Lux Radio Theatre - A Man to Remember

Summary

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Podcast Summary:

Harold’s Old Time Radio – Lux Radio Theatre

Episode: "A Man to Remember"

Date: July 1, 2026

Episode Overview

This episode features the broadcast of Lux Radio Theatre’s "A Man to Remember," starring Lionel Barrymore, Anita Louise, and Glenn Ford. Set in a small Midwestern town, the story pays tribute to Dr. John Abbott—an underappreciated, compassionate country doctor whose life of service is posthumously revealed to have touched all in his community. The episode’s main theme centers on the self-sacrifice, humility, and silent heroism of everyday medical professionals. The story unfolds through a series of vignettes recounted after Dr. Abbott’s death, as townsfolk discover the true depth and generosity of his work.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Opening Tribute to Doctors (00:32–02:32)

• Host, Cecil B. DeMille, introduces the play as a salute to American doctors, describing them as “good and faithful servants” who “fight our mortal enemy, disease… banish our pain, bring rest, and earn a fortune in unpaid bills.”
• The cast is presented, noting Lionel Barrymore’s experience playing doctors and the play’s roots in the classic RKO film.

2. Dr. John Abbott’s Death and Initial Town Reaction (03:34–06:10)

• The entire town pauses to honor Dr. Abbott at his funeral—a man beloved by many, though not always celebrated in life.
• Local businessmen—including bank owner George Sykes and department store proprietor Homer Ramsey—watch cynically, expressing jealousy at the attention Dr. Abbott’s death received, compared to their own anticipated legacies.

Quote:
• George Sykes (04:06): “You think Abbott was the only man in this town worth a plug nickel?”

3. Revealing Dr. Abbott’s Estate (04:47–11:14)

• Lawyer Perkins gathers Abbott’s creditors and reveals the doctor died with many debts and little to his own name.
• Flashbacks reveal Dr. Abbott’s compassion for the poor—often accepting payment in goods instead of money, or nothing at all.
• It’s disclosed that Jean Abbott, Dr. Abbott’s daughter, was adopted after her birth mother died in Dr. Abbott’s arms during a difficult delivery, and her birth father left her at his doorstep.

Quote:
• Lawyer Perkins (11:13): “That’s how he came to adopt the girl you all watched grow up and know as Jean Abbott.”

4. The Doctor’s Compassion and Humor (11:36–15:00)

• Stories unfold of Dr. Abbott accepting livestock as payment or settling massive medical bills for the smallest amounts, underscoring his practicality and kindness.
• His self-effacing humor shines as he barters and refuses to place monetary value above life and well-being.

Memorable Moment:
• Dr. Abbott settles an appendectomy bill for “$1.60 cash,” suggesting, “You’d have had to pay a gravedigger for six hours,” highlighting his wit and perspective on the value of life (14:20).

5. Investing in the Future (15:09–19:14)

• Dr. Abbott encourages his son, Dick, to pursue postgraduate studies in Paris, selflessly funding the venture by scraping together savings and borrowing even further.
• Jean Abbott worries about the family’s mounting bills, while Dr. Abbott remains resolute: “Just mark ‘em paid in full and we’ll forget all about them” (18:53).

6. The Hospital and Blackmail for the Greater Good (22:05–27:03)

• George Sykes is maneuvered—via a mix of persuasion and gentle blackmail—into building the town hospital after his son Howard accidentally shoots Jean Abbott in a drunken fit.
• Dr. Abbott uses the incident to secure a legacy for the town's future health.

Quote:
• Dr. Abbott (25:21): “Yes, sir. I guess it is [blackmail].”

7. New Generations, New Ways (28:31–32:30)

• Dick Abbott returns from Paris and contemplates joining Dr. Robinson, preferring lucrative practice over the charity his father is known for.
• Father and son agree Dick will treat Dr. Abbott’s charitable cases for free, reflecting a bridge between old-fashioned values and modern practice.

8. Personal Sacrifices and Reunions (33:04–36:11)

• Jean announces her intent to marry Howard Sykes, and a heartfelt reunion occurs with her biological father, who returns to express his gratitude and repay Dr. Abbott—a rare moment of financial relief for the good doctor.

Quote:
• Mr. Johnson (34:56): “I just came back to… thank you for taking care of my daughter.”

9. Medical Crisis and Conflict (36:21–47:00)

• Dr. Abbott is the first to spot signs of a polio epidemic and urges the town board to cancel the county fair, but is dismissed by local businessmen.
• He independently prints and posts warnings and organizes a house-to-house campaign to administer preventative treatments.
• Facing criticism and formal suspension from the local medical association, Dr. Abbott remains steadfast, prioritizing lives over professional reputation.

Quote:
• Dr. Abbott (44:18): “If I am wrong, people lose confidence. But if I’m right, I’ve saved lives… I think it’s worth the gamble.”

• Ultimately, the epidemic is confirmed, Abbott’s actions save countless children, and the town recognizes his leadership.

10. Community Gratitude and Dr. Abbott’s Legacy (47:11–53:48)

• The town gathers to present Dr. Abbott with a letter of thanks signed by every resident—finally acknowledging his quiet heroism and electing him as the county medical association president.
• Upon his death, the true value of his legacy is revealed—not in money, but in service and love.
• Lawyer Perkins opens his strongbox to find enough money to settle Dr. Abbott’s debts and a pointed note to the town’s leading men.

Quote (Dr. Abbott’s letter, posthumous, 52:52):
“I knew you three vultures would be the first to crawl over the carcass… After you’ve taken out what I owe you, there should be $473.63 left for Richard and Jean.”

11. Final Reflections (54:17–58:24)

• The episode closes with a solemn reading of the 23rd Psalm—tying together faith, duty, and the passing of an era.
• Cecil B. DeMille and the cast urge support for war bonds and reflect on the continuing need for service and self-sacrifice.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• (07:30) Dr. Abbott: "17 years experience as a practicing physician. I've done pretty well. You're broke right now, ain't you? That isn't doing so well, John. I meant about keeping my patients alive. That's my business, you know."
• (14:24) Dr. Abbott (to Ramsey): “I'll settle right now for 40 cents an hour. $1.60 cash.”
• (18:53) Dr. Abbott (to Jean): “Just mark ’em paid in full and we’ll forget all about them.”
• (25:21) Dr. Abbott: “Yes, sir. I guess it is [blackmail].”
• (44:18) Dr. Abbott: “If I am wrong, people lose confidence. But if I’m right, I’ve saved lives… I think it’s worth the gamble.”
• (52:52) Dr. Abbott (posthumous letter): “George Sykes, Homer Ramsay and Jode Harkness. I knew you three vultures would be the first to crawl over the carcass…”
• (54:17) Dr. Abbott (Psalm 23): “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for thou art with me…”

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Key Timestamps for Important Segments

| Time | Segment Description | |-------------|--------------------------------------------------------------| | 00:32–02:32 | DeMille’s opening and tribute to doctors | | 03:34–06:10 | Dr. Abbott’s funeral and townsfolk response | | 07:30 | Meeting at the bank; Abbott seeks a loan | | 11:13 | Jean Abbott’s adoption revealed | | 14:24 | Bartering a medical bill with humor | | 19:14 | Dr. Abbott funds son’s studies overseas | | 25:21 | “Blackmail” to get Sykes to fund hospital | | 33:04 | Reunion with Jean’s birth father | | 36:21–47:00 | Polio epidemic, town’s resistance, Abbott’s defense | | 47:11 | The town finally acknowledges Abbott’s heroism | | 52:52 | Posthumous letter to the “vultures” (local businessmen) | | 54:17–55:00 | Psalm 23, reflecting spiritual closure |

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Tone, Language & Atmosphere

The episode’s tone is reverential, gently humorous, and deeply earnest—marked by small-town American humility and stoic self-sacrifice. Dr. Abbott’s dialogue is plainspoken, full of dry wit and practical wisdom. While the narrative is sentimental, it avoids melodrama by highlighting both his struggles and quiet triumphs.

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Conclusion

“A Man to Remember” stands as a moving tribute to the unsung work of local doctors. Through a blend of humor, pathos, and honest portrayals of human frailty, the play affirms that real legacies are built not on wealth or memorials, but on selfless service and the memories carried forward by grateful communities.

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Transcript

[Announcer]

Lux presents Hollywood. The lux radio theater brings you lionel barrymore, anita louise and glenn ford in a man to remember. Ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. Cecil b. Demille.

[Narrator]

Greetings from Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen. And greetings to the armed forces of the United States all over the world who hear the Lux Radio Theater through shortwave and other special facilities. Tonight we honor a good and faithful servant. He presides at our entrance into this world and at our exit into the next. He fights our mortal enemy, disease. He banishes our pain, brings us rest and earns a fortune in unpaid bills. He's the hero who has sworn the sacred oath of Hippocrates that he will lead his life and practice his art in uprightness and honor. That whatsoever house he shall enter it shall be for the good of the sick to the utmost of his power. And that whatsoever he shall see or hear of the lives of men which is not fitting to be spoken, he will keep inviolably secret. Tonight's play is one of the finest tributes I know to the American family. Doctor. RKO made the motion picture. And for our production of A Man to Remember this evening we've selected a cast I'm sure you'll remember. Lionel Barrymore, Anita Louise and Glenn Ford. Lionel Barrymore has just finished playing another doctor for Metro Goldwyn mayor. Calling Dr. Gillespie. You know, producing a different play every week is something like spending your whole life on an exploring trip. There's a surprise or a thrill around every turn. But no matter how interesting the job may be to us, it isn't really well done. Unless we can thrill you with these plays. Which luxe toilet soap brings you each Monday night. Never in the history of the theater has any one theater been able to call on so much talent as we can here in Hollywood. It's a producer's dream come true. And the Aladdin's lamp that made it come true was a cake of soap. Luxe toilet soap. But no single magician produced that. It took all the magic of modern science. Now, to the doctors of America we dedicate our play, A Man to Remember. Starring LIONEL BARRYMORE As Dr. Abbott, Anita Louise as Gene and Glenn Ford as Dick. If you should be traveling through the Middle west sometime, you might come upon a little town called Westport. It's just an ordinary small town with its main street, of course, and its First national bank, owned by George Sykes. Homer Ramsey's department store is there too, and a few other smaller shops. But on this spring afternoon, those that aren't closed are empty for old Doc Abbott is dead, and the townspeople stand along the curb in respectful silence as the funeral procession passes by.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Mother, can I feel my flower now?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Yes, dear, now.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

I never saw so many flowers.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Never.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

He deserved it. If any man.

[Dr. John Abbott]

What's going on, Bud? I'm a stranger in town. Somebody important die?

[Lawyer Perkins]

Old Doc Abbott died.

[Announcer]

Take off your hat, stranger.

[George Sykes]

Hmm?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, sure, sure.

[Narrator]

On the second floor of the bank building is the office of Lawyer Perkins. From his window, the three leading businessmen of the town also watch the procession. But they're unmoved, cynical.

[George Sykes]

Look at that crowd down there. I gave the town the only hospital it ever had. The George Sykes Memorial Hospital. But you think Abbott was the only man in this town worth a plug nickel?

[Homer Ramsey]

I put in the first department store in Westport. I suppose that doesn't amount to anything either.

[George Sykes]

Yes, and Joad Harkness here done a few things, too.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yes, sir.

[George Sykes]

Twas me got the public schools put in.

[Homer Ramsey]

To say nothing of giving the town a newspaper.

[George Sykes]

Yeah, and I'll bet the three of us won't scare up more than a baker's dozen at our funerals.

[Homer Ramsey]

Seems the more shiftless you are, the more people take up with you. Like old Doc abbot down there.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Mr. Sykes, Mr. Ramsey, Mr. Harkness. If you gentlemen can stifle your grief for a moment, perhaps we can get down to work.

[George Sykes]

All right, Councillor. While the town's marching behind the doc's casket, let's us figure up the expense.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Sit down, gentlemen. I've brought Doc Abbott's strongbox with me. I'm sure you're anxious to know what's in it.

[Homer Ramsey]

You bet we are.

[Lawyer Perkins]

I find that in most cases of this nature, the creditors prefer to wait until, say, a half hour after the benediction has been delivered.

[George Sykes]

Now, looky here, Perkins. That ain't fair. The docket want us to have our money.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Of course.

[Lawyer Perkins]

George, suppose we get on to business. You first, George.

[George Sykes]

Well, to begin with, I hold Doc Abbott's personal note for $600, plus 100 interest.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Mm, 700. How about you, Homer?

[Homer Ramsey]

I had the bookkeeper figure up his account today. $726.37. He ain't paid a bill at the store since 1928.

[Lawyer Perkins]

And you, Jude?

[Homer Ramsey]

He owes me $1,100.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I see.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Well, gentlemen, Doc Abbott's son gave me this strong box. Morning. Suppose we just turn everything out right here on my desk, gentlemen, the estate.

[George Sykes]

Oh, you get everything upside down doing it that way, Clyde.

[Lawyer Perkins]

I guess it doesn't matter. Well, here we have. Looks like one of those notes you were talking about George. Westport, First National Bank. $300 with accumulated interest at 7 percentum sign John Abbott, dated May 4, 1922.

[George Sykes]

Yep, that's the first one.

[Dr. John Abbott]

1922. Yes.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Just about 20 years ago, wasn't it? I remember it was right after Doc came back to Westport. I guess he needed money pretty badly at the time, so he went to the bank to see his old friend George.

[Narrator]

Sy.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Morning, George.

[Homer Ramsey]

Well, well, if it ain't John Abbott.

[Dr. John Abbott]

That's right. How are you, George? I'm fine, fine.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Sit down.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Been a long while since you left here, John. With near 25 years. This is my boy, Dick. Well, well.

[Homer Ramsey]

Quite a young man.

[Narrator]

How old?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I'm eight, sir.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Eight? Well, well, this is George Sykes, Dick. We used to go to high school together. That's right.

[George Sykes]

Your father left right after we graduated. He was voted the boy most likely to succeed.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Weren't you, John? Seems kind of funny now, doesn't it? Dick, suppose you wait outside for me. I got a little business I want to talk over.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Oh, sure, dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yes, sir.

[George Sykes]

John.

[Dr. John Abbott]

A long time. Oh, I heard you lost your wife, John. Too bad. Yeah, she died in Chicago. I couldn't stay there after that, so I came back. You mean to hang out your shingle in West Border, eh? Yeah, as long as I can make a living. Well, we got some doctors here already,

[Narrator]

but there's a lot of poor folks

[George Sykes]

on the other side of town.

[Dr. John Abbott]

You can probably find enough business to get by. Well, I figured to. I'll need a little eating money, though. That's why I came to you. I'd like to make a loan, George. Yeah? How much? Oh, about $300.

[Homer Ramsey]

That's a whale of a lot of money, John.

[George Sykes]

What have you got to offer as security?

[Dr. John Abbott]

17 years experience as a practicing physician. I've done pretty well. You're broke right now, ain't you? That ain't doing so well, John. I meant about keeping my patients alive. That's my business, you know. All right, John.

[Homer Ramsey]

I'll make out a note for $300

[George Sykes]

and give you 250. Got to have a little bonus, you know, when there isn't any security. But I always like to help out an old friend.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Do you help out many of your old friends this way, George? Oh, you'd be surprised. You know, George, they should have elected you the boy most likely to succeed, eh? Huh? Oh, sign right here.

[Lawyer Perkins]

And the doctor never paid that note, George.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Nary a penny of it.

[George Sykes]

That's why we're here, Perkins. To get what's due us.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Well, suppose we just lay this note aside for the present. The next paper here seems to be a bill. It's made out to Howard Johnson, July 17, 1922. Delivery of child, $25.

[Homer Ramsey]

What's that written on the bottom of it?

[Lawyer Perkins]

Seems to be a notation Doc made. Johnson has no money.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yeah, that was the trouble with Doc.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Always treating poor folks who couldn't pay him. Well, I suppose it's pretty hard for a doctor to refuse. Jode. This Johnson, now, he was a farmer. He sent for Doc about 2 o' clock one morning. His wife was having a baby.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, it's all over. You have a fine baby girl, Mrs. Johnson. A girl? I wanted a boy. Somebody who could help me work this

[Lawyer Perkins]

farm when I get old.

[Announcer]

Girls are for people who can afford them.

[Narrator]

How's my wife?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, I did everything I could, Johnson. I'm afraid she wasn't in very good condition to begin with and, well, I did everything I could.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

You mean she.

[Dr. John Abbott]

There's only one thing I can say. I know how you feel because I lost my wife that way and the baby just about a year ago. But keep the baby warm, whatever you do. I'll be back a little later.

[Announcer]

You get out of here.

[George Sykes]

Get out. And don't you never come back.

[Dr. John Abbott]

But, man, don't you want know how to take care of the baby?

[George Sykes]

I said get out, do you hear?

[Lawyer Perkins]

Now, go on.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Go on before I give you more.

[George Sykes]

Get out.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I guess you ain't responsible right now. I'm sorry, man.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Dad. Dad, it's the bell. Somewhere's at the door, dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yeah, Another night call, I guess. You get back to bed, son.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, I'll see who it is first. Hey, dad.

Huh?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Who is it, son?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

It ain't anybody.

[Dr. John Abbott]

What?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

It ain't anybody, dad. There's a basket on the porch, that's all.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Basket?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Look, dad, it's a little baby. And there's a note pinned on it. What's it say, dad?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, let's see, son.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Hmm.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Dear doctor, I'm sorry I hit you. Please give the kid to somebody who'll be good to him.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Gee, what are you gonna do, dad?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, seems like you've got a baby sister, Dick. Let's get her in trouble.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Never did hear that story before, Counselor.

[Lawyer Perkins]

No, Doc didn't often tell it, Jode, but that's how he came to adopt the girl you all watched grow up and know as Jean Abbott. Well, let's get on with the estate. Seems to be largely bills and more bills, gentlemen. Here's one that ought to look familiar to you, Homer. Homer Ramsey General Merchandise to Doc Abbott, account $1 $12. Oh, yes, yes.

[Homer Ramsey]

Guess he did buy a doll at the store once.

[Lawyer Perkins]

July 17, 1925. Somebody wrote please remit across the bill when it was sent.

[Homer Ramsey]

Well, that was a mistake.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Oh, say, I remember hearing about that.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Sure.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Seems Doc owed you for that doll. And one morning he walked in the front door with a pig under his arm. Little shoat. It was squealing to beat the van.

[Dr. John Abbott]

What's all this?

[Homer Ramsey]

What's the matter here?

[George Sykes]

Oh. Oh, Mr. Ramsey, it's a pig.

[Homer Ramsey]

I can see that.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Is it yours, Doc? Nope. It's yours, Homer. You're crazy. Nope. You see, Homer, you sent me a bill this morning for a doll I bought for my daughter. The bill was marked Please remit. I figured you must be kind of hard up, so I hurried.

[Homer Ramsey]

But I can't take a pig in payment.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, that's the way my patients pay me. Pigs, eggs, potatoes. I got this shot for fixing Mrs. Harkins liver condition.

[Homer Ramsey]

How much was the bill I sent you?

[Dr. John Abbott]

$12.

[Homer Ramsey]

That pig ain't worth more than five.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, maybe not right now, but he will be. Here, I brought you a bag of corn too. Feed the corn to the pig, and in three months, Homer, you'll be owing me money. Now, lady, by the way, come to think of it, I believe you owe me money. Yep, here it is. Your bill for Mrs. Ramsey's appendicitis operation.

[Homer Ramsey]

Well, I. Come into my office, John. I want to talk to you about that.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Sure.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Take good care of that pig, Mr. Raymond.

[Homer Ramsey]

Sit down, John.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Thank you, Homer.

[Homer Ramsey]

John, that bill was sent to you by mistake. No offense, you know. Now, let's see what I owe you.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Of course, I know you'd rather had Doc Robinson do that operation, Homer. But being as he was out of town and it was an emergency.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Sure, sure.

[Homer Ramsey]

Guess you saved Martha's life that night, John.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, it would have been a heap easier if we'd had a hospital in Westport. There's a lot of patients lost on kitchen table.

[Homer Ramsey]

Still got that pipe dream about a hospital? You did all right on the kitchen table. Well, let's see the bad news.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Here you are, Homer. A hundred dollars? That's right.

[Homer Ramsey]

How much of your time did that operation take?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, about four hours, I calculate.

[George Sykes]

$100 for four hours.

[Homer Ramsey]

That's pretty steep, John.

[Dr. John Abbott]

You really mean that, don't you, Homer?

[Homer Ramsey]

You bet I do.

[Dr. John Abbott]

What do you pay your janitor here,

[Homer Ramsey]

40 cents an hour?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, I guess I made a mistake in figuring the bill, Homer. That's more like a. Yeah, but the only place we differ is the value each of us put on your wife. I was a mite too high, so I'll settle right now for 40 cents an hour. $60 cents, cash.

[Homer Ramsey]

Oh, now, John, I didn't mean that. Perfectly willing to pay a fair price.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Give me a dollar and sixty cents.

[Homer Ramsey]

Well, I feel ashamed to settle for that, John, really, you know.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Give me the money. Huh? Oh, sure. Here it is, Hank. Now, I'll just make a notation on this bill. Settle for a $60 cash. You got a bargain at that, Homer. You'd have had to pay a gravedigger for six hours.

[Lawyer Perkins]

There's the record of the transaction, Homer. Settled for a dollar, 60 cents. You got a real bargain that time, Homer.

[Homer Ramsey]

Let's get on with this, Clyde. I ain't got all day.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Sure, sure. Let's see this next paper. Well, it isn't a bill for a change. It's a newspaper announcement of Dick's graduation from medical school. June 17, 1936. At Curtis University. Today, Richard Marvel Abbott, son of Dr. John Abbott, was graduated with honor.

[Dr. John Abbott]

That was a right fine speech you made, Dick. I didn't understand all the big words, but you said them. Well, thanks, dad.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I've never mentioned this before, dad. Always seemed kind of awkward. But thanks, dad, for all these years here.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Ah, no, no, no. It's been my fun, Dick. Say, I've been meaning to ask you, if you were going on into postgraduate work, now, just what would you specialize in?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Oh, it's easy. The thing you always wanted to do. Neuropathology. I'd like to know all about nerves.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Ah, I'm glad to hear that. Because you're going to spend the next two years at the Sorbonne in Paris.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

The Sorbonne? Oh, but you can't afford that, dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I've managed to save a little, and I've an idea where I can borrow some more.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I'd be a liar if I told you I wasn't crazy to go, but

[Dr. John Abbott]

yeah, you will sail in two weeks. You know, son, to my way of thinking, neurology is the greatest field in the world. There's so much pain. I could spare people if I knew how. Some diseases, well, I can't cure them at all. What if I could only take the pain out of. I know.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

But, dad, you always wanted postgraduate work. You never got it. Now, why should I?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, times have changed. Doctors have to know more these days. And what I don't know. Well, maybe when you come back, you'll teach Me? So you see, it's a sort of partnership. You and me, son.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Thanks, dad. Dad, you're swell.

Dad. Dad, wait.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Where's Gene? What's all the yelling about, young lady?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Dad, Howard Sykes wants to drive me back to Westport. May he?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Howard Sykes? Well, I guess so.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, thanks, dad. Dick, your speech was grand.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, thanks, dad.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Have you told him yet?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Just now.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Isn't it wonderful, Dick? I know you're going to be all kinds of a success over there. Well, Howard's waiting.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Bye.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Bye.

[George Sykes]

Come home early.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I will.

Hey, Dad, I don't know whether I like the idea of Gene running around with that Howard Sykes.

[Dr. John Abbott]

No. Why, son, you haven't got anything against Howard Sykes, have you?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

No, no, of course not.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Neither have I. Not a thing. Except, of course, he's George Sykes. Son.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Dad.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Dad, I want to talk to you about some of these bills.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, never mind those. Look here, letter just come from Dick.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

The letter can wait, dad. Something's got to be done about getting in some of this money that's owing you. Look at this bill. It's five years old. To Eben Fisher, setting broken leg. $25 received on account. $2.50. One bushel of turnips and four dozen eggs.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Good eggs, too.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

And here's one to Mrs. Sarah Bright, removing cataract from right eye. $40 received on account. Two months laundry. Oh, dad, these people ought to pay you.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, they do the best they can, honey. Most of these folks have a pretty hard time of it.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

But what about you? Trying to keep Dick in Paris and all.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, I'll get along all right. We'll manage somehow till Dick comes home. Then we'll have a real doctor in the family.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

But, dad, that's another two years yet. In the meantime, what do we do with these bills?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, we got to do something, huh? Well, I tell you, Jeannie, just mark em paid in full and we'll forget all about them.

[Announcer]

In just a few minutes, Mr. DeMille. And our stars, Lionel Barrymore, Anita Louise and Glenn Ford will return in Act 2 of A Man to Remember. Well, it's a pleasure to see our Hollywood Reporter, Libby Collins. Greetings, Libby. Busy as ever, I suppose I should

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

say so, Mr. Ruig. It keeps me busy keeping up with the stars lately. It takes me 24 hours a day sometimes.

[Announcer]

Well, it seems to agree with you, Libby.

[Dr. John Abbott]

You look fine.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

I wouldn't have missed it, Mr. Ruig. Well, not long ago, I was out at the Soldiers Canteen where Mary Martin and Claudette Colbert served coffee and sandwiches at night. And Mary and Claudette had been busy all day long, but you should have seen them pitch in and help make sandwiches.

[Announcer]

I'll bet two such famous stars had plenty of customers for those sandwiches, Libby.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

Well, rather. And everyone agreed Mary and Claudette looked just as lovely working at that canteen counter as they look on the screen.

[Announcer]

Of course they did. Those girls have real beauty. Lovely fresh complexions that pass the close up test both on the screen and off it. You know, it's nice to be able to say they use luxe toilet soap regularly.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

You mean you might say Mary and Claudette have luxe soap complexion? I know they have. Well, here's what Claudette Colbert herself told me. Even if I'm all in at bedtime, she said, I never neglect my luxe soap facial. The luxe soap lather so rich and creamy. Why, it feels as if you were smoothing beauty in.

[Announcer]

Well, Libby, many famous Hollywood stars depend on active lather facials with luxe toilet soap or a complexion care that really works. I wish you'd tell the ladies in our audience just how Mary Martin and Claudette Colbert take a luxe so beautiful.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

Certainly, Mr. Ruig. First you pat the smooth luxe so blather lightly in. Then you rinse with warm water and follow with cool. You pat to dry with a soft towel.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Mmm.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

It's wonderful how that creamy active lather removes stale cosmetics and every trace of dust and dirt. And it's delightful how soft and smooth your skin feels after this beauty care.

[Announcer]

Yes, Libby. Screen stars have found this care has a gentle way with delicate skin. Why don't you try these luxe toilet SOAP facials for 30 days? See what they can do for your skin. Get three cakes of this luxurious white soap. Tomorrow you'll get a rich return in loveliness for a very small investment. Now our producer, Mr. DeMille.

[Narrator]

Act two of A Man to Remember. Starring Lionel Barrymore as Dr. Abbott, Anita Louise as Gene and Glenn Ford as Dick. In the office on mainland, lawyer Perkins turns over the papers contained in old Doc Abbott's strongbox. The town's three leading businessmen watch eagerly as the attorney picks up the next item. Another newspaper clipping. A landmark in the history of Westport.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Looks as if the doc kept everything they printed about that hospital you built, George.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yes, certainly does.

[Homer Ramsey]

The doc was always hepped on that hospital idea. Yes.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Always wondered just how you came to build that hospital, George.

[George Sykes]

Well, I felt I ought to do something for the town, Clyde.

[Dr. John Abbott]

And that seemed a sort of a lasting thing.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Sort of a monument, eh, George?

[Narrator]

Mm.

[Lawyer Perkins]

See, here's a funny thing. A dance card of Jean's. Some affair at the Country Club, September 1937. Seems to have been the time your boy Howard was going around with her.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

George.

[Lawyer Perkins]

His name's here for most every dance.

[Homer Ramsey]

Yes.

[George Sykes]

Yes, he did see quite a bit

[Narrator]

of her at one time.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Didn't last, though.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Yes, that's the way it is with young people. Everything's fine one moment. Then they have a little quarrel and everything's off. Yes, it happened that night. They were driving home from the dance.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Howard, don't you think I'd better drive?

[Dr. John Abbott]

I'm just as sober as when I'm sober. Don't be afraid.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Howard, please slow down. Howard, please.

[Dr. John Abbott]

All right, I'll slow down.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, goodness, you nearly turned us over.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, I didn't. Jeannie, do you know you're beautiful?

[Homer Ramsey]

Jeannie.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, Howard, please. I didn't mean I wanted to park. I think you'd better take me home.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Sure, I will.

[Lawyer Perkins]

On one condition.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

What's that?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Tell me you love me.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, don't be silly. Howard.

[George Sykes]

Let's go.

[Dr. John Abbott]

All right, then.

[Narrator]

I'll kill myself.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Howard, where'd you get that gun? Give it to me.

[George Sykes]

Let go. Let go. I'm gonna kill myself.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Howard, stop it.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Give me that gun, you.

[George Sykes]

Jeannie, I. I didn't mean to. Honest, I didn't. Jeannie, where did it hit you?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

In my arm.

[George Sykes]

I'll bind my handkerchief around it, guys. Jeannie, I might have killed you. Now, lie as still as you can and I'll get you right home to your father. Just lie still, Jeannie. Don't move. Just lie still. Jeannie, please don't.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, hello, George. Come in.

[George Sykes]

Where is he? Where is my son?

[Dr. John Abbott]

He's gone home. You just missed him.

[George Sykes]

Is he. Is he all right?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yeah, he's all right. And Jeannie's all right too. Luckily, just a shot in the shoulder. John.

[George Sykes]

John, this is terrible.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yes, George, it is. Might have been murder, or at the very least, manslaughter.

[George Sykes]

But the boy didn't mean to hurt her.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I know, George, and he feels pretty terrible about her. But that, I suppose, is a question for the jury to settle. You know, of course, I have to report any gunshot wound to the police. That's the law.

[George Sykes]

But, John. Oh, you can't do that. You can't do that. Listen, John, I'll do anything to make it right.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Will you, George?

[George Sykes]

You name it. I'll do anything you say.

[Dr. John Abbott]

George, you've made a lot of money around this town. I guess you're about the biggest man westport's ever produced. Well, I was just thinking it's a shame that you won't leave any fitting memorial behind you. Man like you should engrave his name in the history of his town. Something big, George. You know, something worthwhile like.

[George Sykes]

Like what?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Like the George Sykes Memorial Hospital.

[George Sykes]

You mean. You mean you want me to build a hospital?

[Dr. John Abbott]

That's the idea, George.

[George Sykes]

Well, I won't do it. Why?

[Narrator]

This is blackmail.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yes, sir. I guess it is.

[George Sykes]

Well, it won't work. I won't build a hospital for you or anyone else.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Not even for your son, George. Be a pity to see him go to jail.

[George Sykes]

Now, wait, John. John, be reasonable. I'm willing to do anything within reason.

[Dr. John Abbott]

That's the way to talk. Yes, sir. George, I'll bet it won't cost you more than 30 or $40,000.

[George Sykes]

30 or 40.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, and maybe they'll even let you make a speech. Think of that, George. Standing up in front of the new building with the crowd cheering and the band playing. George, I'm proud of you.

[Dr. Robinson]

And now we hear from the man who made this building possible. The greatest humanitarian in our town, Mr. George Sykes.

[George Sykes]

Thank you, Dr. Robinson. Thank you, friends and fellow townspeople. In giving this handsome structure for the benefit of our sick, I, George Sykes, am doing very little. When I glance back at this structure costing $40,000 plus landscaping, I do not feel proud, my friends. I feel very humble. Because I have been able to do some little act to make my presence in the community a thing of benefit to us all. I thank you.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Good speech, eh, Duck short, to the point. Wonderful speech. I guess that makes George Sykes about the biggest man this town ever saw.

[Dr. John Abbott]

And what a heart. What a heart. I think I'll go in and take a look around the building. I'd like to see what he's done inside. Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

Good afternoon.

[Dr. John Abbott]

What can I do for you? Afternoon, Superintendent. I just figured I'd better drop in and sign the doctor's registry. Well, you see, Doctor, Mr. Sikes wanted to be sure that only the most modern methods were practiced here. And so he made a proviso that only physicians who have had postgraduate work within the last 20 years would be admitted to the registry. Oh, I see. However, there was a provision made for you, Dr. Abbott. You will be allowed to use the charity ward. Provided, of course, a regular hospital physician stands by M. Are there any other things that would bore a doctor out of here? Nothing but the 20 year clause. I just wondered because my son's going to get back into town next week from Paris. I Just wanted to be sure there wasn't any stipulation against all doctors named Abbott. Well, son, end of the line.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Ah, gosh, the old place hasn't changed a bit, has it?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Same old house.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Son, this. Oh, it's wonderful to see you again, Dick. Hello, Jane.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Hey, you've changed.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

Have I?

[Dr. John Abbott]

I told you, son. Well, I'll take your bag upstairs. Come on, now. We got a lot to talk about.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Come on, Dick.

[Narrator]

Hey.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Well, what's the matter?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well. Well, you really surprised me, Jeannie. I mean, say, you know, I didn't even kiss you.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Well, it's not too late, is it?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

No, I guess it isn't.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

What's so funny?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Oh, I don't know. Well, all the time I've been thinking of you as a sister. Yeah? And you're not at all, are you?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Why, no, I'm not.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Sit down.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Sit down. John, I'm itching to hear what you've been doing. Did you study under Dr. Redding?

[George Sykes]

All the time?

[Lawyer Perkins]

Mm, two years.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Redding. Great man.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Yeah, he knows his stuff, all right. Say, you know, Dad, I can't get over Jeanie. She's blossomed out into a regular beauty.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

You ought to come home oftener and check up on what's going on.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

It's a surprise to me you're not married, Jeanne.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, I suppose you think I've never had a chance.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Oh, I bet you have. Hey, what about Howard Sykes?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, I see Howard once in a while. Nothing serious, though.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, Redding. You know, I always hoped I could study with a man like Redding someday.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, why don't you, dad? Say, why don't you go over to the Sorbonne for a year?

[George Sykes]

Me?

[Dr. John Abbott]

In Paris? Nah, that's no place for a plug.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Say, dad, do you mind if Jean

[Dr. John Abbott]

and I scoot off for a little while?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I'd kind of look the old town over again. Why, no, no, no, no, not at all. Those will run along.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

I'll get a hat. Be back in a minute.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, son, I guess I got to get a sign painter up here tomorrow.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Sign painter? What for?

[Dr. John Abbott]

I got to have the sign out there.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Change.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Going to put your name first. Make it Richard Marvel Abbott, MD. And under it John Abbott. What do you think of that?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, dad, there's something I want to talk to you about.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Huh? Go ahead, son.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, about three months ago, I had a letter from Dr. Robinson here in town. He wanted me to go in with him as his partner. I wrote him I wouldn't do a thing, though, before I talked to you.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, you want to go in with Robinson?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, it's not much of a question of wanting to it. Well, forgive me, dad, but I know the kind of patience you have. You know, I bet you're way in debt right now on my account. So if I go with Dr. Robinson, I'd make it some real money.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, son, money's never bothered me much, but what I owe or what's owed me. I guess that's the wrong attitude, though,

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Dad, I wish you'd understand it. It's not money for its own sake. It's just that it. Well, I'll be the only neurologist in this town. That's a new line and people will go for it. There's people with money who can afford it.

[Dr. John Abbott]

What about the people who can't afford it?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I'll make a deal with you, dad. I'll take care of any case. You send me for nothing, huh?

[Dr. John Abbott]

All right, son, let's shake on.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

I'm ready, Dick.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

We won't be long, dad.

No, just take a look around, that's all. Goodbye, dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Goodbye. Goodbye, son. What's all the racket about?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Hey, come on out, can't you, Jeannie, I want to show you my new car.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, so you have a new car.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Sure. Well, what do you think of it, huh?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, it's very nice. Much better than anything your father ever had.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Oh, now, don't be like that. Dad understands if you're gonna succeed as a doctor, you've gotta put on a little front.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Your father never did. Then I. I suppose he isn't a success.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Look, Gene, dad knows exactly why I moved and why I went into partnership with Dr. Robinson. You evidently don't want to understand.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

After all he's done for us and what he's expecting from you, I'll never understand.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Oh, now, please, Jeannie. Hey, come on. Have dinner with me Thursday night and we can talk this out.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

No. Why, I've been meaning to tell you for the past week. Only so seldom we see you anymore. I'm going to be married.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Oh, Howard Sykes.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Yes.

[George Sykes]

Okay.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Congratulations.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Good night.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Good night.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

Jean.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Jean, come here quickly.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Dad, what's the matter with you?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Help me, will you? You sit up, will you?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, dad, what is it?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

I. I thought you were asleep here on the couch. Oh, tell me what to do, please.

[Dr. John Abbott]

It's all right. Little hearted, eh? See if you should ever find me like that again, Gene. Always have me sit up when you lie down. Well, once in a while. It's the end.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, dad. Dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Why, Jeannie, you're crying. It's all right. I'm all right now, honey.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Are you sure?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Of course I'm sure. Suppose you answer that door. Might be a patient.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

All right, dad.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Good evening.

[Narrator]

Is Dr. Abbott in?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Yes, he is.

[Narrator]

Can I see him?

[Announcer]

My name's Johnson.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Just a moment, please. Demand to see you, dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Patient?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I don't know.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

He said his name is Johnson.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Johnson. All right, send him in.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Will you come in, please?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Thank you. Good evening, doc.

[Announcer]

You remember me, don't you?

[Dr. John Abbott]

I guess I do. Don't go.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Jean.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

What is it?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Jean, this man is your father, Right?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

My father.

[Announcer]

I guess maybe I ought to do a little explaining.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I don't think it's necessary. I've told her already long ago.

[Narrator]

Oh, I see.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Well, I've got to run upstairs.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Good night, Jeannie.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Good night, dad. And good night, Mr. Johnson.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, what do you want?

[Announcer]

Oh, nothing.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Nothing at all.

[Announcer]

I just came back to. Well, to apologize for the way I was, doc. And to thank you for taking care of my daughter.

[Dr. John Abbott]

If you're thinking of taking her with you, it's no good.

[Announcer]

Oh, no, no, doc, it ain't that. Since I gave it to you that night, I. I've been living in the eastern part of the state and I've

[Dick Abbott (son)]

done pretty well too.

[Announcer]

Well, I want to pay you for the trouble and expense you've got her.

[Dr. Robinson]

Yeah.

[Announcer]

Ain't what I'd like to give you, but it is something.

[Narrator]

$3,000.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Hey, you sure you can spare that?

[Announcer]

Oh, yes. I got plenty for myself and I'm working steady.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, I gotta get along. I don't suppose I'll ever be able to tell you just how much this money means to me, Johnson. I'm gonna take it because I need.

[Lawyer Perkins]

You're.

[Dr. John Abbott]

You're a mighty fine man, doctor.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Good night,

Gene. Genie. Yes, dad?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Has he gone?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yeah, yeah. Gene, listen, you remember we had an extra registration blank for the saw bun when Dick filled his out?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Yes, but.

Give it for me, will you?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Jean, I'm going to fill out my application for a course under Dr. Eddie. Oh, dad, you want to hear from

[Narrator]

him in a couple of weeks.

[Dr. John Abbott]

And then I'm going to Paris, Jeannie, and show them that an old fellow can learn as well as a young one.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Dad, that's marvelous.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Now say ah. That's the girl. Come on. Ah.

[George Sykes]

Ah.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Once more. Now. That's fine.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, doctor, it's just a sore throat and a cold, ain't it, doctor?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, the throat and the nasal passages are inflamed. You say the hosted boy's been sick too?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Yes, Doctor.

[Dr. John Abbott]

And the Musicaro children?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

That's right.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

Same symptoms.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, now I tell you what I want you to do, Mrs. Smith. Keep Sally in the house. And don't under any circumstances, let other children come in.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

You mean it's something serious?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, I can't say yet. I want to see the Hosteda boy and the Muzicaro kids.

[George Sykes]

The meeting of the board of supervisors of the town of Westport's in order, Dr. Abbott. Like to say a few words. What about?

[Dr. John Abbott]

I don't know. I won't take much of your time today, gentlemen. But I felt the board of supervisors ought to be told of a condition threatening our town.

[Homer Ramsey]

What's on your mind, John?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, you're having a county fair in two weeks. And I've come here to ask you to cancel it.

[George Sykes]

Cancel it? Are you crazy?

[Homer Ramsey]

What for?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, unless my diagnoses are all wrong, we're in for an epidemic of infantile paralysis.

[George Sykes]

And what gives you that idea, Doc?

[Dr. John Abbott]

I have four patients who reveal all the preliminary symptoms.

[Homer Ramsey]

Only four? That's no epidemic. Just quarantine them.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Four cases of infantile paralysis, gentlemen, are enough to start an epidemic.

[George Sykes]

Just a moment, John. The merchants of this town have put up about $12,000 for the county fair. Are you suggesting that we throw away that money just because four of your patients might have infantile paralysis?

[Dr. John Abbott]

That's right, Joad.

[George Sykes]

Nothing doing. Quarantine your patience and that finishes it.

[Dr. John Abbott]

All right, then I'll have to go to the newspaper. Joad, I want you to print this story.

[Homer Ramsey]

Print it? Now, listen here, John.

[George Sykes]

We can't scare our readers with every

[Homer Ramsey]

wild rumor that comes down the road.

[Dr. John Abbott]

But this isn't a wild rumor, Jode.

[George Sykes]

You can't prove it, can you?

[Dr. John Abbott]

All right, then. I want to buy an ad in tonight's edition.

[George Sykes]

You mean advertise this paralysis gear?

[Homer Ramsey]

I'm afraid we couldn't, John.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, how about printing me up some handbills?

[Homer Ramsey]

Same thing.

[George Sykes]

Sorry.

[Dr. John Abbott]

You got a boy, haven't you, Jode Harkin. And you, George. You got a little girl. Jenkins, your kid's just the right age, too.

[George Sykes]

The right age for what?

[Dr. John Abbott]

For infantile paralysis. Only don't worry, gentlemen. I'm going to see they don't get it. Goodbye, gentlemen. I hope you sleep.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

When?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, tonight.

[Announcer]

We pause now for station identification. This is the Columbia Broadcasting System. After a brief intermission, Mr. DeMille and our stars, Lionel Barrymore, Anita Louise and Glenn Ford. Will return in Act 3 of A Man to Remember.

[Narrator]

Now, here's a question.

[Announcer]

I'm sure everyone's been asked and most people find hard to answer. It's this. What's your favorite flower?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

One says, why, it seems to me

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

lilacs are the loveliest flowers in the world.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

So delicate, so fragrant.

[Announcer]

And another.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Yes, lilacs are lovely. But what about lilies of the valley? Ever sniff anything more delicious than a bouquet of those?

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

Well, if there were just one flower I had to choose, I think it

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

would be the rose.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

So lovely to look at with such a delightful perfume.

[Announcer]

And that's the way it goes. But you'll notice the choice is usually a flower with a fragrance. Everyone loves the delicate perfume of flowers, even though it's pretty hard to agree on a favorite. And that's why the makers of luxe toilet soap decided to combine many delicate fragrances in the costly luxe soap perfume. No less than 34 different ingredients have been blended by a master perfumer to make the exclusive perfume of luxe toilet soap. It's an exquisite flower like fragrance, distinctive and delightful. A haunting fragrance that clings lightly to the skin. Screen stars tell you they love this luxe toilet soap perfume. It's luxurious and expensive. Yet because so many million cakes of luxe toilet soap are sold, each one cost you but a trifle. And here's a little trick smart women have discovered.

[Libby Collins (Hollywood Reporter)]

I buy half a dozen cakes of lux toilet soap at a time and slip a few in my dresser drawer till I want to use them. The luxe soap perfume makes a perfect sachet and leaves a lovely light fragrance on lingerie and handkerchief.

[Announcer]

Why don't you enjoy the luxury of this fine fragrant white soap? Luxe toilet soap costs so little. Get three cakes tomorrow. Now Mr. DeMille returns to the microphone.

[Narrator]

The curtain rises on the third act of a Man to Remember starring Lionel Barrymore, Anita Louise and Glenn Ford. Little by little, the life of Dr. Abbott unfolds itself as lawyer Perkins turns over the contents of the strong box. The men are silent now, each busy with his own thoughts. The lawyer speaks quietly.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Well, here's the last of the bills, gentlemen, for the printing of circulars. He did get those paralysis notices printed up, Joad, even if you wouldn't do it. And there's another item here showing that he gave each kid who helped him 10 cents to post the notices around town. Remember that? Morning, gentlemen. Quite some excitement, wasn't it?

[Narrator]

Oh, it's a notice. Doc Abbott, Robbie.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Warning infantile paralysis. Keep your children indoors and away from other children. Do not attend the county fair. I am undertaking a house to house canvas to administer a preventative Spray to all children whose parents will permit it. If I do not get to your house, come to me in the evenings. John Abbott, M.D. infantile paralysis.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Mary.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Johnny, you come right in the house with him.

[Lawyer Perkins]

We weren't home when you came.

[Narrator]

I haven't done any money, Doc.

[George Sykes]

But I was.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

My doctor. But I couldn't get in touch with him today.

[Dr. John Abbott]

All right, folks. Now, if you just line up one by one, I'll take care of you in the living room. Get those sprays ready, will you? Je. Dad. Hello, son. What brings you around that I came

[Dick Abbott (son)]

to talk to you?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, I'm pretty busy right now, Dick, but. All right, you can talk fast.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Can we be alone?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

I'll go, Dick.

[Dr. John Abbott]

No, no, Gene. Oh, Gene's been my right hand and most of my heart for a long while. Dick, what's on your mind?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, it's all about this paralysis scare. Now, if you're wrong, dad, it'll reflect on every doctor in this town. People will lose confidence.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yeah, well, maybe we doctors should value our reputations more than we do. Or take me. I run a 50, 50 chance of being wrong. If I am wrong, people lose confidence. But if I'm right, by then I've saved lives. Young bodies, muscles and bones, grief and pain. I think it's worth the gamble, Dick.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, there's another thing, dad. This business of spraying children, whether they're your patients or not, that's considered unethical. The County Medical association is pretty well

[Announcer]

stirred up about it.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

You see, that's really why I came to warn you.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, the County Medical association stirred up. Well, now, isn't that too bad? Well, you tell them they should have been stirred up a week ago. They're too late. Now, get out, Son. I'm tired and I got work to do. All right.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Dad.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Dad, he felt he had to do it. He was only trying to help you.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I know. Oh, Dean. I never felt it before, but I'm an old man.

[Dr. Robinson]

Gentlemen, your attention, please. You've heard the charges of the medical association, Dr. Abbott. The county fair and the reputation of all of us has been put in jeopardy by what we must consider an unwarranted action on your part. Have you any defense to offer?

[Dr. John Abbott]

No defense, Dr. Robinson.

[Dr. Robinson]

Then I have no cause but to put your suspension to a vote.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Suspension? All right, go ahead. When you want to tell me the good news, you'll find me at home.

[Dr. Robinson]

Well, all in favor of suspension, vote aye.

[George Sykes]

Aye.

[Dr. John Abbott]

All opposed?

[Homer Ramsey]

No.

[Dr. John Abbott]

No. Motion carried.

[Dr. Robinson]

I'm sorry, Dick.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Just a minute. Because my father made a mistake you voted him out. But let me tell you, the greatest men in medicine were those who made the greatest mistakes.

[Lawyer Perkins]

That.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

That.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

That's how they learned and passed on their knowledge to us. What my father's done required more courage than there is in this whole room. With courage like his, we're doctors. Without it, we're mechanics. Mr. Chairman, I have no choice but to tender my resignation.

[Dr. Robinson]

Dick, you can't do that.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I'm sorry to be late, gentlemen.

[Dr. Robinson]

Oh, come in, Dr. Palmer. We waited for you as long as we could.

[Homer Ramsey]

Well, I'm sorry.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Couldn't get away.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I have six cases of infantile paralysis in Wellington.

[Dr. Robinson]

What?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Paralysis?

Are you sure, Dr. Palmer?

[Homer Ramsey]

Of course I'm sure. We're in for an epidemic, gentlemen.

[Dr. John Abbott]

There are eight cases reported in Palmdale.

[George Sykes]

Fourteen in Riverdale, four in Delta.

[Homer Ramsey]

And it's spreading like wildfire.

[Dr. Robinson]

I assume we shall disregard all action in this meeting. Do I hear a motion that we insist on cancellation of the county fair?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I make such a motion.

[Dr. Robinson]

All in favor?

[George Sykes]

Aye.

[Homer Ramsey]

Aye.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

There you are, dad. There's the report from the whole county. They've licked the epidemic. Oh, isn't it wonderful? And it's all due to you.

[Dr. John Abbott]

No, no, no, no, not me. The doctors worked pretty hard, Jean.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Yes, but it's you who showed them the way. I'll go, dad.

[Narrator]

That's a living letter for Dr. Rabbit.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Sign.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, there,

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Dad.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

A special delivery from Paris.

[George Sykes]

Paris?

[Dr. John Abbott]

From the Sorbonne. Read it to me, will you, Jeannie? My eyes are kind of tired.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Don't be so nervous, dad.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Now.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Dear Dr. Abbott, your application for admission to Dr. Redding's courses in neurology have been duly received. We regret the to inform you that this class requires two years graduate work from anyone entering. We are there for.

[Dr. John Abbott]

That's enough, Jeanie.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

That's enough.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, dad. Oh, it's not fair.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Now. Maybe it's just as well. I got a better place for that money anyway.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

May I come in, Dick? Hello, Jean. Hello, dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, son, good to see you.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Dad, there are a lot of people outside.

[Lawyer Perkins]

People?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, send them in.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, I think maybe you'd better see them on the front porch. It's pretty much of a crowd.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Crowd? You see me?

[George Sykes]

Who are they?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, the minister's leading them. Come on out here, dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Dick, what's all this? Looks like everybody in town.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, I guess it is just about.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Good evening, Doctor. Oh, evening, Reverend.

[Lawyer Perkins]

Dr. Abbott.

[Dr. John Abbott]

You've been among us for a long time, and you've worked hard. You've never made much money. I guess because the people you Worked for. Didn't have much, but you didn't care. You just kept right on working. We wanted you to know we're. We're grateful. I have here a letter. A letter of thanks. It's got 6,000 signatures, doctor. Every man, woman and child in town. It's just to let you know that we. That we love you. Why, I. I believe Dr. Robinson has a few words to say.

[Dr. Robinson]

Dr. Rabbit, I've come to extend my personal and professional apologies. You've taught us all something not only about medicine, but about humanity. The Westport Medical association has delegated me to inform you that if you will accept it, you have in advance been elected president by acclamation.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Doctor Robinson and friends. Well, thank you very much.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Oh, dad, I'm. I'm proud of you. Well, thanks, son.

[Dr. John Abbott]

It's been something of a night, ain't it?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Come on, dad. I'm going to put you on the couch and you're going to rest.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yeah, well, I guess I am pretty tired.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I'll take it.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Hello?

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Y. Oh, yes. Yes, Mrs. Harmon. Dr. Abbott will be right over. It was Mrs. Harmon, dad. She thinks Joe's broken his arm. I'll take the case.

[Dr. John Abbott]

She expects me.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I told her Dr. Abbott would be right over.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Oh, well, thanks, Son.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Dad, would you mind if I get that sign painter up here tomorrow?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Son, I. I'd like that.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I won't be long.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Dick. Do you mind if I go with you? You see, I. I always go with Dr. Abbott on cases of this nature.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Well, I think that that's a great idea. Hey, I don't suppose I could hope that you'll always go with Dr. Abbott.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Dick, if you want me.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

No. What about Howard Sykes?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, that was only because you were so stupid. I wouldn't marry anyone. But was it doctor? But I had to make sure he was a real doctor.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I think maybe you got one, Gene. I think maybe I'll do my best.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Come on. Goodbye, dad.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Goodbye, kid. Doctor Abbott. Be right over. S.O.B. we regret to inform you 6,000 names every man, woman and child in the town. Dr. Abbott, you ride over. Dr. E.B. tissue.

[Lawyer Perkins]

The night we honored old Doc Abbott was the night he died. That brings us to the last paper in the strong buff. This envelope. I think we can open it now.

[George Sykes]

Well?

[Dr. John Abbott]

Money. A whole stack of bills.

[Lawyer Perkins]

There's a note, too, gentlemen.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I'll read it to you. You'll like this.

[Lawyer Perkins]

George Sykes, Homer Ramsay and Jode Harkness. I knew you three vultures would be the first to crawl over the carcass.

[George Sykes]

What?

[Lawyer Perkins]

According to my calculations, I owe the three of you $2,526.37. In this envelope you will find $3,000. After you've taken out what I owe you, There should be $473.63 left for Richard and Jean. Don't try to make it any less because knowing you good people, I took the precaution to tell them exactly how much there was. Until I see you all in eternity, I am your humble servant, John Abbott. M.D.

[Dr. John Abbott]

well, that's that. He was a good man. Paid every cent he owed.

[Homer Ramsey]

3:30. I suppose the service is just about over by now. Kind of wish I'd have gone.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

I wish. I wish I had too.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, for thou art with me. Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. Thou anointest my head with oil. My cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

[Narrator]

So ends the story of John Abbott, MD. Throughout America, there are thousands of others like him whose estates are measured not in money but in memories of service to their fellow men. The beloved artist who played John Abbott tonight returns to our microphone now, Lionel Barrymore. And with him are Anita Louise and Glenn Ford.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Well, I'm glad to be back with

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

you, CB and one thing I'm sure of, Mr. Barrymore, is that every doctor in our audience got a thrill from your performance tonight.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

And you know, nowadays we have a pretty good chance to follow their example of self sacrifice.

[Narrator]

Yes, Glenn, these are times when everybody should be thinking of others. Those boys out there in Australia and all our outposts where the flag flies today. But thinking isn't enough. We must go into action.

[Dr. John Abbott]

You can trust CB to get action in the picture. Well, we all want to see that total eclipse of the rising sun. Well, buying war bonds will hurry it up.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

It'll take an awful lot of them, though. Why, it cost a million dollars a day just to feed the Army.

[Dr. John Abbott]

I don't know how you can be so pretty, Anita, and carry figures like that in your head.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Ask her how much you get back in 10 years from an $18.75 bond.

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Well, that's easy. $25 and a warm feeling in your heart.

[Narrator]

Then somewhere, perhaps, it will mean life itself to some American boy. We know that 10% of our income, yours and mine and everybody's 10% put into war bonds. Now, every payday will save American lives. It will buy the fighting tools for our fighting men.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

10% of everybody's income is the quota. And war bonds and stamps may be purchased from a bank, post office, savings and loan association, theaters, investment broker, retail store or newspaper carrier. Well, what's on the schedule for next week, Mr. DeMille?

[Jean Abbott (daughter)]

Oh, before you tell us that, Mr. DeMille, I just want to say that I think that the Lux Radio Theater is doing a grand war job. We need plays like those you're giving us. Speaking for myself at least. I can't get along without your product. Luxe Soap. It's been my regular complexion care for a long time. You see, I think Luxe soap is a lucky soap.

[Narrator]

You're living proof that Luxopa is more than lucky, Anita. But about next week.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Yes? Well, what's the place, Evie?

[Narrator]

A real thriller, Lionel. The Metro Goldwyn Mayer aviation hit Test Pilot. And our stars will be Robert Taylor, Rita Hayworth and Robert Preston. It's a drama of men who risk their lives every day to make American planes better. The test pilots mix action, adventure and romance at 4 or 500 miles an hour. And you have Test Pilot here next week with three of your favorites. Robert Taylor, Rita Hayworth and Robert Preston.

[Dr. John Abbott]

Things never stop happening in that place, E.B. well, good night.

[Dick Abbott (son)]

Good night.

[Narrator]

Good night.

[Announcer]

Good night.

[Narrator]

Don't forget, buy a bond and save a life. Our sponsors, the makers of Lux Toilet Soap, join me in inviting you to be with us again next Monday night when the Lux Radio Theater presents Robert Taylor, Rita Hayworth and Robert Preston in Test Pilot. This is Cecil B. DeMille saying good night to you from Hollywood, Glen cove,

[Announcer]

through the courtesy of columbia pictures and will soon be seen in their production of the eagles fly high. Heard in tonight's play were leo cleary as sykes, harlan briggs as ramsay, griff barnett as perkins, charles seale as harkness, francis x. Bushman as Dr. Robinson, fred mackay as howard sykes, bruce payne as minister and warren ash, dwayne thompson, dick elliot, edward marr, victor rodman, dix davis, leon ledoux and mary lou harrington. Tune in next Monday night to hear robert taylor, rita hayworth and robert preston in test pilot. Our music was conducted by louis silvers and your announcer has been melville ruig. This is the columbia broadcasting system.