Aldrich Family 1950-06-01 Henry has free circus ticket, conflicts with baseball game

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Aldrich Family 1950-06-01 – Henry Has Free Circus Ticket, Conflicts with Baseball Game
Date: September 30, 2025
Host: Harolds Old Time Radio

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Episode Overview

This episode revisits a classic slice of Americana with “The Aldrich Family,” showcasing the everyday comedic dilemmas of Henry Aldrich, a well-meaning but often flustered teenager in small-town America. The crux of this episode centers on Henry, who obtains a free circus pass—only to find it conflicts with a baseball game and creates a cascade of social predicaments involving family, friends, and unexpected guests. The plot humorously explores the challenges of keeping everyone happy, dealing with changing plans, and the universal teenage struggle of balancing obligations with personal desires.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Highlights

1. The Circus Ticket Conundrum (01:15 – 05:12)

• Henry’s Dilemma:

  • Henry is excited about attending the circus but has only two passes, creating an awkward decision of whom to invite. He wrestles with the expectations from his mother, who hints he should include his unhappy sister Mary, and his own wishes to enjoy the outing with his friend Willie.

• Quote:

  • “If it’s one thing our whole darn family does, it’s things for nothing.”
    — Henry Aldrich, 01:45

• Family Dynamics:

  • Mrs. Aldrich gently scolds Henry for not considering his sister, while Henry laments that he can’t easily disinvite his friend.
  • “I’m just suggesting that in the future you might keep your own family in mind.”
    — Mrs. Aldrich, 03:30

2. Changing Plans and Awkward Explanations (05:12 – 08:57)

• Willie’s Snag:
  • Willie calls to explain that he can’t go to the circus after all; his father wants to take him to a baseball game instead, highlighting the theme of conflicting obligations.
  • “But my father’s got feelings, see? … Feelings are something that run in our family.”
    — Willie, 06:37
• Henry’s Frustration:
  • Henry scrambles to find a new companion, receiving further family advice and running into dead ends such as friends being unavailable due to illness (“She’s got the mumps!”).
  • Memorable Moment:
    • Henry realizes the social complexity of not wanting to attend the circus alone, as “even popcorn tastes different if it isn’t eaten in mixed company.” (09:13)

3. Recruiting Elsie, the New Neighbor Girl (09:23 – 10:57)

• Spontaneous Friendship:
  • Henry invites Elsie Hopkins, the young new neighbor, to the circus. Elsie’s excitement is overshadowed by needing her mother’s permission to skip her nap—the situation’s innocence underscores the comedic tone.
• Quote:
  • “Boy, would I? … That is, if my mother will let me skip my nap.”
    — Elsie Hopkins, 10:38

4. Too Many Plans Collide (10:57 – 12:26)

• Willie Changes Back:
  • Just as Henry settles on taking Elsie, Willie reappears, now free for the circus, forcing Henry to reconsider and worry about disappointing Elsie.
  • Mrs. Aldrich’s Guidance:
    • “That little girl has feelings even though she’s only 11.” (12:06)
  • The show highlights the moral lessons of empathy and integrity in politely handling awkward social cancellations.

5. Parallel Comedy Threads: Family Mix-ups & the Mystery Bus (13:55 – 25:21)

• Elsie’s Family Decision:

  • Even Elsie is faced with a double booking: her father gets tickets to a baseball game and asks her to go, prompting a mirrored family debate about proper priorities and kindness.

• Classic Radio Ad Breaks:

  • The episode is peppered with period “Jello” and dessert ads, delivered in song or skit, serving as comic interludes rather than plot advancements.

• The Mystery Bus & Campout Chaos:

  • The second half shifts to a comedy of errors around a “mystery bus” outing, with Homer ending up as an accidental leader to a troop of excitable children (Brownies), and Mr. Aldrich trying to reunite everyone after a series of misdirections and rural mishaps.
  • Quote:
    • “Now, Brownie. Ow. Listen, who’s the wise guy that threw this lasso?... Will you kindly remember that you’re ladies?”
      — Homer, 18:04

• Memorable Image:

  • The kids staging a pyramid on a bus, lunch confusion due to misplaced curry powder, and Homer’s comically failed attempts to keep up with the troop.

6. Resolution and Final Gags (25:05 – 26:55)

• Everything Comes Together:
  • Eventually, all the transport muddles are sorted, Henry and Homer are reunited, the Brownies are accounted for, and the adults reflect on the chaos.
  • Quote:
    • “My goodness, yes. I certainly never heard of anyone trying to raise rice in this state before.”
      — Mrs. Aldrich, 24:52
• Running Joke:
  • Brownies—both the scout troop and the dessert—become a comic motif.
    • “Say, I wanna ask you both to a party I’m throwing… A big batch of brownies. All you want to eat brownies.”
      — Stringbean, 26:55

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Memorable Quotes & Moments by Timestamp

• Henry’s Social Struggle:
  • “Gee, Mother, even popcorn tastes different if it isn’t eaten in mixed company.” (09:13)
• Circus Plans Exploding:
  • “At least she’s someone to go with.” (10:56)
• Family Empathy:
  • “But, Mother, don’t you realize the elephants are practically coming down the aisle this very minute?” (12:24)
• Outing Chaos:
  • “We beat you that game of ghost fair and square.” – Camp girls to Homer, 18:10
• Final Recap:
  • “Gee whiz, no. They say they had a wonderful time right there on the bus.”
    — Henry, 25:26

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Important Segments & Timestamps

• Introduction of Big Decision: (01:15 – 03:30)
• Wider Family Involvement: (03:30 – 05:12)
• Plans Ruined—Willie Cancels: (05:12 – 06:57)
• Elsie’s Invitation: (09:23 – 10:57)
• Willie Returns, Henry’s Moral Dilemma: (10:57 – 12:26)
• Elsie’s Family Discusses Etiquette: (13:55 – 15:01)
• Mystery Bus & Rural Confusion Escalate: (16:07 – 23:41)
• Resolution with All Characters: (25:05 – 26:55)

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Tone & Character

The show captures the warmth, confusion, and good-humored chaos of midcentury American family life. Henry is earnest and impulsive; his parents display gentle wisdom; Homer is the comic foil; and side characters like Elsie and the Brownie troop add charm and youthful goofiness.

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Conclusion

This episode of “The Aldrich Family” is a nostalgic romp replete with gentle lessons about empathy, the importance of considering others’ feelings, and the inevitable chaos of overlapping social commitments. Its enduring appeal lies in its cheerful, bumbling tone and its universal depiction of family and adolescent misadventure—seasoned, of course, with a delightful helping of classic sponsor jingles and radio charm.

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Transcript

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Jello. Everybody. The Jello family of desserts presents Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry Aldrich. Coming, Mother.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Yes, it's the Aldrich family. Based on characters originated by Clifford Goldsmith and starring Ezra Stone as Henry. With Jackie Kelka's home. And yes, it's the Jello family.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family. Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jell O family. That's Jello. Yum yum yum. Jello puddings. Yum yum yum. Jello papioka pudding. Yes, sir. Reese.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

And now for the Aldrich family. The memories of our youth are often lost in the fog of maturity. The best way to recapture those memories is to know a real teenage boy like Henry Aldrich. The scene opens on the Aldrich front porch. It is early morning.

[Henry Aldrich]

Little girl. Hey, you out there on roller skates. Yoo hoo hoo. Yoo hoo Me? Yoo hoo. Yeah. Could you just skate up our walk to the porch here a second? Sure. Hi. Hi. Don't I speak pretty good? Sure, but you say. My name's Elsie Hopkins. Hi. I'm Henry. Henry. Hi. Hi. We just moved into that house down the block. That's fine. Welcome to Centerville. But you see, what I. Thank you. You're welcome, too. Thanks. Elsie, how would you like to do me a favor? A favor? Yeah, and while you're doing it, I'll run in and see if I can find you a piece of candy. Gee, I don't need candy just for doing a favor. Well, you should. If it's one thing our whole darn family does, it's things for nothing. Well, sure, but, you know, we've been brought up. That's fine. What kind of candy? The chili time. And all I want you to do is skate down to the corner and see if a certain fella's coming down. What fella? Well, he's about so high, see? And he hasn't had a haircut recently, so from a few feet off, he may look as though he's walking backwards. No kidding. He really does. Yeah, he looks the same coming and going, north and south. Yeah. So will you please skate down to the corner? I don't have to. I just came from there. Huh. And there wasn't a person in sight. Not even one who looked the same from all angles. Oh, I'll be darned. Excuse me, Elsie. I haven't time. Mother? I'm in the kitchen, dear. Mother, are you sure Willie didn't call while I was upstairs putting on my T? No, dear. And please don't slam the Door. I have a cake in the oven for the sewing circle meeting this afternoon and I don't want it falling. Yes, Mother. Gee, would you think Willie would have more consideration than to be late? Especially when you take into account that he's going to the circus on my pass, dear. Perhaps you should have consulted me before you invited Willie to go with you. Consulted you? Yes, dear, but who else could I invite? Homer's out of town for the weekend. Henry, I'd like you to just look out this window here. The kitchen window? Yes. What do you see? Nothing, Mother. Just Mary lying in the hammock. That's just the point. Can't you notice anything? She's put on weight. No, dear. She's very unhappy. She is? Yes. I'm surprised you didn't notice. For Mother, her being unhappy isn't nearly as obvious as the weight she's put on. Dear, she hasn't put on weight. But since Kermit went out of town, she's had nothing to do. And I think the least you could have done is invite her to go to the circus with you instead of Willie. Yes, dear, but I can't just disinvite Willie. It would just hurt his feelings. Dear, I'm not suggesting anything like that. I'm just suggesting that in the future you might keep your own family in mind. You're right, Mother. And meanwhile, you might tell Mary a swell new picture opened at the Colony Theater yesterday. It's really good. Well, all I know is Agnes Lawson saw it and, boy, she said she never cried so much in all her life. She said that? Oh, boy. Is that the doorbell? Willie. I'll be right there, dear. That's the telephone. The telephone. He's calling. Oh, excuse me, Mary. Could I speak to you?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Bob, I thought sure that. Yes, sure, Bob.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, that isn't Willie on the phone, is it?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Yes, Bob. Yes, Bob.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

I see. Bob.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Excuse me, Bob. What is it, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Is that Willie?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

It's Mr. Ferguson.

[Henry Aldrich]

It is?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Well, naturally, Bob, if you can't play golf, you can't. But did I tell you that they're using the new green on the third hole? And of course, if you can't, you can't. No, no, forget it, Bob. There are things I can do around the house. Goodbye. Well, that's a fine thing. Oh, boy.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, boy.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

What's wrong?

[Henry Aldrich]

Does that clock actually say 12:15? Yes, but the elephants get married at 1:30.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

The who get married?

[Henry Aldrich]

Number, please. Helm 913, please. Helm, 913. Who gets married? Elephant's father in the circus. They're going to have the whole ceremony, including two chimpanzees who throw rice.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

You don't say.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. And a giraffe and a starch collar. Who's the minister?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Yes? Well. Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, father?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

That pass to the circus, is it for two or three?

[Henry Aldrich]

Two.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Oh.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, father?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Nothing. I just thought if it were for three, I, I. That's all right. There's quite a bit of work I have to do in the garden.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello? Listen. Willie, is that you? Oh, boy. Henry, is that you? You're darn right it is. And let me ask you one question. Where the heck are you? Here. Well, what kind of an excuse is that? Why aren't you here? Well, that's the whole thing. I was just about to call you. I've run into what you might call a minor snag about the circus this afternoon. What minor snag? I can't go. What? Why not? I don't even know how to tell you. Tell me what? It's pretty darn embarrassing. What is?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Well, Progressive knows we all crave validation.

[Henry Aldrich]

Girl, you are not 37.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

I would have guessed 27.

[Henry Aldrich]

You guys are too sweet.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Sure. Dewy skin. Terrific.

[Henry Aldrich]

Um, is something wrong, Ned?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Why would you ask? Just because Today marks my 10th anniversary.

[Henry Aldrich]

Without a car accident or even a speeding ticket.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

But somehow tonight's all about your skin care. Wow. With snapshot from progressive, you can get a personalized rate based on how you drive. And that's all the validation you need. Progressive Casualty Insurance company and affiliate snapshot not available in California from all agents. Surcharge, possible front seat driving.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm going to spend the afternoon with my father. What? At the ball game? Isn't that embarrassing? But, but gee whiz. Do you know what they've got this year at the circus? An entire family from 5 years old to 60 who do nothing but hang by their teeth. They do? Sure. One right under the other. Don't you think that would be educational? Well, sure it would. Sure it would. But. But my father's got feelings, see? He has. Sure. Feelings are something that run in our family. But Willie, what about my feelings? It's late. Who else can I dig up? Henry. What can. What's that, Father? But I'm still talking to. Just a minute. Henry. Are you going to explain about my going alone? Willie. Willie. Hello, Henry, Is that you, Mr. Marshall?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Yes, and would you excuse Willie if he hangs up? We want to get out to the park in time to see infield practice.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. Have a good time, Mr. Marshall. And don't Worry. I just remembered. Mary. Henry.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Is that Norman Marshall? Let me speak to him.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mr. Marshall, my father wants to speak to you. And, Father, did you notice if Mary was still unhappy in the hammock?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

No, I didn't. Hello, Norman. Say, Normie, have you noticed what a perfect day it is?

[Henry Aldrich]

Mary, dear, I thought I asked you to be careful of my cake. But, Mother, I have to find Mary. I'm taking her to the circus, dear. She just left to see the new movie. The new movie? But, Mother, it's terrible. Terrible. You told me Agnes cried. Oh, sure she did. Sure she did. Because she was so mad about spending her last 35 cents. Say, mother, did you mention this morning that you hadn't seen a circus since you were practically a child? Dear, if you're thinking of inviting me, I'm taking that new Mrs. Hopkins down the street to our sewing circle meeting. You are? But, gee, Mother, when will you ever get another chance to see a couple of elephants get married? But, Sam, why can't you take him?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Because, Alice, I can't. An hour ago, I would have been glad to go to the circus with him. I was anxious to go, but now I can't.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why not?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Because. Because the person I'm playing golf with is going through a great deal of trouble to arrange things. Why doesn't he call some of his friends?

[Henry Aldrich]

He has, dear. That's all he's been doing. And no one seems to be free. Boy, if that isn't a fine thing. What, dear? Olivia Marlowe, Mother. Olivia Marlowe. She has no consideration. For months she's been saying, call me up sometime, Henry. Call me up when I do. What happens? She turned you down? No, she's got the mumps.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

That is very inconsiderate of her. I'll say.

[Henry Aldrich]

She was my last hope. Henry, couldn't you go alone? Alone? By myself? Independently. Gee, Mother, even popcorn tastes different if it isn't eaten in mixed company. Well, excuse me. Where are you going? Nowhere. Just outside. Toss this tennis ball against the porch roof. What else is there to do?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Well, just be careful of the windows, Sam.

[Henry Aldrich]

Just enjoy yourself, dear. Yes, Mother. Hi. Huh? Oh, hi. I'm Elsie Hopkins. Remember? You forgot to give me one of those Chewies. Chewies? The candy that you promised if I went down to the corner to see if someone was coming or you couldn't tell which way he was moving. Huh? Oh, sure. Well, I don't have any on me, Elsie. Oh. What you doing with that tennis ball? Nothing. Just kind of practice. Pitching. Yeah? Are you the best pitcher in town? I. You certainly look like you were the best in town. Yeah. Well, I wouldn't go so far as. So far as. Listen, Elsie. Listen. Did you know there's a circus in town? Sure. Boy, I've been dying to go. You have? Well, how would you like to go with me? Me, with you? Sure. You with me? Sure. This afternoon? Boy, would I. Would I? I'll say would I? That is, if my mother will let me skip my nap. Yeah. Well, go home and ask. Sure, sure. I'll skate right home. I'll be back at. Well, I'll just get dressed. Wait for me. I'll. Elsie. Oh, boy. I'll pick up that garbage can tomorrow. Oh, boy. I'll meet you up at your house. Elsie. Henry Aldrich. That wasn't a bit nice. What was it? Mother, no matter how badly you feel, you had no right knocking that little girl over. Oh, Mother, I didn't knock her over. That's Elsie Hopkins. I'm taking her to the circus. You are? Do you think that's wise? Wise? Well, she may be a very nice little girl and all that, but children her age can to be a nuisance if you're not used to taking care of them. Mother, she won't be a nuisance. And at least she's someone to go with. Hey, Henry. Gee whiz, is that Willie? Okay, Henry, let's go. Let's go where? To the circus. Where do you think, Willie? You're going to the ball game. Well, no, I'm not. My father let me talk him out of it without his feelings being hurt at all. Willy, that's wonderful. Sure, he's going to help out your father and play golf with him. That's swell. Come on, Willie, let's go. Henry, just a moment. What about Elsie Hopkins? Elsie? Oh, gee whiz, Mother, you're right. I'll just cancel her. Henry. Well, I can't take her and Willie both. Henry, you'll do no such thing. But, Mother, do you mean you don't want me to go? Willie, dear, Gee whiz. Seeing a family hang by their teeth might be an experience I could carry through my entire life. Henry, naturally you can do what you want, but I'd like to point out that that little girl has feelings even though she's only 11. Yes, dear. Okay. Just to save her feelings, suppose I send her a nice letter telling her I suddenly became in indisposed. Sure, from indisposition, dear. A letter won't be delivered until tomorrow. Well, how about a telegram, Willie? The kind with bluebirds on it. Henry, if you're going to make excuses to that girl, you're going to do it in person and so she won't be hurt. But Mother, gee whiz, don't you realize the elephants are practically coming down the aisle this very minute?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family. Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family.

[Henry Aldrich]

That's Jello Yum yum yum.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Jello puddings.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yum yum yum. Jello tough bioca puddings.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Yes siree, yes siree. There's nothing like getting to the circus, is there? Seeing all the animals diving into the pink lemonade and popcorn and peanut brittle. Nothing like it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh yes there is. What?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Why Jello, Agnes Lawson? What did you say?

[Henry Aldrich]

I say you can fix up lots more exciting things to eat in your own home than you can get at a circus. Like the peanut brittle pudding I made the other night.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Baw, Agnes, you made it yourself?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why sure, it's easy. All you do is fix a package of Jell O chocolate pudding as usual. And then before you serve it, you fold in a third of a cup of crushed peanut brittle and add a lot of whipped cream.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Bah, that sounds wonderful, Agnes. But then Jell O puddings are wonderful in all three flavors. Chocolate, butterscotch and vanilla. All three have real old fashioned homemade goodness. They're nourishing, made with milk and take only about five minutes to cook. That's Jello puddings. The happiest ending a meal ever came to. And now, getting back to the troubles of Henry Aldrich. The scene opens in the Hopkins living room.

[Henry Aldrich]

But heck, Father, you should have told me sooner.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Elsie, I didn't know sooner. Mr. Marshall just gave me the tickets. I thought you like ball games.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I do. Father, what will Henry think if I stand him up for the circus?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

He'll think you're a well brought up young lady who'd rather go with her father than anyone else.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, you put everything on such a maudlin plane.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Okay, okay. If you'd rather spend the afternoon with a total stranger than your own father, well, that's okay with me.

[Henry Aldrich]

But Father. Gee whiz, Elsie dear, I'd like to have a little talk with you first. Mother, could you speak to Father and point out that he's not seeing my side at all? Well, dear, I'm afraid you're not seeing his side either. And you're not very considerate of his feelings. Well, Mother, why can't Tommy go with Father to the ball game? Because Tommy's an older Girl. And much more. Much more. Well, she sort of lost her interest in baseball, but heck. Elsie, I can't order you to go with your father, but if you'll take my advice, you'll cancel your appointment with Henry. Yes, Mother. And don't say heck. And see who's at the door, dear, while I start lunch. Yes, Mother. Yes, siree. But speaking of mysteries, Danny, I wish you'd clear one up for me.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Why Jello, Aunt Harriet?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why is it you talk about Jell O desserts but never say a word about the beautiful warm weather salads you can make with Jell O?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

That's right, Aunt Harriet. Have you any suggestions?

[Henry Aldrich]

Indeed I have. One that Alvin. I mean, my friend Mr. Springer says it's the best he ever tasted.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

But tell us more.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, for a delicious fruit salad, all you do is dissolve a package of lime jello in 2 cups of hot water and pineapple juice. When it's slightly thickened, add diced canned pineapple, a diced apple and a sliced banana. Then you chill it in individual molds and serve on crisp lettuce. It's wonderful.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Well, that I believe, because Jello's such a treat in all six delicious flavors. Strawberry, raspberry, cherry, orange, lemon and lime. All six flavors have wonderful fruit like goodness flavor that can't get out till your first tempting spoonful. So better take Aunt Harriet's advice and enjoy Jell O salads all summer. And now, getting back to the troubles of Henry Aldrich. It is later the same day and the scene opens on the highway outside Centerville.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sam, are you sure you're still on Route 5?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Positive, Alice. Henry, pass me another sandwich, please.

[Henry Aldrich]

Another? Sure, Father. Here.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Thank you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Don't thank me, Father. You're into Homer's share now.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Henry, considering I missed my lunch.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, it's not that I mind sacrificing the food, but. Where's the bus? Sam? Do you suppose it might have turned off somewhere?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Not if he's following his route.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, look.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Where?

[Henry Aldrich]

That little roadside place. We're coming to see that sign. Trucks and buses welcome. Sam. Stop.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

What for, Father?

[Henry Aldrich]

It won't hurt to ask whether the bus went by here.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Very well. Hello there.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello, folks. Fix you a nice lunch?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

No, thank you. We just stopped to ask if the mystery bus has been here.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mystery bus? Don't even know what it is. Although look at some of the buses come in here. It's a mystery they let them on the road. That's the name of the bus we're looking for. Oh, well, there hasn't been more than one bus stopped here today and that was loaded to the gunnels with kids. Kids, Father, that's it. Where did they go? Why, they were headed for an outing up at the state park. Oh, boy. Father, let's get going and.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Now, just a moment, Henry. Do you realize how many buses there probably are with youngsters in them on a Saturday morning?

[Henry Aldrich]

But don't you think it's worth taking a look?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Now, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sam, what can we lose?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Alice, the park is 25 miles square. There are at least a dozen different picnic grounds on it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, can I just ask the lady if. Ma', am, was there a fellow on that bus about my size, but with a very small head? Well, I couldn't say. But if you do catch up with him, you might take this along and give it to whoever dropped it.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Well, I'm not sure that we.

[Henry Aldrich]

Wait a minute, Father. That's Homer's.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

It is?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. Henry, what would Homer be doing with a box of curry powder? It was part of our lunch. What? Lady, you said the state park. That's right. Well, Father, what are we waiting for? Come on, Aggie. Homer, you had to do it again. I'm not going to. You got to. No, and that's all there is to. But that's not fair. I don't care. I'm not going through the mill again. But we beat you that game of ghost fair and square. No, you did. I was framed. Uncle Homer, we wouldn't do that to you. You knew darn well if you started spelling applesauce, it would end up on me. Now, listen, girls. Can't you skip rope or something while I sit down and rest? Our scout master doesn't have to. But your scoutmaster's a lady. She's used to this. Why did she go away with the buzz just to pick up some milk for all of you. Uncle Homer, I know why. Let's play Hop Along, Cassidy. Yeah, come on. My thing. Now, wait. Now, Brownie. Ow. Listen, who's the wise guy that threw this lasso? Gee whiz, girls, Will you kindly remember that you're ladies? Oh, look, here comes the car. Where? Gee whiz, that looks like. Oh, boy, it is Mr. Aldrich. Mr. Aldrich. Uncle Homer, where are you going? Goodbye, girls, and have a very night. Now, listen. Who tripped me? We didn't trip you. You're still lasso. Well, get it off me. But, Uncle Homer, Hopalong never lets his man get away. But, girls, now, cars liable. Here they are. They're driving away. Mr. Aldrich, you can't leave me like this. Girls, please. Mr. Aldrich. Way. Girls, won't you please. Now listen, you little brownies. Let go of that. Ro. Why did Uncle Homer have to go.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

To Crystal Brook to meet the mystery bus?

[Henry Aldrich]

But who's going to be our leader?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

I suppose. I suppose I'm your leader temporarily.

[Henry Aldrich]

You are? What's your name?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

I guess you can just call me Uncle Sam.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello, Uncle Sam.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

How do you do? And now that we've been properly introduced, would one of you mind untying me? But, Mr. Fuller, don't you. Hello? Hello. I'm still here, Al. Well, don't you think I've waited long enough for that kid? This was supposed to be a five minute stop and I've been here for more than a half hour. Well, Al, are you sure you looked everywhere? Everywhere. Did you look at that? Of course. That was the first place I checked. Tell you, this kid just disappeared off the face of the earth. Mr. Fuller, the other kids are getting pretty restless. They are? Sure. They're starting their picnic right on the bus. We got their lunches open. They've even got a phonograph going. They're dancing in the aisle.

[Henry Aldrich]

What?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Sure. And when I left, the gym team was trying to build a pyramid. Al, get started quick. Well, that's another thing, Mr. Fuller. I lost so much time here. I don't see how I'm going to make it to Crystal Brook and still get back at a decent hour. No. Now, Al, have any of those kids found out where they're going? Well, now, Mr. Fuller, you know me better than that. Well, then maybe you better go up to the state park instead. Okay. And Mr. Fuller, while I got you on. Yes? Is there any chance of my getting back on that straight downtown run?

[Henry Aldrich]

Come on, Henry, admit it. You don't know where you're going. Sure I do. Sure I do. This dirt road leads to the main highway. Now, boy, Mrs. Aldrich, he's your son. Hasn't he got a terrible sense of direction? Homer, for a person who started out on a mystery bus trip and ended up with a load of brownies, you're a fine one to talk. Now, boys, suppose we all relax and keep our eyes open for a sign. Okay. Mrs. Aldrich, would you like to finish the sandwich? What? Homer, don't you feel well? Not very well. Homer, I told you not to sprinkle all that curry powder on the only sandwich there was. Gee whiz, what a terrible day. Now, Homer, when we get to Crystal Brook, I'll see that you get a Nice hot lunch. Frankly, I think I'd prefer something ice cold and. There. There what? You see that farmhouse? That's the second time we passed it. Homer, you're crazy. I am not, dear. Are you sure? Of course. I remember it had a red bond. Homer, did you ever see a farmhouse that didn't have a red barn? Plenty of them. Well, that just shows how much you know about agriculture. Now, Henry, let's not run around in circles. Suppose you just go in there and ask. Okay, but it's just a waste of time. Henry, if they look like nice people, see if they'll give you a glass of water. Okay. Homer. My goodness, I hope I don't have this much trouble when I drive back to pick up Mr. Aldrich. Gee whiz, I forgot all about him. Do you think he'll hold it against me, Mrs. Aldrich? Hold what, dear? His getting stuck with those kids. Of course he won't. Why, Mr. Aldrich is very fond of children. Yeah, but is he fond of Hopalong Cassidy? I don't know, but I'm sure he's having the time of his life. Gee whiz luck, is that a bus? Yeah, and I'll be darned if it doesn't look like Gee whiz. It is. It's the mystery bus. Are you sure? Positive. But what's it doing all the way up here? Homer, don't waste a second. Go right in there and get Henry, and I'll stop the bus. Henry. Henry, come quick. Stop. Stop.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

What's the matter, lady? Bridge out?

[Henry Aldrich]

No. But I've got two passengers that belong on your bus.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

On this bus? The mystery bus?

[Henry Aldrich]

That's right.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

They fell off.

[Henry Aldrich]

No.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

You mean they jumped out of a window?

[Henry Aldrich]

No.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Where are they? I'm way behind.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hey.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Holy smoke. Look at this.

[Henry Aldrich]

My goodness. It's another bus.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Hey, who's that? Charlie?

[Henry Aldrich]

Is that Ul?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Yeah. What are you doing way up here? It's a long story, Charlie. Would you mind backing up and letting me buy. Oh, well, I think you better back up. You see, I've got to get this milk back to my brownies. But, Charlie, you don't know what these kids are doing on my bus. I gotta get them to someplace where they can get out. I know, but wait a second. If we could get this car out of the way. Lady, could you move that car over a little?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, my son took the keys, but he should be right out.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Is that him now?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, that homer. Where's Henry? Mrs. Aldridge, something terrible has happened. Oh, my goodness. What? Henry went into the bathroom to get me a drink of water, see? And. And. Oh, no. Yes, ma'. Am. He stuck in there again.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

And, Mrs. Aldrich, I want to thank you for taking the trouble to come down here.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, Mr. Fuller, it was nothing. I just wanted to be sure those two drivers wouldn't have to take all the blame.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

I understand.

[Henry Aldrich]

Because if it wasn't for our car being stuck in the first place, that Dr. Would never have tried going through the field.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Well, it was a rather unusual situation.

[Henry Aldrich]

My goodness. Yes. I certainly never heard of anyone trying to raise rice in this state before.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

No.

[Henry Aldrich]

And as far as the other bus is concerned, I'm afraid I was the one who suggested that he drive in and pull the first one out.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Mrs. Aldrich, I'm sure your intentions were the best. As a matter of fact, you had your own problems at the time.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Well, how did they get your son out of there?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, the gym team built up lovely pyramid. Oh, here's Henry now. Hello, mother. Oh, hello, Mr. Fuller.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Hello, son. I hope your class wasn't too disappointed about the mystery bus ride ending up like that.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whiz, no. They say they had a wonderful time right there on the bus.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Yes, so I heard. That reminds me. I'll have to call AC and ask him the name of that company that wanted to buy some of our old buses.

[Henry Aldrich]

Excuse me, Mr. Fuller.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Yes, Ms. Arnold?

[Henry Aldrich]

I've just had a call from a little grocery up near the state park in regard to that busload of brownies.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

They've been found?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, they just arrived at this grocery store.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

In the bus?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, they just came down the road marching and singing.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

For heaven's sake, tell them we'll send a bus right out.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, the person who called says they want a hike all the way into town.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

They do?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, except there's an old man with them who refuses to budge another step. What? Oh, boy. Miss, would you please call back and tell that old man that his wife is on her way out to get him right now? Hi, Homer. Wait a minute. She was stuck. Henry. Here comes Stringbean Kittinger. Too late. Hi, Homer. Hi, Henry. Say, I wanna ask you both to a party I'm throwing for the gang tonight. Well, I'll tell you, Stringbean. You see, it's this way, Stringbean. And wait till you hear about the swell e we're having. Oh. Oh, we are? Sure. And I made them myself. A big batch of brownies. All you want to eat brownies. Now, listen, Stringbean.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Well, now, maybe Homer's fed up for the moment on that word, but I know a word kids can never hear too often, and that's Jell O for dessert. Yes, Jello in those six delicious flavors. Strawberry, raspberry, cherry, orange, lemon and lime. All six rich with wonderful, locked in goodness, flavors so tempting and fruit like. It reminds you of the cherry orchard and the berry patch. So look for those big red letters on the box. They spell Jell O. And Jello spells a treat. The name Jello is a registered trademark of General Foods. The Allrich family, starring Ezra Stone is Henry with Jackie Kelly. Homer is written by Norman Tokar and Ed Jurist with music by Jack Miller. Mr. And Mrs. Aldrich are house Jameson and Catherine Rod. And this is Dan Seymour in New York saying the Aldrich family is brought to you by the Jello family.

[Henry Aldrich]

O. The big red letters stand for the Jello family. Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family. That's Jello. Yum, yum, yum. Jello puddings. Yum, yum, yum, Jello. Daddy.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Friends, our governmental independence drive going on right now reminds us all over again that buying United States Savings Bonds is the safest savings plan in the world and a very profitable investment. For every $3 invested in E bonds today, you receive $4 in 10 short years. Buy more United States Savings Bonds. It means security for you and for your country. Say, listen to this.

[Henry Aldrich]

It's new, it's new, it can't be beat. The grandest treat you ever did eat. Post Sugar Crisp. As a cereal it's dandy. For snacks it's so handy. Or eat it like candy. As a cereal, it's dandy. Or eat it like candy. Post Sugar Crisp.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich]

Look for the red, white and blue cellophane bag with the three little bears That's Post Sugar Crisp. Today, enjoy this honey of a new cereal that's fun to eat. Next, Robert Young stars in Father Knows Best on NBC.

[Henry Aldrich]

It.