margaret learns of the plot and rushes to save her brother. in the ensuing melee, she kills morton in her attempt to save victor, who is also seemingly killed. afraid of being convicted of murder, she flees the scene. in hiding, she becomes friends with a mystery author, winthrop clavering, and a reporter, john howell, the truth about the murder is revealed, and it is discovered that victor was not killed, but is being held prisoner by the drug ring. victor is rescued, and margaret and john develop a romantic relationship.