Aldrich Family 40-10-31 (068) Halloween Prank Backfires

Summary

Podcast Summary: Aldrich Family 40-10-31 (068) Halloween Prank Backfires

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Date: September 30, 2025
Episode Theme:
A humorous and nostalgic romp through a 1940 Halloween night, following Henry Aldrich and his friend Toby as their innocent plan to “just ring one doorbell” spirals into a series of escalating mishaps—featuring misunderstandings, a missing fountain pen, a car battery, and the pitfalls of small-town mischief. The episode captures the spirit and chaos of youthful pranks in the Golden Age of Radio.

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Main Theme

The episode centers on the comic misadventures of Henry Aldrich and his friend Toby during Halloween. What begins as an almost wholesome attempt to partake in a harmless Halloween tradition—ringing doorbells—quickly devolves into a tangle of minor crimes, misunderstandings, and frantic attempts to make things right as their “harmless” fun inadvertently gets them (and others) into trouble.

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Key Discussion Points & Episode Breakdown

1. Setting the Stage – Halloween and Temptations for Mischief

[02:08-02:55]

• Henry and Toby bemoan being broke on Halloween, wondering what pranks they might pull off for free.
• Henry’s parents warn them about trespassing and pranks, with Mr. Aldrich stating, “Halloween or no Halloween, you boys are not to touch any private property.”
• Henry’s persistence is met with weary parental tolerance. Mrs. Aldrich eventually permits the boys to ring just one doorbell:
  • “All right. If it’ll make you any happier, go out and ring one bell.” – Mrs. Aldrich [04:24]

2. The Doorbell Escapade—and Escalation

[05:06-06:33]

• Henry and Toby settle on ringing Mr. Edwards’s doorbell.
• Their attempt is interrupted by Mr. Edwards and his missing car battery. Fearing retribution, they flee and inadvertently knock over an ash can.
• While hiding, Toby drops his prized fountain pen down an old well. Desperate to retrieve it, they concoct a risky plan to send Toby down via an old chain—only to discover an automobile battery attached halfway down.

3. Mishaps Multiply—Lost in the Well

[07:34-09:13]

• Toby finds himself stranded at the bottom of the well. Henry scrambles to find a ladder for a rescue, ordering Toby not to respond if anyone asks.
• Meanwhile, the subplot thickens as neighbors and Mr. Aldrich investigate mysterious noises and missing items, culminating in a comical but anxious search for ladders and lost boys.

4. The Law Gets Involved—Mistaken Identities and Accusations

[11:16-13:22]

• Mr. Edwards involves an officer, suspecting local boys (i.e., Henry and Toby) have stolen his car battery and left trousers behind.
• Henry gets caught with a ladder and, to avoid trouble, claims his name is “Harry Ambrose.”
  • Officer: “Where did you get that ladder?”
  • Henry: “At home… I give you my word I did.” [12:08-12:13]
  • Officer: “It’s 90 days for larceny, isn’t it, officer?” [12:42]

5. The Hazards of “Just Trying to Help”—Henry’s Further Troubles

[15:29-18:08]

• Henry seeks rope to rescue Toby but ends up soaked and suspected once again after another neighbor accuses him of flattening car tires (while genuinely just searching for rope).
  • Henry: “All I was looking for was a piece of rope so I could pull my friend out.” [17:37]
• Multiple times, Henry doubles down on the alias “Harry Ambrose” to evade questions.

6. Resolution—Extraction, Consequences, and Comic Ironies

[19:16-22:28]

• Homer, another friend, appears with a questionable piece of rope, and the trio engineers a slapstick rescue of Toby from the well.
• The boys are spooked by patrolling police and ditch the recovered battery by shoving it into a random car—only to realize too late the repercussions.
• Henry attempts to anonymously inform Mr. Edwards of the battery’s whereabouts with a cryptic phone call:
  • “Hello, is this Mr. Edwards?… in it you’ll find your battery…” [25:31–25:47]

7. Aftermath and Life Lessons

[25:50-end]

• The episode closes with Henry reflecting that he might be getting too old for such pranks:
  • “Well, to be honest, I think I’m getting a little too old to be doing things like that.” – Henry [26:37]
• Mr. Aldrich returns with cement on his shoes (having crossed a freshly laid sidewalk—poetic justice for adult and child alike) and instructs Henry to return the battery and retrieve their ladder.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Cautious Parental Wisdom:
  • Mr. Aldrich: “The minute you begin to trespass, you’re liable to run into trouble.” [03:43]
• Classic Comic Escalation:
  • Henry: “Father, name one thing that could happen from sticking a pin into a doorbell. Aside from the fact that it’s going to ring for a while.” [03:46]
• Misdirection and Denial:
  • Henry (and his growing web of false names):
    • “It’s Harry… Harry Ambrose.” [12:25–12:27]
• Halloween Regrets:
  • Henry: “I wonder why people think Halloween is a time for fun.” [26:31]

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Important Segment Timestamps

• [02:08] – Henry & Toby’s Halloween plotting begins
• [04:24] – Mrs. Aldrich grants permission for “one bell”
• [06:33] – The “Hiding in the Well” debacle starts
• [11:16] – Police involvement escalates the tension
• [12:25] – The “Harry Ambrose” alias is born
• [15:29] – Henry’s attempt to secure a rescue rope
• [19:46] – Homer's arrival and ill-gotten rope
• [22:28] – Toby’s rescue from the well
• [26:37] – Henry’s end-of-episode reflection on outgrowing pranks

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Tone & Style

True to the era, the language is fast-paced, witty, wholesome, and laced with double entendres and deadpan parental guidance. The episode is lighthearted, with comic timing emphasized by misunderstandings and a mounting sense of farce.

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Takeaway

The episode artfully captures the messy innocence of youth, the unintended consequences of mischievous “fun,” and the gentle wisdom (and exasperation) of the adults who try to rein it all in. The clever dialogue, escalating hijinks, and old-time radio ambiance make this a classic for anyone interested in the humor and warmth of vintage American radio storytelling.

Transcript

[Henry Aldrich]

Foreign.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

The Aldrich Family, written by Clifford Goldsmith and starring Ezra Stone.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry. Henry Aldrich. Coming, Mother.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You know, ladies and gentlemen, scarcely a day passes that doesn't bring us a letter from some housewife praising Jello butterscotch pudding. Many of these letters read somewhat as follows. I've tried just about every ready prepared pudding on the market and Jello butterscotch pudding is the one for me. Other letters, of course, speak of how easy Jello butterscotch pudding is to make because you simply add milk, cook for a few minutes and cool. And still other letters tell us how grateful housewives are for the many ways you can serve Jell o butterscotch pudding. But the big point is its flavor. The warm, buttery brown sugar flavor of creamy golden butterscotch. Just the way you like it. Full of rich homemade goodness. Yes, friends, you like Jello butterscotch pudding a lot. So just try it and let your own taste tell you why. Jello butterscotch pudding is the pudding that thousands call the best of all. If your doorbell rings tonight and you answer it and find no one there, you remember that this is Halloween and that you too were youngster yourself and you might suspect Henry Aldrich of having something to do with the prank because he's a real boy from your own neighborhood. Tonight we find Henry in the Aldrich living room with his friend Toby.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whiz, am I bored. Same here, Henry. How could a thing like this happen? Toby, it's Halloween and the two of us are dead broke. Gee, I thought I'd never live to see a thing like this happen. Wouldn't you think, Toby, that there'd be at least one thing a person could do on Halloween without its costing money? That's what you'd think. How about going over and getting even with Mr. Tarbell for what he did a year ago? How? Well, we could think of something. I'll tell you what. If we could get his front steps loose from the porch, we could hide them. No, Toby. But Henry. Then when he comes out and starts to go down the steps, you'll wonder where they are.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Who will wonder where what is?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, is that you, Father?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You are not going to touch anyone's front steps.

[Henry Aldrich]

How did you know about that?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I'm psychic. Halloween or no Halloween, you boys are not to touch any private property.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, are you in the living room? Yes, Mother. Gee whiz, Father. Toby and I don't want to just sit around and look at each other all evening. How would you like to have me make some candy, Mother? Candy, everybody Else is out doing things and we sit home and make candy. Well, if you'd planned ahead, you'd have enough money to go to a dance. I did plan ahead. I told you several weeks ago that my allowance is inadequate.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Yeah.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, what do you say we get our hats and go out for a little stroll? All right.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You aren't going to play any practical jokes on anyone, are you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh. Oh, no, Mr. Aldrich. We're just going out for the fresh air and maybe ring one or two doorbells. Henry, you are not going to ring any doorbells. But, Mother, what harm can come from innocently ringing just one doorbell that's rung 50 million times in the year anyway? Because most people don't like it.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Henry, the minute you begin to trespass, you're liable to run into trouble.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, name one thing that could happen from sticking a pin into a doorbell. Aside from the fact that it's going to ring for a while.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I'm not going to argue, Toby.

[Henry Aldrich]

I don't think I'll go out. No? Oh, yeah. Ever since way back, I've been looking forward to tonight. And now it's here, and I can't even stick a pin in a doorbell. Sam, if Henry didn't actually stick a pin in it, couldn't he ring just one bell?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

It's entirely up to you, Alice.

[Henry Aldrich]

All we do is ring it and run. Father.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Don't look at me, son. I'm only your father.

[Henry Aldrich]

I don't see what fun there could be in it. At least my whole year wouldn't be ruined. Well, could you ring a bell where no one is home?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Mother. All right. If it'll make you any happier, go out and ring one bell.

[Henry Aldrich]

We can, Father. We can. Toby, come on. Okay.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I don't see what fun you'll get from it.

[Henry Aldrich]

At least we can say we've done it. Henry, I've got an idea. What? My folks didn't say I couldn't ring more than one. I'll tell you. I'll do the ringing and you do the running. Okay. Let's ring Mr. Edwards's bell first. John? John Edwards, are you out there on the porch without any hat on?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I am. I was just out to look at the car. Someone has taken the battery out of it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Who do you suppose could have done a thing like that?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Oh, some Halloween hoodlum. I tell you, Phoebe, this town has reached a nice state of affairs.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, come in and close the door before you catch pneumonia.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You know what I think I'll do? I'll just wait inside the Door and see whether anyone comes back. I'll get my cane, too. The next boy that comes up on this porch is going to get the tanning of his life.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, dear. Toby. Toby. What? He's going in. Come on up on the porch. What were they talking about, Henry? Search me. Let's write a note and pin it to the door. Okay. Got a pencil? No. Here's my fountain pen. Listen, Toby, let's just ring the bell and run. Let me ring it. No, Toby. This is the only one I can ring. You can ring the next one. No. Besides, Mr. Edwards was my idea. Here we go, Toby. I'm going to ring it. Do you hear anyone coming? No, I better ring it again.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Well, somebody's coming.

[Henry Aldrich]

Run till we. Run I am. Quick till we duck around the side of the house here. I'm with you, Hannah.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You hear me?

[Henry Aldrich]

Stop. Nothing. Oh, boy. Oh, boy. What was that? I'm all right. I just knocked over an ash can. Come on back here. Through this great robbery, there goes Mr. Edwards over. Toby, that'll help.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

If I catch you, I can.

[Henry Aldrich]

You come on out through these trees, Toby. If he catches you, Henry, don't give your right name. Whose name should I give? Pick one up. What was that? That? That was Mrs. Edwards. Look, Toby, here's a hole or something we can hide in. Yeah? Where? Right here in the ground. Og, where's white? Toby? What's the matter? It's an old oil. It's an old well. Well, this is a nice time to tell me what's the matter. I dropped my fountain pen in it. Shh. Shh. Toby, he's coming toward us. He went right on. Boy, that was close. Let's beat it, Toby, and get out of here. But, Henry, I dropped my fountain pen. That's so important. My mother just bought it for me. Gee whiz, I can't go home without my fountain pen. Henry, how are we going to get it? It's way down at the bottom of the world. Well, there's an old chain here. It's hanging right straight down. Is it fastened here at the top? Sure. Right to this piece of iron. Wait a second. I'll roll up my trousers. You better take them off, Toby, Then you won't get them wet. Sure. And hold my coat, too. John. John.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Yes, what is it?

[Henry Aldrich]

Did you find them?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

No, not yet.

[Henry Aldrich]

Toby. Did you look in the shed out beyond the well?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I'm just coming from there.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, come back in the house then.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

All I can say is they must have disappeared right into the ground.

[Henry Aldrich]

It's okay, Toby, you can go down now. Look out while I go over the edge. Are you sure you can get up again? Why not? All I have to do is hang onto this chain and climb right up the side. So long, Henry. Hang on. Hang on tight, old boy. Gee wins. What's the matter, Toby? What's the matter? There's something tied partway down on the chain. What is it? It's an automobile battery. A battery? What's it doing down there? How should I know? And the chain ends right here. It does? Can you jump the rest of the way? What do you mean, jump? It's so dark down here, I wouldn't know when I got to the bottom. Oh, here's the trouble. It's up here. Some of the slack is hooked onto a bolt. I'll see whether I can loosen it. Let it out easy, Henry. Don't worry, Toby. You don't think I'd let you fall, do you? Toby. Oh, Toby. Toby, where are you? I thought you were my friend. I couldn't help it. Toby. Can you float? How can you float in four inches of water? Oh, gee. Get your pen and come on up. You're crazy. There's nothing to take a hold of. Stand on the battery and reach I can. Gee, Toby, I'll have to get you out somehow. I wonder whether I can find a ladder any place. Ask Mr. Edwards whether he has one.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Sure.

[Henry Aldrich]

You think I'm crazy, Toby. Well, hurry up and get a ladder someplace. Look, there's a the lid to the well up here. What about it? Do you want me to put it over the top so you won't get cold? No, just get me a ladder. Do you want your pants and coat? Yes, throw down my coat. Okay, here it comes. I'll get the ladder that's in our garage, Toby. And if anybody speaks to you, don't answer. Sam, has Henry come in yet?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Not yet.

[Henry Aldrich]

It seems as though it's taking him an awfully long time to ring one doorbell.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Do you realize, Alice, this is the first Halloween no one has bothered us?

[Henry Aldrich]

Certainly do. Did you put all the ice cans in?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I put them in the basement.

[Henry Aldrich]

What was that?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Something out in back.

[Henry Aldrich]

It sounds like one of the garage doors.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You suppose anyone's getting in there?

[Henry Aldrich]

Listen, dear, come with me. Where?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Let's go out to the kitchen and look through the window.

[Henry Aldrich]

Is the kitchen light on?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

No, I want him see us.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sam, someone isn't. The garage.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Stand back from the window.

[Henry Aldrich]

Can you see them?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Alice, someone is coming out of the garage with our big ladder.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sam, Holdridge, I think that's the limit.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I'm going down the cellar stairs here and slip out to the basement door.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, why not go out the back door?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

This way I can head him off in the driveway.

[Henry Aldrich]

Shall I turn the light on?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

No, no, don't turn the light on. I can see quite all right.

[Henry Aldrich]

Dan, what have you done?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I forgot. I put the ash cans down here.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, my goodness, dear. Are the ashes all over my cellar floor?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Yes, and so am I. Turn on the light.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sam, you better come back up here and get your hat and coat.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You want whoever it is to get away?

[Henry Aldrich]

Is that ladder more important than your health? Now come back up here.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Well, Alice, he's already going out toward the street.

[Henry Aldrich]

In a town this size, Sam, you can certainly track down someone with a ladder.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You say the battery was taken right out of your car, Mr. Edwards? Yes, officer. But you didn't see anyone? Not until a few minutes later. Two boys come up on the porch and rang the bell. And I chased them right around here through the grape arbor. Were they carrying the battery? Well, I couldn't say. Well, whoever stole it is going to be apprehended and punished. The young fellows here have got to respect private property. Oh, they don't stop at anything. I even found a pair of somebody's trousers back here. You better take him down to headquarters. Why? One minute. What's up?

[Henry Aldrich]

Stand back there under this tree. You see out there toward the street?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Somebody coming.

[Henry Aldrich]

Somebody with a ladder.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

He's coming right this way. All right, now, keep quiet. Keep quiet. When he passes, I nab him. Just a minute there, young man.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, gee whiz, who said that?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

One minute, I said.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir. So, was there something you wanted?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Where did you get that ladder?

[Henry Aldrich]

At home.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I asked you where did you get it?

[Henry Aldrich]

I brought it from home. Sure I did. I give you my word I did. I did.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Oh, so we're going to have trouble with you. Where's the battery?

[Henry Aldrich]

The battery? What battery?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

The battery that disappeared from my car.

[Henry Aldrich]

I haven't even seen any battery.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

What's your name? Why, what is it?

[Henry Aldrich]

It's Harry.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Harry what? Harry Ambrose, where are you taking that ladder?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, not any place in particular. I just happened to be carrying it with me.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Just giving it an airing, eh? Taking it out for a walk?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Well, Mr. Edwards, what do you think we ought to do with him? It's 90 days for larceny, isn't it, officer?

[Henry Aldrich]

90 days in jail for taking my own father's ladder.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

That's what it is.

[Henry Aldrich]

But I've got a friend, see, and I. I see.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

And he has the batter?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, sir. He's in a terrible predicament.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Where is he?

[Henry Aldrich]

Where is he? I don't know. I'm looking for him.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Oh, you're just going around with the ladder looking for a friend.

[Henry Aldrich]

I know that seems hard to believe, officer, but that's what I'm doing.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Well, suppose you leave that ladder here.

[Henry Aldrich]

But I'll get the deuce if I don't take it back home.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You'll get 90 days Harry Ambrose, if you don't put it down.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Now get home with you. Should have been in bed an hour ago.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, only I don't know what my friend will do without me.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Now, ladies and gentlemen, this being Halloween, I'd like to tell you a ghost story. The story of Edgar the gloomy ghost. Edgar, it seems, was very fond of nice desserts at dinner. But his wife Phyllis the phantom kept serving him just ordinary desserts. As a result, Edgar went around moaning and groaning like this. Then one day, Edgar's wife bought some Jello vanilla pudding at the ghostery store. And now Edgar is just as cheerful as can be. No longer does he go around moaning. Now he has a warm likable laugh like this. So you see, just in case Edgar might drop in. Ladies and gentlemen, always keep Jell o vanilla pudding on hand. It's brim full of tempting flavor, as smooth as rich cream and extra good when garnished with nuts, marshmallows or fruit. My own favorite is Jello vanilla pudding with sliced bananas. But served anyway at all it's brand. Order this delightful ready prepared dessert and start right away to enjoy the luscious flavor of Jell O vanilla pudding. Now getting back to the troubles of Henry Aldrich. It being Halloween, Henry and his friend Toby set out to ring just one doorbell and come home. However, one thing leads to another. Until Toby was left stranded at the bottom of a well and Henry is attempting to rescue him.

[Henry Aldrich]

Good evening. Oh, is that you out there, Henry aldrin? Good evening, Mrs. Lockridge. Could I borrow a real strong rope from you? A real strong what, dear? A rope. I need about 15ft of very strong rope. Oh, would a piece of clothesline help any? No, ma'. Am. I have a friend that's in a. Well, that's quite a Halloween joke, isn't it? No, ma'. Am. I'm trying to get my friend out. Well, how did he get in it? He was looking for his fountain pen. Well, why don't you try one of the Other houses in the neighborhood? I have. I have. But every doorbell I've rung so far, the people chased me. You don't say so. Yes, ma'. Am. That's how I got all wet like this. Goodness gracious. How did you get that wet? They poured a bucket of water on me from the second floor window. Well, come to think of it, Henry, we have a good long tow rope out in the car. You have? Yes, sir. You'll find the car right out there in front. Right down the curb aways. That's right. Okay, if I remember, the rope's a little bit straight in the middle. That's all right. It can certainly hold. Toby, will I find it in the front or the rear of the car? You'll have to look, dear.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Progressive knows we all crave validation.

[Henry Aldrich]

Girl, you are not 37.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I would have guessed 27.

[Henry Aldrich]

You guys are too sweet.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Sure. Dewy skin. Terrific.

[Henry Aldrich]

Is something wrong, Ned?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Why would you ask? Just because Today marks my 10th anniversary without a car accident or even a speeding ticket. 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 for unsafe driving.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, this is the car. My gosh, that's funny.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

All right, young fellow, what are you trying to get away with?

[Henry Aldrich]

What's that?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Her? Did you think I didn't see you?

[Henry Aldrich]

She was let go of my collar.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Mark, what are you doing in my car?

[Henry Aldrich]

I've got a friend that's in a well. Yeah, but you see, Mrs. Lockbridge gave me permission to open this car.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Mrs. Lockbridge did?

[Henry Aldrich]

It's her husband's.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Well, it just happens to be my car. And I live right here in this house.

[Henry Aldrich]

You do? You mean this other car here is Lockbridge's?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

And I suppose you're going to tell me Mrs. Lockridge gave you permission to let all the air out of my tires.

[Henry Aldrich]

Are they flat?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

What do you think I was watching out the window for?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, you certainly have my sympathy.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Here you are.

[Henry Aldrich]

What's that?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

It's a pump. Get to work.

[Henry Aldrich]

But gee, was. I give you my word. All I was looking for was a piece of rope so I could pull my friend out.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Maybe you'd like to have me turn you over to the police, my boy.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, no.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Are you going to hook that pump onto the valve?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

What's your name?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, it's. It's which tire do you want me to pump up?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

First I ask you your name.

[Henry Aldrich]

What's a Harry Ambrose.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Harry Ambrose, eh?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Well, your family ought to be ashamed of you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir, they certainly ought to be.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I'm going in and keep an eye on you from the house. And don't forget, there's a street lamp right here and I can see every move you make.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

If I hadn't been a boy once myself, I'd turn you over the law.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir. How's he with. Well, I'll be darned.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Henry. Henry, is that you pumping up those tires, Father?

[Henry Aldrich]

Where did you come from?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I'm looking for our ladder. And may I first ask what you're doing, Father?

[Henry Aldrich]

I wish you'd go in and tell the man that owns this car that he has no, no right making me do this.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

How did he happen to ask you to?

[Henry Aldrich]

I was opening his car.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

See, son, didn't you promise to ring just one doorbell?

[Henry Aldrich]

That's all I did.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Do not have any excuses. Pump those tires up and take your punishment.

[Henry Aldrich]

Where are you going?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

To find a family by the name of. Ambrose.

[Henry Aldrich]

Of Ambrose? Ambrose.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I tracked a boy by that name as far as Mr. Edwards house. You don't happen to know him, do you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Harry Ambrose?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Do you know him?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I think I've heard of him, but he's no friend of mine, Father.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Well, hurry up and finish those tires and then get on.

[Henry Aldrich]

But listen, Father. Hey, there, let me hide behind your car. Who's that? Is that you, Henry? Is that you, Homer? Here, Henry. Hold it. What is it? It's a red lantern. What am I to do with it? Just hold it, Henry. I'm in a hurry. But I don't want this, Homer. So there you are. Who?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

You with the lantern. Come along with me, my Bo.

[Henry Aldrich]

You wait until I get even with you, Homer. You got away from him, didn't you, Henry? Away from him? But look at what he did in my coat. How am I going to get this sleeve back on? Aren't I going to help you get Toby out of the well? Yes, and didn't I get this rope for you? Where did you get it? Isn't it a beauty, Henry? I found it over here on Walnut Street. What I mean, Homer, is. Whose was it? Nobody. It was just roping off a new sidewalk that had been laid this afternoon. Listen, Homer, I'm not going to use it. But we aren't going to keep it. Henry, it's just a kitchen. Get Toby out. But, Homer, I don't think we should use it. All right, then. All right. Not so loud, Homer. Do you see somebody? We're right here by Mr. Edwards's house. Oh, come on now, Homer, and follow me back to the well. Why don't you want to disturb Mr. Edwards, Henry? Well, if he's going to sleep, there's no sense in waking him up, is there? Come on back through this great barber. I'm coming. Where is the well? It's right ahead here someplace. Won't you find it? That's strange. Gee whiz, don't fall in the window. Oh, here it is. Hey, Toby. Toby, Are you all right, Toby? Who is that? It's Henry and Homer. Well, you're the only ones that haven't been here before. Who else has been here? Everybody. And they all threw something down. The last time it was a bushel of apple. Are you all right, Toby? How could I be? Get me out of here. We're letting a rope down now, Toby. Here, Henry, I'll help you. Is it down yet, Toby? No, it's coming. Homer, have you got the end? What end, Henry?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Of the rope.

[Henry Aldrich]

The end's down here. Which end? Both ends. Well, gee whiz, Homer. If you are in a hell, Toby, throw one end up here. How am I going to do that? Just throw it right straight up. Here it comes. Where is it? Around my neck. Henry, I've got an idea. Look out. What are you going to do? How about dropping this rock down and letting him tie the rope to it? And then throw it up. Now, listen, don't throw anything more down here. There isn't any more room. Henry, do you think you could hold my hand while I go down partway? How would you get the rope? Well, Toby could tie it to my foot. Sure, and then I'll pull you back up. Take it easy now. We like it over the edge. Okay. Have you got a good hold? Yeah. What's that coming down? Don't worry. It's Homer. Don't jump, Homer. What do you think I am? Are you sure you got a hold of me, Henry? Sure. Easy now. Easy. If I only had something to hang on to. This is a nice time to think of that. Don't worry, Homer. I've got you. Boy, my arm's coming right out. How much lower is it? Wait a second and I'll tie the rope on Homer's foot. You got it.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Come on. Officer, I think they're off this way. I'm coming.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, he whiz. Keep quiet. Oh, boy. Oh, boy. Gee, if they had come two Feet closer, they would have fallen right in with us. That would have been good. Well, we got you out, Toby, even if we did have a hard time finding my father's ladder. And, Toby, we got you away from Mr. Edwards house. But I still haven't got any pants, Henry. Well, just walk along as though you were coming home from a party. Boy, is this heavy. Is what heavy? Listen, Toby, what are you carrying? This battery. Oh, gee whiz, Toby. Why'd you bring that? I didn't even know I had it. Well, we've got to take that right back to Mr. Edwards. All the way? Sure. What do you think we hold it out for? We get caught with it, we'll get six months in jail. Here, Homer, how would you like to carry it? I don't want it. Let Henry carry it. Toby. Don't try to shirk responsibility. Well, you fellas have got to go back with me. I'm not going alone. Come on. Who's that coming? Where? Down there on the corner. He's coming right towards us. Isn't that a policeman? I think it is. Henry. Let's turn around and go the other way. That's what I say. No, we'll walk right along as though we were heading for a garage. Sure. Oh, sure. Our battery ran down and we're going to get it recharged. But I still haven't got any pants. Listen, fellas, look ahead there where there's another policeman and he's walking right toward us. So long, Toby. Now, wait, Henry. You can't leave me flat like this. I've got to get rid of this battery. Well, put it down someplace. Sure. And supposing he sees me? I've got an idea. You see that car parked there by the curb? Yeah. We'll put it inside. Just dump it through the window. Henry, you've got a head on you. Come on. Now, we'll hide behind between these two houses. Boy, if they see it. Okay. Wait for me. Well, hurry up. Quiet. Police are going by. Do you think they saw us? No. They're not even looking this way. Say, fellas, do you know what I just happened to think? What? I left my fountain pen down in the well. Say, G Wiz, what's the matter? That car we put the battery in. What about it? Somebody just drove off in it. Is that you, Henry? Yes, Mother. Will you please tell me where you've been all evening? Just out with Toby falling around. We'll come into the living room. I've got to make a phone call first, Mother. Hello, operator. Then I'LL be right there. Operator, could you get me. It's right here in the book. It's. It's Elm 36. Henry. Mother, Father isn't in yet, is he? No, he isn't. Oh. Hello? Hello, is this Mr. Edwards? Well, Mr. Edwards, this is to inform you that if you will notify the police to look for a car number T7 slide, I think. Or maybe it was T5 something. Anyhow, in it you'll find your battery. What's that? This is just a friend, Mr. Edwards, who happened to be passing by your house a little while ago. Henry. Goodbye, Henry. I'm coming, Mother. Where's your coat, dear? I just hung it up in the closet. Well, did you ring your doorbell? Yes, Mother, I rang it. Did you find it worthwhile? Well, to be honest, I think I'm getting a little too old to be doing things like that. Where's my Latin?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Oh, Alice, is Henry in?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Sam. He's sitting here studying. Where have you been?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

I found the ladder, but not the boy.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sam, what on earth do you have all over your shoes?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

That is cement. They laid a new sidewalk over town and didn't even bother to rope it off.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, don't get it all over the carpet.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

And what do you think I found a few minutes ago?

[Henry Aldrich]

What?

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

A battery in the backseat of my car.

[Henry Aldrich]

A battery, Father.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Tomorrow morning, Henry, you call up the police and find out who lost it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Aye, Father.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

And then after you've done that, you can go over to Mr. Edwards and get our ladder.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. I wonder why people think Halloween is a time for fun.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Henry Aldrich will be back in just a moment. When you make out the grocery list for tomorrow, friends, be sure to include several packages of Jello puddings. They're easy to make, inexpensive and really delicious. Ask a grocer for all three flavors. Jello chocolate pudding, Jello vanilla pudding and Jello butterscotch pudding. Jello puddings are made by the makers of Jello, so you know they're. Good.

[Henry Aldrich]

Night, folks. Be seeing you next week, I hope.

[Narrator / Mr. Aldrich / Other Adult Male Voices]

Listen in again next Thursday evening to the Aldrich family and to the Maxwell House Coffee Time program, which immediately precedes it on most of these stations. A solid hour of sparkling radio entertainment every Thursday night. The Aldrich Family, starring Ezra Stone, is written by Clifford Goldsmith. Original music is composed and conducted by Jack Miller. Now, this is Harry von Zell bidding you all good night. It's your grocer folks for calling up to let you know about our special this week on Bird's Eye. Quick frozen haddock fillets. Say what? Really good haddock it is too chock full of that fresh tasting deep sea flavor. And don't bother to look for any bones because Bird's Eye haddock is all clean and bone for you. Ready for the pan. Buy Bird's Eye haddock fillets tomorrow. They're especially low price all this week.