Aldrich Family 40-05-28 (048) Cross Country Race

Summary

Aldrich Family Episode: "Cross Country Race" (40-05-28, Episode 048)

Release Date: April 20, 2025
Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

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Overview

In this engaging episode of The Aldrich Family, titled "Cross Country Race," listeners are immersed in the humorous and heartfelt antics of Henry Aldrich as he navigates the challenges of high school life. Balancing academic pressures, athletic ambitions, and teenage romance, Henry's quest to win a cross country race becomes a central theme that highlights family dynamics, personal growth, and the quintessential teenage experience of the Golden Age of Radio.

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Plot Summary

The episode opens in the Aldrich household during dinner time, where Henry Aldrich discusses his dilemma: to take Geraldine to the upcoming dance, he must win the cross country race and pass his mathematics class. This requires him to secure a typewriter and a sleeping bag, which are essential for his plans but come with their own set of challenges.

Key Plot Points:

1. Henry’s Dilemma (02:03 - 04:18):

   • Economic Quest: Henry explains to his parents that winning the race is crucial not just for the dance but also to meet his academic requirements.
   • Parental Guidance: Mr. Aldrich emphasizes the importance of eating broccoli, a recurring joke highlighting Henry's attempts to comply with household expectations.

2. Training Struggles (05:39 - 09:02):

   • Sibling Support: Henry's brother, Dizzy, becomes involved in Henry’s training, leading to comic mishaps such as oversized golf shoes causing Henry to struggle during practice runs.
   • Parental Conflict: Mr. Aldrich and Mrs. Aldrich debate whether to support Henry’s athletic endeavors, ultimately deciding to discreetly provide him with the necessary gear to save face within the community.

3. The Race Preparation (10:16 - 18:22):

   • Strategic Training: Henry adopts a tactical approach to the race, training meticulously to ensure he can perform well enough to secure both the race win and his academic standing.
   • Parental Support: Despite initial resistance, Mrs. Aldrich persuades Mr. Aldrich to assist Henry, showcasing the family's underlying support system.

4. Race Day (19:06 - 24:19):

   • Unexpected Obstacles: On race day, Henry faces various challenges, including faulty shoes and interference from competing racers from Middletown.
   • Climactic Finish: Through determination and resourcefulness, Henry manages to outpace his rivals, ultimately winning the race and fulfilling his obligations.

5. Conclusion and Aftermath (25:24 - 30:02):

   • Family Celebration: The Aldrich family celebrates Henry's victory, reflecting on the importance of character and support.
   • Future Plans: Henry shares his ambition to enter a business partnership, hinting at future adventures and growth.

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Character Highlights

• Henry Aldrich (Ezra Stone): The protagonist whose blend of determination and comedic mishaps drive the plot. Henry embodies the ideal American boy balancing family expectations with personal desires.

  • Notable Quote:

    "My whole future depends on winning that race." — Henry Aldrich [04:56]

• Mr. Aldrich (Sam): Henry's father, whose strict yet caring nature underscores the generational dynamics within the family.

  • Notable Quote:

    "Character. Character." — Mr. Aldrich [26:04]

• Mrs. Aldrich (Alice): Henry's mother, who plays a pivotal role in mediating between Henry and Mr. Aldrich, showcasing maternal support and understanding.

  • Notable Quote:

    "Every boy his age forgets now and then, dear." — Mrs. Aldrich [11:30]

• Dizzy Aldrich: Henry's younger brother, whose involvement in Henry's training adds humor and sibling camaraderie to the narrative.

• Geraldine: Henry’s romantic interest, whose presence motivates Henry's efforts and adds a layer of teenage romance to the story.

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Notable Scenes and Quotes

• Dinner Table Negotiations (02:03 - 04:18):
  The scene where Henry negotiates with his parents about the broccoli and the prerequisites for attending the dance highlights the comedic tension between teenage desires and parental expectations.

  "I have just as much a stake on his winning as he has." — Henry Aldrich [05:06]

• Training with Oversized Shoes (05:39 - 09:02):
  Henry's attempt to train with his father's golf shoes leads to physical comedy and illustrates the lengths he will go to succeed.

  "I'm not gonna do it." — Henry Aldrich [07:27]

• Parental Strategy Meeting (11:50 - 12:26):
  The Aldrich parents discuss how to discreetly support Henry, balancing pride and practicality.

  "We can make out they came from Aunt Harriet or someone." — Mrs. Aldrich [11:35]

• Race Day Challenges (19:06 - 24:19):
  Henry faces multiple obstacles during the race, including shoe malfunctions and strategic rival moves, culminating in his triumphant finish.

  "Keep on the course. How much water is it? 60 yards. They're coming like wind." — Henry Aldrich [21:25]

• Family Reflection (25:24 - 30:02):
  The Aldrich family reflects on Henry's achievements, emphasizing the moral of character over mere victory.

  "Character. Character." — Mr. Aldrich [26:04]

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Themes and Insights

• Perseverance and Determination: Henry's relentless pursuit of his goals, despite numerous setbacks, underscores the value of resilience.

• Family Dynamics: The interplay between Henry and his parents highlights the balance between guidance and autonomy in familial relationships.

• Character Development: The episode emphasizes that true success is measured by character and integrity, not just by winning races or achieving personal goals.

• Teenage Romance: Henry's motivation to win the race is partly driven by his desire to impress Geraldine, adding depth to his character and relatable teenage motivations.

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Conclusion

"Cross Country Race" offers a delightful blend of humor, family warmth, and teenage drama, encapsulating the essence of The Aldrich Family series. Through Henry's adventures, listeners are reminded of the timeless themes of perseverance, familial support, and the quintessential challenges of growing up. This episode not only entertains but also imparts valuable life lessons, making it a memorable installment in the beloved radio series.

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Notable Quotes:

• Henry Aldrich:

  "The only way I can make broccoli go down is with bread." — [02:37]

• Mrs. Aldrich:

  "Every boy his age forgets now and then, dear." — [11:30]

• Mr. Aldrich:

  "It's not a question of money." — [10:50]

• Geraldine:

  "Well, he brought me to the dance and nobody seen him since." — [26:27]

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This comprehensive summary captures the essence of the "Cross Country Race" episode, ensuring that both long-time fans and new listeners can appreciate the depth and charm of The Aldrich Family narrative.

Transcript

[Styles MacKenzie]

We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Styles 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 Every style.

[Henry Aldrich]

Every home. Henry.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry Aldrich.

[Henry Aldrich]

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. Jell O 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 6:30 in Centerville and the scene opens with Henry taking dinner at the home of his palace. Busy, Stevens.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mrs. Stevens, could I trouble you for the bread, please?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Oh, yes, certainly, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whiz, I almost took two slices.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, wouldn't you like to take two?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, thank you. I never take more than one at a time.

Why only one, Henry?

My mother has asked me not to. Dizzy.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Basil.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Supposing you put back three of the four slices you took.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Aldrich]

And eat your broccoli.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, I don't like broccoli.

[Mr. Aldrich]

You aren't supposed to like it. Just eat it.

[Henry Aldrich]

The only way I can make broccoli go down is with bread.

Mrs. Stevens, I'm very sorry to interrupt you, but could I have a second helping of broccoli, please?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Yes, of course. Now that's the way I like to see a young man eat.

[Henry Aldrich]

Thank you, Mrs. Stevens.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I just wish Basil had such nice table manners.

[Henry Aldrich]

I do, Mother, when I'm visiting. Oh, yes. But when I'm home, I like to relax. And the only reason Henry is eating broccoli is so he can take Geraldine to the dance Saturday night.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Won't Geraldine go to the dance with him?

[Henry Aldrich]

Unless he eats broccoli, she won't be able to.

[Mr. Aldrich]

I see.

[Henry Aldrich]

That, Mr. Stevens, is why I have to have the typewriter.

[Mr. Aldrich]

The what?

[Henry Aldrich]

The typewriter. But I'm not worried. I'm almost positive I can get it. If I can only get the sleeping bag. I need a sleep.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sleeping bag? What kind of a dance is this, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

A masquerade?

Oh, no.

It's just a dance.

[Mr. Aldrich]

But before you can go to it, you have to eat broccoli and get a typewriter and a sleeping bag.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir. There's just one drawback. I can't get the bag if I don't pass my mathematics.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Molly, may I have the salt, please?

[Henry Aldrich]

Don't you understand, Father? That's why Henry has to win the cross country race.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Perfectly clear, Mrs. Stevens.

[Henry Aldrich]

Do you understand? Yes, entirely.

[Mr. Aldrich]

There's just one point I missed.

[Henry Aldrich]

Which one was that?

[Mr. Aldrich]

I don't know.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'll explain it to you again, Father.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Eat your broccoli.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

Mr. Stevens, I'm going to run in a cross country race for Central High. And our track coach is my math teacher. That's why I have to win or I don't pass my math.

[Mr. Aldrich]

In which case you will. Or you won't need a sleeping bag.

[Henry Aldrich]

I will.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Frank, will you have some more potatoes?

[Mr. Aldrich]

I've lost my appetite.

[Henry Aldrich]

Didn't I tell you, Henry? It's hard to understand, Father. If he doesn't pass in his math, his father won't give him his old sleeping bag.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Is that a punishment?

[Henry Aldrich]

If he doesn't give it to me, I won't be able to swap it for Shorty woods typewriter.

In which case.

In which case what, Mr. Stevens?

[Mr. Aldrich]

It's a fielder's choice.

[Henry Aldrich]

See, the dance committee needs a typewriter. And if I get them one, they'll give me four tickets free.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Oh, well, I'm glad to hear that straightened up.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yeah. That's the only reason why Henry is eating his broccoli.

My whole future depends on winning that race.

[Mr. Aldrich]

That would be putting it mildly.

[Henry Aldrich]

Could I have some more, please?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Are you sure you're not eating too much, dear?

[Henry Aldrich]

Don't discourage him, Mother. I have just as much a stake on his winning as he has. Hey, Molly.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Don't ask Basil. Why? Well, it's just because we don't want to know.

[Henry Aldrich]

But I was. Yes, Mother.

Would you like to have me tell you, Mrs. Stevens? No, dear. Well, then, could I have a little more of everything, please?

1, 2, 3, 4. 1, 2. Lift your knees. Higher. Henry.

I have to run like this even in a cross country run.

Don't you want to develop?

But this is going to over develop me.

1, 2, 3. Higher. I'll hit my chin. Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Henry.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Basil, are you and Henry upstairs?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother. What are you doing? We're just talking a little something over.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, is that noise you're making while you're talking necessary?

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm developing, Henry. Well, why can't you develop him outdoors? It's raining. And besides, if Henry would run on his toes as he should, you wouldn't even hear him.

Well, please ask him to get up.

Henry, and start again.

I'm quitting.

You mustn't. Sit down, Henry. Do you want a stiffen?

I ate too much broccoli, Dizzy. Besides, I don't think I'll ever be able to make time in your father's golf shoes.

Why not?

They weigh five pounds each. They've got spikes on the bottom.

Sure they have. That's to give you a grip on the road. You want to go into a three and a half mile race, slipping and sliding all over the course?

I'm not in training anymore.

So you don't want to go to the dance and take Geraldine? You don't even care whether you get the two tickets you promised to give me.

No, Henry.

Do you realize what Middleton High did to us last year? The final score for the meet was 65 to nothing but dizzy.

Why not leave our training and just let me go into the race fresh?

Okay, okay. If you know more about how to run than I do. Okay, then.

Well, all right. What is it I have to do next?

You're to run up and down the front stairs, but quietly. With these shoes on, you won't hurt the stairs. I spread newspapers on each step.

I'm not gonna do it.

Look, I'll go to the trouble of timing you with my watch. Come on. Just five times down and five times up.

Okay, five times, but no more. Okay?

Get on your mark, Henry. Yeah, and remember the old toes.

Keep up on my toes going down.

It'll strengthen them. Oh, get on your mark.

Yeah.

Get set, go. What's the matter, Henry?

There's one step there that doesn't have a piece of paper on it.

Well, skip that one. Come on, get on your mark. Get set, go.

I'm off.

Come on, Henry, let her out. Come on, let's see what you can do now. Come on, back up. Middleton's right behind you. She's closing in on you. She's gaining. You're crazy. She is, too. Now start down again. What's going on here? Middletown's trying to pass.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, come down here.

[Narrator]

What is this, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Now look what you've done to the stairs.

But, Father, I'm not asking you to get track shoes and track pants for me.

[Mr. Aldrich]

I thought you were.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, no. You'd really be getting them for Central high.

[Mr. Aldrich]

I see.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mr. Aldridge, do you realize that last year every man on The Middletown High School team finished before any of ours did.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Did they?

[Henry Aldrich]

And we certainly don't want a thing like that to repeat itself. Gee, after all, a thing like that involves everybody in town. Everybody's pride is hurt.

[Mr. Aldrich]

I see. Perhaps I could get the Chamber of Commerce to buy Henry's outfit.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I'll certainly be handicapped if I have to run in any old thing.

If worse came to worse, Mr. Aldridge, would you be willing to buy Henry just ordinary sneakers?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Didn't Henry tell you why I can't buy him any? Henry, if I were you, I wouldn't swing those Indian clubs here in the living room.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. I didn't even realize I was.

[Mr. Aldrich]

You're not to swing them in this house.

[Henry Aldrich]

Now, Father.

Henry, which way has your father decided regarding the other question?

[Mr. Aldrich]

I've decided he may have neither shoes nor a suit. And I'm quite sure Henry understands.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why did you disobey your father, Henry?

[Mr. Aldrich]

You were playing catch right out in front of the house, weren't you, son?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Aldrich]

And I told you that if you didn't go some other place, you'd have an accident, didn't I?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

Well, then what happened, Henry?

The ball went through this living room window.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

And Father was sitting right beside it. Oh, Father, I know I should be punished, but think of how I'll feel when I have to tell them at school.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry, let's not mention the subject again.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whiz, what's all that noise?

How should I know?

[Narrator]

Well, it's something sounds miracle bad.

[Henry Aldrich]

I know. Look out the window. They're having a rally for the track meet tomorrow. Come on, let's go.

Out you go, Dizzy. I'm going to stay here.

Here goes 4,000. Do you think I want him to.

[Mr. Aldrich]

See which is more important, son? Winning that race tomorrow or building some character in the years to come?

[Henry Aldrich]

I suppose building some character.

Mr. Aldridge, if it would help any, I've got 35 cents I'd be willing to put towards a pair of shoes.

[Mr. Aldrich]

It's not a question of money.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Oh, Henry, why aren't you and Dizzy out with the crowd?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why should I, Mother? Father doesn't care whether I win or not.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry, that isn't exactly fair.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Is this still about track shoes?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother. What do you think about it?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I agree entirely with your father.

[Henry Aldrich]

You do? Mother, I'm sorry. Come on, Dizzy, let's go upstairs.

Well, I guess the only thing to do, Henry, is train all the hard.

I've trained to the breaking point as it is.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam. Well, Alice couldn't we let Henry get.

[Mr. Aldrich]

What he needs after we've told him he can't?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

But, Sam, you've always wanted Henry to go in for athletics.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, he may still go in, but he must also learn to obey.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

But he always does obey. Oh, every boy his age forgets now and then, dear.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Very well. Supposing we let him get some shoes and pants. How are we going to save face?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

We can make out they came from Aunt Harriet or someone.

[Mr. Aldrich]

I'm not so sure. Alice, we should do it.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Name one time Henry has recently deliberately.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Disobeyed you when he threw that ball through the window.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

No, I mean one other time.

[Mr. Aldrich]

What's that?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Why, it's an Indian club coming downstairs.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Yes, Henry Ulrich.

[Henry Aldrich]

I didn't realize it was gone.

[Mr. Aldrich]

A slip, Father, didn't I ask you only 5 minutes ago not to swing those clubs in this house?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, did that include the second floor?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Is the second floor in this house?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Is there any reason you can't train out on the porch?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, sir.

What's the trouble, Henry?

Come on down, Dizzy.

Okay. Does your father want to speak to me too?

Come on out onto the porch.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam, may I speak with you in the living room?

[Mr. Aldrich]

I certainly do, Mrs. Aldridge.

[Henry Aldrich]

Were you speaking to me?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

No, Dizzy. I was saying something to Mr. Aldrich.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, excuse me. Hey, Henry, wait. I'll go out with you.

We can practice out here on the porch.

Hey, did you hear what I heard? Why, your mother said something to your father that makes me think she's gonna bring him around to your side.

She did?

Yeah. I think she's going to work on him. Boy, if you even get a pair of sneakers, you can't lose that race.

Look, Desi, look in the window.

Sure, they're talking it over. Your mother's even laughing.

Gee, maybe it's all set.

Come on, Henry. Let's get back to work. Yeah.

What do I do next?

The whole routine. Raise your Indian clubs.

Okay.

Out.

Straight.

Begin. 1, 2, 3, 4. 1, 2, 3, four. Oh, gee.

Where's my club slip?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry Ulrich.

[Henry Aldrich]

I've gotta go home. Henry. Is anybody hurt, Father?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Not yet, but will you please come in the house?

[Narrator]

Well, friends, it's just about time for Henry's high school and other high schools and colleges to hold their mid year graduating exercises and award prizes for various scholastic attainments. And speaking of honors being presented, that reminds us of another honor being awarded every day in thousands of homes all over the country. It's an honor that might be presented in the following words.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Ladies and gentlemen, for Rich, mellow flavor. For smooth, creamy goodness and for all around satisfaction. We proudly present the award not of cum laude, magna cum laude, but summa cum laude to Jell O chocolate pudding. And we designate it most likely to succeed.

[Narrator]

Yes, folks, Jell O chocolate pudding certainly does carry off top honors when it comes to real downright goodness. It's a swell, luscious pudding. Velvety, smooth, through and through, just the way a perfect pudding should be. And jello chocolate pudding is simply unexcelled for a rich, chocolatey flavor. A chocolate flavor developed especially for Jell O by the famous Walter Baker Company. So try this mellow treat real soon, won't you? You'll find that in your family, too. The dessert most likely to succeed is Jell O chocolate pudding. Now getting back to Henry Aldrich. Henry is to run for Central High in a cross country race. Unfortunately, when we left him, he had neither track shoes nor a track suit. As we return, we find him warming up at the starting line.

[Styles 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, Every style, every home. 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, treat bold patterns like neutrals go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table from wayfair.com Ooh, yes. This has been your Wayfarer style tip to keep those interiors superior.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Wayfair.

[Styles MacKenzie]

Every style, every home.

[Henry Aldrich]

How are the shoes, Henry?

Well, I.

Let's see. You're running them.

Well, I'm glad your father let me borrow these golf shoes.

I thought you said they were too big for you.

I've got three pairs of socks on.

That's using you, old head. How do you feel, boy?

Guess I never felt better in my life. Ah, it's swell.

Gee, that's a great idea if you're wearing your swimming suit.

Yay.

All over it. Rock, rock, rock. Yay.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Boy.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Dizzy.

[Henry Aldrich]

That was for me. The whole school's in back of you. It's up to you, Henry.

Don't worry about me.

Boy.

Did you hear Gwendolyn yell out like that? Did you see that Middleton team over there? If I can't pass them, I'm gonna give up running.

The main thing is, do you understand where the course goes?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Sure.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yeah.

Well, where does it go?

We start right here at Scott's Corners and follow the main highway into Centerbox till we come to the big four. Yeah.

Well, do you turn to the left or to the right?

To the left. Anyone knows that that's the shortest way into town.

Okay, but remember, you don't go to the right. And listen, Henry, if you can start right with a gun, remember this is a three and a half mile race. If you can get a quick start, you're in.

I thought you didn't want me to take the lead.

Take it until you can jockey for position. After that, hold back, see?

Yeah.

Save yourself.

Oh, sure.

And don't try to pass whoever grabs the lead. It's a come on. They always put a sprinter in there purposely to tie you.

[Geraldine]

Hello, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

She was Geraldine.

[Geraldine]

I'm going up to the finish line. Henry, are we going to the dance tonight?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure, if I win this race and pass in my math, I am. And Geraldine, will you promise to save all your dances for me?

[Geraldine]

Oh, Henry, of course I will.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Hey, Aldrich.

[Henry Aldrich]

Who's calling me?

Aldrich, come here. Oh, gee.

Did you want me, Coach?

[Mr. Aldrich]

How are you feeling?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, gee, Coach, I could race 10 miles.

[Narrator]

Fine. Now I'll tell you what I want you to do.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach.

[Narrator]

Central has got to win, see?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach.

[Narrator]

But you and Irwin Cooper are the only two I can spare for this race.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach.

[Narrator]

And there will be six running against you from Middletown.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach.

[Narrator]

The whole thing is up to you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach.

[Narrator]

Now here's the dope. Take the lead right at the start.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach.

[Narrator]

Run those six boys from Middletown right off their feet.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach.

[Narrator]

And then when you shout everything you've got, Irwin Cooper has been holding back will come forward and win the race.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes. I don't win it.

[Narrator]

Well, after all, isn't this for the school?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach. This isn't the time to ask it, but could you tell me if I passed my math exam?

[Narrator]

I'll let you know about that when the race is over. Well, there's the two minute signal. Now go in there and give everything you've got.

[Henry Aldrich]

Okay, Coach. Gee whiz, Henry. What'll you have? Mother, don't you think you ought to.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Be wearing a coat, dear?

[Henry Aldrich]

Mother, don't embarrass. Me.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Good luck, son.

[Henry Aldrich]

Thanks, Father. Only I can't win the race. They aren't going to let me. If you see Geraldine, will you tell her?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Oh, you'll win it.

[Henry Aldrich]

They don't want me to.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Your mother and I are going to get in the car and drive on up the road a way.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry. Henry.

What do you think has happened?

Why, Irwin Cooper just turned his knee and he can't run.

You mean I'm the only one running for such?

That's right. Clear the way everyone, so the boys.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Can line up here.

[Henry Aldrich]

Coach. Hey, Coach. Yes, I have.

Do you still want me to take the lead?

[Narrator]

Oh, do whatever you can. Just get in there and run.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach. Sure.

[Narrator]

Line up, boys.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yay, Central.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Central.

[Henry Aldrich]

Get on your mark. Get set. Kill him, Henry. What's that? Henry? Run. I'll hurt one. Go on, Henry. Go on. I'll follow you on my bicycle. Don't interfere with me, Jesse.

[Narrator]

Get.

[Henry Aldrich]

Doing great, boy, I am. Yeah. Could you put on just a little steam? The six Middleton guys have already rounded the turn.

I'm holding back on purpose.

Aw, that's using the old head. I got it all figured out. Sure, but don't you think you ought to run a little faster?

Don't talk to me so much. Darn it all anyhow.

What's the matter?

My shoestring busted?

What difference does that make? Come on, keep going. Henry, I can't run with my shoe half off.

Mary kicked it off.

Now you're coming. Look up ahead. They're less than a quarter of a mile in the lead.

I'll never be able to catch them in one shoe.

But you've got that much less to carry than they have, haven't you?

Yeah, but look.

Well, take the other one off and you won't have anything holding you back.

Okay. While I take it off, you keep your eye on Middletown.

I'm watching them. I won't let them get out of your sight. All you have to do now is sprint a little and you pass them in no time.

Oh, boy, does that feel good. Watch me go.

Oh, aren't you glad you took them off, Henry? Darn that stone anyhow. Henry, I forgot you gotta run on gravel for the next two miles.

That's gonna help. Lizzy, I'll never be able to catch up with him.

Well, get over and run in the ditch.

Yeah, that's an idea. Oh, gee whiz, why didn't you tell me there was water in here?

Well, get.

Certainly glad I wore my bathing suit. Look at them up Ahead.

I've got an idea, Henry. You keep on running, see? Where are you going? Never mind. I'll be back and save the day.

Before you know it.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam, how many have gone by so far?

[Mr. Aldrich]

6.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

How many are there in the race?

[Mr. Aldrich]

7.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Are you sure Henry wasn't one of the first to pass?

[Mr. Aldrich]

I certainly haven't seen anyone go by in a red bathing suit. Probably the coach is having him hold back.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Hold back?

[Narrator]

Uh huh.

[Mr. Aldrich]

What's the sense in that strategy, Alice? You save yourself till the finish and then you put on a burst of speed.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, isn't that smart of Henry to think of it?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Oh, here he comes, Alice.

[Henry Aldrich]

He's coming around the curve on a bicycle.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Oh, no, no. That's strange. That's dizzy.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mr. Aldridge. Mr. Aldridge.

Dizzy.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Has something happened to Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

He lost his shoes.

[Narrator]

What was that?

[Henry Aldrich]

He's grooming in the stockings. Feet on Gravel and Mr. Aldridge needs some sneakers.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, we couldn't possibly get any sneakers now.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure we can get some. It's only a minute up to the store.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, all right. Hurry up.

[Narrator]

Get in the car.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam, I thought you said it would ruin Henry's character if we bought him too.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Character? Character.

[Narrator]

Think of his arches.

[Henry Aldrich]

Doesn't that make a difference? Henry? Henry, don't those shoes make a difference?

Hey, Henry, I can hear you, but I can't speak.

Put on the steam, boy.

Yeah, let me get on your bicycle with you.

You're not gonna quit, are you?

What's the use of my keeping on the rest of already finished and the crowd's probably going home.

But Henry, no matter how tired you may be, you should always finish your race. You've only got another quarter of a mile.

I don't care whether I pass my math. I don't even care whether I take Geraldine to the dance. What do you want?

Central High to go down in history is not finishing this race.

Well, I'll finish, but I hope there's nobody they're to see me.

Henry. Henry, run. Come on, Henry, run. What for? They're behind you.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Who?

[Henry Aldrich]

The Middleton guys.

Behind me? They're behind me.

Almost a quarter of a mile. How could they be? They must have taken the wrong fork. Run, Henry, run. Gee whiz, I'll do all I can. Come on, Henry. They're gaining.

Am I moving at all?

Sure. You've only got 200 yards to go. Come on, let's Gwendolyn up ahead. Henry, I can't see her. She's waving to you. I can't see her. Go towards the Finish line. Keep on the course. How much water is it? 60 yards. They're coming like wind.

Yeah.

Yeah, four of them. Here they come, Henry. Give them the works. They're 12 yards behind you. Yeah, Henry, they're 10 yards. Come on, Henry. They're closing in. Henry, they're right behind you. Henry, you've won. You've won.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam, I think this is the grandest idea you had. Our dropping in for a few minutes and watching the young people dance.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry will probably be the hero of the ball.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

My goodness, has he been busy today. First he won that race, and then after getting his mark in mathematics, he had to exchange the sleeping bag you gave him for the typewriter so he could get the tickets and take Geraldine. I should think he'd be exhausted.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Here we are. I'll open the door.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Oh, thank you, Sam. Well, you don't suppose Henry's winning that cross country race had anything to do with his getting 98 in mathematics, do you?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Why, no. No, it couldn't have. No, Alice, I've decided that boy had character. Yes, character, as I'm really encouraged. Come on, let's go. India.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Thank you.

[Geraldine]

Mr. And Mrs. Aldridge.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, yes, Geraldine, have you any idea.

[Geraldine]

Where Henry could be?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

What do you mean, dear?

[Geraldine]

Well, he disappeared. Nobody can find him.

[Mr. Aldrich]

What do you mean, he disappeared?

[Geraldine]

Well, he brought me to the dance and nobody seen him since.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, hasn't he even danced with you?

[Geraldine]

No, I've just been sitting and waiting and waiting.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam, what do you suppose has happened?

[Henry Aldrich]

Hey, Mr. And Mrs. Aldridge.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Dizzy. Dizzy.

[Narrator]

Have you seen Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

I've been trying to find him.

[Geraldine]

Oh, my goodness.

[Henry Aldrich]

Maybe Middletown's kidnapped him. Why, boy, they were certainly very indignant when he won that race. I know who might know where he is.

[Geraldine]

Who?

[Henry Aldrich]

The coach. He's down in the basement sneaking a smoke. Come on with me, Geraldine.

All right.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Dizzy, will you come back and tell us?

[Henry Aldrich]

Look out for these stairs, Geraldine. Dizzy.

[Geraldine]

Do you think Middletown really has done anything to him?

[Henry Aldrich]

Come on around the landing here. If they've even touched them, we'll get them. Well, gee whiz, what's the matter? Do you see what I see? What? Henry. He's gone to sleep. Right here on the stairs.

[Geraldine]

He's gone to sleep. Oh, so that's all he cared about bringing me. Hey, Henry, don't wake him. I'm going upstairs.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hey, Henry.

[Geraldine]

I'm going up and dance with anyone I please.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry.

Well, move over, boy.

I'm tired, too.

[Narrator]

Tomorrow night for dinner, ladies and gentlemen, how about serving a dessert? Wonderfully. Easy to make. Yes, and believe me, mighty easy to take, too. The dessert I'm thinking about, of course, is Jell O vanilla pudding, served as is or mixed with bananas or any other fruits or nuts you may have handy. Jell O vanilla pudding is a perfectly grand treat that the whole family will love, and they'll want to enjoy it again and again. It takes only a few brief moments to prepare. It's very simple, and it's quite inexpensive. Yet few desserts, no matter how costly or complicated, can rival Jello vanilla pudding for gratifying goodness. It has a flavor that is really swell, a rich, delicate flavor that you'll find supreme for sheer satisfaction. So enjoy some Jello vanilla pudding tomorrow and try those other delicious Jello puddings, too. There are Jello chocolate pudding and Jell O butterscotch pudding. You'll be delighted with their mellow, creamy flavor, the flavor that has made Jell O puddings tops in taste.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, did I tell you I'm going into partnership with another guy and buy a car?

[Mr. Aldrich]

You don't say so.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yeah. Here's the ad for it in the paper. It says, take your pick for $50.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Isn't that an ad for building lots?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, Father.

[Narrator]

Look.

[Henry Aldrich]

It says big sale. These cars won't last much long.

[Narrator]

The Aldrich family, starring as the stone is written by Clifford Goldsmith. Original music is composed and conducted by Jack Miller. This is the last program in the current series of Aldrich family broadcasts, but Henry Aldrich will be back on the air on Sunday night, June 23, in place of Jack Benny. So remember, all summer long, Henry Aldrich will come to you on Sunday evenings at the same time and on the same station. You now hear Jack Benny. This is Harry Fonzel speaking and wishing you good night for the puddings that are tops in tape. Jell O pudding.

[Styles MacKenzie]

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