Father Knows Best - New Arrangements

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Father Knows Best - "New Arrangements"
Date: June 21, 2026
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Original Airdate: Not specified (Golden Age of Radio, “Father Knows Best”)
Notable Cast: Robert Young as Jim Anderson

---

Episode Overview

This episode of "Father Knows Best" revolves around the comedic chaos that ensues when Jim Anderson triumphantly brings home good news and tries to juggle multiple social obligations—only to discover he and his family are double (or triple) booked for the same evening. The story humorously dissects how small scheduling problems can spiral into full-family mayhem, highlighting themes of communication, compromise, and the humorous side of everyday life in a 1950s American household.

---

Key Discussion Points & Story Breakdown

1. Jim’s Excitement and the Inciting Event

• [01:38] Jim bursts in with “the biggest day of my whole life”:
  • His long-sought group insurance plan is finally signed.
  • He announces they’re going to the sold-out Toscanini concert as honored guests of the Liggetts.
  • Margaret is elated, contemplating a new dress.
  • Quote: “It’s sensational. It’s terrific. This is the biggest day of my whole life.” – Jim Anderson [01:46]

2. The Calendar Crisis Begins

• [03:07] Margaret reminds Jim: they have already invited the Gribbles to dinner that same night (Thursday), leading to the first mix-up.
• The Anderson family calendar is packed:
  • The Smiths for dinner on Tuesday.
  • The Gribbles and the concert on Thursday.

3. Family Contributions and Complications

• [05:09] Bud wants the car Thursday—it’s always “his day” [05:10].
• Betty has plans to attend a school dance the same night.
• Classic Anderson family dynamic, with Jim trying to reason with everyone while increasingly frazzled.

4. Attempting Rearrangement and More Mix-Ups

• [09:40] Jim tries to call the Smiths (Hector and Elizabeth) to rearrange, and they agree to swap dates.
  • Quote: “Now, when I get the Gribbles moved over to Tuesday...” – Jim Anderson [11:02]
• The Gribbles are out of town, can’t be reached until Monday, so Jim tries to revert the Smiths—who in the meantime have made other plans.
• By [13:11]: Instead of fixing the issue, Jim manages to increase their scheduling conflict: “We no longer have two dates for next Thursday. Oh, we have three.” – Jim Anderson

5. Margaret’s Solution: Honesty

• After a string of convoluted “fixes,” Jim concocts a plan to send Betty and Bud to the concert in their place.
  • Quote: “Honey, this is not the time to think of ethics. We're in a jam and we've got to get out of it.” – Jim Anderson [15:34]
• Margaret points out the hypocrisy, then decides the children should hear the truth.
  • Quote: “The truth.” – Margaret Anderson [22:18]
  • She explains the embarrassing scheduling conflict honestly to the children, who agree to help: “If going to the concert is going to help you any... you know you can count on us.” – Bud Anderson [23:36]

6. The Final Twist

• Jim answers a call from Mrs. Liggett—she’s found two additional tickets for the concert, which she got from none other than Mrs. Gribble (one of the couples with whom they’re double-booked!).
  • Quote: “She got them from Mrs. Gribble…” – Jim Anderson [25:17]
• This comedic twist highlights the interconnectedness and small-town realities of their social circle.

7. Concert Night: The Aftermath

• It’s a week later, the Andersons arrive at the Toscanini concert with all parties in tow—having spent significantly more than planned.
  • Quote: “Do you realize that tonight is costing us almost a hundred dollars?” – Margaret Anderson [28:14]
• Jim reflects humorously: “Toscanini. $100 and less than two months ago it only cost us $5 to hear Spike.” [28:27]
• The ending is chaotic yet warm, emblematic of the Anderson family philosophy.

---

Memorable Quotes & Character Moments

• Jim Anderson:

  • “How can you say that?” [20:38, reacting to Betty’s lack of enthusiasm for the concert]
  • “There are things that women just don’t understand, and this is one of them. It’s power politics on a local scale.” [17:47]
  • “I have news for you, we no longer have two dates for next Thursday. Oh, we have three.” [13:11]

• Margaret Anderson:

  • “If you’d only asked me before you made the date.” [15:52]
  • “The truth.” [22:18]
  • “Do you realize that tonight is costing us almost a hundred dollars?” [28:14]

• Bud Anderson:

  • “Who cares about an old baseball game?” [23:38]
  • “Okay, Dad.” [19:59, dutifully responding about getting a haircut]

• Betty Anderson:

  • “Well, creepers, why didn’t Father say so?” [23:20]
  • “I wouldn’t care if it was Roy Bargain.” [20:32]

---

Important Timestamps

| Timestamp | Segment/Event | |---------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | 01:38 | Jim brings big news and announces the concert & insurance deal | | 03:07 | Margaret reminds Jim about the Gribble dinner on the same night | | 05:09 | Bud insists on his turn with the car | | 09:40 | Jim tries to rearrange plans with the Smiths | | 13:11 | Scheduling disaster escalates to three bookings for Thursday | | 15:16 | Jim and Margaret debate honesty vs. diplomacy | | 17:47 | Jim executes “power politics” with the Liggetts | | 22:18 | Margaret chooses honesty, explains the real issue to the children | | 23:36 | Bud agrees to help, putting parents’ needs first | | 25:17 | The twist—extra tickets come from the Gribbles, the very couple they double-booked| | 28:14 | Margaret laments the cost of making things right | | 28:27 | Jim’s quip about Toscanini tickets vs. Spike Jones tickets |

---

Episode Tone & Style

The tone is warm, wry, and gently comedic—full of familial ribbing, misunderstandings, and affectionate advice. The banter is brisk and character-driven, employing classic sitcom timing and wordplay. The episode captures the “Golden Age of Radio” spirit, offering both nostalgia and timeless humor about family life and everyday challenges.

---

Takeaway

For listeners, this episode is a quintessential slice of mid-century American life. It humorously demonstrates how simple household management can quickly become comic chaos and, ultimately, how honesty and family collaboration can resolve even the trickiest of social entanglements. The twist ending is especially satisfying, offering a wink to the audience about the interconnected messiness of community and family.

---

Recommended for:

• Fans of classic radio comedy
• Listeners interested in 1950s culture and humor
• Anyone looking for wholesome, witty takes on daily family life

Transcript

[Spinquest Announcer]

Whether it's slots or live dealers, Spinquest.com has the fun and action you're looking for with Spinquest exclusives. Blackjack, roulette, baccarat and even live dice. With craps and bubble craps, the games never stop so you don't have to. And right now, new users get 30 coin packs for just 10 bucks. Play [e-mail] Spin Quest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Betty Anderson]

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

[Margaret Anderson]

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

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, it's Father Knows Best.

[Narrator]

Transcribed in Hollywood, starring Robert Young as Father. A half hour visit with your neighbors, the Andersons, brought to you by America's favorite coffee, Maxwell House. The coffee that's all.

[Jim Anderson]

Always good to the last drop.

[Narrator]

Music hath charms to soothe the savage breast, to soften rocks or bend the knotted oak.

[Jim Anderson]

You've heard that before, haven't you?

[Narrator]

Always thought it was just about right, didn't you? Well, it doesn't always work that way. Not in Springfield, at least. In the white frame house on Maple Street.

[Jim Anderson]

Not with the Andersons.

[Narrator]

No, sir.

[Jim Anderson]

Not by a long shot like this.

[Bud Anderson]

Margaret?

[Betty Anderson]

I'm in the dining room.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, it's wonderful. Wait till you hear what I've done. Where are the kids?

[Betty Anderson]

They're upstairs. Jim. What is it, honey?

[Jim Anderson]

It's sensational. It's terrific. This is the biggest day of my whole life.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, put me down, please.

[Jim Anderson]

Say, you're putting on a little weight, aren't you?

[Margaret Anderson]

I am not. What's all the excitement about?

[Jim Anderson]

Well, you know that group insurance plan I've been trying to work out with Henry Liggett?

[Margaret Anderson]

Yes.

[Jim Anderson]

It's in.

[Margaret Anderson]

No.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, sir. Signed, sealed and delivered.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, dear. How wonderful.

[Jim Anderson]

And that isn't all. How would you like to go to the Toscanini concert? Toscanini. And the NBC Symphony Orchestra.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, you didn't pay that broker $12.50

[Jim Anderson]

a ticket for $3 seats. I should say not. Anytime you find me paying a broker a bonus of $9.50 a ticket.

[Margaret Anderson]

But you said you couldn't buy tickets.

[Jim Anderson]

You can't. They're all sold out.

[Margaret Anderson]

Then I don't understand. If you can't buy tickets, we're going

[Jim Anderson]

as the honored guests of Mr. And Mrs. Henry Liggett. How do you like that?

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, I don't know what to say. So wonderful. The insurance and the concert. I've got to get a new dinner dress. I just can't go anywhere in that Old one. You don't mind, do you, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

Of course not. Go get two dinner dresses. What do I care?

[Margaret Anderson]

I'll go downtown first thing in the morning and. Oh, dear. I wonder if there'll be time. When is the concert?

[Jim Anderson]

You'll have lots of time. Honey, it isn't until next Thursday.

[Margaret Anderson]

Good. Then I can go to Gorman's. Jim, it can't be Thursday.

[Jim Anderson]

Why not?

[Margaret Anderson]

We're having the Gribbles for dinner on Thursday. And then we're going dancing at the townhouse. I made the date just two days ago.

[Jim Anderson]

I told you not for Thursday. Margaret. No, you. You couldn't.

[Margaret Anderson]

But I did. Mrs. Gribble wanted to make it Tuesday, but we couldn't because the Smiths are coming on Tuesday. You said we didn't have anything else to do on Thursday anyway. So we made it then.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, how could you have done a thing like that? How could you?

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim Anderson, don't you dare blame this on me. You're the one who suggested Thursday.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, honey, what are we going to do?

[Margaret Anderson]

There's only one thing we can do. You've got to call Henry Liggett and tell him we're sorry.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, I can't. It's a big theater party, and I just sold a man a half a million dollars worth of insurance. Now, how can I insult him that way?

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, would you rather insult Mr. Gribble?

[Jim Anderson]

Of course not. I'm still trying to sell him on the group insurance deal.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, it's an accepted fact that no one can be in two places at the same time.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, let's not get excited. Let's sit down and see if we can't figure something out.

[Margaret Anderson]

If it were only the Smiths, at least they'd understand.

[Jim Anderson]

That's it. The Smiths. I don't mind insulting them, Jim. I mean. Well, I can explain to Heck and they can come over here for dinner some other time.

[Margaret Anderson]

I think you're forgetting one thing, Jim. We're having the Smiths for dinner because Elizabeth's cousin Maud is in town. When we were visiting the Bakers in

[Jim Anderson]

Lakeside, he was very nice to us.

[Bill Foreman]

I know.

[Jim Anderson]

But that's still no reason why they can't make it some other night.

[Bud Anderson]

Hiya, Dad. I didn't know you were home.

[Jim Anderson]

I'll explain the whole thing to Heck. Then we can have them for dinner on, say, Wednesday. There's nothing wrong with that, is there?

[Margaret Anderson]

No, I suppose not.

[Bud Anderson]

Hi, Dad. I didn't know you were home.

[Jim Anderson]

Then I can call Gribble and change their day to Tuesday. You see, how simple it is.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, I think Bud wants to say something.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it, Bud?

[Bud Anderson]

Hi, Dad. I didn't know you were home.

[Jim Anderson]

Now, there's an interesting observation. Are there any other vital pronouncements you'd like to make before we continue?

[Bud Anderson]

Well, just about next Thursday.

[Jim Anderson]

What about next Thursday?

[Bud Anderson]

Is it all right if I take the car before dinner instead of after dinner? You see, I promised Joe.

[Jim Anderson]

Phil, I meant to tell you, Thursday is out. You can't have the car at all.

[Bud Anderson]

I can't? But it's Thursday. It's my day.

[Jim Anderson]

I'm very sorry, Eleanor, but it's out. I'll explain the whole thing to you some other time.

[Bud Anderson]

But I always get the car on Thursday. I made a date.

[Jim Anderson]

This will teach you not to make dates on Thursday. They're nothing but trouble.

[Betty Anderson]

Mother. What is it, Betty? It's Father. Home. Yes, dear. I'll be right down.

[Jim Anderson]

Don't do me any favors. Stay where you are.

[Betty Anderson]

Hi, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

You, too.

[Bud Anderson]

If I can't have the car on Thursday, when can I have it?

[Jim Anderson]

I don't know, but I have a great many things on my mind.

[Bud Anderson]

But you said I could have it on Thursday. That's why I made the day.

[Margaret Anderson]

Your father made two dates.

[Bud Anderson]

He did?

[Betty Anderson]

Father, do you.

[Jim Anderson]

No.

[Betty Anderson]

What?

[Jim Anderson]

I said no. Whatever it is, no.

[Betty Anderson]

Oh, thank you, Father. Thank you. You're just the sweetest father in the whole world.

[Jim Anderson]

What?

[Betty Anderson]

Mother said she thought you would, but you don't, and it's just wonderful.

[Jim Anderson]

What's wonderful? I don't. What?

[Betty Anderson]

Mind if I go to the Pinew Dance? Wait. I tell Janie. Lick.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty, wait a minute. I didn't say you could go to the dance. I didn't say anything.

[Betty Anderson]

Why, Father, you just said.

[Jim Anderson]

I said no.

[Betty Anderson]

That's what I said. Hi, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, go away, Mother.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, I don't think that's very nice. You'll gain nothing by losing your temper.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, why shouldn't I lose my temper? At this rate, how am I ever going to get straightened out about Thursday?

[Betty Anderson]

How did you know it was Thursday?

[Jim Anderson]

How did I know what was Thursday?

[Betty Anderson]

Goodbye to you, Dan.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, no.

[Betty Anderson]

No.

[Jim Anderson]

This was such a nice day. Everything was going so well.

[Margaret Anderson]

Daddy, your father and I have a very difficult problem to work out. So why don't you and Bud and Kathy go back upstairs? I'll call you when dinner's ready.

[Bud Anderson]

He said I could have the car every Thursday.

[Margaret Anderson]

Why should he change his mind Now? Go ahead, Bud.

[Betty Anderson]

Father.

[Margaret Anderson]

Not now, Betty.

[Betty Anderson]

But, Mother.

[Margaret Anderson]

I said not now.

[Betty Anderson]

Jumping creepers.

[Bud Anderson]

What are you kicking About? I can't even have the car.

[Betty Anderson]

Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

What is it?

[Bud Anderson]

Kathy?

[Betty Anderson]

I don't have any place to go on Thursday.

[Jim Anderson]

That's fine, baby, fine.

[Betty Anderson]

But when I get to be a big girl.

[Margaret Anderson]

Never mind, Kathy. Just go upstairs.

[Betty Anderson]

But I wanted to tell him.

[Margaret Anderson]

Go upstairs. Stairs.

[Betty Anderson]

She wins.

[Jim Anderson]

You know, Margaret, I've been thinking. What if Hector says they won't change the date?

[Margaret Anderson]

I don't see any reason why he should.

[Jim Anderson]

No, but what if he does? Then what am I going to do?

[Betty Anderson]

What are you going to do now?

[Jim Anderson]

I'm going to call him. And if he says no, sir, help me. I'll never speak to him again. Turn a man down when he asks a simple thing like that.

[Narrator]

After all the things I've done for him.

[Jim Anderson]

A fine friend he turned out to be.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, he hasn't said no.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, I have had no luck lately. Wait.

[Betty Anderson]

Lady Luck Breaky. I got you.

[Margaret Anderson]

I've had so much luck on spinquest.com

[Betty Anderson]

they have all of my favorite games,

[Margaret Anderson]

slot games, live blackjack, craps and bubble crafts.

[Betty Anderson]

You can even get a 30 coin pack for just 10 bucks.

[Spinquest Announcer]

10 bucks for 30.

[Bill Foreman]

I'm headed over to spinquest.com right now.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Spin Quest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited. Visit spinquest.com for more details.

[Safeway/Albertsons 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 3 pound twin pack bricks is 4.99 per pound limit, one member price with coupon. Fresh and delicious savings for every meal. Hurry in. This deal won't last. Visit safewayeralbertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, he'd better not. Hello, Heck, this is Jim Anderson. Now look, Heck. What? Oh, no, Heck, I'm not upset about anything. I just. Well, look, Heck, I'm in an awful spot. Yes, you see, we've got dates with the Gribbles and the Liggetts for the same night and, well, we didn't do it on purpose. Look, Heck, is it all right with you if we make our date for a different night next week? Well, then I can switch the date with the Gribbles over to Tuesday and I'll be in the clear. Okay.

[Margaret Anderson]

What did he say, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

He's going to ask Elizabeth.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, why don't you explain to him that it's A matter of business.

[Jim Anderson]

He knows that, Margaret. Sit around this house for weeks. Nothing to do, no place to go. And then all of a sudden, everything has to happen on one night. Yes, X you can. Oh, that's fine. Heck, that's wonderful. I knew I could count on you. What? Well, how about a week from tonight? Yes, that's definite, Heck. No, no, we won't change it again. Oh, sure. I realize you've got to plan ahead on account of Maud. Well, tell her we said hello, will you? Thanks, Zach. Okay, pal. A week from tonight. That's more nice. Now, when I get the Gribbles moved over to Tuesday.

[Betty Anderson]

Is everything all right, Jim?

[Jim Anderson]

Heck said they'd be glad to change it. Now I'm calling the Gribbles.

[Margaret Anderson]

You see, there was no reason to get all worked up that way. Ask Mrs. Gribble.

[Jim Anderson]

Just a minute, honey. Oh, no, not you, Mrs. Gribble.

[Bill Foreman]

I was talking to what?

[Jim Anderson]

She isn't. Well, may I speak to Mr. Gribble? Oh, they are? I see. Well, no, I'm afraid that'll be too late. Just leave word that Mr. Anderson called. Thank you. Good night.

[Margaret Anderson]

What did Mrs. Gribble say, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

She didn't say anything. She and Mr. Gribble went away for a few days. They won't be back until Monday.

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, dear. Who are you calling now?

[Jim Anderson]

Hello, Heck? Look, Heck, if you want to leave that Tuesday date the way it was, well, the Gribbles won't be back until Monday and. Oh, you did, huh?

[Margaret Anderson]

You did what, Jim?

[Jim Anderson]

They've already made another date for Tuesday with the Hathaways. Heck, we'll just leave it the way it is a week from tonight. Okay, Heck. And I'm sorry there's been all this mix up.

[Bill Foreman]

Right?

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, sure. Okay, Heck. See you later. A fine little fixer I turned out to be. All I did was move the date with the Smiths from Tuesday to Wednesday. And we've still got two dates for Thursday.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, I'm completely confused.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, climb in with me. I've been that way all day.

[Margaret Anderson]

But you told Hector our date was a week from tonight.

[Jim Anderson]

That's what I said. Wednesday.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, today is Thursday.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, I may be a little mixed up about a lot of things, but today is Wednesday.

[Margaret Anderson]

Yesterday was Wednesday.

[Jim Anderson]

Yesterday was Tuesday.

[Margaret Anderson]

They picked up the garbage this morning, and they don't pick up the garbage on Wednesday.

[Jim Anderson]

I don't care when they pick up the garbage. I had a date with Al Harris on Wednesday, and today is Thursday.

[Margaret Anderson]

It's been Thursday all day.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret.

[Margaret Anderson]

Yes, Jim?

[Jim Anderson]

I have news for you, we no longer have two dates for next Thursday. Oh, we have three.

[Bill Foreman]

Well, that's really no news to Mother. She knew Father was getting things in a stir. You know, he needs to remember something. Most of us have found out one time or another. It pays to stop and think a little before you do most anything, I'd say, even before you buy a pound of coffee think about what you want in that coffee. It's flavor. The most in flavor for your money. And right there you'll see the reason why day after day more people buy and enjoy our Maxwell House coffee than any other brand. That wonderful good to the last drop flavor. Why, you just can't get enough of it. You won't find that famous flavor in any other coffee, you know. No coffee but Maxwell House. And here's why. We have a recipe and a mighty important recipe it is. Because it calls for certain special varieties of coffees to be blended together a special way. It's the one way, the one recipe for that wonderful good to the last drop flavor. That's why our Maxwell House coffee spells so much more pleasure in every cup so much more flavor in every pound. So for your money's worth and more in real enjoyment open up a pound of Maxwell House coffee always good to the last Dr.

[Narrator]

Its mere moments later, in the white frame house on Maple street the Anderson's problem still remains three dates for Thursday. Yet there isn't the dark and dismal aura of gloom one might imagine. Jim Anderson, a genius among fathers, has come up with an idea which he

[Jim Anderson]

himself admits is a dilly like this. Margaret, it's the only thing we can do. Would you rather see Henry Liggett cancel the whole deal?

[Margaret Anderson]

Of course not.

[Narrator]

All right.

[Jim Anderson]

And what's more natural than telling him we'd rather let Betty and Bud have the pleasure of going to the concert?

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, it just seems so hypocritical.

[Jim Anderson]

Honey, this is not the time to think of ethics. We're in a jam and we've got to get out of it. Now, will you call them or do you want me to?

[Margaret Anderson]

I think you'd better call.

[Jim Anderson]

All right. In a case like this, you have to take extreme measures, like an operation or something.

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, I suppose there's nothing else we can do. But if you'd only asked me before you made the date.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, I didn't, Margaret, so let's forget about it. Let's just hope I can sell Henry Liggett on the idea and we'll be all right. Hello, Janie, this is Mr. Anderson. May I speak to your father. Thank you, Jim.

[Margaret Anderson]

Something just occurred to me. If Betty and Bud go to the concert and we go out with the Gribbles, what are we going to do with Kathy?

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, we'll rent a cage for her at the zoo.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim.

[Jim Anderson]

We'll get a sitter for him. Margaret, that's no problem.

[Margaret Anderson]

It certainly is. You know Kathy doesn't like sitters.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, that makes it even. Sitters don't like Kathy. Just have to find one who hasn't heard about her.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, it's not that bad. Kathy may be a little exuberant at times.

[Jim Anderson]

Hello, Henry. Jim Anderson. Just fine, thank you. Say, Henry, I've been talking to Margaret about this Toscanini concert, and I wonder if you'd mind very much if we let Betty and Bud go in our place. Oh, no. It's just that. Well, we've heard Toscanini and Betty and Bud haven't, and. Oh, it really isn't anything much, Henry. Just something that any parent would do. Of course. You see, I explained to Margaret. Jim, that is, Margaret and I talked it over, and we both thought that Betty and Bud would gain so much by hearing the concert. And this is going to be his only appearance in Springfield and. Well, it's nice of you to say that, Henry, but you know how it is when you have children.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim of old.

[Jim Anderson]

Thank you very much, Henry. Well. Well, I wish we could, too, but we'll have to make it some other time. Thanks again. Good night.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim Anderson. In my whole life, I have never heard anything quite like that.

[Jim Anderson]

If you don't mind, I'd rather not discuss it. There are things that women just don't understand, and this is one of them. It's power politics on a local scale. That's. Well, let's just not discuss it.

[Narrator]

Betty.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, dinner isn't nearly ready.

[Jim Anderson]

I know.

[Betty Anderson]

Did you call me, Father?

[Jim Anderson]

Come on downstairs and tell Bud I want him.

[Betty Anderson]

Okay.

[Margaret Anderson]

Don't you think you ought to call the Smith?

[Jim Anderson]

I'll call Hector first thing in the morning, get the whole thing straightened out. I'll be able to do more with him if he doesn't have Elizabeth around.

[Margaret Anderson]

You won't forget?

[Jim Anderson]

Of course I won't forget.

[Bud Anderson]

Dinner's ready, huh?

[Jim Anderson]

No, dinner isn't ready, huh?

[Margaret Anderson]

But Betty said.

[Betty Anderson]

I didn't say anything about dinner. I merely said Father wanted you. Don't you want me, too, Daddy?

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, angel, this is something your father has to discuss with Betty and Bud.

[Betty Anderson]

Can I even listen?

[Jim Anderson]

Of course you can listen, but listen.

[Betty Anderson]

Yes, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty.

[Betty Anderson]

Yes, Father?

[Bud Anderson]

Bud, it's time dinner was ready.

[Jim Anderson]

Bud.

[Bud Anderson]

Oh, yes, dad.

[Jim Anderson]

I've got good news for you, for both of you. I just made arrangements for you to go to the Toscanini concert with the Liggett. Now, what do you think of that?

[Bud Anderson]

What time will dinner be ready? Well, I just wanted to know.

[Jim Anderson]

But when are you going to learn that there are other things just as important as food?

[Betty Anderson]

Like candy?

[Margaret Anderson]

Kathy, please be quiet.

[Betty Anderson]

Yes, Mommy. Is that all you wanted to tell us, Father?

[Jim Anderson]

Not quite. This concert is a very important event in Springfield. And I'll expect you to act sensibly and with dignity.

[Margaret Anderson]

Yes, Father.

[Jim Anderson]

I don't want to hear that either you or Bud went whooping around the lobby or did anything to disgrace the name of Anderson.

[Betty Anderson]

Yes, Father.

[Jim Anderson]

We want to be proud of you. And I think it might be a very good idea, Bud, if you had your hair cut before next Thursday.

[Bud Anderson]

Okay, dad.

[Betty Anderson]

Thursday? Father, the concert isn't Thursday. That's the night of the time you dance.

[Bud Anderson]

Hey, I have a date, too.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty, I explained to you I don't

[Betty Anderson]

want to go to the concert. Biggest dance of the whole year, and you want me to go to a concert?

[Bud Anderson]

What are you talking about? They're having a night baseball game in Middletown, and I promise.

[Jim Anderson]

Wait a minute. Wait a minute, Bud. Betty, don't you understand? This isn't just any concert. This is Toscanini.

[Betty Anderson]

I wouldn't care if it was Roy Bargain.

[Jim Anderson]

How can you say that?

[Betty Anderson]

I'd rather go to the dance. I'll go to the concert.

[Jim Anderson]

Look, Mr. Liggett is giving a tremendous theater party.

[Betty Anderson]

Janie Liggett's going to the dance. It's her own father's party, and he isn't making her go to any old concert.

[Jim Anderson]

There isn't a question of making anyone go anywhere. It's a privilege to hear Toscani. They're charging $12.50 a ticket. People are fighting to get in.

[Bud Anderson]

They don't have to fight with me.

[Betty Anderson]

I'll go to the concert.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, will you please explain to these children?

[Margaret Anderson]

Oh, no, dear. Go ahead. You're doing fine.

[Jim Anderson]

Thank you. Look, kids, music is an important part of our lives, especially good music. An appreciation of music is a sign of culture and good breeding. It's a relaxation, a release from the stress and strain of everyday life as you grow older.

[Betty Anderson]

Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, what is it, Kathy?

[Betty Anderson]

I'll go to the concert.

[Jim Anderson]

You'll stay home where you belong.

[Betty Anderson]

I want to go to the concert. Kathleen, be quiet. Jim.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, I'm trying to explain to the

[Margaret Anderson]

children Jim, I may not know very much about power, politics or business, but I do know Betty and Bud. And you're not going about this the right way.

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, you have something better in mind? Yes.

[Margaret Anderson]

The truth.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, this is no time.

[Margaret Anderson]

Betty, Bud, your father and I find ourselves in a very embarrassing position.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, go ahead.

[Margaret Anderson]

We made dates with two different couples to go to the concert with the Legates and to have dinner with Mr. And Mrs. Gribbles all on the same night.

[Bud Anderson]

Boy, who did that?

[Jim Anderson]

Never mind who did it. Just listen to your mother and Kathy.

[Betty Anderson]

Yes, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Blow your nose.

[Betty Anderson]

Yes, Daddy.

[Jim Anderson]

Go ahead, Margaret.

[Margaret Anderson]

Well, that's our problem. Your father's in no position to offend either the Liggetts or the Gribbles. And that's why we need your help. If you go to the concert with Mr. And Mrs. Riggett, all our difficulties will be over.

[Betty Anderson]

Well, creepers, why didn't Father say so?

[Jim Anderson]

I did say so, in a slightly different way.

[Bud Anderson]

We didn't know you were in a spot. If going to the concert is going to help you any. Well, God, Father, you know you can

[Margaret Anderson]

count on a tranny, Bud.

[Bud Anderson]

Sure. Who cares about an old baseball game?

[Betty Anderson]

I'll go to the baseball game.

[Margaret Anderson]

Kathy, the way you can help us best is by staying home.

[Betty Anderson]

Oh, then I'll be glad to, Mommy.

[Jim Anderson]

Well, I guess that takes care of that.

[Margaret Anderson]

Yes, dear. And I hope we've all learned something tonight.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes.

[Betty Anderson]

Well, I'll get it.

[Jim Anderson]

Never mind. Betty, go in and help your mother set the table. And, Betty.

[Betty Anderson]

Yes, Father?

[Jim Anderson]

Maybe we can find a new dress somewhere that's just right for concert. Hello? Oh, hello, Henry. She was. Oh, that's fine, Henry.

[Bill Foreman]

That's just fine.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, I'll tell Margaret right away. She'll be very happy. Thank you very much, Henry. Yes, we'll be seeing you. Good night.

[Betty Anderson]

Who was that, dear?

[Jim Anderson]

That was Henry Liggett. And he was so happy about everything.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, nothing's gone wrong with the insurance deal, has we?

[Jim Anderson]

Oh, no, everything's fine. That's great.

[Margaret Anderson]

What is it?

[Jim Anderson]

Mrs. Liggett thinks we're wonderful. The most thoughtful parent she's ever known. So she wants us to have something she dug up this afternoon. Two more tickets for the concert. And wait till you hear where she got them. It seems a friend of hers couldn't make it on account of she's going out to dinner that night.

[Betty Anderson]

Jim, not.

[Jim Anderson]

Huh? She got them from Mrs. Gribble, And

[Bill Foreman]

Father thought he had everything all straightened out, too. Well, some things you just can't count on. Other things Though you can count on every time and it's good to know about them. Take coffee for instance. You want to count on the coffee you buy for wonderful flavor every pound. Cause flavor is what you pay for what you enjoy. And as millions of folks know Wonderful flavor is just what you can count on. With our Maxwell House coffee Day after day, pound after pound an extra measure of flavor comes your way in that familiar blue tiny, wonderful, good to the last drop Flavor only Maxwell House brings you. We're mighty proud of that flavor, you know. It's the reason more people buy our Maxwell House coffee than any other brand. And we'll never compromise on the quality of one single pound. Yes, for more flavor for your money, for your money's worth and more Bring home that familiar blue tin Of Maxwell House coffee. It's today's coffee. Coffee by always good to the last drop.

[Jim Anderson]

A week's gone by and it's Thursday again.

[Narrator]

Springfield in its best bib and tucker is pouring into the local opera house

[Jim Anderson]

for the highlight of the social year, the Toscanini concert. Inside, the orchestra is tuning up.

[Narrator]

But in the lobby, last minute arrivals are still making their way into the auditorium like this.

[Jim Anderson]

Betty, go inside and tell Mr. Liggett we'll be in as soon as I get the Smiths and the Gribble straightened out. Okay, Potter, and take Bud with you.

[Betty Anderson]

Come on, Bud. Hurry up.

[Bud Anderson]

I can. Everybody's pushing me.

[Jim Anderson]

Now where did they go?

[Bud Anderson]

Hector.

[Margaret Anderson]

Jim, please don't shout.

[Narrator]

Well, they can't get in.

[Jim Anderson]

I've got all the tickets.

[Margaret Anderson]

I don't. When the Snoop showed up for dinner too, I thought I'd die.

[Betty Anderson]

Just die.

[Jim Anderson]

Yes, Margaret, I know.

[Margaret Anderson]

You kept promising that you'd call them.

[Jim Anderson]

I forgot, Margaret. I just as soon you forgot.

[Margaret Anderson]

How can I ever forget? All that good food in the ice box going to waste.

[Jim Anderson]

I still think there was enough for

[Margaret Anderson]

the Smiths and the Gribbles.

[Jim Anderson]

Well.

[Margaret Anderson]

And why did we have to take them to the townhouse? The most expensive restaurant in Spring, Springfield.

[Jim Anderson]

They enjoyed it, didn't they?

[Margaret Anderson]

Why shouldn't they? The end of this month, our budget is going to look like a Swiss cheese.

[Narrator]

Tickets, please.

[Bud Anderson]

Kindly show your tickets at the door.

[Margaret Anderson]

$12.50 a piece for five.

[Jim Anderson]

Tickets, Margaret.

[Margaret Anderson]

And dinner for the Dribbles and the Smith.

[Jim Anderson]

Margaret, there was nothing else we could do.

[Margaret Anderson]

Do you realize that tonight is costing us almost a hundred dollars?

[Jim Anderson]

There they are. We're over here, Hector.

[Bud Anderson]

Tickets, please.

[Jim Anderson]

Kindly show your tickets at the door, Mrs. Gribbles.

[Betty Anderson]

Here we are.

[Jim Anderson]

Toscanini. $100 and less than two months ago, it only cost us $5 to hear. Spike.

[Narrator]

Good to the last drop. Now that famous flavor is yours to enjoy. An instant coffee, too. Instant Maxwell House. It's the instant coffee with a famous flavor, the happiest combination in coffee. Wonderful flavor combined with the convenience and thrift of coffee made instantly in the cup. So thrifty, so easy, and best of all, so truly good. Tomorrow, try Instant Maxwell House, the instant coffee with a famous flavor, 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 and Jim Anderson, with Roy Barggy and the Maxwell House Orchestra and yours truly, Bill Foreman.

[Jim Anderson]

Bill, is it all right if I step in here for a minute?

[Narrator]

Of course, Bob. What's on your mind?

[Jim Anderson]

Well, there's a long fourth of July weekend coming up and I'd like to say a few words to the members of our good drivers club. I've been looking at the figures compiled by the National Safety Council. 579 deaths over the Memorial Day weekend. And I'd like to remind our members once more of their pledge to drive safely and carefully. Look at the eight safe driving rules again. Talk them over with your parents. Explain them to others who may not have yet joined the club. Let's see if we can't save a few lives. Let's see if we can't make this the safest, sanest and healthiest fourth on record. Let's just take it easy.

[Bill Foreman]

Good night.

[Narrator]

Now until next Thursday. Good night and good luck from the makers of Maxwell House, America's favorite brand of coffee, always good of the last drop. Father Knows Best was transcribed in Hollywood and written by Ed James. Now stay tuned for Spring Gill Theater, which follows immediately over most of these stages. This is NBC, the national broadcasting company.

[Spinquest Announcer]

Whether it's slots or live dealers, Spinquest.com has the fun and action you're looking for with Spin Quest exclusives. Blackjack, roulette, baccarat and even live dice with craps and bubble crafts. The games never stop so you don't have to. And right now new users get 30 coin packs for just 10 bucks. Play [e-mail] Spin Quest is a free to play social casino void where prohibited visits BenQuest.com for more details.

[Safeway/Albertsons 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 one member price with coupon Fresh and delicious savings for every meal. Hurry in. This deal won't last. Visit safewayeralbertsons.com for more deals and ways to save.