Evening star., 1935-07-07
Magazine Section

stopped. picked it up and flung it as
far as he could in the direction taken
by the horseman.
He saw the black object sailing
through the air, becoming invisible
as it dropped to point in line with
the ridge of mountains. Suddenly
great mt ohroom of vivid fire appeared
as by magic A terrific detonation
shook the earth. The galloping rider
turned to look back. His horse
stumbled to its knees. The rider
pitched forward, rolled over two or
three times and lay still. As though
the explosion OF the grenade had been
a prearranged signal. the horsemen
started to charge.
Wharton muttered almost inaudibly
rs he nestled his rifle against his cheek,
Then you know all about the Waxon
Gang"
What do you know about them?'
Dick asked. startled.
Wharton's only answer was to
squeeze the trigger of his rifle. The
men were coming, and coming fast.
Bullets were raining against the rock
barricade, scattering up singing bits
of gravel and rock dust. ricocheting off
into the night air. Dick worked the
repeating mechanism of his rifle. These
galloping horsemen were difficult tar
gets in the moonlight as they came
dashing on. spreading out in circle,
'swerving their horses from side to side
to confuse the aim of the defenders.
Dick heard the unmistakable thunk
made by bullet as it strikes living
tissue. saw dust eddying up from
Wharton coat, saw the look OF panied
surprise on Wharton's face as his left
arm became limp and his rifle clat-
tered to the rock. A spasm of pain
crossed Wharton's face. then he said:
Virginia, hand me six-gun. I'm
good for hell Of lot of fight yet"
The attackers had used their horses
to swing out in circle, fianking the
defenders. Now, as at signal, they
flung themselves from the saddles and
sought cover among the rocks. A man
on galloping horse is not an easy
mark for one who is shooting by NOON
light. but he stands but little chance
of doing accurate shooting at dis
tance. Now that the Waxon Gang
were on the ground, however, hiding
behind rocks within easy revolver
range. the menace of their attack was
greatly enhanced.
The men would advance forward
few running steps. then once more
drop to cover. Dick. watching them,
realized that the end must be in
evitable. He looked anxiously toward
the ridge Of hills which formed spe-
cies of amphitheatre There was no
sign of help.
when they charge" Dick said
quietly. don't take any chances.
They're the most ruthless killers the
Department has ever hunted"
A whistle sounded.
Il think they're getting ready for
charge. They'll come from all direc-
tions. Keep fiat Don't get excited"
There was lull in the firing.
Look" Virginia Daine exclaimed.
Dick followed the direction in
dicated by her pointing forefnger.
Down one OF the long slopes, scurrying
along the moonlit desert like flock of
teal whizzing down to the water,
dozen galloping horsemen were headed
straight toward the attackers.
"Flying-M reinforcements?" Vir-
ginia Daine asked excitedly.
I'VE can tell in minute" replied
Dick.
Another whistle sounded.
+ Men started running forward, firing
as they came, dropping to shelter :.
firing running :. dropping -.
firing.
Dick heard the roar of Wharton's
six-shooter. felt the jarring recoils OF