Who knew what part a flashlight might not play--and he would need the mask for Lannigan's benefit, even if it did not disguise him from Whitey Mack.

Had he left any telltale evidence of his visit?
It was almost worth the risk of a light to make sure.

He hesitated, then shook his head, and, stooping again, carefully replaced the flooring and laid the oilcloth over it--he dared not show a light at any cost.
But now even more caution than before was necessary.

At times, the lodgers had naturally enough seen their fellow lodger, Larry the Bat, enter and leave the tenement--none had ever seen Jimmie Dale either leave or enter.

He stole across the room to the door, halted to assure himself that the hall was empty, slipped out into the hall, and locked the door behind him.