Father Knows Best - Vacation Arrives

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "Father Knows Best - Vacation Arrives"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Date: June 21, 2026
Episode Theme:
A light-hearted visit with the Anderson family as they grapple with one of summer's perennial questions: where should they go on vacation? Typical bickering, comical misunderstandings, and familial warmth abound as Jim Anderson tries to assert "Father knows best," only to learn, yet again, how family consensus (and practical realities) drive the Andersons' plans.

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Main Discussion Points & Insights

Family Vacation Planning: Round Lake vs. Highland Hills

• [01:49–11:20]
  • Jim Anderson is eager to break the family’s tradition of vacationing at Round Lake and suggests the upscale Highland Hills, motivated by a desire to "conduct myself like a successful businessman" and connect socially for business purposes.
  • Margaret Anderson expresses her preference for Round Lake, noting its informality and established family routine ("I like Round Lake. It's small, it's informal. And you've always liked it too." [02:17]).
  • The children, Bud, Betty, and Kathy, each lobby for their own ideal vacation (from summer camp to baseball retreats), resulting in a cacophony of competing ambitions.
  • The family attempts to resolve the debate through a vote—though with plenty of tongue-in-cheek skepticism about just how "fair" this process will be.

Jim Anderson:
"Anybody think I was asking you to go to Siberia to work in the salt mines!"
(09:05)

• The entire scene is filled with classic “Father Knows Best” humor as Jim’s attempt to take charge quickly devolves into comic chaos.

Financial Reality Strikes

• [12:52–13:58]
  • When Margaret’s secretary, Ms. Thomas, confirms the price for Highland Hills ("$54 a day"), Jim quickly realizes the plan is unworkable, especially compared to their usual $500-a-season cottage at Round Lake.

Ms. Thomas:
"Mr. Anderson, this is $54 a day."
(13:34)

Jim Anderson:
"Thank you very much, Ms. Thomas. I’ll... I’ll see you at the office in the morning."
(13:43)

The Big Pack and Departure Comedy

• [16:05–24:02]
  • Preparations for vacation provide a series of comic beats: misplaced bathing suits, too many bags, last-minute worries over household chores, and neighbors stopping in to wish them well or offer help.
  • Ed and Hector, the Andersons’ neighbors and friends, drop by to help and joke about the family’s chaos ("Strong back and weak mind." [18:17]).
  • The process of trying to leave gets bogged down by forgotten items, unresolved checklists, and the amusing logistical ballet of packing the car.

Bud Anderson:
"Boy, I don’t know what this family would do without me."
(19:31)

• A classic sitcom moment arrives when the Andersons finally drive off—only to realize they forgot Kathy and must turn back.

Bud Anderson:
"Say, dad… We forgot Kathy."
(26:07)

Neighborhood Banter and Sentimentality

• [27:51–29:19]
  • After the Andersons finally depart, their absence is immediately felt. The neighborhood becomes noticeably quieter, prompting affectionate, witty commentary from those left behind.
  • Neighbors muse on the Andersons’ unique presence and the bittersweet quiet their departure brings.

Margaret (Neighbor):
"Of course, I still think they had one child too many."
(28:33)

Hector:
"Oh, Kathy’s all right… she’s just full of pep, that’s all."
(28:39)

Memorable and Humorous Family Moments

• Kathy, the youngest, continues to steal scenes with her literal interpretations and childlike logic—like only putting worms “two in each hole” so they wouldn’t get lonely, then cheerfully solving her “one worm left over” issue by chopping it in two ([23:14–23:34]).
• The recurring thread of miscommunication and slightly exasperated parental responses give the episode a familiar, endearing tone.

---

Notable Quotes

| Timestamp | Speaker | Quote | |-----------|---------|-------| | 02:23 | Jim Anderson | "There's a certain dignity about Highland Hills." | | 09:05 | Jim Anderson | "Most ridiculous thing I’ve ever heard. Anybody think I was asking you to go to Siberia to work in the salt mines!" | | 11:20 | Jim Anderson | "Why should the whole family go to a place we know nothing about just because Dick Andrews is a lifeguard?" | | 13:34 | Ms. Thomas | "Mr. Anderson, this is $54 a day." | | 26:07 | Bud Anderson | "Say, dad… We forgot Kathy." | | 28:33 | Margaret (Neighbor) | "Of course, I still think they had one child too many." | | 28:39 | Hector | "Oh, Kathy’s all right, Elizabeth. She’s just full of pep, that’s all." |

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Episode Structure & Key Segments

| Segment | Timestamps | Highlights | |----------------------------|------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------| | Vacation Debate | 01:49–11:20 | Family debates vacation destination; chaos ensues | | Financial Reality Check | 12:52–13:58 | High cost of Highland Hills leads to abandoning the plan | | Packing & Preparedness | 16:05–24:02 | The Andersons pack up; neighbors visit; comical departure struggles | | The Forgotten Child | 26:04–27:40 | Andersons forget Kathy, return to retrieve her | | Neighborhood Reflections | 27:51–29:19 | Quieter neighborhood, affectionate jokes about the Andersons |

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Tone & Style

• The language is warm, comical, and slightly old-fashioned, reflecting the era of the show. The humor is rooted in everyday family foibles, miscommunication, and the gentle chaos of managing a household.
• Parental exasperation is paired with genuine affection, and the children’s antics are both a challenge and a delight.

---

Takeaways for Listeners

• This episode perfectly encapsulates the timeless challenges of family vacation planning: competing interests, financial limitations, and the lovable mishaps that arise in shared family life.
• Beyond the jokes and gags, the story underlines the importance of togetherness—even if "Father" isn’t always as decisive as he hopes.

---

For fans of classic radio, "Vacation Arrives" is a textbook example of domestic comedy from the golden age of American radio: witty banter, multi-generational misunderstandings, and a comforting message that—while plans may often go awry—there’s fun and fondness in simply being together.

Transcript

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[Jim Anderson]

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[Kathy Anderson]

Is Maxwell House really the only coffee in the world?

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, your father says so, and your father knows best.

[Narrator]

Yes, it's Father Knows Best transcribed in Hollywood starring Robert Young as Father. The half hour visit with your neighbors, the Andersons. Brought to you by America's favorite coffee, Maxwell House.

[Jim Anderson]

The coffee that's always good to the last drop. Quite a few years ago a poet said, write me a verse, my old machine.

[Narrator]

I lack for an inspiration. The skies are blue and the trees are green and I long for a long vacation. Well, writers aren't the only ones who

[Narrator/Commentator]

dream of blue skies and Elysian Fields.

[Narrator]

They just talk about it more than anyone else. Bankers and bricklayers, cobblers and carpenters. They all dream of vacation time, even as you and I. Even as do the Andersons in the white frame house on Maple Street.

[Jim Anderson]

Like this. Well, give me one reason. Give me one good reason.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, we've been spending our vacation at Round lake for almost 10 years.

[Hector]

That's what I mean.

[Jim Anderson]

We're in a rut.

[Margaret Anderson]

But you've always liked Round Lake. Why this sudden affection for Highland Hills?

[Jim Anderson]

Because, honey, look, I had a long talk with Henry Liggett today.

[Margaret Anderson]

You've said yourself we can't afford to do the things the Liggetts do.

[Jim Anderson]

But Henry said it isn't expensive. Maybe a little more than Round Lake, but not much.

[Margaret Anderson]

I like Round Lake. It's small, it's informal. And you've always liked it too.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, it isn't that I don't like Round Lake. It's just that. Well, you mustn't forget that we're getting ahead in Springfield. I'm a successful businessman. I've got to conduct myself like a successful businessman. There's a certain dignity about Highland Hills.

[Kathy Anderson]

Father.

[Hector]

What is it, Betty?

[Kathy Anderson]

Did you remember to pick up my blue dress at the cleaners?

[Jim Anderson]

It won't be ready until tomorrow.

[Kathy Anderson]

He said he'd have it today.

[Jim Anderson]

Remind me to call my lawyer in the morning. We'll sue. She's got a whole closet full of dresses. But if she can't have that particular one. What was I saying?

[Margaret Anderson]

Highland Hills is dignified.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, well, we'll meet a lot of people who may do me a great deal of good in a business way.

[Bud Anderson]

And besides, they have a wonderful golf course.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, there are. No, I mean Margaret. Henry Liggett assured me.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, you don't seem to understand. A vacation has a definite purpose. You're supposed to relax.

[Jim Anderson]

Why can't you relax at Highland Hills?

[Margaret Anderson]

Because it's a very fashionable resort. Everyone is always dressed to the eyes. There isn't a peaceful moment in the

[Jim Anderson]

entire day that isn't so. Why, Henry Leggett told me.

[Margaret Anderson]

I'm sorry, dear.

[Kathy Anderson]

What is it, Kathy?

[Jim Anderson]

May I have a glass of milk?

[Kathy Anderson]

Not now, dear.

[Margaret Anderson]

We'll be having our dinner in a few minutes.

[Kathy Anderson]

But I'm thirsty.

[Jim Anderson]

Drink some water.

[Kathy Anderson]

Water, okay.

[Jim Anderson]

Sounds as though she never heard of this stuff.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim. You know, there are several things you seem to have forgotten. First, we've had our reservation at Round Lake since last August.

[Jim Anderson]

That's no problem, Margaret. They can get rid of that cottage in two minutes if we give it up.

[Margaret Anderson]

And second, you take only a two week vacation. And, of course, weekends. But the children and I are gone for the entire summer. Certainly you ought to consider our feelings in the matter.

[Jim Anderson]

All right, I'll tell you what. We'll take a vote on it.

[Margaret Anderson]

What kind of a vote?

[Jim Anderson]

I'll explain the whole setup to the kids and then we'll take a vote. Round Lake versus Highland Hills. That's fair, isn't it?

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, that's the silliest idea I've ever heard.

[Kathy Anderson]

Do you mean you're going to let

[Margaret Anderson]

a mere infant like Kathy.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, she'll only have half of them, Jim. And to make sure I get a fair shake, I'll take the other half.

[Margaret Anderson]

All right, Jim, I just hope you know what you're doing.

[Jim Anderson]

I think I do.

[Hector]

Betty. Bud. Kathy.

[Jim Anderson]

Coming, Daddy.

[Bud Anderson]

Boy, it's about time. I'm starved.

[Margaret Anderson]

Your father wants to talk to you, Bud. About what?

[Bud Anderson]

I didn't do anything, did I?

[Kathy Anderson]

You want me, Father?

[Hector]

Come down here.

[Jim Anderson]

We've got something important to discuss.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, okay. What's all the shooting for, partner?

[Margaret Anderson]

Kathy, if you don't.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Kathy, look at your dress. It's a splash.

[Jim Anderson]

That's the greatest understatement of the week. What were you doing? Deep sea diving in the sink?

[Kathy Anderson]

I was taking a drink.

[Jim Anderson]

Why didn't you use a glass?

[Kathy Anderson]

You said I should drink some water. You didn't say to use a glass.

[Jim Anderson]

Daddy.

[Kathy Anderson]

Yes, Daddy, Breathe. What?

[Jim Anderson]

I Haven't told you to breathe lately. I wouldn't want you to stop now.

[Bud Anderson]

Dad, I think I know where I can find it if somebody didn't take it.

[Jim Anderson]

Somebody didn't take what? The library book. What library book?

[Bud Anderson]

The one I lost. Is that what you want to talk to me about? No.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Father, Mr. Minassian promised that he'd have the blue dress ready today.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty, he didn't feel well. He had a headache.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, well, I didn't need it anyway.

[Bud Anderson]

Dad.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it, Bud?

[Bud Anderson]

Joe Phillips and I are going to chip in and pay for the parking ticket together.

[Jim Anderson]

You got a parking ticket?

[Bud Anderson]

He didn't want to talk about that either, huh?

[Jim Anderson]

No, but we will.

[Bud Anderson]

Yeah, I figured we would.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, we only have a few minutes before.

[Jim Anderson]

All right, Margaret, I'll tell them about it right now.

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, while you're doing that, I'll put the biscuits in the oven.

[Jim Anderson]

That'll be fine, dear. Kids, what would you say if I told you we weren't going to Round Lake this summer?

[Kathy Anderson]

Father.

[Bud Anderson]

Holy cow, dad.

[Kathy Anderson]

We didn't do anything, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Now, wait a minute. There's no need to get all upset. I was merely trying to find out what you think about going somewhere besides Round Lake, that's all.

[Kathy Anderson]

Besides? You mean we can go someplace else for the whole summer? Creepers.

[Bud Anderson]

Hey, I know a good place to go.

[Kathy Anderson]

Now, just a minute, Bud. I want to go to Camp Mishawaski. Wait a minute, Father. There's the most heavenly place.

[Bud Anderson]

I know a place way up in the hills. And Joe Phillips says they don't do anything all day but play baseball.

[Jim Anderson]

Stop it.

[Kathy Anderson]

Dick Andrews and Bill Martin are going to be the lifeguards. And they told me you've never seen. Seen any place.

[Jim Anderson]

I said stop it.

[Kathy Anderson]

Patty Davis is going to Camp Mishawski. And if she can go to Camp Mishawski, I don't see why I can't go to camp.

[Margaret Anderson]

Stop it, Mishaw.

[Jim Anderson]

I've never heard anything like this in my life. Anybody think you were reared in a barn?

[Kathy Anderson]

But, Father, you said.

[Jim Anderson]

Never mind what I said. I didn't say anything about Dick Andrews or Joe Phillips or any idiotic camp Wishy Washy Mishawski.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Thank you.

[Jim Anderson]

Now, if you'll just simmer down for a few minutes, maybe I can get a word in edgewise. It's not a question of going just any place. I've got another spot all picked out.

[Kathy Anderson]

Is it Camp Mishawski?

[Jim Anderson]

No, it isn't Camp Mishawski.

[Kathy Anderson]

Gee whiz.

[Jim Anderson]

And it isn't the place where Dick Andrews is the lifeguard. Or the place where they do nothing but play baseball with antelopes all day.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jumping creepers.

[Jim Anderson]

Go ahead, Bud.

[Bud Anderson]

What?

[Narrator/Commentator]

I said, go ahead.

[Jim Anderson]

Drop the other shoe.

[Bud Anderson]

Holy cow.

[Jim Anderson]

All right, now, I've been talking this whole thing over with your mother and we've agreed to put it to a vote. We'll decide between Round Lake and. Yes, Highland Hills.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, no.

[Bud Anderson]

Gosh, dad, what do you want to go there for?

[Kathy Anderson]

I want to go to Camp Mishaw.

[Jim Anderson]

Yeah, go to bed.

[Kathy Anderson]

It isn't even dark yet.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, close your eyes and go to bed.

[Kathy Anderson]

Can't I just close my mouth?

[Jim Anderson]

All right, but keep it closed.

[Kathy Anderson]

Yes, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. Anybody think I was asking you to go to Siberia to work in the salt mines?

[Bud Anderson]

I'd rather go to Siberia.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, we'll see if it can be arranged.

[Kathy Anderson]

Father, J.D. liggett went to Highland last year and she hated it.

[Hector]

Is that so?

[Jim Anderson]

Her father said they had a wonderful

[Kathy Anderson]

time, but it's just like the old ladies home.

[Bud Anderson]

You have to walk around on your tiptoes and you can't even talk.

[Jim Anderson]

Kathy.

[Kathy Anderson]

I didn't say anything, Daddy, Highland Hills

[Jim Anderson]

is one of the finest resorts in the entire country.

[Kathy Anderson]

But it's so dead, Father. There aren't any boys there or anything.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, Bud will be there.

[Hector]

And he's a boy, Father.

[Bud Anderson]

Boy, am I gonna have fun.

[Jim Anderson]

Look, I know it's your vacation. I want you to have a good time. But don't you think we ought to pick out a place we can all enjoy? You mustn't be selfish about it, Bud. You wouldn't like a place that's all cluttered up with Betty's boyfriends, would you?

[Bud Anderson]

I'd like it better than Highland Hills.

[Jim Anderson]

And Betty certainly wouldn't want to go to a spot where they do nothing but play baseball, would you, Betty?

[Margaret Anderson]

I'd rather go there than Highland Hills.

[Jim Anderson]

And you certainly wouldn't want to wind up in a hole called Washy Whiskey

[Kathy Anderson]

Mishaw.

[Jim Anderson]

That's even worse now at Highland Hills.

[Kathy Anderson]

Father, why can't we just go back to Round Lake?

[Bud Anderson]

Everybody likes it up there.

[Jim Anderson]

Highland Hills is a place for comfort and relaxation. It is noted as a fisherman's paradise. A spot where whole families can enjoy a peaceful, restful vacation in the most attractive of surroundings. Nestled in the foothills.

[Kathy Anderson]

Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it, Kathy?

[Kathy Anderson]

Patti Davis is going to Camp Mishawaski, and she's my best friend. And I don't care if I do have to go to bed. I don't like Highland Hills.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, I'm not concerned whether you do or not. Only have half a boat.

[Kathy Anderson]

What? Jim, dinner's ready.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, we'll be a second, honey. I was just explaining to the children.

[Kathy Anderson]

Mother, we don't want to go to Highland Hills.

[Bud Anderson]

You can't have any fun up there, Mom. Honest you can.

[Jim Anderson]

Now just a minute, Jim.

[Margaret Anderson]

The children feel that strongly about it,

[Jim Anderson]

but they haven't given me a chance to explain.

[Margaret Anderson]

We've always been very happy at Round Lake.

[Jim Anderson]

It's not a question of Round Lake. They've all got a different place they want to go. And for the most idiotic reasons. Because they play baseball or because Dick Andrews is a lifeguard. Why should the whole family go to a place we know nothing about just because Dick Andrews is a lifeguard?

[Margaret Anderson]

Betty, why don't you answer the phone?

[Jim Anderson]

I'll answer it myself. Man wants to do something special for his family and what thanks does he get? Everybody acts as though I was sending him to jail. Silliest family I've ever seen.

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[Margaret Anderson]

Hello, Mr. Anderson. I have all the information for you on Highland hill.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, hello Ms. Thomas. What did you find out?

[Margaret Anderson]

They have a two bedroom cottage available for the season.

[Hector]

Good.

[Margaret Anderson]

And the manager says he's quite sure that cooking privileges can be arranged.

[Hector]

Fine.

[Jim Anderson]

What did he say about the rate?

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, there isn't much choice, Mr. Anderson. They just had this one cottage left at $54. That's about meals, of course.

[Narrator/Commentator]

$54.

[Jim Anderson]

Say, that's wonderful. That's Even less than Round Lake.

[Margaret Anderson]

I don't think so, Mr. Anderson.

[Jim Anderson]

Ms. Thomas, we've been paying $500 a season at Round Lake, and that comes to over $60 a week.

[Margaret Anderson]

Mr. Anderson, this is $54 a day.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, lastly. But

[Hector]

what?

[Margaret Anderson]

$54 a day.

[Jim Anderson]

$54 a day.

[Margaret Anderson]

That's right.

[Jim Anderson]

Thank you very much, Ms. Thomas. I'll. I'll see you at the office in the morning.

[Margaret Anderson]

Would you like me to call them about the reservation tonight?

[Jim Anderson]

No, I. I think we better forget about it for the time being. I thank you again, Ms. Thomas.

[Margaret Anderson]

Good night.

[Jim Anderson]

Good night, Ms. Thomas.

[Bud Anderson]

Good.

[Jim Anderson]

$4.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, everything's getting cold. You won't enjoy your dinner at all.

[Jim Anderson]

What?

[Kathy Anderson]

I said it.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, what is it?

[Jim Anderson]

Nothing, Margaret. But I've just had a great idea.

[Hector]

Oh, yes, sir.

[Jim Anderson]

Absolutely great. Instead of arguing about Highland Hills and all those other places, why don't we just go up to round. Well, everybody certainly had his own idea

[Narrator/Commentator]

on the big vacation. So often that's the case, we all want something different. But I'm pretty sure there's one case where millions of folks all want the very same thing. I think you'll all agree in a cup of coffee flavors the thing you want. And naturally, when you buy a pound of coffee, you're after the most in flavor for every penny you spend. That's just what you get too. In our Maxwell House coffee. Here's the most famous flavor in all the world. Wonderful good to the last drop flavor. That makes you say, mmm, that's real coffee. You won't find that famous flavor in any other coffee either. No coffee but Maxwell House. And for good reason. We have a recipe, a mighty special recipe. With it, our Maxwell House people select certain fine varieties of coffees, then blend them in a particular way. It's the one way, the one recipe for famous good to the last drop flavor. And it spells the big difference between the flavor of just any coffee and the wonderful goodness of America's favorite brand. But taste that difference for yourself. See how much more flavor, more real enjoyment you get for your money. In our maximum well House Coffee. Bring home that familiar blue tin. Tomorrow, enjoy coffee that's always good to the last drop.

[Narrator]

It's a hot Saturday in Springfield.

[Jim Anderson]

A hot, sticky Saturday with the heat

[Narrator]

clinging like a moist blanket to the city streets and the leaves hanging limp and motionless on the branches of dusty trees. In the white frame house on Maple street, however, there's great activity. The Andersons are preparing to leave on their vacation.

[Jim Anderson]

And that's always a hectic Occasion like this. Let's see now. Does that take care of all the office details?

[Margaret Anderson]

Ms. Thomas, you wanted to send a memo to Mr. Buckley.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, that's right. Memo to Phil Buckley, home office. Subject summer vacation. Dear Phil.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Jim, I'm sorry.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, Margaret?

[Kathy Anderson]

Before Bud takes your bag out, do you want to take both pairs of bathing trunks?

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, dear.

[Kathy Anderson]

The old pair's full of moth holes.

[Hector]

Well, then leave them out.

[Margaret Anderson]

I may be able to fix them.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, then put them in.

[Kathy Anderson]

But I think you really ought to

[Margaret Anderson]

get a new pair anyway.

[Hector]

Then leave them out.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, I think I'll take them along just in case.

[Hector]

All right, dear.

[Jim Anderson]

Where were we? Miss Thomas?

[Margaret Anderson]

Subject summer vacation. Dear Phil.

[Jim Anderson]

Dear Phil, as is my usual custom, I'm dividing my annual vacation into two separate weeks, the first of which I am about to take now in order to establish my family at Round Lake.

[Kathy Anderson]

Father.

[Hector]

What is it, Betty?

[Kathy Anderson]

Mr. Manasse have never brought back my blue dress.

[Jim Anderson]

I brought it back myself.

[Kathy Anderson]

No, you didn't, Father. You said he had a headache and. Oh, never mind. Here it is.

[Jim Anderson]

I'm sorry, Ms. Thomas. What did I say?

[Margaret Anderson]

In order to establish my family at Round Lake.

[Jim Anderson]

Ms. Thomas, when you get into the office on Monday, why don't you just copy the memo I sent him last year? He won't know the difference.

[Margaret Anderson]

All right.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, call Mr. Gribble first thing Monday. Good grief.

[Margaret Anderson]

But he's taking the bags out.

[Hector]

Kathy.

[Margaret Anderson]

You sent her out to bury those worms. Oh, well, do you want me to answer it?

[Jim Anderson]

No, thanks. I'll see who it is. Wants to carry a whole can of worms up to Round Lake in my suitcase. Hi, Jim. Oh, hello, Ed. Come on in.

[Narrator/Commentator]

I just came by to see if

[Bud Anderson]

you needed any help.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, that's mighty nice of you, Ed. You know me. Strong back and weak mind.

[Kathy Anderson]

Who was that? Jim?

[Jim Anderson]

It's Ed Davis, honey.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Ed, I want to speak to you.

[Margaret Anderson]

I'll be right down.

[Hector]

Okay, Margaret.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Just about ready to push off, huh?

[Hector]

Just about.

[Jim Anderson]

And so help me, you'd think they were going away forever. You've never seen such a lot of junk. Get your trunks packed. Oh, sure. They went off yesterday, but we've got about a dozen bags. I don't know how I'm going to get them all in the car. Yeah, well, you'll manage.

[Margaret Anderson]

Ed, I'm so glad you stopped by. I wanted to give you our key. Oh, of course, I don't suppose there'll be an emergency, but if there is. Well, there it is.

[Jim Anderson]

I'll keep an eye on the house. Margaret, don't you worry about a thing.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, thank you, Ed.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, you know I'll be back in a week. It isn't as though the house is going to be deserted all summer.

[Margaret Anderson]

I know, dear, but I'll just feel better.

[Bud Anderson]

Dad.

[Jim Anderson]

We're in the hall, Bud.

[Bud Anderson]

Hey, Dad, I got everything in except Betty's suitcase.

[Jim Anderson]

Why didn't you put that in?

[Bud Anderson]

She's still packing it.

[Kathy Anderson]

It's all packed.

[Jim Anderson]

That girl's got ears like a rabbit. Except when you need her.

[Hector]

Bring it down, Betty.

[Kathy Anderson]

I can't close it.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, Bud, go upstairs and sit on Betty's bag.

[Bud Anderson]

Are we almost ready to leave?

[Jim Anderson]

We are ready to leave. Take Betty's bag out to the car and we'll be all set.

[Bud Anderson]

Okay. Boy, I don't know what this family would do without me.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, are you really ready to go?

[Hector]

Sure.

[Jim Anderson]

I just have to tell Miss Thomas one more thing. Miss Thomas?

[Kathy Anderson]

Yes?

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, great. Busy little joint, isn't it? We'll get out of here at midnight.

[Kathy Anderson]

Are you, Jim?

[Jim Anderson]

Well, hello, hack.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Elizabeth.

[Margaret Anderson]

Margaret, dear. We just had to come over and say goodbye. Oh, how sweet.

[Hector]

I told her you'd be up to your ears, but she wouldn't listen.

[Margaret Anderson]

Hector.

[Hector]

Well, they're going away on a vacation. They haven't got time to stand around and gab.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, Hector, you know we're always glad to see you and Elizabeth.

[Jim Anderson]

Say, heck, would you and Ed like to do me a big favorite?

[Hector]

Sure.

[Jim Anderson]

Just name it. See if Bud got our bags in the car all right somehow.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Well, he did it too fast.

[Hector]

Sure. Come on, let's go in.

[Jim Anderson]

We'll have everything all set for you, Jim.

[Hector]

Thanks.

[Margaret Anderson]

Is there anything you want me to do, Margaret? I can't think of a thing, dear. I've locked all the windows, defrosted the icebox.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, everything is taken care of. Why don't you and Elizabeth go outside?

[Margaret Anderson]

You won't forget to lock the doors?

[Jim Anderson]

The doors lock all by themselves, but I'll make sure they're good and locked.

[Margaret Anderson]

All right, dear. Come along, Elizabeth. Men can be so stupid about these things, can't they? Oh, they mean well.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, Miss Thomas.

[Margaret Anderson]

Yes, Mr. Anderson?

[Jim Anderson]

Where were we?

[Margaret Anderson]

You were giving me a message for Mr. Gribble.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, well, I'll give it to you on the way out. No, we'll go out the back way.

[Margaret Anderson]

All right.

[Jim Anderson]

Call Mr. Gribble on Monday and tell him that all the figures for the group insurance setup that been forwarded to New York.

[Margaret Anderson]

Right.

[Jim Anderson]

We won't have any definite word for at least a week. And by that time I'll be back in the office.

[Margaret Anderson]

Right.

[Jim Anderson]

You got it all straight now?

[Margaret Anderson]

The group insurance figures have been forwarded to New York. We'll have word in about a week. And by then you'll be back in the office.

[Jim Anderson]

Good girl. Was everything all right, Ed?

[Hector]

Well, not quite. Bud had the bags in all right, but he didn't leave room for anybody to sit.

[Jim Anderson]

That's my boy.

[Hector]

Oh, gosh.

[Bud Anderson]

How did I know?

[Jim Anderson]

We've got it all set now. Jim, Where's Kathy?

[Kathy Anderson]

Kathy. I'm coming, Mother. When Bud sat on my suitcase, he broke something.

[Bud Anderson]

I did not.

[Kathy Anderson]

Well, I heard something crack.

[Margaret Anderson]

I think going away is so exciting, don't you, Margaret? Oh, yes, very exciting. Not that I'd know, of course. I just sit here and this sweltering town and.

[Kathy Anderson]

Kathy.

[Jim Anderson]

Ge Gods, what have you been up to now?

[Kathy Anderson]

You told me to bury the worms.

[Jim Anderson]

I didn't tell you to crawl in with them. Betty, see if you can scrape some of that mud off her face.

[Kathy Anderson]

Yes, Father.

[Jim Anderson]

All right, let's get in. I'd like to see if we can't get up there before Labor Day.

[Margaret Anderson]

Have a nice time, Mr. An. And don't worry about the office. Everything's going to be fine.

[Jim Anderson]

I hope so.

[Kathy Anderson]

Goodbye, Margaret.

[Margaret Anderson]

And if you have time, dear, because

[Kathy Anderson]

sure to drop us a card.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, I shall.

[Hector]

Catch a big one for me, Jim. Okay. Heck, a lot of fun, pal. I'll sure try.

[Jim Anderson]

Are you all set?

[Bud Anderson]

All set, dad.

[Hector]

Well, we'll be seeing you.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it, honey?

[Margaret Anderson]

I have the most horrible feeling. I think I forgot to turn off the hot water heater.

[Jim Anderson]

No, Margaret. You took care of everything, dear.

[Margaret Anderson]

Would you mind very much if we made sure?

[Jim Anderson]

You mean you want me to go back?

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, I'll go.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Oh, no.

[Jim Anderson]

Never mine. Is anything wrong, Jim?

[Hector]

No, Ed.

[Jim Anderson]

Everything's fine. I'll only be a minute.

[Kathy Anderson]

Be sure it's off all the way, Jim.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, dear.

[Kathy Anderson]

Mother, I can't get the dirt off her face.

[Margaret Anderson]

She looks like she's been eating it. What were you doing, Kathy?

[Kathy Anderson]

Well, Daddy said I had to bury the worms, so I was digging a lot of holes.

[Bud Anderson]

Why didn't you just dump them all in one hole?

[Kathy Anderson]

They were too crowded. I just put two in each hole cuz I didn't want them to be lonesome. But I had one left over.

[Hector]

So you had to dig up a friend for him, huh?

[Kathy Anderson]

Gosh, I didn't even think of that. I just chopped him in two.

[Jim Anderson]

The pilot light was off, Margaret. You had nothing to worry about.

[Margaret Anderson]

Thank you, dear. I feel much better now.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, I guess we're about ready to go.

[Bud Anderson]

What's the matter, Dad?

[Jim Anderson]

I can't find the car keys.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, Jim.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, I had them two minutes ago. I started the motor.

[Bud Anderson]

Maybe you left him in the house.

[Margaret Anderson]

Do you want Bud to go inside and see, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

Never mind. I'll go.

[Margaret Anderson]

And, Jim, see if the door to the basement's locked.

[Hector]

I locked it on the way out.

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, try it again, dear, just to be sure.

[Kathy Anderson]

Mother, I can't even scrape the mud off her face. Stick your tongue out, dopey. No, I don't want to get washed with spits.

[Margaret Anderson]

Kathy, get some water at the hose bib and wet your handkerchief.

[Kathy Anderson]

Okay, Mommy.

[Margaret Anderson]

And come right back.

[Hector]

Say, Margaret, I told Jim we'd expect him for dinner at least once a week.

[Margaret Anderson]

That's awfully nice of you, Hector.

[Bud Anderson]

Oh, fish tash.

[Margaret Anderson]

It's absolutely nothing. You know, we're more than glad to have him.

[Hector]

Tell him to come over now, will you, Margaret?

[Margaret Anderson]

I certainly shall. And why don't you mention it once in a while, Ms. Thomas? I'll be very glad to.

[Bud Anderson]

Hey, we're never gonna get started.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, I think your father's coming now. Did you find them, Jim?

[Jim Anderson]

They were on the stove.

[Hector]

Well, hold on to your hat, kid.

[Jim Anderson]

Everything's all locked. Everything's all turned off and everything's all put away. Now, do you suppose we can get out of here?

[Margaret Anderson]

I hope so, dear.

[Jim Anderson]

Have we got everything? All the luggage, all the packages, all the junk?

[Margaret Anderson]

I think so.

[Bud Anderson]

Shove over, will you, Betty? I haven't got any room.

[Kathy Anderson]

Well, who has?

[Bud Anderson]

Oh, pull your suitcase around. It's sticking me in the ribs.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, don't be so delicate.

[Hector]

Okay, here we go.

[Kathy Anderson]

Bye. Have a nice time.

[Jim Anderson]

By golly, this time I think we're

[Hector]

going to do it. See you later.

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, we're finally on our way.

[Jim Anderson]

You know, I've never in all my life seen a family quite like this one. We go through the same thing every year, dad. When I was a boy, we used to go away for the summer and we never had all this excitement. When we were ready to go, we went.

[Bud Anderson]

Dad.

[Jim Anderson]

But not this thing. It isn't the stove, it's the ice box. If you don't forget one thing, you forget something else.

[Bud Anderson]

Say, dad.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it, Bud?

[Bud Anderson]

We forgot Kathy.

[Hector]

Oh, no.

[Narrator/Commentator]

The flavor of truly good coffee. What a wonderful thing it is. Hot or iced any time of day. Yes, it's flavor that counts in coffee. With our Maxwell House coffee, we aim to do everything we can to Bring you the most in flavor. We start with our famous recipe that means extra flavor blended in every pound. But we don't stop there. You see, air steals coffee flavor. And ordinary containers, like paper bags can't prevent roasted coffee from losing flavor, whether it's ground or whole bean. That's why we take Maxwell House, fresh and fragrant from our roasting ovens and carefully vacuum pack it in the familiar blue tins. No air can get in, no flavor can get out. And you get all the flavor and freshness you pay for. So for your money's worth and more in real enjoyment, make your coffee Maxwell House always good to the last drop.

[Narrator]

It's just a few minutes later in the driveway outside the white frame house on Maple Street. The Andersons have returned, retrieved the missing Kathy and are on their way again.

[Jim Anderson]

Or at least we hope they are. Like this.

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, I guess they're finally gone. I wouldn't be so sure. With that family, you never can be sure of anything. Hector, where have you been?

[Hector]

I just went over to turn off the water. Kathy left it running.

[Jim Anderson]

Hey, want to hear something?

[Margaret Anderson]

Listen.

[Jim Anderson]

It's quiet, isn't it?

[Hector]

Yeah, it sure is.

[Jim Anderson]

You take a family like the Andersons out of a neighborhood and the place sure calms down.

[Hector]

Nice, isn't it?

[Jim Anderson]

Yeah, for about 10 minutes.

[Margaret Anderson]

They're a wonderful family, aren't they?

[Jim Anderson]

One of the best.

[Margaret Anderson]

Of course, I still think they had one child too many.

[Hector]

Oh, Kathy's all right. Elizabeth. She's just full of pep, that's all.

[Margaret Anderson]

She's certainly full of something.

[Jim Anderson]

Gosh, I can remember the day she was born. She was just a tiny little thing. And Bud and Betty.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Her ass can be awfully dead around here.

[Jim Anderson]

No noise, no excitement, no broken windows. I'm sure gonna miss them.

[Hector]

Yeah, they're nice people, all right.

[Jim Anderson]

Jim and Margaret, just as nice as they come.

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, stop sounding so mournful, both of you. They'll be back, all of them, in eight weeks.

[Narrator]

That they will. Neighbors, each and every one of them. Yes, Father Knows Best is leaving the air for its summer vacation. But we'll all be back on September 7th. Margaret, Betty, Kathy, Bud, Roy Barkey and the Maxwell House Orchestra. Yours truly, Bill Foreman. And of course, Father Jim Anderson himself,

[Hector]

Robert Young,

[Narrator]

Now yours to enjoy an instant coffee you'll love for breakfast every morning. An instant coffee you'll be proud to serve to your dinner guests. It's instant Maxwell House, the instant coffee with a famous flavor. Here's the happiest combination in coffee. Wonderful. Good to the last drop. Flavor combined with the convenience and thrift of coffee made instantly in the cup. Tomorrow try Instant Maxwell House, the instant

[Jim Anderson]

coffee with a famous flavor instantly good to the last drop.

[Narrator]

Now may I wish you all a pleasant summer and ask that you drive very carefully so that you'll be around to join us again in the fall. So until Thursday, September 7, good night, good luck and happy times from the star of our show, Robert Young, and the makers of Maxwell House, America's favorite brand of coffee, always good to the last drop. Father Knows Best was transcribed in Hollywood and written by Ed James. Now hear the new cass daily show on NBC.

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