Aldrich Family - Taking Loretta to the Dance

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Aldrich Family – Taking Loretta to the Dance

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Date: March 10, 2026

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Overview

This episode of The Aldrich Family, a beloved slice-of-life comedy from the golden age of radio, revolves around Henry Aldrich's efforts to take Loretta Taylor to a dance. The story highlights family dynamics, teenage confusion, social missteps, and small-town mishaps as Henry navigates asking his parents for money, securing transportation, and dealing with a formal-informal mix-up. The tone is humorous, warm, and quintessentially Americana, capturing both the innocence and comic exasperation of family life.

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Key Discussion Points and Storyline

1. Henry’s Plea for Spending Money

• Setting: The Aldrich family living room in the evening
• Henry asks his father for 25 cents to treat Loretta at the dance.
• His mother, Alice Aldrich, refuses, referencing a forgotten errand (the ginger ale).
• Henry tries to deduce why he's being denied, offering comedic rationalizations.

Notable Quote:
"Because it isn’t as though I were asking you for 50 cents... All I’m asking is enough to buy a hot dog for each of us and a root beer for Loretta."
– Henry Aldrich (04:50)

2. Family Logistics and Ginger Ale Mix-up

• Henry left the ginger ale in a snowbank outside, causing initial confusion but redeeming himself when it's found.
• The Aldrich parents discuss the Johnsons' upcoming visit and their habitual bridge playing.

3. Dance Transportation Troubles

• Transport is negotiated: Henry tries to get a ride with various friends; eventually, his father is persuaded to drive despite objections about snow-covered roads.
• Loretta’s call reveals she’s at her aunt’s, six miles outside of town, calling into question the drive's difficulty.

Notable Moment:
Henry’s relief and pride in taking Loretta in the family car, considering it “twice as good as George Bigelow’s.” (08:03)

4. The Formal vs. Informal Mix-up

• On arrival at the club, Loretta realizes all the girls are wearing long dresses, while she’s dressed informally based on Henry’s (misinformed) advice.
• Comic tension as neither wants to face embarrassment, and Sam Aldrich must juggle bridge obligations and teenage crises.

Notable Quote:
"All the girls are wearing long dresses, Henry, and you told me it was informal."
– Loretta Taylor (11:04)

• Homer Brown admits he gave Henry incorrect information about the dance's formality.

5. The Changing of Clothes and Car Trouble

• Henry asks for money to hire a taxi so Loretta can change outfits, but Sam doesn’t have any cash.
• Sam has difficulty returning home—his car slides on icy roads, and he's delayed further.

6. The Dance, Teen Drama, and More Misunderstandings

• Henry tries to secure a ride home for himself and Loretta, hesitating to ask rival George Bigelow.
• Both Henry and Loretta have minor social spats with their best friends, complicating possible rides home.
• Their parents become increasingly worried due to the delays and car troubles.

7. Late Night, Everyone Stuck, and Parental Worry

• The Johnsons and Aldrich parents fret as Sam is late returning; each assumes the other has gone to fetch someone.
• Sam and Mr. Johnson both attempt to return home, get their cars stuck, and recruit Henry (coming home on foot) and Homer Brown for help.

Memorable Exchange:
"You know, Sam, it’s really a pity the Johnsons have no family. Then they’d understand how easy and natural it is to make sacrifices for them."
– Alice Aldrich (28:34)

8. Resolution and Late-Night Reflections

• Eventually, all return home exhausted.
• Loretta calls Henry to vent, upset about being stranded and not going home with George Bigelow.
• Henry later reads a note from Loretta (jokingly or sincerely) appreciating the silent support of his father during the ordeal.

Notable Quote:
“She says words will never express my appreciation. Especially of the behavior of your father. Not once did he complain, not once did he embarrass me by so much as looking in my direction... Henry, your father must be a very wonderful silent man.”
– Henry (reading Loretta's letter) (30:22)

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• [02:59] Henry asks his father for 25 cents, kicking off the main plot.
• [06:12] Alice discusses Henry’s absentmindedness with Sam (the ginger ale incident).
• [07:55] Sam is roped into driving Henry and Loretta to the dance.
• [10:10] Arrival at the country club, confusion over formality of the dance.
• [11:09] Discovery of Loretta’s dress dilemma.
• [12:55] Sam refuses to finance a taxi; Henry tries to sort out the mess with Loretta.
• [19:43] Henry and Loretta share an awkward but sweet dance.
• [22:08] Sam Aldrich finally returns home, recounting his misadventures.
• [26:34] Henry decides to walk home after being left at the club.
• [28:41] Alice and Sam discuss parental sacrifice and the Johnsons' lack of a family.
• [30:22] Henry reads Loretta’s letter.

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Notable Quotes & Moments

• "Mother, is it because you don't believe in letting me have money in advance or because you don't think the hot dog would be good for me?"
  – Henry Aldrich ([04:12])

• "You don't want me to give her the wrong impression of our family, do you?"
  – Henry Aldrich ([12:55])

• Comic mishaps with the car, embodied in:
  "All I did was slide down it backwards."
  – Sam Aldrich ([23:03])

• Bittersweet ending with Loretta’s mock appreciation for Henry’s silent father.

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Tone and Style

The episode is filled with warm-hearted ribbing, familial misunderstandings, and the comic frustrations of adolescent life in mid-century America. Characters frequently jump to conclusions, miscommunicate, and, in the end, weather humorous struggles together. The language is period-appropriate, wholesome, and peppered with “gee whiz,” “gosh,” and other quaint expressions, providing a nostalgic window into the era.

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Conclusion

"Taking Loretta to the Dance" is a classic example of The Aldrich Family’s gentle humor and relatable situations, blending awkward teenage romance, generational misunderstandings, and small-town mishaps into a delightful comedic tangle. Even amidst setbacks, the episode closes on a note of family warmth and understated love.

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Transcript

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[Loretta Taylor]

Henry henry aldridge.

[Henry Aldrich]

Coming, mother.

[Narrator]

The Aldridge Family written by Clifford Goldsmith and starring Ezra Stone. Entertainment for all the family, brought to you by Postum attempting wholesome drink for all the family. Post em. Friends before we join the Aldrich family. Listen. Does that mean anything to you? Doesn't that sound just like your bedroom clock when it's dark and late at night and you're lying there unable to sleep? Well, if it does, if you know how the seconds drag when you're kept awake, just think of this. Coffee may be robbing you of sleep. Perhaps you'd sleep better if you drank Postum instead. Yes, even though many folks can drink coffee and sleep many others, perhaps you among them, cannot. So do as millions have done. If you think coffee keeps you awake, so switch to Postum because it's stimulant free. Because Postum, unlike coffee, contains nothing that could cause sleeplessness. Just drink fragrant, flavorful Postum instead of coffee. And after a fair trial of, say, two short weeks, see if you aren't enjoying good, sound sleep again, and lots of it. See if you don't say, thank goodness for Postum, Huck Finn, Tom Sawyer, Penrod Schofield. They're more than boys in books because the things they say and do are things real boys say and do. And now Henry Aldrich joins the ranks of these typical American youngsters. A boy from your town, perhaps from your own home. Now it is evening. We find Henry in the Aldrich living room with his father and mother.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, could I bother you for just a second?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What about?

[Henry Aldrich]

All I want to ask is to do something for me.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What is it?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, first, are you sure you're comfortable?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Comfortable?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir. Can I get you anything first?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

You may. You may get me my pipe.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. I'd be very glad to. Where is it?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

It's apparently upstairs. Tell me what it is you want.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, no, Father. I'd rather you have everything you want before I bring up what I'm going to.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Sam, did the Johnsons say Definitely they're coming over?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

They Did Alice.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

And I suppose, of course they'll want to play bridge.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

They certainly will.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Sometimes I wonder whether the Johnsons ever do anything but play bridge.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well, you can't blame them much. There's just the two of them.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, sometimes I wonder if they realize what they've missed by not having any children.

[Henry Aldrich]

Here's your pipe, Father, and your tobacco.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Oh, thank you.

[Henry Aldrich]

And all I want to ask you for is only 25 cents.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I thought I said you were not to have that 25 cents.

[Henry Aldrich]

Not even from Father?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Not even from anyone, dear.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, are there any matches out in the kitchen?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Yes, Sam.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Mother, this is the first time I've ever taken Loretta out. And it's going to be a swell dance. You don't want me to be embarrassed, do you?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I thought you had the tickets.

[Henry Aldrich]

I have, but how am I going to buy her a hot dog afterwards?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I'm sorry, but I don't know.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, look, Mother, would you be willing to tell me why you won't advance it?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry, I have nothing more to say.

[Henry Aldrich]

Nothing whatever. You won't even give me a hint as to why you won't? Mother, is it because you don't believe in letting me have money in advance or because you don't think the hot dog would be good for me?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Mother, it happens to be both.

[Henry Aldrich]

All right, I've got an answer for both.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry, dear, if you don't care enough to do anything for me, I certainly can't be expected to do anything for you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mother, I don't even know what you're talking about.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I'm not surprised.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, is it something you asked me to do and I forgot or something I shouldn't have done and you found out I did?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Never mind it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Because it isn't as though I were asking you for $0.50 or $0.35 or even 30. All I'm asking is enough to buy a hot dog for each of us and a root beer for Loretta. I'd rather eat mine dry than ask you for $0.01 more.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

How are you going to get Loretta to the dance?

[Henry Aldrich]

I think there'll be room in Jimmy's car. Mother, all I have to do is keep trying until his phone answers.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, don't you think it's time you made some definite arrangements?

[Henry Aldrich]

You don't suppose Father would. You don't suppose he.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

You don't suppose I'd what?

[Henry Aldrich]

Nothing, Father. Mother, will you tell me this? Is it because I forgot to hang up my pajamas?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry, if you're going to take Loretta to the dance, the thing for you to do is call Jimmy and see whether he has room for you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother. I'm going to right out to the phone now. And I'm only sorry I didn't do whatever it is you want me to do for you.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, what was it he didn't do?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Never mind, Sam. It's completely unimportant.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Is this the only deck of cards we have?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

No, dear, there's another deck right here on the table. I asked him distinctly. It was the last thing I asked him to do before he left the house, and he came right back from the store without it.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Without what?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Never mind.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What was it?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

The ginger ale for tonight? Yes, Sam. I asked him distinctly to get six bottles of ginger, Alex. And of course, that was the one thing he didn't bring.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well, now, Alice, don't let it upset you like that. You know the Johnsons. Once they start playing bridge, they'll forget their thirsty.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Sam, it isn't just the ginger ale. It's the fact that Henry can be so wrapped up in himself that he never even thinks of anything else.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well, I'll give him a little talking to.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Now, Sam, you're not even to mention it. Let him find out for himself how thoughtless he's been.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Where's the score pad?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Oh, right there in that stand drawer. As a matter of fact, I'd even planned to ask you to drive him and Loretta to the dance tonight.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well, it's a good thing you didn't. I'm settled here for the evening.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I'm simply going to make this a.

[Henry Aldrich]

Mother, why do you suppose Jimmy Bartlett doesn't answer?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I'm afraid, dear. That's your problem.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Mother. I'll find somebody that'll take us. And, Mother, before I forget it, when I came home, the icebox was full.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I beg your pardon.

[Henry Aldrich]

So I left it outside the back door in the snow bank.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

You left what out there?

[Henry Aldrich]

Don't you remember your ginger ale?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

The ginger ale. You got the ginger ale?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yeah, sure. Didn't you want it?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, Henry, that's fine.

[Henry Aldrich]

I wonder whether Homer Brown would have room for us in his car.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry. Sam, do you have 25 cents and change?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

25 cents? I have three dimes.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, dear, give them to Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

To I, Mother. 30 cents.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry. Henry, if you and Loretta are going to dance all evening, the least you'll want afterwards is something to eat.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Mother, wouldn't you like to tell me first what it is I did that you didn't want to give it to me for Henry?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

As I said, before let's forget the whole thing. Sam, is there any reason why you couldn't drive Henry to the dance?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What's that?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Drive me? Yes, drive.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Yes, dear. It won't take you 20 minutes.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

But, Alice, the Johnsons are coming.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

My goodness. All you have to do is drive Henry over and pick up Loretta and drop them at the country club.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

But, Alice, don't you realize the roads are banked with snow?

[Henry Aldrich]

The plows have opened everything up, Father. Pretty nearly.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Of course they have. Of course they have. Now, sand.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, get your things on.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. Well, gee whiz, boy, I wanted to take Loretta in our car all the time. It's twice as good as George Big Loud.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Now, suppose the Johnsons get here before I get back.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

What harm will it do if the bridge game has to wait five minutes? As a matter of fact, if they had a boy of their own, they'd understand.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Where are my gloves?

[Henry Aldrich]

They're right here on the radiator, Father.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

No, I'll answer the phone. You two get started.

[Henry Aldrich]

Goodbye, Mother, and thanks very much.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Come on, Henry, don't slip on the porch.

[Loretta Taylor]

Goodbye.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Have a good time. And thank you for getting the ginger.

[Loretta Taylor]

Alex.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Hello?

[Loretta Taylor]

Hello, Is this Elm 303?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Yes.

[Loretta Taylor]

Who is this?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

This is Mrs. Aldrich.

[Loretta Taylor]

Oh, hello, Mrs. Aldrich.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Hello. Who is this?

[Loretta Taylor]

This is Loretta. Can I speak with Henry?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry, will you wait just a minute, please? Loretta, I just looked out the window, dear. Henry and his father just this minute pulled away.

[Loretta Taylor]

Oh, he's on his way over to get me.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Yes.

[Loretta Taylor]

Well, maybe I should have called earlier.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

What for?

[Loretta Taylor]

I'm way out here.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Where?

[Loretta Taylor]

Oh, that's all right. My folks will tell him when he gets there.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, dear, where are you?

[Loretta Taylor]

I'm out at my aunt's. It's only six miles out on the Middle Town Road, though.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Six miles?

[Loretta Taylor]

Yes. Does Henry have chains?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I don't think he does. Are the roads quite bad?

[Loretta Taylor]

Oh, no, they're not bad. He's bound to get here sooner or later. Hello, Loretta, can you hear me? Yes, Agnes. I was just wondering whether you started for the dance yet. I'm still waiting. For Henry? For Henry? Henry Aldrich? Yes. But, Loretta, aren't you going with George? Oh, no, not tonight. I'm not. Well, my goodness. Oh, I don't have any crush on Henry. I just thought it was time I went out with somebody else. Why? Well, I just decided it would put Georgie in his place for a change. What are you going to wear? My light blue. Your light blue? Have I ever seen it? No. Oh, I've got to hang up, Agnes, or Henry may go right by.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, is this the country club?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

I don't know. Open the window so I can see.

[Henry Aldrich]

No, I guess this isn't it yet.

[Loretta Taylor]

We made pretty good time, Mr. Aldridge. Even if you have only been able to go 10 miles an hour.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Yes. Henry, is that a car right ahead of us?

[Homer Brown]

No.

[Henry Aldrich]

How could it be? Yes.

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee Whiz.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Hold on, Mr. Olvich.

[Loretta Taylor]

What are we doing?

[Narrator]

Nothing.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Just trying to stop.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whiz. Here we are, turned right around and facing the other way.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Isn't this the country club?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, yes. Gee, Father, it's lucky you skidded or we would have gone right by it.

[Loretta Taylor]

You mean we're here?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure.

[Loretta Taylor]

Well, I certainly want to thank you, Mr. Ulrich. I never had such an exciting ride.

[Henry Aldrich]

And I hope, Father, you won't be too late getting back to the house.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

That's all right. Just get out of the car.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, sir. Don't slip, Loretta.

[Loretta Taylor]

Henry, just look.

[Henry Aldrich]

What's the matter?

[Loretta Taylor]

My gracious. Look at everybody going in.

[Henry Aldrich]

What's the matter with them?

[Loretta Taylor]

All the girls are wearing long dresses, Henry, and you told me it was informal.

[Henry Aldrich]

It is informal.

[Loretta Taylor]

But it couldn't be, Henry. It just couldn't be if they're all wearing long dresses.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Are you out yet, Mr. Aldrich?

[Loretta Taylor]

I can't get out.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Why not?

[Loretta Taylor]

I'm not dressed.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What's that?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, look, Loretta, why don't we just stick our heads inside and see whether there aren't some others. Informal.

[Loretta Taylor]

Henry, I'd die if I went in there. George Bigelow and everyone is going to be in there.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

I'd simply d. Why would you die? Go ahead in and dance. Have a good time.

[Loretta Taylor]

But, Mr. Aldrich, Henry told me. He told me distinctly I wouldn't have to dress.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Loretta, Homer Brown told me distinctly it was informal. He said, don't let your girl dress. She'll only be conspicuous.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well, what are you going to do?

[Loretta Taylor]

Well, that. What? I don't know.

[Henry Aldrich]

Look, Loretta, couldn't we. Couldn't we sort of.

[Loretta Taylor]

Sort of what?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, I have guests back at the house that are waiting to play bridge. What are you going to do?

[Loretta Taylor]

Well, Mr. Aldrich, it isn't as though you'd have to drive me all the way back to my aunt's. My evening clothes are at my own house and that's hardly three miles from here.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Loretta, why don't you just walk in with your head up and show the whole town you don't care what they think.

[Loretta Taylor]

But I do care Mr. Aldrich.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

All right. Why don't you and Henry go to a movie?

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Father, look, I've got the tickets for the dance.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, the Johnsons can't even play one hand of bridge until I get there. And it's been an hour and 10 minutes since I left the house.

[Loretta Taylor]

But couldn't they be playing some other game?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Mr. Aldrich, the Johnsons don't play any other game.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, look, Father, could you step out of the car for a second while I speak to you confidentially? Loretta, would you mind closing the door?

[Loretta Taylor]

You aren't going to leave me here, are you?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Loretta, close the door.

[Loretta Taylor]

Yes, Mr. Aldridge.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Now then, Henry, as long as we're alone. May I say one thing?

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, all I want to ask is to loan me enough money to hire a taxi.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Why?

[Henry Aldrich]

To take her home while she changes.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, I don't even have my wallet with me.

[Henry Aldrich]

Don't you have any change at all?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

I do not.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, this is the first time I've ever taken her out. She's really George Bigelow's girl. You don't want me to give her the wrong impression of our family, do you?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, if you'd listened to Homer more carefully, you wouldn't be in this predicament.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Father, I'm sure he said it was to be informal.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

He couldn't have. Son, I just saw Homer go into the clubhouse one minute ago with his own girl.

[Henry Aldrich]

Was she in a long dress?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Of course she was.

[Henry Aldrich]

I don't know what made me think he did say it.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Because, son, you don't pay attention. You're like your mother. You simply jump at conclusions.

[Henry Aldrich]

But, Father, couldn't you make an exception just this once if I promised to listen very carefully in the future?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, I cannot. This is your fault.

[Loretta Taylor]

Hey, Henry.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Access to affordable credit helps me pay my employees, but I don't really need it.

[Henry Aldrich]

Infliction is killing me. But who cares? Big retailers are making record profits. That's why we support the Durbin Marshall credit card bill.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

See, banks and credit unions help small businesses make payroll. This bill would cut the vital resources

[Henry Aldrich]

they need while increasing megastore profits.

[Narrator]

They deserve it, don't they?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Tell Congress, stop. The Durbin Marshall money grab for corporate

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

megastores paid for by the Electronic Payments Coalition.

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[Henry Aldrich]

Who's that?

[Homer Brown]

It's Homer Brown. I just want to tell you I'm sorry I gave you that plum steer. I thought it was going to be informal.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Homer, did you tell Henry it was going to be informal?

[Homer Brown]

Yeah, and boy, I bet his girl hates me.

[Henry Aldrich]

She hates you? Gee whiz, Homer.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry, just forget the whole thing.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm only telling him how I feel. Father.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Get in the car. Hurry up.

[Henry Aldrich]

Where are we going?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Over to Loretta's while she changes her clothes.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Misses Aldrich? Yes, Mrs. Johnson. Isn't that a car I see driving up in front of the house? One moment while I look out of the window.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

You mean Mr. Aldrich is finally back?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

No. Whoever it is is getting out and going in next door.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

I wonder whether he plays bridge.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, I suppose you have to expect these things when you have children. Well, I'm almost positive Sam will be driving in any minute. Frank, it would be much easier on you if you'd stop shuffling those cards. That's all you've been doing all evening.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Thought I'd just have them ready.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

There he is. Is that the front door? It's the telephone. He's probably calling to say. He'll be right here.

[Loretta Taylor]

Hello?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Hello, is this Mother?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

May I speak to Father, please?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

With your father? He isn't here, dear.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

He isn't? Or where is he?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

I have no idea. We've been waiting here for him all evening.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Well, maybe he hasn't had time to get there.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

What happened, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

It was formal and Loretta wasn't.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

What's that?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

She had to make a change, Mother, and the roads are rather icy. But when he got us back here to the dance, he started right for home.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

How long ago?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

About an hour ago.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

An hour ago?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Or maybe it was a half an hour ago.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, even so, dear, he should certainly be here by now.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Mother, I wouldn't be worried. The front wheel doesn't interfere with his driving very much.

[Loretta Taylor]

The front wheel?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

The right one. And the reason I called, Mother, when Father left here, Homer Brown said he'd take Loretta and me home.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, I'm glad to hear that. And be sure to tell Homer to drive carefully.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

But, Mother, the trouble is, since then I've had a fight with Homer.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

You have?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

And Loretta's had a fight with Homer's girl.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, Henry, was that necessary?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

It was really on account of Father, Mother said. Don't you think he'd be willing to come and get us when the dance is over?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry, your fat father can't possibly go out again.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Wouldn't the chances enjoy coming over with them?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

You just ask around and find someone there at the dance that can take you home.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

But suppose I can't?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry, the thing for us to worry about right now is your father.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, please.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Go back and ask some of the boys whether they can't help you.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Yes, Mother.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

And if we don't hear from you again, we'll know you've found someone.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Yes, Mother, I'll try. Goodbye.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Goodbye. Well, on his way. I'm sorry to say that wasn't Sam. No. Well, you aren't worried, are you, my dear? Oh, no. Mr. Johnson. Do you have change on your car?

[Narrator]

Well, for once it isn't Henry who's missing, but his father. And since he's so badly needed at the bridge table, we can only hope that he'll turn up soon. Meanwhile, let me ask you something about your dining table. Do you think that Postum should have a place on it? Only if coffee keeps you awake. Well, if you do, I can only say you're missing something. You're missing a mealtime drink. That for downright enjoyment alone is one of the grandest things you and your family ever taste. You'll say so yourself once you try. Postum for a good hot cup of Postum gives you a fragrance and flavor that have made it the favorite mealtime drink in millions of American homes. And mind you, it doesn't taste like coffee or like tea. Postum's flavor is distinctive and it's every bit as delicious as it is different. Economical still selling at its usual low cost of less than 1/2 cent a cup. Postum is one drink your whole family can enjoy and at the same time ease the household budget. So for enjoyment and economy, serve steaming, delicious Postum to grown ups and children alike and find out why no drink is quite so good as Postum for all the family. But getting back to the troubles of Henry Aldrich. Mrs. Aldrich, worried and embarrassed over the tardy return of her husband who has driven Henry to the country club dance, continues to wait without any news from him. Meanwhile, Henry is having his own troubles. As the scene opens, we find him dancing with his girl.

[Loretta Taylor]

Oh, you're a wonderful dancer, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

I am? Why do you keep looking over your shoulder all the time?

[Loretta Taylor]

No reason. I just want to see who's. What's the matter, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

The matter? What do you mean?

[Loretta Taylor]

You probably said 10 words during this whole dance.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, the fact is I'm worried.

[Loretta Taylor]

What about?

[Henry Aldrich]

Do you suppose if we phoned your father he'd come after us?

[Loretta Taylor]

He isn't home tonight.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, well then that's out.

[Loretta Taylor]

Can't your father come after us?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh yes, he'd be glad to. I just been asking a couple of fellas in case, you know, my father wanted to play a little bridge. He was hoping to.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Oh.

[Loretta Taylor]

You know, I like your father, Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

You do?

[Loretta Taylor]

Uh huh. When he first looks at you, you think, my goodness, he's mad at me. But then it turns out he's just apparently thinking of something else.

[Henry Aldrich]

All in all, he's pretty good.

[Loretta Taylor]

Doesn't he ever really get mad?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, don't misunderstand me. He can lose his temper, you know. If he's planning to use his tools and he doesn't know I put them away carefully someplace else where he doesn't happen to know where it is. And boy, then does he tear around. Really for the whole next hour. You want to keep out of his way.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Really.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. But he never gets what you could really call mad. I sort of wish I could find someone to take us home.

[Loretta Taylor]

Henry, I have an idea. Why couldn't George Bigelow drive us home?

[Henry Aldrich]

George Bigelow? Yes, George Bigelow. Why should we ask him?

[Loretta Taylor]

Why not? He's here all alone, Henry, and he's got his car.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure, I noticed. He was here all alone. I noticed.

[Loretta Taylor]

Now Henry, don't be silly. There he is right over there. George. Oh George.

[Henry Aldrich]

Listen Loretta, if you call him, he'll only want to dance with you again.

[Loretta Taylor]

Oh, he hasn't danced with me so much.

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whizz, he's cut in on almost every dance.

[Loretta Taylor]

Well I didn't ask him to. Henry.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Hey Loretta.

[Loretta Taylor]

Yes George?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Come on out on the porch. I want to show you something.

[Loretta Taylor]

George, you wouldn't mind driving us home, would you?

[Henry Aldrich]

No Loretta, it won't be necessary.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

No, I wouldn't mind. I wouldn't mind at all.

[Henry Aldrich]

I said it wouldn't be necessary. And anyway, Loretta's staying way out at her aunts tonight.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What of it? All I have to do is drop you first and then I'll take Loretta home.

[Henry Aldrich]

What's that? Listen, I brought Loretta here and I'm going to take her home.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Of course you are. I'm just going to help you.

[Henry Aldrich]

No, you're not. I'm going to take her home myself.

[Loretta Taylor]

Now, boys, wait.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Now listen, Aldrich.

[Henry Aldrich]

Now listen yourself.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Sam, is that you?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

It is.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Oh, my goodness, Sam, where have you been?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Where have I been? Where haven't I been?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, dear, are you all right?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Of course I am. Why shouldn't I be?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, what have you been doing all this time?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

I'll tell you all about it later. Let's go ahead and start playing bridge. I'll just wash my hands.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Start playing bridge. Where's Mr. Johnson?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What do you mean, where is he?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Sam, he drove out to get you.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What did he do that for?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Because Mrs. Johnson and I were worried about you.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well now, Alice, why did you do a thing like that?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Mrs. Olvis, has anything happened to Frank? Well, no, dear, of course nothing has. Sam, you must have seen him. He took the road right out to the country club.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well, I took the shortcut over Kendall Hill. That's where I had the trouble.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

What trouble?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

I couldn't get over it.

[Loretta Taylor]

You mean it?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

You mean it's that slippery out?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

It is.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

And you don't think you ought to do anything about it?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Do anything? What could I do?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, Sam, I think if he went out for you, the least you can do is go out for him.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Alice, you should never have sent him.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

But I thought something happened to you.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

You were simply jumping at conclusions.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

You weren't able to get over Kendall Hill, were you?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

No, but all I did was slide down it backwards.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, that's all the more reason you ought to go out and get him, Alice. To tell you the truth, Mr. Aldrich, I am worried.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Where did I put my coat?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Right here on the banister. And Sam, drive carefully because I'm going to worry about you every minute you're gone.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well, as far as I'm concerned, I'd just as soon wet the car up tonight and not get it out all winter. Oh, just a minute. Hello?

[Loretta Taylor]

Hello.

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Is this you, Father?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

It is?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Well, this is Henry, Father. You'll have to come out here and get me when the dance is over.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What's that?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

I'm sorry, Father, but it's an emergency. My whole reputation is at stake.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What about?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

I'm just not going to let him get away with it, that's all. Henry, I'll explain everything when I see you. Goodbye.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

But, Henry. Henry. Henry.

[Loretta Taylor]

Good night, Jo.

[Henry Aldrich]

So long.

[Homer Brown]

What are you waiting for, Henry? Aren't you going home?

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure, Homer. I'm waiting for Loretta.

[Homer Brown]

Where is she?

[Henry Aldrich]

She's upstairs in the powder room getting her things on.

[Homer Brown]

Oh, that's funny, because if I remember correctly, I heard George Bigelow say something about taking Loretta home.

[Henry Aldrich]

You're crazy, Homer. There you are jumping at conclusions again. Loretta's up there mending a hem on her skirt.

[Homer Brown]

Well, George was talking about it, Henry. Incidentally, I wonder where Agnes is.

[Henry Aldrich]

I hope she's ditched you.

[Homer Brown]

Oh, gee, darn near. Everybody else has gone home.

[Loretta Taylor]

Have I kept you waiting, Homer?

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes.

[Homer Brown]

So long, Henry. You can still come home with us if you want to.

[Henry Aldrich]

That's all right, Homer. My father will be here in a minute. Agnes, did you happen to notice whether Loretta is almost ready?

[Loretta Taylor]

Loretta? I don't know, Henry. I didn't see her upstairs.

[Henry Aldrich]

You didn't? Well, she's up there all right, Agnes. She's mending her hem.

[Homer Brown]

Remember what I heard George say.

[Henry Aldrich]

Henry, you're crazy.

[Loretta Taylor]

Good night.

[Henry Aldrich]

Good night.

[Janitor]

Young man, would you mind stepping over to one side while I sweep up here?

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, excuse me.

[Janitor]

Do you all have a nice dance tonight?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, pretty good.

[Janitor]

Everybody seemed to. Why don't you go home?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, I'm going to just as soon as my father gets here.

[Janitor]

Would you mind not standing in front of this piano? I want to close it up.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh, excuse me. Oh, my.

[Janitor]

Look at those ashes.

[Henry Aldrich]

Have you seen anyone up in the powder room?

[Henry Aldrich (on phone)]

Who, your father?

[Henry Aldrich]

No, my girl, Loretta Taylor. Do you know her?

[Janitor]

I don't know, but she ain't up there.

[Henry Aldrich]

Are you sure?

[Janitor]

I certainly didn't see anybody. And I just came down from there 10 seconds ago.

[Henry Aldrich]

You didn't see anyone at all?

[Janitor]

No, sir.

[Henry Aldrich]

Oh.

[Janitor]

Now, young man, if you'll stand over to the other side, unless you want to get your feet wet, I'll start mopping.

[Henry Aldrich]

Sure. There isn't more than one powder room up there, is there?

[Janitor]

There never has been. Say, I don't suppose I should ask you, but I ain't gonna be long cleaning up here.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

You couldn't give me a lift home, could you?

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, as a matter of fact, I don't think I'll wait any longer myself. Oh, your girl ditch ya? Oh, no, no. I guess she didn't want to bother my father, so she just went home. Incidentally, in case my father comes here after I've left, will you tell him I'm walking home?

[Loretta Taylor]

Sure.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'd phone him, only, gee whiz, I spent all my nickels phoning home as it is.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Now then, Mr. Johnson, I guess you're waiting for me. Yes, sir. It's your turn. Well, now, let's see. No, I can't do it that way. You stuck? No. I'll figure this out. You certainly got me in a jam here. Well, I was only following your lead. Yes, well, let me try it this way. I'll put my car in reverse and you see if you can push me. I don't think that will work.

[Henry Aldrich]

Excuse me, mister, but could you give me a lift?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What's that?

[Henry Aldrich]

Gee whiz, Father. Is that you?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Henry? Where did you come from?

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm walking home so you won't have to go all the way out to the clubhouse and get me.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Well, that's very thoughtful of you.

[Henry Aldrich]

Are both of your cars stuck here, Henry?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Stand back. We're going to try it once more.

[Henry Aldrich]

Easy, easy.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

That isn't going to do it. No, I guess it isn't.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, Wait a second. Here comes a car. Wait, I'll flag them. Let me. Hey. Hey, can you give us a hand?

[Homer Brown]

What is it you want?

[Henry Aldrich]

Is that you, Homer?

[Homer Brown]

Of course it is.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, can you help pull either one of these cars out of here? How? There's nothing to it. All you have to do is.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Now, wait a minute, Henry. Let me tell him. Just back up behind Mr. Johnson.

[Homer Brown]

Is there room for me to get in there? Is there, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Is there what? Homer. Hey, Homer, what'd you do that for?

[Homer Brown]

I thought I had room.

[Henry Aldrich]

That's it. Jumping at some more conclusions.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Sam, do you want me to turn out the light?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

I'll turn it out. You in bed?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Yes, dear.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Am I tired.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, I should think you'd be dead.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

What did the Johnsons say when they went home?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Not a thing. They simply put on their coats and

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

left without even looking at a bridge deck.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

You know, Sam, it's really a pity the Johnsons have no family. Then they'd understand how easy and natural it is to make sacrifices for them.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Yes, I suppose you're right.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Did Henry say anything to you about Loretta?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

He didn't mention it to me.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Well, I'm afraid, Sam, he was terribly hurt this evening.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Yes, Henry?

[Henry Aldrich]

Could I just thank you once more for all you've done for me tonight?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

You're very welcome, son. Now, please go to bed.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, Father. Wasn't it Lucky that wrecking car got us out so quick.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Yes, dear. Now please go to bed. Your father's tired.

[Henry Aldrich]

Yes, mother. Is that the telephone?

[Narrator]

Yes.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Turn on the light so I can find it.

[Henry Aldrich]

I've got it, father. It's right here. Hello?

[Loretta Taylor]

Hello, Is Henry Aldridge there?

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Yes.

[Loretta Taylor]

Well, this is Loretta.

[Henry Aldrich]

Loretta?

[Loretta Taylor]

Yes. And I just want to say. Henry Ulrich, I think you're the meanest, most horrid person I've ever known in my life.

[Henry Aldrich]

What have I done?

[Loretta Taylor]

Well, I'm sorry I didn't go home with George Bigelow.

[Henry Aldrich]

Who did you go home with?

[Loretta Taylor]

I didn't go home with anyone.

[Henry Aldrich]

I'm still here at the clubhouse.

[Loretta Taylor]

Of course I am. And I've just simply got to get home.

[Alice Aldrich (Mother)]

Henry.

[Henry Aldrich]

Well, just a minute, Father. Have you gone entirely to sleep yet?

[Narrator]

Henry Ulrich will be back in just a moment. In the meantime, if coffee keeps you awake, see if you don't sleep better drinking Postum instead. You'll enjoy Postum's grand taste. You and your whole family. And as an all family drink, you'll find Postum most economical. Still selling at its usual low cost of less than 1/2 cent a cup. So ask your grocer for Postum tomorrow.

[Henry Aldrich]

Father, I just got a note from Loretta.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Did you?

[Henry Aldrich]

It's about our going back for her the other night.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Yes.

[Henry Aldrich]

She says words will never express my appreciation. Especially of the behavior of your father. Not once did he complain. Not once did he embarrass me by so much as looking in my direction. Not once did he even say a word. Henry, your father must be a very wonderful silent man.

[Narrator]

Listen again next week to the Aldrich family. 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. Original music is composed and conducted by Jack Miller. This is Dan Seymour saying you will enjoy fragrant, flavorful Postum. And remember, Postum contains no stimulants. It cannot keep you awake. Good night. Why all the cheering? Haven't you heard?

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Listen, it's hot off the griddle.

[Narrator]

Log Cabin Syrup, America's favorite table syrup is selling at money saving big value prices. Remember, you get the same matchless Log Cabin syrup. Same high quality, same mouth watering old fashioned flavor. So delicious with piping hot pancakes or waffles.

[Sam Aldrich (Father)]

Tomorrow buy Log Cabin Syrup from your grocer.

[Narrator]

You'll find prices on all three sizes are surprisingly low. Well within your housekeeping budget. This is the National Broadcasting Company.