In this thrilling episode, we dive into a story of intrigue and deception, set against the backdrop of a seemingly ordinary van delivery. Our protagonist, Cannon, is tasked with retrieving a van from the countryside, only to find himself embroiled in a complex scheme involving a train robbery and a mysterious woman named Janet Dale. As Cannon navigates through unexpected twists, he must rely on his instincts and wit to uncover the truth behind the van's contents and the intentions of the enigmatic Mr. Duke.
Join us as we unravel the layers of this captivating tale, where every character harbors secrets and nothing is as it seems. From a chance encounter on a train to a moonlit walk across fields, Cannon's journey is filled with suspense and unexpected revelations. Will he manage to outsmart the cunning criminals and deliver justice, or will he fall victim to their elaborate plot? Tune in to find out how a simple kiss under the moonlight becomes the key to solving the mystery.
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[00:00:00]
Unknown:
Every sandwich has bread. Every burger has a bun. But these warm, golden, smooth steamed buns, these are special, reserved for the very best. The Filet O Fish and
[00:00:14] Unknown:
you. You can have them too. And you can have it all at two for $6, like a Filet O Fish, Big Mac, 10 piece McNuggets, or large fries. Limited time only. Price and participation may vary. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Single item at regular price.
[00:00:34] Unknown:
Resna 5Double95,
[00:00:36] Unknown:
assignments unlimited. Good morning. Good morning. I want a van to pick up a light van for me. It's in the country. Can you supply me with such a van? Yes, sir. What about, is the van? Near Coaches, but it's a bit off the beaten track. I'll have to cover up with a map of the area. Is that possible? Shall I make an appointment with the managing director, sir? If you will. It's rather urgent. 03:30 this afternoon, sir. That will suit me very well. What's the address by the way? We're at 33 Half Moon Street.
[00:01:20] Unknown:
The story tonight, as always, comes from the private file. It's headed, the moon and a million. To say the man was well dressed wouldn't be strictly accurate. The word natty would better fit his sartorial elegance. His clothes were as carefully chosen as his accent, and he was faultless right up to the carnation he sported in his buttonhole. I must say I wondered about him at the time, yet his request was ordinary enough.
[00:01:47] Unknown:
Your lady fixed the apartment. I made a point of being on time. In fact, I always make a point of being on time, mister Mason. A praiseworthy trick, mister, Duke.
[00:01:56] Unknown:
I pick your pardon, Duke. No. Not a title. My name is Duke. Plain mister Duke. Oh, see. I believe you want us to pick up a car for you. A small parallel van actually. I'm a little apprehensive at leaving it unattended in the country. You see, mister Mason, I'm in town on business and can't get over to Colchester myself.
[00:02:14] Unknown:
The van developed some mechanical fault whilst I was driving it, until I left it where it was and begged to lift it to the nearest village from a passing motorist. The local mechanic drove out to repair the fault, but he has no one to bring the van back into Colchester.
[00:02:26] Unknown:
Colchester, I take it, is where you wish the car delivered. A van.
[00:02:30] Unknown:
Yes. I should explain that I'm a printer. The van is full of handbills, and it would be most inconvenient if van was broken and scattered them all over the countryside. Oh, I understand.
[00:02:40] Unknown:
Do you want the, van picked up today, mister Duke? If you can? We can indeed. Your man can take the evening trade to Colchester and from there he can walk across the fields to buy the knighted vehicle. I've drawn a small map, but here you are.
[00:02:54] Unknown:
Now you say it's on a cart track. I have some property along the track and was returning from an inspection when the fault occurred.
[00:03:00] Unknown:
Do you think your man can follow the directions on the map? Oh, I'm sure he can. You've made it quite clear and precise. Precision is my specialty,
[00:03:08] Unknown:
mister Mason. I learnt the art of the cartographer in the service of my country, Armijunno.
[00:03:14] Unknown:
I see. And where in Kosciuszta shall we deliver the van? I've written the address down here. My foreman will take it over. His name is Wilson, and he'll sign for the delivery.
[00:03:24] Unknown:
The coach is to train from London will arrive at nine to two and the walk across the country shouldn't take your man longer than half an hour. Is everything clear? In a nutshell, mister Duke. Now payment. In advance, of course. Well, that's not strictly necessary. I prefer it that way. I have here the train ticket returned second class. 10 shillings for a meal on the train. A room is booked at the King's hotel and they will furnish him with breakfast.
[00:03:45] Unknown:
I thought 25 guineas for the service would be adequate. Quite satisfactory. Thank you. Then that concludes the business. Thank you again and good afternoon. Good afternoon, mister Duke. Phew. That man has a mind like a machine. Yes, sir. Send Canon in, miss Fairweather, and tell him to fix an overnight bag. He's off for a joint in the country. Having supplied Cannon with all the relative information, I dispatched him to the railway station where he took up his seat in the train, a little disgruntled that it was only second class. The train rattled on through the early evening with cannon alone in his compartment.
He remained in solitary possession of the compartment throughout most of the journey, munching morosely on a dry sandwich purchased at one of the frequent stops. And then chairman brightened considerably. An attractive young woman boarded the train half an hour out of Colchester.
[00:04:49] Unknown:
Good evening. Is this you, Jacob? No. I'm the, sole occupant. Do you mind? I'm delighted. Now let me help you with your bank. Oh, it's alright. Thanks. It's under an overnight kiss.
[00:05:10] Unknown:
Have a sandwich? Oh, thanks. How does a break, I'm afraid, station buffet? It's fine. You, you're going to Colchester? Yes. You. Just for the night. My name's Canon, by the way. I'm Janet Dale. How do you do? Oh, I'm fine.
[00:05:27] Unknown:
You, you work in Colchester? Not at the moment, but I'm hoping to. As a matter of fact, that's why I took tonight's train. There's an ad in the Gazette and Observer for a lady's companion. It gives the address, sir. I I thought I'd take a bull by the horns and make a personal application tonight. Well, I, I wish you luck, but, I mean, why a lady's companion? I mean, a young and attractive girl like yourself. It sounded though all lady's companions are are with no spinsters. Well, aren't they? Not a bit of it. Anyway, I'm used to it. Housekeeping and so on. I've never worked in an office or anything like that. Beautiful.
[00:06:00] Unknown:
And she can cook too. Mister Cannon, that was a very forward remark. It was intended to be. You're American, aren't you? Yes, ma'am. Yankee through and through. I could tell by your accent. Not by my forward manner?
[00:06:12] Unknown:
That too, I suppose.
[00:06:14] Unknown:
Say, what gives if the old doll has, filled the position? Then I'd like to go home again, won't I? Tomorrow? Why, yes. There's no train until tomorrow. Then you'll spend the night in Colchester. That's great. I, I don't quite follow. Well, I'm down here for one night only. I have to pick up a van and deliver it to Colchester. The guy who employed me booked me into the King's Hotel. Do you know it? Yes. Yes. It's a commercial hotel. Oh, bird it is. The old skinflint booked me to this crummy railroad car with half a note for spending money. Half a note? 10 bob, you know?
Well, I thought you might show me the turn. That's if the old doll has found a dried up spinster.
[00:06:51] Unknown:
Mister Cannon, you're incorrigible and a snob. I'm traveling second class too, and for a very good reason that I can't afford to go first. Well, I stand humbled, ma'am.
[00:07:01] Unknown:
Can I make it up to you with a decent dinner in Colchester?
[00:07:05] Unknown:
Alright. If you don't get the job. If I do get the job, we celebrate. And if I don't, you console me. And I'm very good at consoling. I bet you
[00:07:16] Unknown:
what was that? Your fog signal, I guess. But there is no fog. Well, they use them to warn a locomotive that there's something on the line ahead. Who's slowing down. Dear, I hope there's not gonna be a delay. Well, I could think of nothing better. What about my job? Oh, you can come and keep house for me.
[00:07:31] Unknown:
Is that a proposal or a thin proper suggestion?
[00:07:35] Unknown:
You know you're cute. I find I like you very much.
[00:07:39] Unknown:
You stopped. Yeah. That's all I noticed. Want me to go outside and see what's cooking? Let's both go out. It was just my luck to make a good job through the British Railways.
[00:07:49] Unknown:
Say, but Hey. Who are you? Sit where you are and don't get off the train. This is a hold up. You don't say.
[00:07:56] Unknown:
Well, put that gun away, cowboy, or I might bend it round your ear. I warn you that I'll shoot the lady if you're so much as baton I know I knew. I know, mister Cannon. You scared of this floppy ad hobo? I think he means Oh, I'm sorry. I I didn't hear you. Sure. Sure. Sure.
[00:08:19] Unknown:
Say, what are you taking off the train, buddy? You'll read about it in the morning papers. Oh, publicity. He's after. That's the sign. Stay here for two minutes, and then you can go outside. So
[00:08:33] Unknown:
it wasn't the fox signal. That
[00:08:37] Unknown:
dirty lass. Mister Cannon, what's the point of getting yourself shot? I could break that monkey in two. I know you could.
[00:08:44] Unknown:
But what about my dinner?
[00:08:47] Unknown:
Okay. You win. Does that mean we're moving off again? Well, let's go see. Fish face is gone by now. This was carefully planned. Hey, you. Go ahead. What gives you?
[00:09:01] Unknown:
Go ahead. Never seen anything like you no more than one day, sir. Honest, I haven't. Held up the train they did with guns. Poor old Harry Peth had tried to stop him on the fire plane. Got bashed over the head for his trouble. Dear, is he alright? Well, his old mother always said he had a head like a Swede. Silly. Lucky in the end. Mister, what did they swipe from the train? All can't tell for sure until the police get here. I mean, we've got to wait for the police. Of course. They can't move till they get in here. All the evidence, you know. But the police might take hours. Oh, not so long as that, miss. But the train, won't move until they get in. Oh, well. Anger is my chance at the job.
[00:09:39] Unknown:
Oh, that's tough, Janice. No, honestly, I mean it. Never
[00:09:43] Unknown:
mind. There'll be others.
[00:09:45] Unknown:
Hey. Wait a minute. Mhmm. Well, like I told you, I have to pick up a panel van and deliver it to Colchester. The guy who owns it broke down somewhere around here and had to hit your lift. The van's fixed, and I'm supposed to do a cross country hike to collect it. Just a minute. Your map, you see? And the guy who drew it sure knows stuff. Now if I'm not mistaken, we should be, here. See? I'm afraid I don't understand that, mister Cannon. Look. Drop the mister, O'neka. Oh, but I don't know you rather me. Just Cannon. Everybody calls me Cannon. Now looking at this map, we've stopped across country from where that van was ditched.
Uh-huh. Yeah. It figures. If we head in that direction, we'll come to the van. But there isn't any road out there. Yeah. I know. But according to the map, on the other side of these fields is a cart track. That's what it is. So what are we waiting for? We can still get you into town on time to interview all sauropus. Okay? Like you said, Cannon, what are we waiting for? Happy in each other's company, they began their march across the fields.
[00:10:47] Unknown:
A big yellow moon winked at them from behind scudding clouds, and the fields smelt fresh and damp from the early dew. Cannon had already forgotten about the train robbery. In fact, Cannon had forgotten about everything.
[00:11:02] Unknown:
Penne for your thoughts? You, Canon, are dreaming.
[00:11:07] Unknown:
That's right. And what a dream? A daydream under a moon. Say, would you mind if I kiss you? The man in the moon might be looking. Well, it's nothing he hasn't seen a million times before.
[00:11:22] Unknown:
A million times? Well, make it a billion. First time for me.
[00:11:26] Unknown:
You know, I think I see a frown of disapproval on the face of that man in the moon.
[00:11:31] Unknown:
Then perhaps we better make him smile again. Okay. Oh.
[00:11:41] Unknown:
Oh, that moon man works magic.
[00:11:46] Unknown:
Work? Oh, on my hat. Cannon. This is Prendergast. Is that the old dragon's name? Oh, please, Cannon. Let's find the car. I don't want to be late. Prendergast.
[00:11:54] Unknown:
The witch of Endor.
[00:11:56] Unknown:
Okay. Let's go.
[00:12:00] Unknown:
Don't be mad at me. It's a good job, and I need it. Sure thing. And the night is young. Well, comparatively.
[00:12:06] Unknown:
Hey. Hang on. Let's, let's take another look at the map while we're walking. Here we are. Now the cart track should be on the other side of this hedge if it's accurate. There's a stile over there. Well, I'll lift you over. Stiles are made to climb over. I'll still lift you over. Hold it. Okay. You come. Yeah. I know. But allergy. Here we go. Yeah.
[00:12:36] Unknown:
Sarah Mark's on the track.
[00:12:38] Unknown:
Do sit. Well, well, the mechanic drove out to fix the van. Now all we've gotta do is follow the tracks to fame and fortune.
[00:12:47] Unknown:
And started at the touch of a button, and Cameron drove happily down the road to Coheshire. Dropping off Janich, he made an ass ignition with her for an hour later in the King's hotel lobby. My star operator was enjoying himself hugely and whistled happily as he drove the van into a small printer's yard situated on the West side of the town.
[00:13:19] Unknown:
Oh, you've managed to find the van. Will done. Thanks. Are you, Wilson? That's me. Come on into the office. Thanks. I'm Canon. Assignments unlimited. Yes. So the Duke said. The Duke? The fellow employed you. Oh, mister Duke. Well, all the van's delivered, and if I could have your signature It's not that it's going to help me much. Look over there on that machine. Mhmm. Blood? So what happened? An accident. Let me explain. You see, we're short staffed. Can't get anyone to work on the play the Duke dishes out. No. I know. I came up second class. So the transport bloke sent Sinead to fill in on urgent orders of pamphlets for his hand caught in the stamp mill. Now I'm minus a driver who has worked here for years and still no operator.
Not only that, but I haven't got anyone to work the mill. Wilson? Wilson, I hear you had an accident in the plant. Yes, Duke. Sampson got his hand caught in a stamp mill. What about a driver to take their van to Manchester? I don't know. I can't conjure drivers out of an accident. It's it's past nine already. There's a man arriving with the van, a Londoner. He's here. Just arrived. And he's not a Londoner. He's a Yank. Excellent. Excellent. Put him on the line. What? It's the Duke. He wants to talk to you. Yeah. I heard that part's pretty loud. You ought to get it turned down. Thanks.
Hello, mister Duke? Yes. Look.
[00:14:46] Unknown:
What's your name? Cannon. Cannon. My driver's been hurt in an accident. I must have those handwills in the van delivered to Manchester urgently. You will have to take them there. I'll pay all expenses and, £20 on top. Well, you'll have to ring the office, Grosvenor 5 Double 9 5. I know the number. I engaged you through the office. I'll ring mister Mason now. I'm sure there'll be no difficulty. Now listen carefully. You take the van to Number 184 Salter Street. It's West Central. You start now. You can get there by first light. Come again? First light. It's an army term. Dawn.
You'll be paid there for your expenses, and I'll arrange to have the money for the work paid into your office. Well, the boss must give the okay. He won't be in the office at this hour. I know that. I have his private number. Have Wilson fill up the van for the journey and check the tires. Now those handbills must be in Manchester First thing in the morning. Alright, mister Duke. But, I'll have to check with the chief first. I'll ring him now. Check with your employer in fifteen minutes' time. Understood? Okay, mister Duke. Goodbye.
[00:15:47] Unknown:
What did he say? As if you couldn't hear. That phone makes more noise than a turn away system. Oh, heck. So what are you gracing about? All expenses paid and the fat fee for a nice drive. Yeah. That's unlike, mister Duke. Oh, he can't pay when he must. Well, I'll I'll get the van checked up, and, you can hop down to the local for a pint. Tell me, where's the King's Hotel? Oh, up Nesbitt Street. Go out the door and turn right. Mhmm. Carry on for half a mile, and you'll see it up on the left corner. Thanks. You, known someone at the King's? Yeah. Yeah. A baby doll.
What are you looking so unhappy about? I'm about to ruin our evening for the third time. Mister efficiency and shape of mister Duke has an awful habit of ruining anything I get my teeth into. Yes. The Duke's efficient. No one like it. Yeah. Say that again. We're just lucky he's on this side of the iron curtain.
[00:16:41] Unknown:
I took the call from mister Duke at my club and agreed to the new assignment. Cannon rang from the King's Hotel to check and sounded distressed at my decision. Naturally, I had no possible conception of the reason for his sudden voltefacte. He left the phone booth and at once spotted Janet sitting alone in a corner of the lounge.
[00:17:07] Unknown:
Hi. Hello, Cannon. Did you deliver your van alright? I did. That was London. I just rang the big city. Mission completed and, another one to start right away. Then why the depression? You'll be earning more money. But not in Colchistrom. Not tonight. Well, I've got good news too of a thought. You mean you got hooked by that,
[00:17:24] Unknown:
printer gas tank? No. The position was filled. Oh, so what are you so happy about? Well, it appears she has an aunt in Manchester who is looking for someone. She hasn't advertised yet, so I'm sure to get the job. In Manchester? Oh, I know. It rains a lot, but housekeeping is all done in the house. Oh, come on, cheer up. We can have the date later. You promised. And then tomorrow, we can travel to London together. I, I have to take the London train to get my Manchester connection. Janet,
[00:17:51] Unknown:
I, I got news for you. What is it, Kenneth? In approximately fifteen minutes from now, I'm gonna drive a panel van out of this town. We can't have dinner in the King's Hotel. Oh. In fact, I have to cancel my booking. Oh, Ken. I'm very disappointed. No. You won't be. You know where I'm driving that van? London? Uh-uh. Better than that.
[00:18:10] Unknown:
No. Don't Manchester. That's right. Oh, Canon. It's impossible.
[00:18:14] Unknown:
I couldn't have that much good luck. Baby, that's who the man in the moon is married to. Lady luck. Now let's play it off the cuff. Order me a drink, Scotch on the rocks. I'll ring the printer here in Colchester and tell him I'm ready, willing, and able. You can see that he filled up the van properly. It would be most improper if we ran out of petrol on the way. Have you got the number? I'll look it up in the book. Now make that drink good, honey. No moonshine. Hello, operator. I wanna talk to a missus Prendergast. Yep. Prendergast, p r e n d e r g a s t. She's in the Colchester area.
I haven't got a book. Yeah. I know it's a public booth, but somebody took the book. Will you check for me? Thanks. Yeah. That's just one last thing. Just one. Hello? Yeah. You sure? Okay. Thanks. Let's see. 836. Oh, come on. Hello? Wilson, look. I'll be around in ten, fifteen minutes. Okay? Yeah. Right. Oh, and by the way, I'm taking that baby doll with me. No objection, I suppose. Great. Look. Not to worry. Old Skinflint won't know from me. See you. Now let's see. Hello, operator? What? Yeah. Yeah. That's right. It's me again. No.
No. I I know the number this time. I want a truck call to London. I want Grosvenor 5 Double 9 5. Oh, Canon. I feel so happy. Me too. This has been the greatest day of my life. Fulfillment. That's the thing. Oh. What's that up ahead? Looks like a roadblock. Police. What did it before, I wonder? Train robbery, maybe. Oh, yes. Well, luckily, we've nothing to hide. That's right. Only a load of handbills for Manchester. Mhmm. Mister Cannon, sir? Yeah. That's me. Is, is this the girl? That's she.
[00:20:50] Unknown:
Cannon,
[00:20:51] Unknown:
what is it? The game's up, baby doll. Alright, officer. The loot's in the back of the van. The super will be long in a moment, sir. He wants to thank you, personally. Alright, my girl. Come along with me. But but Kennan, who are you? Just who I profess to be, an operator from Assignments Unlimited. How did you know? Old beast pants, Duke, was a bit too efficient. That and the fact that the arm of coincidence can never grow as long as the arm of the law. You play ducks and dreich with me, doll, and nearly got away with it. Remember? You said first time for me. Well, that was no first kiss. I bet that old man's looked down on a million.
[00:21:30] Unknown:
Yes. It was a cleverly planned robbery right down to the last detail. Well, almost the last detail. The money stolen from the train was loaded into a private car and driven to where Duke's van was parked. There, it was transferred. Janet Dale boarded the train to keep an eye on my operator and make sure he didn't take, well, a look at the contents of the van. But she switched her plans once too often. Cannon's suspicions had already been aroused by that kiss under the moon. That was no first time. It had been perfected by years of practice. When she sprang her Manchester story, her goose was cooked.
But it was the driver who mangled his hand on the printing works who posed the big question mark. Why should Duke employ an outsider when he had a driver of his own right on the spot? For one very good reason. The driver was a paid member of Duke's gang. If he'd been stopped by the police whilst ferrying the loot to Manchester, his guilt would almost certainly have given the game away. Cannon, on the other hand, was supposed to have, well, known nothing about it. He would have said he was carrying a consignment of handbills, and his sincerity would have been convincing enough.
Luckily, he did tumble to Duke's game, and mainly because of a kiss that wasn't a first kiss. And after all, cannon should know.
[00:23:32] Unknown:
Check engine light on? Take the guesswork out of your check engine light with O'Reilly Variscan. It's free and provides a report with solutions based on over 650,000,000 vehicle scans verified by ASE certified master technicians. And if you need help, we can recommend a shop for you. Ask for O'Reilly VeriScan today. O'Reilly.
[00:23:56] Unknown:
O'Reilly. Auto parts.
Every sandwich has bread. Every burger has a bun. But these warm, golden, smooth steamed buns, these are special, reserved for the very best. The Filet O Fish and
[00:00:14] Unknown:
you. You can have them too. And you can have it all at two for $6, like a Filet O Fish, Big Mac, 10 piece McNuggets, or large fries. Limited time only. Price and participation may vary. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Single item at regular price.
[00:00:34] Unknown:
Resna 5Double95,
[00:00:36] Unknown:
assignments unlimited. Good morning. Good morning. I want a van to pick up a light van for me. It's in the country. Can you supply me with such a van? Yes, sir. What about, is the van? Near Coaches, but it's a bit off the beaten track. I'll have to cover up with a map of the area. Is that possible? Shall I make an appointment with the managing director, sir? If you will. It's rather urgent. 03:30 this afternoon, sir. That will suit me very well. What's the address by the way? We're at 33 Half Moon Street.
[00:01:20] Unknown:
The story tonight, as always, comes from the private file. It's headed, the moon and a million. To say the man was well dressed wouldn't be strictly accurate. The word natty would better fit his sartorial elegance. His clothes were as carefully chosen as his accent, and he was faultless right up to the carnation he sported in his buttonhole. I must say I wondered about him at the time, yet his request was ordinary enough.
[00:01:47] Unknown:
Your lady fixed the apartment. I made a point of being on time. In fact, I always make a point of being on time, mister Mason. A praiseworthy trick, mister, Duke.
[00:01:56] Unknown:
I pick your pardon, Duke. No. Not a title. My name is Duke. Plain mister Duke. Oh, see. I believe you want us to pick up a car for you. A small parallel van actually. I'm a little apprehensive at leaving it unattended in the country. You see, mister Mason, I'm in town on business and can't get over to Colchester myself.
[00:02:14] Unknown:
The van developed some mechanical fault whilst I was driving it, until I left it where it was and begged to lift it to the nearest village from a passing motorist. The local mechanic drove out to repair the fault, but he has no one to bring the van back into Colchester.
[00:02:26] Unknown:
Colchester, I take it, is where you wish the car delivered. A van.
[00:02:30] Unknown:
Yes. I should explain that I'm a printer. The van is full of handbills, and it would be most inconvenient if van was broken and scattered them all over the countryside. Oh, I understand.
[00:02:40] Unknown:
Do you want the, van picked up today, mister Duke? If you can? We can indeed. Your man can take the evening trade to Colchester and from there he can walk across the fields to buy the knighted vehicle. I've drawn a small map, but here you are.
[00:02:54] Unknown:
Now you say it's on a cart track. I have some property along the track and was returning from an inspection when the fault occurred.
[00:03:00] Unknown:
Do you think your man can follow the directions on the map? Oh, I'm sure he can. You've made it quite clear and precise. Precision is my specialty,
[00:03:08] Unknown:
mister Mason. I learnt the art of the cartographer in the service of my country, Armijunno.
[00:03:14] Unknown:
I see. And where in Kosciuszta shall we deliver the van? I've written the address down here. My foreman will take it over. His name is Wilson, and he'll sign for the delivery.
[00:03:24] Unknown:
The coach is to train from London will arrive at nine to two and the walk across the country shouldn't take your man longer than half an hour. Is everything clear? In a nutshell, mister Duke. Now payment. In advance, of course. Well, that's not strictly necessary. I prefer it that way. I have here the train ticket returned second class. 10 shillings for a meal on the train. A room is booked at the King's hotel and they will furnish him with breakfast.
[00:03:45] Unknown:
I thought 25 guineas for the service would be adequate. Quite satisfactory. Thank you. Then that concludes the business. Thank you again and good afternoon. Good afternoon, mister Duke. Phew. That man has a mind like a machine. Yes, sir. Send Canon in, miss Fairweather, and tell him to fix an overnight bag. He's off for a joint in the country. Having supplied Cannon with all the relative information, I dispatched him to the railway station where he took up his seat in the train, a little disgruntled that it was only second class. The train rattled on through the early evening with cannon alone in his compartment.
He remained in solitary possession of the compartment throughout most of the journey, munching morosely on a dry sandwich purchased at one of the frequent stops. And then chairman brightened considerably. An attractive young woman boarded the train half an hour out of Colchester.
[00:04:49] Unknown:
Good evening. Is this you, Jacob? No. I'm the, sole occupant. Do you mind? I'm delighted. Now let me help you with your bank. Oh, it's alright. Thanks. It's under an overnight kiss.
[00:05:10] Unknown:
Have a sandwich? Oh, thanks. How does a break, I'm afraid, station buffet? It's fine. You, you're going to Colchester? Yes. You. Just for the night. My name's Canon, by the way. I'm Janet Dale. How do you do? Oh, I'm fine.
[00:05:27] Unknown:
You, you work in Colchester? Not at the moment, but I'm hoping to. As a matter of fact, that's why I took tonight's train. There's an ad in the Gazette and Observer for a lady's companion. It gives the address, sir. I I thought I'd take a bull by the horns and make a personal application tonight. Well, I, I wish you luck, but, I mean, why a lady's companion? I mean, a young and attractive girl like yourself. It sounded though all lady's companions are are with no spinsters. Well, aren't they? Not a bit of it. Anyway, I'm used to it. Housekeeping and so on. I've never worked in an office or anything like that. Beautiful.
[00:06:00] Unknown:
And she can cook too. Mister Cannon, that was a very forward remark. It was intended to be. You're American, aren't you? Yes, ma'am. Yankee through and through. I could tell by your accent. Not by my forward manner?
[00:06:12] Unknown:
That too, I suppose.
[00:06:14] Unknown:
Say, what gives if the old doll has, filled the position? Then I'd like to go home again, won't I? Tomorrow? Why, yes. There's no train until tomorrow. Then you'll spend the night in Colchester. That's great. I, I don't quite follow. Well, I'm down here for one night only. I have to pick up a van and deliver it to Colchester. The guy who employed me booked me into the King's Hotel. Do you know it? Yes. Yes. It's a commercial hotel. Oh, bird it is. The old skinflint booked me to this crummy railroad car with half a note for spending money. Half a note? 10 bob, you know?
Well, I thought you might show me the turn. That's if the old doll has found a dried up spinster.
[00:06:51] Unknown:
Mister Cannon, you're incorrigible and a snob. I'm traveling second class too, and for a very good reason that I can't afford to go first. Well, I stand humbled, ma'am.
[00:07:01] Unknown:
Can I make it up to you with a decent dinner in Colchester?
[00:07:05] Unknown:
Alright. If you don't get the job. If I do get the job, we celebrate. And if I don't, you console me. And I'm very good at consoling. I bet you
[00:07:16] Unknown:
what was that? Your fog signal, I guess. But there is no fog. Well, they use them to warn a locomotive that there's something on the line ahead. Who's slowing down. Dear, I hope there's not gonna be a delay. Well, I could think of nothing better. What about my job? Oh, you can come and keep house for me.
[00:07:31] Unknown:
Is that a proposal or a thin proper suggestion?
[00:07:35] Unknown:
You know you're cute. I find I like you very much.
[00:07:39] Unknown:
You stopped. Yeah. That's all I noticed. Want me to go outside and see what's cooking? Let's both go out. It was just my luck to make a good job through the British Railways.
[00:07:49] Unknown:
Say, but Hey. Who are you? Sit where you are and don't get off the train. This is a hold up. You don't say.
[00:07:56] Unknown:
Well, put that gun away, cowboy, or I might bend it round your ear. I warn you that I'll shoot the lady if you're so much as baton I know I knew. I know, mister Cannon. You scared of this floppy ad hobo? I think he means Oh, I'm sorry. I I didn't hear you. Sure. Sure. Sure.
[00:08:19] Unknown:
Say, what are you taking off the train, buddy? You'll read about it in the morning papers. Oh, publicity. He's after. That's the sign. Stay here for two minutes, and then you can go outside. So
[00:08:33] Unknown:
it wasn't the fox signal. That
[00:08:37] Unknown:
dirty lass. Mister Cannon, what's the point of getting yourself shot? I could break that monkey in two. I know you could.
[00:08:44] Unknown:
But what about my dinner?
[00:08:47] Unknown:
Okay. You win. Does that mean we're moving off again? Well, let's go see. Fish face is gone by now. This was carefully planned. Hey, you. Go ahead. What gives you?
[00:09:01] Unknown:
Go ahead. Never seen anything like you no more than one day, sir. Honest, I haven't. Held up the train they did with guns. Poor old Harry Peth had tried to stop him on the fire plane. Got bashed over the head for his trouble. Dear, is he alright? Well, his old mother always said he had a head like a Swede. Silly. Lucky in the end. Mister, what did they swipe from the train? All can't tell for sure until the police get here. I mean, we've got to wait for the police. Of course. They can't move till they get in here. All the evidence, you know. But the police might take hours. Oh, not so long as that, miss. But the train, won't move until they get in. Oh, well. Anger is my chance at the job.
[00:09:39] Unknown:
Oh, that's tough, Janice. No, honestly, I mean it. Never
[00:09:43] Unknown:
mind. There'll be others.
[00:09:45] Unknown:
Hey. Wait a minute. Mhmm. Well, like I told you, I have to pick up a panel van and deliver it to Colchester. The guy who owns it broke down somewhere around here and had to hit your lift. The van's fixed, and I'm supposed to do a cross country hike to collect it. Just a minute. Your map, you see? And the guy who drew it sure knows stuff. Now if I'm not mistaken, we should be, here. See? I'm afraid I don't understand that, mister Cannon. Look. Drop the mister, O'neka. Oh, but I don't know you rather me. Just Cannon. Everybody calls me Cannon. Now looking at this map, we've stopped across country from where that van was ditched.
Uh-huh. Yeah. It figures. If we head in that direction, we'll come to the van. But there isn't any road out there. Yeah. I know. But according to the map, on the other side of these fields is a cart track. That's what it is. So what are we waiting for? We can still get you into town on time to interview all sauropus. Okay? Like you said, Cannon, what are we waiting for? Happy in each other's company, they began their march across the fields.
[00:10:47] Unknown:
A big yellow moon winked at them from behind scudding clouds, and the fields smelt fresh and damp from the early dew. Cannon had already forgotten about the train robbery. In fact, Cannon had forgotten about everything.
[00:11:02] Unknown:
Penne for your thoughts? You, Canon, are dreaming.
[00:11:07] Unknown:
That's right. And what a dream? A daydream under a moon. Say, would you mind if I kiss you? The man in the moon might be looking. Well, it's nothing he hasn't seen a million times before.
[00:11:22] Unknown:
A million times? Well, make it a billion. First time for me.
[00:11:26] Unknown:
You know, I think I see a frown of disapproval on the face of that man in the moon.
[00:11:31] Unknown:
Then perhaps we better make him smile again. Okay. Oh.
[00:11:41] Unknown:
Oh, that moon man works magic.
[00:11:46] Unknown:
Work? Oh, on my hat. Cannon. This is Prendergast. Is that the old dragon's name? Oh, please, Cannon. Let's find the car. I don't want to be late. Prendergast.
[00:11:54] Unknown:
The witch of Endor.
[00:11:56] Unknown:
Okay. Let's go.
[00:12:00] Unknown:
Don't be mad at me. It's a good job, and I need it. Sure thing. And the night is young. Well, comparatively.
[00:12:06] Unknown:
Hey. Hang on. Let's, let's take another look at the map while we're walking. Here we are. Now the cart track should be on the other side of this hedge if it's accurate. There's a stile over there. Well, I'll lift you over. Stiles are made to climb over. I'll still lift you over. Hold it. Okay. You come. Yeah. I know. But allergy. Here we go. Yeah.
[00:12:36] Unknown:
Sarah Mark's on the track.
[00:12:38] Unknown:
Do sit. Well, well, the mechanic drove out to fix the van. Now all we've gotta do is follow the tracks to fame and fortune.
[00:12:47] Unknown:
And started at the touch of a button, and Cameron drove happily down the road to Coheshire. Dropping off Janich, he made an ass ignition with her for an hour later in the King's hotel lobby. My star operator was enjoying himself hugely and whistled happily as he drove the van into a small printer's yard situated on the West side of the town.
[00:13:19] Unknown:
Oh, you've managed to find the van. Will done. Thanks. Are you, Wilson? That's me. Come on into the office. Thanks. I'm Canon. Assignments unlimited. Yes. So the Duke said. The Duke? The fellow employed you. Oh, mister Duke. Well, all the van's delivered, and if I could have your signature It's not that it's going to help me much. Look over there on that machine. Mhmm. Blood? So what happened? An accident. Let me explain. You see, we're short staffed. Can't get anyone to work on the play the Duke dishes out. No. I know. I came up second class. So the transport bloke sent Sinead to fill in on urgent orders of pamphlets for his hand caught in the stamp mill. Now I'm minus a driver who has worked here for years and still no operator.
Not only that, but I haven't got anyone to work the mill. Wilson? Wilson, I hear you had an accident in the plant. Yes, Duke. Sampson got his hand caught in a stamp mill. What about a driver to take their van to Manchester? I don't know. I can't conjure drivers out of an accident. It's it's past nine already. There's a man arriving with the van, a Londoner. He's here. Just arrived. And he's not a Londoner. He's a Yank. Excellent. Excellent. Put him on the line. What? It's the Duke. He wants to talk to you. Yeah. I heard that part's pretty loud. You ought to get it turned down. Thanks.
Hello, mister Duke? Yes. Look.
[00:14:46] Unknown:
What's your name? Cannon. Cannon. My driver's been hurt in an accident. I must have those handwills in the van delivered to Manchester urgently. You will have to take them there. I'll pay all expenses and, £20 on top. Well, you'll have to ring the office, Grosvenor 5 Double 9 5. I know the number. I engaged you through the office. I'll ring mister Mason now. I'm sure there'll be no difficulty. Now listen carefully. You take the van to Number 184 Salter Street. It's West Central. You start now. You can get there by first light. Come again? First light. It's an army term. Dawn.
You'll be paid there for your expenses, and I'll arrange to have the money for the work paid into your office. Well, the boss must give the okay. He won't be in the office at this hour. I know that. I have his private number. Have Wilson fill up the van for the journey and check the tires. Now those handbills must be in Manchester First thing in the morning. Alright, mister Duke. But, I'll have to check with the chief first. I'll ring him now. Check with your employer in fifteen minutes' time. Understood? Okay, mister Duke. Goodbye.
[00:15:47] Unknown:
What did he say? As if you couldn't hear. That phone makes more noise than a turn away system. Oh, heck. So what are you gracing about? All expenses paid and the fat fee for a nice drive. Yeah. That's unlike, mister Duke. Oh, he can't pay when he must. Well, I'll I'll get the van checked up, and, you can hop down to the local for a pint. Tell me, where's the King's Hotel? Oh, up Nesbitt Street. Go out the door and turn right. Mhmm. Carry on for half a mile, and you'll see it up on the left corner. Thanks. You, known someone at the King's? Yeah. Yeah. A baby doll.
What are you looking so unhappy about? I'm about to ruin our evening for the third time. Mister efficiency and shape of mister Duke has an awful habit of ruining anything I get my teeth into. Yes. The Duke's efficient. No one like it. Yeah. Say that again. We're just lucky he's on this side of the iron curtain.
[00:16:41] Unknown:
I took the call from mister Duke at my club and agreed to the new assignment. Cannon rang from the King's Hotel to check and sounded distressed at my decision. Naturally, I had no possible conception of the reason for his sudden voltefacte. He left the phone booth and at once spotted Janet sitting alone in a corner of the lounge.
[00:17:07] Unknown:
Hi. Hello, Cannon. Did you deliver your van alright? I did. That was London. I just rang the big city. Mission completed and, another one to start right away. Then why the depression? You'll be earning more money. But not in Colchistrom. Not tonight. Well, I've got good news too of a thought. You mean you got hooked by that,
[00:17:24] Unknown:
printer gas tank? No. The position was filled. Oh, so what are you so happy about? Well, it appears she has an aunt in Manchester who is looking for someone. She hasn't advertised yet, so I'm sure to get the job. In Manchester? Oh, I know. It rains a lot, but housekeeping is all done in the house. Oh, come on, cheer up. We can have the date later. You promised. And then tomorrow, we can travel to London together. I, I have to take the London train to get my Manchester connection. Janet,
[00:17:51] Unknown:
I, I got news for you. What is it, Kenneth? In approximately fifteen minutes from now, I'm gonna drive a panel van out of this town. We can't have dinner in the King's Hotel. Oh. In fact, I have to cancel my booking. Oh, Ken. I'm very disappointed. No. You won't be. You know where I'm driving that van? London? Uh-uh. Better than that.
[00:18:10] Unknown:
No. Don't Manchester. That's right. Oh, Canon. It's impossible.
[00:18:14] Unknown:
I couldn't have that much good luck. Baby, that's who the man in the moon is married to. Lady luck. Now let's play it off the cuff. Order me a drink, Scotch on the rocks. I'll ring the printer here in Colchester and tell him I'm ready, willing, and able. You can see that he filled up the van properly. It would be most improper if we ran out of petrol on the way. Have you got the number? I'll look it up in the book. Now make that drink good, honey. No moonshine. Hello, operator. I wanna talk to a missus Prendergast. Yep. Prendergast, p r e n d e r g a s t. She's in the Colchester area.
I haven't got a book. Yeah. I know it's a public booth, but somebody took the book. Will you check for me? Thanks. Yeah. That's just one last thing. Just one. Hello? Yeah. You sure? Okay. Thanks. Let's see. 836. Oh, come on. Hello? Wilson, look. I'll be around in ten, fifteen minutes. Okay? Yeah. Right. Oh, and by the way, I'm taking that baby doll with me. No objection, I suppose. Great. Look. Not to worry. Old Skinflint won't know from me. See you. Now let's see. Hello, operator? What? Yeah. Yeah. That's right. It's me again. No.
No. I I know the number this time. I want a truck call to London. I want Grosvenor 5 Double 9 5. Oh, Canon. I feel so happy. Me too. This has been the greatest day of my life. Fulfillment. That's the thing. Oh. What's that up ahead? Looks like a roadblock. Police. What did it before, I wonder? Train robbery, maybe. Oh, yes. Well, luckily, we've nothing to hide. That's right. Only a load of handbills for Manchester. Mhmm. Mister Cannon, sir? Yeah. That's me. Is, is this the girl? That's she.
[00:20:50] Unknown:
Cannon,
[00:20:51] Unknown:
what is it? The game's up, baby doll. Alright, officer. The loot's in the back of the van. The super will be long in a moment, sir. He wants to thank you, personally. Alright, my girl. Come along with me. But but Kennan, who are you? Just who I profess to be, an operator from Assignments Unlimited. How did you know? Old beast pants, Duke, was a bit too efficient. That and the fact that the arm of coincidence can never grow as long as the arm of the law. You play ducks and dreich with me, doll, and nearly got away with it. Remember? You said first time for me. Well, that was no first kiss. I bet that old man's looked down on a million.
[00:21:30] Unknown:
Yes. It was a cleverly planned robbery right down to the last detail. Well, almost the last detail. The money stolen from the train was loaded into a private car and driven to where Duke's van was parked. There, it was transferred. Janet Dale boarded the train to keep an eye on my operator and make sure he didn't take, well, a look at the contents of the van. But she switched her plans once too often. Cannon's suspicions had already been aroused by that kiss under the moon. That was no first time. It had been perfected by years of practice. When she sprang her Manchester story, her goose was cooked.
But it was the driver who mangled his hand on the printing works who posed the big question mark. Why should Duke employ an outsider when he had a driver of his own right on the spot? For one very good reason. The driver was a paid member of Duke's gang. If he'd been stopped by the police whilst ferrying the loot to Manchester, his guilt would almost certainly have given the game away. Cannon, on the other hand, was supposed to have, well, known nothing about it. He would have said he was carrying a consignment of handbills, and his sincerity would have been convincing enough.
Luckily, he did tumble to Duke's game, and mainly because of a kiss that wasn't a first kiss. And after all, cannon should know.
[00:23:32] Unknown:
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[00:23:56] Unknown:
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