Saturday Evening Mail, Volume 7, Number 26, Terre Haute, Vigo County, 23 December 1876 — Page 6

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THE MAIL

A PAPER FOR*THE PEOPLE*

NEVER GROW OLD,

I looked In I be tell-tale mirror, ,, And MV

the marks of e«rt,

*be crow'* feet and the wrinkles, And tbe gray lu tbe dark brown hair. My wife leaned o'er my shoulder—

Mont beautiful

m*»

she

"Thou wilt never grow old, my love," ahe wild. "Never grow old tome.

•For sge is tbe chilling of the heart, And thine as mine can tell, as young and warm as when first we heard

The sound

onr bridal bell!

I turned and kls*ed her ripe red lips:„ ... Let lime do it's worst on roe, If In my sool, my love my faith, loldf 1 never seem to the* 1" m. r*

THE HIDDEN FOE

BY ARCHIE C. IRONS.

CHAPTER IV.—OoirrnroKD. There was

Wall I

swarf

4great

M10 bank. He-»rd somebody shoot," said Nebetnlab, examining tho bear. "And a big aere»rn i«**t afore, and thought I'd poke )wn this way, and seo what was up. Y»r.fot all about It though, when I seed if1 rabbit." lyn then related to him the ircum«tanr.»of killing the bear, together with a

We'll strip thfl hide off and take it

-ilktop he said, as be concluded, "and then r-i swe'll akin the fat off and bury the oar-

4it!sin

this hole. But first, I'll make Ks

•ale a big pall tew gather the plums In, whll* we're doin' It." He pulled out his bunting knife, and

^atrippad a large, square piece of bark, tjft-om a »lr!h tree near by. This he dou *J-~S

t)iwl

,10 at the corners, putting a stick

0? «hroagn each one. He then fastened a vPn'UpU r»vn "vv* •trip of bnsswood bark over the top for ball, and he bad a water tight basket, capable of holding twelve or fourteen quarts. They then proceeded to skin 4u« hear, after which they cutaffthe fat,

JlNng

It on a pleoe of bar* which Len ad peeled for that purpose. They roll#d the remains Into a hole In the bank, »nd covered it with dirt. E«sle mounted her horse, whlob abe had left at a little Jl»t*n*», and LeH ahoulderlng the hide. Sand Neb««ilah the p!um«, the trie set ^nt for the campof Mr. UamUtoo, about mile distant.

Yew mn come an* git the fat tew tnorrow, Nebemiah," said Leu, as tbey All read e4 their way through the woods ««The He 'ull be splendid ter put on mo fa sins an* dry pelta ter soften 'erfl up."

Th" tx^ar was an extra large one, and CM* bide was reoiarkably thick and well furred for tlie season of the year. Len. •who understood the art of tanning all «*inria of furs and aklns, concluded he *ron t*n and make a meaentof it to

IC-al*. He waa revolving this in his mind, when they came in sight of the

camp. Them's Stanley!' be exclaimed buntln', by the gne^a be'a been' a

KOOWOTMI and Mr. Hamilton were 4*andlnjr conversing In front »f the tent The -ner was about removing the sad die of a deer fmm his shoulder, while 1 \.~femr« ot ou ks humt at hla belt,

He Itowed to K««ste as the approached, -Chen stpppMd forward to aaaxt Iter in dlMn uiilli)K. 1 aee that you, like myaelf, tok advantsge of tbe cwwation of Uie storm for 'in through the woodV he remark-

Oolite plagy tMar Mn* her laatone. •foo," exclaimed Len, as he threw down (be b"tr akin, and forthwith related tbe «aenrr*«lea. tf The tattler's fa» paled as be lUtened

I hare b*«a aomewbat concerned

1 "about ber roaming alone through the ij woods ao muoh/* he aald, aa Lew oondu

dad.

A-

PllllSli 9

«I was careless In leaving my rifle—a thing I shall not do again." Venamiah now appeared from the direction of the creek. He had wet and atraigbtened tbe jama out of hla wondorful bat, washed bis face, dusted hla clothea, and now, with bis banda in bia pockets, and hat on tbe backside of hla bead, looked and appeared hla noncha lent salC juen related tbe story of the youth's ride for the benefit of Stanley and Mr. Hamilton, etnbelliahing it in hla usnal manner, with sundry eccentric pbraaea and bumoroua ramarka.

The trapper now propoeed to Stanley that tb«r should repair to their oibln, about a mile and a half distant, and, aa be expressed it, "refresh tber stnmmicka.

To this,

MJ.

Hamilton would not bear.

You must stay and take dinner with ua," he said. "We have a good supply of coffee, sugar, crackers and other small luxuries, and with tbe venison and duoks Mr. Kenwood baa kindly brought

us Easia ^11^^^

a clear but aomewhat dispiri- take dinner with so old a friend aa my reg

If that don't beat all ^cuim.™..

*--my grandfather's great relation!" And himself equal to the occasion by whlstixsn gnxed in open mouthed astonish* ling a stave of "Bachelor Hall. Me Iment at tbe slghF stirred up the fire in front of the tent

Shouldn't wonder if it did," remark- bung a kettle over it on a pole la 1 in "'-ed Nehemiah, rubbing the dirt and per- some crotches for that purpose, brought

I've

'T* fittnmn purty smart relations, and it will. beat

them

Why, Nehemiah Corklns!" exclaimed Essie, in astonishment. "How came you to do that?" "Wanted ta come down the hill, nald that worthy, looking at the log

Didn't want to walk seen this, an Jarred ine a little, thought I'd ride. Sbotiuh." ?,/j. ••Wall. I swan, young nmn," paid

Lni, takine another survey of Nebemiah, "you'll come to e\erlastin' ruin ation vet, if vou travel as fast as that." "Nehemiah," said Essie, gravely vo don't mean to say that you got fhto the log and sat it going purposely

-^oynll?" No—dod rot the thing! I'll havesore -•ahlne for a week. You soe the way of it •was, I J''st cba»ed a rabbit in thera, and the onuiltigated skunk wouldn't come •Out. and IJ«st thought I'd catch him •live

I laid my gun down, and

crawled in alter hlin, and the thing 4|- started so nehew. It WM

all full of rot

ten wood round the inside, and was .. purtv soft. I couldn't git out, so I jest -curlod up and let her run—why, hello!" in eves for the first time reatel on tbe ft had fallen at the roots of a large tr*e, on the tbe upper hill side, which nrevontod it irom rolling down

us.Xnerfltfor

|i00 here, ia a capital hand to roast a It of venison, or brown a duck to a turn

"Besides,"she adoel, youn»*B

^all, replied Leu, in a yielding tone

the next instant me race 01 roenemian "8eeln' ita you an' we ain't eat dinner C01 KIIIH

app» ared, as he crawled alowly together for nigh onto forty year,

fiwm tho log! we'll bev tew. I ain't much on gram er

He presented a most woe-he gone ap yarance. His hat was crushed down «ver his eyes, his clothes were covered with cobwebs and bits of rotteo wood, while his face was smeared with dirt and am ut.

.4 ... a 1~ U... Q»a(i Ai« hnrA MIVI.

and big words, but as Stanley here snys I oan't forbear the roast venison and ducks.

wpiration from his face on the sleeve of a pail of water from the creeK, a po bis coat. "Don't 'spose they was any tion of which he poured in the kettle

khake* fer to beat, anyhow.

Neither can I tbe coffee," laughed too." Kenwood. '-That is a luxury here, in d6od«"

Nehemiah look the hint, and showed

and fell to cleaning the ducks w.tn

They new entered the tent.

In tbe course of time N

I wUQlii ne nun» i^n wnvm- Zr

"But 'he is such

little woods

fireplace, and

Wrd, that It ia impossible to keep her to tire, aa the evening* were getting somedie camp. 8be la very courageous, and what chilly. fcloionrl with rare prearnce «»f mind, and Tbey eat and convemod for aome time

opportune arrival. It was rather a soarv predicament, «B' no mistake. I'll be darned sorry if I didn't fret sorter streaked when 1 seed ft b$

.."J'nti'niied Leo. **T!i«y won't able ducks In every direction on the afT^ii.' 'Lack anyone thta time o* water—a solid fl^k here, and a ftw an*. ,*^.Kf^|«!/a»eva ao many taring ones tbert -shaking and rurfftrt*

ebemiah ap-

large platter of venison, which he deposited on the table. This was flanked on either side by birch bark dishes, containing plums and grapes, surrounded by wreaths of green leaves. The ducks, coffee, crackers, sugar, Ac., followed, and then they gathered around the board.

Wall, I declare," said Len, "balnt been to a table fer so long, it makes me feel kinder curus."

Tho meal pn-wed off merrily. Len was overfiowing with jests and stories, which together with Nehemiah's oddites, kept them all In the best possible humor. During the dinner the subject of duck huntlnur was brouuht up. ««I'll toll vou what "said Len, sipping his coffee, "They're comin' 'round most awful thick. The lakes are jist covered with 'em, an' I vote we turn out and hev regular hunt."

I brought a double barreled fowling ece with me, intending to use it, should an oppirtunlty ofler," said Mr. Hamilton. "Nehemiah, here, has a remarkable gun, that be Is inxlous to trv" and he glanced across the table at tba

youth, whose jaws wore working regu larly on a piece of venison steak. Leo and Stanley were encamped a boat a mile and a hair from Mr. Hamilton's, on the shore of Muquah (Rear)—now Brooks-Lake. On this they kept a canoe, aud tbe former proposed that tbey should have a grand duck hunt on the morrow. He suggested to Mr. Hamilton that they should all come down to their cabin tbe next morning, and they would then arrange tho de tails.

"«r AS

tlMl nil

inerous hooka, and banging thereon ut. 1were bundles of furs and hide*, dried

and jerked meats, two or three guns and accoutrements, and various articles of dress. In one corner was a fireplace formed of willow sticks, aud lined with a coating of clay. In the opposite corner was a pile of robes of different kinds. Some stools were scattered about, while a rough box. that served as a taule, •txid on one aide.

It was now quite dark. Kenwood bung up hia gun, and proceeded to strike a light, while Len brought In an armful of wood which be deposited near tbe

JII

then set about kindling a

t'HAPTER V. KtRtWOOD If ATX. ..

Tbe nvMrning dawned dear and bright

YSlaS*^ ^°irVn^ntSI andaa'tbe son" mlleJup, it^hjjdathxid farred fc^e whole top my bead. Made

{h5Tt?arlook round, though, an* Urn's had d°nn*d l^Hgbt r", I wanted." brown of tbe beeches mingling wltb the

golden light ovw tbe Uke. TbeforeM

:Y-

wtr» out earl en* t© were innumer

bnnt, Len." remaiked Stanley,

think we bad better be preparing for It." Tbej returned to tbe cabin, and UB at a nuge pleoe of venlaen to roaat be* .ore tbe Are for tbelr breakfast. This they dispatched wltb keen rellab and then proceeded to clean tbelr guna. Un made it a point to keep oneor two **tra ones, "In ease of an emergenoy an' duok hunt," and he now proceeded to clean and carefully load one ol these a solid, substantial looking shot gun, that be

had taken from a oouple of boolu on tbe wall. It standa to reason," be remarked, pouring In a handful of buckshot, "that If one ball'ull do any sarvice, a good many bed oughter do a good deal more. You understand?"

I understand," it plied Kenwood, laughing. "Yon bad bettor get your back braced against a tree whan you shoot." "Not to any great extent, yonker,

responded. pushing down the pa-

rking She isP™ raSt admirable little per wad. "I like to bev plenty o' latitude hotiftekeeoer and warrant Tout be cof- to spread myself in, when I under woXUmuddy'^nd Wmlah, ^ticklish jobs-but how they be.

Hark I' A shrill whistle was beard outside,

venison or brown a tnica r.K moment the form of Neko mtah Co.-kin» darkened th. door. lb.

MTBU

There was a scraping, grating sound my life to-day, and after such a generous tr»uoliIn*r eittier side as he stood Inside the log, and tEeri there Issued act as that you surely won't refuse to freiM it.

hrim

Kno you»g 5,,,

It was

composed of heavy an apartment at one

large and rooi canvass cloth, wit end. (iracefnlly excusing herself, Essie retired to thin, and proceeded t«* change her heavy ri.iing dress for one of a lighter material, adding a dainty collar, and Knot or blue ri ibou at her throat. Then she brushed back her brown curls, tying them with a band of ribbon, matching that on her collar, and her toilet was complete.

The tent was furnished with a few rough chairs, made by Nehemiah wltb a hatchet and an auger. There was a snail table at one side, also the work of his hands. It consisted simpiy of four posts with a framework around the top. and some ribs across the center. Over this was spread a large piece of black ash bark. .,

Essie brought out and set the table with a sparkling array of tin plates and cups, giving to the tent a pleasant and homelike appearance. Tho fragrant smell of coffee came waftod in from the fire without, and together with tbe appetizing dinner to the hungry guests.

A general commotion among tbe duoks ensued. Scattered flocks appeared, flying hither and thither, ut tering shrill quacks as tbey circled about.

During tbe forenoon tbe hunt was continued with unabated seal, and at last the'ducks began leaving the lake. As they had bagged a goodly quantity, Len propose 1 that tbey should call the hunt ended and repair to tbe cabin for some dinner. Accordingly the canoe was beaded towards tbe bank where the trio were stationed. The water within range of their guns was strewn with ducks, which Stanley gathered tnto the boat as Len paddled along.

You've done better'n we hev!" sung out the trapper as they approached. You've killed a slew ov 'em."

Essie is a better marksman than I am," returned Mr. Hamilton, "and I have exchanged guns witb her. There, Essie!"

The girl, who was holding her father's

G[e

iece, Klanced towards him as he spoke. pointed to a large flock of ducks that were coming over. Essie raised the gtin deliberately, but quickly to her »ce. It seemed to go r-ff the instant it touched her shoulder, and before the report had died away thecrSck of the other barrel blended with it, and seven duck, the result of tbe two shots, dropped into the

The'quickness with which the whole transaction was completed, together witb tbe accurate aim taken surprised Kenwood. but Len stoed astonished.

Wall, I swan!" be oxclalmed at last, I thought I was a purty good shot, but a n't—n-1 to ai.y great extent. How In creation didye do it?"

All were eager for sport and tbe pro position met with universal favor. It was growing twilight when tbe meal was or nclnded, and the hunters took their departure. After leaving the tent they struck out in a southwesterly direction, and after a half hout's brisk walking reach^ the lake. Vide7^n"pr^^Md that sheind Mr. *fl\! J5 Tnl? Himiltf should croes the lake in the with a bard, sandy bottom, and very

out of the bank near by, and went sour ryinff along to tho lake. A ftw yard) irom Ita mouth stood a small cabin, laid upof round pine logs and covered over tbe top with sheets or black ask bark On th« inaide walla were fastened nu

out of the bank near by, and went sour ryinff along to tho lake. A ftw yards

Easily enough," replied Essie, laughing. "I learned to shoot before I came into the woods."

They now gathered up the remainder of'the'ducks and as Essie wanted a boat

lhe*

TBRKE HAUTE SATPH-DAY-t EVENING iMAIL

Mand

hi* immense straw hat

you'a comin'," said Lan.

a is

RUCKS

Nebemiah sauntered in with his hands in his pockets, and tock a survey of the place.

Never seennothin' like a good whis tie," he observed. "It sorter reiie *es a feller's mind an' it's good far the colk

Kenwood stepped to tho door, and saw Mr. Hamilton assisting Essie to dis mount from ber coal black horse. She wore a short walking dress of brown serge, and over this, a dainty jacket of Lincoln green, with snowy collar and cuflfe. Her curls wer« blown into charming confusion, her blue eyes sparkling, and a faint tinge of color drifted inta her face as she greeted our hero.

After a few minutes spent in conversation, the party repaired to tbe lake, and waited for Len to determine how they were to proeeed.

Wall, you see," said the old hunter, looking off acro«s the lake, "tbe best way to do is for part of us to go 'round an' stan' on the bank, an' the rest go in tho canoe, an'scare 'em r«und. I think,' ho added, addressing Mr. Hamilton, "that you and Essie and Nehemiah, here, had better go 'ronnd a piece, while Stanley an' I go on the lake. You 11 have a better chance."

This was readily agreed ta, and Len. after escorting the trio some distance around tbe lake and posting them in a favorable spot, returneia to Stanley. The latter n-d untied the cauoe, and jumping in, thev pushed off. Len used the paddle, while Stanley was seated in the prow of the boat with his gun. He fired into a flock soon after leaving the shore, killing a couple which he picked up and put Into the boat as it came along.

The crack of bis piece was the signal for the hunt to commence, and the next instant the heavy boom of Nehemisli's musket echoed across the lake. This was followed by tbe crack of Essie's rifle and the square, hollow sound of Mr. Hamil ton's piece.

P'"***

by land. It was bbt a short distance across tbe lake, and tboeo in tbe boat soon reached the landing.

I never knew what solid enjovinent was bsfore, Wr. Kenwood," said fesss e.

---1

IT' V" a« the c*noe grounded and she sprang

out. lnar.

'This wild life is grand, enchant I feel like a bird letloove from its

igQ, Her eyea were full of a joyous light, and her ch«eka kissed by tbe fresh suMimn wind, flushed vivid csrmlne. Kenwood's heart thrilled as bs walked along beside her. "Yea," be replied, "one has perfect freedom here, but tboeo accustomed to fashionable amusements would find it rather dull. I see you are not one of tbnae, though," he added, laughing you take to tbe wooda perfectly."

On entering tbe cabin, tbey found Len busily enoaged in cleaning a brace of ducks. He bad a roaring Are, before which be had set some choice venison steaks, and be paused occasionally In bis woik to turn tbese.

Stanley brought forward some rude stools to serve as scats, throwing a beaw robe over one for Kwie's nas, Mr. Hamilton took a seat in tbe corner, near the fire-place, and entered Into conversation with Len, leaving tbe young people to entertain each other.

Do yon know," Essie said, turning to Stanley, '-that thia is tbe first time that I ever waa In a regular bunting camp? You have things fixed so cosily, that I should think you would feel qnite at

She'looked around tbe cabin as she •poke. In one corner was a rude shelf, and upon tbia lay a large porUWlo, and a»»m* pencil ca es. A'jove tbe shel f, pinned to tbe wall, waa a eraytm drawing. E«rie ntiered an exeiamatkm aa ber*vee Ml upon it.

Reallf, Mr. Kenwood, I dldnt extm find an artist out here in Uie

He langbed. iake no pt but I like aketcning, and employ my* aelf that way, occasionally."

You will allow me to look at it, aba said, riaing. Certainly," replied 8tanley, alao riaing. "Keep your seat, please, and I will bring it to you."

He crossed the room as be spoke, and detached the ploture from tbe wall, and taking his portfolio in tbe other band returned to ber aide.

I sketched it one day at Lento request," he remarked, giving the drawing into her band. "He saya he aball keep it to remind him of our summer together."

Essie regarded tbe picture witb an artist's eye. A

hunter's cabin occupied tbe

foreground, and near it flowed a sparkling creek, that emptied its waters into a small lake at the right, while a ravine, witb dense shady woods, formed the background. "It is exquisite," she said at last, lacking np. "It is an cxnrt representation of your camp. I don't think you ?onld have bettered it." "Thankyou," replied Kenwood,bowing, "but I do not think I deserve such high praise. I will show you some small ones that I have dashed off in leisure moments. It will servo to pass away time."

He drew a stool up beside her, and opened the portfolio. There was a score or more of sketches, of all desci iptions— hits of mountain scenery glimpses of lake and meadow shady nooks and ravines, and here and there asqvtirrel in some old gnarled tree, or a deer feor'inu in some little glade. One picture, in particular, drew ber attention. It was a grand old bouse, surrounded with trees and shrubs, ana a park in tbe background. There was a fountain in front with numerous arbors scattered a'*out, and a broad carriage drive leading through a stately avenue of lofty trees. It wss a perfect'wilderness of splendor and beauty.

What a grand old place!" exclaimed Essie, enthusiastically. "IJow I should like to see it. Is there really such a place, Mr. Kenwood?"

Yes," ho answered "it is Kenwood Hall. Vthe home of my ancestors. It would have been mine to-day but for the fart that my grandfather disinherited »ny fatter for marrying against bis wishes. His anger was implacable, and all communication between thein ceased from that time. My father felt the separation keenly, and always cherished a hope that my grandfather would relent, hut it was a vain one, and he diel wit out bis fergiveness. My mother only survived him a few we- ks.

And your grandfather, is he still living?" inquirod Essie, with interest. He was a few months ano, when came to Michigan," replied Kenwood, and since then I have, of course, heard nothing from Uim."

A1 this juncture Len announced that dinner was ready, and they gathered around, doing ample justice totheexwl lent repast that tbe old bunter had prepared.

So-»n after tho meal was concluded, Nehemiah brought.Essie's horse around to the door, and the rio took their leave, well satisfied with the day's sport and with many promises and invitations exchanged to rail often.

And when Kenwood retired that night he dreamed he WHS

walking in the

erounds at Kenwood Hall, and by his side was a fair, svlph like form, wearing tbe face of Essie Hamilton.

CHAPTER VI. S DARK PLOTTISO. -.I»

hi)

If It were done, then 'twere wefl It were done quickly. While I threat he lives

The morning following Edwards'arrivai at tbe Indian encampment dAwned clear and bright. It waa about noon when be took bis leave of E«tewawah, and commenaed his Journey down tho river. He plied bis paddle vigorously, and witn tbe current to assist him made rapid progress. He app ared to he in doep thought, giving little heed to bis surroundings, and a satisfied expression flitted over his face as he reflected on tbe events of tho last few d»v*. "Everything is working admirably," he mutterod, at last. "I don': se bow it cotild well be better. The Indians will be gone for sometime up there, and meanwhile, tkere will be no hindrnno* to my plans." And then, aa bis thoughts reverted to the Indian, "Firefly," a shade of annoyance passed over bis face.

I am half afraid, sometimea, that he may prove troubloeome, still I have nothing to fear from him so long as I can keep in favor with the tribe. lie had best have a care, for I will brook no interference."

Tho canoo drifed on in silence for some distance, when he again broke out:

I am foolish tor delaving it so long, and it must be done when I gel there, without fail. It will be a hazurdous piece of work, but once accompllsued I shall feol easier Thero is no particular danger, but if he should by cbauceget boid of such an article as this,"' «nd he rxttled a newspaper in Ms pock».t, "it woul«l disconcert my plans somewhat

He continued hisjournoy till nightfall. 1, pushing his canoe ashore, be par took of a portion of the provisions that he had with him, and wrapping hinwelf in bis blanket, lay down in bin «an«, and soon slept.

The sun was shining brightly when be awoke, the next morning, arid after a hearty breakfast, be pushed on down tbe river. About the middle of the Afternoon be reached th" Indian Springs. He pusliod his canoe up the crock a few yards and nonoval^i it in some dense shrubbery that overhung ita banks. 1 will leave tbe blanket there," ho muttered, "and send on« of the boys sfter it to-morrow. And now for the Mr Kmle."

He threw his long rifle ovor his shoulder and climbing the steep btuk, set out through the forest for Mr. Hamilton's. Twenty minutes brisk walking brought htm in right of the encamp ment. Nebemiah waa busily engaj^od skinning a deer a short distance from toe tent, wbile Mr. Hamilton and Knite were within. Tbe former arose aa be approached. (Jood afternaon, Mr. Edwarda. Walk !n." brought forward *«at for his visitor. Essie bowed In acknowledgment of his greeting, snd continued tba work his coming bad interrupt-

*He chatted aodably on different topics with Mr. Hamilton, Essie taking but Utile part in tbe conversation. She 'lt a restraint in Edwards' presence, that aba triad In vain to throw off.

After a abort stay be took bis departure. On leaving tba tent be started In a southeasterly direction.

Queer be soliloqotod, be walked aioag. ••Tbe girl acts atranire, somehow However, 'nothing ventured.! nothing gained' to an o'd saying, and I ehall profit

tbe bint It eonta ns

Ha bad gone btta abortdmtaitoe from

and Edwarda gaaed after him while dark expression flitted athwart hla iMe. A single instant he stood, then, wltll a half menacing gesture, turned and resumed bis course.

Brief as waa tbe look and action, bath had been observed. An old Indian woman. bent half double, and carrying a bundle of roota, was standing conoeafad In tbe bushes near. Her eyea followad bis form ss it moved on, and nodding her bead significantly, she hobbled away.

Kenwood had baited and was leaning on his rifle watching tbe water that sparkled and scurried along In the little stream at bia feet, when be was startled by a shrill, quavering voice at bis elbow. "The hunter is young, hia life sweet to him

He turned qnickly and saw an old In dian crone standing before him. He looked at her In surprise, scarcely knowing what reply to make to such an abrupt question

Her fa^ewas wrinkled and shriveled with age, and her eyea, small, bright and piercing, watched bim keenly while Bbe waited for him to speak. "Well—yes," he replied, st last "I confess that it is. Wny do you ask

Let tho young hunter beware, then. He haa an enemy," and she turned to depart. "Stay!" he cried, hurriedly.

,4Wbat

do vou mean—who is my enemy?" The crone shook her l*aad. "Wisoonope bas spoken. Let the young bunter remember," she replied briefly, and turning, disappeared.

Kenwood looked after her wonderinglv. She must be crazy," he thought. "Surely I have no enemy," and throwing bis rfle across his shoulder started through tbe forest.

Ed wards continue! on until four miles bad been traversed, when be came in view of a small lake. It was about a mile in diameter, marly round, with a thick growth of grass and rushes about tbe edge. On the east and south was a dense, dark looking swamp, that ex tended for several miles. On tbe north bank of this lake, stood a small cabin similar in appearance to tbe one occupied by Len Leyden and Stanley Kenwood. It was shielded on every Bide by the thick woods, and was visible at no point a half dozen rods distant.

Towards this Edwards made his way, as if familiar with tbe surroundings, and approaching the door, raised the wooden latch and walked in. He found hinself in a small apartment, furnished with a few rough benches, while scattered about were skins and robes ot various kinds. Afire place occupied one corner, and banging up his gun on some hooks for that purpose, he proceeded to build a fire therein. He moved as if perfectly acquainted with the interior, and in fact, such was tho case. The cabin was his hunting quarters, and from appearances, it was evident that he bad companions.

Having blown the fire into a brisk blaze, he stepped across the room, and raising some pieces of bark from tbe floor, disclosed a small cavity underneath.

If Stumpy has attended to his business, there is plenty here to make me a good supper."

Ho reached down bis arm as he spoke, and drew forth a quarter of small deer. As his eyes rested on this, they lighted up, and a pleased expression passed over Ins face. "Just tbe thing," he muttered, "I can make a supper out of this fit far a,, king."

He proceeded to cut off some choice slices, after which he restored the re mainder to its original place, carefally replacing the barks. Stringlug the slices on some spits before the Are, he bjsied bimseir in watching them, turning them at intervals to brown tbe different sides. Thev were soon done, and he dispatched them without farther ceremony, and after wiping out his gun, ho walked to tbe door* and leaked out towards tbe lake.

It was now growing quite dusk. He could hear the nigbt birds flapping their wings, and the murky angry looking clouds, rolling across the sky, promised a night of inky darkness.

I might as well be going," he muttered, casting a look around in tbe gathering shadows. "It is dark enoagb

that there is no danger." He stepped from the cabin, cloeing the door behind him, and made bia way to the edge of tbe lake. Following along the shores few yards h* stopped before a clump of alders that grew at tbe edge of the water, and parting these with tha end of his gun, drew therefrom a little canoe, capable of carrying a couple of persoua Stepping into Mils, he picked up tbe paddle that lay in tb* bottom, and seating himself in tbe stern commenced paudlln across tbe lake.

It was now fatrlv dark, and using tbe stars that gleamed at intervals through tbe clouds, for a guide, he aoon rmcbed tbe opposite shore. Here he found Btnall stream, the outlet of the lake, running in a southerly direction through tbe swamp. It was balt-a cT«eri'feet wide, and fringed with willoarson either hank. Into this he pushed bis craft, the lily leaves 011 the surface of tbe stream, grating and rustling aa tbe boat passed over Ibom. He made but slow pnlgrets here, aa they obs:racted his passage ins measure, and after half an hours' labor be balUHl, and springing- out on the bsnk, fastened hia canoe andstruek out.

He was now In the heart of the dense swamp. It was cloaely eovered with tamaracks, Interspenad hare and there with dumps of alder aud willow. Lux uriant vines clambered from tree to tre», intertwining their branches and drooping in graceful foatoona nearly to the ground, forming a net work of leaves, in many places Impenetrable to the sun's rays. The boggy ground waa covered witb paichee or tali, coarse graea, and rank, spongy messes, where tbe loathsome serpent crawled and biased, and tall, tuculent plants, of exuberant growth, aprang from the spaces between tbe bogs, which weie filled witb alimv water, often concealing bottomlesa pit of thin mire.

Tbroagh tbia be, with great caution, picked hi* way, odea jumping from bog to bog, and grasping tbe willow* for support, and peuainjg occasionally to take bearings by the etarm. After prooeeding about half a mile, he stepped out upon a bard, dry ground, covered with trees ef mace substantial growth, lie stopped in perplexity and gazed aronndf him as wefl as tbe darkness would permit.

I believe 1 have struck tbe wrong ride of the inland," he muttered at last. "I will ke«p around the edge at any rate. I aball know when I oome to the big hemlock."

Tie

n*.

line where the swamp an

hard land

met. He bad gone perhaps forty rods *#ek when be came to a quaint heal leaned out over tbe swamp."

What an idiot was he ejaculated, stopping heeide this. "Here I am near ly around to where I started from. I wo ild have been wiser to have oome around tbls way

the encampment, wban he otwrved Kenwood walking In thai direction. Tbe latter paaaod by without seeing bltn,

He struck Into a sort of a path leading Iny towards the center or tbe Island, and after going about thirty yards, a cabin, rimilar to the one he. bad ao re*

eently lefl, JbdsB»d up bctoee film. Through the crevices between the tan he canght the sparkle of a fife, and potwhSstl*

UP*

*h(lll

Thero waa- a commotion Inside the cabin, and the next Inatant the door ewungopen and the form of a msnfrteod reeled.

He wart Abort of atatnro, with a coarae. bull dog looking fhoe, half covered with a stragsltnsr blacl be held a rifle, while wUh the other hi

black beard. In one hand

he peered outward

into the darkneea. As Edwards advanced, the ll^it etreaming ont, revealed him to tbe man as be stood in tbe door.

Hello, Cap!" be exclaimed, aa he caught sight of him. •'Thobght it your whistle, but didn't know fer tain. I war jes' coin' ter bunk.n

He stepped back into the cabin aa he spoke, Edwards following. The 1« tter gave a searching glance around as he altered. "Where are the boys, Stumpy?" ha asked.

Wal, Cap, I knowed thet 'ud be the first question you'd ssk," responded Stumpy, ss he closed the door and came forwards towards the fire. "Tbe deuee is to pay gen'rally. Tbe boys her gone!"

Edwards stared at him in araaaement. "Gone!" he echoed. "Where?" dun'no. They went day a'ore yiaterday," Stumpy replied, dropping upon a bench near the fire. "An' whafa wuss'n all, the darned thievin' cusses took all the shiners they cenld lay their hands on,—look at tbet!"

As he spoke, be drew from bis pocket a soiled bit of paper, on which were scratched a few words in pencil, and handed it to Edwards to rean.

The latter took it, and ho .ding ltdotfn to the firelight, read TKR CAITIN JOHN EDWARDS Oittln tired of the counterfitln bizness, and bevln made ennff ter satisfy ns, we concluded tew git up an dust. Yer needn't look fer us fer it won't do no good. Yours rispectfuly, Jack and Wart.

P. S.—We shant Peach."

"This is a pretty mess of fish," exclaimed Edwards angrily, as tie finished reading the paper. "Haw much did tbe wretches take?"

Dunno fer sartin," replied Stumpy. "Sposen we go an' see?" Edwards signified his consent, and rising, Stumpy lighted a rag tbst lay in a tin dish of melted fat, and taking this in one hand he crossed the room. Halting near the oorner and setting down the lieht, he proceeded to remove some of the flooring, disclosing a dark cavity. Into this ho leaped, followed by Edwards with the light.

The place in which they found themselves was a sort of cellar, scarcely high enough to admit of one standing upright, and about eight feet square. Tools of various description lay scattered about, nil in one corner stoo* I a small furnace. In the opposite oorner was a box of considerable size, snd Stumpy, raising the lid of this, disclosed a Isrge amount of a whltelooking metal therein. Handing Stumpy the light, Edwards knelt before the box and proceeded to examine its contents. "Their pilfering doesn't amount to very much," he said at last, looking up. "Thero was but little coined, and they were too lazy to take tbe trouble to make more."

Arising be toook a seat on the oorner of the box, and again perused the missive whichStnrapy had handed him.

The last clause is the enl thing that amounts to anything," he said, "If they will only stick to th.u. we are all right yet."

Ya», I noticed that," said Stumpy slowly, "an' I think they'll do it." Edwards sat silent for sometime. He seemed to be thinking busily, and at last said: "Stumpv, It's you and me now. and wo ma just as well get rich at this business as' not. I have looked at the matteisin every conceivable light, and I do not think that Jack and Wart will ever trouble themselves to report on' ns. They hold no grudge, and besides, tbey would not gain anything by it, ana might lose a great deal. Here we are, in the center of this swamp that extends for miles all arouud us, and it's not Hfcetythat any one wl I ever discover our retreat as long as we take tbe precaution to come and go after dark, whenever It is possible to do so. There is no one through here bnt a few boatcra and trappers, and there is plenty of gatne everywhere there is nothing to entice them in here. Even provided thej should happen through, the island Unx more than seventy five yards In diameter, and being oovered with thick ander-

ft,

trowth, thoy might oome to the edge of and then not pisoover onr habitation. And if tbey did th«y would ndverflnd this pit, but wonld merely think we were unnters and trappers, strange aa our being in here might appear. We will oont niie to make the other ahanty our pretended stopping pi see, and nobody will ever be tbe wiser. Leyvlen and that joung Kenwood are tbe only trappers snd hunters in this Immedlste vicinity, and If they make any unpleasant discoveries, why—"

He stopped with shrug, and a peculiar look at Stumpy, which that worthy understood.

I sea, I'ap'inhe aald, with an appreciative look. "Dead men don't talk rerrmuch and its my opine Itathe real thing, an'that wecanH do better'n tar stay here." "Very well, then," said Edwards riaing, and taking up tae light. "A« every thing Is arranged we may as well gp up.

Climbing to tbe room above, they carefully replaced the ala« over the "stairway," then sat and conversed some time longer, arranging tbelr nefarious plaus, before retiring for the night. At last Stumpy an«e.

I bl'eve I shall bunk in here," be remarked. "Will you, or will ye go In t'other room.

I gueaa I will go in there." replied Edwarda,and riaing, bepawed Into-the other apartment. Tbia waa somewhat smaller than tbe other, but aimilar In appearance.

Depositing tbe light on a rude sort of ahelf at one aide of the room, be drew a stool near It, and seating himself, drew a newspaper from his pocket, snd elanced over tbe advertising colums till hia eyea mated on tbe following:

INFORMATION WANTK1,

Aa lo the whereabouts of KB«wooD.son HOOKK KKKWOOO, deceased. If this meets hU eye he Is nqo«*te«4 10 communicate Immediately witb Uie underilgnwi.

RUSSELL. A URKKN, Attorney*. r• 125 afreet, New ork. Turning the paper, be perused a local bit of goasip, wherein mention waa made of tbe recent death of Victor Kenwood, and the fact that the vaat estates reverted to Stanley Kenwood, grandson of tbe deceased, followed by a brief description of Kenwood Hall and ita surroundings, and congratulations on tbe lucky beir, wherever be might be.

Roatorlng tbe paper to bis pocket, Rd wards rubbed ills bands gleefully together, while an evil expression swept over bis ftw. [OmfiaMd onSetumLk JPtige.} a