Jerry of the Circus - Platt Is Arrested

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Harold’s Old Time Radio

Episode: Jerry of the Circus – Platt Is Arrested
Date: May 21, 2026
Host: Harolds Old Time Radio

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Episode Overview

This episode showcases an engaging installment of “Jerry of the Circus,” a classic series from the golden age of radio. The central theme is the aftermath of Stephen Platt’s arrest for a historic mail robbery, the exoneration of the wrongly imprisoned Max “Spike” Peters, and the uncertain fate of young Tom. The story is both a celebration of justice and a portrayal of compassion within the circus community, as Jerry and his friends rally to help someone in need.

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Key Discussion Points & Notable Moments

1. Breaking News: Platt’s Arrest

• Characters Involved: Jerry, Bumps, Rags (the dog)
• Timestamps: 02:08 – 03:50

Jerry rushes in, excitedly sharing the front-page news with Bumps: Steven Platt, the baggage master, was arrested for a sensational mail robbery. As Bumps reads aloud, it’s revealed that circus members' detective work (Jerry and Jason) led to Platt’s capture and may free the innocent Spike.

Quote (03:19, Bumps, reading newspaper):
“Platt is being held at the Hansberg police station under $20,000 cash bail pending trial.”

Quote (03:41, Bumps, reading on):
“Detective work done by two members of Randall Circus... is largely responsible for the apprehension of Stephen Platt. This new evidence brought to light by these amateur sleuths... will no doubt be instrumental in releasing Max Peters, who is now serving a 20-year sentence for this same mail robbery.”

2. Jerry’s Mixed Emotions and Tom’s Plight

• Characters Involved: Jerry, Bumps
• Timestamps: 04:05 – 06:17

Though initially jubilant, Jerry quickly turns somber thinking about Tom, a boy now destitute with Platt arrested. Jerry and Bumps discuss Tom’s family situation—his father’s disappearance, working for Platt who never paid him, and Tom’s prospects.

Quote (04:31, Jerry):
“Well, he hasn’t got any money at all. Honest, Bumps, he’s about as bad off as I was before I joined out with this circus.”

Quote (06:07, Jerry):
“Yeah, he’s been so swell to me. I kinda hate to ask any more favors, but… well, Tom’s really in a spot.”

3. Meeting Tom & Seeking Help from Mr. Randall

• Characters Involved: Jerry, Bumps, Tom, Mr. Randall
• Timestamps: 06:38 – 09:54

Tom arrives, confirming he saw the news and, with Platt gone, wonders about his own future. Jerry, concerned for his friend, dashes off to ask Mr. Randall, the circus owner, if Tom can stay with the circus and earn his way as they journey to Fordham where Tom hopes to find his father.

Quote (09:17, Mr. Randall, to Tom):
“Well, now, Tom, I don’t suppose you’d want to join up with us until we get to Fordham, huh? I think I might be able to find some work for you to do, you know, so you could earn your way.”

Quote (09:26, Mr. Randall):
“As a matter of fact, you’ll probably be able to make a couple of dollars for yourself so you won’t arrive in Fordham broke.”

Tom is overwhelmed with gratitude, and, cheered up, runs off with Jerry.

4. Behind-the-Scenes: Jerry’s Request and Bumps’ Soft Heart

• Characters Involved: Mr. Randall, Bumps
• Timestamps: 10:03 – 11:01

After the boys leave, Mr. Randall teases Bumps for influencing Jerry to request Tom’s stay, emphasizing the kindness running under the gruff exterior of the circus folk.

Quote (10:11, Mr. Randall):
“I tell you, Bump, you’re getting to be a sentimental old man, that’s what you are.”

5. Preparing for Trial: Evidence and Testimony

• Characters Involved: Mr. Randall, Mr. Stanton (DA’s office), Jerry, Jason
• Timestamps: 11:23 – 13:07

Mr. Randall takes Jerry and Jason to the district attorney’s office to finalize paperwork and turn in a crucial piece of evidence: a red sweater found in Platt’s barn. Mr. Stanton, the DA, questions Jerry about Spike’s innocence, seeking further clarification but noting that only the trial will establish all facts.

Quote (11:42, Mr. Stanton):
“Well, I’m mighty glad to meet you, son. Now, there are just a couple of things I want to straighten out before you leave town.”

Quote (12:00, Jerry):
“Of course. Well, doesn’t this prove it? I mean, finding Platt with the goods and all.”

Quote (12:15, Mr. Stanton):
“Have you anything more than Spike’s word for this?”

Quote (12:33, Mr. Stanton):
“I admire your loyalty, son. However, it all probably will be cleared up at the trial.”

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Bumps (03:41):
  “Detective work done by two members of Randall Circus… is largely responsible for the apprehension of Stephen Platt…”

• Jerry (09:54):
  “Come on, Tom. Bet I beat you.”
  Tom: “Bet you don’t.”

• Mr. Randall (10:11):
  “You’re getting to be a sentimental old man, that’s what you are.”

• Mr. Stanton (12:33):
  “I admire your loyalty, son. However, it all probably will be cleared up at the trial.”

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Timeline of Important Sections

• 02:08 – Major news: Platt’s arrest and the impact on the circus.
• 03:41 – Newspaper acknowledges circus members’ role in solving the crime.
• 06:38 – Tom expresses concern for his future.
• 09:17 – Mr. Randall offers Tom a place in the circus.
• 11:23 – The group visits the DA’s office, turning in evidence.
• 12:33 – DA addresses the lingering doubts about Spike’s innocence.

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Tone & Style

The episode is warm, earnest, and filled with the camaraderie and good-hearted support one expects from family-friendly radio adventures. There’s a blend of excitement (with the arrest) and sensitivity (regarding Tom’s fate), illuminated by generous acts and persistent hope.

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Summary

“Jerry of the Circus – Platt Is Arrested” is a quintessential slice of old-time radio. Justice appears to be within reach for the guiltless Spike, thanks to Jerry’s determination. At the same time, true to the spirit of the circus, a boy in need is lifted up by friends’ compassion and resourcefulness. The blend of mystery, friendship, and integrity creates a timeless appeal that radiates through this episode.

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Transcript

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[Liberty Mutual Customer]

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[Liberty Mutual Customer]

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[Liberty Mutual Agent]

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[Liberty Mutual Customer]

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[Mr. Randall]

Liberty.

[Liberty Mutual Customer]

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[Mr. Randall]

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

[Bumps]

Well, rags, old fella. What's the hurry? Well, Jerry, what's all exciting?

[Jerry]

Hey, look, I just got the morning paper. And it's all about flats. Headlines all over the front page.

[Bumps]

You don't say it.

[Jerry]

Yeah, they got him. It says right here in the paper that the police caught him last night.

[Bumps]

No, you don't. Here, let's have a look at that paper.

[Jerry]

Yeah, here, read it. Quiet, Ray.

[Bumps]

Well, I declare.

[Jerry]

Read it out loud. Bumps. I didn't get a chance to finish. I was in such a hurry to let you see.

[Bumps]

Wait. Let's just sit down here on these steps.

[Jerry]

Okay. Come on, Rice. Lie down and be quiet.

[Bumps]

Now, it says. Carrying several thousand dollars in negotiable securities. Alleged to have been stolen in a sensational mail robbery four years ago. Stephen Platt, for the past eight years baggage master of the Hansberg Railway station of the LM&O lines. Was apprehended and arrested by deputy sheriff as he was about to board a southbound freight train late last night at Garden Junction.

[Jerry]

Gee, he might have gotten away. Say, it's lucky the police got there in time.

[Bumps]

Yeah, the law has to work fast, Jerry.

[Jerry]

Go on. What else does it say?

[Bumps]

Let's see. A plat is being held at the Hansberg police station. Under $20,000 cash bail pending trial.

[Jerry]

Serves him right.

[Bumps]

Then it goes on to tell about the robbery.

[Jerry]

Yeah, the one they're keeping Spike in jail for.

[Bumps]

Now, wait a minute, Jerry. Now, listen to this. Detective work done by two members of Randall Circus. Now playing Hansberg. Is largely responsible for the apprehension of Stephen Platt. This new evidence brought to light by these amateur sleuths.

[Jerry]

That's us, Jason and me.

[Bumps]

Yes. Will no doubt be instrumental in releasing Max Peters. Who is now serving a 20 year sentence for this same mail robbery.

[Jerry]

Well, that Spike bump. Oh, Dee, we. We've really helped him.

[Bumps]

It certainly looks like it, Jerry. Now, wait till I finish this. Now, a speedy retrial of the case is assured by Presiding Judge Leroy. Well, Jerry, looks like they caught Platt red handed this time.

[Jerry]

Yeah. Now.

[Mr. Randall]

Now what?

[Bumps]

Seems like you ought to be mighty pleased.

[Jerry]

Oh, of course I. I am, as far as Spike's concerned.

[Bumps]

What's gotten into you? Here you were all excited, and then all of a sudden you act like a punctured balloon. There's something wrong.

[Jerry]

I was just thinking.

[Bumps]

Well, it shouldn't hurt that much.

[Jerry]

No, but this is serious. It's about Tom.

[Bumps]

What about it?

[Jerry]

Oh, what'll he do now? Where'll he go?

[Bumps]

Well, how do you mean, Jerry?

[Jerry]

Well, he hasn't got any money at all. Honest, Bumps, he's about as bad off as I was before I joined out with this circus.

[Bumps]

Hasn't he got any folks?

[Jerry]

Oh, I guess I didn't have a chance to tell you much about Tom, what with all excitement.

[Bumps]

I should say nothing. You've been busier than a cat with nine kittens since we reached Hansberg.

[Jerry]

Yeah, I know. Well, you see, Bumps, Tom's got a dad, but he doesn't know where he is.

[Bumps]

Oh, that's funny.

[Jerry]

It sure is. His dad left Tom quite a while ago with flat. Then all of a sudden he stopped writing them. Well, Tom's been working for his keep ever since.

[Bumps]

When'd he last hear from his father?

[Jerry]

A long time back. I don't know exactly.

[Bumps]

Where was his dad then?

[Jerry]

In Fordham, I think. But of course, there's no knowing where he is now.

[Bumps]

Just as how natural for a man to just stop writing to his own son with no explanation at all.

[Jerry]

And the worst of it is it Tom hasn't got a penny.

[Bumps]

Well, I take it Platt never paid him for his work then.

[Jerry]

No, say he didn't. He was awful mean to Tom, too. Made him work hard and everything.

[Bumps]

It seems like the circus plays for him, Jerry.

[Jerry]

Yeah, I know, but I don't see how that'll help Tom. Unless, say, of course, I might be able to try and find his dad when we get there.

[Bumps]

But if Tom hasn't a job or anything, he's likely to get pretty hungry by that time.

[Jerry]

Yeah, that's the trouble. If only. I wonder.

[Bumps]

What, Jerry?

[Jerry]

Oh, I wonder if there'd be any chance of Tom going along with the circus until we get to Fordham. Well, he could work for his keep. He's an awful good worker, Bumps. Do you think there's a chance?

[Bumps]

Well, it's an idea, all right. Of course, Mr. Randall's the boss around here.

[Jerry]

Yeah, he's been so swell to me. I kind of hate to ask any more. Favors, but. Well, Tom's really in a spot.

[Bumps]

Can't do any harm to ask. He can't do any more than say no.

[Jerry]

That's right. Besides, I just gotta try and do something for Tom. He said he'd come over this morning and say goodbye. See? Listen, Bob.

[Bumps]

Yes, Jerry?

[Jerry]

I'm gonna run over now and see Mr. Randall. If Tom gets here before I get back, make him wait for me.

[Bumps]

Of course I will. Jerry.

[Jerry]

Wouldn't it be great if I. Hey, come on, Rags, we gotta hurry. Hey. Hey, wait a minute. Here he comes now.

[Lowe's Announcer]

Who?

[Mr. Stanton]

Who?

[Bumps]

Mr. Randall?

[Tom]

Uhuh.

[Jerry]

Tom. Hi, Tom.

[Mr. Stanton]

Hello there.

[Tom]

Hello there. Morning, Bubs.

[Jerry]

Say, Tom, you seen the papers? Yeah.

[Tom]

They caught him just in the nick of time, didn't they?

[Jerry]

They sure did. I guess that's the last time Plaid will ever be mean to you.

[Tom]

Yeah. The police sure ought to be grateful to you, Jerry. Guess maybe they never would have caught him if it hadn't been for you.

[Jerry]

Got any plans, Tom? Well, how do you mean? Figured out what you're gonna do next?

[Tom]

What can I do?

[Jerry]

Well, I just wanted to be sure. Will you excuse me for a minute, Tom? I got an errand. You stay here with Bunce.

[Tom]

Sure. There's no place I could go anyhow.

[Jerry]

I'll be right back. I got an idea and. Well, Rex. Come along, Rex.

[Mr. Randall]

Come on.

[Bumps]

Well, good luck, Jerry. We'll be waiting.

[Jerry]

Okay. Keep your fingers crossed.

[Bumps]

I will.

[Tom]

What do you say that for, Bunch?

[Bumps]

What?

[Tom]

Keeping your fingers crossed.

[Mr. Randall]

Oh.

[Bumps]

Oh, that. Oh, it's a little secret Jerry has. Maybe he can tell you about it later. I hope so. Oh, say, Tom, Jerry tells me you haven't heard from your father in a long time.

[Tom]

No. Well, it's kind of funny too, because when he did write, he was always awful regular.

[Jerry]

Wrote every week.

[Bumps]

Were you and your dad good friends?

[Tom]

Always. Sure were. Say, he took me every place. We were buddies.

[Bumps]

How'd he happen to leave you with Platt?

[Tom]

Well, you see, he got a job out of town in a place called Fordham.

[Bumps]

I see.

[Tom]

Well, he couldn't take me very well at first, but he was going to send for me soon as he could.

[Bumps]

Were he and Platt friends?

[Tom]

Well, we didn't know Mr. Platt very well, but when dad got this job, Mr. Platt said I could stay with him for a while.

[Bumps]

Until your father could send for you, huh?

[Tom]

Yeah, but. And dad was going to send a little money now and then, but. Well, I guess he just never had it to send.

[Bumps]

And you don't know whether he's still in Fordham or not.

[Tom]

No, but. But if he didn't have a job, I don't see how he could get anyplace else not having any money or anything.

[Bumps]

That sounds reasonable. Well, sounds like our friend Jerry's back over it.

[Tom]

Oh, there he comes now with Mr. Randall.

[Jerry]

He's got to do it. It's all fixed.

[Mr. Randall]

Good morning, young man.

[Tom]

Morning, Mr. Randall. I hope you don't mind my being here.

[Mr. Randall]

Of course I don't mind, Tom.

[Tom]

I just had to say goodbye to Jerry and all.

[Mr. Randall]

Well, by the way, Tom, what are you planning to do now that you aren't working for Mr. Platt?

[Tom]

Well, I really don't know.

[Mr. Randall]

Jerry tells me you've got a father in Fordham.

[Tom]

Well, I think I have. Well, I mean, I think he's in Fordham.

[Mr. Randall]

I don't suppose he knows about all this Platt mix up.

[Tom]

I'm sure he doesn't. I'm afraid now he'll never know how to get in touch with me now that Mr. Platt won't be here anymore.

[Mr. Randall]

Well, now, Tom, I don't suppose you'd want to join up with us until we get to Fordham, huh?

[Jerry]

What?

[Mr. Randall]

I think I might be able to find some work for you to do, you know, so you could earn your way.

[Tom]

You mean it, Mr. Randall?

[Jerry]

Isn't it wonderful?

[Mr. Randall]

Of course I mean it. As a matter of fact, you'll probably be able to make a couple of dollars for yourself so you won't arrive and ford em broke.

[Tom]

Gee, Mr. Reynolds, I can hardly believe it.

[Mr. Randall]

Now, now, I'll tell you what you two boys do. You run over to the kitchen and see if Leo can rustle up a job for Tom.

[Jerry]

You bet we will, Mr. Randall.

[Mr. Randall]

And have a couple of boys around here with time on their hands.

[Jerry]

Come on, Tom, I'll race you over to the mess den.

[Tom]

You're honored. Well, you know how thankful I am, Mr. Randall.

[Mr. Randall]

All right, son.

[Jerry]

Come on, Tom. Bet I beat you.

[Tom]

Bet you don't.

[Bumps]

Look at those boys run. Ah, they're nice kids, both of them.

[Mr. Randall]

I bet they are.

[Bumps]

I wish I was young again.

[Mr. Randall]

I tell you, Bump, you're getting to be a sentimental old man, that's what you are.

[Bumps]

Why, Sam, what do you mean, sentimental?

[Mr. Randall]

You didn't fool me one bit. I know perfectly well who put Jerry up to ask me to help Tom.

[Bumps]

Oh, I don't know what you're talking about. It was Jerry's idea.

[Mr. Randall]

I know who gave it to him. You can't fool me.

[Bumps]

Oh. Oh, yeah. Well, when it comes to that, I don't think your heart's made of stone either.

[Mr. Randall]

What are you talking about?

[Bumps]

Listen, you can't fool me. Leo doesn't anymore need an extra hand and I need another foot.

[Mr. Randall]

Well, we won't go into that. What I really wanted to tell you was that I have to take Jerry and Jason down to the district attorney's office before we leave town.

[Bumps]

Oh, anything serious?

[Mr. Randall]

Oh, no, no, no. They just got to sign some papers regarding their discussion discoveries on this case. And here's where you come in. Jerry has to take along that red sweater he picked up in Platts Barn.

[Bumps]

No. Why, you're kid.

[Mr. Randall]

No, I'm not. It'll be one of the exhibits in the trial.

[Bumps]

Oh, just my luck. I never get the breaks. Well, I see where I'll have to say goodbye to that nice sweater then.

[Mr. Stanton]

The district attorney will see you now, Mr. Randall.

[Mr. Randall]

Thank you, young man.

[Mr. Stanton]

Yes. Come right this way, Mr. Randall. It was nice of you to take your valuable time and accompany these people.

[Mr. Randall]

Oh, I'm only too glad to, Mr. Stanton.

[Mr. Stanton]

I've had the papers all drawn up. You want to look them over before Jason and Jerry sign them.

[Mr. Randall]

Yeah, I'll be glad to.

[Mr. Stanton]

So you're Jerry Dugan.

[Jerry]

Yes, sir. Here's a sweater you told me to bring, sir.

[Mr. Stanton]

Well, I'm mighty glad to meet you, son. Now, there are just a couple of things I want to straighten out before you leave town.

[Jerry]

Well, I'll be glad to tell you anything I know, sir.

[Mr. Stanton]

Good. How about this man Spike? I understand he's a friend of yours.

[Jerry]

He sure is. When he told me how he'd been framed, I just made up my mind I'd do everything I could to try and find out who framed him.

[Mr. Stanton]

So you're convinced he's innocent, huh?

[Jerry]

Of course. Well, doesn't this prove it? I mean, finding Platt with the goods and all.

[Mr. Stanton]

Well, it may and it may not. After all, so far there's no proof that Max Peters, the man you call Spike and Platt, weren't working together.

[Jerry]

Oh, no, it couldn't be.

[Mr. Stanton]

Have you anything more than Spike's word for this?

[Jerry]

Oh, no, but I'd trust Spike anytime.

[Mr. Stanton]

Isn't it possible that they were working together and then the plat double cross Spike at the last minute?

[Jerry]

But Spike just isn't that kind honesty, is it, Mr. Stanton?

[Mr. Stanton]

I admire your loyalty, son. However, it all probably will be cleared up at the trial. I just wanted to be sure you didn't have any more information, you know, to help clear your friend's good name.

[Jerry]

No, I wish I did. But Spike didn't have the least idea who'd framed him. All I knew was that he worked for a man named Plant.

[Mr. Stanton]

That's all you had to go on, eh?

[Jerry]

Yes, sir. That's all.

[Mr. Stanton]

All right, Jerry. Thank you very much. Now, If Jason and Mr. Randall have finished looking those papers over, we'll get

[Jerry]

them signed, and that's all we have to do.

[Mr. Stanton]

That'll be all. It's all we can do until the trial comes up.

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