The Squaw Spy

This catalog issue from Beadle and Adams presents a front matter listing of their dime handbook series alongside the opening chapters of The Squaw Spy; or, The Rangers of the Lava-Beds by Captain Charles Howard. The narrative, set April 26, 1873, concerns General Gillem's military campaign against the Modoc tribe during the Lava Beds War. Kit South, an Oregonian scout, and Artena, a Modoc woman spy, provide Gillem intelligence on Captain Jack's movements. When three supposed reinforcements arrive, Artena warns that one is a Modoc spy; the spy is caught. Kit learns from Artena that Modoc raiders have captured Oregon settlers including 'Reesa, a girl with blue eyes whose mother was killed. Kit resolves to kidnap Captain Jack that night before rescuing 'Reesa from the Modoc stronghold. Chapter II shifts to the Modoc camp, where armed warriors in captured cavalry uniforms gather around a cave fire with their captives.