Aldrich Family 40-05-21 (047) School Picnic

Summary

Podcast Summary: Aldrich Family 40-05-21 (047) School Picnic

Introduction

“Harold's Old Time Radio” brings listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, showcasing classic radio shows that once captivated families before the advent of television. In the episode titled “School Picnic”, released on May 30, 2025, the Aldrich family navigates the typical teenage dilemmas of high school life, friendships, and young romance. This summary delves into the key points, discussions, and humorous exchanges that define this episode.

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Plot Overview

The episode centers around Henry Aldrich and his best friend, Dizzy Stevens, as they navigate the complexities of high school life, particularly focusing on their quest to secure dates for the upcoming school picnic. The story unfolds in Centerville, where the duo deals with lost lunchboxes, unrequited love, and the challenges of teenage friendships.

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Key Characters and Dynamics

• Henry Aldrich (Ezra Stone): The protagonist, a typical American teenager trying to balance school, friendships, and romantic interests.
• Dizzy Stevens: Henry's loyal but somewhat naive best friend, who often finds himself in humorous predicaments.
• Irwin Cooper: A friend entangled in the lunchbox mishap and secondary romantic subplot.
• Mrs. Aldrich: Henry's concerned mother, representing the parental perspective on teenage antics.
• Agnes Lawson and Geraldine Love: The two female characters vying for Dizzy’s attention, creating a love triangle that drives much of the episode's tension.

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Detailed Breakdown

1. The Lost Lunchbox Incident ([00:17] - [02:24])

The episode opens with Henry and Dizzy descending from Central High School, heading to lunch. Dizzy discovers his lunchbox is missing, leading to a comedic confrontation with Irwin Cooper.

• Dizzy Stevens ([00:42] - [02:24]): Dizzy suspects Irwin of taking his lunchbox, leading to a humorous exchange about the value of his multi-purpose knife.

  Dizzy Stevens ([02:09]): "It's got two blades, a corkscrew and a combined can opener and nail file."

Irwin attempts to offer Dizzy money for the knife, but Dizzy refuses, setting the stage for their ongoing friendship dynamics.

2. Romantic Entanglements and the Picnic Proposal ([02:24] - [12:53])

Irwin reveals that Violet Hawkins, a girl he's infatuated with, has asked him to be partners at the class picnic. This revelation frustrates Dizzy, who desires to secure a date but feels unsure about how to proceed.

• Irwin Cooper ([02:57] - [04:22]): Irwin discusses his crush on Violet and the protocols of asking a date, adding depth to the social dynamics of the characters.

  Irwin Cooper ([03:18]): "She did? Sure. Who are you going with?"

Dizzy's confusion about approaching girls is highlighted through his conversations with Henry. The tension culminates when Henry attempts to help Dizzy by offering to go to the picnic with Agnes, despite Dizzy's feelings for Geraldine Love.

• Henry Aldrich ([05:13] - [12:53]): Henry engages with Dizzy and Agnes, creating comic relief and showcasing the typical teenage mishaps.

  Henry Aldrich ([05:17]): “Do you like deviled eggs?”

The interactions emphasize the complexities of teenage relationships and the humorous misunderstandings that often accompany them.

3. The Drugstore Debacle ([12:53] - [23:56])

Dizzy decides to take proactive steps to secure his date by renting a canoe, hoping to impress Geraldine. However, his plans are thrown into disarray when Irwin intervenes, attempting to sabotage Dizzy’s efforts in favor of his own romantic pursuits.

• Dizzy Stevens ([16:45] - [21:34]): Dizzy's attempts to impress Geraldine involve elaborate plans, such as renting a canoe and purchasing lavish items like stuffed olives and a portable phonograph.

  Dizzy Stevens ([17:01]): “I sold a picture that was up on my wall, Mother. I wonder why Geraldine doesn't like to put up a lunch.”

The narrative builds up to a humorous climax where misunderstandings lead to chaotic situations during the picnic setup, highlighting the playful nature of the characters' relationships.

4. The Picnic Gone Awry ([23:00] - [26:48])

The day of the picnic arrives, and Dizzy's plans begin to unravel. Geraldine's arrival and the ensuing confusion result in a series of comedic events, including a near mishap involving Agnes and a canoe accident.

• Dizzy Stevens ([24:28] - [26:48]): Dizzy’s over-the-top efforts to impress Geraldine lead to slapstick comedy, culminating in an accidental spill at the lake.

  Dizzy Stevens ([25:02]): “Agnes, pull your legs together.”

Henry and Dizzy's antics at the picnic underscore the lighthearted nature of the episode, emphasizing themes of friendship and youthful exuberance.

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Notable Quotes and Moments

1. Dizzy on His Multi-Purpose Knife ([02:09] - [02:13]):

   Dizzy Stevens: "Oh, no. It's got two blades, a corkscrew and a combined can opener and nail file."

2. Irwin on Having Ice Cream ([05:30] - [05:56]):

   Irwin Cooper: "Henry, do you realize what you're doing with that knife?"

3. Dizzy's Determination ([10:05] - [21:34]):

   Dizzy Stevens: “I'm gonna rent a canoe.”

4. Comedic Miscommunication ([24:28] - [25:46]):

   Dizzy Stevens: “Hey, Agnes, pull your legs together.”

These moments encapsulate the show's blend of humor, teenage angst, and the timeless appeal of friendship and first crushes.

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Themes and Insights

• Friendship and Loyalty: The dynamic between Henry and Dizzy illustrates unwavering loyalty, even amidst misunderstandings and disputes.

• Young Romance: The episode captures the awkwardness and excitement of teenage crushes, highlighting the universal experiences of young love.

• Humor in Everyday Situations: From lost lunchboxes to canoe mishaps, the narrative finds humor in the mundane, making it relatable and entertaining.

• Parental Perspectives: Mrs. Aldrich's interactions provide a grounded perspective on teenage behavior, balancing the youthful exuberance with mature concerns.

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Conclusion

“School Picnic” is a quintessential episode of “The Aldrich Family”, blending humor, relatable teenage experiences, and the charm of old-time radio storytelling. Through its engaging characters and witty dialogues, the episode offers a nostalgic glimpse into high school life, emphasizing themes of friendship, love, and the amusing trials of growing up. Whether reminiscing about similar experiences or discovering them anew, listeners are sure to find delight in Henry Aldrich and his companions' endearing adventures.

Transcript

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry. Henry Aldrich.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Coming, Mother.

[Narrator]

The Aldrich Family, written by Clifford Goldsmith and starring Ezra Stone as Henry Aldrich. Brought to you by the puddings that are tops in taste. Jello pudding. Do you remember when you were in your teens? Well, when you listen to Henry Aldrich and his pals, we think you'll sort of be able to detect a little of yourself. For Henry Aldrich is a typical American boy from a typical American family. Just listen and see if I'm not right. It's noon in Centerville, and as the scene opens, Henry and his pal Dizzy Stevens are just coming down the stone steps of Central High School on their way to lunch.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, Dizzy, what I want to know is where it could have gone. Listen, a lunchbox isn't something a person just overlooks.

[Irwin Cooper]

Well, you certainly overlooked yours.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, no, I didn't. Somebody took mine. Boy, I didn't eat any breakfast this morning.

[Irwin Cooper]

Can't you buy anything?

[Dizzy Stevens]

How am I going to buy anything? The only thing I've got in my pockets is this knife.

[Irwin Cooper]

She whiz. Henry, you wouldn't like to sell that knife, would you?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, no. It's got two blades, a corkscrew and a combined can opener and nail file.

[Irwin Cooper]

I'll give you 20 cents for it.

[Dizzy Stevens]

No.

[Irwin Cooper]

I'll give you 30 cents.

[Dizzy Stevens]

No. Say, Dizzy, I think I know who took my lunch.

[Irwin Cooper]

Yeah? Who?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Irwin Cooper. And he's right over there. Hey, Erwin.

[Irwin Cooper]

Always here.

[Dizzy Stevens]

What do you have, Henry? My boy Erwin, I don't like to insinuate anything, but you haven't by any chance seen my lunch, have you? What are you trying to do, kid me? Don't you have the locker next to mine? What if I have? Well, I remember distinctly when I put my lunchbox in my locker this morning. You were standing right by it go off. Now, wait, Erwin. Don't try to walk away. Erwin. Hey, Erwin.

[Irwin Cooper]

Hey, Henry. What do you think just happened to me?

[Dizzy Stevens]

What?

[Irwin Cooper]

Do you remember Violet Hawkins?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Who's she?

[Irwin Cooper]

The girl I always wanted a date with and never dared dream she'd even look at me.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I don't know her.

[Irwin Cooper]

Sure you know her. She's the one that slapped me in the face the time I tied her to the desk.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Did she just slap you again?

[Irwin Cooper]

No. Wait till I tell you. She just asked me to be a partner at the class picnic.

[Dizzy Stevens]

She did?

[Irwin Cooper]

Sure. Who are you going with?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, I haven't asked anyone yet.

[Irwin Cooper]

You're not supposed. You have to wait until a girl asks you.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I do?

[Irwin Cooper]

Sure. Hasn't anyone asked you yet?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, I. I I've been too busy for anyone to ask me. How could they even find me when I've been here, there and everywhere looking for something?

[Irwin Cooper]

I'm Dizzy.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Do you happen to know the name of that girl in our class with blonde hair?

[Irwin Cooper]

With blonde hair? Yeah, that's the way half of them are.

[Dizzy Stevens]

No, she. She's the one that. When she speaks, it's in sort of a low voice. Oh, you know who I mean?

[Irwin Cooper]

No.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, I'll tell you. Dizzy. She wears high heeled shoes and Irwin Cooper is crazy about her.

[Irwin Cooper]

Oh, I think I know the one you mean. That darn girl. Henry, what's the matter with her?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Boy, I wish she'd asked me to go to the picnic.

[Irwin Cooper]

Henry, do you realize what you're doing with that knife?

[Dizzy Stevens]

What?

[Irwin Cooper]

You just cut your tie in two.

[Dizzy Stevens]

She whizzed. And that was one of my best.

[Irwin Cooper]

Henry, you ought to sell that night before you do some real serious damage. No, I'll give you 50 cents for it.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah, yeah.

[Irwin Cooper]

With 50 cents you can buy out the school cafeteria.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I'm hungry, but I'm not gonna sell this knife. And besides, look.

[Irwin Cooper]

What is it?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I just found 10 cents in my pocket.

[Irwin Cooper]

Are you sure that isn't mine?

[Dizzy Stevens]

How would your dime get in my pants pocket?

[Irwin Cooper]

Well, I had a dime and change this morning.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry. Henry. Off here.

[Dizzy Stevens]

He was dizzy. Stand in front of me, quick.

[Irwin Cooper]

What's the matter?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Come on, let's go across the street to the Havens drugstore. Hurry up.

[Narrator]

Dizzy.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Henry, wait for me. Henry. Henry.

[Irwin Cooper]

Somebody's calling you.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Magnus Lawson. She ruins every lunch hour I have.

[Irwin Cooper]

Yeah, well, I'm gonna leave you before she ruins mine.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Lizzie, come back.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry. Henry. Henry, I want to ask you something.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I'm busy, Agnes.

[Henry Aldrich]

But wait, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

What for?

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry? Do you like fried chicken?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Do I like what?

[Henry Aldrich]

Do you like peanut butter sandwiches?

[Dizzy Stevens]

How many do you have?

[Henry Aldrich]

Do you like deviled eggs?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Listen, Agnes, I'll take anything.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, how would you like to take me to the picnic?

[Dizzy Stevens]

You mean you haven't got any of those things with you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Of course I haven't. Would you like to be my partner, Henry?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, the only thing is.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, has somebody else asked you?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, somebody asked me not to accept any offers until I see about something else.

[Henry Aldrich]

I love to put up a lunch, Henry. I just get the biggest kick out of it.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Don't talk anymore about food, Agnes, huh? I'm starved. The last class I had was in nutrition.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, gee, that's too bad, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Gee whiz, I'm. I'm hungry enough to eat a well balanced lunch. Say, Agnes, you know who that was that just went into DeHaven's drugstore there just now? Yeah, that girl with blonde hair and high heeled shoes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, come on, let's go in and see.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, I don't think you better go in too. I'm going in to meet a couple of the fellas in here.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, you are? Well, will you let me know about the picnic, Henry?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah. Give me three days, Agnes. But if you'd rather not wait that long, I'll understand.

[Henry Aldrich]

Goodbye, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Hey, Henry. Hiya, Homer. Henry, come over by this table a minute. Well, you have. Do you know who that girl is sitting at the counter? Which one?

[Irwin Cooper]

The blonde with the blue eyes.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah. Isn't she a beauty, though? You couldn't loan me a dime, could you? That's all I got myself, Homer. I'll pay you 25% interest. No, I've got to go over to the counter and get my lunch. I saw first, though. Henry. Yeah?

[Narrator]

What do you have?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I, I, I, I guess this young lady was here first.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, well, I haven't decided yet.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, mister, is that baked ham there?

[Narrator]

Yes, sir.

[Dizzy Stevens]

What's that next to it?

[Narrator]

Roast beef.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, what's this?

[Narrator]

Sliced chicken.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, I'll take apple pie.

[Narrator]

Apple pie?

[Dizzy Stevens]

A small paste. That's a nickel, isn't it? Yes, sir. Put a scoop of ice cream on it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Could I trouble you for a paper napkin, please?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, oh, sure. How many would you like?

[Henry Aldrich]

Just one.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Here. Gee whiz. Take the whole container.

[Narrator]

Do you want whipped cream on that pie? Well, no extra charge.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Shoot the works. Hey, not bad.

[Narrator]

That'll be 15 cents.

[Dizzy Stevens]

15 cents?

[Narrator]

Nickel for the pie, dime for the large ice cream.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah. Well, that's fair enough. Only, did I happen to order ice cream in the first place?

[Irwin Cooper]

You don't want this?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, would it be an awful lot of trouble if I didn't take it? You mean I gotta dismantle this thing? Well, I'm afraid so.

[Narrator]

Listen, what do you want?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, could I have the menu, please?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, sure. You wouldn't like a piece of apple pie on me, would you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, I don't think I should.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, why not? Gee whiz, mister, one apple pie and I think I'll take the same.

[Narrator]

Just plain?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yes, sir. Plain. Well, it certainly seems good to have spring here. I like spring. I like to go on picnics, too.

[Henry Aldrich]

You do?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah.

[Henry Aldrich]

Are you going to the class picnic?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, I'm not saying yet, buddy.

[Narrator]

What's the idea of shaking pepper all around?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Gee whiz, Mister, I didn't even know I had it in my hand.

[Henry Aldrich]

Would anyone mind if I should take ice cream on my pie?

[Dizzy Stevens]

You want ice cream, too?

[Narrator]

Large or small?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I think I'll take small, not large.

[Narrator]

How about you, buddy?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, as a matter of fact, I don't think I'll eat anything at all.

[Henry Aldrich]

I must be hungrier than you.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah. Frankly, I was just going to eat to kill time anyhow.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, could I have a chocolate malt or two?

[Dizzy Stevens]

A chocolate maldon. One choc. Yes, one chocolate malt.

[Henry Aldrich]

What is your name?

[Dizzy Stevens]

My name's Henry Aldridge.

[Henry Aldrich]

My name's Geraldine Love.

[Dizzy Stevens]

It is? Gee whiz. Geraldine Love.

[Narrator]

Who takes the check?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, I'll pay for it. I wonder. I wonder if.

[Henry Aldrich]

Who are you looking for?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I just thought there might be someone in here. I know who. I wonder whether there could be anyone outside looking for me. Would you mind excusing me for just a second while I step out? How about this check? I'll be right back. Dizzy. Hey, Dizzy.

[Irwin Cooper]

What do you have?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Come here. I'm in a terrible position.

[Irwin Cooper]

What happened?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Hurry up. Here's my knife. Give me that. 50 cents.

[Irwin Cooper]

I haven't got 50 cents anymore.

[Dizzy Stevens]

No?

[Irwin Cooper]

No. I've been getting something to eat.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Haven't you? Anything?

[Irwin Cooper]

Just 30 cents.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, gee whiz, that'll make 40 cents. Give it to me. Here's the knife.

[Irwin Cooper]

Oh, did you decide to eat after all?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Only in a way I did.

[Irwin Cooper]

Well, here. Gee, thanks.

[Dizzy Stevens]

So long. Yeah, I've got to go back in.

[Henry Aldrich]

Was anyone out in front?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Was there? And was it a good thing I saw him?

[Narrator]

That'll be 20, 30, 40 cents.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, is that all?

[Henry Aldrich]

Aren't you going to eat anything?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Gee, if you could have seen the lunch I brought from home.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, you've already eaten.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I stuffed myself.

[Irwin Cooper]

Hey, Henry, what do you have? Dizzy, your mother's out here.

[Dizzy Stevens]

My mother?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry, dear, I've been looking all over for you.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Is somebody sick, Mother?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

No, dear. You left your lunchbox at home in the living room.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mother.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, Dee, you can't go all day without anything to eat.

[Dizzy Stevens]

But, Mother, I've had more than enough. I left that box home on purpose. Hi, Geraldine, Is that you in there?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, hello, Irwin.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Listen, where did you come from? Irwin, I see you found your box, Henry. Now maybe you can eat something.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mother, do you mind if I change the subject for just a minute? I want you to meet Geraldine Love.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello. Come on, Erwin. Let's go over to school.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Okay.

[Henry Aldrich]

It was nice to have met you, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Gee, wish she's gone.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Who is that young woman, Henry?

[Dizzy Stevens]

She's the best looking girl in school, Mother.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

She's hardly the best mannered.

[Dizzy Stevens]

But you don't really know her. And while I appreciate your bringing this lunchbox, I do think you could have handed it to me more cautiously.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry, Agnes Lawson's mother phoned this morning. Well, she said I wanted to know whether you wouldn't like to go to the class picnic with Agnes.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I hope you didn't tell her I would.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Why wouldn't you, dear?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mother, I couldn't possibly.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Why not? Because, Henry, there isn't any girl you know quite as nice as Agnes.

[Dizzy Stevens]

But Mother, she can't begin to compare with Geraldine.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I'm sure she isn't as rude as that young woman.

[Dizzy Stevens]

You're just jumping at conclusions, Henry.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Agnes's mother has always been so nice.

[Dizzy Stevens]

To you and so is Agnes. But she's still not my idea of a girl I'd like to go on a picnic with.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Then I don't think you should accept any more of her hospitality, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Say, Henry, aren't you going to be late to class?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Hello, agnes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, hello, Mrs. Aldrich. The last bell may ring any minute, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, there's still lots of time, Agnes.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry, don't you think this would be a good time to tell Agnes what we were just discussing for.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mother, look at the clock.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

It won't take one minute.

[Henry Aldrich]

What is it about?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, Agnes, would you like to have me go to the picnic with you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, Henry, of course.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, I'd like to go with you.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

See that, dear? It didn't take one second.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm so glad you can go, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I think I better hurry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Do you mind if I walk with you?

[Dizzy Stevens]

No.

[Henry Aldrich]

Goodbye, dear.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Goodbye, Mother.

[Henry Aldrich]

Goodbye, Mrs. Aldrich.

[Dizzy Stevens]

When are you going to eat your lunch? During music?

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Look.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Hurry across the street.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, Henry Aldrin.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, gee whiz, Geraldine.

[Henry Aldrich]

Could I see you alone, Henry? I'll wait for you right at the entrance, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

You better go right on in, Agnes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry. Well, Henry, Irwin Cooper can't go to the picnic. Would you like to be my partner?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I be your partner?

[Henry Aldrich]

Of course.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, gee whiz, would you? The only thing is.

[Henry Aldrich]

Has someone else asked you?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I can fix it. All right. I can fix it. I'm sure I can.

[Henry Aldrich]

Really?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Of course.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, Henry. Henry, I'm so thrilled you can go.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Gee whiz, think how I feel. I'm going with you, boy. I'm going with you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Can you bring the lunch, Henry?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I bring it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, I just hate to put up an old lunch.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Sure, I'd be very glad to.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, my goodness. We better hurry.

[Irwin Cooper]

Henry. Hey, Henry, I've got a message for you.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Come here. What is it, Dizzy?

[Irwin Cooper]

Come here.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Could you excuse me, Geraldine?

[Henry Aldrich]

You won't forget, Henry?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Forget? How could I?

[Irwin Cooper]

Listen, Henry, let me tell you, boy, you're gonna pass right out.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Why?

[Irwin Cooper]

I fixed it up for you.

[Dizzy Stevens]

You fix what up? For me to go to the picnic. With who?

[Irwin Cooper]

The girl you said you wanted to meet.

[Dizzy Stevens]

When? I just met her.

[Irwin Cooper]

Oh, no, Henry. That isn't the girl you wanted to meet. I just talked to the one you want. She's crazy to have you go.

[Dizzy Stevens]

But Dizzy, I've already got a date with this one.

[Irwin Cooper]

It's too late to tell the one I've talked to. You can't go, Henry. She busted a date. Purposely. Boy, aren't I your palace.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I'll say you're my pal. That makes three girls and one picnic.

[Narrator]

You know, ladies and gentlemen, boys and girls of Henry's age often say and do a lot of things that puzzle parents. But among the most surprising things about all boys and girls is their strange powers of hearing. Your own son, for instance, may be just upstairs in his room when you call him from the kitchen.

[Henry Aldrich]

Tommy. Oh, Tommy. Come down here a minute, Tommy.

[Narrator]

But no answer. So you call again. And this goes on for several minutes until you finally say to yourself, well.

[Henry Aldrich]

I did think he might want this.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Extra dish of Jell O chocolate pudding. But if he doesn't, I'll eat it myself.

[Irwin Cooper]

Wait a minute, Mother.

[Henry Aldrich]

Here I am.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Where is it?

[Narrator]

Aha. You see, it just goes to prove that all you have to do is mention, just barely whisper Jell O chocolate pudding and folks young and old will come a running. Because seriously, ladies and gentlemen, Jell O chocolate pudding is a mighty delicious treat. It's a grand satisfying dessert. Delightfully smooth and creamy. And every tempting spoonful is rich with swell chocolatey flavor. You'll be glad to know too, that Jello chocolate pudding is easy to make and that it costs only a few pennies. So try some real soon for keen, luscious enjoyment. Jell O chocolate pudding is in a class by its now getting back to Henry Aldrich. When we left him, Henry, through no fault of his own, was dated with three girls for the class picnic. Now the scene opens on the morning of the picnic. Henry, wearing an apron, is working in the Aldrich kitchen.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mother, is this all the wax paper we have?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, Henry, you've already used two rolls.

[Dizzy Stevens]

But I'm making the sandwiches big May.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I ask how big Geraldine's mouth is?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Look, Mother. Look at this swell bottle of stuffed olives.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Where did you get enough money to buy those?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I sold a picture that was up on my wall, Mother. I wonder why Geraldine doesn't like to put up a lunch.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

What did Agnes say when you told her you couldn't go with her?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Very little.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, Henry, I still don't like it.

[Dizzy Stevens]

But don't you think it was all right for me to tell the girl Dizzy fixed up for me that I couldn't go?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

That was entirely different.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, what's the true of the portable phonograph that was up in my room?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mary, I meant to speak to you about that. Do you need it today?

[Henry Aldrich]

What's more, I'd like to know what became of that pillow that was up in my room.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, which one?

[Henry Aldrich]

The Princeton one.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Couldn't I borrow that? If. I'll take very good care of it, I'm going to rent a canoe. Mary.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why can't you take my Harvard pillow, Henry?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Gee whiz, as though I could ask any girl to sit on Harvard.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Why not, Henry?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, in the first place, it's coming out at the seams so Agnes will notice that. Agnes? I'm not going with Agnes.

[Henry Aldrich]

I thought you were.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mary, didn't you tell Agnes? Tell her what, Mary? Mary, the message I gave you.

[Irwin Cooper]

When?

[Dizzy Stevens]

When you were going over to her house yesterday. I called downstairs to you.

[Henry Aldrich]

I didn't hear you.

[Dizzy Stevens]

You must have. I said, mary, will you please tell Agnes I can't take her to the picnic because I have a very urgent engagement.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I certainly didn't understand you, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

But gee whiz, if that doesn't leave Agnes in an embarrassing position.

[Irwin Cooper]

Why, Agnes?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Why Agnes? She'll have to eat her lunch alone.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Oh, no, she won't dare.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mother, I couldn't take her.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

You certainly will, dear.

[Dizzy Stevens]

What will Geraldine think?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

You've known Agnes a great deal longer than you have Geraldine.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mother, haven't you caught on? I'm not fond of Agnes. If I take her, I'll be embarrassed the whole afternoon.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Mary, could you let me speak to Henry alone, please?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother. But I fully disapprove of the whole thing.

[Dizzy Stevens]

That's because neither one of you is a boy. And what's more, you've never had to take out Agnes.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry, I realize Geraldine must be a very pretty girl.

[Dizzy Stevens]

She's beautiful, mother.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, let's grant she's the most beautiful girl that ever lived. But don't you see how Agnes is going to feel? And her Mother's always been so nice to you.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, don't misunderstand me, Mother. I'm very fond of Agnes, Mother. In fact, if it were a choice, I'd rather take her.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I'm sorry, dear. I'm not going to say anything more.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I see. Does. Does that mean yes or no?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Mother, I've said all I'm going to.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry did. He's at the front door.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Hey, Henry. I'm calling Des.

[Irwin Cooper]

Henry, I'm in an emergency.

[Dizzy Stevens]

What's the matter?

[Irwin Cooper]

You want to buy this knife? I'll let you have it for 50 cents.

[Dizzy Stevens]

It isn't worth 50.

[Irwin Cooper]

You try to sell it to me for 50. And if you don't buy it, I won't have any lunch at the picnic.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Why not?

[Irwin Cooper]

My girl can't go.

[Dizzy Stevens]

She can't, Dizzy.

[Irwin Cooper]

No.

[Dizzy Stevens]

It would be your girl. Listen, Dizzy, if I'll fix you up with one of the swellest girls you ever met in your life, will you give me that knife?

[Irwin Cooper]

Are you kidding me?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Do you like fried chicken? Oh, and peanut butter sandwiches and deviled eggs? Oh, sure I do. Gimme the knife. Dickie.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Here.

[Irwin Cooper]

Who is it?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Come here while I telephone. Boy, or are you in luck? Hello, operator?

[Irwin Cooper]

Gee whiz, what's she like?

[Dizzy Stevens]

She's a dream. Yeah, and she's got the swellest mother. Operator, I want Walnut373.

[Irwin Cooper]

Walnut3. Now, wait a minute, Henry. Isn't that Agnes's number?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Dizzy, her mother can cook.

[Irwin Cooper]

I know, Henry, but I'm not interested.

[Dizzy Stevens]

She's got a lunch basket that's really a laundry hamper.

[Irwin Cooper]

She has?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Mm. Oh, operator, the line's busy. Well, will you let me know when it isn't? Boy, am I gonna have a swell time with Geraldine. You know what I'm gonna do, Dizzy?

[Irwin Cooper]

What?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, I'm gonna rent a canoe.

[Irwin Cooper]

Where'd you get the money?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I sold a set of books I never read and. Hey, look at this phonograph. Gee whiz, what'd you sell or get that? Oh, nothing. Wanna listen to something swell? Ever hear anything like it? Does he? I got a pillow from Princeton too.

[Irwin Cooper]

Yeah?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I'm gonna let Geraldine sit on it right in the middle of the canoe. And then you know what?

[Irwin Cooper]

And then what?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, you know that cove way over on the far side of the lake?

[Irwin Cooper]

Yeah.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Boy, is that a swell place to eat lunch. Gee whiz. Hello.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry.

[Irwin Cooper]

Look what happened to the record.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Hello, Agnes. Agnes, how would you like to have me arrange a very pleasant surprise? How would you enjoy going today with Dizzy Stevens?

[Irwin Cooper]

What does she say Henry?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Oh, no, Agnes. I think you've got the wrong idea of him. What's that? Oh, no, Agnes, he isn't like that.

[Irwin Cooper]

Hang up, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

To whom are you talking to, Agnes?

[Irwin Cooper]

Mrs. Aldridge.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry, you are not to tell her you can't take her.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah, but. Mother, did you hear me? Yes. Hello, Agnes. I'd like to go with you. No, I'd be very glad to. I'll pick you up in about an hour. Goodbye.

[Irwin Cooper]

Henry. Could I have my knife?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Gee whiz, am I going to have a swell time. Agnes and Geraldine both at work once. Do you see anyone coming, Agnes?

[Henry Aldrich]

Maybe she changed her mind, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I'm sure Geraldine is coming. She told me she was a.

[Henry Aldrich]

Couldn't we get into the canoe here? You know, I've always wanted to go in a canoe.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Haven't you ever been in one?

[Henry Aldrich]

No.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Can you swim?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, I can't.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Is that right? Oh, gee, look who's coming down the path.

[Irwin Cooper]

Who is it?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Geraldine. I'll be back in a second, Agnes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, gosh. Henry, why don't you wait here on the dock?

[Dizzy Stevens]

I've got to help her carry her sweater.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Hello. I saw you came. Huh? Let me. Let me carry your sweater for you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Thank you ever so much. Henry, who's that down on the dock?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, it seems, Geraldine, there was a misunderstanding.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, that girl isn't going with us, is she?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Geraldine? She's just a friend of the family.

[Henry Aldrich]

But I asked you to go.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, I'm here to go with you. She's really going. Just for my mother. Hi, Geraldine. Now, look.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, Irwin Cooper. I thought you couldn't.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I'm here, though. How are you, Henry? Glad to see you, my boy. I'm glad to see you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, we're both glad to see you, Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Who's that calling you, Henry? Ah, it's just a girl.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yes, Agnes? What's the matter?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, Henry, look. She's got one foot on the dock and one foot in the canoe. And she's holding your lunch basket right over the water.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Hey, Agnes, pull your legs together.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm gonna fall in.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, put that lunch basket down, Agnes.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I'm going.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry. Henry, look, he fell in.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah, I know him. I'll pull her out. It's only three feet deep. Grab the canoe. Agnes. Stand up. Get your head out of the water. Agnes, don't be childish. Just get off your knees.

[Irwin Cooper]

Then wade in.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm coming. Henry.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Open your eyes. You're waiting the wrong way. Here, give me your hand, Agnes. All right, Here, come on out up.

[Henry Aldrich]

There.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Don't drip in the lunch basket.

[Henry Aldrich]

I won't, Henry. I'll just squeeze my dress out a little. Little here and there. I'll be all right.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Now, look, Agnes, don't you think you ought to go right straight home?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, no. The sun's awfully warm. We can get in the canoe and it'll be dry by the time we get to the other side of the lake.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Where's Geraldine?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, there she is. Look out on the lake with Irwin, she was.

[Dizzy Stevens]

They're in a canoe and they took my lunch basket.

[Henry Aldrich]

Come on. Come on, Henry. Get in this canoe with me, huh?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Sure, I'll get in.

[Henry Aldrich]

Isn't it lucky you have this crimson pillow for me to sit on?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Yeah. Say, did you know your hair has all come down?

[Henry Aldrich]

I let it down on purpose. And me, do you mind if I play this phonograph while I lean back in the sun?

[Dizzy Stevens]

Well, if you have to.

[Henry Aldrich]

My giddy Henry. Aren't we lucky everything has ended up just beautifully?

[Narrator]

You know, ladies and gentlemen, when folks get to talking about favorite desserts, there's one they never fail to mention. And that's butterscotch pie. Yes, sir, Butterscotch pie is a mighty swell treat. And it's marvelously easy and inexpensive to make, too, when you make it with Jell O Butterscotch pudding. Because when you use Jello butterscotch pudding for the filling, you do away with all guessing. You save time and effort and you make certain that every single pie will be a grand success. Furthermore, this rich, taffy colored pudding gives you a pie filling that's as creamy and satin smooth as can be. And you'll be delighted with its golden butterscotch flavor, its zestful, satisfying goodness. So follow the lead of so many smart, modern housewives. Tomorrow night, treat the family to a luscious butterscotch pie made the easy way with Jell O Butterscotch pudding. Ask your grocer for several packages of this tasty dessert. But be sure to say Jello butterscotch pudding. Because only Jello butterscotch pudding can give you such rich, mellow enjoyment.

[Henry Aldrich]

Ram.

[Dizzy Stevens]

I'm sorry, Mother, but I'm through with them forever. Really, Henry, I've never seen a girl yet that didn't turn out to be a disappointment. Why, I don't know. Maybe I'm just hard to please. Oh, could you put some more sunburn lotion on me?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I'll ask Mary to.

[Dizzy Stevens]

Don't let Mary get near me. She'll put it right where my poison Ivy is.

[Narrator]

The Aldrich family starring as the stone is written by Clifford Goldsmith. Original music composed and conducted by Jack Miller. This is Harry Bonsell speaking and wishing you good night for the puddings that are tops in taste. Jello puddings.