Aldrich Family - Henry has free circus ticket, conflicts with baseball game

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "Aldrich Family – Henry Has Free Circus Ticket, Conflicts With Baseball Game"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Aldrich Family – Henry has free circus ticket, conflicts with baseball game
Date: March 10, 2026
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

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Episode Overview

This classic episode of the Aldrich Family, broadcast as vintage radio drama, centers on a comedic tangle of youthful priorities, family obligations, and misunderstandings. Henry Aldrich is thrilled to have a free circus ticket, but quickly finds his plans upended by scheduling conflicts, family expectations, and a chain of misunderstandings that spiral into chaos. The story showcases the warmth, confusion, and lively innocence of American adolescence during the Golden Age of Radio.

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Key Discussion Points and Story Highlights

1. The Circus Ticket Dilemma (01:25 - 06:45)

• Henry’s Excitement: Henry obtains a free circus pass and plans to take his friend Willie. The episode opens with Henry trying to coordinate meeting Willie and making sure his sister Mary is not too unhappy being left out.

  • Memorable Quote:
    • Henry: “Would you think Willie would have more consideration than to be late? Especially when you take into account that he's going to the circus on my pass.” (03:11)

• Family Dynamics: Henry’s mother suggests he should have invited Mary, who is feeling glum, but Henry defends his choice. This sets up the episode’s gentle theme: balancing friendship and family.

2. Unexpected Encounters and Changing Plans (06:45 - 12:12)

• Willie’s Last-Minute Change: Willie calls to back out, explaining he's obligated to attend the baseball game with his father instead.

  • Memorable/Funny Line:
    • Willie: “I'm gonna spend the afternoon with my father. What? At the ball game. Isn't that embarrassing?” (06:22)
    • Henry: “But what about my feelings? Who else can I dig up?” (06:45)

• Henry’s Search for a Companion: Henry asks his family and friends (including Elsie, a new neighbor girl on roller skates) if they’d like to go, but everyone seems otherwise engaged.

3. Elsie Hopkins Enters the Picture (09:29 - 11:53)

• New Friendship: Elsie, the spirited young girl, agrees to go to the circus if her mother lets her skip her nap.

  • Notable Exchange:
    • Henry: “Did you know there’s a circus in town?”
    • Elsie: “Sure. Boy, I’ve been dying to go…if my mother will let me skip my nap.” (10:13-10:17)

• Family Warnings: Henry’s mother warns that Elsie might be a handful, but Henry is simply happy to have someone to go with.

4. Plans Unravel Again (11:53 - 14:25)

• Willie Returns: Willie unexpectedly comes back, announcing he now can go to the circus after all, because his father was talked out of going to the ball game.

• Henry’s Predicament: Now obliged to both, Henry has to figure out how to “cancel” on Elsie without hurting her feelings.

  • Comedic Solution:
    • Henry: “Suppose I send her a nice letter telling her I suddenly became indisposed. Sure, from indisposition, dear.” (11:53)
    • Mother: “A letter won’t be delivered until tomorrow." (12:02)

5. Elsewhere: The Hopkins Family and Their Choices (14:25 - 16:07)

• At the Hopkins Home: Elsie’s father also unexpectedly receives ballgame tickets, prompting family discussion about whether Elsie should break her commitment to Henry.
  • Memorable Quote:
    • Father: “He'll think you're a well brought up young lady who’d rather go with her father than anyone else.” (14:39)

6. The Mystery Bus and a Series of Misadventures (16:38 - 26:08)

• A Comedy of Errors: Henry’s plans dissolve into a wild chase involving a “mystery bus,” Homer (his best friend), a troop of Brownies, lost kids, confused adults, and an ever-increasing tangle of mix-ups. Key scenes shift between rural highways, roadside diners, and wildly misdirected buses.

• Notable Moment:

  • Homer (complaining): “For a person who started out on a mystery bus trip and ended up with a load of brownies, you’re a fine one to talk.” (22:07)

• Physical Comedy: Henry gets stuck (again!) in a farmhouse bathroom, requiring the Brownie gym team to build a pyramid to rescue him.

  • Memorable Quote:
    • Mother: “Why, the gym team built a lovely pyramid. Oh, here’s Henry now.” (25:44)

• Resolution: Lost children and drivers are gathered, misunderstandings are cleared up, and everyone marvels at the confusion of the day.

7. Epilogue: The Aftermath and Another Invite (26:57 - 27:23)

• Party Plans: String Bean Kittinger arrives, inviting Henry and Homer to a party featuring “all you want to eat brownies.” The boys, comedically overloaded on the word “brownies,” protest the prospect.

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Notable Quotes and Moments

• Henry (on solo outings):
  “Even popcorn tastes different if it isn’t eaten in mixed company.” (09:00)

• Mother (on obligations):
  “I’d like to point out that that little girl has feelings. Even though she’s only 11.” (11:44-11:51)

• Mother (at the end, to the stranded old man):
  “Miss, would you please call back and tell that old man that his wife is on her way out to get him right now!” (26:39)

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Key Segment Timestamps

• Main Circus Ticket Dilemma: 01:25 – 06:45
• Willie’s Baseball Game Conflict: 06:45 – 08:54
• Henry Asks Elsie to the Circus: 09:29 – 10:17
• Willie’s Return, “Who to Take?” 11:09 – 12:13
• Hopkins Family Discussion: 14:25 – 15:21
• Highway Misadventure Sequence: 16:38 – 25:56
• Final Party Invite and Resolution: 26:57 – 27:23

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Tone and Flavor

True to the Aldrich Family’s gentle, innocent comedy style, this episode is filled with a combination of adolescent embarrassment, energetic misunderstandings, snappy dialogue, and a warmhearted focus on family and community ties. The humor is derived from mix-ups, missed connections, and the well-intentioned foibles of both kids and adults.

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For New Listeners

This episode captures the classic charms and chaos of 1940s American radio sitcoms, emphasizing wholesome comedy, quick-witted dialogue, and light family drama. It’s a delightful listen for anyone curious about old-time family radio, and paints a vivid picture of bygone days—when something as simple as a circus ticket could set off a full-fledged household adventure!

Transcript

[A]

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[B]

Jello, everybody. The Jello Family of desserts presents Henry.

[C]

Henry Aldrich.

[D]

Coming, Mother.

[B]

Yes, it's the Aldrich family. Based on character is originated by Clifford Goldsmith and starring Ezra Stone as Henry with Jackie Kelk as Homer. And yes, it's the Jell O family.

[D]

Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family. Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family. That's Jello Yum yum yum. Jello puddings.

[E]

Yum yum yum.

[D]

Jello Peppioca pudding. Yes, siri.

[B]

And now for the Aldrich family. The memories of our youth are often lost in the fog of maturity. The best way to recapture those memories is to know a real teenage boy like Henry Aldrich. The scene opens on the Aldrich front porch. It is early morning.

[C]

Little girl.

[D]

Hey, you out there on roller skates.

[C]

Yoo hoo hoo. Yoo hoo Me? Yoo hoo.

[D]

Yeah. Could you just skate up our walk to the porch here a second?

[E]

Sure.

[C]

Hi.

[D]

Hi.

[C]

Don't I speak pretty good?

[D]

Sure, but you say.

[C]

My name's Elsie Hopkins.

[D]

Hi, I'm Henry. Henry.

[C]

Hi.

[D]

Hi.

[C]

We just moved into that house down the block.

[D]

That's fine. Welcome to Centerville. But you see, what I.

[C]

Thank you. You're welcome, too.

[E]

Thanks.

[D]

Elsie, how would you like to do me a favor?

[C]

A favor?

[D]

And while you're doing it, I'll run in and see if I can find you a piece of candy.

[C]

Gee, I don't need candy just for doing a favor.

[D]

Well, you should.

[C]

If it's one thing our whole darn family does. It's things for nothing.

[D]

Well, sure, but, you know, we've been brought up. That's fine.

[C]

What kind of candy?

[D]

The chili time. And all I want you to do is skate down to the corner and see if a certain fellow's coming down the street.

[C]

What fella?

[D]

Well, he's about so high, see? And he hasn't had a haircut recently, so from a few feet off, he may look as though he's walking backwards.

[C]

No kidding. He really does. Yeah, he looks the same. Coming and Going north and south?

[D]

Yeah. So will you please skate down to the corner?

[C]

I don't have to. I just came from there.

[D]

Huh?

[C]

There wasn't a person in sight. Not even one who looked the same from all angles.

[D]

Oh, I'll be darned. Excuse me, Elsie. I haven't time, Mother.

[E]

I'm in the kitchen, dear.

[D]

Mother, are you sure Willie didn't call while I was upstairs putting on my tie?

[E]

No, dear. And please don't slam the door. I have a cake in the oven for the sewing circle meeting this afternoon, and I don't want it falling.

[D]

Yes, Mother. Gee, would you think Willie would have more consideration than to be late? Especially when you take into account that he's going to the circus on my pass, dear.

[E]

Perhaps you should have consulted me before you invited Willie to go with you.

[D]

Consulted you? Yes, dear, but who else could I invite? Homer's out of town for the weekend.

[E]

Henry, I'd like you to just look out this window here.

[D]

The kitchen window?

[E]

Yes. What do you see?

[D]

Nothing, Mother. Just Mary lying in the hammock.

[E]

That's just the point. Can't you notice anything?

[D]

She's put on weight.

[E]

No, dear. She's very unhappy.

[D]

She is?

[E]

Yes. I'm surprised you didn't notice.

[D]

For Mother, her being unhappy isn't nearly as obvious as the weight she's put on.

[E]

Dear, she hasn't put on weight. But since Kermit went out of town, she's had nothing to do. And I think the least you could have done is invite her to go

[D]

to the circus with you instead of Willie.

[E]

Yes, dear.

[D]

But I can't just disinvite Willie. It would just hurt his feelings.

[E]

Dear, I'm not suggesting anything like that. I'm just suggesting that in the future you might keep your own family in mind.

[D]

You're right, Mother. And meanwhile, you might tell Mary a swell new picture opened at the Colony Theater yesterday.

[E]

It's really good.

[D]

Well, all I know is Agnes Lawson saw it, and, boy, she said she never cried so much in all her life. She said that? Oh, boy. Is that the doorbell, Willie? I'll be right there, dear.

[E]

That's the telephone. The telephone.

[D]

He's calling. Oh, excuse me, Mary.

[E]

Could I speak to you?

[F]

Bob, I thought sure that. Yes, sure, Bob.

[D]

Father, that isn't Willie on the phone, is it?

[F]

Yes, Bob. Yes, Bob.

[D]

Father.

[F]

I see. Bob.

[D]

Father.

[F]

Excuse me, Bob. What is it, Henry?

[D]

Is that Willie?

[F]

It's Mr. Ferguson.

[D]

It is?

[F]

Well, naturally, Bob, if you can't play golf, you can't. But did I tell you that they're using the new green on the third hole. And of course, if you can't, you can't. No, no, forget it, Bob. There are things I can do around the house. Goodbye. Well, that's a fine thing. Oh, boy.

[D]

Oh, boy.

[F]

What's wrong?

[D]

Does that clock actually say 12:15? Yes, but the elephants get married at 1:30.

[F]

The who get married?

[E]

Number, please.

[D]

Helm 913, please.

[E]

Helm 913. Who gets married?

[D]

Elephant's father. In the circus, they're going to have the whole cerem. Including two chimpanzees who throw rice.

[F]

You don't say.

[D]

Sure. And a giraffe in a starch collar who's the minister.

[G]

Yes?

[F]

Well.

[B]

Henry.

[D]

Yes, Father?

[F]

That pass to the circus, is it for two or three?

[H]

Two.

[F]

Oh.

[D]

Why, father?

[F]

Nothing. I just thought if it were for three, I, I. That's all right. There's quite a bit of work I have to do in the garden.

[E]

Oh, listen.

[D]

Willie, is that you? Oh, boy. Henry, is that you? You're darn right it is. And let me ask you one question. Where the heck are you? Here. Well, what kind of an excuse? Why aren't you here? Well, that's the whole thing. Henry. I was just about to call you. I've run into what you might call a minor snag about the circus this afternoon. What minor snag? I can't go. What? Why not? I don't even know how to tell you. Tell me what? It's pretty darn embarrassing. What is? Well, I'm gonna spend the afternoon with my father. What? At the ball game. Isn't that embarrassing? But gee whiz, do you know what they've got this year at the circus? An entire family from 5 years old to 60 who do nothing but hang by their teeth.

[E]

They do?

[D]

Sure. One right under the other. Don't you think that would be educational? Well, sure it would. Sure it would. But my father's got feelings, see?

[C]

He has.

[D]

Sure. Feelings are something that run in our family. But, Willie, what about my feelings? It's late. Who else can I dig up? Henry, what can I do? What's that, Father? But I'm still talking to. Just a minute. Henry. Are you going to explain about my going alone?

[C]

Willie.

[D]

Willie.

[I]

Hello, Henry.

[D]

Is that you, Mr. Marshall?

[F]

Yes, and would you excuse Willie if he hangs up?

[B]

We want to get out to the

[F]

park in time to see infield practice.

[D]

Sure. Have a good time, Mr. Marshall. And don't worry. I just remembered. Mary.

[E]

Henry.

[F]

Is that Norman Marshall? Let me speak to him.

[D]

Mr. Marshall, my father wants to Speak to you And Father, did you notice if Mary was still unhappy in the hammock?

[F]

No, I didn't.

[I]

Hello, Norman.

[F]

Say, Normie, have you noticed what a

[D]

perfect day it is?

[E]

Mary, dear, I thought I asked you to be careful of my cake.

[D]

But, Mother, I have to find Mary. I'm taking her to the circus.

[E]

Dear, she just left to see the new movie.

[D]

The new movie? But, Mother, it's terrible.

[E]

Terrible. You told me Agnes cried.

[D]

Sure she did. Sure she did. Because she was so mad about spending her last 35 cents on it. Say, Mother, did you mention this morning that you hadn't seen a circus since you were practically a child?

[E]

Dear, if you're thinking of inviting me, I'm taking that new Mrs. Hopkins down the street to our sewing circle meeting.

[D]

You are? But, gee, Mother, when will you ever get another chance to see a couple of elephants get married?

[E]

But, Sam, why can't you take him?

[F]

Because, Alice, I can't. An hour ago, I would have been glad to go to the circus with him. I was anxious to go, but now I can't.

[C]

Why not?

[I]

Because.

[F]

Because the person I'm playing golf with is going through a great deal of trouble to arrange things. Why doesn't he call some of his friends?

[E]

He has, dear. That's all he's been doing. And no one seems to be free.

[D]

Boy, if that isn't a fine thing.

[E]

What, dear?

[D]

Olivia Marlowe, Mother. Olivia Marlowe. She has no concern, consideration. For months she's been saying, call me up sometime, Henry. Call me up when I do, what happens?

[E]

She turned you down?

[D]

No, she's got the mumps.

[F]

That is very inconsiderate of her.

[D]

I'll say. She was my last hope.

[E]

Henry, couldn't you go alone?

[D]

Alone? By myself. Independently. Gee, Mother, even popcorn tastes different if it isn't eaten in mixed company. Well, excuse me.

[E]

Where are you going?

[D]

Nowhere. Just outside. Toss this tennis ball against the porch roof. What else is there to do?

[F]

Well, just be careful of the windows, Sam.

[E]

Just enjoy yourself, dear.

[D]

Yes, Mother.

[C]

Hi.

[B]

Huh?

[D]

Oh, hi.

[C]

I'm Elsie Hopkins. Remember? You forgot to give me one of those Chewies.

[D]

Chewies?

[C]

The candy that you promised if I went down to the corner to see if someone was coming. Or you couldn't tell which way he was moving, huh?

[D]

Oh, sure. Well, I don't have any on me. Elsie.

[C]

Oh. What you doing with that tennis ball?

[D]

Nothing. Just kind of practice pitching.

[E]

Yeah?

[C]

Are you the best pitcher in town?

[F]

I.

[C]

You certainly look like you were the best in town.

[D]

Yeah, well, I wouldn't go so Far as. So far as. Listen, Elsie.

[E]

Listen.

[D]

Did you know there's a circus in town?

[C]

Sure. Boy, I've been dying to go. You have?

[D]

Well, how would you like to go with me?

[C]

Me with you?

[D]

Sure.

[C]

You with me?

[E]

Sure.

[D]

This afternoon?

[C]

Boy, would I. Would I? I'll say would I? That is, if my mother will let me skip my nap.

[D]

Yeah.

[E]

Well,

[D]

go home and ask.

[C]

Sure, sure. I'll skate right home. I'll be back. Well, I'll just get dressed. Wait for me. I'll.

[D]

Elsie.

[C]

Oh, boy. I'll pick up that garbage can tomorrow. Oh, boy.

[D]

I'll meet you up at your house. Elsie. Henry Aldrich.

[E]

That wasn't a bit nice.

[D]

What was it?

[E]

Mother, no matter how badly you feel, you had no right knocking that little girl over.

[D]

Oh, Mother, I didn't knock her over. That's Elsie Hopkins. I'm taking her to the circus.

[C]

You are?

[E]

Do you think that's wise?

[D]

Wise?

[E]

Well, she may be a very nice little girl and all that, but children her age can to be a nuisance if you're not used to taking care of them.

[D]

Mother, she won't be a nuisance. And at least she's someone to go with.

[C]

Hey, Henry.

[D]

Gee whiz, is that Willie? Okay, Henry, let's go. Let's go where? To the circus. Where do you think, Willie, you're going

[E]

to the ball game.

[D]

Well, no, I'm not. My father let me talk him out of it without his feelings being hurt at all. Willy, that's wonderful. Sure, he's going to help out your father and play golf with him. That's swell. Come on, Willie, let's go.

[E]

Henry, just a moment. What about Elsie Hopkins? Elsie?

[D]

Oh, gee whiz, Mother, you're right. I'll just cancel her.

[E]

Henry.

[D]

Well, I can't take her and Willie both.

[E]

Henry, you'll do no such thing.

[D]

But, Mother, do you mean you don't

[E]

want me to go? Willie, dear.

[D]

Gee whiz. Seeing a family hang by their teeth might be an experience I could carry through my entire life.

[E]

Henry, naturally you can do what you want, but I'd like to point out that that little girl has feelings.

[D]

Even though she's only 11.

[E]

Yes, dear.

[D]

Okay. Just to save her feelings, suppose I send her a nice letter telling her I suddenly became in indisposed. Sure, from indisposition, dear.

[E]

A letter won't be delivered until tomorrow.

[D]

Well, how about a telegram, Willie? The kind with bluebirds on it.

[E]

Henry, if you're going to make excuses to that girl, you're going to do it in person and so she won't be hurt.

[D]

But Mother. Gee whiz, don't you realize the elephants are practically coming down the aisle this very minute?

[B]

Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family. Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family.

[E]

That's Jello Yum yum yum.

[I]

Jello puddings.

[E]

Yum yum yum.

[D]

Jello Tuft Bioca puddings. Yes siree.

[B]

Yes siree. There's nothing like getting to the circus, is there? Seeing all the animals diving into the pink lemonade and popcorn and peanut brittle. Nothing like it.

[C]

Oh yes there is.

[D]

What?

[B]

Why Jello, Agnes Lawson? What did you say?

[C]

I say you can fix up lots more exciting things to eat in your own home than you can get at a circus. Like the peanut brittle pudding I made

[B]

the other night Ball Agnes, you made it yourself?

[C]

Why sure, it's easy. All you do is fix a package of Jell O chocolate pudding as usual. And then before you serve it, you fold in a third of a cup of crushed peanut brittle and add a lot of whipped cream. Bah.

[B]

That sounds wonderful, Agnes. But then Jell O puddings are wonderful in all three flavors. Chocolate, butterscotch and vanilla. All three have real old fashioned homemade goodness. They're nourishing, made with milk and take only about five minutes to cook. That's Jello puddings, the happiest ending a meal ever came to.

[J]

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[B]

And now, getting back to the troubles of Henry Aldrich. The scene opens in the Hopkins living room.

[C]

But heck, Father, you should have told me sooner.

[B]

Elsie, I didn't know sooner. Mr. Marshall just gave me the tickets.

[F]

I thought you liked ball games.

[C]

Well, I do. Father, what will Henry think if I stand him up for the circus?

[F]

He'll think you're a well brought up young lady who'd rather go with her

[B]

father than anyone else.

[C]

Father, you put everything on such a maudlin plane.

[F]

Okay, okay.

[B]

If you'd rather spend the afternoon with a total stranger than Your own father?

[D]

Well, that's okay with me.

[C]

But, Father. Gee whiz, Elsie, dear, I'd like to

[E]

have a little talk with you first.

[C]

Mother, could you speak to Father and point out that he's not seeing my side at all?

[E]

Well, dear, I'm afraid you're not seeing his side either. And you're not very considerate of his feelings.

[C]

Well, Mother, why can't Tommy go with Father to the ball game? Because Tommy's an older girl and much more.

[H]

Much more.

[E]

Well, she sort of lost her interest in baseball, but heck. Elsie, I can't order you to go with your father, but if you'll take my advice, you'll cancel your appointment with Henry.

[C]

Yes, Mother.

[E]

And don't say heck. And see who's at the door, dear, while I start lunch.

[C]

Yes, Mother.

[E]

Yes, siree. But speaking of mysteries, Danny, I wish you'd clear one up for me.

[B]

Why Jello, Aunt Harriet?

[E]

Why is it you talk about Jell o desserts but never say a word about the beautiful warm weather salads you can make with Jell?

[B]

Oh, say, that's right, Aunt Harriet. Have you any suggestions?

[E]

Indeed I have. One that Alvin, I mean, my friend Mr. Springer, says is the best he ever tasted.

[B]

Well, tell us more.

[E]

Well, for a delicious fruit salad, all you do is dissolve a package of lime jello in 2 cups of hot water and pineapple juice. When it's slightly thickened, add diced canned pineapple, a diced apple and a sliced banana. Then you chill it in individual molds and serve on crisp lettuce.

[C]

It's wonderful.

[B]

Well, that I believe, because Jello's such a treat in all six delicious flavors. Strawberry, raspberry, cherry, orange, lemon and lime. All six flavors have wonderful fruit like goodness flavor that can't get out till your first tempting spoonful. So better take Aunt Harriet's advice and enjoy Jell O salads all summer. And now, getting back to the troubles of Henry Aldrich. It is later the same day and the scene opens on the highway outside Centerville.

[E]

Sam, are you sure you're still on Route 5?

[F]

Positive, Alice. Henry, pass me another sandwich, please.

[D]

Another? Sure, Father.

[E]

Here.

[F]

Thank you.

[D]

Don't thank me, Father. You're into Homer's share now.

[F]

Henry, considering I missed my lunch, Father,

[D]

it's not that I mind sacrificing the food, but. Where's the bus?

[E]

Sam, do you suppose it might have turned off somewhere?

[F]

Not if he's following his route.

[D]

Father, look.

[G]

Where?

[D]

That little roadside place. We're coming to see that sign.

[E]

Trucks and buses welcome Sam, stop.

[F]

What for, Father?

[D]

It. It won't hurt to ask whether the bus went by here.

[F]

Very well.

[D]

Hello there.

[E]

Hello, Folg. Fix you a nice lunch?

[F]

No, thank you. We just stopped to ask if the mystery bus has been here.

[E]

Mystery bus? Don't even know what it is. Although, look at some of the buses come in here. It's a mystery they let them on the road. That's the name of the bus we're looking for.

[H]

Oh.

[E]

Well, there hasn't been more than one bus stopped here today. And that was loaded to the gunwales with kids.

[D]

Kids, Father, that's it. Where did they go?

[E]

Why, they were headed for an outing up at the state park. Oh, boy.

[D]

Father, let's get going and.

[F]

Now, just a moment, Henry. Do you realize how many buses probably are with youngsters in them on a Saturday morning?

[D]

But don't you think it's worth taking a look?

[F]

Now, Henry.

[D]

Sam.

[E]

What can we lose?

[F]

Alice, the park is 25 miles square. There are at least a dozen different picnic grounds on it.

[D]

Father, can I just ask the lady if. Ma', am, was there a fellow on that bus about my size, but with a very small head?

[E]

Well, I couldn't say. But if you do catch up with him, you might take this along and give it to whoever dropped it.

[F]

Well, I'm not sure that we.

[D]

Wait a minute, Father. That's Homer's.

[F]

It is?

[B]

Sure.

[E]

Henry, what would Homer be doing with a box of curry powder?

[D]

It was part of our lunch.

[E]

What?

[D]

Lady, you said the state park.

[H]

That's right.

[D]

Well, Father, what are we waiting for?

[C]

Come on, Auntie. Homer, you had to do it again.

[H]

I'm not going to.

[C]

You don't have to.

[H]

No. And that's all there is to.

[C]

But that's not fair.

[H]

I don't care. I'm not going through the mill again.

[C]

But we beat you that game of ghost fair and square.

[H]

No, you didn't. I was framed.

[C]

Uncle Homer, we wouldn't do that to you.

[H]

You knew darn well if you started spelling applesauce, it would end up on me. Now, listen, girls. Can't you skip rope or something while I sit down and rest?

[C]

Our scout master doesn't have to.

[H]

But your scoutmaster's a lady. She's used to this.

[C]

Why did she go away with the

[H]

bus just to pick up some milk

[D]

for all of you?

[C]

Uncle Homer, I know why. Let's play Hop Along, Cassidy. Yeah, come on.

[H]

My thing.

[D]

Now, wait.

[C]

Now, Brownie.

[F]

Ow.

[H]

Listen, who's the wise guy that threw this lasso? Gee, Whiz girls, will you kindly remember that you're ladies.

[C]

Oh, look, here comes the car.

[H]

Where? Gee whiz, that looks like. Oh boy, it is Mr. Aldrich. Mr. Aldridge.

[C]

Uncle Homer, where are you going?

[H]

Goodbye, girls, and have a very night. Now listen, who tripped me?

[C]

We didn't trip you. You're still lasso.

[H]

Well, get it off me.

[C]

But Uncle Homer, Hopalong never lets his man get away.

[H]

But girls, that car's liable.

[E]

Here they are.

[H]

They're driving away. Mr. Aldrich, you can't leave me like this. Girls, please. Mr. Aldrich. Way girls, won't you please. Now listen, you little brownies. Let go of that ro.

[C]

Why did Uncle Homer have to go

[F]

to Crystal Brook to meet the mystery bus?

[C]

But who's going to be our leader?

[F]

I suppose. I suppose I'm your leader temporarily.

[C]

You are? What's your name?

[F]

I guess you can just call me Uncle Sam.

[C]

Hello, Uncle Sam.

[F]

How do you do? And now that we've been properly introduced, would one of you mind untying me?

[I]

But Mr. Fuller, don't you. Hello. Hello.

[G]

I'm still here, Al.

[I]

Well, don't you think I've waited long enough for that kid? This was supposed to be a five minute stop and I've been here for more than a half hour.

[G]

Well, Al, are you sure you'll looked everywhere? Everywhere. Did you look at that?

[F]

Of course.

[I]

That was the first place I checked. Tell you, this kid just disappeared off the face of the earth. Mr. Fuller, the other kids are getting pretty restless.

[G]

They are?

[B]

Sure.

[I]

They're starting their picnic right on the bus. We got their lunches open. They've even got a phonograph going. They're dancing in the aisle.

[D]

What?

[I]

Sure. And when I left, the gym team was trying to build a pyramid.

[G]

Al, get started quick.

[I]

Well, that's another thing, Mr. Fuller. I lost so much time here. I don't see how I'm going to make it to Crystal Brook and still get back at a decent hour.

[G]

Oh, now Al, have any of those kids found out where they're going?

[I]

Well now, Mr. Fuller, you know me better than that.

[G]

Well, then maybe you better go up to the state park instead.

[I]

Okay. And Mr. Fuller, while I got you on.

[G]

Yes?

[I]

Is there any chance of my getting back on that straight downtown run?

[H]

Come on, Henry, admit it. You don't know where you're going.

[D]

Sure I do. Sure I do. This dirt road leads to the main highway. Now, boys.

[H]

Mrs. Aldrich, he's your son. Hasn't he got a terrible sense of direction?

[D]

Homer, for a Person who started out on a mystery bus trip and ended up with a load of brownies. You're a fine one to talk.

[E]

Now, boys, suppose we all relax and keep our eyes open for a sign.

[H]

Okay. And, Mrs. Aldrich, would you like to finish the sandwich?

[D]

What?

[E]

Homer, don't you feel well?

[H]

Not very well.

[D]

Homer, I told you not to sprinkle all that curry powder on the only sandwich there was.

[H]

Gee whiz, what a terrible day.

[E]

Now, Homer, when we get to Crystal Brook, I'll see that you get a nice hot lunch.

[H]

Frankly, I think I'd prefer something ice cold and. There. There what? You see that farmhouse? That's the second time we passed it.

[D]

Homer, you're crazy.

[H]

I am not, dear.

[E]

Are you sure?

[H]

Of course. I remember it had a red barn.

[D]

Homer, did you ever see a farmhouse that didn't have a red barn?

[H]

Plenty of them.

[D]

Well, that just shows how much you know about agriculture.

[E]

Now, Henry, let's not run around in circles. Suppose you just go in there and ask.

[D]

Okay, but it's just a waste of time.

[H]

Henry, if they look like nice people, see if they'll give you a glass of water.

[D]

Okay. Homer.

[E]

My goodness, I hope I don't have this much trouble when I drive back to pick up Mr. Aldrich.

[H]

Gee whiz, I forgot all about him. Do you think he'll hold it against me, Mrs. Aldrich?

[E]

Hold what, dear?

[H]

His getting stuck with those kids.

[E]

Of course he won't. Why, Mr. Aldrich is very fond of children.

[H]

Yeah, but is he fond of Hopalong Cassidy?

[E]

I don't know, but I'm sure he's having the time of his life.

[H]

Gee whiz, luck.

[E]

Is that a bus?

[H]

Yeah, and I'll be darned if it doesn't look like.

[C]

Gee whiz.

[H]

It is. It's the mystery bus.

[C]

Are you sure?

[H]

Positive. But what's it doing all the way up here?

[E]

Homer, don't waste a second. Go right in there and get Henry, and I'll stop the bus.

[C]

Henry.

[H]

Henry, come quick.

[E]

Stop. Stop.

[I]

What's the matter, lady? Bridge out?

[E]

No, but I've got two passengers that belong on your bus.

[I]

On this bus? The mystery bus?

[E]

That's right.

[I]

They fell off.

[C]

No.

[I]

You mean they jumped out of a window?

[E]

No.

[I]

Where are they? I'm way behind.

[D]

Hey.

[I]

Holy smoke. Look at this.

[C]

My goodness.

[E]

It's another bus.

[I]

Hey, who's that?

[B]

Charlie?

[D]

Is that ul?

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

What are you doing way up here?

[I]

It's a long story, Charlie. Would you mind backing up and letting me buy.

[F]

Oh, well, I think you better back up.

[B]

You see, I've got to get this milk back to my brownies.

[I]

But, Charlie, you don't know what these kids are doing on my bus. I gotta get them to someplace where they can get out. I know, but wait a second. If we could get this car out of the way. Lady, could you move that car over a little?

[E]

Well, my son took the keys, but he should be right out.

[I]

Is that him now?

[C]

No, that homer. Where's Henry?

[H]

Mrs. Aldridge, something terrible has happened.

[E]

Oh, my goodness. What?

[H]

Henry went into the bathroom to get me a drink of water, see, and.

[C]

And. Oh, no.

[H]

Yes, ma'.

[E]

Am.

[H]

He's stuck in there again.

[F]

And.

[G]

Mrs. Aldrich, I want to thank you for taking the trouble to come down here.

[E]

Why, Mr. Fuller, it was nothing. I just wanted to be sure those two drivers wouldn't have to take all the blame.

[B]

I understand.

[E]

Because if it wasn't for our car being stuck in the first place, that Dr. Would never have tried going through the field.

[G]

Well, it was a rather unusual situation.

[E]

My goodness. Yes. I certainly never heard of anyone trying to raise rice in this state before. No, and as far as the other bus is concerned, I'm afraid I was the one who suggested that he drive in and pull the first one out.

[G]

Mrs. Aldrich, I'm sure your intentions were the best. As a matter of fact, you had your own problems at the time.

[E]

Yes.

[G]

Well, how did they get your son out of there?

[E]

Why, the gym team built a lovely pyramid. Oh, here's Henry now.

[D]

Hello, mother. Oh, hello, Mr. Fuller.

[G]

Hello, son. I hope your class wasn't too disappointed about the mystery bus ride ending up like that.

[H]

Gee whiz.

[D]

No. They say they had a wonderful time right there on the bus.

[G]

Yes, so I heard. That reminds me, I'll have to call AC and ask him the name of that company that wanted to buy some of our old buses.

[E]

Excuse me, Mr. Fuller.

[G]

Yes, Ms. Arnold?

[E]

I've just had a call from a little grocery up near the state park in regard to that busload of brownies.

[G]

They've been found?

[E]

Yes, they just arrived at this grocery store.

[G]

In the bus?

[E]

No, they just came down the road marching and singing.

[G]

For heaven's sake. Tell them we'll send a bus right out.

[E]

Well, the person who called says they want a hike all the way into town.

[G]

They do?

[E]

Yes, except there's an old man with them who refuses to budge another step.

[C]

What?

[D]

Oh, boy.

[E]

Miss, would you please call back and tell that old man that his wife is on her way out to get him right Now.

[C]

Hi, Homer. Wait a minute.

[H]

Gee whistock, Henry. Here comes String Bean Kittinger.

[D]

Too late.

[C]

Hi, Homer. Hi, Henry. Say, I want to ask you both to a party I'm throwing for the gang tonight.

[D]

Well, I'll tell you, Stringbean.

[H]

You see, it's this way.

[C]

Stringbean and Waitie hear about the swell egg we're having?

[H]

Oh, oh, we are?

[F]

Sure.

[C]

And I made them myself. A big batch of brownies. All you want to eat brownies.

[H]

Now, listen, Stringbean.

[B]

Well, now, maybe Homer's fed up for the moment on that word. But I know a word kids can never hear too often, and that's Jell O for dessert. Yes, Jell O in those six delicious flavors. Strawberry, raspberry, cherry, orange, lemon and lime. All six rich with wonderful locked in goodness Flavors so tempting and fruit like. It reminds you of the cherry orchard and the berry patch. So look for those big red letters on the box. They spell Jell O. And Jello spells a treat. The name Jello is a registered trademark of general food. The Ulrich family. Starring Ezra Stone as Henry Jackie Calcus Homer is written by Norman Tokar and Ed Jurist with music by Jack Miller. Mr. And Mrs. Aldrich are house Jameson and Katherine Roth. And this is Dan Seymour in New York saying, the Aldrich family is brought to you by the Jello family.

[C]

O.

[D]

The big red letters stand for the Jello family. Oh, the big red letters stand for the Jello family.

[H]

That's Jello. Yum yum yum.

[D]

Jello puddings. Yum yum yum. Jello, Daddy.

[B]

Friends, our governmental independence drive going on right now reminds us all over again that buying United States Savings Bonds is the safest savings plan in the world and a very profitable investment. For every $3 invested in E bonds today, you receive $4 in 10 short years. Buy more United States Savings Bonds. It means security for you and for your country. Say, listen to this.

[E]

It's new, it's new, it can't be beat.

[C]

The grandest treat you ever did eat Post Sugar Crisp. As a cereal, it's dandy for snacks, it's so handy. Or eat it like candy as the cereal is dandy. Or eat it like candy. Post Sugar Crisp.

[B]

Look for the red, white and blue cellophane bag with the three little bears that's Post Sugar Crisp. Today, enjoy this honey of a new cereal that's fun to eat. Next, robert young stars in father knows best on NBC.

[E]

It.