In this thrilling episode, we delve into a tale of intrigue and deception involving a staged Viking raid on the Thames. Miles Trenchant, a businessman with political aspirations, receives a mysterious letter from a supposed Norwegian named Dane Koenig, who proposes a publicity stunt involving university students rowing a Viking ship to London. The plan takes a twist when Trenchant's daughter, Dawn, is chosen to be part of the spectacle, only for the family to discover that the entire event is a ruse orchestrated by Koenig for a more sinister purpose.
As the story unfolds, we follow Cannon, a hired hand from Assignments Unlimited, who becomes embroiled in the plot when Dawn is kidnapped under the guise of the Viking stunt. With a ransom demand on the table, Cannon must navigate the murky waters of deception to rescue Dawn and uncover the true identity of the mastermind behind the scheme. This episode is a gripping exploration of ambition, family, and the lengths one will go to for power and publicity.
Listen to our radio station Old Time Radio https://link.radioking.com/otradio
Listen to other Shows at My Classic Radio https://www.myclassicradio.net/
Entertainment Radio | Broadcasting Classic Radio Shows | Patreon
Remember that times have changed, and some shows might not reflect the standards of today’s politically correct society. The shows do not necessarily reflect the views, standards, or beliefs of Entertainment Radio
[00:00:00]
Unknown:
If your job at a health care facility includes disinfecting against viruses, you know prevention is the best medicine. And maintaining healthy spaces starts with a healthy cleaning routine. Grainger's world class supply chain helps ensure you have the quality products you need when you need them. From disinfectants and cleaning supplies to personal protective equipment, so you can help deliver a clean bill of health. Call +1 800 click grainger.com, or just stop by. Granger for the ones who get it done
[00:00:31] Unknown:
nothing could be simpler I require the services of one man just one man he should be well built powerful have a knowledge of the topography of the lower reaches of the Thames and not look in congress of interest in a costume like the ancient Vikings yes a Viking a man of the sea in a way it'll be perfect a Viking raider in the twentieth century and I know exactly where I can procure the services of such a man at 33 Half Moon Street
[00:01:29] Unknown:
The Norse Opera.
[00:01:37] Unknown:
It began when Miles Trenchant, a successful businessman with plans for political power, received a letter from a man signing himself Dane Kernigh. Trenchand read the letter in the seclusion of his study and then conveyed the contents to his wife. There was an interesting letter in the post this morning there. The one not strictly confidential. I saw it, Miles. Well, it's not so confidential that I can't tell you about it. It's from a Norwegian called Dane Konig. Do you know any Norwegians? None that I can recall. Certainly not this one.
[00:02:09] Unknown:
He's connected with this stunt the students of Bergen University are putting on next week. Oh, yes. Dawn told me all about it. The students are going to row a replica of an old Viking ship across the North Sea and up the Thames to London. But did you know that London University students have planned to dress themselves up in skins,
[00:02:26] Unknown:
paint themselves with blue woad and contest their journey up the Thames. Now that really is supposed to be confidential. Oh, Dawn didn't say anything.
[00:02:34] Unknown:
Not me at any rate. There are many things a daughter tells only to her mother in confidence. Anyway, what possible interest could you have in a university ragmiles?
[00:02:43] Unknown:
To be quite frank, my dear, none whatsoever. In the normal course of events, that is. But now I've received this letter from Mr Dane Kernigh the position has changed somewhat.'
[00:02:53] Unknown:
well, don't keep me in suspense, Miles. What does your Mr Kernigh say?'
[00:02:58] Unknown:
'That the make believe Vikings from Bergen have no knowledge of an impending attack on their long ship by a horde of well painted ancient Britons. Apparently all the people in the Scandinavian countries are taking a great interest in this thing and and Koenig has organised a nationwide publicity stunt to ensure that certain, certain treasure is captured by the Vikings and delivered to the court of the King of Denmark. Sir, it's a bit ambitious, isn't it? Ah, but what publicity?
[00:03:25] Unknown:
Story will be worldwide. It rather depends on the treasure, surely. What do these young Norwegians intend to do? Steal the stone of Scone? What use would that be to a descendant of King Harold?
[00:03:36] Unknown:
No dear. He wants to capture a beautiful maiden and spirit her away across the North Sea. You mean a sort of ninth century beauty countess? In a manner of speaking. 'So when you come into the picture?' the girl will be presented at the Danish court. This knocks any other pretty girl gimmick into a cow cat. Her name will be a household word all over the world for weeks. The only thing is Dame Koenig wants to make sure that there's no slip up. In other words, the girl who is to be stolen away will know all about it beforehand. In fact, the entire thing will be done with her connivance.
So now you know why the letter was marked strictly confidential.
[00:04:12] Unknown:
And this Dane Corning wrote to you.
[00:04:15] Unknown:
Has this by any chance anything to do with Dawn? It has everything to do with Dawn. Do you mean he wants to to steal our daughter away? Oh, that's ridiculous.' 'Ridiculous? It's superb. Just at the time when I'm standing in the by direction. I'll get so much publicity out of this I'll win hands down. Oh, my dear, it's a heaven sent opportunity.' 'Ever since you started meddling in in politics you've had publicity on the brain, Miles. But what about Dawn? Have you thought she might object to being spirited away by a boisterous mob of Norwegian students? They are university students of the highest level of integrity. Why did they pick on Dawn anyway? She's a student at London University. So are hundreds of other young women. And Dame Koenig tells me in his letter that photographs of all of them were circulated among the students and they selected Dawn as the number one choice. Just from photographs? Well, they could hardly maintain secrecy if they'd held a beauty parade, could they? Of course, Dawn is a very attractive And we'd go over to Denmark to reclaim her from the King.
You've never been to Denmark have you, mother?
[00:05:16] Unknown:
I'll sit you out with a brand new wardrobe and we'll make a bit of a holiday out of it.' a holiday, Miles. You'll work yourself to death every minute we're there. If I know anything about you there'll be more pictures of you in the paper than dawn.
[00:05:29] Unknown:
Is there anything you wouldn't do to win a seat in Parliament? No, come on dear. It'll be a bit of a lark and Dawn will love it too.
[00:05:36] Unknown:
It isn't every girl who gets a chance to meet the King of Denmark. But it isn't every girl who wants to. Anyway, Dawn will be home on the 06:15 this evening. I'll ask her then. We'll ask her together. In that case you'd better give me that cheque for the new wardrobe now. You can talk the hind leg of a donkey. I pity the poor Opposition when you do get into Parliament.
[00:05:59] Unknown:
There you are, miss Karen. It fits you perfectly. One of the best costumes we've ever made. You look just like Charlton Heston in one of his epics. Thanks very much. Look in the mirror, sir.
[00:06:12] Unknown:
Sir, are you sure a Viking always had, horns on his helmet? The costume is the authentic replica of a ninth century longbowed warrior. Oh, come on. How can a replica be authentic? Charlton Heston, I look like Ferdinand the Bullard of Clambach. Those Vikings never beat their enemies with a sword. They frighten them to death.
[00:06:32] Unknown:
Mr. Curley didn't say so in so many words, sir, but he intimated that the costume had something to do with the Bergen Students and if I can ship, twice of Mies correctly.' well, if Craig didn't tell you, why should I?' well,
[00:06:44] Unknown:
well, you can't be hanged for asking, can you?' 'If you play a pool buster I might get a yen to put you to the sword.'
[00:06:50] Unknown:
'Fortunate, it's only made of wood. In this morning's paper, it said the longship would enter the mouth of the Thames tonight. Is that so? Yes. Oh, excuse me, mister Cannon. Proscenium theatrical costumes? Hello, Clodig. Oh, yes, mister Clodig. We're just finished splitting the costumes. It looks quite divine. Is mister Cannon there with you? Yes. Standing right next to me and looking as fierce as Eric the Red.
[00:07:17] Unknown:
What's the matter? Hello. Hello. Hello, Kenny. Yes. Is that you, Cannon? Inside this monkey suit, yes. What's the matter with the man in the costume shop? I, I just put him to the sword. Oof. Barely. I want to speak to you privately. Ask him, will you? Sure.
[00:07:31] Unknown:
Hey, you. Beat it. This is a private conversation. I can hear perfectly well. Thank you. Without you telling me.
[00:07:37] Unknown:
Okay. He's gone. Shoot.
[00:07:39] Unknown:
Are you all set for tonight? Well, I did like you said. Read your instructions three times and then burn the letter. I hope you don't mind all this secrecy, but there's a lot at stake, and I'd hate to have things go wrong at this this stage. We put in so much work, it'll be a tragedy if the press or anyone gets to hear of it. I'll come over to your office and meet you in person when the operation is successfully completed. Well, that'll be great. I'll settle the account then too. By the way, you might tell that man in the costume shop that I'll call in and pay for your costume sometime the day after tomorrow. I reckon you'll be amenable to anything I say. Now if you just quickly run over, what you have to do? Okay. I, I go to Miles Trenchon's house which is on the river at midnight. I meet his daughter at dawn and, tell her there's a feor in her future.
[00:08:23] Unknown:
She knows all about the vikings and will come with you quite willingly. Yeah. Well, then I, borrow the family dinghy and, roll her out into the river where the boat will be waiting to pick her up. I then ditch this fancy dress, roll the boat back again and go home. Right? Exactly right.
[00:08:38] Unknown:
Well, there's nothing more for us than to wish you good luck. Nothing to it, mister Cooney. But tell me
[00:08:44] Unknown:
something. Why do I have to look like, like Hamlet with a hangover?
[00:08:48] Unknown:
Just to add color, mister Cannon. A little local color.
[00:08:52] Unknown:
Yeah. Believe me, I'll color plenty if I accidentally meet anybody I know on the way. Oh, good evening, Miss Dawn Trinchot. Hey, Nada.
[00:09:17] Unknown:
That's uncaring, the fact it's positively sadistic. Oh, I'm sorry but you look so comical standing there. You've got your helmet on back to front.
[00:09:25] Unknown:
Oh, well, maybe I'm psychic because, right at this moment I don't know where I'm coming or going. I suppose I take the helmet off.
[00:09:34] Unknown:
There. Oh.
[00:09:36] Unknown:
What's wrong now? Nothing.
[00:09:38] Unknown:
Everything's perfect now. Where'd you come
[00:09:42] Unknown:
in? Oh sure, thanks. Yeah.
[00:09:45] Unknown:
Can I, hang my hat in the hall? Hang up your halberd too. This is a peaceful abduction. Which makes my job aside easier? Oh, I don't know. Now that I've seen you without that ridiculous headgear I would probably have come with you anyway. In here. I I don't know your name.
[00:10:00] Unknown:
Plain cannon, and, thanks for repenting. Oh, I'm not repentant enough. How about a drink? Well, now you've made me your slave. Great idea.
[00:10:10] Unknown:
Met again or mead?
[00:10:12] Unknown:
No, Scotch. I'm only a temporary Viking.
[00:10:15] Unknown:
Oh, that's alright. Prince Valiant comes from The USA. Pardon me if I ruin my repentance but aren't you a little over age for a university student? Ma'am, the, the only university I ever attended was a Heiferbranding in Colorado.
[00:10:29] Unknown:
I was a hired hand then and that's what I am now. Dame Koenig is my temporary boss and I work at Assignments Unlimited. In which case your company is well named. Cheers. Good luck.
[00:10:41] Unknown:
Hello, Dawn.
[00:10:42] Unknown:
Is this your escort, I see? Well, if he isn't father then his clothes are a bit out of date. A plain cannon, this is my father, Myles Trinchon. I'm glad to know you, Mr Trinchon. You tell, Mr. Cannon. Before you start wondering whether the yank at Oxford is transferred to Burdon, let me explain that cannon is an employee of Assignments Unlimited working for Cornick. I'm not head of your company.
[00:11:01] Unknown:
Aubrey Mason's connected with you, isn't he? Yeah, that's right.
[00:11:05] Unknown:
Well, I, I don't want to hurry you but, that boat is waiting out in the river. Oh, I'm all ready. Bye, Father. Mam is asleep. I said goodbye to her an hour ago. Look after her, Mr. Cannon. I will. I, just have to row her out of the boat, that's all. Oh, as you go out, Dawn, look under my overcoat in the hall. I put your costume there.
[00:11:23] Unknown:
See that you wear it when you get to Denmark. It should photograph well. Costume, father? It's what you might call a a going away present. After all, the ancient Britons did dress up in animal skins, didn't they? It's a full length notation mink coat.
[00:11:37] Unknown:
Father, it must have cost a fortune. Oh, a couple of thousand.
[00:11:40] Unknown:
But then a trenchant at the Court of Denmark must look the first. That's my father, Cannon. Anything for public No, don't. I'm only kidding. Bye bye, father. Oh, well. Goodbye, Mr. Cannon. Perhaps we'll meet again one day. Who knows? Maybe we will.
[00:12:02] Unknown:
Canon.
[00:12:03] Unknown:
Canon. This is Miles Trenchant.
[00:12:06] Unknown:
Who? Trenchant. You remember, you took my daughter out into the river the night before last. Oh. The Viking. Oh, sure. Sure. Sorry, mister Trenchant. What can I do for you? You must come and see me at once.
[00:12:16] Unknown:
You, you sound worried about something. I am. It's my daughter. Well, what about her? She's gone, mister Cannon. She's disappeared.
[00:12:25] Unknown:
Cannon, sensing the urgency in Miles Trenchon's voice, dropped everything and drove out once again to the house by the river. He was met by Mrs. Trenchon.
[00:12:34] Unknown:
You must be Mr. Cannon. Yes, ma'am. I'm Cannon. Mister Trenchon phoned for me to come over right away. Yes. I know. But now he doesn't want to see you. Oh, but, he sounded worried and said something about Dawn disappearing. Yes. She has. And I don't want you to go. I want you to stay and try to talk to him. Will you stay?
[00:12:53] Unknown:
Sure. Well, but, what's all this about?
[00:12:56] Unknown:
Do you mind if we sit down?
[00:12:58] Unknown:
Now, supposing you tell me, Mrs. Jensen? Yes, I will.
[00:13:02] Unknown:
Firstly, there's no such man as Dane Konig. There's what? At least nobody of that name connected in any way with that Viking ship and the river. There never was any publicity stunt for one of our girls to meet the King of Denmark. In fact Dane Konig, or whatever his true name is, made it all up.
[00:13:22] Unknown:
What for?
[00:13:24] Unknown:
My daughter, Dawn, wasn't taken away by students at all. In short, mister Cannon, she's been kidnapped. Oh,
[00:13:32] Unknown:
kidnapped. Have you, have you called the police? My husband forbids it.
[00:13:39] Unknown:
So that's why he telephoned me? No. He knew only that it was a hoax of some sort when he telephoned you. Well, I'll go and see him right now. He was quite adamant that I should send you away, mister Cannon. Well, how come he changed his mind? The postman arrived just a few minutes ago. Among the mail was a ransom note. My husband says it's his intention to pay the money they ask. But that's crazy.
[00:14:01] Unknown:
Doesn't he know that if he pays ransom money, they'll they'll never leave him alone? It's it's like
[00:14:06] Unknown:
blackmail. Only worse. They have my daughter. I'm trying so hard to be brave, mister Cannon, but but Dawn is my only child. I know we spoiled her, but he'd never made herself wish or inconsiderate. She's full of spirit and quite unafraid of life. I'm just worried in case she well, she always speaks her mind and she might say something to them and they might do her an injury. Yeah. Well, I'm gonna talk to Mr. Tranchard. But he told me not to say anything. Well, don't you see I gotta talk to him? Well, it's the publicity. Not, Belicity Hogwash.
[00:14:41] Unknown:
It's your daughter we have to think about. Now don't you worry, Mrs Trenton, you sit here quietly under this tree. I see more than a fair share of the seamy side of life and I'll get your daughter back safe and sound. You stay right where you are. Do you, do you have a maid in there? Yes. Well, I'll get her to make you some tea. Just you leave everything to me,
[00:15:04] Unknown:
Who's that?
[00:15:07] Unknown:
Cannon. I left Strickland's I know. Alright. You know, mister Trenton, you and me are gonna have a little talk. Did my wife tell you?
[00:15:14] Unknown:
I forgot, but I can see it on your face. It was kind of you to come, Cannon, but I know what must be done, and you can't help. Correction. You don't know what must be done, and whether you like it or not, I'm gonna help.
[00:15:27] Unknown:
You'll kindly leave this house at once. Okay. I'll do that. Where's the nearest police station? You wouldn't go to them. You just try me. They sent a ransom note.
[00:15:36] Unknown:
They say that if I go to the police, I'll never see her again, alive. That's what they always say, was there not? There were instructions that I should destroy it once I knew the contents thoroughly. And, did you destroy it? It's it's there on the table.
[00:15:52] Unknown:
$10. And you were prepared to pay over £10,000
[00:15:56] Unknown:
just like that? She's my daughter.
[00:15:59] Unknown:
You wouldn't understand. Look, I don't need a string of progeny to know that you're behaving like a fool. You just listen to me on account of that palooka Koenig making a monkey out of me too. Does it occur to you that, if you hadn't met me the night before last and if dawn hadn't told you I worked for Assignments Unlimited, you would never have been able to trace me again? Then I got news for you. I got my instructions from Carnegie in a letter, and I was told to destroy them in the interests of secrecy. What a sweet setup. You destroyed your evidence? No. Because that's what it is, evidence.
The guy didn't pay his bill yet. In fact, he didn't pay anybody's bill. He bought this off with the expense of three postage stamps and one phone call. And what's more, he didn't even have to stick his neck on. But a chance from Mark, just a chance from Mark, by your daughter, has blown the whole thing open. You knew how to get hold of me. Blown open, Count? That's what I said and that's what I meant. I suppose you know that I'm standing for Parliament shortly. Oh, but I bet this guy, Dane Kernig did. That's what he banked on. That you'd do anything to avoid adverse publicity. If this gets around, people are gonna feel sorry for you, sure, but at the same time they are gonna laugh their heads off.
The smooth, mild trenchant made a monkey out of via cheap palooka in the snatch Please, for cannon.
[00:17:14] Unknown:
I mean, it's true, isn't it? Yes. Yes. It's
[00:17:17] Unknown:
true. I've been successful in business. I never thought I could ever put a foot wrong. Yeah. Well, we had a guy once over in The States called Benjamin Franklin, though. Maybe you heard him in the, he said that, he that falls in love with himself will have no rivals.
[00:17:34] Unknown:
Well, what did you want me to do?
[00:17:37] Unknown:
Nothing. Nothing? Except maybe go out there in the garden and comfort your wife. It's the mothers who get the tough breaks. You just leave everything to me, Mr. Trenchant. I'll get your daughter back, and I'll get that Koenig. And when I do, I'll punch his face so that it'll look like he died head first into a cement mixer.
[00:18:09] Unknown:
This case, he must be pretty sure of himself, Kevin. Oh, he has money. Yes. Now keep your voice down and keep your eyes peeled. Okay? It was that real money you put in the trench since didn't you? Yeah. Real money in £1 minutes.
[00:18:21] Unknown:
Like you said, couldn't have assured himself. He might even tell. He wanted to count it. I wonder he didn't decide to knock on the front door and collect it. He might just as well. Mhmm. The ransom notes that he was to attend the party rally tonight with his wife. Trenchham is not at home. And my guess his colleague knows an awful lot about the guy he's playing for his supper. May he watch the road approach, but I'll watch the road. Do you think he might come from the road? Why not? That's the way I came. My guess is if he comes by road, he'll be on the bus, because this creep is short of fires.
And that's another reason why we gotta follow him. He might have left somebody to guard the girl, but I doubt it. In the snatch racket, there's, security and aloneness. And I doubt if he's got the cash to paint a compass that Hey. Hold it. Hold it. It looks like the road.
[00:19:12] Unknown:
Now button up, Murray. Shut up. He's leaving in the boat? Yeah.
[00:19:44] Unknown:
What happens there? Do we let him go? Look. I picked you, Mariam, because you can swim like a fish. So can you. It might need the both of us. Okay. Peel your clothes off. And maybe go swimming against the splash of his horse.
[00:19:58] Unknown:
I'm ready.
[00:20:00] Unknown:
Where'd your feet ease in for? Somewhere on the at the bank of the river. Okay. Come on. Let's swim.
[00:20:07] Unknown:
Nothing could be simpler. You must have been very uncomfortable sitting here for all this time. My apologies, Miss Trenchant, but I'm sure you'll realize and understand my dilemma. I had to truss you up like a turkey so that you couldn't run away and gag you so that you couldn't call out. People do come along here, you know, and if you'd been able to shout they would certainly have found you. Did you know it took me six weeks of painstaking labour to hollow out this little cave? I laid my plans very carefully, didn't I? For all your father knows you might be a thousand miles away and yet here you are, almost opposite your own home on the river.
I have the money it's all here so I release you people do come along here but never at night so there's no point in your calling out now right now sit up so that I can cut your bonds That's it. Now the gag. There. Oh, how do you feel miss Trenchand? You're an inhuman beast. No miss Trenchand you're quite wrong. It's the opposite. I'm only too human that's why I wanted the money. Your father has so much wealth and I alas have nothing. I'm so sorry, had nothing. In that parcel they are £10,000 a fortune, but to Biles Trenchant it's a mere free bite. I knew he'd pay. He's so conceited. 'Now you can go, Miss Strenchons, and enjoy your sudden notoriety in your home. In your home, remember, because your father won't hear a word of this little escapade breathed to anyone.
If it leaks out, his chances of ever getting to Parliament will be absolutely nil. Nobody knows who I am. Nobody. That's the really clever part. In fact, in this entire operation you're the only one who's set eyes on me.'
[00:22:07] Unknown:
'I know you. You work in Father's factory. I went there one day to deliver an urgent package that was sent to the house by mistake. It was my first visit and I got lost in the packing shed.' 'I know you. You work in Father's factory. I went there one day to deliver an urgent package that was sent to the house by mistake. It was my first visit and I got lost in the packing shed. You were one of the invoice clerks. You spoke to me, directed me.' you have a remarkable memory miss Strenchant.
[00:22:35] Unknown:
That was all of three years ago.' 'So I'm right?' 'Unfortunately for you, you are right.' what are you doing?' What does anyone usually do when they point a pistol at someone? I'm gonna kill you. Thank you for being so frank with me. That's murder? Yes. Murder.
[00:22:51] Unknown:
Not tonight Koenig. What? Without cannon.
[00:23:02] Unknown:
Nice towing, baby. You got him in the small of the brain. Is he dead? No. Not yet anyway. I'll pull it out. Say, haven't I seen something like this before? Yes.
[00:23:17] Unknown:
It's your helmet, the one you brought to the house. Oh, no. It was part of your costume. Don't you remember? When you put me in the boat, you left it behind. He dumped it beside me here when he tied me up. Oh, then I gotta make a serious apology. Apology?
[00:23:30] Unknown:
There's no need. You just saved my life. No. No. No. Not to use the guy in the costume shop. I took the wrong weapon. The one I was supposed to have was made of wood. This is the real thing. Well, I'm sure he won't mind. You see, I thought it was made of wood and I, pricked him with it in a a very tender spot.
[00:23:51] Unknown:
And now you know why Myles Trenton withdrew his nomination for parliament.
If your job at a health care facility includes disinfecting against viruses, you know prevention is the best medicine. And maintaining healthy spaces starts with a healthy cleaning routine. Grainger's world class supply chain helps ensure you have the quality products you need when you need them. From disinfectants and cleaning supplies to personal protective equipment, so you can help deliver a clean bill of health. Call +1 800 click grainger.com, or just stop by. Granger for the ones who get it done
[00:00:31] Unknown:
nothing could be simpler I require the services of one man just one man he should be well built powerful have a knowledge of the topography of the lower reaches of the Thames and not look in congress of interest in a costume like the ancient Vikings yes a Viking a man of the sea in a way it'll be perfect a Viking raider in the twentieth century and I know exactly where I can procure the services of such a man at 33 Half Moon Street
[00:01:29] Unknown:
The Norse Opera.
[00:01:37] Unknown:
It began when Miles Trenchant, a successful businessman with plans for political power, received a letter from a man signing himself Dane Kernigh. Trenchand read the letter in the seclusion of his study and then conveyed the contents to his wife. There was an interesting letter in the post this morning there. The one not strictly confidential. I saw it, Miles. Well, it's not so confidential that I can't tell you about it. It's from a Norwegian called Dane Konig. Do you know any Norwegians? None that I can recall. Certainly not this one.
[00:02:09] Unknown:
He's connected with this stunt the students of Bergen University are putting on next week. Oh, yes. Dawn told me all about it. The students are going to row a replica of an old Viking ship across the North Sea and up the Thames to London. But did you know that London University students have planned to dress themselves up in skins,
[00:02:26] Unknown:
paint themselves with blue woad and contest their journey up the Thames. Now that really is supposed to be confidential. Oh, Dawn didn't say anything.
[00:02:34] Unknown:
Not me at any rate. There are many things a daughter tells only to her mother in confidence. Anyway, what possible interest could you have in a university ragmiles?
[00:02:43] Unknown:
To be quite frank, my dear, none whatsoever. In the normal course of events, that is. But now I've received this letter from Mr Dane Kernigh the position has changed somewhat.'
[00:02:53] Unknown:
well, don't keep me in suspense, Miles. What does your Mr Kernigh say?'
[00:02:58] Unknown:
'That the make believe Vikings from Bergen have no knowledge of an impending attack on their long ship by a horde of well painted ancient Britons. Apparently all the people in the Scandinavian countries are taking a great interest in this thing and and Koenig has organised a nationwide publicity stunt to ensure that certain, certain treasure is captured by the Vikings and delivered to the court of the King of Denmark. Sir, it's a bit ambitious, isn't it? Ah, but what publicity?
[00:03:25] Unknown:
Story will be worldwide. It rather depends on the treasure, surely. What do these young Norwegians intend to do? Steal the stone of Scone? What use would that be to a descendant of King Harold?
[00:03:36] Unknown:
No dear. He wants to capture a beautiful maiden and spirit her away across the North Sea. You mean a sort of ninth century beauty countess? In a manner of speaking. 'So when you come into the picture?' the girl will be presented at the Danish court. This knocks any other pretty girl gimmick into a cow cat. Her name will be a household word all over the world for weeks. The only thing is Dame Koenig wants to make sure that there's no slip up. In other words, the girl who is to be stolen away will know all about it beforehand. In fact, the entire thing will be done with her connivance.
So now you know why the letter was marked strictly confidential.
[00:04:12] Unknown:
And this Dane Corning wrote to you.
[00:04:15] Unknown:
Has this by any chance anything to do with Dawn? It has everything to do with Dawn. Do you mean he wants to to steal our daughter away? Oh, that's ridiculous.' 'Ridiculous? It's superb. Just at the time when I'm standing in the by direction. I'll get so much publicity out of this I'll win hands down. Oh, my dear, it's a heaven sent opportunity.' 'Ever since you started meddling in in politics you've had publicity on the brain, Miles. But what about Dawn? Have you thought she might object to being spirited away by a boisterous mob of Norwegian students? They are university students of the highest level of integrity. Why did they pick on Dawn anyway? She's a student at London University. So are hundreds of other young women. And Dame Koenig tells me in his letter that photographs of all of them were circulated among the students and they selected Dawn as the number one choice. Just from photographs? Well, they could hardly maintain secrecy if they'd held a beauty parade, could they? Of course, Dawn is a very attractive And we'd go over to Denmark to reclaim her from the King.
You've never been to Denmark have you, mother?
[00:05:16] Unknown:
I'll sit you out with a brand new wardrobe and we'll make a bit of a holiday out of it.' a holiday, Miles. You'll work yourself to death every minute we're there. If I know anything about you there'll be more pictures of you in the paper than dawn.
[00:05:29] Unknown:
Is there anything you wouldn't do to win a seat in Parliament? No, come on dear. It'll be a bit of a lark and Dawn will love it too.
[00:05:36] Unknown:
It isn't every girl who gets a chance to meet the King of Denmark. But it isn't every girl who wants to. Anyway, Dawn will be home on the 06:15 this evening. I'll ask her then. We'll ask her together. In that case you'd better give me that cheque for the new wardrobe now. You can talk the hind leg of a donkey. I pity the poor Opposition when you do get into Parliament.
[00:05:59] Unknown:
There you are, miss Karen. It fits you perfectly. One of the best costumes we've ever made. You look just like Charlton Heston in one of his epics. Thanks very much. Look in the mirror, sir.
[00:06:12] Unknown:
Sir, are you sure a Viking always had, horns on his helmet? The costume is the authentic replica of a ninth century longbowed warrior. Oh, come on. How can a replica be authentic? Charlton Heston, I look like Ferdinand the Bullard of Clambach. Those Vikings never beat their enemies with a sword. They frighten them to death.
[00:06:32] Unknown:
Mr. Curley didn't say so in so many words, sir, but he intimated that the costume had something to do with the Bergen Students and if I can ship, twice of Mies correctly.' well, if Craig didn't tell you, why should I?' well,
[00:06:44] Unknown:
well, you can't be hanged for asking, can you?' 'If you play a pool buster I might get a yen to put you to the sword.'
[00:06:50] Unknown:
'Fortunate, it's only made of wood. In this morning's paper, it said the longship would enter the mouth of the Thames tonight. Is that so? Yes. Oh, excuse me, mister Cannon. Proscenium theatrical costumes? Hello, Clodig. Oh, yes, mister Clodig. We're just finished splitting the costumes. It looks quite divine. Is mister Cannon there with you? Yes. Standing right next to me and looking as fierce as Eric the Red.
[00:07:17] Unknown:
What's the matter? Hello. Hello. Hello, Kenny. Yes. Is that you, Cannon? Inside this monkey suit, yes. What's the matter with the man in the costume shop? I, I just put him to the sword. Oof. Barely. I want to speak to you privately. Ask him, will you? Sure.
[00:07:31] Unknown:
Hey, you. Beat it. This is a private conversation. I can hear perfectly well. Thank you. Without you telling me.
[00:07:37] Unknown:
Okay. He's gone. Shoot.
[00:07:39] Unknown:
Are you all set for tonight? Well, I did like you said. Read your instructions three times and then burn the letter. I hope you don't mind all this secrecy, but there's a lot at stake, and I'd hate to have things go wrong at this this stage. We put in so much work, it'll be a tragedy if the press or anyone gets to hear of it. I'll come over to your office and meet you in person when the operation is successfully completed. Well, that'll be great. I'll settle the account then too. By the way, you might tell that man in the costume shop that I'll call in and pay for your costume sometime the day after tomorrow. I reckon you'll be amenable to anything I say. Now if you just quickly run over, what you have to do? Okay. I, I go to Miles Trenchon's house which is on the river at midnight. I meet his daughter at dawn and, tell her there's a feor in her future.
[00:08:23] Unknown:
She knows all about the vikings and will come with you quite willingly. Yeah. Well, then I, borrow the family dinghy and, roll her out into the river where the boat will be waiting to pick her up. I then ditch this fancy dress, roll the boat back again and go home. Right? Exactly right.
[00:08:38] Unknown:
Well, there's nothing more for us than to wish you good luck. Nothing to it, mister Cooney. But tell me
[00:08:44] Unknown:
something. Why do I have to look like, like Hamlet with a hangover?
[00:08:48] Unknown:
Just to add color, mister Cannon. A little local color.
[00:08:52] Unknown:
Yeah. Believe me, I'll color plenty if I accidentally meet anybody I know on the way. Oh, good evening, Miss Dawn Trinchot. Hey, Nada.
[00:09:17] Unknown:
That's uncaring, the fact it's positively sadistic. Oh, I'm sorry but you look so comical standing there. You've got your helmet on back to front.
[00:09:25] Unknown:
Oh, well, maybe I'm psychic because, right at this moment I don't know where I'm coming or going. I suppose I take the helmet off.
[00:09:34] Unknown:
There. Oh.
[00:09:36] Unknown:
What's wrong now? Nothing.
[00:09:38] Unknown:
Everything's perfect now. Where'd you come
[00:09:42] Unknown:
in? Oh sure, thanks. Yeah.
[00:09:45] Unknown:
Can I, hang my hat in the hall? Hang up your halberd too. This is a peaceful abduction. Which makes my job aside easier? Oh, I don't know. Now that I've seen you without that ridiculous headgear I would probably have come with you anyway. In here. I I don't know your name.
[00:10:00] Unknown:
Plain cannon, and, thanks for repenting. Oh, I'm not repentant enough. How about a drink? Well, now you've made me your slave. Great idea.
[00:10:10] Unknown:
Met again or mead?
[00:10:12] Unknown:
No, Scotch. I'm only a temporary Viking.
[00:10:15] Unknown:
Oh, that's alright. Prince Valiant comes from The USA. Pardon me if I ruin my repentance but aren't you a little over age for a university student? Ma'am, the, the only university I ever attended was a Heiferbranding in Colorado.
[00:10:29] Unknown:
I was a hired hand then and that's what I am now. Dame Koenig is my temporary boss and I work at Assignments Unlimited. In which case your company is well named. Cheers. Good luck.
[00:10:41] Unknown:
Hello, Dawn.
[00:10:42] Unknown:
Is this your escort, I see? Well, if he isn't father then his clothes are a bit out of date. A plain cannon, this is my father, Myles Trinchon. I'm glad to know you, Mr Trinchon. You tell, Mr. Cannon. Before you start wondering whether the yank at Oxford is transferred to Burdon, let me explain that cannon is an employee of Assignments Unlimited working for Cornick. I'm not head of your company.
[00:11:01] Unknown:
Aubrey Mason's connected with you, isn't he? Yeah, that's right.
[00:11:05] Unknown:
Well, I, I don't want to hurry you but, that boat is waiting out in the river. Oh, I'm all ready. Bye, Father. Mam is asleep. I said goodbye to her an hour ago. Look after her, Mr. Cannon. I will. I, just have to row her out of the boat, that's all. Oh, as you go out, Dawn, look under my overcoat in the hall. I put your costume there.
[00:11:23] Unknown:
See that you wear it when you get to Denmark. It should photograph well. Costume, father? It's what you might call a a going away present. After all, the ancient Britons did dress up in animal skins, didn't they? It's a full length notation mink coat.
[00:11:37] Unknown:
Father, it must have cost a fortune. Oh, a couple of thousand.
[00:11:40] Unknown:
But then a trenchant at the Court of Denmark must look the first. That's my father, Cannon. Anything for public No, don't. I'm only kidding. Bye bye, father. Oh, well. Goodbye, Mr. Cannon. Perhaps we'll meet again one day. Who knows? Maybe we will.
[00:12:02] Unknown:
Canon.
[00:12:03] Unknown:
Canon. This is Miles Trenchant.
[00:12:06] Unknown:
Who? Trenchant. You remember, you took my daughter out into the river the night before last. Oh. The Viking. Oh, sure. Sure. Sorry, mister Trenchant. What can I do for you? You must come and see me at once.
[00:12:16] Unknown:
You, you sound worried about something. I am. It's my daughter. Well, what about her? She's gone, mister Cannon. She's disappeared.
[00:12:25] Unknown:
Cannon, sensing the urgency in Miles Trenchon's voice, dropped everything and drove out once again to the house by the river. He was met by Mrs. Trenchon.
[00:12:34] Unknown:
You must be Mr. Cannon. Yes, ma'am. I'm Cannon. Mister Trenchon phoned for me to come over right away. Yes. I know. But now he doesn't want to see you. Oh, but, he sounded worried and said something about Dawn disappearing. Yes. She has. And I don't want you to go. I want you to stay and try to talk to him. Will you stay?
[00:12:53] Unknown:
Sure. Well, but, what's all this about?
[00:12:56] Unknown:
Do you mind if we sit down?
[00:12:58] Unknown:
Now, supposing you tell me, Mrs. Jensen? Yes, I will.
[00:13:02] Unknown:
Firstly, there's no such man as Dane Konig. There's what? At least nobody of that name connected in any way with that Viking ship and the river. There never was any publicity stunt for one of our girls to meet the King of Denmark. In fact Dane Konig, or whatever his true name is, made it all up.
[00:13:22] Unknown:
What for?
[00:13:24] Unknown:
My daughter, Dawn, wasn't taken away by students at all. In short, mister Cannon, she's been kidnapped. Oh,
[00:13:32] Unknown:
kidnapped. Have you, have you called the police? My husband forbids it.
[00:13:39] Unknown:
So that's why he telephoned me? No. He knew only that it was a hoax of some sort when he telephoned you. Well, I'll go and see him right now. He was quite adamant that I should send you away, mister Cannon. Well, how come he changed his mind? The postman arrived just a few minutes ago. Among the mail was a ransom note. My husband says it's his intention to pay the money they ask. But that's crazy.
[00:14:01] Unknown:
Doesn't he know that if he pays ransom money, they'll they'll never leave him alone? It's it's like
[00:14:06] Unknown:
blackmail. Only worse. They have my daughter. I'm trying so hard to be brave, mister Cannon, but but Dawn is my only child. I know we spoiled her, but he'd never made herself wish or inconsiderate. She's full of spirit and quite unafraid of life. I'm just worried in case she well, she always speaks her mind and she might say something to them and they might do her an injury. Yeah. Well, I'm gonna talk to Mr. Tranchard. But he told me not to say anything. Well, don't you see I gotta talk to him? Well, it's the publicity. Not, Belicity Hogwash.
[00:14:41] Unknown:
It's your daughter we have to think about. Now don't you worry, Mrs Trenton, you sit here quietly under this tree. I see more than a fair share of the seamy side of life and I'll get your daughter back safe and sound. You stay right where you are. Do you, do you have a maid in there? Yes. Well, I'll get her to make you some tea. Just you leave everything to me,
[00:15:04] Unknown:
Who's that?
[00:15:07] Unknown:
Cannon. I left Strickland's I know. Alright. You know, mister Trenton, you and me are gonna have a little talk. Did my wife tell you?
[00:15:14] Unknown:
I forgot, but I can see it on your face. It was kind of you to come, Cannon, but I know what must be done, and you can't help. Correction. You don't know what must be done, and whether you like it or not, I'm gonna help.
[00:15:27] Unknown:
You'll kindly leave this house at once. Okay. I'll do that. Where's the nearest police station? You wouldn't go to them. You just try me. They sent a ransom note.
[00:15:36] Unknown:
They say that if I go to the police, I'll never see her again, alive. That's what they always say, was there not? There were instructions that I should destroy it once I knew the contents thoroughly. And, did you destroy it? It's it's there on the table.
[00:15:52] Unknown:
$10. And you were prepared to pay over £10,000
[00:15:56] Unknown:
just like that? She's my daughter.
[00:15:59] Unknown:
You wouldn't understand. Look, I don't need a string of progeny to know that you're behaving like a fool. You just listen to me on account of that palooka Koenig making a monkey out of me too. Does it occur to you that, if you hadn't met me the night before last and if dawn hadn't told you I worked for Assignments Unlimited, you would never have been able to trace me again? Then I got news for you. I got my instructions from Carnegie in a letter, and I was told to destroy them in the interests of secrecy. What a sweet setup. You destroyed your evidence? No. Because that's what it is, evidence.
The guy didn't pay his bill yet. In fact, he didn't pay anybody's bill. He bought this off with the expense of three postage stamps and one phone call. And what's more, he didn't even have to stick his neck on. But a chance from Mark, just a chance from Mark, by your daughter, has blown the whole thing open. You knew how to get hold of me. Blown open, Count? That's what I said and that's what I meant. I suppose you know that I'm standing for Parliament shortly. Oh, but I bet this guy, Dane Kernig did. That's what he banked on. That you'd do anything to avoid adverse publicity. If this gets around, people are gonna feel sorry for you, sure, but at the same time they are gonna laugh their heads off.
The smooth, mild trenchant made a monkey out of via cheap palooka in the snatch Please, for cannon.
[00:17:14] Unknown:
I mean, it's true, isn't it? Yes. Yes. It's
[00:17:17] Unknown:
true. I've been successful in business. I never thought I could ever put a foot wrong. Yeah. Well, we had a guy once over in The States called Benjamin Franklin, though. Maybe you heard him in the, he said that, he that falls in love with himself will have no rivals.
[00:17:34] Unknown:
Well, what did you want me to do?
[00:17:37] Unknown:
Nothing. Nothing? Except maybe go out there in the garden and comfort your wife. It's the mothers who get the tough breaks. You just leave everything to me, Mr. Trenchant. I'll get your daughter back, and I'll get that Koenig. And when I do, I'll punch his face so that it'll look like he died head first into a cement mixer.
[00:18:09] Unknown:
This case, he must be pretty sure of himself, Kevin. Oh, he has money. Yes. Now keep your voice down and keep your eyes peeled. Okay? It was that real money you put in the trench since didn't you? Yeah. Real money in £1 minutes.
[00:18:21] Unknown:
Like you said, couldn't have assured himself. He might even tell. He wanted to count it. I wonder he didn't decide to knock on the front door and collect it. He might just as well. Mhmm. The ransom notes that he was to attend the party rally tonight with his wife. Trenchham is not at home. And my guess his colleague knows an awful lot about the guy he's playing for his supper. May he watch the road approach, but I'll watch the road. Do you think he might come from the road? Why not? That's the way I came. My guess is if he comes by road, he'll be on the bus, because this creep is short of fires.
And that's another reason why we gotta follow him. He might have left somebody to guard the girl, but I doubt it. In the snatch racket, there's, security and aloneness. And I doubt if he's got the cash to paint a compass that Hey. Hold it. Hold it. It looks like the road.
[00:19:12] Unknown:
Now button up, Murray. Shut up. He's leaving in the boat? Yeah.
[00:19:44] Unknown:
What happens there? Do we let him go? Look. I picked you, Mariam, because you can swim like a fish. So can you. It might need the both of us. Okay. Peel your clothes off. And maybe go swimming against the splash of his horse.
[00:19:58] Unknown:
I'm ready.
[00:20:00] Unknown:
Where'd your feet ease in for? Somewhere on the at the bank of the river. Okay. Come on. Let's swim.
[00:20:07] Unknown:
Nothing could be simpler. You must have been very uncomfortable sitting here for all this time. My apologies, Miss Trenchant, but I'm sure you'll realize and understand my dilemma. I had to truss you up like a turkey so that you couldn't run away and gag you so that you couldn't call out. People do come along here, you know, and if you'd been able to shout they would certainly have found you. Did you know it took me six weeks of painstaking labour to hollow out this little cave? I laid my plans very carefully, didn't I? For all your father knows you might be a thousand miles away and yet here you are, almost opposite your own home on the river.
I have the money it's all here so I release you people do come along here but never at night so there's no point in your calling out now right now sit up so that I can cut your bonds That's it. Now the gag. There. Oh, how do you feel miss Trenchand? You're an inhuman beast. No miss Trenchand you're quite wrong. It's the opposite. I'm only too human that's why I wanted the money. Your father has so much wealth and I alas have nothing. I'm so sorry, had nothing. In that parcel they are £10,000 a fortune, but to Biles Trenchant it's a mere free bite. I knew he'd pay. He's so conceited. 'Now you can go, Miss Strenchons, and enjoy your sudden notoriety in your home. In your home, remember, because your father won't hear a word of this little escapade breathed to anyone.
If it leaks out, his chances of ever getting to Parliament will be absolutely nil. Nobody knows who I am. Nobody. That's the really clever part. In fact, in this entire operation you're the only one who's set eyes on me.'
[00:22:07] Unknown:
'I know you. You work in Father's factory. I went there one day to deliver an urgent package that was sent to the house by mistake. It was my first visit and I got lost in the packing shed.' 'I know you. You work in Father's factory. I went there one day to deliver an urgent package that was sent to the house by mistake. It was my first visit and I got lost in the packing shed. You were one of the invoice clerks. You spoke to me, directed me.' you have a remarkable memory miss Strenchant.
[00:22:35] Unknown:
That was all of three years ago.' 'So I'm right?' 'Unfortunately for you, you are right.' what are you doing?' What does anyone usually do when they point a pistol at someone? I'm gonna kill you. Thank you for being so frank with me. That's murder? Yes. Murder.
[00:22:51] Unknown:
Not tonight Koenig. What? Without cannon.
[00:23:02] Unknown:
Nice towing, baby. You got him in the small of the brain. Is he dead? No. Not yet anyway. I'll pull it out. Say, haven't I seen something like this before? Yes.
[00:23:17] Unknown:
It's your helmet, the one you brought to the house. Oh, no. It was part of your costume. Don't you remember? When you put me in the boat, you left it behind. He dumped it beside me here when he tied me up. Oh, then I gotta make a serious apology. Apology?
[00:23:30] Unknown:
There's no need. You just saved my life. No. No. No. Not to use the guy in the costume shop. I took the wrong weapon. The one I was supposed to have was made of wood. This is the real thing. Well, I'm sure he won't mind. You see, I thought it was made of wood and I, pricked him with it in a a very tender spot.
[00:23:51] Unknown:
And now you know why Myles Trenton withdrew his nomination for parliament.
