Father Knows Best 50-05-11 (038) The Golf Challenge

Summary

Father Knows Best - Episode 038: "The Golf Challenge"

Released: May 23, 2025

Overview

In this engaging episode of Father Knows Best, titled "The Golf Challenge", the Anderson family navigates a series of humorous and heartfelt challenges centered around Jim Anderson's passion for golf. As Jim prepares for a significant golf tournament, familial tensions arise over financial decisions, personal ambitions, and the dynamics of support within the household. This episode delves into themes of responsibility, ambition, and the enduring bonds of family.

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1. Setting the Stage

The episode opens in the familiar setting of the Anderson family's white-frame house on Maple Street, establishing a sense of normalcy and tradition that has been the hallmark of the series.

Narrator [00:49]: "Yes, it's Father Knows Best transcribed in Hollywood, starring Robert Young as Father. A half-hour visit with your neighbors, the Andersons..."

2. The Catalyst: A Broken Window

The primary conflict is introduced when a window in the garage is accidentally broken, setting off a series of events that highlight the family's interpersonal dynamics.

Kathy [03:01]: "You mean the noise that sounded like a window breaking?"

Bud [03:17]: "It was the garage window, and a rock broke it."

The immediate blame game ensues, with Betty holding her siblings accountable for the mishap.

3. Betty's Aspirations vs. Family Constraints

Betty expresses her frustration over not being able to purchase a new dress for her role in the play "Camille," emphasizing her ambition and the pressure she feels.

Betty [02:19]: "The greatest opportunity of my life. Everyone will be watching me, and I have to die in that old rag. I'll just die."

Her desire clashes with the family's financial concerns and Jim's focus on his golfing pursuits.

4. Jim Anderson's Golfing Ambition

Jim proudly announces his victory over Jim Hathaway, advancing to the semifinals of the golf tournament.

Jim Anderson [06:08]: "Jim Hathaway. What am I going to tell him?"

Jim Anderson [07:01]: "Yes, sir, 15 years. And that isn't the best part. Do you know who I have to play? Ed Davis. And if I can't beat him, I'll hang up my shoes."

Jim's competitive spirit and commitment to golf become the central theme, driving much of the episode's tension.

5. The Strain on Family Relationships

As Jim becomes increasingly absorbed in his golf ambitions, the family's attention shifts to managing household issues and supporting Betty's theatrical endeavors.

Margaret [02:00]: "I'm sorry, Betty. You had no right to tell them anything like that."

The family's interactions reveal underlying tensions as they balance individual aspirations with collective responsibilities.

6. The Broken Back Incident

In a humorous twist, Jim attempts to demonstrate proper golf technique to his children, resulting in a comedic mishap where he believes he has dislocated his back.

Jim Anderson [12:04]: "I don't know. Something snapped and I. Oh gosh, I. I can't straighten up."

This incident serves as both a comedic relief and a plot device to explore deeper family dynamics.

7. The Climactic Confrontation

Jim's determination to participate in the golf finals despite his perceived injury leads to a confrontation with his trusted friend, Dr. Simmons, revealing both vulnerability and stubbornness.

Jim Anderson [16:35]: "What happened to him, anyway? He died. But, Ed, it works. I've tried it."

Jim Anderson [22:18]: "I hate to interrupt anything so vital, but what else do I do?"

8. Resolution and Reconciliation

Ultimately, the family comes together to support Jim, balancing his passion for golf with their own needs and aspirations. The episode concludes with a reaffirmation of familial bonds and mutual understanding.

Jim Anderson [26:57]: "I don't know, but I'm going to try. Nobody's going to say I gave up without a fight, Jim."

Narrator [27:57]: "It's morning now, and in the white frame house on Maple Street, there's a heavy blanket of gloom in the master bedroom. This is one morning when the master feels anything but masterful like this."

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Notable Quotes

• Betty on Her Aspirations [02:19]:

  "The greatest opportunity of my life. Everyone will be watching me, and I have to die in that old rag. I'll just die."

• Jim's Determination [07:01]:

  "Yes, sir, 15 years. And that isn't the best part. Do you know who I have to play? Ed Davis. And if I can't beat him, I'll hang up my shoes."

• Margaret's Concern [03:36]:

  "Children, please. Your father will be home soon."

• Jim on Commitment [17:07]:

  "If you give me the $17."

• Jim's Reflection [19:13]:

  "When I was a boy, people were considerate. They were thoughtful and kind."

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Themes and Insights

• Balancing Ambition and Family: Jim's dedication to golf highlights the challenges of pursuing personal passions while maintaining family harmony.

• Financial Constraints vs. Personal Desires: Betty's need for a new dress represents the broader theme of balancing financial responsibilities with individual aspirations.

• Communication and Understanding: The episode underscores the importance of open dialogue and mutual support within a family unit.

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Conclusion

"The Golf Challenge" masterfully intertwines humor with heartfelt moments, showcasing the Anderson family's resilience and love amidst the trials of daily life. Through Jim's golfing endeavors and the ensuing family dynamics, the episode offers a poignant reflection on ambition, responsibility, and the enduring strength of family bonds.

For listeners who haven't tuned in, this episode provides a delightful glimpse into the timeless struggles and joys of the Anderson family, making it a must-listen for fans of classic family-centered storytelling.

Transcript

[Ryan Seacrest]

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[Kathy]

Mother, is Maxwell House really the only coffee in the world?

[Margaret]

Well, your father says so, and your father knows best.

[Narrator]

Yes, it's Father Knows Best transcribed in Hollywood, starring Robert Young as Father. A half hour visit with your neighbors, the Andersons, Robert. Brought to you by America's favorite coffee, Maxwell House. The coffee that's always good to the last drop. There was once an ancient Greek, a lad named Zenobius, who probably didn't know a putter from the front end of a buggy whip. Yet in the year 154 A.D. he wrote, Contests allow no excuses. No more do friendships.

[Jim Anderson]

And if that doesn't describe the average.

[Narrator]

Golf tournament, it comes mighty, mighty close. Today in Springfield, in the white frame house on Maple Street. We find that things haven't changed a great deal in the last 18 centuries. Customs and costumes may have altered slightly, but people go on forever like this.

[Betty]

But, Mother, the whole play depends on it. I told them I'd buy a new dress.

[Margaret]

I'm sorry, Betty. You had no right to tell them anything like that.

[Betty]

Mother, you don't understand. I'm the star. I'm Camille. And how can Camille die in an old dress?

[Margaret]

You just have to manage, dear.

[Betty]

The greatest opportunity of my life. Everyone will be watching me, and I have to die in that old rag. I'll just die.

[Margaret]

I'm sure you will, dear.

[Betty]

Mother, you're not even listening. Why can't I just ask him?

[Margaret]

Betty, I know it means a great deal to you, but try to think of the rest of us. Your father's having so much trouble with his car. Now, if you ask him for a new dress. Oh, dear. I told them to be careful. Bud, what are you doing out there?

[Bud]

I wasn't doing anything, Mom.

[Kathy]

Oh, he was too.

[Ryan Seacrest]

Boom.

[Margaret]

Cassie, you and Bud come in here this very minute.

[Betty]

Mother, couldn't we explain to him that it's really sort of an investment?

[Margaret]

Betty, please, not now. Bud, what was that noise?

[Bud]

Noise? You mean just now?

[Margaret]

Yes, just now.

[Kathy]

You mean the noise that sounded like a window breaking?

[Bud]

Yes, a window broke.

[Margaret]

Bud. Which window and who broke it?

[Bud]

It was the garage window, and a rock broke it.

[Betty]

Mother, they ruined everything. No. I'll never get the dress.

[Bud]

What did we do?

[Betty]

You broke a window, that's what. And Father will be all upset.

[Bud]

I didn't break a window. Kathy broke it.

[Betty]

I did not.

[Kathy]

You broke it just as much as I did.

[Bud]

I didn't even touch the rock.

[Kathy]

Well, it was your golf club, and you told me what to do.

[Bud]

I did not.

[Kathy]

You certainly did.

[Bud]

I certainly didn't.

[Margaret]

Children, please. Your father will be home soon.

[Betty]

He's home now.

[Margaret]

He is? Oh, dear. Kathy, don't you say anything to your father until I've had a chance to say something.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, Jim, I'm home.

[Margaret]

We're in the kitchen there.

[Betty]

He would have let me have the dress. I know he would. Now I never will, and it's all your fault.

[Jim Anderson]

Mine?

[Betty]

Yes, yours. You and that. That junior grade Frankenstein.

[Kathy]

Mother.

[Margaret]

Betty, please. I will not have you.

[Jim Anderson]

Well.

[Margaret]

Oh, hello, dear.

[Jim Anderson]

What's going on in here?

[Betty]

Hello, Father.

[Bud]

Hi, dad.

[Kathy]

Hello, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

How do you do? Clara, Lou and Em. Hiya, honey.

[Margaret]

Hello, dear.

[Jim Anderson]

As I said before, why the kitchen convention.

[Margaret]

You're home a little early, aren't you, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, we. We finished a little earlier than usual this afternoon. What's the matter with the kids? They look as though they.

[Margaret]

Dinner won't be ready for half an hour, Jim. I hope you don't mind.

[Jim Anderson]

No, I don't mind. I said so many things came up.

[Margaret]

This afternoon, I've been busy trying to get them straightened out.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret.

[Margaret]

Yes, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

What happened?

[Margaret]

What do you mean, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

I'm being steered away from something. What is it, Daddy? I should have known. All right, Kathy. Whose window is it this time?

[Margaret]

Ours.

[Kathy]

The one in the garage.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, that's a novelty.

[Bud]

I guess it was my fault too, Dad. I was showing her how to play golf.

[Kathy]

I won't ever do it again, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, you don't have to look so solemn about it. You certainly didn't do it on purpose, did you?

[Betty]

Oh.

[Kathy]

Oh, no, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

There's nothing so terrible about breaking a window. Just an accident, that's all.

[Margaret]

Jim.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, Margaret?

[Margaret]

Do you feel all right, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

Sure, I feel all right. I feel fine.

[Margaret]

Why, I was just wondering, Father. Betty, please.

[Betty]

But, Mother. As long as he feels that way.

[Margaret]

Jim, I. I told her quite definitely that it was out of the question.

[Jim Anderson]

What is, Father?

[Betty]

I have to have a new dress. It's for the third act of Camille And I told the dramatic coach I would. And it's only $17. And it's just beautiful for when she dies.

[Jim Anderson]

Who? The coach.

[Betty]

Father. Camille.

[Margaret]

Betty, I told you just a few minutes ago.

[Jim Anderson]

Just a second, Margaret. If the dress is that important, and Betty promised. Well, there's no reason why she can't get it, Father.

[Bud]

Holy cow.

[Jim Anderson]

It's only $17. What's that?

[Betty]

We. Like hell. Janie Liggett.

[Margaret]

Jim, are you sure you feel all right?

[Jim Anderson]

Never felt better in my life. Margaret, do you know what I did this afternoon?

[Margaret]

No, dear. But if you want to lie down.

[Jim Anderson]

I beat Jim Hathaway.

[Margaret]

That's fine, dear, if you want to lie down for a while before dinner.

[Betty]

Oh, it's Pa. Pale green, Father. And it's just like pistachio whipped cream.

[Jim Anderson]

Fine, Margaret, you don't understand. Jim Hathaway was a 3 to 1 favorite. He was even money to win the whole tournament, and I beat him. Don't you see what that means? I'm in the semifinals, Daddy.

[Bud]

Holy cow, dad. No kidding.

[Jim Anderson]

15 years and I finally made it.

[Betty]

The semifinals with pale makeup and a soft spotlight. Oh, Father, I'm the happiest girl in the world.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, sir, 15 years. And that isn't the best part. Do you know who I have to play? Ed Davis. And if I can't beat him, I'll hang up my shoes.

[Betty]

Why?

[Jim Anderson]

What?

[Kathy]

Why will you hang up your shoes?

[Jim Anderson]

That's just an expression, Kathy. It means I'll give up wearing shoes. No, Kathy. Playing golf.

[Bud]

Gosh, dad, you might even win the cup, mightn't you?

[Jim Anderson]

I certainly won't. Bud, you should have seen the putts I dropped today. 18ft, 20ft. I was the hottest thing on the golf course. If I can just keep it up for two. Two more rounds.

[Margaret]

Jim, I don't like to interrupt, but if we're ever going to have dinner.

[Betty]

Is it all right if I call Janie? Mother?

[Margaret]

Yes, dear.

[Jim Anderson]

Come on, Kathy, let's go out in the backyard. I'll show you and Bud how golf should really be played.

[Bud]

Oh, boy.

[Kathy]

I get shown first.

[Margaret]

Jim, be sure you don't wander off somewhere.

[Jim Anderson]

We'll be right here, Margaret.

[Margaret]

I'll call you when dinner's ready.

[Jim Anderson]

That'll be fine, honey.

[Bud]

Say, dad, we've been using that old fly vine you gave.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, wait a second, Bud. Say, Ed. Jim, I was just coming over to see you. Ed, did you hear what I did to Jim Hathaway? It was murder. I know. They called me for the club. Jim, I've got a Terrific favor to ask of you. Okay. What's the matter with you? Oh, I I I've got a cold. The worst cold I've ever had my whole life.

[Kathy]

Hello, Mr. Davis.

[Jim Anderson]

Hello, Kathy. Bud.

[Bud]

Hi.

[Jim Anderson]

Don't get too close to me. I'm a walking gerb. Boy, you certainly picked up a piff. Jim, would it be all right with you if we postponed our batch until Sunday? Gosh, I don't know, Ed. That's when the finals are supposed to be played. I know, Jim, but I I'm pretty sure I could lick this cold by Sunday. Then I could play the semifinals in the morning and the finals in the afternoon. Oh, you can, can you? What happened to me? Oh, Jeb, let's face it. If I can't lick you, I'll hang up my shoes. Wait a minute. I wouldn't ask you, Jim, but this is a big thing in my life. I've been trying to reach the finals for 10 years. I've been trying for 15. Oh, Jim, let's not be ridiculous. You don't stand a chance that you do it. Oh, I don't, don't I? Oh, why, I could spot you six strokes a side and still beat you, but with this cold. Well, maybe I won't win, but at least I don't go around trying to build up an alibi. Beating what? Meaning I could beat you with or without a cold, and you know it. Jib, we've been friends for a long time. That's got nothing to do with it. Golf is golf, and if you can't play tomorrow, you'll forfeit the match. Oh, that's fine. That's fine. After all the things I've done for you. And you're taking the wrong attitude about this whole thing. I want to beat you fair and square. Yeah, but how can I if you let a little thing like a cold get you down? A little thing? I'm so weak I could hardly see. Sure, because you aren't trying to fight it. Jib, when you get into the house, fix yourself a hot lemonade, Take two aspirins and then concentrate. Jib, say to yourself, I haven't got a cold, Never had a cold. I'm too strong and healthy to get a cold. Believe me, it's all in your mind. God bless you. Thank you. Remember that guy, Koo A? Every day, in every way, I'm getting better and better and better. Yeah. Whatever happened to him, anyway? He died. But, Ed, it works. I've tried it. You can talk yourself out of practically anything you sure can. Well, if that's the way you want it, Jim. Ed, I'm trying to help you. Okay, I'll be there at the party if they have to carry me on a stretcher. And don't forget the hot lemonade and aspirin. That'll help too. Thanks, Jim. Every day and every way. You've been a great help. See you tomorrow.

[Bud]

Dad. We aren't going to have much time.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, sure we are. Where's the ball?

[Kathy]

We don't have a ball. That's why we had to use rocks.

[Jim Anderson]

What happened to that practice ball I gave you? You know the cottonwood?

[Bud]

It's over near the garage.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, get it.

[Betty]

We can't.

[Kathy]

It's stuck in back of a big log.

[Bud]

That's right, dad. You can't reach it unless we get the log out of the way.

[Jim Anderson]

I've never seen a more helpless pair of kids in my life. Is this it?

[Kathy]

Huh?

[Jim Anderson]

Over there.

[Kathy]

In there.

[Jim Anderson]

But I'll lift the log and you reach in for the ball.

[Bud]

Okay, Dan, are you ready? You bet.

[Jim Anderson]

One, two, three.

[Kathy]

Heavy, isn't it, Daddy?

[Jim Anderson]

Well, my hands must have slipped. Let's try it again, bud. Ready?

[Bud]

Right.

[Jim Anderson]

One, two, three.

[Margaret]

Got it, Dad?

[Jim Anderson]

I don't know. Something snapped and I. Oh gosh, I. I can't straighten up.

[Kathy]

Daddy.

[Bud]

Maybe your suspenders got stuck.

[Jim Anderson]

But I. I don't wear suspenders.

[Bud]

Oh, that's right. I forgot.

[Jim Anderson]

Fine son you turned out to be. I'm in mortal agony and you have to make jokes.

[Bud]

I wasn't making any jokes. Dad.

[Kathy]

Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, my back. What is it, Kathy?

[Kathy]

I know how you can fix it.

[Jim Anderson]

You do, huh?

[Kathy]

Sure. All you have to say is, every day, in every way, I'm standing upper and upper and upper.

[Jim Anderson]

Cassie, do you know what'll happen if I take my belt off?

[Kathy]

Uh huh. Your pants will fall down.

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[Narrator]

The sands of time run slowly in the white frame house on Maple Street. An hour has passed, but not Jim Anderson's affliction. Surrounded by a solicitous family, Father waits. The arrival of Dr. Simmons and sympathy flows in a steady stream through the Anderson living room.

[Jim Anderson]

Like this.

[Margaret]

Jim, I've told you repeatedly, you're not a child. You can't do things like that.

[Jim Anderson]

Like what? All I did was try to lift the.

[Bud]

Oh, it hurts. Honda, it is.

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[Jim Anderson]

Of course not. I just like to groan, that's all. Betty, what's the matter with you?

[Betty]

Nothing, father.

[Jim Anderson]

Then why are you staring at me?

[Betty]

Well, it's for Camille.

[Kathy]

Really.

[Betty]

I'm doing research.

[Jim Anderson]

What are you talking about?

[Betty]

The play. I have to die in the third act. And you're making the most wonderful faces.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, that's fine. That's just great. I have a broken back and my daughter uses it for research. You know, this is the most cold blooded family I've ever known.

[Betty]

But Father.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, call the doctor again. Tell him it's an emergency.

[Margaret]

I did Jim and they said he'd be here as soon as possible.

[Jim Anderson]

Fine doctor he turned out to be. Anytime you need him, he's out operating on people, delivering babies. He's never around when you need him for anything important.

[Betty]

Father, about the dress.

[Margaret]

Betty, this is hardly the time.

[Betty]

But Mother, I have to go to the rehearsal.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, go ahead. Nobody's stopping you.

[Betty]

I can't Go. Unless you give me the $17.

[Jim Anderson]

Then stay home. Father, doesn't it mean anything to you that I'm practically dying? I lie here doubled up like a pretzel.

[Bud]

Hey, you know, I didn't have any dinner.

[Jim Anderson]

But how can you think of food at a time like this?

[Bud]

Well, I'm a growing boy.

[Margaret]

We'll all have our dinner in just a little while. Dad.

[Kathy]

Here's the hot water bottle, Mommy. I got it as hot as I could.

[Margaret]

Thank you, dear.

[Kathy]

You're welcome.

[Jim Anderson]

People go around breaking windows, hitting golf balls and back of logs.

[Margaret]

Jim, let me put the hot water bottle on your back.

[Jim Anderson]

I don't want it on my back. It hurts enough the way it is.

[Bud]

Gosh, dad, how are you gonna play golf tomorrow?

[Jim Anderson]

Golf? I'll be lucky if I'm still alive. Oh, no.

[Margaret]

What is it, Jim?

[Jim Anderson]

Ed Davis. What am I going to tell him?

[Margaret]

Well, why don't you just tell him, Margaret?

[Jim Anderson]

I can't. He'd never believe that I hurt my back. Not after the argument we had.

[Kathy]

Daddy told him about Mr. Poohy.

[Margaret]

Pooh.

[Kathy]

Every day in every way.

[Jim Anderson]

Kathy, go to bed.

[Kathy]

I haven't had my dinner.

[Jim Anderson]

Then behave yourself and be quiet.

[Kathy]

Yes, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Man tries to do the right thing, the honorable thing, and what happens? Nobody believes that he. Bud?

[Bud]

Yes, Dan?

[Jim Anderson]

Give me a hand. I. I want to get up.

[Bud]

Okay.

[Margaret]

Jim. Do you think it's worse?

[Jim Anderson]

I've got to call Ed Davis. Margaret, I. I just thought of something.

[Margaret]

Can't we call him for you?

[Jim Anderson]

No, I've got to do it myself.

[Margaret]

Jim, please be careful.

[Jim Anderson]

I'm being careful. You don't see me leaping into the air, do you? Oh.

[Bud]

Grab his other arm, Betty.

[Betty]

Father, it's only $17.

[Jim Anderson]

When I was a boy, people were considerate. They were thoughtful and kind.

[Bud]

Call, will you, Betty?

[Jim Anderson]

When people were dying, they at least showed them the proper respect. They didn't follow them down to the grave, hounding them for $17.

[Bud]

There you are, dad. How do you feel?

[Jim Anderson]

Never mind how I feel. Just help me over to the phone.

[Betty]

Father, while you're standing up.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty.

[Betty]

Yes, Father?

[Jim Anderson]

Go away.

[Betty]

But, Father.

[Jim Anderson]

I said go away. Bud and I can manage alone.

[Betty]

Jumping creepers. After I told everybody I was going to get.

[Jim Anderson]

She wouldn't care if somebody dropped a bomb on my head. Just as long as she got that idiotic dress.

[Bud]

You want me to dial the Davis's for you, dad?

[Jim Anderson]

Thank you very much, Bud. You've been a great help.

[Bud]

Oh, that's okay, dad. Say, dad, you won't be able to Use the car tonight. And I just thought.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, stop thinking. You had the car last night, and that's enough. Here, let me have it.

[Bud]

Holy cow.

[Jim Anderson]

Hello? Oh, hello, Ed. This is Jim Anderson. Oh, hello, Jim. Say, I owe you an apology. Oh, that's all right, Ed. You know, I've been thinking things over, and I don't see any reason why we can't postpone our match until Sunday. What for? Well, I want you to be at your best, Ed. And that'll give you a chance to get over your cold. What cold? Jim, I don't know how to thank you. I did just what you said, and I feel like a new man. You what? Oh, I've still got a couple of sniffles, but I feel great. You do, huh? You certainly knew what you were talking about.

[Commercial Announcer]

Every day in every way.

[Jim Anderson]

Hey, that's a great system. It is, huh? Yes, sir. You'll have to play some pretty sharp golf to beat me tomorrow. Say, wouldn't you like to go out to the driving range and hit a few? No, thanks, Ed. I. I'll just take it easy tonight. Okay, pal. See you in the morning. Yes, I'll see. See you in the morning. Every day in every way. I ought to have my brains examined.

[Bud]

What did Mr. Davis say, dad?

[Jim Anderson]

He feels fine, Bud. Just fine. Let's go back to the couch.

[Bud]

Okay, Jim, I don't understand what this is all about.

[Margaret]

If you can't play golf, why don't you tell him?

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, there are certain things that women just don't. Let me down easy, Bud.

[Bud]

Okay, dad.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, Father.

[Margaret]

Betty, you and Kathy go into the kitchen and fix your. But, Mother, you waited long enough. Now, go ahead.

[Bud]

How about me, Mom? I'm starved.

[Margaret]

You can wait a little longer, Bud. The doctor may need you. Now, Jim, will you please explain all this foolishness about Ed Davis?

[Jim Anderson]

There's nothing foolish about it, Margaret. He said he had a cold, and I said he was trying to set up an alibi. Now, if I say I hurt my back.

[Margaret]

Two grown men acting like a couple of silly schoolboys.

[Bud]

What's so silly about schoolboy?

[Margaret]

I'm sorry, Bud.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, unless I can convince Ed Davis.

[Margaret]

But you don't have to convince him. Dr. Simmons will certainly tell him.

[Jim Anderson]

Say, that's right. If the doc tells me I can't play, then I can't play, can I? Well, it's about time, Bud.

[Margaret]

Let the doctor in like a good boy.

[Bud]

Then can I have my dinner?

[Margaret]

We'll see, dear.

[Bud]

Holy cow.

[Jim Anderson]

Doctors. Always rushing around. Never get any place. Make a big production out of everything. If I ran my business the way they do, I'd be looking for a job in a week.

[Margaret]

Jim, please don't stop.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, hello, Margaret. What's all the fuss about?

[Margaret]

Oh, hello, Doctor.

[Jim Anderson]

It's about time you showed up, you old quack. So I'm finally going to get my hooks into you. What do you know? Fine, Doctor. Listen to that bedside manner. He's going to get his hooks into me.

[Margaret]

Oh, Doctor, will you need Bud for anything?

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, I don't think so.

[Margaret]

All right, Bud. Go in and have your dinner, dear.

[Bud]

Well, good for me.

[Jim Anderson]

You know, Margaret, I was talking to Mrs. Swain about you the other day.

[Margaret]

Really?

[Jim Anderson]

That's right. She was telling me about that hospital service you were trying to organize last year. It's a wonderful idea. Oh, thank you, Doc. If you have any free time next week, Margaret, why don't you drop into my office? I may be able to help you.

[Margaret]

Oh, that would be wonderful, Doc.

[Jim Anderson]

What's the matter with you? Remember me? I'm the emergency. Oh, I know. What's wrong with you? Oh, nothing much. Just a broken back, that's all. Yes, you. You look just like a broken back.

[Margaret]

He says it's quite painful, Doctor.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, let's take a look at it. Turn around. I can't turn around. Oh, stop acting like a jackass. Turn around. Calls himself a doctor. If I didn't like his sister, I wouldn't even let him in the house. Is that where it hurts? You know darn well that's where it hurts. Well, hold still for a second. Well, what are you going to do? Never mind what I'm going to do. Just hold still.

[Kathy]

Ow.

[Jim Anderson]

Okay, now go to bed and put some heat on it.

[Margaret]

Was it anything serious, Doctor?

[Jim Anderson]

No, of course not.

[Narrator]

You know, Margaret, we've needed a volunteer.

[Jim Anderson]

Service at the hospital, and if you can just get it started. Hey, Doc, I'm talking to Margaret. Well, I hate to interrupt anything so vital, but what else do I do? I just told you, go to bed.

[Narrator]

And put heat on your back.

[Jim Anderson]

Is that all? Well, I can send a nurse around to hold your hand if that's what you want. You mean that it wasn't serious?

[Commercial Announcer]

It was a simple dislocation.

[Jim Anderson]

And if you'd remember that you were 40 instead of 4, it wouldn't happen. Gosh, I can stand up. Isn't that wonderful?

[Narrator]

Only 40 years old and he can stand up.

[Margaret]

Jim, please be careful.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, he's all right, Margaret. In the morning, you'll never know there's anything wrong with him. Is that so? I'm as weak as a cat and you know it. Well, it may take a few days, but you'll be all right. In the meantime, I'd better stay in bed, huh? No, I wouldn't do that. Jim. If you let that spine stiffen up, you're liable to run into trouble. I'd prescribe some light exercise. Of course you won't do so well, but why don't you go over the club in the morning and play a little golf? Oh, no. Foreign.

[Commercial Announcer]

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[Narrator]

It's morning now, and in the white frame house on Maple street, there's a heavy blanket of gloom in the master bedroom. This is one morning when the master feels anything but masterful like this.

[Jim Anderson]

Dr. Simmons probably took his training in a school for feeble minded veterinarians.

[Margaret]

Jim, I think you're being very foolish about this whole thing. You can't even put on your sweater alone. And how can you play golf?

[Jim Anderson]

I don't know, but I'm going to try. Nobody's going to say I gave up without a fight, Jim. He'd only told me to stay in bed for a few days. Just one day. I could have asked the rules committee for a postponement. That's all I need. I'll be fine tomorrow.

[Margaret]

Jim Anderson, if you don't call Ed Davis this very instant.

[Jim Anderson]

Wait a minute.

[Margaret]

If you'll just explain to me.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, listen.

[Margaret]

What?

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, honey, have you ever heard anything more beautiful in all your life?

[Margaret]

Jim, what is it?

[Jim Anderson]

It's rain.

[Narrator]

Did you know? Now there's an instant coffee with roaster fresh pure coffee flavor. It's instant Maxwell House. The instant coffee with a famous flavor. The happiest combination in coffee. Wonderful good to the last drop Flavor combined with the convenience of thrift of coffee made instantly in the cup. Unlike most instant coffees, it's all rich, pure coffee, nothing added. Tomorrow, try the instant coffee with a famous flavor instant Maxwell House instantly good.

[Jim Anderson]

To the last drop.

[Narrator]

Join us again next week when we'll be back with Father Knows Best, starring Robert Young as Jim Anderson. With Roy Bargie and the Maxwell House Orchestra and yours truly, Bill Foreman. Don't forget, membership cards for the Robert Young Good Drivers Club are waiting for you at your local NBC station. Get a man to man or dad to daughter pledge and sign up today. Be a good driver. Get your membership card in the Robert Young Good Drivers Club today. Now until next Thursday, good night and good luck from the makers of Maxwell House, America's favorite brand of coffee. Always good to the last drop. Father Knows Best was transcribed in Hollywood and written by Ed James. Now stay tuned in for the screen Gill Theater which follows immediately over most of these stations.

[Jim Anderson]

Stay tuned for Mad for music starring Joan Evans on NBC. Step into the world of power, loyalty and luck. I'm gonna make him an offer he can't refuse with family.

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[Jim Anderson]

In the family business. Introducing the [e-mail] test your luck in the shadowy world of the Godfather slot. Someday I will call upon you to do a service for me. Play the Godfather [e-mail] Welcome to the family.

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