Jason And The Golden Fleece 1952-10-29 Phantom Phil

Summary

Harold's Old Time Radio: Episode Summary
Title: Jason And The Golden Fleece
Release Date: April 16, 2025
Original Air Date: October 29, 1952
Featured Characters:

• Jason – Owner of the Golden Fleece bar and boat
• Louis Dumont – Bartender at Golden Fleece
• Philip Pomeroy Jr. (Phantom Phil) – A young man seeking approval
• Grace Pomeroy – Philip Jr.'s concerned mother
• Philip Pomeroy Sr. – Philip Jr.'s father, a former football star

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Introduction and Setting

The episode opens with Jason, the charismatic owner of the Golden Fleece bar located in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. He paints a vivid picture of the vibrant yet gritty New Orleans waterfront, setting the scene with nostalgic references to local characters and the enduring spirit of the Mississippi River.

Notable Quote:
“I like the Mississippi. Man in a boat can find a dream. Yeah, I like New Orleans.” [00:07]

Character Dynamics and Tensions

Jason introduces Louis Dumont, his bartender, who plays a pivotal role in managing the bar and interacting with patrons. The calm setting is disrupted when Philip Pomeroy Jr., referred to as Phantom Phil, arrives at the bar seeking a drink to celebrate his 21st birthday. The initial interaction between Louis and Philip Jr. reveals underlying tensions and expectations.

Notable Quote:
Philip Pomeroy Jr.: “A drink. I'd like a drink.” [02:07]

The Fishing Trip Proposition

As the evening progresses, Philip Jr. approaches Jason with a proposition to charter the Golden Fleece for a fishing trip in the Gulf. While he initially presents it as a simple fishing excursion, it becomes evident that Philip Jr. harbors deeper motives—primarily to prove his manhood and gain his father's approval.

Notable Quote:
Philip Pomeroy Jr.: “This is my 21st birthday, Jason. I want to show my father I'm a man.” [05:25]

Preparations and Family Underpinnings

Jason reflects on his reasons for agreeing to the trip, balancing financial obligations with personal regrets. The narrative delves into the backstory of the Pomeroy family, highlighting the strained relationship between Philip Jr. and his father, Philip Sr., a once-celebrated football star now yearning for continued glory.

Notable Quote:
Jason: “I have to grab all I can, keep up the payments on a boat like the fleece.” [05:35]

Onboard Tensions and Rising Conflict

The following morning, the Pomeroy family boards the Golden Fleece, accompanied by Grace Pomeroy, who expresses concern over her son's plans. As the journey sets sail, subtle tensions among the passengers hint at impending conflict. The interactions aboard the boat underscore themes of expectation, identity, and familial pressure.

Notable Quote:
Grace Pomeroy: “You think that makes a grown man?” [08:18]

Crisis at Sea: Navigational Challenges and Fire

The peaceful fishing expedition takes a dramatic turn when the Golden Fleece becomes ensnared in a reef. Efforts to navigate out of the predicament fail, leading to the discovery of a fire in the engine room. Panic ensues as the crew grapples with damage control, with Philip Jr. attempting to assist but ultimately revealing vulnerabilities.

Notable Quote:
Philip Pomeroy Jr.: “He started the fire.” [23:43]

Climax: Unveiling True Character

Amidst the chaos, alliances shift as Louis Dumont confronts Philip Jr. about the origins of the fire. The intense exchange reveals deep-seated frustrations and misunderstandings within the Pomeroy family. Philip Jr.'s admission of fear and his declaration of manhood mark a turning point, fostering reconciliation.

Notable Quote:
Philip Pomeroy Jr.: “I'm a man now, dad. Maybe not the kind of a man you wanted me to be, but I'm a man.” [25:56]

Resolution: Lessons Learned and Mutual Understanding

With the immediate danger averted, the characters reflect on the events that transpired. Jason contemplates the diverse motivations that drive individuals, tying back to the enduring allure of the Golden Fleece and the timeless spirit of New Orleans. The episode concludes with a sense of closure and the hope for renewed relationships.

Notable Quote:
Jason: “The Golden Fleece means many things to many people. To some, like Pomeroy, it's the struggle for wealth and power. To others, like his wife and son, it's the search for love and understanding.” [27:03]

Themes and Insights

Jason And The Golden Fleece explores themes of masculinity, familial expectations, and personal identity. Through the tumultuous fishing trip, the episode delves into the complexities of father-son relationships and the quest for self-acceptance. The setting of New Orleans serves as a rich backdrop, embodying the blend of tradition and change inherent in the characters' journeys.

Conclusion

This episode masterfully intertwines character development with the evocative ambiance of 1950s New Orleans. Listeners are treated to a narrative that balances drama with heartfelt moments, all underpinned by the timeless allure of the Golden Fleece and the enduring spirit of its patrons.

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Credits:
Jason and the Golden Fleece features McDonald Cary as Jason, Louis Dumont as himself, Grace Pomeroy played by Jeanette Nolan, Philip Pomeroy Sr. portrayed by Bill Johnstone, and Phil Pomeroy Jr. by Gil Stratton Jr. The episode is written by Cleve Herman and Herb Ellis, directed by Art Jacobson, with original music composed and conducted by Frank Word. Produced by NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.

Transcript

[Jason]

A load of cold.

[Louis Dumont]

Up on my back.

[Jason]

The New Orleans waterfront is old and dirty and damp. But I like it here. I like the chant of the coal peddler as he plods past my bar in Ferguson Street. I like the call of the BlackBerry woman who's still singing the same song she sang when pirates hid their root at John Lafitte's blacksmith stop in the fence quarter. And I like the Mississippi. Man in a boat can find a dream. Yeah, I like New Orleans. They call me Jason. I call my boat the Golden Fleece. NBC presents Transcribed Jason and the Golden Fleece starring McDonald Cary. You find my place in the 800 block on Bourbon street in the French Quarter Of New Orleans isn't far from here to the place where they say the blues began. They weren't exactly born here. This is just the first place to admit it hadn't. And the confession turned out to be a song. I hear that song over and over again. I heard it a month ago in the wheelhouse of my 60 foot cabin cruiser from the tense lips of a lovely opera star who charted the Golden Fleece to sail away from her loneliness. I heard it last week at a table near the bar in the fumbling words of a tired old man who was trying to rekindle the flames of a lost romance with the background music of my concert tv. And I heard it again last Friday night from the nervous boy who looked like he was lost as he walked up to my bartender, Louis Dumont.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Hello.

[Louis Dumont]

Hello. Are you looking for somebody? Why, yes.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I. No.

[Louis Dumont]

What can I do for you?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

A drink. I'd like a drink.

[Louis Dumont]

How old are you, son?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Is that any your business?

[Louis Dumont]

We've got laws, mister.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Don't worry. I'm 21.

[Louis Dumont]

Well, then, what will it be?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

You heard me. I said I wanted a. A drink.

[Louis Dumont]

Okay, but what?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Whiskey.

[Louis Dumont]

Just whiskey. We just whiskey.

[Jason]

Yeah. Louie. I'll talk to him.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Bartender, I'd like that drink tonight, if you don't mind coming up.

[Jason]

We'll be open a long time, son. What's the hurry?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

You keep out of this.

[Jason]

Do you have a driver's license or any identification to show you're of age?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

What business is that of yours?

[Jason]

My name is Jason. This is my place. The law says.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I know what the law says.

[Louis Dumont]

Here.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Here's my birth certificate.

[Jason]

Well, happy birthday. 21 right in the nose. Louis. This one's on us.

[Louis Dumont]

All right, Cecil.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Look, I don't need any favors from you. I can take care of myself.

[Jason]

Think so?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I think so. And I ought to give you a Hit in the head for buttin in.

[Jason]

I don't think that'd be smart.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

You don't, huh?

[Louis Dumont]

No.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Don't worry. I won't hit you. Don't worry.

[Jason]

I wasn't.

[Louis Dumont]

Ah. Here's your drink.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Thanks.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Sit down, will you, Jason?

[Jason]

Bring me a cup of coffee, please, Louie? Sure.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Jason, would you bring me a cup too, please?

[Louis Dumont]

Okay.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I really came here to see you, Jason. I don't want the drink. I didn't mean that about hitting you either. You know something, Jason? I'm a coward.

[Louis Dumont]

Here's the cafe.

[Jason]

Thanks, Larry. You can take this glass back, if you will. We won't need it.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Did you hear what I said, Jason? I'm a coward.

[Jason]

Most of us are in one way or another.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I shouldn't be. I'm Philip Pomeroy Jr. And my dad's just who you think he is.

[Jason]

The All American Tulane hat.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

The All American everything Phantom Phil Pomeroy. The greatest open field runner ever to come out of the South.

[Jason]

He was pretty good, all right.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Pretty good. He was sensational. I'm sensational too. A sensational nothing.

[Jason]

You. You said you wanted to see me.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

What about your boat, Jason? I'd like to charter your boat for a little trip with my dad. Do some fishing out in the Gulf.

[Jason]

Good. I always enjoy a pleasant fishing trip.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Well, this one isn't going to be pleasant. In fact, I want you to arrange it so it won't be pleasant at all.

[Jason]

I don't follow you.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

When we get out on the Gulf, well, something's got to go wrong. Something's gotta foul up with the boat. So we're stranded and you can't fix it. Neither can anybody else, because it'd be too dangerous.

[Louis Dumont]

But.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

But I can and I do.

[Jason]

You do?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

That's right. I'll be a big hero.

[Jason]

You mind giving me at least a rough idea of what this is all about?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

This is my 21st birthday, Jason. I want to show my father I'm a man.

[Jason]

He looked up at me like a lonely puppy begging for a bo. So I had to throw it to him. Besides, a trip's a trip, and money's money. I have to grab all I can, keep up the payments on a boat like the fleece. But I was sorry I agreed to his plan. The next morning, when Louie and I went down to the canal and met Phil's Dad. Philip Pomeroy Sr. Was close to 50 now. He was still a college boy. He didn't have a raccoon coat, but he was still wearing his old letterman Sweater.

[Louis Dumont]

Nice little tub you got here, Jason.

[Jason]

Thanks.

[Louis Dumont]

Toss me that line, Loe. Hey, I got it. Anything I can do to help?

[Jason]

No, no. We're in pretty good shape.

[Louis Dumont]

Well, now I'm pretty handy around a boat line of fishing. Good for business. Get you off alone with an account so you can really talk turkey.

[Jason]

Uh huh.

[Louis Dumont]

This trip will be a good thing for my boy too.

[Jason]

Make a man of him.

[Louis Dumont]

I've always wanted him to do things like this. But he's always been too interested in.

[Jason]

Books and stuff like that.

[Louis Dumont]

I never cracked a book all through college.

[Jason]

Some of us have to get everything the hard way.

[Louis Dumont]

Oh, that's for the jerks. Personality is the thing. Jason got me through school and it got me heading business too.

[Jason]

You're lucky.

[Louis Dumont]

Oh, it wasn't luck. I planned it that way. You make a lot of contacts playing football.

[Jason]

Good contacts.

[Louis Dumont]

And I used them.

[Jason]

Right.

[Louis Dumont]

Take my wife, for example.

[Jason]

You know who she was? No. No.

[Louis Dumont]

Should I? Her old man was head of one of the biggest firms in New Orleans. So she fell in love with me. And you know who's head of it now, don't you?

[Jason]

I could guess. That's right.

[Louis Dumont]

Phantom Phil Pomeroy. She fell for me like a ton of bricks.

[Jason]

She was a nice girl too. Yes, sir.

[Louis Dumont]

I married the boss's daughter.

[Jason]

He wasn't a bad looker either. I did all right.

[Louis Dumont]

Oh, you'll see.

[Jason]

She's coming along. Is Mrs. Pomeroy coming on this trip?

[Louis Dumont]

Sure, why not?

[Jason]

The way you were talking about her, I. I figured she was dead. You get used to bragging if you go on many fishing trips or talk to many fishermen. Most of it's fun because it's kidding. Pomeroy's bragging wasn't like that. He gave you the feeling you had to believe every arrogant word he said. Back at my place, late the afternoon before we cast, I met the third member of the great big happy family.

[Grace Pomeroy]

I'm worried about this trip, Jason.

[Jason]

Nothing to worry about, Mrs. Palmoy. The Golden Fleece is never in better shape. And the weather report looks good.

[Grace Pomeroy]

I don't mean the trip itself. I mean about what might happen to little Phil.

[Jason]

He's a grown man, Mrs. Pomeroy.

[Grace Pomeroy]

He's legally of age. He can vote, buy a drink or get married without his parents permission. You think that makes a grown man?

[Jason]

I owe your husband an apology. I figured he was the one who had the boy convinced he couldn't take care of himself.

[Grace Pomeroy]

And now you think it's my fault.

[Jason]

You just told me how you Felt.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Facts are facts, Jason. I don't know whether it's my fault or his father's, but he can't, and I know that. At least I've tried to help him grow in independence and self confidence.

[Jason]

How?

[Grace Pomeroy]

Fighting his father's insistence that little Phil be a football star and all the nonsense that goes with it. Can an UNESCO lady get a drink in this place?

[Jason]

We don't stand much on ceremony. What's your pleasure?

[Grace Pomeroy]

I think I'm just about to the double bourbon stage.

[Jason]

All right.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Can't live the kind of life I do without a little anesthetic.

[Jason]

Just how bad a guy is he?

[Grace Pomeroy]

Big fellow. He's not really bad. He's just no good.

[Jason]

Maybe you should have found that out before you involved the son in this.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Little Theo wasn't my idea, and I found out quick enough. But I come from an aristocratic old Southern family. We don't even talk about divorce. Sir. Thanks. Won't you join me?

[Jason]

It's too early. And you're going too fast. I got work to do.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Must be wonderful to have something to do. Something real, I mean. You do have something real to do, don't you, Jason?

[Jason]

I think so. I think the sea is real. And music and people. A lot of things.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Oh, wait till you get to know the Pomeroy. They'll convince you you're wrong about people. Do this again.

[Jason]

You said you were worried about this trip and what might happen to your son. Do you feel like clearing me up on that?

[Grace Pomeroy]

He's such a little idiot, Jason. He's planned things like this before to impress his dad. Hikes in the Rockies, hunting in South Africa. Anything to make his dad believe he's anything but what he is.

[Jason]

What is he?

[Grace Pomeroy]

Why, he's a sensitive little boy who likes to read and dream. Maybe he's a poet. Maybe he's an artist. I don't know. But I do know what he isn't. When he tries to be what his dad thinks he should be, it's dangerous.

[Jason]

What do you want me to do?

[Grace Pomeroy]

Look out for him. Don't let him do anything crazy. He'd jump out into the Gulf into a school of sharks if he thought it would impress his dad. Can you do this again?

[Jason]

That's enough, Mrs. Palmoy.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Enough, girls. Never quiet enough. I heard a man say that in a speech once. The first one's one too many, and the last one's never quite enough.

[Jason]

We got the Pomeroy family aboard the next morning and were ready to shove off. Phantom Phil was still wearing a sweater With a big tea on it. And he was sharing a case of canned beer. His wife had a bulge in her purse that looked like a pint of her favorite anesthetic. The boy was wearing a jaunty new yachting cap that made him fit for the trip.

[Louis Dumont]

No sense taking a fishing trip. Not a beer or two, is there? You got a refrigerator on this tub?

[Jason]

It's already pretty crowded with stores.

[Louis Dumont]

Anytime, Louie. I'm hauling in the lines now.

[Jason]

Anything I can do?

[Louis Dumont]

I'm pretty handy around the boat. That's what you said. All lines in, Louie.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Can I see you a minute, Jason?

[Jason]

Sure, son, sure. Just as soon as we get clear.

[Louis Dumont]

Yes, sir. All about that boat dead ahead there. Give him a blast and we'll leave her on our port hand.

[Jason]

Right.

[Louis Dumont]

And two glass for the starboard. Right, Jason?

[Jason]

That's right, Mr. Pomeroy.

[Louis Dumont]

Now, what do you got on this thing? Twin marine diesels.

[Jason]

Yeah. You know your boats pretty well, don't you?

[Louis Dumont]

Sure, but fishing's my specialty. Wait till we get out in the Gulf. That's where I shine, Jason.

[Jason]

Yeah, yeah. What you want, though?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I wanted to see you alone.

[Jason]

Sure. Come on topside. I got to relieve Louis at the wheel anyway.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

That hero stuff is off, Jason.

[Jason]

Oh? Why?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Dad knows too much about folks. He understood those signals. Even knew what kind of engines you had.

[Jason]

It doesn't take much to tell gasoline power from Diesel Phil.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Maybe, but I. I've got an idea.

[Jason]

That I think will fool him completely. And I think I'll rather enjoy going through with it.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

We can't, Jason.

[Jason]

No, no.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Maybe you could fool dad, but I couldn't fool Mother. I didn't know she was gonna go along when I planned this.

[Jason]

You don't think you could fool your mother, huh?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Nobody can. Not even dad. And I don't want to try.

[Jason]

That kid got more complicated every time I talked to him. It sounded for a moment there like he understood his dad was a big phony. But if he did, I couldn't understand why he was so eager to impress him. Once we hit the rolling Gulf water, the Golden Fleece came to. Like a fish that's been out in that bad air too long. He'd have thought she never wanted to see land again. And once you were rolling with her, you felt that way, too. Grace Pomeroy caught the mood early.

[Grace Pomeroy]

I feel like I've really been taken out of this world.

[Jason]

Did you have any help from the trip?

[Grace Pomeroy]

I haven't had a drink since we left New Orleans. I was too sick the first night and I've been too fascinated ever since.

[Jason]

Never sailed before?

[Grace Pomeroy]

Oh, we went to Europe, but that was on a big liner. Too much shuffleboard, too many cocktails, dancing, eating at the captain's table. It was like being in a floating hotel.

[Jason]

Golden Fleece isn't exactly a hotel, is it? More like a cheap rooming house.

[Grace Pomeroy]

It's nice. Really nice. Jason, one of your rumors wants something.

[Louis Dumont]

What's the trouble, Pomeroy? That idea of yours about cooling the beer cans in the sea is much good. And I can't stand lukewarm beer. Bring a couple of cans up here, and I'll show you a trick I.

[Jason]

Learned in the Navy. All right.

[Louis Dumont]

Come on, Sam. Bring a couple of those cans.

[Grace Pomeroy]

If you don't mind, I think I'll leave.

[Jason]

Stick around. You might learn something.

[Grace Pomeroy]

I think you could teach me some things. All right, Jason. But not with him around. Maybe I'll come back for a lesson tonight.

[Jason]

Mrs. Pomeroy?

[Grace Pomeroy]

Yes?

[Jason]

You're a respectable, married, aristocratic Southern lady, remember?

[Grace Pomeroy]

Yes, I remember. Too bad, isn't it?

[Louis Dumont]

Yeah, much too bad.

[Grace Pomeroy]

I was worried about your beer, darling. But I'm sure Jason will know some way to cool it. How are you, son?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I'm okay, Mom.

[Grace Pomeroy]

I think I'll get out of here.

[Louis Dumont]

Well, how are you gonna fix this beer, Jason? No sense taking a fishing trip without a beer or two. But I can't stand lukewarm beer.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I told you I could cool it for you, dad, if it's all right with Jason.

[Jason]

Nonsense.

[Louis Dumont]

What would a punk like you know about beer?

[Jason]

What was your idea, Phil?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Well, I learned in chemistry that carbon dioxide is cold. So if you'd let us spray these cans with one of your fire extinguishers, dad would have his cold beer.

[Jason]

That's just what I was going to suggest, Mr. Pomeroy.

[Louis Dumont]

What do you know about that? The kid's learning something in college after all.

[Jason]

Here. There you are, Phil. Go ahead. Give the theory a try.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Thanks.

[Jason]

Know how it works? Sure.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Just turn the valve like this.

[Jason]

Hey, hey, that'll do it. Don't waste this stuff. It's good for fire, too.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Yeah, I know. We had one in the prep school dormitory once, and I. I helped put it out.

[Jason]

What's the matter? That's nothing to be ashamed of, Phil.

[Louis Dumont]

That little caper cost me two grand. The kid also helped start the fire.

[Jason]

Bill turned as his father began to laugh and left the deck house. When it started to turn dark over the Gulf, I switched on the green and red running lights and plowed through the night. The Fishing hadn't been too good and I was looking for better grounds. Grace Pomeroy came up to help.

[Grace Pomeroy]

I don't take a hint very well, do I?

[Jason]

No, you don't.

[Grace Pomeroy]

You wouldn't be encroaching on anybody else's territory. Jean, he hasn't meant anything to me for more than 20 years. And I'm sure I never meant anything to him except a chance to get ahead.

[Jason]

That's a nice rationalization. Sorry, I can't buy it.

[Grace Pomeroy]

So you're a Southern gentleman?

[Jason]

No. Just careful.

[Grace Pomeroy]

It wouldn't hurt anyone.

[Jason]

How about your son?

[Grace Pomeroy]

Who's hurting him more, me or his father?

[Jason]

I don't know, Jason.

[Grace Pomeroy]

I've done everything but grab you in the arm. You don't take a hint very well either.

[Jason]

No, I don't, Mrs. Bomber.

[Louis Dumont]

You want me to take the wheel, skipper?

[Jason]

Yeah. Thanks, Louie.

[Louis Dumont]

Mr. Pomeroy is coming topside to talk to you.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Louie's a handy man to have around, isn't he?

[Jason]

He's a good sailor, yes.

[Louis Dumont]

Say, Jason, I know where I'd like to go. Up along the west coast of Florida. Right in by the reef. I'd like to take a whirl. With those bone pigs?

[Jason]

That's dangerous business, Pomeroy and the fish aren't worth it. They're not good eating at all.

[Louis Dumont]

Who said anything about eating? They're fighting fish, Jason, and I like a good fight.

[Jason]

You're the boss, Pomeroy. I'll plot the course for there, if that's what you want.

[Louis Dumont]

Yes, yes, go ahead. I'm going below to the compartment and hit the sack. I want to be ready for them babies. I'll set the course, Jason. You get some rest, huh?

[Jason]

All right.

[Grace Pomeroy]

You see what I mean, Jason? You wouldn't be hurting anybody. Didn't you notice?

[Jason]

What?

[Grace Pomeroy]

My husband didn't even knew why I was here.

[Jason]

Fishing is tricky along the Florida coast. Those reefs will fool you if you're not careful. And it takes a lot of maneuvering to land one of those bonefish. I was back near the fan tail, trying to help palm oil without letting him know it. And Louie was steering from the topside wheel. Phil was out of us, too. He hadn't said much since the time his dad laughed at him in front of him. He just stood around watching.

[Louis Dumont]

Ought to be getting some action soon.

[Jason]

Hadn'T we, around here someplace?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Hey, dad, you're lying.

[Louis Dumont]

Yeah. Yeah, I think I got one.

[Jason]

You sure?

[Louis Dumont]

Sure? Feels like a big baby, too.

[Jason]

They don't come too big, but they're strong.

[Louis Dumont]

I'll give them up right.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Get him, Dan.

[Jason]

Watch that line, farmer.

[Louis Dumont]

Oh, don't worry about me. I won't lose it. Black off a little heath Green. Come about and follow that fish.

[Jason]

And watch out for that reef.

[Louis Dumont]

How am I doing?

[Jason]

Take it easy. It'll take a little while.

[Louis Dumont]

Oh, I bet you I'll end him in five minutes.

[Jason]

If I were a gambler, I'd say it'd take you three times that long.

[Louis Dumont]

I'll bet you my wife against your boat.

[Jason]

What?

[Louis Dumont]

Yeah. Maybe we could put up a hundred bucks on the side just to make it interesting. Now watch it. Look at Stack Speedy. What was that? We found it on the reef. Louis, come quick. How did it happen, Louis? I could not see it. We are caught on our reef. Yeah, so not your fault. You want to take the wheel? I look below and see if we'll smash the hole for shipping water.

[Jason]

Let me know so I can light off the bill Sprout. I'll stand by here.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Right.

[Louis Dumont]

There'S a hole. Start shoring it up. Use mattresses, anything you can get.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Anything I can do to help?

[Jason]

Just stand clear. Phil, we're in a little trouble.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Could I help Louie down below?

[Jason]

If he needs to yell. I got to get these engines started again. We're hung up on the rocks.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Jason, there's smoke coming out of here.

[Jason]

The engine room hatch.

[Louis Dumont]

It's the engine room. What's your husband doing? Call him. We need him.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

He won't come, Jason. What do you want me to do, Bill?

[Jason]

Take this fire extinguisher and spray that hatch. This one?

[Louis Dumont]

Don't stand there, Jason.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I'm afraid this won't do it. We've used it on Dad's beer.

[Louis Dumont]

There's one in the engine room.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I'll get it.

[Louis Dumont]

That's what the fire is. I said I'll get it. Now wait a minute, Bill. Stand by here in case Louie needs that pump started.

[Jason]

I'll go.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I said I'll get it.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Don't let him do it, Jason.

[Jason]

He's doing it.

[Louis Dumont]

I lost him, Jason. I lost the fish. Why didn't you stand by? We're trying to save a boat.

[Jason]

Pomeroy.

[Louis Dumont]

We may have flooding forwards and there's a fire in the engine room. Louie, what's it look like down there?

[Grace Pomeroy]

I can't tell you, Bill. The only extinguisher left is down the envelope of the fire. Your son's trying to get it.

[Louis Dumont]

Help him. He probably started the fire himself.

[Grace Pomeroy]

What if he did? We've got to put it out.

[Louis Dumont]

Do you Think I go down into that Pomeroy, if we don't get that fire extinguisher, sure. You're going to have a tough time getting a cold can of beer on the way home.

[Jason]

The engine room hatch was jammed and the smoke coming out had traces of claims in it. But Phil kept trying. He was kicking, but he was giving. I knew that by the time he had. It opened the hole to be a furnace. Pomeroy didn't seem impressed.

[Louis Dumont]

How do we get out of this?

[Jason]

There's life preservers in the dinghy. But we've still got a chance to save the fleece.

[Louis Dumont]

Look, Jason, you're responsible for our lives. The devil with your boat.

[Jason]

I'll take every precaution.

[Louis Dumont]

We're lucky. Chison. No all. No water.

[Jason]

Good. Stand by here while I help the boy.

[Grace Pomeroy]

He got it open and he's gone in.

[Louis Dumont]

Careful, Phil. Where is it? I'm coming in. I'll show you. You stay out and tell you to miss more than you got it. Give it to me. I can handle it. Stay up there. See if you can get the boat loose. Not on top of the plane. Still hit the bottom. That's the way, boy. That's the way. All right. All right. I'll take it. Climb on out. Hold on to me. I know who do it. Is it out, Jason?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Yeah.

[Louis Dumont]

Was close.

[Grace Pomeroy]

Is my boy all right, Jason?

[Louis Dumont]

Yeah, he's all right.

[Jason]

Bill. I thought you told me you were a coward.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I am, Jason. I was scared to death.

[Jason]

Being scared doesn't make you coward. Everybody's scared. That's what you do when you're scared. That counts.

[Louis Dumont]

I wanted to run.

[Jason]

Why didn't you?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I couldn't. I guess she didn't have to come down here. Yes, I did, Jason. It was my fault. I started the fire.

[Jason]

He didn't faint. He just collapsed from the ground. Exhaustion. His clothes were scorched and torn and his hair was burned. There were big ugly welts around his face and neck. He looked a lot better than I'd ever seen him before. By the time I dragged Phil out on deck, Louie had us clear of the reef and we headed home. When we tied up, they all said goodbye. But they said it in a way that made me realize I'd see him all again. Conroy was the first to arrive. I was wondering about that fire. Did it damage your boat much? It'll be all right. I know the boy wanted to pay for the trip. But I'd like to offer a little something extra. Because of that fire, I'm getting Used to it. Paying off for failure mean? I'd rather not talk about it.

[Louis Dumont]

How much did it come to?

[Jason]

Put your checkbook away, Farmer. I. I carry insurance. Anyway, I don't think Phil started that fire. I've known that kid longer than you have. I know how he is. Think so? He's my son, isn't he? I said he didn't start the fire. And he didn't start the one in the prep school dormitory either. Well, then who did? You did.

[Louis Dumont]

Now, wait a minute.

[Jason]

You didn't have the idea or like the match, but you started the fire, Pomeroy.

[Louis Dumont]

What are you talking about? I was miles away.

[Jason]

You've never been very far away from that boy. Every time he looks over his shoulder, he sees you. And every time he sees you, he realizes he isn't what you think he should be.

[Louis Dumont]

Well, he isn't.

[Jason]

He isn't a football star, if that's what you mean. So since he can't run 89 yards through an open field, he starts fires and puts them out.

[Louis Dumont]

But I don't want him to do that.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I won't do it anymore, dad.

[Louis Dumont]

Phil, how much of this nonsense did you hear?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

It isn't nonsense, dad. It's true. I didn't have to hear it from Jason. I figured it out on the way home. Now that I understand, it won't happen again.

[Louis Dumont]

Well, maybe you understand it, but I don't. I think it's a lot of crackpot nonsense.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

You think a lot of things are crackpot nonsense, dad. And that doesn't make it so.

[Louis Dumont]

Well, you've never talked like this to me before.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

You've got to get used to me talking differently. I'm a man now, dad. Maybe not the kind of a man you wanted me to be, but I'm a man. My kind of man. And that's the kind I'm going to be from here on in.

[Jason]

Are you trying to say I haven't.

[Louis Dumont]

Been a good father?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I'm saying a boy needs somebody to love and somebody to love him. No matter what he is. No matter what he does.

[Jason]

I guess you're right. A man needs that, too.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Let's go home, dad.

[Jason]

Yeah. Let's go home. Goodbye, Jason. Goodbye.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Thanks, Jason. Turned out to be a pretty good trip.

[Louis Dumont]

Thanks.

[Jason]

Don't thank me, kid. I didn't do anything for you.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

There's one more thing you could do.

[Jason]

What's that?

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Mother's outside.

[Jason]

You better not keep her waiting.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

She's not waiting for us. She's waiting to see you.

[Jason]

What gives you that idea.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

I'm no kid.

[Louis Dumont]

Jason.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

Help her if you can, will you?

[Jason]

You're the only one who could help her, Phil.

[Philip Pomeroy Jr.]

How?

[Jason]

Take her home to your dad. The Golden Fleece means many things to many people. To some, like Pomeroy, it's the struggle for wealth and power. To others, like his wife and son, it's the search for love and understand. But each of us has his goal and each his search. The coal peddler will always be around with his lonesome chance. And the haunting call of the BlackBerry woman Will be heard in New Orleans till the end of time. Next week we'll be sailing from here again searching with somebody new. We'd like you to be with us aboard the Golden Fleece.

[Louis Dumont]

Jason and the Golden Fleece, starring McDonald.

[Jason]

Cary with Phil Conrad as Louis Dumas, is written by Cleve Herman and Herb.

[Louis Dumont]

Ellis and directed by Art Jacobson.

[Jason]

Original music is composed and conducted by Frank Word. Also heard tonight were Jeanette Nolan as Grace, Bill Johnstone as Pomeroy and GIL Stratton jr. As Phil. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company.