Jerry of the Circus - One Hundred Seventeen Dollars Receipt Increase

Summary

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Episode Overview

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Jerry of the Circus - One Hundred Seventeen Dollars Receipt Increase
Date: May 21, 2026

This episode presents an installment of the classic radio serial "Jerry of the Circus," focusing on themes of teamwork, trust, and small triumphs within the circus family. Jerry and his companions face the day's adventures: the return of Tony's mischievous monkey, Patsy's surprising inheritance, and a mysterious surge in circus receipts. The episode captures both the camaraderie and the industrious spirit of circus life, wrapped in lighthearted storytelling and drama suitable for family listening.

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Detailed Summary with Key Segments & Timestamps

1. The Monkey Rescue at the Zoo

[02:07–05:27]

• Tony tries to identify his clever little monkey, "Mia Bambino," among a cage full of lookalikes.
  • Tony: “I cannot tell my monk if there was a 500 of them. He’s so smart looking.” (02:16)
• The plan: Using the clown band to draw out Tony's monkey, relying on his love for music and tricks.
  • Tony: “When they play, my monkey will want to come out and do his tricks. Then you can make open the door and he’s a coming to papa.” (03:11)
• Execution and Success: The keeper allows the plan, the band plays, and Tony's monkey recognizes the cues and comes to the gate, performing tricks to prove his identity.
  • Keeper: “That’s the cutest little monkey I ever laid my old eyes on.” (04:12)
• The group hurries back to the circus, pleased with their teamwork and the monkey’s safe return.

2. Patsy's Good News

[05:49–06:47]

• Interaction between Boris and Patsy after a successful performance.
  • Boris, ever dramatic, expresses offense at being the butt of recent jokes and strengthens his friendship with Patsy.
    • Boris: “They make fool of me. This does not make me very happy.” (06:11)
  • Patsy offers reassurance: “You’ve got to be a good sport, Boris.” (06:25)
• Patsy lets slip that she’s inherited several thousand dollars from a great aunt.
  • Patsy: “I don’t know exactly how much it is, but it'll be several thousand dollars.” (07:02)
  • Patsy seeks Boris’s guidance on dealing with the legalities and paperwork.

3. Money Matters and Circus Receipts

[09:42–13:08]

• Jerry visits Mr. Randall to discuss circus finances.
  • Randall is counting the day’s receipts and explains the procedures for safekeeping.
    • Randall: “I’m counting the day’s receipts. Can’t leave all that money laying around and have the door unlocked.” (09:55)
  • Jerry, curious, asks if earnings are up compared to the day before.
    • Randall: “Well, you did do better than yesterday. A little over a hundred dollars better.” (10:31)
    • Jerry: “Oh boy, that sure is good news.” (10:37)
• Jerry hints that his Uncle Dan might be the reason for the increase, alluding to a secret plan that’s boosting business.
  • Jerry: “If you continue to take in as much as you did today, maybe more, then it worked.” (11:08)
• Randall promises Uncle Dan a new suit if the streak continues, highlighting the family-like rewards and camaraderie.
• A moment of pride: Randall praises Jerry’s growth as a performer.
  • Randall: “You are a big star, Jerry. A big little star.” (12:17)
• Jerry promises to relay the good news—today’s receipts are $117 higher than yesterday.

4. Thematic Highlights

• Teamwork & Ingenuity: The crew bands together to solve challenges—whether recovering a wayward monkey or ensuring the success of the circus.
• Trust & Friendship: Through playful banter, support during new financial prospects, and offers of help, characters display genuine care for each other.
• Personal Growth: Jerry is recognized for his progress, signaling the ongoing journey from apprentice to valuable troupe member.

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Memorable Quotes

• Tony (on his monkey): "He's the smartest monkey in the whole world." (02:25)
• Keeper (on the plan): "Well, now that sounds alright. It's a lead pipe. Since them other dumb critters wouldn't pay any attention to your band playing." (03:18)
• Randall to Jerry: "You are a big star, Jerry. A big little star." (12:17)
• Patsy (on her inheritance): "I don't know exactly how much it is, but it'll be several thousand dollars." (07:02)
• Boris (offering help): "In money matters, there is no one better to talk to than Boris Rossoff." (07:43)

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Segment Timestamps

• [02:07–05:27] – Tony’s Monkey Rescue Adventure
• [05:49–07:58] – Patsy’s Inheritance and Boris’s Advice
• [09:42–13:08] – Jerry Discusses Circus Receipts with Randall

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Episode Tone

Warm, earnest, and playful, with endearing glimpses of classic circus life, gentle humor, and the supportive bonds among the troupe members. Family-friendly and sprinkled with wholesome encouragement.

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Transcript

[A]

And Doug, there's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[B]

Hey, everyone, check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[C]

Oh, no.

[A]

We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual Together we're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[B]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[A]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[B]

Liberty, Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[D]

Jerry of the circus. Now for Jerry of the circus.

[C]

Look at Jerry. There is my bamboo. There is my little monk. You see him high up in the cage?

[E]

I don't see how you can tell which is your monkey. They all look alike to me. And there must be 50 of them.

[C]

Oh, I cannot tell my monk if there was a 500 of them. He's so smart looking. You think the other monk's so smart like Maya Bambino?

[E]

Oh, I don't know, Tony.

[C]

Oh, no. He's the smartest monkey in the whole world.

[E]

Well, here we are. Let's see about getting him out now.

[C]

And of course, we have to find the keep so he will open the gate.

[E]

No, you can't do that. Then all the monkeys will come out.

[C]

No, no, Jerry. First the band, the play. Then when my monkey wants to come out, the keep is open the cage. And he's just to let my monk out of the cage.

[E]

I see what you mean.

[C]

Look, there's the keep.

[E]

A keep, a keep. Hey, keep coming. I sure hope he lets us try our plan.

[C]

Oh, he's a knock and keep. My monk in jail. You see, I get it.

[E]

It is like being in jail for the poor little fellow.

[F]

Thank you for telling me what you're up to now.

[C]

Well, I'm coming to get my monk.

[F]

Oh, you have, have you?

[E]

What I told you plan. It'll get the right monkey out of the cage. And then after he's out, we can prove to you that we did get the right one.

[F]

Is that so now? And what, Pray tell me what the wonderful plan be.

[C]

Well, I'm a bringer the clown band. When they play, my monkeys will want to come out and do his tricks. Then you can make open the door and he's a comin to papa.

[F]

Well, now that sounds all right. It's a lead pipe. Since them other dumb critters wouldn't pay any attention to your band playing, then

[E]

you'll let us try shoes.

[C]

All right, boys, stand right over there. No, no, no, not Too close.

[F]

All right, go ahead. I'll watch and see if one of the monks gets a hankering to get out and join you.

[C]

All right. The boys 1, 2, play. Oh, Mia bambino, come to papa mia. Bombino, come back to me.

[E]

Look. Look up there. See that little fella turn his hand?

[C]

That's him. That's my hell no.

[F]

It does look like that one's trying to lick me.

[C]

Shows that the him.

[E]

Hey, look it now. He's hanging on the bars. Seems like he's looking for a way to get on.

[F]

Make the door open.

[C]

Hey, Kiba, make the door open.

[E]

Keep a flying, fellas.

[C]

Oh, I'm getting so excited. I'm a full cat.

[E]

Hey, look at him now. He's turning summer. Open up.

[C]

Open up. Let my bambino come to papa.

[F]

That's the cutest little monkey I ever laid my old eyes on. I just go over and open the door and see if he wants to come out.

[C]

Sure, she's a want to come out? Do a request nickel fast. Hurry up.

[F]

I get him out for you.

[E]

It worked, Pony, it's your work.

[C]

My monkeys are coming back to me, see?

[E]

He wants to get out. He's waiting right at the little door. Oh, those other two monkeys want to get out too.

[C]

No, no, they no longer come out. They think maybe it's a feeding of time. That's all.

[E]

You look at. The keeper's getting him out now. That other little monkey almost got out too.

[C]

He's the guy. He's the guy of my monkey.

[E]

You have to show the keeper some of the tricks now so he knows

[C]

for sure it's your monkey, Tony. He do it. Just relax.

[E]

Here he comes. Oh, now he jumped right out of the keeper's arms. Here he comes, don't he?

[F]

That settles it. I'm told. Now that you got the right monkey, that little fella sure knows you all right.

[E]

Thanks, miss.

[F]

Where are we going? I thank you very much.

[E]

We've got to hurry and get back to the circus before the matinee.

[F]

Run along then. You can't keep the big show waiting, I guess.

[E]

Goodbye, Woodh by. Come on, Slats, hoot again. Come on you fellas. Come on. Come on.

[F]

Goodbye and take good care of that monkey of yours from now on. If he gets into that cage again, I won't be giving him up so easy.

[E]

We just about got time enough to get back and get made up before showtime. Hey, let's hurry. Tony, come and clown Dan. All right, Jerry, we're right behind Gary.

[G]

Hello, Patsy.

[H]

I was watching your act Boris went very well tonight.

[G]

You like it?

[H]

I always like it.

[E]

I guess yours is the best writing

[H]

act I've ever seen.

[G]

The Russo clever people.

[H]

Now you're. You're not being modest, are you?

[G]

What do you say, Patsy?

[H]

Oh, no, I was just kidding, boss.

[G]

Oh, you like to make joke too, huh?

[H]

What do you mean too?

[G]

I think Boris, he had enough jokes.

[H]

Oh, you. You mean about the other night?

[G]

It makes me feel very bad. People play joke on Boris for a soft. They make a fool of me. This does not make me very happy.

[H]

Oh, now, don't take it seriously, Boris. I've had all sorts of jokes played on me.

[G]

They play jokes on you?

[H]

Why, surely.

[E]

But I never get mad.

[H]

I just laugh at all. That's all you can do. You've got to be a good sport, Boris.

[G]

I bet you they do not play joke and they puts their. Boris is around.

[D]

I fix them. You bet you.

[H]

Well, I. I'm glad to know that if I ever need a big strong man to protect me, I'll call on you.

[G]

Not as good. Boris will help you. You seem happy. More happy than most of the time. You are very happy? Yes, Patsy.

[H]

Yes, I. I guess I am a bit more cheerful than usual. Although it's seldom I go round without my best smile.

[G]

I know, but. Well, you seem to.

[H]

I guess I just can't hide it.

[G]

Hide what, Patsy?

[H]

Look, didn't you hear about me being left by a bit of money?

[G]

What?

[H]

Yes. I don't know exactly how much it is, but it'll be several thousand dollars.

[G]

Oh, I am so happy for you. This is wonderful news. I am delighted for you, Patsy. Tell me more about it.

[H]

There's really not much to tell, except that a great aunt of mine left me the money. Yes, yes.

[E]

I'll know more about it when I

[H]

talk with the lawyers that are handling the case.

[G]

When will you know about this? And when will you see the lawyers?

[H]

Well, the law firm is in Harper City. So when we play there, I'll sign the papers and get it all settled.

[G]

You must be very careful what you sign, Patsy.

[E]

What do you mean?

[G]

Well, I have lots of dealings with cases like this. I too once had left money. And I learned that it can be very tricky.

[H]

I. I don't believe I understand you, Boris.

[G]

You better let me know just what it is all about. I will help you all I can. In money matters, there is no one better to talk to than Boris Rossoff.

[H]

Well, it is true I don't know very much of law, especially the legal side of things like this.

[G]

Then you will call on me?

[H]

Yes, I surely will. Boris, it's awfully nice of you to take such an interest in my welfare.

[G]

Oh, it is nothing. I like to be of service to the beautiful Patsy. Boris, I like you very much.

[H]

Patsy, you never said that before.

[G]

I know, I. I've wanted to say that for a long time, but I did not have what you say, a courage.

[H]

I can't imagine you liking courage.

[G]

Oh, believe me, Patsy, I do.

[H]

Boris. And I'm complimented.

[G]

Now, you will not forget to call on me about this. I mean, when you get your money, it is best you have a man to look after.

[H]

Such business I will forget.

[G]

Good. I take care of you.

[H]

Patsy, Rags and Jerry. Hello, Jerry. I haven't seen you since breakfast.

[E]

Oh, hello, Boris.

[G]

Hello, Jerry.

[E]

I've had a busy day, Patsy.

[H]

You must have.

[G]

Well, I go now. I see you after a while. Yes, Patsy.

[H]

Yes, surely, Boris.

[E]

Thanks. Be.

[H]

Just what was it that made your day so busy, Jerry?

[E]

Didn't you hear about Tony's monkey getting in the cage out at the zoo?

[H]

Oh, yes, Slats was telling me.

[E]

Well, I went with him out to the zoo to get the monkey back.

[H]

I must have missed that part of it.

[E]

We sure had a time of it. Just got back a few minutes before the mat made. We hardly made it.

[H]

Leave it to you to dig up some excitement.

[E]

Say, the show's pretty nearly over.

[H]

So what?

[E]

Well, I want to go over to the office wagon and see Mr. Randall and then get back with Rags so Bumps can do the last walk around.

[H]

You better hurry then.

[E]

Yeah, I guess so. Come on, Rex.

[H]

See you after a while.

[E]

Okay. Come on, fella. Here we are. This way, Rags. Ah, good. There's a light in the office wagon. That means Mr. Randall's there. Here we are. Up you go.

[D]

Who is it?

[E]

It's me, Mr. Randall. Quiet now, Rags, let's go.

[D]

Yeah, come in, Jerry.

[E]

Oh, I'm sorry if you're busy.

[D]

Oh, it's all right. What's in your mind?

[E]

Why do you keep the door locked?

[D]

Just being careful. I'm counting the day's receipts. Can't leave all that money laying around and have the door unlocked.

[E]

Gee, I didn't notice that. That is a lot of money, isn't it?

[D]

Yes. Nice day's receipts, Jerry. I've just finished counting it. Now, what did you want to see me about?

[E]

That?

[D]

Well, I don't believe I get you. What?

[E]

The day's receipts.

[D]

Oh, you mean you want to know how much we took in today?

[E]

Uh huh. If it's Not a secret.

[D]

Of course it's not a secret. At least not to you.

[E]

Well, I don't want to be too curious. You know, I don't even care how much it was exactly. All I'd like to know is, well, did you take in more today than you did yesterday?

[D]

Say, you haven't been peatin, have you?

[E]

Why, no. Why?

[D]

Well, you did do better than yesterday. A little over a hundred dollars better.

[E]

Really?

[D]

Mm.

[E]

Oh, boy, that sure is good news.

[D]

Well, now, seems like you've taken an awful sudden interest in the money into this circus.

[E]

Sure I have.

[D]

Well, how about letting me in on it? What's this all about?

[E]

Well, you see, it's about Uncle Dan.

[D]

Oh, I'm beginning to understand. You think your Uncle Dan is responsible for the extra money.

[E]

Well, I'm sure of it.

[D]

Well, now, hold on, Jerry. I hope you're right. But it's not unusual to have a big day once in a while. I mean, a bigger day than usual. That happens very often.

[E]

Yes, I know that. That's why Uncle Dan said he wouldn't be able to tell you for sure or not for a few days. But if you continue to take in as much as you did today, maybe more. Then it worked.

[D]

Yes. Whatever it is, I'd say that was proof enough. And I hope it does work. I won't complain if we have a big day every day. What is this your uncle is working on that's doing the box office so much good?

[E]

I can't tell you. I promise not to. At least until it's a sure thing. Then Uncle Dan will tell you himself and get that suit of clothes you promised him.

[D]

I'll be very happy to make good my promise. He can pick out the best suit of clothes money can buy.

[E]

I sure hope it works then. And will you be surprised when you find out what it is?

[D]

Well, I guess you will, Jerry. I thought I just about covered every way in the world to take in more money. But if Uncle Dan has found something that I overlooked, it'll be a surprise. And a pleasant one at that.

[E]

Well, I guess I'd better be getting back to the pad room with rags. Bumps is waiting for.

[D]

Well, you've got a few minutes yet before the final walk around. Tell me, how'd your act go tonight? I didn't catch that part of the show.

[E]

Oh, you mean with El Mundo?

[D]

Yeah.

[E]

Oh, Keen. Never better. We got a big hand, too.

[D]

You kind of like working with that elephant, don't you?

[E]

I'll say I do. I feel like a big star.

[D]

You are a big star, Jerry. A big little star. Yes, sir. You've gone a long ways since you joined out with us. In fact, you even surprised me a little. I figured you'd be of some value to the show, but I really didn't count on your becoming a performer so soon.

[E]

I have you to thank for that.

[D]

Well, I guess I know a good performer when I see one. You and El Mundo make a perfect combination. And old Sam Randall's the last one in the world to let a good thing slip through his fingers.

[E]

Well, it's nice of you to say that, Mr. Randall.

[D]

That's the truth, Jerry.

[E]

Well, thanks. Well, I guess I have to go now.

[D]

Okay, Jerry, run along then.

[E]

I can tell Uncle Dan you said today was over a hundred dollars more than yesterday.

[D]

Yeah, that's right. Let's see here. 80, 90, 1, 111, $117 exactly.

[E]

Oh, Jiminy, you'll sure be glad to hear that. Come on, Regs. You still got the last part of your show to do. Goodbye, Mr. Randall.

[D]

Goodbye, Jerry.

[A]

And Doug. There's nowhere I wouldn't go to help someone customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual. Even if it means sitting front row at a comedy show.

[B]

Hey, everyone. Check out this guy and his bird. What is this, your first date?

[C]

Oh, no.

[A]

We help people customize and save on car insurance with Liberty Mutual together. We're married. Me to a human, him to a bird.

[B]

Yeah, the bird looks out of your league.

[A]

Anyways, get a [e-mail] or with your local agent.

[B]

Liberty. Liberty. Liberty. Liberty.

[I]

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[H]

Visit your nearby Lowes.

[E]

Sam.