Jerry of the Circus - Patsy Accepts a Date

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Jerry of the Circus – Patsy Accepts a Date

Date: May 15, 2026

---

Episode Overview

This episode presents an installment from the classic radio serial "Jerry of the Circus." Set amid the vibrant hustle and camaraderie of circus life, the story focuses on adolescent Jerry and his friends as they navigate personal relationships and suspicions around the big top. The main plot centers around strongman Belko asking Patsy out on a date, which prompts concern and intrigue among fellow circus performers. The episode blends light-hearted banter, budding romance, and a whiff of mystery, all captured in period-authentic dialogue.

---

Key Discussion Points & Scenes

1. Backstage Antics & Circus Performances

• The episode opens behind the scenes, with Jerry interacting with his loyal dog, Rags, and marveling at Belko’s strongman act—pulling a wagon with his teeth (02:08–02:39).
• Jerry’s upcoming performance is mentioned, highlighting the daily routines and excitement within circus life (03:07–04:44).

2. A Secretive Meeting

• A mysterious visitor tells Belko (the strongman) he won’t need his services for a while, raising questions. The reason is undisclosed, hinting at possible tension or secrets (03:21–04:28).
  • Notable exchange:
    • E: "You act like something was wrong." (03:32)
    • B: "You know, I don't like the idea of having to come here on the circus lot to see you." (03:34)

3. Romance Blossoms: Belko & Patsy

• Patsy congratulates Jerry after his act. The focus quickly shifts to Belko awkwardly trying to ask Patsy out. The scene is humorous, filled with Belko’s bashful attempts and Patsy’s gentle teasing (05:01–07:04).
  • Memorable moment:
    • G (Patsy): "For such a big, strong man, you're having a mighty hard time to get a few little words out." (05:29)
    • B (Belko): "But your eyes, when you look at me like you do, well, I just get weak." (06:13)
  • Patsy happily accepts Belko’s invitation to go out after the show, and they agree to meet by the entrance (07:04–07:33).

4. Gossip & Concern: Major Mite’s Suspicion

• Behind some boxes, Jerry and Major Mite discuss what they've just overheard. Major Mite reveals his concern for Patsy’s safety, referencing warnings from Rosa Ruzzi, the circus fortune teller (08:32–09:57).
  • Notable quotes:
    • F (Major): "Belko isn't a fit and proper person for Patsy to be going out with." (09:11)
    • F: "Rosa said that she was getting in with the wrong kind of company." (09:57)
  • Major Mite is determined to protect Patsy, convinced by the fortune teller's prophecy that a "big man" will bring her trouble.

5. Debate Over Belko's Character

• Jerry tries to reason that Patsy should choose for herself, but Major remains adamant—he plans to follow and observe Belko to gather evidence (10:53–12:58).
  • Memorable exchange:
    • F (Major): "It's not size that counts, it's brains. It's far better to be a mental giant than a big hulk like Belko." (10:59)
  • Major's confidence in his "detective work" brings a playful, almost boyish energy to the threat of looming trouble.

6. Circus Camaraderie & Subplots

• Mr. Randall, a circus authority figure, briefly interrupts to remind Jerry to change out of his costume (11:14–11:51).
• Talk of future acts and circus traditions adds color to the episode, grounding the melodrama in everyday circus operations (12:02–12:32).

7. Climax: Major's Promise

• Major doubles down on his promise to "protect" Patsy and hints at an escalating investigation of Belko (12:36–end).
  • Notable quote:
    • F (Major): "I'm going to do some real detective work, Jerry. Everybody in this circus will be looking up to Major Mite before I get through." (13:03)

---

Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Patsy teasing Belko (05:29):
  "For such a big, strong man, you're having a mighty hard time to get a few little words out."
• Belko’s confession (06:13):
  "But your eyes, when you look at me like you do, well, I just get weak."
• Major Mite on detective work (10:59):
  "It's not size that counts, it's brains. It's far better to be a mental giant than a big hulk like Belko."
• Major Mite’s determination (13:03):
  "I'm going to do some real detective work, Jerry..."

---

Timestamps for Important Segments

• 02:08 – Jerry backstage with Rags; Belko’s strongman act
• 03:21 – Secretive meeting: Belko told to stop working for mysterious man
• 05:01 – Belko awkwardly courts Patsy
• 07:04 – Patsy accepts the date
• 08:32 – Major Mite reveals he was eavesdropping; Rosa Ruzzi’s prophecy
• 09:57 – Major insists Patsy is in danger from a "big man"
• 10:59 – Major extols brains vs. brawn
• 13:03 – Major declares plans for "detective work" to protect Patsy

---

Episode Tone & Style

The episode is warm, colloquial, and full of playful, period-appropriate banter. Characters speak affectionately, blending earnest concern with the light drama of circus life. Despite a thread of suspense, the mood remains upbeat, underpinned by youthful optimism and classic radio adventure spirit.

---

Summary for New Listeners

This episode of Jerry of the Circus serves up a charming slice of circus life, romance, and childhood sleuthing. Listeners will enjoy the behind-the-scenes setting, the budding romance between Belko and Patsy, and the comically determined efforts of Jerry and Major Mite to look after their friend—all spiced up by a fortune teller’s dramatic warning. The story is accessible and engaging, making it a treat for new and returning fans of Golden Age radio drama.

---

Transcript

[A]

If you work in university maintenance, Grainger considers you an MVP because your playbook ensures your arena is always ready for tip off. And Grainger is your trusted partner, offering the products you need, all in one place, from H VAC and plumbing supplies to lighting and more. And all delivered with plenty of time left on the clock. So your team always gets the win. Call 1-800-GRAINGER visit grainger.com or just stop by Granger for the ones who get it done.

[B]

Jerry of the circus.

[C]

Now for Jerry of the Circus.

[D]

Hey, Rags, come back here. Yes, I'm talking to you. Now, you stay right here like Bump stole, you do. Alcohol's on now. Don't you want to see him? Well, sit still then, and watch. Boy, look at that. He sure is strong. Now what?

[E]

Hey, kids. Oh, you seen a guy named Belcor on.

[D]

Stop it, Rags. Yes, sir. He's on doing his act.

[E]

He's a what?

[D]

He's working. That's him out there pulling that wagon by his teeth, eh?

[C]

Oh,

[E]

he's here. Dog.

[F]

Yeah.

[E]

He don't seem to like me the way he's growling.

[D]

I guess he don't know you, that's all. You a friend of Belko's?

[E]

Yeah. Yeah, and I want to see him. How soon does he get through with the stunt he's doing now?

[D]

Right now.

[E]

That's a pretty good trick, huh?

[D]

Huh?

[E]

Did he come out this way?

[D]

Yeah.

[F]

See?

[D]

Here he comes.

[E]

Hey, what are you all rigged up in that swallowing suit for?

[D]

Oh, I go on in a minute with my ex.

[E]

A kid like you?

[D]

Sure.

[E]

They sure stuttered young in the circus.

[B]

Hello, Jerry.

[D]

Hiya, Belko. Here's somebody looking for you.

[B]

Well, hello.

[E]

Type it down. Come over here with me.

[B]

What's the matter?

[E]

Why didn't you meet me last night?

[B]

I had something else to do.

[E]

You did, did you?

[B]

You act like something was wrong.

[E]

You know, I don't like the idea of having to come here on the circus lot to see you.

[B]

Why not?

[E]

Oh, never mind. You wouldn't understand anyway. Try to get this straight. I don't want you to work for me for a while. Not until I tell you to start again for you. Understand what I mean?

[B]

Yeah, I guess so. Okay, but why?

[E]

Never mind the why.

[B]

I can use the extra money.

[E]

Well, I don't need you for a while.

[B]

Okay, but what's the matter? Ain't I doing my work?

[E]

All right, I tell you some other time.

[B]

Well, when do I start working again?

[E]

I don't know yet. I'll have to wait and see. You doing what? I told you. What you mean you looking around for somebody to.

[B]

Oh, oh, yeah, yeah, dad. Yeah, yeah, I know somebody.

[E]

That's good. Well, I'll be seeing you later. And listen, watch your step.

[B]

All right.

[D]

You sure missed it.

[E]

What?

[B]

What?

[D]

Patsy. Was she good? I don't know. When I've seen her do her act so well.

[B]

Hey, hey, look, Jerry, the clown band is on. Don't you go on soon with the elephant?

[D]

Well, I'll say I do. I nearly forgot. I'll be seeing you later.

[B]

So long, Jerry.

[D]

Come on, Rags, I'll take your buck.

[F]

Look at that boy run.

[G]

Dang, he must be late.

[B]

He sure is, Potsy. Oh, oh, I mean, Ms. Potsy.

[G]

Oh, that's all right, Bilgo. You can call me Patsy.

[B]

Can I? That jewelry is fine.

[E]

Then

[G]

you feel funny calling me by my first name.

[B]

I feel proud being able to do it because I. Well, what's the matter with you? I feel fine. But as I was going to say.

[G]

Go ahead and say it, Belco.

[B]

Well,

[G]

well, for such a big, strong man, you're having a mighty hard time to get a few little words out.

[B]

But, well, Patsy, I. Well, I think you're mighty fine.

[G]

Oh, I see. You like me.

[B]

No, what I mean. Yeah, yeah, of course I like you. It seems I just can't say what I had in mind to say.

[G]

What were you going to say, Belko? Come on now, tell me.

[B]

Stop it. Stop looking at me that way.

[G]

What's the meaning, Belko?

[B]

Those eyes. Those big brown eyes.

[G]

Is something the matter with my eyes?

[B]

Yeah, yeah. Oh, no, no, no. I. I don't mean. That is, I mean. I don't know what I mean. But your eyes, when you look at me like you do, well, I just get weak.

[G]

Oh, a big strong man like you gets weak.

[B]

But see, if you're teasing me, I wish you would stop.

[G]

Oh, I am sorry, Balco. Now I'll tell you something.

[F]

I like you too.

[B]

You mean that?

[G]

Surely I mean it.

[B]

Then that's better. Now I can say what I started out to say.

[G]

Good.

[B]

Well, what I wanted to say was I was going to ask you if you'd go out with me tonight after the show.

[G]

Go out where?

[B]

I mean, go get something to eat. Someplace there we can be alone unto.

[G]

I'd love to go with you, Belko.

[B]

Good. Then I'll meet you right after the show and we'll go uptown to some nice little cafe.

[G]

That's fine. Oh, look at Jerry Jake, his bows. Oh, Belko is getting better.

[B]

Every show you're making Me very happy.

[F]

What?

[B]

Oh, nothing.

[G]

You said something, Belko.

[B]

Ah, I said, here comes Jerry now.

[G]

Well, where will you meet me after the show?

[B]

To mine, out by the main entrance. As soon as you change your clothes, I'll be there.

[G]

Belko.

[D]

Hi, Fancy.

[G]

Hello, Jerry.

[B]

How did.

[D]

How did you like my act? This show?

[B]

You were all right, Jerry.

[G]

All right? Say, you were wonderful, Jerry, do you

[B]

know where kangaroos come from?

[D]

Why, sure. From Australia.

[B]

Well, why don't you learn to talk Australia so you can do an act with the kangaroos?

[G]

Oh, now, don't let him kid you, Jerry.

[D]

Oh, he can't. I know that Australians talk English just like we do.

[G]

Well, I don't see why you like Belco. Jerry didn't fall for your joke.

[D]

Yeah, the joke's on you, Belco. You'll have to think up a better one than that.

[G]

You don't find Jerry's leaving. I tell you, he's much too smart. Well, I have to go now and get ready.

[B]

Can I walk over with you, Pots? Yes.

[G]

Yes, you can come.

[B]

All right. I'll just take this big belt off. It's kind of uncomfortable.

[G]

Why do you wear that big white belt?

[B]

Oh, it just looks good with the costume.

[G]

Oh, well, come on. I'll have to hurry. Goodbye, Jerry.

[D]

Go on, Fancy.

[B]

See you after a while, Jackie.

[G]

Goodbye, Jerry.

[F]

Huh?

[D]

Jerry, who is it? Where are you?

[F]

Come here, Jerry. Behind these boxes. Oh, it's you.

[D]

Made your mind.

[F]

Not so loud.

[D]

What's the matter? Shh.

[F]

Jerry, I don't want Belko and Patsy to know I was hiding back here.

[D]

They're way over near the back door already.

[F]

Listen, Jerry, I was right here behind these boxes all the while they were talking, and you know what?

[D]

No. What?

[F]

Belko asked to take Patsy out tonight.

[D]

Yeah?

[F]

And she accepted his invitation.

[D]

Well, Patsy got a right to go out with who she wants to.

[F]

Yes, but after all, I'm a friend of hers.

[D]

Oh, I'm a friend of hers, too.

[F]

Then we shouldn't let her go out with Belco.

[D]

Well, if she likes Belko, there's nothing you can do about it.

[F]

Oh, is that so?

[D]

Belco seems all right.

[F]

That's just it. He isn't all right. He isn't a fit and proper person for Patsy to be going out with.

[D]

What makes you say that?

[F]

Well, I have my reason.

[D]

Well, what makes you say Belco isn't all right?

[F]

You really want to know?

[D]

Well, sure I do.

[F]

Then I'll tell you. And what I tell you is true. You believe in Rosa Ruzzi, the fortune teller, don't you?

[D]

Oh, I guess so.

[G]

Yes.

[F]

You. Oh, you guess so. Didn't she tell you a lot of things that come true? Yeah, and didn't she tell Johnny Bradley that time he was going to leave the circus and go away in an airplane? Yeah, and what more proof do you want? I tell you, Jerry, Rosa is wonderful. Everything she says will come true.

[D]

Oh, what is it?

[F]

Well, I went to Rosa this morning to have a reading, and she told me that a young girl, a friend of mine, was in danger. Who could that be? Who could that be? Why, Patsy, of course.

[D]

Why?

[F]

Well, Rosa said that she was getting in with the wrong kind of company.

[D]

You mean Patsy?

[F]

Certainly. She said there was a big man that would mean a lot of trouble for this young lady. A big man?

[D]

So you figure she meant Belko?

[F]

Exactly.

[D]

But there are a lot of other big men in the circus.

[F]

Oh, Jerry, you're not trying to see this my way.

[D]

I am too, but you have to look at it everywhere.

[F]

There's no two ways about it. When Rosa specifies a big man, she means a bigger man than an ordinary big man. It's Belko she has reference to, I tell you.

[D]

All right. What else did she say?

[F]

She said if I would keep my eyes and ears open, I would learn something and be able to warn my friends.

[D]

Oh, that's why you were listening to Belko and Patsy when they were talking.

[F]

That's exactly it.

[D]

Oh, what did he find out besides that he wants to take her out?

[F]

Well, he said that he wanted to take her to some restaurant where they could be alone and talk. She's such a pretty little thing. I hate to have anything happen to her. And you can bet nothing will if I can help it.

[D]

You better be careful. Oh, Belco is pretty big.

[F]

Jerry, I'm gonna tell you something that'll do you good to remember.

[D]

Yeah?

[F]

It's not size that counts, it's brains. It's far better to be a mental giant than a big hulk like Belko that can lift 500 pounds with one hand.

[D]

A mental giant?

[F]

Yes, like. Well, like you, Major.

[B]

Well, hello there.

[C]

What's the secret meeting all about?

[D]

Oh, hello, Mr. Randall. It's no secret meeting.

[F]

No, of course not. Jerry and I were just talking.

[C]

Did you have to go behind these boxes to talk?

[F]

No, but we thought we'd be out of the way here.

[C]

Oh, I see.

[D]

Were you looking for me, Mr. Randall?

[C]

No, but now that I'm here, I might tell you that you didn't keep your promise, Jerry.

[D]

What promise?

[C]

Well, you told me you'd Go right over to the wagon and change out of your costume. The minute you finished your act with El Mundo, you shouldn't be standing around in it this way. That costume of yours cost quite a lot of money.

[D]

I know it, Mr. Randall, but just. I was gonna go change. I saw Major and he had something to tell me.

[F]

It's my fault, Mr. Randall.

[C]

No, no, no harm done. But don't make a habit of it, Jerry.

[D]

Oh, I won't.

[F]

Are they finished?

[C]

Who? Oh, the Russo. Yeah, it's a nice act.

[F]

You bet it is. Yes.

[D]

Jerry, did Bumps tell you about the new stunt he's gonna do with Rags?

[F]

Oh, what's that, Jerry?

[D]

Oh, Bumps is gonna work out something swell with Rags. It's gonna be a fake bullfight, isn't it, Mr. Randall?

[C]

Hmm, something like that.

[F]

A bullfight with a dog. That's a good one.

[D]

What's wrong with it?

[F]

Oh, nothing, I guess. Only I don't see what he means. How can he work Rags in a stunt like that?

[D]

He's got it all worked out. He just has to rehearse it with Rags now.

[F]

Yeah. Leave it to Bumps to figure out something. He's always thinking something new to do.

[C]

And it's a star turn that's been in his family for generations.

[E]

It isn't a new act.

[C]

Well, I've got to run along.

[D]

Goodbye.

[F]

Come on.

[D]

Goodbye.

[B]

Goodbye.

[F]

Now to get on with what I was saying.

[D]

Yeah, go ahead, Major.

[F]

Well, if rot Rosa tells me is true, and I believe it is, I'm gonna do my share to protect Patsy.

[D]

What do you mean, Major?

[F]

Well, I've got a feeling that Belko is gonna bring a lot of trouble. Patsy's way, just like Rosa says. So I'm going to try and stop it before it happens.

[D]

How?

[F]

By trailing Belko and watching him. I'm going to try and find out something about him, and I believe I will.

[D]

And then?

[F]

Well, if I do, I'll warn Patsy and save her from any harm.

[D]

Aren't you afraid?

[F]

Me, afraid? I should say not. I'm going to do some real detective work, Jerry. Everybody in this circus will be looking up to Major Mite before I get through.

[A]

Dish has been connecting communities like yours for the last 45 years, providing the TV you love at a price you can trust. Watch live sports news and the latest movies, plus your favorite streaming apps, all in one place. Switch to Dish today and lock in the lowest price in satellite TV starting at $89.99 a month with our two year price guarantee. Call 888-add-D dish or visit dish.com today.