After an enjoyable evening at the Nell Gwynne, which ends in a lock-in and a very late finish, the team stumble back to their respective rooms. William has a room arranged at Westminster so agrees to meet the rest of the group at the theatre the next evening.
JUNE 22nd 1927
The following evening, Hal, Sam, Henry, William and Spanners arrive at the Chancellor’s Theatre on Drury Lane. James is waiting at the box office. Tickets are waiting for the whole group, courtesy of Howard Horne.
Having found your seat inside, you are a little early and the theatre is almost empty but as 7.30 approaches the seats start to fill up. Despite the show being billed as “The Greatest Magic Show in the West End!” the theatre is only half full with maybe two hundred people, by the time the show begins.
The show is frankly, a rather tiresome affair, as none of the participants are particularly entertaining or outstanding practitioners of their art. By the time of the second interval you are starting to feel like this is a waste of time, but it is at that moment that a man comes over to your seats. He is a thin man with a narrow face and positively shifty eyes.
“Green, old chap!” he greets you loudly, “Enjoying the show?” He shakes Hal’s hand vigorously.
“Good to see you Howard. These are my associates, Sam Noir, Henry Caldwell, Mick Duffy and Monsignor William Callahan and of course, you know my cousin James.”
Horne shakes each hand vigorously and nods at James in a dismissive manner.
“A man of the cloth in my audience, I am honoured!” he beams, “So what do you think so far?”
“Well, it’s...” starts Hal.
“Ah, the best is to come, my friends, pay attention to one of the closing performers, The Amazing Karl. Come down to Simpsons after the show. We’ll have dinner and catch up,” Horne says, beaming as the show begins again before lurching up the steps to greet some other patrons.
The third part of the show drags its weary way towards the finale and The Amazing Karl makes his appearance. He’s a tall, rather stout German, with wild curly hair and a bushy beard, his face is creased with concentration throughout his act. He performs a number of card and sleight of hand tricks before closing his act by making several ducks appear from an apparently empty tub. He appears no worse, but not much better than many of the other magicians who share the bill with him. After the show, you head down to Simpsons-on-the-Strand and find Horne already there with a large round table.
Once you are all settled and have ordered, Horne starts talking in earnest.
“As my old friend here has probably told you all, I'm an agent, working the West End, and a very successful one at that, though I do say so myself. I've got most of the leading actors and actresses on my books, and a good batch of the more specialised and talented music hall acts too.
“Anyway, I've got a problem. One of my artistes is a young magician, Philip Leclair; who calls himself Leclair the Great professionally. He's a good lad, and I reckon he'll go far if he's handled right. He's got this knack, see, of making even the oldest trick in the book look new. Even better; though, he's inventing his own tricks too -good ones at that, with all this new apparatus and the patter and everything! Now that's got to be worth halfa bob of anyone's money to see, hasn't it?
“End of last month, young Philip came down to the office to see me. Plum excited he was, said he had a great new trick. He showed me all these plans of his new apparatus which he said was going to give a whole new meaning to what we call “The Vanish” the most famous trick in the book -you know, making a chap disappear into thin air! The lad was having a few problems with his apparatus, though, and he said he needed some help and advice to sort it all out. Now, me, I'm a simple chap, and I don't know much about magicians and conjuring save that it gets backsides on seats, if you'll pardon my expression!
“So, anyway, I suggested he approach this new magic club, who call themselves something like the Inside Brotherhood of Magic. They'd sent me a letter to recommend themselves to me and my clients, and I reckoned they might know a bit about the old conjuring game, so I sent the lad along to see them.
“Young Leclair took my advice, because he's a good lad, and he joined the club, and things seemed to be going great with this new trick. When he popped into the office just a couple of weeks back he was right excited, all jumpy and smiling all the time. He kept telling me he was on the verge of a great discovery, said he was on the verge of finding a method that would, how did he put it exactly, that would revolutionise stage magic as we know it! He even showed me some diagrams of his new apparatus for this “Vanish” trick of his. The way he was talking I reckon he really was on to something big but what he actually found is a mystery to me. You see, gentlemen, that was the last I ever saw of the lad. It's quite ironic I guess -Philip Leclair has vanished off the face of the Earth!"
After a long discussion, Hal plans out who will do what.
Henry will visit his contacts in the book world, ostensibly on Charing Cross Road.
The Monsignor and Spanners will check out Leclair’s dressing rooms and speak to Karl if able then drive to Balhalm to visit Leclair’s apartment. Hal provides money to rent a car.
Hal and James will head to Surbiton to visit the Brotherhood and try to get James in as a member.
Sam, and whoever is back in town by the evening will visit the show and tail Karl Weiss, using an inconspicuous Black Cab.
Henry visits a number of shops with the sketch but doesn’t have much luck. There are a large number of books on “magic” but to hunt through the lot could take a week. None of his contacts are especially helpful.
Monsignor and Spanners visit the theatre. As it is fairly early morning, none of the magicians are around, but the cleaning staff are only too happy to let a man of the cloth in through the back door, especially when he comes bearing a large bag of bacon sandwiches from the Drury Lane Grub Shop. Sadly they learn very little, other than Leclair’s section of the changing rooms is very well kept and has very little in terms of equipment.
They then head off to Balham, in a hired Ford that Spanner’s secured, and find the address, 43 Rowfront Road fairly easily. The Landlady, a Mrs May Drinkwater is very happy to show them around. Leclair’s room is as he left it as his rent has been paid 3 months in advance, which she explains is how she deals with all her tenants. His room is tidy and clean. There are several magician’s props on the shelves and a few books on stage magic on the table. In a wardrobe are stage clothes, cane and top hat and a small suitcase of props under the bed, but nothing to indicate his whereabouts.
In conversation over a cup of tea, Mrs Drinkwater reveals that he had no social life to speak of and spent most of his spare time with his nose in books.
Hal and James head over to Surbiton by cab. En route, James has a flash of inspiration about the Brotherhood. He knew he’d heard the name before, they have an annual Charity Show here in London and there is one in 5 days time on the 28th June at the Mermaid Theatre. James has no involvement, he’d just seen the posters advertising it.
On arrival, Hal pays the Cab to hang around for the return journey. The address is a large impressive house, part a residential area in Surbiton. Beside the solid oak door is a small metal polished plaque affixed to one side bearing the legend “ CHING LUNG SOO THE INNER BROTHERHOOD OF MAGICIANS”
James recognised the name, a famous Chinese magician who a few years ago who left London for the Far East. Rapping on the door, as there is no bell, a short Chinese man dressed in a simple black uniform answers. Asking your business, Hal explains his cousin would like to become a member. Hal is told all applications should be made by way of an introduction letter directly to Ching Lung Soo, then applicants will be invited for interview. Without membership, they are not permitted entry.
Everyone gets back to town before the evening show, so Hal secures tickets and you all watch. The show is just as tedious as the night before and Weiss doesn’t even perform the vanishing trick, but repeats the Duck trick he performed the previous night.
Sam and Spanners take the hired Ford and watch as Weiss leaves in a Black Cab, following him out to Surbiton. Stopping a safe distance, he stops at a large town house, knocks and is immediately permitted entrance by a short Chinese man. Hal later concurs that this is the same house they visited earlier, the headquarters of The Brotherhood.
Friday June 24th, 1927
The following morning, the group meet at the breakfast lounge in the Savoy. Monsignor has taken a room there to be close to the ‘action.’
“Well blast it,” says Hal, “That was a rather unproductive day, don't you think chaps?!”
"Well" Sam speaks over breakfast, "I didn't get a chance to get in last night, but it looks like this Chinese guy needs to be investigated a little deeper. Also maybe one of us should try to corner this Weiss and talk to him about this vanishing act."
"I will try to talk to Weiss about the Vanishing Act and whatever else I can this evening", The Monsignor says relishing his eggs. "I will try and convince him I would like to book him for a Parish festival in Belfast and see what he says."
Henry sits quietly eating his breakfast, he is pleasant but obviously preoccupied with his thoughts. Suddenly, he stops eating and gesturing with fork in hand he begins to speak.
"Seems to me this vanishing trick is pretty complicated. And if you look at the drawing, I would say it would be pretty danged difficult to pull off alone on a stage. 'Cept no one has mentioned an assistant, did he have one? Perhaps, he used a volunteer from the audience. And where the blazes is this apparatus, now? I don't reckon it disappeared with him."
He pauses to take another bite of his ham and eggs, "I think another trip to the theatre is in order, gentleman."
"When does Weiss do another act?" Sam looks up from his simple breakfast. "Someone did get our missing man's address, right? I think I am going over to his place today and give it a good look over. I doubt we will be able to get in without doing a little B&E. I would much rather do this legally, in case a neighbor fingers us to the flatfoots. Any ideas? I probably can try to sweet talk my way in as being hired to see what happened to him from a concerned family member, but who? and why so soon to hire a PI to check up on him? Maybe Mr. Horne could hire me and provide me a letter of concern...I would first have to go to the local police station and pick up a detectives license to be legit. Anyway, anyone up for this?"
Hal reaches for a piece of toast, "Sam, we've already been to Leclair's lodgings, and didn't find a jolly thing.”
Spanners tucks into a bacon sandwich pulled together from his perfectly presented breakfast and drawing a few sideways looks from the other guests he says "I'm still confused about the equipment for the vanishing trick. Father William and I didn't find any of it in the theatre. That can only mean that it's stored somewhere other than Weiss' changing room and we need to look again or, seeing as he didn't do the vanishing trick last night, it's stored somewhere else. Probably the Brotherhood of magicians place with that Chinese fella. It will need to be brought to the theatre and I'm guessing it's not a light package. Maybe I can watch the theatre today see if anything turns up? I could keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary as well?"
"This Brotherhood is to have show at the Mermaid Theatre, five days from now according to James, correct? Since his buddies from the Brotherhood will probably be there in force, Weiss will probably do his vanishing act then." Sam speaks as he remembers that bit of knowledge. "I wonder if the device might be there already, if it is too big to be broken down and carted around. I guess that I could dig around the Mermaid Theatre to see what I can find out this Brotherhood's event."
“I like the way you're thinking Sam,” smiles Hal, tucking into his Eggs Benedict, “A trip to the Mermaid may well be in order. I think we should try and find out as much as we can about the Brotherhood and Ching Lung Soo as we can before their show in five days time. Okay then, Spanners, keep an eye on the theatre today to see if anything turns up. James, put together a letter requesting membership of the Brotherhood - it can't hurt in the meantime, and Sam, head over to the Mermaid. Bill, why don't you go with him? A man of the cloth is always good for opening doors and mouths! While you're there, pick up some tickets for the charity show. “
“He’ll most likely perform tonight and tomorrow. Sunday the theatre is closed. The 28th, when this big event is on at the Mermaid is next Tuesday,” says, James, looking at his diary.
Hal nods, “I'll try and get hold of Weiss and talk to him about a private booking for a great aunt's forthcoming birthday. I'm sure Howard can help out with getting us together. I'll see what he has to say for himself, and if I can get him to open up a bit about Leclair, the disappearing act and the Brotherhood. I'm sure if I offer enough cash he'll bite the bait and start talking!"
Finishing his eggs, Hal decisively grabs his cup of coffee and drinks it down.
"What say you, my friends? Does that sound like a plan to you?"
The Monsignor and Sam agree to head to the Mermaid and see what they can find out. Henry opts to visit Bow Street Police Station and see what he can find out.
James sets about drafting an application to the Brotherhood and getting it sent by courier to Surbiton giving the Savoy hotel as a point of contact.
Spanners heads to the Theatre and gets a table outside the Grub Shop, orders a big mug of tea and watches.
Henry discovers that the Leclair case was passed to Balham police station for investigation. Making enquiries there, he finds that the police are baffled by it but not concerned. Leclair has been added to the list of the many that disappear in the capital every year. Other than that he learns nothing other than what you already know.
The Monsignor and Sam head to the Mermaid Theatre just off Shaftesbury Avenue, a 20 minute walk from the Savoy and are surprised to find a light police presence at all entrances. They buy tickets for the Charity Show and try to talk their way in only to be advised that entry is restricted prior to the show as royalty will be present and the police are concerned about attacks from ‘a certain element’. The sales girl raises an eye brow as she looks at the Irish priest. Speaking to the police, they are even more guarded, especially when Bill speaks.
Hal speaks to Howard but has no luck getting to see Weiss. All Howard can suggest is he try and catch him at the Stage Door before or after the show.
James gets the letter off to the Brotherhood and receives a message at 3pm, stating he has been accepted into the first stage of interview and should attend the Brotherhood’s house at 11am the following day, Saturday June 25th. The applicant will be required to perform before the selection committee.
Spanners waits all day, drinking tea and enjoying bacon sandwiches. Hal smiles as he joins him around 3pm, “Eaten enough yet, Spanners, Old Chap?” he grins. Spanner’s looks decidedly full.
“I can see why police have a reputation for eating on the job. This staking out is boring as hell,” says Spanners sullenly.
It is then that a black cab pulls into Drury Lane, carrying a familiar man with curly black hair and a bushy black beard, “Weiss, finally!” says Hal, jumping up and heading to the Stage Door to meet the man as he gets out and pays the cabbie.
“Mr Weiss?”
The man turns from the cab and rises to his full height. Well over six foot tall, Weiss is an imposing figure. He cannot help but look surprised.
“Ja? Kann ich ihnen helfen?” he replies in quick German.
“Green, Hal Green,” he holds out a hand which Weiss shakes firmly.
“Mr Green, I haff seen you before,” he replies, his accent as thick as on stage, “You haff been to my show the last two nights. Some might call you a stalker?”
“Actually, I’m a fan of your work. I wish to hire you for my Great Aunt’s upcoming 70th birthday party. She has always been a fan of magic and has dreamt of having a magician perform at her party.”
Weiss goes to step past Hal, “You can always contact my agent, he deals with the...”
“Mr Weiss, I thought we could cut out the middle man on this. After all, money is no object for my dear Aunt Freda so why give a cut of that to an agent, if you have won my business already.”
Weiss stops and looks at Hal. He’s hooked.
“What I am interested in though, is something...show –stopping. Surely you have tricks more impressive than the duck act you have done the last two nights?”
“I have a wide range of tricks for private parties,” he replies, trying to read Hal.
“How about vanishing tricks? Those are my Aunt’s favourites.”
“Good Day, Herr Green,” an angry look on his face, he pushes past and enters the stage door, slamming it behind him. Hal shrugs and returns to Spanners.
Everyone meets back at the hotel for early dinner, apart from Spanners who just sips water and looks incredibly uncomfortable. The group describes the events of the day to each other before getting ready for another night at the theatre.
Taking seats, the show is once again desperately slow, even more so as this is your third viewing. Once again, Weiss, as The Amazing Karl performs the same duck routine he performed the last two nights. Before the end, the Monsignor slips out to catch Weiss at the stage door.
Moments after the end of the show, Weiss runs out, obviously in a hurry. Before he can hail a cab, Bill steps into his path.
“Mr Weiss, I’ve been meaning to speak with you.”
Weiss stops and warily eyes the priest, “Yes Father, how can I help. I am in rather a hurry.”
“Do you smoke?” he pulls his own pipe and starts filling it.
“I really don’t have time for pleasantries,” the German looks down the street, trying to catch sight of a cab, “Is there something you need? I make regular donations to the local charities.”
Realising he might not have time for small talk, Bill goes straight in, changing his original tack slightly “I have a friend interested in magic and I wondered if you knew anything about the Brotherhood of Magic? He is interested in joining.”
“I don’t know anything about that. TAXI!” he yells, waving as a cab approaches.
“That’s strange as I understand you go there every night after the show,” smiles Bill as Weiss hurriedly opens the cab door before the vehicle even stops, “You wouldn’t lie to a priest would you?”
“I’m an Atheist,” he yells angrily, throwing himself into the cab and slamming the door behind him. The cab tears off into the night. The Monsignor straightens his waistcoat and returns to the front of the Theatre to meet the others.
"Hmmm...another less than fruitful day my friends,” says Hal.
"My sentiments exactly", the Monsignor sighs. "Well, even the Good Lord rested one day a week and I think we will stir up a hornets nest if we keep nosing about every theatre in the district. Especially when the Irish and Royals are about!" The Monsignor smiles and reaching for his pipe says, "Alas! we have some comforts. And, as an aside, I hope that James is conversant in some form of Magic because we sure as not haven't pulled a rabbit out of our hats."
“Still, it sounds like James is making some good inroads into the Brotherhood. What tricks do you think you'll perform for them?"
James shrugs, “I’ll work something out. Royal Weddings always goes down well. I’ll show you back at the hotel.”
The men head back towards the Savoy, “Do you think that maybe they might plan to kidnap the Royals with their vanishing act?" Sam asks. "Do you think we might want to at least attempt to approach the Scotland Yard with a concern, even if they don't take it seriously?"
"I honestly don't think we should approach Scotland Yard about anything. Especially a plot against the House of Hanover. Sorry, Windsor. " The Monsignor smiles, "They will confirm what I am coming to believe, that we may be a little off kilter."
"I think we should support James in his mission to join the Brotherhood,” adds Hal, “And then get over to the show at the Mermaid to keep an eye on things then take it from there. What do you all think?"
"I want to see if I can dig up anything in the papers on these guys. With as large of this group is we should be able to cover the Mermaid quite easily and probably go with shifts." Sam replies.
"I think infiltrating the Brotherhood is the only way to get to the heart of things, for good or ill." Looking at Sam, "And if you don't mind, two sets of eyes may speed up the search in the newspaper morgue."
"You are more than welcome to come a long, Father. I do have a quick stop first to make sure my investigator's license is valid here first." Sam smiles.
"If Weiss goes to the Brotherhood after his performance do you think he just sits in there all the time till the next show?” pipes in Spanners, “ I think he probably ventures out and it might be worth watching the place and tailing him to see where he goes. It's not much but I think we should try something till the next performance. I've got time to kill, I don't mind doing it, the only thing is i hope he hasn't left already."
“Good plan, Spanners,” says Hal, patting the mechanic on the back, “It would also be useful to see what other types come and go to the Brotherhood, and if you observe anything unusual. Perhaps this time, we should ask the concierge to organise a picnic lunch for you, and you can remain in the relative comfort of the car if it doesn't look too out of place instead of finding a cafe to sit in?!”
You enter the Savoy and head for the lounge bar for an evening drink. James pulls a deck of cards and prepares to show you the trick he plans to show the Brotherhood.
Fanning out eight cards consisting of the kings and queens of the pack in random order, he shows that the kings and queens of the same suit are not together. Then he squares them into the rest of the deck, places it face down and asks Hal to cut the deck. Hal does so, and again at James’ request then James places the cards behind his back and proceeds to pull out each pair of royals of the same suit without looking! You are impressed by the trick and the skill with which James performs it though he refuses to show anyone how it’s done.
After a drink and more chat, the group head to their separate rooms.
Saturday 25th June, 1927.
Next morning everyone rises early except Henry. Everyone goes about their business – Spanners to stake out the Brotherhood House, James and Hal to apply for membership, Sam and Monsignor to the local police and look into the newspaper angle.
The police are less than friendly to Sam on hearing he is a private investigator. Although he has no legal restrictions in investigating in London, the sergeant makes no bones about informing him that should he at any time stand in the way of a police investigation, he will be arrested. Following the Monsignor’s advise, he avoids mention of the Royals and any possible kidnap plot but informs them that you are investigating the Inner Brotherhood of Magic who have some sort of device for a vanishing act that will be used at the Charity Show at the Mermaid Theatre. The sergeant doesn’t seem particularly interested and ushers both Sam and Monsignor out as quickly as he can. Sam leaves his can, scribbling the number of the Savoy on the back.
Sam and the Monsignor then spend the rest of the day making contacts with the editors of society columns, buying lunch and drinks to smooth the way and try to find out more about the Brotherhood, Soo and Weiss. They find out very little until they meet the editor of The Magician, a monthly journal for conjurers. He is able to tell you that several prominent people are numbered among the society’s members or patrons. You also discover that the Brotherhood was founded by Ching Lung Soo on his return from the far East almost three years ago and that they have an annual Charity Show at the Mermaid.. The brotherhood seem to be respected by all.
Meanwhile, James and Hal attend the house in Surbiton for the appointment at 11am. They are greeted at the door by an Oriental gentlemen in a black uniform. He welcomes James and asks him to sign a guestbook but Hal is not permitted entry, “I’m sorry Sir, only potential members are welcome here. Secrets, you understand.” He bows and holds the door for Hal to leave. James nods, indicating he’ll be fine and Hal leaves.
James is led to a reception room on the ground floor where a motley group of six prospective members are already waiting. After a few minutes of uncomfortable silence, Ching Lung Soo enters, introducing himself. He is undoubtedly Chinese of origin, thin and wiry dressed a jade and blue robe and hat. He appears to be in his 60’s, his face is worn and has exceptionally deep-set black eyes. A long thin moustache hangs either side of his thin lips.
“You are about to join the Inner Brotherhood of Magic. Once you have passed the selection procedure, you will be considered first level members of the club. This will grant you access to the first level library and use of the practice rooms. There is a further series of tests and if you can prove yourself as a capable magician of professional standard, you will have access to the second level library and private tuition from myself.”
He then tells a servant to ask a couple of the second level magicians to join him and the three seat themselves to view the performances. A couple of the applicants fail miserably but James performs well and is accepted as a member. Ching Lung Soo reads out the names of the successful candidates. He thanks the others and bids them farewell in the hope that they will practice and return in a months time. The new members are given membership cards and a brief talk on their limitations as first level members while being shown around the ground floor of the building. Besides the entrance hall and reception room, there is a kitchen, staffed by two Chinese cooks, a Member’s Lounge containing a large number of armchairs, tables, current issues of magic journals and newspapers. It resembles a smoking room of a gentlemen’s club and it appears many of the members use it as such. At present there are 10 members in the room, reading, playing cards, discussing politics etc.
Next the applicants are shown into the Practice Room, a quiet area where members can practice and perfect their card skills. Cupboards on the walls contains packs of cards and various magic tricks. No-one is using the room at present.
Further along the hall is the First Level Library, containing a very comprehensive range of basic textx on stage magic and conjuring. Members are allowed to consult the books but are not allowed to remove them from the premesis. Any member found doing so will have his membership terminated.
Beyond is a small w.c. with a barred window overlooking a side alley and beside that is another practice room set aside or sleight of hand illusions. The cupboards hold all manner of apparatus from collapsible flowers to Russian Doll sets. In the room is a man wearing a top hat and standing behind a magician’s table. As you watch he starts his trick, showing you the top hat to be empty and then places it upside down on top of the table. After delivering a few words of banter he attempts to turn the hat upright attempting to slip a rabbit into the hat but as he does the rabbit bites his hand. He lets out a cry and tries to continue as if nothing happed.
“Keep practicing, young Danny,” smiles Soo.
You come out again in the hall. You are shown a number of cupboards against one wall, for personal effects of members. There is also a set of stairs leading up.
“This ends the tour. First level members are not permitted to the upper level, I cannot stress that enough. Good luck!” and with that he leaves you to your own devices and heads up the forbidden stairs himself. Another Oriental in uniform, stands at the bottom of the staircase, guarding the way.
James is now a first level member and can come and go as he pleases between the hours of 11am and 9pm. Satisfied for now that he has achieved what he wanted, he heads back to town to report to Hal and the rest of the group.
Spanners spends the day watching the house. A few members enter the house throughout the day, though no-one he recognises. There is no sign of Weiss until 6.30pm when a taxi pulls up and the German emerges from the house and gets in. Spanners tails the car to the theatre where the nightly show is about to commence.
Once again the group meet at the theatre as the show is about to begin. The show is now getting incredibly tedious and repetitive. Spanners gets up mid show and tries to bluff his way back stage but security don’t let him through.
At the end of his set, Weiss announces that he not be performing again until Tuesday next at the Charity show and tickets are available at the box office.
With not much else to do before the Charity show, you rely on whatever James can find out in the Brotherhood House. Next day he returns to Surbiton and gets chatting with a number of conjurers hearing few tidbits of information. When asking for confirmation from other members, they are all considered ludicrous by most and nothing more than scurrilous rumour.
• Ching Lung Soo is an imposter; the real magician was killed out in China and has been posing as him ever since.
• Karl Weiss has stolen someone’s trick and is planning to use it at the charity show
• The Brotherhood building is obviously the cover for a secret Chinese Tong – the oriental servants and Lung Soo are proof of this!
• Philip Leclair has skipped off to America as there’s a lot more money to be made there.
• Ching Lung Soo seems able to perform tricks which are physically impossible by normal sleight of hand and no-one knows how he does them.
He also learns a little more on Weiss’s movements. He attends the club in the morning using the library on the first floor and receiving private tuition from Ching Lung Soo in his study. It seems he is not particularly liked by the rest of the membership and James is told various stories about how he has apparently stolen tricks and ideas from other magicians. He is regarded as a professional conjurer of the worst type – in it for the money rather than the love and appreciation of the art.
James strikes up a particularly interesting conversation with American, Will Crowther, a second level member of the Brotherhood. He is very open with James and tells how he has been a member for the last two years since he came to London from Boston.
He evidently nurtures a strong dislike for Weiss and is well aware that he is not above stealing other people’s tricks and passing them off as his own invention, although Crowther has no evidence of this.
He is sure that Weiss is going to use someone else’s trick at the forthcoming charity show. He mentions the locked and ‘guarded’ room at the top of the stairs as proof of this. The room is officially being used by Weiss to work on a revolutionary new trick to be unveiled at the show but Weiss hardly ever uses the room so where is he going to produce this new trick from?
When James mentions Leclair, Crowther enquires as to how his friend is and appears shocked when told he has disappeared.
Crowther explains that he met Leclair when the younger man first came to the club and watched over his selection. Leclair joined as a normal member and did not attempt to get into the second level at first, though he could easily have done so. Crowther helped Leclair out with some ideas for his new trick, being a card magician; Crowther felt no personal rivalry with Leclair. Crowther was also aware that Leclair and Weiss had done some work together and is not surprised that Weiss is using a variation of Leclair’s ‘Vanish’
As Leclair was not allowed to use the second level library, Crowther lent him a couple of old books mostly about the roots and history of the craft, an area Leclair was especially interested in. Mostly these were in Chinese which neither man understood, but key elements convinced Leclair that they could help him with his new ‘Vanish’. Leclair told Crowther that he was going to speak to Weiss about the book as the German was said to have similar interest in ancient things. That was the last time Crowther saw Leclair and he assumed the young man had found what he wanted and was furiously practising his new trick at his lodgings, too busy to socialise at the club.
Returning to the Savoy on Sunday night, James reports this to the rest of the group.
Henry spends a little time going over the ground that Sam covered before, digging through old newspapers and journals and learns little more than you already knew. Ching Lung Soo is a very well known stage magician who made a name for himself in the London music halls and theatres before WW1 with his Chinese-flavoured card magic. He disappeared from London during the Great War and was believed to have returned to his native China. He reappeared on the London scene just three years ago explaining that he had returned to the East to visit his family and to research more of his special oriental magic. Since his return he has founded the Brotherhood and puts on a charity show every year. There is no mention of any suspected connection to Chinese Tongs.
Sam spends his time parked around the Brotherhood house, photographing and watching for Weiss but within a couple of hours, is moved on by policemen saying they have had a complaint about his behaviour and he should cease and desist.
With little else to go on, you have no choice but to wait for the day of the charity show. Most agree to go together though James is required to attend with the members as although first level members are not performing, they are required to be onstage as part of the finale.
Sam again opts to take up watch on the Theatre in the afternoon, being a little more surupticious this time.
Each of you receives a message from the bellhop at the Savoy at different times, "Meet Sam at the pub just to the south of the Mermaid, ASAP."
Hal arrives first and hears Sam’s story of what happened when he investigated the theatre.
"Excellent, I knew I could count on you Sam. We should head to the British Museum, an old friend of mine used to work there - let's go see if she is still there. Even if not, I'm sure they'll have someone there that can help with deciphering the Chinese marking. Failing that, I know that the concierge at the Savoy will be able to find us someone in Chinatown that can help us.
If we get time to check out the crates, let's go suitably armed and in force so that we can take out the guards."
Sam checks his watch, “It’s already 6.30pm. The show starts in a couple of hours and won’t the museum be closed?”
“I can get there in ten minutes and I have special access privileges. You’d better come with me as you’re the only one that’s seen this symbol.”
Spanners and Henry then arrive and Sam fills them in as quickly as he can.
“We’ll head over there now and meet you at the theatre!” grins Hal, “The games afoot!” he chirps excitedly, and heads out the door at a trot, Sam following quickly behind.
Spanners and Henry leave for the hotel to get changed. On the way they meet the Monsignor, “Sorry gents, only just got your message. Everything ok? Where’s Hal and Sam?”
“They went to the museum to follow up on a clue. We need to get ready and meet at the theatre. The show starts in little over an hour,” says Henry.
Getting quickly changed into your smartest togs, you head off to the theatre getting there just before 8pm. On the way, Henry relays what Sam saw to the Monsignor.
Police are everywhere surrounding the theatre and the queue to get in is long. By 8.15pm you are inside and have taken your seats in time to the Prime Minister, Stanley Baldwin and various members of the cabinet arrive and are greeted by Lung Soo at front of the stage, near the royal box.
Not long after, the royal party arrive and take their places in the royal box. Lung Soo again personally greets King George and Queen Mary before they take their seats.
Shortly after, Hal enters and swiftly moves to Spanners and Monsignor. Under his arm is a large tome. Sam is nowhere to be seen. “Bathrooms, now!”
The quickly head to the lavatories. The small room is standard but extremely clean, lit by small barred windows. An elderly attendant is the only occupant polishing mirrors, “Good evening sir, may we have a little privacy,” Hal holds out a twenty pound note.
The man’s eyes grow wide, but he is too smart to question what business three men want in a theatre bathroom, he takes the money, nods his head and scarpers. Hal, flips through the book, and opens it on a marble-topped dresser.
“Lan-Shi! It’s a cult. This is the symbol Sam saw on the boxes,” Hal points to a symbol of a Chinese dragon motif, “These are the journals of a minor oriental explorer, Harold Amersham from the 1870’s.
The Monsignor begins to read a passage indicated by Hal, “...while in Tao An I saw a most peculiar fellow working in the paddy fields. He was old and leathery skinned, like so many of the peasant farmers of the area, but upon his back was tattooed a most delightful dragon motif, which I will try and sketch below. When I pointed it out to my guide, however, he virtually spat out the words “Lan Shee!” and rode on.
“I had all but forgotten the strange incident but the next evening, as we relaxed in my rooms in yet another delightful roadside tavern, Shaylin brought me a battered history book which he said detailed the history of the region. Of course, I could not read a word of the thing, and Shaylin was somewhat reluctant to translate it for some reason, but the pictures were plain enough. They were painted in quite delightful style and colouration as always, but what scenes!
At this point the theatre bursts into applause. Presumably the curtain has opened and the show is starting. Monsignor continues to read.
“They first showed a priest dressed up in the finery of a mandarin, standing at an altar with a dirk the size of an elephant’s tusk poised over some poor smiling peasant. May the grace of God preserve me, but I swear it was a human sacrifice! The next showed some sort of decoration on a tapestry or something similar. It was of an emaciated man, thin and white as if something had sucked the very blood out of him. The last picture showed that hellish priest again, but this time dying at the hands of hundreds of righteous men who were plainly razing the unholy temple. I have heard tales before now of China’s Pagan past but this ‘Lan Shee’ lot have been quite the worst I have ever heard of. May I never look at an old peasant’s tattoos again!...”
“Sam has gone round the back to find a way to get to the stage when the time comes. If we are to ‘open the gate’ as Leclair has seemingly request we do, we need to let them start whatever they are planning with that arch and stop them before they go to far. So we need a plan!” Smiles Hal, “Any suggestions?”
"Any thoughts, my friends?" repeats Hal "I am loath to use deadly force on these people, even though it may mean saving Leclair - especially with all the police around, who will no doubt get the wrong idea. I suggest we join Sam backstage and try to shut the curtains once the gate is opened and take out whoever is onstage. I have my knife, pistol and a blackjack with me so can creep up behind some of the stage hands and knock them senseless so that we can control the curtain mechanism. Then we can close the curtains at the right time and do what we need to do to stop them from completing the ritual."
"Ah, yes...perhaps a distraction is in order. Anyone object to a little shenanigans?"grins Henry.
JUNE 22nd 1927
The following evening, Hal, Sam, Henry, William and Spanners arrive at the Chancellor’s Theatre on Drury Lane. James is waiting at the box office. Tickets are waiting for the whole group, courtesy of Howard Horne.
Having found your seat inside, you are a little early and the theatre is almost empty but as 7.30 approaches the seats start to fill up. Despite the show being billed as “The Greatest Magic Show in the West End!” the theatre is only half full with maybe two hundred people, by the time the show begins.
The show is frankly, a rather tiresome affair, as none of the participants are particularly entertaining or outstanding practitioners of their art. By the time of the second interval you are starting to feel like this is a waste of time, but it is at that moment that a man comes over to your seats. He is a thin man with a narrow face and positively shifty eyes.
“Green, old chap!” he greets you loudly, “Enjoying the show?” He shakes Hal’s hand vigorously.
“Good to see you Howard. These are my associates, Sam Noir, Henry Caldwell, Mick Duffy and Monsignor William Callahan and of course, you know my cousin James.”
Horne shakes each hand vigorously and nods at James in a dismissive manner.
“A man of the cloth in my audience, I am honoured!” he beams, “So what do you think so far?”
“Well, it’s...” starts Hal.
“Ah, the best is to come, my friends, pay attention to one of the closing performers, The Amazing Karl. Come down to Simpsons after the show. We’ll have dinner and catch up,” Horne says, beaming as the show begins again before lurching up the steps to greet some other patrons.
The third part of the show drags its weary way towards the finale and The Amazing Karl makes his appearance. He’s a tall, rather stout German, with wild curly hair and a bushy beard, his face is creased with concentration throughout his act. He performs a number of card and sleight of hand tricks before closing his act by making several ducks appear from an apparently empty tub. He appears no worse, but not much better than many of the other magicians who share the bill with him. After the show, you head down to Simpsons-on-the-Strand and find Horne already there with a large round table.
Once you are all settled and have ordered, Horne starts talking in earnest.
“As my old friend here has probably told you all, I'm an agent, working the West End, and a very successful one at that, though I do say so myself. I've got most of the leading actors and actresses on my books, and a good batch of the more specialised and talented music hall acts too.
“Anyway, I've got a problem. One of my artistes is a young magician, Philip Leclair; who calls himself Leclair the Great professionally. He's a good lad, and I reckon he'll go far if he's handled right. He's got this knack, see, of making even the oldest trick in the book look new. Even better; though, he's inventing his own tricks too -good ones at that, with all this new apparatus and the patter and everything! Now that's got to be worth halfa bob of anyone's money to see, hasn't it?
“End of last month, young Philip came down to the office to see me. Plum excited he was, said he had a great new trick. He showed me all these plans of his new apparatus which he said was going to give a whole new meaning to what we call “The Vanish” the most famous trick in the book -you know, making a chap disappear into thin air! The lad was having a few problems with his apparatus, though, and he said he needed some help and advice to sort it all out. Now, me, I'm a simple chap, and I don't know much about magicians and conjuring save that it gets backsides on seats, if you'll pardon my expression!
“So, anyway, I suggested he approach this new magic club, who call themselves something like the Inside Brotherhood of Magic. They'd sent me a letter to recommend themselves to me and my clients, and I reckoned they might know a bit about the old conjuring game, so I sent the lad along to see them.
“Young Leclair took my advice, because he's a good lad, and he joined the club, and things seemed to be going great with this new trick. When he popped into the office just a couple of weeks back he was right excited, all jumpy and smiling all the time. He kept telling me he was on the verge of a great discovery, said he was on the verge of finding a method that would, how did he put it exactly, that would revolutionise stage magic as we know it! He even showed me some diagrams of his new apparatus for this “Vanish” trick of his. The way he was talking I reckon he really was on to something big but what he actually found is a mystery to me. You see, gentlemen, that was the last I ever saw of the lad. It's quite ironic I guess -Philip Leclair has vanished off the face of the Earth!"
After a long discussion, Hal plans out who will do what.
Henry will visit his contacts in the book world, ostensibly on Charing Cross Road.
The Monsignor and Spanners will check out Leclair’s dressing rooms and speak to Karl if able then drive to Balhalm to visit Leclair’s apartment. Hal provides money to rent a car.
Hal and James will head to Surbiton to visit the Brotherhood and try to get James in as a member.
Sam, and whoever is back in town by the evening will visit the show and tail Karl Weiss, using an inconspicuous Black Cab.
Henry visits a number of shops with the sketch but doesn’t have much luck. There are a large number of books on “magic” but to hunt through the lot could take a week. None of his contacts are especially helpful.
Monsignor and Spanners visit the theatre. As it is fairly early morning, none of the magicians are around, but the cleaning staff are only too happy to let a man of the cloth in through the back door, especially when he comes bearing a large bag of bacon sandwiches from the Drury Lane Grub Shop. Sadly they learn very little, other than Leclair’s section of the changing rooms is very well kept and has very little in terms of equipment.
They then head off to Balham, in a hired Ford that Spanner’s secured, and find the address, 43 Rowfront Road fairly easily. The Landlady, a Mrs May Drinkwater is very happy to show them around. Leclair’s room is as he left it as his rent has been paid 3 months in advance, which she explains is how she deals with all her tenants. His room is tidy and clean. There are several magician’s props on the shelves and a few books on stage magic on the table. In a wardrobe are stage clothes, cane and top hat and a small suitcase of props under the bed, but nothing to indicate his whereabouts.
In conversation over a cup of tea, Mrs Drinkwater reveals that he had no social life to speak of and spent most of his spare time with his nose in books.
Hal and James head over to Surbiton by cab. En route, James has a flash of inspiration about the Brotherhood. He knew he’d heard the name before, they have an annual Charity Show here in London and there is one in 5 days time on the 28th June at the Mermaid Theatre. James has no involvement, he’d just seen the posters advertising it.
On arrival, Hal pays the Cab to hang around for the return journey. The address is a large impressive house, part a residential area in Surbiton. Beside the solid oak door is a small metal polished plaque affixed to one side bearing the legend “ CHING LUNG SOO THE INNER BROTHERHOOD OF MAGICIANS”
James recognised the name, a famous Chinese magician who a few years ago who left London for the Far East. Rapping on the door, as there is no bell, a short Chinese man dressed in a simple black uniform answers. Asking your business, Hal explains his cousin would like to become a member. Hal is told all applications should be made by way of an introduction letter directly to Ching Lung Soo, then applicants will be invited for interview. Without membership, they are not permitted entry.
Everyone gets back to town before the evening show, so Hal secures tickets and you all watch. The show is just as tedious as the night before and Weiss doesn’t even perform the vanishing trick, but repeats the Duck trick he performed the previous night.
Sam and Spanners take the hired Ford and watch as Weiss leaves in a Black Cab, following him out to Surbiton. Stopping a safe distance, he stops at a large town house, knocks and is immediately permitted entrance by a short Chinese man. Hal later concurs that this is the same house they visited earlier, the headquarters of The Brotherhood.
Friday June 24th, 1927
The following morning, the group meet at the breakfast lounge in the Savoy. Monsignor has taken a room there to be close to the ‘action.’
“Well blast it,” says Hal, “That was a rather unproductive day, don't you think chaps?!”
"Well" Sam speaks over breakfast, "I didn't get a chance to get in last night, but it looks like this Chinese guy needs to be investigated a little deeper. Also maybe one of us should try to corner this Weiss and talk to him about this vanishing act."
"I will try to talk to Weiss about the Vanishing Act and whatever else I can this evening", The Monsignor says relishing his eggs. "I will try and convince him I would like to book him for a Parish festival in Belfast and see what he says."
Henry sits quietly eating his breakfast, he is pleasant but obviously preoccupied with his thoughts. Suddenly, he stops eating and gesturing with fork in hand he begins to speak.
"Seems to me this vanishing trick is pretty complicated. And if you look at the drawing, I would say it would be pretty danged difficult to pull off alone on a stage. 'Cept no one has mentioned an assistant, did he have one? Perhaps, he used a volunteer from the audience. And where the blazes is this apparatus, now? I don't reckon it disappeared with him."
He pauses to take another bite of his ham and eggs, "I think another trip to the theatre is in order, gentleman."
"When does Weiss do another act?" Sam looks up from his simple breakfast. "Someone did get our missing man's address, right? I think I am going over to his place today and give it a good look over. I doubt we will be able to get in without doing a little B&E. I would much rather do this legally, in case a neighbor fingers us to the flatfoots. Any ideas? I probably can try to sweet talk my way in as being hired to see what happened to him from a concerned family member, but who? and why so soon to hire a PI to check up on him? Maybe Mr. Horne could hire me and provide me a letter of concern...I would first have to go to the local police station and pick up a detectives license to be legit. Anyway, anyone up for this?"
Hal reaches for a piece of toast, "Sam, we've already been to Leclair's lodgings, and didn't find a jolly thing.”
Spanners tucks into a bacon sandwich pulled together from his perfectly presented breakfast and drawing a few sideways looks from the other guests he says "I'm still confused about the equipment for the vanishing trick. Father William and I didn't find any of it in the theatre. That can only mean that it's stored somewhere other than Weiss' changing room and we need to look again or, seeing as he didn't do the vanishing trick last night, it's stored somewhere else. Probably the Brotherhood of magicians place with that Chinese fella. It will need to be brought to the theatre and I'm guessing it's not a light package. Maybe I can watch the theatre today see if anything turns up? I could keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary as well?"
"This Brotherhood is to have show at the Mermaid Theatre, five days from now according to James, correct? Since his buddies from the Brotherhood will probably be there in force, Weiss will probably do his vanishing act then." Sam speaks as he remembers that bit of knowledge. "I wonder if the device might be there already, if it is too big to be broken down and carted around. I guess that I could dig around the Mermaid Theatre to see what I can find out this Brotherhood's event."
“I like the way you're thinking Sam,” smiles Hal, tucking into his Eggs Benedict, “A trip to the Mermaid may well be in order. I think we should try and find out as much as we can about the Brotherhood and Ching Lung Soo as we can before their show in five days time. Okay then, Spanners, keep an eye on the theatre today to see if anything turns up. James, put together a letter requesting membership of the Brotherhood - it can't hurt in the meantime, and Sam, head over to the Mermaid. Bill, why don't you go with him? A man of the cloth is always good for opening doors and mouths! While you're there, pick up some tickets for the charity show. “
“He’ll most likely perform tonight and tomorrow. Sunday the theatre is closed. The 28th, when this big event is on at the Mermaid is next Tuesday,” says, James, looking at his diary.
Hal nods, “I'll try and get hold of Weiss and talk to him about a private booking for a great aunt's forthcoming birthday. I'm sure Howard can help out with getting us together. I'll see what he has to say for himself, and if I can get him to open up a bit about Leclair, the disappearing act and the Brotherhood. I'm sure if I offer enough cash he'll bite the bait and start talking!"
Finishing his eggs, Hal decisively grabs his cup of coffee and drinks it down.
"What say you, my friends? Does that sound like a plan to you?"
The Monsignor and Sam agree to head to the Mermaid and see what they can find out. Henry opts to visit Bow Street Police Station and see what he can find out.
James sets about drafting an application to the Brotherhood and getting it sent by courier to Surbiton giving the Savoy hotel as a point of contact.
Spanners heads to the Theatre and gets a table outside the Grub Shop, orders a big mug of tea and watches.
Henry discovers that the Leclair case was passed to Balham police station for investigation. Making enquiries there, he finds that the police are baffled by it but not concerned. Leclair has been added to the list of the many that disappear in the capital every year. Other than that he learns nothing other than what you already know.
The Monsignor and Sam head to the Mermaid Theatre just off Shaftesbury Avenue, a 20 minute walk from the Savoy and are surprised to find a light police presence at all entrances. They buy tickets for the Charity Show and try to talk their way in only to be advised that entry is restricted prior to the show as royalty will be present and the police are concerned about attacks from ‘a certain element’. The sales girl raises an eye brow as she looks at the Irish priest. Speaking to the police, they are even more guarded, especially when Bill speaks.
Hal speaks to Howard but has no luck getting to see Weiss. All Howard can suggest is he try and catch him at the Stage Door before or after the show.
James gets the letter off to the Brotherhood and receives a message at 3pm, stating he has been accepted into the first stage of interview and should attend the Brotherhood’s house at 11am the following day, Saturday June 25th. The applicant will be required to perform before the selection committee.
Spanners waits all day, drinking tea and enjoying bacon sandwiches. Hal smiles as he joins him around 3pm, “Eaten enough yet, Spanners, Old Chap?” he grins. Spanner’s looks decidedly full.
“I can see why police have a reputation for eating on the job. This staking out is boring as hell,” says Spanners sullenly.
It is then that a black cab pulls into Drury Lane, carrying a familiar man with curly black hair and a bushy black beard, “Weiss, finally!” says Hal, jumping up and heading to the Stage Door to meet the man as he gets out and pays the cabbie.
“Mr Weiss?”
The man turns from the cab and rises to his full height. Well over six foot tall, Weiss is an imposing figure. He cannot help but look surprised.
“Ja? Kann ich ihnen helfen?” he replies in quick German.
“Green, Hal Green,” he holds out a hand which Weiss shakes firmly.
“Mr Green, I haff seen you before,” he replies, his accent as thick as on stage, “You haff been to my show the last two nights. Some might call you a stalker?”
“Actually, I’m a fan of your work. I wish to hire you for my Great Aunt’s upcoming 70th birthday party. She has always been a fan of magic and has dreamt of having a magician perform at her party.”
Weiss goes to step past Hal, “You can always contact my agent, he deals with the...”
“Mr Weiss, I thought we could cut out the middle man on this. After all, money is no object for my dear Aunt Freda so why give a cut of that to an agent, if you have won my business already.”
Weiss stops and looks at Hal. He’s hooked.
“What I am interested in though, is something...show –stopping. Surely you have tricks more impressive than the duck act you have done the last two nights?”
“I have a wide range of tricks for private parties,” he replies, trying to read Hal.
“How about vanishing tricks? Those are my Aunt’s favourites.”
“Good Day, Herr Green,” an angry look on his face, he pushes past and enters the stage door, slamming it behind him. Hal shrugs and returns to Spanners.
Everyone meets back at the hotel for early dinner, apart from Spanners who just sips water and looks incredibly uncomfortable. The group describes the events of the day to each other before getting ready for another night at the theatre.
Taking seats, the show is once again desperately slow, even more so as this is your third viewing. Once again, Weiss, as The Amazing Karl performs the same duck routine he performed the last two nights. Before the end, the Monsignor slips out to catch Weiss at the stage door.
Moments after the end of the show, Weiss runs out, obviously in a hurry. Before he can hail a cab, Bill steps into his path.
“Mr Weiss, I’ve been meaning to speak with you.”
Weiss stops and warily eyes the priest, “Yes Father, how can I help. I am in rather a hurry.”
“Do you smoke?” he pulls his own pipe and starts filling it.
“I really don’t have time for pleasantries,” the German looks down the street, trying to catch sight of a cab, “Is there something you need? I make regular donations to the local charities.”
Realising he might not have time for small talk, Bill goes straight in, changing his original tack slightly “I have a friend interested in magic and I wondered if you knew anything about the Brotherhood of Magic? He is interested in joining.”
“I don’t know anything about that. TAXI!” he yells, waving as a cab approaches.
“That’s strange as I understand you go there every night after the show,” smiles Bill as Weiss hurriedly opens the cab door before the vehicle even stops, “You wouldn’t lie to a priest would you?”
“I’m an Atheist,” he yells angrily, throwing himself into the cab and slamming the door behind him. The cab tears off into the night. The Monsignor straightens his waistcoat and returns to the front of the Theatre to meet the others.
"Hmmm...another less than fruitful day my friends,” says Hal.
"My sentiments exactly", the Monsignor sighs. "Well, even the Good Lord rested one day a week and I think we will stir up a hornets nest if we keep nosing about every theatre in the district. Especially when the Irish and Royals are about!" The Monsignor smiles and reaching for his pipe says, "Alas! we have some comforts. And, as an aside, I hope that James is conversant in some form of Magic because we sure as not haven't pulled a rabbit out of our hats."
“Still, it sounds like James is making some good inroads into the Brotherhood. What tricks do you think you'll perform for them?"
James shrugs, “I’ll work something out. Royal Weddings always goes down well. I’ll show you back at the hotel.”
The men head back towards the Savoy, “Do you think that maybe they might plan to kidnap the Royals with their vanishing act?" Sam asks. "Do you think we might want to at least attempt to approach the Scotland Yard with a concern, even if they don't take it seriously?"
"I honestly don't think we should approach Scotland Yard about anything. Especially a plot against the House of Hanover. Sorry, Windsor. " The Monsignor smiles, "They will confirm what I am coming to believe, that we may be a little off kilter."
"I think we should support James in his mission to join the Brotherhood,” adds Hal, “And then get over to the show at the Mermaid to keep an eye on things then take it from there. What do you all think?"
"I want to see if I can dig up anything in the papers on these guys. With as large of this group is we should be able to cover the Mermaid quite easily and probably go with shifts." Sam replies.
"I think infiltrating the Brotherhood is the only way to get to the heart of things, for good or ill." Looking at Sam, "And if you don't mind, two sets of eyes may speed up the search in the newspaper morgue."
"You are more than welcome to come a long, Father. I do have a quick stop first to make sure my investigator's license is valid here first." Sam smiles.
"If Weiss goes to the Brotherhood after his performance do you think he just sits in there all the time till the next show?” pipes in Spanners, “ I think he probably ventures out and it might be worth watching the place and tailing him to see where he goes. It's not much but I think we should try something till the next performance. I've got time to kill, I don't mind doing it, the only thing is i hope he hasn't left already."
“Good plan, Spanners,” says Hal, patting the mechanic on the back, “It would also be useful to see what other types come and go to the Brotherhood, and if you observe anything unusual. Perhaps this time, we should ask the concierge to organise a picnic lunch for you, and you can remain in the relative comfort of the car if it doesn't look too out of place instead of finding a cafe to sit in?!”
You enter the Savoy and head for the lounge bar for an evening drink. James pulls a deck of cards and prepares to show you the trick he plans to show the Brotherhood.
Fanning out eight cards consisting of the kings and queens of the pack in random order, he shows that the kings and queens of the same suit are not together. Then he squares them into the rest of the deck, places it face down and asks Hal to cut the deck. Hal does so, and again at James’ request then James places the cards behind his back and proceeds to pull out each pair of royals of the same suit without looking! You are impressed by the trick and the skill with which James performs it though he refuses to show anyone how it’s done.
After a drink and more chat, the group head to their separate rooms.
Saturday 25th June, 1927.
Next morning everyone rises early except Henry. Everyone goes about their business – Spanners to stake out the Brotherhood House, James and Hal to apply for membership, Sam and Monsignor to the local police and look into the newspaper angle.
The police are less than friendly to Sam on hearing he is a private investigator. Although he has no legal restrictions in investigating in London, the sergeant makes no bones about informing him that should he at any time stand in the way of a police investigation, he will be arrested. Following the Monsignor’s advise, he avoids mention of the Royals and any possible kidnap plot but informs them that you are investigating the Inner Brotherhood of Magic who have some sort of device for a vanishing act that will be used at the Charity Show at the Mermaid Theatre. The sergeant doesn’t seem particularly interested and ushers both Sam and Monsignor out as quickly as he can. Sam leaves his can, scribbling the number of the Savoy on the back.
Sam and the Monsignor then spend the rest of the day making contacts with the editors of society columns, buying lunch and drinks to smooth the way and try to find out more about the Brotherhood, Soo and Weiss. They find out very little until they meet the editor of The Magician, a monthly journal for conjurers. He is able to tell you that several prominent people are numbered among the society’s members or patrons. You also discover that the Brotherhood was founded by Ching Lung Soo on his return from the far East almost three years ago and that they have an annual Charity Show at the Mermaid.. The brotherhood seem to be respected by all.
Meanwhile, James and Hal attend the house in Surbiton for the appointment at 11am. They are greeted at the door by an Oriental gentlemen in a black uniform. He welcomes James and asks him to sign a guestbook but Hal is not permitted entry, “I’m sorry Sir, only potential members are welcome here. Secrets, you understand.” He bows and holds the door for Hal to leave. James nods, indicating he’ll be fine and Hal leaves.
James is led to a reception room on the ground floor where a motley group of six prospective members are already waiting. After a few minutes of uncomfortable silence, Ching Lung Soo enters, introducing himself. He is undoubtedly Chinese of origin, thin and wiry dressed a jade and blue robe and hat. He appears to be in his 60’s, his face is worn and has exceptionally deep-set black eyes. A long thin moustache hangs either side of his thin lips.
“You are about to join the Inner Brotherhood of Magic. Once you have passed the selection procedure, you will be considered first level members of the club. This will grant you access to the first level library and use of the practice rooms. There is a further series of tests and if you can prove yourself as a capable magician of professional standard, you will have access to the second level library and private tuition from myself.”
He then tells a servant to ask a couple of the second level magicians to join him and the three seat themselves to view the performances. A couple of the applicants fail miserably but James performs well and is accepted as a member. Ching Lung Soo reads out the names of the successful candidates. He thanks the others and bids them farewell in the hope that they will practice and return in a months time. The new members are given membership cards and a brief talk on their limitations as first level members while being shown around the ground floor of the building. Besides the entrance hall and reception room, there is a kitchen, staffed by two Chinese cooks, a Member’s Lounge containing a large number of armchairs, tables, current issues of magic journals and newspapers. It resembles a smoking room of a gentlemen’s club and it appears many of the members use it as such. At present there are 10 members in the room, reading, playing cards, discussing politics etc.
Next the applicants are shown into the Practice Room, a quiet area where members can practice and perfect their card skills. Cupboards on the walls contains packs of cards and various magic tricks. No-one is using the room at present.
Further along the hall is the First Level Library, containing a very comprehensive range of basic textx on stage magic and conjuring. Members are allowed to consult the books but are not allowed to remove them from the premesis. Any member found doing so will have his membership terminated.
Beyond is a small w.c. with a barred window overlooking a side alley and beside that is another practice room set aside or sleight of hand illusions. The cupboards hold all manner of apparatus from collapsible flowers to Russian Doll sets. In the room is a man wearing a top hat and standing behind a magician’s table. As you watch he starts his trick, showing you the top hat to be empty and then places it upside down on top of the table. After delivering a few words of banter he attempts to turn the hat upright attempting to slip a rabbit into the hat but as he does the rabbit bites his hand. He lets out a cry and tries to continue as if nothing happed.
“Keep practicing, young Danny,” smiles Soo.
You come out again in the hall. You are shown a number of cupboards against one wall, for personal effects of members. There is also a set of stairs leading up.
“This ends the tour. First level members are not permitted to the upper level, I cannot stress that enough. Good luck!” and with that he leaves you to your own devices and heads up the forbidden stairs himself. Another Oriental in uniform, stands at the bottom of the staircase, guarding the way.
James is now a first level member and can come and go as he pleases between the hours of 11am and 9pm. Satisfied for now that he has achieved what he wanted, he heads back to town to report to Hal and the rest of the group.
Spanners spends the day watching the house. A few members enter the house throughout the day, though no-one he recognises. There is no sign of Weiss until 6.30pm when a taxi pulls up and the German emerges from the house and gets in. Spanners tails the car to the theatre where the nightly show is about to commence.
Once again the group meet at the theatre as the show is about to begin. The show is now getting incredibly tedious and repetitive. Spanners gets up mid show and tries to bluff his way back stage but security don’t let him through.
At the end of his set, Weiss announces that he not be performing again until Tuesday next at the Charity show and tickets are available at the box office.
With not much else to do before the Charity show, you rely on whatever James can find out in the Brotherhood House. Next day he returns to Surbiton and gets chatting with a number of conjurers hearing few tidbits of information. When asking for confirmation from other members, they are all considered ludicrous by most and nothing more than scurrilous rumour.
• Ching Lung Soo is an imposter; the real magician was killed out in China and has been posing as him ever since.
• Karl Weiss has stolen someone’s trick and is planning to use it at the charity show
• The Brotherhood building is obviously the cover for a secret Chinese Tong – the oriental servants and Lung Soo are proof of this!
• Philip Leclair has skipped off to America as there’s a lot more money to be made there.
• Ching Lung Soo seems able to perform tricks which are physically impossible by normal sleight of hand and no-one knows how he does them.
He also learns a little more on Weiss’s movements. He attends the club in the morning using the library on the first floor and receiving private tuition from Ching Lung Soo in his study. It seems he is not particularly liked by the rest of the membership and James is told various stories about how he has apparently stolen tricks and ideas from other magicians. He is regarded as a professional conjurer of the worst type – in it for the money rather than the love and appreciation of the art.
James strikes up a particularly interesting conversation with American, Will Crowther, a second level member of the Brotherhood. He is very open with James and tells how he has been a member for the last two years since he came to London from Boston.
He evidently nurtures a strong dislike for Weiss and is well aware that he is not above stealing other people’s tricks and passing them off as his own invention, although Crowther has no evidence of this.
He is sure that Weiss is going to use someone else’s trick at the forthcoming charity show. He mentions the locked and ‘guarded’ room at the top of the stairs as proof of this. The room is officially being used by Weiss to work on a revolutionary new trick to be unveiled at the show but Weiss hardly ever uses the room so where is he going to produce this new trick from?
When James mentions Leclair, Crowther enquires as to how his friend is and appears shocked when told he has disappeared.
Crowther explains that he met Leclair when the younger man first came to the club and watched over his selection. Leclair joined as a normal member and did not attempt to get into the second level at first, though he could easily have done so. Crowther helped Leclair out with some ideas for his new trick, being a card magician; Crowther felt no personal rivalry with Leclair. Crowther was also aware that Leclair and Weiss had done some work together and is not surprised that Weiss is using a variation of Leclair’s ‘Vanish’
As Leclair was not allowed to use the second level library, Crowther lent him a couple of old books mostly about the roots and history of the craft, an area Leclair was especially interested in. Mostly these were in Chinese which neither man understood, but key elements convinced Leclair that they could help him with his new ‘Vanish’. Leclair told Crowther that he was going to speak to Weiss about the book as the German was said to have similar interest in ancient things. That was the last time Crowther saw Leclair and he assumed the young man had found what he wanted and was furiously practising his new trick at his lodgings, too busy to socialise at the club.
Returning to the Savoy on Sunday night, James reports this to the rest of the group.
Henry spends a little time going over the ground that Sam covered before, digging through old newspapers and journals and learns little more than you already knew. Ching Lung Soo is a very well known stage magician who made a name for himself in the London music halls and theatres before WW1 with his Chinese-flavoured card magic. He disappeared from London during the Great War and was believed to have returned to his native China. He reappeared on the London scene just three years ago explaining that he had returned to the East to visit his family and to research more of his special oriental magic. Since his return he has founded the Brotherhood and puts on a charity show every year. There is no mention of any suspected connection to Chinese Tongs.
Sam spends his time parked around the Brotherhood house, photographing and watching for Weiss but within a couple of hours, is moved on by policemen saying they have had a complaint about his behaviour and he should cease and desist.
With little else to go on, you have no choice but to wait for the day of the charity show. Most agree to go together though James is required to attend with the members as although first level members are not performing, they are required to be onstage as part of the finale.
Sam again opts to take up watch on the Theatre in the afternoon, being a little more surupticious this time.
Each of you receives a message from the bellhop at the Savoy at different times, "Meet Sam at the pub just to the south of the Mermaid, ASAP."
Hal arrives first and hears Sam’s story of what happened when he investigated the theatre.
"Excellent, I knew I could count on you Sam. We should head to the British Museum, an old friend of mine used to work there - let's go see if she is still there. Even if not, I'm sure they'll have someone there that can help with deciphering the Chinese marking. Failing that, I know that the concierge at the Savoy will be able to find us someone in Chinatown that can help us.
If we get time to check out the crates, let's go suitably armed and in force so that we can take out the guards."
Sam checks his watch, “It’s already 6.30pm. The show starts in a couple of hours and won’t the museum be closed?”
“I can get there in ten minutes and I have special access privileges. You’d better come with me as you’re the only one that’s seen this symbol.”
Spanners and Henry then arrive and Sam fills them in as quickly as he can.
“We’ll head over there now and meet you at the theatre!” grins Hal, “The games afoot!” he chirps excitedly, and heads out the door at a trot, Sam following quickly behind.
Spanners and Henry leave for the hotel to get changed. On the way they meet the Monsignor, “Sorry gents, only just got your message. Everything ok? Where’s Hal and Sam?”
“They went to the museum to follow up on a clue. We need to get ready and meet at the theatre. The show starts in little over an hour,” says Henry.
Getting quickly changed into your smartest togs, you head off to the theatre getting there just before 8pm. On the way, Henry relays what Sam saw to the Monsignor.
Police are everywhere surrounding the theatre and the queue to get in is long. By 8.15pm you are inside and have taken your seats in time to the Prime Minister, Stanley Baldwin and various members of the cabinet arrive and are greeted by Lung Soo at front of the stage, near the royal box.
Not long after, the royal party arrive and take their places in the royal box. Lung Soo again personally greets King George and Queen Mary before they take their seats.
Shortly after, Hal enters and swiftly moves to Spanners and Monsignor. Under his arm is a large tome. Sam is nowhere to be seen. “Bathrooms, now!”
The quickly head to the lavatories. The small room is standard but extremely clean, lit by small barred windows. An elderly attendant is the only occupant polishing mirrors, “Good evening sir, may we have a little privacy,” Hal holds out a twenty pound note.
The man’s eyes grow wide, but he is too smart to question what business three men want in a theatre bathroom, he takes the money, nods his head and scarpers. Hal, flips through the book, and opens it on a marble-topped dresser.
“Lan-Shi! It’s a cult. This is the symbol Sam saw on the boxes,” Hal points to a symbol of a Chinese dragon motif, “These are the journals of a minor oriental explorer, Harold Amersham from the 1870’s.
The Monsignor begins to read a passage indicated by Hal, “...while in Tao An I saw a most peculiar fellow working in the paddy fields. He was old and leathery skinned, like so many of the peasant farmers of the area, but upon his back was tattooed a most delightful dragon motif, which I will try and sketch below. When I pointed it out to my guide, however, he virtually spat out the words “Lan Shee!” and rode on.
“I had all but forgotten the strange incident but the next evening, as we relaxed in my rooms in yet another delightful roadside tavern, Shaylin brought me a battered history book which he said detailed the history of the region. Of course, I could not read a word of the thing, and Shaylin was somewhat reluctant to translate it for some reason, but the pictures were plain enough. They were painted in quite delightful style and colouration as always, but what scenes!
At this point the theatre bursts into applause. Presumably the curtain has opened and the show is starting. Monsignor continues to read.
“They first showed a priest dressed up in the finery of a mandarin, standing at an altar with a dirk the size of an elephant’s tusk poised over some poor smiling peasant. May the grace of God preserve me, but I swear it was a human sacrifice! The next showed some sort of decoration on a tapestry or something similar. It was of an emaciated man, thin and white as if something had sucked the very blood out of him. The last picture showed that hellish priest again, but this time dying at the hands of hundreds of righteous men who were plainly razing the unholy temple. I have heard tales before now of China’s Pagan past but this ‘Lan Shee’ lot have been quite the worst I have ever heard of. May I never look at an old peasant’s tattoos again!...”
“Sam has gone round the back to find a way to get to the stage when the time comes. If we are to ‘open the gate’ as Leclair has seemingly request we do, we need to let them start whatever they are planning with that arch and stop them before they go to far. So we need a plan!” Smiles Hal, “Any suggestions?”
"Any thoughts, my friends?" repeats Hal "I am loath to use deadly force on these people, even though it may mean saving Leclair - especially with all the police around, who will no doubt get the wrong idea. I suggest we join Sam backstage and try to shut the curtains once the gate is opened and take out whoever is onstage. I have my knife, pistol and a blackjack with me so can creep up behind some of the stage hands and knock them senseless so that we can control the curtain mechanism. Then we can close the curtains at the right time and do what we need to do to stop them from completing the ritual."
"Ah, yes...perhaps a distraction is in order. Anyone object to a little shenanigans?"grins Henry.
"Unless we are sure of when the right time is, I don't think we should delay too long before acting. But we should avoid deadly force if at all possible. Too many innocent lives may be endangered-including our own- if we are rash."
ReplyDelete"Now", the Monsignor frowns, "show me the way backstage and Blessed be the Lord, my rock, who trains our hands for war, and our fingers for battle."
I head backstage with my comrades, my trusty blackjack close to hand, ready for whatever may come. Using stealth, bribes and if necessary non-lethal force we will make our way to the wings, ready to close the curtains and act when the moment becomes apparent. If able to, I would like to examine Weiss' equipment (whether up close or from a distance) to try to make some sense of it and figure out any weak spots that we could target to take it out if necessary.
ReplyDeleteWhen the moment comes, I will try to close the curtains and restrain Weiss if needed.
"Chaps, keep your eyes peeled for any of Ching Lung Soo's henchmen and the man himself. Keep them in sight and be prepared to disable them if they start to present an obstacle to our successful endeavours."
"Boys, keep in mind that there are coppers and stage hands to deal with as well." Sam States quietly. "I was able to sneak in by myself earlier because I was not being followed by a brass band," as Sam jesters towards the rest of the party. "We need something to make anyone at the back door and area leave and go some where else just long enough for everyone to get in. Any suggestions?"
ReplyDeleteSam takes out a pack of cigarettes, lifting it to his lips. Pulling one out and lighting it with his lighter. As Sam pulls out a hip flask and opens it, he says, "One other thing, what I saw happen in the theatre was not pleasant to watch. Brace up just before they start." With that, Sam slugs a shot down.
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Out of character - I can't remember what type of pistol I had, but I am carrying that and my blackjack.
Oops! I just saw that I am away from the group, so ignore, my comments above.
ReplyDelete