Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode 33: Half Moon Street [SA] 65-05-27 03 A Kitten For Mr Katz
Release Date: April 11, 2025

Overview

In this thrilling episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported to the bustling streets of London, where Assignments Unlimited, a versatile service agency, grapples with a perplexing request involving a mysterious client named Mr. Katz. The narrative weaves through deception, mistaken identities, and unexpected confrontations, all centered around the assignment to deliver a kitten to Mr. Katz. As tensions rise, the true nature of the assignment unfolds, leading to a dramatic climax that underscores the cutthroat nature of the entertainment industry.

Main Characters

• Aubrey Mason: Representative of Assignments Unlimited, responsible for managing client assignments.
• Cannon: Chief operative tasked with delivering the kitten and ensuring the assignment's success.
• Benjamin Katz: A theatrical agent with a flamboyant demeanor, orchestrating the kitten delivery.
• Marie Lavour: The "kitten" in question, a French actress seeking her big break in England.

Plot Summary

Initial Assignment

The episode kicks off with Aubrey Mason receiving a file titled "A Kitten For Mr. Katz" (01:16). Mr. Katz, a theatrical agent, approaches Assignments Unlimited with an unusual request: the delivery of a kitten. Katz is portrayed as a man of few words but significant influence in the entertainment sector, juggling multiple projects across theater, vaudeville, television, and film.

Notable Quote:

"Mr. Katz is a man of few words, but he had a lot to say."
— Aubrey Mason (01:16)

Meeting Marie Lavour

Cannon is assigned to meet Mr. Katz at King's Cross station to collect the kitten. Upon arrival, he encounters Marie Lavour, who is revealed to be the "kitten." Their interaction is marked by humorous confusion over the term "kitten," blending feline puns with Cannon's earnestness.

Notable Quote:

"Here's my card. Send the account there and it'll be settled right away."
— Benjamin Katz (02:34)

Notable Quote:

"Is the idea distasteful to you, monsieur?"
— Marie Lavour (05:28)

Realization of Fraud

As Cannon interacts with Marie, he begins to suspect that something is amiss. Upon reporting back to Aubrey Mason, it becomes evident that Mr. Katz's request was a ruse. The true intent was to smuggle narcotics, with Marie Lavour being an unwitting pawn in Katz's scheme.

Notable Quote:

"If I find what I think I'll find, Mr. Katz, the fur is going to fly."
— Cannon (15:00)

Notable Quote:

"They should have called you rat."
— Cannon (23:27)

The Confrontation

The climax unfolds at the Four Swans Hotel in Waltham Cross, where Cannon confronts the real Mr. Katz and uncovers the illicit operation. A heated exchange ensues, revealing Katz's true intentions and leading to his downfall as the narcotics authorities move in.

Notable Quote:

"No, I'm looking for an old friend of mine, name of Katz."
— Cannon (15:57)

Notable Quote:

"I know it's all a mistake. I'll pay you well."
— Benjamin Katz (22:25)

Key Conversations and Insights

1. The Nature of Mr. Katz's Request (01:16 - 02:47)

   Aubrey Mason details the unconventional request from Mr. Katz, emphasizing the company's flexibility:

   "At Assignments Unlimited, we do anything anywhere at any time."
   — Aubrey Mason (00:50)

2. Cannon's Assignment Dilemma (02:29 - 07:21)

   Cannon grapples with the ambiguity of his mission, questioning the literal versus metaphorical interpretation of "kitten." His internal conflict highlights the challenges faced by operatives dealing with vague client instructions.

   "Should I follow the line of duty or countermand my chief's orders and change them to suit the situation?"
   — Cannon (07:01)

3. Marie Lavour's Predicament (07:36 - 09:53)

   Marie reveals her vulnerability as an aspiring actress with limited resources, relying on Assignments Unlimited for support. Her interactions with Cannon showcase the human side of assignments and the personal struggles behind professional façades.

   "I'm hoping for my big break in England. Mr. Katz says there is a good chance that I will get a part in a new film there to shoot at El Street."
   — Marie Lavour (08:20)

4. Unraveling the Fraud (12:15 - 18:13)

   Aubrey Mason and Cannon uncover discrepancies in Mr. Katz's story, leading to suspicions of fraudulent activity. Their teamwork and investigative prowess come to the fore as they piece together the truth behind the kitten delivery.

   "If Mr. Katz was in London, then why did he wish an escort for Ms. Lavour?"
   — Aubrey Mason (11:30)

5. The Final Showdown (20:04 - 23:27)

   The confrontation at the hotel deconstructs Katz's fraudulent scheme, with Cannon assertively demanding the return of the traveling bag containing narcotics. The exchange underscores themes of deception, loyalty, and the perils of the entertainment industry.

   "There’s enough cocaine in this cylinder to keep you on easy street for years."
   — Cannon (23:26)

Conclusion

Episode 33 of Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully blends suspense, humor, and intrigue, presenting a narrative that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish. The episode highlights the complexities of assignments in a cutthroat industry, the thin line between professional duty and personal morality, and the unforeseen twists that come with handling enigmatic clients like Mr. Katz. Through sharp dialogue and vivid character portrayals, the episode offers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era of radio entertainment.

Notable Quotes

• Aubrey Mason (01:16):
  "Mr. Katz is a man of few words, but he had a lot to say."

• Cannon (07:01):
  "Should I follow the line of duty or countermand my chief's orders and change them to suit the situation?"

• Marie Lavour (08:20):
  "I'm hoping for my big break in England. Mr. Katz says there is a good chance that I will get a part in a new film there to shoot at El Street."

• Cannon (15:00):
  "If I find what I think I'll find, Mr. Katz, the fur is going to fly."

• Cannon (23:27):
  "They should have called you rat."

This detailed summary encapsulates the essence of Episode 33, providing a comprehensive overview for both long-time listeners and newcomers. By focusing on key plot developments, character dynamics, and pivotal dialogues, the summary offers an engaging and informative account of the episode's content.