Shadow, the Mysterious Detective

INTRODUCTORY.Again I have been called on to entertain my wide circle of young friends, by relating another story of detective life. Before plunging into my story, I have thought it best to address a few words to you personally, and about myself.It is held as a rule that an author should never introduce himself into the story he is writing, and yet I find, on looking back, that in nearly all of my recent stories I have described myself as playing a more or less conspicuous part.And yet I could not avoid doing so, as I can plainly see, without having detracted somewhat of interest from the stories.As I sit here now, prepared to commence, the question arises: "Shall I keep myself in the background, out of sight, or shall I bring myself in, just as I actually took part in the strange story of"\'SHADOW, THE MYSTERIOUS DETECTIVE?\'"Well, I don\'t know, but I think it may be just as well to introduce myself when necessary, since when I write thus I feel that my pen is talking to you instead of at you. And, besides, I think that to you the story is more realistic.Am I right?Don\'t each of you feel now as if I had written you a personal letter? And are you not satisfied that there is only one Police Captain Howard, and he that one who now speaks to you?I am sure of it.And now for the story.