
Fibber McGee And Molly 35-08-26 (0020) The McGee's Win 79 Wistful Vista
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Stiles Mackenzie
We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Styles MacKenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals. Go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table. From wayfair.com this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.
Molly McGee
Wayfair. Every style, every home.
Harlow Wilcox
This is wenr, the voice of service in Chicago. This time, WENR leaves the air in favor of wls.
Fibber McGee
Good evening, friends.
Harlow Wilcox
You are now listening to wls, the voice of Prairie Farmer, America's oldest farm.
Ronald Manfield
SA.
Harlow Wilcox
The makers of Johnson's Wax, bring you more musical moments of unmitigated merriment. With Rico Marcelli's orchestra. Ronald Manfield, Charlie Wilson, the Johnson Merry Men. And Marion and Jim. As those gay and garrulous gaders, those gasoline gondoliers. Fibber McGee and Molly Martelli and his men leave their broadcasting for forecasting. And they find it's going to get hotter. With shifting woodwinds and a rain of rhythm in the weatherman. Wrap it up, Rico. In the midst of this sparkling music, let me remind you that now is the time to wax your car. Your family, your friends will be proud to ride with you. When your car sparkles and gleams with a Johnson Wax polish. Ask your dealer for Johnson's Auto Wax and Cleaner. You'll receive a can of fine quality black Touchup enamel absolutely free. When you make your purchase, don't delay another day. Wax your car the Johnson way.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Where the man.
Ronald Manfield
Once the skies were blue now he stays. Holy gray, won't you put your cloth away? I can't endure the temperature squares around. I depend on you in my heart and the skills where there used to be a thrill. I need my gal, you and her man Slow and growing. I can't give her my thoughts are growing. Swing down to the river tonight, it's storming.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Just something for me.
Ronald Manfield
You know my chair off. My weather is long overdue.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Weather ma.
Ronald Manfield
See what you can do. Take a clunk, take a time. Find my gallon. Make a m. Or change your plan, you know you can, you weather glass.
Harlow Wilcox
Remember what the poet sang? A loaf of bread, a jug of wine and. Well, that's Bibber Magee and Molly. Two loafers, bread, a jug of the motor. And thousands of miles behind them, they come in sight of a new real estate development.
Molly McGee
Look, Mageet is a carnival. Let's stop.
Fibber McGee
Oh, shuck. Molly, we ain't got time to go messing around those red ratted carnivals. Besides, it ain't a carnival.
Molly McGee
Well, then what is it? Look at the people and the flags and all.
Fibber McGee
I don't know. What's the flag say on them?
Molly McGee
Well, slow down so's I can read them. Igarnet.
Fibber McGee
Okay. What's the sign say, Molly? I can't read them and drive, too.
Molly McGee
Oh, must be a new subdivision. Miggy, it says Wistful Vista Home site a dollar down. Buy a lot for a little.
Fibber McGee
Lot of what?
Molly McGee
Build a home for the land sake.
Fibber McGee
Phooey. From me to them, the realest real.
Molly McGee
Estate you ever bought.
Fibber McGee
Oh, shucks. We want to stop and listen to a lot of high pressure salesmanship.
Molly McGee
Look, McGee, that sign where Barbecue sandwiches and coffee free.
Fibber McGee
Gotta get them brakes thick.
Molly McGee
You needn't have stopped so sudden. You near broke me neck.
Fibber McGee
I know. I just happen to think every American citizen ought to be interested in the home building. Molly, it's the backbone of our home.
Molly McGee
Go on with you, McGee. It's your wishbone you're talking about. You're wishing for a free sandwich.
Fibber McGee
Oh, shut me up. Hello, Hello?
Mr. Hagelmeier
Hello.
Molly McGee
Is one hello too many, mister? There's only two of us.
Mr. Hagelmeier
So I see. Y the very type of citizen we want to see settle down on a little nest on this beautiful development. Folk, here's where you get a lot for a little a home for half and contentment on every dotted line.
Molly McGee
Yes, sir, folks, what is this place now?
Mr. Hagelmeier
This place, madam? Why, this is none other than that beautiful landscape, Hagglemeier's Wistful Vista Subdivision. Wired for light, piped for gas, paved for pavements, ditched for sewers, and for only the small sum.
Fibber McGee
Where do you get them free sandwiches, brother, and coffee?
Mr. Hagelmeier
Right over there, sir, is the barbecue pit. But before you avail yourself of Hagelmeier's Wistful Vista hospitality, let me give you a short summary of our proposition. Here we have probably the finest, the most economical.
Fibber McGee
Come on, Molly, get out. I don't know why we can't get a mouthful and ear full at the same time. Where'd you say this here free barbecue pit was, brother?
Mr. Hagelmeier
Well, I must inform you that that word free is conditional.
Molly McGee
And what do you mean, conditional? Free is free.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Oh, yes, indeed. Yes, indeed. Free without the slightest reservations to those who hold tickets for the grand drawing.
Molly McGee
Grand what?
Fibber McGee
What you mean tickets for the grand drawing?
Mr. Hagelmeier
Do you mean to say that you've come within 10,000 miles of Hagelmeier's Blissful visitors without learning from every man, woman and child the sensational details of our sales stimulant.
Fibber McGee
Oh, sure.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Why, sir and madam, here is opportunity itself knocking, nay, pondering at your door.
Fibber McGee
That's all I want is opportunity to sink my teeth into a paltry sum of only $2.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Sir, you buy a ticket which may bring you shelter in your declining days. A haven from the storms of the future. The dream of every solid citizen of this great commonwealth.
Molly McGee
Oh, you mean you're selling chances onto a house?
Mr. Hagelmeier
A house?
Molly McGee
A house.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Did you say a house, madam? Certainly, I said this is the house. The house of your dreams, madam. A cove of contentment. The realization of a lifetime's yearning. The answer to a woman's prayer. Look there.
Fibber McGee
Where?
Molly McGee
Where?
Fibber McGee
There.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Gave at that fine covered cottage, that marvelous modern example of the architect's art. The home of your heart's desire right over there.
Molly McGee
Oh, the house.
Stiles Mackenzie
We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Stiles Mackenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table from wayfair.com Fierce, this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.
Molly McGee
Wayfair, every style, Every home.
Nicole Byer
We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Nicole Byer helping you make those rooms flyer. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table from wayfair.com Ooh. Fierce, this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.
Molly McGee
Wayfair, every style.
Fibber McGee
Every home.
Molly McGee
Well, it is real pretty, isn't it, McGee?
Fibber McGee
Oh, it's okay. Now, where did you say this here barbecue?
Molly McGee
Oh, McGee, you got to have a ticket. The man says there's only $2. And you have a chance to win that house a lot, too. Am I right, mister?
Mr. Hagelmeier
The miserable truth for the miserable sum of $2.
Fibber McGee
What Kentucket so miserable about two bucks? That'll probably 20 sandwiches. And let me tell you, brother, a hamburger in the hand is worth a house in the hat any day. Come on, Molly. We better get back to you.
Molly McGee
Wait now, McGee. Wait. Find me a ticket.
Fibber McGee
Buy you. What was that, Molly?
Molly McGee
You heard me, McGee. Buy me a ticket.
Fibber McGee
Well, for the. You mean spend $2, McGee, I'm starved. Say, brother, how many sandwiches are you entitled to when you got a ticket?
Mr. Hagelmeier
Oh, there's no limit, sir. It's merely a gesture of hospitality on the part of the Hagelmire Whistle Vista Development Company. We feel that a well fed customer is a better prospect.
Fibber McGee
You mean you can eat as much as you want?
Mr. Hagelmeier
Yes.
Fibber McGee
Now give me a ticket there you, Arthur.
Mr. Hagelmeier
And as a friend to friend, I may say that you've never made a more intelligent purchase. It is.
Fibber McGee
You mean as one real estate man to another.
Mr. Hagelmeier
But anyway.
Molly McGee
Oh, now, McGee, give the nannies two dollars and let the.
Fibber McGee
Ethan, here's your two bucks, buddy. As I was saying, I used to dabble, Mike, in real estate myself. Tropical real estate.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Oh, really?
Fibber McGee
No. O'Reilly, O'Reilly, O'Reilly and McGee depart payment promoter to Panama. Used to sell banana plantations mostly. Some pineapple farms and rubber timber, but mostly bananas still. You should ought to seen the work we done on the pineapple.
Mr. Hagelmeier
But if you'll excuse me.
Fibber McGee
You ain't crying into my business a bit, brother. Always glad to hear my experience with another real estate man. As I was saying, you should have seen the O'Reilly and McGee part. Payment promotion of pineapple plantation.
Molly McGee
Oh, now, McGee, the man wants to.
Fibber McGee
Hear about how I done her. I know.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Yes.
Fibber McGee
You see, brother, I was probably the leading banana land promoter in Panama at the time.
Molly McGee
Banana?
Fibber McGee
I'm banana. No. Banana land. I had me the biggest plantation of bananas onto the island of Pago Pago. Why, even the hurricane in 1908 never fazed me. Even though the lightning bust every banana tree I owned right down the middle of the trunk.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Lightning struck every banana tree right down the middle.
Fibber McGee
But it never disturbs me. Nothing. I just took one look at them trees, ordered a herd of Jersey cows shipped in and set up a ice cream plants.
Mr. Hagelmeier
What for?
Fibber McGee
Banana split for the export trade. Come on, Molly.
Harlow Wilcox
That was Martelli and his men confessing to a starlight superstition. I wished on the moon. And I might say right here that if you ever wished on the moon or just wished that your car could keep that brilliant factory finish, Johnson's Auto Wag.
Fibber McGee
We'll keep it that way, Mr. Harpo. I always says that.
Harlow Wilcox
Now just a minute, fibber. My name is Harlow, once and for all.
Fibber McGee
That's once for you and for all of me. It's still Harpo. I will tell you about the time I had me at the bee farm down in Kirkey Run, Indiana.
Harlow Wilcox
Oh, an apiary.
Fibber McGee
I Says bees, not monkeys. Well, sir, one day in 1906, or no ought seven it was.
Harlow Wilcox
Well, I'm sorry, Pepper, but my time is.
Fibber McGee
I know your time is my time. As I was saying, I drove into my bee farm one day and started giving the car at Johnson Wax. And I happened to lay the can of wax down by one of my high.
Harlow Wilcox
Oh, you had the high?
Fibber McGee
No, my bee, tad the highest. I had the bee. But I lays me the can of Johnson's Wax down by one of the hives and all of a sudden I see Hortense. Hortense. She was a queen bee from Hamp's mother honey farm next door. I see Hortense looking down into that can of wax, real curious. Then she give a kind of an angry buzz and flew away home. The next thing I knew, there she was back again with the whole swarm of bees from the Hampshire honey.
Harlow Wilcox
Ah, she went and got her gang.
Fibber McGee
Yep. And when the buzzing had died down a mice, I could hear her say to them other bees, she says, sitting on the edge of the can of Johnson's Auto Wax. She says, listen, you mugs. She buzzes get a load of the work that's being done over here. Look at that wax. That there is wax. As is wax. Now go on home and see what you can do. Oh, no, McGee.
Molly McGee
Now where do you let Mr. Wilcox get on with the door?
Fibber McGee
Okay, okay. I was just giving Harpo here a nature lesson, but he ain't got the intelligence to grasp my stuff.
Harlow Wilcox
Well, we don't know about these, but here's a tip that's a honey. Now is the time to wax your car. Don't drive around another day in a dirty, dull, faded looking car. It gives everybody a very poor impression of you. And it's so easy to take away all that unattractive dirty film. Give your car gleaming polish that shines like new.
Stiles Mackenzie
We interrupt this program to bring you an important Wayfair message. Wayfair's got style tips for every home. This is Stiles Mackenzie helping you make those rooms sing. Today's style tip. When it comes to making a statement, treat bold patterns like neutrals go wild like an untamed animal. Print area rug under a rustic farmhouse table from wayfair.com fierce this has been your Wayfair style tip to keep those interiors superior.
Molly McGee
Wayfair every style, every home.
Harlow Wilcox
It's easy. That is if you use Johnson's Auto Wax and Cleaner. These two products are regular miracle workers. They transform your car right before your eyes. With Johnson's Auto Wax and Cleaner. The work is done in about half the usual time. You'll be proud of your car when you see all the sparkle. Come back to the finish. It will look like it did when you first drove it out of the showroom. So go to your dealer at once and ask for Johnson's Auto Wax and Cleaner. Let me assure you that Johnson's Auto Cleaner contains no harsh abrasives. It does a miraculous cleaning job and it positively does no not harm the finish. Insist on Johnson's Auto Wax and Cleaner and save the finish on your car. And now the show stands still for Ronnie Mansfield, our handsome Irish tenor who stands pat at the mic to sing. And then my heart stood still.
Molly McGee
I.
Rico Marcelli
Took one look at you that's all I meant to do and then my heart stood still My feet would step and walk My lips could move and talk and yet my heart Good feel Though not a single word was spoken I could tell you knew that unfelt clasp Warm hand hold me the world you knew I never leave Daffodil until the thrill of that moment when my heart could feel Though not a single word was spoken I could tell you knew that unfelt glass of hand told me so well, you knew I never lived at all until the thrill of that moment when my heart.
Harlow Wilcox
Now back to the Wisp Vista real estate development. Amidst the banners and bunting, barbecues and baloney where Fiber and Molly are getting their $2 worth of sandwiches and coffee at the expense of Mr. Hagelmeier.
Molly McGee
Well, McGee, if you're able to walk, let's be going.
Fibber McGee
Oh, shucks, Molly. You might let a feller finish his sandwich.
Molly McGee
His sandwich? Go on with you, McGee. You've had so much beef, I'll have to ride hurt on you for the next two weeks.
Fibber McGee
Chuck. You done all right yourself, Molly.
Molly McGee
I know I ate my dollar's worth in chickanilly alone. Tear up your ticket and let's go.
Fibber McGee
Hey, now, wait a minute, Molly. Chucks, I paid $2 for that there ticket.
Molly McGee
And that's $4 worth of sandwiches and coffee. You don't think you'd win a house and lot, do you?
Fibber McGee
Well, you never know, Molly.
Molly McGee
Look at the number on that ticket, McGee.
Fibber McGee
Where?
Molly McGee
Right on the corner there. Read it.
Fibber McGee
131,313.
Mr. Hage
Well, what about it?
Molly McGee
What about it? And do you think you'd win an unnumbered 13? 13 13. Here's three strikes on you, McGee.
Fibber McGee
Chuck. That don't mean nothing, Molly. Add it up. One and three is four and four is eight and four is 12. 12 is a lucky number according to numberology. Even dozens?
Mr. Hage
Sure.
Molly McGee
An even dozen. That doesn't mean anything. Oh, it's a nice little house, but you got no more chance of winning it than making a fortune on. On. On spaghetti in Ethiopia.
Fibber McGee
Oh, well, you have to admit, my friend. Oh, dear.
Mr. Hagelmeier
I hope you've enjoyed the hospitality of Hegel Meyer, Wistful Vista.
Molly McGee
Oh, sure, they was real nice barbecues, mister, but we gotta be on our way now.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Oh, no, no, no, madam. You cannot afford to pass up the homemaking opportunity of a lifetime play when you consider what Hagelmeier's Wistful Vista offers you in the way.
Fibber McGee
You got any soda tablets on you, bud?
Mr. Hagelmeier
No, sir, I'm afraid not. Oh, you will.
Molly McGee
This is barbecued beef stampedin, mister. Come on, McGee.
Fibber McGee
Okay. Glad have met you, brother.
Mr. Hagelmeier
You haven't heard the real true story. The romance behind the sounding of Hagelmeier's Wistful Vista. We are building a community, sir. We are interested in laying the very cornerstones of civic development. We want to see homes and more homes with healthy, happy citizens. Little kiddies going to school, smoked from a hundred contented chimneys. Even at a sack of sacrasy. Ah, yes. What is a monetary law when you.
Molly McGee
Can sell 131,313 tickets for $2 apiece, making $262,626 for a house that couldn't have cost more than 4,000 to put up? Answer me that, Mr. Secretary.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Well, I'm afraid, madam, that. Oh, here is Mr. Hagelmeier himself. Mr. Hage, these good people appear a bit skeptical of the sincerity of our Wistful Vista. I want you to meet Mr. Hagelmeier. Folks, Mr. Hagelmeier, this is Mr. And Mrs. Mr. And Mrs. McGee.
Fibber McGee
What?
Ronald Manfield
Nothing.
Molly McGee
I was just telling Mr. Hagelsnupper the name Hagelmeier.
Ronald Manfield
Madam.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Mr. Hagelmeier will tell you all the advantages and opportunities embraced in the purchase and ownership of a little home in Hagelmeier's wife. And the drawing of the lucky number will be held in just a few moments. Now, Mr. Hagelmeier will be more than my.
Molly McGee
My Mr. Haggletoper. Do all these people pay $2 for a few barbecues and coffee in Ballyhooy?
Mr. Hage
Do you mean to say that is to remark or never? Never let it be said. Well, Herman Hagelmeier ever. Well, what do you think?
Fibber McGee
You know what I think, Haggie? I think that this here is a big gift. I think what we Ought to do.
Mr. Hage
Is that's what you mean to stay there and stand. I mean to stand there and accuse. Why whoever. But did you ever stop to think that a man's best friend is. Well, well, what is mother without a home? I mean what is home without a bar or a sink? I mean some place where a man. You get the idea. Just. Just two little bums or birds in a gilded go or cage. Think of it, my friend. A little cottage with a big cheese. Cottage cheese or no, no, a million times no. Or shall we say maybe.
Molly McGee
What is this man talking about?
Fibber McGee
Sounds like he got the needle in the wrong groove.
Mr. Hage
Ah, what a beautiful thought. Just give a little thought. But think of the twilight. A little home in the sticks or rhubarb suburb covered with mortgages. Or I. Poison ivy or no, no, that's. And a cheerful fire, no insurance. I mean a fire in the fireplace, a scuttle, a kettle singing on the stove or home on the range. And a little wire haired wife. Or I mean a beautiful young pup and the kitties. Ah, two charming little golden haired brats. What a beautiful puncture.
Harlow Wilcox
A picture.
Mr. Hage
Who says that Hagelmeyer builds bum bungalows? Frame house or Stockholm? I'll stock the stick on my friends.
Fibber McGee
I mean, am I hearing right, Molly? Or maybe I ate one sandwich too many.
Molly McGee
Oh, look, Mickey, the crowd's going over there for the raffle. Come on, let's see who won.
Fibber McGee
Okay, Molly. Probably be the cousin of Hagelmeire here.
Mr. Hage
Sir, you are either injector injecting or. Well, look, think of owning a tootle for title three. A little love noose. Er, pig noose. Er, love nest. And remember that old limerick or wise poem. Let me live in the road by the side of. Let me carouse by the side of under the village Oaksmith, the blackface skipper. All I can say is that when you build with Hagelmeyer, you'll always regret. I mean there will never be. You can depend on why there's not the slightest foundation.
Molly McGee
That's just what I thought. Come on, McGee. They're drawn numbers. We'll see you later, Mr. Heagle. Potter?
Mr. Hage
Certainly not. I mean, yes indeed. You can never depend on Hagelmar. You can always get what you want.
Fibber McGee
Find out what that feller builds houses like. He talks. You could park your car in the attic and shingle the cellar.
Molly McGee
Oh, be quiet, McGee. They're making an announcement.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Ladies and gentlemen. Ladies and gentlemen. The grand drawing is about to take place. Have your tickets ready. The lucky winner will receive absolutely without cost. Or expense of any kind. Free and clear title to the beautiful little home. You see to my right. To those who do not win, we offer special bargains in home sites. Homes designed and built on the beautiful Hagelmeier Wistful Vista. Just a minute now. While the charming Miss Susie Gloss, who was elected Miss Wistful Sister of 1935, draws the lucky number.
Molly McGee
Oh, dear, enough. Holding on to ticket number 13. 1313.
Fibber McGee
Go ahead, Molly. I want to see if old Hagelmeyer wins it. His health.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Ladies and gentlemen, your kind attention, please. The lucky number has been drawn. The number that wins this beautiful example of the home builder's genius is none other than one. 1028. 1028. Will the Ducky winner please step right up the platform?
Molly McGee
Well, Magee, at least we had our barbecues and coffee.
Fibber McGee
Shucks, the roof probably leaks anyway.
Mr. Hagelmeier
What the hell.
Molly McGee
Tear up the ticket, McGee. 113 is bad enough for three.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Attention, please, ladies and gentlemen.
Fibber McGee
Hey, wait a minute, Molly. Maybe we got pie coming.
Mr. Hagelmeier
Correction here. A correction, lady Stamper. Number 1028 was not eligible for the prize as it had been turned in at the money refunded. Another number has been drawn. It is number 131,313. McGee.
Ronald Manfield
McGee, did you hear?
Molly McGee
It's our number, McGee, it's our number.
Ronald Manfield
We.
Molly McGee
McGee, what's the matter with you?
Fibber McGee
I guess not.
Ronald Manfield
That summer, autumn, winter, spring baby, you might still be lighting. You're my sky of blue. There's a lovely shining just because of.
Fibber McGee
You.
Ronald Manfield
Baby, you got that certain things, baby shinings are an inspiration worthy of a mighty nation. Oh, G. I see.
Harlow Wilcox
A few moments ago I told you how easy it is to make your car sparkle like new. Again with Johnson's Auto Cleaner. Now, it's very important to protect that gleaming finish so it will stay shining. And it's very important that you use Johnson's Auto Wax in order to give your car the surest protection against sun, rain and road film. With a gleaming coat of Johnson's Wax on your car, whether new or old, it will resist dust and dirt. Car washings will be cut down after your car is Johnson Wax. The polish wears like iron, keeps your car in such beautiful condition that you will get much more money for it at the time of resale. So go to your dealer right away. Order Johnson's Auto Action Cleaner at the special price of 98 cents for the two. Your dealer will give you a can of fine quality black touch up enamel free with your purchase. If you prefer, your garage or service station will wax your car for you, but don't delay another day. Wax your car the Johnson way. And so there you are until next Monday night at this same hour on NBC. Remember, NBC. NB sure to specify the genuine Johnson Auto Wax and Cleaner. NB Safe. Oh, and NB this is Harlow Wilcox speaking. Good night. The selection I wish on the moon is from the big broadcast of 1936 of the Ice Cream from the show of the same name. This program came to you from our Chicago studios. This is the National Broadcasting Company.
Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio – Fibber McGee And Molly 35-08-26 (0020) The McGee's Win 79 Wistful Vista
Release Date: May 31, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Title: The McGee's Win 79 Wistful Vista
In this episode of Fibber McGee and Molly, listeners are transported to the charming yet chaotic Wistful Vista Subdivision, where Fibber McGee and his ever-patient wife, Molly, find themselves entangled in a high-pressure real estate sales event. Set against the backdrop of America's Golden Age of Radio, this installment masterfully blends humor, satire, and social commentary, showcasing the McGees' typical misadventures.
Arrival at Wistful Vista:
Fibber and Molly McGee are driving when they notice a new real estate development, Wistful Vista, characterized by colorful flags and bustling activity. Intrigued by the promise of free barbecues and coffee, Fibber persuades Molly to stop and investigate, despite her reservations.
Encounter with Mr. Hagelmeier:
Upon stopping, they meet Mr. Hagelmeier, the enthusiastic and somewhat bombastic representative of the Wistful Vista Development Company. He extols the virtues of the subdivision, highlighting features like wired electricity, piped gas, and paved roads, all for the modest sum of $2 per ticket. The McGees are skeptical but are lured by the promise of free sandwiches and a chance to win a house.
The Raffle:
A raffle is announced, offering a free house to the holder of the winning ticket number. Fibber purchases a ticket, believing in the slim chance of winning, while Molly remains dubious about the legitimacy of the scheme.
Comedic Exchanges:
Throughout the event, Fibber reminisces about his past in real estate, humorously recounting his time promoting banana plantations in Panama with exaggerated anecdotes. Molly remains unimpressed, questioning the value and sincerity of the offer.
The Drawing and Aftermath:
Initially, the winning number is mistakenly called, leading to confusion and a second draw. Finally, Fibber's ticket number is drawn, signaling their potential victory. However, just as hope glimmers, it's revealed that the first winning number was invalid, and the second draw reignites their skepticism. The episode culminates with the McGees deciding to leave the dubious venture behind, having enjoyed the hospitality but choosing to walk away from the uncertain promise of a new home.
High-Pressure Sales Tactics:
Mr. Hagelmeier employs intense sales strategies to persuade Fibber and Molly to invest in Wistful Vista, highlighting how consumer vulnerability can be exploited through promises of grand rewards.
Skepticism and Humor:
Molly’s persistent doubt and Fibber’s hopeful optimism create a dynamic interplay, illustrating the common夫妻 dynamic where one partner is more cautious while the other is more impulsive.
Satire of Real Estate Schemes:
The episode satirizes get-rich-quick schemes and the allure of easy wealth, using Wistful Vista as a microcosm for dubious real estate ventures prevalent during the era.
Community and Consumerism:
Mr. Hagelmeier’s vision of community-building contrasts with the McGees’ individual skepticism, presenting a commentary on the tension between communal ideals and individual distrust in commercial propositions.
Mr. Hagelmeier on Wistful Vista:
"This is Hagelmeier's Wistful Vista Subdivision. Wired for light, piped for gas, paved for pavements, ditched for sewers, and for only the small sum."
[06:12]
Fibber McGee on Buying a Ticket:
"That's all I want is opportunity to sink my teeth into a paltry sum of only $2."
[07:16]
Molly McGee on the Raffle:
"Oh, you mean you're selling chances onto a house?"
[07:30]
Fibber McGee on Winning the Raffle:
"You got any soda tablets on you, bud?"
[22:12]
Molly McGee's Final Decision:
"Come on, McGee. They've drawn the numbers. We'll see you later, Mr. Hagelmeier."
[27:48]
Consumer Awareness:
The episode underscores the importance of consumer awareness and skepticism, especially when faced with overly generous offers. The McGees' cautious approach serves as a reminder to listeners to critically evaluate such opportunities.
Marital Dynamics:
The interplay between Fibber and Molly highlights marital dynamics where differing worldviews and temperaments contribute to both conflict and harmony, a recurring theme in their relationship.
Humor as Social Commentary:
Through humor, the episode critiques societal tendencies towards consumerism and the allure of easy solutions, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own susceptibility to such schemes.
The Illusion of Easy Wealth:
Wistful Vista symbolizes the façade of easy wealth and happiness through property ownership, prompting a deeper consideration of what truly constitutes a happy and stable home.
Fibber McGee and Molly's adventure at Wistful Vista offers a humorous yet poignant exploration of consumerism, skepticism, and marital dynamics. Through witty dialogue and engaging characters, the episode not only entertains but also imparts valuable lessons on the importance of critical thinking and maintaining trust within relationships. As the McGees walk away from the questionable real estate venture, listeners are left with a blend of laughter and thoughtful reflection on the promises that often come too good to be true.
Notable Moments and Timing:
This episode exemplifies the timeless charm of Fibber McGee and Molly, blending humor with insightful social commentary, making it a memorable addition to the Golden Age of Radio repertoire.