skin glowed with perfect health. Her hair was unlike that of any pure Indian girl, slightly waving, and with a lustre upon it never seen in a pure Indian. Her dress was of the richest description that was worn by the women of the tribe, and her head was crowned by a coronet of eagle feathers, which bespoke the daughter of a chief. Dainty feet, small hands, and delicate features distinguish the maid from the majority of a race, and altogether, two more noble specimens of native grace

rarely trod the same floor. By the piper that played while the king danced, If it ain't miniova, the pride of the sack nation, cried Cooney Joe. Say, gal, what's you doing round year? miniova has travelled a long path and she is weary replied the indian girl faintly let the wild rose give her food and drink sadie who was much taken by the rare beauty of the forest made seated her at once at the table and placed food before her she passed over the few dainties which the table afforded and ate the most simple food and her appetite was soon gratified Joe whispered aside with Mr. Westcott.

"'I tell you that gal is the favorite daughter of Black Hawk,' he whispered, "'and she got some good reason for being here. "'But don't hurry her, for I know the breed, and she's obstinate, "'durn obstinate when she has a mind to, though she's a good gal, too.' In the meantime, the Indian girl was chatting merrily with her new friend, and her musical laugh rung through the cabin. whispered to sadie to get her confidence mr westcott muttered the hunter she can do it the gal is open-hearted as the day and if she means friendship she means it westcott called sadie aside and spoke to her in a low hurried tone and nodding intelligently the white girl returned to the side of the indian girl and soon after the two rose and went out of the cabin strolling down by the river-side

Minioppa had her fan in her hand, more from habit than anything else, and they walked along the green banks, talking earnestly. Miniova is the daughter of Blackhawk, said the maiden, in answer to a question, and she loves her father well. The heart of the old man is very sad, for he sees the white men forcing the Indian step by step out of the land their fathers gave them. Look down and tell me what you see. close to the bank of the stream not far away a succession of low mounds of different sizes showed where the ancient graveyard of a tribe had been not far from this a white village was seen the farms of the settlers encroaching upon the graves

when we bury the bodies of those we love daughter of the white man it is not pleasant to think that the feet of the strangers tread upon the graves the indians are rough and rude but they too love the graves of their fathers and it makes them sad to think that the plough of the white man will disturb the loved remains it is very sad but i have heard that keokok sold this land to our people keokok has done wickedly cried the girl excitedly it is a false indian who treads upon his father's grave or allows the white man to do it A sack despises the man who is so base. What will the Indians do? What they will do is not for an Indian girl to say. Their hearts are very sore, but they would be friends with the white men if the white men will let them.

But firewater and bad men will make trouble in the land. Tell the people of the village that it would be better for them to give up the sack town and build for themselves upon another place. In order to understand the words of Minneapolis fully, it will be necessary to set down the history of the events which finally drove Black Hawk to desperation. By the treaty entered into by the United States upon one side, and the sacks and foxes,

Siouxs, Omaha's, Iowa's, and Otto's upon the other, headed by Keokokokok or the watchful fox, the land of these tribes was sold to the United States. his bargain and sale Black Hawk took no part, but in spite of that, the Indian agents insisted that he should leave his village, which, without his consent, had been sold to the whites, and billed another upon the west bank of the Mississippi. No race loved their native land better than the Indian, and Blackhawk was of the pure blood. He cursed the traders who had sold their country, but vowed that he would not leave his village

until compelled to do so by force. Every little disturbance between wandering white men and the tribes, every slight affair of whatever kind was magnified and turned against the sack cheap. Yet he only sought to do what was right, and prevailed upon Keokok, who had made the treaty to go to the white agents, with whom it had been made,

and offered them in the name of the sacks, the lead mines, the most valuable property of the Indians, if they might be permitted to retain their village the watchful fox satisfied that he had sold that which was not his own agreed to go and asked for black hawk the little land on which the village stood including the graveyard of the tribe it was refused it was the custom of the western tribes at this date to go out in winter in a body and have a great hunt black hawk went away at the head of his tribe with secret misgivings and the village was left unguarded this was the winter of eighteen thirty and when the indians came back from their hunt they found their village in the possession of the whites who had taken advantage of their absence to take possession the river was yet full of floating ice and it was impossible for the indians to move but they sent word to the invaders that before corn-planting they would drive them out of the village no matter at what cost to themselves the whites were alarmed for they felt their inability to oppose the tribe with their present number a deputation was sent to the chiefs proposing that they should occupy and plant the land together the indians always generous in the disposal of land agreed to the proposal but upon arriving they found that the whites had seized and planted the best of the land

The peaceful village became one of the most disorderly upon the frontier, with the whites, came in their vices, and the Indians, naturally weak, began to feel their effects. The sale of liquor was commenced, and, by its aid, the whites gradually robbed the Indians of all that they could call their own. The chief saw with alarm what must be the result, when they received orders to cross no more to the east bank of the river.

the result of such an order may be readily understood rousing all the fierce passions of the indians and in this state matter stood at the time when minneova visited the cabin of mr westcott the indians were now nearly all upon the west bank of the river the chiefs preferring this to longer intercourse with the white men these simple men were no match for their widely antagonists and had too rapidly imbibed their vices black hawk was an indian but he had a heart to feel for the woes of his people and he saw that only by force of arms could he hope to succeed in resting his country from the hand of the invader is it possible that my father's land belongs to the indians said sadie he paid for it honestly and would not willingly wrong any man the wild rose speaks truly her father has a great heart but he holds the land which belongs to black hawk then he will pay for it again sooner than wrong a chief of the sacks blackcock will not sell his lands to a white man let the words of minneoba sound in the ears of wild rose this is no place for her to dwell let her get a swift horse and fly away until the tempest has passed for a dark cloud hangs over her father's house and threatens her i have done no wrong why should i flee my sister the evil will come to the just and the unjust for black hawk will have his land again do not ask me to tell you more for a sacked maiden cannot betray her father but take those you love and fly while yet speaking the rapid beat of hoofs could be heard and two men rounded a point of woods and approached them at a glance sadie recognized

black will, and a desperate ruffian who was more than suspected of selling arms to the Indians, a great offense upon the frontier. This man's name was Richard Garrett, and he was hated and feared all along the border. Ha, look, cried Meneova. Yonder comes a bad white man, who has spoken evil words in the ears of Black Hawk. What does he hear? Let us hurry away, whispered Sadie. He is my enemy, and I fear to meet him now. The two girls darted into the bushes, but not quickly enough to evade the eyes of the two men, who at once urged their horses and overtook the flying girls. Ha, my dear, said Black Will, placing himself in front of Sadie, and affectionately barring

her further flight, I did not expect to meet you so soon. Do not stop me, Will Jackwood, cried Sadie. You have been punished once. today for your insolence. Joe Bent is not far away. He is safe from me for this day, for he has my word, replied Blackwill. But, when we meet again, one or the other goes down. Threats do not hurt the absent, was the quiet reply.

Let me pass at once. Not so fast, I shall not have a better opportunity than this, and must entreat you to come with me. unconsciously in their walk the girls had come some distance from the house and at that quiet hour few persons were abroad sadie understood the object of black will it was to seize and carry her away for the purpose of forcing her to become his wife he sprung out of the saddle and menacing her with instant death if she cried out hurried toward her when a new and unexpected obstacle stood in his path minnieoba had been almost unnoticed by the two scoundrels and seeing that dick garrett was employed in holding the horses the brave girl suddenly strung her bow and fitting an arrow hastily sprung in between black will and his intended victim and he recoiled with a cry of rage as the bright point of the arrow glittered in the light minnieoba by all the devils out of my path girl or a worse thing may come to you but miniobe did not move her bright eyes fixed upon the form of the would-be abductor in a way which he did not like sadie is the friend of the sack girl she said quietly you shall not touch her while i live

you don't know what you are doing mad girl what will your father say when he knows that you have aimed an arrow at my breast mine of all white men in the territory it would be better for black hawk if you had never seen him replied the girl take your horse and go for i will spare your life if you did not touch the wild rose touch her and you are dead black will was a brave man but he knew well the deadly skill of the indian girl and had seen it proved a hundred times in sportive encounters in the indian village though full of rage he dared not advance but listen to me ninova he said this girl is to be my wife i love her and would take her into my lodge let me hear her say that she loves you and the sack girl will not come between you stand back or the arrow flies from the string you shall suffer for this girl black hawk shall know how his daughter claims for a friend the daughter of the man who holds this land we shall see how he likes that minnie ova can talk to black hawk she does not need the white hunter to tell her what to say she's a buster will said dave garrett laughing i reckon you'd better give it up come little girl don't be foolish get out of the way for my sake minneoba did not move and the arrow was still ready to fly hark will there comes horses let's get out of this as quick as we can black will shaking his clenched hand at the immovable figure of the indian girl sprung into the saddle and the two men rode away at the top of their speed they were scarcely out of sight when a party of mounted riflemen came up at a trot but seeing the two girls

they halted, and the leader dismounted and came toward them. He was a young, handsome fellow, in a fringed hunting coat, booted and spurred, and wearing the insignia of Melton's mounted rifles, to show that he was captain of scouts. He lifted the cap gracefully from his head, and bowed low as he approached. Captain Melton of the mounted rifles, by way of introduction, may I ask if you have seen anything of a man known in this region as, Dick Garrett? He rode away five minutes since, in company with William Jackwood. The deuce he did. Excuse me, Miss, which way did he go? Sadie pointed out the road,

and with a hasty adieu the young officer bounded into the saddle, and the command went off at full speed, with Melton at their head. Sadie had noted that his dark eyes had rested admiringly upon her, and she was herself struck by his noble appearance, and Miniova laughed softly. She could see that the two had met before. The young white chief is very brave. Sadie could love him. Nonsense, you foolish girl, said Sadie, blushing. I have only seen him twice before, and probably shall never see him again.

Let us return to the house. End of chapter two. by Nancy Cochran Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona, December 24, 2021. Chapter 3 of the Border Rifleman. This is a Libravox recording. All Libravox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libravox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken.

Black Hawk insulted. They had scarcely reached the house. when the sound of voices could be distinctly heard upon the river, and Joe sprung to the door, from which the stream was plainly visible. A dozen canoes were upon the water full of Indians, crossing from the other shore. You better get out of sight, Miniova, said Kunig Jo. It won't be well for them to see you here unless you were forced to come out. The Indian girl hurried into the cabin and went into Sadie's room.

A moment later, a tumultuous band of sacks, shouting out furious threats against the whites landed near the cabin and came hastily toward it drunk as lords every man jack of them said joe we've got to talk sweet to them or there will be some heart-raise and right about ear there that's old black hawk himself by george i wonder what he wants an indian somewhat advanced in life and wearing the usual insignia of the chief of the sacks headed the party and a word from him stilled the clamorous tongues of the warriors. Mr. Westcott and Joe stepped out to meet them, and the chief received them by a lofty gesture. "'We come for corn,' he said, "'and my young men are so angry that they need the hand of a chief.

"'It is hard that the sacks must come like thieves in the night "'to take corn from their old fields.' "'It is hard indeed, Black Hawk,' replied Mr. Westcott. "'I am as much grieved as you can, be that this thing has happened, and upon my word, I hope that you may settle this trouble peaceably. Why do you stay on the sack fields, then? replied the Indian morosely. The words of my brother are wise, but they do not agree with his actions. I stand upon sack ground, which is not sold, and cannot be sold, unless Blackcock puts his totem on the paper and gives a belt. Why is the

white men here, then? I bought up a man who claimed the right to sell, said Westcott, but I am willing to give you a fair price for the fields even now. Black Hawk will not sell his father's graves, replied the chief fiercely. Look, your white men are making my warriors like themselves. Good at talking, but no workers. They drank the accursed firewater and become hogs. In a few years, the name of sack.

will be forgotten, and they will be but beasts to carry the loads the white man puts upon their backs. It's no use talking now, Black Hawk, said Cooney Joe. I don't say it's right, because it ain't, for Keukuk had no right to sell your land. But the thing's done, and our fellers have possession, and I'm afraid they won't give it up. They must. Oh, pshaw, you ought to know that they are darn good at taking things, but they don't give back with a cent.

you may as well build a village over yinder that they may come and take it again replied black hawk with a bitter laugh let us speak no more for my tongue grows bitter in my mouth sons of the sack let us go for corn The Indians docked away, followed by a shouting crowd of his adherence, and Cooney Joe looked uneasily at Westcott. I don't like the squire. You see, our fellers are mighty rough on the Indians, and I heard some of them say that if the sacks come over to steal corn, they'd give them an all-fired licking. Now if they do that, it means war. I hope our men will not be so impudent, said Westcott. they ought to give the poor fellows a chance to carry away corn for their suffering families since they have dispossessed them of their land half an hour passed when suddenly there came a great tumult from the direction in which the indians had gone the shouts of men the loud and continuous barking of dogs and the occasional crack of fire-arms could be heard cooney jo caught up his weapons and followed by mr westcott hurried away in the direction from which the sound came they had not gone half a mile when they came upon a great rabble of fights surrounding the party which had come over for corn abusing them in every possible way showers of stone were hurled upon them clods of earth and

and filth of every description was cast upon them, and they were fighting their way slowly back toward the stream, apparently unconscious of the insults heaped upon them. Foremost among them, walking with a firm step, but with a dark cloud gathering upon its brow, strode blackhawk. A stone had struck him on the forehead, and the blood was trickling slowly down his face, but he did not seem to be aware of the fact. Once or twice he turned his head, when some unusually vile epithet was heaped upon him with a haughty glance at the offender which they remembered in the aftertimes for two men who struck him and whom he marked for destruction were the first to fall when the struggle commenced in earnest white men cried the chief halting at length do not dare to stand in the track of blackcock upon his own land your land you old thief wrote a man named churchill you lie It is ours, fairly bought, and we will keep it.

Black Hawk does not waste words with a man with a double tongue, who is only fit to sit with the women when the warriors are on the battlefield, replied the chief. Churchill caught up a handful of sand and flung it into the face of the old chief. Black Hawk trembled in every limb, but not with fear, and he clenched his hands until the blood started from beneath his nails. fool, he hissed, in the days to come, remember Blackhawk. That the man had good cause to remember this insult, the history of that time will show.

The Indians went on their way, but all around them the confusion became greater, and it was with the utmost difficulty that they kept their ranks, and kept down their passions enough to prevent the use of the tomahawks, which every man carried. Had Blackhawk but given the word, they would have rushed like tigers upon their prey, and torn the rabble asunder like cobweb. But the policy of the chief had been opposed to bloodshed, and he hoped to be able to get to the river without being forced to draw a weapon. Look at the black thieves, roared Churchill.

Down with them, boys! Shower the mud on them, stone them out of the country. He was but too well seconded by those who follow him, and many of the Indians were badly hurt by the missiles which were thrown. at them. Directed by Churchill, three or four strong men rushed suddenly forward and laid hold upon the chief, with the intention of beating him. Dogs, cried the sack, casting them aside like feathers. Take your clubs, sons of the brave. Up to this moment, the Indians had not lifted a hand, but at the order of their chief they lifted their clubs and sprung forward with furious yells. The chief singled out Churchill and leaped upon him like a tiger, but the man ran backward,

and the chief, never thinking of support, followed him with uplifted club. Before he was aware of his danger, he was in the midst of a circle of infuriated whites, who commenced an indiscriminate assault upon him, striking and kicking him with merciless force. It is impossible to say whether he would have escaped with life, but at this moment the rabble parted before the rush of strong men, and Cooney Joe and Mr. Westcott darted into the circle and placed themselves beside the chief. Back, if you are men, cried Westcott.

What, thirty against one poor old man? Keep clear, keep Clare, cried Joe, flourishing his rifle in a threatening manner. He's an engine, but fair plays a jewel, you know. You won't strike him again while I stand here. "'Get out of the way, Joe Bent,' screamed Churchill. "'What business have you to interfere?' "'Because I'm called on by a magistrate,' replied Joe.

"'Keep clear, I tell ye, or I'll make my rifle-butt acquainted with the softness of your head. Back a little. Disverse every one of you and let the Indians return to the river, and I will see to it that you are punished for what you have already done,' said Westcott, as they hesitated. there was some grumbling but after a little they began to step away and the little knot of indians were left alone upon the field i am sorry that this has happened black hawk said westcott you want corn you say go to my crib and take out what you want the chief did not reply but he stood looking at the retreating forms of the white men with a moody brow many a men who was in his grave before that season closed might have been alive and happy but for that vile attack.

Black Hawk owes much to the white men, he said slowly. They have stolen his village, trampled upon his father's grave, flat up the earth above the dead, and scored the earth with their axes. Now they have insulted Black Hawk, and he will remember. I would not take it too much to heart, Black Hawk, said Westcott. Black Hawk will remember, was the reply, but look my brother by this blood which drops upon the earth i promise friendship to you and yours you are two just white men and all the tribes shall honor you for what you have done this night let my good brother go toward the rising sun and stay until the tempest has passed by

westcott shook his head and walked beside the chief to the river he refused to take any corn and as the canoes pulled off the two foresters looked at each other this is bad joe said westcott but we must get to work do you know where the general is now he's at jefferson barracks that's where he is replied joe then he must be spoken to and at once in the meantime i will take a horse and see other officers and concert measures for the public safety the whole northwest is in danger for many will follow black hawk they hurried back to the cabin and to his delight the settler found captain melton there who had returned unsuccessful from the pursuit of black will and dick garrett the young officer was well known to both mr westcott and cooney joe and was cordially greeted by both what was this disturbance i heard just now mr westcott said melton as they shook hands it sounded almost like a battle it was very near one as it was said westcott our people surrounded a party of indians who came over for corn insulted them in every conceivable way beat and threw stones at them and injured black hawk quite severely you don't tell me that they have hurt black hawk yes and if i know anything of the indian he will resent it this is too bad just when we hope to settle the matter peaceably let the people on the frontier look to it now, for there is trouble ahead, as sure as we live.

Hi, there, Stanley, he cried, addressing one of his men. Ride to the post and see the general. Tell him exactly what has happened, word for word, and when you have done that, go back by way of the island and tell the rest of the boys to come up. Do you think they will fight, Captain? Of course they will, and we have a lot of Dunderheads who will do their best to force it on. With your permission, Mr. Westcott, I will stay here tonight if you will let the men sleep in your barn.

Certainly, if the house were large enough, they should be welcome to that. The command of Melton was an independent one, composed principally of bordermen and scouts, selected for their known valor and knowledge of the country. As usual, in such cases, they were despised by the dandy regiments until two or three rough-bouts between the men had taught them a lesson.

They were very popular with the masses, however, and in a bush fight were capable of doing more work than any body of men in the service. Two or three couriers were dispatched in various directions, and then the party camped outside, while the captain entered the house, where he was received by Mrs. Westcott and the daughter. The elder lady had just returned from a visit down the river.

this is charlie melton my prince of boarders the best scout captain in the territories said westcott captain my daughter sadie i met miss westcott early in the evening when in chase of a desperate gambler who had shot a man over a card-table and indeed we met twice in the village i hope you caught him captain said westcott sorry to say i did not how the fellow managed to slip away i don't know but when we got to the bend all trace of them was lost he had a man in his company whom i want to see for i believe he is stirring up the indians against us you mean black will jackwood i'll bet said joe bent yes what made you think of that cause i see the bloody cuss at rock island whispering round o black hawkawd and it looked bad to me somehow it will be a markedly good thing when he is hung up out of harm's way that good thing will be very likely to happen if we have the good luck to catch them ha what indian girl is that minneoba the daughter of black hawk replied the girl coming forward let not loud tempest fear that she will speak the words she hears in the lodge of her white father in the ear of the sacks miniova is not a creeping serpent, and will not betray her friends. Loud tempest, eh?

Poetical name the sacks have given me, though for what cause I do not know. What have you there, Dix? An orderly had appeared at the door and saluted. Kata Potawatomi just now, who claims he has something to say. Who is he? Little Fox.

Pah! I don't think much can be made out of him. However, bring him in and let us hear what he has to say. The orderly turned and beckoned, and an Indian, greasy and smoke begrimed, with a face which bore evident signs of hard potations, appeared in the doorway. This, Lord of the Forest, was very drunk. His eyes rolled in their sockets, and he found it easiest to stand by the aid of the doorpost. End of Chapter 3, read by Nancy Cochran Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona, December 27, 2021.

Chapter 4 of the Border Rifleman This is a Libravox recording. All Libravox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libravox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken. Little Fox, now she is check. the indian was one of the worst specimens of his race a creature naturally brutal who had been rendered more debased by an excessive use of fire-water as he clung to the door-post and looked at them out of blaried and watery eyes he was as disgusting a specimen of the genus homo as could be found between the two oceans

let me talk to this critter said cooley joe i calculate i understand the nature of the unadulterated unbailed unwashed and unclean drunken red as well as any man in the great nor west i do by the living hoaxies hire you possum speak up and speak quick what are ye looking for now fire water poor engine very dry replied this noble red man tire much tire walk durin good way ways must have fire water you got to air in it first my noble red replied joe come agitate your jaw tell us what you want suppose you'd give little fox fire water den talk how can talk when no have drink ugh that's the heathen philosophy chan saw said joe with a look of supreme disgust no whisky no news got such a thing as a drain of spirits handy squire mr westcott left the room and returned shortly with a small flask of rum from which he poured out a glass for the indian who drank it with avidity smacked his lips and held out the glass for more hold on said joe pushing back the extended hand not if i know it inchin that tongue of yours begins to double anyhow and i reckon you'll have to do some talking before you get any more rum "'Potawami, big warrior, much brave,' replied the Indian loftily, striking his clenched hand upon his broad chest. "'Give engine rum.'

"'I'll give you bat alongside your old head if you ask for more or for you've done the work,' said Joe angrily. "'Come now, speak up. What do you want?' "'Want rifle, want blanket, want heap firewater,' replied Little Fox. "'Got heap's story to tell.' Lies, probably. Come out with it, and if it isn't any use to us, it will pay handsome. That's the time of day. Want him now, replied the Indian, with a surly glance at the speaker. No tell news without you put him down here.

That won't do, Injun, said Joe. You heard what the fellow's done with Black Hawk just now. I've only got to say the word, and you go away the sorest engine in the Norwest. Tell us any really important news, and we'll give you a rifle, two blankets, and a keg of rum, and you can drink yourself to death in a week. Much promise, little do, dat white man's way, replied the Indian. Little Fox, no speak. Will you speak if I promise to give you what you ask? said Captain Melton, advancing.

Loud tempest will do what he says, replied the Indian, with a drunken leer. Little Fox will believe him. Very well, then. I promise to give you the rifle, blankets, and rum, if you tell us all you came to tell. Give engine stool. Sit down like white man. Floor much dizzy. Whirl round fast? Ugg! By the not very mild assistance of Cooney Joe, the Indian was seated on his stool, with his back to the wall, and sat with drunken gravity waiting. to be questioned. Go on with your story, you red nigger, cried Joe, and see her, the minute you begin to lie,

and, oh, Lord, how he can lie when he lays his tongue to it, that minute I jump on you and your hair comes off. Little Fox will speak with a straight tongue, replied the savage, drawing himself up. Give Injun and he talk heap fast. Cooney Joe poured out a very mild dose of rum, and gave it to the savage who gulped it down at once and would have asked for more but that the expression of joe's face taught him that such a measure would bring down upon his head the wrath of the hunter and he prudently refrained black hawk much mad he said see white man take his village and plant corn among the graves that no right in white man no moral reflections bummer said joe get on to your y'n yarn, or off goes your scalp.

Black Hawk has a great army, said the Indian. His braves are coming in from the plains, and their faces are painted for war. The white men must not sleep, or they will all die. It is needless to follow word by word the disjointed narrative of the drunken savage, interrupted as it was by appeals for rum, which was doled out to him in very small quantities by Cooney Joe, who feared they. he would get too drunk to articulate he sat swaying unsteadly to and fro and told a tale which confirmed their fears messengers had been sent out to the various tribes and all had agreed to follow the standard of black hawk and assist him in driving out the invaders of their land nearly all the principal chiefs except keukuk had given in their adhesion and bands of warriors were already on their way to the place of rendezvous not far from rock island where there was a sack village and a fort

doubtless the indian misrepresented the plans of black hawk but he told enough truth to make his story tallied with the preconceived ideas of the whites and they looked at one another in silent dismay this is very serious said the captain of scouts this indian has earned his reward and if he will come into the village to-morrow he shall have the liquor the rifle and blankets i can give him now he went out and brought in a very good rifle and two blankets which he had obtained from the men a flask of powder was added and a mole to run bullets and little fox staggered away happy as a lord little knowing that the possession of these articles would prove his death warrant with a weapon in his hands he staggered toward the village where he was met by a young warrior of the sack nation whom in his drunken blindness he did not recognize as the youngest son of Black Hawk, who was lurking about for information. My brother has a fine gun, he said in the Indian tongue, endeavoring to lay his hand upon the weapon. But little fox tore away from him in drunken wrath.

Wag! It is the gun of the white man, and the sacks will fall before it, as the leaves when they are yellow, he said. My brother is very rich. He must have taken much fur to buy so fine a gun, said the young Indian. who already showed the qualities which afterward gave him a leading place in the tribe. Little Fox is the friend of the white man, and he can get a gun for nothing, was the reply. When Black Hawk comes with his warriors, he will find the white man ready. Has my brother told the white man what Black Hawk is doing? said the young sack, veiling his rage.

Little Fox can speak, or Little Fox can be silent, replied the Potowami. look to-morrow he is to have enough rum to last him a whole moon because he is the friend of the white man fire water is good said the sack has my brother a canoe to carry it across the river the indian shook his head and a sort of hazy idea passed through his clouded brain that he had already said as much as the odd concerning the affair i have a fine canoe continued the son of black hawk let my brother bring the rum to the point and i will help him carry it away the potawami nodded gravely and went on his sinuous way while the young chief darted into the forest and taking a circuitous course reached his father's village at early morning the old chief was in his lodge in an attitude of the deepest dejection for he had not sought a quarrel with the whites near him seated upon a pile of skins and with a look of deep malice on his face sat black will holding his rifle in his brown right hand ha here comes nashiyah's chuck he said now black hawk let your great heart awake and listen to the words of your son speak nashia chuck What are the white men doing? They go out about the lodges.

They have built above our father's graves, and laugh because they have insulted Black Hawk, replied the young sack fiercely. Their ears are stopped to all thoughts of peace, and they long for war. Let them get what they seek, since they will have it so. What did I tell you, Black Hawk?

Said Black Will. The scoundrels do not care for your great name, and they throw mud at you as if you were a comrade, and Potawami, and not the head chief of a great nation. Will you bear this tamely? Black Hawk is an Indian, replied the proud old man, drawing up a stalwart form to its full height, but he does not seek for war.

If white men will let us rest where we now are, I will send the warriors back, and we will be friends. Friends? Friends with the men who threw mud in your face and beat you like a dog? cried Black Will. Come, I have been mistaken in you. I thought you were a man ready to revenge your injuries, but the white men have cowed you until you dare not lift a hand against them.

Black Hawk bounded to his feet with a terrible cry, and laid his hand upon a weapon. But that Nassie S. Chuck sprung between him and the object of his wrath, it is doubtful whether the career of Black Will would not have ended upon the spot. Hold your hand, great chief, cried his son, forcing him back. He sits under the shadow of your lodge, and you have smoked the pipe with him. Do not make yourself a dog since you have taken his hand. He has insulted a great chief, replied the old warrior fiercely.

But he is right. Black Hawk is a dog to listen to the words of the white men, and to refuse to dig up the hatchet when so many warriors are ready to follow him to the fight. We must fight, said Nassie asked Chuck. Little Fox has been among the white men and has told them that the braves are gathering at the call of Blackhawk He is a dead dog and is taken a rifle and blankets And is to have much fire water because he has betrayed us Black will began to look uneasy

Has the scoundrel told them that I am here? he asked I cannot tell He is to come to the point above the island with the price of his guilt Tomorrow and I will be there to help him over the river A grim look crossed the face of Black Hawk as his son spoke. It is good, he said. One traitor shall die because he has sold himself for the firewater of the white men. As for us, we will not strike the first blow,

but if they take up the hatchet against us, then we will fight. But I will not remove. It is better for us to strike the first blow, said Black Will. That is the main thing in war to strike such a time. terrible blow that their hearts will turn water in their bosoms. Look at me. I am of the blood of the white men, but I am not all white. A chief of the sacks was my father, and he is dead. He died in chains because he dug up the hatchet against the cowardly chippewas. You have known and loved him, for you fought by his side. Black Hawk? Redbird was the father of the man who speaks.

Ha! cried the chief. Redbird was a man. but he could not bear the chains of the white man, and he died. Is my son the child whom he lost? Who was born of the French squaw? Who followed him from Detroit? Black Will inclined his head slowly, and Black Hawk took his hand in his own and pressed it again and again to his bosom.

Black Hawk can understand how the son of Redbirds should hate the white man, he said. We will fight side by side in this war, and if we die, let us die bravely. Are the warriors coming in, Nassia Chuk? They are gathering from every side. They have heard of the insult to Blackhawk, and their hearts are hot in their bosoms. They will behave like men.

It is good, said the chief. Now we will go forth, and you shall see how Black Hawk shall give a traitor his dues. They left the lodge, and followed by the brother of Blackhawk, and Napolp, a celebrated chief, moved down toward the river, where the rest of the party concealed themselves, while Nausee Chapp brought out his canoe

and crossed to the other shore. End of Chapter 4, read by Nancy Cochrane-Gurgan, Gilbert, Arizona, December 28, 2021. Chapter 5 of the Board of Rifleman. This is a Librevox recording. All Libervox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libervox to visit Libravox

The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken, The Price of Tretchery. Little Fox had remained all night in the White Village, and as it was noised about that he had betrayed the plans of Black Hawk, he had no lack of his favorite beverage, and morning found him as drunk as ever. Captain Melton sent a man with a canoe to carry the price of the information to the point above the island, and as the son of Black Hawk was crossing the river, River. Little Fox was sitting in drunken state upon his keg, dreaming of the glorious times you would have when he broached it in the seclusion of his lodge. He remembered indistinctly that someone had promised to help him across the river with his prize, but for his life could not remember who it was,

and it almost sobered him when he saw Nashia's check crossing the other shore, and he fumbled with the lock of his rifle, and was half inclined to warn the sack to keep off. but the fumes of the liquor were still in his brain, and the young chief landed and came toward him. The Potawami did not lie to Nashiyazchuk, said he. Let us put the firewater into the canoe. You put him in, said the owner. Me watch.

He looked on while Nashiyoschuk placed the keg in the canoe and then followed, and, drunk as he was, managed to seat himself safely in the light craft. The sack followed. and obeying the orders he had received, headed up the river, rounded the point of the island, and made toward the other shore. There was something in the stern,

steadfast look of Nashiyazchak, which struck a chill into the heart of the traitor of Potoami, and almost sobered him, and twice he laid his hand upon his rifle, as if tempted to use it upon his companion. But, as often as he did so, the countenance of the sack took on a place,

as an heir of good fellowship, which made it impossible to be angry with him. Why does not Nashiaschuk go to the bank, said Little Fox? We will make a hole in the firewater tub and drink. The canoe was now headed directly for the point of the woodland, which came down to the water's edge, and after drawing the light bark up the bank, they took the keg between them and carried it up to the first opening, where it was placed upon its end,

while Little Fox, by the aid of his knife, succeeded in drawing out the bung. "'Waw!' he cried. "'Smell good, don't he, nastiest chuck. Now suppose you get straws. We drink much. Good deal!' The sack went down to the water's edge and quickly cut two long, slender reeds, one of which he gave to Little Fox, and the two sat down over the keg, inserted the reeds, and began to imbibed after the manner of boys over a barrel of scyves. cider. But, although Nashiyos-Chuk went through all the motions of drinking rapidly,

it is doubtful if he took as much as Little Fox, whose fiery eyes began to light up as he took in the burning fluid, and in five minutes he was more drunk than before he crossed the stream. Ayah! Little Fox is a friend of the white man. Who would not serve them when he can earn such drink? Tell Nashias-Chuk what to do, and he will get fire water from the white man. drunk as he was little fox looked at the speaker in astonishment that the sack youth would betray his father seemed impossible to him and yet knowing how strong his own love of liquor was and that he would betray a nation to obtain it his surprise faded away will now she as chuck do this he can get more fire-water than little fox for he knows more what must i do go to the white men and tell them all that black hawk is doing and my brother will be very rich has little fox done this he has done what he could but he did not know much replied the trader naushias chuck has been in the lodge of his father and heard his words now she as chuck will do anything for fire-water said the young chief seeming to reel as he sat did the white man give all this for the message which was brought

them by Little Fox? The Pottawami nodded, and again applied his mouth to the reed. But, at this moment, the expression of drunken gravity passed away from the face of Nashia's chuck. He bounded to his feet, with a look of wild rage upon his dark face, and his hand upon his hatchet, and drunk as Little Fox was, he could see that he was deceived, and that Nashiya's chuck was perfectly sober. He would have ceased his rifle, but the foot of the young sack was

firmly planted upon it, and he found it impossible to raise it, and the threatening action of Nasea's chuck caused him to draw back an alarm. Dog, traitor, hissed the chief. You have betrayed our people into the hands of the enemy, and you shall die. Blackhawk, Neapope, and Wabikishik, appear. As he spoke, the three chiefs, accompanied by Will Jackwood, appeared from the bushes upon the right. Every face was black with fury, and the traitor of savage knew that his doom was fast approaching. He would have fled, but the strong hands of Nashiyazchak and Napo were upon him, and in the twinkling of an eye his hands were bound behind him, and Black Hawk stood regarding him with a steadfast look, which had no pity in it. The years of Black Hawk have heard the words which have been spoken by the

mouth of a traitor, away with him to the sacred wood, and then call the warriors to witness his fate. Napope and the Shiaschuk dragged him away, and Blackhawk uttered a signal who quickly brought four stalwart Indians to the spot, who, at the command of Blackhawk, fastened up the keg, and, making a sort of cradle of strong boughs, carried the liquor away toward the sacred forest, being solemnly warned not to touch it on their lives, after them marched the remaining chiefs and Blackhawk, taking a sequestered path through the wood. Half an hour's walk brought them to a deep glen in the midst of the solemn woods,

where a sort of rude altar was erected, and where the mystic ceremonies of their strange religion were nearly always observed. A solitary tree of small size, with a blackened trunk, the scene of many a sacrifice was standing in the centre of the glade and there tightly bound with green wies stood little fox awaiting his fate the indian was sober enough now for nothing brings a man to his senses so quickly no matter how much stupefied by drink as the presence of danger his eyes roved from face to face for some sign of relenting or pity but he found none why has black hawk brought up potawami here he said he dare not shed the blood of the son of nebolish nebolish nabolish was a great chief but his son is a dog's he said black hawk will not shed his blood and a coward's death he shall die little fox knows how to die if die he must replied the indian proudly he will speak no more and he dares black hawk to do his worst the summons had gone forth and one by one the chiefs and warriors began to enter the sacred wood every face was clouded for they knew that they would not have been called to this place but to witness some great sacrifice

a single glance at the prisoner was all they gave and then man by man they seated themselves in a great circle and waited for the coming of others in less than an hour from the time when little fox was taken five hundred queer moyers were seated within the glade and then black hawk arose chiefs and warriors he cried children of the same great father although our tribes are many listen to black hawk he is getting old his hair is gray but he weeps for the sorrows of the poor indian once all these great hunting-grounds in which the white man plants his corn were the property of the indian there he lived there he died and there he lies buried the seal of the white man's plow is among the bones and he builds his lodge in the villages which once were ours this should make an indian very sad and he should do all he can to help his people but there are some who are so base that for the fire-water of the white man they would sell their father's bones it grieves the heart of black hawk that this should be so for he loves the indian now when we have risen for our rights and to protect the heart of black hawk that this should be so for he loves the indian now when we have risen for our rights and to protect our once happy homes. Indians of the pure blood stand ready to give us up a prey to the white man, that they may drink the strong water which makes men mad. Look upon this man. He is a son of the

great Nabolish, Potawami. Once he was a man and a mighty warrior. His foot was quick upon the warpath, and his hand ready to shed the blood of his enemies. The white man came and brought the strong water to the villages. Little Fox was no longer a man when he had taken it into his mouth. Let Nashiyoschuk speak and tell the warriors what little fox has done, and then let them speak. I have done. He sat down amid his strange murmuring, and Nashiaschuk arose. The young chief was well known for his strict honesty, and they were assured that he would not lie to save his life. My father has spoken good words. Little Fox has sold us to the white men for a rifle, two blankets, and this firewater,

striking the keg with his foot. Out of his own mouth condemn him. Let him die. Nepope arose. I heard the words which came from the lips of Little Fox, and the sack has spoken the truth. Let Little Fox die like a dog. And I heard it, cried the prophet. I, Wabikishik, the prophet.

He sold us to the white men, and he deserves to die. Now let the chiefs and warriors speak. There was a sudden movement among the listening warriors. They arose as one man, and every voice peeled out the solemn sentence. He is a traitor. Let him die. You are women, shriek the Pottawami fiercely. Do your worst. Little Fox will show you how to die.

it is well said black hawk slightly inclining his head we will not deny that little fox has been a great brave but he is now a dog let the chiefs come about me and we will have a talk they were not long in consultation and then separated the chiefs going about among the men and giving their orders then a long-sounding whoop from black hawk called them into line and they began to circle about the tree pointing their fingers cornfully at the prisoner. Then Black Hawk advanced and bared the breast of the prisoner, exposing the totem of his tribe. Look, he said, he bears upon his bosom the sign of a great tribe. This is not well, and it must be removed. Wabikishik advance and cut the totem from his flesh. Cut away the totem of the great tribe, cried the warriors. He has no right to wear it, who is a dog. Cut it away. the countenance of little fox was distorted with rage more than fear drunken and worthless as he had become he was a true indian and felt keenly the disgrace about to be put upon him do not dare to make a chief a dog he hissed give me the torture or give me death have i no friend among this people who will strike a sharp knife into my breast has he a friend among the warriors who will do this said black hawk

let him speak no voice replied and the countenance of little fox changed from hope to fear he has no friend cried black hawk advance wabikishik cut away the totem it was done and little fox if he lived was ostracized forever from his tribe and death would be to him a happy release in the meantime a great cauldron had been placed upon a fire and in this the cake of Rome was poured, and a great quantity of gourds piled up beside it. The spherists had now begun to bubble, and taking up a little in a gourd, Black Hawk advanced and offered it to the condemned man. For this you sold us to the white men, little fox. Drink, now that I give it to you, it is warm, it is good, it will make you strong. As he spoke, he dashed the contents of the gourd against the breast of the doomed man, and Little Fox uttered an appalling shriek which rung with startling distinctness through the forest. Now ensued a horrible scene, as Indian after Indian

caught up a gourd and dashed a portion of the boiling spirits upon the naked body of the traitor. Black Will stopped his ears and turned away his head to shut out the agonizing sights and sounds, which the sacrifice presented. He was a cruel man by nature, but he found that the Indians could go beyond him in refinement of torture. At last the cauldron was empty, and the victim stood literally parboiled at the stake, gnawing his lips to keep down the shrieks which arose in spite of himself. The faces of the stern executioners did not change, and they were about to commence some new species of torture when Black Will sprung between. Stop, Black Hawk. Stand back there, the Pope. This fellow deserves death, but you shall not

torture him any longer. Kill him and put him out of his pain. Stand aside, white man, cried the Pope. Why do you come between the warriors and a traitor? White man? I am the son of Redbird, the sack, who died in the white man's prison, and I say that this shall not go on. Will you kill him? No, let the torture go on. Blackwell wheeled in his tracks, drew a pistol, and she shall. shot little fox through the heart. Bloody as the deed was, it was mercy compared with a torture in store for the traitor. He started as the bullet pierced him, a look of ferocious joy passed over his face, and his head dropped upon his bosom. There came a wild rush at the immovable figure of Blackwell,

but the sonorous voice of Black Hawk was heard, ordering them to stand back. Touch not the son of Redbird, lest you make an enemy of Black Hawk. he cried, take down the body and cast it out in the open woods, that the wolves may eat all that is left of a traitor. The work was done, and although there was some grumbling at being robbed of their victim so early, the bravest among the warriors were inclined to commend the bold action of black will, although, under the circumstances, none of them would have dared to do the same. The body was thrown upon the earth to rot, and the warriors, on their march back to the village, when a runner, hot with haste, dashed into the forest and met Blackhawk.

Let the braves take their hatchets, he cried. The white men are upon the march. Ha! cried Black Hawk. Do they come with arms? Major Stillman comes, with many warriors, replied the runner. Let us see if they are friends, said Black Hawk. If they come in peace, it is well. If they harm a hair of one of my young men, they shall all die. He sent out five young warriors with a white flag, who did not return. Later in the day, three more went out, and reconnoitered in the vicinity of the advance of the white men. They were pursued, and two of them killed, the first bloodshed in the war. The third escaped and brought the news to Black Hawk, and they dug up the hatchet and prepared for war.

End of Chapter 5, read by Nancy Cochran Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona, January 1, 2022. Chapter 6 of the Border Rifleman. This is a Libravox recording. All Libravox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libravox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Agin. The First Blow It must be admitted by unprejudiced men and thinkers of all lands

that the Black Hawk War was precipitated by the rapacity of the whites. Not satisfied with driving the Indians from the better portion of their lands, they persisted still further in forcing them from their villages about Rock Island. They would have been less than men if they had not resisted, but to the last, Black Hawk insisted that he would not be the first to shed blood and, as we have seen, the first man killed was one of Blackcock's band by Stillman's party. This man seemed to have little knowledge of the Indian character and lack the power of leading men. He had been sent out by General Atkinson in advance, with orders to scour the country,

find out the position of the Indian force, and to act as his discretion seemed to dictate. Captain Melton was with him and had occasion twice to remonstrate with him upon his manner of advancing through a country favorable to an ambuscade. The troop consisted of 270 mounted men marching without order,

straggling where they liked, and firing at any stray Indian of whatever tribe whom they chanced to meet. When the flag of Black Hawk appeared, Stillman ordered the bearers to be taken prisoners. "'Excuse me, Major Stillman,' said Melton, as he heard the order. "'Surely you do not propose to make these men prisoners.' "'Certainly I do, sir. Take your place and let me hear no more.'

"'Your words will require an explanation at another time and place, my good sir,' said Melton. "'Be so good as to remember that I had no orders to join you, and that if you insist upon such conduct, I will leave you at once. these men came to you under the shadow of a white flag, and you have no right to take them prisoners. Will you take your place, Captain Melton, Rored Stillman, or must I put you under arrest? Melton said no more, but fell back to the head of his troop, fully determined to leave the irate major if he persisted in his conduct. The three bearers of the flag were sent to the rear, under guard, and the troop proceeded in the same disorderly manner.

Some time after, the stragglers in advance caught sight of the warriors, who had been sent out to see what had been done with the bearers of the flag, and were pursued, and two of them shut down without mercy, the rest escaping, by taking to the woods in front. No sooner had he beheld this cruel and uncalled for butchery than the young captain of scouts called to his men, and they wheeled out of the line, faced about, and marched back toward the river. stillman boiling with rage called his men to a halt and rode back what is the meaning of this conduct captain melton he hissed fairly foaming at the mouth how dare you detach your command without orders if you think you have men enough in your rag-tag and bobtail command to stop us you had better try it on major stillman said melton coolly i for one will not give countenance to murder as you are doing murder sir murder is the word those sacks were doing no harm who were just killed by your men and did not even use their weapons when your scoundrels took after them go on your way sir i will not march a foot further with you i will have you court-martialed upon my return sir cried stillman very well i shall take an opportunity to tell the court some things not to your credit good day sir but for the safety of your men i tell you to call in your stragglers march in a more orderly manner and beat the bushes thoroughly before you enter attention scouts forward and the compact little body rode away at a killing pace leaving major stillman to his own devices stillman hesitated for some time before advancing for he knew that the desertion of captain melton was a great loss to him

while he stood in doubt the men who had killed two indians came back at a gallop and announced that the indians were just across sycamore creek and in some force all was now confusion in the white camp some who had dismounted sprung into the saddle and with wild shouts the disorderly man rushed on headed by the men who had just come in black hawk had not supposed that stillman intended to attack him and the greater portion of his force were on the other side of the village in all the great chief had only forty men under his command when stillman's men came up at the gallop strung out across the plain man by man according to the same man according to the same man by man according to the same speed of their horses, and in this manner crossed the creek. Blackhawk had not hoped that they would thus give themselves a prey to him, and his ambuscade was quickly formed. When half the party had crossed the creek, and were massed in disorder upon the bank, and the rest were struggling up, some crossing the creek, and others yet upon the plain beyond, the war-wope of the sacks announced the onset, and from every side the warriors poured

in upon the foe. One withering volley was poured in, which strew the earth with dead and dying forms, and at the same moment the charge was made, and the knife and hatchet was doing its silent, but deadly work before the doomed men had time to lift a hand. To show the utter foolishness with which the advance was made, it is enough to say that the warlike major was never in the fight at all, so quickly was the force which had crossed the creek disposed of by the furious attack. of Black Hawk. The cry was, Satan take the hindmost, hardly waiting for Stillman's order to retreat. They broke and fled in every direction, each man for himself, lashing their horses to get out of the fearful imbroglio into which their own full-hearted conduct had forced them.

Thus, in one desperate charge, forty Indians had put 270 white men to flight. It is no discredit to the for the men of Stillman's force, under a different leader, would have laughed at the efforts of the Sack Force. They came into Dixon's ferry as they had left Sycamore Creek, one at a time, and the loss gradually dwindled from 70 to about one-fourth of the number. The alarm went forth through the land, and the little force of Sack warriors were magnified into an army. The work had been done, however, and a scene of blood and death was about to be enacted upon the border. Captain Melton rode back to the settlement after leaving Stillman, but had not gone far when the flying men from the band of heroes began to come up with him.

Seeing that the war was begun in earnest, he faced about and prepared to meet them as best he might, knowing nothing of the small force of Blackhawk. After waiting all night for some sign of Indian pursuit, as none was made, he drew off his men and reached the settlement some hours after the arrival of Stillman, who had been filling the ears of the inhabitants with stories of the cowardly conduct of the captain. The captain quickly set matters right, and only that he had more important business upon his hands would have followed Stillman to the camp of Atkinson, to which he had directed his steps. Taking ten of his men, he rode up the river to the river to the residence of Mr. Westcott, but as he drew near he found evidences upon every hand of the presence of

the destroyer, and as he crossed the hill, saw, to his horror, that during the last night the cabin had been attacked. While with fear he rushed in at the broken door, and found everything in confusion, and scattered here and there various bits of Indian finery, beads and the like, which told him beyond a doubt who had done the work. Indians, said one of the men, Good heaven, Captain, they are killed. They explored the house everywhere, but not a trace of the family could be seen.

Upon the floor, near the entrance, was a little pool of fresh blood, which looked as if it had been shed the night before, and Melton looked at it with a shudder. Where are they? he groaned. Who has done this ruin? It is always so in an Indian war, said his lieutenant. Some band of Indians coming up to join Blackhawk have rushed in on them before they had time to fire a shot.

Somebody has been hurt, said Melton. Ha, what have you got there, Chris? One of the men came forward, holding in his hand a heavy knife, with about three inches broken from the point. Upon the hilt of the weapon, rudely engraved, was the name R. Garrett. dick garrett has been here then said melton turning pale and if he has taken sadie westcott it is done for black will oh heaven what shall we do hold on said a feeble voice from beneath their feet help me out of this and i'll let you know someone is in the cellar said melton up with the trap and let him out the trap door was opened and cooney joe bleeding and ghastly appeared at the foot of the ladder. A dozen hands were extended to help him up, and he was seated upon one of the stools, gasping for breath.

"'What is this, Joe?' said Melton. "'Speak up, men. Don't you see that I'm in torture until I know the worst?' "'The worst is that a party of red niggers, headed by Dick Garrett, made a rush at us last night, and took Mr. Westcott in the gal prisoners. I had a tussle of, with Dick Garrett, and one of them, cussed Reds, hit me over the head with a hatchet, and I fell into the cellar. I don't know what drove them off, but they did not come down to raise my wool, and I've been too weak to get out without help. You don't know which way they went? Don't I tell you they knocked the life clean out of me? The fuss crack? I didn't fairly get my senses back till I heard you talking. Tate above two hours since they left. How many had

Dick Garrett under him. Maybe a twenty, the ugliest-looking lot of whites painted red you ever sought your living eyes on. I'd be busted if they wouldn't spile a looking-glass by just looking into it, darned a lot of ruffians. We must follow them, his melton through his set teeth. I'll have the girl out of their hands if I have to follow them into Black Hawk's village. See here, Black Hawk don't know nothing about it. The Piss and Cusses took his... daughter with him. But she spiled one chap, sure as you live. He got an error cleaned through him. She is a brave girl, Joe. Oh, how sorry I am that you are hurt. Hold hard. You ain't going without me,

you know. One of your chaps wash out this cut and put some plaster on it and we'll make it do. I'm going, you bet. I fear you are not strong enough. You be granted. You be granted. You be grannied. You see, I've got a sort of snicker and notion after that their engine gal, and I'll be blowed if I don't help her. In his border life, Melton had picked up a slight knowledge of surgery, and he washed and dressed the wound as well as the limited conveniences at his disposal would admit. Having done so, Cooney Joe rose up, though somewhat weak and staggering, to use his own expression, and was ready to fight or or run as circumstances might require.

Now see here, cripples, he said, that Carrity-headed son of a gun, Dick Garrett, is a whole boss team, you bet he. He'll fight, he will, till the teeth meet in the flesh. Oh, you bet he is on it now. He can shoot, and when we follow him, we ain't track in sacks, so look out for thunder. And he is in league with Black Will,

and that scoundrel has a hundred ruffians at his beck and call, said Melton. We never should have had any trouble with the Indians but for men of his kidney. Now for Trayland, said Cooney Joe, stand one side, you critters, and let the old man work. I've got a mark that can't be beat, for Dick wears the biggest moccasin of any man in the northwest. Look around, mighty spry, and when you find a track like a young canoe, that's Dick Garrett's hoof. the trail was quickly found and led to the northward they followed it swiftly cooney jo bending slightly in the saddle and keeping his eyes on the trail while the rest followed keeping far enough behind not to disturb the trail after march of nearly two miles the track suddenly ended upon the bank of the father of the wettors and they knew that the scoundrels had taken to the stream now ain't this cusset mean ain't it enough to the to make a man raise his hand against his venerable ancestor,

Roar Joe. They've took water, they have. Here, send back two men with the hosses, for we've got to hoof it. This plan was adopted, and two of the men returned with the horses, while the rest searched about among the reeds, and, after some trouble, found two rude dugouts concealed, in which, by making two trips, they crossed the great stream. Here they scattered and searched up and down for the trail which they had lost, still guided by the ponderous hoof of Dick Garrett. Oh, ain't he pissing that dick? Grawled Cooney Joe.

It's just his natural cussedness, you know. He's aware that I like to ride, and he'd just done this to be mean. Comes natural to him. Meadness does. Here you are. Come on, boys. He had taken up the recovered trail, as if, no interruption had occurred, and the party moved on across the plane. They were tried men,

who had followed Captain Melton in many an hour of danger, but even their hearts gave a great leap as they plunged into the Indian country, perhaps never to return. End of Chapter 6, read by Nancy Cochran Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona, January 2, 2022. Chapter 7 of the Border Rifleman this is a livervox recording all limbervox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit livervox dot org the border rifleman by albert w agan overboard the surprise of the occupants of the log cabin by the river was sudden and complete when at a late hour the house was surrounded by a motley group headed by a man who in spite of his paint and and feathers, could not hide from so acute a scout as Samuel Westcott that he was a white man in disguise. The rush was so sudden that they had been overthrown before they had fairly time to reach their weapons,

and the captured men were at once hurried to their horses, and the band made off at a rapid rate up the stream. Mr. Westcott was wounded, but in spite of that, the savage white leader urged him on, threatening him with the point of his knife, if he faltered or turned aside. They reached the river when, to the surprise of all, a flat boat shot out from the western bank and made toward the eastern shore. The men who held the poles were either white men, or showed a marvelous aptitude for flat boating, an accomplishment rarely to be looked for in an Indian who is not in love with manual labor. The bow of the flat grated on the low beach, when the party went on board, horses and all,

and they pushed out into the stream. This boat belonged to Captain Hughes's father, whispered Sadie. Is it possible that these wretches have murdered him and his crew? He ought to have come down some days ago, said Mr. Westcott, in an uneasy tone. I am afraid that the good old man has indeed fallen. Be careful what you say, for these scoundrels understand every word you speak. At this moment the chief approached and caught Mr. Westcott by his wounded arm, causing him to utter a low cry of pain, while the blood gushed from under his hand.

No whispering, he hissed, dropping all at once his assumed Indian habits. I'm no baby, Sam Westcott, but a bird of the woods, a Mississippi roar, and I can lick the universal earth of flying. Dick Garrett, cried Westcott, in a tone of surprise. I thought so. You know me, do ye? said Dick, with an air of bravado. all right squar it's all the worse for you for dick garrett don't let no man live that knows he wears an engine rig get ropes here and take a couple of hitches on this chap some of you fellers what do you intend to do cried westcott struggling hands off you scoundrels tie him tight boys replied dick garrett in finish glee teach the cuss to be so sharp i will before i get done with him now then sam westcott if you've got any prayers to say say him quick for overboard you go when we get to that snag in the river you cannot mean it said westcott such a cold-blooded and unprovoked murder oh give us a rest or i'll gag you replied dick garret the matter of a man more or less in the world ain't going to shake it to its centre

you bet, and when I say you've got to go under, then you go. Have your way, then, murderous wretch, cried the brave man, drawing himself up proudly. I will not beg for my life from such as you, and am ready to die if my time has come, as bravely as another. Do your worst. Sadie, by this time, began to comprehend the danger in which her father stood, and would have come to him, but she was forced back by one of the rough ones. men who wore the Indian garb, but who could not conceal a certain flat-boat swagger which betrayed him. He crows loud, boys, don't he? said Garrett, mighty loud for a bird of his feather,

that's only got three minutes to live. Keep the galway, she ain't got leave to die yet. Let me go to my father, pleaded Sadie. Oh, sir, you will not kill him for a single hasty word. I rather think I shall, replied Garret. it as cool and composed as if talking of an ordinary event the man's got to go i don't advertise to be a saint and when a man runs against me and calls me a murderer i reckon it's about time for him to pass in his chips i'm a peaceable man i will have peace or a fight this strange man was dreadfully in earnest human life was to him a thing of no price we might lose it to-day or to-morrow or we might live a hundred years a small matter not to be taken into account he had no objections to killing a man and if he had stood in his way in any manner it became a duty to put him aside they were approaching the snag and the desperado was about to order the prisoner to be thrown into the water when the boatmen were suddenly thrust aside and minioba holding her bow in her hand darted forward and levelled an arrow at his breast look white man she cried minneoba is the daughter of black hawk and she cannot lie if you do harm to the good white man i will send an arrow through your heart why you cat hissed dick garrett turning upon her with a devilish look stand out of the way

but minnieobo would not obey him it was the second time she had found her arrow effective and it had some influence upon the man who would have peace or a fight although full of mad hate he knew that she could aim an arrow well for he had seen her skill tested in the Indian towns. What in the devil's name made me bring this cat on board, he uttered. Betterfar have left her behind to find her way to the village as best she could. Look you, Minnioba, he added aloud. You know that I would not willingly do you a wrong, but you must get out of the way. No, replied Minnioba, stamping her foot. Minibah will not move, and if Garrett does wrong to the good white man, he shall die.

Now, my girl, be careful, please. I'll have to take measures you won't like if you don't get out of the way. Many oba will shoot, replied the girl, with flashing eyes, still pointing the arrow at his breast. Garrett nodded to one of his men, and, while the leader exbustulated with her, he stole behind and suddenly caught her by the arm in a firm clasp. With a cry of anger, the girl caught the arrow in her disengaged hand, and drove it through the arm of her captor, who released her with an oath, but before she could strike again, Garrett had her in his arms. "'Now then, lads,' he cried, "'I'll hold this beauty fast, and as she struggles I'll take toll from her lips.'

"'Cece to struggle, Miniova,' said Mr. Westcott. "'You only expose yourself to new indignity without the chance evading me. I am ready to meet my fate, although it is a hard one, but agrees me to think that I die by the hands of white men. Sadie, farewell. Farewell, my dear child. All that I have is yours and your dear mothers. Thank God that she at least was absent when this blow fell. I cannot see you die, she sob. Oh, Richard Garrett, will nothing move you to do right? That depends on what you'd call right. Now, you don't think it right to beat a man at the pictures or billiards or to pick his pocket, or crack a bank. Now I do, so we won't seem to agree, no matter how you fix it.

So I guess we may as well end this now. Toss him over, boys. It don't seem scarcely right, said the rough young fellow who was helping Sadie back. Why not duck him and then let him out, boss? Because he knows I were an engine disguise. It's all very well for you that he don't know, but I ain't so easy suited. Toss him over, I say, and make no words. they lifted the bound man and flung him over the rail while with a thrilling shriek sadie fell senseless into the arms of the man who held her he laid her gently down and made a spring at the taffrail

and his body struck the water almost as soon as that of mr westcott who was unable to help himself come back here you born fool screamed dick garrett what do you think the cap will say when he hears how you act you go too said the rough but good-hearted fellow naming a locality not sought after by humanity generally i'm going to save this man then by hiss dick garrett you stay with him set in your poles boys tom don't want to come on board by this time the man had seized the helpless form of westcott and with his clasped knife managed to cut the bonds upon his hands and feet and westcott and westcott had seized the helpless form of westcott and with his clasped knife managed to cut the bonds upon his hands and feet and westcott and westcott at once began to swim, but feebly at first, and the Finnish order of the desperate leader rung in his ears, and they saw the boat moving slowly away, leaving them alone on the wide river. We're done, stranger, said the man called Tom. I'd done my best, but he's run from us. You can swim to the bank, said Mr. Westcott, noting with what ease the man sustained himself. I reckon. Then do so and leave me to my feet.

fate, replied Westcott. You have already risked too much for me. When I quit a man in that way, I reckon you'd better call round with a rope and string me up. It'll suit me first rate. Let the current take you square. We'll fetch up somewhere, I reckon, and when we do, and I once get on the trail of that Dick Garrett, won't I make him howl? Even as he spoke, the two men were moving on a course diagonal with the current, the stronger man giving all the support he could to his wounded companion. But the shore seemed far away, and Westcott felt that he could not go much further. Save yourself, he gasped. My wound is open again, and I am losing strength. I won't do it, replied Tom through his set teeth. Hold up a little. I'll save you

yet. There is no hope, replied West Scott. Avenge me if you can and save my daughter from that villain. You can do me better service in that way than by staying with me now. At this moment the surge came down heavily and buried the speaker beneath the water. Tom paddled to and fro, looking for him in vain, for the water had claimed its prey, and nerving himself to the task, the young man struck out resolutely for the shore, which he reached nearly exhausted. Then he ran along the bank and looked for some sign of Westcott, but he looked in vain. The surface of the river was blank. End of Chapter 7, read by Nancy Cochran Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona, January 6, 2022. Chapter 8 of the Border Rifleman

This is a Librevox recording. All Libervox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libravox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken Melton Scout A Bush Fight Tom Bantry had been a flat boatman since he was old enough to hold a pole and now, for the first time,

paused to consider how far he had gone down the road of sin. He was conscious of many evil deeds already performed, but the stain of blood was not upon his soul, and, although pledged to his vile companion, he could not stand by tamely and witness the murder of so good a man as Samuel Westcott. but his good intentions had come to naught and the brave man was dead the flat boatman rose and looked about him a wicked light coming over his dark face

they taught me evil them cusses did he muttered i've the making of a man in me but they spiled me and now they've killed as good a man as ever walked the earth i'll remember that against ye old man garret he was literally worn out and dropped down upon the grass and slept until morning he woke at last and started up refreshed only to find a party of white men were upon the opposite bank and with his pain upon him tom knew that it would be far from safe to meet them and he skulked away keeping under cover of the bushes and then made a circuit through the bushes designing to cross their path and ascertain who they were as he crept forward with that intention he heard a slight rustling in the bushes in front and the long snake-like head of napobe appeared above the bushes signaling him to fall back he did so involuntarily dropping his hand upon his knife which he had not lost in the last night's struggle in the stream when he remembered that napove regarded all his party as friends and that he still wore the garb of an indian he dropped back and the next moment napoke joined him the white dogs come he said in a fierce tone and the heart of a chief is big in his bosom they shall die without knowledge who are they demanded tom they are white and they are not the friends of jackwood the son of redbird where is your gun my brother i lost it last night replied tom a little embarrassed let me look out and see what white men come He advanced to the edge of the woods and looked out, and could detect a white party moving hastily

across the plain. Foremost among them was a man whom he had known well some years before, Cooney Joe, and behind him came Captain Melton and his gallant men, and it flashed through the mind of Tom Bantry that they were in pursuit of Dick Garrett. His heart stood still, for a backward glance showed him fifty stout sacks, armed to the teeth, lying under the bushes waiting for the coming of the hated white men twenty-four hours ago tom banry would have delighted in this but now he was changed and racked his brains for ways and means to acquaint them with the ambush before them without destruction to himself the pope waved his hand and as if by magic every warrior disappeared and a stillness like that of death fell upon the scene the whites came in rapidly unsuspicious of dame and passed through the first bushes when they were surprised to hear a sudden crash and a yell of surprise and anger. The crash came from Tom Bantry, who had managed to fall down with a great noise,

at the same time giving the yell which startled the White Rangers. Tree, boys, yelled Kuni Joe. Tree and fight, Injun Zah, by the Big Horn's Boon. The men who followed Kuni Joe were Indian fighters of the first class. and the order had scarcely been given when every man was sheltered by a tree and had his rifle ready for action this was not done a moment too soon for the feathers of the savages began to show above the bushes and several shots were fired until a commanding voice shouted to the warriors to hold their fire what do the white man's seat cried napoep they have been beaten once must we beat them again that's napoep cried cooney joe i know the old cuss and he can fight if he is an injun but we'll lick him out of his moccasins "'Say, Injun, you better clear the way. You ain't got the major to fight now.' "'Napok does not seek the scalps of the white men,' cried the Indian.

"'If they bring the scalps to him, he will take them, but he does not thirst for blood. Let Captain Melton turn back and cross the river.' "'The path must be clear for me to pass through,' replied Melton. "'The hatchet has been dug up, and its edge turned against women and children, and the good white man, Westcott, with his daughter, has been carried away, and we think the sacks know where they are. The sacks do not know, replied Napoge, proudly. Does the white man take us for monomones or Chippewas? The sacks are men and not dogs. They do not fight against women and children. Napope is a brave man, and will not lie to save his life, said Melton.

let us pass on safely and then there shall be no blood shed for we seek only those who have stolen the brave man westcott and his child my brother must turn back replied the chief there is no path over the indian country for white soldiers until peace is made but if the good white man and his child are here they shall be made welcome and no harm shall come to them if ne pope can give them aid but melton must take his warriors and go back to his people We will not turn back, replied Melton angrily, unless we take the friends we seek with us. Letting the Pope clear the way, or we will try to go on without his leave. The white men will find knives and hatchets in the path, replied the chief grimly.

Go back as you came, and all shall be well. Refuse, and you shall find that my young men carry guns. I don't like this, whispered Cunucho in the ear of Mountain. they've got twice as many warriors as we have and the chances are good for a fight i never like to back out but i don't know but it's the safest plan it won't do said melton these scoundrels will get too impudent if they are allowed their own way too much there must be a fight and at once and the boys must do their best i know them too well to think they will back down for twice their number of sacks what does my brother say cried the Pope. Fight, replied Melton, we will go on. The Pope disappeared immediately, and scarcely had he done so when a bullet whizzed by the year of the young scout, as he hastily took to a tree.

The fight now commenced in true Indian fashion, the sacks forcing the fighting, and running from tree to tree to get nearer to their enemies. But they found a different party from that with which they had fought upon Sycamore Creek. every bullet had its billet. Did an Indian show hand or foot from behind a shelter? It was at once the mark of a well-aimed ball. The men who followed Belton had lived by the rifle and were not likely to miss their aim easily, while the Indians were notoriously bad marksmen, not having the patience to perfect themselves in the use of the rifle. Besides, the weapons they carried were not of the best description, being those furnished by the traitors against, the law, and their powder was, contract, warranted not to burn except at a slow fire.

But their numbers made the position of Melton's small force decidedly unsafe, and they began to close in upon every side, and every moment Melton expected a charge with hatchet and knife, most fearful weapons in Indian hands. But the steady valor of the scouts had inspired the savages with a respect for them, and they fought warily, losing a man now and then, and inflicting little damage upon the foe they'll charge soon boys whispered cooney joe pass the word down the line to have a charge ready for the rush don't throw away a shot the rifles were ready when the pope gave the order and at his signal yell they bounded out like tigers flourishing their bright weapons in the air this was the moment for the board of riflemen and each picked his man and fired and every bullet found to mark. Supposing the rifles empty, the sacks rushed on, but they were mistaken, for uproes ten more riflemen, and the head of the assailants seemed to melt away before their fire.

It was more than Indian endurance was equal to, and they again buried themselves in the bushes, in spite of the fierce orders of the Pope, who, although severely wounded in the shoulder, urged the men on. He was ably seconded by Neaschuk, who was also slightly wounded. it well done my lads cried melton bravely done riflemen they have not secomore creek to brag up this time at any rate napoke collected his men under cover of the bushes but his heart was full of anger against the gallant man of scouts whom he had expected to sweep from the path in that headlong charge so far from doing that over one-third of his men were placed ord de combat and several more partially disabled aroused by the invectives of the two chiefs they again began to advance but more cautiously sliding from tree to tree with great care and exposing themselves as little as possible in doing so but the riflemen managed to inflict new damage upon them before they came in fair charging distance the pope had separated his force into three parts sending out a small party upon each flank of the white force and melton was compelled to detach eight men four upon each flank to keep off these troublesome flanking parties this left him but twelve men in his main force opposed over thirty determined warriors eager for the blood of those who had slain so many of their friends

we have got ourselves into a pizance grate cap said cooney joe as he stood with his back against a tree looking to the priming of his rifle but there's only one way to do and that is to fight our way out we can lick em if more don't come that's what i'm afraid of at this moment the rush was made and as before the whites divided their fire so as to give the indians two volleys before they reached the trees and then, with the yells which vied with those of the Indians, they formed a line among the trees, and beat back the savages with knife, hatchet, and clubbed rifle. It was a desperate affair while it lasted, and the wild valor of the scouting party prevailed, and they were driving back the Indians step by step

when one of the men who had been sent to the right flank came running up. Party of engines coming across the plane on a run, cap, he reported. I reckon we better get. Easier said than done, said the captain, turning aside a blow with his heavy knife. Shoot that fella, Ed. The borderer brought his rifle to his shoulder,

and the savage fell shot through the heart. Have the Indians on the flanks retreated, Ed? demanded Melton, as he fired a pistol at a savage who was poising his hatchet for a throw, and the savage went down. no they ain't all gone yet replied the man who was coolly reloading his discharge rifle i guess we'd better call in the men and make a rush through these red devils before the others can come up a signal whistle well known to the merry men of melton brought in all upon the flank and with shouts of victory all charged upon the broken and demoralized body of sacks they had fought bravely but their

courage was not proof against the assault, and they broke and fled in every direction through the woods, pursued by the victorious whites, who only wanted to get deeper into the woods, to avoid the force coming up in their rear. They would not have done this had they known that it was Dick Garrett and his party, bringing as prisoner Sadie Westcott, whom Meneoba would not leave. Scouts from the party of the Pope, having discovered the coming of the disguised whites, and a the chief, he hurried out to meet them, and started as he saw who they held as prisoner. Ha, he cried, then it is my brother who struck the wigwam of Westcott and took him prisoner? Yes, said Garrett. You see our boss, Will Jackwood, wanted this girl, and sent me to take her.

Where is Westcott now? demanded the Pope. Well, said Garrett, hesitating, he's gone under. that's what's the matter with him. Let my brother speak more plainly, said the chief. What has become of Westcott, the good white man? He has been murdered, replied Sadie, coming forward quickly. Chief, you know what he was, and that he never willingly wronged the Indians. You know, too, that when the mob at the village assaulted Blackhawk and yourself,

he came to your aid and helped you to escape. he has been brutally murdered by this base wretch, Garrett. The girl lies, I reckon, said Garrett sullenly. See here, Chief, is it calculated in your tribe that women are any better off for having too much tongue? My brother must let the wild rose speak, replied the Pope. When the sacks come hungry and thirsty into her father's lodge, she is always ready to give them food and drink. when they are weary and the night air is cold there is always a warm place by the fire to spread a blanket the child of westcott must be allowed to speak now look here chief said garrett in the same ferocious tone tain't no ways likely i'm going to come down to you or any man on earth if westcott was killed he was my prisoner and i had a right to do what i would with him have you anything to say against it

the pope inclined his head slowly as recognizing the justice of the remark the life of the man was as little regarded by the indians as by garret and the pope rather liked the tone of insolence he assumed the pope cried sadie i want you to listen to me this wicked man threw my father into the water from the flat boat and he has not been seen since will you see a good man murdered and refuse to avenge him napope was evidently troubled for just now he needed the assistance of garret and his men and did not wish to make him angry we will speak of that another time wild rose until then rest safely with minnieoba the daughter of black hawk while we do the work of men Garrett, do you know that Loud Tempest is here, and he has beaten the men of Napope and killed many? Loud Tempest. Do you mean Captain Melton? Yes, he is here with the White Hunter Joe, and many warriors. The Pope cannot rest until we have his scalp. Cooney Joe! Why, I give him a lick last night that ought to have settled any decent man for good.

He is alive, and fights like a sack, replied Napote. They are in the woods, and we must follow and take their scalps. I'll bet he's after me, muttered Garrett. He don't owe me any goodwill for work I've done, and I've swore to have his hair. There's my hand on it, Napolp, and I'll never quit you until he or I have gone under. Sadie had started at the name of Melton, and was conscious of a feeling of joy that he had thought enough of her safety to follow her into the Indian country. But, as she glanced over the line of ferocious faces, she was sorry that he had incurred this danger.

But she followed the party until they reached the battlefield, and found it strewn with the slain bodies of the sacks, who had fallen, each one pierced by the deadly bullet. These ain't babies we're following, said Garrett. They can fight, Melton Scout can. and if we look him we look a good crowd how many has he got with him napoepo extended the fingers upon both hands twice twenty we've got our work cut out then for twenty of milton's mounted rifles with the captain and cooney joe to lead our hard crowd to manage bet your life there was one of your been with us in this fight said napope looking about him for tom bantry but I do not see him now. Who was he? demanded Garrett, glancing over the party hastily.

Was it the one we call Tom? Napolk nodded, and Garrett uttered an oath, and a search was commenced for him. He was not among the dead or wounded, and whether he had perished or not, Bantry was not to be found. End of Chapter 8, read by Nancy Cochran Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona. January 7, 2022. Chapter 9 of the Border Rifleman. This is a Libravox recording.

All Libravox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libravox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Agin. The Defense of the Island When the enemy had been so scattered as to leave the path free, the small band of rangers plunged deeper into the woods, and kept on their course until they reached a small wooded swamp, through which many small creeks ran,

leaving a little island in the center, containing, perhaps, two acres of land. The tall trees stood thick about it, and no better place of defense could possibly have been selected. No sooner had they reached the island, then they set to work fortifying it by piling up fallen logs into a temporary barricade, making it strongest upon the only point which could be a sail by land,

as the creeks swept around it on three sides, leaving a space of smooth ground about twenty feet wide. Across this they built a strong barricade at least ten feet high, through the openings of which they could fire upon the foe without being themselves seen. The other parts of the island were almost impervious to assault, for not only only only did the deep creek guard it, but the logs had fallen all about it in inextricable confusion, making a chevot-de-frise, through which a corps of axe-men would have found it extremely difficult to force their way. The middle of the island was cleared, leaving the path open for them to pass from one part to another, and they now waited almost eagerly for the coming of the enemy,

who, as yet, did not appear. Cooney-Joe took his rifle and stole like to the, and he was aft of the enemy, toward the clearing and for half an hour the scout remained quiet waiting in considerable anxiety for the coming of the hunter whose danger they well knew but he came back at a long lobing trot his rifle at a trail and his eyes flashing with the ardor of battle get ready boys he cried we've got business afore us bet's your life what now joe demanded the captain who are coming. All that's left of No Pope's band and thirty of Dick Garrett's men, replied Joe, and... "'Thar's an engine,' cried one of the men. "'I'll pop him over.' "'Hold on,' replied Joe. "'Seems to me that chap is making signals that look white.

"'Thar! Look at that!' An Indian had appeared in plain sight, and was waving a white cloth in the air. "'Hello, you!' yelled Joe. "'Come in if you want to.' The man obeyed and came clambering over the barricade, and at a glance they could see that he was a white man disguised. It was Tom Bantry, who had escaped from associates with whom he could no longer consort. "'Look here, men,' he said.

"'I'm Tom Bantry. You don't know me, and maybe you don't want to. I've been one of Dick Garrett and Will Jackwood's men. I have. Now, why don't you kill me? Don't see my way to that clear, said Joe. Now, Tom Bantry, what do you want here? I've quit him, replied Tom energetically. I couldn't stand it, boys, upon my word, I couldn't. I feel mean as dirt because I've been with them so long.

But I tell you, I didn't think they was so mean till last night when they killed poor Mr. Westcott. "'What's that you say?' cried Melton, coming forward. "'Who killed him? How was he killed?' Dick Garrett did it,' replied Tom in a choking voice. "'The square give him some cheek, and he had it thrown into the river. "'Boys, I'm a rough boatman, but I jumped in after him, and they left us alone in the dark on the river.

I tried to save him, but it weren't no use. The current took him under. I believe this man, for one, said Melton. He never would dare to come here with such a tale as that, unless it was really true. What do you say, boys? He's all right, replied Joe. But if he ain't, let him look out, because I shoot awful close, odd times. I do, by gracious. So did Garrett is joined with the Pope?

That ain't all, you know, said Tom Bantry. They have sent off a messenger to the. the village, and if you don't have lively times around here, then I don't want to pick a eun. Perhaps we had better retreat. You can't do it. They've got scouts all through the woods, and you'd have the whole posse on your backs in twenty minutes by the clock. So don't try that on, squar. No, it's going to be a bar fight, and you can't find a better place than this to fight in. I believe the man is right, said Milton.

I say, folks, is your hand so bad you can't pull a trigger? Sorry to say tis, Cap, replied the man. I can't do nothing. He had been hit in the hand during the fight that morning, and the courts had been so injured as to make it impossible for him to fire a rifle. Then you may as well let this man have your rifle, folks, said the captain. I take it for granted you mean to fight? Stranger, I've got to fight, said Bantry.

why if dick garret gets me he'll raise my wool sure and so if he does get into this camp i'm goin out feet first that's the way to talk it he knows you have turned against him then cap'n he suspects it and to suspect a man is all he wants you know he'll go for me sure the man who had been heard came up at this moment and gave bantry the rifle and ammunition now squar see here he said you watch me when i fired the first shot and if it don't seem to you that i've tried to hit my man i give you leave to shoot me that's all this is a good rifle chummy she hangs true as a dye and i can knock the black out of buffler's eye at twenty rods with her at this moment one of the sentries outside the barricade gave the signal and all were immediately upon the alert Melton took the charge of Bantry upon himself and gave him a place in the middle of the barricade and took his station beside him. The sentries came stealing in like silent specters and placed themselves beside the rest in silence, waiting for the advance of the Indians. They had not long to wait, for a tufted head was cautiously protruded from behind a tree, and a pair of brilliant eyes looked keenly at the island. evidently he saw something out of the way, for he stepped out in full view of the fort and advanced to within 20 feet of the barricade.

That man must not go back, said Melton in a whisper, touching Tom Bantry on the arm, and no rifle must be fired. Can you fetch him? Bantry caught up a knife and hatchet and sprung from the barricades so suddenly that the Indian had no time to cock his gun before the fiery boatman was upon him. him. They closed with fierce energy. A short struggle ensued, and then Tom Bantry arose, leaving the Indian dead at his feet. Well done, Bantry, said Melton. As the man came back, his face scarcely flushed by the desperate struggle in which he had been engaged. You will do well without watching. I've got to fight, replied Tom Cooley. It won't do for me to be caught, I tell you. by this time the indians and disguised boatmen began to show themselves through the woods and the scout open upon them at once and they sculpt to the shelter of the bushes

but the men who had come up with the desperado garret did not know the word fear and only waited for the orders of their superior to advance to the assault they are fightin chickens cap game birds every man now you mind what i say said the deser they'll fight like bulldogs but they'd do better if blackwell was here the attack was not long delayed the desperate ruffians collected as close as possible to the barricade and then made their rush altogether they were met by men as determined and desperate as themselves and forced back leaving one-fourth of their number dead or wounded in in front of the barricade. That's the way Melton Scouts do it, cried the voice of the young captain. Come again, my boys. I hear you, screamed Garrett,

and we will come again. Now, Napoep, he added, lowering his tone. We must divide their force. Send ten of your best men to cross the creek and attack them on the right. Send ten more to the left and try them at the same time.

The signal will be three rifle shots from this point. Their movements were not so well shrouded that Melton could not see the danger to be apprehended from a division of his forces, which was rendered necessary by this action on their part. But he only sent three men to each point threatened, one under the lead of Tom Bantry,

who had already become quite popular, and the other under Cooney Joe. They darted rapidly across a little open space, while the others loaded their rifle and pistols and calmly waited for the assault. Beat them off this time, and the chances are they won't want any more, cried Melton. Shoot a little closer to make up for the lost men, and it will be all right. Just then they heard three rifle shots, and a simultaneous movement was made against the island

from three different points. But the foresight of Melton, in sending small parties to the threatened points, removed the danger from the two parties of Indians, while his own force was not so weakened, but that he could still present a stout front to the foe. The barricade rained bullets upon the advancing enemy, entangled in the branches of the trees which formed the entrenchment, and crowded into the narrow space of twenty feet. No men, however hardy, could hope to live long under such a fire, and in spite of the almost superhuman exertions of Garrett, Napope,

and a shiaschuk they fell back again and took breath under cover of the woods this is awful said garrett the curse of the devil on them how they do fight i've lost near half my men the small parties under tom bantry and joe had succeeded in keeping their enemies at bay and as soon as the main body retreated half a dozen men ran to their aid and the indians were quickly swept away from the banks of the creek good boys said melton you could not fight better if you like the sport now who wants the doctor no one had been badly injured two or three had been scraped by passing bullets but a little sticking-plaster soon set that right and they were as ready for a fight as ever garrett was furious and while he was blaming heaven and earth at the ill success of his attack a man whose face was flushed by a hard ride dashed through the swamp and drew up before them now then what is all this he cried i know you did garret you delight in arouse so much that you are wasting my men in attacking a perfect fort but you don't know who is in it will jackwood replied garret two men you hate Cooney Joe and Captain Melton Ha! Say you so? Then out of that they must come, by the Eternal.

Keep back the men, for Black Hawk will be here in half an hour with 400 braves, and then we will overwhelm them. Captain Melton, eh? I always did detest that boy, Dick. I don't love him, said Dick. What is this I hear about Sam Westcott? gone under will i had to do it for he recognized me in my disguise and someone had to go i don't care so much about that if you did not compromise me the man hated me and while he lived there was no hope of winning the girl by fair means and i always liked that way best where's the girl i left her on the edge of the swamp with three of my best men all right where Where is Tom Bantry? I want to send him somewhere.

I don't know what to think about him, Will. Upon my word, when we slung Westcott overboard, the fool jumped after him, and I left them both in the river. Tom got out, some way, and came to the Pope's camp, but after their fight we could not find hide nor hair of him. You've lost the best man in the party, then, by all odds. Tom was the only one who had a spark of humanity in his composition, position. You are sure these men you left with a girl are all right?

Davis, Bradshaw, and Herrick. They'll do, as true panthers as ever lap blood. How many has Milton in his fort? He had twenty. Then he's got twenty now, said Jack Wood. You have not hurt many of them in that place, or the captain knows how to choose a position. Send one of the Indians to Black Hawk, and tell him to make haste, as we must get this little job off our hands. If you find it a little job,

then there are no snakes in the South Red, said Garrett, who was incensed at the quiet way in which his defeat was laughed down. They licked the Pope alone, and now they've licked our combined forces, and it is no two to one they don't give our friend Blackhawk all he can do. You ought to know Mountain Scouts by this time.

Jack Wood nodded, and a fierce look came into his face. If I had been here, friend Garrett, this would never have happened. If I had assailed these works, I would have taken them. Then assail them now. You've got the men.

Try it. Dick! Dick! How lucky it is that all men are not swayed by impulse. You offer me a broken and discouraged force to perform the task you failed to achieve when they were in prime order. It won't do, Richard, too transparent altogether. Get the men together, see to the wounded, and get the survivors ready for a new attack.

I will lead it in person. As he spoke, the approach of Dusky Scouts heralded the coming of Black Hawk, and directly after, the old chief, surrounded by his principal advisors and warriors, strode into the camp. End of Chapter 9, read by Nancy Cochran Gert. Gilbert, Arizona, January 13, 2022. Chapter 10 of the Border Rifleman This is the Liprovox recording. All Liprovox recordings are in the public domain.

For more information or to volunteer, please visit Liprovox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken The Forest Feend Will Jackwood, whose influence over the old chief, had now become great at once accosted him the time has come chief of the sacks when you may put forth your hand and take that which is your own the band of men who have braved the power of the pope and his strongest men and have even baffled my warriors they laugh at us in yonder fort let us teach them what we can do my brother speaks good words replied the chief let those who have axes go forward and fell trees about the fort upon every side, so that we may cross the creek, let others take their guns and protect them.

A cordon of Axpin was quickly formed about the island, and the great trees came crashing down, forming bridges over which the great force of warriors could rush to the attack. The work was quickly done, and then, at the command of the chief, 400 warriors rushed on together, uttering their fearful war cries. broke through the abatus of tangled limbs unopposed, and reached the fort, only to find it tenantless. The White Rangers had escaped, how, they could not tell, leaving nothing to show where they had departed, but all knew that it must have been in the interval of time which elapsed

between the last attack on the fort, and the coming of Black Hawk. Blackwell was nearly beside himself with anger, and a pursuit was at once commenced, when the trail was found. but the scout had half an hour's start and he feared that they would reach the river before they could be overtaken and their leader's fertile brain would quickly study out some way of crossing the stream although having but little hope black hawk sent out hundred of the best sack warriors under the command of machia's chuck and the pursuit was pressed with ardor while this was being done jack would send garrett with five men to find sadie and conduct her to a place of safety strictly enjoining him to use her well, but upon no account to suffer her to escape. Dick Garrett hurried his men to the spot where he had left Sadie, and as he approached it his countenance began to change, for he heard nothing of the men he had left in charge of the girl.

Hurry up, boys, he cried, If they have lost her, I'll not be the man to go back to Blackwell Jackwood and tell him of it. Ha, look at that. The three men who had been left with Sadie lay upon the earth under the shadow of the trees. Their faces were upturned to the sky, and it needed no profit to tell that they were dead, and the party broke into a run and reached the spot. Two of them had been shot through the heart, evidently with pistol balls,

and the third had half a dozen knife wounds upon him, and they saw, on every hand, evidences of a desperate struggle, while Sadie was nowhere to be seen. The men paused and looked at each other in unspeakable dismay, for they knew Jack would too well to dare face him, and tell him what had happened. He'd kill me, screamed Garrett. Look here, boys, we've got to find this girl before we go back,

so take the trail at once and follow. We'll have her back if she is above ground, and avenge these poor fellows who lie dead. I only wish we had Tom Bantry now. He was the best scout among us. what made you leave him in the river then said one of the men in a sullen tone he won't come back no more tom won't and like nuff he'll turn against us don't be mutinous tracy said garrett turning a dark look upon the speaker you know me and you know i never waste words be mighty careful i would if i was you the man understood the deadly threat implied in the words of his leader and turned away muttering to himself now jack fish said dick addressing himself to another of the party if tracy has done growling you take the trail tain't likely that a young and tender girl can keep away from us long

the man addressed came forward and waving the others back began to examine the earth to find the imprint of sadie's feet it was not long before he announced steady's feet it was not long before he announced steady he had found it, and that it was covered by another trail, that of a man in moccasins, who was apparently following her, and from the length of the step he would say they were running. That looks as if she is afraid of the critter, said Garrett. Who can it be that is brave enough to attack these men, shoot two, and kill the third with a knife, and get off so easily? Now, I'll tell you what I make of this, boys. When this man, whoever he is, shot down two of the boys, and rushed in on Davis with the knife. The girl was scared and put out for the woods.

When he had finished Davis, and he didn't do it easy, he went after her, and like it is not, he hasn't caught her yet. Take the trail, Jack, but have your weapons handy. It was shut early in the afternoon, and the trail was plain, as no attempt had been made to cover it. They went on at a trot, shack fish and advance, closely followed by Garrett and the rest, and the course led them deep into the woods to the right of the position, which had been so nobly held by Melton Scout.

Sadie was used to exercise in the open air, and was evidently leading her pursuer a desperate chase, using every artifice to throw him from the trail. Garrett was dumbfounded, for he could not understand why she should fly from one who had slain her enemies, but they followed the trail, hoping every moment. to overtake the man who was in chase of Sadie. All at once, Jack Fish, who still held the advance, stopped and lifted his hand with a low cry. See here, Dick, this gal is cute.

You bet. She has thrown off the trail as sure as shooting. There's no track but his in here. Dick eagerly inspected the trail and was forced to arrive at the same conclusion. Turn back, then, he cried. We will find which way she is gone and follow. I will take the trail on one side, and you on the other, and we will soon pick it up again. They had not gone back twenty paces when Jack Fish stopped beside a clump of thick bushes,

which grew close to the path, and stooping, looked under them. I found it, boys. She crept under the bushes here and got away from him. Follow me. He passed through the bushes, part of the bushes, part of the bushes. parting them carefully, and upon the other side, found the trail clearly defined and leading at a right angle from the course they had been following. "'She's smart,' said Garrett, admiringly. "'I don't know as I blame Will for Lichener, after all.

"'She has beaten this fellow well, and as we don't want anything from him just now, "'we'll follow the girl.' They kept on swiftly, for Jack announced that Sadie was fatigued at this point, and was no longer running. Soon after they reached a place where, worn out by fatigue, she had seated herself upon a bank and rested for a little time. From this point the trail became erratic, and she was evidently wandering up and down, seeking for some course out of the woods, and the night found them still upon the trail, and they camp for the night determined to take the trail again at early morning. and we'll run her to earth before nine o'clock you mark my words said garrett lucky for you i am your leader or you would have gone back to meet will jackwood not if i knows it said tracy will jackwood never sees me again if we don't find her in the morning now i think of it where is the indian girl

i never thought of her said garrett can it be possible that she killed the men oh bosh she only had a bow and arrow and it took a strong man to harness joel davis i'll be cussed if i understand it at all say jack did you see anything of the indian girls trail she went another way from the camp on a run too it must have been some awful-looking critter that tackled joel davis to scare the girls so you are right said garrett now then as jack has worked hard and we want him to lead again to-morrow tracy will keep camp for two hours and the rest of you as you can agree until morning i'm going to have a snooze myself he wrapped himself in a blanket and threw himself down at the foot of a tree while the rest in a discontented manner drew lots for the choice of the hours of watching after this had been settled the lucky ones took their blankets and lay down while tracy lighted his pipe moved out a short distance in the darkness and sat down to watch the man was sullen and had not yet got over his little brush with garret upon the fate of tom banfrey and he muttered to himself for the darkly and he muttered to himself about the pride of Frank, which enabled Garrett to sleep while he was forced to watch. They built no fire, for it was a clear summer night, and even the blankets were scarcely needed. Tracy's pipe glowed through the night, showing those of his companions who yet slept,

where he sat in the shadow. After a time the man began to doze, and did not see the dark figure that crawled slowly toward him, until it stood erect against the trunk of the tree against which he seated. A moment after, a long arm was stretched out and clutched his throat, in so fell a clasp that it seemed to collapse beneath the pressure, and in a moment more he lay without a struggle or groan, supine beneath the tree. The strange being who had done the work bent over the insensible form and was busy about something for a short time, and then, taking up the pipe which Tracy had dropped, and which had not been extinguished, he sat down near the body of the fallen renegade and began to smoke, first picking up the cap of his victim and placing it upon his

head, glancing now and then at the sleeping camp. When the pipe was smoked out, he arose and stole softly to the side of Dick Garrett and looked down into his face. The moonlight shone full upon him and showed a horrible figure of gigantic mold, covered from head to foot, with a hairy substance, while the eyes looked fiercely from his shaggy eyebrows upon the sleeping ruffian. His attitude was menacing, and once or twice the right hand dropped to a hairy girdle about his waist, as if to draw a huge knife which was suspended there, but upon second thought he seemed to change his mind, and, gathering up the rifles of the party, he carried them a little distance into the woods, and returned this time to take away the knives and pistols, most of which were

thrown together in a heap, at the place where the rifles had been stacked. Some of the villains had their small arms upon their persons, but these the intruder did not attempt to touch, and waving his hands triumphantly above his head, he bounded into the thicket and was seen no more. Daylight came and they began to yawn and stretch themselves, those who ought to have gone upon guard long before, looking mystified at being allowed to sleep until morning. Tracy went to sleep, that's all, said Garrett. Go and kick the brute, somebody. There's no telling what might have happened through his cussed

carelessness. One of the men sprung to the spot where the recumbent figure of Tracy was seen and had actually drawn back his foot to kick him, when he saw that his hands were tightly bound, and a gag thrust into his mouth. His cry of a scumption. His cry of a astonishment awoke the rest, and they quickly surrounded their fallen comrade, relieved him of the ligatures, and helped him to arise. The eyes of the man were rolling fearfully, and he gasped for breath. Ha! he said at last. A pretty set of fellows you are, to let a man stay in that way all night. Dunderheads, sleepers, ten thousand curses on your heads. Steady, Tracy, said Garrett, what does his sense?

mean? It means you are a lot of lazy thieves, or you would have found this out four hours ago. Who did it? How do I know? I was sitting there smoking my pipe when I felt a great hairy hand upon my throat, and I was choking. Then I lost my senses, and when I came to myself, I was lying here, anchored to the tree, and unable to move hand to foot. Why didn't you sing out? "'Why didn't I fly?' retorted Tracy angrily. "'I wouldn't be a fool if I were you, Dick Garrett.' "'Oh, curse the hand! Whoever it was. Where's my rifle?' The question naturally drew their attention to their own weapons,

and as they noted the loss, curses both loud and deep were vented upon the head of the being who had done this injury to them. Garrett actually foamed at the mouth in his anger, and ran in a frantic manner up and down the camp, cursing Tracy, their unknown enemy, anything and everything under the sun, in no measured terms. That's it, said Tracy. Curse your own sleepy heads and let me alone. Look for sign, Jack Fish, said Garrett, turning to their trailer. Tell me who has done this. It's the same man that killed the boys and then followed Miss Sadie, said Jack.

Harris's trail, plain as writing, and I'll be cussed if it don't beat you. me to tell whether he's man or beast. He shall not beat me, hissed it, Garrett. Take the trail of the girl and follow, for we'll have her now, rifles or no rifles? The trailer obeyed without a word,

and they started out upon the trail. But, as they emerged from the woods and entered a great clearing, every man paused an alarm, for there, just in front, and covering them with one of their own rifles, while the rest lay at his feet. stood the hairy monster who had stolen in upon their camp the night before.

"'Stop!' he cried in a hoarse, unnatural voice. "'For your lives, stop. Move hand or foot, and you are dead.' They halted and stood facing the level two, trembling in every joint, while the fierce eyes, glancing along the brown barrel, held them enthralled. End of Chapter 10, read by Nancy Cochrane Gergen,

Gilbert, Arizona, January 16, 2022. Chapter 11 of the Border Rifleman. This is a Libravox recording. All Libravox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit Libravox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Agan. Black Hawk keeps his word. We left Sadie in charge of those desperadoes.

while the battle in the swamp was progressing. They were sulky at not being allowed to take part in the fight, and only returned gruff answers to her questions while keeping a strict watch upon the girls. They stood under a great tree, who spreading branches, loaded with foliage, were impenetrable to the eye, and would have formed a secure hiding place,

and none of them saw the long, hairy arm extended, until a double report stretched two of the guards dead upon the sod. Then came a rustling sound, and the gigantic being, who afterward appeared to the men of Garrett in the woods, bounded from the tree, holding in his hand a gleaming knife. With a scream of horror, Sadie fled into the forest, and Meneobah, believing that she saw a demon of the lower world, also turned in flight, but paused upon the edge of the woods, and looked back to see a fearful duel between the man named Davis and the strange being who, who was in the same, who sprung from the tree. They seemed to be complete masters of their weapons, and for a moment the

issue seemed doubtful, but the gigantic strength of the unknown prevailed, and Davis fell, covered with many wounds. The victor stood erect, and seeing that Sadie had fled, uttered a hoarse cry, and fixing his eyes upon her trail, bounded away in pursuit. Meneoba, like all Indian girls, was superstitious, and believed that it would be death to follow the wild being into the woods, and turning, hurried on toward Black Hawk's camp, intending to ask aid from him in the recovery of her friend. Sadie, in the meantime, had put all the distance she could between herself and the hideous being, who had assailed her guards, and was hurried in her flight by hearing his deep voice crying out after her as she rushed on.

she tried every trick of woodcraft which she had learned from her father who was a skillful scout when she became certain that the horrible creature was really in pursuit how she finally eluded him by creeping beneath the bushes and then turning away from the course she had been pursuing we have before seeing and late in the afternoon she found herself in the midst of a deep forest pathless as the sea not knowing which way to turn she was a long long time alone alone in the depths of that untrodden wilderness, the haunt of wild beasts and the hunter who followed them, without a weapon or guide. Never, perhaps, was a tenderly nurtured woman placed in so strange a situation before. Look which way she would. There seemed to be no hope of succor. Strange sights and sounds were heard. Slimy snakes crept softly over the leaves. Great birds flittered through the branches, and she heard the cry of the wildcat and panther in the distance. Wearyed and hopeless, she sunk down upon a mossy knoll, and almost wished she had not fled

from the monster who followed her. But it would not do to remain there, and she rose and staggered on her way, hoping against hope that something would happen to give her aid. She was nearly famished, and coming upon a place where the succulent bulb known as the ground-nut grew in profusion, She set to work and dug up the bulbs with her fingers, following the white stems in their various turnings among the roots until she found the article she sought. It took a long time to satisfy her hunger, as the nuts were not larger than a rifle ball, and were hard to find, and then she began to look about for a place to rest, as it would soon be dark. She reached a great opening, in the center of which a huge pile of logs and brush was heaped, and removing some of these, made

a couch for herself among the branches, drew others over her head, and resigned herself to an all-protecting power. Even in times of difficulty and danger, sleep will come to the weary, and she lost consciousness and no longer feared her enemies. Morning came and found the sweet girl still sleeping, when she was suddenly aroused by a harsh voice crying out a deadly menace, and peeping from her place of concealment, saw the forest fiend face. the knot of helpless scoundrels under the leadership of Dick Garrett. It is a man, after all, she murmured. Perhaps I would have done better to let him overtake me,

for it seems he fights against these villains. Perhaps he is mad, poor creature. Let's make a rush on him altogether, boys, whispered Garrett. Curse it, five men odd to whip one. But he's got the rifles, the critter, whine Tracy. I tell you that if you had been in his grip once, you wouldn't be so ready to try him again. He's got a hold like an iron vice, that devil has. Don't try to run, cried the forest fiend. It will not be safe. He who flies first,

dies first. What do you want from us? screamed Garrett. Do you know who I am? Curse you? I know you, replied the strange being wildly. You are a murderer and a robber, and deserve death for a hundred crimes. Why don't you come on? What are you afraid of? You tremble at the sight of the forest fiend, murderer that you are. Won't you back me, boys? Hissed Garrett. I tell you I'll be the first to rush at him if you will agree to follow. He can kill three of us before we get within striking distance, replied Jack Fish.

I guess we had better give up, boys. Maybe he'll let us off. Garrett heard what he said, and thrusting his hand into the bosom of his hunting shirt, drew a long, double-barrel pistol, his eyes gleaming with rage. You'd turn traitor, would you? he screamed. Now see here. Rush on that devil, you and Tracy, or I shoot you where you stand. Don't do it, Dick, pleaded Jack Fish, dropping on his knees. I'll fight anything human, but not that dreadful creature. don't force us on him for the love of god i'll do it replied garrett fiercely up and at him you base hounds up i say goaded on by fear of the weapon of their leader the men sprung on catching up clubs as they ran but when they had gained a hundred feet from the weapon of garret and where it would scarcely reach them they threw up their hands in token of submission and fell upon their faces the forest fiend fired over them and a man who stood at garret's elbow fell shot through the heart the others who had each a pistol seeing that nothing was to be gained by flight out the immovable figure of their enemy who caught up another weapon and fired again killing the foremost man garret saw that there was no hope and calling to the last man sprung toward the thicket hearing the crack of the rifle he turned back and turned back when he turned back and he was no hope and calling to the last man sprung toward the thicket hearing the crack of the rifle he turned back and he turned back and

back and saw his friend fall, while the stern executioner caught up another rifle and leveled it. As the bullets sped, Garrett sprung into the air and fell upon its face, just as Jack Fish and Tracy, who had taken advantage of their opportunity and reached the thicket in safety. Their terrible adversary sprung toward the fallen leader without waiting to reload his weapon or take up a new one, but to his rage, Garrett uttered a loud laugh of derision and spring. frung to his feet, and the next moment the leaves concealed him from view. He had been playing possum, and was not hurt in the least, as he had managed to fall just in time to escape the well-eim bullet. The forest fiend darted back for a rifle, but he was a moment too late,

although he fired into the thicket, and then, snatching up a powder-horn and bullet-pouch, darted away in pursuit. The moment he was gone, Sadie came out of her place, of concealment, selected a rifle and ammunition from the heap, and hurried away, glad of the opportunity to get out of a dangerous neighborhood. She could not control her fear of the strange being who had come to her aid so opportunely, and continued her flight until she felt safe from pursuit, and then sat down, panting, loaded the rifle which she had taken, and prepared to defend herself from any assault. Who and what is that wonderful being? she murmured. How brave he is! How little he cared for that gang of desperate scoundrels,

who were doubtless in pursuit of us! Oh, I hope he may overtake Richard Garrett, and avenge the murder of my poor father. Melton, where are you? Have you fallen victim to these base wretches who regard human life as a plaything? God forbid! As she was rising to proceed upon her way, she heard a slight rustle among the bushes, and, grasping her rifle, turned in the direction of the sound. But she dropped the weapon with a cry of delight, for the bushes parted, and Minioba suddenly appeared and ran to her white sister, clasping her in her arms. "'Sadie, my sister,' she said softly, kissing her again and again. The heart of Minioba has been very sad. She feared that the evil demon of the woods had destroyed the wild rose, and that her poor Indian

sister would never see the face she loved again. If Meneova was delighted, how much greater was the joy of Sadie, who could now hope to escape from the toils of her enemies, for she knew that the forest was to the Indian girl as easy to tread as a ballroom floor for her. She returned the caresses showered upon her, and for a moment the two girls forgot that aught of evil or danger hung over them. I have been to my father's camp, said Meneoba, and many warriors are searching for you. Black Hawk loves the Wild Rose for her father's sake, and will give her a shelter. His heart is very sad, because the men of Garrett have killed the good white man, but what can he do? The war has commenced, and the warriors would say he had turned woman if he was angry at the death of white men.

Let us go. The two girls set out. together, threading the mazes of the forest with an ease which only a forest life could impart, the Indian girl taking the advance and chatting merrily with her companion as she proceeded. They had not gone far when they were met by two warriors, who expressed their satisfaction in their peculiar manner, and at once led the way to the river, which was not far away, and where a canoe was waiting in which they descended the stream, a distance of about three miles, landed upon a Green Point, and assisted Sadie to leave the canoe, which was then carefully concealed by leaves and

brush. This done, the warriors again led the way, the two girls following, and they came suddenly upon a great camp of the Indians. More than 400 people, principally fighting braves, although there was a small number of women and children, were resting in a beautiful glade, most of them engaged in cleaning their weapons and getting ready for the battle which was to come. black hawk and will jackwood were conversing together apart from the rest and the latter started forward with a look of delight as he saw sadie and advanced at once closely followed by black hawk welcome to the indian camp sadie said jackwood endeavouring to take her hand you cannot tell how unhappy i have been since i knew that you were lost she took no notice of his extended hand but went on to meet black hawk who greeted her kindly let the wild rose rest under the shelter of a sack lodge he said black hawk has been driven from the places he loved by the white men but he cannot forget that there are just white men who would not do a wrong to the simple indian such a man was the father of the wild rose black hawk said sadie as she took the proffered hand when my father drove away the bad man who sought your life you promised to be a friend to us now the time has been a friend to us now the time has been a man who took the proffered hand when my father drove away the bad man who sought your life you promised to us

now the time has come for you to keep your word black hawk is not a white man to speak with a double tongue what he has spoken he has spoken let the wild rose ask what she will from black hawk and if it is in his power she shall have what she asks my father is dead she said mournfully the bad men who follow william jackwood killed him because he would not kneel to them or beg for his life now jackwood follows me and i fear him and i ask the protection of the great chief from this bad man has the son of redbird lied to me cried black hawk sternly he told me that the wild rose loved him and would come into his lodge gladly he has lied she answered he knows that i hate him above all men on earth and that i would die sooner than permit myself to be his wife be careful girl hissed jackwood you will raise the tempest which you cannot quell if you do not look out i have no fear of the result anything would be preferable to a union with such a wretch as you are look you black hawk cried jackwood turning fiercely upon the chief when i agreed to aid you remember that i told you that this girl must be mine and you promised that i should have my will that was when black hawk believed that the wild rose loved you replied black hawk she has asked for my protection and it is given let the son of redbirds seek another mate the wild rose is not for him a tempest of furious passions raged in the heart of william jackwood at any other time or place he would have shot the old chief down without any remorse and even here in the midst of his warriors he was tempted to do it even at the risk of his own life

with a mighty effort he restrained himself and turned away with a malevolent glance at sadie which she returned by one of defiance several of the principal braves were looking on and there was some murmuring for these men recognized the good old maxim to the victor belonged as spoils while they stood thus there was heard a triumphant shout upon the river and several men started away to see what it meant they were soon heard coming back and directly after a compact body of men those who followed while jackwood poured into the camp leading in their midst as prisoners Captain Melton, Cooney Joe, and Tom Bantry. A look of ferocious joy beamed upon the face of Will Jackwood, for he saw a chance for revenge. End of Chapter 11 read by Nancy Cochran Gergen, Gilbert, Arizona, December 7, 2021. Chapter 12 of the Border Rifleman This is a Librevox recording. All Librevox recordings are in the public domain. information or to volunteer, please visit Librobox.org.

The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken Sadie's Sacrifice The prisoners marched firmly and not a cheek blanched as they saw where they were led and realized the fearful danger in which they stood. Will Jackwood started forward and addressed one of his subordinates, who, for the time being, had been in command of the band. "'Did you take them, Justin? If you can say that you did so without aid from the Indians, then you may ask anything you like at my hands.'

"'Nerry Red,' replied the man, "'we caught them crossing the river in a canoe, and pounced on them almost before they could lift a hand. But that Cooney Joe laid out Jack Ferguson, and Saul Sloan has got a bad wound in the shoulder, for Melton's knife. Is that satisfactory?' "'Excellent.' Black Hawk, I claim these prisoners as my own, as my men took them without help. They are yours, replied Black Hawk, and Indian Chief knows how to be just. Now then, Captain Charles Milton, you are in my power. Do you understand, in my power?

You shall rule the day when you dared come between me and the woman I love. What do you mean, Renegade, replied the young scout. I never wronged you in my life. Perhaps we shall see how it turns out. Keep them safe, boys. Set a double guard upon them, and for your lives, let none escape. Ah, my good, valiant, chivalric, Joe, how you will repent having raised your hand against me.

I do repent, Will, said Joe quietly. I repent most awfully. I ought to have lifted your hair on the spot, by gracious. "'T'would have served you just right, and saved a good deal of trouble. "'Take them away, boys. Take them away. "'Ha! Don't let the girl speak to them, "'or she will contrive some way to set them free. "'Look out for Meneoba above all others,

"'for she is as cute as a devil. "'Miss Sadie, do I deceive myself when I think that you will not now, "'dustain to hold some conversation with me?' "'What do you wish to say to me, sir, replied Sadie, who saw the dreadful peril of her friends, and wished to save them, if possible. Say to Black Hawk that you wish to speak to me, apart from the rest, and he will give you permission. I see a way in which you can save these men. She spoke to the chief, who nodded kindly, and she followed Black Will a little distance from the camp.

That is far enough, she said, pausing under a great tree. what have you to say to me change her way of speaking be more complacent to me my dear girl for the more kindly you use me the better it will be for younger men who are doomed beyond hope if i so much as lift a finger first of all do you love this captain melton he has never spoken to me replied sadie how do i know that he cares for me that is not the question at issue do you love him that is what i asked how can i answer that when i do not know my own heart he is a brave and good man and i could love him dearly if he loved me as well i will say no more upon that point at least you care enough for him to wish to save his life yes yes i would do almost anything for that she replied eagerly it is gone as far as that has it my dear girl you are further gone than you imagine now i do not wish to be encumbered by prisoners if we cannot come to terms i shall find it necessary to put these fellows out of the way and shall certainly do so there are many ways in which to do this and my friends the indians will doubtless be happy to take the laboring ore out of my hands. Do you mean that you would be base enough to give them up to the torture?

She cried. Undoubtedly, my Indian friends might find it in their hearts to burn them if they only had them. I was present at a spectacle of this kind the other day, where they barbecued a traitorous Indian. It was not pretty, and I may say did not amuse me after the first gush, and I went so far as to kill the poor fellow with my own hand. to put him out of his pain. It would distress me very much

to see any of your friends in a light, delicate situation. What do you ask of me, William Jackwood? Do you wish to drive me mad? You could not. Could not be so base? I would do anything for revenge, replied the man hoarsely.

I tell you, upon my honor as a man, that if you do not promise to be my wife, I know that you will keep you. your word. These men shall all die, as I have said. Make that promise, and upon the day when you become my wife, all shall be set free except one. Which one do you mean? Tom Bantry. He is a cursed traitor. That man must be saved at all hazards, replied Sadie firmly. Of all your villainous band, William Jack Wood, he alone showed a spark of pity with my unhappy father was cast into the furious flood, bound and helpless.

What I would not do for love, I will do for gratitude, and I give you my hand, if you will swear upon your honor that these men shall go free, and at once. You are sensible, he said eagerly. I had not hope that you would yield so easily, and I will make it the study of my life to make you happy as, Silence, give me your promise, and I will give you mine.

i swear by the only things i hold pure the memory of my mother and my love for you that these men shall all be spared and i promise to be your wife if we both live oh god forgive me if i do wrong in this but i cannot see these brave men sacrificed who have come into this deadly peril for my sake william jackwood understand me fully and do not say in the after times that i deceived you I hate you. I shall always hate you, but I will be your wife. All right, said Jack Wood, with a light laugh. I will try to change your opinion of me when we are married, and now you are at liberty, and I will leave it to you to tell Blackhawk that you have changed your mind while I prepare to leave him. The chief has not used me well, and I do not fight the battles of those who do not treat me as a friend. She went away with drooping head, and he stood in the same spot, moodly tapping his

bootleg with a small switch he carried. He was not fully satisfied, although he had gained the stake for which he had been playing so long. She had told him that she hated him, and had as good as said she loved Charles Melton, and yet had promised to be his wife. As he stood there, a man panting for me. breath and bleeding from several wounds, rushed up to him, and in his disfigured countenance he saw something which reminded him of Dick Garrett, and stopped him. Dick, what is the matter? Played out, replied Dick, dropping exhausted on the side.

Give me some run, for I am half dead. Jackwood put his flask to the mouth of the exhausted man, and he drank long and eagerly and drew a deep breath of relief. Ah, that goes to the spot, Will. I've had a long run chased by the devil's kid, and it's a mercy that I have got in alive. It all came of chasing that accursed girl who got into the woods. It was not your fault, Dick, said Jack Wood.

Minnie Oba came in and told us about it, and we sent out parties after her, and one of them picked her up. Take care of her yourself after this. pented Dick. I've seen the devil today and fought him, and I don't want any more. Where are the rest of your men? Gone under, I reckon. Jack Fish and Tracy got into the woods, and the rest are dead. I had to play possum, or I would have been cooked, too. Give me another drink, and I'll tell you about it. Jack Wood gave him the flask, and for a moment nothing was heard except the musical gurgle of the liquor.

When he lowered it, a considerable vacuum existed in the vessel, and he told the story of the chase after Sadie, with many expletives not necessary to set down here. When he had finished the tail, he did the same with the liquor, and stood up. You are wounded, Dick? Nothing of much account. I've been cut and scratched in diving through the brushes, for that hairy cuss chased me almost into camp.

I thought he'd never give it up. I don't know who or what it can be, said Jack would musingly, and I don't care much. Go and wash the blood from your face, and then get the men together, for we must leave this camp. It is all up with Black Hawk, for Atkinson has come with an army, and he will clean out the Indians in the twinkling of an eye.

Garrett moved away slowly, and Jack would advance to the side of Black Hawk. who was talking with Sadie. She did not look at him as he came up, but Miniobe faced him boldly, with her pretty face showing the utmost anger and contempt. What has the son of Redbird said to frighten the wild bros? She cried angrily.

He is a coward and no brave. You had better send your daughter away, Black Hawk, said Jack Wood quietly. I have borne insults enough in this camp and will not stay here. The son of Redbird, promised to stay and fight for his red brothers, said Black Hawk reproachfully, and when he sees the enemy in sight, he runs away like a frightened hound. It is well. Black Hawk would not have any except brave men follow him. It is false, Indian, cried well Jack Wood. Here, in the midst of your wild band, I defy you to prove that while you were true to me, I failed to do my duty like a man.

but when you dare to take away my prisoner my wife that is to be in that day i leave you never to return go replied black cock i have been deceived in the son of redbird his father died in the white man's prison and now he basely turns away when the battle is nigh stay with me wild rose cried vinaoba my father is a strong chief and will protect you from harm i cannot i dare not replied sadie if i stay with you my friends who are his prisoners must die my father will take them away from him said minnieoba looking pleadingly at the old chief let him do so let him make himself a dog if he dares replied jackwood i will tell his baseness throughout the tribes and not a man of them all dare look me in the face until i am righted the chief hung his head for he had pledged his sacred word that jackwood should keep his prisoners the scoundrel knew his character too well to doubt for a moment that the indian would keep his word and let them go away with the prisoners miniova pleaded in vain and with loud lamenting followed the compact force of jackwood to the edge of the forest and saw them go away with the prisoners closely guarded and sadie walking by the side of William Jackwood with a hard, bitter look upon her beautiful face.

Garrett, who recovered quickly from every evil, turned about and blew a kiss at Meneoba, who at once fitted an arrow to the string and would have sinned after him, but that he took shelter among the men, laughing. The world is all before us were to choose, boys, said Jack Wood. But one thing is certain, if this thing goes against the Indians,

and of course it will this territory won't be very healthy for us what do you say we'll find a place to live cap replied garrett the world owes us a living and we'll have it too or else make trouble don't you think we better find a hiding-place and see what is going to happen there will be pretty pickings for us if the day should by any chance favor the indians even for a time i know the place you mean cap said jack fish who had come in before they marched the neatest hiding-place in the west how far away about six miles i reckon lead the way then fish took the advance and jack would assist at the weary steps of sadie over the rugged road before them it led through tangled thickets under trees which had been the growth of centuries and ended in a circular form opening, so difficult to reach, that Black Will was obliged to carry Sadia places, so worn out had she become. The grass was green in the little glade, and the birds were singing as, one by one, the troop came out from beneath the canopy of leaves, and gained a footing on the level turf. Jack Fish, said the renegade, you have deserved well of your country. I could live here

forever. Here we rest until the thing is decided one way or another. How will we live? queried Garrett. The woods are full of game, and we will kill it so far from the camp that no one will suspect us of being here. Captain Melton, will you give me your word of honor not to try to escape, provided I free your arms? Melton was about to refuse, but catching Sadie's eye, he changed his mind and made the required promise. It was not extended to Tom Bantry and Cooney Joe, who were tightly bound and placed under guard.

Sadie was coming forward with the intention of speaking to Milton, when the bushes parted near her, and the face of the demon of the woods appeared, peeping out among the leaves. End of Chapter 12, read by Nancy Cochran Gargan, Gilbert, Arizona, December 7. 2021. Chapter 13 of the Border Rifleman This is a Libravox recording. All Libervox recordings are in the public domain. For more information

or to volunteer, please visit Libravox.org. The Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken. Guests, not invited. Sadie was not easily frightened, but it required the effort of all her resolution to keep her from uttering a cry of alarm. The young captain saw that she was deeply moved and ascribed it to her grief at the situation in which she found herself placed, but she recovered herself by a great effort of will and came forward, giving her hand frankly to the man she loved and who loved her as dearly. I am deeply grieved as you have come into this danger for my sake, Charles, she said softly, but have no fear, for I will save you at any hazard. Indeed, it is done already, for I have given my word, and you are safe.

Safe? What do you mean, Sadie? What promise have you given? Do not be angry with me, Charles, she said sadly. I am sorry that it is forced upon me, but I have promised to be the wife of William Jackwood. Black will? Gracious heaven, Sadie, it cannot be. What madness is this? I was forced to do it. They threatened you and your brave companions with a horrible death. I had no one nearer to advise me, and I could not. I could not see you die. You should have spoken to me first, he cried wildly. You knew that I loved you. I have never dared to tell you until now, and ought to have spoken. What is death to dishonor? What a life you have doomed yourself to bear, that I may live. I would sooner die a thousand deaths.

then bear this bitter burden. Charles, she cried, you make my load too heavy for me to bear. How could I see those who had incurred this peril for me, given up to satisfy the bloody passions of these desperate men? My father is dead. I am alone in the world, and my life would have been a wary one at best, if I had refused to yield. He told me that if I was obstinate, I should stand by and see you suffer.

I could not have borne that, at any rate. You should have remained in the camp of Black Hawk, who is a brave man, although an Indian. My dear girl, I cannot blame you for what you have done. It was in all kindness of heart, but it was wrong for you to yield. The lives of men who are ready at any time to die for the right should be as a feather's weight compared to your sacrifice.

As I say, so would Joe Bent and Tom Bantry, who are more hated by these men than I am. Can you not escape? she whispered. But no, I forgot. My word is pledged to this bad man and that I hold sacred. But I shall not deem it a crime to take his life. And although he may claim my hand, he shall never have a wife's duty for me.

For I hate him. Oh, how I hate him! The white teeth clicked together fiercely as she spoke, and black will who was listening laughed a low bitter laugh full of malice sorry to interfere in a social meeting of this kind he said advancing but your language is disgusting to your future husband my dear sadie captain milton if i hear any more language of this kind from you i shall have you bound and gagged for i will not endure it if you do that it absolves me from my promise for you gave me your word to treat them well said sadie i will not give you even that loophole from which to escape said black will after a pause i leave the camp to-day in search of a man who is at one of the Indian stations, a Lutheran missionary. Let me say to you that he is a man who would not perform this ceremony if you offer a word of objection, and that you have only to say,

no, and that ceremony will cease, and one of another kind commence. For, as there is the sky above us, I will take your friends out and hang them before your eyes. Get my horse, Jackfish. The man obeyed, and after giving some orders to dig Garrett in a low tone, the renegade mounted and rode away through the wood. Two days passed, and they heard nothing of him. Upon the afternoon of the third he came into camp, accompanied by a pale, intellectual-looking man in the dress of a clergyman, who looked mildly about on the wild group in the camp,

evidently surprised to find himself in such a place. He was at once conducted to one of the brush cabins, which had been built up by the men, while Blackwell dismounted, and ordered that Melton and the other prisoners should be removed into the woods a short distance from the camp, for he knew the missionary too well to believe that he would perform this ceremony if he had any doubt of the willingness of the lady to do her part, and Blackwell feared the prisoners might let him know the true state of the case. five men accompanied the prisoners into the woods with orders to shoot them down at the first attempt to escape when this was done blackwell approached the brush cabin in which sadie spent the time and called her out i have returned he said cheerfully you must excuse me for staying away from you so long but i found it difficult to find the missionary i only wish you had never found him or had received your just desserts sir was the somewhat unpromising reply my deserts i deserve better treatment at your hands i think twelve feet of rope in a tree would suit you better she replied do not deceive yourself by the belief that i shall ever change in my regard for you the most slimy reptile which crawls through the swamp would be to me a more pleasant companion i give my hand to you to save my friends but never my heart with it he stood moodily before her tapping his boot with the writing-whip he carried i have half a mind to refuse your hand upon these terms he said gloomily without raising his eyes from the earth upon which they were bent

your language is horrible to one to whom you are about to join yourself for life and the day will surely come when you will repent it bitterly there i will say no more now but in half an hour i shall come for you and we will be married married. You need not fear, but I will keep my word, she said. Will you keep yours as well? I never broke it yet to a friend or foe, was his answer, and I do not mean to commence now. When you have given me your hand in marriage, these men shall have two days grace, but if I catch them after that, we'll be to them, that is all. He turned upon his heel and left her to her own reflections, which were not of the most pleasant type. at times she doubted her firmness in the hour of trial and whether she would not give way in the presence of the missionary but the thought of his fearful threat against her lover and friends nerved her and she determined to bear up as bravely as she could and make the sacrifice for their safety she would have liked to see melton once before the ceremony but feared that she was not strong enough to endure the meeting while she sat there with her face buried in her hands black will came for her

There is one favor I would ask of you, she said, and it is one you can easily grant. You know I love Charles Milton, but all thoughts of him must pass in the moment when I put my hand in yours. Under the circumstances, he must not see me again, and I could not bear to see him. Agreed, you shall not see him, and if he dares to attempt an interview when you are once my wife, it will be the worst for him. I have removed him already, and they wait in the woods until the ceremony is over, when they shall be allowed to go where they will. That will do, sir. Now I am ready, if you will not relent.

He shook his head savagely, and, taking her hand, let her out into the open space among the trees. The band were standing carelessly about, looking on as the two took their station before the missionary, who advanced, book in hand, and the tree. stood before them. He recited that portion of the ritual which was necessary before he asked the question, and if any no just cause or reason why these should not be joined together in the bands of holy wedlock. Let them now speak, or forever after hold their peace. When the crowd scattered before the rush of a strong man, and the gigantic figure of the forest fiend sprung into the circle, and hurled black will ten paces backward by a single thrust of his power.

arm, while he cried fiercely. I forbid the vans. Down with him, roared Blackwell, drawing his knife. At him, boys. Back, cried the strange being. Back for your lives. It is not right that innocence and youth should be forced to wed with such a thing as this, and I forbid it. Back, I say. They recoil before the stern figure, especially those among them who have felt the nervous force of his strong arm, while Black Will looked at the clergyman. Do not mind the ravings of a madman, sir, he said. This man is insane and knows not what he does. It is false, Reverend Sir, replied the forest fiend. I am as sane a man as any here, and know whereof I speak.

Fall back, men. Don't press upon me. Ha, they will have it, then. Melton Scout to the rescue. As the tones of his sonorous voice rung out through the deep forest, there came a charging cheer, and the buckskin shirts and coonskin caps of Melton's scout showed through the leafy cover, and with wild cries they poured upon the foe. Not a shot was fired, for Sadie, the missionary and the forest fiend, stood in the midst of the enemy, and the scout dared not fire. But as the enemy retreated, snatching up their weapons as they went, at a signal from the forest fiend, Sadie and the missionary fell upon their faces,

and the scout poured in a single withering volley, which strew the ground with dead and dying, and then charged upon the foe with knife, hatchet, and pistol. The forest fiend caught up a rifle from the earth, and using it as a club, headed the charge. Close behind him came Charles Melton, Cooney Joe, and Tom Bantry, striking out manfully for the right, and felling an adversary at every blow. But none could equal the strange being known as the forest fiend.

Taking the ponderous rifle in one hand, he made it play about his head with lightning rapidity, and the renegades went down before him like chafed before the wind. Taken by surprise, it was no wonder that the retreat soon became a rout, and they scattered to the four winds, closely pursued, by their determined assailants. One man, and that man, Dick Garrett, dared to bar the way of the forest-feet, who paused with uplifted weapon and looked at him.

At last, villain, he cried, Your time has come. Vane was the interposition of the rifle of the renegade to stay the blow. It descended upon his head, and Dick Garrett, the friend and companion and villainy of Will Jackwood, lay dead at the Avengers. feet. At this moment, a cry of anger was heard, and turning, the strange man saw that Jackwood was on horseback, headed for the bushes. Fire at him, he cried, bring him down at all hazards.

Half a dozen bullets sped, but Jackwood was already in the thicket, and all pursuit was vain. Five minutes later, the fight was over, and few of Blackwell's band remained to tell the tale of that terrible day. The forest fiend turned back to the place where Sadie stood, encircled by the arm of Charles Melton, and she drew closer to her lover as she marked his terrible aspect. Raising his hand to his face, he tore off the hairy mask which covered it and revealed the face of Samuel Westcott. Her father, redeemed from a watery grave. In an instant Sadie was in his arms, half delirious with joy, and the tried friends gathered about him, eager to shake his hand, while Cooney Joe and Tom Bantry danced a comic hornpipe, uttering yells which would have done credit to sack warriors

on the war trail. When the first transport of the meeting was over, Samuel Westcott turned to Tom Bantry and shook him warmly by the hand. You did your best to save me, my friend, he said, but I knew that both the both of the must perish if I clung to you. I went down, as you know, and coming to the surface, in a death-struggle, I caught a floating log, which quickly bore me down the stream, and I had not the strength to land until I had been carried two miles down. Near this place, I had a cache, in which, among other articles, was this disguise, which I have sometimes worn in my expeditions among the tribes, and I knew that it might aid me in the work before me.

Had I known that it would frighten my daughter so much, I would have shown my face when I attacked the men who guarded her while you were fighting in the swamp. It's enough to scare the life out of any critter, said Cooley Joe. I don't wonder she run from you. It has served its purpose. I followed you to this place, Sadie, and having satisfied myself that those I loved were in no way.

immediate danger, I went back for the scout, the position of whose camp I knew. We came up softly, set Milton, Joe, and Tom at Liberty, and then attacked these scoundrels. The rest you know as well as I. There is only one thing for which I am sorry, and that is that this villain Jackwood has escaped, but his fate will find him out. Half an hour later they were on their way to the river, guarded by Milton's scout. The last week had been one of trial, but they had come out of the flame triumphant, and the power of Blackwell Jackwood was broken forever. As they reached the riverbank, and the men were bringing up the flat in which they were to cross,

Minioba suddenly appeared from the forest and fell upon Sadie's neck, weeping for joy. Minnie Oba can bear anything now. The breaking over people, the loss for home, for her Sadie is safe. Goodbye. and do not forget the poor Indian girl who loves you. Come with us, said Samuel Westcott. I will give you a shelter in my house until the war is at an end.

But Meneobah shook her head sadly. No, she said, the Indian girl must not leave her father, who loves her. Go in peace. They parted from her sadly, and as the flat receded from the shore, they saw her standing in a dejected attitude, leaning on her bow. It was many a day before they saw her again. The battle was at its height. Black Hawk had risked all upon a cast of the die

and had found it a losing game. Melton, Cooney Joe, and Tom Bantry were there, fighting gallantly, and as the Indians began to break up, they charged a resolute knot of warriors who stood their grounds stubbornly, dealing death on every side. There was a moment of wild confusion, and Charles Melton found himself face to face with a desperate man in his war paint, who assailed him with demonic fury. Just then, Melton's horse fell, shot through the heart, and his adversary sprung at him with a wild cry of joy, raising a hatchet above his devoted head. Death to you, Melton, he screamed.

I am well Jackwood, and you die by my hand. If I lost her, at least do. you shall never possess her. Melton, pinned to the earth by his fallen horse, lifted his hand to ward off the blow, but, hampered as he was, he could offer but slight resistance, and the knife, his only defense,

was forced from his hand, and the hatchet gleamed above him. He had just time to catch the gleam of ferocious joy in the eyes of his enemy, and had given up hope when a rifle cracked, and Jack Wood, throwing up his arms, clutched at the bloody cloth upon his breast, tried once more to lift his weapon, and then, with a snarl of demoniac malice, dropped dead in his tracks, while Cooney Joe, with a rifle smoking in his hand,

Randuade his fallen leader who was quickly placed upon his feet. "'Who is he?' cried Joe angrily. "'Ha! Black Will! By the mortal!' rubbed out at last. last. This was his epitaph. He died as he had lived, boldly and defiantly, and found a soldier's grave. The power of Black Hawk was broken, and the old chief of fugitive, soon to be a prisoner in the hands of the whites. Then it was that Samuel Westcott kept his promise to Miniobe, and gave her a shelter under his roof. The teachings of Sadie soon changed the force maiden so much that she loved domestic life, and when Sadie was married, soon after Blackhawks' visit to the east,

Miniova was there and witnessed the ceremony. When it was finished, Cooney Joe stopped the clergyman. Stop a little stranger, he said sheepishly, got another little job for you, I have. And to the surprise of all, Miniova took his hand, and they were married. Unknown to everyone, Joe had obtained the consent. of the old chief who knew that his daughter was better fitted to live with the whites than with the tribes, and Meneoba became the wife of Joe Bent. She never had cause to repent it. Rough though he was, he was a true man, and worked nobly for her sake, and strange as it may seem, became in time one of the richest farmers in that region. Captain Milton also settled there,

and the two families were constantly together. and above the mantle, in Melton's study, hangs the costume of the forest fiend. Tom Bantry was for years a successful boatman upon the Mississippi, and at last a captain. Samuel Westcott died at a green old age, honored and beloved by all who knew him. End of Chapter 13. End of the Border Rifleman by Albert W. Aiken.