A sudden thought restrained him. Was it wise for him, an escaped convict, to remain here? No! Better to go in person — to explain the truth to the mayor and the Public Safety Committee. There, he could give himself up to justice. His story would be heard.
Carpenter did not turn toward the elevator. He headed for a fire tower, and made his way rapidly to the street. He heard police whistles sounding, but managed to avoid the arriving officers. A cab was waiting in a dark spot by the curb. Carpenter calmly approached it and entered.
He gave the address — a corner near where Rufus Cruikshank lived. The cab rolled away, and Carpenter sank back in the cushions. The excitement of the past minutes had weakened him.
As he closed his eyes, he could see nothing but the image of a tall, black-clad form. Gangsters had made their thrust tonight seeking to capture a helpless girl and to kill one lone rescuer. Their evil had been thwarted.
Herbert Carpenter, alone, had seen those mobsmen fall — struck down by the hidden Shadow!
CHAPTER XVIII
THE CONVICT’S STORY
WITH grimy, sweating face and bloodstained hands and coat, Herbert Carpenter dashed into the home of Mayor Cruikshank. He thrust a servant aside and plunged into a room where he heard the sound of voices.
He stopped short as he faced a group of solemn men, gathered around a long table. He was facing Mayor Cruikshank and the members of the Public Safety Committee. Beyond them, he saw the hulk of Police Chief George Yates.
“What is this!” exclaimed Cruikshank. “Who are you?”