Shots came from steps. They were answered by a gibing laugh that tantalized the pursuers. The range was too great for accuracy.
The detectives hurried to the sidewalk, in time to see their quarry disappear around the corner. When they reached the spot, their quarry was nowhere in sight.
The Shadow, superman of action, had escaped. Still living, he could block Palermo’s crimes.
Nevertheless, the keen-minded physician had scored a victory. That night, Stanley Warwick issued a statement that put in effect new police orders.
A dangerous criminal had eluded the police. All officers were instructed to watch for him. His name was not known; but his alias had been revealed.
The Shadow was wanted!
CHAPTER XVI. PALERMO MOVES
THE search for The Shadow lost its official approval as soon as it had begun. The ardent efforts of Detective Stanley Warwick were overruled by his superiors.
Nothing like this had ever occurred in the history of the New York police force. Men could be wanted for crimes; clews could be followed in tracking unknown criminals. But it was impossible to swear out a warrant for every person who might be wearing a black cloak and hat.
The voice of The Shadow had been heard over the radio the night after the affair in the house on Eastern Avenue. That meant nothing. There was no proof that the man who had eluded Warwick was the same person as the radio announcer.