Hidden somewhere in Chicago is a cigar box containing $5,000.
Actually, there probably are a few cash-stuffed cigar boxes hidden around the city, but claiming this one won’t get you shot.
The Excalibur Quest is a citywide treasure hunt sponsored by General Cigars, manufacturer of Excalibur stogies, which is fronting the dough and dropping a clue a week for two months–or until the prize is found–at tobacco retailers throughout the city and suburbs.
Smoke shops such as Updown Tobacco (1550 N. Wells St.) and Strictly Men Tobacco (13 River Oaks Dr., Calumet City) reveal the clues on Fridays and post updates on Excalibur Quest boards. Some retailers have made parties out of the revelations–nothing goes with treasure hunting like a glass of Chablis and a cheese tray.
The first clue (In Arthur’s hood, you must seek a knight of no fame. His forename is Jerry, not Lancelot or Gawain.) was revealed April 1.
The second was dropped Friday. (This knight wears no armor, he carries no lance, shield, battle-ax or mace. You will find him on Saturdays, from 6 to 10 a.m., encamped at his base.)
If you’re just hearing about this contest, don’t sweat. Spokeswoman Victoria McKee predicts it will take six weeks of hints before anybody draws a bead on the loot.
“Everyone in Chicago is bright,” she said, revealing a lack of knowledge of the Second City, “but these clues are pretty difficult.”
She hinted that cigar lovers might have an edge as the rounds advance and the clues become smokier.
We at the Guy Page have already scoured local gentlemen’s clubs with no luck.
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Treasure hunters 18 years and older should visit www.cigarworld.com/quest.