In this intriguing episode, we delve into the whirlwind romance and sudden disappearance of June Peyton, a young bride-to-be from a wealthy family. As her wedding day approaches, June hires a personal bodyguard, Cannon, to ensure her safety amidst the chaos of wedding preparations and potential threats. However, the story takes a dramatic turn when June vanishes on the day of her wedding, leaving behind a trail of mystery and unanswered questions.
Cannon, along with June's fiancé, Harold Tyson, embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her disappearance. As the investigation unfolds, it becomes clear that June's actions were part of a carefully orchestrated plan to test Harold's love for her, free from the influence of her father's wealth. In a surprising twist, June's gamble pays off, revealing the true nature of love and the lengths one might go to find genuine happiness.
Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio
Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio https://www.myclassicradio.net/
Entertainment Radio | Broadcasting Classic Radio Shows | Patreon
Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio
[00:00:00]
Unknown:
Bettering your business takes working with the best. With the James Hardie Alliance, you gain access to leads, training, networking, and support from the number one brand of siding in North America. Achieve new levels of success by joining the James Hardie Alliance today.
[00:00:16] Unknown:
What would you say they're worth? That's hardly the point, is it, Harold? Oh, now don't tell me the poor little rich girl is getting all sentimental.
[00:00:23] Unknown:
Oh, Harold. Not sentimental. It just occurred to me that a girl doesn't get married every day. I suppose that most brides reflect on their wedding presents with a certain amount of sentimentality. It's really the thought behind the gift, not its cash value.
[00:00:37] Unknown:
Well, that's quite a speech for you. Having regrets?
[00:00:42] Unknown:
I haven't much say in the matter ever so let's forget the whole thing. I'll be back for tea if anyone asks about me. Where are you going? I have an appointment with the man at 33 Half Moon Street.
[00:01:13] Unknown:
No Bells for the Blind. She was a beautiful girl and her pale one expression added to her beauty. There was a sad wistfulness about her, not at all what one might expect from a 20 year old girl on the threshold of matrimony. She announced herself in a quiet, subdued voice and once having heard her name I suddenly knew all about her. Now I'm I'm no psychic. Her whirlwind romance and sudden betrothal had covered the front page of every newspaper in England. It was rumoured that her father was a multimillionaire. She confirmed the rumour.
[00:01:51] Unknown:
My father's Jeremy Peyton, the shipping magnate. I'm June. Could I send her some tea, Miss Bedden? No, thank you, Mr. Mason. I shan't be staying long. A friend recommended your firm to me and I just popped round to see if you could supply me with a bodyguard. A bodyguard? It does sound rather dramatic, I know. But the fact is father and friends have granted enormous expense over my forthcoming wedding. The wedding presents alone are worth a king's ransom. We have guards employed, of course, security men and so on. But I I felt I ought to have someone of my own.
Some trustworthy man who could keep an eye on me and the wedding paraphernalia and who wouldn't be known to all the other watchmen in the grounds of the house. Oh, well, we can supply such a man. For how long would you need his services?
[00:02:33] Unknown:
Just three days until the wedding. Are you staying at Maclew House? How do you know? The name of your house, you mean? Well, he's been in all the papers.
[00:02:42] Unknown:
He's, of course, silly of me. Yes, Mr Mason. I'm staying at Bellew. The man would have to stay too. I'll have Mrs. Winnie me the housekeeper fix him up with the room. I'd actually like him to drive me back this afternoon. I said I'd be home in time for tea.
[00:02:56] Unknown:
All right. Excuse me a minute. Send in Canon if he's there, will you? Thank you. Canon is one of my best operators. He's an American and knows his job thoroughly. I'll tell him that he's to be your personal guard at all times and never to let you out of his sight whilst you're in the grounds of Maclew House. That'd be perfect, Mr Mason.
[00:03:14] Unknown:
Cannon, did you say? Yes.
[00:03:26] Unknown:
You drive very well, Mr. Canon? Oh, thank you. That's all the chief says, Miss Bacon. That you drive well? Yeah, that I drive in Craig. Say, you'd, you'd better watch it. Watch what? Well, that's the first time you laughed since I got the job as your chaperone. Is it? Oh, dear.
[00:03:41] Unknown:
I suppose I must cut a rather rueful picture for an about to be bride. It's nerves, I suppose. Oh, don't ask me. I never got married and nothing of his time. I bet you're not. Mister Mason said a nice thing about you. He did? He said you were one of his best operators.
[00:03:56] Unknown:
Oh, then my guess is this job's gonna take, a few days. Three to be exact. I knew it. Every time the chief gets me out of the way for a few days he's in a good mood, and that's the only time he's free with his compliments. Snap.
[00:04:08] Unknown:
I laughed twice. Yes, you're right. I have been a little depressed. I don't know why I'm talking to you like this. You must be terribly bored with my prattle. No, I never get bored in the company of a beautiful lady, even if she is about to walk up the aisle with another guy. You're very nice, Mr. Cannon. And, it does help to be able to talk to someone. You know something? The clue is always crowded with people and, yeah, it's the loneliest place on Earth.
[00:04:37] Unknown:
What's he like? This fellow you're getting hitched to? Harold?
[00:04:42] Unknown:
Oh, well, he's a man about town, you know? I'm sure you've heard of him. Harold Tyson, polo player, racing driver. No, I, I'm just not the social type, I guess.
[00:04:52] Unknown:
Tell me something. How many guests will you have at this wedding? About a thousand. Holy catfish, a thousand?
[00:04:58] Unknown:
That's some wedding. Now you know why I'm so nervous and highly strung.
[00:05:02] Unknown:
Do I? It's possible to perceive too much, Mr. Ken. Okay, I'm back in my place, ma'am. Tell me about this car I understand. Haven't you seen one before? Oh, sure. From a distance, but I've never driven in one. It's a Stanza Landau. Yeah, I know that, but, why is the back divided from the front? It's meant to have a chauffeur where you are and any other servant where I am. The person just sits behind the glass screen. With curtains drawn. Nice and cosy and private.
[00:05:28] Unknown:
But what happens if, they wanna give the driver an instruction? They can use the intercom. It's right by your left hand. You mean, this thing here? Mhmm. That's right. It's always on talk back so the passengers can hear you but you can't hear them. Oh, a sort of butler and footman security strap. Like to see it work? Sure. Well, pull up and I'll get in the back. Okay. Don't drive. I'll rejoin you in the front after I talk to you on the intercom. I get claustrophobia shut up in there. Hang on. Cannon, take me for a drive to Fortnum And Mason.
[00:06:13] Unknown:
Yes, my lady. But, could we make it just Fortnum? Mason is my boss's name and if he saw me now, I'd get fired.
[00:06:24] Unknown:
Drive on, my man. Yes, your ladyship.
[00:06:27] Unknown:
Say, can I, open her up on the bypass? Of course. Be careful. It's a very powerful car. I shall be absolutely reckless. After all, I might never get the chance to drive in one of these things again. I think you will, mister Cannon. I think you will.
[00:06:43] Unknown:
Who was that you brought back with you? Another guard. Great Scott. What for? This place has already got more guards than an army barracks. It's a personal guard for me. 'Serious, June. What on earth do you want a personal guard for?' Father thought it might be a good idea.
[00:06:59] Unknown:
'Then that's different, of course. Papa's word is law.' you don't make any bones about why you're marrying me, do you?' 'Should I?' it's one thing to be a cad and Quite another to be ill mannered.' 'Cad?
[00:07:12] Unknown:
That's a good word. I haven't heard that use since I was sent down from Oxford. Now what's Papa worried about anyway? Does he think you might be kidnapped and held to ransom?' I'm already being held to ransom, Her.' 'Now, don't don't don't get all mushy again. Anyway, I can't see that you have much to complain about. In our circle marriages are usually arranged, and I am reckoned to be quite an eligible bachelor round London.' 'Yes, aren't you just?
[00:07:38] Unknown:
Except that I've never even seen most of the cases in London that you frequent.' 'You're building up for a row, dear.' no, Harold. No row. There's no fight left in me any more.' 'What's so funny?'
[00:07:51] Unknown:
I was reading the morning courier before you came back. You should have seen their leader page. Romance comes to be a clue. A long dirge about our wonderful wedding. You know, it occurred to me that that writer would have a fit if he saw us now. You should go into the advertising business. You're certainly a great one for publicity.' oh, do you really think so?' well, don't worry too much about it, Junior. With all the boodle I'll have in three days' time I intend to buy myself a Regatta Special and miss it at Le Mans. It's a very fast car. I could easily write myself off.
So you see, there's every chance that you might be a widow before you're hardly married.' 'You're a sadistic beast. If you'll excuse me I have a chore to do.' 'There's nothing left to do. I've checked all the wedding presents and, had a conference with the reception organizers.
[00:08:39] Unknown:
I have to show the new guard his duties. Mrs Willingmeade would have given him his quarters by now. I'd like to show him the grounds. Mind if I come along? I'd rather you didn't. He has a great sense of perception and he's an outsider. I'd hate anyone to get the idea into their heads that there's no romance at all in our blessed union.' the face of an angel and the tongue of a viper.
[00:09:01] Unknown:
Very well, my dear. If those are your sentiments, I'll adjourn to the billiards room. Your father has a footman with a penchant for snooker. Not quite as good as me. In fact, I've already taken 30 bob off him.' you're gambling with the servants now.
[00:09:15] Unknown:
Oh well I might have known.
[00:09:17] Unknown:
I'll see you for a cocktail before dinner. What's the name of this private eye of yours?
[00:09:22] Unknown:
Cannon. Mr. Cannon. Mister Ken? Yeah. Mister Ken? Yeah.
[00:09:38] Unknown:
Wow.
[00:09:39] Unknown:
You really look something. You've said that every day for the last three days you've been here? Yeah. But I, I never saw you in a wedding gown before. Like you, mister Cannon. I've never been married before. But, what are you doing back here? Aren't you supposed to be of the bridesmaids or something? Yes. I'm going back now, but there's something you must do. Just name it. You to get the spanner from the garage and take it round to the West Gate. You'll remember that little gate on the other side of the terrace I showed you. I know it, but, what do I do for a key? Here. That's the key to the spanner. And that's the key to the garage. What's all a mystery?
Mystery. The police just rang and said the route of the church is jammed with people and that a few hundred marches are converging us here. Marches? It's been a bad strike upon the father's factories.
[00:10:18] Unknown:
Oh, it's, it's tough on that. On your wedding day too. Never mind. Uneasy lies ahead and all that. Now you know what you have to do? Sure. Get the span zone. Wait by the waistcoat. But, who do I wait for? It's just a precaution. Wait here until you get word from me. Now off you go and don't talk to anyone. Mum's the word, ma'am, but, you sure do look like a million dollars. Thank you. Now off you go. I'm on my way.
[00:11:00] Unknown:
Hey, miss miss Brayton. What gives? Why are you here? I'll explain. Just let me get in the back behind the curtains. Can you hear me, mister Ken? Sure, I can. Alright. Now, drive out along Weber Road. Drive? But, what about the bridesmaids and your father? The trouble at the factory's serious. Please do as I ask. Start now.
[00:11:22] Unknown:
Okay, but this sure is a wacky wedding. You okay in the back there? Yes.
[00:11:34] Unknown:
I must drive along Webberon till you come to Smith Street. There you turn right. I'll show you the route when you've got that far. Please hurry, mister Cannon. Whatever you say, but that's not the route to the church. I noticed. We're all converting from different points. It'll be alright once we're at the church.
[00:11:49] Unknown:
Don't you think I should stop and buy some silk ribbon? Don't
[00:11:56] Unknown:
It's just here that you turn. There's a little cottage with a red roof here on the left, and I want you to stop there for a minute. At the cottage? Yes.
[00:12:06] Unknown:
May I ask why?
[00:12:07] Unknown:
I just want to tell a friend what's happening with him. Oh, boy. This is worse than the shotgun lady.
[00:12:13] Unknown:
That the place there? Yes.
[00:12:15] Unknown:
Alright. Pull up.
[00:12:24] Unknown:
How long will
[00:12:25] Unknown:
say, what happens to your wedding gown? What goes on? I had a bag packed in the back of the car, really. Please don't ask any questions, mister Cannon. What I told about father's factory wasn't true. Not a word of it. I just made it up on the spell of a moment. But the wedding There isn't going to be any wedding, mister Kenan. In fact, as from now, there isn't going to be any need.
[00:13:00] Unknown:
Looking for space to hang and dry your washing? Washline distributors have the solution. Their rotating and pull down washlines take up the smallest spaces. Ideal for townhouses, simplexes, and balconies at affordable prices. Galvanized or powder coated and available in five different colors. For 24 hour delivery, installation, reliable, and friendly service, phone Washline Distributors on 017922486. That's 017922486. Wash lines for every space and need.
[00:13:40] Unknown:
The following classic Springbok Radio commercial comes to you with a courtesy of the Springbok Radio Preservation Society of South Africa.
[00:13:50] Unknown:
New Pepsodent has Irlium, an amazing discovery that actually polishes teeth so sparkling clean and white, the dulling film can't find a hole. Feel the difference with your tongue. New Pepsodent. The white toothpaste you can feel working. Absodent. Absodent. Absodent.
[00:14:26] Unknown:
Cannon watched June Peyton run through the cottage garden and disappear round the back. Then, his wits returned, he leaped from the spencer and chased after her. But Miss Paeton had planned her escape carefully. A parallel road ran along the back of the cottage, and Cannon had barely reached the front gate when a powerful engine burst into life and a green sports car swung out and roared away along the black ribbon of road. June Peyton at the wheel. Cannon returned to McClure to a pandemonium.
[00:14:55] Unknown:
What teen blazes has happened to the girl? Now look here, Harold. If you two have some kind of full practical joke, I'll cut you both off without a penny. I'm as bewildered as you are, sir. I've asked the chambermaids if they've seen her. But all they say is the same thing. They haven't. She was dressed in her wedding gown ready to leave and that's the last anyone saw them. Now look here. The the girl just can't disappear into thin air, man. I mean, don't be such a dolt. I don't know what to say, sir. Well, I do. You should never have stayed in my crew last night. Supposed to be bad luck if the groom spends his pre managed night under the same roof.
Not that I'm superstitious, but blast it, man. I mean, there's a thousand people waiting out there, not to mention heaven knows how many of my employees. Why didn't you spend the night at the local tavern? The footman's luck changed.
[00:15:38] Unknown:
What's that? Well, I no. I I well, I I didn't bring my checkbook, sir. You Checkbook?
[00:15:43] Unknown:
Oh, what that not a use your checkbook would be even if you brought it. I'll take the mighty cock to that hill when I find that. Steady on, sir. Don't you argue with me, young fellow. I'll horse whip you too. You're a bodyguard.
[00:15:55] Unknown:
What's that? That's a personal bodyguard coming across the lawn. What that blazer you're talking about, sir? The personal bodyguard you organize for us, sir. I organize personal bodyguard? Have you taken the leave of your senses? That man crossing a lawn, sir, his name's Cannon. June told me that you're engaged in services as a personal bodyguard to him. I did no such thing.
[00:16:16] Unknown:
You didn't? I said so, didn't I? Then why did
[00:16:20] Unknown:
Excuse me, sir.
[00:16:21] Unknown:
Cannon? Cannon, over here.
[00:16:25] Unknown:
I have a nasty feeling that we're about to get to the bottom of this mystery, sir. Mister Tyson? Where's miss Peyton? She's gone.
[00:16:34] Unknown:
Gone? Where? Search me. What is this fellow talking about? This is mister Jeremy Payton, the bright spot. And how do you do, sir?
[00:16:41] Unknown:
Who are you? The name's Cannon of Assignments Unlimited. I was engaged as a personal bodyguard to miss Payton. Are you aware, will you? And, who engaged you, may I ask? I misspoke myself.
[00:16:53] Unknown:
I'll get the police. Have this man locked up. Just a moment, sir. Do you mind if I have a word with Kennan in private? For arm? Well, I think it might be better for all concerned that I might be able to clear this up with him and even find June.
[00:17:05] Unknown:
Look. Then hurry up, young man, and be quick. And if I be made a fool of you, I'll rule that they all love you. Over here, Canon.
[00:17:13] Unknown:
Alright. What happened?
[00:17:15] Unknown:
Well, Miss Bacon asked me to bring the spencer round to the Westgate. I did, and she arrived in her wedding gown alone. She told me some cock and bull story about a strike in her father's factory and how everybody was going to the church from different directions because the workers were in an ugly mood. Well, I saw no reason to disbelieve her. I'm employed by her anyway. So we drove off to a cottage off Smith Street. Red roof? Yeah. Then what happened? Well, she travelled in the back with the curtains drawn. When we got to the cottage she changed into day clothes. She ran through the cottage garden and drove off in a sports car. What colour sports car? Green. It's hers.
[00:17:52] Unknown:
So the bride ran out on me. Well, here's one for the books. I just can't wait to see old Peyton's face when he finds out. A thousand guests. You're, not concerned about the young lady? Course I'm concerned. That'd be impertinent. Don't you either? I'm not in your employ, buddy, and from what I've seen since I've been walking on the lawns of of Buccleuch, I'd just as soon punch you on the nose as look at you. Fair enough. I might take you up on that one day, but not now. Look, Cannon, I'll, I'll go and break the news to the old man, and when he's recovered from his apoplexy I'll join you in the billiard room for a drink. Why? Well, well, the girl ran out of me. I want to know why.' 'Conceit seems to be your strong point.' 'I don't mean that, you fool. If she didn't want to marry me, why didn't she say so in the first place?
Why go to all this trouble and then run out of me on the last minute?' She didn't do it on the spur of the moment in a fit of nerves. She planned it. She planned it very carefully. Do you know that she told me her father had engaged you as a bodyguard? You don't say. I do say. Can you imagine what this will mean? The old man will cut her off without a penny. He'll be fit to do murder. Well, she must have known so that she's deliberately committed the economic suicide.
[00:19:02] Unknown:
It sounds crazy to me too, Tyson, but this is where I came in and this is where I moved right out.' No, no, it's not. You failed in your duty. 'I did no such thing.' You did. You were engaged as her bodyguard.
[00:19:12] Unknown:
'All right. Where's the body?' 'I'll tell you where. Flown. You're gonna help me find her.' And bring her back? After what she's done to that money grabbing miserly old pompous skinfin of a father of hers, she won't ever dare show a face in here again. Now, will you help me find her, Canon?
[00:19:30] Unknown:
But, I mean, what use is she to you without a penny in the world?
[00:19:34] Unknown:
No, it's you who's asking for a punch on the nose.
[00:19:38] Unknown:
Touche. Well, I don't understand it, but I'll do it. Okay, Tyson. I'll help you to find her. But finding Miss Peyton was easier said than done. She disappeared into thin air.
[00:19:50] Unknown:
Cannon began by trying to trace the whereabouts of Vibreen sports car, only to find that she'd made arrangements for its sale days before. She left the car with the dealer, signed the documents, and walked out into the wide world without so much as a backward glance. Harold Tyson became more and more agitated as the days passed without a sign of his ex fiancee, and he suggested that we contact the police. They were loathed to cooperate since, well, Miss Peyton had passed her 20 birthday since her sudden disappearance, and her father, Jeremy Peyton, refused to request the services of the law. As far as he was concerned, his daughter was as good as dead. He certainly never wished to set eyes on her again. Cannon got his first break one day whilst pacing the office floor.
[00:20:35] Unknown:
Assignments Unlimited.
[00:20:36] Unknown:
Is that Grosvenor 5 Double 95? Yep, it is. A personal call has been booked for a Mr. Cannon at this number from a Miss June Patent. The time is for 03:00. Can mister Cannon take the call then? Yeah. June Peyton. Yeah. Yeah. Sure. I can take it then. One hour and twenty minutes, sir. Thank you.
[00:20:54] Unknown:
Hey. Where oh, too light can't find it.
[00:20:59] Unknown:
Who was it, Cameron?
[00:21:01] Unknown:
A personal call coming through for me in an hour and twenty minutes from June Peyton. Well, where's she ringing from? I forgot to ask. Well, ring the exchange and they'll tell you. Oh, so they will. I'm gone nutty. The brain box doesn't work quite anymore. Oh, well, I'll do it
[00:21:16] Unknown:
for you. Miss Farewell, there's a personal call coming through for Mr. Cameron. Let's see. It's, 03:00. Find out from the exchange where he's coming from and let me know. Right?
[00:21:27] Unknown:
As easy as that. Well, what'll you do?
[00:21:31] Unknown:
Any advice to you? Well, it's your business, Cameron. Assignment's unlimited. Let the case spend the three days rub at the clue.
[00:21:38] Unknown:
Well, if it's a trunk call she must be quite some distance out from London. If I tell him now where she is he might have time to drive down there and find her before she has a chance to dodge off again. Then why don't you do that? The Exchange will have the answers to your query in a few minutes. But how do I know she wants to see him? Well, from what you've told me, Harold Tyson is the last man on earth she wants to see right now. Yeah, but you know, chief, I've got a hunch. I don't know why, but there's something awful screwy about this setup. I mean, take Tyson. He's a changed man. He couldn't give a fig about that day when she had stacks of loot. And now that she's flat broke, he's he's mourning after like a sick calf.
[00:22:15] Unknown:
Well, love Ein told is a peculiar emotion. It's downright odd. Yes, miss Faribault. Oh, just a minute. I'll take that down. Bekonsfield Hotel, Oxford. Yes. Yes. I got it. Thank you.
[00:22:30] Unknown:
Get it? Yeah. That's where he went to university. The Bekonsfield Hotel? Oh, no. Oxford. Oxford. He got sent down, June Peyton told me. Quite a ray car, Mr. Tyson. Guess so. Well, it's no good just sitting around there, Ken, and do one thing or the other. Yeah. But if only I could be sure she'd still be at the hotel after she's spoken to me on the phone. Well, you can't, can you? If I can tell him now, he can make it while she's still on the phone to me. Well, it's quite a drive, you know. Yeah. But he's some driver. Pilots machines at Le Mans. A courageous wreck. No. I suppose so. Okay. Here goes.
Two, three, six. Hello, Tyson here. Tyson, this is Cannon. You feel like a fast drive? Where to? On your own to the Bekonsfield Hotel Oxford. Can you make it in under an hour? With wings. Then so on some feathers, Sonny. That's where June Peyton is. Is. Assignments unlimited. Is that 595?
[00:23:37] Unknown:
Yep. Cannon speaking. Your call to Oxford. Speak up, please. Thank you.
[00:23:41] Unknown:
Hello?
[00:23:43] Unknown:
Mister Cannon? Hi. Where have you been all my life? I just had to ring you to explain. I thought it was rather a dirty trick running out on you like that. Can you forgive me? Well, there's, there's nothing to forgive. I just wondered why you did it. So does Harold Tyson. He was only interested in
[00:23:59] Unknown:
me for my money. You was is right. No more. Now that you're broke, he's only interested in you for you. How can he be sure? Well, then, take a look behind you. So long, miss Baden. Oh, and by the way, if you and Harry want to know how to make an honest buck, might I suggest that you take up novel writing and get him to act as your publicity agent?' 'Novels?' 'You're a great girl, Juney, but you're also the biggest liar I ever met.'
[00:24:24] Unknown:
you see, June Peyton was in love with Harold Tyson all the time, and he with her. The barrier between them was the fabulous wealth of her father. June knew that she could never be happy with Harold under the shadow of an arranged marriage, so she decided to test him under the severe conditions of poverty. She planned everything to the smallest detail. Her gamble came off. Oh, she didn't have to write novels for a living. Old Jeremy Peyton got lonely in that great rambling house and so he forgave them both. His daughter's plan brought out the best in him too.
Bettering your business takes working with the best. With the James Hardie Alliance, you gain access to leads, training, networking, and support from the number one brand of siding in North America. Achieve new levels of success by joining the James Hardie Alliance today.
[00:00:16] Unknown:
What would you say they're worth? That's hardly the point, is it, Harold? Oh, now don't tell me the poor little rich girl is getting all sentimental.
[00:00:23] Unknown:
Oh, Harold. Not sentimental. It just occurred to me that a girl doesn't get married every day. I suppose that most brides reflect on their wedding presents with a certain amount of sentimentality. It's really the thought behind the gift, not its cash value.
[00:00:37] Unknown:
Well, that's quite a speech for you. Having regrets?
[00:00:42] Unknown:
I haven't much say in the matter ever so let's forget the whole thing. I'll be back for tea if anyone asks about me. Where are you going? I have an appointment with the man at 33 Half Moon Street.
[00:01:13] Unknown:
No Bells for the Blind. She was a beautiful girl and her pale one expression added to her beauty. There was a sad wistfulness about her, not at all what one might expect from a 20 year old girl on the threshold of matrimony. She announced herself in a quiet, subdued voice and once having heard her name I suddenly knew all about her. Now I'm I'm no psychic. Her whirlwind romance and sudden betrothal had covered the front page of every newspaper in England. It was rumoured that her father was a multimillionaire. She confirmed the rumour.
[00:01:51] Unknown:
My father's Jeremy Peyton, the shipping magnate. I'm June. Could I send her some tea, Miss Bedden? No, thank you, Mr. Mason. I shan't be staying long. A friend recommended your firm to me and I just popped round to see if you could supply me with a bodyguard. A bodyguard? It does sound rather dramatic, I know. But the fact is father and friends have granted enormous expense over my forthcoming wedding. The wedding presents alone are worth a king's ransom. We have guards employed, of course, security men and so on. But I I felt I ought to have someone of my own.
Some trustworthy man who could keep an eye on me and the wedding paraphernalia and who wouldn't be known to all the other watchmen in the grounds of the house. Oh, well, we can supply such a man. For how long would you need his services?
[00:02:33] Unknown:
Just three days until the wedding. Are you staying at Maclew House? How do you know? The name of your house, you mean? Well, he's been in all the papers.
[00:02:42] Unknown:
He's, of course, silly of me. Yes, Mr Mason. I'm staying at Bellew. The man would have to stay too. I'll have Mrs. Winnie me the housekeeper fix him up with the room. I'd actually like him to drive me back this afternoon. I said I'd be home in time for tea.
[00:02:56] Unknown:
All right. Excuse me a minute. Send in Canon if he's there, will you? Thank you. Canon is one of my best operators. He's an American and knows his job thoroughly. I'll tell him that he's to be your personal guard at all times and never to let you out of his sight whilst you're in the grounds of Maclew House. That'd be perfect, Mr Mason.
[00:03:14] Unknown:
Cannon, did you say? Yes.
[00:03:26] Unknown:
You drive very well, Mr. Canon? Oh, thank you. That's all the chief says, Miss Bacon. That you drive well? Yeah, that I drive in Craig. Say, you'd, you'd better watch it. Watch what? Well, that's the first time you laughed since I got the job as your chaperone. Is it? Oh, dear.
[00:03:41] Unknown:
I suppose I must cut a rather rueful picture for an about to be bride. It's nerves, I suppose. Oh, don't ask me. I never got married and nothing of his time. I bet you're not. Mister Mason said a nice thing about you. He did? He said you were one of his best operators.
[00:03:56] Unknown:
Oh, then my guess is this job's gonna take, a few days. Three to be exact. I knew it. Every time the chief gets me out of the way for a few days he's in a good mood, and that's the only time he's free with his compliments. Snap.
[00:04:08] Unknown:
I laughed twice. Yes, you're right. I have been a little depressed. I don't know why I'm talking to you like this. You must be terribly bored with my prattle. No, I never get bored in the company of a beautiful lady, even if she is about to walk up the aisle with another guy. You're very nice, Mr. Cannon. And, it does help to be able to talk to someone. You know something? The clue is always crowded with people and, yeah, it's the loneliest place on Earth.
[00:04:37] Unknown:
What's he like? This fellow you're getting hitched to? Harold?
[00:04:42] Unknown:
Oh, well, he's a man about town, you know? I'm sure you've heard of him. Harold Tyson, polo player, racing driver. No, I, I'm just not the social type, I guess.
[00:04:52] Unknown:
Tell me something. How many guests will you have at this wedding? About a thousand. Holy catfish, a thousand?
[00:04:58] Unknown:
That's some wedding. Now you know why I'm so nervous and highly strung.
[00:05:02] Unknown:
Do I? It's possible to perceive too much, Mr. Ken. Okay, I'm back in my place, ma'am. Tell me about this car I understand. Haven't you seen one before? Oh, sure. From a distance, but I've never driven in one. It's a Stanza Landau. Yeah, I know that, but, why is the back divided from the front? It's meant to have a chauffeur where you are and any other servant where I am. The person just sits behind the glass screen. With curtains drawn. Nice and cosy and private.
[00:05:28] Unknown:
But what happens if, they wanna give the driver an instruction? They can use the intercom. It's right by your left hand. You mean, this thing here? Mhmm. That's right. It's always on talk back so the passengers can hear you but you can't hear them. Oh, a sort of butler and footman security strap. Like to see it work? Sure. Well, pull up and I'll get in the back. Okay. Don't drive. I'll rejoin you in the front after I talk to you on the intercom. I get claustrophobia shut up in there. Hang on. Cannon, take me for a drive to Fortnum And Mason.
[00:06:13] Unknown:
Yes, my lady. But, could we make it just Fortnum? Mason is my boss's name and if he saw me now, I'd get fired.
[00:06:24] Unknown:
Drive on, my man. Yes, your ladyship.
[00:06:27] Unknown:
Say, can I, open her up on the bypass? Of course. Be careful. It's a very powerful car. I shall be absolutely reckless. After all, I might never get the chance to drive in one of these things again. I think you will, mister Cannon. I think you will.
[00:06:43] Unknown:
Who was that you brought back with you? Another guard. Great Scott. What for? This place has already got more guards than an army barracks. It's a personal guard for me. 'Serious, June. What on earth do you want a personal guard for?' Father thought it might be a good idea.
[00:06:59] Unknown:
'Then that's different, of course. Papa's word is law.' you don't make any bones about why you're marrying me, do you?' 'Should I?' it's one thing to be a cad and Quite another to be ill mannered.' 'Cad?
[00:07:12] Unknown:
That's a good word. I haven't heard that use since I was sent down from Oxford. Now what's Papa worried about anyway? Does he think you might be kidnapped and held to ransom?' I'm already being held to ransom, Her.' 'Now, don't don't don't get all mushy again. Anyway, I can't see that you have much to complain about. In our circle marriages are usually arranged, and I am reckoned to be quite an eligible bachelor round London.' 'Yes, aren't you just?
[00:07:38] Unknown:
Except that I've never even seen most of the cases in London that you frequent.' 'You're building up for a row, dear.' no, Harold. No row. There's no fight left in me any more.' 'What's so funny?'
[00:07:51] Unknown:
I was reading the morning courier before you came back. You should have seen their leader page. Romance comes to be a clue. A long dirge about our wonderful wedding. You know, it occurred to me that that writer would have a fit if he saw us now. You should go into the advertising business. You're certainly a great one for publicity.' oh, do you really think so?' well, don't worry too much about it, Junior. With all the boodle I'll have in three days' time I intend to buy myself a Regatta Special and miss it at Le Mans. It's a very fast car. I could easily write myself off.
So you see, there's every chance that you might be a widow before you're hardly married.' 'You're a sadistic beast. If you'll excuse me I have a chore to do.' 'There's nothing left to do. I've checked all the wedding presents and, had a conference with the reception organizers.
[00:08:39] Unknown:
I have to show the new guard his duties. Mrs Willingmeade would have given him his quarters by now. I'd like to show him the grounds. Mind if I come along? I'd rather you didn't. He has a great sense of perception and he's an outsider. I'd hate anyone to get the idea into their heads that there's no romance at all in our blessed union.' the face of an angel and the tongue of a viper.
[00:09:01] Unknown:
Very well, my dear. If those are your sentiments, I'll adjourn to the billiards room. Your father has a footman with a penchant for snooker. Not quite as good as me. In fact, I've already taken 30 bob off him.' you're gambling with the servants now.
[00:09:15] Unknown:
Oh well I might have known.
[00:09:17] Unknown:
I'll see you for a cocktail before dinner. What's the name of this private eye of yours?
[00:09:22] Unknown:
Cannon. Mr. Cannon. Mister Ken? Yeah. Mister Ken? Yeah.
[00:09:38] Unknown:
Wow.
[00:09:39] Unknown:
You really look something. You've said that every day for the last three days you've been here? Yeah. But I, I never saw you in a wedding gown before. Like you, mister Cannon. I've never been married before. But, what are you doing back here? Aren't you supposed to be of the bridesmaids or something? Yes. I'm going back now, but there's something you must do. Just name it. You to get the spanner from the garage and take it round to the West Gate. You'll remember that little gate on the other side of the terrace I showed you. I know it, but, what do I do for a key? Here. That's the key to the spanner. And that's the key to the garage. What's all a mystery?
Mystery. The police just rang and said the route of the church is jammed with people and that a few hundred marches are converging us here. Marches? It's been a bad strike upon the father's factories.
[00:10:18] Unknown:
Oh, it's, it's tough on that. On your wedding day too. Never mind. Uneasy lies ahead and all that. Now you know what you have to do? Sure. Get the span zone. Wait by the waistcoat. But, who do I wait for? It's just a precaution. Wait here until you get word from me. Now off you go and don't talk to anyone. Mum's the word, ma'am, but, you sure do look like a million dollars. Thank you. Now off you go. I'm on my way.
[00:11:00] Unknown:
Hey, miss miss Brayton. What gives? Why are you here? I'll explain. Just let me get in the back behind the curtains. Can you hear me, mister Ken? Sure, I can. Alright. Now, drive out along Weber Road. Drive? But, what about the bridesmaids and your father? The trouble at the factory's serious. Please do as I ask. Start now.
[00:11:22] Unknown:
Okay, but this sure is a wacky wedding. You okay in the back there? Yes.
[00:11:34] Unknown:
I must drive along Webberon till you come to Smith Street. There you turn right. I'll show you the route when you've got that far. Please hurry, mister Cannon. Whatever you say, but that's not the route to the church. I noticed. We're all converting from different points. It'll be alright once we're at the church.
[00:11:49] Unknown:
Don't you think I should stop and buy some silk ribbon? Don't
[00:11:56] Unknown:
It's just here that you turn. There's a little cottage with a red roof here on the left, and I want you to stop there for a minute. At the cottage? Yes.
[00:12:06] Unknown:
May I ask why?
[00:12:07] Unknown:
I just want to tell a friend what's happening with him. Oh, boy. This is worse than the shotgun lady.
[00:12:13] Unknown:
That the place there? Yes.
[00:12:15] Unknown:
Alright. Pull up.
[00:12:24] Unknown:
How long will
[00:12:25] Unknown:
say, what happens to your wedding gown? What goes on? I had a bag packed in the back of the car, really. Please don't ask any questions, mister Cannon. What I told about father's factory wasn't true. Not a word of it. I just made it up on the spell of a moment. But the wedding There isn't going to be any wedding, mister Kenan. In fact, as from now, there isn't going to be any need.
[00:13:00] Unknown:
Looking for space to hang and dry your washing? Washline distributors have the solution. Their rotating and pull down washlines take up the smallest spaces. Ideal for townhouses, simplexes, and balconies at affordable prices. Galvanized or powder coated and available in five different colors. For 24 hour delivery, installation, reliable, and friendly service, phone Washline Distributors on 017922486. That's 017922486. Wash lines for every space and need.
[00:13:40] Unknown:
The following classic Springbok Radio commercial comes to you with a courtesy of the Springbok Radio Preservation Society of South Africa.
[00:13:50] Unknown:
New Pepsodent has Irlium, an amazing discovery that actually polishes teeth so sparkling clean and white, the dulling film can't find a hole. Feel the difference with your tongue. New Pepsodent. The white toothpaste you can feel working. Absodent. Absodent. Absodent.
[00:14:26] Unknown:
Cannon watched June Peyton run through the cottage garden and disappear round the back. Then, his wits returned, he leaped from the spencer and chased after her. But Miss Paeton had planned her escape carefully. A parallel road ran along the back of the cottage, and Cannon had barely reached the front gate when a powerful engine burst into life and a green sports car swung out and roared away along the black ribbon of road. June Peyton at the wheel. Cannon returned to McClure to a pandemonium.
[00:14:55] Unknown:
What teen blazes has happened to the girl? Now look here, Harold. If you two have some kind of full practical joke, I'll cut you both off without a penny. I'm as bewildered as you are, sir. I've asked the chambermaids if they've seen her. But all they say is the same thing. They haven't. She was dressed in her wedding gown ready to leave and that's the last anyone saw them. Now look here. The the girl just can't disappear into thin air, man. I mean, don't be such a dolt. I don't know what to say, sir. Well, I do. You should never have stayed in my crew last night. Supposed to be bad luck if the groom spends his pre managed night under the same roof.
Not that I'm superstitious, but blast it, man. I mean, there's a thousand people waiting out there, not to mention heaven knows how many of my employees. Why didn't you spend the night at the local tavern? The footman's luck changed.
[00:15:38] Unknown:
What's that? Well, I no. I I well, I I didn't bring my checkbook, sir. You Checkbook?
[00:15:43] Unknown:
Oh, what that not a use your checkbook would be even if you brought it. I'll take the mighty cock to that hill when I find that. Steady on, sir. Don't you argue with me, young fellow. I'll horse whip you too. You're a bodyguard.
[00:15:55] Unknown:
What's that? That's a personal bodyguard coming across the lawn. What that blazer you're talking about, sir? The personal bodyguard you organize for us, sir. I organize personal bodyguard? Have you taken the leave of your senses? That man crossing a lawn, sir, his name's Cannon. June told me that you're engaged in services as a personal bodyguard to him. I did no such thing.
[00:16:16] Unknown:
You didn't? I said so, didn't I? Then why did
[00:16:20] Unknown:
Excuse me, sir.
[00:16:21] Unknown:
Cannon? Cannon, over here.
[00:16:25] Unknown:
I have a nasty feeling that we're about to get to the bottom of this mystery, sir. Mister Tyson? Where's miss Peyton? She's gone.
[00:16:34] Unknown:
Gone? Where? Search me. What is this fellow talking about? This is mister Jeremy Payton, the bright spot. And how do you do, sir?
[00:16:41] Unknown:
Who are you? The name's Cannon of Assignments Unlimited. I was engaged as a personal bodyguard to miss Payton. Are you aware, will you? And, who engaged you, may I ask? I misspoke myself.
[00:16:53] Unknown:
I'll get the police. Have this man locked up. Just a moment, sir. Do you mind if I have a word with Kennan in private? For arm? Well, I think it might be better for all concerned that I might be able to clear this up with him and even find June.
[00:17:05] Unknown:
Look. Then hurry up, young man, and be quick. And if I be made a fool of you, I'll rule that they all love you. Over here, Canon.
[00:17:13] Unknown:
Alright. What happened?
[00:17:15] Unknown:
Well, Miss Bacon asked me to bring the spencer round to the Westgate. I did, and she arrived in her wedding gown alone. She told me some cock and bull story about a strike in her father's factory and how everybody was going to the church from different directions because the workers were in an ugly mood. Well, I saw no reason to disbelieve her. I'm employed by her anyway. So we drove off to a cottage off Smith Street. Red roof? Yeah. Then what happened? Well, she travelled in the back with the curtains drawn. When we got to the cottage she changed into day clothes. She ran through the cottage garden and drove off in a sports car. What colour sports car? Green. It's hers.
[00:17:52] Unknown:
So the bride ran out on me. Well, here's one for the books. I just can't wait to see old Peyton's face when he finds out. A thousand guests. You're, not concerned about the young lady? Course I'm concerned. That'd be impertinent. Don't you either? I'm not in your employ, buddy, and from what I've seen since I've been walking on the lawns of of Buccleuch, I'd just as soon punch you on the nose as look at you. Fair enough. I might take you up on that one day, but not now. Look, Cannon, I'll, I'll go and break the news to the old man, and when he's recovered from his apoplexy I'll join you in the billiard room for a drink. Why? Well, well, the girl ran out of me. I want to know why.' 'Conceit seems to be your strong point.' 'I don't mean that, you fool. If she didn't want to marry me, why didn't she say so in the first place?
Why go to all this trouble and then run out of me on the last minute?' She didn't do it on the spur of the moment in a fit of nerves. She planned it. She planned it very carefully. Do you know that she told me her father had engaged you as a bodyguard? You don't say. I do say. Can you imagine what this will mean? The old man will cut her off without a penny. He'll be fit to do murder. Well, she must have known so that she's deliberately committed the economic suicide.
[00:19:02] Unknown:
It sounds crazy to me too, Tyson, but this is where I came in and this is where I moved right out.' No, no, it's not. You failed in your duty. 'I did no such thing.' You did. You were engaged as her bodyguard.
[00:19:12] Unknown:
'All right. Where's the body?' 'I'll tell you where. Flown. You're gonna help me find her.' And bring her back? After what she's done to that money grabbing miserly old pompous skinfin of a father of hers, she won't ever dare show a face in here again. Now, will you help me find her, Canon?
[00:19:30] Unknown:
But, I mean, what use is she to you without a penny in the world?
[00:19:34] Unknown:
No, it's you who's asking for a punch on the nose.
[00:19:38] Unknown:
Touche. Well, I don't understand it, but I'll do it. Okay, Tyson. I'll help you to find her. But finding Miss Peyton was easier said than done. She disappeared into thin air.
[00:19:50] Unknown:
Cannon began by trying to trace the whereabouts of Vibreen sports car, only to find that she'd made arrangements for its sale days before. She left the car with the dealer, signed the documents, and walked out into the wide world without so much as a backward glance. Harold Tyson became more and more agitated as the days passed without a sign of his ex fiancee, and he suggested that we contact the police. They were loathed to cooperate since, well, Miss Peyton had passed her 20 birthday since her sudden disappearance, and her father, Jeremy Peyton, refused to request the services of the law. As far as he was concerned, his daughter was as good as dead. He certainly never wished to set eyes on her again. Cannon got his first break one day whilst pacing the office floor.
[00:20:35] Unknown:
Assignments Unlimited.
[00:20:36] Unknown:
Is that Grosvenor 5 Double 95? Yep, it is. A personal call has been booked for a Mr. Cannon at this number from a Miss June Patent. The time is for 03:00. Can mister Cannon take the call then? Yeah. June Peyton. Yeah. Yeah. Sure. I can take it then. One hour and twenty minutes, sir. Thank you.
[00:20:54] Unknown:
Hey. Where oh, too light can't find it.
[00:20:59] Unknown:
Who was it, Cameron?
[00:21:01] Unknown:
A personal call coming through for me in an hour and twenty minutes from June Peyton. Well, where's she ringing from? I forgot to ask. Well, ring the exchange and they'll tell you. Oh, so they will. I'm gone nutty. The brain box doesn't work quite anymore. Oh, well, I'll do it
[00:21:16] Unknown:
for you. Miss Farewell, there's a personal call coming through for Mr. Cameron. Let's see. It's, 03:00. Find out from the exchange where he's coming from and let me know. Right?
[00:21:27] Unknown:
As easy as that. Well, what'll you do?
[00:21:31] Unknown:
Any advice to you? Well, it's your business, Cameron. Assignment's unlimited. Let the case spend the three days rub at the clue.
[00:21:38] Unknown:
Well, if it's a trunk call she must be quite some distance out from London. If I tell him now where she is he might have time to drive down there and find her before she has a chance to dodge off again. Then why don't you do that? The Exchange will have the answers to your query in a few minutes. But how do I know she wants to see him? Well, from what you've told me, Harold Tyson is the last man on earth she wants to see right now. Yeah, but you know, chief, I've got a hunch. I don't know why, but there's something awful screwy about this setup. I mean, take Tyson. He's a changed man. He couldn't give a fig about that day when she had stacks of loot. And now that she's flat broke, he's he's mourning after like a sick calf.
[00:22:15] Unknown:
Well, love Ein told is a peculiar emotion. It's downright odd. Yes, miss Faribault. Oh, just a minute. I'll take that down. Bekonsfield Hotel, Oxford. Yes. Yes. I got it. Thank you.
[00:22:30] Unknown:
Get it? Yeah. That's where he went to university. The Bekonsfield Hotel? Oh, no. Oxford. Oxford. He got sent down, June Peyton told me. Quite a ray car, Mr. Tyson. Guess so. Well, it's no good just sitting around there, Ken, and do one thing or the other. Yeah. But if only I could be sure she'd still be at the hotel after she's spoken to me on the phone. Well, you can't, can you? If I can tell him now, he can make it while she's still on the phone to me. Well, it's quite a drive, you know. Yeah. But he's some driver. Pilots machines at Le Mans. A courageous wreck. No. I suppose so. Okay. Here goes.
Two, three, six. Hello, Tyson here. Tyson, this is Cannon. You feel like a fast drive? Where to? On your own to the Bekonsfield Hotel Oxford. Can you make it in under an hour? With wings. Then so on some feathers, Sonny. That's where June Peyton is. Is. Assignments unlimited. Is that 595?
[00:23:37] Unknown:
Yep. Cannon speaking. Your call to Oxford. Speak up, please. Thank you.
[00:23:41] Unknown:
Hello?
[00:23:43] Unknown:
Mister Cannon? Hi. Where have you been all my life? I just had to ring you to explain. I thought it was rather a dirty trick running out on you like that. Can you forgive me? Well, there's, there's nothing to forgive. I just wondered why you did it. So does Harold Tyson. He was only interested in
[00:23:59] Unknown:
me for my money. You was is right. No more. Now that you're broke, he's only interested in you for you. How can he be sure? Well, then, take a look behind you. So long, miss Baden. Oh, and by the way, if you and Harry want to know how to make an honest buck, might I suggest that you take up novel writing and get him to act as your publicity agent?' 'Novels?' 'You're a great girl, Juney, but you're also the biggest liar I ever met.'
[00:24:24] Unknown:
you see, June Peyton was in love with Harold Tyson all the time, and he with her. The barrier between them was the fabulous wealth of her father. June knew that she could never be happy with Harold under the shadow of an arranged marriage, so she decided to test him under the severe conditions of poverty. She planned everything to the smallest detail. Her gamble came off. Oh, she didn't have to write novels for a living. Old Jeremy Peyton got lonely in that great rambling house and so he forgave them both. His daughter's plan brought out the best in him too.
