Lux Radio Theatre - Goodbye My Fancy

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Lux Radio Theatre - Goodbye, My Fancy
Date: July 22, 2026
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

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Overview

This episode features a full broadcast of "Goodbye, My Fancy" from the Lux Radio Theatre, starring Rosalind Russell as Agatha Reed and Robert Young as Dr. Jim Merrill. Set in the early 1950s, the narrative follows Congresswoman Agatha Reed as she returns to her alma mater, Good Hope College, to receive an honorary degree—a journey that forces her and those around her to confront long-buried scandals, regrets, and ideals about education, personal integrity, and love.

The episode blends witty dialogue, touching reunions, and vibrant social commentary on academic freedom and gender roles, all delivered with the charm and sharpness characteristic of Golden Age radio drama.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

1. Agatha Reed’s Return to Good Hope College

• Agatha, a respected Congresswoman and Good Hope alumna, is invited back to receive an honorary degree.
• Her secretary, Woody, and her old acquaintance, Matt Cole, a war photographer, provide insight into her busy life and the emotional complexities of her return.
• Quote: Agatha Reed: “I am going to enjoy this weekend. I am going to be sentimental. I am going to cry. I am going to walk barefoot down memory lane with ivy entwined in my hair.” (04:13)

2. Identity and Scandal

• Controversy arises among the college’s leadership: Agatha was expelled years ago for an overnight transgression, which she concealed to protect Jim Merrill's future as college president.
• The board debates whether to go through with the honor, wary that her past could spark scandal if publicized.
• Dr. Merrill insists on moving forward, advocating forgiveness and recognition of Agatha’s merits.
• Quote: Dr. Merrill: “Hope meted out some pretty harsh punishment to her. I think it's time we told her we were sorry... she’s one of the most outstanding women in the nation.” (04:08)

3. Reunions and Rekindled Relationships

• Agatha’s return reignites old relationships:
  • With Dr. Merrill, suggesting an unresolved romance from their student days.
  • With Matt Cole, who both professionally and personally challenges Agatha’s choices, trying to draw her back into his life.
• Quote: Matt Cole: “We were a nice snapshot, but never a family portrait.” (07:19)

4. Themes of Academic Freedom and Courage

• A pivotal conflict involves Agatha’s documentary film, intended to be shown at the college. While lauded for its bold message about the dangers of book burning and oppression, college trustees (notably Griswold) fear its controversial content.
• Jim Merrill is pressured to ban the film to appease benefactors, prompting a crisis of conscience about the role of education and the cost of compromise.
• Quote: Agatha Reed: “You're not protecting them, Mr. Griswold, you're destroying them. A college is where the future of the world begins...” (37:54)
• The struggle highlights tensions between protecting institutional reputation and championing truth.

5. Honesty, Integrity, and Personal Growth

• Both Agatha and Merrill are compelled to confront their fears and failures: Agatha faces her past shame, Merrill his acquiescence to powerful trustees rather than principled leadership.
• Through direct confrontation and emotional dialogue, Merrill ultimately chooses honesty, resigning his presidency after acknowledging he nearly failed to defend academic freedom.
• Quote: Dr. Merrill: “I realized I had almost not let them see it. That’s when I knew that everything you said last night was true. That I had no right to be the president of a college.” (50:04)

6. Resolution and Moving Forward

• Agatha decides not to rekindle her relationship with Merrill, realizing they have grown apart over the years. Instead, she sets her own course, choosing professional commitment and leaving Good Hope with closure rather than regret.
• The episode closes with reconciliations and decisions made, emphasizing how the past can inform, but not dictate, the future.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

On Returning Home and Facing the Past

• Agatha Reed (sentimental about the college):
  • “This trip back to the cradle...I am going to walk barefoot down memory lane with ivy entwined in my hair.” (04:13)

On Courage and Responsibility

• Agatha Reed (education and freedom):
  • “You’re not protecting them, Mr. Griswold, you’re destroying them. A college is where the future of the world begins. Professors aren’t intellectual babysitters. It’s their job to bring some light into this muddled world.” (37:54)

On Integrity and Sacrifice

• Dr. James Merrill (about the film and his resignation):
  • “I stood in back of the theater a little while ago and watched them looking at the picture. Suddenly I realized I had almost not let them see it. That’s when I knew...I had no right to be the president of a college.” (50:04)

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:30 – 01:47: Introduction of the play and main characters
• 04:04 – 05:20: Board discovers Agatha’s controversial past
• 14:06 – 15:35: Agatha and Jim Merrill reunite alone, confront past feelings
• 25:02 – 26:44: Matt Cole and Agatha debate nostalgia and change
• 31:35 – 38:33: Conflict over Agatha’s film, challenge to college values
• 49:04 – 51:14: Climax: Merrill’s confession, resignation, and reconciliation with his daughter
• 52:55 – 54:27: Agatha and Matt’s final negotiation about their relationship and future

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Tone and Delivery

The show maintains a brisk, witty, and emotionally charged tone typical of mid-century radio drama, with sharp banter, heartfelt confessions, and ideological clashes. Rosalind Russell and Robert Young bring warmth and gravitas, while supporting roles provide comic relief and tension.

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Conclusion

"Goodbye, My Fancy" blends political drama with personal reckoning, using the setting of an American college to pose timeless questions about honor, integrity, educational responsibility, and the costs of both conformity and rebellion. The episode stands as a testament to Golden Age radio’s ability to tackle weighty themes with both heart and humor.

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Recommended for:
Fans of classic radio drama, lovers of vintage Hollywood storytelling, and listeners interested in the cultural crossroads of 20th-century America.

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Note: Advertisement segments and non-content interruptions (Spinquest promos, She’s Birdie, McDonalds, etc.) have been omitted for clarity and focus.

Transcript

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[Narrator/Producer Irving Cummings]

From Hollywood, the Hollywood Radio Theater, Starring Rosalind Russell and Robert Young in Goodbye, My Fancy. Ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. Irving Cummings.

[Claude Griswold]

Greetings in Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen. Right now let's introduce tonight's play, Goodbye, My Fancy. It's a scintillating comedy from Warner Brothers with glamorous Rosalind Russell and that distinguished actor, Robert Young. Now act one of Goodbye, My Fancy, starring Rosalind Russell as Agatha Reed and Robert Young as Jim Merrill. It's 1950. Among the members of the United States con few are more widely respected and certainly none is more attractive than the Honorable Agatha Reed. Ms. Reed has just returned to her office slightly battle won after another harrowing day in the cause of better government.

[Agatha Reed]

All right, Woody, what's the mail? Another thousand or so letters. Make another speech like that last one and you'll get the post office out of the red. What's this one? Oh, invitation. It's from Good Hope College. You know, I haven't time to. Why, it's from Good Hope. Yeah, that's what I said. Then you said, woody, they. They want to give me an honorary degree. Well, what's so special about that? You turn down Wellesley without blinking an eye. You don't understand. I. I went to Good Hope.

[Claude Griswold]

Oh, pardon me.

[Agatha Reed]

Take a letter. Shall I type it on parchment? Special delivery. To Dr. James Merrill, President, Good Hope College. Good Hope, Massachusetts. My dear Jim, I can't tell you how. No, no, no, no. You better make that. Dear Dr. Merrill, I can't tell you how happy I was to receive your gracious invitation to return to Good Hope for an honorary degree. Good Hope has always been close to me and nothing short of a congressional crisis will keep me away. And if I may be sentimental, it would give me great pleasure to be able to stay in. Sincerely, Agatha Reed.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, good morning, Mr. Griswold.

[Claude Griswold]

Is he in, Dr. Merrill? In his office?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

I. I believe he's alone. Mr. Griswold. Perhaps I can.

[Claude Griswold]

Never mind. I'm going in. Jim, I gotta talk to you.

[Narrator/Producer Irving Cummings]

Lord.

[Matt Cole]

Well, sit down Won't you?

[Claude Griswold]

Last night, I wrote a letter to Agatha Reed. As chairman of the board of trustees, I thought it would be nice to let her know how happy we all are that she accepted your invitation.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Well, that was very thoughtful.

[Claude Griswold]

And 10 minutes after the letter was mailed, my wife told me.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Your wife told you what?

[Claude Griswold]

That she used to be Agatha Reed's classmate? That Agatha Reid was expelled for staying out all night? Yes.

[Matt Cole]

Yes, she was.

[Claude Griswold]

We're giving an honorary degree to a woman who was once exposed. Now, look, Jim, we're going to call the whole thing off.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I'm afraid it's too late for that, Claude. I've given the announcement to the papers, and Real Magazine is sending a man

[Claude Griswold]

up to cover the commencement. Real man? That's great. If they ever find out about her being expelled, we'll all wind up on the COVID There were a dozen women to choose from, but you've got to

[Matt Cole]

pick a hot potato like Agatha Reid. Why?

[Claude Griswold]

Well, good.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Hope meted out some pretty harsh punishment to her. I think it's time we told her we were sorry. What's more, she's one of the most outstanding women in the nation. A woman who's won recognition as a columnist, war correspondent and author.

[Claude Griswold]

We've got to go through with it, huh?

[Dr. James Merrill]

Yes, and stop worrying.

[Claude Griswold]

Then it's entirely in your hands, dear. She's your baby till after commencement.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Thank you, Claude. I find the prospect very interesting.

[Agatha Reed]

You may as well go on home, Woody. Our train doesn't leave until midnight. Or you can meet me at the station. Oh, oh, what about my warm milk? Room service is sending it up. Maybe I should tell him to put it in a baby bottle. Meaning what? This trip back to the cradle, a crowded calendar, two important bills coming out of committee, election month only four months away, and we're off to braid a daisy chain at some college. Now, look, Woody, I am going to enjoy this weekend. I am going to be sentimental. I am going to cry. I am going to walk barefoot down memory lane with ivy entwined in my hair. And if you don't like it, you don't have to look. I'll bring my dark glass. Do that. Oh, well, leave that door unlocked there

[Ginny Merrill]

for room service, will you?

[Agatha Reed]

The door's open. Just put the milk on the table, please.

[Claude Griswold]

Just milk today.

[Matt Cole]

No butter.

[Ginny Merrill]

Eggs.

[Matt Cole]

Yummy yogurt.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Matt?

[Matt Cole]

That's right, Maggie. Real magazine's favorite photographer.

[Agatha Reed]

And yours, Matt.

[Matt Cole]

You just said that the usual greeting after five years is, well, this is a surprise.

[Agatha Reed]

I'm sorry, but you caught me off Guard.

[Matt Cole]

I didn't think that was possible.

[Agatha Reed]

I see you haven't changed.

[Matt Cole]

Oh, neither of you. Little more dignified, perhaps. A little more, shall we say, rapine? Just as attractive as ever.

[Agatha Reed]

I. I thought you were in Europe.

[Matt Cole]

I got back this afternoon. I thought I'd find out about that date we had in Paris. When you didn't show up for five years, I began to wonder, is it on or off?

[Agatha Reed]

I'm sure you didn't come up here to dig all that up.

[Matt Cole]

Do you mind telling me why you didn't show up?

[Agatha Reed]

Well, does it matter now?

[Matt Cole]

Yes, it matters. When a woman runs out on a man, he ought to know why. Help them the next time.

[Agatha Reed]

I suppose it never occurred to you that I might have been in love with someone else.

[Matt Cole]

It occurred to me, but I rejected it.

[Agatha Reed]

Really? Why?

[Matt Cole]

Because I've kept tabs on you, Aggie. That hasn't been hard. Not for the congresswoman. Congratulations. You're doing a great job.

[Agatha Reed]

What about before I was a congresswoman?

[Matt Cole]

Well, those were my years.

[Agatha Reed]

And the years before that.

[Matt Cole]

Well, why haven't you done something about the guy?

[Agatha Reed]

Well, maybe I will. Now, do you mind that I'm in the midst of packing and I want you to leave.

[Matt Cole]

Say, did you ever get those pictures I sent you from China?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, yes. Yes, I did.

[Matt Cole]

Did you like the one yourself? The one on the Orient Express nearing Paris?

[Agatha Reed]

No, I didn't like it.

[Matt Cole]

Why not?

[Agatha Reed]

Well, the one time you don't expect to be photographed is asleep in a train compartment. Besides, the occasion was exactly not the kind of thing I wanted recorded for posterity.

[Matt Cole]

That's funny. I thought it had the makings of

[Dr. James Merrill]

one of the big moments in history.

[Matt Cole]

Come to think of it, you did too.

[Agatha Reed]

Now, please. It was fun, but war has a way of making little moments seem big at the time.

[Matt Cole]

Very penetrating. May I quote you sometime?

[Agatha Reed]

Well, I'm sorry if I said it badly, but it's true.

[Matt Cole]

We were.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, we were a nice snapshot, but never a family portrait.

[Matt Cole]

Yeah, I get it. It's subtle, but I get it.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, now you've got to go now. I have to catch the New Yorker at midnight.

[Claude Griswold]

The New Yorker?

[Agatha Reed]

Yes, yes, and I haven't packed a thing yet.

[Claude Griswold]

The New Yorker.

[Matt Cole]

Here I've been holding you up with idle chit chat, and all the time we're gonna be traveling companions.

[Agatha Reed]

You're going to be on that train.

[Matt Cole]

Happy, happy coincidence. Just like the good old Orient Express.

[Agatha Reed]

Don't be ridiculous.

[Matt Cole]

Oh, I know what trains do to some people. So long, Aggie. I'll see you on the New Yorker.

[Agatha Reed]

Western Union, please. This is Agatha Reed. Oh, yes, I want to send a Straightight wire to Dr. James Merrill. Good Hope College, Good Hope, Massachusetts. Oh, have you got that? Please don't have anyone meet me at train. Have decided to come by plane. Sign it Agatha Reed. Thank you. Yes?

[Claude Griswold]

Room service, Mr. Oh, come in. Your warm milk, Ms. Reed.

[Agatha Reed]

I've changed my mind. Just. Just bring a double brand. So this is it, huh? Dear old school days.

[Ginny Merrill]

Woody.

[Agatha Reed]

Woody, just look. Oh, this wonderful, wonderful dormitory. My old rooms. The same furniture, the same pictures. Everything just as it was. Looks fierce, doesn't it? You know what those girls told me? They moved all these things up from the basement.

[Ginny Merrill]

Just. Oh, I haven't cried in years.

[Agatha Reed]

It feels wonderful. If you're such a big shot, how come nobody bothered to meet you? Because I purposely stopped the taxi two blocks away. That was memory Lane we walked through. That alfalfa field is Memory lane. Oh, I'm sorry for you, Moody. I really am. If you don't have something to remember like this. Come in.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

I'm sorry to bother you, Ms. Reed.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, I'm the one who should be sorry, dear, putting you out of your rooms like this.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, no, no. Mary Nell and I think it's the greatest honor we've ever known. It's this, Ms. Reed. Your book, Women in the Vanguard.

[Agatha Reed]

If you'll pardon me, Agatha, I'll run out and tear down some ivy for my hair. A wreath, you know, Woody, really? Oh, now, now, what about the book?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Well, Dr. Pitt said we all ought to read it.

[Agatha Reed]

Your political science teacher?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

No, physics. Well, in his classes you learn about everything.

[Agatha Reed]

Sounds as if I'd like to know him.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

I was wondering if you'd autograph it for me.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, I'd love to. Now, what name do I write? Virginia.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, would you make it Ginny.

[Agatha Reed]

Ginny Merrill. Ginny Merrill. Will your parents be here for commencement?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Well, there's just my father. Mother died a few years ago.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh. Does your father have to come very far?

[Ginny Merrill]

Oh, no.

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[Agatha Reed]

Matter of fact, you're Jim Merrill's daughter, aren't you? Why, yeah, I might have known. I knew your father very well. He was my favorite professor.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

What was he like, Ms. Reed?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, he was very handsome. All the girls were in love with him.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

They still are. That's not what I meant. Was he a good teacher?

[Agatha Reed]

He was a wonderful teacher.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

I wish he were still a teacher.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, Is being president of a college so bad?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Well, it's different.

[Agatha Reed]

Different?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

I'd better be going. Ms. Reed, is it all right if I tell my father you're here? I'm sure he must be anxious to see you.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, perhaps I better walk over to his office.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, no, no. He'll want to call on you. And thanks again, Ms. Reed. Oh, excuse me.

[Agatha Reed]

That's all right. That's all right. We just had a phone call. Real Magazine. They're covering your weekend here. Oh, how nice. Oh, it's better than that. They're sending Matt Cole. Who did you say? Matt Cole, the war photographer. You're joking. Why should they send him here? This isn't his type of thing at all. Yeah, but why the blood pressure? Get Real Magazine on the phone immediately. I'll put a stop to this right now. Why bother? Don't want to bother. And don't argue.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Okay.

[Ginny Merrill]

Hello.

[Agatha Reed]

Get me New York. Yeah, Real Magazine. I want to speak to Mr. Bronson personally. Make that person to person to Mr. Bronson. That's right. He owns the magazine. Is this a matter of life and death? I asked you not to argue. Just get Bronson on that phone. I can't. The circuits are busy. Give me the phone. Hello? Hello, this is Agatha Reid. Now, on that call to Real Magazine. It's most important. This is a crisis. I'd appreciate it, please, if you'd get everything you possibly can do. Come in, Jim.

[Dr. James Merrill]

It's been a long time, Agatha.

[Agatha Reed]

20 years.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I. I'm taking advantage of my position. The entire college is waiting to meet you.

[Agatha Reed]

I'm overcome. I. I mean it, Jim.

[Dr. James Merrill]

My daughter mentioned your secretary was with you.

[Agatha Reed]

Woody's downstairs with the telephone operator. There's an important call I'm trying to put through.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I'm Glad we're alone. You're looking very well, Agatha.

[Agatha Reed]

Thank you, Tim.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I suppose you realize you're in for quite a weekend.

[Agatha Reed]

Yes, I am. I've seen the agenda.

[Dr. James Merrill]

We start in an hour with your official reception. I. I can turn my back if you'd like to escape.

[Agatha Reed]

I wouldn't think of it. Vanity, I guess. I suppose everyone dreams of coming back for an honorary degree. That's a popular ambition like.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Well, like wanting a mink coat or to be president.

[Claude Griswold]

Yes.

[Agatha Reed]

How does it feel?

[Dr. James Merrill]

Well, it's never dull. The faces change so often and with so much youth around, you actually get the feeling you're preserving your own.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, your daughter should keep you young. She's a lovely child. No, no, that's. That's wrong. She's not a child. What are we at that age, Jim? That wonderful, terrible in between age. You've seen so many of us.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Tell me about yourself, Agatha. Have you been happy?

[Agatha Reed]

Well, I. I've been busy.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Yes, I followed your career very closely.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, in that case, I won't have to bring you up to date on the past 20 years.

[Dr. James Merrill]

No, only the first year. I've never quite caught up with that first year. I. I've wondered what happened. Why, you just disappeared.

[Agatha Reed]

It was very stupid of me to get caught climbing in my window at 5 in the morning. I hope the girls are more expert now.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I wouldn't know. I'm not up on the statistics.

[Agatha Reed]

Listen, Jim. It would have made no difference to the trustees that you were the man, that we were planning to be married. I would have been kicked out anyway. Only you would have been kicked out with me.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I thought we decided to take that chance.

[Agatha Reed]

I couldn't let you do it. They were already eyeing you for the presidency.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Well, where did you go? My letters came back. When I phoned your home, they said they didn't know where you were.

[Agatha Reed]

Yes, I. I made them promise. Once I weakened and started to write you a letter. I never did finish it. I. And later on I. I read about your marriage.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Did Jenny tell you anything about her mother? No. She was a wonderful woman. We had a lot of things in common that helped to balance the things we didn't have. She. She died four years ago.

[Agatha Reed]

Why did you feel that you had to tell me that?

[Dr. James Merrill]

I don't know exactly. I suppose I.

[Agatha Reed]

What are you trying to say, Jim?

[Dr. James Merrill]

You came up here this weekend.

[Claude Griswold]

Why?

[Agatha Reed]

Well, don't you remember? You. You invited me.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I carried that invitation around for two years before I sent it.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, that was silly, Jim. I answered it as soon as I got it. Bronson was I just. Oh, sorry if I interrupted.

[Dr. James Merrill]

That's quite all right. I was just leaving.

[Agatha Reed]

Dr. Merrill, my secretary and my right arm, Ms. Woods.

[Matt Cole]

How do you do?

[Agatha Reed]

How do you do, Ms. Reed?

[Dr. James Merrill]

Did I tell you it's wonderful to have you back?

[Agatha Reed]

Yes, Dr. Merrill, but it's good to hear it again.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I'll see you at the reception. There'll be a committee calling for you at 4:00'.

[Claude Griswold]

Clock.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Oh, it's nice to have you here too, Ms. Wood.

[Agatha Reed]

Thank you. Prexi's nice looking, isn't he? Yes. Looked mighty cozy just now talking over old history exams. You know what's wrong with you? You're so used to having your thumb in every Washington pie that you stop filibustering. All right, Woody. It's so.

[Ginny Merrill]

What?

[Agatha Reed]

So just what you're thinking. Oh, he's the first man I ever loved.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

He.

[Agatha Reed]

He's what? Maybe the only one. The truth is, I'd marry him tomorrow if he asked me. You're kidding, aren't you? What's the matter? Are you against marriage, too? Of course not. But you're smack in the middle of an election campaign and a hundred other things. Your life is too busy. There's quite a difference between a busy life and a full one. Like I thought you'd be happy for me. Well, what do you expect? I don't even know the guy. How I know him. Now, this isn't just a whim, Woody. This is something I waited for and thought about for 20 years. Maybe the most important thing in my whole life. That's why I don't want anything to spoil it. That's why I said. What about that phone call? Phone call? Yeah, Bronson Real Magazine.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, that.

[Agatha Reed]

They're expecting him back at his hotel.

[Matt Cole]

Anything I can do?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, all right. Matt, come in. Now, what do you think you're doing here?

[Matt Cole]

My job. I'm a photographer.

[Agatha Reed]

You don't expect me to believe they picked you for an assignment like this, do you?

[Matt Cole]

As a matter of fact, I asked for it. I had a great idea for a layout. The honorable Agatha Reed. And how she grew.

[Agatha Reed]

Now, don't try anything. I'm warning you. Matt.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Yes?

[Agatha Reed]

Matt, this is my secretary, Ms. Woods. Hi.

[Matt Cole]

Real pleasure. Oh, would you mind directing me to the president?

[Agatha Reed]

Why?

[Matt Cole]

I'm supposed to check in with the old codger.

[Agatha Reed]

You'll probably find the old codger in the administration building.

[Matt Cole]

And where might that be, woody?

[Agatha Reed]

Let's go, Mr. Cole. Thanks, woody. I wouldn't want him to get lost I do.

[Matt Cole]

I'll send up a flare.

[Agatha Reed]

I'll get it.

[Ginny Merrill]

Hello?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, yes, Mr. Bronson. We've been flying all over to find you. I mean, well, we'll say something. We. We just wanted to tell you. We. We decided to renew our subscription. You can tell me something, Mr. Cole. Why was the Honorable so upset about you coming up here?

[Matt Cole]

She thinks I'm in the employ of a foreign government.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, come on, give. You're about as innocent as a rattlesnake.

[Matt Cole]

All right. I'm here because I think she's on the verge of making a big mistake.

[Agatha Reed]

What kind of mistake?

[Matt Cole]

For a man, there's only one kind of mistake a woman can make. Another man.

[Agatha Reed]

Why should that bother you?

[Matt Cole]

That shouldn't be hard for a smart girl like you to figure out.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, no. Now I know who you are. You're up here to make trouble, that's who you are. Well, no fisticuffs when we get there. This is supposed to be a happy weekend.

[Matt Cole]

When we get there.

[Claude Griswold]

Wait a minute.

[Matt Cole]

Don't tell me he's the president of this seminary.

[Agatha Reed]

I. I thought you knew. Telling me you tricked me. Wild horses wouldn't have dragged that out on.

[Matt Cole]

Forget it. What am I worried about? If I can't take her away from some old Mr. Chips, I'll quit the business.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Ha.

[Claude Griswold]

What does that mean?

[Agatha Reed]

Get out that flare, Mr. Cole. You're going to need it.

[Matt Cole]

Axel.

[Narrator/Producer Irving Cummings]

Goodbye, my fancy. In a moment. You know, I guess just about the most popular sport in the world, everywhere in the world, is fishing. You hear a lot of discussion among American sportsmen. Which is better, the dry fly or the wet fly? Still fishing or trolling? Lake, stream or ocean? Everyone has his own ideas about this sport of fishing, and he goes after it in his own way. Well, that's true all over the world. As our servicemen have observed, there are a lot of different ways of catching fish. In Borneo, for example, the natives crush the berries of a certain shrub and the juice poisons the fish of a river without spoiling them as food. In Africa, South America and Alaska, the spear or harpoon is used. In Japan, trained birds called cormorants are sent diving down into the water to bring up fish. In some Pacific islands, nets are used. In others, the bow and arrow is the favorite method of getting fish for supper. Well, what's true about fishing is true about other customs and traditions around the world. A way of doing things may be different, but the ideals are the same. No one way is right or wrong. It's just what suits the Individuals best. These customs are important to the people who follow them. And our servicemen are helping to maintain goodwill by observing the customs of other people in other lands.

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[Narrator/Producer Irving Cummings]

Now our producer, Mr. Cummings.

[Claude Griswold]

Act two of Goodbye, My Fancy. Starring Rosalind Russell as Agatha and Robert Young as Jim. With Whitfield Connor as Matt. The faculty reception in honor of Agatha Reed is in full progress. Among those present are Matt Cole and a professor of physical name, Dr. Pitt. Care for a cup of punch, Mr. Cole?

[Matt Cole]

Oh, thank you.

[Claude Griswold]

You.

[Matt Cole]

You have to go through this every year? Occupational hazard. Well, I'm rather enjoying it. You mean it can be worse than this? It's just that this is my last faculty reception. Good Hope and I will soon be going our separate ways. I haven't been exactly happy under the present management, Dr. Merrill.

[Claude Griswold]

Oh, no. Claude Griswold, our illustrious chairman of the board.

[Matt Cole]

Meanwhile, Mr. Cole, let's drink for Saturday morning. What's for Saturday morning? That's when I'll be asked to resign. I shall take my departure in a

[Claude Griswold]

blaze of futile glory.

[Matt Cole]

You gonna blow up the physics building? Not exactly, but there will be an explosion of a kind. What kind, Dr. Pitt? That's my little secret, Mr. Coe.

[Claude Griswold]

Punch.

[Matt Cole]

Not very stimulating, is it? You're wrong, Dr. Pitt. I feel a noticeable lift, as a matter of fact. Something wrong, Mr. Cole? Seems our guest of honor has disappeared. If I'm not mistaken, I saw Ms. Reed and Dr. Merrill walk out there on the terrace just a moment ago. Well, now, that should make a charming picture for the magazine. Excuse me, Doctor.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I suppose I had no right to take you out here. Agatha but there won't be many opportunities to be alone. And there's so much I want to say.

[Agatha Reed]

We had the same problem 20 years ago, Jim. Until we discovered the amphitheater, remember?

[Claude Griswold]

I was just about to suggest it.

[Dr. James Merrill]

The usual time. The reception will be over by then.

[Agatha Reed]

The usual time. Thank you for remembering.

[Dr. James Merrill]

How could I ever.

[Narrator/Producer Irving Cummings]

Oh, Mr. Cole.

[Matt Cole]

I fore startled you, Doctor, with the layout. Wouldn't be complete without a picture of the president and his number one graduate.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Well, it might have been a better picture if you'd given us a little warning.

[Agatha Reed]

Mr. Cole specializes in catching people off guard.

[Claude Griswold]

Oh, there you are, Jim. Now, look, I've been working on Jeff Barnes. He's just about ready to walk. He's just about ready to walk. Just about ready to walk. He's just about ready to walk over for the new library.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I'll talk to him in the morning, Claude.

[Matt Cole]

Take my word for and do it now. I'll be off. All right, Tim.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, Mr. Griswold. Your wife was telling me that you just gave the college a projection room and motion picture equipment.

[Claude Griswold]

I don't mind saying it cost me a young fortune.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Claude's one of the best friends this college ever had.

[Agatha Reed]

I'm honored, Mr. Griswold. You see, Ms. Shackelford was saying that my film will be the first to be shown.

[Claude Griswold]

Your film?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, it's just something I assembled a couple of years ago to illustrate a lecture. Ms. Shackelford thought it might interest some of the students.

[Claude Griswold]

Sounds fine. It read fine.

[Matt Cole]

Well then, Jim.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Yes, of course. We mustn't let Mr. Barnes cool off.

[Matt Cole]

Heavy odor of orange blossoms in the air.

[Agatha Reed]

You haven't wasted a minute, have you, Matt?

[Matt Cole]

Meryl must be quite a guy to keep a woman like you on the hook for 20 years.

[Agatha Reed]

He is quite a guy.

[Matt Cole]

Or else you must be getting tired.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, what does that mean?

[Matt Cole]

This overwhelming desire to return to the past. Girlhood memories, old rooms and dormitories, old furniture.

[Claude Griswold]

Old.

[Matt Cole]

Old sweetheart, old hat.

[Agatha Reed]

You've been on the war fronts for so long that a decent atmosphere is bound to seem a little incongruous.

[Matt Cole]

Were you kidding, Aggie? Take a good look around. This is a lost world up here, and Merrill's the perfect president for it.

[Agatha Reed]

That penetrating analysis of Jim Merrill is based on one. How do you do?

[Matt Cole]

Is it? You used to be a good reporter. Talk to some of the teachers. Dr. Pitt, for example. You might get an.

[Dr. James Merrill]

The old amphitheater. Agatha. It looks just the same, doesn't it?

[Agatha Reed]

Just the same.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I was late, wasn't I a little on my way. Dr. Pitt stopped me. He said you had quite a talk with him.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, Jim, I'm sorry. I was meddling. I had no right to.

[Dr. James Merrill]

In this case, you had every right.

[Agatha Reed]

What did you tell him? Is he going to resign?

[Dr. James Merrill]

No, I asked him to remain here. That's what you expected?

[Agatha Reed]

That's what I hoped for. But what about Mr. Griswold?

[Dr. James Merrill]

Well, I imagine there'll be some tearing of hair, but I'm sure I can manage the situation so that both sides appear to win. Jim, remember the last time we were here? We were very young, very much in

[Agatha Reed]

love, and you proposed to me.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Agatha, if I were to ask you again, is there any chance your answer might be the same?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, always on second proposals.

[Dr. James Merrill]

This time you won't run away? No. Then I can tear this up. It's the note you left for me.

[Agatha Reed]

You kept it.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I've never quite forgiven myself for introducing you to the beauties of Walt Whitman. Goodbye, my fancy. Farewell, dear mate, dear love.

[Agatha Reed]

The note. May I have it? Thank you. Hello, my fancy.

[Claude Griswold]

Eggie.

[Agatha Reed]

Woody's the name.

[Matt Cole]

Oh, Jill.

[Agatha Reed]

That's the answer I always get.

[Matt Cole]

Well, I'll stick it out for a couple hours longer. If she doesn't show up by morning, I'm leaving.

[Agatha Reed]

Got it bad, haven't you? Look, I'm not being nosy. I think Aggie's making a mistake too. I don't just work for this woman. I like her. I care what happens to her.

[Dr. James Merrill]

So do I.

[Agatha Reed]

What was it with you and Aggie, anyway?

[Matt Cole]

Well, I hadn't seen her since the day Paris was liberated. Before that, not for months. I was going to ask her to marry me.

[Dr. James Merrill]

We made a date for that night.

[Matt Cole]

I rustled up eight red roses, bottle of champagne and a ring. I tore the petals off the roses and sprinkled them in the doorway, put the ring at the bottom of the glass. She'd drink the champagne, see the ring, catch on that I was proposing. Nice idea, wasn't it?

[Agatha Reed]

Yes, very.

[Matt Cole]

Only Aggie never showed up. Well, the evening wasn't entirely wasted. I learned something that's been invaluable to me ever since. Do you know it only takes three hours for roses to turn brown around the edges?

[Agatha Reed]

I'm sorry, Cole.

[Matt Cole]

What are you sorry about? Now that I've seen her dreamboat in action, I'm not worried. He's a memory. Something she pressed in a book through the years. Like an old rose.

[Agatha Reed]

You're expecting an awful lot of her in one short weekend.

[Matt Cole]

That's why, I'm gonna give her a little help. Right before your very eyes. I'm going to turn that memory into a man.

[Agatha Reed]

Very clever, if it works.

[Claude Griswold]

You leaving?

[Agatha Reed]

Wouldn't you rather I hear the approach of familiar footsteps?

[Matt Cole]

Well, good evening. I was just about to put a light in the window.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, I'm glad you didn't bother. I know exactly where I'm going. Good night, Matt.

[Matt Cole]

I want to talk to you, Aggie.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh yes, yes, of course. About Dr. Pitt. You'll be very unhappy to hear that any difference of opinion is now a thing of the past. Dr. Pitt will remain here.

[Matt Cole]

Well, there's one thing to be said in our Prexi's favor. He doesn't want to lose you. I don't blame him.

[Agatha Reed]

He's not going to lose me.

[Matt Cole]

Then it's all set?

[Agatha Reed]

All set.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Oh, congratulations.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, you just can't take it, can you Matt? But he could be more exciting, more desirable than you.

[Claude Griswold]

That's right.

[Matt Cole]

I'm as vain as the next guy. Since you've gone in for collecting memories, here's another one. Sorry if I smeared your lipstick.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Good night, Aggie.

[Ginny Merrill]

Quiet.

[Agatha Reed]

Mr. Cole. Do come in, Mr. Cole.

[Matt Cole]

Good morning, Ms. Shackleburn.

[Agatha Reed]

We'll be taking pictures. I suppose.

[Matt Cole]

That's what I wanted to see you about. Now you're the student advisor. I just want to be sure that I'm at the right place at the right time. Now let's see. Tomorrow's Saturday.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, but tonight. Tonight's the prom and a step sing at Griswold Hall.

[Matt Cole]

Step sing? Oh yeah, yeah, they sing on the steps.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Uh huh.

[Matt Cole]

But tomorrow morning. I believe Dr. Pitt mentioned something for 11 o'.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Clock.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh yes, the film showing. Ms. Reed's film.

[Matt Cole]

No, I don't mean that. Isn't there something else on tap?

[Agatha Reed]

Why no, nothing.

[Matt Cole]

Well now there must be.

[Agatha Reed]

Mr. Cole. There will be nothing at 11 o' clock tomorrow but Ms. Reed's motion picture.

[Matt Cole]

Anyone seen it yet?

[Agatha Reed]

No, I don't think so. Oh yes, Dr. Pitt. It was at his suggestion that I sent for it.

[Claude Griswold]

Dr. Pitt.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Oh, fine.

[Matt Cole]

Ms. Shackelford, where can I find Mr. Griswold?

[Agatha Reed]

Mr. Griswold? Well, I'd be glad to show you, Mr. Cole. Now you just come with me.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I would have stopped by sooner, Agatha, but something came up. I just wanted to remind you about the prom tonight.

[Agatha Reed]

Jim, Are you sure that's all?

[Dr. James Merrill]

No, I just couldn't wait that long to see you.

[Agatha Reed]

Did Griswold reach you? He phoned here some time ago.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I. I'VE just come from his house.

[Agatha Reed]

He asked about that film of mine. He seemed a little concerned.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Well, yes, a little. I'm terribly sorry, darling, but I forgot

[Matt Cole]

to ask you anything about the.

[Agatha Reed]

Do you think I'd have brought anything here?

[Matt Cole]

Unsuitable Wagatha?

[Dr. James Merrill]

Of course not, Jim.

[Agatha Reed]

I spent five years in Europe. I saw what happened in those countries where freedom was destroyed. That's what the film's about. Actual newsreel shots of some of the dreadful things that have happened in our time. How they burned the books. How they hang the teachers by their feet because they dared to teach the truth. Do you think I want to see that happen here?

[Dr. James Merrill]

I'm not questioning it at all. It's just that these are touchy times. So Claude feels we ought to have a look at it. It's a shame Mr. Cole had to bring it up.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Cole?

[Dr. James Merrill]

Why, yes. Claude said that Cole had stopped by to take a picture. He happened to mention the film to Claude.

[Agatha Reed]

What does he say about it?

[Dr. James Merrill]

He praised it very highly. But when he said that Dr. Pitt had liked it too, well, Claude got a little worried.

[Agatha Reed]

It's funny. It's really funny.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Oh, darling, believe me. We'll straighten it out. I don't need to see the picture.

[Claude Griswold]

I know.

[Matt Cole]

It's all right.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Besides, there's something the matter with my eye. Oh, I can't seem to see anything with you.

[Matt Cole]

About the prom.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Wait for me here, dear. I'll pick you up.

[Agatha Reed]

Yes, Tim. Of course.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

It. It's Jenny.

[Ginny Merrill]

Ms. Reed.

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[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

May I come in, Jeanine?

[Agatha Reed]

Of course, dear. Well, shouldn't you be getting dressed for

[Ginny Merrill]

the prom, Ms. Reed? Is it a good picture? The one they're showing tomorrow?

[Agatha Reed]

Well, naturally, I'd think so. Why?

[Ginny Merrill]

Well, they're having a meeting about it at my father's house.

[Agatha Reed]

What are you trying to tell me, Ginny?

[Ginny Merrill]

Well, some people think the president of a college has the right to make decisions on things, but he doesn't.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

He has to check everything with a trustee.

[Ginny Merrill]

Whatever he may feel himself just doesn't matter.

[Agatha Reed]

You mean they may not run the film?

[Ginny Merrill]

My father's done wonderful things for this school. Seven new buildings in 10 years. Isn't that something to be proud of?

[Agatha Reed]

I'm so proud I could. Oh, no. It's all right, Ginny. It's all right.

[Ginny Merrill]

Oh, I'm so ashamed. My father's a coward, Ms. Reed. He's so afraid of losing his job, he's lost everything he ever believed.

[Agatha Reed]

How do you know he isn't fighting them on this?

[Ginny Merrill]

Because he's forgotten how to fight. Oh, Ms. Reed, you just don't understand.

[Agatha Reed]

I want to tell you something, Jenny. Something I'm sure you don't know. I was expelled from this college.

[Ginny Merrill]

You were what?

[Agatha Reed]

Expelled. Because I stayed out all night with a man. We were very much in love and planning to be married. But I ran away so I wouldn't hurt his chances of becoming president. He had strength and integrity and courage. He still has. So let's not turn away from him now, just when he needs us most.

[Ginny Merrill]

Ms. Reed. Oh, I should have known.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Whenever he talked about you, he was different. And I never really gave him up.

[Ginny Merrill]

I just needed someone else to Believe in him, too.

[Agatha Reed]

Now, you better go and get dressed for the prom.

[Ginny Merrill]

Oh, thank you, Ms. Reed.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Thank you.

[Claude Griswold]

Agatha, you. You look beautiful.

[Agatha Reed]

Thank you. And what's more, I'm already surprised.

[Dr. James Merrill]

And your arm, Ms. Reed.

[Ginny Merrill]

Oh.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, Jim. Imagine going to a prom again.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Claude and Ellen stopped by. They thought we might as well make it a force.

[Agatha Reed]

Of course.

[Dr. James Merrill]

They're downstairs.

[Ginny Merrill]

Hey.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, it's just like old time visiting today.

[Ginny Merrill]

Hello, Ellie.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, good evening, Mr. Griswold.

[Claude Griswold]

Now, that's what I call a charming trouble.

[Matt Cole]

Ellie, you didn't forget my pills.

[Claude Griswold]

My stomach's murdering me.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, I knew it. If you hadn't got so upset at the movie, you wouldn't have had to call the meeting and.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, that's too bad, Mr. Griswold. Sounds like it's all my fault.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, I. I didn't mean that, Agate. It's just that we were late for dinner and Claude just gulped.

[Agatha Reed]

How did you like the movie, Mr. Griswold?

[Claude Griswold]

Well, it's no Abbott and Costello.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

They're Claude's favorite.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Agatha, Claude realizes what you tried to accomplish with the film.

[Claude Griswold]

Sure I do. Why show college kids this kind of stuff? Time enough to start worrying when they're out of college.

[Agatha Reed]

That's a very interesting theory of education, Mr. Griswold. Is it yours?

[Claude Griswold]

I leave theories to experts here like Jim. All I care about, frankly, is protecting the minds of the young people.

[Agatha Reed]

You're not protecting them, Mr. Griswold, you're destroying them. A college is where the future of the world begins. And professors aren't intellectual babysitters. It's their job to bring some light into this muddled world. And you've put a stop to that. The result is the girls who graduate tomorrow aren't prepared for the world they'll have to face. Yet you're content to hand it to them and say, fight for it, die for it, but don't attempt to understand it.

[Claude Griswold]

Ms. Reed, I think we know what's best for our school.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Claude, please let me handle this.

[Claude Griswold]

There's no handling to it, Jim. And we might as well tell her now. Ms. Reed, we've canceled the showing of the film.

[Agatha Reed]

I see.

[Matt Cole]

And Dr. Merrill, did he agree on vital issues?

[Claude Griswold]

The president and the trustees always agree. Now, suppose we get over to the prom.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Claude, you and Ellen go ahead. I'd like to speak to Ms. Reed alone.

[Claude Griswold]

Don't be too long. It wouldn't look well if you were late.

[Ginny Merrill]

Oh.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, dear.

[Claude Griswold]

Forget it, Ellie. Now she knows just how we feel. When Jim turns On the old charm. Excuse me.

[Matt Cole]

Have you seen Ms. Reed?

[Claude Griswold]

The man from the magazine, isn't it?

[Matt Cole]

That's right.

[Claude Griswold]

Ms. Reed's inside. But I don't think you'd better disturb her right now. Come along, Elliot.

[Matt Cole]

Thanks a lot. I'll just wait for her here.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I know how you must feel, Agatha, but you must give me a chance to explain.

[Agatha Reed]

Jim. Jim, did you see the film?

[Dr. James Merrill]

Yes.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, do you think it's wrong for your students to see it now? Be honest with me.

[Claude Griswold]

No.

[Agatha Reed]

And you didn't stand up and say that.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Agatha, I'm just asking you to try to see my position. There are times when I have to

[Claude Griswold]

bow to Claude Griswold.

[Dr. James Merrill]

You're exaggerating Claude's importance in this whole affair.

[Agatha Reed]

Am I? When he, and not you seem to be the real judge of what should be taught at this college.

[Dr. James Merrill]

He's a businessman. He gives money. He wants his say. It's as simple as that. Why do you look so shocked?

[Agatha Reed]

I'm not shocked. Just frightened that you can stand here and say that and accept it.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Good heavens, Agatha, I have to run this school. That means getting buildings, endowments. It's part of the job. Suppose I fought Griswold on this to a showdown.

[Matt Cole]

It would be a heroic gesture, and

[Dr. James Merrill]

I'd be out of here tomorrow.

[Agatha Reed]

Would you? You used to love a fight like that.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Well, things are quite different now. I. I have Ginny to think about.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, there's no need to lie to me. I've talked to Ginny, and if you're not careful, you're going to lose her. I don't know how important that is to you, but I suspect it's very important.

[Dr. James Merrill]

What have you been telling her?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, dreadful things. That you have courage, integrity, and. I didn't just say it, Jim. I believe it. Stand up to Griswold. Not for me, not even for Ginny, but for yourself. All right, Jim. I know when I'm beaten. I'm going to offer you a deal. A business deal. That's more in your line.

[Dr. James Merrill]

What are you talking about?

[Agatha Reed]

A few minutes ago, I assured your daughter that you'd run that film tomorrow. So I'm afraid you're going to do it with or without Mr. Griswold's consent.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Is this your idea of a joke?

[Agatha Reed]

No. No. And in exchange for that small service, I'll give you my personal guarantee that the article in Real magazine won't even hint at the colorful events leading up to my experience. Expulsion from this seat of higher learning. I. I can't believe. Why not? You see, Jim, I'm willing to take a chance on you. I know now that you're afraid. And with a man who's afraid, it's just a question of the lesser of two evils. Whether you risk being removed from here by running the film, or whether you accept the certainty of being removed after this story breaks.

[Dr. James Merrill]

You'd. You'd really do a thing like that?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, you'll learn all kinds of tricks in my work. The most important one being never to play fair unless you respect the men you're dealing with.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I'd never believe this could happen, not after last night.

[Agatha Reed]

Last night was 20 years ago. Listen. They're playing the alma mater. Very appropriate, isn't it? Look, how long. Jim, we'll be late for the Promise.

[Claude Griswold]

In just a few moments now, we'll hear Act 3 of Goodbye, My Fancy.

[Narrator/Producer Irving Cummings]

You know, every once in a while, the sounds of war yield to a nicer note. Such a one came from Korea, from the 27th Regiment of the 25th Infantry Division. It's an outfit of superb combat soldiers who built a legendary reputation in the Korean fighting. But they built something else along with it. When they were stationed in Osaka, Japan, in 1949, they learned that a small orphanage was in bad shape. Poor buildings, little clothing, and no assurance from day to day that there would even be enough food for the more than 150 kids who called it home. Well, the regiment adopted that orphanage. They began to take up collections. They contributed food and medicine and clothing. And when the regiment moved to the Korean battlefront, the work went on. Their first payday in combat, those guys deducted a half million yen and sent it back to Japan for their orphanage. You can bet those kids have never forgotten the men of the 27th. Such acts by you and your friends today are shaping our world of tomorrow. We pause now for station identification.

[Claude Griswold]

The curtain rises on act 3 of goodbye, my fancy, starring rosalind russell as agatha and robert young as jim. With whitfield connor as matt. It's the following morning, and the motion picture theater at Good Hope College is rapidly filling with students and faculty. In front of the theater, Matt Cole has just walked over to the student advisor, Ms. Shackelford.

[Matt Cole]

My, you look just radiant this morning, Ms. Shackeloord.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, why, Mr. Cole.

[Matt Cole]

So you're showing the movie, huh? Sort of a flexible program you run up here, isn't it?

[Agatha Reed]

It's completely beyond me. Last night, Dr. Merrill tells me to cancel the film, and this morning he says to go ahead.

[Matt Cole]

Dr. Merrill ordered the film shown well,

[Agatha Reed]

it's not my responsibility. Oh, I'll certainly be glad when this weekend's over.

[Matt Cole]

Hi. You all alone, Woody? Isn't the honorable gonna show up? Film's about to begin.

[Agatha Reed]

Now listen. Out of focus. Meryl came through, didn't he? They're running her picture, aren't they? You know what that does to your chances. Oh, well, then what are you so happy about?

[Matt Cole]

Oh, I'm not happy. I'm sad. You gotta be philosophical about it. You gotta take the bad with the good. See, you're up, you're down, you're punched.

[Agatha Reed]

Drunk coming in.

[Matt Cole]

No, I've seen the picture. I think I'll take one last happy

[Dr. James Merrill]

look at good hope.

[Matt Cole]

I might run into an old friend. You know, a man can wear himself out walking around this campus looking for someone.

[Agatha Reed]

What are you doing here, Matt?

[Matt Cole]

What are you doing here, Agatha?

[Agatha Reed]

I happen to like the amphitheater.

[Matt Cole]

Well, they're showing your film.

[Agatha Reed]

I know.

[Matt Cole]

Well, aren't you glad?

[Claude Griswold]

Yes.

[Agatha Reed]

Yes, of course.

[Matt Cole]

Well, it seems I was wrong about Meryl.

[Agatha Reed]

Fine, fine. But there's no need to call anyone about Crow.

[Matt Cole]

No, I don't mind. I don't have any pride where you're concerned, Aggie.

[Dr. James Merrill]

You ought to know that.

[Agatha Reed]

We've been all through this, Matt.

[Matt Cole]

You've got nothing to say to me.

[Agatha Reed]

It's all been said.

[Matt Cole]

Yeah, well, I'm stupid. I gotta have it spelled out. He's a great guy. He's everything you ever hoped for, dreamed about all these years. And you're gonna marry him, is that it?

[Agatha Reed]

I don't want to talk about it.

[Matt Cole]

Okay. I'll go down and congratulate Dr. Merrill. No. You couldn't face that, could you? As you know, it's a lie. You threw away six years we could have had together. Six wonderful, beautiful years, all because of a lie. But you haven't got honesty enough to admit it to me. O to yourself. Gotta hang on to your precious ego. Well, you can have it, sister. I'm a big boy now. I got bigger and better things to do. And don't worry, I'll stay away from Merrill.

[Claude Griswold]

Agatha.

[Agatha Reed]

Come in, Jim.

[Dr. James Merrill]

You're not packing.

[Agatha Reed]

That's right, Jim. I'm leaving. My commencement speech is there on the waistback. If I had to stand up there this afternoon and say it, I'd choke on every word. Don't you realize that I was taken ill? That I was called back to Washington? Anything.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Just like 20 years ago ago, isn't it? Running away again, Jim?

[Agatha Reed]

I was wrong about last night. Expecting you to be the same man I remembered. And I was wrong to think that I could. Well, could help you win your daughter back. I can't blackmail for you for the rest of my life. It's better that she know the truth now, while she's young.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Would you tell Jenny that. That I ordered your film shown? Because if I didn't, if I had

[Agatha Reed]

to, yes, I'd tell her. Who is it?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

It's Jenny.

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[Claude Griswold]

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[Dr. James Merrill]

Refreshers contain caffeine.

[Claude Griswold]

Come in. Ginny.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

I went to your office, Father. They told me you'd come here. We just saw your picture, Ms. Reed.

[Ginny Merrill]

Oh, it was wonderful.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

I wish you'd been there, Father. I'm sure none of us will ever forget it. It was the best graduation present you could have given the senior class and me. Well, I just wanted to thank you.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Jenny, don't go.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Yes.

[Dr. James Merrill]

You kissed me just now. Jenny, you haven't done that in a long time. I'm very grateful, but I can't accept it under false pretenses.

[Agatha Reed]

False Pretend. No, don't.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I had the movie shown only because Ms. Reed forced me to. She gave me an alternative that left me no choice. That's the truth, and I want you to know it. I haven't been much of a father for quite a while. I'm sorry, Jenny. I didn't tell you all this to hurt you.

[Ginny Merrill]

You've forgotten a lot of things about me, haven't you? But I don't cry only when I'm sad. But I cry just as much when I'm happy. I don't care why you showed the film. I just wanted you to be honest with me and with yourself.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, so this is where you are.

[Agatha Reed]

Ellie, do you mind?

[Dr. James Merrill]

It's all right. Come in, Ellen.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Now, what is all this nonsense, Ginger? Claude's terribly upset. The whole board's upset. First when they heard about the movie. And then right out of the blue, this. This resignation.

[Agatha Reed]

Resignation?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, it was just beautiful, Jim. Especially that part about self respect. Just about made me cry.

[Agatha Reed]

Jim, why did you do it?

[Dr. James Merrill]

I stood in back of the theater a little while ago and watched them looking at the picture. Suddenly I realized I had almost not let them see it. That's when I knew that everything you said last night was true. That I had no right to be the president of a college.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Why, Aggie, how could you say such a thing? Why, you should hear them all shouting back there at home about how much good you've done for the school and what a row the students would raise if they heard about it. Wouldn't they, Jim?

[Ginny Merrill]

They'd raise a heck of a row, Mrs. Grisboll.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Why, I. I'd even resign as alumnae president.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Thank you, Ellen.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Oh, my goodness, Jimmy. Now what are you doing here? You forget it's commencement. I'm going, Mrs. Griswold. I always wondered why they called it commencement. Now I know. Well, I'd better be leaving too. I just wanted to ask you to reconsider, Jim.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, you.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

You won't mention this to Claude, will you? He'll like thinking it was his own idea. It's very important to a man like Claude, you know, to think everything's his own idea.

[Dr. James Merrill]

I'm afraid I've been underestimating you, Ellen.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

You forget I was once a student in your history class too. See you later, Ivy.

[Agatha Reed]

I'm overwhelmed, Jim. I never expected this.

[Dr. James Merrill]

We're even. Neither did I.

[Agatha Reed]

Will you reconsider? I think it's very important to good hope that you stay on.

[Dr. James Merrill]

When I came in here, I wanted to tell you again how. How much I love you. That I didn't have much hope for it after last night. But that somehow today I know we're different people than we were 20 years ago. I know that a lot of things have changed. But I wouldn't want to go through the rest of my life, feeling I hadn't tried. Do I have a chance?

[Agatha Reed]

You might have had a very good chance, Jim. Except that, well, you see, we only met today. Just now, really. And there's someone who has a few years start on you.

[Dr. James Merrill]

He's lucky.

[Agatha Reed]

Thank you.

[Dr. James Merrill]

You will stay, won't you? For commencement, I mean.

[Agatha Reed]

Yes. Yes, I'll stay.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Thank you. Agatha.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, hello.

[Claude Griswold]

Hello.

[Agatha Reed]

I mean, Agatha. Where have you been? Where have I been? Where have you been? Straightening out my life. Well, now I know. What arrangements did you make for getting us out of here? Getting us out? Not by plane, Woody. Tonight. You better phone Washington. Tell him to set up that committee meeting for 10 tomorrow morning. Oh, and call Senator McElroy. Tell him he was right. I'll make a swing through the whole state before election. And close your mouth, you look like a fish. I thought you and Meryl.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Now get on that phone.

[Agatha Reed]

I've got to go change my shoes.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Hello, this is Ms. Woods.

[Agatha Reed]

Would you get me the airport, please?

[Matt Cole]

All right, woody, where's the Hon.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, look, Cole, would you mind telling me something? What's going on? All right, I'll hold on. Mara runs the film, you're philosophical and

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

she straightens out her life.

[Agatha Reed]

I don't get it.

[Matt Cole]

You will.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, Woody, my black shoes. Where on earth did you put. Well, I thought you were on your way to bigger and better things.

[Matt Cole]

I've got some news for you. Leave us alone, Woody. I said leave us alone.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, I'll call you later.

[Matt Cole]

You're not going to do it, Aggie. You're not going to marry him.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, really?

[Matt Cole]

Now, look, I'm not asking you to fall into my arms. I wouldn't even catch you if you did. One thing I found out this weekend. I don't like women.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, then why all the bother?

[Matt Cole]

Because I'm neat. I straighten pictures. I put the tops on toothpaste tubes. I don't like unfinished things lying around. Now, you're not gonna go through with this and throw away your life.

[Agatha Reed]

Aren't you being a little overconfident?

[Matt Cole]

I don't think so. I'm offering you a deal, a business deal. And in exchange for such a small service, I'm giving you my personal guarantee that the article in Real magazine won't even hint at the colorful event leading up to your expulsion from this seat of higher learning.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Why you.

[Matt Cole]

The pictures on opposite page.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, you're an eavesdropper, too, among all your other economists.

[Claude Griswold]

You learn a lot of cute tricks

[Matt Cole]

in my work, too.

[Agatha Reed]

Well, it Seems I have no choice, have I?

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Woody. Yes, ma'.

[Agatha Reed]

Am. There's been a change of plans, Woody. We're leaving. Good Hope tonight, huh? You better phone Washington. They can set up that committee meeting for tomorrow at 10. Oh, and call Senator McElroy. Tell him I'll make a swing for the entire state before election.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

But you just told me.

[Agatha Reed]

I know, but there's been a change in plans. Oh, a change in plans.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Ms. Reed. Ms. Reed, are you ready? Ginny, the ceremonies are going to begin.

[Agatha Reed]

I. I guess I'm ready.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Your speech.

[Agatha Reed]

Have you got your speech? I left it right here on the desk. What did you do with it? I never touched it.

[Matt Cole]

Put that in the wastebasket.

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, we had no file. Yeah, that's right. That's right. Now come on, let's go.

[Ms. Woods (Secretary)]

Ginny. Ginny, where are you?

[Agatha Reed]

Oh, one weekend. Could a woman go crazy in one weekend?

[Matt Cole]

What's the crazy about changing her mind?

[Agatha Reed]

Changing her mind? She told me the same thing five minutes ago.

[Matt Cole]

She what?

[Claude Griswold]

She what?

[Agatha Reed]

What, are they putting the food around here anyway? Now what's got into you, sweetheart?

[Matt Cole]

Don't even try to understand it. Just relax and enjoy it.

[Agatha Reed]

What kept you? Oh, Matt, you were right. We have missed six wonderful years. I've been so blind. Now why on earth didn't you make me see?

[Matt Cole]

Why didn't I.

[Claude Griswold]

You.

[Agatha Reed]

You politic.

[Narrator/Producer Irving Cummings]

In a moment our stars will return. Make a friend and you make an ally. There's a thought for you to keep in mind. As many another American has ever heard of Billy Brown. Well, for over a year now, young Billy, a high school senior of Yorktown Heights, New York, has broadcast a 15 minute program over the Voice of America every Friday. In answer to some letter from a pen pal, he talks about such varied subjects as sports, stamps, religious freedom and American jazz. The program is repeated in Urdu, a language spoken in India and Pakistan and beamed to Asia. In one month, Billy answered 627 letters from 35 countries. When one pen pal asked about student government in American high schools, Billy tape recorded a five minute student meeting in his school. For a while it looked as if Billy's program might be discontinued, but it had become so successful that the local Rotary Club set up a special committee to raise funds for its continuation and for the purchase of postage and stationery so Billy could continue to correspond personally with his overseas pen pals. Recently, Pakistan's ambassador to the US and his family visited Billy at his home for a weekend. And later the envoy invited the Brown family to Washington where Billy received a reward for his, as the citation read, contribution to the growing spirit of brotherhood between the youth of America and the youth of Pakistan. Although Billy Brown plans to enter law school, he hopes to continue with his radio program. For like so many other Americans, he's discovered that by helping others, you help your country. Now here's Mr. Cummings with our stars.

[Claude Griswold]

And here they are Rosalind Russell and Robert Young.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Now, Irving, tell us about your plans.

[Claude Griswold]

One of the most beautiful love stories of all time. The world famous novel by Emily Bronte, which Samuel Goldwyn turned into an artistic triumph as a great motion picture. Wuthering Heights. And we are proud to announce that lovely Merle Oberon will recreate a well remembered portrayal of Kathy.

[Matt Cole]

Well, that will certainly get you off

[Dr. James Merrill]

to a great start. Good night.

[Agatha Reed]

Good night.

[Claude Griswold]

Good night.

[Narrator/Producer Irving Cummings]

Third of my cast tonight were Joan Banks as Woody, Norma Jean Nilson as Ginny, herb Butterfield as Mr. Griswold, Fred MacKay as Dr. Pitt, Pauline Drake as Ellen Gail Bonnie as Ms. Shackleford and Eddie Marr. The Hollywood Radio Theater is produced by Mr. Irving Cummings. Our orchestra is under the direction of Rudy Schrager. This is Ken Carpenter inviting you to join us next week at this same time for another presentation of the Hollywood Radio Radio Theater. Hollywood Radio Theater is a presentation of the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Station Service.

[Dr. James Merrill]

Sam,

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