Jerry of the Circus - Gun Is Jasons

Summary

Podcast Summary: “Jerry of the Circus – Gun Is Jason’s”

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Jerry of the Circus – Gun Is Jason's
Date: May 14, 2026

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Episode Overview

Set in the bustling world of traveling circus life, this episode of “Jerry of the Circus” revolves around a shocking payroll robbery. As tensions rise, suspicions fall upon Jason after the stolen gun used in the crime is revealed to be his own. With the circus crew rattled and justice at stake, Jerry—and his faithful dog Rags—take on amateur detective duty, determined to clear Jason's name. The episode captures the camaraderie, suspicion, and resourcefulness that defined classic radio dramas.

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Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

1. The Unsettling News: Payroll Robbery

[01:41–02:26]

• Mr. Randall (the circus boss) addresses the crew: Jim Bennett has been robbed of the payroll money.
• Workers react with concern about their pay; Randall reassures them:
  • “You’ll all be paid, every cent you’ve got coming to you, but not today. ... I’m sorry to be a day late, but I’m sure you’ll all bear with me.” (Randall, 02:04)

2. Personal Responses & Early Suspicions

[02:35–03:00]

• Patsy and Jason express concern for Jim Bennett, who was injured.
• Mr. Randall hints at confidential information about Bennett’s condition and the robbery.
• Jason offers his help but is soon summoned by Randall for a private conversation.

3. The Evidence: The Gun

[03:12–04:57]

• Randall asks Jason to identify a gun found at the scene:
  • “You recognize this?” (Randall, 03:41)
  • “Well, that’s the gun I reported lost. That’s mine, all right.” (Jason, 03:44)
• Randall notices damage to the gun's handle—damage that occurred after Jason last saw it.
• Randall questions Jason’s whereabouts during the robbery; Jason claims he was walking alone, with no alibi.
• Suspense grows as Randall says:
  • “After all, you’re a suspect until we can prove someone else had this gun. Since you claim to have lost it.” (Randall, 04:51)

4. Health Update on Jim Bennett

[05:04–05:19]

• Jerry informs Mr. Randall and Jason that Jim Bennett must stay in bed due to a possible concussion, despite his protests.
• Randall rushes off to Bennett, leaving Jason and Jerry in conversation.

5. Jerry and Jason Discuss the Accusation

[05:36–06:26]

• Jerry tries to comfort Jason, doubting his involvement. Jason clarifies:
  • “Someone stole that revolver from me before you even joined this circus.” (Jason, 06:06)
• Jason suspects the gun may have been planted, but is determined to prove his innocence.

6. Turning Detective: Enlisting Bumps's Help

[06:28–07:39]

• Jason and Jerry seek out Bumps, searching for possible witnesses or leads.
• They confirm that Decker and Lorenz, possible suspects, were in town during the time of the robbery.
• Jason is left without a viable alibi and must prepare for his act while grappling with suspicion.

7. Jerry and Bumps Speculate

[07:39–08:34]

• Bumps and Jerry discuss the string of robberies (including missing alfalfa), highlighting the pervasive sense of unease.
• Jerry decides he and his dog Rags will begin sleuthing on their own.

8. Late-Night Vigilance

[10:02–11:45]

• Jerry sneaks out of bed, unable to sleep due to the ongoing mystery.
• He spots suspicious movement near the horse tent and decides to alert Jason, convinced that catching the real culprits is the only way to help clear his friend.

9. Jerry and Jason Investigate

[12:02–12:49]

• Jerry wakes Jason and explains what he saw:
  • “All of a sudden, Rags started to growl. And there, sure enough, I could see something moving around the horse tent.” (Jerry, 12:16)
• Jason springs into action, preparing to investigate with Jerry and Rags.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Randall addresses the crew:
  “I have to tell you that Jim Bennett has been robbed of the payroll money.” (Randall, 01:45)

• Jason, confronted about the gun:
  “Well, that’s the gun I reported lost. That’s mine, all right.” (Jason, 03:44)

• Randall on suspicion:
  “After all, you’re a suspect until we can prove someone else had this gun. Since you claim to have lost it.” (Randall, 04:51)

• Jason’s determination:
  “Okay. I’ll prove I’m innocent if it’s the last thing I do.” (Jason, 04:57)

• Jerry’s loyalty to Jason:
  “No. Oh, it can’t, Jason.” (Jerry, 05:59)

• Bumps on circus troubles:
  “Looks as if we need a good detective around here. What with all that alfalfa disappearing and now the bankroll.” (Bumps, 07:39)

• Jerry begins detective work:
  “Now, listen, Rags, you and me are going to be detectives. But we mustn’t let anybody know.” (Jerry, 08:13)

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Important Timestamps

• Payroll Robbery Announcement: 01:45
• Gun Identified as Jason's: 03:44
• Randall Questions Jason: 04:02–04:57
• Jerry Volunteers to Help Jason: 06:06
• Jerry Begins Detective Work: 08:13
• Jerry Spots Suspicious Activity: 11:24
• Jerry Informs Jason of Nighttime Intruder: 12:08–12:49

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Tone & Atmosphere

The episode is classic radio drama—filled with suspense, earnest camaraderie, and just a dash of youthful ingenuity. The dialogue is lively, with characters alternating between playful banter and serious worry as they face an unsettling crime within their tight-knit troupe. Jerry’s optimism and desire to help Jason act as the emotional heart of the story, as the team strives to uncover the truth with resourcefulness and heart.

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Summary

In “Gun Is Jason’s,” the circus is thrown into disarray by a payroll robbery. As evidence points toward Jason, only loyalties and some clever young detectives stand between him and ruin. Classic elements of suspicion, chemistry, and sharp-tongued charm run through the episode as Jerry—supported by his loyal pup Rags—steps up, ready to bring the real criminal to justice. The episode ends on a cliffhanger, with Jerry and Jason sneaking out to confront the mystery under the moonlit circus tents, capturing the suspense and charm that define the Golden Age of Radio.

Transcript

[A]

Jerry of the circus. Now for Jerry of the Circus. Just a minute, folks.

[B]

Hi, down there. Mr. Allen wants to talk.

[C]

Yes. Hey, give the boss a chance.

[A]

Oh, thank you, boys. All right, now, if you'll all be quiet for a few minutes, I'm afraid I've got some bad news for you. Now, wait, wait, wait until I'm through and then you can all talk it over. I'm sorry. I have to tell you that Jim Bennett has been robbed of the payroll money.

[C]

No, you don't say.

[B]

Well, what about our pay? What about us doing.

[A]

Now, just a minute, just a minute. Keep cool. You'll all be paid, every cent you've got coming to you, but not today. Now, listen, folks. Now, wait a minute. Listen, we've always worked together on things, and I'm sure none of you will fail me now. I'm going to have to make some investigations. Naturally. Meantime. Meantime, I'll have some more money sent over and you'll all get your pay tomorrow. I'm sorry to be a day late, but I'm sure you'll all bear with me.

[B]

Sure, boss. It's okay with me, Governor.

[A]

All right, folks, that's all. Go on with your lunch now. So long, folks. Oh, hello there, Patsy.

[D]

Hello, Mr. Randall.

[A]

How's the new act coming along? Think it'll be ready to put in the show pretty soon?

[D]

I hope so, Mr. Randall. How awful about the robbery.

[C]

Was.

[D]

Was Jim hurt?

[A]

Isn't that like a woman, always got to worry about someone else. Not seriously, Patsy. Just a bump on the head.

[D]

Oh, what a shame.

[B]

Did he see anybody? Randall?

[A]

I'm afraid I'll have to keep his remarks confidential for the present, Jason. And by the way, drop by my office after you've had your lunch. There's something I'd like to discuss with you.

[B]

Certainly. And if there's anything I can do about this payroll business, you can count on me.

[A]

Well, we'll see. Goodbye, Patsy.

[D]

Goodbye, Mr. Randall.

[B]

Just a minute, Mr. Randall. Yes, J. I'm not hungry now. And if you don't mind, I'll run along with you now.

[A]

Fine. Glad to have you.

[B]

Gee, this is terrible.

[A]

Yes, I'm afraid it is, Jason.

[B]

What about Bennett?

[A]

Well, I. I didn't want to upset Patsy, but he was pretty badly knocked about.

[B]

Has he seen a doctor yet?

[A]

Is he there now? Jerry happened to be on the spot when I discovered the thing and he's gone with him.

[B]

Good. What's on your mind, Mr. Randall?

[A]

I just wanted you to identify something for me. Here's my office. Step right in Will you identify?

[B]

What do you mean?

[A]

Well, here it is. You recognize this?

[C]

Sure.

[B]

Well, that's the gun I reported lost. That's mine, all right.

[A]

I thought so, but I wasn't quite sure of the number. Oh, don't touch it. I'm keeping it wrapped in this handkerchief in case there might be fingerprints on it.

[B]

Look, part of the handle's been knocked off.

[A]

Yes, yes, I know. Was it like that when you last saw it?

[B]

No, sir. That's happened since I last used it.

[A]

You don't say.

[B]

Good heavens, you don't mean. You certainly can't think I've had anything to do with this business.

[A]

I don't want to think so, Jason. But where were you from 11:30 to 12:30 this noon?

[B]

Well, I. I guess I was taking a walk before lunch.

[A]

That's fine. Who were you with?

[B]

I wasn't with anybody.

[A]

Well, certainly someone saw you someplace. What part of town were you in?

[B]

Gee, Mr. Randall, I went out the other way into the country. Went right along the railroad tracks. And when that noon train passed me, I headed back here for lunch.

[A]

You mean you haven't anyone to vouch for having seen you?

[B]

I'm afraid I haven't.

[A]

Yeah, Pretty tough, Jason.

[B]

Golly, Mr. Randall, you don't think that I'm the kinder to pull a stick up?

[A]

I don't want to think so.

[B]

Is there anything I can do to clear myself?

[A]

Bring in the real culprit.

[B]

And if you don't think I'll try that, you're crazy.

[A]

But don't go off this lot. I'm sorry. I'll have to keep you under surveillance until this thing is settled.

[B]

That's fair enough. Got any tips to give me?

[A]

I'm afraid not, Jason. After all, you're a suspect until we can prove someone else had this gun. Since you claim to have lost it.

[B]

Okay. I'll prove I'm innocent if it's the last thing I do.

[D]

Mr. Randall. Mr. Randall. Oh, hello, Jason.

[B]

Hi, Jerry. What's on your mind?

[D]

Gee, Mr. Randall, the doc says Mr. Bennett's gotta stay in bed.

[A]

Jerry, are you sure?

[D]

Yep. Says maybe he's got a concussion or something. And Bennett says he won't stay in bed. He's going along with the show and he's raving something terrible and calling for you. Well, so I came as quick as I could.

[A]

I'll get down there right away. Oh, by the way, Jason, I. I wouldn't repeat our little conversation.

[B]

No, of course not.

[A]

I'll talk to Barney and he'll see that Everything is going along as I want it.

[B]

I understand he's a good policeman.

[A]

Yeah, that's right. Well, I'll get down to Jim. Sorry, I'll have to lock this door now. So you better come on out, you two.

[B]

Okay.

[D]

Bye, Mr. Randall.

[A]

Well, hello.

[D]

Goodbye. Gee, isn't this exciting? A real hold up and everything.

[B]

Yeah, a little too exciting.

[D]

You won't be mad if I ask you something?

[B]

Of course not.

[D]

Well, Mr. Bennett and Mr. Randall.

[B]

Yes, Jerry?

[D]

Leigh seem to think that gun belonged to me. Yeah? How'd you know?

[B]

Because it does belong to me.

[D]

No. Oh, it can't, Jason.

[B]

I'm sorry. I'm afraid it does. Gee, I. Oh, but don't worry, Jerry. I didn't pull that.

[D]

Hold up, Golia.

[B]

Someone stole that revolver from me before you even joined this circus.

[D]

Yeah, Mr. Randall said something about it, but they.

[B]

Well, they said it all might be a plant.

[D]

What's a plant?

[B]

Oh, just a plan to pretend I'd lost it so when something like this turned up, I wouldn't be to blame.

[D]

Carly, you know everything, don't you?

[B]

I sure wish I did. But for one thing, I've got a good suspicion I've got to see Bumps. Maybe he can help me.

[D]

He's pretty good at thinking things out, isn't he?

[B]

Yeah, he is. Well, here's the wagon, Bumps. Say, Bumps.

[C]

Oh, hello there. Well, hello, Jason. Any news?

[B]

Plenty. Is Lorenz around?

[C]

No, why?

[B]

No.

[A]

Decker?

[C]

No. As a matter of fact they went into town today. Ought to be getting back here soon though. It's time to be getting to work.

[B]

Now listen, Bumps, I'm not trying to put an idea in your head, but you dress in the same wagon and I just wondered if you'd ever noticed either of them with a gun.

[C]

Can't say as I have. Anyhow, they aren't allowed to have guns. Why?

[B]

Well, I. You don't have to know where they were around noon today. They weren't at lunch, you know.

[D]

Sure we know, don't we, Bumps? They went into town. We saw them go.

[C]

Yeah, they were just about 11 or maybe a little after.

[B]

Well, it looks like they're in the clear then, doesn't it?

[C]

Oh, you mean about the robbery?

[B]

Yeah. You see, my gun was found on the floor.

[C]

Yours.

[B]

And it just happens that I was off in the country taking a walk all alone. And I haven't anyone to prove where I was just at that time.

[C]

Oh, Jason, that's bad.

[B]

Yeah, it's tough. Oh, but I'll manage somehow. Well, I guess I better get ready for the act I go on pretty soon.

[C]

Don't let it get you down, Jason. There's lots of things can happen.

[B]

I'm finding that out. So long, folks.

[D]

Bye, Jason. Aw, gee, Bumps. We just gotta clear, Jason.

[C]

Yeah. Hello, son. Looks as if we need a good detective around here. What with all that alfalfa disappearing and now the bankroll.

[D]

Gee, these robbers aren't afraid of anything. They go off with truckloads of things at night and money in broad daylight and right in front of everybody.

[C]

Here's your chance to do a little super sleuthing. Jerry, I'm sorry, but I gotta get in and finish dressing. Those knife throwers better be getting here pretty soon.

[D]

That looks like Decker now.

[B]

Where?

[D]

Down near the side shows. See? With a beard.

[C]

Oh, yeah, yeah, good. That's him all right. Well, I'll be seeing you, son.

[D]

So long, Bumps. Rags. Now, listen, Rags, you and me are going to be detectives. But we mustn't let anybody know. It just Bumps and he won't tell. Golly, you're wonderful, Rags. The way you pick things up, I think you're a knockout. Now, don't wag your tail so hard, it might fly off. Honest, it's a wonder it doesn't swing you instead of you swinging it.

[A]

Hello, Derek and Mr. Rags.

[D]

Hi, Decker.

[A]

What's this, a conference?

[D]

It sure is. Rags and me, well, we got big, big business.

[A]

Oh, you have? What's it all about?

[D]

Well, I guess we can't tell you. It's official business, you know, and kind of private.

[A]

Oh, I'm sorry, sir. I didn't mean to be rude.

[D]

Gee, I didn't mean it that way, Mr. Decker. I was just wanted.

[A]

I know, I know. I guess I can take a hint. Oh, gee, I forgot. I've got to get these knives and go over and meet Lorenz.

[D]

Isn't Lorenz gonna make up?

[A]

Oh, he's already made up. When we got back from town, we stopped by our compartment in the train and he picks up there a little. He was kind of tired.

[D]

Just him going into town.

[A]

Oh, well. Oh, guess I better get those knives.

[C]

Well, hi, Decker.

[A]

Hi, Bumps. I gotta hurry. Lorenz is waiting for these knives.

[C]

He kind of keeps you hopping, doesn't he?

[A]

Well, I work for him. He's boss.

[C]

Well, there are all kinds of bosses, you know.

[A]

Well, I got the knives. Guess I better beat it.

[C]

Wait. Why, Jerry, I thought you'd gone to bed.

[D]

Well, I did, but. But I can't sleep.

[C]

Well, what's the matter?

[D]

I just can't get things out of my mind.

[C]

What kind of thing?

[D]

Oh, the money and the alfalfa.

[C]

Now, listen, Jerry, Even detectives have to sleep.

[D]

I know, but. Listen, Bumps, I won't disturb anyone. Lorenz and Dicker were asleep. They didn't even hear. Sleep? Can't I just go out on the back platform and sit for a while with Rags?

[C]

Yeah, it's kind of late now. I just get up to get a drink of water. Everyone on the train's asleep.

[D]

I know, but. But we'll be quiet.

[C]

Well, okay, son. But mind you don't stay too long. There'll be another big day tomorrow, you know. Lots of buckets to carry. Robbery or no robbery.

[D]

I know. Thanks, Bumps. We'll be good, won't we, Rags? Shh. Don't answer me now. Just let me talk.

[C]

Well, that's certainly taken an unfair advantage. Good night, Sam.

[D]

Night, Bumps. Gee, isn't it swell out here? Golly, I love to be out in the middle of the night. You do too. Well, I don't blame you, Golly. It's most morning, though. Now what's the matter, pup? What? Where? I don't see anything. Not so loud. Just a minute. Let me look around. Oh, so that's it. Certainly does look funny. Yeah. Right over there by the horse tent too.

[C]

Yeah.

[D]

Can you see those shadows? Something sure enough moving. Golly, what do you think we'd better do, huh? Okay, we'll call someone. I know. Let's get Jason. Not so loud. After all, he's in a bad spot. If he can catch the real burglars, I think he should, don't you? Stop it. Not so loud.

[A]

Come on now.

[D]

Quiet. Let's see. I think Jason's compartment is right near this end. Yeah, I guess this is it.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Yeah. Who is it?

[D]

It's me.

[B]

Who's me?

[D]

It's me, Jerry.

[B]

What do you want in the middle of the night? Come on in.

[D]

Gee, Jason, something's going on over in the circus lot.

[B]

What on earth are you talking about?

[D]

Honest, I'm not kidding. Right around the horse tent. What? Rags and me, we couldn't sleep, so we went out on the platform. All of a sudden, Rags started to growl. And there, sure enough, I could see something moving around the horse tent.

[B]

Well, maybe you've discovered something. Come on. We'll sneak out of here and find out what's what. Let's see my flashlight and my. My gun. Okay. Jerry.

[D]

Sam. Ram. Sam.