Frank Reade Library, No. 13

Frank Reade, Jr., in the North-West; or, Wild Adventures Among the Blackfeet

This science-fiction adventure serial by "No Name" follows inventor Frank Reade, Jr., as he tests his steam-powered mechanical horse across the northwestern frontier. While exploring reports of geysers and hot springs beyond Yellowstone, Reade rescues settler Leslie Walker from attacking Blackfeet warriors using his remarkable Steam Horse—a steel-plated mechanical beast powered by furnace and boiler, controlled via reins that regulate jaw-activated throttle valves. The wagon features retractable steel plating and gun ports.

Reade provides detailed mechanical exposition before returning to find Walker's prairie schooner missing and three Blackfeet bodies. The women have vanished. Despite evidence of capture, Walker despairs they're dead. The group camps on the plain to search at daylight, with Pomp preparing dinner while Barney and Pomp engage in habitual practical joking.