_TO THE READER._ Only in the _Adventure Series_ can you get the absolutely true and authentic history of the lives and exploits of the JAMES BOYS, YOUNGER BROTHERS, HARRY TRACY, THE DALTON GANG, RUBE BURROW, and the other Notorious Outlaws of the Far West. We are the authorized and exclusive publishers for Jesse James' only son, JESSE JAMES. JR., and are the publishers of his great book, JESSE JAMES, MY FATHER, which is for sale everywhere. Buy it where you bought this book, and read the inside history of the life of Jesse James. [Illustration: THE HOLD-UP AT THE STE. GENEVIEVE BANK.] Jesse James' Desperate Game OR THE ROBBERY OF THE STE. GENEVIEVE BANK With dare-devil recklessness the notorious bandit eludes a posse of detectives and, assisted by only three companions, steals $10,000. BY WILLIAM WARD _Adventure Series No. 18_ Published by THE ARTHUR WESTBROOK COMPANY CLEVELAND, U. S. A. CONTENTS Chapter Page I. A Thrilling Rescue 7 II. Consollas' Accusations 15 III. The Plot Proves a Boomerang 24 IV. Young Rozier Makes a Startling Discovery 34 V. Gathering Clouds 45 VI. The Battle of Wits 56 VII. Jesse Bests the Detectives at Their Own Game 70 VIII. An Unexpected Complication 81 IX. The Storm Breaks 92 X. The Dash for Liberty 104 XI. Clell is Wounded 117 XII. The Outlaws Avoid a Trap 126 XIII. A Midnight Rescue 137 XIV. "Prince Charming" 147 XV. Jesse Gets His Revenge 162 XVI. The Butchery at Chalk Level 175 XVII. Conclusion 185 Jesse James' Desperate Game OR The Robbery of the Ste. Genevieve Bank. CHAPTER I. A THRILLING RESCUE. The population of Monegaw Springs was transitory. Situated in the central part of St. Clair county, in Missouri, the town was famed far and wide for the medicinal qualities of its waters. And when the war of the rebellion came to an end and the countryfolk could once more live without fear of a raid by Federal troops or guerrillas, they flocked thither from far and near. No luxurious hotels were there, as in present-day health resorts, with maws agape for money of their patrons; those who were early on the ground secured board and lodging in the few houses of the hamlet, while those who arrived later were forced to be satisfied with tents. But the life of the place was not impaired by the lack of accommodations or conveniences. Rather was it enhanced.