In this thrilling episode, we follow the intriguing tale of Cannon, a man who finds himself embroiled in a mysterious plot involving a luxurious mohair overcoat. The story unfolds in London, where Cannon, known for his reputation in Greater London, is hired for an unusual assignment at the Silver Shoe nightclub. As the night progresses, Cannon and his companion, Miss Fairweather, encounter a series of enigmatic characters, including the club's proprietor, Johnny Devereaux, and a mysterious foreigner, Cabal Michonne. The evening takes a puzzling turn when Cannon's apartment is broken into, yet nothing is stolen, leaving him to question the true nature of his assignment.
The plot thickens as Cannon returns to the nightclub, only to discover that his prized mohair coat is at the center of a high-stakes game involving smuggled gems. With the help of Miss Fairweather and a chance encounter with a truck driver, Cannon navigates the dangerous waters of deception and intrigue. In the end, the mystery of the overcoat is unraveled, revealing a fortune hidden within its lining. This episode is a captivating blend of suspense and adventure, showcasing Cannon's knack for finding trouble and his ability to outsmart those who underestimate him.
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[00:00:01]
Unknown:
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[00:00:30] Unknown:
It's own standard of elegance, sir. I offer this as an explanation since most gentlemen visitors to London are confused of the great price variations to be found in our city. Now look, you can save the sales talk, buddy. I've lived here since the war. Really? I would have thought you too long, sir. Yeah. The Korean War. And I don't like this topcoat. Like I said, I want something special and I don't mind paying for it. I wonder. I have an overcoat here that was ordered by an Indian gentleman that was never collected. You're trying to sell me a second, Anne? Sorry. Wait till you see it, sir. A fur trimmed silk lined hand woven mow hat.
There. What do you think of that?
[00:01:10] Unknown:
Boy, that's, that sure is some top coat.
[00:01:14] Unknown:
Will it fit? Let's try, sir. Then there. Perfect. Absolutely
[00:01:22] Unknown:
perfect. For once, I'm in perfect agreement.
[00:01:25] Unknown:
Handwoven mohair, did you say? Yeah. That's right. Sir, imported from the Hindu Kush. Right. Wrap it up and send it round. You've got yourself a sale. To whom shall I address it, sir? The name's Canon. The address, 33 Half Moon Street.
[00:02:03] Unknown:
Cannon's reputation in the area of Greater London was known to many people. Indeed, his efficient completion of many tasks meant that his prowess at fulfilling an assignment had spread by word-of-mouth far and wide. I wasn't surprised, therefore, when a gentleman rang this fairweather and requested the services of Cameron personally. It was the circumstances underlying the assignment that puzzled me. But it puzzled Cameron too when Miss Fairweather relayed them to him.
[00:02:31] Unknown:
Working as the switch witch in this crazy dump, I've heard of some screwy assignments, Cameron, but this one takes the cake. You are to be paid for doing nothing. Oh, like a remittance man. Almost. Ever heard of the Silver Shoe nightclub?
[00:02:43] Unknown:
Yeah. As a matter of fact, I was there last night. What about it? I've had a call from the proprietor, certain Johnny Devereaux.
[00:02:49] Unknown:
Know him? No. But, what do I have to do to do nothing to get paid? Well, this man Johnny Devereaux said that you're to wrap up nice and warm and be at the Silver Shoe at 11:00 tonight. Go to wear evening dress and a table is being reserved for you. Food and drink is on the house and if you wish you may bring a companion. He's sending the chief a check-in advance.
[00:03:08] Unknown:
Well, what do I do like to chuck her out? You don't have to do a thing.
[00:03:12] Unknown:
I asked Mr. Deveraux what you ought to expect to do and he just said sit around and look decorative.
[00:03:17] Unknown:
Decorative, and, I'm allowed a companion. And that's what he said. Wonder why I should ask. Hey, what are you doing with that paperweight? Helping you make up your mind. Who else? It's customary to use a shotgun, Miss Fairway. Look, would you do me the honor of accompanying me to the Silver Shoe nightclub this evening? I should be delighted, Mr. Cannon. Oh, how are the gladrags? I sent my evening rest of the cleaners immediately after the phone call. Sir, you've got a lot of confidence in that paperweight. How's the time?
[00:03:45] Unknown:
04:30. I know what. Let's go to your place via the dry cleaners and we can change and take an afflict before reporting for duty at the club. Suits me.
[00:03:54] Unknown:
What's the weather like? Still drizzling. It doesn't stop raining soon. You'll have to build an ark. Real nightclub weather. Mister Johnny Devereaux couldn't have picked it better.
[00:04:03] Unknown:
Are you sure you wanna come? A free night out in the Silver Shoe? Are you kidding? Look. What I mean is,
[00:04:09] Unknown:
well, you wouldn't pay good money plus a free night unless there were strings attached. Maybe,
[00:04:14] Unknown:
maybe you expect trouble or something. I feel quite safe with you, Canon.
[00:04:18] Unknown:
Okay. But if, somebody treats you to a bottle of champagne without removing the cork, don't say I didn't want it. You can't put me off. I happen to know that the Silver Shoe was a highly respectable establishment. Then what are we waiting for? Let's go. Aren't you gonna wear your new overcoat? In this sweater? Not a chance. I paid 50 guineas for that. It's worth twice as much. I'll leave it in the office and take a raincoat. Not a whole thing.
[00:04:41] Unknown:
Mister Devereaux's expecting you to look elegant. Oh, so I shall underneath.
[00:04:45] Unknown:
Topcoats get left in the foyer in the cloakroom.
[00:04:48] Unknown:
Mr. Devereux will see me resplendent in my best tuxedo. And I shall grace his presence with my newly laundered gown.
[00:04:55] Unknown:
Yeah. You know, Penny, there's something screwy about this job. I just got a funny feeling that mister Johnny Devereux is no philanthropist. In fact, if he's a nightclub owner, then he's, probably a real tough cookie. And from what I know of guys of that caliber, they don't go round dishing out free handouts unless they have a very, very good reason.
[00:05:25] Unknown:
Having a good time, your turn. Wonderful, mister Devereaux. Thank you. Just great.
[00:05:30] Unknown:
So when, when do we start work? Work? Well, it's, half a midnight and all we've done so far is eat your food and drink your drink. That's all you're supposed to do for now, Mr. Cannon. Just order anything you want. Well, I can think of a harder way of earning a buck.
[00:05:45] Unknown:
Excuse me. An important guest has just arrived. Perhaps you can begin to earn your money now, mister Cannon. If he's alone, I'll send him over to your table. He's a foreigner, you see. So
[00:05:53] Unknown:
you have your answer, Cameron. Host and hostess to lonely foreign visitors.
[00:05:58] Unknown:
Foreign, yeah. From his turban head to his butjeweled fingers. Lonely? I doubt it. Is that him in the fire? Yeah. There is conversation with the proprietor. Mhmm. But I guess he's a Pakistani or a Persian. And they don't get lonely, not before wives.
[00:06:15] Unknown:
Hey. Watch it. They're coming over you now. For the first time tonight, I'm beginning to feel uncomfortable.
[00:06:20] Unknown:
Now may I present a personal friend and habituate of the club, Cabal, Michonne, to mister Cannon and miss Fairweather. Hard to move. How do you do? Cabal is at a loose end tonight. Oh, then, why won't you join us? Thank you. If you'll excuse me, the persistent duties of a nightclub are near you now. Do give me a shout if there's anything you want. You sure I'm not, intruding? Oh, on the contrary.
[00:06:41] Unknown:
Glass of champagne? Oh, no. My my country forbids it. Bad luck. But since I'm not in my country When in Rome? Yes. I know the expression. Yes. Well, thank you again. Have you been in England long, mister Kent?
[00:07:03] Unknown:
A while.
[00:07:05] Unknown:
How about you? Oh, my duty is to bring me here frequently. I'm fond of the place but, it gets lonely at times. I often come here.
[00:07:14] Unknown:
I, don't remember seeing you before. Well, to be frank, it's a bit out of my price range. But, as a matter of fact, I was here last night. Oh, wait a minute. Wait a minute. You know, I I thought I've seen you before.
[00:07:24] Unknown:
Am I right in saying that you wore a coat of mohair last night?
[00:07:29] Unknown:
Well, I sure did.
[00:07:30] Unknown:
Now fancy you noticing that. It was a magnificent coat. Fur trimmed from the Hindu Kush. There are few such coats in existence. You were lucky to have obtained such a fine garment. Savour.
[00:07:41] Unknown:
Guy ordered it and never came back. I got it half price.
[00:07:44] Unknown:
You are twice lucky. I should like to examine it at close quarters. Did you bring it tonight?
[00:07:51] Unknown:
No. No. No. I,
[00:07:52] Unknown:
I didn't wanna wear it in this rain. Oh. See, I told you to bring the coat. Oh, it doesn't matter. And you are right not to bring it out in the rain. Such a fine garment deserves the best of treatment. Now, if you will excuse me You're going so soon. Oh, I have a hard day tomorrow. Tonight I will enjoy a good sleep.
[00:08:12] Unknown:
Good night. So long. Good night. Well,
[00:08:17] Unknown:
what do you make of that? Well, he's from the East but he's not potentate.
[00:08:21] Unknown:
I have heard that they consider it to be polite to make rude noises after meals. Well, for a lonely guy, he sure didn't enjoy our company very long, did he?
[00:08:30] Unknown:
You know, sometimes I'm getting bored with this joint. I wasn't paid to stay here and blah. Well, how's everything? Had a pleasant evening.
[00:08:39] Unknown:
Yep. It's been marvelous, Mr. Devereux.
[00:08:41] Unknown:
How much longer do we have to stay? You can go any time you want. There'll be no more customers tonight. I suppose I can ring your office if I need you again? Of course. Grosvenor 5 Double 95. Good. I'll remember. Goodbye.
[00:08:55] Unknown:
You know, I feel like, I feel like I was at chess piece. So do I.
[00:09:01] Unknown:
As though every move was planned in advance. Let's go home, Cameron. Sure.
[00:09:08] Unknown:
Nightcap at my place? I can think of nothing better. Then let's get the blazes out of here.
[00:09:24] Unknown:
It's cold. What are you waiting for?
[00:09:30] Unknown:
Why don't you unlock the door? Somebody's been here while we were away. Take a look at the lock. See how it's scratched? Yeah. Well, that's a skeleton key and, handled by a clumsy knave. And you stand to the side there by the wall. What are you gonna do? Well, Robert Cole might still be here. I'll just make quite sure before you come in. Is it alright, Canon? Sure. Come on in. Drinks on the sideboard. Make mine on the rocks. Right. I'll check the bedroom. Well he was no super snooper he's left his trademark all over the apartment thanks
[00:10:27] Unknown:
Is anything missing?
[00:10:30] Unknown:
Not that I can see right away. Well, take a look on the Welsh dresser. A thief could hardly miss all that small change, and nothing's missing from the bedroom that I can see. The whole joint's been turned upside down and everything put back roughly the way it was. If an expert had given my place the wine silver, I would never have known anybody had been here. But who would want to set your apartment? That is the $64 question. Who and why?
[00:10:55] Unknown:
Johnny Devereaux?
[00:10:56] Unknown:
Well, he knew that I was out of the way alright. In fact, he had me on his eye the whole night long, but why? I got nothing of value. I got nothing to hide. The first time I ever went to his club was last night, and I didn't meet him personally then. In fact, the first time I ever set eyes on the guy was, when I went to work for him tonight.
[00:11:15] Unknown:
Yeah. It's puzzling. It's crazy.
[00:11:18] Unknown:
Will you ring the police? Can't tell them what? That my apartment was broken into and nothing was stolen? Then who can that be at this time of night? I'll get it.
[00:11:27] Unknown:
Hello? Yes, it's Cannon's flat. Oh, hello, Cheap. What am I doing here? We just finished work. The Silver Shoe Club. I'm having a nightcap with Cannon. Yes, of course. Do you want to speak to him? Oh, I see. Oh, I didn't, chief. I gave him the Broughner five double nine five number. Yes, I'll tell him. Good night, chief. And what did he want? A strong glass of bicarb judging by his temper. Mister Johnny Devereaux rang him up at home a moment ago. Well, how do you know the chief's number? Your guess is as good as mine. And Devereaux? You're to report to the silver shoe again same procedure as tonight but why did he ring tonight I mean why couldn't it wait until morning he wanted to make sure that it was you the Chiefs sent along he specifically said you can
[00:12:22] Unknown:
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[00:13:08] Unknown:
And so, once again, Cannon repaired to the Silver Shoe nightclub, attired in his magnificent fur trimmed overcoat. As he said to Miss Fairweather, he was beginning to feel at home in the place.
[00:13:23] Unknown:
It's like home from home, Penny. Say, I like your fuck. And I like your overcoat. Small wonder that that caboodle man admired it. I'll just check my cake with a girl. You men hang your own things up, don't you? Yeah. That's right. Like I said, this joint's becoming home from home. I won't be a moment, Ken. Okay. Hello. Mister Khan, isn't it? Oh, hi there. Cabo Machard. You have a good memory. It was only last night that we met, and you're not the sort of person one forgets easily, even though the acquaintance was brief. Do I take that as a compliment? Sure. Will you join us again this evening? Oh, I shall be delighted.
[00:13:59] Unknown:
I I see you brought along that superb coat again. Mohair from the Hindu Kush.
[00:14:04] Unknown:
A very fine piece of work. Well, here I am. Oh. Oh, hello, mister Capel, my chert. Hello, again, gentle lady. So you've all messed up again? Well, that's great. Shall I put you at the same table? How are you, Kip? All everything going well with you? How everything is perfect. I'm glad to hear it. This way, I put you away from the bed. My throat singer's got a throat tonight. The fill in sings like a corn creak with laryngitis.
[00:14:26] Unknown:
Well then, how's this? I'll be around if you need me. Alright? I'll order some champagne. I will pay for it. I must, make one very quick telephone call. You will excuse me? Yeah. Sure thing. I shall be about a minute. That's all. A minute.
[00:14:39] Unknown:
Last night it was a chess game. Tonight it's a jack in the box.
[00:14:43] Unknown:
Why does everyone seem so excited? You see the look he gave me when I came in. Oh, shucks. What's up? I forgot to get a pack of cigarettes. Well, the girl will sell them. Shall I call her? She won't have my brand. Look, do you mind holding the fort while I slip out and buy a pack? There's a cafe across the road from you, so how's my make? Better that I go for you. You're employed to work here, remember. I'm just trading along for kicks. Well, it's freezing out there and it'll take an age for the check go to get you wrapped. Then I'll borrow your magnificent fur trimmed overcoat. I can wrap it roundly if the cafe's only across the road. Where did you hang it? Third row from the front. Anyway, you can't mistake it. Sure enough. I'll only be a moment.
Surely you're not leaving already, Mr. No, no, no. She's just running out to get me some cigarettes. They don't stock my brand new. Pull up a chair. You can, tell me something about, where is it you come from? From Telcia. The land of caviar.
[00:15:38] Unknown:
The champagne. I I feel in a festive mood this evening here. Well, here, here's to a successful evening, mister Canon. It's mad you like a bull. Persia, you said? Oh, an unhappy country, I fear. But, one with a long history that will see it through these troubled times.
[00:16:01] Unknown:
What line of business are you in? Oh, I'm an importer.
[00:16:04] Unknown:
Fine silks, carpets, and woven cloth. My country has a famous history in the manufacture of these things. Oh, so that's why you were so interested in my top coat. I, I did wonder. Fabrics have always held a special fascination for me. Did you know that many of your English names for cloths originated in Persia? You see that woman on the dance floor there? Look there. She wears a pattern you call seersaka. Uh-huh. Persian originally for milk and sugar. White milk, brown sugar.
[00:16:36] Unknown:
Interesting, isn't it? How about one? Yeah. There you are, Canon. Twenty of the best. Just popped out to get him some cigarettes. He's got a nine like a sieve. Thanks, Penny. It wasn't where you said it was by the way. You put it in the back row.
[00:16:49] Unknown:
My dear. I call you a cab. All I say is urgent. Oh, forgive me. We're having a conversation on fine Parisian garments. Perhaps we can continue some other time.
[00:16:59] Unknown:
I'll, take the call in the off No, that's fine. Fine. Oh, friends, have winds it up, I guess.
[00:17:06] Unknown:
You mean,
[00:17:07] Unknown:
we can go? That's right. By the way, tell me something. Where do you keep that beautiful overcoat you brought tonight?
[00:17:13] Unknown:
In the wardrobe, why? I just wondered. You didn't wear it last night, did you? No, no, no. On account of the rain I left it in the afternoon. In the office.
[00:17:21] Unknown:
I see. Well, thanks for coming. I'll send the check for you tonight along to your office in the morning. Good night, Miss Fairweather. Night.
[00:17:30] Unknown:
Cam, that Cabool man isn't using the phone at all. He's watching us again from behind the draperies.
[00:17:35] Unknown:
That's all. Well, last time I said, a cat can look at a king. I'm gonna change that slightly. Let's make it, curiosity kill the cat. Well, let's get out of here. You got your app? It won't be a minute.
[00:17:49] Unknown:
I still miss Devereaux talking to the check girl. I suspect you're happy to ready. You seem an awful hurry to get us out of here.
[00:17:56] Unknown:
So where did you leave my coat? First peg. You can't miss it. Are you going so early, mister Cannon? Yep. I, don't wanna be too late. Had an attempted burglary in my apartment last night. Oh, I'm sorry to hear it.
[00:18:08] Unknown:
Anything missing? No. No. No. The, the intruder was looking for something.
[00:18:13] Unknown:
I wish I knew what it was.
[00:18:15] Unknown:
It all sounds very mysterious.
[00:18:17] Unknown:
Yeah. But there's probably quite a logical explanation. I'm ready, Canon. Shall we go? Sure thing. Good night again, Mr. Kabul Marchand.
[00:18:26] Unknown:
Good night to you both.
[00:18:36] Unknown:
It's better. Careful driving, Ken. The road's one sheet of ice. Oh, watch it. You hop in.
[00:18:54] Unknown:
Where to come? I want to go into my apartment. Something here I don't think. You know, Penny, I got a strange feeling that the guy who rifled my apartment last night was Johnny Devereaux. Why would he do that? Something I've got he wants. Who knows? My mohair top coat for a start. Johnny Devereaux could buy a dozen such coats if he wanted to. Yeah. Unless there's something special about this one. He asked me why I kept it. He seemed relieved when I told him it was in the office last night. It was almost as though he thought I was,
[00:19:23] Unknown:
conspiring against him. What possible conspiracy could there be between you and John Devereux?
[00:19:29] Unknown:
What? And yet there's definitely something. And that Persian guy Cabool, he's mixed up in it.
[00:19:35] Unknown:
Oh, I for one can't see them stealing your coat. Why would they want to do that? When I went out for your cigarettes it was hanging quite happily in the back row of coats. If they'd wanted it, they'd have taken it then. Not the back row, the third row. I told you where I put it. I knew where it was when I borrowed it to take out your cigarettes. Look, I tell you I left it in the third row from the front. I know where I put it. Look, don't let spoil our evening by having a row. Who cares where you put your coat? I
[00:20:01] Unknown:
care. Now you're getting succulent for nothing. It's not for nothing. There's something mighty queer going on around here and I wanna find out what it is. Look Penny, I tell you for the last time that I put that coat in the third row.
[00:20:13] Unknown:
Then somebody moved it.
[00:20:15] Unknown:
But, I and how come a mohair coat's so important?
[00:20:19] Unknown:
Cannon, there's a car following us. Yeah. So I noticed.
[00:20:24] Unknown:
Can you see any, occupants? No. Well, there's a pair of night glasses in the glove box. Use them. There. Have you seen anything now?
[00:20:37] Unknown:
The driver is Johnny Devereux. Surprise. Surprise. The other side of the screen has messed it up. Wait. You know? He's wiping it in his glove. It's Kabul.
[00:20:50] Unknown:
So why don't I tell you when it is the coat they're after? You didn't know it, Penny, but you re rang the changes on that coat in the cloakroom. I don't understand. You don't have to. We gotta shake off the gorillas first. Careful, Canon. The road's frozen. No. It's as bad for them as it is for me. You hold on to your seat.
[00:21:08] Unknown:
He's still there sticking like glue. Helen, look out. Look out. There's a truck coming out the ramp that's turning. This one holds it down. Kid was sliding, Silas. Get him a dashboard.
[00:21:30] Unknown:
Benny? Oh. You alright?
[00:21:34] Unknown:
Oh, I think so, Cam. Gee. How's the car? Is it a write off?
[00:21:40] Unknown:
Well, it, was it insured?
[00:21:42] Unknown:
Where are the others?
[00:21:44] Unknown:
Devore and Cabot. I don't know. Oh. Looks like I spoke too soon.
[00:21:50] Unknown:
Cannon, look at Cabo.
[00:21:53] Unknown:
He's wearing an overcoat exactly like yours. No. No. Look. Keep down, honey. There's gonna be trouble. If he's dead or dead, then just grab the coat and let's get out of here. This tailor's masterpiece is gonna be enough trouble to last me a lifetime. And be careful of him, Johnny.
[00:22:06] Unknown:
He's a dangerous customer. Yes. Yes. So am I.
[00:22:10] Unknown:
So, more than one piece, Canon. Alright. Come on. Get out. So what's the big idea, Deborah? I never could stand this oriental intrigue. I said from the start that we should simply move in and take what we want in. What you want to be my mohair topcoat? You guessed right first time, yes. But, why? I just don't get You don't have to. Come over quickly now. I'll change coats with them. You having trouble, mate?
[00:22:30] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. Can't you see? I mean, these monkeys are hijacking my property. Yes. You chalk me to me. You heard me. Oh, I don't like that. You actually think it was your fault anyway. I was on the right side of the road. Well, you can tell that to the cops. Grab the coach, Caboolin. Let's get out of here. Oh, no. You don't. And who's going to stop us? Me and this bloke here. Get the top one, matey. Yeah. That's, that's quite a one of you prank there. Hey. Don't do so bad yourself, mate. And what do we do with these beauties? Let's, cart them off the local locker. Oh, but be very careful of the two mohair overcoats. You don't know it, friend, but you are holding the key to a million dollar mystery.
[00:23:17] Unknown:
It's true that Cameron never looks for trouble, but it always seems to meet him halfway. Knowing how proud he was of his expensive overcoat, I wondered why he'd sold it. He took great delight in telling me.
[00:23:30] Unknown:
'All began, chief, that first night I went to the Silver Shoe nightclub, and not the time Devore engaged my services but the night before when I went alone. In fact, it was because of that visit that he employed me to sit and do nothing in the club. You see, that first night when I left, I took the wrong mohair coat. The one owned by Kabul was exactly identical. Deveraux asked me along thinking I would arrive in my Mohair coat and he could ring the changes while I was sitting at table with Penny Fairweather. But the first night it was ringing and I wore a raincoat.
That's why they broke into my flat. That got them no place on account of I'd left the topcoat in the office. The second night I did wear it, and they rang the changes on the coats, but Penny gummed up the works by taking the wrong coat when she went out for cigarettes. So they followed the car and, if that hadn't been for the truck driver, we might have been in serious trouble. Deborah and Kabul were playing for high stakes. The coat I took by accident had a fortune in smuggled gems sewn into the lining. Oh, I sold the coat, by the way, as you gathered.
I had a good offer from a Turkish businessman.
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[00:00:30] Unknown:
It's own standard of elegance, sir. I offer this as an explanation since most gentlemen visitors to London are confused of the great price variations to be found in our city. Now look, you can save the sales talk, buddy. I've lived here since the war. Really? I would have thought you too long, sir. Yeah. The Korean War. And I don't like this topcoat. Like I said, I want something special and I don't mind paying for it. I wonder. I have an overcoat here that was ordered by an Indian gentleman that was never collected. You're trying to sell me a second, Anne? Sorry. Wait till you see it, sir. A fur trimmed silk lined hand woven mow hat.
There. What do you think of that?
[00:01:10] Unknown:
Boy, that's, that sure is some top coat.
[00:01:14] Unknown:
Will it fit? Let's try, sir. Then there. Perfect. Absolutely
[00:01:22] Unknown:
perfect. For once, I'm in perfect agreement.
[00:01:25] Unknown:
Handwoven mohair, did you say? Yeah. That's right. Sir, imported from the Hindu Kush. Right. Wrap it up and send it round. You've got yourself a sale. To whom shall I address it, sir? The name's Canon. The address, 33 Half Moon Street.
[00:02:03] Unknown:
Cannon's reputation in the area of Greater London was known to many people. Indeed, his efficient completion of many tasks meant that his prowess at fulfilling an assignment had spread by word-of-mouth far and wide. I wasn't surprised, therefore, when a gentleman rang this fairweather and requested the services of Cameron personally. It was the circumstances underlying the assignment that puzzled me. But it puzzled Cameron too when Miss Fairweather relayed them to him.
[00:02:31] Unknown:
Working as the switch witch in this crazy dump, I've heard of some screwy assignments, Cameron, but this one takes the cake. You are to be paid for doing nothing. Oh, like a remittance man. Almost. Ever heard of the Silver Shoe nightclub?
[00:02:43] Unknown:
Yeah. As a matter of fact, I was there last night. What about it? I've had a call from the proprietor, certain Johnny Devereaux.
[00:02:49] Unknown:
Know him? No. But, what do I have to do to do nothing to get paid? Well, this man Johnny Devereaux said that you're to wrap up nice and warm and be at the Silver Shoe at 11:00 tonight. Go to wear evening dress and a table is being reserved for you. Food and drink is on the house and if you wish you may bring a companion. He's sending the chief a check-in advance.
[00:03:08] Unknown:
Well, what do I do like to chuck her out? You don't have to do a thing.
[00:03:12] Unknown:
I asked Mr. Deveraux what you ought to expect to do and he just said sit around and look decorative.
[00:03:17] Unknown:
Decorative, and, I'm allowed a companion. And that's what he said. Wonder why I should ask. Hey, what are you doing with that paperweight? Helping you make up your mind. Who else? It's customary to use a shotgun, Miss Fairway. Look, would you do me the honor of accompanying me to the Silver Shoe nightclub this evening? I should be delighted, Mr. Cannon. Oh, how are the gladrags? I sent my evening rest of the cleaners immediately after the phone call. Sir, you've got a lot of confidence in that paperweight. How's the time?
[00:03:45] Unknown:
04:30. I know what. Let's go to your place via the dry cleaners and we can change and take an afflict before reporting for duty at the club. Suits me.
[00:03:54] Unknown:
What's the weather like? Still drizzling. It doesn't stop raining soon. You'll have to build an ark. Real nightclub weather. Mister Johnny Devereaux couldn't have picked it better.
[00:04:03] Unknown:
Are you sure you wanna come? A free night out in the Silver Shoe? Are you kidding? Look. What I mean is,
[00:04:09] Unknown:
well, you wouldn't pay good money plus a free night unless there were strings attached. Maybe,
[00:04:14] Unknown:
maybe you expect trouble or something. I feel quite safe with you, Canon.
[00:04:18] Unknown:
Okay. But if, somebody treats you to a bottle of champagne without removing the cork, don't say I didn't want it. You can't put me off. I happen to know that the Silver Shoe was a highly respectable establishment. Then what are we waiting for? Let's go. Aren't you gonna wear your new overcoat? In this sweater? Not a chance. I paid 50 guineas for that. It's worth twice as much. I'll leave it in the office and take a raincoat. Not a whole thing.
[00:04:41] Unknown:
Mister Devereaux's expecting you to look elegant. Oh, so I shall underneath.
[00:04:45] Unknown:
Topcoats get left in the foyer in the cloakroom.
[00:04:48] Unknown:
Mr. Devereux will see me resplendent in my best tuxedo. And I shall grace his presence with my newly laundered gown.
[00:04:55] Unknown:
Yeah. You know, Penny, there's something screwy about this job. I just got a funny feeling that mister Johnny Devereux is no philanthropist. In fact, if he's a nightclub owner, then he's, probably a real tough cookie. And from what I know of guys of that caliber, they don't go round dishing out free handouts unless they have a very, very good reason.
[00:05:25] Unknown:
Having a good time, your turn. Wonderful, mister Devereaux. Thank you. Just great.
[00:05:30] Unknown:
So when, when do we start work? Work? Well, it's, half a midnight and all we've done so far is eat your food and drink your drink. That's all you're supposed to do for now, Mr. Cannon. Just order anything you want. Well, I can think of a harder way of earning a buck.
[00:05:45] Unknown:
Excuse me. An important guest has just arrived. Perhaps you can begin to earn your money now, mister Cannon. If he's alone, I'll send him over to your table. He's a foreigner, you see. So
[00:05:53] Unknown:
you have your answer, Cameron. Host and hostess to lonely foreign visitors.
[00:05:58] Unknown:
Foreign, yeah. From his turban head to his butjeweled fingers. Lonely? I doubt it. Is that him in the fire? Yeah. There is conversation with the proprietor. Mhmm. But I guess he's a Pakistani or a Persian. And they don't get lonely, not before wives.
[00:06:15] Unknown:
Hey. Watch it. They're coming over you now. For the first time tonight, I'm beginning to feel uncomfortable.
[00:06:20] Unknown:
Now may I present a personal friend and habituate of the club, Cabal, Michonne, to mister Cannon and miss Fairweather. Hard to move. How do you do? Cabal is at a loose end tonight. Oh, then, why won't you join us? Thank you. If you'll excuse me, the persistent duties of a nightclub are near you now. Do give me a shout if there's anything you want. You sure I'm not, intruding? Oh, on the contrary.
[00:06:41] Unknown:
Glass of champagne? Oh, no. My my country forbids it. Bad luck. But since I'm not in my country When in Rome? Yes. I know the expression. Yes. Well, thank you again. Have you been in England long, mister Kent?
[00:07:03] Unknown:
A while.
[00:07:05] Unknown:
How about you? Oh, my duty is to bring me here frequently. I'm fond of the place but, it gets lonely at times. I often come here.
[00:07:14] Unknown:
I, don't remember seeing you before. Well, to be frank, it's a bit out of my price range. But, as a matter of fact, I was here last night. Oh, wait a minute. Wait a minute. You know, I I thought I've seen you before.
[00:07:24] Unknown:
Am I right in saying that you wore a coat of mohair last night?
[00:07:29] Unknown:
Well, I sure did.
[00:07:30] Unknown:
Now fancy you noticing that. It was a magnificent coat. Fur trimmed from the Hindu Kush. There are few such coats in existence. You were lucky to have obtained such a fine garment. Savour.
[00:07:41] Unknown:
Guy ordered it and never came back. I got it half price.
[00:07:44] Unknown:
You are twice lucky. I should like to examine it at close quarters. Did you bring it tonight?
[00:07:51] Unknown:
No. No. No. I,
[00:07:52] Unknown:
I didn't wanna wear it in this rain. Oh. See, I told you to bring the coat. Oh, it doesn't matter. And you are right not to bring it out in the rain. Such a fine garment deserves the best of treatment. Now, if you will excuse me You're going so soon. Oh, I have a hard day tomorrow. Tonight I will enjoy a good sleep.
[00:08:12] Unknown:
Good night. So long. Good night. Well,
[00:08:17] Unknown:
what do you make of that? Well, he's from the East but he's not potentate.
[00:08:21] Unknown:
I have heard that they consider it to be polite to make rude noises after meals. Well, for a lonely guy, he sure didn't enjoy our company very long, did he?
[00:08:30] Unknown:
You know, sometimes I'm getting bored with this joint. I wasn't paid to stay here and blah. Well, how's everything? Had a pleasant evening.
[00:08:39] Unknown:
Yep. It's been marvelous, Mr. Devereux.
[00:08:41] Unknown:
How much longer do we have to stay? You can go any time you want. There'll be no more customers tonight. I suppose I can ring your office if I need you again? Of course. Grosvenor 5 Double 95. Good. I'll remember. Goodbye.
[00:08:55] Unknown:
You know, I feel like, I feel like I was at chess piece. So do I.
[00:09:01] Unknown:
As though every move was planned in advance. Let's go home, Cameron. Sure.
[00:09:08] Unknown:
Nightcap at my place? I can think of nothing better. Then let's get the blazes out of here.
[00:09:24] Unknown:
It's cold. What are you waiting for?
[00:09:30] Unknown:
Why don't you unlock the door? Somebody's been here while we were away. Take a look at the lock. See how it's scratched? Yeah. Well, that's a skeleton key and, handled by a clumsy knave. And you stand to the side there by the wall. What are you gonna do? Well, Robert Cole might still be here. I'll just make quite sure before you come in. Is it alright, Canon? Sure. Come on in. Drinks on the sideboard. Make mine on the rocks. Right. I'll check the bedroom. Well he was no super snooper he's left his trademark all over the apartment thanks
[00:10:27] Unknown:
Is anything missing?
[00:10:30] Unknown:
Not that I can see right away. Well, take a look on the Welsh dresser. A thief could hardly miss all that small change, and nothing's missing from the bedroom that I can see. The whole joint's been turned upside down and everything put back roughly the way it was. If an expert had given my place the wine silver, I would never have known anybody had been here. But who would want to set your apartment? That is the $64 question. Who and why?
[00:10:55] Unknown:
Johnny Devereaux?
[00:10:56] Unknown:
Well, he knew that I was out of the way alright. In fact, he had me on his eye the whole night long, but why? I got nothing of value. I got nothing to hide. The first time I ever went to his club was last night, and I didn't meet him personally then. In fact, the first time I ever set eyes on the guy was, when I went to work for him tonight.
[00:11:15] Unknown:
Yeah. It's puzzling. It's crazy.
[00:11:18] Unknown:
Will you ring the police? Can't tell them what? That my apartment was broken into and nothing was stolen? Then who can that be at this time of night? I'll get it.
[00:11:27] Unknown:
Hello? Yes, it's Cannon's flat. Oh, hello, Cheap. What am I doing here? We just finished work. The Silver Shoe Club. I'm having a nightcap with Cannon. Yes, of course. Do you want to speak to him? Oh, I see. Oh, I didn't, chief. I gave him the Broughner five double nine five number. Yes, I'll tell him. Good night, chief. And what did he want? A strong glass of bicarb judging by his temper. Mister Johnny Devereaux rang him up at home a moment ago. Well, how do you know the chief's number? Your guess is as good as mine. And Devereaux? You're to report to the silver shoe again same procedure as tonight but why did he ring tonight I mean why couldn't it wait until morning he wanted to make sure that it was you the Chiefs sent along he specifically said you can
[00:12:22] Unknown:
Some things in life are obvious and easy. If you have a business providing a good service or selling a product, you need to let people know. But how do you do that? Easy. Just tell them here on springbokradio.com. Internet radio is about talking to people in their own homes. Your message becomes part of the sound they've chosen to listen to. To find out more about advertising on springbokradio.com, contact Dave Dupree on Johannesburg O Double One Six Seven Eight Five One Seven Six. Or, or outside South Africa, Two Seven Double One Six Seven Eight Five One Seven Six. Or email [email protected].
[00:13:08] Unknown:
And so, once again, Cannon repaired to the Silver Shoe nightclub, attired in his magnificent fur trimmed overcoat. As he said to Miss Fairweather, he was beginning to feel at home in the place.
[00:13:23] Unknown:
It's like home from home, Penny. Say, I like your fuck. And I like your overcoat. Small wonder that that caboodle man admired it. I'll just check my cake with a girl. You men hang your own things up, don't you? Yeah. That's right. Like I said, this joint's becoming home from home. I won't be a moment, Ken. Okay. Hello. Mister Khan, isn't it? Oh, hi there. Cabo Machard. You have a good memory. It was only last night that we met, and you're not the sort of person one forgets easily, even though the acquaintance was brief. Do I take that as a compliment? Sure. Will you join us again this evening? Oh, I shall be delighted.
[00:13:59] Unknown:
I I see you brought along that superb coat again. Mohair from the Hindu Kush.
[00:14:04] Unknown:
A very fine piece of work. Well, here I am. Oh. Oh, hello, mister Capel, my chert. Hello, again, gentle lady. So you've all messed up again? Well, that's great. Shall I put you at the same table? How are you, Kip? All everything going well with you? How everything is perfect. I'm glad to hear it. This way, I put you away from the bed. My throat singer's got a throat tonight. The fill in sings like a corn creak with laryngitis.
[00:14:26] Unknown:
Well then, how's this? I'll be around if you need me. Alright? I'll order some champagne. I will pay for it. I must, make one very quick telephone call. You will excuse me? Yeah. Sure thing. I shall be about a minute. That's all. A minute.
[00:14:39] Unknown:
Last night it was a chess game. Tonight it's a jack in the box.
[00:14:43] Unknown:
Why does everyone seem so excited? You see the look he gave me when I came in. Oh, shucks. What's up? I forgot to get a pack of cigarettes. Well, the girl will sell them. Shall I call her? She won't have my brand. Look, do you mind holding the fort while I slip out and buy a pack? There's a cafe across the road from you, so how's my make? Better that I go for you. You're employed to work here, remember. I'm just trading along for kicks. Well, it's freezing out there and it'll take an age for the check go to get you wrapped. Then I'll borrow your magnificent fur trimmed overcoat. I can wrap it roundly if the cafe's only across the road. Where did you hang it? Third row from the front. Anyway, you can't mistake it. Sure enough. I'll only be a moment.
Surely you're not leaving already, Mr. No, no, no. She's just running out to get me some cigarettes. They don't stock my brand new. Pull up a chair. You can, tell me something about, where is it you come from? From Telcia. The land of caviar.
[00:15:38] Unknown:
The champagne. I I feel in a festive mood this evening here. Well, here, here's to a successful evening, mister Canon. It's mad you like a bull. Persia, you said? Oh, an unhappy country, I fear. But, one with a long history that will see it through these troubled times.
[00:16:01] Unknown:
What line of business are you in? Oh, I'm an importer.
[00:16:04] Unknown:
Fine silks, carpets, and woven cloth. My country has a famous history in the manufacture of these things. Oh, so that's why you were so interested in my top coat. I, I did wonder. Fabrics have always held a special fascination for me. Did you know that many of your English names for cloths originated in Persia? You see that woman on the dance floor there? Look there. She wears a pattern you call seersaka. Uh-huh. Persian originally for milk and sugar. White milk, brown sugar.
[00:16:36] Unknown:
Interesting, isn't it? How about one? Yeah. There you are, Canon. Twenty of the best. Just popped out to get him some cigarettes. He's got a nine like a sieve. Thanks, Penny. It wasn't where you said it was by the way. You put it in the back row.
[00:16:49] Unknown:
My dear. I call you a cab. All I say is urgent. Oh, forgive me. We're having a conversation on fine Parisian garments. Perhaps we can continue some other time.
[00:16:59] Unknown:
I'll, take the call in the off No, that's fine. Fine. Oh, friends, have winds it up, I guess.
[00:17:06] Unknown:
You mean,
[00:17:07] Unknown:
we can go? That's right. By the way, tell me something. Where do you keep that beautiful overcoat you brought tonight?
[00:17:13] Unknown:
In the wardrobe, why? I just wondered. You didn't wear it last night, did you? No, no, no. On account of the rain I left it in the afternoon. In the office.
[00:17:21] Unknown:
I see. Well, thanks for coming. I'll send the check for you tonight along to your office in the morning. Good night, Miss Fairweather. Night.
[00:17:30] Unknown:
Cam, that Cabool man isn't using the phone at all. He's watching us again from behind the draperies.
[00:17:35] Unknown:
That's all. Well, last time I said, a cat can look at a king. I'm gonna change that slightly. Let's make it, curiosity kill the cat. Well, let's get out of here. You got your app? It won't be a minute.
[00:17:49] Unknown:
I still miss Devereaux talking to the check girl. I suspect you're happy to ready. You seem an awful hurry to get us out of here.
[00:17:56] Unknown:
So where did you leave my coat? First peg. You can't miss it. Are you going so early, mister Cannon? Yep. I, don't wanna be too late. Had an attempted burglary in my apartment last night. Oh, I'm sorry to hear it.
[00:18:08] Unknown:
Anything missing? No. No. No. The, the intruder was looking for something.
[00:18:13] Unknown:
I wish I knew what it was.
[00:18:15] Unknown:
It all sounds very mysterious.
[00:18:17] Unknown:
Yeah. But there's probably quite a logical explanation. I'm ready, Canon. Shall we go? Sure thing. Good night again, Mr. Kabul Marchand.
[00:18:26] Unknown:
Good night to you both.
[00:18:36] Unknown:
It's better. Careful driving, Ken. The road's one sheet of ice. Oh, watch it. You hop in.
[00:18:54] Unknown:
Where to come? I want to go into my apartment. Something here I don't think. You know, Penny, I got a strange feeling that the guy who rifled my apartment last night was Johnny Devereaux. Why would he do that? Something I've got he wants. Who knows? My mohair top coat for a start. Johnny Devereaux could buy a dozen such coats if he wanted to. Yeah. Unless there's something special about this one. He asked me why I kept it. He seemed relieved when I told him it was in the office last night. It was almost as though he thought I was,
[00:19:23] Unknown:
conspiring against him. What possible conspiracy could there be between you and John Devereux?
[00:19:29] Unknown:
What? And yet there's definitely something. And that Persian guy Cabool, he's mixed up in it.
[00:19:35] Unknown:
Oh, I for one can't see them stealing your coat. Why would they want to do that? When I went out for your cigarettes it was hanging quite happily in the back row of coats. If they'd wanted it, they'd have taken it then. Not the back row, the third row. I told you where I put it. I knew where it was when I borrowed it to take out your cigarettes. Look, I tell you I left it in the third row from the front. I know where I put it. Look, don't let spoil our evening by having a row. Who cares where you put your coat? I
[00:20:01] Unknown:
care. Now you're getting succulent for nothing. It's not for nothing. There's something mighty queer going on around here and I wanna find out what it is. Look Penny, I tell you for the last time that I put that coat in the third row.
[00:20:13] Unknown:
Then somebody moved it.
[00:20:15] Unknown:
But, I and how come a mohair coat's so important?
[00:20:19] Unknown:
Cannon, there's a car following us. Yeah. So I noticed.
[00:20:24] Unknown:
Can you see any, occupants? No. Well, there's a pair of night glasses in the glove box. Use them. There. Have you seen anything now?
[00:20:37] Unknown:
The driver is Johnny Devereux. Surprise. Surprise. The other side of the screen has messed it up. Wait. You know? He's wiping it in his glove. It's Kabul.
[00:20:50] Unknown:
So why don't I tell you when it is the coat they're after? You didn't know it, Penny, but you re rang the changes on that coat in the cloakroom. I don't understand. You don't have to. We gotta shake off the gorillas first. Careful, Canon. The road's frozen. No. It's as bad for them as it is for me. You hold on to your seat.
[00:21:08] Unknown:
He's still there sticking like glue. Helen, look out. Look out. There's a truck coming out the ramp that's turning. This one holds it down. Kid was sliding, Silas. Get him a dashboard.
[00:21:30] Unknown:
Benny? Oh. You alright?
[00:21:34] Unknown:
Oh, I think so, Cam. Gee. How's the car? Is it a write off?
[00:21:40] Unknown:
Well, it, was it insured?
[00:21:42] Unknown:
Where are the others?
[00:21:44] Unknown:
Devore and Cabot. I don't know. Oh. Looks like I spoke too soon.
[00:21:50] Unknown:
Cannon, look at Cabo.
[00:21:53] Unknown:
He's wearing an overcoat exactly like yours. No. No. Look. Keep down, honey. There's gonna be trouble. If he's dead or dead, then just grab the coat and let's get out of here. This tailor's masterpiece is gonna be enough trouble to last me a lifetime. And be careful of him, Johnny.
[00:22:06] Unknown:
He's a dangerous customer. Yes. Yes. So am I.
[00:22:10] Unknown:
So, more than one piece, Canon. Alright. Come on. Get out. So what's the big idea, Deborah? I never could stand this oriental intrigue. I said from the start that we should simply move in and take what we want in. What you want to be my mohair topcoat? You guessed right first time, yes. But, why? I just don't get You don't have to. Come over quickly now. I'll change coats with them. You having trouble, mate?
[00:22:30] Unknown:
Yeah. Yeah. Can't you see? I mean, these monkeys are hijacking my property. Yes. You chalk me to me. You heard me. Oh, I don't like that. You actually think it was your fault anyway. I was on the right side of the road. Well, you can tell that to the cops. Grab the coach, Caboolin. Let's get out of here. Oh, no. You don't. And who's going to stop us? Me and this bloke here. Get the top one, matey. Yeah. That's, that's quite a one of you prank there. Hey. Don't do so bad yourself, mate. And what do we do with these beauties? Let's, cart them off the local locker. Oh, but be very careful of the two mohair overcoats. You don't know it, friend, but you are holding the key to a million dollar mystery.
[00:23:17] Unknown:
It's true that Cameron never looks for trouble, but it always seems to meet him halfway. Knowing how proud he was of his expensive overcoat, I wondered why he'd sold it. He took great delight in telling me.
[00:23:30] Unknown:
'All began, chief, that first night I went to the Silver Shoe nightclub, and not the time Devore engaged my services but the night before when I went alone. In fact, it was because of that visit that he employed me to sit and do nothing in the club. You see, that first night when I left, I took the wrong mohair coat. The one owned by Kabul was exactly identical. Deveraux asked me along thinking I would arrive in my Mohair coat and he could ring the changes while I was sitting at table with Penny Fairweather. But the first night it was ringing and I wore a raincoat.
That's why they broke into my flat. That got them no place on account of I'd left the topcoat in the office. The second night I did wear it, and they rang the changes on the coats, but Penny gummed up the works by taking the wrong coat when she went out for cigarettes. So they followed the car and, if that hadn't been for the truck driver, we might have been in serious trouble. Deborah and Kabul were playing for high stakes. The coat I took by accident had a fortune in smuggled gems sewn into the lining. Oh, I sold the coat, by the way, as you gathered.
I had a good offer from a Turkish businessman.
