- Fred and his companions plan to steal Whirlwind, Baron Rothburg's famous thoroughbred, on the eve of the Grand Prize race. To assist in their scheme they secure a man, who in appearance is the double of the renowned detective, Nick Winter. The confederate is called Tattooed Jim, because an ace of spades is tattooed on the palm of each hand. A blackmailing letter is sent to the baron, threatening the theft of the filly unless a large sum of money is forthcoming. The fake detective, assuming the name of Nick Winter, tells the baron that he is aware of the plot to steal Whirlwind and offers his services as a safeguard. With four subordinates, Tattooed Jim is left to guard the horse during the night and the next morning all five men are found bound with ropes, and no sign of Whirlwind. Reports of the affair reach Nick Winter and he hurries to see the baron. While they are together a card bearing the name of Nick Winter is brought in by a servant, also a note stating that the detective has discovered that the thieves are demanding a ransom of $2,000 for the return of Whirlwind. Nick suggests that the man using his name be admitted, and concealed behind a curtain he listens to the interview. The detective follows his double from the house and eventually gains access to the thieves by impersonating Tattooed Jim. He learns where the horse is kept and when there is danger of his identity being discovered, Nick dogs the bandits in the disguise of an old woman. Finally he climbs to the top of a telephone pole and by means of a portable transmitter, concealed in the folds of his dress, telephones to police headquarters for aid. The horse is recovered, but the thieves escape. Nick is engaged by the baron to remain on his estate to guard against further designs on Whirlwind. The baron receives an urgent wire stating that his sister is ill, and requesting him to come to Paris at once. At the same time Nick receives a telegram from the head of police ordering him to return to Paris. The detective is suspicious and explains to the baron that they must not both be away at the same time. The feign departure and alight from the train at the first stopping-place. Both are followed, as Nick anticipated, but after many difficulties they escape. On the day of the race the baron's jockey has disappeared and Nick rides Whirlwind to victory. Fearing trouble on the return journey, Nick conceals himself in the van occupied by Whirlwind. When the thieves take advantage of a lonely road to hold up the van, Nick and his assistants, disguised as stable boys and drivers, capture the entire band and the fake detective is brought to justice.—Moving Picture World synopsis
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