The Man in Purple

Real Name: Richard Staegal

Identity/Class: Normal human

Occupation: Thief, socialite

Affiliations: Betty Hayler (fiance), Broph (chauffeur, assistant)

Enemies: Detective Broman

Known Relatives: None

Aliases: None

Base of Operations: Unknown

First Appearance: "The Man in Purple," Detective Story Magazine (October 1st 1921)

Powers/Abilities: Wears a costume designed to instantly dissolve when exposed to acid (presumably a relatively weak one), and carries a vial of said acid so he can swiftly ditch his costume when he needs to.

History: Having made a pact with his fiance Betty Hayler that they would live an adventurous career, Richard Staegal donned a purple mask and suit to become the Man in Purple, robbing those he felt had become rich by robbing "widows and orphans," and giving the proceeds to charity. He was assisted by Betty and the short Broph, who Staegal saved from a beating by street thugs.

Comments: Created by Johnston McCulley, who wrote three stories about the character before the Man in Purple vanished into limbo. His stories have recently been reprinted by Altus Press, with an additional, brand new fourth story written by Tom Johnson.

CLARIFICATIONS: None.

Any Additions/Corrections? Please let me know.

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