The Columbian. [volume] (Bloomsburg, Pa.) 1866-1910, 1893-03-10
UP THE FLUME.

Il was the fall OF the year, and the
ripened glory Of autumn was over the
far southwestern town. The streets
were yellow with the golden beams Of
the sun; beams that crept up as the
day heightened, and mingled with the
purple OF the mesas,
The morning was so beautiful that
Sheriff Clifford. as he stepped into the
post office, whistled familiar air, with
happy enjoyment Of life in general and
the weather in particular. But his ex-
uberance was checked by the appear
ance of man whose dark face wore
sinister look, and who was known rs
"Pedro, the Mexican teamster."
Sheriff Clifford knew that the fellow
bore an evil reputation that deeds
dark and dire had been attributed to
him. But heretofore he had been cum
ming and stealthy, and no accusation
could be proven. But this morning lie
appeared possessed of spirit just the
reverse, for when Sheriff Clifford in.
quired, why do you carry that gun.
Pedro p he replied with brsvado. Il
am going to kill Hercules, the Ranger,
on sight T.
Clifford was startled by an exclama-
tion of such import uttered in SO free
. manner, and by man not given to
jesting.
Il wouldn't say that, Pedro; put up
the weapon; you do not need it.
His reply was vindictive and deter
mined.
IL have sworn to kill Hercules, and
am going to do it i
Don't talk nonsense, Pedro Give
me that gun and say you are only jest
ing, or shall be obliged to arrest
you"
Pedro knew that he must yield to
Gifiord's authority; he passed over the
gun, cunningly remarking as he did so:
Pedro is no fool When he is in
earnest he keeps his own counsel"
Clifford, much relieved replied:
Take my advice, and do nothing
thst will lodge you in my quarters"
With a characteristic shrug of his
shoulders, the Mexican went into the
street. Sheriff Clifford was troubled
even after the assurance given him,
and he sought out Hercules, to warn
him to be on his guard in case OF
treachery on Pedro's part. Around a
corner came man Of colossal height
and proportions. He was six feet five,
with shoulders straight and of great
breadth graceful, sinswy limbs head
finely formed and hair closely cropped.
A face that could wear fierce, cruel
look or kind and genial one, Just as
the heart throbbed to the mans untu
tored nature or to his spssmodic fits OF
gentleness and humility. Because Of
his extraordinary size he was called
Hercules. and because of his rowing
life, the Ranger"
He was walking along with q smil,
on his lips. Like Sheriff Clifford, h,
fslt the exceeding beauty and splendol
Of the morning, and thoughts generous
and noble prompted him to kindl,
deeds. He had taken q sobbing chilt
up in his strong arms and soOthed it t,
quiet. He had restored the fallel
bundle of an old woman, taken her t.
her home, and as he said good day,
slipped five dollar bill into he
trembling hand. He had taken sa
loon keeper to task for selling liquor t.
youth whose refined face spoke elo
quently of childhood of Christian
training. The lad told Hercules tina
he had come "out West" and fallen int
evil ways
Why not go home again, young
ster r
Can not do it haven't got tn
money" was the terse, hopeless reply
rs that all ?" said Hercules. Here
take this purse and what it contains
the coach is just leaving"
Before the boy could realize his goo
fortune he was aboard and off for til
East, Hercules sauntered on in ter
der, thoughtful mood until he WI
accosted by Sheriff Clifford.
"Glad to meet you, Hercules 4; d
not know whether this communicate
has weight or not Pedro, the tea:
ster, has said that he will kill you c
sight, or, at least, before sunset.
Instantly the blood of Hercules wi
on fire. But his tone was quiet, III
the sheriff was deceived by it.
"Pedro said that, did he? Well, v
shall see p
Then he passed on. and in lone
by street encountered Pedro. Befo
the teamster could make moveme
Hercules said +:
Hands up, Senior Pedro r.