Aldrich Family - Henry Loses Gift Watch From Aunt Harriet

Summary

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Episode Overview

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Aldrich Family - Henry Loses Gift Watch From Aunt Harriet
Date: March 9, 2026

This episode features a classic slice of Golden Age radio comedy from "The Aldrich Family." The story revolves around Henry Aldrich’s chaos after misplacing a precious wristwatch—a gift from his Aunt Harriet—which sets off a whirlwind evening of mishaps, misunderstandings, and madcap family antics. As Henry frantically tries to avoid disappointing his well-meaning but exacting aunt (and missing out on a promised bicycle), he involves friends and family in increasingly tangled schemes. The episode showcases the era's family-centered humor, clever dialogue, and the relatable panic of losing something important.

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Key Discussion Points and Episode Breakdown

1. The Lost Watch & Family Anticipation

[01:38–03:34]

• Henry’s Dilemma: Henry realizes he can’t find the wristwatch Aunt Harriet gave him, right before she arrives for a family dinner.
• Family Banter: His mother, Mrs. Aldrich, reminds him to wash up, emphasizing Aunt Harriet’s keen eye for propriety.
• Mary’s Questions: Mary quickly surmises Henry's trouble:

  “Do you mean to say you lost that beautiful watch she sent you?”
  (Mary Aldrich, [03:12])

• Anxiety Over Aunt Harriet: The stakes rise when Henry recalls Aunt Harriet promised a bicycle if he proved responsible with the watch.

2. Desperate Measures, Desperate Friends

[03:53–06:34]

• Seeking Help: Henry scours friend Herbert Thompson’s house, convinced he left his watch there.
• Bartering for Time: Unable to find the watch, Henry desperately negotiates to borrow Herbert’s identical watch.
  • Memorable Barter:

    “Would you let me wear your watch if I give you all my allowance for the week of October 15th?”
    (Henry Aldrich, [04:46])

  • Herbert’s Reluctance: Herbert’s mother is suspicious; Henry's reputation isn't stellar:

    “They don’t even think you’re a very good influence for me.”
    (Herbert Thompson, [04:42])

• Family Values: Herbert’s mother insists he reclaim his watch or lose a month’s allowance.

3. Dinner Table Tensions

[06:53–10:12]

• Aunt Harriet Arrives: The Aldrich family dinner commences, peppered with Aunt Harriet’s pointed observations and Henry’s jittery attempts to appear composed.
• Watch Panic Intensifies: Herbert lurks, trying to retrieve his watch from Henry without causing a scene.
• Classic Comedy of Errors: Arguments, misplaced blame over missing pieces of pie, and Mary’s running tally of chores add to the confusion.

4. Secret Deals & Escalating Consequences

[10:12–14:14]

• Covert Exchanges: Henry sneaks away to return the watch to Herbert, only to drop it in the dark basement.
  • Physical Comedy:

    “It's a funny thing. I fell all around on the floor. There isn't any sign of it.”
    (Henry Aldrich, [12:48])

• Lockout Trouble: Herbert becomes trapped in Mr. Aldrich’s workroom after a door is accidentally locked—a subplot that heightens the farce.

5. Post-Dinner Crisis & Collateral Bargaining

[14:29–17:47]

• Covering Up: While Herbert is stuck, Henry barters with Mary to keep the locksmith involved, promising even more allowance as bribes.
  • Sibling Quid Pro Quo:

    “You get my allowance for the second and third weeks in November.”
    (Henry Aldrich, [15:18])

• Rummy with Aunt Harriet: Henry must play rummy to avoid suspicion, while the locksmith confusion continues and Herbert languishes in the basement.

6. The Resolution & Final Reveal

[19:12–23:29]

• Herbert Freed: After much confusion, Herbert escapes without exposing Henry.
• Aunt Harriet Wants the Watch:
  • High Stakes:

    “Henry, I want to see your watch.”
    (Aunt Harriet, [20:50]) “How would you like to have me take this down to the jeweler’s and have your monogram put on it?”
    (Aunt Harriet, [20:59])

• The Truth Emerges: Just as Aunt Harriet realizes Henry’s watch is missing, Nancy Adams arrives with the lost watch and an unsent thank-you note, resolving the chaos.
  • Aunt Harriet's Reaction:

    “Well, how would you account for a thing like that?”
    (Aunt Harriet, [23:23])

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Memorable Quotes & Moments

• On Responsibility:

  “If my Aunt Harriet finds I’ve misplaced it, she’ll get depressed and refuse to give me a bicycle.”
  (Henry Aldrich, [04:30])

• On Sibling Support (and Extortion):

  “You get my allowance for the second and third weeks in November.”
  (Henry Aldrich, [15:18])

• On Family Chaos:

  “It isn't like them to be that nice.”
  (Mr. Aldrich, [22:24])

• On the Perpetual Crisis:

  “Boy, does time fly in a crisis.”
  (Henry Aldrich, [15:51])

• On Multigenerational Humor:

  “Only girls use their monograms.”
  (Henry Aldrich, [21:21])

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• Lost Watch Realization: [01:38–02:28]
• Bartering for Herbert's Watch: [03:53–05:27]
• Dinner Antics Begin: [06:53–10:12]
• Basement Watch Search & Lock-in: [12:02–14:14]
• Herbert's Lock-In & Locksmith Confusion: [14:46–17:47]
• Aunt Harriet Asks for the Watch: [20:50–21:14]
• Resolution (Nancy Returns Watch): [23:13–23:29]

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Tone

Lighthearted, fast-paced, and filled with gentle ribbing characteristic of 1940s American radio comedies. The chaos is always buoyed by affection and familial warmth, with Henry’s blunders met by exasperation but never real anger.

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Summary

This episode brilliantly captures a moment of relatable teenage panic and the domino effect of one small mistake spiraling into comedic disaster. From frantic searches to farcical bartering and a final, perfectly timed reveal, it’s a showcase of classic radio farce—underscored by the Aldrich Family’s enduring fondness for each other.

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Transcript

[Narrator]

The sun's shining, birds are singing, and all feels right in the world.

Until the season changes and suddenly you lose your motivation to get out of bed. In fact, one in five people experience some form of depression, no matter the season or time of year.

At the American Psychiatric association foundation, our vision is to build a mentally healthy nation for all, because we want you to live your best life and be your best you all year round.

Please visit mentallyhealthynation.org to learn more.

[Announcer]

The Aldrich Family.

[Narrator]

Based on characters originated by Clifford Goldsmith and starring Ezra Stone as Henry. With Jackie Kelk as Homer.

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry Aldrich.

[Henry Aldrich]

Coming, Mother?

[Announcer]

Each election year, we hear a lot of talk about favorite sons. But Centerville, USA, claims one who has nothing to do with politics. Mr. And Mrs. Aldrich's boy, Henry. And because he is just a real American boy, well, that makes Henry Aldrich everybody's favorite son. Our scene tonight opens in the Aldrich living room where we find Henry and his sister Mary.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mary. Mary.

[Mary Aldrich]

What is it, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Mary, have you seen my new wristwatch anyplace?

[Mary Aldrich]

Your wristwatch? Where did you leave it?

[Henry Aldrich]

I didn't leave it any place. I just can't find it.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Mary, you haven't finished what you were

[Mary Aldrich]

doing in the kitchen. Oh, I'll go right out, Mother.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

And, Henry, I want you to go upstairs and get washed.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother. Just as soon as I'd finished looking for something.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Wash especially. Well, dear, Aunt Harriet's going to be here for dinner.

[Henry Aldrich]

She is?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

And you know how she is about everything like that. May I ask what you're upsetting all the cushions on the sofa for?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, nothing. I just happen to be looking for something.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I certainly hope you wrote your Aunt Harriet and thanked her for the lovely wristwatch she sent you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother. I wrote her the minute I heard she was coming. Oh, you didn't find anything out of the ordinary when you swept under the sofa, did you?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

What would you call out of the ordinary?

[Aunt Harriet]

Nothing.

[Henry Aldrich]

Just dust or something.

[Mary Aldrich]

Hello there. What time should I put the potatoes on?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Oh, Henry, what time is it?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, it's exactly about. I should say it's.

[Mr. Aldrich]

The time is 26 minutes after 6.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello, Father. AM I glad to see you.

[Mary Aldrich]

Put the potatoes on right away, Mary.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry, I hope you're going to wash before Aunt Harriet gets here.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. Have you seen anything lying around that's sort of round and shiny?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Such as what?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, if you saw it, you couldn't help but notice it.

[Mary Aldrich]

Father, Mother wants to know whether you remember to bring that picture Aunt Harriet gave us down. From the attic.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Which one?

[Mary Aldrich]

The Coliseum. In ruins.

[Mr. Aldrich]

I'll go up and get it.

[Mary Aldrich]

Oh, and Henry, Mother says that a dinner you ought to sit on Aunt Harriet's.

[Henry Aldrich]

Right on her right where she can see my left wrist.

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry Aldrich, do you mean to say you lost that beautiful watch she sent you?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, Mary, I'm sure I can find it.

[Mary Aldrich]

Oh, my goodness, if you can. You know how depressed Aunt Harriet gets over a thing like that.

[Henry Aldrich]

That isn't the half of it. She said if I take good care of it, maybe she'd give me a new bicycle.

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry, haven't you washed yet?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother. Mary, if anyone asks where I am, tell them I'll be right back.

[Mary Aldrich]

Where are you going?

[Henry Aldrich]

I just happen to remember I left my watch across the street at Nancy Adams'. I'll be right back. Mar, Can't you help me look for my watch?

[Herbert Thompson]

Herbert, are you sure you left it here?

[Henry Aldrich]

I must. I've just been over at Nancy Adams's and it isn't there any place.

[Herbert Thompson]

But, Henry, I don't see how you could lose a watch on my front lawn.

[Henry Aldrich]

This is where I remember wearing it last. Herbert, let me see the watch you have on.

[Herbert Thompson]

Now, listen, Henry, this isn't yours.

[Henry Aldrich]

It's exactly like mine.

[Herbert Thompson]

It's the same make. But is your strap worn as much as this?

[Henry Aldrich]

No.

[Herbert Thompson]

Was the second hand gone?

[Mr. Aldrich]

No.

[Henry Aldrich]

But could I borrow that watch just for this evening?

[Herbert Thompson]

No. Henry, you don't know how to take care of a watch.

[Henry Aldrich]

I've never ruined the strap or busted my second hand, have I?

[Herbert Thompson]

No, but you've lost a whole watch, haven't you?

[Henry Aldrich]

But if my Aunt Harriet finds I've misplaced it, she'll. She'll get depressed and refuse to give me a bicycle.

[Herbert Thompson]

Henry, you're the last person in the world my folks would want me to loan my watch to.

[Henry Aldrich]

What makes them feel that way about me?

[Herbert Thompson]

They don't even think you're a very good influence for me.

[Henry Aldrich]

All right, listen. Would you let me wear your watch if I give you all my allowance for the week of October 15th?

[Herbert Thompson]

Why would I have to wait that long?

[Henry Aldrich]

I owe everything until then.

[Herbert Thompson]

I wouldn't be interested.

[Henry Aldrich]

You wouldn't be interested? Well, would you consider two weeks allowance beginning October 15th?

[Herbert Thompson]

No.

[Henry Aldrich]

But I wouldn't be asking you to help me if it didn't mean a lot.

[Herbert Thompson]

Henry, my folks will raise the deuce.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm not asking you to give me your watch. Tomorrow I'll bring it back as safe as though I'd never taken it.

[Herbert Thompson]

But supposing my folks ask me what time it is?

[Henry Aldrich]

All right. Give me a call and I'll be glad to tell you what time it is.

[Herbert Thompson]

Would you give me 3 weeks allowance?

[Henry Aldrich]

3? Sure.

[Herbert Thompson]

Come on over by this tree so my mother doesn't see it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Herbert, if there's ever anything I can do for you of any nature whatsoever, just name it. Here.

[Herbert Thompson]

Henry's.

[Henry Aldrich]

The watch. Thanks, Herbert. Boy, have I gotta run. It's a good thing we're eating late tonight.

[Herbert Thompson]

Now, be careful. What is it, Mother?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

You have the correct time.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, it's exactly 12 minutes to 7, Mrs. Thompson.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Herbert, could you come here a minute, please?

[Herbert Thompson]

Don't you think I ought to put the lawnmower away first?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Will you please come here?

[Aunt Harriet]

Sure.

[Herbert Thompson]

Has something gone wrong?

[Mary Aldrich]

Mother, may I see your watch, please? My watch? You didn't by any chance give it to Henry, did you?

[Herbert Thompson]

To Henry?

[Mary Aldrich]

What was it you gave him?

[Herbert Thompson]

I didn't give him anything. I loaned him my watch. But, Mother, he's going to give me his allowance for the last two weeks in October and the first week in November.

[Mary Aldrich]

Herbert, do you realize how much your father paid for that watch?

[Herbert Thompson]

But the money Henry's paying me is interest on the investment.

[Mary Aldrich]

I want you to march over to Henry's house and get that watch.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

This minute.

[Henry Aldrich]

Right now, at once.

[Herbert Thompson]

But, Mother, I don't think I should ever.

[Mary Aldrich]

Do you want me to tell your father?

[Herbert Thompson]

Okay, I'll go.

[Mary Aldrich]

And if you dare to come home without your watch you will go without your allowance for one entire month.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam, ask Harriet whether she won't have another piece of steak.

[Mr. Aldrich]

More steak, Harriet?

[Aunt Harriet]

No, thank you. How many nights a week can you people afford steak?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, we're really having this for you.

[Aunt Harriet]

You needn't have bought it for me.

[Henry Aldrich]

Where's Henry?

[Mary Aldrich]

He ought to be done any minute, Aunt Harriet. I heard him run upstairs a little while ago.

[Aunt Harriet]

Father never let us be late when we were children.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Ulrich.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Do you realize we're practically through with dinner?

[Henry Aldrich]

I'll be right there, Sam.

[Aunt Harriet]

As long as you have so much steak, give me that piece next to the bone.

[Mr. Aldrich]

All right, sir.

[Aunt Harriet]

What on earth is that?

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, I'm awfully sorry I'm late. Hello, Aunt Harry.

[Aunt Harriet]

How do you do?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry, didn't you know what time it was?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh. Oh, yes, Father. It's ten minutes after seven.

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry, where did you get that watch?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, Mary, why?

[Mary Aldrich]

Oh, nothing. Will you have some bread, Aunt Harry?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, thank you. Aunt Harriet, I want to tell you how very much I appreciate the watch.

[Aunt Harriet]

Why didn't you write me about it?

[Henry Aldrich]

I did, Aunt Harriet. Didn't you get the letter?

[Aunt Harriet]

I did not. Let me see the watch.

[Henry Aldrich]

Here it is.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Who could that be at the door?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I see who it is.

[Mary Aldrich]

Don't you want me to, Mother?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

No, thank you, Mary. I'm already on the way.

[Henry Aldrich]

So you like to watch Aunt Harriet? I wouldn't part with it for any.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Hello there, Herbert.

[Herbert Thompson]

How do you do, Mrs. Orange? Could I speak to Henry a minute?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I'm sorry, but Henry's at dinner.

[Herbert Thompson]

But I have to sing.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

We're having guests, Herbert.

[Herbert Thompson]

Well, could I go into the dining room and speak to him?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

No, you better go back home and see him tomorrow morning.

[Herbert Thompson]

Oh, no, I'll wait here until he's through.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

But Henry will be busy all evening. Herbert, I'm quite sure anything you have to say can wait until morning. Goodbye, dear.

[Herbert Thompson]

Okay, Mrs. Aldrich. The only thing is.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

My goodness, Herbert Thompson never comes over to this house except when we're eating.

[Aunt Harriet]

Who doesn't?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Herbert?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, Herbert. Herbert Thompson?

[Aunt Harriet]

Yes. What's the matter with him?

[Henry Aldrich]

Nothing, Henry.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Are you all through?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. I've caught up with you.

[Mary Aldrich]

Well, I'll clear the table, then.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Mary, you helped with dinner. I'm sure Henry would be glad to clear the table.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, yes, Mother. Sure. Should we keep our forks for the pie?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

No, Dave, we're going to have clean ones.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, okay.

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry, don't break anything going through that door. I won't.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Now, put everything on the big kitchen table.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother.

[Herbert Thompson]

Hey, Henry. Hey, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whiz.

[Herbert Thompson]

Who's that? It's me, Herbert.

[Henry Aldrich]

Where are you?

[Herbert Thompson]

Here, behind the refrigerator. Oh, Henry, I gotta have my watch.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, listen, Herbert, aren't I paying you for the use of it?

[Herbert Thompson]

But if I don't get it, I'll lose a month's allowance.

[Henry Aldrich]

Herbert, you can't back out on a bargain.

[Herbert Thompson]

But you shouldn't have talked me into it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Listen, Herbert, have sense. Can't you see? I'm. I'm.

[Herbert Thompson]

Do I or don't I get my watch?

[Henry Aldrich]

Let me have it just until the end of the meal.

[Announcer]

No.

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother?

[Mary Aldrich]

When are you coming back? For the rest of these days.

[Henry Aldrich]

Right away, Mother.

[Herbert Thompson]

Henry, wait.

[Henry Aldrich]

Get out, Herbert. I gotta go back.

[Herbert Thompson]

I'm gonna wait right here, Henry, until I get that watch.

[Henry Aldrich]

No, Herbert. Henry, I'm just putting the dishes down carefully, Mother. Here I come. Was there something you wanted?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I'll take the rest of the dishes out.

[Henry Aldrich]

Wait, Mother. I'll take it. I'll take everything in one load. Henry, look up I haven't spilled a thing.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Please sit down while I take these things out.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Mother, why not at least let Mary? She's good at a thing like that.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Mary's done more than her share.

[Henry Aldrich]

Then I think I'll go up and lie down.

[Mr. Aldrich]

What's the matter with you?

[Henry Aldrich]

I have a fever.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

You're not to go to bed until the dishes are done. I'll be right back with the pie.

[Mary Aldrich]

Harriet.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry, must you drink an entire glass of water in one gulp?

[Mary Aldrich]

Oh, goodness gracious. Henry, what are you doing?

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm dying.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Here.

[Aunt Harriet]

Here, let me slap you on the back.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm all right, Aunt Harriet.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

What do you think I found in the kitchen?

[Henry Aldrich]

Listen, Mother, let me explain.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Elaine, I left the burner on under a brand new pan.

[Henry Aldrich]

You left the burner on under a pan?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I did. Here, Harry, it's a piece of pie for you.

[Aunt Harriet]

I couldn't eat a piece that big unless there's some cheese to go with it.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I have the cheese right here.

[Henry Aldrich]

Where are you going now, Mother?

[Mary Aldrich]

Back to get the rest of the pie.

[Henry Aldrich]

I don't want any.

[Mary Aldrich]

But, Henry, the rest of us might.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh. Oh, sure. Of course.

[Aunt Harriet]

Henry, you still need a new bicycle.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I could certainly use one.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Mary.

[Mary Aldrich]

Yes, Mother?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

How many pieces of pie did you cut?

[Aunt Harriet]

Five.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, I brought in two, and when I just went back out, there were only two left.

[Henry Aldrich]

There's one missing.

[Aunt Harriet]

There is?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I guess Mary only cut four,

[Mary Aldrich]

but I'm sure I cut five.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, don't go back, Mother. I can't eat a thing.

[Aunt Harriet]

It's the best pie I ever ate.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, what could that be?

[Henry Aldrich]

That whistle?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, I imagine it's just one of the fellows outside or something.

[Aunt Harriet]

As though it were right here in this house.

[Mary Aldrich]

I think it was in the cellar.

[Henry Aldrich]

From the cellar, Mary? Mm. That's ridiculous. Gee whiz. What is there in the cellar that would whistle? Oh, will you have some salt, Aunt

[Aunt Harriet]

Harriet, on my pie?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, some people like it.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry, the doctor says Aunt Harriet must never touch salt.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, in that case, she certainly doesn't want any.

[Aunt Harriet]

Isn't that strange?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam, is the hot water heater down the basement all right?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Perhaps I'd better go down and see.

[Henry Aldrich]

You sit still, Father, and finish your pie.

[Mr. Aldrich]

I don't care for any.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I'm halfway out to the kitchen already.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Just turn the draft off.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. Hey, Herbert, you here in the kitchen?

[Herbert Thompson]

Herbert?

[Henry Aldrich]

Herbert, you down here in the basement?

[Herbert Thompson]

Yes, and I want my watch.

[Henry Aldrich]

My gosh, it's so dark down here. Where are you?

[Herbert Thompson]

In the Co.

[Henry Aldrich]

Listen, Herbert, do you want to get me into serious trouble?

[Herbert Thompson]

You want me to go up and tell you a. Harriet, that's my watch you have.

[Henry Aldrich]

Please, I beg of you, with all that's decent inside of you. Herbert, please don't go up.

[Herbert Thompson]

Well, I'm going up right now.

[Henry Aldrich]

All right, Herbert, here's your watch.

[Herbert Thompson]

Gee whiz, you better give it to me.

[Henry Aldrich]

Here, take the darn thing.

[Aunt Harriet]

Gee whiz.

[Henry Aldrich]

Did you drop it?

[Herbert Thompson]

You drop it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Where is it?

[Herbert Thompson]

Don't you have any light in this part of the cellar?

[Henry Aldrich]

What do you want with a light in the coal bin for? Are you sure you aren't stepping on it?

[Herbert Thompson]

How would I know if I am? Henry, you'll be responsible.

[Henry Aldrich]

It's a funny thing. I fell all around on the floor. There isn't any sign of it.

[Herbert Thompson]

Let me.

[Henry Aldrich]

Do you have it?

[Herbert Thompson]

No.

[Henry Aldrich]

Herbert, here's a broom. Stand up in the coal while I try to find it by sweeping.

[Herbert Thompson]

Okay.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry. Yes, Father?

[Mr. Aldrich]

What are you doing down there?

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm sweeping the cellar.

[Mr. Aldrich]

What for?

[Henry Aldrich]

It's something I should have done weeks ago.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Herbert.

[Henry Aldrich]

Herbert, look. I found it. It's okay.

[Herbert Thompson]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Look out, Henry. Herbert. Herbert, are you buried?

[Herbert Thompson]

Give me the watch, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Quick, Herbert, quick. My father's coming, I think.

[Herbert Thompson]

Let me up the stairs.

[Henry Aldrich]

You can't go upstairs. You gotta go in here in this little room where my father has his workbench.

[Herbert Thompson]

Okay, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Don't bother to come down.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Father, what's the trouble down there?

[Narrator]

Nothing.

[Henry Aldrich]

Are you in there, Herbert? Yeah. Well, close the door tight.

[Aunt Harriet]

I can't.

[Herbert Thompson]

There's no latch on the inside.

[Henry Aldrich]

Here, I'll close it.

[Herbert Thompson]

Give me my watch.

[Mr. Aldrich]

May I ask why you're sweeping the cellar while your Aunt Harriet is taking dinner with us?

[Henry Aldrich]

I guess I just didn't stop to think.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Father, who closed the door to my workroom?

[Henry Aldrich]

Could I have?

[Mr. Aldrich]

I certainly hope you didn't snap that lock, son.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, it snapped by itself.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, that's a nice state of affairs. I've told everyone in this house I've lost my both keys to that lock and it must not be closed.

[Henry Aldrich]

You mean it can't be open?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Of course it can't. Not until I get a locksmith tomorrow afternoon.

[Announcer]

Now, getting back to the troubles of Henry Aldrich. Henry, having lost the new watch his Aunt Harriet gave him, has borrowed one exactly like it from his friend Herbert. Herbert, in trying to get the watch back, got locked in Mr. Aldrich's workroom. The scene opens now in the Aldrich kitchen.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father? Where are you I'm in the kitchen asking Mary if there's anything I can do to help her.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Your Aunt Harriet has been waiting here in the living room for you to come and play rummy with her.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. I'll be right there. Listen, Mary, did you put in that phone call?

[Aunt Harriet]

Yes, Harrison. Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, what did the locksmith say?

[Mary Aldrich]

His wife said she send him over the minute he got home.

[Henry Aldrich]

Did you tell her Herbert's been locked in the cellar for more than an hour and a half? Yes, Henry. I'm coming right away, Father.

[Mary Aldrich]

And don't forget, Henry, what you promised to give me for putting in that call.

[Henry Aldrich]

No, Mary. You get my allowance for the second and third weeks in November.

[Herbert Thompson]

Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Coming, Father. Henry, is Aunt Harriet all ready to play? Well, I'm almost ready to go.

[Aunt Harriet]

Sit down here and deal these cards.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Aunt Harry. I see. Give each seven cards.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry, do you know anything about Herbert Thompson?

[Mary Aldrich]

Herbert?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Mrs. Thompson just phoned. Herbert hasn't been home all evening.

[Henry Aldrich]

Is that right?

[Aunt Harriet]

The way this younger generation stays out nowadays. Play your first card.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, yeah.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

His mother hasn't seen him for two hours.

[Henry Aldrich]

Boy, does time fly in a crisis.

[Mr. Aldrich]

In a crisis?

[Henry Aldrich]

I'll go to the door.

[Aunt Harriet]

You stay right here and play with me.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yeah, but that might be for me.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I'll see who it is. I'm on my way now. How do you do?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, how do you do?

[Herbert Thompson]

Sorry to have kept you waiting.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Kept me waiting?

[Herbert Thompson]

Yes, ma'.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Am.

[Henry Aldrich]

Didn't you phone for locksmith? Who is it, Mother? Henry, ask your father if he phoned for a locksmith.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Oh, is there one out there?

[Herbert Thompson]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, I didn't phone for you, but I do have a job downstairs you might attend to.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, who is Henry?

[Aunt Harriet]

Replay your card.

[Henry Aldrich]

You got somebody locked up downstairs?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Locked up? No, sir.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, this place I was called to has an emergency of some kind, see? I better go back to the shop and check up with my wife.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I'm sorry, this wasn't the house.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, that's okay, lady.

[Herbert Thompson]

All in a days work.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, has the man gone?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Yes, dear.

[Henry Aldrich]

Is Mary in the kitchen?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Think I'll get Aunt Harriet a glass of water.

[Aunt Harriet]

I don't want any water.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, yes, you do, Aunt Harriet. Gee, was. I'd be very glad to get it. Mary.

[Mary Aldrich]

What is it, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Mary. Mary, listen, you gotta phone the locksmith again.

[Mary Aldrich]

Where hasn't he come?

[Henry Aldrich]

He's come and gone. They sent him away.

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry, I've done all I'm going to.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mary, don't you realize my best friend is down in the Basement? Locked in that room, Maybe without air.

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry, if you think I'm going to make myself ridiculous by falling that locksmith every 10 minutes, you're crazy.

[Henry Aldrich]

Look, Mary, would you be interested in my allowance for the first week in December? Well, that practically cleans me out up to Christmas. Henry, where's that water? I'm letting it run, Aunt Harriet. All right. For you, Mary. I'm putting the full responsibility for Herbert's condition on your shoulders. When we get to the door to Father's workroom open and Herbert comes to, he'll want to know who did this to him.

[Mary Aldrich]

But, Henry, I haven't even seen him.

[Aunt Harriet]

Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Aunt Harriet? Here's your glass of ice cold water. Now I can sit down and play. Here you are.

[Aunt Harriet]

Thank you. What did you do, let the hot water run?

[Henry Aldrich]

Was it warm?

[Aunt Harriet]

I'll put it down and let it cool.

[Henry Aldrich]

How could that have happened? See, I played that card, didn't I?

[Aunt Harriet]

I discarded it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh. Oh, well, then it's my turn.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Sam, is that someone sawing?

[Announcer]

Wood

[Mr. Aldrich]

is what someone saw in wood.

[Henry Aldrich]

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I thought I heard a saw you still haven't discarded.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, no.

[Mary Aldrich]

Whoa, whoa, whoa.

[Henry Aldrich]

What do you mean?

[Mary Aldrich]

What do you mean?

[Aunt Harriet]

Well, well, well. You haven't put your car down.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I thought I heard that sewing again.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Yes, it sounded as though it were in the basement.

[Aunt Harriet]

Maybe it's the hot water heater.

[Henry Aldrich]

I didn't even hear a noise.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Well, if you listen, you'll hear it. Henry, will you please stop singing? I'd like to hear what that sawing is.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, excuse me. There. Aunt Harriet is my card. Aunt Harriet, did you know I've been taking music lessons? I'll play a tune for you.

[Aunt Harriet]

Not now.

[Henry Aldrich]

Look, here's what I learned so far.

[Aunt Harriet]

Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I want you to go back to that card table, and if I hear one word out of you for the next five minutes, I'm going to have to ask you to go up to bed.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Now then, let's listen.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, you wait. Now, who could that be?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

It's probably that locksmith again.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Is it?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

I don't know, dear. And I won't know until I open this door.

[Herbert Thompson]

Hello, Mrs. Aldrich Hibbet.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mother, is that Herbert?

[Aunt Harriet]

Henry, come back here.

[Herbert Thompson]

Henry, I want to talk to you.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Henry's playing rummy with his Aunt Herbert.

[Herbert Thompson]

And if you don't mind, I'll go into the living room. Who's coming in?

[Henry Aldrich]

Here?

[Herbert Thompson]

I am. I've always wanted to play rummy, and now I'm going to.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Harriet, what's the score.

[Aunt Harriet]

I'm 2,000 ahead. Soon as I'm 3,000, I'm going.

[Henry Aldrich]

Herbert, how would you like another glass of ginger ale?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Sure.

[Aunt Harriet]

Young man, do you realize this is the fourth bottle you've had?

[Henry Aldrich]

It is?

[Aunt Harriet]

If you drink anymore, you're going to go right up in the air.

[Mary Aldrich]

Herbert.

[Herbert Thompson]

Yes, Mary?

[Mary Aldrich]

Your mother wants to speak to you on the phone.

[Herbert Thompson]

Okay.

[Aunt Harriet]

You mean to say that young man is actually going to leave this room?

[Mr. Aldrich]

I had a nice nap, Father.

[Mary Aldrich]

You've been asleep for two hours.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Oh, I'm glad to see Herbert's gone.

[Aunt Harriet]

What makes you think he's gone?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Where is he?

[Aunt Harriet]

He's phoning for his pajamas.

[Herbert Thompson]

But, Mother, it's just a question of time. As soon as his Aunt Harriet goes.

[Mary Aldrich]

I got it.

[Aunt Harriet]

He's got what?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

There are several things I'd like to know. One is that locksmith coming back the

[Mr. Aldrich]

second time said some man was locked up here.

[Aunt Harriet]

Well, I'll certainly be interested in reading who it was in the morning papers. Henry, I'm quitting.

[Henry Aldrich]

Er.

[Herbert Thompson]

Oh, the.

[Narrator]

This early?

[Aunt Harriet]

I'm not going yet. Just not going to play anymore.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Aunt Harry.

[Aunt Harriet]

Henry, I want to see your watch.

[Henry Aldrich]

It's exactly eight minutes after 11.

[Aunt Harriet]

Let me look at it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, there's just one little thing I'd like to explain.

[Aunt Harriet]

Give it to me.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, ma'.

[Aunt Harriet]

Am. How would you like to have me take this down to the jewelers and have your monogram put on it?

[Herbert Thompson]

Whose monogram, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Whose do you think you mean? My initials, naturally.

[Herbert Thompson]

Oh, I don't think he'd like that.

[Aunt Harriet]

How do you know he wouldn't?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, no, Aunt Harriet. Gee whiz.

[Herbert Thompson]

Supposing Henry wanted to change his name sometime.

[Mr. Aldrich]

To what, for instance?

[Herbert Thompson]

Anything.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yeah, Only girls use their monograms.

[Aunt Harriet]

Henry, you let me take this and sometime during the next week or so I'll have it in brain. I'll put it in my pocketbook.

[Henry Aldrich]

Wouldn't you like to have me carry your things out to the car for you?

[Aunt Harriet]

What things?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, your pocketbook or anything.

[Aunt Harriet]

No, thank you, Henry.

[Herbert Thompson]

Supposing you help Uran. Harriet on with her coat while I hold her pocketbook.

[Aunt Harriet]

I'll put my pocketbook. I'll put it right down here.

[Mary Aldrich]

Thank you, Aunt Harriet. Don't you want to leave it there and go upstairs and see my new wallpaper?

[Aunt Harriet]

You mean to say you got new wallpaper without asking me what to get?

[Mary Aldrich]

Well, you told me to get it.

[Aunt Harriet]

Well, I'll go up and see it, but I know I won't like it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, but I think you will.

[Aunt Harriet]

Hand me my pocketbook.

[Henry Aldrich]

Do you want to carry it all the way upstairs?

[Aunt Harriet]

Give it to me. Give it to me.

[Herbert Thompson]

Henry. Don't you think it'd be nice if we helped you, Aunt Harriet, up the stairs?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Herbert, let's do that.

[Aunt Harriet]

Not so fast, boys.

[Mary Aldrich]

Not so fast. And Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Aunt Harriet?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

It isn't necessary to push me.

[Henry Aldrich]

Alice.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Yes, Sam?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Could you please tell me what's gotten into those two boys?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

Trying to be nice to Harriet.

[Mr. Aldrich]

It isn't like them to be that nice.

[Mrs. Aldrich]

But Herbert's fond of us, Sam. He said.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Well, Herbert.

[Herbert Thompson]

Yes, Mr. Aldrich?

[Mr. Aldrich]

Did you like the wallpaper?

[Herbert Thompson]

Oh, very much. Well, Henry, I guess I'll be going.

[Henry Aldrich]

About what time is it, Herbert, my friend?

[Herbert Thompson]

Well, my friend, it is exactly 21 minutes after 11.

[Henry Aldrich]

Thank you very much.

[Aunt Harriet]

Alice, what do you think I've lost?

[Mrs. Aldrich]

What?

[Aunt Harriet]

Well, sir.

[Herbert Thompson]

So long, Henry.

[Aunt Harriet]

You wait, young man. I want to say good night to you.

[Henry Aldrich]

What did you lose?

[Aunt Harriet]

I locked my car out in front and left the keys inside it.

[Henry Aldrich]

What?

[Aunt Harriet]

Sam, go out and get them.

[Mr. Aldrich]

And how would I do that?

[Aunt Harriet]

Oh, here they are in my pocket. The only thing is.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Now what?

[Aunt Harriet]

Henry's watch is gone.

[Henry Aldrich]

You mean it isn't there, Aunt Harriet?

[Herbert Thompson]

Henry, I gotta go home.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yeah. So long, Herbert.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Now, who's that at the door?

[Announcer]

Hello?

[Mary Aldrich]

Hello, Mr. Aldrich.

[Mr. Aldrich]

Why, Nancy Adams. What are you doing here?

[Mary Aldrich]

Is Henry here? I just found his watch.

[Henry Aldrich]

What?

[Aunt Harriet]

His watch. Where did you find it?

[Mary Aldrich]

He left it over at my house this morning.

[Aunt Harriet]

Well, how would you account for a thing like that?

[Mary Aldrich]

Henry also left it this letter. You forgot to mail a letter?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, yeah. Here, Aunt Harriet. It's for you. Thanking you for my watch.

[Narrator]

Listen, again next week, same time, same station, for another sparkling half hour with your favorite youngster, his family and his pals. The Aldrich Family, starring Ezra Stone, is written by Clifford Goldsmith.