Aldrich Family - Henry The Shortstop

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Aldrich Family – Henry The Shortstop
Date: March 9, 2026
Host: Harold’s Old Time Radio

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Overview

This episode features the classic radio program The Aldrich Family, focusing on the lighthearted misadventures of teenager Henry Aldrich as he navigates his ambition to become the school's baseball shortstop. The story blends family humor, youthful optimism, and the values of teamwork and personal character—all set in the era before television, when radio was the centerpiece of American family entertainment.

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Main Theme

The episode explores Henry Aldrich's dream of becoming the first-string shortstop on his high school baseball team, his subsequent struggle with the realities of earning and keeping that position, and the values of integrity and sportsmanship. It also gently lampoons the way rumors and wishful thinking can get ahead of reality.

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Key Discussion Points and Plot Highlights

1. Morning at the Aldrich Household (00:40–04:51)

• The episode opens at breakfast, with Henry in unusually high spirits (“He was brushing his teeth and whistling at the top of his lungs.” – Mrs. Aldrich, 01:56).

• Henry excitedly reveals he got the highest mark on his history exam and, more importantly, believes he's secured the shortstop position because other candidates are no longer eligible.

  • Quote:
    “Passed it, Mother. I got the highest mark in the class.”
    — Henry (02:48)
  • He explains:
    • Steve Armstrong graduated.
    • Tommy Dixon moved away.
    • Willie Marshall failed his exam and is ineligible.

• His father cautions him not to get ahead of himself:

  • Quote:
    “He's just counting his chickens before their hats.”
    — Mr. Aldrich (04:23)

2. Schoolyard Excitement and Spreading the News (04:51–09:22)

• On the way to school with Homer, Henry tries to keep his shortstop news quiet, but Homer and Kathleen quickly spread the word.

  • Henry protests that he never said he was the shortstop, only hinted at the possibility for his mother's sake (for the team picture).

• Tryout begins with comical fielding errors from Henry:

  • Quote:
    “Hey, Liz, where did it go?”
    “Between your legs.”
    — Henry and teammate Liz (07:36)
  • Henry blames his old glove, mentioning his father used it to rip barbed wire off the fence.

• Coach Nelson, unimpressed, suggests Henry sit out practice to fix his glove problem.

3. Behind-the-Scenes School Politics (10:35–13:30)

• Assistant Principal Nelson petitions Principal Bradley to allow Willie Marshall a makeup exam so he can play baseball.

  • Bradley insists academics come first and declines to intervene, but Nelson is persistent.

• Mr. Aldrich (Henry's father), still wanting to support Henry, orders a new shortstop glove—for the (possibly) new family star.

  • Discussion with the sporting goods store clerk reveals how quickly rumors about Henry’s role have spread through the community.

4. Reality Hits: Coach's Real Reason (13:36–15:19)

• Coach Nelson calls Henry in:
  • Praises his spirit, but reveals he wants Henry to tutor Willie Marshall for the makeup history exam—helping the real star shortstop return to eligibility.
  • Quote:
    “Because you'll realize that tutoring Willie is as important as being out there on the field yourself.”
    — Coach Nelson (14:17)
  • Henry reluctantly agrees.

5. Tutoring Dilemma and the Nature of Sacrifice (16:47–19:00)

• At home, Henry debates with Homer (and himself) whether to help Willie:

  • Concerned about cutting off his own chances to play, but also worried about being labeled selfish.
  • News of Henry’s sacrifice starts circulating, making him a school hero.

• Henry attempts to tutor the hapless Willie, comically trying to convert historical dates into dollar values so Willie can remember them.

6. Willie’s Make-Up Exam (20:25–21:16)

• Miss Eggleston gives Willie an oral exam focused on concepts instead of dates, but Willie is unable to answer.
  • Quote:
    “Now, what were the four phases of the Revolution?”
    — Miss Eggleston (21:05)
  • Willie tries to answer with dollar amounts, ending in confusion.

7. Game Time: The Unexpected Hero (22:11–26:43)

• Mr. Aldrich delivers Henry’s new glove—just as Henry is about to return his uniform, dejected.

  • Quote:
    “So if you can’t beat top man, you’re going to take your ball and go home.”
    — Mr. Aldrich, to Henry (23:08)
  • Coach Nelson bursts in: Willie failed the exam; Henry must play shortstop after all.

• During the game, Henry is booed but finally—albeit accidentally—secures victory when a ball strikes his head and ricochets for a game-winning double play.

  • Quote:
    “All I remember, Mother, is that the ball started to come right at me, see? And when I bent down to field it, the lights went out, see?”
    — Henry (25:48)
  • Everyone celebrates the odd turn of fate, and Henry’s accidental heroics make him a school legend.

8. Resolution and Character Growth (26:43–27:47)

• Henry is bedridden with a mild injury, but is celebrated for his sportsmanship and selflessness.
• Willie brings him flowers and offers a backhanded compliment.
  • Quote:
    “On behalf of all the kids at Central… we vote you the swellest guy of the year.”
    — Willie (27:35)
  • Henry’s reputation among his peers is restored.

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Memorable Quotes & Moments with Timestamps

• Counting Chickens Before Their Hats

  • “Alice, he's just counting his chickens before their hats.”
    — Mr. Aldrich, (04:23)

• Henry on Being Shortstop

  • “But, Father... They even gave me a uniform. That's how set I am.”
    — Henry (04:26)

• Coach Nelson’s 'Spirit' Speech

  • “Your spirit... Coming out to the team year after year, never getting discouraged.”
    — Coach Nelson (13:59)

• Henry’s Sacrifice

  • “Gee, if I don’t (help), I won’t be able to show my face around school again. But if I do, I won’t play shortstop. I know, Homer. That’s the spot I’m in.”
    — Henry (18:32)

• Comedy of Errors Double Play

  • “From Henry's head, the ball bounced straight over to the second baseman and he threw it to first with a double play.”
    — Mr. Aldrich (26:07)

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Important Segments & Timestamps

• [00:40] – Jello Family & opening song/sketch
• [01:50] – Breakfast table conversation (Henry’s good news)
• [04:51] – Henry and Homer on the way to school; news spreads
• [07:22] – Baseball tryouts; Henry fumbles
• [10:35] – School politics; teachers discuss eligibility
• [13:36] – Coach reveals Henry is to tutor Willie, not play shortstop
• [16:47] – Henry’s internal struggle about tutoring Willie
• [20:25] – Willie’s makeup exam disaster
• [23:02] – Turning in uniform; Mr. Aldrich’s parental advice
• [23:34] – Coach calls Henry back to the team
• [24:20] – Game’s last inning; Henry’s accidental heroics
• [26:43] – Henry’s recovery; school’s forgiveness and tribute

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Conclusion and Tone

The Aldrich Family episode “Henry the Shortstop” is filled with rapid-fire banter, gentle family ribbing, and the kind of slapstick scenarios that were a hallmark of early radio comedies. At its heart, the episode celebrates perseverance, humility, and the often unpredictable rewards of doing the right thing—even when it seems to cost you your chance at glory.

The episode ends with Henry’s accidental game-winning play, communal forgiveness, and loving parental advice—all delivered with a hearty dose of the show's trademark warmth and wit.

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Transcript

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

And now, the jello family presents henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry aldrich. Come here, mother.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Yes, it's the Aldrich family. Based on characters originated by Clinton Goldsmith

[Henry Aldrich]

and starring Ezra Stone as Henry. There's Jackie Kelp as Homer.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

And yes, it's the Jello family.

[Henry Aldrich]

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. Yum yum yum. Yoga, Biocha Pudding, Gatorade.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

And now for the Aldrich family. A typical teenager boy has always scampered across the American scene. First came Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. And then Penrod. And now Henry Aldrich. And Henry has a bounce all his own. The scene opens at the Aldrich breakfast table.

[Henry Aldrich]

More coffee, Sam?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Thank you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Alice, what do you suppose got into Henry this morning?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Got into him? In what way?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, my goodness. Didn't you hear him in the bathroom? He was brushing his teeth and whistling at the top of his lungs.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, that can't be done.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, there he was doing it. It sounded like that piece from Rigoletto.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

All four parts.

[Henry Aldrich]

Now, Sam, it's too early in the morning for jokes. Good morning, Mother. Good morning, dear. How do you feel, boy? Wonderful. Pass the cereal, please. You're going to eat cereal voluntarily? Oh, sure, Mother. If there's one thing I feel like this morning, it's grape nuts. Dear. Stick out your tongue. My tongue?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

No, Alice. Henry, is it necessary for you to be in quite such good spirits? You're worrying your mother.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I was going to save it for a surprise, but what's the best news in the world I could give both of you?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

You've discovered oil, and I can retire.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father. Henry, you passed your history exam. Passed it, Mother, I got the highest mark in the class. Sam, did you hear that?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I think I did, but I'd like to hear it again. The highest, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Well, that's fine, son.

[Henry Aldrich]

The highest mark. Imagine, my son. Well, that's not the good news. I'M going to be the regular shortstop on the baseball team.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

What?

[Henry Aldrich]

That's nice. Congratulations, Henry. Thanks, Mother. Only try to be careful when the other boys tackle you, Mother.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Well, Henry, short stop, eh?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

First thing, eh?

[Henry Aldrich]

First thing.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Well, well, well, well. When did Coach Nelson tell you, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Tell me what?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

That you were the first string shortstop.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, he didn't exactly tell me. In so many words, Father. No, not in so many words.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

What did he tell you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, Father, I didn't have to be told. It's obvious. Sam, let him finish his breakfast. He'll be late for school in a moment, Alice.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, would you mind telling me how it is obvious?

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, do you remember Steve Armstrong?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Wasn't he the regular shortstop last season?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. That's just it. He's not a reg. He had a fortunate accident. Accident? Sure, he graduated, then Tommy Dixon moved to Abbott City and that just left Willie Marshall in me.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

And you're that much better than Willie?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, but he flunked his history exam and so he's ineligible. Don't you think I'm a pushover?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

No. Suppose some boy you don't even know about shows up at practice and takes short stuff away from you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, you're talking just like a lawyer.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I am a lawyer.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sam. If Henry feels confident he's a pushover.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, he's just counting his chickens before their hats.

[Henry Aldrich]

But gee, was. They even gave me a uniform. That's how set I am.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

You had a uniform last year.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure, but this one fits. It's even got a number on it. See was last year they wouldn't let anyone know who I was. The evidence certainly sounds very convincing, Alex.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I'm not saying Henry won't be the shortstop. I just think he ought to keep quiet about it until he. Certainly.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Father.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Then, Henry, there'll be no chance of your making a fool of yourself.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hey, Henry. Oh, gee whiz, is that Homer already?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I had the same reaction.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'll be right with you, Homer. Henry, your breakfast. Mother, I finished all but a few great nuts and I'll crunch them on the way to school. Hi, Homer. Henry, hurry up. We're gonna be late. What are you eating? My breakfast? Yeah. Did I ever mention I'm crazy about grape nuts? Homer, I need my strength. Well, do you mind if I hold my palm under and catch what falls? Okay. What are you gonna do with that glove? This glove? This baseball glove? Yeah. Nothing, Homer. Nothing. Oh, it's across the street. Henry, are you trying out for the team again? Trying out? Homer, if you only knew. Knew? What? Nothing, Homer. And quit trying to make me make a fool of myself. Henry, tell me. No. Please. No. But it'll be on my mind all day. I have enough trouble concentrating on my curriculum. Well, Homer, can you keep your mouth shut? You know me, Henry. That's what I mean. Can you keep your mouth. Calcutta. Well, look, I'll tell you this and no more. Did you know Steve Armstrong is out of school? Sure. The lucky dog graduated. Well, did you also know Tommy Dixon moved to Abbot City? Yeah. And did you know Willie Marshall plunked history and is ineligible? Henry, you mean you're the new shortstop now? Homer, stop putting words in. I hit a few this way, but yeah, let's have one out here. Come on. Henry. Henry, wait for me. Kathleen, what are you doing on the ball field in civilian clothes? Henry, Toby Smith just told me you were all set for shortstop. Well, gee whiz. Toby told you that? Yes. Well, gee whiz. So that just shows how people twist innocent little statements around. All I said to Toby was that when he takes the official pictures of the team, I'd like an enlargement of shortstop to give them to my mother on her birthday. Oh, then it isn't true. Well, all I can tell you, Kathleen, is that at the end of the season, I may have a little something for your charm bracelet. My charm bracelet? Henry, it isn't gold, is it? Why, it might be. And Rob. Well, Henry, you're giving me your gold varsity base. Now, Kathleen, I didn't mention anything specifically. Okay, all you infielders over here.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Oh, boy.

[Henry Aldrich]

That's Coach Nelson. I have to go now, Kathleen. Oh, of course, Henry. My goodness. Josie, wait for me. Aldrich. Were you calling eyes, Coach? Yes.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Get out there short. I'm going to hit some grounders for fielding practice.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure thing, Coach.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Now, lots of the old pepper, boys.

[Henry Aldrich]

Come on. Come on. Let's go, gang. Give me the old pepper. The old pepper. Old boy, old boy, old boy. Okay, here it comes. All right, I got it. Oh, boy. Oh, boy. Hey, Liz, where did it go? Between your legs. But, dad, how'd it get down there? Okay, try it again, Al.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Get down a little lower. Here it comes.

[Henry Aldrich]

I got it. Was that the ball that bounced over my head, Olric?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I didn't mean that low.

[Henry Aldrich]

Coach, are you sure? Those balls are perfectly round.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

What's the matter with you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I. I don't want you to think I'm making excuses, Coach, but you see this glove?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

What's wrong with it?

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm glad you asked. Gee, was my father used it to rip barbed wire off the backyard fence.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I see.

[Henry Aldrich]

But I'm planning on taking it to the shoemakers right after we're through.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Maybe you better do it now. You're excused for the rest of practice. Okay, everybody, over the sliding pit.

[Henry Aldrich]

Thanks, Coach. And you'll see a big difference tomorrow. Hi, honey. Gee, what is. Agnes. Oh, I get. Am I proud of you? Am I proud of you? Shank. Agnes quit. That's my throwing hand. Say, you won't be getting too baby baseballs, will you?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Well, gee whiz.

[Henry Aldrich]

Did Kathleen tell you about that? No. Margot Hammersmith? Well, how could she? I don't even know her. Sure, but she pumped it out of Geraldine Love, who pumped it out of Kathleen. Boy, where's Kathleen now? Over being pumped by Nancy Adams? Come on. Say me if you get two gold baseballs, you won't forget your old pal Agnes, will you? Listen, Agnes, I'll thank you not to go counting any chicken. When did I do that? You know darn well. The next thing you know, it'll be all over school and there I'll be making a fool. Listen, kid, you don't have to worry about me. I can keep a secret as well as the next guy.

[Narrator/Announcer]

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[Henry Aldrich]

Greenlight helps kids learn about money the way most of us never did, by actually using it. It's a debit card and money app that teaches kids to earn, save and spend in real life, not just swipe and hope for the best. Learning happens naturally in the moment. Parents can set limits, see spending in real time, and guide better habits along the way, all in one place without constant check ins or cash runs. Don't wait. Try Greenlight Risk free [e-mail]. try Greenlight. Hey, Charlie. Where did I tell you?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Good morning, Mr. Bradley. Oh, yes, come in, Mr. Nelson, you wanted to see me? Yes, I did, Mr. Bradley. If it's about new equipment for your base baseball team, Mr. Nelson, I must warn you that the entire school is on a very strict Budget this year. Budget? But, Mr. Bradley, frankly, the number of broken bats we had last year when balanced against the results achieved was quite out of proportion. Quite out of proportion. Well, I'm aware of that, Mr. Bradley, and that isn't the reason I'm here. It's about Willie Marshall. Willie?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

We've been practicing for nearly a week now and. Well, couldn't you ask Ms. Eggleston to let him take a makeup examination? Well, now, I'm not sure I could do a thing like that, Mr. Nelson. Mr. Bradley, he's our best shortstop. We're not here to play baseball, Mr. Nelson. The boy is expected to have scholastic standing as well. I know, and that's one thing Willie seems to have very little of. Well, hey, but our first game is this coming Friday. And if I can't get Willie, I'll have to use Henry Aldrich at shortstop. Henry? Yes, at shortstop.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

My, my. He tries hard enough, but he just isn't up to. So if you could put a little pressure on Ms. Eggleston. Mr. Nelson, I'm afraid this is a matter for Ms. Eggleston to decide for herself. Oh, well, I tried. I better get back to my chemistry class. Yes, you'd better. I hope it's still there. When I left, Homer Brown was trying to make synthetic rubber. Homer. Hurry, Mr. Nelson. And would you ask Ms. Shea to step in here, please? Ms. Shea, Mr. Bradley would like to see you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mr. Bradley.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Would you send a note to Ms. Eggleston? Say, I'd like to see her when she's free.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mr. Bradley.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Tell her it's about that series of slides on the war of 1812 she's been asking for.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Mr. Bradley, I thought you decided we couldn't afford them.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I know, Ms. Shea, but it certainly won't hurt to discuss the matter. Well, good morning, Mr. Aubrey.

[Henry Aldrich]

Good morning.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Has. Has that new golf bag I ordered arrived? Why, no, Mr. Aldrich. I told you it probably wouldn't be in until the end of the month. That's right, you did. I'll call you when it arrives. Good, Good. Hey, as long as I'm here, what have you in the way of baseball gloves? Baseball gloves? I'm not in the market for one yet, you understand, but it can't hurt to price what you have. So the glove you have in mind isn't in stock right now. The one made especially for shortstop. Shortstop? Yes, Isn't that the position Henry plays on the team? Yes, that is. No, that is. How did you. Well, you see, we're not at all sure yet? No. Well, I heard from a number of people that he's all set. You have? Yes, as a matter of fact, I was discussing it just yesterday with Walter Trumbull. And he lives at Mrs. Tompkins, you know. What is that to do? Mrs. Tompkins brother is janitor down at the school. So it's right from the horse's mouth, you might say. Well, well. Is that so? Yes. Well, I'll tell you, as long as I'm here, I might as well get that glove. After all, I'll have to order it from Chicago. You'll have it in a week. A week? But the first game is Friday. Call Chicago and tell them to rush it out air mail. But Mr. Aldrich, it'll cost. I'll pay the additional charges. We can't have the first string shortstop

[Henry Aldrich]

playing in a ripped glove.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Come in.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hi, Coach. You wanted to see me?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Oh, yes, Henry, come in.

[Henry Aldrich]

Thanks, Coach. Did I mention all your worries are over?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

They aren't.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. Boy, I'm getting a glove that's so foolproof they practically reflect fund your money if you make an error with it.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Fine, Henry, fine. Henry, the reason I called you in.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Coach.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

The reason I called you in. Henry, you know what I admire about you most?

[Henry Aldrich]

What, Coach?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Your spirit. Yes, sir. Coming out to the team year after year, never getting discouraged. You know what that proves to me?

[Henry Aldrich]

What?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

That you realize it isn't only the man in the pitcher's mount is important.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure, the short stop's pretty important too, of course.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

But the man behind the scenes is sometimes just as valuable.

[Henry Aldrich]

He is?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

That's why I feel I can give you a job like this. Because you'll realize that tutoring Willie is as important as being out there on the field yourself.

[Henry Aldrich]

What?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, Ms. Eggleston has agreed to give Willie a makeup exam tomorrow.

[Henry Aldrich]

But Coach, I.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

So what do you say, Henry? I know you can help him. You've got the highest marks in the class on that exam.

[Henry Aldrich]

Why, Coach, could I sort of get something straightened out in my mind first?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Sure, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, if Willie passes, he'll play shortstop in the game tomorrow, won't he?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Why, yes. But you'll be the one who made it possible.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

So, Henry, will you do it?

[Henry Aldrich]

Why,

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

sure, Henry. I'd like to shake your hand. Sure, Coach.

[Henry Aldrich]

Shake, shake, shake.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Yes, sir. You've really got the kind of spirit I admire.

[Henry Aldrich]

See? What if that's okay, Coach, I'm always glad to do what I can for the team.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Oh, the big red letter stands for the Jello family. Oh, the big red letter stands for the Jello family.

[Henry Aldrich]

That's Jello Yum yum yum.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Jello puddings. Yum yum yum.

[Henry Aldrich]

Jello Tap video.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Yes, there are desserts for everybody's family. And the Jello family of yum yum desserts. Like those swell Jell O tapioca puddings. A miracle of goodness, a marvel of speed. And Jello tapioca puddings already prepared. All you do is add milk and cook for about five minutes. There's Jello vanilla tapioca, Luscious, light and mellow Jello chocolate tapioca rich and candy good. Jello orange coconut Tapioca tangy orange blended with tropical coconut. And you know that name. Jello is a trademark. It's the property of General Foods. And it tells you you're getting a genuine Jello product. And remember, more people buy Jell O puddings than any other prepared puddings in the world. And now, getting back to the trouble of Henry Aldrich. Henry has been so confident he was going to make shortstop on the baseball team that he spread the rumor all over school. Then Coach Nelson asked him to help Willie Marshall pass a makeup exam which would enable Willie to play shortstop. The scene opens in the Aldrich living room. It is after dinner.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mother, is father very upset? No, dear, he just got a walk in the F. Am I doing good? But in the future, Henry, when you have news like that to tell him, why not wait until after dinner? Hey, Homer, dear, when Willie comes, I put a bowl of fruit in the living room. Hi, Hannah, old timer. Here, I brought something to cheer you up. What is it?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Bubble gum.

[Henry Aldrich]

I made it in chemistry. Henry, you're not really gonna go through with helping Willie, are you? Homer, I promised the coach. You'll be cutting your own throat. I know, but. Besides, Willie's too dumb to. To teach anything to Willie? Sure, dumb. Homer, have you ever tried to do business with him? I know, Henry, I know. But when it comes to history, he comes apart at the scenes. Gee whiz. The only thing Ms. Eggleston's ever been able to make him understand is a Louisiana purchase. That's true. And she's a professional. Homer, you're right. If it would. Well, if it would do Willie any good, I'd be glad to make the sacrifice. But theory is hen tell him you're not gonna do it, are you, fellas? Well, here I am. Hen. Look, Willie boy, I sure appreciate what you're doing for me, Henry. Willie, I've been thinking the whole thing over and I'VE decided. Well, it isn't that you're hopeless, you understand. Please answer the phone when I'm just about to break the news to Willie. Hopeless about what? Henry, dear, please answer it. I'm busy, Henry. Wait here. Willie. What am I hopeless about, Homer? You'll find out, Willie. Hello?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Hi, Hen. This is Toby Smith.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hi.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Do you have a picture of yourself with a school paper?

[Henry Aldrich]

Of me?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Yeah. We're gonna run a story on how you're sacrificing your skill for the good of the school.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, tell me about that.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Boy, a lot of kids in the school have changed their entire conception of your character.

[Henry Aldrich]

They have? But.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

So bring a picture to school tomorrow, will ya? So long, Hen.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Toby. Oh, boy. Henry, is it all right to let Willie have an apple, considering you're throwing him out in a few minutes? Homer, I can't throw him out now. I've got to try to help him pass. Are you crazy? Well, if I don't, I won't be able to show my face around school again. But if you do, you will play shortstop. I know, Homer. That's the spot I'm in. Willie, you're calling me Henry. You're gonna tell me why I'm not hopeless. Willie, forget about that.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Where's your book?

[Henry Aldrich]

We've gotta start studying. Here it is. Willie, what did you have the most trouble with on the exam? The dates. When a number's not in dollars and cents, I just can't keep it in my head. Ms. Eggleston will probably ask me all about dates. Well, let's start with the date then. When was the Constitution put into force? The Constitution? Yeah. You want the day and the month or just the year? The year, Willie. The year. Oh, let's see now. It wasn't 1776.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I know that.

[Henry Aldrich]

That was the 4th of July. Boy, Willie, are you dumb. Is that so? I can name the president on every piece of money we've got. Can you, Willie? I've got to get you to remember. Look, the constitution was signed in 1789. But don't think of it as 1789. Just think of it as $17.89. Yeah, sure. Like you were buying a jacket. See? Oh. What kind of a jacket? What kind? Well, is it wool or cotton or wasps? What difference does that make? Listen, Homer, I'm not paying $18.89 for a jacket I don't know anything about. Willie. I'm no fool's work. Willie, forget about the jacket and see if you can remember this. The Constitution. It was signed in 1700. Say that rhyme.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Sure.

[Henry Aldrich]

Now, when was the Constitution signed? The Constitution? It was signed in 1789. Hey, give me another hand. Give me another. William Marshall, you may come in now. Thank you, Ms. Eggleston. And I don't want to rush you, but did I mention the game starts in half an hour? I'm aware of that, Williams. Now, let's get right to the exam, shall we? Yes, Ms. Eggleston. And I want to say I certainly enjoyed those slides you showed the class today. You did?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Sure.

[Henry Aldrich]

Boy, I saw the whole war of 1812 in a different light. That's fine. Now, let's start. We'll take the exam orally.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Sort of.

[Henry Aldrich]

Word of mouth. Yes. First question. What were the four phases of the Revolution? Four phases?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Yes. That's. No.

[Henry Aldrich]

Dates. Well, William, I know dates are your weak points, so I decided to make the exam more general. Without dates. But now, what were the four phases of the Revolution? Why, Jefferson went to Washington in 1801. Wouldn't that be one of the phases? It could. Not one. Wrong. Who fathered the first tariff bill to pass the Senate? Who? Not one. You don't know that either, Ms. Eggleston. It doesn't rhyme with anything. Beg your pardon? I mean, is that the one that's $17.89. Well, Henry, at least if you're a substitute, you can see the games for nothing. See? Whiz.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

What's so special about that?

[Henry Aldrich]

I mean, boy. Have you ever sat on that bench, Homer? No. The sun's beating down on you all the time. You get sunburned. It's a hundred times more comfortable in the grandstand. Yeah. Besides, you're right out in public view where everybody can. Can. Can run. Listen, Homer, if I'd rather be a spectator, why should you worry?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Oh, there you are, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Hello, Father.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, your new glove just arrived. Air Express. You might as well have it.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Mr. Aldrich, Henry's turning in his uniform.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Oh. Oh, I see. Homer, would you mind leaving for a moment?

[Henry Aldrich]

Leaving?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I'd like to say something to Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

And you feel it's none of my business.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I do.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. I'll save a seat for you in the Grand. Staying here,

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Henry? May I ask why you're turning in your uniform?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, since Willie's going to play shortstop.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

I see. So if you can't beat top man, you're going to take your ball and go home.

[Henry Aldrich]

What?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, don't you know it's harder to fail than to win?

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee, I've never had any trouble, Henry.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

In later life, Willie may Have his letter for baseball. But you have the respect of the community, and that's much more important. It is? Aldrich, where have you been? Why aren't you in uniform? Why, I was about to put it on. Well, hurry. You're starting at shortstop.

[Henry Aldrich]

What?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Willie Marshall didn't answer a single question correctly.

[Henry Aldrich]

But he couldn't have failed. I taught him everything I know.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Well, he did. Ms. Eggleson said. He kept yelling. It doesn't rhyme. It doesn't rhyme.

[Henry Aldrich]

I can't play. What? Henry, do you realize the whole school will think I let Willie flunk on purpose?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, you're the only shortstop we've got left.

[Henry Aldrich]

But co. Henry, stop arguing and get out there and play. But, Father, I'll lose the respect of the community. Henry, get out there and play. It's a head, Mr. Aldrich. Rich Hill got a head. Isn't that nice? Nice? Mrs. Aldrich is the last of the ninth inning and we're only leading by one run.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

We've got one out.

[Henry Aldrich]

Homer. We'll win. Sam, I think it was very nice as a coach to let Henry play right out there in the middle of the whole field.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, that's where the shortstop usually plays.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, well, I think he's doing beautifully so far. Sure. There hasn't been a ball hit to him all game. I still don't understand why all the young people boo every time he comes up to Batman.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, it's a little hard to explain.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, boy, oh, boy. George Bigelow just walked another Ridge Hill. Man. Now there are two on.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Oh, but we're still ahead.

[Henry Aldrich]

But their heavy slug is coming up. And if those two runners score, we'll lose. Strike them out, George. Strike them out. We couldn't hit the side of a barn door. Oh, boy. It's going right at Henry. Henry. Get out of the way. Babbage, what happened? What happened? Down in front. Down in front. Down in front. Henry, would you like another cold cloth for your head? No, thanks, Mother. Now that we're home and the excitement's all over, will somebody please explain clearly once and for all what happened?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, you saw it yourself. Henry saved the game.

[Henry Aldrich]

I know he did, but how? All I remember, Mother, is that the ball started to come right at me, see? And when I went, when I bent down to field it, the lights went out, see? If a ball hit you in the head, I know that it's what happened afterwards I'm confused about.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, it's simple. From Henry's head, the ball bounced straight over to the second baseman and he Threw it to first with a double play.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, my goodness, I should think there'd be an easier way to make a double play.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

There is, Alice.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mother, when can I get out of bed? In a few days, dear. But Dr. Bennington doesn't think you should try to play anymore this season. Anyway. Not until the buzzing goes away. Oh, but the.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

The.

[Henry Aldrich]

The buzzing doesn't bother me, Mother. No, no, it sort of has a little T to it.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Rigoletto.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, are you in your room? Yes, dear, he is, but try to be quiet. Well, that's a good news for him, Henry. Willie told all the kids how Ms. Eggleston double crossed him. And they asked me to give you their official apartment. No kidding. They forgive me. Sure. They're even sending you flowers. No kidding. Willie's over at the Undertaking, Paula. Right now. Make a lunch. Well, what do you know? I am an old timer. On behalf of all the kids at Central. And here's some flowers. And we vote you the swellest guy of the year. Well, gee whiz, Willie, gee, thanks. And Henry, I'd like to make a deal with you. The undertaker says these straw flowers are everlasting. The straw flowers are? Yeah. So could I borrow them back to give to Ms. Eggleston for Easter?

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

What a man, Willie. But here's my special tip for Easter. A surprise dessert for the kids made with Jell O tapioca pudding. Just prepare one package of luscious light and creamy Jello vanilla tapioca as usual. When chilled, serve it in your best sherbet glasses, all dressed up with a garnish of bright colored jelly beans. And then top with a sprinkling of baker's coconut tinted pink, green and yellow for a special Easter day flourish. Try all three Jell O tapioca puddings. Jell O chocolate, vanilla and orange coconut tapioca. They're ready.

[Henry Aldrich]

Prepared.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

All you do is add milk and cook for about five minutes. Jello tapioca puddings. Three delicious new reasons why more people buy Jell O puddings than any other prepared puddings in the world.

[Henry Aldrich]

Here's hoping you'll be in your living room and ours next week at the same time. Good night, folks. The Aldrich Family, starring Ezra Stone as Henry with Jackie Kelk as Homer, is

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

written by Norman Kocox and Ed Jurist with music by Jack Miller. Mr. And Mrs. Aldrich are house Jameson and Katherine Ross. And this is Dan Seymour in New York saying, the Aldrich family is brought to you by the Jello family.

[Henry Aldrich]

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. Yum yum yum.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

As new as a rhino climbing a flagpole. Amazing. The only one of its kind. That's minute rice. Minute rice for magically quick quick meals. Here is delicious white fluffy rice that you don't have to wash, rinse, drain or steam. It's even quicker to fix than potatoes for all you do is drop minutes rice in water and bring to a boil. Minute rice can be the mainstay for all sorts of delicious quick quick meals. Try it. Remember the word minute? Minute rice in the red, white and blue box.

[Henry Aldrich]

My club is charged. Look at Bill Goodwin. He's wearing knickers in a beanie.

[Mr. Aldrich (Father)]

Gracie, you're looking at Henry Ulrich. This is the Aldridge family program. Well, sure, Gracie. I'm on your program. Burns and Allen next on NBC.