Aldrich Family - Cross Country Race

Summary

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Aldrich Family – Cross Country Race

Harold's Old Time Radio
Date: March 7, 2026

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Episode Overview

This classic radio episode follows the humorous misadventures of Henry Aldrich as he strives to win a high school cross country race. Amidst a tangle of motivations—wanting to pass math, go to a dance, swap for a typewriter, and please his parents—Henry grapples with obstacles like unsuitable shoes, family rules, and comic misunderstandings. With his ever-supportive but exasperated friend Dizzy by his side, Henry's earnest attempts to do the right thing provide a window into the wholesome, gentle humor characteristic of mid-20th century family radio shows.

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Main Discussion Points & Story Highlights

Dinner at the Stevens’ House: Explaining Henry’s Predicament

• Henry’s Motivation Unraveled:

  • Henry’s convoluted route to the dance involves eating broccoli (to impress Geraldine), passing math class (to get a sleeping bag from his father), and swapping that sleeping bag for a typewriter (to get dance tickets from the committee).
  • The dialogue is fast and confused, with adults trying to follow Henry and Dizzy’s logic.
  • Memorable moment:
    • “There's just one point I missed.” — Mr. Stevens (04:22)
    • “Which one was that?” — Dizzy
    • “I don't know.” — Mr. Stevens

• Table Manners and Broccoli:

  • Henry tries to eat more broccoli to earn a favor; Mrs. Stevens praises his manners.
  • Dizzy proposes a complicated set of stakes for the cross-country race, causing further confusion.

[00:02:33–00:05:15]

• Henry and Dizzy lay out the chain of requirements connecting everything back to the cross-country race—and ultimately to Henry getting to go to a dance with Geraldine.

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Training and Family Dynamics

• Henry's Comedy of Errors in Training:

  • Dizzy coaches Henry in unorthodox ways: running up stairs, training in the rain, wearing heavy golf shoes, and covering stairs with newspapers.
  • The training quickly devolves into slapstick as Henry complains about overeating broccoli and using inappropriate gear.
  • Memorable exchange:
    • “With these shoes on, you won't hurt the stairs. I spread newspapers on each step.” — Dizzy (06:34)
    • “I'm not going to do it.” — Henry

• Household Exasperation:

  • Mr. and Mrs. Aldrich debate whether to secretly buy Henry the equipment he needs for the race without compromising discipline.
  • Notable quote:
    • “Couldn't we let Henry get what he needs after we've told him he can't?” — Mrs. Aldrich (11:47)
    • “How are we going to save face?” — Mr. Aldrich (12:05)

[00:05:41–00:13:46]

• Family life oscillates between discipline and affection, with Henry’s mild rebellion showing through his repeated slip-ups (swinging Indian clubs inside the house, breaking windows).

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Race Day: From Disadvantage to Victory

• Pre-Race Jitters and Mishaps:

  • Henry wears ill-fitting golf shoes with three pairs of socks and makes do with a bathing suit as running gear.
  • The coach instructs Henry to run hard, then let a teammate (Irwin Cooper) win by holding back.
    • Notable moment:
      • “Central has got to win, see?...You and Irwin Cooper are the only two I can spare for this race...there will be six running against you from Middletown.” — Coach (18:48)

• Sudden Twist:

  • Irwin is injured at the last minute; Henry is now the sole runner for Central.
  • Henry starts the race, quickly losing his shoes and running in his socks on gravel, then in the water-filled ditch, all while Dizzy shouts encouragement and offers dubious advice.

• Parental Scramble:

  • Dizzy convinces the Aldrichs to finally get sneakers for Henry, saving his feet (and arches).
  • Quote:
    • “Think of his arches!” — Mr. Aldrich (23:28)

• Climactic Finish:

  • Henry, demoralized, still resolves to finish so Central “doesn’t go down in history as not finishing.”
  • He learns the Middleton team took the wrong fork, is suddenly in the lead, and sprints, shoeless and exhausted, to victory.
  • Memorable sequence:
    • “Henry, they're right behind you!” — Dizzy
    • “Henry, you won! You won!” — Crowd (24:46–25:00)

[00:17:00–00:26:00]

• The race is depicted with a comical stream of setbacks, encouragements, and misunderstandings, culminating in Henry’s surprise victory.

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The Aftermath: Dance and Disappearance

• Hero’s Reception… or Not:

  • At the dance, Henry is celebrated—sort of. He’s supposed to be the hero but is nowhere to be seen.
  • Geraldine, his date, waits for him, and confusion reigns as no one can locate Henry.
  • Quote:
    • “Do you suppose Henry's winning that cross country race had anything to do with his getting 98 in mathematics, do you?” — Mrs. Aldrich (26:23)
    • “No, Alice, I've decided that boy has character!” — Mr. Aldrich

• Satisfying Resolution and Final Gag:

  • He's found asleep on the stairs, having exhausted himself with his day's adventures—a classic comic ending.
  • Geraldine, disappointed, goes off to dance with others.
  • Memorable closing:
    • “He’s gone to sleep. Right here on the stairs. ... I'm going up and dance with anyone I please!” — Geraldine (27:12–28:00)

[00:26:00–00:28:33]

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Notable Quotes & Moments with Timestamps

• “There's just one point I missed.” — Mr. Stevens (04:22)
• “Character? Character. Think of his arches!” — Mr. Aldrich (23:28)
• “Henry, they're right behind you!” — Dizzy (24:46)
• “Henry, you won! You won!” — Crowd (25:00)
• “Do you suppose Henry's winning that cross country race had anything to do with his getting 98 in mathematics, do you?” — Mrs. Aldrich (26:23)
• “No, Alice, I've decided that boy has character!” — Mr. Aldrich (26:34)
• “He’s gone to sleep. …I'm going up and dance with anyone I please!” — Geraldine (27:12–28:00)

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Episode Structure & Timestamps

• [01:13] – Opening credits and sponsor message skip to content start
• [02:33–09:20] – Dinner scene, Henry's motivations and family banter
• [09:20–13:46] – Training at home, household friction, disciplinary debate
• [17:00–26:00] – The cross-country race: chaos, setbacks, parental intervention, unexpected win
• [26:00–28:33] – Dance party aftermath, Henry goes missing, discovered asleep on the stairs

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Tone & Style

The episode delivers gentle, whimsical comedy with a wholesome family warmth. The humor arises from misunderstanding, exaggerated consequences, and lovingly exasperated parents. The dialogue is snappy and full of classic mid-century phrasing, making the complications of Henry’s plans both relatable and timelessly funny.

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Summary for New Listeners

Even if you’re new to The Aldrich Family, this episode showcases the endearing foibles of youth and family—the impossible bargains made, the misunderstood intentions, and the ultimate triumphs (and naps) achieved through a combination of good intentions, comic blunders, and a little help from friends and family. It's a warmhearted, gently funny reflection of a bygone era, perfect for fans of classic radio storytelling.

Transcript

[A]

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[B]

Henry. Henry aldrich. Coming, mother.

[C]

The Aldrich Family written by Clifford Goldsmith and starring Ezra Stone as Henry Aldrich. Brought to you by the puddings that are tops in taste. Jello pudding. Do you remember when you were in your teens? Well, when you listen to Henry Aldrich and his pals, we think you'll sort of be able to detect a little of yourself. For Henry Aldrich is a typical American boy from a typical American family. Just listen and see if I'm not right. It's 6:30 in Centerville and the scene opens with Henry taking dinner at the home of his pal, Dizzy Stephen.

[B]

Mrs. Stevens, could I trouble you for the bread please? Oh, yes, certainly, Henry. Gee whiz, I almost took two slices. Well, wouldn't you like to take two? No, thank you. I never take more than one at a time. Why only one, Henry? My mother has asked me not to. Dizzy.

[C]

Basil.

[B]

Yes, Father?

[C]

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

[B]

Yes, sir.

[C]

And eat your broccoli.

[B]

Father, I don't like broccoli.

[C]

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

[B]

The only. 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? Of course. Now that's the way I like to see a young man eat. Thank you, Mrs. Stevens. I just wish Basil had such nice table manners. 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.

[C]

Won't Geraldine go to the dance with him?

[B]

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

[C]

I see.

[B]

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

[C]

The what?

[B]

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. Sleeping bag? What kind of a dance is this, Henry? A masquerade? Oh, no, it's just a dance.

[C]

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

[B]

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

[C]

Molly, may I have the salt, please?

[B]

Don't you understand, Father? That's why Henry has to win the cross country race. Perfectly clear, Mrs. Stevens. Do you understand? Yes, entirely.

[C]

There's just one point I missed.

[B]

Which one was that?

[C]

I don't know.

[B]

I'll explain it to you again, Father.

[C]

Eat your broccoli.

[B]

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.

[C]

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

[B]

I will. Thank. Will you have some more potatoes?

[C]

I've lost my appetite.

[B]

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.

[C]

Is that a punishment?

[B]

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

[C]

In which case.

[B]

In which case what, Mr. Stevens?

[C]

It's a fielder's choice.

[B]

See, the dance committee needs a typewriter and if I get them one, they'll give me four tickets free. Oh, well, I'm glad to hear that straightened out. Yeah. That's the only reason why Henry is eating his broccoli. My whole future depends on winning that race.

[C]

That would be putting it mildly.

[B]

Could I have some more, please? Are you sure you're not eating too much, dear? Don't discourage him, Mother. I have just as much a stake on his winning as he has.

[C]

Hey, Molly. Don't ask Basil. Why?

[B]

Well, it's just because we don't want to know. 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. Basil, are you and Henry upstairs? Yes, Mother. Oh. What are you doing? We're just talking a little something over. Well, is that noise you're making while you're talking necessary? 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. 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 going to 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. Well, come down here. My head. What is this? Henry, 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.

[C]

I thought you were.

[B]

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

[C]

I see.

[B]

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

[C]

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

[B]

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?

[C]

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.

[B]

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

[C]

You're not to swing them in this house.

[B]

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

[C]

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

[B]

Why did you disobey your father, Henry?

[C]

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

[B]

Yes, sir.

[C]

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

[B]

Yes, sir. Well, then what happened, Henry? The ball went through this living room window.

[C]

Yes.

[B]

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.

[C]

Henry, let's not mention the subject again.

[B]

Gee whiz, what's all that noise? How should I know? Well, it's something

[C]

sounds miracle bad.

[B]

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. There goes folks. Hamilton, you think I want him to see me?

[C]

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

[B]

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.

[C]

It's not a question of money.

[B]

Henry, why aren't you and Dizzy out with the crowd? Why should I, Mother? Father doesn't care whether I win or not.

[C]

Henry, that isn't exactly fair.

[B]

Is this still about track shoes? Yes, Mother. What do you think about it? I agree entirely with your father. 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, Sam. Well, Alice, couldn't we let Henry get

[C]

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

[B]

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

[C]

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

[B]

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

[C]

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

[B]

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

[C]

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

[B]

Name one time Henry has recently deliberately disobeyed you.

[C]

When he threw that ball through the window.

[B]

No, I mean one other time.

[C]

What's that?

[B]

Why, it's an Indian club. Coming downstairs?

[C]

Yes, Henry.

[B]

Ulrich. I didn't realize it was gonna slip.

[C]

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

[B]

Oh, did that include the second floor?

[C]

Is the second floor in this house?

[B]

Yes.

[C]

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

[B]

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

[C]

Certainly, dear.

[B]

Mrs. Aldridge, were you speaking to me? No, Dizzy. I was saying something to Mr. 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? What? 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. Henry. Ulrich. I've gotta go home. Henry. Is anybody hurt, Father? Not yet.

[C]

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[B]

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[C]

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[B]

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[C]

Make every call count. With Panasonic Connect. 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.

[B]

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. Swell. Gee, that's a great idea of your wearing your swimming suit. Y old. Dizzy. That was for me. The whole school's in back of you. It's up to you, Henry. Don't worry about me.

[C]

Boy.

[B]

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? Sure. Yeah? Well, where does it go? We start right here at Scott's Corners and follow the main highway intercenterville 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 a lead. It's a come on. They always put a sprinter in there purposely to tie you. Hello, Henry. She was Geraldine. I'm going up to the finish line. Henry, are we going to the dance? 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? Oh, Henry, of course I will.

[C]

Hey, Aldrich.

[B]

Who's calling me?

[C]

Aldrich, come here.

[B]

Oh, gee. Did you want me? Coach?

[C]

How are you feeling?

[B]

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

[C]

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

[B]

Yes, Coach.

[C]

Central has got to win, see?

[B]

Yes, Coach.

[C]

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

[B]

Yes, Coach.

[C]

And there will be six running against you from Middletown.

[B]

Yes, Coach.

[C]

The whole thing is up to you.

[B]

Yes, Coach.

[C]

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

[B]

Yes, Coach.

[C]

Run those six boys from Middletown right off their feet.

[B]

Yes, Coach.

[C]

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

[B]

Yes. I don't win it.

[C]

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

[B]

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

[C]

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.

[B]

Okay, Coach. Gee whiz. Oh, Henry. What'll you have? Mother, don't you think you ought to be wearing a coat, dear? Mother, don't embarrass me.

[C]

Good luck, son.

[B]

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

[C]

Oh, you'll win it.

[B]

They don't want me to.

[C]

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

[B]

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 session? Right. Clear the way everyone, so the boys can line up here. Coach. Hey, Coach. Yes, I have. Do you still want me to take the lead?

[C]

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

[B]

Yes, Coach. Sure.

[C]

Line up, boys.

[B]

Yay, Central. Central all day. Get on your mark. Get set. Kill him, Henry. What's that, Jesse? Henry. Go on, Henry. Go on. I'll follow you on my bicycle. Don't interfere with me, Jessie. You're 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 buster? What difference does that make? Come on, keep going. Henry, I can't run with my shoe half off. There I kicked it off and 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'll pass them in no time. Oh, boy, does that feel good. Watch me go. Oh, aren't you glad you took him off Henry. Darn that stone anyhow. Henry, I forgot. You gotta run on gravel for the next two miles. That's gonna help Dizzy. 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 out. I'm certainly glad I wore my bathing suit. Look at them up ahead. I've got an idea. Henry, you keep on running. Say, where are you going? Never mind. I'll be back and save the day before you know it. Sam, how many have gone by so far?

[C]

6.

[B]

How many are there in the race?

[C]

7.

[B]

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

[C]

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

[B]

Hold back?

[C]

Uh huh.

[B]

Well, what's the sense in that strategy, Alice?

[C]

You save yourself till the finish and then you put on a burst of speed.

[B]

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

[C]

Oh, here he comes, Alice.

[B]

He's coming around the curve on a bicycle.

[C]

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

[B]

Mr. Aldridge. Mr. Aldridge. Dizzy. Has something happened to Henry? He lost his shoes. What was that? He's running in the stocking, feet on gravel. And Mr. Aldridge needs some sneakers.

[C]

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

[B]

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

[C]

Hurry up. Get in the car.

[B]

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

[C]

Character? Character. Think of his arches.

[B]

Doesn't that make a difference? Henry? Henry, don't those shoes make a difference? Hey, Henry, I can hear you. I can't speak. Put on the stain, 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 have 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 there to see me. Henry, run. Come on, Henry, run. What for? They're behind you.

[C]

Who?

[B]

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. Well, 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. That's Gwendolyn up ahead, Henry. I can't see her. She's waving to you. I can't see her that way. Henry, go towards the finish line. Keep on the court. 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 20 yards behind you. Yeah, Henry, they're 10 yards. Come on, Henry. They're closing in. Henry, they're right behind you. Henry, you won. You won. Sam, I think this is the grandest idea you had. Our dropping in for a few minutes and watching the young people dance.

[C]

Henry will probably be the hero of the ball.

[B]

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.

[C]

Here we are. I'll open the door.

[B]

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?

[C]

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

[B]

Thank you. Mr. And Mrs. Aldridge. Oh, yes, Geraldine, have you any idea where Henry could be? What do you mean, dear? Well, he disappeared. Nobody can find him.

[C]

What do you mean, he disappeared?

[B]

Well, he brought me to the den and nobody's seen him since. Well, hasn't he even danced with you? No, I've just been sitting and waiting and waiting. Sam, what do you suppose has happened? Hey, Mr. And Mrs. Aldridge.

[C]

Dizzy. Dizzy, have you seen Henry?

[B]

I've been trying to find him. Oh, my goodness. 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. Who? The coach. He's down in the basement sneaking a smoke. Come on with me, Geraldine. All right. Dizzy, will you come back and tell us? Look out for these stairs, Geraldine. Dizzy, do you think Middletown really has done anything to him? 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. 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. Hey, Henry. I'm going up and dance with anyone I please. Henry. Well, move over, boy. I'm tired, too.

[C]

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 Jell O 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 Jello butterscotch pudding. You'll be delighted with their mellow, creamy flavor, the flavor that has made Jell O puddings tops in taste.

[B]

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

[C]

You don't say so.

[B]

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

[C]

Isn't that an ad for building lots?

[B]

No, Father. Look. It says, big sale. These cars won't last much long.

[C]

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 taste, Jello pudding. Finding great candidates to hire can be like, well, trying to find a needle in a haystack. Sure, you can post your job to some job board, but then all you can do is hope the right person comes along. Which is why you should try ZipRecruiter for free at ZipRecruiter.com Zip ZipRecruiter doesn't depend on candidates finding you it finds them for you. Its powerful technology identifies people with the right experience and actively invites them to apply to your job. You get qualified candidates fast. So while other companies might deliver a lot of hay, ZipRecruiter finds you what you're looking for. The needle in the Haystack.

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