Listener's Playhouse 40-06-29 (01) The Twenty First Girl

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Listener's Playhouse 40-06-29 (01) The Twenty First Girl
Release Date: August 10, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Description: A dramatization set in the Golden Age of Radio, featuring legendary characters and captivating storytelling reminiscent of classic radio shows like The Shadow and Dragnet.

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1. Introduction to Listener's Playhouse

The episode begins with an introduction to "The Listeners Playhouse," a new feature on the National Broadcasting Company (NBC). Narrated at [00:23], the segment showcases plays written by talented young writers, supplemented occasionally by other emerging storytellers. Specially composed music by Tom Bennett sets the dramatic tone for each production.

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2. The Legend Awakens: Paul Bunyan’s Rampage

At [01:38], the character known as the 21st Girl introduces herself:

“When you hear that music that's me I'm the 21st girl that Paul Bunyan wanted to marry.”

Shortly after, Paul Bunyan declares his presence:

“Listen when you hear that music that's me Paul Bunyan.” [01:51]

The tranquility of Saturday night, June 29, 1940, is shattered as Paul Bunyan wreaks havoc along Lake Superior, uprooting trees and hurling boulders into the lake. At [03:40], the Sheriff explains:

“What shall we do? We can't lock him up. He's too big. You're the only man who can handle Paul Bunyan. He'll do anything you tell him to.”

Johnny Inkslinger, the protagonist, is tasked with stopping Bunyan's destructive spree. As Johnny prepares for the daunting task, he humbly describes Paul Bunyan's might:

“Taller than the tallest tree. That's Paul Bunyan. Stronger than a hundred men...” [04:15]

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3. Confrontation and Paul’s Inner Turmoil

Upon meeting, Paul Bunyan reveals his vulnerability. At [05:06], he confides in Johnny:

“I've been crying. Now, don't you say a word to anybody about it. But that was me crying.”

Johnny, concerned, probes deeper into Paul’s distress:

“Mr. Bunyan, why did you do that? You've never broken things before...” [06:04]

Paul admits his loneliness and desire for companionship:

“I'm in love. I'm a man, Johnny. I may be a legend, but I'm still a man...” [08:32]

He articulates his loneliness through nature metaphors:

“Except me. Except Paul Bunyan.” [09:42]

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4. The Marriage Dilemma: Contest for the 21st Bride

To alleviate his loneliness, Paul decides to seek a bride, leading to a town-wide contest organized by the Sheriff. At [12:06], the Sheriff outlines the setup:

“Ladies and women from all over the country have come here hoping to be chosen to be Paul Bunyan's bride.”

Paul, overwhelmed by the attention, humorously juggles his suitors:

“Paul, hand me another bucket of that grease. My hair won't stay in place.” [12:20]

The contest progresses with multiple candidates vying for Paul's affection, each showcasing their unique qualities. Johnny, observing the chaos, warns:

“Don't throw her out, you fool. Set her aside. Fried eggs ain't hay.” [14:00]

Despite the organized setup, Paul becomes conflicted as he finds himself attracted to multiple women, leading to an unmanageable situation.

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5. Legal Turmoil and Paul’s Predicament

The plot thickens when Paul intends to marry 21 women, exceeding the marriage license limit of 20. The Sheriff reveals the complication at [23:18]:

“Paul Bunyan has promised to marry 21 girls.”

Johnny and the Sheriff grapple with the legal ramifications, debating bigamy versus "bigotry" (a humorous twist in terminology):

Johnny Inkslinger: “Marrying two women is bigamy. Marrying 20 is bigotry.” [18:09]

Paul contemplates escaping the situation:

“I'm miserable. I don't want to get married. I want to be alone.” [25:02]

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6. Resolution: Embracing the Legend’s Role

The turning point occurs when the 21st Girl confronts Paul, urging him to realize that his love was never genuine:

“You think you were in love. But we figured that you weren't really in love with us.” [26:03]

Together with the other suitors, they persuade Paul to embrace his role as a legend rather than seek multiple affections. Paul vows to remain a symbol of strength and unity for everyone:

“I'll always be your greatest and best legend. A legend of strength and power for America.” [27:40]

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7. Conclusion: The Legend’s Legacy

The episode concludes with Paul Bunyan accepting his place as a beloved legend, ensuring that his myth inspires and unites rather than divides. The Narrator wraps up at [28:30]:

“You've just heard the listeners playhouse. The 21st Girl by Albert N. Williams. Special music was by Tom Bennett, conducted by Joseph Stopak.”

Notable Cast:

• Paul Bunyan: Mark Smith
• Johnny Inkslinger: Peter Arnold
• 21st Girl: Gertrude Warner

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Key Takeaways

• Legacy and Responsibility: Paul Bunyan’s transformation from a solitary giant to a shared symbol emphasizes the importance of community and collective belief in legends.

• Love and Loneliness: The story explores the fine line between genuine love and the burdens of excessive attention, highlighting the challenges of maintaining personal integrity amidst public adoration.

• Humor and Heart: Through witty dialogues and heartfelt moments, the play balances humor with emotional depth, making it resonate with listeners of all ages.

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Notable Quotes:

• Johnny Inkslinger at [04:15]: “Taller than the tallest tree. That's Paul Bunyan. Stronger than a hundred men...”

• Paul Bunyan at [08:32]: “I'm in love. I'm a man, Johnny. I may be a legend, but I'm still a man...”

• 21st Girl at [26:03]: “You think you were in love. But we figured that you weren't really in love with us.”

• Paul Bunyan at [27:40]: “I'll always be your greatest and best legend. A legend of strength and power for America.”

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Conclusion

The Twenty First Girl presents a thoughtful and engaging narrative that delves into the human aspects of legendary figures. By combining humor, drama, and insightful dialogues, the play offers listeners a captivating experience that honors the rich tradition of old-time radio storytelling.

Transcript

[Narrator]

The Listeners Playhouse, a new feature of the National Broadcasting Company. Each Saturday night we will bring you a play written by one of three talented young writers. John Latouche, Ronald McDougall and Albert N. Williams. They will be supplemented from time to time by other young writers keenly desirous of making the fullest possible use of the radio medium in expressing ideas or telling stories in dramatic form. In these plays you will hear specially composed music by Tom Bennett. The Listeners Playhouse.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

List. When you hear that music that's me gumming and slinger.

[Girl 1]

Listen when you hear that music that's us Paul Bunyan Sweaty sweetheart Listen.

[21st Girl]

When you hear that music that's me I'm the 21st girl that Paul Bunyan wanted to marry.

[Paul Bunyan]

Listen when you hear that music that's me Paul Bunyan.

[Narrator]

Saturday night, June 29, 1940, and the listeners Playhouse of the National Broadcasting Company takes the air. The first presentation by Albert n. Williams, the 21st girl. Special music composed by Tom Bennett. Listen for the identifying musical themes which distinguish the important dramatic elements throughout the play. The Johnny Inkslinger scene and the Paul Bunyan scene. They will be distorted to represent particular emotions, but their basic tonal color will remain unchanged throughout the play.

[21st Girl]

Who is it?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

What is it?

[21st Girl]

Who is it?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

What's all the racket about? Who are you? What do you want?

[Girl 1]

Yes, that's me.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

What do you want?

[Paul Bunyan]

Come on down. It's the sheriff.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Go on away and don't. The sheriff. Oh, my goodness. Yes, Mr. Sheriff. I'll be right down.

[21st Girl]

Good heavens.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

What is it?

[Paul Bunyan]

Look here.

[Sheriff]

A telegram from the game warden up by Lake Superior.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

A telegram for me?

[Sheriff]

Not for you, for me. Here, read it.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Telegram. Oh, my. Terrible devastation all along. Lakeshore trees uprooted for miles. Boulders being thrown into lake. Suspect Paul Bunyan. Get hold of Johnny Inkslinger at once. Well? Oh, that's Mr. Bunyan, all right. He was feeling moody and restless last night and said he was going to take a walk along the shore of Lake Superior. That's Mr. Bunyan, all right. Gracious. What shall we do?

[Sheriff]

What shall we do? We can't lock him up. He's too big. You're the only man who can handle Paul Bunyan. He'll do anything you tell him to.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Yes, that's right. Throwing boulders in the lake. I guess I'd better stop him. Uprooting trees, breaking them in two. Oh, yes. I'd better get right up there at once.

[Sheriff]

I say you'd better find Paul Bunyan and stop him from ruining the scenery of this beautiful state. Bring him back home and make him quiet down.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Yes, sir.

[Sheriff]

And hurry before he ruins the whole shore of Lake Superior.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Yes, sir.

[Sheriff]

I've got a horse for you.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Now go in my nightgown.

[Sheriff]

In your nightgown.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Taller than the tallest tree. That's Paul Bunyan. Stronger than a hundred men. He pulls up trees by the roof, Drinks a river dry in the Gulf, eats 20 cows for lunch and makes an omelette from a thousand eggs. That's Paul Bunyan, the greatest lumberjack that ever lived. And now he's mad at something. Oh, my Paul Bunyan.

[21st Girl]

Mad.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Oh, I must hurry. Get up.

[Sheriff]

Get up.

[Paul Bunyan]

Oh, dog gone. Darned old tree. Oh, that's no fun. I'm unhappy. I feel like I'm going to cry.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Mr. Bunyan. Mr. Bunyan. Oh, Mr. Bunyan, here I am. Down here. Look, by your left foot.

[Paul Bunyan]

What's that? Oh, Johnny.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Mr. Bunyan, lift me up. I want to talk to you. Here I am. That's right. A little higher, please. There. Good heavens, Mr. Bunyan, that was a terrible storm.

[21st Girl]

Oh, you've been crying.

[Paul Bunyan]

Yes, Johnny, I. I've been crying. Now, don't you say a word to anybody about it. But that was me crying.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Well, whatever on earth is the matter, Mr. Bunyan?

[Paul Bunyan]

Yeah, I mean, I'm so unhappy.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

But all these trees. Upon my word, there isn't a tree standing for 20 miles.

[Paul Bunyan]

I know. I'm kind of ashamed of that. I tore them up and broke them.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Oh, Mr. Bunyan, why did you do that? You've never broken things before. You've never hurt anything or done anything bad. You mustn't start now.

[Paul Bunyan]

I know, I know. I just wanted to, that's all.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

But, Mr. Bunyan, if you do that. Well, we'll just get rid of you, that's all.

[Paul Bunyan]

Get rid of me?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Oh, I mean that. Mr. Bunyan, I hate to have to tell you, but if you ever do this again, if you ever break anything or go on a rampage again, the people just won't believe in you.

[Paul Bunyan]

Believe in me? What do you mean?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

You know as well as I do that you're just a legend, Mr. Bunyan. Just a legend.

[Paul Bunyan]

Just a legend.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Just a legend. Mind you, you're about the best legend that America has. Oh, think of it. The legend of Paul Bunyan. The strongest, the greatest, the biggest man in the world. Taller than the tallest tree, stronger than a hundred men. Oh, my, it's a fine legend. It's a fine legend. A wonderful legend. America ought to have more legends like you. Legends of strength and greatness for the people to believe in legends of beauty and glory. I tell you, Mr. Bunyan, you're a mighty wonderful legend.

[Paul Bunyan]

Thank you, Johnny.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

That's why you've got to be careful.

[Paul Bunyan]

Oh, yes.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Because if you ever act up this way again, the people will just erase you from their memories. You've heard of that, haven't you? Legends being erased from people's memories?

[Paul Bunyan]

Yes.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Yeah, that's what will happen to you. People will get rid of you, quit believing in you. They'll erase you from their memories.

[Paul Bunyan]

Oh, no, no, they can't. They won't.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

I tell you they will. They will if you don't behave.

[Paul Bunyan]

Oh, I'll behave. I'll behave. You tell them that, Johnny. You tell them that I'll behave. They know that I'll do anything you ask. I will. You know I will. Why, you're my friend, Johnny Inkslinger. My best friend. You tell them, Johnny, and they'll believe you.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Well, all right, I will. I'll tell them that you'll behave and I will too.

[Paul Bunyan]

I promise you that I will. Honest, Johnny, I will. They've got to believe in me. They've got to.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Oh, they will, Mr. Bunyan, they will.

[Paul Bunyan]

You had me worried for a while there.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Tell me, Mr. Bunyan, what was the trouble?

[Paul Bunyan]

Trouble? Trouble. Oh. Oh, I'm unhappy, Johnny. Unhappy. So unhappy. I could take those trees now, Mr. Bunyan. I forgot. But I'm still unhappy, Johnny. I am in love.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

In love? Why, Mr. Bunyan?

[Paul Bunyan]

Yes, I'm in love. I'm a man, Johnny. I may be a legend, but I'm still a man. And I'm in love. Listen to my heart, Hear it beat. It's lonely. Look into my eyes. What do you see? Searching, seeking. Looking for someone to love. I'm lonely, Johnny. Lonely and in love.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

In love with whom?

[Paul Bunyan]

Just in love. I want to get married. It isn't right for a man not to get married. We're like trees, Johnny. Trees of the forest. We need others near us. Did you ever see a lone tree on a flat prairie? It's a pitiful sight. And the first high wind blows it down. That's what I am, a lone tree.

[Sheriff]

Oh, Mr. Bunyan, have you ever seen.

[Paul Bunyan]

A lone blade of grass? No. Grass grows with other grass and leaves grow together. And the birds of the air nest in the same branches together. The raindrops fall from heaven Together, Johnny. The sun shines in many beams, not just one. And the snow melts in little streams which join together, Johnny. Everything in the world finds something to join with. To Be with. Except me. Except me. Do you realize it?

[21st Girl]

Why, yes.

[Paul Bunyan]

Of all things in nature, on the earth or over earth, everything finds a mate. Except me. Except Paul Bunyan.

[21st Girl]

Yeah.

[Paul Bunyan]

Yeah.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Come to think of it, you must be lonely.

[Paul Bunyan]

I am lonely, Johnny. I'm probably the most lonely thing on the face of the earth. Johnny, I. I think I'm going to cry again.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Oh, Mr. Bunyan, you mustn't. You must control yourself. You mustn't. Mr. Bunyan. Oh, Mr. Bunyan. Mr. Bunyan, listen to me. You can get married.

[Girl 1]

You don't need to be lonely.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

You can get married.

[Paul Bunyan]

What's that?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

I said you don't need to be lonely. You can get married.

[Paul Bunyan]

I can?

[Girl 1]

Yes.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

I'll take care of the whole thing. I'll find the girl, I'll hire the minister. I'll fix it. You can get married and you'll be happy. But just stop crying.

[Paul Bunyan]

I can get married. I can get married.

[Girl 1]

What's that sign say? Wanted a girl to marry Paul Bunyan. Good heavens. Hey, mister, where do you apply? Get married to Paul Bunyan. Say, that's an idea. Where do you apply? Let me in. I'll marry Paul Bunyan. I want to see Mr. Paul Bunyan. I'll marry him. Quick. Sell me that dress. I want to make an impression on Paul Bunyan. He wants to get married. How much is that glass eye?

[21st Girl]

I've got to have it.

[Girl 1]

I want to make a good impression on Paul Bunyan. Can you teach me how to cook by tomorrow night? I want to marry Paul Bunyan. Me. That wig.

[Sheriff]

Where is this poor bunion? My daughter wants to get married to him.

[Girl 1]

My sister wants to get married to Paul Bunyan.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

My wife wants to marry Paul Bunyan.

[Sheriff]

I tell you, Mr. Bunyan, this is the greatest thing that ever happened for the state of Wisconsin. Why, girls and women from all over the country have come here hoping to be chosen to be Paul Bunyan's bride.

[Paul Bunyan]

All these neckties on straight. Yes, yes, yes.

[Sheriff]

And so I rented the town hall. And everybody that wants to marry you is down there. They're all lined up like a convention. The redheads are all in one corner of the room. The blondes in the gallery and the brunettes on the platform. It's all set, Mr. Bunyan. All you've got to do is pick out which one you want on.

[Paul Bunyan]

Johnny, hand me another bucket of that grease. My hair won't stay in place. There. All right, men, let's go.

[Girl 1]

Quiet. What's the matter? Look. Coming around the corner. Why, it's Full. Bunny, get my wig on stage. You're on the call. Right, dearie. That dress of yours has always looked beautiful. Tammy McCain, please. You're shoving on my game late, girly. If you miss my glass, I'll snatch you.

[Paul Bunyan]

Full.

[Girl 1]

Ladies.

[Sheriff]

Ladies, ladies, ladies. Your attention, please. For the benefit of those of you who haven't met our most distinguished citizen. Oh, Bunyan.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Paul Bunyan.

[Girl 1]

Hello, you. Hello, Paul, dear.

[Sheriff]

Ladies, ladies, ladies, please. Now, all of you, stand where you are. Mr. Bunyan will pass among you and make his choice. You will each be allowed one sentence. Quiet now, ladies.

[Girl 1]

Oh, Bunyan.

[Sheriff]

Absolute quiet for once in your lives.

[Paul Bunyan]

Don't mind me, ladies. I. I'm just looking for. Just looking for someone. That all right, Johnny?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Hold me higher. There, that's fine. Now just start walking.

[Girl 1]

My friends all tell me I'm very beautiful.

[Paul Bunyan]

Nope.

[Girl 1]

I could cook.

[21st Girl]

I used to cook for the railroad men. I can cook for you.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Don't throw her out, you fool. Set her aside. Fried eggs ain't hay.

[Paul Bunyan]

All right, you stand over there.

[21st Girl]

I can. So you wear out lots of clothes.

[Paul Bunyan]

No.

[Girl 1]

Lots of clothes. You're a big man, Paul Bunyan. You'll need lots of sewing.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Give her a whirl, Mr. Bunyan.

[Paul Bunyan]

Give her a whirl.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

You never can tell.

[Paul Bunyan]

All right, you stand over there, too.

[Girl 1]

But I'm over here.

[Sheriff]

Ladies, ladies, please. Mr. Bunyan has to make a choice. He'll make several choices in the preliminaries and make his final choice later.

[Paul Bunyan]

Don't rush him.

[Sheriff]

Don't rush him.

[Girl 1]

Don't rush Paul Bunyan.

[Paul Bunyan]

You know, Johnny, this is fun. I never realized falling in love would be such fun. Picking out the girls I might marry. Well, I can't stand here all night. Or you.

[Girl 1]

I can keep a house clean as a pine forest, Mr. Bunyan. I can bake pies. Mr. Bunyan.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Set her aside.

[Girl 1]

I can sing Cowboy Bellas.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Mr. Bunyan, toss her out.

[Girl 1]

I can whistle like a lumber friend.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Anything for a laugh, Mr. Bunyan.

[Girl 1]

I can win on my ear. I can nip sell towses day.

[Sheriff]

Well, Mr. Bunyan, I must say that was a pretty strenuous bit of work, considering all those girls.

[Paul Bunyan]

Oh, my, my.

[Sheriff]

What wouldn't a man of my propensities give to you? Understand, Mr. Bunyan?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Of course he understands, Mr. Mayor. Please don't bother Mr. Bunyan now. He's still got his final choice to make.

[Sheriff]

Oh, yes, of course, of course. Ladies, ladies. Quietly now. Mr. Bunyan has narrowed his choice down to those of you standing in the corner. Mr. Bunyan. Still has his final choice to make. It may be any one of you. Anyone? All right, Mr. Bunyan, you may continue.

[Paul Bunyan]

Let's see. You got to red hearted one now. Now that second one can cook pancakes. He. Is that that other one? Johnny?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Yes, what is it, Mr. Bunny?

[Paul Bunyan]

Johnny, do most men fall in love with lots of girls?

[21st Girl]

Why yes, I guess they do.

[Paul Bunyan]

Yeah, I thought so. I'm in love with all those women.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Nonsense.

[Paul Bunyan]

It is nonsense. How many girls are there?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Oh, I. I don't know. I didn't count them. Must be 20 anyway.

[Paul Bunyan]

You know, I don't understand too much about this love business. But I think it's quite logical being in love with more than one woman.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

It isn't right, Mr. Bunyan, something must be wrong with you.

[Paul Bunyan]

Not at all, not at all. Look there. I love that redhead because I love red hair.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Well, I can understand that. She's very attractive.

[Paul Bunyan]

But I also love flapjacks. And that one next to her can cook the best flapjacks in Wisconsin. Not one in the back. He can play the mandolin. Johnny, I love the sound of a mandolin.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Oh, Mr. Bunyan, you're being difficult. Why don't you decide what you like best and make up your mind.

[Sheriff]

We're waiting, Mr. Bunyan.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Yes, hurry up, it's getting late. We've got lots to do yet. Get a license and things like that, you know.

[Paul Bunyan]

Johnny, I've got it.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

You've made up your mind?

[Paul Bunyan]

Yep, I made up my mind. Good, good. Ladies, ladies. All right.

[Sheriff]

Mr. Bunyan has decided and will make his Choice now.

[Girl 1]

Oh, Mr. Bunyan.

[Sheriff]

Well, let us in on the secret. Which is the lucky girl, Mr. Bunyan?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Go on, don't be frightened. Which is it?

[Sheriff]

All right now, girls, I'm going to.

[Paul Bunyan]

Marry them all.

[Girl 1]

Or he's going to marry us all.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Paul Bunyan made up his mind.

[Paul Bunyan]

He's gonna marry old 20.

[Sheriff]

Paul Bunyan, legendary giant lumberjack, today announced his intention to MARRY at least 20 girls.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

We can't marry them all. That's bigotry.

[Sheriff]

You mean bigamy?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Marrying two women is bigamy. Marrying 20 is bigotry.

[Sheriff]

Bunyan, legendary Wisconsin lumberjack, threatens to fight clear to Supreme Court for right to marry as many girls as he wants to.

[Girl 1]

Hello. Barbara Whitman at Mind and Door, Attorneys at Law. Good morning.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

I want to speak to Mr. Doakes, please.

[Girl 1]

Just a moment. Yes, I'll call for you, Mr. Doak. I'll go ahead, please.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Hello, Mr. Doakes? Yeah, will you handle the case of Paul Bunyan, please? He wants to marry a whole bunch of girls. And we can't get him a license. Mr. Bunyan says he'll fight it out in the courts if it takes the rest of his life.

[Sheriff]

He says spare no lawyers represent Paul Bunyan in court. You bet I will. Ten dollars, please. Your witness, Mr. Do. Thank you, counselor. Now, Mr. Smith. You say you have known the Supplicant call Bunyan for many years.

[Paul Bunyan]

Worked with him 18 years.

[Sheriff]

I only want you to answer one question, Mr. Smith. Is Bunyan a strong man?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Why, you idiot.

[Sheriff]

Ain't you ever seen him?

[Paul Bunyan]

The witness will kindly confine his remarks.

[Sheriff]

Paul Bunyan strong? Why, he's as strong as 20 men. Thank you, Mr. Smith.

[Paul Bunyan]

Ladies and gentlemen of the jury.

[Sheriff]

I want you to take careful note of that answer. As strong as 20 men.

[Girl 1]

Does Mr. Bunyan eat very much? I've cooked with that man for years. Let me tell you, he eats as much as 20 man.

[Paul Bunyan]

If I know Paul Bunyan drink, He drinks enough for 20 men.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

He can handle timber for 20 men.

[Sheriff]

I say give me Paul Bunyan any day.

[Paul Bunyan]

He's better than 20 men.

[Girl 1]

And I've got him to sing. And he sings.

[21st Girl]

Out of 20 men longer than 20.

[Girl 1]

He'S enough for 20.

[Paul Bunyan]

20 men.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

20 men.

[Paul Bunyan]

20. 20. On the basis of expert evidence given by qualified persons known to the supplicant. It is the opinion of this court that Paul Bunyan is 20 men. Therefore, this court hereby directs the city clerk in the town of Supplicant residence. To issue a marriage license to Paul Bunyan and 20 females.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

And here are 20 boxes of cigars.

[Sheriff]

From a furniture store in Chicago.

[Paul Bunyan]

Johnny, you remember that day in the forest when I was so unhappy.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

And here's an invitation for you to visit a resort on Lake Michigan on your honeymoon. They say their convention manager will be happy to offer you special rates. For the publicity they will receive.

[Paul Bunyan]

For years, I have been just a legend. Just a legend. One of the great American legends. I admit I'm pretty proud of that. But after all, you must grant that I was pretty sure.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

And here's an insurance company offering you special group rates.

[Paul Bunyan]

We work pretty hard for this country. You have no idea how much faith the American people put in their legends. Why, there's George Washington. And that legend about the cherry trees. I bet that legend's worked harder than any 10 myths these Europeans dig up. George was close to home. Not any myth about killing a dragon. But just a good old homespun legend about being honest. Why, that legend gets more play than half a dozen of them European myths. Because the American people Like to believe in something simple, like being honest. Take that one about honest aids scratching away with a chunk of charcoal on the back of a shovel. Why, I bet that legend has helped build America more than all the gold in the ground and electricity in the air. People take that legend out and believe in it every time they get paid in low. Because that just means that everybody in this country can be famous and great just by working himself and teaching himself. And then take me, by golly, the legend of Paul Bunyan. Just a lumberjack, but a legend of strength. Men get thinking about me and they build cities. Men going into strange places, building new homes and raising families in out of the way places just because they believe in me. Johnny, I just.

[Sheriff]

Johnny.

[Paul Bunyan]

What's that?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

More presents, I presume.

[21st Girl]

I'll see.

[Sheriff]

Oh, the awfulest thing. The most terrible thing. I've never been so upset.

[Paul Bunyan]

The most awful things.

[Sheriff]

Johnny Inklinger. How many girls did Mr. Bunyan choose?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

How many girls?

[Sheriff]

You know, the ones he picked out the day of the contest. You know, the ones he's going to marry. The ones that have been living in the firehouse together. How many were there?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

20.

[Sheriff]

Did you count them?

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Well, no, you said there were 20.

[21st Girl]

You told me.

[Sheriff]

You told me.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Well, I said about 20 and you about 20.

[Sheriff]

I thought you had counted them. Johnny, there are 21.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

21?

[Sheriff]

Yes. I thought you would count.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

I thought you would count.

[Sheriff]

And we never did count. Paul Bunyan has promised to marry 21 girls.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

So what's wrong?

[Sheriff]

One girl more or less to Paul Bunyan. His license says he can marry only 20.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

His license.

[Sheriff]

And if he marries 21, he's a bigamist. If he throws one out, he'll be sued for breaking a treaty.

[Johnny Inkslinger]

Treaty?

[Paul Bunyan]

Yes.

[Sheriff]

I've had lawyers working all morning. An engagement to one girl is a promise. An engagement to marry 20, 21 is a treaty. If he throws any one of them out, he'll break his treaty. Break a treaty. You know what that means?

[Paul Bunyan]

Break a treaty. What'll I do?

[Sheriff]

And I fought with the girls. I beg them, but they won't budge. None of them will drop off. They've announced their engagements. And every single One of the 21 says she's going to be married to him. No one will drop out. It isn't love. It's professional jealousy.

[Paul Bunyan]

Break a treaty. What'll I do? What will. What will I do? What will I do? Out into the forest where I can paint love with one girl too many. And the girls are jealous. Ah, that's a woman for you, that's 21 women.

[Sheriff]

Why didn't ink slinger count? Why did I get myself in this mess?

[Paul Bunyan]

Break a treaty? Why did I fall in love? Why do men get lonely? Why do men want to get married? I'm miserable. I don't want to get married. I want to be alone. I'm going to cross.

[Girl 1]

Mr. Bunyan. Paul Bunyan.

[Paul Bunyan]

Huh? Huh? Who is it?

[Girl 1]

Paul Bunyan.

[21st Girl]

Lift me up. I want to talk to you.

[Paul Bunyan]

Who are you?

[21st Girl]

Well, you might call me the 21st girl. I'm one of the girls you promised to marry.

[Paul Bunyan]

You. You were the 21st girl. You caused all this.

[21st Girl]

Oh, Paul, you cause it by falling in love.

[Paul Bunyan]

Oh, love. Don't mention it.

[21st Girl]

Oh, but Paul, don't you love us anymore?

[Paul Bunyan]

No. No, I'm not in love with anybody. I don't want to be in love. I'm miserable. I'm in so much trouble.

[Girl 1]

Oh, now, don't cry. Don't cry.

[21st Girl]

Yeah, that's better. Well, if you don't get married, what will you do?

[Paul Bunyan]

Do? I work in the forest where I've always worked. I'll build roads and cut down three. And move mountains and clean out rivers and help men build towns and cities like I always did.

[21st Girl]

And you'll not be lonely?

[Paul Bunyan]

Never, Never again. I'll work so hard making people believe in me that I'll never be lonely again.

[21st Girl]

And you'll not fall in love again?

[Paul Bunyan]

Never. Never. Once is enough for any man. So why do you ask me? What do you want?

[21st Girl]

I don't want anything. It's just this. None of us girls would let you go because.

[Paul Bunyan]

Professional jealousy.

[21st Girl]

Because we'd be jealous of the others. But all of us will let you go.

[Paul Bunyan]

All of you.

[21st Girl]

Yes. I talked to the other 20 girls. A mistake has been made. And it wasn't your fault.

[Paul Bunyan]

I thought I was in love.

[21st Girl]

You thought. But we figured that you weren't really in love with us.

[Paul Bunyan]

I don't love anybody.

[Girl 1]

Well, here's a statement from.

[21st Girl]

From us all. Releasing you from your treatment.

[Paul Bunyan]

Release me from.

[21st Girl]

Oh.

[Paul Bunyan]

Oh, you wonderful you. You beautiful thing.

[21st Girl]

Remember, you're not in love.

[Paul Bunyan]

Oh. Oh, yes.

[21st Girl]

Now sign this paper. It says that you promise you will never try to get married again.

[Paul Bunyan]

I'll sign. I'll sign.

[21st Girl]

Now you belong to us again. All of us. Paul, if one of us dropped out and you married the other 20, one of us would be jealous, would be hurt. And now you belong to us all, to the whole world. You're a legend, Paul. And we need you as a legend to belong to all of us. And you mustn't ever try to belong to just a few of us alone. You must always belong to all of us.

[Paul Bunyan]

A legend. That's what I am. I don't want to ever be anything else.

[21st Girl]

You mustn't. We need to believe in you. We have to have something to believe in. A legend of strength and power. A legend for us all. Not for just a few of us.

[Paul Bunyan]

And I'll be the best legend you ever believed in.

[21st Girl]

And you'll never be lonely.

[Paul Bunyan]

Never, if you all believe in me.

[21st Girl]

And you'll never try to stop being a legend.

[Paul Bunyan]

Never. I'll always be your greatest and best legend. A legend of strength and power for America. Goodbye, Paul Bunyan Goodbye, my 21st girl who wanted me for everybody.

[Girl 1]

Goodbye, Paul Bunyan.

[21st Girl]

We all love you.

[Narrator]

You've just heard the listeners playhouse. The 21st Girl by Albert N. Williams. Special music was by Tom Bennett, conducted by Joseph Stopak. This National Broadcasting Company feature will bring you next week at the same time by Randall R. McDougall. The Rebellion of Emory Sims. Listen.

[Paul Bunyan]

Next week.

[Narrator]

The part of Paul Bunyan was played by Mark Smith, ink slinger Peter Arnold. The 21st girl, Gertrude Warner. This is the National Broadcasting Company, RCA Building, Radio City, New York.

[Girl 1]

It.