Jerry of the Circus - Jerrys Court Action Is Delayed

Summary

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Podcast Summary: "Jerry of the Circus – Jerry’s Court Action Is Delayed"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Date: May 22, 2026
Episode Theme:
A classic episode from the "Golden Age of Radio," focusing on the adventures of Jerry Nugent, a young boy with the circus. In this episode, Jerry awaits news regarding the legal proceedings around his late father’s safety deposit box, while also experiencing the camaraderie and colorful conflicts of circus life.

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Main Theme & Purpose

This episode centers around Jerry receiving disappointing news about a court delay for access to his father's safety deposit box, wrapped in the everyday world and colorful personalities of circus life. The story blends anticipation, camaraderie, and humor, providing listeners with a window into both Jerry’s personal stakes and the lively circus community.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. News from the Post Office (02:39–06:27)

• Jerry and Mr. Bradley visit the post office after Jerry receives a notification about a registered letter.
• The letter is from Jerry’s lawyer, Mr. Grayson, explaining that the court hearing about the safety deposit box has been postponed due to an overcrowded court calendar.
• Jerry expresses disappointment, but Mr. Bradley reassures him that his chance will come soon.

Notable Quote

"It is with regret that I have to inform you that the case has been postponed due to an overcrowded calendar. The appeal has been set up to the next session."
— Jerry reading Mr. Grayson’s letter (06:07)

2. Reflection on the Case Delay (06:27–08:12)

• Jerry and Mr. Bradley talk about what the delay means.
• Mr. Bradley tries to keep Jerry optimistic, noting that the appeal hasn't been refused.
• Jerry shares his frustration with having to wait longer but is comforted by Mr. Bradley.

Notable Quotes

"Well, better luck next time, Jerry. At least the appeal to open the box wasn't refused."
— Mr. Bradley (07:18)

"Yeah, I guess that's one way to look at it. But I've been waiting so long already. Golly."
— Jerry Nugent (07:23)

3. The Circus Shortcut and Aspirations (08:05–09:22)

• The two take a shortcut back to the circus grounds, with Jerry marveling at the sights and sharing his love for circus life.
• Mr. Bradley encourages Jerry, suggesting he might one day be a famous circus star.

Notable Quote

"A boy that loves the circus as much as you do is bound to make a name for himself."
— Mr. Bradley (09:16)

4. A Comic Conflict: Beppo vs. Major Mike (09:24–13:15)

• Jerry and Mr. Bradley witness an escalating argument between Beppo, the reserved Italian clown, and Major Mike, over a mishap involving dirty laundry water.
• What starts as a minor accident quickly becomes a verbal spat, marked by fiery tempers and comedic bravado.
• The confrontation climaxes with Beppo dumping a washtub on Major Mike.

Memorable Exchange

Major Mike: "Don't you dare call me a freak."
Beppo: "You better go away now. I think maybe Beppo is getting my head on, fetus."
— (10:43–11:16)

"If you don't go away, I'm going to cool you off."
— Major Mike, before the wash water incident (11:16)

"It's unbelievable."
— Mr. Bradley observing the chaos (13:15)

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Character Moments & Memorable Scenes

Jerry’s Disappointment and Resilience

• Jerry’s emotional vulnerability is clear as he digests the news of a further delay in accessing the contents of his father’s safety deposit box.
• Mr. Bradley’s support and encouragement offers warmth and guidance.

Beppo & Major Mike’s Humorous Feud

• The escalating spat between two distinct circus personalities provides comic relief, showing both the closeness and tensions within the circus family.
• Their argument, thick with colorful language and pride, ends in slapstick fashion—much to Jerry and Mr. Bradley’s amazement.

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Timestamps of Key Segments

• 02:39–06:27: Jerry receives and reads the letter regarding the court case delay.
• 06:27–08:12: Discussion between Jerry and Mr. Bradley about waiting for the next court session.
• 09:24–13:15: Beppo and Major Mike’s argument and climax with the wash water incident.

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Summary & Takeaways

This episode of "Jerry of the Circus" strikes a balance between real emotional stakes and the light-hearted world of circus life. Jerry’s story in this chapter is about patience, hope, and the importance of support during setbacks. Around him, the circus is full of colorful characters—each adding depth, humor, and unpredictability to Jerry’s daily life.

Listeners leave with a sense of optimism despite setbacks and enjoy a nostalgic, lively glimpse into the bonds and antics of the traveling circus.

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Transcript

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[Mr. Bradley]

Jerry of the circus. Sa.

[Major Mike]

Sam.

[Mr. Bradley]

Now for Jerry of the Circus.

[Jerry Nugent]

No Rams. I don't want to play. I just had my lunch a little while ago. I want to sit here on the wagon steps and rest. Aw, quit begging me. Oh, you want me to throw that stick for you so you can chase it, huh? Well, put it in my hand then. That's the boy. Are you ready? Now I'm going to throw it real far. Here it goes. One, two, three. All right, get on your mark, get set, go.

[Major Mike]

You almost got it before it hit

[Jerry Nugent]

the ground that time, Rags. You're fast as lightning.

[Mr. Bradley]

Hello, Jerry.

[Jerry Nugent]

Oh, hello, Mr. Bradley.

[Mr. Bradley]

I've got something for you, Jerry.

[Jerry Nugent]

Yeah, what is it?

[Mr. Bradley]

Well, I was just over at the office wagon and look what the mailman left for you.

[Jerry Nugent]

A postcard? No, it isn't a postcard either. What kind of a card is it?

[Mr. Bradley]

It's a notification card, Jerry.

[Major Mike]

What?

[Jerry Nugent]

What does that mean?

[Mr. Bradley]

Well, it says there on the card there's a registered letter for you over at the post office and you'll have to go and sign for it.

[Jerry Nugent]

Well, who's it from?

[Mr. Bradley]

It doesn't say that, Jerry. I guess you'd better go over to the post office and find out.

[Jerry Nugent]

I better go now. It might be important.

[Mr. Bradley]

Yes, it might.

[Jerry Nugent]

Wanna come with me?

[Mr. Bradley]

Hmm, let's see now. Yes, I think I'll have time before the matinee. I'll walk over with you, Jerry.

[Jerry Nugent]

Oh, you want to come too, do you, huh?

[Mr. Bradley]

I never in my life saw a dog that was as smart as Rags. I do believe he understands every word that's spoken. Oh, you do, do you? You're a clever little pup.

[Jerry Nugent]

Well, come on then. No, not you. I mean Mr. Bradley. You wait here till we come back. Be a good dog now.

[Mr. Bradley]

I'm ready. Come on, Jerry. Why rag now, just look at the way he sits there and turns his head from one side to the other.

[Jerry Nugent]

Oh, that's just begs. He thinks if he execute like that, I'll weaken and take him along with me.

[Mr. Bradley]

You're Lucky to have a nice dog like that, Jerry.

[Jerry Nugent]

Don't I know it. Say, Mr. Bradley.

[Mr. Bradley]

Yes?

[Jerry Nugent]

You were saying last night you thought you knew who that escaped convict was. The one we saw the picture of on the poster back in the last town we played.

[Mr. Bradley]

I've got a pretty good idea, but I'm not positive. Say, I can look at the poster again in this post office.

[Jerry Nugent]

Do they have those posters in every post office?

[Mr. Bradley]

As a rule, if they have one of the same man, I'll study it real good to make sure.

[Jerry Nugent]

Funny, I thought I knew who it was, too. I figured for sure I'd seen that man someplace.

[Mr. Bradley]

There. There it is, right up there at the corner.

[Jerry Nugent]

What?

[Mr. Bradley]

Why the post office.

[Jerry Nugent]

Oh, sure.

[Mr. Bradley]

You'll be surprised, Jerry, when you find out who I think that escape convict is.

[Jerry Nugent]

Who do you think it is?

[Mr. Bradley]

Well, I don't want to say now. It wouldn't be fair. I may be wrong about it. And it wouldn't be very nice of me to name a man who is innocent.

[Jerry Nugent]

Yeah, I guess that's right.

[Mr. Bradley]

I'll just wait until I can make sure and then I'll notify the police and they can come and get him.

[Jerry Nugent]

It must be awful to know the police are looking for you all the time.

[Mr. Bradley]

Yes, Jerry, the mental suffering of the transgressor is very great. Well, here we are. You go ahead, Jerry.

[Jerry Nugent]

Okay.

[Mr. Bradley]

I guess you'll have to inquire about your letter over at that window right here. Yes, that's the one. Now, just show the man that card you have. I look around for those posters. Something I can do for you, son?

[Jerry Nugent]

Yes, sir. I. Well, this card says I've got a letter here.

[Mr. Bradley]

Let me see it. Yes, sir. You have a registered letter. I'll get it.

[Jerry Nugent]

See the poster, Mr. Bradley?

[Mr. Bradley]

No, not yet, Jerry. Here you are, young man. Just sign your name right here.

[Jerry Nugent]

All right. Jerry Nugent. There you are. Thank you.

[Mr. Bradley]

And here's your letter.

[Jerry Nugent]

Look at Mr. Bradley. It's from my lawyer.

[Mr. Bradley]

Your lawyer? Well, that sounds mighty important.

[Jerry Nugent]

I mean, it's for Mr. Grayson. You know, he's finding out about the safety deposit box my dad had.

[Mr. Bradley]

Oh, yes, yes, to be sure.

[Jerry Nugent]

Wait, I'll see what he says. Golly, hope it's good news.

[Mr. Bradley]

Do you mind letting me in on it? You know, I'd like to share your good fortune with you.

[Jerry Nugent]

Sure, I'll read it. It says, dear Jerry, heaven promised to let you know the results of your appeal to the courts regarding the safety deposit box of your fathers. It is with regret that I have to inform you that the case has been postponed due to an overcrowded calendar. The appeal has been set up to the next session.

[Mr. Bradley]

Now, isn't that too bad?

[Jerry Nugent]

Well, I don't understand. What does it mean?

[Mr. Bradley]

It means that you'll just have to wait a little while longer. I take it there were too many other cases ahead of yours.

[Jerry Nugent]

Oh, gee, I thought for sure Mr. Grayson would be able to open the box and find out what's in it.

[Mr. Bradley]

It is too bad there's more to the letter, Jerry. Go ahead and read it.

[Jerry Nugent]

I will do everything to get an early hearing and report to you my findings. As I fully realize how anxious you are to learn of the contents of the box. Please convey my very best wishes to all of my circus friends, especially bumps and Mr. Bradley, of course. Hear that?

[Mr. Bradley]

Well, now, that was nice of him to remember me. He's a mighty fine young man, that Mr. Grayson. Ah.

[Jerry Nugent]

And then he says, drop me a line, Jerry. I should like very much to hear from you. Always your friend, Richard Grayson.

[Mr. Bradley]

Well, better luck next time, Jerry. At least the appeal to open the box wasn't refused.

[Jerry Nugent]

Yeah, I guess that's one way to look at it. But I've been waiting so long already. Golly.

[Mr. Bradley]

Yeah, I know, Jerry. But you'll get to find out what's in the box yet. Are you ready? You know, I've got to get back to the lot and get made up. Won't be long before the matinee.

[Jerry Nugent]

Now, didn't you want to look at that poster? The man who's wanted for escaping from jail?

[Mr. Bradley]

I looked for it, but it's not up in this post office. I take it they change those posters every now and again.

[Jerry Nugent]

Well, why don't you ask someone about it?

[Mr. Bradley]

No, that's an idea, Jerry. The postmaster most likely keeps them in his office if they're not out here. But no, no, I haven't time now. Come on.

[Jerry Nugent]

Maybe you can come over after the show.

[Mr. Bradley]

Yes, maybe so.

[Jerry Nugent]

Say, look.

[Mr. Bradley]

What is it, Jerry?

[Jerry Nugent]

Why can't we go down this street and across that lot? It'll be a shortcut.

[Mr. Bradley]

That's a good idea.

[Jerry Nugent]

How long do you think I'll have to wait until the case comes up in the court again?

[Mr. Bradley]

Oh, I don't know. Didn't say in the letter, did it? No, I don't think it'll be very long. Maybe a month or so.

[Jerry Nugent]

Oh, golly. That long?

[Mr. Bradley]

Well, to be truthful, Jerry, I really couldn't say. Maybe it'll be sooner. Oh, let's cut across right Here, there's a path goes right over to our lot.

[Jerry Nugent]

It leads right over to just about where our wagon is. Lucky I thought of this shortcut, huh? I should say, doesn't the big top look swell from here?

[Mr. Bradley]

What do you mean by that, Jerry?

[Jerry Nugent]

Oh, I don't know. I just love to look at all the tents and banners and flags.

[Mr. Bradley]

Yes, it is a pretty sight.

[Jerry Nugent]

Ever since I was real little, I've always wanted to be with a circus. Maybe it's because I heard mom and dad talk about it so much.

[Mr. Bradley]

You're a true son of the Sawdust Trail, Jerry.

[Jerry Nugent]

Sometimes I can hardly believe that I really belong.

[Mr. Bradley]

I'd say you have a pretty good foothold in this business. You know, Jerry, it wouldn't surprise me if someday your name would become a household word.

[Jerry Nugent]

A household word?

[Mr. Bradley]

I mean, someday you might become a big stick star with the circus and have your name on big billboards in every city in the country.

[Jerry Nugent]

Wouldn't that be wonderful?

[Mr. Bradley]

Looks like it's in the cards, Jerry. A boy that loves the circus as much as you do is bound to make a name for himself.

[Jerry Nugent]

Golly, I sure hope so.

[Mr. Bradley]

Hey, look.

[Jerry Nugent]

There's Beppo, the little Italian clown.

[Mr. Bradley]

Sure enough. And he's washing clothes as usual.

[Jerry Nugent]

He doesn't talk much, does he?

[Mr. Bradley]

You know him, don't you?

[Jerry Nugent]

Oh, sure, but he never talks to me. I only say hello to him whenever I see.

[Mr. Bradley]

Oh, he keeps pretty much to himself. That's true. We're friendly enough, but we're sort of reserved.

[Jerry Nugent]

And there's Major Mike.

[Major Mike]

Hey, wait.

[Jerry Nugent]

Did you see that? When the major walked by, Beppo splashed some water on him from. From his washtub. He. Look at.

[Mr. Bradley]

He.

[Jerry Nugent]

He's getting mad.

[Mr. Bradley]

He better not get too angry with Beppo. That little fellow is just as fiery as the major ever was. He just won't take anything from anybody.

[Jerry Nugent]

Let's stand here by the side of this tent and watch him.

[Mr. Bradley]

Listen.

[Major Mike]

Certainly comes pretty fast when a body can't walk across a spot without getting drenched to the skin with a lot of dirty soap water. Now you talk crazy, Major Mike. Who's crazy? Don't you dare call me crazy. No, I'm gonna call you crazy. I'm saying you talk crazy. You splashed that water on me for a reason. You did it on purpose. Now, don't tell me you didn't, because I know you did. And I won't stand for it, do you hear? Why never not? See, I'm no life to fight. But Beppo no take no Talk from you. Beppo. He's almost the same size like you and Beppo. He's to make a fight with you. You don't like a fight. You get away from here.

[Jerry Nugent]

They're really mad, aren't they?

[Mr. Bradley]

Because it looks that way. Jerry.

[Major Mike]

No, listen, don't be giving me any orders because I won't take them from you. I got just as much business walking back here in the yard as you have washing your old clothes back here. In fact, more so. I'm a feature attraction on this show. Feature attraction? You making me laugh. You are a freak. A fre. Don't you dare call me a freak. Well, you better go away now. I think maybe Buffo is getting my head on, fetus. Now you listen to me. I'll have you understand. I do listen to you.

[Jerry Nugent]

You.

[Major Mike]

You hothead. Now if you don't go away, I'm going to cool you off. Oh, is that so? Seems to me you're taking on a man sized job. You ought to make a fight with me.

[Jerry Nugent]

Hey, this is getting serious. Even the Major will get hurt.

[Mr. Bradley]

Echo's not much bigger than Major Mite, you know that.

[Major Mike]

I demand respect. What do you demand? What I give you is something else.

[Jerry Nugent]

Maybe we'd better stop him before they do start.

[Mr. Bradley]

Oh no, Jerry. That's something we try not to do around the circus. It doesn't pay to mix in and take side, you know.

[Major Mike]

Here, here. Come on. Water fire. You stop throwing that dirty water on me. Why you, you. I throw the whole top hole on you. You don't get away from me. When a bespo gets a bad he's against a good man. Oh, you just dare to lay a hand on me. Yes, I suppose you run quick and get your sweetheart the lady with the whisker. And now you leave her out of this or you'll get me mad. I'm pretty even tempo Beppo, but don't get me started or you'll be sorry. It makes you bad when I talk about your pretty sweetheart. With the night along a black cabin. She's not my sweetheart and you know it.

[Jerry Nugent]

Did you hear the Major say he was even deafer?

[Major Mike]

No, I do no such thing. And furthermore, I fully intend to report your disrespect and your outlandish actions to none other than Mr. Randall. Don't think for one minute you can treat major mite lightly and get away with it. That boss say go. I give you one minute and if I don't go, you go. Oh no, I won't I said it before and I'll say it again. I'll stand on my right. I'll not take orders from you. The idea throwing dirty water on me and then you have to know if to give me orders. All right, you ask for it and now you get it.

[Mr. Bradley]

Wow.

[Major Mike]

And put him in the wash job.

[Mr. Bradley]

It's unbelievable.

[Major Mike]

Foreign.

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[Mr. Bradley]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.