The Prairie Detective: Secret Service Series No. 24 — page 50: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

48 THE PRAIRIE DETECTIVE. leads to the belief that he contemplates a raid on the place, and that theory is strengthened by the vague threats he uttered to you. If he thought he could capture and carry you off, I am sure he would not hesitate an instant in his work. Therefore, to get way from this seemingly threatened calamity, I have thought it best to ask you if there is any reason why you would not like to join the party of hunters? The trip will be a trying one to you, but it is best to be on the safe side in times of probable danger.’’ Esther did not hesitate in her reply. In fact, her . face was crimsoned by a flush of eagerness. “Why, of course, I will go.. You know it has al- ways been my pet wish. But Marian must accom- pany me, for I should feel lonesome without her in - the company of so many men.”’ “Of course she will go,’’ replied Harper. ‘‘She was included in the proposition.”’ The girls were highly delighted at the exciting prospect, and at once set about making preparations for their departure. Ryan and Dan lost no time in purchasing what few supplies were necessary for their trip, and then proceeded to the cabin occupied by the former, in order to get everything in readiness. “Do you think,’ observed the detective, at the same time drawing the wet charges from his pistols, ~ as a preparatory measure to cleaning them—‘‘do you think we stand a better chance of catching our man by joining this party of hunters. than we should by remaining here? My theory is that Bill Creighton has been in town all winter for no other purpose than with a view of getting points which will serve him for a future raid upon the place.’ | Eomicbooks co