CHAPTER XVI. IN ASH FORK.

A YOUNG MARINER'S PERIL. SWANS CARRIED OVER NIAGARA FALLS. PARA RUBBER AND ITS GATHERING. QUEER CALIFORNIAN TRADERS. BURROWING FISHES. TURN RIVER TO MINE ITS BED.

CHARACTERS THAT APPEAR IN THIS STORY.

=Matt King=, concerning whom there has always been a mystery--a lad of splendid athletic abilities, and never-failing nerve, who has won for himself, among the boys of the Western town, the popular name of "Mile-a-minute Matt."

=Carl Pretzel=, a cheerful and rollicking German lad, who is led by a fortunate accident to hook up with Motor Matt in double harness.

=James Q. Tomlinson=, the jeweler from Denver, who seems to have troubles of his own, and about whose identity there is more or less confusion.

=Trymore=, } a trio of sporting gentlemen who believe in hunting big =Hank=, } game, and who consider themselves experts in the line =Spangler=,} of choice gems.

=Pringle=, once honest Carl's pardner in vaudeville, but latterly engaged in a far less honorable business.

=Gregory=, a chauffeur.

=Hop Loo=, } =Charley Sing=,} the two eccentric laundrymen of Ash Fork.