But as time progressed, Cliff, although he had found no solution to the mysteries here, had gained an inkling of The Shadow's purpose.
Somehow, Orlinov must possess the key to an amazing scheme of crime. One false step by The Shadow might mean disaster to any attempt to frustrate the evil. Furthermore, Cliff's own experience with Biff Towley indicated that matters here were linked with events in New York.
Well did Cliff know that The Shadow was vigilant in Manhattan.
The one point that Cliff had particularly observed was that of Orlinov's correspondence.
Most of it had been addressed to Glade Tremont, a New York attorney, who represented the Russian in all his legal affairs.
This appeared to be a bona fide arrangement that might have no connection with crime, yet the connection had aroused Cliff's suspicions.
While thus engaged in summarizing his experiences and findings in one week, Cliff Marsland heard a footfall on the porch and turned his head to see Ivan Orlinov approaching. The Russian seated himself and looked in Cliff's direction. Cliff became alert.
Ivan Orlinov possessed an appearance that was both brutal and imposing. He was a big bulk of a man, with a countenance that was cold and stolid. He wore a close-cropped reddish beard, which Petri trimmed for him every few days.
His eyes, deep set between half-closed lids, had a habit of opening at unexpected moments. When they did, they glowed like spots of flame, livid and threatening.
This afternoon, Orlinov was mild and deliberate. He seemed in a thoughtful mood as he puffed a huge black cigar. His auburn beard glistened in the light. The man spoke pleasantly as he turned to Cliff.