The message was obvious. But “our man” did not signify a representative of the photo service. It was the name “R. Mann” — therefore Burke’s destination was the office of Rutledge Mann in the Badger Building.
Arriving at Suite 909 in the midtown office building, Burke found the stenographer in the outer office. He was ushered into the inner sanctum, where Rutledge Mann sat quietly at his desk.
This was Burke’s first meeting with The Shadow’s new contact man. Burke had received word — in code — to expect a call from him.
“Mr. Burke?” asked Mann.
Clyde nodded.
Mann handed him an envelope.
“Look over these securities,” he said.
Clyde found a coded message within. He read it.
The job is set for tonight. One thousand dollars. A big one. Details not yet known. Meeting at nine. Club DeLuxe. M.
The writing vanished. Clyde turned to Mann. He knew that he could now talk freely with the quiet-faced investment broker who had The Shadow’s confidence.