“One of the crime kings was captured,” said the voice. “He went to prison. He escaped. He fell into my hands. Tonight, he has fought against crime. He is with you now — speaking truth. He is ready to go back to prison. He has obeyed my bidding.”
All eyes were upon Herbert Carpenter. Every man present sensed that this was no trick. Somehow, a mysterious personage called The Shadow had arranged a hook-up with this room, so that he could hear as well as speak.
Thoughts were reverting to that weird night in the Green Room at the Hotel Pavilion, when The Shadow had been the silent member present at the committee meeting.
“Crime must end,” came The Shadow’s words. “It can only end through the obliteration of these fiends who have made it. Your opportunity lies before you now.”
Silence followed — thick, deep silence. Mayor Cruikshank rose sternly, the only one of those present who still held his composure. He looked at the frightened committeemen. With a snort of indignation, he strode across the room toward the radio.
All wondered the purpose of his action. To Herbert Carpenter, it was a gesture — as though Cruikshank intended to place himself firmly on the side of The Shadow in the war against crime. Police Chief Yates had the same thought. A firm smile appeared upon his grim face.
“Perhaps you think that crime cannot be ended,” came The Shadow’s voice, its tones mocking and sardonic. “Crime can be ended — at this very moment.”
As the voice paused, Rufus Cruikshank spoke in challenge to the group.
“You hear?” he said. “Good. The purpose has been accomplished. This was done through my arrangement — as it was months ago — to prove to you that—”
The voice of The Shadow interrupted.