Maxwell Grant - The Shadow - 034 by Maxwel l Grant

Author:Maxwel,l Grant
Language: eng
Format: epub, pdf

CHAPTER XII. CROOKS CONFER

FOULKROD KENDALL had spoken the truth when he had stated that he was going to his factory. The millionaire was a man who lived on business. He frequently went to the plant in the evening. It was not an unusual practice.

Hence, Clayton Landow, at dinner with Harry Vincent, had mentioned Kendall's whereabouts when the millionaire's name had been brought up. Kendall's plan for the evening had gone into Harry's final report to The Shadow.

Before The Shadow had received that report, however, Foulkrod Kendall was already stationed in his factory office, awaiting the arrival of a special visitor. A rap at the side door of Kendall's sumptuous office told the millionaire that the expected man had arrived.

Kendall opened the door. Silk Elverton entered. The smooth crook smiled as he approached the millionaire.

"That side door is a great idea," he remarked. "I didn't have any trouble finding it."

"I left it open for you," returned Kendall. "It is my own private mode of entry. It will serve you as well.

Here is a duplicate key to the door for future use."

"How's the work coming along?"

"Come. I shall show you."

Kendall led the way through an empty outer office, then down a deserted side corridor. The factory had various ins and outs; Silk realized quickly that Kendall could follow a course through here without encountering watchmen or workers.

The dull rumble of machinery was in evidence. Kendall explained that the factory was engaged in night work.

Silk smiled. Whether this was legitimate business or subterfuge did not matter. Some activity in the plant would be useful at nights. That was the time when the hidden workers were employed.

Kendall stopped at an obscure door. He unlocked it with the same key that fitted the special entrance to his office. He gave a low explanation to Silk Elverton.

"This is an experimental room," said the millionaire. "Only myself and those workers whom I delegate are allowed to enter. It has long been accepted as an institution in this plant. Moreover, it has its own storeroom, which is well supplied with the alloy, and which will be replenished."

Kendall rapped quietly at an inner door. It opened. Silk accompanied the millionaire into a compact workshop. The room had no windows; it was well illuminated. Its occupants were three men who waved a prompt greeting to Silk Elverton.

CYRUS BARBIER, Tony Cumo, Tim Mecke - these formed the trio. Barbier, in overalls and goggles, was standing by a heavy machine, set up for use. Cumo was also attired in working clothes; Mecke wore a chauffeur's uniform.

"What do you think of it?" questioned Kendall.

"Great," responded Silk. "You've handled my men with good effect. Let's see the wheels run."

Cyrus Barbier grinned at the suggestion. He mumbled toothless words, and Tony Cumo went to his post.

Tim Mecke joined Kendall and Elverton. At a command from Barbier, Tony drew a lever. Machinery began to thrum and grind.

Silk Elverton watched in elation as the heavy arm of the stamping machine pounded out its work. Shining metal disks dropped in rapid succession, clattering as they fell into the receptacle below.

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