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- 8. The Technology of Bamboo Building 1 Historical Examples 9 Types of Bamboo 11 Positive Environmental Effects 12 Different Uses 2 The Plant 3 Cutting, Drying, Treatment and Storage 4 Physical Properties 21 Introduction 22 Resistance in Compression and Tension 26 Modulus of Elasticity 26 Performance in Fire 26 Earthquake Resistance 5 Building with Bamboo in Europe and North America 27 Introduction 27 Availability 27 Statutory Regulations 28 Fire Performance 6 General Aspects of Construction 29 Advantages and Disadvantages 29 Selection of Bamboo Canes for Construction 30 Incorrect and Correct Details 7 Basic Construction Elements 33 Canes, Planks, Strips, Laths and Belts 35 Laminated Elements 8 Tools and Their Uses 9 Joints 10 Constructive Elements and Systems 48 Columns 50 Beams, Trusses and Porticos 54 Arches 56 Floor Slabs and Roofs 58 Walls 60 Vaults 62 Domes 66 Hyperbolic Paraboloids 68 Bamboo-Supported Membrane Roofs 11 Complementary Elements 72 Floors and False Ceilings 74 Handrails, Balconies and Stairs 76 Doors and Windows 12 Reinforcing with Bamboo 78 Cement Mortar Reinforced with Bamboo Fibres 78 Concrete Elements Reinforced with Bamboo Stalks 79 Walls Reinforced with Bamboo I
- 9. Built Examples Residences 82 Stepped House in El Darién, Valle, Colombia 84 Colibrí House, Cali, Colombia 86 Guesthouse in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia 88 House in Cochahaira Village, Boyacá, Colombia 90 House in Sadhrana, Haryana, India 92 Residential Ensemble in Carmen de Apicalá, Tolima, Colombia 96 Casa Cohuatichan, Cuetzalan, Mexico 98 Prefabricated Bamboo Houses in Hawaii Cultural, Educational and Sacral Buildings 100 German School Child Day Care Centre, Cali, Colombia 101 Kindergarten and Community Centre, Naiju, Japan 104 “La Casa del pueblo” Library in Inzá, Cauca, Colombia 106 School in Rudrapur, Bangla Desh 110 School in Popayán, Cauca, Colombia 111 Green School in Sibajang Kaja Badung, Bali, Indonesia 114 Washrooms, La Selva, Spain 116 Anthroposophical Cultural Centre and Church, Cali, Colombia 118 Temporary Church in Pereira, Risaralda, Colombia 120 Nomadic Museum, Mexico City, Mexico Offices; Industrial and Infrastructural Buildings 122 Tollgate, Pereira, Colombia 124 Jewellery Factory in Ubud, Bali, Indonesia 126 Multi-storey car park façade, Leipzig, Germany 128 Office building, Darmstadt, Germany Pavilions and Experimental Structures 130 Pavilion, Vergiate, Italy 132 Zeri Pavilion, EXPO 2000, Hanover, Germany 134 Pavilions for the “German Esplanade”, Chongquing, Guangzhou, Shenyang and Wuhan, China 138 Indian Pavilion, EXPO 2010, Shanghai, China 140 Vietnamese Pavilion, EXPO 2010, Shanghai, China 142 German-Chinese House, EXPO 2010, Shanghai, China 144 Sculptures for MERAN FLORA 2004, Meran, Italy 146 Restaurant roof, Coburg, Germany 148 Exposition roof, Cologne, Germany Bridges 150 Footbridge, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany 151 Footbridge, Santa Fe de Antioquia, Colombia 152 Bridge in Cúcuta, Norte de Santander, Colombia Appendix 154 Bibliography 156 Associations, Journals 157 About the Author 158 Acknowledgements 159 Illustration Credits II
- 13. 9 historical examples Types of Bamboo The word “bamboo” was introduced by Carl von Linné in 1753. Bamboo is a grass plant like rice, corn and sugar cane. Different to these, the lignin of its tissues becomes after some years a structure as hard as wood, but more flexible and light. Bamboos, in their wild form, grow on all of the continents except Europe, from 51° north to 47° south. There are tropical and subtropical bamboos that thrive in different ecological niches, from cloud forests with humidity levels above 90% like the Guadua an- gustifolia in the Chocó Department of Colombia, to semi-arid zones of India (Dendrocalamus strictus). The majority of species are found in warm zones with humidity levels of over 80%, in tropical cloud forests, and in clayey and humid soils; for this reason they are often found near water. A few grow in dry climates or over 4,000 m above sea level. In China and Japan there are also species that can survive temperatures below zero degrees. Approximately 1,200 species exist, of which there are 750 in Asia and 450 in America. Of these last, the greatest diversity is found in Brazil (Hidalgo, 2003). It is esti- mated that 37 million hectares are covered with bamboo forests: 6 million in China, 9 million in India, 10 million in ten countries of Latin America and the majority in Southeast Asia (Lobovikov et al., 2007). Since antiquity, bamboo has been a construction material used to build basic habitats to complex structures; it has formed part of a set of elements that were an essential part of cultural develop- ment in Asia and America. In tropical zones, the bamboos most commonly used in construction are the Bambusa, Chusquea, Dendrocalamus, Gigantochloa and Guadua. Those of the group Phyllostachys prefer temperate zones. The following is a list of the bamboos most commonly used in construction. Their characteristics are briefly mentioned, with the proviso that data can vary depending on local conditions. More information on the species can be found in Farelly (1938), Young and Haun (1961) and McClure (1966). Bambusa • Bambusa balcoa Height: 12 – 20 m. Diameter: 8 – 15 cm. Origin: India. Note: internode thickness of up to 3 cm. • Bambusa disimulator Height: 12 m. Diameter: 6 cm. Origin: Southern China. Note: fine and very hard internode. • Bambusa edilis Height: 20 m. Diameter: 16 cm. Origin: China. • Bambusa polymorpha Height: 27 m. Diameter: 15 cm. Origin: China, Bengal, Burma. • Bambusa stenostachya Height: 22 m. Diameter: 15 cm. Origin: China. • Bumbusa vulgaris Height: 18 m. Diameter: 10 cm. Origin: Asia, Americas. Note: high starch content. • Bambusa bambos (L.) Voss Height: 30 m. Diameter: 15 – 18 cm. Origin: Southeast Asia. Note: thick shell. • Bambusa nepalensis Height: 20 m. Diameter: 10 cm. • Bambusa oldhami Munro (“Green bam- boo”) Height: 6 – 12 m. Diameter: 3 – 12 cm. Origin: Taiwan. Note: strong green colour, short inter- nodes. • Bambusa vulgaris, Schrader ex Wendland Height: 6 – 15 m. Diameter: 5 – 10 cm. Origin: Southern China. • Bambusa vulgaris, Schrader ex Wend- land, var. striata Origin: Southeast Asia. Note: mutation of Bambusa vulgaris with yellow-gold colour and green stripes. 1 Historical Examples
- 14. the technology of bamboo building 10 Chusquea • Chusquea culeou Height: 6 m. Diameter: 4 cm. Origin: Chile. Note: It grows in the southernmost zones of the planet, and has a very strong culm. • Chusquea culeou Desvaux (“coligüe”, “colihue” or “culeú” in Chile) Height: 4 – 6 m. Diameter: 2 – 4 cm. Origin: Central America, South America. Note: solid stalk, yellow colour. • Chusquea quila Kunth (“quila” in Chile) Origin: Chile. Note: solid stalk. Dendrocalamus A group of bamboos with many varieties; they grow very tall and are important for construction. • Dendrocalamus balcoa (Bambusa bal- coa) Height: 20 m. Diameter: 20 cm. Origin: Southeast Asia and India. • Dendrocalamus giganteus (“Giant bam- boo”) One of the largest bamboos, it has a diameter of 30 cm or more. It grows up to 20 cm per day and reaches a height of more than 30 m. The species is originally from India, Burma, Sri Lanka and Thai- land, and is used for large structures, for furniture and for the production of paper. • Dendrocalamus asper (“Bucket bamboo” in Brazil) Resistant to below-zero temperatures. It does not grow as much as Dendrocalamus giganteus; reaches a height of 25 m and has a diameter of 20 cm. Its stalk is very hard and cracks less than D. giganteus while drying. Excellent for construction. • Dendrocalamus latiflorus Height: 20 m. Diameter: 20 cm. Origin: Taiwan, Southern China. Note: internodes of up to 70 cm; very thick stalk (more than 2.5 cm). Gigantochloa • Gigantochloa apus Height: 16 m. Diameter: 10 cm. Origin: Malaysia and Indonesia. • Gigantochloa atroviolacea (“Black bam- boo”) Height: 13 m. Diameter: 8 cm. Origin: Malaysia and Indonesia. • Gigantochloa levis Height: 16 m. Diameter: 10 – 15 cm. Origin: Phillipines. Guadua The guadua is a type endemic to South America. Its name was given by Karl Sigis- mund Kunth in 1822, who took it from the term “guadua” used by the indigenous peoples of Colombia and Ecuador. The forests of guadua are called “guaduales” (2.4). • Guadua angustifolia Kunth The guadua most commonly used in con- struction; it has a diameter between 9 cm and 12 cm, exceptionally can reach up to 21 cm. Its daily growth can be 12 cm per day, and after 3 months it reaches 80% to 90% of its definitive height, which can be between 15 m and 30 m high. Among its varieties are bicolor Londoño and nigra Londoño, which have varia- tions of form according to the climate: “onion” with internodes that are long and efficient in tension; “club” with inter- nodes more closely spaced and efficient in compression; “castle”, which is less efficient in compression and more suit- able for the elaboration of planks; and “goitred”, characterised by its irregular stalks. • Guadua aculeata Height: 25 m. Diameter: 12 cm. Origin: Mexico to Panama. • Guadua chacoensis (“tacuaruzú”) Height: 20 m. Diameter: 8 – 12 cm. Origin: northern Argentina and Bolivian tropics. • Guadua paniculata Munro (“pretty”) Height: 10 m. Diameter: 3 cm. Origin: Bolivian tropic. Note: the upper part is solid, while the lower has small openings. • Guadua superba Huber (“tacuarembó”) Height: 20 m. Diameter: 9 – 12 cm. Origin: Bolivian tropics. Note: cracks easily. Phyllostachys The bamboos of this group grow in temper- ate zones and have the characteristic of forming nodes in zigzag or other irregular forms. Is originally from China, nevertheless many species were cultivated in Japan, the Americas and Europe. • Phyllostachys aurea (2.7) Height: 5 m. Diameter: 2 cm. Origin: China and Japan. • Phyllostachys bambusoides Height: 22 m. Diameter: 14 cm. Origin: Japan. • Phyllostachys nigra, var. henonis Height: 16 m. Diameter: 9 cm. Origin: China, introduced into Japan and the United States. • Phyllostachys pubescens (“Moso”, “Mao Zhu”) Height: 21 m. Diameter: 17 cm. Origen: China, introduced into Japan and the United States. • Phyllostachys vivax Height: 21 m. Diameter: 12 cm. Origin: China.
- 15. 11 historical examples Positive Environmental Effects Biomass Production Bamboo is a rapid-growth natural resource that can produce much more dry biomass per hectare per year than eucalyptus. The production of bamboo biomass depends on many factors and therefore varies significantly. According to Liese and Düking (2009), the production of dry aerial biomass from Bambusa bambos in Southern India reaches 47 tonnes per hectare per year if it has been cultivated, while that of Chusquea culeou of Central Chile reaches only 10.5 tonnes per hectare per year. According to Riaño et al. (2002), starting from new cultivation, the Guadua angustifolia in Cauca Valley, Colombia, produces approximately 100 tonnes per hectare in six years. According to Cruz Ríos (2009), the production in one plantation of Guadua angustifolia reached up to 594.2 tonnes per hectare in seven years. Reduction of Soil Erosion Bamboo has a dense network of roots that anchors earth and helps to lessen erosion due to rain and flooding. Water Retention One hectare of Guadua angustifolia can retain over 30,000 liters of water (Sabogal, 1979). Regulation of Hydraulic Flow Retaining water in its stem, bamboo conserves water in the rainy season, using it later in the dry season. Temperature Reduction Thanks to their leaves, bamboo forests reduce air temperature through water evaporation. Sequestering of CO2 Plants that assimilate CO2 for photosynthesis, storing it in their biomass, make an important contribu- tion to the global climate. Because of its rapid growth, bamboo can take in more CO2 than a tree. The Guadua angustifolia Kunth takes in 54 tonnes of CO2 per hectare during its first six years of growth (Londoño, 2003). This might be a relevant fact for international greenhouse gas emission allowance trading. However, this fact is only valid if the bamboo plant that has sequestered the CO2 is transformed into products with long life spans. According to Cruz Ríos (2009), the absorption of carbon at one plantation of Guadua angustifolia is 149.9 tonnes per hectare in the first seven years, which is an average of 21.41 tonnes of carbon per year per hectare, and a natural growth of Guadua angustifolia, with a density of 5755 plants per hectare, has absorbed a total of 132.6 tonnes of carbon. After six years, the bamboo stock stabilises the quantity of carbon absorption, due to the fact that this is totally vegetative development. “Being a plant that self-regenerates, bamboo has, with adequate management and harvest, a permanent CO2 absorption, which does not happen with other species. The guadua is planted only once and with good management converts into a permanent plantation.” (Cruz Ríos, 2009) Primary Energy According to Janssen (1981), the production of bamboo uses 300 MJ/m3, compared with 600 MJ/m3 for wood.
- 16. the technology of bamboo building 12 Different Uses The use depends on the type of bamboo, its age and the part of the plant. Figure 1.1 describes the uses for the bamboo Guadua angustifolia Kunth. Due to its favourable mechanical characteristics, great flexibility, rapid growth, low weight and low cost, bamboo is a construction material with many applications. It is estimated that one billion people live in houses constructed from bamboo (Liese and Düking, 2009); for example, in Bangla Desh over 70% and in Guayaquil, Ecuador, 50% of the population uses it in construction. In seismic zones bamboo construction is preferred due to its lightness and flexibility. In humid tropical zones bamboo is used in construction since it is a local, cheap and easily handled material; furthermore in these areas it allows walls with low thermic mass. The ideal use of large bamboos like Guadua angustifolia depends on their age. In their first days, bamboo hearts are used as human food; between six and 12 months, strips extracted from the external zone of the cane are ideal for making fabrics (1.2 and 1.3); at two years the canes are better for making plank boards (see Chapter 7, “Canes, Planks, Strips, Laths and Belts”) and normally between three and five years the stalks are ideal for use in construction. USES ACCORDING TO THE PLANT section DESCRIPTION HEIGHT LENGTH Leader Returns to the earth as organic material Apical part of the plant 20 m 1.20 – 2 m Stick Structural straps for roofs, and guides for transitory cultivations Part of the stalk with the smallest section 18 m 3 m Top Middle In structures such as roof purlins, scaffolding, structural columns for greenhouses Elaboration of planks, slender columns and beams Because of its diameter, it is the most marketable part of the upper stalk Part of the stalk most used, for its diameter 15 m 11 m 4 m 8 m Bottom Columns in civil works, greenhouses and fences In this part, the stalk has the greatest diameter. It is the most resistant part of the plant 3 m 3 m Rhizome Sculptures, furniture and children’s toys Network of underground stalks 2m 2 m USES ACCORDING TO AGE 30 days Food 1 year Basketwork 2 years Planks, Strips, Laths 3 to 4 years Civil Structures, Floors, Laminates Top Part Middle Part Bottom Part 1.1 1.2 1.3
- 17. 13 historical examples The majority of traditional houses in the rural zones of warm humid climates where bamboo grows, are constructed of this material. Figures 1.4 and 1.5 show examples from Indonesia and India. Due to walls of bamboo planks there is sufficient air circulation. A typical use of bamboo canes is in the construction of scaffolding. In Asia these are found with heights of more than 40 storeys (Matthews 1985) (1.6). New is the use of bamboo strips of 1 × 1 cm parallelly forming a structural beam of 12 cm in diameter, composed of approximately 100 laths secured with leather; see p. 86 f. Another common use in regions where bamboo grows is for crafts and everyday objects (1.7 to 1.10), musical instruments (1.11 to 1.13 and 1.19) and furniture (1.14 to 1.16). New is the experimental use in vehicles like bicycles, cars and buses: figure 1.17 shows the design of a bamboo buggy by Jörg Stamm; Julio César Toro has designed and built a rural bus for 20 people (1.18). To make the body, the floor and the railings, he used 40 lineal meters of guadua and for the roof he used 63 small boards of macana. The bumper was made of laminates of guadua. Asia has pioneered the industrial development of the use of bamboo in laminates (see Chapter 7, “Laminated Elements”) and fabrics (1.2). Recently in Latin America this process has been initiated in Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica and Ecuador. Fibres treated with a viscose process are being used in China as are those of wood cellulose, giving a very resistant and smooth fabric. 1.7 1.10 1.11 1.8 1.9 1.5 1.4 1.6
- 18. the technology of bamboo building 14 The industrial production of paper using bamboo pulp was devel- oped in India around 1910 (Hidalgo, 2003). One of the oldest and most diversified techniques of uniting bamboo elements are fabrics in a plank style (1.2 and 1.3). Because of the friction between their elements they form stable structures. Fine strips braided into large ropes were also used in nautical applications. These have a greater resistance to abrasion than those of hemp (Dunkelberg, 1985). Thomas Edison tested thousands of vegetable fibres for use as fila- ments in light bulbs and found that the fibre of a bamboo from Japan was the best. It lasted 2450 hours when lit. After this discovery, the General Electric Company used this type of filament for 14 years. A scientist from China studied the different applications of bamboo, classifying 1386 different uses (Lübke, 1961). 1.17 1.12 1.14 1.15 1.16 1.13 1.18 1.19
- 19. 15 the plant The bamboo stalk grows directly from the rhizome (subterranean stalk). The rhizomes of pachymorphic bamboos grow in all directions, forming a three-dimensional network with a height of up to 2 m (2.1). The stems grow very close together, forming a bush (2.9). Bamboos with leptomorphic rhizomes grow from a horizontally lineal rhizome (2.2). There are also combinations of these types. Bamboo is characterised by having all of the nodes and internodes of the adult culm compressed in the heart (sprout); only the internodes stretch during its growth, beginning with the lower ones (2.3). In the same way, the difference in diameter of the nodes is maintained when the cane reaches its de- finitive height, obtaining its slightly conical form. The mother plants (first generation plants) have a smaller diameter; in the following three generations, they thicken a little each time (Londoño, 2003). The Guadua angustifolia Kunth grows up to 21 cm per day and in one month reaches 80% of its maximum height, which it completes in five more months, reaching between 15 m and 30 m (Londoño, 2003). The productivity is between 1,200 and 1,350 canes per hectare per year. The process of lignification (becoming woody) takes between four and six years; after this period its vascular bundles close and dry out, and the stalk can be used for construction. 2.1 2.4 2.2 2.5 2.3 2 The Plant
- 20. the technology of bamboo building 16 During the growth state, the humidity content can be up to 80% in the first part of the stalk, and after four to six years, when the stalk is hard, lowers to approximately 20%. Bamboos which grow on inclined land with little water are stronger and, therefore, more appropriate for construction than bamboos that grow in flat humid areas. They are stronger in compression since their tissue is denser and has more fibres. Bamboos are grass plants that have very long flowering periods, with a cycle between two and 100 years (for large bamboos between 40 and 80). The flowering of a species can be gregarious; that is, it blooms at the same time all over a continent, or the world, generally only once in its lifetime. Af- terwards the plant dies (2.7 and 2.8). The Guadua angustifolia does not die after its yearly flowering period, which is associated with strong summers, be they occasional or continuous (Londoño, 2003). The colour of bamboo canes is generally green; after becoming woody they change colour to between yellow and brown. Black bamboo and Bambusa vulgaris (2.10 and 2.11) are exceptions. Reproduction can be by: • Chusquin method (small plants that emerge from the mother rhizome). • Parts of the stem with node and bud. If a part of the stem with more nodes is used, one must open the internodes so that water can enter. • Parts of the rhizome. • Seeds. 2.7 2.8 2.6 2.10 2.11 2.9
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- 22. "Old man Nixon?" "Yes," answered Gerald, reluctantly. "Humph! that's the man that came near getting robbed yesterday?" "Yes," answered Gerald, uneasily. "Lemme see. He kept a lot of gold pieces in the house." "You seem to know all about it." "Yes; I heard. He kept them in a tin box—very much like that," and the tramp indicated the box in the wagon. "Well, suppose he did?" said Gerald, eyeing his companion closely. The tramp laughed. "Only that you've got the box in this here wagon, and the gold, too." "Now for it!" thought Gerald. "The crisis is near at hand!" "You might be mistaken," he answered, trying not to show the excitement he felt. "And then again I mightn't. You're taking the gold to the bank in Fairfield." "Who told you so?" "Ah, the cat's out of the bag!" said the tramp, triumphantly. "Well," said Gerald, with apparent frankness, "as you seem to know I may as well own up that you are right. I am glad to have you with me, as some one might try to rob me, and I can rely on your assistance." The tramp laughed long and loud. "Oh, yes," he replied, "you can depend on me. I won't let anyone else have the money." "Thank you! I feel safe now."
- 23. The tramp laughed again. To him it seemed like a delicious joke. He did not seem to be in a hurry to possess himself of the booty, as he felt sure he could have it at any time. It was a good joke that Gerald seemed quite unsuspicious of his intentions. "How much gold might there be in the box?" he asked. "Not far from a thousand dollars," said Gerald, frankly. The tramp smacked his lips. He had never before bagged so much booty. It really seemed like a big stroke of luck. "A thousand dollars!" he repeated. "That's a big sum!" "Yes, it is a large sum, as you say." "Suppose you and I divide it. That'll be five hundred apiece." "I see you are joking," said Gerald. "It isn't ours. It belongs to Mr. Nixon." "He's an old man. He don't need it. Besides, he has plenty more." "Has he really?" asked Gerald, innocently. "To be sure! Everybody knows that the old man is a miser. Why, I've no doubt he is worth ten thousand dollars." "Nor have I any doubt," said Gerald to himself. "But, of course, that is none of our business." "Look here, youngster; you seem to be as simple as they make 'em." "Why?" asked Gerald, in affected surprise. "You can't see that I am a bad man, and have made up my mind to have that gold." "You don't really mean it? You are trying to frighten me." "No more nonsense! Stop the horse, and I'll relieve you of the box." "But what will Mr. Nixon say?"
- 24. "Tell him it was taken from you." "Oh, this is terrible! Won't you take ten dollars and let me go?" "No; I must have the whole. Stop the horse, I say!" With an appearance of great reluctance Gerald obeyed directions and halted the horse. The tramp descended from the wagon. "Now hand me the box," he said. Gerald allowed him to take out the box. Then he whipped up the horse, leaving the tramp, as he supposed, master of the situation. He laughed as he saw Gerald driving off. "The boy is pretty well scared," he said to himself.
- 26. CHAPTER XXVI SAUL GRIDLEY SEEKS REVENGE The tramp was only amused by Gerald's precipitate flight. There was no object in pursuing him, as he had obtained what he sought— the box of gold coins. He was in a hurry to open it, and realize his good fortune. He felt that Fortune had been kind to him. When once the gold was transferred to his pockets, he would leave the neighborhood, as he knew very well that by the miners' code the robbery would be punished with death. There was an obstacle, however, to his realizing the fruits of victory. The tin box was locked. "Why didn't the kid give me the key?" he complained, in a tone of annoyance. However, that was not a serious consideration. He could break open the box with a large stone, and he at once began to look for one. He had to go some distance before he found one that would answer his purpose. Meanwhile, as he carried the box, he heard from time to time the rattling of the coins as he interpreted the sound, though, as we know, the noise was made by the gravel stones with which Gerald had weighted the box. However, it was only prolonging his anticipation, and anticipation is always pleasant. He laughed to himself as he thought of Gerald arriving at the bank without the gold. Decidedly it was the richest joke of the season. At last he found a stone that suited his purpose, and began to hammer away at the lock of the box. There was only slight delay.
- 27. The lid flew open, and with a smile of gleeful anticipation the thief looked into it. The bitterness of his disappointment can scarcely be imagined. The cup of success was dashed from his lips just as he was ready to taste its contents. The result of his enterprise was only a heap of gravel stones! "The boy has made an idiot of me!" he said, bitterly. "But where is the gold?" It did not take him long to guess the nature of the trick that Gerald had played upon him. He gnashed his teeth with rage when he thought of Gerald riding away with the gold in his pocket, or elsewhere secreted in the wagon. "I'd like to choke the kid!" he growled between his set teeth. He understood now why Gerald had driven away so rapidly. If there had been the slightest chance of overtaking him, he would have set out in pursuit. But by this time the boy was nearly a mile away, and it would have been foolish for him to entertain such a thought. In his anger he kicked the tin box furiously; and, not content with that, he picked it up and flung it as far as he was able. He pictured to himself Gerald entering the bank and depositing the gold—his gold, as he regarded it—and entertaining the bank officials with an account of the way in which he had evaded the robber. If only he could be revenged upon Gerald, that would be a satisfaction though the gold coins were lost. Meanwhile Gerald kept on his way till he reached the bank. He introduced himself to the receiving teller as representing Mr. Nixon, and began to draw out the gold coins from his pocket. "You seem loaded down with gold," said the teller. "Why didn't you bring the money in a box or bag?" "I started with it in a box, but put it in my pockets for security."
- 28. "You thought that more secure?" "Yes, sir. But for my doing so I should have been robbed." "How is that?" Gerald explained the encounter with the tramp. "I see you are right," said the teller, approvingly. "The thief will probably be considerably disappointed when he opens the box." "I should like to have been present and witnessed his surprise," said Gerald, laughing. "Are you not afraid he will waylay you on your way back, and try to get revenge?" Gerald looked thoughtful. He realized the danger. "What would you advise me to do?" he asked. "I'll tell you. How soon do you start?" "In an hour." "Would you object to a companion?" "No. I should be glad of company." "Then it can be arranged. My brother-in-law wants to go to Campville. He is a strong, robust man, who is six feet in height, and would tip the scales at two hundred. If you have him with you I think your dishonest friend won't be in any hurry to attack you." Gerald listened to these words with satisfaction. He knew that the highwayman was more than a match for him in physical strength, and might inflict upon him a serious injury. The plan proposed would insure his safety. It chanced at this moment that the person referred to entered the bank. "Louis," said the receiving teller, "here is a young man who offers to give you a ride to Campville."
- 29. "I shall consider it quite a favor." "I ought to warn you that he may be stopped by a highwayman. If you feel nervous——" "If there is only one person, I think we can manage him, Mr.——" "Lane—Gerald Lane. Mr. Lane, here is my brother-in-law, Louis Bean." Gerald shook hands with his new acquaintance, and gave a brief account of his encounter with the tramp on his way over. "We will give him a warm reception if he undertakes to attack us, Mr. Lane. You played a neat trick on him. So you represent Mr. Nixon?" "Yes, sir. I shall remain with him for a time." "Have you known him long?" "I was sent out by a friend in the East, to whom he wrote, explaining his need of help." "I suppose the old man is rich?" "At any rate, he has money enough to support himself in comfort." "He hasn't enjoyed much of that for some years. I remember his cabin at Campville. It wasn't fit for any one to live in." "I induced him to move into the house formerly occupied by Jim Morris." "Was he willing to move? Didn't he mind the expense?" "Mr. Nixon is not a mean man. He lived poorly because he had not energy enough to make other arrangements. He lets me spend whatever I like for him." "He is fortunate in having someone to look after him. When do you want to start?" "As soon as I have had some dinner. Is there a restaurant or hotel in the town?"
- 30. "No, but I will take you round to my house. Mrs. Bean will be glad to give you a dinner." Half an hour later Gerald and his new friend set out for Campville. "If your friend of the morning stops you," said Louis Bean, "it will be at a point about four miles distant. When we approach the place I will get out and conceal myself, to give him a chance to show what he intends to do. I will see that he does no harm. We will have another joke at his expense!" This proposal suited Gerald, who had no objection to a second discomfiture of the ruffian from whom he had already had one narrow escape. At the point indicated by his companion, Louis Bean got out of the wagon and hid himself behind a clump of trees. "Perhaps he may have seen me," he said. "If so, we shall have no fun. We shall soon find out." "When matters are near the danger line," said Bean, "blow this whistle." Gerald drove on slowly, hoping that the ruffian would appear. He had a sense of humor which would be gratified by the opportunity to turn the tables on him. Saul Gridley's anger had not cooled in the three hours since he saw Gerald riding off, after serving him a trick which humiliated him the more because he felt that he had been worsted by a mere boy. He resolved to punish him for the trick, and felt sure that he would have a chance to do it. There was but one road by which Gerald could return from Fairfield—the same road by which he went.
- 32. CHAPTER XXVII SAUL GRIDLEY'S UNPLEASANT SURPRISE All at once, five minutes after Bean had left the wagon, the tall form of Saul Gridley appeared in the center of the road. He smiled grimly. "So you have come back?" he said, as Gerald pulled up. "Yes," answered Gerald, calmly, though his heart beat rapidly with excitement. "That was a mean trick you played on me!" "What do you mean?" "You know well enough. You thought yourself very smart, when you rode off with the gold and left me a box of gravel stones!" "I didn't care to give you the gold. You asked me to give you the tin box, and I did so!" "Yes; but you knew what I wanted. Didn't it occur to you that I would stop you on your return from the bank?" "Well, you have done so! What do you propose to do?" "To flog you within an inch of your life!" said the tramp savagely. "Just get out of the wagon, and we will proceed to business!" As he spoke he seized the bridle, and Gerald felt that the crisis had come. He drew the whistle from his pocket, and blew a loud blast upon it.
- 33. Saul Gridley was startled by the whistle. What did it mean? He decided that it was only a ruse, intended to frighten him. "None of your fooling!" he exclaimed, angrily. "It won't do any good. Get down from the wagon immediately!" "Thank you. I would rather not," said Gerald, composedly. "Then, my boy, I will pull you down!" He started to carry out his threat, when something happened that really startled him. A bullet whizzed by his ear. "What!" he began, in a startled tone, but the sentence was not finished, for, darting from a covert where he had been concealed, Louis Bean made his appearance on the scene. Saul Gridley stared at him with dazed countenance. "What are you about there, you rascal?" demanded Bean, sternly. Saul Gridley was a man who could act the bully with one inferior to himself in strength, but he was a coward in the presence of his physical superior. "Why did you fire at me?" he asked, nervously. "You might have killed me!" "I don't think any one would have missed you. But you have not answered my question. What were you doing?" "I—I was just having a little talk with the boy," he answered, stammering. "Oh, that is all, is it?" "Yes." "What did he say to you, Gerald?" "He ordered me to get out of the wagon, and threatened to flog me within an inch of my life." "That is what you call having a little talk," said Bean. "What have you to say to this?"
- 34. "The boy must have misunderstood me," stammered Gridley. "I don't mean that you shall misunderstand me! You attempted to rob this boy a few hours ago." "I did not rob him. Ask him if I did." "No; because he was too sharp for you. What is your name?" "Saul Gridley," answered the tramp, reluctantly. "How long have you been in this neighborhood?" "Two days." "It is not a healthy neighborhood for a man in your line of business. If your attempt at robbery should become known in Campville, you would probably be strung up without delay. However, don't let me interfere with your plans. You want to flog the boy. Well, proceed with your flogging!" "That was only a joke," said Saul Gridley, beginning to look nervous and apprehensive. "Then suppose you try to flog me. I offer myself in the place of the boy." "I don't care to undertake it." "That is where you are wise. You would find it the biggest contract you ever undertook. Gerald, what——" "Let me go!" said Saul, nervously. "I think I had better take you to Campville in the wagon." "No, no—they would kill me!" ejaculated Saul, livid with fear. "I will leave it to the boy. What shall I do with this man?" "Let him go, if he will promise to leave the neighborhood at once." "You hear? Will you agree to that?" "Yes," was the eager answer. "And will you promise never to come back?"
- 35. "Yes; I promise solemnly!" "You had better keep your promise. When Gerald tells of your attempt to rob him, some of his friends may start out to hunt you down." "Don't tell till to-morrow," entreated Saul. "No, I won't. I'll give you time to get away," said Gerald. "You'd better start at once," added Bean. Saul Gridley lost no time in following this advice. When he was a hundred yards away, Louis Bean fired at him, taking care not to hit him. It is needless to say that the fugitive increased his speed and soon was out of sight. "He is badly scared," said Bean, laughing. "I don't think we shall have any more trouble with him." Arrived at Campville, Bean got out at the grocery store, where Gerald left the wagon. He went back at once to the Nixon house. The old man's eye brightened when Gerald entered. "I am glad you have come back," he said. "I felt lonely while you were away." "I am glad you missed me," said Gerald, gently. "I deposited the money in the bank, and here is the bank-book." "Very well. You may put it in my desk." "Is there anything I can do for you, Mr. Nixon? Was your dinner brought over from the boarding-house?" "Yes; but I did not have as much appetite when eating alone." "Yet you lived alone for years?" "It was not living—it was only existing. Now I feel much better since Mr. Nugent has forgiven me and allowed me to make atonement. Have you written to him since you came here?" "No. I should like to do so. Have you paper and ink?"
- 36. "You will find writing materials in the desk." "If I can do nothing for you, I will write at once." "Do so." Gerald wrote briefly, giving an account of his arrival in Campville, and the condition in which he found the man to whom he was sent. When he had finished, he asked: "Won't you add a few lines, Mr. Nixon?" "I don't feel equal to writing, but I will dictate if you will write for me." "I will do so with pleasure." Gerald paused with his pen in readiness. After a short time Thomas Nixon began to dictate: "Mr. Nugent—Dear Sir: I cannot thank you sufficiently for your kindness in overlooking my serious offense, and for sending me Gerald Lane. I was surprised at first that you chose so young a messenger, but already I have seen enough to justify your choice. He has made a new man of me, and provided me with a more comfortable home. I very much needed some one to help me in my business, for I am too old and feeble to attend to it myself. "One thing I wish to say, that I do not wish you to be at any expense on my account. I will see that Gerald's expenses are paid, and that he has a satisfactory salary. I suppose I am accounted a miser by people in the village, but it is true that I do not care much for money, though I think it a duty to take care of what I have, and with it make what amends I can for my past transgressions. I will see that all the expenses which you have already incurred are paid. A new life is opening before me, thanks to your kind arrangements, and I hope that the close of my life may be more creditable than the years that are passed. "Respectfully and gratefully,
- 37. "Thomas Nixon." Gerald put the two letters in an envelope, and carried them to the post-office. This was in one corner of the grocery store, and Joe Loche, who seemed to be the busiest and most important man in Campville, was the postmaster. Looking ahead a few days, we will follow the letter to Portville. It gave great satisfaction to Mr. Nugent, as it confirmed his judgment in selecting so young a messenger. At times it had occurred to him that he was perhaps unwise in throwing so much responsibility on a boy of sixteen, yet it had not seriously weakened his faith in Gerald. The letter removed all doubts. Two hours after the letter was received he was told that a lady wished to see him. "Who is it?" he asked; but the servant was a new one, and could not answer. "Show her up!" he said, briefly. Directly Mrs. Lane entered his presence. "Take a seat, Mrs. Lane," said Mr. Nugent, courteously. "Is there anything I can do for you?" "I wish to know if you have heard from Gerald?" said Mrs. Lane, abruptly. "I have just received a letter from him." "May I see it?" "I must decline your request, since the letter is to a certain extent confidential." "You will, at any rate, tell me where the boy wrote from?" John Nugent hesitated. "As he is my stepson, I have a right to know."
- 38. "I am glad that you show an interest in your stepson. He writes me from Montana." "Montana!" ejaculated Mrs. Lane. "Is not that a long distance away?" "Two thousand miles or more." "And he is only a boy!" "True, but he has the sense and discretion of a young man." "I am aware that you have an exalted opinion of Gerald," said Mrs. Lane, looking annoyed. "I consider my Abel quite his equal in the qualities you name." "I am not well acquainted with Abel," said Mr. Nugent, courteously. "If you are correct, I think you are to be congratulated." "How long will Gerald be away?" "I cannot tell at present. The gentleman to whom I sent him is much pleased with him, and will give him a good salary." "Will you give me his address?" "I do not feel at liberty to do so; but if you will leave any letter with me, I will forward it." "You seem to forget that I am his stepmother." "No, I do not. If I hear anything connected with him which warrants it, I will notify you." "I wish Abel had his chance," thought Mrs. Lane, as she rose to go. "Mr. Nugent is infatuated with that boy."
- 40. CHAPTER XXVIII A TRIP ON HORSEBACK Three months passed and found Gerald still in his new home. There were no striking incidents during this time, but in a quiet way Gerald had effected a good deal in the way of change and improvement. The house was provided with new comforts, a safe had been sent from Helena, in which Thomas Nixon kept securities and valuable papers, a good deal of correspondence was carried on, Gerald acting as private secretary. Meals were no longer sent in from the boarding-house, but a young Swedish woman was engaged as servant and housekeeper. In short, Mr. Nixon was beginning to live like other people. To Gerald the most important event was the purchase of a horse for his use. At that time railroad facilities hardly existed in Campville, walking was difficult and fatiguing over the rough hills of Montana; and in traveling about for his employer Gerald found a horse of great service. He at any rate was in a position to contradict the statement that Thomas Nixon was a miser, for the old man repeatedly offered him money outside of his salary, but thus far Gerald had declined with thanks. One day Gerald brought back a letter from the morning mail, which Mr. Nixon read with thoughtful interest. "I may have to send you on a journey, Gerald," he said. "All right, sir." "This letter is from the superintendent of a gold mine in Ransom, seventy-five miles from here. I own a half interest in the mine. He
- 41. writes me that the output for the last six months has been falling off, and that the value of the mine has greatly depreciated. He ends by offering twenty thousand dollars for my share." "Why should he want to buy it if the mine is falling off so largely?" "That is what occurred to me. He closes by inviting me to go on and investigate for myself. He knows that I should not be likely to accept the invitation as my health is not sufficiently good." "Did the superintendent offer to buy for himself?" "He intimated that there was a man from New York whom he could induce to buy. I presume by a misrepresentation of the paying qualities of the mine." "That would be a fraud," said Gerald. "Certainly, and I don't care to defraud anyone." "What did you regard as the value of your half of the mine?" "At least thirty-five thousand dollars." "Whatever I can do for you in this matter, Mr. Nixon, I shall be glad to do." "I will send you to Ransom, not as representing me, but on a visit of investigation. Look about you, find out what you can, and report to me." "I hope I shall be able to acquit myself to your satisfaction." "At any rate, I have great confidence in you, and shall be guided by your report." "Is Ransom far from here?" "About seventy-five miles. The way to it is across country, and at times the traveling may be rough." "Oh, I can rough it," said Gerald, cheerfully. "Won't the superintendent be surprised at your not answering his letter?"
- 42. "I shall answer it. I will write that I will take his offer into consideration—that in a matter of such importance I cannot decide at once. I will also add that it is doubtful whether I can go to Ransom on account of my health, but he can write me any further information that he thinks may interest me. I will also give you a paper stating that you represent me, but that is not to be used unless it seems expedient." "Yes, sir, I understand. Have you any further instructions? When do you wish me to start?" "As soon as you can get ready. I will make out a list of places along the route for your guidance. I would let you ask Mr. Loche for directions as to the course you are to take, but it might leak out where you had gone." "I shall find the place, sir. I am a Yankee, and can ask questions." "Take what money you need. I leave that to your discretion." "You put great trust in me, Mr. Nixon." "Well, young as you are, you are my right-hand man. Mr. Nugent could have done me no greater favor than by sending you to me." On the afternoon of the second day Gerald found himself riding up a rocky incline, probably fifty miles on his way. There was no other traveler in sight. This had been his experience much of the way. Through the clear atmosphere, however, he could see some scattered buildings, betokening the presence of a village three or four miles away. "I wish some one would come along," thought Gerald. "I haven't seen a face for three hours." Had Gerald foreseen in what way his solitude would be broken in upon, he would have hesitated to express such a wish. Ten minutes later he heard a terrible roar, and, looking up quickly, turned pale with dismay, as he noted the approach of a huge lion advancing toward him at terrific speed.
- 43. He had never heard that lions were to be found in Montana, and his surprise was almost as great as his terror.
- 45. CHAPTER XXIX NERO There was no time or inclination on his part to speculate upon such an extraordinary appearance. He felt that his life was in peril, and he must consider at once whether there was any chance of his saving it. He was armed with a rifle, which thus far he had had no occasion to use. He was not unskilled in the use of firearms, and luckily the rifle was loaded. To use it seemed to be his one chance of safety. When his horse espied the lion he seemed almost paralyzed with terror. If the lion had no other claim to be called king of beasts, the terror which he inspires in all other animals might be taken for a strong evidence of his royal supremacy. The horse stood stock still, and it seemed to Gerald that he would remain so till the lion came up. This being the case, he thought it best to slip off the horse's back and jump to the ground. It was this act of his, perhaps, that startled the horse into life and motion. At any rate he set out on a wild run, attaining a pace probably unprecedented in his history. The animal could not have rendered his rider a better service. Hitherto the lion's attention had been divided between the horse and the boy. Now that he saw the horse in rapid flight, the hunting instinct came to him. More than one have testified that when they saw a person or animal running they were seized with an impulse to follow. This was the case with the lion. Apparently he did not notice Gerald, but, swerving from his course, set out in pursuit of the horse. When Gerald noted the fortunate turn that matters had taken, he breathed a sigh of deep-felt relief. But his relief was only temporary.
- 46. It might not be long before the lion would overtake and kill the horse. Then, inflamed by the sight of blood, he would probably turn back and pursue the rider. What could Gerald do?
- 47. HIS HORSE STOPPED ON SEEING THE LION
- 48. He turned his eyes toward the distant town. Probably it was only three miles away, but it might almost as well have been three hundred. Yet to reach it was his only hope of safety. He turned and ran toward the town as fast as his legs could carry him. He soon became scant of breath. The high elevation helped to make him so. Probably the excitement, too, had its effect. He had no means of knowing whether the lion had caught up with his intended victim. Gerald fervently hoped not. The longer the horse could hold out, the more time he had to get away. He hardly dared to look, for he felt that even this might take time and so delay him. He did look up, however, and, to his infinite relief, he discovered that a horseman was speeding toward him from the town. He stood still and waited. The man stopped his horse when he saw Gerald, and asked: "Boy, have you seen a lion hereabouts?" The speaker had long hair, and wore a large sombrero, after the fashion of Buffalo Bill. "Yes," answered Gerald, as soon as he could get his breath. "I am running away from him." "But where is he?" "In pursuit of my horse." "But why are you not on your horse? Did he throw you?" "No; I slipped off his back, and he started off in wild terror, the lion in pursuit." "That probably saved your life." "But how does a lion happen to be in this territory?" asked Gerald, in curiosity. "I never heard that lions were to be found in Montana." "Nor are they. This lion belongs to a circus. He escaped only half an hour ago, and I am in pursuit of him."
- 49. "Are you connected with the circus?" "Yes. My brother and I own it. We want to recover the lion, for he cost us a large sum of money." "But suppose you meet him—won't you be in danger?" "No. Any one else would; but I am his keeper, and he is afraid of me." Gerald looked at him in curiosity. He could not understand how any one could gain such power over a lion. "In what direction did the lion go?" Gerald pointed eastward. "I suppose, then, there is nothing to do but wait till he comes back." "I would rather not wait. You may have power over the lion, but I have not." "Then you can push on to the village; I will wait here." "How far is it?" "Rather more than a mile." "But if the lion should overtake me, I should be in a bad case." "I'll tell you what you may do. You may take my horse, and I will stay here. Go to the hotel and say that I sent you." "What name shall I use?" "King. I am Paul King, and I belong to King Brothers' Circus." "I don't like to deprive you of your horse." "It is of no consequence. If Nero comes back I can meet him just as well alone." "Do you think he will come back?" "Aye. Look!" he added, with excitement, "there he is!"
- 51. CHAPTER XXX THE CIRCUS Speeding toward them came the big beast, lashing his sides with his tail, evidently in a state of great excitement. Gerald trembled as he saw him. There are few, whatever their courage, who would not do so. He did not dare to set out on the way to the village. He thought it better to remain with the lion's keeper and under his protection. Paul King stood calm and imperturbable, waiting the arrival of his lost charge. There was a time when he, too, would have fled, but he had become used to lions and their ways, and felt perfect confidence in his power to subdue them. As Nero came nearer, Gerald could see that his jaws were bloody. He guessed that the blood was that of his ill-fated horse. "He has killed your horse, sure enough," said King. "Was he valuable?" "I paid a hundred dollars for him." "He wasn't insured against lions?" "No." "I am sorry for your loss." "I shall not mind that if I save my own life." "Your life is in no danger." By this time the lion was almost upon them. He looked terrible, with the blood-stains about his jaws, but Paul King's equanimity was
- 52. not shaken. One thing, however, he failed to consider, and that was the effect of blood upon the savage brute. Great as was his ascendency over Nero, the savage instinct of the great animal destroyed the effect of years of discipline. Paul King understood this when Nero advanced upon him, unheeding his tone of command. "Down, Nero!" he cried; but Nero would not down. His wicked eyes glared, his tail lashed his sides, and he rushed at his keeper with hostile intent. It flashed upon King that Nero was becoming dangerous. "I shall have to kill you!" he cried, between his set teeth. He fired at the lion, but either the huge animal swerved or something affected his aim, for it did not hit the mark. Then Gerald thought it was time for him to act. His life as well as the keeper's was in peril. Raising his weapon he took steady aim. "Shoot him in the eye!" exclaimed King. Gerald obeyed, directions. As a boy, of course, he was not a practised marksman; but luck—or perhaps it would be better to say Providence—was on his side, and the bullet entered Nero's eye and penetrated to his brain. The lion swayed a moment, and then fell over on his side. Death seemed to be instantaneous. "By Jove! you have killed him!" exclaimed Paul King. "It was a fine shot!" "Is he really dead?" asked Gerald, finding it difficult to believe in his success. "Yes, he is dead fast enough. He is dead, and the circus is out nearly five thousand dollars." "That was better than to have him kill either of us." "You are right. I never knew Nero in such a mood. It must have been the horse's blood that excited him."
- 53. "Have you any other lion in the show?" "Yes, one; but this was the best." "Shall you leave him here?" "I will send out some of my men to bury him. He was a grand beast, and deserves burial. And now let us be going back." "I will get off the horse and leave him to you," said Gerald. "No; since my lion killed your horse, it is only fair that you should ride on mine. To be sure you killed the lion." "I feel proud of it. I never expected to kill a lion." "You have reason to be proud. You are the only boy I ever knew that could say as much." Though Goldwin was a small town, a circus performance was given there during the evening. Five miles away was a mining station, and some seventy-five miners were in attendance. Gerald was glad to go, partly because it filled up his evening agreeably, and partly from the taste for such performances which he had in common with most boys of his age. It was a small show, but Goldwin had never had a visit from Barnum or Forepaugh, and vociferously applauded the clown, the bareback riders, the trapeze performers, and other acts familiar to the regular circus goer. In cages, in full view of the audience, were a few animals, including a Bengal tiger and a lioness. Paul King, Gerald's acquaintance of the afternoon, described these in succession. When he came to the lioness, he said: "I am sorry not to be able to show you the lion Nero, one of the finest specimens ever imported from Africa. He has been connected with our show for five years, but this morning he escaped and started out on a jaunt across country. He nearly killed a boy, who slipped off his horse and left the lion to chase the unfortunate animal. He overtook and tore the horse to pieces, and then started on his return.
- 54. "I had gone out in search of him, having confidence in my power over him. But I was mistaken. The blood which he had tasted roused his savage nature, and I was compelled to use my gun. But by bad luck I failed, and should myself have fallen a victim, but for the boy who had joined me and shot him in the eye, instantly killing him. "I cannot show you the lion Nero, but I am able to show you the boy who killed him, the only boy within my knowledge who ever killed a lion." He signaled, to Gerald, who rose from his seat, flushed and bashful. The whole audience, and especially the miners, cheered him loudly. Gerald bowed his acknowledgment and sat down. When the performance was over more than one went up to Gerald and shook his hand. Among them was a tall, slabsided Yankee, who closely resembled the pictures of Uncle Sam. "I tell you, boy, you're true grit," he said; "take the word of Joshua Burdoch for that. I've shot a panther, but I own I shouldn't dare to tackle a lion." "It was a case of necessity," said Gerald, smiling. "Either I must kill him, or he would have killed me." "Weren't you afraid?" "Yes, I was." "I think better of you for saying so. Some would have denied it and said they were perfectly cool." "I hope I shall never meet another lion," said Gerald. "I am satisfied with killing one." "Where are you going when you leave here?" "To Ransom." "So am I. Suppose we hitch horses?" "I shall be very glad of your company, Mr. Burdoch; but, as to hitching horses, I shall have to buy one first. The poor animal I
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