Jerry of the Circus - A Strike Is Possible

Summary

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Jerry of the Circus – “A Strike Is Possible”

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Date: May 21, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of Jerry of the Circus takes listeners behind the scenes of the traveling circus troupe as rumors of a potential workers’ strike threaten to upset the harmony of life under the big top. The narrative explores friendship, loyalty, and the challenge of leadership, all set against the vibrant backdrop of a classic American circus.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Jason Returns to the Ring (02:08–04:10)

• The episode opens with talk among circus staff about Jason’s comeback after suffering an earlier injury.
• Jason reassures Jerry and others:
  • “I’m not taking any unnecessary risks. Now, you just stop worrying.” (02:29, Jason to Jerry)
• Show of camaraderie as troupe members, including Boris and Jeff, welcome Jason back.
• Boris expresses his respect:
  • “Always I appreciate the man who can carry on in the face of much trouble.” (02:59, Boris)
• Conversation hints at the close-knit trust and complex personalities within the circus.

2. Tension and Mystery Build (04:11–06:12)

• Jerry is eager to find Mr. Randall after receiving an urgent, mysterious message from Jim Bennett, the ticket manager.
  • “Jim Bennett yelled at me as I came by the ticket wagon and told me to get hold of Mr. Randall. He seemed awful excited.” (02:42, Jerry)
• Discussion between Randall and Boris about the different thrills in animal acts.
• Reflection on losses and changes after the management of a dangerous panther named Black Fury:
  • “He’ll never be good for the ring again. However, he may live to a ripe old age in the zoological gardens.” (05:55, Mr. Randall)

3. The Strike Threat Emerges (06:13–10:10)

• Jim Bennett finally meets Randall in private to reveal the crisis:
  • “A strike… That’s it, boss. It looks like we’re going to have a strike.” (07:41, Bennett)
• Details of an anonymous letter demanding higher wages:
  • “We want more money… and if we don’t get it, we won’t work. And how will you move your show without us?” (07:58, Mr. Randall reading letter)
• The men suspect outside influence and plot to uncover the instigator.
• Randall declares the importance of not giving in hastily:
  • “If I give in to this just because we’re in a jam, I’d fall prey to every racket that could be thought of in a circus.” (10:00, Mr. Randall)
• Financial pressures add to the urgency:
  • “And now that $25,000 note to be met by the end of the month…” (09:39, Mr. Randall)

4. Jerry Becomes the Sleuth (10:33–14:00)

• Jason’s triumphant performance is met with relief:
  • “Gee, Mr. Randall, it went off swell. Sure was a corker…” (10:41, Jerry)
• Randall enlists Jerry as a discreet detective to listen in among the workers and uncover the instigator:
  • “A boy can wander about and do a little listening without their paying any attention to him. While if you or I were around, they’d all shut up like clams.” (11:36, Bennett)
• Jerry is excited and eager:
  • “Say, this sounds keen. What’s it all about?” (11:46, Jerry)
• Randall’s instructions stress caution and confidentiality:
  • “If you’ll spend your spare time around the canvas men and the stakers… and try and find out what’s going on without asking questions. Just listen.” (12:17, Mr. Randall)
• The gravity of the situation is reinforced:
  • “You couldn’t put up the show without the roustabouts and the rest of the workers.” (12:49, Jerry)
• Bennett and Randall agree that replacement workers would be costly and difficult to train.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "A man has to get into trouble to find out where his good friends are."
  — Boris (03:15)

• "Who ever heard of a circus having a strike?"
  — Mr. Randall (07:50)

• "If I give in to this… I’d fall prey to every racket that could be thought of in a circus."
  — Mr. Randall (10:05)

• "A boy can wander about and do a little listening… while if you or I were around, they’d all shut up like clams."
  — Mr. Bennett (11:36)

• "Say, this sounds keen. What’s it all about?"
  — Jerry, on being included in the investigation (11:46)

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Timeline & Timestamps for Key Segments

• 02:08–04:10 – Jason’s return to the ring; camaraderie & concern
• 04:11–06:12 – Mystery builds; Boris and Randall discuss animal acts, the fate of Black Fury
• 06:13–10:10 – Jim delivers the strike threat; anonymous demand; financial worries
• 10:33–14:00 – Jerry debriefs Jason’s act; is recruited as a spy among workers
• 12:17–14:00 – Randall gives Jerry detective instructions; team discusses the implications of a strike

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Tone and Language

The episode’s tone is classic radio drama—warm, earnest, suspenseful, and brimming with the camaraderie and tension typical of a traveling circus family. Dialogue-driven, with endearing period slang (“Gee whizzy!”, “Jiminy Crickets!”), it weaves drama and detective intrigue in a family-friendly adventure.

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Summary

Listeners are given a window into circus life, from backstage encouragements and the importance of loyalty, to the looming labor mystery that could threaten the circus’s very survival. Jason’s bravery is celebrated, but a worker’s strike casts a shadow, prompting Randall to secretly enlist young Jerry as his “detective.” The balance between old-school leadership, worker grievances, and the practical realities of “the show must go on” create an engaging, suspenseful arc.

Endnote:
The episode leaves listeners with a cliffhanger—will Jerry uncover the instigator behind the strike, and can the circus family weather yet another storm? Stay tuned for the next chapter in the adventure of Jerry of the Circus!

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Transcript

[A]

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[B]

Gary of the circus. Now for Jerry of the Circus.

[C]

Hey, Jason, have you seen Mr. Randall?

[D]

No, but he should be here in a minute.

[C]

Jerry, Are you sure?

[D]

Yes, because he told me he wanted to catch my act this afternoon.

[C]

Yeah, so do I. Hey, how are you feeling, Jason?

[D]

Fine. Couldn't be better.

[C]

You did a swell job of covering up those bandages.

[D]

How do you like my headgear?

[C]

Well, looks like a costume with those long sleeves and everything. But, Jason, are you sure it's safe for you to go on?

[D]

You bet I'm sure. Listen, Jerry, I'm not taking any unnecessary risks. Now, you just stop worrying.

[C]

I sure wish Mr. Randall would hurry. I just gotta see him.

[D]

Now, what's bothering you?

[C]

I don't know.

[D]

You don't know? What do you want him for, then?

[C]

I mean, Jim Bennett yelled at me as I came by the ticket wagon and told me to get hold of Mr. Randall. He seemed awful excited, but he didn't say what it was all about.

[D]

That's funny.

[E]

Oh, so there you are, Jason.

[C]

Welcome.

[E]

Welcome back.

[D]

Hello, Boris.

[E]

I heard you were going to work today. That is good news. So I came over to see you.

[D]

That's very kind of you, Boris.

[E]

Not at all. Always I appreciate the man who can carry on in the face of much trouble. You feel well?

[D]

Yes, fine. Thank you.

[F]

Hey there, Jason.

[C]

Glad you're back.

[D]

Thanks, Jeff.

[C]

Sure. You patched up okay?

[D]

Good as new. Thanks.

[C]

See? You can just tell how glad we are to have you back safe and sound.

[E]

Yes, indeed. A man has to get into trouble to find out where his good friends are.

[D]

That's true, Boris. To be perfectly frank, I didn't realize how regular you were until. Well, lately.

[E]

You see, my groff Russian manners bely me.

[C]

Hey, you're on scene, Bora. Are you ready?

[E]

Oh, yes. I must see that everything is in readiness. I'll stand by during your turn, Jason.

[D]

Okay.

[C]

You know, I can't quite make him out, Jason.

[D]

I guess we just didn't take him right. He's got A quick temper underneath. Well, from the looks of things, he seems to be a regular fellow.

[C]

Yeah, but. Well, I don't know.

[B]

Well, this looks like a gathering of the clan.

[C]

Hey, that's right. Look, all the clowns and everyone hanging around the bedroom.

[D]

That's funny. Anything up?

[C]

I'll say. My favorite lion femur's coming back into the ring.

[B]

Oh, I see. Well, Jerry's right, Jason. We'll all be here rooting for you.

[D]

Well, say, I guess I'd better get over there. I'm on in a few minutes. See you later, Mr. Randall.

[B]

All right.

[C]

I never saw Jason embarrassed before.

[B]

Yes, yes, he's a modest person, Jerry. Most big people are.

[C]

Jiminy Crickets, I almost forgot.

[B]

Now what?

[C]

I got a message for you.

[B]

Oh, for me? Well, I. I guess I can wait till after. Oh, yeah, there goes Jason now.

[C]

I don't know. He was awfully excited and said to be sure to tell you quick and have you come right over to see him. He seemed Awful excited, Mr. Randall.

[B]

What are you talking about, Jerry?

[C]

Jim Bennett.

[E]

Good afternoon, Mr. Randall.

[B]

Oh, howdy, boys. Well, what's it all about, Jerry?

[E]

Oh, I'm sorry. Am I interrupting something?

[B]

Oh, no, no, no. Jerry was just trying to give me a message. Well, out with it, Turner.

[C]

That's all I know. Mr. Bennett just said for you to get over his ticket wagon fast. Something awful had happened.

[B]

Well, I wonder what.

[E]

Can probably wait. Better watch our brave friend Jason first, eh, Mr. Randall?

[B]

Yes, yes, I guess you're right.

[C]

Yeah, it sure is great having him

[E]

back and all in one be.

[C]

I'll say.

[D]

Yeah, yeah.

[B]

Wonder what's on Jim Bennett's mind. He's. He's not the sort of person that gets excited over nothing.

[C]

Gee whizzy, is there anything more thrilling than a steel full of mixed cats?

[E]

And you're forgetting about flooded horses.

[B]

No, professional jealousy, Boris.

[E]

J. It's a different kind of a thrill. Jason takes the wild, vicious brute and bends him to his will. Man victorious over animal.

[C]

I'll say he does.

[E]

And I take an intelligent, sensitive animal and train him like an artist. I create a unit, man and horse.

[B]

That's very well put, Boris. The two types of work can't be compared, of course.

[C]

Gee, I sure missed that fire act with Streak.

[B]

Oh, so do I. Yes, it broke my heart to pack that panther out to the zoo.

[E]

So you did send a black fury on to a zoo, huh?

[B]

Yes, yes, he'll never be good for the ring again. However, he may live to a ripe old age in the zoological gardens. Certainly Thousands of people will still have the thrill of seeing him.

[C]

Yeah, Black panthers are as scarce as ball.

[B]

As scarce as hemstead, huh?

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Well, looks like Jason's doing all right. Perhaps I'd better get on over and see what Ben has got in his mind.

[C]

I'll come by there soon as Jason through and show you how things went.

[B]

Oh, I do that, Jerry.

[E]

I'll walk with you. I'm headed for my wagon to get Nicholas for a lap.

[B]

All right. Good. Well, Boris, how are things going with your troop? Everything satisfactory?

[E]

We Rusofts are keeping ourselves pretty busy.

[B]

That's fine. Everything okay with whitey?

[E]

Since that last misunderstanding, things are all smooth and friendly.

[B]

Well, I'm glad to hear that. It's the best way to get along with folks.

[E]

You're right, Mr. Randall. Well, this is where I stop.

[B]

All right, all right. I'll be seeing you, Boris. Hey, Mr. Randall, quick.

[C]

Hey, Jim.

[B]

Bennett's having a fit.

[C]

He says he's got to see you right away.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, thanks, Jeff. I. I heard he wanted me and was heading for his wagon.

[C]

Mr. Randall.

[E]

Oh.

[B]

Oh, yeah. Hello there, Jim. I hear you're looking for me.

[F]

I'll say. I'd about giving up too. I finally got one of the men to handle a ticket wagon and came for you myself.

[B]

Say, this must be pretty important if you leave your job like that.

[F]

It is.

[C]

Say you.

[F]

Where can we talk?

[B]

Well, you may as well stop by the office wagon. It's quiet there.

[F]

Okay, boss.

[B]

Well, what's up? I hope it's not serious.

[F]

Better wait till we get inside your wagon. It's plenty serious.

[B]

Well, not a hold up or anything like that.

[F]

Hold up is right, but not the kind you're thinking of.

[B]

You're building this into quite a mystery, Jim.

[F]

Well, here's the office wagon. Let's go in.

[B]

All right. Okay, Jim, here we are. All right, now we're alone. Out with it. What's this all about?

[F]

A strike.

[C]

What?

[F]

That's it, boss. It looks like we're going to have a strike.

[B]

What in the world are you talking about?

[F]

Now wait a second while I show you this letter.

[B]

Who ever heard of a circus having a strike?

[F]

Here, read this. I found it under my door.

[B]

Not signed. Now let's see what this is all about. We want more money. That goes for the canvas men and the roustabouts, all of us. And if we don't get it, we won't work. And how will you move your show without us? So I guess you are stuck and had better come across.

[F]

Sounds like they mean business.

[B]

Wonder if the staker's in on this thing. Have you checked with Murray?

[F]

Yeah, first thing. He says he heard the men complaining some, but he's as surprised as we are.

[B]

How long have they been grumbling? Did he know?

[F]

Oh, he said just the last day or so. Probably due to all the extra work we had after that cyclone.

[B]

A strike and a circus. It's ridiculous. Every showman knows the show's got to go on. The public mustn't be disappointed.

[F]

You wouldn't catch the performers pulling a stunt like this.

[B]

I do as much, if not more, for my men than most owners. I'll wager there's more behind all this than meets the eye.

[F]

You got the reputation for being the squarest shooter in the circus business, Mr. Randall.

[B]

If I could just know who's behind this scheme.

[F]

If I could just lay my hands on him.

[B]

I can't believe this is just a regular strike.

[F]

Murray's as much surprised as we are.

[B]

Oh, so he's not sympathetic with this thing, huh?

[F]

What that Irishman say? You should have heard him.

[B]

I wonder who wrote this note.

[F]

If I knew, I'd skin him alive. Well, what are we going to do, boss?

[B]

I wish I knew.

[F]

What about loading the show tonight?

[B]

Oh, don't worry. It'll be done.

[F]

But they say there'll be no work done.

[B]

Yes, there will. If they don't do it, I'll. I'll.

[C]

What?

[B]

I don't know yet, but I'll have to work fast. I can see that.

[F]

But what can we do, boss?

[B]

I'm not sure yet.

[F]

But of all times, for a thing like this to happen.

[B]

Yeah, what with all that expense we've just been through thanks to that twister. And now that $25,000 note to be met by the end of the month.

[F]

We can pay it okay if we do average business and there's no setbacks.

[B]

Yeah. Hmm.

[F]

I wonder what's up, boss?

[B]

Nothing, nothing. I just got an idea.

[F]

Say, you're not thinking of meeting their demands.

[B]

You mean giving this raise? Yeah, I should say not. They get all they're entitled to. You know that if I give into this just because we're in a jam, I'd fall prey to every racket that could be thought of in a circus.

[F]

Most of these men don't think any further than their noses. They don't realize you're giving them all you can and still keeping the circus going every year.

[B]

Yeah, yeah, they. They forget the expenses go on during the winter, regardless of no income.

[C]

Hey, ranks, this way. Come on, we gotta go see Mr. Randall.

[F]

That sounds like Jerry.

[B]

Yeah. Yeah, it is. He's been watching Jason. He said he'd come back here after the act and tell me how it went.

[F]

Well, that's right. Jason did go on today.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

Hey, Mr. Randall, you in there?

[B]

Yeah, come right in, Jerry.

[C]

Gee, Mr. Randall, it went off swell. Sure was a corker, wasn't it, Ray?

[B]

No trouble then, huh?

[C]

I'll say not. I talked to Jason afterwards and he said to tell you he feels fine.

[B]

Good, good. He's a good man. Isn't everyone who didn't insist on working after getting messed up the way he did?

[C]

Golly, I sure hope I'll be like him when I grow up.

[F]

You got a pretty good start, Jerry.

[C]

Thanks, Mr. Bennett.

[B]

Jerry, close the door, please.

[C]

Okay, Mr. Randall.

[B]

Jerry.

[C]

Yes, Mr. Mr. Randall.

[B]

How's your bump of detective instinct coming along?

[C]

Well, I don't know, Mr. Randall. I haven't had much chance to use it lately.

[B]

Well, I. I might be able to put you onto something.

[C]

What? A mystery. Oh, say, that swell.

[B]

Well, not exactly the kind you're thinking of, but there's some trouble brewing and. I don't know but what? You might be the ideal person to do a little super sleuthing for me.

[C]

Oh, say, that'd be swell.

[F]

You don't mean all this. This business we've been talking about?

[B]

Boss, that's exactly what I do mean. A boy can wander about and do a little listening without their paying any attention to him. While if you or I were around, they'd all shut up like clams.

[F]

Well, maybe you're right.

[C]

See, this sounds keen. What's it all about?

[B]

Well, if you do this, Jerry, I'll have to trust you not to talk about it with anyone.

[C]

Sure, Anything you say. Oh, gee, Mr. Randall, you know you can trust me.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

All right.

[B]

Now, this is the situation. For some reason or other, some of the men are planning a strike.

[C]

A strike?

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

They threaten to stop work if I don't raise their wages.

[C]

You don't mean they let the circus down?

[B]

Apparently, that's exactly what they do mean.

[C]

I never heard of such a thing.

[B]

Nor I. But I suppose there's always a first time.

[C]

Say, who's doing this?

[B]

Well, that's what I'd like to know. Now, if you'll spend your spare time around the canvas men and the stakers.

[F]

Yeah, and the workmen, you know.

[B]

Yeah, any of them. And try and find out what's going on without asking questions. Just listen.

[C]

Sure, I know if I start Asking questions. They might know that I'm onto it.

[B]

That's it, Jerry. But keep your ears open. And perhaps you might find out who's inciting them in.

[C]

Inciting?

[F]

Yeah, you know, stirring them up, getting them to strike.

[C]

Oh, well, maybe they won't really do it. Maybe it's just a thread.

[B]

Well, that's possible. In that case, we'll call their bluff. But if it's real, we'll have to be prepared.

[C]

Golly, you couldn't put up the show without the rosterbots and the rest of the workers.

[F]

It'd certainly be tough. We could hire the stakers in each town, though it would cost a lot. But the canvas men. It'd be pretty difficult to find untrained men who could put up all the canvas.

[C]

See? I'll get right onto this, Mr. Randall.

[B]

All right. And remember, Jerry, don't talk.

[C]

You bet. But I'll keep my ears to the ground. And if there's anything to be heard, you can just bet that I'll get it.

[B]

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[G]

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[C]

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[B]

Oh, no.

[G]

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[C]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[G]

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[D]

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[B]

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[D]

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