2019 Shave Purchase Sabbatical - The Maltese Falcon Razor

[KQY61]

Hi,

I ended my restock today. Bought an ATT S2. Finally. Been going to do that since I set it as my 2015 exception. How is that for restraint.? I think I had it as my exception twice, and always Going To every restock period. Oh, and also bought a bottle of Lubriderm lotion, which I use as an AS. I think I have enough for one more year but had thoughts of Going Out in November because I miscalculated!

Stan - now in the 2020.

 

[Pepin]

Hope to finish up the story this week.

 

[KQY61]

Hi,

It came already:

IMG_00000018.jpg

• KQY61
• Jan 13, 2020

Stan

 

[Ryanshh]

Hi,

It came already:

IMG_00000018.jpg

• KQY61
• Jan 13, 2020

Stan

Lovely! Enjoy!

 

[KQY61]

Hi,

I will! My venerable Fasan DoubleSlant, which I have used since 2013, is developing cracks in the bakelite baseplate. Let's see this one do that!

Stan

 

[ruckin]

I snagged my ATT in 2014 and aside from a slight bit of soap residue in some of the nooks and crannies it looks like it did when it was first removed from the box. I suspect that it will last quite awhile before it develops any cracks as long as it isn't abused and used for a pry bar or something.

 

[KQY61]

Hi,

It ought to outlast Grandad's Old Type seen here on the left of the Fasan.

IMG_00000019.jpg

• KQY61
• Jan 13, 2020

I had to move my wife's Lady Gillette to place the ATT where I want it. Well, she changed to Nair months ago now. So, I binned her blade and stuck it in my drawer of spare razors and blades and brushes.

Daily Shave

• KQY61
• Jan 19, 2017

My Fasan DoubleSlant and Grandfather's Old Type. The TTO is my wife's Lady Gillette. The...

So, now I have an eight-day set of Open Comb razors for OCtober. Here is an older shot from when they made up a seven day set:

Open Combs

• KQY61
• Jan 19, 2017

Old Type
New Improved
NEW Short Comb
NEW Long Comb
Schick Type C1 Repeater
'34 'Crat
Fasan Red...

Stan - Still In

 

[Pepin]

The last of the operatives make their way back to the offices, the number is far smaller than those brave souls who started this assignment just over a yer ago. However success has been achieved for some.

Sam Spades Team of Operatives

1. Pepin - vintage grail razor***2018***
3. johnwick - One Timeless baseplate swap
4. Ruckin–No exception***2018***
5. mikelz777 - No exception***2018***
7. Shave_Rat - New scuttle***2018***
8. meanpr - No exception
11. Vespasian- No exception
13. KQY61 - No Exception ***2018***
14. martym - No exception ***2018***
15. VerbaVolant - one stainless razor.
17. Keen Edge - Blades
20. Howler - No Exception
23 GaryTha - No exceptions
24. AlphaFrank75 – Balm ***2018***
28. T.Orso - Unicorn hair shave brush (60% mane, 40% tail)***2018***
29. Ryanshh - 1 lapping film restock
30. Jamesearthdrum - Spool of PLA filament ***2018***
32. SpannerX - No exception
42. Mtnredhed - No exception***2018***
45. gsurko- No exceptions
48. byDoms - No Exception ***2018***
57. MuhleShaver - no exceptions ***2018***
58. CzechCzar - Muhle Rocca
67. Brian C. - No exception
68. Invicta - No exception
72. Heckle - mustache wax
73. FoxInfinitySunset - Synthetic brush***2018***
77. _Stormin_ - No Exception***2018***
79. 5Cantonas - Badger brush***2018***
86. psfred- Nickel plating supplies***2018***
88. mishkaya- No exception.
90. esetter – Variant razor ***2018***
91. Aziraphale - Hallows Soap and AS gift set
97.Thomas Darkblade - No exception***2018***
98. dg33 – Shave brush ***2018***
100. Boghopper – Blades

The Opposition: Kasper Gutman Joel Cairo & their Henchmen

1. January 9th Operative No. 103 Bakker1964 - exception Karve OC razor - (OUT - Proraso pre-shave cream)
2. January 13th Operative No. 19 Azwetshaver - exception - strop, (OUT - brush)
3. January 25th, Operative Ruva #36: exception – Witch Hazel. (OUT – Barbersol 100th Anniversary can)
4. February 2nd Operative No. 82 Haggises - Exception: Schick repeater. (Out - David Beckahm Instinct Aftershave)
5. February 4th Operative No. 76 Saxtont47 - Exception witch hazel. (Out - Simpson`s Duke 3 brush)
6. February 4th Operative No. 87 bdehne – No exception. (Out – Volga razor)
7. February 7th Operative No. 92. Mtn.Man – No exception. (Out – shiny BST buy)
8. February 9th Operative No. 44. Slipknot – No exception. (Out – Captains Choice & CRSW shave soap)
9. February 9th Operative No. 63 Clay S - Birth year/quarter razor (out – vintage Avon aftershave bottle for Pinaud Clubman Musk)
10. February 10th Operative No. 84 Hannah’s Dad - British #15 tune-up (out – FatBoy)
11. February 13th Operative No. 85 Sharp’s- Char Gds – (out – Grand Shave King razor)
12. February 13th Operative No. 37 Somnos - Full version: Shaving Buddy app.
(out - mint Aristocrat #66 set + NOS made in England travelling set)
13. February 17th Operative No. 40. Yminoh - No exception. (out – Charcoal Goods razor)
14. February 23rd Operative No. 26 Heron - Exception shave soap. (OUT - Harry's mail order razor)
15. February 24th Operative No. 83. Luecke2326: Exception straight razor. (OUT - EPIC treewhale of a barbers supply)
16. February 24th Operative No. 16. Galaktus: No exception. (OUT - self withdraw)
17. February 24th Operative No. 64 KW Driver: Exception Trac II blades. (OUT - self withdraw)
18. February 26th Operative No. 10 Kevdogg329: Exception Aftershave. (OUT - shave cream & cartridges)
19. March 2nd Operative No. 51. karhu: No exception. (OUT – Rockwell 6S Razor)
20. March 3rd Operative No. 66 Boar Fighter: No exception. (OUT - two synthetic shave brushes)
21. March 4th Operative No. 31 pbrmhl - Exception Charcoal Goods razor. (OUT - 4 bottles Chatillon Lux aftershave)
22. March 7th Operative No. 78 Neffarious: Exception pre-shave. (OUT - Shave Mac 24mm brush)
23. March 9th Operative No. 39 Nick Weepers: Exception Mike’s Bay Rum (OUT – NOS Old Spice soap in mug)
24. March 11th Operative No. 18 SAMB08: Exception Aftershave splash. (OUT – vintage 9/16 Genco Old Dutch straight)
25. March 11th Operative No. 35 deafficianado: No exception (OUT - Raw Shaving razor)
26. March 12th Operative No. 38 Joncr: No exception. (OUT - Gillette Skinguard cartridge)
27. March 15th Operative No. 65 Rev579: Exception 1 Vintage Grail Razor (OUT - 2 vintage ABC razor sets)
28. March 16th Operative No. 70 Dundak: No exception (OUT - mystery blue-light deal)
29. March 23rd Operative No. 2. Rockviper: No exception (OUT - Simpson's synthetic Chubby #2 brush)
30. March 30th Operative No. 55 AZBronco: Exception Tuxedo knot brush. (OUT – Stirling Coconut Lime & Glacial Lemon soap)
31. April 2nd Operative No. 47 Music: Exception Stirling post-shave balm. (OUT - hard to find mystery soap )
32. April 2nd Operative No. 9. Tony D: Exception shave soap. (OUT - binge soap buying)
33. April 6th Operative No. 43 Sotiris_A: No Exception. (OUT - Simpson's best badger brushes)
34. April 8th Operative No. 102 Kluber: Exception Tabac soap. (OUT - MDC soap)
35. April 13th Operative No. 96 StuartT: No exception (OUT - German Ralf Aust 6/8 straight razor)
36. April 14th Operative No. 6 Laird: Exception Cap & Chris restoration & replate New (Self declared -OUT)
37. April 15th "Lost in Action" Operative No. 101 Midoio – No exception (OUT)
38. April 15th "Lost in Action" Operative No. 81 MarsEnglish - no exception (OUT)
39. April 15th "Lost in Action" Operative No. 71 Treebeard - No exception (OUT)
40. April 15th "Lost in Action" Operative No. 54 jamiecm - no exception (OUT)
41. April 15th "Lost in Action" Operative No 46 TreadwayJohnA - No Exceptions (OUT)
42. April 15th "Lost in Action" Operative No. 12 barko78 - witch hazel (OUT)
43. April 29th Operative No. 95 tsimmns: Exception OneBlade V1 with a GEM (OUT- shaving cream/soap)
44. May 13th Operative No. 50 ShavingPanda: Exception Tabac aftershave (OUT - Charcoal razor)
45. Jun. 5th Operative No. 74 Shaved Fish: No exception (OUT - shave balm)
46. Jun. 9th Operative No. 41. Andromeda673: No Exception (OUT - shave soap)
47. Jun. 16th Operative No. 75 bjm: No exception (OUT - two boar brushes)
48. Jun. 27th Operative No. 21 emwolf: No exceptions (OUT - adjustable razor in brass)
49. Jul. 2nd Operative No. 89 Kcmodan: Exception 1 zenith horse hair brush (OUT - Kai Captain Excelia)
50. Jul. 4th Operative No. 56. Sabin: No exception (OUT - samples from Maggards)
51. Jul. 8th "Lost in Action" Operative No. 53 Ajwien: no exception (OUT)
52. Jul. 8th "Lost in Action" Operative No. 33 krow: No exceptions (OUT)
53. Jul. 12th Operative No. 49 Jim99: Exception Schick injector blades (OUT - Schick razor & blades)
54. Aug. 3rd Operative No. 27 ‘Bout Time: Exception Tallow & Steel Limited Release (OUT - 2 red & black sets)
55. Aug. 4th Operative No. 34cZed117: Exception Karve OC (OUT - copper shave bowl)
56. Aug. 12th Operative No. 80 Sgemmett: No exception (OUT - Rex Ambassador razor)
57. Aug. 14th Operative No. 25 bobmsp: Exception Grooming Dept. Pre-shave (OUT - 100 blade supply)
58. Aug. 30th Operative No. 99 Rico Suave: Exception blades (OUT - Blackland Vector razor)
59. Oct. 2nd Operative No. 62 Noodles: Exception Post-shave balm (OUT - 2 Silvertip shave brushes)
60. Oct. 12th "Lost in Action" Operative 69 Tokyospike: Exception Menthol crystals (OUT)
61. Oct. 28th Operative No. 59 Whisky: Exception RazoRock SLOC (OUT - unplanned Mach 3 purchase)
62. Oct. 30th Operative No. 52 Spookmeister: Exception Chris Bradley razor (OUT - extra baseplate purchase)
63. Nov. 28th Operative No. 93 PhilC: No exception (OUT - Volabra soap buy)
64. Nov. 28th Operative No. 94. CJB3: Exception RR Game Changer (OUT - Wolfman razor)
65. Jan. 7th, 2020 "Lost in Action" Operative No. 22 JohnYaddy: Exception Razor (OUT)
66. Jan. 7th, 2020 "Lost in Action" Operative No. 60 jldallas: Exception Vintage DE razor (OUT)
67. Jan. 7th, 2020 "Lost in Action" Operative No. 61 Macsen: Exception Thayers Witch Hazel (OUT)

 

[GaryTha]

It was a tough year. Looking better this year.

 

[Pepin]

January 7th, 2020 Operative No. 61 Macsen - OUT (Missed final check in)
January 7th, 2020 Operative No. 60 jldallas – OUT (Missed final check in)
January 7th, 2020 Operative No. 22 JohnYaddy -OUT (Missed final check in)

Effie walked into the office, paused in front of Sam’s desk; and then laid down a police report. Sam looked up at her, their eyes meeting and holding for a few seconds. Then he broke contact and picked up the report, reading it slowly. “So, this is official? We have lost two more of our men. From reading this it sounds like some wild animal ripped up CJB3, and they could not tell what happened to PhilC. The cabin was too badly burned up.” Sam leaned back in his chair, rubbed his blood-shot eyes. “Something has to break; it just has to.” Effie came around behind the desk and began to give Sam a neck and back rub. “It’s a wonder you can move at all with these stress knots in you neck and back.” Silence envelope the two as the shadows crept in with the setting sun. Sam slowly stood up and turned around; facing Effie. “I don’t know what I would do with out you kid. I, I …” “Oh Sam ….” The two figures stepped closer, and Sam took Effie in his arms, kissing her, holding her tight as she too wrapped her arms around him. The loud ring of the phone bought both back into reality.

Both of them stood staring at the ringing phone as if mesmerized. Then Effie gave her head a shake and picked it up, “Sam Spade’s office; Effie here. I see, and to whom am I speaking?” A frown appeared on her brow, “Yes, he is. Hold on I ‘ll see if he is free.” With that she covered the mouthpiece, and spoke in hushed tones, “It’s Hoscombe, says its urgent.” Sam nodded and held out his hand, “This is Spade. Yes, I have heard about that. Wildman you say, did anyone else get hurt? Well that is good news. Listen, let me review somethings then I will call you back, really I will.” He hung up the phone with a chuckle, “Hoscombe doesn’t think I will call him back. Listen Effie, he told me that the local sheriff and some hunters tracked down the beast thing that ripped up CJB3. It was some sort of deformed human, hair all over, claws, fangs, he also had some razors on him. Put up a hell of a fight, but finally they had to shot it. Took several rounds. Their taking it to the University for an Autopsy; having some of the science people there look into it.” Effie’s eyes opened wide, “That sounds positively evil and demonic. Where did that creature come from?” “No idea, hopefully the boys at the university can find out.” A sharp rap on the outside door, interrupted them. Sam took a few quick determined steps and yanked the door open, “Yes, what can I do for you?” A startled young man in some sort of uniform stepped back, “Nothing, I just knocked to deliver this letter.” He held out a plain envelope, on a clipboard. “You’ll have to sign for it”. Sam glanced at the address, then signed for it. “Here’s a tip kid, sorry if I startled you; been a hell of a day.”

Sam closed the door and ripped open the envelope, as he read it the corners of his mouth began to turn upwards in a smile. Effie grabbed his arm, “What is it Sam? Something good? Can we finally get rid of this Falcon-razor business?” Sam threw up his arms, sending the pieces of paper fluttering around the office, he laughed and grabbed Effie; kissing her. “This is the break we have been waiting. Quick, round up the operatives, I will send them out, hopefully we can wrap this up quickly.” Effie gazed at Sam with amazement in her eyes. Then she rushed off to her desk, grabbing the phone.

Thirty-nine operatives milled about the room, there was a high level of excitement in the air. Sam knocked on the table at the front of the room, the voices dropped, and then it was quiet. “Alright, I have given you your assignments. These should give us the final pieces of the puzzle. Go out there, and get that information, but be on your guard. As you well know we have lost far too many of our team. Keep Effie and I posted on anything you deem of importance.” The teams dispersed in groups of 2-3, each going their way. Talking excitedly amongst themselves.

Sam loosened his tie and was about to light a cigarette, but then looking around the room, and the thick clouds of tobacco smoke decided against it. He walked over and opened the two windows, hoping that there would be a slight breeze to help air out the room. Going to his desk he sat down and leaned back in his chair, he went over a few facts in his head, and then called out, “Effie, lets surprise the police. Get Hoscombe on the phone.” Shortly his phone rang, and he picked it up. “Well I told you I would call back.” “Yes, it should be over soon. I got the break I was waiting for. Listen, get some of you men ready. I think I can get you the goods on a large-scale smuggling racket, and a couple of killers on the side. No, no really, I am not joking. Right now, from the information I have, you’ll need a few men by the central train station, and a few by the docks.” “You sure? Okay you will hear from me.” With that he hung up the phone.

Operatives Macsen and jldallas took a taxi over to the central train station. Once there they walked around to a side entrance. Macsen reached out and grabbed jldallas’ arm; “Wait a minute. I got some friends in the baggage storage room. Let me talk to them first. You want to check out the bar in the NW? They have a lot of people go through there. Perhaps one of them will have heard something.” “Sounds good. Meet up in about an hour and a half at Maxine’s Coffee Shop?” Macsen pulled the brim of his hat down and walked over to the luggage depot. “Excuse me, is Joachim working today?” The guy behind the counter put down the racing paper he had been studying and looked at Macsen, then let out a long breath, “Yeah, hold on a sec, will see if he is back. Keep an eye on things.” With that he walked to the back and disappeared behind a corner. A few minutes later he re-appeared. “He’ll be with ya in a sec.” And picked up his paper. Operative Mcsen felt a tap on his shoulder, and turned, “Hear you looking for me?” said Joachim. “What’s up?” Macsen grabbed his arm, “Let stalk over here, its quieter.” Listen have you ever seen any of these names on the luggage tags on bags or trunks that have been left here?” He passed over a sheet of paper with a list of names. Joachim scanned down the list, pausing to think things over now and then. “Yeah, now that I think about it, I have seen some. They were here a few weeks ago. In fact, I just turned over the last one to a Red-Cap. Think they were taking the New York Central’s streamlined Mercury to the west coast. I seem to remember hearing something about the baggage going on to a ship.” “The sleeper? West coast, are you sure about this?” he passed over a few bills, which quickly disappeared into Joachim’s pocket. “Yeah, I am, Sure as the day is long.” They sat in silence for a bit, then Joachim stood up, “I need to get back to work now. See you later.” Macsen sat, thinking things over. West Coast, can he get a train there now? What was this about a ship?”

Meanwhile jldallas had made his way over to The Twisted Cork. Like many travel hubs the bar it served a variety of people, most being middle to some higher class. Walking into the gloom he had to wait a bit for his eyes to adjust. It was mostly empty at this time, and he motioned over to girl to find him a table. He scanned the lists and ordered an Old fashioned. The drink came along with a bowl of peanuts. He scanned the room, obvious travelers waiting for their connections, and wait what is this? In the back corner he spotted Kasper Gutman and Joel Cairo. To be a fly on the wall there; he mused. What to do now? He motioned the waitress over; “I know those two over there. We’re always playing tricks on one another. Is there a way I can get to the back and sneak up on them? Want to wait for the right time and pop out on them.” The waitress stood looking down at him with sceptical eyes, “We don’t usually do this. I don’t want to lose my job.” “No problem, we all know each other.” He pushed over a few bills. She looked at them, then slipped them into her waistband. “Okay follow me.” Soon he was in a service corridor just behind the corner booth. If he strained, he could make out what they were saying. He pulled out his pad a pen and started writing. Sleeper to the west coast, then ship to Hawaii. He looked around to see if he could find the waitress. No sign of her. He then made his way out and started towards Maxine’s Coffee Shop. There he found Macsen at the counter hunched over a cup of joe. He sat down with a smile, “Wait ‘til you hear this. I got the scoop. The Fatman himself!” Macsen turned and looked at him. “I’ve got news too. We could be going west.” Jldallas’ eyebrows shot up, “West! That’s what I have also, the sleeper, and then Hawaii.” “We better get going and book a berth on the Mercury and then see if there is an office for the steamship. The two hurried off.

Later that day Joel Cairo stopped by a newspaper stand and purchased a paper. He stood by one of the marble columns in the main hall of the train station. As he read, a figure came up by him and paused. “They bought the line. I think I saw them buy a ticket west.” There was a slight movement as money passed hands, and then Joachim walked off. Cairo smiled and folded the newspaper, thinking that things are stating to get rough over seas these days. The war in Europe will be big business. He went int o the Twisted Cork again. The bartender nodded to him and pointed with head. Cairo walked to the back room, there it was like seeing double, almost. The likeness was good, not perfect but good. At a distance no one could tell him and Gutman apart from these two. He passed over some documents; “Here are you travel documents. There are two people following you. So, enjoy the train. Once in San Francisco you will take the steamship to Hawaii. There lead them to the military base.”

During this time operative JohnYaddy had been tailing Wilmer. He was a bit nervous, as the more he watched the young man the more he became convinced that the fellow was ready to snap his cap. He checked his piece and waited as Wilmer stopped to harass some poor newsboy. Where will he lead him he wondered. They were walking down the street when a car pulled over to the curb suddenly. The door opened and a red-headed woman, Brigitte O'Shaughnessy damn it! Motioned Wilmer over. What was this? their client in cahoots with the enemy, with the Fatman? He scanned the traffic and managed to hail a cab. Soon they were tailing the pair in front of him. He followed the car to the docks. He told the driver to pull over as he saw them stop. Paying the driver, he got out and hid by a corner. Watching as the Wilmer and O'Shaughnessy as they walked over to the steamship office. He waited in the background, watching as they obviously purchased tickets. Once they had left, he advanced to the ticket window. After some enquires, he also purchased a ticket. Looks like he was going to England. Operative JohnYaddy went over to the telegram office and sent a quick update to Sam.

They next day Effie ushered in O'Shaughnessy to Sam’s office. Sam looked a bit askance when he saw here. “Why Miss O'Shaughnessy we were not expecting you. What do we owe the pleasure to?” Bridgette sat down, taking out a cigarette holder she screwed in a cigarette and waited for Sam to light it. Letting a long plume of smoke, she leaned back, “well I am here for some news, reports on how you have been spending my money.” Sam gave a small laugh, “We’ll see. I have lots of questions also.” They were interrupted by a knock on the door. Effie opened it, “A couple of messages Sam. Though you might to read them now.” She passed over two telegrams. Sam sat back and read them. “Seems that you were going on a cruise with our friend Wilmer.” “Wilmer! That’s crazy. He was following me! He tried to force me onto a ship, I … I had to defend myself.” “And how did you do that?” She pulled out a newspaper clipping and pushed it across his desk. Man found shot in harbour by ship; read the headline. A grainy photograph of what was clearly Wilmer appeared below the write. “Looks like you dealt with him easily. Now what about my man?” “What man.” “Operative JohnYaddy. Followed the two of you then purchased a ticket on the ship to England. What was the name again?” O'Shaughnessy shook her head, “I don’t remember, there were so many ships. Lusitania, I think., but it could have been another one too.” “well looks like we have lots to go over.” Sam said grimly. “Oh Sam, don’t be mad at me.”

After O'Shaughnessy left Effie walked in. “You let that snake go? She probably killed our guys and is working with the Fatman.” “You could be right Effie. We got one operative on a ship to England, and two mor eon a ship to Hawaii. With war looming who knows what can happen.” Effie came up behind Sam and began to massage his temples. Sam closed eyes, “have you heard from any of the other operatives?”

 

[CzechCzar]

January 7th, 2020 Operative No. 61 Macsen - OUT (Missed final check in)
January 7th, 2020 Operative No. 60 jldallas – OUT (Missed final check in)
January 7th, 2020 Operative No. 22 JohnYaddy -OUT (Missed final check in)

Effie walked into the office, paused in front of Sam’s desk; and then laid down a police report. Sam looked up at her, their eyes meeting and holding for a few seconds. Then he broke contact and picked up the report, reading it slowly. “So, this is official? We have lost two more of our men. From reading this it sounds like some wild animal ripped up CJB3, and they could not tell what happened to PhilC. The cabin was too badly burned up.” Sam leaned back in his chair, rubbed his blood-shot eyes. “Something has to break; it just has to.” Effie came around behind the desk and began to give Sam a neck and back rub. “It’s a wonder you can move at all with these stress knots in you neck and back.” Silence envelope the two as the shadows crept in with the setting sun. Sam slowly stood up and turned around; facing Effie. “I don’t know what I would do with out you kid. I, I …” “Oh Sam ….” The two figures stepped closer, and Sam took Effie in his arms, kissing her, holding her tight as she too wrapped her arms around him. The loud ring of the phone bought both back into reality.

Both of them stood staring at the ringing phone as if mesmerized. Then Effie gave her head a shake and picked it up, “Sam Spade’s office; Effie here. I see, and to whom am I speaking?” A frown appeared on her brow, “Yes, he is. Hold on I ‘ll see if he is free.” With that she covered the mouthpiece, and spoke in hushed tones, “It’s Hoscombe, says its urgent.” Sam nodded and held out his hand, “This is Spade. Yes, I have heard about that. Wildman you say, did anyone else get hurt? Well that is good news. Listen, let me review somethings then I will call you back, really I will.” He hung up the phone with a chuckle, “Hoscombe doesn’t think I will call him back. Listen Effie, he told me that the local sheriff and some hunters tracked down the beast thing that ripped up CJB3. It was some sort of deformed human, hair all over, claws, fangs, he also had some razors on him. Put up a hell of a fight, but finally they had to shot it. Took several rounds. Their taking it to the University for an Autopsy; having some of the science people there look into it.” Effie’s eyes opened wide, “That sounds positively evil and demonic. Where did that creature come from?” “No idea, hopefully the boys at the university can find out.” A sharp rap on the outside door, interrupted them. Sam took a few quick determined steps and yanked the door open, “Yes, what can I do for you?” A startled young man in some sort of uniform stepped back, “Nothing, I just knocked to deliver this letter.” He held out a plain envelope, on a clipboard. “You’ll have to sign for it”. Sam glanced at the address, then signed for it. “Here’s a tip kid, sorry if I startled you; been a hell of a day.”

Sam closed the door and ripped open the envelope, as he read it the corners of his mouth began to turn upwards in a smile. Effie grabbed his arm, “What is it Sam? Something good? Can we finally get rid of this Falcon-razor business?” Sam threw up his arms, sending the pieces of paper fluttering around the office, he laughed and grabbed Effie; kissing her. “This is the break we have been waiting. Quick, round up the operatives, I will send them out, hopefully we can wrap this up quickly.” Effie gazed at Sam with amazement in her eyes. Then she rushed off to her desk, grabbing the phone.

Thirty-nine operatives milled about the room, there was a high level of excitement in the air. Sam knocked on the table at the front of the room, the voices dropped, and then it was quiet. “Alright, I have given you your assignments. These should give us the final pieces of the puzzle. Go out there, and get that information, but be on your guard. As you well know we have lost far too many of our team. Keep Effie and I posted on anything you deem of importance.” The teams dispersed in groups of 2-3, each going their way. Talking excitedly amongst themselves.

Sam loosened his tie and was about to light a cigarette, but then looking around the room, and the thick clouds of tobacco smoke decided against it. He walked over and opened the two windows, hoping that there would be a slight breeze to help air out the room. Going to his desk he sat down and leaned back in his chair, he went over a few facts in his head, and then called out, “Effie, lets surprise the police. Get Hoscombe on the phone.” Shortly his phone rang, and he picked it up. “Well I told you I would call back.” “Yes, it should be over soon. I got the break I was waiting for. Listen, get some of you men ready. I think I can get you the goods on a large-scale smuggling racket, and a couple of killers on the side. No, no really, I am not joking. Right now, from the information I have, you’ll need a few men by the central train station, and a few by the docks.” “You sure? Okay you will hear from me.” With that he hung up the phone.

Operatives Macsen and jldallas took a taxi over to the central train station. Once there they walked around to a side entrance. Macsen reached out and grabbed jldallas’ arm; “Wait a minute. I got some friends in the baggage storage room. Let me talk to them first. You want to check out the bar in the NW? They have a lot of people go through there. Perhaps one of them will have heard something.” “Sounds good. Meet up in about an hour and a half at Maxine’s Coffee Shop?” Macsen pulled the brim of his hat down and walked over to the luggage depot. “Excuse me, is Joachim working today?” The guy behind the counter put down the racing paper he had been studying and looked at Macsen, then let out a long breath, “Yeah, hold on a sec, will see if he is back. Keep an eye on things.” With that he walked to the back and disappeared behind a corner. A few minutes later he re-appeared. “He’ll be with ya in a sec.” And picked up his paper. Operative Mcsen felt a tap on his shoulder, and turned, “Hear you looking for me?” said Joachim. “What’s up?” Macsen grabbed his arm, “Let stalk over here, its quieter.” Listen have you ever seen any of these names on the luggage tags on bags or trunks that have been left here?” He passed over a sheet of paper with a list of names. Joachim scanned down the list, pausing to think things over now and then. “Yeah, now that I think about it, I have seen some. They were here a few weeks ago. In fact, I just turned over the last one to a Red-Cap. Think they were taking the New York Central’s streamlined Mercury to the west coast. I seem to remember hearing something about the baggage going on to a ship.” “The sleeper? West coast, are you sure about this?” he passed over a few bills, which quickly disappeared into Joachim’s pocket. “Yeah, I am, Sure as the day is long.” They sat in silence for a bit, then Joachim stood up, “I need to get back to work now. See you later.” Macsen sat, thinking things over. West Coast, can he get a train there now? What was this about a ship?”

Meanwhile jldallas had made his way over to The Twisted Cork. Like many travel hubs the bar it served a variety of people, most being middle to some higher class. Walking into the gloom he had to wait a bit for his eyes to adjust. It was mostly empty at this time, and he motioned over to girl to find him a table. He scanned the lists and ordered an Old fashioned. The drink came along with a bowl of peanuts. He scanned the room, obvious travelers waiting for their connections, and wait what is this? In the back corner he spotted Kasper Gutman and Joel Cairo. To be a fly on the wall there; he mused. What to do now? He motioned the waitress over; “I know those two over there. We’re always playing tricks on one another. Is there a way I can get to the back and sneak up on them? Want to wait for the right time and pop out on them.” The waitress stood looking down at him with sceptical eyes, “We don’t usually do this. I don’t want to lose my job.” “No problem, we all know each other.” He pushed over a few bills. She looked at them, then slipped them into her waistband. “Okay follow me.” Soon he was in a service corridor just behind the corner booth. If he strained, he could make out what they were saying. He pulled out his pad a pen and started writing. Sleeper to the west coast, then ship to Hawaii. He looked around to see if he could find the waitress. No sign of her. He then made his way out and started towards Maxine’s Coffee Shop. There he found Macsen at the counter hunched over a cup of joe. He sat down with a smile, “Wait ‘til you hear this. I got the scoop. The Fatman himself!” Macsen turned and looked at him. “I’ve got news too. We could be going west.” Jldallas’ eyebrows shot up, “West! That’s what I have also, the sleeper, and then Hawaii.” “We better get going and book a berth on the Mercury and then see if there is an office for the steamship. The two hurried off.

Later that day Joel Cairo stopped by a newspaper stand and purchased a paper. He stood by one of the marble columns in the main hall of the train station. As he read, a figure came up by him and paused. “They bought the line. I think I saw them buy a ticket west.” There was a slight movement as money passed hands, and then Joachim walked off. Cairo smiled and folded the newspaper, thinking that things are stating to get rough over seas these days. The war in Europe will be big business. He went int o the Twisted Cork again. The bartender nodded to him and pointed with head. Cairo walked to the back room, there it was like seeing double, almost. The likeness was good, not perfect but good. At a distance no one could tell him and Gutman apart from these two. He passed over some documents; “Here are you travel documents. There are two people following you. So, enjoy the train. Once in San Francisco you will take the steamship to Hawaii. There lead them to the military base.”

During this time operative JohnYaddy had been tailing Wilmer. He was a bit nervous, as the more he watched the young man the more he became convinced that the fellow was ready to snap his cap. He checked his piece and waited as Wilmer stopped to harass some poor newsboy. Where will he lead him he wondered. They were walking down the street when a car pulled over to the curb suddenly. The door opened and a red-headed woman, Brigitte O'Shaughnessy damn it! Motioned Wilmer over. What was this? their client in cahoots with the enemy, with the Fatman? He scanned the traffic and managed to hail a cab. Soon they were tailing the pair in front of him. He followed the car to the docks. He told the driver to pull over as he saw them stop. Paying the driver, he got out and hid by a corner. Watching as the Wilmer and O'Shaughnessy as they walked over to the steamship office. He waited in the background, watching as they obviously purchased tickets. Once they had left, he advanced to the ticket window. After some enquires, he also purchased a ticket. Looks like he was going to England. Operative JohnYaddy went over to the telegram office and sent a quick update to Sam.

They next day Effie ushered in O'Shaughnessy to Sam’s office. Sam looked a bit askance when he saw here. “Why Miss O'Shaughnessy we were not expecting you. What do we owe the pleasure to?” Bridgette sat down, taking out a cigarette holder she screwed in a cigarette and waited for Sam to light it. Letting a long plume of smoke, she leaned back, “well I am here for some news, reports on how you have been spending my money.” Sam gave a small laugh, “We’ll see. I have lots of questions also.” They were interrupted by a knock on the door. Effie opened it, “A couple of messages Sam. Though you might to read them now.” She passed over two telegrams. Sam sat back and read them. “Seems that you were going on a cruise with our friend Wilmer.” “Wilmer! That’s crazy. He was following me! He tried to force me onto a ship, I … I had to defend myself.” “And how did you do that?” She pulled out a newspaper clipping and pushed it across his desk. Man found shot in harbour by ship; read the headline. A grainy photograph of what was clearly Wilmer appeared below the write. “Looks like you dealt with him easily. Now what about my man?” “What man.” “Operative JohnYaddy. Followed the two of you then purchased a ticket on the ship to England. What was the name again?” O'Shaughnessy shook her head, “I don’t remember, there were so many ships. Lusitania, I think., but it could have been another one too.” “well looks like we have lots to go over.” Sam said grimly. “Oh Sam, don’t be mad at me.”

After O'Shaughnessy left Effie walked in. “You let that snake go? She probably killed our guys and is working with the Fatman.” “You could be right Effie. We got one operative on a ship to England, and two mor eon a ship to Hawaii. With war looming who knows what can happen.” Effie came up behind Sam and began to massage his temples. Sam closed eyes, “have you heard from any of the other operatives?”

edge of my seat...

 

[Ryanshh]

Love the final write up. I might have gone a little nuts on the restock. I got a Game Changer OC, SLOC, and RR Hawk, a brush, blades for heirloom razors I haven't tried yet, Haslinger Coconut, and some soap/balm from Zangari (in my defense all of these were 50% off). The brush is shown below and was made by Rick Montalvo. I was planning on entering the decade/leap year sabbatical and wanted a few things for that (man I love justifications...or excuses...I'm going to go with 100% reasonable justifications.)

 

[johnwick]

edge of my seat...

Edge of the seat indeed! Well done @Pepin !

 

[Aziraphale]

Ohhh
Lovely write up as always @Pepin
I'm on the edge of my seat waiting to see the finale...

 

[JohnYaddy]

Sorry about going MIA. Incredibly busy beginning of the year and just logged in for the first time today. I made it to the end without buying anything, so another successful annual restraint in the books.