Father Knows Best - An Uncontrolled Dog

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Father Knows Best – "An Uncontrolled Dog"
Date: June 21, 2026
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Featured Cast: Robert Young as Jim Anderson

---

Overview

This classic "Father Knows Best" episode, "An Uncontrolled Dog," is a comedic exploration of chaos unleashed by a stray dog who repeatedly visits the Anderson family. Set in the golden age of radio, the story unfolds with misunderstandings, neighborhood squabbles, and the indomitable persistence of both children and canines. As the dog—dubbed "George" by young Kathy—becomes a recurring visitor, the Andersons find themselves embroiled in disputes over destroyed rose bushes, allergy attacks, and the challenges of responsible pet ownership.

---

Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. The Mysterious Dog and Family Dynamics

• The Anderson home erupts into confusion when neighbor Ed Davis arrives, complaining about his prized rose bush destroyed by “their dog.”
• The family insists they have no dog, only for Kathy to sheepishly admit she brought one home because "it kept following me and following me" (06:33).
• A mix of exasperation and humor ensues as Jim tries to get to the bottom of how and why a dog has appeared in their house.

Notable Exchange:

Jim (to Kathy): “You’ve been told a thousand times not to bring a dog into the house.” (06:50)

2. The Discovery of "George," a.k.a. Gargantua III

• The dog is revealed to be a large Weimaraner named “Gargantua III,” property of Michael Reed on distant Orchard Avenue. Kathy has named him “George” (10:11).
• Attempts to return the dog are complicated when Kathy gets emotionally attached (“But, Mommy, I love him so!” – 10:41).
• The Reed family's chauffeur arrives for the dog, but—thanks to some light pushing from Kathy—the dog disappears again (12:03–12:24).

Memorable Moment:

Kathy: “I think I can find him again later.”
Jim: “I’m awfully sorry about this.”
Mr. Reed's Chauffeur: “We’ve done everything in our power to keep Gargantua at home.” (18:51–19:23)

3. Recurring Chaos: The Dog that Won’t Stay Lost

• Over the following days, "George" repeatedly returns to the Anderson house despite multiple attempts by both families to keep him home (16:52).
• The repeated cycle is lampooned by Jim:

Jim: "How many times have you found that dog?"
Kathy: "Six."
Jim: "And how many times have we sent him home?"
Kathy: "Six." (16:54–17:01)

• The real cause is revealed: the Reed family has moved into the Willoughby house next door, unwittingly ensuring the dog's return (25:04–25:06).

4. Neighborhood Tensions & Resolution

• Ed is disgruntled over his precious rose bushes, debating varieties and gardening woes with Jim (17:35), adding flavor to the suburban dispute.
• Both families debate fencing, responsibility, and pet ownership as George (the dog) continues to dig up gardens and evade capture.
• Ultimately, Mr. Reed decides to make the fence higher, and finally, Kathy is "rewarded" for her help in repeatedly returning George:

Kathy: “I can borrow George anytime I please.” (27:52)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Jim Anderson:
  “The dog is a creature whose principal feature is love, and there’s nothing can daunt him; he’ll stay by your side as though he were tied—especially if you don’t want him.” (15:50)

• Kathy Anderson:
  “Everybody’s got somebody, and all I have is you.” (tearful, 10:54)

• Jim (on George’s intelligence):
  “A half-witted caterpillar has more intelligence than that George.” (22:51)

• Ed (on roses):
  “There are two kinds of Bengals. A Hibiscus Rosa sinensis and Rosa japanicus. Now, mine were Hibiscus sinensis, and they’re a much hardier variety.” (17:35)

• Jim Anderson (final exhale):
  “This is the first peaceful moment I’ve had in almost a week.” (27:29)

---

Important Timestamps

• 00:51 – Episode begins; scene is set for “news in the making” at the Anderson home.
• 06:21 – Kathy admits bringing home the stray dog.
• 10:11 – The dog’s true identity (Gargantua III) is discovered.
• 12:03 – The dog escapes again, thanks to Kathy’s “maybe one little push.”
• 16:54–17:01 – Running joke on the repetitive cycle of finding and returning the dog.
• 17:35 – Ed and Jim debate about rose varieties and gardening.
• 19:23 – Mr. Reed’s family plans to raise the fence to keep the dog home.
• 25:04–25:06 – The cause of confusion: the Reeds have moved next door.
• 27:52 – Kathy’s “reward” is permission to borrow George any time.

---

Tone and Style

The episode is filled with playful banter, family ribbing, and gentle mockery—a hallmark of "Father Knows Best." Jim Anderson’s exasperation is a recurring comic motif, balanced by Kathy’s innocence and childlike affection for animals. The humor is light, rooted in domestic mishaps, generation gaps, and neighborly miscommunications. The final twist—George’s owner now living next door—ends the show on a comedic note, much to Jim’s dismay.

---

Summary Takeaway

"An Uncontrolled Dog" showcases the typical warmth, wit, and universal dilemmas of family and community life, enlivened by a runaway dog who’s as persistent as he is lovable. The episode captures the timeless frustration and affection that pets bring, the vexations of neighborly relations, and the gentle chaos of American family comedy.

---

Transcript

[Jim Anderson]

What's going on, everyone? It's bluff here. And you know what's more American than America's 250th birthday? Supporting American owned companies like Spinquest, America's number one social casino. With over a thousand games like live dealer blackjack and craps. They're offering new users a $30 coin package for just $10. Go to spinquest.com and sign up. Today Spinquest is a free to play social casino.

[Commercial Announcer]

Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Kathy Anderson]

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

[Margaret Anderson]

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

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, his father knows best. Transcribed in Hollywood starring Robert Young his father. A half hour visit with your neighbor, the Andersons. Brought to you by America's favorite coffee, Maxwell House. The coffee that's always good to the last drop. A decade or so before the turn of the 20th century, the city editor of the New York sun came up with a remarkably simple definition of news. When a dog bites a man, he said, that is not news because it happens so often. But if a man bites a dog, that is news. Well, in Springfield, in the white frame house on Maple street, news may very well be in the making. Nothing unusual has happened thus far, but it's quite possible that before the week is out, a man named Anderson will bite a dog like this.

[Margaret Anderson]

Holy cow. Dad. I couldn't help it, Bud.

[Jim Anderson]

When you signed the Good Driving Pledge.

[Margaret Anderson]

But I wasn't even driving, dad. The car was just sitting there and

[Jim Anderson]

the fender dropped off all by itself. Sure, but that's the most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. But it's true, Dad.

[Kathy Anderson]

I wouldn't be surprised if the whole car fell apart.

[Jim Anderson]

Is that so? There's nothing wrong with the car and you know it.

[Kathy Anderson]

Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it?

[Kathy Anderson]

Kathy, did you know that in the polar regions dogs are the chief means of transportation?

[Jim Anderson]

What's that got to do with Bud knocking a fender off the car?

[Margaret Anderson]

I didn't knock it off, dad. It fell off.

[Jim Anderson]

Bud. Unless you're willing to tell me the truth.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, Bud is not in the habit of telling lies. And if he says the fender fell off, then it fell off and we put it back on again with wire. Dad, you'd never even know the difference.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, fuck. Fine. But if I ever find out. Oh, never mind. May I have my coffee, Margaret?

[Margaret Anderson]

Of course, dear. Here you are.

[Jim Anderson]

Thank you.

[Kathy Anderson]

Nothing.

[Jim Anderson]

What?

[Kathy Anderson]

It doesn't have anything to do with Bud knocking a fender off the car?

[Margaret Anderson]

I did not.

[Jim Anderson]

Wait a minute, Bud. Kathy, what doesn't have anything to do With Bud knocking a fender off the

[Kathy Anderson]

car, dogs are the chief means of transportation in the polar regions.

[Jim Anderson]

Fine. I'll order a dog sled in the morning. Is that what you want?

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, no. I just wanted to tell you.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, thank you very much.

[Kathy Anderson]

You're welcome.

[Jim Anderson]

Silliest thing I've ever heard in my life. That car is practically as good as it was the day we bought it. Might need a little paint here and there.

[Kathy Anderson]

Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it, Taffy?

[Kathy Anderson]

Did you know that the dog has been chosen as the Companion of Man because of his fidelity and intelligence?

[Jim Anderson]

Well, I'd heard rumors, but it's nice to have it on such complete authority.

[Kathy Anderson]

You're welcome.

[Margaret Anderson]

Dad?

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, Bud?

[Margaret Anderson]

Does that mean that I can't have the car on Thursday anymore?

[Jim Anderson]

No, I suppose it'll be all right. But in the future, I wish you'd be a little more careful, that's all.

[Kathy Anderson]

I wouldn't be surprised if the roof caved in.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty, what's gotten into you? Until tonight, the only complaint you ever had about the car was that you didn't get it often enough.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim?

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, Margaret?

[Margaret Anderson]

The Liggetts have a new car.

[Kathy Anderson]

A convertible.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, well, pardon me.

[Kathy Anderson]

Dogs are bred for sports as watchdogs, for guarding and driving sheep and for plain, ordinary dogs.

[Jim Anderson]

Kathy, deep in your obscure little mind,

[Kathy Anderson]

I'll see who it is.

[Jim Anderson]

You stay right where you are. I wanted to get to the bottom of this dissertation on dogs. Bud? Yes, Dan? See who's at the door.

[Margaret Anderson]

Holy cow. Nobody else around here knew how to open a door.

[Jim Anderson]

All right, Kathy, will you explain something to me as simply as possible? Why this sudden interest in the history of our canine companions, huh? Dogs?

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, well, dogs are pets. And everybody says they're man's best friend. And they'd probably be girls best friends, too, and I don't see why.

[Jim Anderson]

Kathy, are you going to start that dog business again?

[Kathy Anderson]

But everybody I know has a dog. I don't see why.

[Jim Anderson]

You know as well as I that Betty's allergic to dogs. They make her sneeze.

[Margaret Anderson]

Dad, it's Mr. Davis.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, come on in, Ed. Hello, Jim. Margaret.

[Margaret Anderson]

Hello, Ed.

[Kathy Anderson]

Hello, Mr. Davis.

[Jim Anderson]

We're just finishing our dinner, Ed. How about a cup of coffee? Oh, no, thanks, Jim. I. Well, I just want to talk to you about your dog. Our what? Well, I wouldn't mind if it were just an ordinary rose bush, Jim, but this was a Bengal. A genuine Hibiscus rosa sinensis, and I only had two. And you ought to see the one he dug up. It's a complete Wreck. Ed. Yes, Jim? What dog? Why, your dog. We don't have a dog. You know that, Daddy. Jim, I dislike this whole thing as much as you do, but that bush cost me $13. Ed, we don't have a dog, Daddy and I. I wouldn't even know where to get another one. They only had two in town. I bought both of them. Ed. Yes, Jim? We don't have a dog, Daddy. Kathy, I'm talking to Mr. Dad.

[Kathy Anderson]

I know, Daddy, but I want to tell you something.

[Jim Anderson]

All right, what is it?

[Kathy Anderson]

We have a dog.

[Jim Anderson]

Fine. Look, Ed, I know how you must feel, but we. What?

[Margaret Anderson]

Kathy, you're joking.

[Jim Anderson]

What do you mean, we have a dog?

[Kathy Anderson]

Well, it was such a poor little dog, Daddy, and it kept following me and following me.

[Jim Anderson]

Cassie, you mean we have a dog here?

[Kathy Anderson]

Huh?

[Jim Anderson]

Betty, stop that.

[Kathy Anderson]

I can't stop it, Father.

[Jim Anderson]

You certainly can. Kathy, you've been told a thousand times not to bring a dog into the house.

[Kathy Anderson]

She's just doing that to be mean. I am done. She wasn't sneezing before, and the dog was here all the time.

[Jim Anderson]

Where?

[Kathy Anderson]

What?

[Jim Anderson]

Where is it?

[Kathy Anderson]

Where's what?

[Jim Anderson]

The dog.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, the dog.

[Jim Anderson]

Kathy, where did you put the dog?

[Kathy Anderson]

In the playroom.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, we'll just see about that. Of course, it isn't the most valuable rose bush in the world, Jim, but if you knew the trouble I'd gone through.

[Kathy Anderson]

Jim, where are you going?

[Jim Anderson]

Down to the playroom.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Daddy, please don't be mean to the little dog. He wouldn't hurt a fly.

[Jim Anderson]

Where do you think you're going, bud?

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, can I come with you? Gosh, I just want to look at it.

[Jim Anderson]

I didn't mean to start all this trouble, Jim, but after all, he did dig up the rose. I know, Ed. I'll be very glad to pay for it as soon as we.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh,

[Jim Anderson]

my aching back. Look at the size of that thing.

[Margaret Anderson]

Holy cow.

[Jim Anderson]

I'll just wait for you upstairs, Jim. Kathy, that isn't a dog. It's a werewolf.

[Kathy Anderson]

No, it isn't, Daddy. A dog. And you're frightening him.

[Jim Anderson]

I'm frightening him?

[Kathy Anderson]

Poor little fella. We're not going to hurt you, Kathy.

[Jim Anderson]

Get away from him.

[Margaret Anderson]

You heard me.

[Jim Anderson]

Kathy, you don't get away from that dog. Well, stay over there if that's what he wants, but don't get too close.

[Margaret Anderson]

J And Ed Data said there was a lion in the basement. Did you?

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Kathy, isn't he cute? Mommy.

[Margaret Anderson]

Kathy, come over here, you.

[Jim Anderson]

You better do as your mother says.

[Margaret Anderson]

Maybe she better do what the dog says. Oh, Jim, what are we going to do?

[Jim Anderson]

We're going to find out where he belongs and get rid of him. That's what we're going to do.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Daddy, you can't. He's such a beautiful dog. And he's so easy to see. I'll eat the cookies, Bud.

[Jim Anderson]

See what the tag says on his collar.

[Margaret Anderson]

On his collar?

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, he won't hurt you, Bud. Will you, George?

[Jim Anderson]

Well, go ahead, Bud. There's nothing to be afraid of.

[Margaret Anderson]

That's a nice fella. Nice George.

[Kathy Anderson]

His name isn't exactly George, Bud. I just call him that.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, you're a great help.

[Margaret Anderson]

Nice boy. That's a nice boy. That'll boy.

[Jim Anderson]

What does it say, Bud?

[Margaret Anderson]

Gargantua iii.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, that's how you say it.

[Margaret Anderson]

Property of Michael Reed, Orchard Avenue.

[Jim Anderson]

Orchard Avenue? Well, that's a mile away. How did he get clear over here?

[Kathy Anderson]

I think he walked.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, he can walk right back. Bud, call Mr. Reed and tell him we have his dog.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Daddy, no.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, Daddy.

[Margaret Anderson]

Yes, Kathleen? It isn't our dog, and we've got to send him back home.

[Kathy Anderson]

But, Mommy, I love him so.

[Jim Anderson]

Don't try, Kathy.

[Margaret Anderson]

Gosh, you've still got us.

[Kathy Anderson]

Everybody's got somebody, and all I have is you.

[Margaret Anderson]

You want me to answer it, dad?

[Jim Anderson]

No, never mind. I'm right here. Mr. Anderson? Yes. I'm Mr. Reed's chauffeur. Oh, yes. Come on right in. Well, thank you. Very nice of you to go to all this trouble. Oh, it's no trouble at all. Mr. Reed was quite concerned about Gargantua. Quite concerned. Well, we weren't too happy about him ourselves. Kathy.

[Kathy Anderson]

You want me?

[Jim Anderson]

Daddy, the man is here for the dog.

[Kathy Anderson]

She will.

[Jim Anderson]

She'll have it up here in just a minute. Peculiar looking animal, isn't it? Oh, no. It's a very valuable dog. Weimarane. You don't say. Yes, it's a German hunting dog. Very intelligent. Well, that's a matter of opinion. Kathy, will you please hurry?

[Kathy Anderson]

Daddy, I can't find him.

[Jim Anderson]

You what?

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Daddy, the most terrible thing happened.

[Jim Anderson]

He got away, Kathy.

[Kathy Anderson]

But he did, Daddy. I just opened the door and he was gone.

[Jim Anderson]

You didn't happen to give him a push?

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Daddy, how can you say. Well, maybe one little push.

[Jim Anderson]

Now, see here, Kathleen.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, you don't have to worry, Daddy. I think I can find him again later.

[Jim Anderson]

I. I'm awfully sorry about this. I understand. Oh, hello, Ed. Oh, Jim, I don't like. Ed. Please. I told you I'd get you another rose bush, and I will. First thing in the morning. I know, Jim, but after all, George got away. Yes, I know he got away. Only he didn't get far enough away. Have you seen him? Yes, I've seen him. He's in my backyard and he's having a wonderful time. All right, Kathy, go get him.

[Kathy Anderson]

Gee whiz.

[Jim Anderson]

And Jim. Yes? When you get that Hibiscus senensis tomorrow. Make it two. Oh, no. All across the country, there's good news about coffee. These days, grocers everywhere are featuring Maxwell House at lower prices. That's right. These days, the coffee with that wonderful good to the last drop flavor comes to you at the lowest prices in months. A mighty welcome occasion for everybody. You, your grocer. Yes, and for Maxwell House, too. With Maxwell House Coffee, we've always aimed at one thing. To bring you the best in coffee at the lowest possible price. And that's meant a lot. Meant you could always count on more flavor for your money in every cup of Maxwell House. More wonderfully good cups of coffee in every pound. It's the reason why year after year, folks everywhere have found Maxwell House is true economy. And nowadays, Maxwell House is more than ever today's coffee buy. The world's most famous coffee flavor is yours to enjoy every cup you pour and the price is the lowest in months. So tomorrow, get your money's worth and more. Bring home a familiar blue tin of Maxwell House and start enjoying coffee that's always good to the last drop.

[Margaret Anderson]

Hey guys, lady luck here. Are you going on any road trips this summer? I know I'm going to be going on a bunch of road trips and being that I'm going to be passenger Princess, I Love playing on Spinquest.com Spinquest has all of my favorite slot games. Live blackjack, live craps. Head on over to Spinquest right now and get yourself a 30 coin pack for just 10 bucks.

[Jim Anderson]

Spinquest is a free to play social casino. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Commercial Announcer]

Save on family essentials at Safeway and Albertsons this week. Extra meaty pork back ribs bone in are $2.99 per pound limit, two member price and sweet red cherries are $2.99 per pound Limit 6 pounds member price with coupon plus signature select 80% lean ground beef sold in three pound twin pack bricks is $4.99 per pound Limit 1 member price with coupon. Fresh and delicious savings for every meal. Hurry in. This deal won't last. Visit safewayoralbertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.

[Jim Anderson]

The dog is a creature Whose principal feature is love and there's nothing can daunt him he'll stay by your side as though he were tied Especially if you don't want him. A few days have gone by and in Springfield we find a most unhappy individual between roses with which cannot be found and a dog which refuses to get lost. Jim Anderson's lot is a miserable one indeed. Like this. Go on, get him.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, isn't he cute, Daddy? He wants to play.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, tell him to play with something else.

[Kathy Anderson]

But he likes you, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

All right, I like him, but you don't see me biting his shoes.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, he just wants to be friendly.

[Jim Anderson]

No good. Good fenders. Why don't they make the bolts big enough? They don't want you to fix your car. That's what. Expect you to buy a new one every five minutes.

[Kathy Anderson]

Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it, Kathy?

[Kathy Anderson]

George is hungry.

[Jim Anderson]

George is hungry. George is sleepy. George. George. George. Kathy.

[Kathy Anderson]

Yes, Daddy?

[Jim Anderson]

How many times have you found that dog?

[Kathy Anderson]

Six.

[Jim Anderson]

And how many times have we sent him home?

[Kathy Anderson]

Six.

[Jim Anderson]

Most ridiculous thing I've ever heard. Any dog that's stupid enough to get trapped in back of a fence six times in a row. Jim. Oh, Ed, Come on over here. I've got good news for you. Okay. Hey. See? George is back again. Yeah. Idiotic animal. Comes clear over here from Orchard Avenue and then gets stuck in back of the Willoughby Spence. Smart dog.

[Kathy Anderson]

He is smart, Daddy. He know that's where I meet him.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, why don't you leave him there? Let somebody else find him for a change.

[Kathy Anderson]

But, Daddy, the Willoughbys moved away. There wouldn't be anybody to feed him.

[Jim Anderson]

He can always eat rose bushes. Oh, that's what I wanted to tell you, Ed. There they are. You mean those? Yep. Two Bengals. And I had to go clear to Plainfield to get them. Jim, I don't like to be difficult, but those aren't Bengals. They most certainly are. Look at the tags. Well, Mark, Bengals. All right. Oh, well, you see, Jim, there are two kinds of Bengals. A Hibiscus Rosa sinensis and Rosa japanicus. Now, mine were Hibiscus sinensis, and they're a much hardier variety. Add a rose is a rose. And you said Bengals. I don't like argued, Jim, but I said Hibiscus sinensis. You see, the Japanicus is very susceptible to mildew and thrifts. That's bad, huh? Oh, yeah. Especially around here. The Japanicus doesn't do well in Springfield at all. Needs a much milder climate. I see. You. You wouldn't consider moving nothing? I'll keep Looking, Ed. After all, what's a few more days? I wouldn't be able to do anything but work anyway.

[Margaret Anderson]

Mr. Anderson.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, hello there. We're back here near the garage. Mr. Anderson, I don't know what to say. Mr. Reed is most apologetic. Yes, I'm sure he must be. Well, I'll be getting back to my gardening. I've got another bed of geraniums to set up. I'm sorry they weren't the right ones, Ed. Oh, that's all right, Jim. There's no particular hurry, I guess. Mr. Anderson, I want to assure you that we've done everything in our power to keep Gargantu at home. I'm sure you have. I've gone over the fence with a fine tooth comb. We fix everything and still he gets out. Maybe the fence isn't high enough. Well, it's quite high, but we're going

[Margaret Anderson]

to make it higher.

[Jim Anderson]

And now, if I may have the dog. Yes, Kathy. Now, where the dickens did Chico. Kathy.

[Kathy Anderson]

You want me? Daddy?

[Jim Anderson]

Where's George? George? We call him George.

[Margaret Anderson]

Kathy.

[Kathy Anderson]

I'm coming, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Maybe if you called him George, he'd stay home. Well, it might be a little confusing, but we'll try. Kathy, why is it? What happened to George?

[Kathy Anderson]

I don't know, Daddy. Isn't he with you?

[Jim Anderson]

No, he isn't with me. Where'd he go?

[Kathy Anderson]

I don't know.

[Jim Anderson]

Kathy, why is it that every time. Mr. Reed. Chauffeur George. Thank you. Every time George shows up.

[Margaret Anderson]

George?

[Jim Anderson]

George? Yes, sir. George. Oh. Well, why is it every time George shows up, the dog disappears?

[Kathy Anderson]

I don't know.

[Jim Anderson]

What do you know?

[Kathy Anderson]

I don't know.

[Jim Anderson]

I'm sorry, George. But, George. Gargantua. George.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim.

[Jim Anderson]

Ed, is George over there? He certainly is. And I'm very slow, slowly reaching a point where I don't think it's at all funny. And he didn't tear up another rose boy? No. Well, thank goodness this time he got the geranium. George dug up the geranium? No, but I made a bed and he's lying in it. $35 for two miserable little rose bushes. It's criminal, that's what it is.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, let's just be thankful that we were able to find him.

[Jim Anderson]

Hibiscus sinensis. Margaret, if I ever see that dog again, sir, help me. Jim, what's the matter?

[Margaret Anderson]

He's back.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, no, he can't be.

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, stop the car. Jim, we've got to get him. Why?

[Jim Anderson]

Why can't we just pretend that we've never met you dog that we've never even heard of him.

[Kathy Anderson]

There.

[Margaret Anderson]

We owe it to Mr. Reed.

[Jim Anderson]

Mr. Reed? He's the one who ought to pay for the roses. George is his dog.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, that's not being very charitable.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, I don't feel very charitable. Where is he?

[Margaret Anderson]

Back at the Willoughby fence again?

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, that's the stupidest animal I've ever seen in my life. This is the eighth time he's been stuck in the Willoughby's yard. Any dog with half a brain knows you can jump both ways over a fence. Come here, you silly mongrel.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, Jim, isn't that sweet?

[Kathy Anderson]

He knows this.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, why shouldn't he know us? Boarding with us for almost a week.

[Margaret Anderson]

Come on, George. That's a good boy. Take his collar, Jim.

[Jim Anderson]

I'd like to wring his neck. Come on, George.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, I don't think you're being very nice to him.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, I don't think he's being very nice to us. George, will you please make up your mind? You want to come home with us or are you going to stay here?

[Kathy Anderson]

Daddy. Oh, dad, you found me. Oh, George, I'm so happy to see you. Oh, my wonderful George.

[Jim Anderson]

Kathy, drag that animal over to our house.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, you don't have to drag him, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, get him over there and this time hang on to him.

[Kathy Anderson]

Okay, Daddy. Come on, George, I'll race you to the garage.

[Jim Anderson]

Man's best friend. Intelligent and loyal. A half witted caterpillar has more intelligence than that. George.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, how about the car?

[Jim Anderson]

I'll come back for it later. Right now I'm going to it. Call that Reed guy and give him a piece of my mind. That's what I'm going to do. If he can't learn to take better care of a dog, he doesn't have any business owning one.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, I'm sure Mr. Reed is doing everything he can.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, it isn't enough. Owning a dog is a responsibility to the dog and the neighborhood and everybody else. Let a dog run wild that way. First thing you know, you'll be hit by a car. He's liable to be killed.

[Margaret Anderson]

I thought you didn't like George.

[Jim Anderson]

I don't. I mean. Well, he's all right, I guess. But they have no business letting him run around the way they do.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, please don't be too abrupt. Mr. Reed is just as concerned about George as we are.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, why shouldn't he be? It's his dog. Hello, this is Jim Anderson. Yes, he's here again. And look, George, I think it's high time. Well, okay. He's coming right over.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, when he gets here, please remember that George isn't responsible for George after all, he's merely the chauffeur.

[Jim Anderson]

Which one?

[Margaret Anderson]

George. He told me this morning that Mr. Reed was going to have the entire fence made higher. And if Mr. Reed thinks that much of George.

[Jim Anderson]

Just a minute, Margaret.

[Margaret Anderson]

Bud, you want me?

[Jim Anderson]

Dad, go outside and hang on to George.

[Margaret Anderson]

Okay.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty.

[Kathy Anderson]

Yes, Father?

[Jim Anderson]

Are you in your room?

[Kathy Anderson]

Yes, Father.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, look out the window and keep an eye on George.

[Kathy Anderson]

Okay.

[Jim Anderson]

He won't get away this time if I can help it. Now, what were you saying, Margaret?

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, I merely said that if Mr. Reed thought that much of George.

[Jim Anderson]

E. God. Now what? I'm awfully sorry, Mr. Anderson. Well, you should be. Anybody who can't take better care of a nice dog like George. We do take care of him, Mr. Anderson. We still can't understand how he gets away.

[Margaret Anderson]

Way.

[Jim Anderson]

That's a very poor excuse. How would you feel if I. Wait a minute. How did you get over here so fast? Well, I left the moment I hung up. I know, but from clear over on Orchard Avenue. Oh, we haven't lived on Orchard Avenue

[Margaret Anderson]

for almost a week.

[Jim Anderson]

We moved into the Willoughby house on the corner.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, no.

[Jim Anderson]

When you go grocery shopping this weekend, be sure to see the welcome news about coffee in your store. These days, grocers everywhere are featuring Maxwell Maxwell House coffee at lower prices. Now, all of you who know and love that wonderful good to the last drop flavor can enjoy it at the lowest price in months. And for you folks who haven't been getting that famous flavor, now's the time to bring home a familiar blue Maxwell House tin. Find out how much more satisfaction, more real pleasure it holds for you, cup after cup, day after day. You can always count on that Maxwell House flavor. But we'll never compromise on the quality of a single pound. Tomorrow, look for Maxwell House at the lowest prices in months. Now more than ever, today's coffee buy get your money's worth and more with coffee that's always good to the last drop. Another day has come and gone, and so has the perennial George. There's peace once more in the Anderson household. But we wonder just how long it will last. It never does, does it? Like this most ridiculous thing that ever happened in my whole life. Stealing a dog out of his own yard. They could have had us arrested.

[Kathy Anderson]

Father.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, Betty?

[Kathy Anderson]

Have you noticed how quiet it's gotten around here?

[Jim Anderson]

I said, certainly have nice and quiet. How was I supposed to know anybody moved in? Why didn't they put up curtains or something.

[Margaret Anderson]

That George is a pretty smart dog. And what a character. You know what he did yesterday?

[Jim Anderson]

Whatever he did, I'm not going to pay for it.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, it wasn't anything like that, dad. Kathy taught him how to play hide and seek and he was really hiding.

[Jim Anderson]

Good. I hope it's years before anybody finds him.

[Margaret Anderson]

Why, Jim, you know you missed the George as much as any others. I do?

[Jim Anderson]

I miss George, Margaret. This is the first peaceful moment I've had in almost a week.

[Kathy Anderson]

Daddy. Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Daddy. Kathy, what is it?

[Margaret Anderson]

What's wrong?

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, Daddy, the most beautiful thing happened. Mr. Reed gave me a reward.

[Margaret Anderson]

Why, how nice, Kathy.

[Kathy Anderson]

Oh, I'm so excited.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, it was certainly the least he could do. What was the reward? Kathy?

[Kathy Anderson]

I can borrow George anytime I please.

[Jim Anderson]

No.

[Kathy Anderson]

Isn't it wonderful? Here's yours. Oh, my beautiful George.

[Margaret Anderson]

Hiya, boy.

[Jim Anderson]

Hello, george. Now yours to enjoy an instant coffee you'll love for breakfast every morning. An instant coffee you'll be proud to serve to your dinner guests. It's Instant Maxwell House, the instant coffee with a famous flavor. Here's the happiest combination in coffee. Wonderful good to the last drop. Flavor combined with the convenience and thrift of coffee made instantly in the cup. Tomorrow try Instant Maxwell House, the instant coffee with our famous flavor instantly good to the last drop. In lands across the seas, many people still lack the simplest necessities of life. Food is inadequate, clothing scarce. Help is needed from each of us who can send it. The time to send that help is now. The way to send it is through cares. C A R E FOR this is National Care Week and Americans everywhere are joining in sending food and clothing abroad. To send a 24 pound package mail $10 to Care New York. That's $10 to Care New York. Enclose your name and address and the address of the recipient. Delivery is guaranteed. Join in National Care Week now. Join us again next week when we'll be back with Father Knows Best, starring Robert Young as Jim Anderson, with Roy Vargy 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 Card 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 Screen Guild Theater, which follows immediately over most of these stations. Stay tuned for charles boyer and olivia de havilland on NBC. Forget whatever plans you have this weekend because you're staying at home and playing on spinquest, and there's never been a better time to sign up than right now. New users get $30 coin packs for just $10. All the table games you love, with hundreds of slot games and real cash Prizes. That's at spinquest.com S P-I-N Q U-S-T.com Spin Quest is a free to play

[Commercial Announcer]

social casino void where prohibited.

[Jim Anderson]

Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Commercial Announcer]

Save on family essentials at Safeway and Albertsons this week. Extra meaty pork ribs bone in are $2.99 per pound limit to member price and sweet red cherries are $2.99 per pound Limit. 6 lb member price with coupon plus signature select 80% lean ground beef sold in 3 pound twin pack bricks is $4.99 per pound limit. 1 member price with coupon. Fresh and delicious savings for every meal. Hurry in. This deal won't last. Visit safewayer albertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.