Boys."

"The money is no temptation to me whatever," asserted Jack. "I don't
need it. But you must consider that I was greatly chagrined and
mortified when I discovered what a clever game had been played upon me,
and I am very anxious to even matters up with those villains. Besides, I
rather like the wild, exciting adventures in view if I run after those
outlaws."

"You must not forget that it may cost your life."

"Oh, I am aware of that! And say---"

"Well?"

"How would you like to accompany us?"

"First-rate. I would be of great help to you, too, as I am familiar with
all parts of the State."

"That settles the matter then. You go with us."

"When will you depart?"

"I'm going to write to the Governor of Missouri, and I'll go just as
soon as I get a reply from him."

"I'll write him at the same time then, and I feel confident that we
won't be there long before we break up that gang of outlaws, and have
the James Boys behind the bars."

CHAPTER IV.
OFF FOR MISSOURI.

The sheriff resolved to remain in Wrightstown, and start from there on
the Terror, with Jack and his two friends.

While awaiting a reply from the Governor of Missouri he put up at the
Sea Spider house, and went daily to the young inventor's workshop to
help get the engine ready.

Jack had to purchase many necessary articles to equip the electric
engine, and while they were stocking her, he said one day to Timberlake:

"As you are the sheriff of Clay County, Missouri, I cannot understand
what, right you had to desert your post of duty there, and go off on a
chase after the James Boys all the way to New York."

"That mystery can easily be explained," replied Timberlake with a smile.
"I was taking a vacation, to which I am entitled, when I learned of
their proposed trip to the metropolis to see the sights. Instead of
taking a rest, I became excited into a longing to capture them, and
started in pursuit as a detective would have done."

"Oh, that accounts for it!"

"You see I always carry with me a warrant for the arrest of the James
Boys and their gang, and therefore was prepared to take them had luck
favored me."

Just then Tim stumped up to them, and proffering a plug of tobacco to
the sheriff he asked:

"Have a chew?"

"No, I never use plug."

"Yer werry welcome, said Tim, and he took a bite.

"Don't mention it," laughed the sheriff.

"I've been havin' a awful hard time o' it, Timberlake."

"You don't say, Tim! What