Jerry of the Circus - Jerry Rescues Splendor

Summary

Jerry of the Circus – "Jerry Rescues Splendor"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Date: May 16, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode of "Jerry of the Circus" centers around a dramatic moment under the big top: Jerry's quick-thinking and bravery saves a young colt named Splendor from grave danger in the circus ring. The plot also weaves in daily happenings among the circus crew, focusing on camaraderie, light conflict, and the special bonds between people and their animals. The nostalgic, wholesome tone evokes golden-era radio adventures packed with earnest lessons about responsibility and friendship.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Conflict and Reconciliation Among Crew Members

• [02:09–04:29]
  • Tension erupts between Beppo and Major Might over a trivial water-splashing incident, escalating until Johnny steps in to mediate.
  • Both men are urged to control their tempers and, after some hesitation, agree to shake hands and make up—though they bicker humorously over whose fault it was.
  • Quote:
    • Johnny: "To tell you the truth, I think you both are at fault. You men let your tempers get the best of you too easily. Now, why don’t you forget it all and shake hands?" (03:25)

2. Jerry’s Duties and Conversations on Horse Training

• [05:21–08:44]
  • Jerry hurries to his work, apologizing to Whitey for being late. Whitey asks him to brush down Splendor, the young trick horse. Their conversation delves into the art of training performance animals and the patience required.
  • Jerry learns about Bella, the “statue act” horse, and how positive reinforcement (like sugar) is used in training.
  • Quote:
    • Whitey: "Well, Jerry, I guess the horse has to have that in her from the start. And, of course, a little sugar at the finish of each trick helps to keep them steady." (06:21)
    • Jerry: "The more I hear about horses, the smarter I think they are." (07:27)

3. Crisis: Splendor Runs Loose

• [08:53–10:34]
  • While Jerry is brushing Splendor, he unties the colt and, distracted, allows Splendor to follow the other parade horses into the ring. Jerry and Beppo attempt to call him back, but Splendor heads for the parade and into imminent danger as the elephants approach.
  • Quote:
    • Jerry: "Splendor. Golly. He's gonna follow all those horses into the ring if I don't catch him. Whoa, Splendor!" (09:38)

4. Jerry’s Heroic Rescue

• [10:34–11:34]
  • Realizing Splendor is about to be trampled by elephants, Jerry bolts into the ring, leaps onto the colt, and rides him out to safety—bareback and in front of a live audience.
  • The rescue is thrilling for both the circus crew and the audience, who mistake the incident for a planned act.
  • Quote:
    • Johnny (narrating the rescue): "Look at that boy. He's jumped up on that pony and he's riding him off in front of the elephants. And bare back, too. I've seen a lot of sights around the circus, but never a thrill like this. Listen to that audience. Why, they think it's part of the show." (11:02)

5. Aftermath and Reflections

• [11:16–13:06]
  • Jerry is congratulated by Johnny and Whitey for his bravery, but also gently reprimanded for the mistake that let Splendor loose in the first place. Whitey emphasizes the importance of always securing spirited animals.
  • They discuss whether Mr. Randall, presumably the circus manager, witnessed the event—hinting at possible consequences or rewards.
  • Quote:
    • Johnny: "You must think an awful lot of that pony to do what you did." (11:41)
    • Jerry: "Shucks, that was nothing. I couldn't stand here and see Splendor get hurt." (11:34)
    • Whitey (on responsibilities): "There's no telling what a spirited colt like Splendor will do, Jerry. That's why I keep him tied up all the time." (12:42)

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Conflict Mediation:

  • Johnny: "You men let your tempers get the best of you too easily. Now, why don’t you forget it all and shake hands?" (03:25)

• Insight on Animal Training:

  • Whitey: "The funny part of it is Bella used to be a fire horse." (07:07)
  • Jerry: "The more I hear about horses, the smarter I think they are." (07:27)

• Peak Action – Jerry’s Heroism:

  • Johnny: "Look at that boy. He's jumped up on that pony and he's riding him off in front of the elephants. And bare back, too. … Why, they think it's part of the show." (11:02)

• Gentle Guidance:

  • Whitey: “There’s no telling what a spirited colt like Splendor will do, Jerry. That's why I keep him tied up all the time.” (12:42)
  • Jerry: “It’ll never happen again, Whitey. Honest.” (12:46)

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Key Timestamps

• (02:09–04:29): Beppo and Major Might’s water fight and reconciliation
• (05:21–08:44): Jerry and Whitey discuss horse training and the “statue act”
• (09:38–10:34): Splendor escapes into the ring—danger mounts
• (10:34–11:34): Jerry’s daring rescue of Splendor
• (11:16–13:06): Aftermath—Jerry receives praise and a lesson in responsibility

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Overall Tone & Takeaway

"Jerry Rescues Splendor" is a classic slice of radio adventure—marked by earnest dialogue, wholesome humor, and a strong moral focus on teamwork and responsibility. The thrills of circus life come alive through dramatic scenes and the affectionate banter among characters, making it both entertaining and heartwarming for listeners nostalgic for the golden age of radio.

Transcript

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[Whitey]

Jerry of the Circus. Now for Jerry of the Circus.

[Beppo]

Guarding me nicely this time. You don't fool with Beppo anymore. Stop. Stop it, Beppo.

[Jerry]

You still really hurt the Major.

[Johnny]

Let him go, Beppo. This has gone far enough.

[Beppo]

It's none of your business, Johnny.

[Johnny]

It is my business when murder is being committed. Now, stop. Think what you're doing.

[Jerry]

Please let him go, Beppo.

[Beppo]

Oh, how? Have you had enough?

[Johnny]

Of course he has. Now, be sensible, Beppo. Of course. Help the Major out of that tub.

[Jerry]

I'll help you, Major.

[Beppo]

I think you listen to Beo next time. Oh. Oh, shut up.

[Jerry]

I give you more.

[Johnny]

Now, now, take it easy, Beo.

[Jerry]

There you are, Major. Here's my handkerchief. Wipe your face.

[Beppo]

Thank you, Jerry.

[Jerry]

My eyes.

[Beppo]

Oh, how they burn.

[Johnny]

Well, it's just the soap water. They'll be all right.

[Beppo]

Yes, you will live, but you won't forget.

[Johnny]

Beppo, let him alone. Now, you better get over to your tent and get into some dry clothes. Major, can you get over there by yourself?

[Beppo]

Yes, I. I can.

[Johnny]

I should say you two are acting like children. You should be ashamed of yourselves.

[Beppo]

It wasn't my fault, Johnny. I tell you, had it in for me.

[Johnny]

Now, wait a minute, Major. We saw the whole thing. Jerry and I were standing right over there by that wagon, and it seems to me you made an awful fuss about getting a few drops of water splashed on you.

[Beppo]

That's right. All I said was it's a pity a person can't walk across this lot without getting wet. You make a big amount about little water, so I give you lots of water.

[Johnny]

To tell you the truth, I think you both are at fault. You men let your tempers get the best of you too easily. Now, why don't you forget it all and shake hands?

[Beppo]

Me shake hands with that demon? I'll get even yet. Don't forget next week, Beppo. Beppo, no. Forget Beppo. Silence with the poor Major. Next week.

[Johnny]

Now, Major. Now, Beppo.

[Jerry]

I'm no mas.

[Beppo]

I shake hands.

[Jerry]

See, Major? Beppo's willing to make up and Forget?

[Johnny]

Come on, Major. There's no use you two being enemies. Shake hands now and forget it. And try to control your tempers in the future.

[Jerry]

Well, come on, major. All right.

[Beppo]

I'm sorry it happened, major. I guess I was a little hasty. Maybe it was all my fault. Your fault? No, no, no, no, it wasn't my fault. No, Beppo, I'm to blame. It was my fault for kicking about a few drops of water. I tell you, it was my fault. No, it was my fault. Beppo knows. I tell you, I am to blame. It was not your fault.

[Jerry]

I am to blame.

[Johnny]

Gentlemen, gentlemen, he. Here, here. Is this starting all over again? Now, you better get over to your tent and get into some dry clothes, Major, boy. The midway is about to open.

[Jerry]

Oh, all right.

[Beppo]

Goodbye, Beppo. I'm sorry, but remember, next week. Okie dokie. I'm a sorry too, Major. We no fighting no more. Not until the next week, anyway.

[Jerry]

Golly, it's getting later. I gotta get over the horse stand and help Whitey. Say, what have they got up their sleeve?

[Johnny]

I don't know, Jerry, but I wouldn't worry about it. He'll run along. But not a word about this to anybody.

[Jerry]

Do you hear mean about Major Might and Beppo?

[Johnny]

Fighting isn't good business to carry stories around a lot.

[Jerry]

Well, I won't say.

[Whitey]

Ah, good boy.

[Johnny]

I guess I'd better get ready too. Well, too long, Beppo. And we won't say anything to anybody about this.

[Beppo]

That's good. Goodbye.

[Jerry]

I gotta hurry now. See you later.

[Johnny]

Right, Jerry. See you after the show. Hey, boy, where's the fire?

[Beppo]

There's no fire.

[Johnny]

Somebody chasing you?

[Jerry]

No, I'm just in a hurry. Oh, I'm late.

[Whitey]

Yeah, I'll say you're late. Jerry, what's been holding you up?

[Jerry]

Golly, I'm sorry, Whitey.

[Whitey]

Must have been something awful interesting to make you late. You've never done this before.

[Jerry]

I just forgot, I guess.

[Whitey]

Well, it's all right, Jerry.

[Johnny]

No harm.

[Whitey]

In fact, there's not a whole lot for you to do.

[Jerry]

I won't be late again.

[Whitey]

Oh, forget it. Come on, into the tent.

[Jerry]

Have the horses all got enough water?

[Whitey]

Yeah, I think so. I think so. I'll tell you what you might do, though.

[Jerry]

What?

[Whitey]

How about you brushing Splinter down a little?

[Jerry]

Why?

[Whitey]

No particular reason. He's a little dusty since you've been riding him around a lot the last few days. Besides, I think he'd like you to brush him down.

[Jerry]

Okay, I'll do it.

[Whitey]

I'll get the horses out for the pageant. All right.

[Jerry]

Say, whiny Jerry, what's this horse's name?

[Whitey]

That one there is Bella. She works in the statue act.

[Jerry]

Yeah, I know. And she sure can hold still, can't she?

[Whitey]

Yep. One of the best I've ever seen for that line of work.

[Jerry]

She's pure white too.

[Whitey]

Well, almost.

[Jerry]

What do you mean, almost?

[Whitey]

I have to touch her up and cover up a couple of dark spots.

[Jerry]

I didn't know that.

[Whitey]

Oh, yeah.

[Jerry]

Say, how do they ever teach your horse to hold still like Bella does in the act?

[Whitey]

Well, Jerry, I guess the horse has to have that in her from the start. And, of course, a little sugar at the finish of each trick helps to keep them steady.

[Jerry]

When do they get the sugar? When they're all through work.

[Whitey]

No. You've seen the statue act, haven't you?

[Jerry]

Yeah.

[Whitey]

Well, you notice the ringmaster blows a whistle and then the curtain goes up. And then the two men, the two girls and the dog and Bella here, strike a pose and hold real still for about a minute.

[Jerry]

Yeah.

[Whitey]

Well, then the ringmaster blows the whistle again and the curtain goes down.

[Jerry]

Yeah, I know.

[Whitey]

Well, that's when bad UG Bella gets that piece of sugar when the curtain goes down between each trick.

[Jerry]

Oh, so that's how they do it. She holds real still because she knows she'll get the sugar.

[Whitey]

That's it exactly. But it's not as easy as it sounds. Oh, it took a lot of training.

[Jerry]

I guess it did. She holds so still you can hardly see her breathe.

[Whitey]

The funny part of it is Bella used to be a fire horse.

[Beppo]

No.

[Whitey]

Yep. That's what she was, all right.

[Jerry]

I bet if someone rang a bell while she was old and still in the act, she'd start to run.

[Whitey]

No, she wouldn't. Not now. You see, Jerry, when they first started to train her to hold still, they'd get her up in a pose and then they'd try to get her excited. They'd have dogs bark at her and they'd shoot guns off. Yes, and even ring bells. Until she got used to all that and paid no attention to it.

[Jerry]

The more I hear about horses, the smarter I think they are.

[Whitey]

No, they're smart animals. Yes, sir. There's no two ways about it. I guess with patience, you can teach a horse to do most anything. Why, I wouldn't be surprised if you could see your horse. Oh, there. There goes the bugle. I better get these trappings on the parade horses right now. I nearly forgot it was showtime.

[Jerry]

Standing here talking to you okay, I'll brush Splendor now. Hello there, Splendor. Want to get a good brush in? Kind of glad to see me, aren't you? Still now, Splendor. You know, Splendor, I think you're going to be a wonderful trick horse when you grow up. Yes, sir. Folks will be talking about you someday. Like we were talking about Bella. Only they won't be talking about how steel you hold. No, siree. They'll be saying, there go Slender, the great high jumper.

[Whitey]

Yeah, they can start the show anytime now. I'm all ready.

[Jerry]

It doesn't take you long to get the horses ready.

[Whitey]

What's the matter? Getting tired?

[Jerry]

Just winded.

[Whitey]

Don't work so hard. You don't have to get Splendor ready before the show. While you're going at that brushing like you only had five minutes to do it in.

[Jerry]

Maybe someday I will be getting Splendor ready to go out into the rain.

[Whitey]

Yes, yes. When he learns a few tricks, he'll want to show off. He'll want to get out there with the rest of the horses and get some of that applause.

[Jerry]

I bet he'll get a lot of applause too.

[Whitey]

He sure will. Well, here comes the hustlers now. And the show's about to start. See you later, Jerry.

[Jerry]

Okay, Now I'll brush your neck, Doc. Well, we can't do with that old rope around it, can we? Here, now, take it off. I don't know why you have to be tied up anyway. You're not going anyplace, are ya? There we are. That feel better, huh? Poor little fella. Tied up all the time. Now, give your neck a good brushing. There they go. Splender. I have to do the parade. Oh, you'd like to be going out under the big top with them, huh? Oh, Splendor. Take it easy now. You're not going with them. Oh, still, how can I brush you? Oh. Here. Now where are you going? Here. I better put that rope back around your neck. Splendor. Come here, Splendor. Splendor.

[Beppo]

Don't follow those horses.

[Jerry]

Hey, wait.

[Beppo]

Come back.

[Jerry]

Splendor. Golly. He's gonna follow all those horses into the ring if I don't catch him. Whoa, Splendor.

[Beppo]

Whoa, Splendor.

[Jerry]

Come back here. Whoa, Splendor. Blander.

[Johnny]

What's the matter, Jerry?

[Jerry]

Oh, Mr. Bradley. Splendor just ran into the ring with the rest of the horses.

[Johnny]

You mean that little colt has gone into the parade?

[Jerry]

Yeah, he ran away from me, Followed the other horses. I saw him run right after them through the back door.

[Johnny]

Here. Come on, let's have a look.

[Jerry]

Oh, golly, look. There he is, running right after the Arabians.

[Johnny]

He's pretty excited, too. That little colt isn't used to all those lights and the music. Where's Whitey?

[Jerry]

Oh, I don't know. But, Scully, what'll I do?

[Johnny]

You better find Whitey, Jerry. Or get someone to go in there and grab Splendor and take him out of that ring before the elephants go around. Well, he's too little to be in there loose. Someone should be leading him.

[Jerry]

I know it. But, golly, look, Jerry. What?

[Johnny]

He's stopping now.

[Jerry]

And he's turning around it and coming the other way. Oh, Mr. Brad.

[Johnny]

And here come the elephants now. And he's heading right for them.

[Jerry]

They might heard him fly. Then somebody save him.

[Johnny]

I guess no one has noticed him yet.

[Jerry]

I'm going in there and get him myself. I've got it.

[Johnny]

Be careful, Jerry. Don't run out there in front of those elephants. Jerry. Jerry, come back. What's the trouble? It's Jerry. Just look at that boy run out in front of that herd of elephants. He's trying to head off that little colt. Yes. He's got him. He's got him. Good boy, Jerry. Look at that boy. He's jumped up on that pony and he's riding him off in front of the elephants. And bare back, too. I've seen a lot of sights around the circus, but never a thrill like this. Listen to that audience. Why, they think it's part of the show. Say, that boy is all right. Boy, Jerry. Oh, good boy, Jerry.

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[Johnny]

You took an awful chance, but I guess it was worth it, huh? Here, I'll help you down.

[Jerry]

Splendor was heading right for the elephants. Did you see him?

[Whitey]

You bet we did.

[Johnny]

We saw a mighty fine piece of work. You running in there just in time and getting Splendor out of that way. What you took. It took a lot of nerve, Jerry.

[Jerry]

Shucks, that was nothing. I couldn't stand here and see Splendor get hurt.

[Johnny]

Oh, you took an awful big chance. Chance of getting hurt yourself and maybe killed. Yeah. You must think an awful lot of that pony to do what you did.

[Jerry]

I do.

[Johnny]

I wonder if Mr. Endle was in the house to see it.

[Jerry]

Golly, you don't think he was, do you?

[Johnny]

I don't know, Jerry.

[Jerry]

I know I shouldn't have gone into the ring. But somebody had to do something. Golly, Splendor, why did you run after those horses? If you behave yourself, this wouldn't have happened?

[Johnny]

Well, it's too late to talk about it now, Jerry. It's all over.

[Jerry]

I wonder what Whitey will say. I guess I shouldn't have untied Splendor.

[Johnny]

Oh, here comes Whitey now.

[Beppo]

Jerry.

[Whitey]

Jerry.

[Jerry]

Yes, sir.

[Whitey]

Now, what on earth happened?

[Jerry]

Gee whitie, I'm awful sorry.

[Whitey]

All right, all right. But come on. Now, Jerry, tell me what happened.

[Jerry]

Well, I. I mean, I inside splintered harder so I could brush his neck. And, well, when he heard the other horses going out, he ran after him. And I tried awful hard to stop him. Honest I did.

[Johnny]

He did a swell job of getting that colt out of the way of those elephants like you.

[Whitey]

That's what the boys tell me.

[Jerry]

I didn't think Splinter'd run away. I thought he'd just stand still and let me brush him.

[Whitey]

There's no telling what a spirited colt like Splinter will do, Jerry. That's why I keep him tied up all the time.

[Jerry]

It'll never happen again, Whitey. Honest.

[Whitey]

Well, I should hope not. You better get Splinter tied up in the tent again. This is no place for him standing here by the back door.

[Jerry]

Yes, sir.

[Whitey]

I'll have to make a report of this, Mr. Randall.

[Jerry]

A gee, Whitey.

[Whitey]

I'm sorry, Jerry. What orders is orders. Go on, get over to the horse top now with that colt. He's had enough excitement for one day.

[Jerry]

Come on, Splendor.

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[Jerry]

Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird.

[Whitey]

What is this, your first date?

[Liberty Mutual Representative]

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[Whitey]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[Liberty Mutual Representative]

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[Whitey]

Liberty.

[Johnny]

Liberty.

[Whitey]

Liberty. Liberty.