Aldrich Family 42-06-11 (149) Is Henry's Date With Gladys For Dinner

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Aldrich Family 42-06-11 (149) "Is Henry's Date With Gladys For Dinner"

Introduction

In this charming episode of The Aldrich Family, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio, where everyday teenage dilemmas are portrayed with humor and heart. Titled "Is Henry's Date With Gladys For Dinner," this episode delves into the classic miscommunications that ensue when Henry Aldrich, the well-meaning teenage son, navigates his first formal date with Gladys Prentice.

Setting the Scene

The episode opens on a typical Saturday morning in the Aldrich household. Henry is excitedly preparing for his date with Gladys, believing that his invitation to meet at 6:30 PM signifies a formal dinner affair.

• Narrator [00:12]: "To a teenage boy, each new day is a new world filled with all sorts of discoveries and excitement and even mishaps..."

Henry's eagerness is palpable as he speaks with Gladys over the phone, trying to confirm the details of their evening.

• Henry Aldrich [00:12]: "Hello. Hello. Oh, how are you, Gladys?"
• Gladys Prentice [00:34]: "Fine, and you?"

The Miscommunication Unfolds

As Henry discusses the timing with his parents, Sam Aldrich, his father, and Alice, his mother, attempt to decipher whether Gladys's invitation entails a formal dinner or a casual social visit. Henry is certain that 6:30 PM implies a dinner invitation, especially given the Aldrich family's proximity to the Prentices and the latter's habitual dining times.

• Henry Aldrich [01:00]: "Why do you remember last Thursday, Gladys?... When was it for? Tonight."
• Gladys Prentice [03:03]: "Aunt Mabel for her engagement party tonight..."

His father, Sam, initially believes Henry might not have fully grasped the nature of the invitation, prompting Henry to seek clarification.

Planning the Dinner Arrangement

Determined to make the evening memorable, Henry plans to dine at the prestigious Mansion House restaurant, confident in his parents' support and his own preparation.

• Henry Aldrich [07:05]: "Why don't you get some money from your parents and we'll stuff ourselves together."
• Father (Sam Aldrich) [07:20]: "Together with the quarter I just earned, I'll be able to eat myself six."

However, as the evening approaches, it becomes evident that complications await Henry.

Trouble at the Mansion House

Upon arriving at the Mansion House, Henry faces unexpected challenges. The restaurant is mysteriously short-staffed, and his reservation seems nonexistent despite his father's longstanding patronage.

• Henry Aldrich [15:57]: "Now you're the one who's raising your voice."
• Head Waiter [16:09]: "I'm sorry, Mr. Aldrich, I'm willing to give you a table..."

As confusion mounts, Henry's father inadvertently spends the dinner money meant for his meal, leading to a comic predicament.

• Henry Aldrich [19:04]: "I'm taking her here instead."
• Father (Sam Aldrich) [19:20]: "Are you crazy, Henry? That's for my dinner."

Resolution and Revelations

Amidst the chaos, it is revealed that the Aldrich parents have their own dinner plans, leaving Henry and Gladys to navigate the evening independently. The misunderstanding about the dinner invitation comes to light, emphasizing the importance of clear communication.

• Gladys Prentice [22:54]: "There's a note on the back. That explains things."
• Henry Aldrich [23:07]: "Thank you, Sam."

In the end, Henry and Gladys share a heartfelt moment, realizing that their evening holds more significance than the formalities they had envisioned.

• Gladys Prentice [14:36]: "I want you to know this is the first time I've ever had a formal dinner with any boy in private."
• Henry Aldrich [15:03]: "I have a feeling it's going to be one I'll never forget either."

Notable Quotes

• Henry Aldrich [06:33]: "Clean it up? Well, could you do it now, Mother? It's only five more hours until 6:30 and I can't go looking like a boll weevil."

• Gladys Prentice [12:01]: "I saw you coming up the walk. Come here. My goodness, but you look handsome in that tuxedo."

• Father (Sam Aldrich) [07:17]: "A whole dollar and a half."

• Henry Aldrich [20:15]: "Well, I'll tell you. What about my money?"

Conclusion

"Aldrich Family 42-06-11 (149) 'Is Henry's Date With Gladys For Dinner'" masterfully captures the humorous and relatable tribulations of teenage dating life in the 1940s. Through witty dialogue and engaging storytelling, the episode underscores themes of miscommunication, parental guidance, and the innocent excitement of young love. For listeners who cherish nostalgic tales blended with timeless humor, this episode offers a delightful glimpse into the everyday adventures of the Aldrich family.

Transcript

[Narrator]

To a teenage boy, each new day is a new world filled with all sorts of discoveries and excitement and even mishaps which grow always ending. So it is with Henry Aldrich. The scene opens at the telephone in Aldrich Front Hall. It is Saturday morning.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello. Hello. Oh, how are you, Gladys?

[Gladys Prentice]

Fine, and you?

[Narrator]

Fine.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee, it's swell to hear your voice.

[Gladys Prentice]

Nice to hear yours too.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

It is?

[Gladys Prentice]

My goodness. Who is this?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Henry.

[Gladys Prentice]

Henry Alden.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Yeah.

[Gladys Prentice]

Well, hello. Hello. Nice to hear you voice, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Just a minute. Gladys. Yes, Mother?

[Gladys Prentice]

Please come and meet your breakfast.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure, Mother. Just as soon as I find out one thing from Gladys.

[Gladys Prentice]

One thing, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why? Do you remember last Thursday, Gladys?

[Gladys Prentice]

I think I do.

[Henry Aldrich]

You mean you don't remember making a date with me?

[Gladys Prentice]

Of course I do. How could I forget that? When was it for? Tonight.

[Henry Aldrich]

And the reason I called. Gladys, about what time do you want me to come over?

[Gladys Prentice]

What time?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yeah. Why?

[Gladys Prentice]

What time were you planning on?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I wasn't sure whether you wanted me to come in time for.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

For.

[Gladys Prentice]

For what?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I mean, I certainly wouldn't want to barge in right in the middle of your. Your. How does 5:30 sound?

[Gladys Prentice]

5:30? Oh, isn't that a little early?

[Henry Aldrich]

It is.

[Gladys Prentice]

It isn't. Well, how about 6?

[Henry Aldrich]

Is that too early?

[Gladys Prentice]

Why not make it 6:30?

[Henry Aldrich]

6:30.

[Gladys Prentice]

How does that sound?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. 6:30 is a nice round number. Only is that before? That is. Would that be after?

[Gladys Prentice]

Yes, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, 6:30. You'll be fine, Gladys. I'll be there. Goodbye. I'm coming.

[Gladys Prentice]

Mother. Your breakfast is getting cold.

[Narrator]

Alice, can you eat the cream please?

[Henry Aldrich]

Here you are, dear.

[Narrator]

Thank you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father.

[Narrator]

Yes, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, you've had quite a bit of experience eating.

[Narrator]

I beg your pardon?

[Gladys Prentice]

Sam, pass this.

[Henry Aldrich]

Grace was down to Henry. What I mean is, people sometimes invite you over to their house for dinner, don't they?

[Narrator]

There have been occasions. Why do you ask?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, Father, when someone invites you over to their house at 6:30, does that mean it's for dinner or just social?

[Narrator]

What's that?

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, please eat your grapefruit. When I've got something on my mind. Dear, the best way to get something off your mind is to put something in your stomach. Now start on your grapefruit. Yes, Mother. Henry, did I get your father?

[Narrator]

You did.

[Henry Aldrich]

Do you see how upset I am, Mother?

[Narrator]

Alice, let him ask me whatever he's going to breakfast won't be safe until he does. Now, who's invited you to dinner?

[Henry Aldrich]

That's it. I don't know.

[Gladys Prentice]

What?

[Henry Aldrich]

I mean, I know who it is. Sure, but I'm not sure they are.

[Narrator]

Are what?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure.

[Narrator]

Alice.

[Gladys Prentice]

Yes, Sam.

[Narrator]

Alice, he's your son. Translation, please.

[Henry Aldrich]

Don't you understand, Father? No, it's perfectly simple. I've got a date tonight with Gladys Prentice and I'm not sure whether eating goes with it or not.

[Narrator]

A oh, that seems simple to me. Did she invite you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, she told me to be sure and be there no later than 6:30. 6:30? Yes, mother. I got the idea that was the absolute deadline. Well, it certainly sounds like dinner.

[Narrator]

Now, this sounds like nothing of the sort. It might easily be after dinner.

[Henry Aldrich]

Now, Sam, Mabel Prentice was a Kavanaugh before she was married, wasn't she?

[Narrator]

What's that got to do with it?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, her father was a railroad engineer.

[Narrator]

Henry, she's your mother. Translation, please, dear.

[Henry Aldrich]

They live right across the street from us. And I know Mr. Kavanaugh's train got in at 6:15 and they never ate before 6:30.

[Gladys Prentice]

Oh, boy.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

You mean I'm really invited?

[Narrator]

No, Henry, let's not be hasty.

[Henry Aldrich]

But you heard what Mother said. They always eat at 6:30. It's in their blood.

[Narrator]

There's a very simple way to find out if you're invited to dinner.

[Henry Aldrich]

There is?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

How?

[Narrator]

Phone Gladys and ask her.

[Henry Aldrich]

Ask her right out?

[Narrator]

Why not?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, Father, I couldn't. See if she wasn't expecting me, she'd think I wanted an invitation. Why don't you, Sam? Look, suppose I do this. Toby Smith lives next door to Gladys. Maybe he could tell me whether they eat before or after 6:30. Finish your grapefruit first. But Mother, don't you think I should find out?

[Narrator]

Henry, do as your mother says.

[Gladys Prentice]

But why?

[Narrator]

Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

Now start eating, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whiz, Mother, did I get you.

[Gladys Prentice]

In the eye, too?

[Henry Aldrich]

Now see here, Sam, for heaven's sake.

[Gladys Prentice]

Let him go make his phone call. But you want to tell me what you think?

[Henry Aldrich]

I think you're not wiping those dishes very well, Greta.

[Gladys Prentice]

Oh, my goodness, I'm sorry. And if we're lending our best sign.

[Henry Aldrich]

Of Aunt Mabel for her engagement party tonight, we certainly want to send him over clean.

[Gladys Prentice]

Yes, ma'.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Am.

[Gladys Prentice]

But doesn't it sound to you as though Henry meant what I think he meant?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, frankly, dear, I think you may.

[Gladys Prentice]

Be jumping to conclusions. But why would he want to come over so early if he isn't taking me out to dinner?

[Henry Aldrich]

Now, Gladys, the wisest thing for you to do is phone Henry and find out definitely just what he had in mind.

[Gladys Prentice]

Oh, Mother, I just couldn't. Why not? Because he wasn't planning on taking Me to dinner? My goodness, I'd just die of embarrassment.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, now. Glad, Mother.

[Gladys Prentice]

I would I die right there in the heathel. What a feast. Oh, my goodness.

[Henry Aldrich]

You didn't break a plate, did you?

[Gladys Prentice]

No, but I could have sworn I saw somebody up in that big elm tree right there in our backyard.

[Henry Aldrich]

You did?

[Gladys Prentice]

And, Mother, you know who it looked like? Oh, but it couldn't be. What would Henry Aldridge be doing up in our elm tree? Sam.

[Narrator]

Yes, Hollis?

[Henry Aldrich]

I just saw the Browns.

[Narrator]

They'll join us.

[Gladys Prentice]

Yes, dear.

[Henry Aldrich]

And Elizabeth had the same reaction I did. Imagine going out to dinner for no reason whatsoever.

[Narrator]

Why not? Henry's having dinner at the Prentices. You deserve a day off. Why not?

[Henry Aldrich]

Just the same, Sam, I can't help being thrilled.

[Narrator]

What time did you tell the Browns to meet us?

[Henry Aldrich]

It's seven and.

[Gladys Prentice]

Dear, don't you think you should call.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

The Mansion House for a reservation?

[Narrator]

That won't be necessary. But suppose it's crowded, Alice, I'm positive it won't be. Besides, the head waiter knows me very well. I can always get a table.

[Henry Aldrich]

Boy, Mother, look at my blue skirt suit. Mary Hunger Angora sweater. Right next to it, dear.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

I'm sure we can clean it up.

[Henry Aldrich]

Clean it up? Well, could you do it now, mother? It's only five more hours until 6:30 and I can't go looking like a boll weevil.

[Narrator]

Henry, I don't like to seem over cautious, but I'd just like to ask once more. Are you absolutely certain you're invited to dinner at the.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sam, he said he was positive.

[Narrator]

He's been positive before.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Father, I told you what I saw with my own eyes. When I just happened to be up in their elm tree this morning. Gee whiz, would they be getting out their best china just to eat with each other? I'll be right there.

[Gladys Prentice]

Homer, I do think you should phone for reservation.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Boy, Henry, am I a lucky dog? Am I a lucky dog?

[Henry Aldrich]

You are.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Why, I don't have these home tonight.

[Henry Aldrich]

Is that right?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Sure. Didn't you hear? My folks are going out with your folks for dinner. And they gave me a dollar and a half to blow in on any kind of dinner I want.

[Henry Aldrich]

No kidding. A whole dollar and a half.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Together with the quarter I just earned, I'll be able to eat myself six. Boy, am I a lucky dog.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, Mama, wait till I tell you about me.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Then why don't you get some money from your parents and we'll stuff ourselves together.

[Henry Aldrich]

That's just it, Homer. I'm sort of invited out to dinner tonight you are. Where to, Gladys Prentices. No kidding? Sure.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

That's funny. I just delivered something there from the cleaners. I'm glad I shouldn't mention anything about feeding you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Homer, you see this blue serge suit?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Yeah.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm even cleaning Mary Van Gore off it. That's how sure I am.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Me? Are you a lucky dog. I don't think you better wear your blue shirt.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why not?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Because the thing I delivered was an evening gown. Evening gown? Sure. They told the cleaners they had to have it for tonight.

[Henry Aldrich]

Tonight? Oh, boy.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Timmy, what's the matter?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, boy. Homer, you don't suppose that dinner is formal, do you?

[Gladys Prentice]

In tuxedo?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. And, boy, my father didn't even think I was important enough for good china. Gladys, would you zip me up the back, please?

[Gladys Prentice]

Yes, Mother. And look, why don't I do this? Why don't I call all the restaurants in town and see if Henry has made a reservation here?

[Henry Aldrich]

That's very foolish. And I get all the way.

[Gladys Prentice]

Well, couldn't inhale just a little bit more.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mother, you know, I think that cleaner sunk this gown.

[Gladys Prentice]

Mother, why don't you wear my new gown over there?

[Henry Aldrich]

Mabel, I'm much too boned here. Oh, which reminds me. Your father and I have been discussing that evening Don. Gladys. And, well, we think it might be wise to sew on a little lace around the shoulder.

[Gladys Prentice]

Mother, I'm not pony.

[Henry Aldrich]

We realize that. That's why we thought some lace would add a great deal.

[Gladys Prentice]

My dear, you know how easily you catch cold.

[Henry Aldrich]

In a year or two when you build up your resistance, we can take the lace off and answer the font.

[Gladys Prentice]

Yes, please. Hello? Oh, hi, Glad. This is Henry. Hello, Henry. Mother, that sign here. Now asking about your name. Hi, guys.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello.

[Gladys Prentice]

Hello. How. How are you?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Fine.

[Gladys Prentice]

How are you? Fine. I. I'll see you at 6:30, won't I?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. I'll see you at 6:30 too, won't I?

[Gladys Prentice]

Yeah.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, I'm glad.

[Gladys Prentice]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, I just want you to know I never look forward to a meal more.

[Gladys Prentice]

Henry, could you hold on?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Mother, it is dinner.

[Gladys Prentice]

It is?

[Henry Aldrich]

Are you sure?

[Gladys Prentice]

Henry, would you mind repeating that again? About dinner, I mean.

[Henry Aldrich]

Repeat it.

[Gladys Prentice]

Nothing before.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, all I said was I'm looking forward to eating with you tonight. Well, what do you know? Shouldn't I upset it?

[Gladys Prentice]

Of course you should. Henry, I'm so glad you called.

[Henry Aldrich]

You are? Well, look glad if I got a little what you might call a problem about dinners tonight.

[Gladys Prentice]

Problem? Henry, nothing's gone wrong at your end, has it?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, things are fine at my end, just fine. How are they?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

And yours?

[Gladys Prentice]

Fine.

[Henry Aldrich]

Only, would you mind very much if I wore a maroon tie?

[Gladys Prentice]

A maroon tie?

[Henry Aldrich]

With my tuxedo, see, when somehow my black one seems to have disappeared completely.

[Gladys Prentice]

Tuxedo? You're wearing a tuxedo tonight.

[Henry Aldrich]

Didn't you want me to.

[Gladys Prentice]

Right. Well, yes. That's a toxic idea, honey. I'll have to hurry and hang up now. I'll see you at 6:30. Goodbye.

[Henry Aldrich]

Goodbye.

[Gladys Prentice]

Mother. Mother, you'll have to sew on that lay for my evening gown. Right away.

[Henry Aldrich]

Let's cross over. Gladys lives on this block. Homer, in a formal dinner, which fork do you use first? They have more than one, of course.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Well, I'd start at the end and.

[Henry Aldrich]

Work toward my plate, and that makes sense.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

And, Henry, if you were me, would you get the businessman special at the Main Street Diner or the table to.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hold at Hamburger Paradise? Well, if I were to get something.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Under your belt like a good, solid bowl of soup and invest the rest in dessert.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee, I don't know.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Here I am with $1.75 and I don't know how to eat it up. Can you make this, Al?

[Henry Aldrich]

What is it?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

A menu I picked up from the Purple Goose. Business at the bottom. Say, all meals served with salad and potatoes. Or salad.

[Henry Aldrich]

Or potatoes.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Why, or is it potato salad?

[Henry Aldrich]

Homer, haven't got time to fool around. Here's Gladys's house. So long.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Yeah, so long. Is that Armenian restaurant over in South Avenue.

[Henry Aldrich]

Armenian?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

I might as well cover the field.

[Gladys Prentice]

Hello, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, gee. Hi, Gladys. I was just about to knock.

[Gladys Prentice]

I saw you coming up the walk. Come here. My goodness, but you look handsome in that tuxedo.

[Henry Aldrich]

I do? See, you look pretty handsome yourself.

[Gladys Prentice]

I do?

[Henry Aldrich]

Boy, that's some gown.

[Gladys Prentice]

Wait till you see it after I build up my resistance. I'm certainly looking forward to this evening.

[Henry Aldrich]

So am I. Well, here's my hat.

[Gladys Prentice]

You're taking it off.

[Narrator]

You don't think I'd fill it good?

[Henry Aldrich]

Of course.

[Gladys Prentice]

I'll put it right here on the hall table for the time being.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. Boy, I sure am hungry.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

So am I.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Gladys Prentice]

Yeah. Mmm.

[Henry Aldrich]

What's that I smell?

[Gladys Prentice]

You smell something?

[Henry Aldrich]

I'll see.

[Narrator]

Mmm.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure smells good.

[Gladys Prentice]

Oh, that's taboo.

[Narrator]

It is?

[Henry Aldrich]

I've never eaten any.

[Gladys Prentice]

That's my perfume, Tilly.

[Henry Aldrich]

Perfume, huh? Oh, sure.

[Gladys Prentice]

Here, Henry, would you like a glass of tomato juice?

[Henry Aldrich]

Tomato juice?

[Gladys Prentice]

My mother thought you might like some before. Before?

[Henry Aldrich]

Before what?

[Gladys Prentice]

Excuse me, Henry, he was on the phone. Hello, this is Mrs. Aldrich. Could I speak to Henry please? Yes, Mrs. Aldrich. Tell me, what's your mother.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, it is thankful.

[Gladys Prentice]

I'll be in the living room. Oh well Mother dear, your father and I are just about to leave for the Mansion House. Is everything all right?

[Henry Aldrich]

All right. About dinner I mean. Why don't we haven't started to eat yet. But they just serve the tomatoes.

[Narrator]

Made a juice.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

They did?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. We should be going into the dining room for the rest of it any minute now. Well, have a good time.

[Gladys Prentice]

And Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother?

[Gladys Prentice]

If Mrs. Prentice is using a new.

[Henry Aldrich]

Tablecloth, keep an eye on your elbow. Sure Mother. I'll keep an eye on everything. Goodbye. Goodbye.

[Gladys Prentice]

I don't want to rush you but it's nearly seven.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

It is?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, where's your mother and father?

[Gladys Prentice]

My mother and father? How many? Did you want them to have dinner with us too? I don't know any man. Good if they just left for my Aunt Mabel's engagement party.

[Henry Aldrich]

We're going to eat alone?

[Gladys Prentice]

Why yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

With just the two of us?

[Gladys Prentice]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh boy.

[Gladys Prentice]

Getting ready?

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee, I'm ready anytime you are.

[Gladys Prentice]

Good. Here's your hat.

[Henry Aldrich]

You mean you want me to put.

[Gladys Prentice]

On my hat, don't you? Thank you, sir.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, oh sure. I just didn't realize it was going to be that formal.

[Gladys Prentice]

I want you to know this is the first time I've ever had a formal dinner with any boy in private.

[Henry Aldrich]

Me too. I mean, my goodness.

[Gladys Prentice]

To be perfectly honest, this is the first time I've ever been invited out to dinner. Is that a.

[Henry Aldrich]

Invited out?

[Gladys Prentice]

Tell me what's wrong.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why sure.

[Gladys Prentice]

Oh, I thought I might have misunderstood you. My goodness, this is going to be a night I'll never forget.

[Henry Aldrich]

It will?

[Gladys Prentice]

Yeah.

[Henry Aldrich]

I have a feeling it's going to be one I'll never forget either.

[Narrator]

Now getting back to the troubles of Henry Al. Because his date with Gladys Predis began at 6:30, Henry jumped to the conclusion that he'd been invited to dinner. After a quick tomato juice cocktail, however, he learned that Gladys expected to be taken out to dinner. The scene opens in the lobby of the Mansion House restaurant. It is dinner time. Now say here. Mr. Aldrich, you're raising your voice. I'm not raising it. Besides, I have every right to. I've been coming here to the Mansion house regularly for 15 years now and this is no time to tell me they have no table. Naturally. I'm very sorry sir, but you should have phoned for reservations. That's beside the point. Let me speak to the head waiter. I'm the Head waiter. I mean, the head waiter with a bald head. He left six months ago. He couldn't have, but he did.

[Henry Aldrich]

Now you're the one who's raising your voice.

[Narrator]

I'm sorry, Mr. Aldrich, I'm willing to give you a table. I'm. I'm anxious to, but it'll have to be one on the side of the room. But I can't sit behind those palms. I'm allergic to them.

[Henry Aldrich]

To palms?

[Narrator]

The last time we sat behind them, I sneezed from the fruit cup right through the strawberry shortcuts. You simply have to give us a table in the middle of the room. Very well, Mr. Oritz. Very well. But you'll have to wait at least 40 minutes.

[Henry Aldrich]

40 minutes, at least.

[Gladys Prentice]

Now, just a moment. The Browns will be here any second.

[Henry Aldrich]

And they're counting on us to have made the arrangement. I'm sorry.

[Gladys Prentice]

Sorry? After we've been coming here for 15 years, all you can say is you're sorry?

[Narrator]

Alex, please. You're raising your voice.

[Gladys Prentice]

Henry, we're not really going to have dinner here in the Mansion House, are we?

[Henry Aldrich]

We might. I mean, that depends on whether you happen to see my mother and father in there in the dining room.

[Narrator]

Good evening, sir. Just to.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why? Could I speak to the head waiter?

[Narrator]

I'm afraid not. He went home about an hour ago with a very severe headache.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, well. Gladys, do you mind if I talk to the waiter for one second?

[Gladys Prentice]

Is anything wrong, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, no. Excuse me. Look, waiter, do you happen to know my mother and father?

[Narrator]

I'm not sure I've had the pleasure.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, they're eating here tonight. See, I thought under the circumstances, they might like to have us join them and put everything on one check. I'll only be a second, Gladys.

[Narrator]

Young man, what do your parents look like?

[Henry Aldrich]

Look like? Gee whiz, I've never thought of them looking like anything before. I'll tell you, my mother looks like. Like. Have you ever seen my grandmother? Well, that's that. That's too bad. They're the image of each other.

[Narrator]

I'm afraid I can't help you, son.

[Henry Aldrich]

Glattus, what are you doing at that table?

[Gladys Prentice]

That was free and I grabbed on. Henry, here, I've got a menu for you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Glattus.

[Gladys Prentice]

My goodness, look at these prices. Aren't they just terrible?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Oh, thanks.

[Henry Aldrich]

Waiter. Waiter.

[Narrator]

Someone calling me.

[Henry Aldrich]

It's me, over by the doorway.

[Narrator]

Oh, yes, sir. Have you and the young lady decided on your order?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, she's still having a little trouble making up her mind. And while she is I thought I'd ask you. Do you have an easy credit plan? Easy credit? Yes, sir. The easier, the better. No, I'm afraid not. Oh, well, will you be taking on any help for the summer? We're closed for the summer home.

[Narrator]

Yes, we usually did. Just look at that.

[Henry Aldrich]

You see, my parents?

[Narrator]

What? No, no. But look at that young man with his nose pressed against the front window.

[Henry Aldrich]

Where?

[Narrator]

Right next to the menu.

[Henry Aldrich]

Go away, young man. Go away. Oh, boy, it's Homer.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Excuse me.

[Henry Aldrich]

Please tell him he's smudging the entire window.

[Gladys Prentice]

Homer.

[Henry Aldrich]

Boy, am I glad I found you.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Just look at these persons.

[Henry Aldrich]

Homer, you haven't eaten already?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

No, and I'm certainly not going to eat here. Boy, you have to be a millionaire.

[Henry Aldrich]

I know, and that's why you have to lend me your 1 75.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Are you crazy, Henry? That's for my dinner.

[Henry Aldrich]

Homer, don't you want to save me from a terrible disgrace?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Not if it's going to cost me $1.75. I thought you were eating Gladys.

[Henry Aldrich]

So did I, but somehow I'm taking her here instead. So, Homer, won't you please let me have that money?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

No.

[Henry Aldrich]

Haven't you any humanity?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Not when my son that's involved.

[Henry Aldrich]

Okay, Homer, okay. Well, you're in a spot. Sometime just come to me for help. Just come to me.

[Gladys Prentice]

That's okay.

[Henry Aldrich]

Homer, pal.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Look, Henry, suppose I do this.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'll give you part of my money.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Say, 75 cents.

[Henry Aldrich]

That's all.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

That's all I can afford. Stand back while I get it out of my pocket. It's all in change.

[Henry Aldrich]

Here.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

25.

[Henry Aldrich]

You can make it an even dollar, Christy. But even their Swiss cheese sandwiches start at 45 cents.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

I'm sorry. 62, 3, 4.

[Gladys Prentice]

Oh, my. Begum, stop grabbing.

[Henry Aldrich]

Now look what you've done.

[Gladys Prentice]

What?

[Henry Aldrich]

You mean your money went down this grave?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Every last cent. And you better go down there and get it.

[Henry Aldrich]

In my tuxedo. That.

[Narrator]

Young man. The young lady wanted to know if duck in orange saw will be all right with you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I'll tell you. What about my money? Well, look, mister, could. Could you tell me where this grace leads?

[Narrator]

To the cellar, I believe.

[Henry Aldrich]

Homer, if I go down here and get your money, could I have a dollar?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Henry, this is blackmail.

[Narrator]

I'm afraid you can't go down there, young man.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why not?

[Narrator]

The cellar window's been bricked up for years.

[Gladys Prentice]

What? Now, let's see. Waiter, I think I have Brussels sprouts with my duck.

[Narrator]

Yes, ma'. Am.

[Henry Aldrich]

Brussels sprout.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

So will I.

[Henry Aldrich]

Now, wait A minute, Homer, Let me.

[Narrator]

Run over that order again.

[Henry Aldrich]

Before you do that, waiter, could I have a little private talk with my friend again? Henry?

[Narrator]

Well, just be a second. Come on, Homer.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

I'll take my menu with me.

[Gladys Prentice]

Henry, I'm starving. Glad.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why don't you have a roll while we're waiting?

[Narrator]

Listen, Homer, won't you please go home?

[Henry Aldrich]

No.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

You lost my $75, and the least.

[Henry Aldrich]

You can do is feed me. But I. I told you, I don't have a cent.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

So what? As long as you're not going to be able to pay. What difference does it make if you don't pay for two or three?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, Dick, can't you at least go easy?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Well, okay. Suppose I just have a Swiss cheese sandwich.

[Henry Aldrich]

With Swiss cheese?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Why?

[Henry Aldrich]

I mean, look, Homer, what's with tea? Just a lot of holes. It's the bread that's really nourishing.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

So?

[Henry Aldrich]

So they give you all the bread you want for nothing.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Listen, Henry, I want more than bread for my $1.75.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure you do, Homer. Sure you do. And you can have all the ketchup and mustard. You finish.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Boy, and I thought this was my lucky day.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gladys, Homer and I are ready to order.

[Gladys Prentice]

But really, the waiter was getting very impatient. I already ordered for you. Duck dinners for three.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, boy, oh, boy.

[Gladys Prentice]

Look, here he comes now with our first corn gratis.

[Henry Aldrich]

Before he comes, could I explain one thing to you?

[Narrator]

Here you are.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, waiter.

[Narrator]

Yes, sir?

[Henry Aldrich]

I, I, I think. I think I'd better have another little talk with you privately.

[Narrator]

Yes, sir.

[Henry Aldrich]

But first, here's the check in the.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Text before we eat.

[Narrator]

There you are, Gladys.

[Henry Aldrich]

Pack me a couple of rolls, quick. Waiter, is this number a five?

[Narrator]

What number, sir?

[Henry Aldrich]

This one with the dollar sign in front of it.

[Gladys Prentice]

Complete.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Pass the celery.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Narrator]

That's a fire.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, boy.

[Gladys Prentice]

Did you know you put a radish in your pocket?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

So good.

[Henry Aldrich]

Look, waiter, there's something I have to tell you.

[Narrator]

Sir, there's something I have to tell you. That check pays.

[Henry Aldrich]

Pay.

[Gladys Prentice]

My goodness. What's going on? Who paid it?

[Narrator]

There's a note on the back. That explains things.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Turn it over, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, gee, where? So, what does it say? Maybe in the future we'll all be a little less positive and a little more careful.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

But who's so angry?

[Narrator]

Nobody.

[Henry Aldrich]

Thank you, Sam.

[Narrator]

Thank you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, gee whiz, Father, is that you behind that palm?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Boy, can you did that dinner tonight.

[Henry Aldrich]

Cost me a pretty penny, Homer. Cost you a pretty penny when we got it for free from my father.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Oh, sure. But I'll have to pay and pay and pay.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, my. What are you talking about?

[Gladys Prentice]

He was.

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Agnes saw me at the mansion house with Gladys.

[Henry Aldrich]

She did?

[Father (Sam Aldrich)]

Now she's so mad she'll never foot the bills for the movies or a banana split for us again.