There was an immediate response from the waiting gangsters.
It was only a short leap to the door. Forgetting his weakened foe, Cliff sprang to close the barrier. He succeeded just in time.
He pulled the door shut and stood to one side, hanging to the knob. Fortunately, Nipper had left the key in the lock, in readiness for Cliff’s departure. Cliff turned it.
He swung around toward the table. His opponent had risen, automatic in hand. Cliff could barely note the gleam of the weapon.
Death was threatening him. He was helpless; his position known, and no escape! But at that instant, a shot came from the outer doorway. Cliff saw the dim shape of his foeman crumple. The outer door slammed, and a key turned in the lock.
Nipper’s voice came through the Stygian darkness.
“I got him, Cliff! Just in time. I’ve blocked them from the hall. Get ready.”
SOMETHING crashed against the door that led to the room where Ernie Shires and his gang were located. Another crash, and light flashed through an opening.
Nipper fired four quick shots at the door. A laugh came in response. The mobsters had suspected what would happen.
“Drop, Cliff!” came Nipper’s warning.