DIP, usually of sound judgment, was positive that Cliff Marsland’s story was correct. But he was miles from the truth.
Neither Dip nor any other gangster knew the real truth about Cliff Marsland. They had no idea that Cliff was actually an agent of The Shadow — that he was not a killer by profession.
Cliff was married to the daughter of a theater owner. His wife and his father-in-law were now in Europe. During their absence, Cliff Marsland was back in service with The Shadow.
It was true that Cliff had been convicted, and had served time in Sing Sing. He had not, however, committed the crime for which he had paid the penalty. That was a secret which only Cliff and The Shadow knew.
“How do you like this joint?” questioned Dip, anxious to make the acquaintance of the notorious Marsland.
“Terrible,” growled Marsland. “Don’t come up to the joints they’ve got in Chi. I can show you a better dump than this — right here in New York.”
“Where? questioned Dip.
Cliff named an address. Dip reflected. The place mentioned was nearer to the Metrolite than Frankie Gull’s. Dip had an idea it would be a better place to be located.
“Come along,” suggested Cliff.
Dip acquiesced. The two men sauntered from Frankie Gull’s. It was not yet half past six. Dip decided to spend half an hour with Cliff, to sound him out.