A Memo From Molly 1951-08-19 Household Repairs

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – "A Memo From Molly 1951-08-19 Household Repairs"

Episode Overview "A Memo From Molly" is a charming radio sitcom set in the early 1950s, portraying the domestic life of the Martin household. The episode titled "Household Repairs" delves into the humorous and heartfelt interactions between Molly Martin, her secretary Chris Connolly, and their resourceful neighbor, Roger White. Through witty dialogue and relatable situations, the show explores themes of dependency, gender roles, and the dynamics of household management.

Main Characters

• Molly Martin (Barbara Luddy): A well-meaning but somewhat meddlesome housewife striving to create a dependent relationship with her secretary, Chris.
• Chris Connolly (Olin Soule): Molly’s efficient and somewhat overwhelmed secretary, who grapples with balancing his professional responsibilities and household demands.
• Roger White (Vince Pelletier): The Martin family's young, tech-savvy neighbor who often assists with household repairs.
• Fred (Jess Kirkpatrick): The janitor who provides comic relief with his unconventional repair methods.

Plot Progression

1. Introduction to Household Tensions ([03:23] - [06:00]) The episode opens on a sunny morning in the Martin household. Molly is engrossed in her crossword puzzle while her son, referred to as "Wayfair" in the transcript — likely a stage direction or background character — struggles with a malfunctioning electric toaster. Molly uses the toaster mishap as a metaphor for relationships, equating making toast to waiting for a marriage proposal.

   Molly Martin ([04:02]): "Making toast is like waiting for a man to propose. It takes time, but sooner or later he'll."
   Chris Connolly ([04:17]): "Because for the last three mornings, this toaster has been a frustrated locomotive. Every time I drop in bread, cinders I get." ([04:25])

2. Molly's Strategy to Foster Dependency ([06:00] - [11:00]) Concerned with her son's lack of involvement in household tasks, Molly decides to encourage Chris to take a more active role in maintaining the house. She believes that by appearing helpless, Chris will feel the need to depend on her more.

   Molly Martin ([06:15]): "You have something she didn't have." ([06:09])

   Chris, feeling the pressure, contemplates asking Roger for help but hesitates, fearing it may undermine his image of competence.

3. Introduction of Roger White and Escalation ([11:00] - [16:35]) Roger White enters the scene as a capable and eager helper. When Chris struggles with a stuck drawer, Roger quickly steps in to fix it, impressing Molly and subtly challenging Chris's role.

   Roger White ([13:23]): "I'll fix the light in the refrigerator for you." ([13:33])

   This act of diligence by Roger stokes Molly's fears that Chris might not be the sole source of household maintenance, prompting her to devise more elaborate schemes to ensure Chris's indispensability.

4. The Refrigerator Fiasco ([16:35] - [23:00]) Attempting to orchestrate a situation where Chris must demonstrate his skills, Molly assigns him to fix the refrigerator. However, Chris's lack of expertise leads to a minor mishap, further complicating the household dynamics. Roger intervenes once more, effortlessly resolving the issue by simply replacing a light bulb, thereby exposing Chris's limitations.

   Chris Connolly ([19:03]): "I'm helpless. Wish I were a little kid like Roger and nobody'd expect me to know anything about electricity." ([19:08])

   This incident reinforces Molly's realization that her efforts to make Chris dependent may be misguided, especially with Roger's unexpected competence.

5. Resolution and Realizations ([23:00] - [27:22]) As the episode progresses, Molly acknowledges her overbearing tactics and the unintended consequences they have on her relationship with Chris. In an attempt to rectify the situation, she orchestrates a communal effort to attend a local ball game, inviting both Chris and Roger. This gesture symbolizes Molly's acceptance of Roger's role and a step towards a more balanced household dynamic.

   Molly Martin ([23:28]): "Roger wanted to fix everything to begin with, but I wouldn't let him. I wanted you to fix them." ([23:28])

   Conclusion "A Memo From Molly" concludes on a lighthearted note, highlighting the importance of genuine relationships over manipulative dependency. Molly learns to appreciate the talents of both Chris and Roger, fostering a more harmonious household where assistance is sought willingly rather than imposed.

Notable Quotes

• Molly Martin ([04:02]): "Making toast is like waiting for a man to propose. It takes time, but sooner or later he'll." ([04:02])
• Chris Connolly ([06:15]): "A vacuum cleaner. One you can tear apart and let a man put together again." ([06:09])
• Roger White ([13:23]): "I'll fix the light in the refrigerator for you." ([13:33])
• Chris Connolly ([19:03]): "I'm helpless. Wish I were a little kid like Roger and nobody'd expect me to know anything about electricity." ([19:08])
• Molly Martin ([23:28]): "Roger wanted to fix everything to begin with, but I wouldn't let him. I wanted you to fix them." ([23:28])

Themes and Insights

• Gender Roles: The episode subtly critiques the traditional 1950s gender expectations, showcasing Molly's efforts to align her household with societal norms by making her husband dependent.
• Dependency vs. Independence: Molly's journey reflects the pitfalls of fostering dependency in relationships, emphasizing the value of mutual support and respect.
• Generational Talent: Roger represents the emerging young talent that challenges established norms, bringing efficiency and fresh perspectives to household management.

Conclusion "A Memo From Molly 1951-08-19 Household Repairs" offers a delightful glimpse into mid-20th-century domestic life, blending humor with insightful commentary on relationship dynamics. Through the interactions of Molly, Chris, and Roger, the episode underscores the importance of genuine assistance and the dangers of manipulative dependency, all while maintaining the lighthearted charm characteristic of Harold's Old Time Radio.

Transcript

[Stiles Mackenzie]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Stiles Mackenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com Fierce, this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Wayfair]

Wayfair, Every style, every home.

[Olin Soule]

And now, here's a memo from Molly brought to you by the Lucerne Milk Company and starring Olin Soleil and Barbara Luddy. Yes, once again, the Lucerne Milk Company, producers of the richer milk you get at your Safeway store, brings you a happy half hour. Starring Olin Soule as Chris Connelly and Barbara Luddy as Molly Martin. That's right. It's another memo from Molly.

[Wayfair]

From Molly Martin, secretary to Chris Connolly, managing editor. Dear Chris, you have no business being jealous of Roger White. True, he's younger than you are, he has beautiful teeth and a charming smile. And he adores me. Besides, it's flattering to a girl to be romanced by a 10 year old.

[Olin Soule]

And on that note, we leave Chris to his and welcome that genial young man from Lucerne, Vince Pelletier.

[Vince Pelletier]

Thank you, Roy. But remember, Molly has her troubles, too.

[Olin Soule]

Yeah, and you know something, Vince? Molly shouldn't be so anxious to land. Chris, as the old saying goes, there are other fish in the sea.

[Vince Pelletier]

Yes, but who wants to go on a lark in the park to spark in the dark with a shark?

[Chris Connolly]

Well, what I mean.

[Olin Soule]

Oh, you know, Vince, as the old saying goes, a woman shouldn't chase a man. She should make the man run after her.

[Vince Pelletier]

Oh, that's right. And keep him running after her until she catches him.

[Olin Soule]

Hey, seems to me, Vince, you don't believe in saying.

[Vince Pelletier]

Oh, yes, I do, Roy. For example, I believe in the saying, the more it costs you, the more you save.

[Olin Soule]

Hey, wait just a minute here, Vince. You mean the less it costs you, the more you say.

[Vince Pelletier]

No, I mean the more it costs you, the more you save. And I can prove it. Remember when Safeway introduced Lucerne concentrated milk?

[Olin Soule]

Yes.

[Vince Pelletier]

By mixing one quart of Lucerne concentrated milk with two quarts of cold water, you got the equivalent of three quarts of fine, fresh, regular Lucerne. And you made a substantial saving on each of those three quarts. That is a substantial saving on the price of regular store milk. Yes, but I don't. Well, now, the state minimum price on regular Milk has gone up a cent a quart. And the more regular store milk costs you, the more you save by using Lucerne concentrated milk. Because the price of Lucerne concentrated milk has stayed the same. So in addition to what you saved previously, by using Lucerne concentrated milk, you now save $0.01 more on every quart of fresh, wholesome Lucerne you make from Lucerne concentrated milk.

[Chris Connolly]

Hey, yeah, you're right.

[Olin Soule]

With all Lucerne concentrated milk's many advantages. Now this extra saving, the person who isn't using Lucerne concentrated milk really is missing something.

[Vince Pelletier]

Roy, that statement certainly sums it up. So now let's get the show started.

[Olin Soule]

Once again, it's breakfast time in the Martin household and Mother is absorbed in her daily crossword puzzle. Outside, the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and all's right with the world. Or is it? Hey, look at Molly, who sits staring at her one enemy, the electric toaster.

[Wayfair]

Well, go on, Pop, why don't you. Don't just sit there leering at me, Pop.

[Molly Martin]

Molly, Molly, please, I'm trying to concentrate. Now, let's see. A four letter word starting with a K, which means an act of a affection.

[Wayfair]

Mother, isn't there some way to regulate this toaster? Mm.

[Molly Martin]

Act of affection starts with a K. Oh, I know.

[Wayfair]

Kitchy kitchy coo. What?

[Molly Martin]

Oh, no, that's not four letters, is it? It's my crossword puzzle, darling.

[Wayfair]

Mother, I'm in no mood to worry about a crossword puzzle. I can't eat it. And what's more, I don't like cinders for breakfast.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, that's silly, dear. Why would you eat cinders?

[Wayfair]

Because for the last three mornings, this toaster has been a frustrated locomotive. Every time I drop in bread, cinders I get.

[Molly Martin]

Molly, making toast is like waiting for a man to propose. It takes time, but sooner or later he'll.

[Wayfair]

Pop.

[Molly Martin]

I must have read that somewhere.

[Wayfair]

I don't want the toaster to propose, Mother. All I want is. Mother. It popped.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, my, how nice.

[Wayfair]

But the toast isn't burned, it's golden brown.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, I tell you, that boy's an electrical wizard. Molly.

[Wayfair]

What boy?

[Molly Martin]

Well, Roger White, the little boy who moved next door.

[Wayfair]

You mean Roger fixed the toaster yesterday.

[Molly Martin]

Just like he fixes everything. But you know, Molly, he frightens me sometimes. Those big inquisitive eyes. If you ask me, it isn't healthy for a boy of his age to be studying electronic books instead of playing outdoors.

[Wayfair]

Oh, I'm sure he's a very normal boy. And think what a wonderful husband he'll be in in 15 years. He's so attentive, so helpful.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, he has his heart set on you, Molly. Oh, Molly, have you seen the look in his eyes? He adores you, dear.

[Wayfair]

I wish Chris Connolly were only half that attentive.

[Molly Martin]

Well, it's your own fault. Chris isn't my fault. Certainly you let little Roger do things for you. Like the day he fixed the vacuum cleaner. It made Roger feel important because you needed him.

[Wayfair]

That's not the way I need Chris.

[Molly Martin]

Now, Molly, that's the attitude that's wrong. Instead of letting Chris do things for you, why, you do everything for him.

[Wayfair]

Mother, I'm just not the clinging vine type. Times have changed since you were a girl.

[Molly Martin]

Times never change where a woman is concern. You remember Cleopatra?

[Wayfair]

Vaguely. I was rather young.

[Molly Martin]

She conquered emperors and generals, Molly, by making them think that she was dependent on them. And you have something she didn't have.

[Wayfair]

What, clothes?

[Chris Connolly]

No.

[Molly Martin]

A vacuum cleaner. One you can tear apart and let a man put together again.

[Wayfair]

Oh, Chris is too smart to fall for a thing like that.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, they've said that about every man once. Not tomorrow. Saturday. Why not tell Chris that there are loads of things around the house that need fixing. And when you tell him, you. You look helpless.

[Wayfair]

Mother, I just couldn't. It wouldn't be fair.

[Molly Martin]

Fair, Molly? All fair in love or war. And you'd hardly consider it.

[Olin Soule]

War.

[Wayfair]

I'd hardly consider it. Period. Never mind. Gotta run now. Bye. Good morning, Chris.

[Chris Connolly]

Oh, morning, Molly. Darn, this drawer stuck again.

[Wayfair]

Chris, you look like it's more than just a drawer. Don't you feel well?

[Chris Connolly]

Oh, I'm all right, I guess. But things just keep piling up. And if I don't get this drawer open.

[Wayfair]

Chris, relax. It's not that important.

[Chris Connolly]

I guess you're right. I'm sorry, Molly. Your being here is a big help.

[Wayfair]

Well, don't be afraid. Mr. Craig will walk in. He's still on vacation.

[Chris Connolly]

Come here, darling.

[Wayfair]

That's more like it.

[Chris Connolly]

You know something, Molly? I haven't relaxed since that Saturday at your house almost a month ago.

[Wayfair]

Oh, it was nice.

[Chris Connolly]

What a day. Your mother fixed that chicken salad for lunch.

[Wayfair]

And then you fell asleep on the couch while I washed dishes.

[Chris Connolly]

And for dinner, your mother cooked that steak smothered with mushrooms.

[Wayfair]

And then you fell asleep on the couch while I washed dishes.

[Chris Connolly]

So you do remember, don't you, Molly?

[Wayfair]

How could I forget? For three weeks, every time I went to shake hands with someone, I instinctively wiped my hands on my skirt.

[Chris Connolly]

Oh, yes, sir. It sure would be good to do it again sometime. What are you thinking, Molly?

[Wayfair]

Oh, something mother told me to do this morning.

[Chris Connolly]

Forget to do it?

[Wayfair]

No, I just didn't take her seriously, Chris. It would be nice you're coming tomorrow, But I'm afraid stakes would be out of the question.

[Chris Connolly]

Oh, I'd bring the steaks, naturally.

[Wayfair]

Well, you'd have to bring the broiler too, Chris. Ours is on the blink. Oh, probably something trivial, that is, for a man. He might fix it in a jiffy.

[Chris Connolly]

Oh, sure. Nothing to it.

[Wayfair]

Still, there's the refrigerator too.

[Chris Connolly]

Refrigerator?

[Wayfair]

It's broken too. That and a few things like the ironing board and I feel so helpless.

[Chris Connolly]

Yeah, well, Molly, about tomorrow, I. I couldn't impose.

[Wayfair]

Oh, but you'd be doing me a favor by coming. Chris, There are so many things.

[Chris Connolly]

Yeah, well, I'd like to, Molly, but. Well, with Mr. Craig on vacation, work's piling up and I plan to spend all day tomorrow here at the office.

[Wayfair]

On Saturday?

[Chris Connolly]

Yes, a good time to catch up. But if I find I can change my plans, I'll let you know, huh? Now, if I can just get this drawer.

[Wayfair]

Oh, Chris. Here. The little catch is stuck underneath, that's all. There, see?

[Chris Connolly]

Well, what do you know, Molly, that's wonderful. Honestly, I don't know what I'd do without you. I'd be helpless.

[Wayfair]

You'd be helpless. But Chris, that's not the way.

[Chris Connolly]

Pardon, Molly?

[Wayfair]

Nothing. Well, Molly Martin, you did it again.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, anyhow, I feel better already. And thanks for inviting me out to help, Molly. Makes a fellow feel good to know a woman can lean on him.

[Wayfair]

Sure. Too bad she leaned the wrong way.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, hello, Fred. Come in.

[Fred]

Well, just me, Fred of Friday, the janitor.

[Chris Connolly]

And what's on your mind this morning?

[Fred]

Well, just sort of take a look around. Get things in mind for the big job over the weekend.

[Chris Connolly]

Go right ahead, Fred.

[Fred]

Something else funny, Mr. Connolly? Always like a joke, you know.

[Chris Connolly]

No, Fred, it's just something between Molly and me. She sure almost trapped me.

[Fred]

Oh, well, now, let me see. That's easy enough to seal up the doors and the windows. Poison gas can get them all right.

[Chris Connolly]

I tell you, Fred, you gotta watch your step with women as it is. I'll just take it easy here tomorrow.

[Fred]

Yep, there will be nothing left alive. Kill em all deader than the cast iron doorknob.

[Chris Connolly]

Hmm.

[Vince Pelletier]

Kill what, Fred? The moths.

[Fred]

The motors. They're everywhere. Yes, sir. Moving magazine. Sure, one moth eating place. But we'll get em tomorrow.

[Chris Connolly]

Tomorrow?

[Fred]

Yeah, you ordered it done yourself while Mr. Craig is on his vacation. But we'll have it all aired out by Monday.

[Chris Connolly]

Oh, Fred, no. That's impossible.

[Fred]

Well, it's too late to change our plans now.

[Chris Connolly]

But, Fred, I've got to work here tomorrow.

[Fred]

Suit yourself. But it'll sure be an awful way to go.

[Vince Pelletier]

Just.

[Fred]

Yes, sir.

[Wayfair]

You.

[Fred]

You just ask anymore.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, Fred, if I don't work here, I'll have to go to Molly's house tomorrow.

[Fred]

Well, now, there's something wrong with that.

[Chris Connolly]

No, you don't understand, Fred. She's got a whole bunch of odd jobs lined up for me. And as a mechanical Wizard, I'm nothing.

[Fred]

Mr. Conley, survey shows that 99% of all calls for repair men are for little jobs. Things any simple man can fix. Even you. Thanks. Anyhow, young feller, it's your big chance with Miss Molly. Show her how much she needs a man around the house. Go on. Fix that re.

[Chris Connolly]

That rear.

[Fred]

That ice box.

[Chris Connolly]

But, Fred, I. I'd have to overhaul her motor. Nothing to it.

[Fred]

All you do is remove the field coils and take out armature and chuck it up and turn down the commentator bars and undercut the mica and pull her back and check the bushings.

[Chris Connolly]

You see, Fred, I don't even know what you're talking about.

[Fred]

Well, come to think of it, neither do I. But it always seems to work.

[Chris Connolly]

I just wish I could be as confident.

[Fred]

That's the idea, Mr. Conley. Confidence. Just go out there and do it. You'll be surprised how easy it is.

[Chris Connolly]

Thanks, Fred.

[Fred]

Yes?

[Chris Connolly]

You say 99% are easy jobs?

[Fred]

Yeah. Now, what about it?

[Chris Connolly]

Well, I was just wondering about the other 1%.

[Wayfair]

Mother. Mother.

[Molly Martin]

Yes, Molly?

[Wayfair]

Mother, what happened to the bed lamp? It works.

[Molly Martin]

Well, I know, dear. Little Roger White fixed it. He fixed the broiler, too.

[Wayfair]

He what?

[Molly Martin]

I couldn't stop him. Roger was determined to go ahead and fix them for you, Molly. His heroin.

[Wayfair]

But I was saving those things for Chris to fix. He'll be here any minute.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, there's still the refrigerator in the kitchen. You know the light doesn't work, but.

[Stiles Mackenzie]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Nicole Byer helping you make those rooms Flyer. Today's style tip when it comes to making a statement. Statement. Treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild. Like an untamed animal print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com. oh, beers, this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Molly Martin]

Wayfair Every style, every home.

[Wayfair]

But.

[Vince Pelletier]

What?

[Molly Martin]

Mother, Roger's in the kitchen now.

[Wayfair]

Oh, you watch for Chris. I'll try to stop this little electrical rover boy.

[Molly Martin]

All right, dear. But do be careful not to hurt his Felix.

[Roger White]

Oh, morning, Miss Martin.

[Wayfair]

Hello, Roger. I see you're fixing the ironing board.

[Roger White]

Yes, ma' am, it's all fixed. See?

[Wayfair]

Yes, Roger, that. That's fine.

[Roger White]

I'll fix the light in the refrigerator for you.

[Wayfair]

Now, wait, Roger, I. I'd like to talk to you.

[Roger White]

Yes, ma' am.

[Wayfair]

Well, Roger, isn't Saturday morning the favorite time for boys to be outside playing?

[Roger White]

I guess so, Miss Molly.

[Wayfair]

Well, where are your friends?

[Roger White]

I don't have any. Oh, I just moved here three weeks ago.

[Wayfair]

Oh, I see. And then you started coming over here.

[Roger White]

Anyway, I'd rather. There's lots more things for me to do here. And besides. Well.

[Wayfair]

Besides what, Roger?

[Roger White]

Well, I like to help you, Miss Molly.

[Wayfair]

That's very sweet of you.

[Roger White]

Somebody's at the door.

[Wayfair]

Oh, yes, Roger, you wait here and don't touch anything till I get back. Promise?

[Roger White]

Yes, ma' am, I promise.

[Molly Martin]

Why, Chris, how nice of you to come.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, nice of you to invite me, Mrs. Martin. Hi, Molly.

[Wayfair]

Hello, Chris.

[Chris Connolly]

I came early so we could finish by one o' clock. I have a couple of tickets to the ball game this afternoon.

[Wayfair]

Oh, swell.

[Molly Martin]

I'll fix an early lunch. There's plenty of hamburger in the refrigerator.

[Wayfair]

Well, then you will have to hurry if you want to finish in time for the ball game. Come on, Chris.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, Molly, now don't forget about Cleopatra.

[Chris Connolly]

Cleopatra? What's she talking about?

[Wayfair]

I haven't the slightest idea.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, well, who's this?

[Wayfair]

Roger, I'd like. Chris, I'd like you to meet Roger, the boy next door. And Roger, this is Mr. Connolly, my boss.

[Roger White]

Hello, Mr. Connolly.

[Chris Connolly]

Hi, Roger. Well, now, the refrigerator first. You say the light's off, huh?

[Wayfair]

Chris, maybe you should wait.

[Vince Pelletier]

Wait?

[Chris Connolly]

Why wait?

[Roger White]

I was just getting ready to fix it, Mr. Conley.

[Chris Connolly]

You fix it, Roger. Well, now, you just stand right here beside me and see how it's done, huh, Chris?

[Roger White]

Miss Molly said I could.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, now, let me see here. Oh, there's a wire loose here in the back that's connected to the coils. Now, careful not to get in the way, Roger.

[Roger White]

Ms. Marley, is he supposed to fix it?

[Wayfair]

Well, Roger, I.

[Chris Connolly]

That's why she invited me over. Roger, a woman needs a man around the house.

[Wayfair]

Chris, look, I. Oh, there.

[Chris Connolly]

There we are all connected now. Open the refrigerator door, Molly.

[Wayfair]

Chris, the light's on.

[Chris Connolly]

It is? Well, I'm Sure. There you are.

[Wayfair]

It's flickering a little.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, then close the door and forget about it.

[Wayfair]

Good work, Chris. I knew you could do it.

[Chris Connolly]

Nothing to it. Well, now, Roger, you see how it's done? Where'd Roger go?

[Wayfair]

Home, I guess.

[Chris Connolly]

But why?

[Wayfair]

I think he was hurt because you didn't let him help. I'll go talk to Chris.

[Chris Connolly]

Huh? What's wrong?

[Wayfair]

The refrigerator. Look.

[Chris Connolly]

Oh, my gosh. Something oozing out the door. Get it open.

[Wayfair]

Butter, Chris. Melted butter.

[Chris Connolly]

Look out, Molly. Those coils are red hot.

[Wayfair]

Then do something, Chris.

[Chris Connolly]

Yeah, I'll get the wires. There. Got the wire loose. Guess I connected it to the wrong coil. Something.

[Wayfair]

Well, there's nothing to do now but call Mother in to lunch.

[Chris Connolly]

Lunch? But it's only 10 o' clock. Why now?

[Wayfair]

Because I think we've just fried the hamburger.

[Vince Pelletier]

Vince Pelletier again. And this time with something to say to a special person. The person who just hasn't gotten around yet to trying Lucerne concentrated milk. And maybe that's you. Well, if it is, as Roy Rowan said a moment ago, you're missing something. And you really are. To begin with, you're missing a big important saving. And I'll tell you why. Safeway introduced Lucerne concentrated milk for the express purpose of saving you money. And Lucerne concentrated milk always has been a money saver. The three quarts made from Lucerne concentrated milk have always cost considerably less than three quarts of regular milk at store prices. But now the state has boosted its minimum price of regular milk. You pay $0.01 more per quart for regular milk, but the price of Lucerne concentrated milk has not gone up. So you not only make the original saving on each quart you get from Lucerne concentrated milk, but you now save that additional center that has been tacked on to regular milk. And what's more, when you use Lucerne concentrated milk, you save shopping trips, you save refrigerator space. You get three fine milk products in one simply by mixing more or less water with Lucerne concentrated milk. You can make regular Lucerne for drinking or cooking, or make it richer to use as you'd use regular half and half, or still richer to use wherever you'd use regular table cream. Now then, in view of all these things, the big saving, the conveniences, don't you think you should start using Lucerne concentrated milk right away? And you can get it, you know, under a satisfaction or your money back guarantee at your Safeway store?

[Olin Soule]

Well, two hours have passed since Chris started Fix Molly's refrigerator. And now it really Needs fixing. Chris is worrying with the motor in the basement. Molly is worrying over where Roger's disappeared to. And Roger's doing a little worrying on his own.

[Roger White]

She was gonna let me fix the refrigerator. Now she wants that old Mr. Conley to do it. Just cause he's bigger than me. I wish I was grown up, like 12 years old, I'd show him.

[Olin Soule]

And down in the basement, Chris is thinking, I don't know how to fix a refrigerator.

[Chris Connolly]

I'm helpless. Wish I were a little kid like Roger and nobody'd expect me to know anything about electricity. Oh, here comes Roger now. Mustn't let him know. Well, well. Hello, Roger. Get lost.

[Roger White]

Hello. What did I come down here for anyway?

[Chris Connolly]

You want something?

[Roger White]

No, just watching.

[Chris Connolly]

Oh. Hey, that's quite a cowboy suit you have on there. I'll bet Ms. Martin would like to see it. That'll get rid of him.

[Roger White]

I guess so. He's trying to get rid of me.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, suit yourself, Roger. Just kind of keep out of the way.

[Roger White]

Mr. Conley. You wouldn't have to.

[Chris Connolly]

Huh? What were you gonna say?

[Wayfair]

Oh, nothing.

[Chris Connolly]

You can say it. Go ahead. Say anything you like.

[Roger White]

I just wanted to say that you didn't have to clean the coils if you hadn't taken it apart. He thinks he knows everything.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, I wouldn't. Huh? Then why wouldn't the light work inside the refrigerator? Kid thinks he knows everything.

[Roger White]

Because all it needed was a new light bulb.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, now, just suppose you let me. A new what?

[Roger White]

A new light bulb. I'm beginning to think this guy doesn't know anything.

[Chris Connolly]

I'm beginning to think this guy might know something.

[Roger White]

Maybe he'll ask me to help him.

[Chris Connolly]

Suppose I could get him to help me?

[Roger White]

Not that I do it.

[Chris Connolly]

Roger, I. I guess modern boys like you know quite a bit about electricity, huh? Well, then I guess putting a motor back together would be rather simple, huh? I mustn't act too anxious.

[Roger White]

Well, I don't know. I mustn't act too anxious.

[Chris Connolly]

You know, Ms. Martin had sure appreciate it. We're doing this for her, you know.

[Roger White]

You mean you tell her that I helped?

[Chris Connolly]

Why, sure. We'll say we did it together. How about it? Well, okay. Now, what do we do first? Boss.

[Roger White]

Boss? You mean me?

[Chris Connolly]

Sure, you're the boss.

[Roger White]

Okay. Screwdriver.

[Chris Connolly]

Screwdriver.

[Roger White]

Pliers.

[Vince Pelletier]

Pliers.

[Roger White]

Wrench.

[Chris Connolly]

Wrench.

[Roger White]

Tape.

[Vince Pelletier]

Tape.

[Roger White]

Oil.

[Chris Connolly]

Oil.

[Wayfair]

Mother, Roger still isn't home.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, I thought you knew. Molly. Roger's right out there on the back porch with Chris. They're fixing the ringer with Chris, I don't understand. Well, they fixed everything around the house.

[Wayfair]

While you were gone together. Why, of course. That solves everything.

[Molly Martin]

And now, remember, keep Chris thinking you're dependent on him. This is your chance to make him think that you can't exist without him. Crazy now.

[Wayfair]

Well, I suppose it won't hurt now that Roger and Chris are such good pals.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, here they come.

[Roger White]

Hi, Molly.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, how's that for fast work, huh?

[Wayfair]

Wonderful, Chris. Mother says you fixed everything.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, anyhow, everything's fixed, huh? Roger, pal.

[Roger White]

Your refrigerator's all right now, Miss Molly.

[Wayfair]

Oh, there, that's fine, Roger.

[Chris Connolly]

Yep, all it needed was a new light bulb.

[Wayfair]

Chris, how did you ever know?

[Molly Martin]

My goodness, Molly, wouldn't it be wonderful to have the mind of a man?

[Wayfair]

I'd rather have a man with a mind. And you know me.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, now, wait a minute. Before we go any further, let's give some credit where credit's due.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, now, Chris, don't be so modest.

[Roger White]

Ms. Martin. We fixed the wringer.

[Molly Martin]

Oh, Chris, really, You're so clever. Don't you think so, Molly?

[Wayfair]

I always have, Ms. Martin. Oh, yes, Roger.

[Roger White]

Does the vacuum cleaner work all right now?

[Wayfair]

Yeah, fine.

[Molly Martin]

You know something, Chris? You should come over every Saturday. You're so smart and we're so helpless. Don't you agree, Molly?

[Wayfair]

Absolutely, Mother.

[Chris Connolly]

Now, Molly, wait. I've got to tell you something.

[Wayfair]

That Roger helped you. Well, we want to thank you, too, Roger. Roger.

[Chris Connolly]

Molly, don't tell me he's gone again.

[Molly Martin]

My, how that boy does disappear.

[Wayfair]

Oh, dear. He thought he was being left out again.

[Chris Connolly]

Look, Molly, you don't really think I fixed everything, do you?

[Wayfair]

Well, I. I wasn't sure.

[Chris Connolly]

The fact of it is, I. Well, I didn't fix anything.

[Wayfair]

Roger did it all.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, I handed him the tools.

[Wayfair]

Chris, it's time we both stopped this. I have a confession to make, too. It's all my fault.

[Chris Connolly]

Your fault?

[Wayfair]

Yes. Roger wanted to fix everything to begin with, but I wouldn't let him. I wanted you to fix them.

[Chris Connolly]

But why?

[Wayfair]

Oh, so you'd feel I was dependent on you. Chris, it was silly and I'm. I'm awfully sorry, Molly.

[Chris Connolly]

Don't be. I'm actually flattered. Flattered that you'd want me to feel that way. You're very sweet.

[Wayfair]

Am I, Chris?

[Roger White]

Molly.

[Molly Martin]

Time for the ball game, Molly.

[Wayfair]

Batter up. Ball game? I'd forgotten all about it.

[Chris Connolly]

Yeah, so had I. Oh, Molly. What about Roger? Somehow we've got to fix that up.

[Wayfair]

Roger. Yes, but. But we can't be late for the ball game. Can we, Chris?

[Chris Connolly]

Huh.

[Wayfair]

It kind of looks like rain, though. My Raincoat's over at Mrs. Nelson's. I'll get it. You wait here.

[Chris Connolly]

But, Molly.

[Stiles Mackenzie]

I'll be right back.

[Wayfair]

Entertain him, Mother.

[Molly Martin]

Well, all right, Molly. How about guessing games, Chris? We'll try to guess what Molly's up to.

[Chris Connolly]

Now, Molly, what is this? It sure took you a long time to get your raincoat.

[Wayfair]

Well, Mrs. Nelson asked me to have a cup of coffee. After this morning, I needed it.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, okay. Get in.

[Wayfair]

Thanks, Chris.

[Chris Connolly]

Now what's the matter?

[Wayfair]

Key in Grace.

[Chris Connolly]

But isn't one thing, it's another. I will never make that game.

[Wayfair]

Think it might help to look under the hood?

[Chris Connolly]

The hood? Oh, the hood.

[Olin Soule]

Yeah.

[Chris Connolly]

Yeah. Might as well.

[Wayfair]

See anything?

[Chris Connolly]

Yeah, there's a motor in here. Molly, the ignition wires are all loose.

[Wayfair]

Well, can't you fix them? Chris?

[Chris Connolly]

You know I can't.

[Wayfair]

Roger's sitting over there in his front porch. Maybe he could help.

[Chris Connolly]

Molly, don't I look silly enough? Now, anyhow, the way he must feel about me?

[Wayfair]

Roger.

[Roger White]

Yes, Ms. Martin?

[Wayfair]

Would you come here a minute, please?

[Roger White]

Well, as long as you ask.

[Wayfair]

Roger. There seems to be something wrong with the ignition wires. They're all loose now.

[Chris Connolly]

Could you fix them, Roger?

[Roger White]

If Ms. Martin wants me to, when.

[Wayfair]

Nobody else knows how. Please, just for me.

[Roger White]

Okay. Nothing's really wrong. All you have to do is connect these two wires there, huh?

[Chris Connolly]

Well, try the starter, Molly.

[Wayfair]

Right.

[Roger White]

See, Miss Molly, I fixed it for you.

[Wayfair]

I knew you could, Roger. Oh, you're wonderful. Come here and let me kiss you.

[Roger White]

Oh, gosh, Miss Molly.

[Wayfair]

And Roger, I want to thank you for fixing everything for me. Chris told me all about it.

[Roger White]

He did? I was nothing. He and me did it together.

[Wayfair]

Together?

[Roger White]

Yeah. He headed me the tools.

[Chris Connolly]

Roger, do you like baseball?

[Roger White]

Yes, sure. Only I can't play very well.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, how'd you like to come with us this afternoon and pick up a few pointers from the Yankees?

[Roger White]

Gee, you mean it?

[Chris Connolly]

Sure.

[Roger White]

I'd have to ask my mother.

[Wayfair]

No need to, Roger. She knows all about it. She said you could go.

[Chris Connolly]

What? Molly, how could she know?

[Wayfair]

Well, are we going or aren't we, Chris?

[Chris Connolly]

Oh. Oh, sure. Yeah. Well, jump in, fella.

[Roger White]

Oh, boy.

[Wayfair]

Thanks.

[Roger White]

I'll ride in the back.

[Wayfair]

Chris. Conley, you're adorable.

[Chris Connolly]

Well, you didn't leave me much choice.

[Wayfair]

Me?

[Chris Connolly]

Those ignition wires were pulled loose on purpose.

[Wayfair]

Surely you don't suspect Roger.

[Chris Connolly]

Oh, no, no. I'm not accusing anybody. But, Molly, the next time, remember to wash the grease off your hand.

[Wayfair]

Molly.

[Olin Soule]

And Chris will be back in a moment with a memo about next week's show. A Memo from Molly is produced and directed by Gordon T. Hughes and written by Dick Stanger. It stars Barbara Luddy and Olin Soleil. Others in the cast were Sarah Selby, Jess Kirkpatrick and Stuffy Singer. And now, here's Molly and Chris with a memo about next week's show from.

[Wayfair]

Molly Martin, secretary to Christopher Connelly, managing editor. Dear Chris, I'm sorry I acted on impulse and got you into trouble with the highway commissioner, but how was I to know that Mr. Craig might fire you? It seemed like a very serious problem at first, but when you stop to think about, it's awful.

[Chris Connolly]

Yeah, that's it. Another memo from.

[Vince Pelletier]

Well, we'll have to leave Chris cogitating over this latest memo from Molly. But next Sunday, Lucerne will present the whole story. So be with us then. So you know, when there's a good reason for doing something, it's usually a good idea to go right ahead. And there are a lot of good reasons for you to start using Lucerne concentrated milk in the first place. You'll save money more than ever now. And from Lucerne concentrated milk, you get the equivalent of regular, fresh, extra rich Lucerne. So you'll get Lucerne's extra food energy value, extra A and B vitamins. And then because you get the equivalent of three quarts of Lucerne in one quart of Lucerne concentrated milk, you save shopping trips and refrigerator space. And at the same time, you actually get three different milk products in one. You can make regular fresh Lucerne just by adding 2 parts cold water to 1 part Lucerne concentrated milk. Or you can make it richer to use on cereals and fruits by adding just one part cold water. And for your coffee, use Lucerne concentrated milk heavy rich right from the carton or add water to taste. Yes, Lucerne concentrated milk gives you these extra uses, plus extra conveniences, plus an extra saving on each and every quart your family drinks. All good reasons to start using Lucerne concentrated milk now. This week, you'll find it at your nearest Safeway store.

[Olin Soule]

This is Roy Rowan speaking, and this is the CBS Radio Network.