Lux Radio Theatre - It Grows on Trees

Summary

---

Podcast Summary: Lux Radio Theatre – "It Grows on Trees"

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Date: July 20, 2026
Original Air Date: (Not specified; classic radio era)
Starring: Ginger Rogers (Polly Baxter), Marsha Henderson, Greg Palmer, Ted DeCostia
Producer/Announcer: Irving Cummings

---

Overview

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio features the Lux Radio Theatre adaptation of "It Grows on Trees," a whimsical and charming comedy centered around Polly Baxter (Ginger Rogers), a housewife whose ordinary life takes an extraordinary turn when she discovers two mysterious trees in her backyard that sprout five- and ten-dollar bills.

The story explores themes of household budgeting, honesty, wonder, and the sometimes ironic magic of wish fulfillment, all wrapped up in a gentle satire of American family life and bureaucracy. It balances humor with heart, placing the listener in an era when every dollar had to stretch and fairy tales were just out of reach—until suddenly, they're not.

---

Key Discussion Points & Plot Breakdown

Setting the Scene: The Baxter Household

• Family Dynamics and Budget Struggles
  • The play opens with the Baxter family—a loving but financially strained household. Phil (Philip Baxter) is a hardworking accountant; Polly is a resourceful and optimistic homemaker.
  • Early scenes establish day-to-day challenges, such as broken screens, worn-out children's shoes, and the ever-present monthly "budget hassle."
    Notable quote:

    "I trust you with my life, my honor and my children. But not with $3. For the simple reason I can't spare it."
    (Phil, 03:38)

The Miraculous Trees

• Mysterious Money Appears

  • A five-dollar bill blows in through the window, then a ten-dollar bill is brought in by the family cat, Cassanova.
  • Soon, daughter Midge finds a stash of money in the backyard. The family is bemused and divided over whether this is questionable luck or cause for concern.
  • Polly reminds her family to believe in a little magic, just as "life ought to catch up with fairy tales." Memorable moment:

    "Your mother still believes... And it's high time life caught up with fairy tales."
    (Polly, 08:52)

• Discovery of the Trees' True Nature

  • After further investigation, Polly realizes the two newly purchased trees are actually sprouting bills instead of blossoms.
  • Phil, ever the skeptic, cautions against using the money, fearing it might not be legal and could cause economic chaos. Humorous analogy:

    "Money like that could upset the monetary balance of the United States. It could cause a lot of trouble for a lot of people, including us."
    (Phil, 20:57)

Ethical Dilemmas and Bureaucratic Mayhem

• Legality and Consequences

  • Polly writes to the U.S. Treasury to ask if money grown on trees is legal tender, receiving a playful yet ambiguous response.

    "If you could send us some cuttings from your money trees, perhaps we could plant them in back of the White House... This would please the President, I'm sure, since he would no longer have to send budget requests to Congress."
    (Mr. Murchison, reading letter, 23:36)

• Community Chaos and Public Spectacle

  • As word spreads, the household descends into mayhem—neighbors seek souvenirs, the kids sell branches as "money trees," and Polly is rumored to be both a counterfeiter and a miracle worker.
  • Ralph, the daughter’s fiancé, loses his bank promotion when he deposits the “funny money,” which disintegrates, leading to family drama and legal troubles.

    "I got jugged for passing counterfeit money."
    (Phil, 30:33) "I feel fine. And I demand that you release Ralph Bowen... It is not phony. It just happens to be dying. You see, when I gave that money to Mr. Bowen, I'd quite forgotten that it was a growing thing, and all things that grow—"
    (Polly at the police station, 44:32)

The Authorities Arrive

• Treasury and Botanists Investigate
  • The Treasury Department, IRS, and a botanist, Dr. Burrows, come to examine the case.
  • The money trees are stripped by nosy neighbors and the press, and frost kills the buds. Just as hope seems lost, a single surviving money bud is found and opened—a ten-dollar bill!

Resolution and Reflection

• Trees Confiscated, Problems Solved?

  • The government assures the Baxters their expenditures will be reimbursed, pays "just compensation," and moves to destroy the trees to avoid a national monetary crisis.

    "Now, you'll have the money today. Now, where's Burrows? He'll have to prepare the trees for shipment to Washington."
    (Mr. Murchison, 55:29)

• A Return to Ordinary (and the Hint of Magic)

  • The trees die due to a frost, closing the magical episode in the Baxter's lives. Polly, ever optimistic, purchases a battered antique lamp, hinting playfully at the next possibility for magic (possibly referencing Aladdin’s lamp).

    "Oh, Phil, please don't scold me today... Once I clean it up, oh, Phil... It's starting to smoke. A billowy cloud of a genie. Why, there's the genie in it!"
    (Polly, 57:13 - 58:00)

---

Notable Quotes

• "Polly: 'And it's high time life caught up with fairy tales.' [08:52]"
• "Phil: 'Money like that could upset the monetary balance of the United States. It could cause a lot of trouble for a lot of people, including us.' [20:57]"
• "Mr. Murchison: 'If you could send us some cuttings from your money trees, perhaps we could plant them in back of the White House. This would please the President, I'm sure...' [23:36]"
• "Phil: 'As long as I live, I'll never understand it. Anyway, the night before last, I took the client out for dinner... One of the tens broke right in half... it just crumbled to bits. And the five dollar bill, well, it just curled up and sort of granulated.' [31:24]"
• "Polly: 'You know, I'm not so sure about that. Didn't Diane tell you? I have a good green thumb.' [29:38]"
• "Dr. Burrows: 'It was revived. It brought it back to life. It's...not a money bun.' [53:10]"

---

Major Segment Timestamps

• 00:57–02:54 – Introduction to the Baxter family and their daily struggles.
• 03:55–04:40 – The first money found on the windowsill; money appears mysterious.
• 07:01–09:23 – More money found by the children; suspicions arise.
• 12:03–14:41 – Discovery that the trees are budding unusually; mounting financial stress over family health.
• 18:30–21:06 – Confirmation that the trees sprout money; debate over the legality and use of the newfound wealth.
• 23:07–24:09 – Response from the Treasury Department; bureaucratic satire.
• 30:05–31:47 – Phil arrested for passing counterfeit money.
• 39:05–41:59 – Polly reveals the trees to Phil; money’s deteriorating quality is discovered.
• 45:48–47:00 – The media circus arrives; the children and neighbors get involved.
• 47:31–49:32 – The authorities investigate; science and skepticism meet Polly’s wonder.
• 53:10–54:13 – The last bud is opened; the tree’s magic is confirmed and then ended by frost.
• 56:10–57:13 – Life returns to normal; Polly buys a mysterious lamp, suggesting enchantment is never far away.

---

Tone and Style

The episode’s tone is warm, witty, and lightly satirical, balancing magical realism with the very real hardships and joys of mid-century American life. The interplay between the ever-practical Phil and the hopeful, whimsical Polly is at the heart of the story, as is the gentle mockery of bureaucratic logic in the face of the impossible.

---

Final Thoughts

"It Grows on Trees" is an evocative, well-acted glimpse into an era of radio where imagination, family values, and humor ruled the airwaves. The episode artfully blends fantasy and skepticism, reinforcing that life's everyday wonders—or the longing for them—are what keep hope and enchantment alive, even after the last money tree has wilted.

Transcript

[Polly Baxter]

Another game day. But while he's glued to the tv, I'm winning my own way with Mistplay.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Let's go.

[Polly Baxter]

Mistplay rewards me just for playing free mobile games. I earn points and swap them for gift cards to Amazon, Uber Eats and Sephora. Yeah, we won. And I just redeemed a Target gift card.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Woo.

[Polly Baxter]

Download Mistplay today and turn your downtime into rewards.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

From Hollywood, the Hollywood Radio Theater. Starring Ginger Rogers in It Grows on Trees with Marsha Henderson and Greg Palmer. Ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. Irving Cummings.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Greetings from Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen. I don't know exactly what your reaction would be if you suddenly discovered money growing on trees in your backyard, but I imagine it would be somewhat the same as our overjoyed heroines in tonight's play. And as our star, we have that delightful comedienne, Ginger Rogers, truly one of our most glamorous personalities. It Grows on Trees, which turned into a screen success by Universal International Studios. And tonight we will introduce two of their most promising young play Marcia Henderson and Greg Palmer. Now It Grows on Trees, starring Ginger Rogers as Polly, with Marcia Henderson and Greg Palmer as Ralph.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

It started off like a perfectly normal day for Polly. The usual early morning scramble involving three children of various dimensions, one loving husband. That's me. And the daily battle to get us out of the house on time. Polly? Polly, where are you?

[Polly Baxter]

In the hall, dear. Where are you?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

In the bathroom.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, good. I was afraid one of the kids had locked you out again.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I'm trying to shave. Who were you talking to just now?

[Polly Baxter]

Mrs. Pryor. She wanted to borrow some sugar and butter.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Why do you let her get away with it? Some neighbor we've got. That woman's an outright thief. Well, what I really wanted to know is what happened to this window? Where's the screen?

[Polly Baxter]

It was all rusted, dear, and full of holes. So I gave it to Mr. Gonzalez to fix.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, it's windy outside. Look at the dust and stuff blowing in here.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, then put the window down.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I tried. I suffocated.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, then put it halfway down. Still really. There, you see?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Still blows in.

[Polly Baxter]

Diane, dear, I'm getting dressed. Well, hurry, dear. Help Flip and Midge get started on breakfast. Oh, and take Midge's best shoes down to her, will you?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Best shoes?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, Midge can't possibly wear school shoes, dear. She's worn them out again.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, we'll find the money somewhere, I suppose.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, and don't forget to leave me three dollars for Mr. Gonzalez.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Three bucks for one little screen?

[Polly Baxter]

I'll pay out of next month's house money.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That makes sixteen hundred and three dollars you owe me out of next month's house money.

[Polly Baxter]

You talk as though you don't trust me.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Darling, I trust you with my life, my honor and my children. But not with $3. For the simple reason I can't spare it.

[Polly Baxter]

Really, Phil, at times you have a very peculiar sense of humor.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I don't see anything funny about it either.

[Polly Baxter]

What's the idea?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What idea?

[Polly Baxter]

The five dollar bill on the window sill.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

The five dollar bill on. How did that get there?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, you put it there.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I certainly did not. That is not my money. If it were mine, I assure you, not yours.

[Polly Baxter]

Good. Thank you, dear.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, I'm serious. The wind, the open window. But it just blew.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, I don't know where it came from, but I certainly know where it's going. It'll pay for the screen.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Now, wait a minute. That $5 belongs to somebody. It certainly isn't ours, Polly, so how can you.

[Polly Baxter]

It blew in our window. Didn't I? Consider it heaven sent. And I'm not going to let you get noble about it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That can mean only one thing. You've gone through your house money again.

[Polly Baxter]

That has nothing to do with it. Besides, what's the difference? Today's payday.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

And tonight's our little budget hassle, too.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, not again, dear.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

We'll tackle it right after dinner and cook a good, substantial meal. I'll need all my fortitude for your extraordinary bookkeeping.

[Polly Baxter]

Just wipe that lather off your face and give me a kiss, you big bully.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That evening, we launched into our monthly struggle with economics. Midge and Flip promised not to make any noise and Diane agreed to do the dishes. So the three of us sat down, Polly and I and the budget.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, I don't mind doing this, dear, but it's just a waste of time now, isn't it? The bills have to be paid regardless.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Item number one is milk.

[Polly Baxter]

And there it is in black and white.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Only $8. Well, congratulations. That's much better than last month.

[Polly Baxter]

$18, dear. The one sort of ran into the k in milk.

[Narrator/Commentator]

18.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

$18 for milk? Who bathes in it around here?

[Polly Baxter]

We have three growing children and it's good for them.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Oh, I'm sorry, honey. It's only that I make so little. I want us to get ahead so I can open up my own office.

[Polly Baxter]

We'll make it one of these days.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I'm a pretty good accountant, Polly, and once I get started for myself, why, I'll. Judas on a raft. What's this.

[Polly Baxter]

What's what?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Incidental expenses. Nursery. $10. Well, Polly, don't tell me.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Go.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, I mean.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, are you crazy? Of course not. That's Mr. Piney, the nursery man. I bought some plants.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Plants?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, not exactly plants, dear. They're. They're trees. Two nice little trees. Well, they're only four feet tall now, but in a couple of years. Oh, I thought you saw them.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

From now on, I'll bow to them. What kind of trees cost 10 bucks?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, I. I'm not sure. But you see, Mr. Piney got a shipment of something by mistake and. Well, I don't really know, dear, except that's why I got them so cheap.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Two anonymous trees. Ten hard earned bucks.

[Polly Baxter]

But it isn't as though I bought them for myself. They're for all of us. And you know how I need to see things grow.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Grow?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What about needing to see our bankroll grow?

[Polly Baxter]

What about our getting to the movies tonight? Flip, dear, you know Daddy and I are busy. I mean, later when Ralph gets here. Ralph's taking Diane to the movie. So how come we can't go too? I'm afraid not, Flip. We simply can't afford it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

You might explain it to him, dear. We can't see the movies for the trees.

[Polly Baxter]

It's happening again, Mama. Here, kitty, kitty, kitty. Now, what on earth has she brought in this time? All right, Cassie, come on now, drop it. Come on, drop it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Another mouse.

[Polly Baxter]

Did you ever see a green mouse?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

But what is it?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, she had this all rolled up. Bill. It's a ten dollar bill.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Hey, kids, get in here. We've got a cat with a private income.

[Polly Baxter]

We've got a dog.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Midge, honey, you can start charging this cat for room and board.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Look.

[Polly Baxter]

Money. A ten dollar bill. Where'd she get it?

[Ralph Bowen]

Hey, doesn't anybody answer the doorbell?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Where's my date?

[Polly Baxter]

In here, Ralph.

[Ralph Bowen]

Hi, Mrs. Baxter. Mr. Baxter.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Hello, Ralph. Better get ready, Diane.

[Ralph Bowen]

We'll miss the first show. Anything wrong here? Something wrong with the cat?

[Polly Baxter]

Ralph, you're a bank teller. Take a look at this bill. Is. Is this a good ten dollar bill?

[Ralph Bowen]

Well, it's chewed up a little, but I. Well, I wish I had a bushel of them. What's it all about?

[Polly Baxter]

Gas Nova brought it in so we could all go to the movie. Come on, let's get our coats.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Now, just a minute. If this bill is good, we've got to give it back.

[Polly Baxter]

Give it back to whom? The cat. It's Gasanova's money. She wants it. It isn't anybody's money, dear. It came to us because we needed

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

it, Polly, for heaven.

[Polly Baxter]

This morning we needed money for the screen and we got it. And we need money now for Midge's shoes and a little entertainment. So here it is. But, Mother, that just doesn't make sense.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Your mother still believes.

[Polly Baxter]

Of course I do. And it's high time life caught up with fairy tales. Come on, kids. We're going to the movie.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

A five dollar bill in the morning and a ten dollar bill at night out of. Out of nowhere. Well, it was now. The following evening. I was reading the paper. Polly was sewing. Midge was playing with Kazan over the cat. And Flip was actually doing his homework. No problems from anyone except Diane.

[Polly Baxter]

Diane. Who was that on the phone, dear? Ralph, Bad news. He's been made one of the officials at the alumni dance. But that's good news. It's formal. Mother, I haven't got anything to wear. What about your blue with the silver trim? Oh, Mother, the silver's tarnished. It's much too tight. And Phil, couldn't we take some?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

No, Polly.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, now, let me finish. Just a little out of the Christmas fun.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

No, Polly. Diane, I know Mother's doing this for your sake. I also know that I am a tyrant. Yes, Father, but from now on, we're not going to talk about money for the very simple reason that we don't have any.

[Polly Baxter]

I'll take $19, please.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Midge, I just said that we would.

[Polly Baxter]

Bill, for heaven's sake, she's just playing a game.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What kind of a game?

[Polly Baxter]

Playing stir. Papa, I'm Mr. Burns of the grocery and Cassie's a customer, and I take all the money. See?

[Narrator/Commentator]

But that.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That's real money.

[Polly Baxter]

Mother, look. Midge, where in the world did you

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

get 10, 20, 30, $35? Midge, honey, this is not play money. This is real money. Now, where did you get it?

[Polly Baxter]

I found it. I found it outside. Where, dear? Where outside? Outside in the backyard.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

But it must have been someplace in the backyard.

[Polly Baxter]

Bill, she's just a little girl.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

$15 yesterday and now 30. But whose money is this?

[Polly Baxter]

It's ours. You bet it is. Mother. What is? Just as I said yesterday. We needed it, so it's here. It'll buy Diane's new dress.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, darling, you've got to find the rightful owner and give it back. I'll stop off at the police station in the morning and turn it in.

[Polly Baxter]

And I suppose you're so disgustingly honest that you'll want to give back the other 15, too? Yes, but we've Already spent it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Then it will have to come out of your house, ma'.

[Polly Baxter]

Am. Father, now really.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Now, look, both of you. We just don't spend money. We haven't come by legitimately.

[Polly Baxter]

What you're doing, Philip Baxter, is snatching a dress right off your daughter's back.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

We'll drop this discussion right now.

[Polly Baxter]

Just.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Oh, I.

[Polly Baxter]

You're the most. Just the most. I.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

All right, Polly. How much do we have in the Christmas fund?

[Polly Baxter]

Now, you just sit here, and I'll get the little bang book. I. I think we have almost a.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

The next day was Saturday. That afternoon as I was watering the lawn.

[Polly Baxter]

And don't forget the driveway, will you, dear? Oh, and the two little trees. You will be careful, won't you? Feel. You won't water the leaves because the buds might fall off.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What kind of trees have buds this time of year?

[Polly Baxter]

But I told you, dear, even Mr. Piney doesn't know what kind they are. Oh, incidentally, did you stop off at the police station?

[Narrator/Commentator]

I did.

[Polly Baxter]

They probably thought you were crazy.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Oh, no, they didn't. They thought I was a good citizen. What's more, I'll bet that right now somebody's come in and claimed it. Probably someone who needs it very badly.

[Polly Baxter]

Mother, I'm ready. Diane's new dress. We're fixing the hem. I'll be right up here. Don't forget the driveway.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, I was doing the driveway when a police car drew up to the curb. Hiya.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Hi.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

You the man who turned that money this morning? I am. Well, I just stopped by to let you know it's been claimed. Good. I'm glad. Someone who needed it, I'll bet, huh? Sure looked like it. Never saw anyone so glad to pick up 50 bucks. They leave any name. Yeah. Mrs. Polly Baxter. Who? Mrs. Polly Baxter.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

She'll probably get in touch with you.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Yes.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Yes, I'm sure she will.

[Polly Baxter]

Now, stop it, Phil. Stop it at once. If you've got to yell, come in the house.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I am not going in the house or anywhere until you tell me why. Why did you go to that police station?

[Polly Baxter]

Because the money is ours.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That's insane.

[Polly Baxter]

And we needed a very badly. There are some things I didn't want to tell you.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

But now I'll have to go back to the police and tell them my wife's a thief.

[Polly Baxter]

I didn't want to tell you because, well, you've been so worried already about money.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I'll have to confess to them that

[Polly Baxter]

my wife, my home doctor, says that Midge has to have her tonsils, adenoids, out this coming week, and I thought that $50 would help pay for it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Harley, will you please listen to me?

[Polly Baxter]

No, you listen to me. I'm sick of scrimping and being afraid to spend a nickel. And if it's a crime to see that your sick child gets well and not to worry your husband, whom you love, although he doesn't appreciate it, about money, which he hasn't got and can't get, Then I'm a thief and you can throw me in jail and let me rot there, but the minute I get out, I'll do it all over again. Oh, Polly, all you do is just stand there and say horrid things to me when all of my thoughts are for you and our children. Oh, Phil, when I see the look on your face at night.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What look?

[Polly Baxter]

The look on your face and the shine on your pants. I could just die.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

No, no, no, no, no, sweetheart, don't cry. Polly, you know what happens to me when you start to cry. It's wrong.

[Polly Baxter]

And even if it was, I'm still right.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

No, no, no. We've always talked these things over, honey. Just stop crying and calm down and we'll believe. Polly, Polly, look.

[Commercial Narrator]

What if your favorite way to unwind could actually reward you with mistplay? It can stop scrolling social media for nothing. Mistplay lets you earn points just for discovering and playing mobile games. Redeem them for gift cards from brands you love simply for doing what you already do to relax. Download mistplay today and make your downtime more rewarding.

[I]

If the world were like a sleep number mattress, everything would adapt for your comfort. Your coffee would never get cold, your flight would always be on time, and your mattress would always respond to you and your unique sleep needs. Sleep number mattresses are designed to respond to your body and shift with your changing life, helping you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. To experience a whole new world of comfort, visit a sleep number store or go to sleep number dot com. Sleep number To a good life sleep.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Oh, no.

[Polly Baxter]

No more money.

[Narrator/Commentator]

What?

[Polly Baxter]

The weather. It's blowing money all around us. Feel. 5, 10, 15, 20.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

There's a plane up there.

[Narrator/Commentator]

An airplane.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

The money must have fallen out of that plane.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, don't just stand there. Pick it up. No, no, no, I'll pick it up. You just get me something to put it in. Oh, what a wonderful, wonderful afternoon.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

Actu of it grows on trees in just a few moments. Make a friend and you make an ally. There's a thought for you to keep in mind, as many another American has since the end Of World War II, many American cities have adopted European ones, mainly through the work of a citizen group in New York called Operation Democracy. One of the greatest ties of friendship has been made between American cities and towns in Holland. The people of the American cities supply their Dutch friends with clothing, food, and during the floods early in 1953, the Americans won the undying gratitude of the Hollanders for their help. Several of the American communities have raised money to send a community ambassador to visit the European town they've adopted. And the children keep up a two way correspondence. To date, several hundred towns in the United States are in contact with others overseas and the number is steadily increasing. These contacts include towns in 13 European countries as well as Japan and Hawaii. Recently, three more countries were added. Norway, Yugoslavia and India. And arrangements have been started to include Turkey, Spain and Peru. Americans in every walk of life have done something to satisfy their desire for international friendship. And you too can learn as they did, that by helping others, you help your country. Now our producer, Mr. Cummings.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Act two of It Grows on Trees. Starring Ginger Rogers as Polly. With Marsha Henderson as Diane, Greg Palmer as Ralph and Ted DeCostia as Phil.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I left Polly in the backyard and ran into the house. I called the airport. No, no. Planes had been flying around dropping five and ten dollar bills. And just then Polly rushed in.

[Polly Baxter]

Bill. Bill, you've got to come out and look at those trees.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Darling, this is no time for me to look.

[Polly Baxter]

You won't believe me. You will think I'm crazy. The buds, the little buds have opened.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, that's fine, dear. But what's a little more important is where did that money come from?

[Polly Baxter]

That's what I'm trying to tell you. The trees instead of flowers. They're five dollar bills and ten dollar bills. Phil, you don't believe me about the money.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

You are not to spend one cent of it. That is an order. But Majors Tonsil, we'll borrow on our insurance. Now, what did you do with the money?

[Polly Baxter]

It's in the kitchen cupboard in the salad bowl.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

See that it stays there.

[Polly Baxter]

There's some more of it in the cookie jar. Quite a bit more.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, you're not to mention this to a soul. Not until I've figured out something.

[Polly Baxter]

Just as you say, dear. Oh, my, but this is fun.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I don't know how much money rested in our kitchen cupboard that. All I know is that by bedtime I still hadn't reached any sort of a sensible conclusion.

[Polly Baxter]

It's a lovely night, Phil. Did you notice how bright the stars are?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

One thing is Certain no one is just throwing money away. Polly, have you heard of anyone else finding money?

[Polly Baxter]

And such a big yellow moon.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Are you listening?

[Polly Baxter]

Of course, dear. They couldn't have found any.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Why couldn't they have?

[Polly Baxter]

Because I would. I would have heard about it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, just give it to charity or something. Good night, honey.

[Polly Baxter]

Phil, suppose it did.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Suppose it did what?

[Polly Baxter]

Fall out of the trees or grow on trees?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Oh, Polly, please.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, could we spend it?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Of course not. Look, honey, I'm awfully tired.

[Polly Baxter]

But why couldn't we spend it?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Because it wouldn't be money issued by the government.

[Polly Baxter]

But if it looked like the government had issued it. I mean, supposing you couldn't tell.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Money like that could upset the monetary balance of the United States. It could cause a lot of trouble for a lot of people, including us.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Well, I don't see why it wouldn't be legal.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That's why. Now, please go to sleep.

[Polly Baxter]

Phil, are peaches legal?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What have peaches got to do with it?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, if someone grew peaches on a tree, and then he sold them and got money for them, the government wouldn't object to that, would they?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

No, they would not object.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, then why would they object? If someone found or grew money and exchanged it for peaches? It's the same thing the other way around. Well, isn't it?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I am taking this pillow. I am placing it firmly over my face, and I am going to sleep.

[Polly Baxter]

Phil, just one more question. I promise. That's all.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Yes, dear?

[Polly Baxter]

What's the name of the secretary of the treasury? And both trees are growing money. The tree nearest the garage is in the shade and produces five dollar bills. But the other one gets full sun and goes ten dollar bill. I've already used some of the money. However, I'm a little puzzled since my husband, who is the soul of honor, says that money that grows on trees is not legal, is it? I would appreciate your opinion very much. Because if the money is legal, it would be a real blessing.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Now, if you just read that back, Miss Fletcher, please, from the beginning.

[Polly Baxter]

Yes, sir. Dear Mrs. Baxter, in reply to your very interesting and unusual communication, may I say that if you are in possession of trees which produce the currency of our country, and if it meets all our standards, it is my opinion that the money is perfectly legal. You're joking, aren't you, sir?

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Oh, no, I'm not. If her money meets all the standards, what's wrong with that?

[Polly Baxter]

Sorry, Mr. Murchison.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Now, a new paragraph. If you could send us some cuttings from your money trees, perhaps we could plant them in back of the White House. This would please the President, I'm sure, since he would no longer have to send budget requests to Congress, a procedure which he frequently finds very discouraging. Thanking you in advance, I remain, etc.

[Polly Baxter]

Etc. Mr. Murchison, are you really going to send this? Why, that poor woman's liable to take it seriously.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Just as seriously as I take the information that money grows on trees.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Now, type it up.

[Polly Baxter]

You. Miss Baxter. Oh, hello, Mrs. Pryor. I was just reading my mail. Just one letter, huh? Oh, but it was the one I was waiting for. From Washington. You got friends in Washington? I have now. Huh. I was wondering. Well, since you're my nicest neighbor, you got any extra milk? Sorry. We used it all at breakfast.

[Ralph Bowen]

Oh.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, then I guess there's no use borrowing a cup of oatmeal. No, it's not very good without milk, is it? You see, I've been wondering about those trees of yours. What about them? You've been covering them up so careful with those old sheets. Seems to me it's too early to be worrying about frost. Oh, well. Well, they're very delicate, you know. What kind did you say they were? Oh, well, they're a sort of. A sort of mint. Good morning, Mrs. Pollard.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly never told me about getting a letter from Washington. It was a secret between her and the United States. States Treasury. Meanwhile, I had something else to think about. Our daughter Diane announced her engagement to Ralph, that nice young fellow from the bank.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, I know that. Ralph's just been promoted, dear, and he's making a very nice salary now. But, Phil, they're such children.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Now, now, honey, we weren't much older. We managed to grow up, didn't we? Now, what about the wedding?

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, well, we'll have a church wedding, of course, and the reception at the country club. And we can rent the ballroom. And I think the bridesmaid wear taffeta. Yep. Taffeta. Phil, do you think that we should have ushers?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

No, no, no. Slow down. There's some ridiculous custom that the father of the bride pays the bills. Although custom evades the question as to how the poor guy gets the money.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, money, all that.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, I wouldn't have brought it up, except that next month you're going to be handling ours all by yourself.

[Ralph Bowen]

Phil.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

The firm's sending me to Baltimore. I leave Saturday for.

[Polly Baxter]

For a whole month.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, don't be so happy about it.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh. Oh, well, I'm not. I'm not.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

This Baltimore outfit's one of our biggest Clients, dear. And if they like me, well, this could be the opening wedge and setting up for myself.

[Polly Baxter]

Phil. Oh, I have a wonderful idea. By the time you get back, the kids will be ready to get married and they'll go off on their honeymoon. And we'll go too, with the. Of course not. We'll go on a second honeymoon with Midge and Flip. You've always wanted to go to Hawaii. Now, now, come on into the kitchen and I'll make some coffee.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

It'll make some sense too while you're at it.

[Commercial Narrator]

From taco night in Tulum to sushi in Tokyo, every bite is rewarding and Pulse worthy with MX Gold's 4 times membership rewards points at restaurants worldwide. Wherever you dine, points are piling up. So bring your friends along for your next course. Because it's not all about the posts. It's about the company and the memories. How can gold from Amex sweeten your next food moment? Learn more at americanexpress.com Explore-Gold terms and points cap apply.

[Polly Baxter]

If you only knew how much sense I was making. The hair that you have left on your head would stand on end.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

And let me tell you something. The real reason why I married you.

[Ralph Bowen]

How?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Not because you're so pretty. Not even because of all that personality. No. I married you for your brains. They disturbed me then and they disturbed me now more than ever.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, you. You just wait. You'll be so proud of me. You. You'll.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

The day I went to Baltimore, as I later discovered, Polly went to the bank. A little visit to our prospective son in law.

[Polly Baxter]

And here's the money, Ralph. Seventeen hundred and eighteen dollars. And that pays our mortgage off in full.

[Ralph Bowen]

Well, Good for you, Mrs. Spax.

[Polly Baxter]

I. I nervous because I had a little windfall. Yes, I see.

[Ralph Bowen]

It looks more like a hurricane to me. I bet I know exactly where you got this money. You do? You've been holding out on Mr. Baxter, haven't you? You know, a few bucks here and there, out of the budget. Oh, every woman does it. You want to know how I figured this out?

[Polly Baxter]

I'm dying to know.

[Ralph Bowen]

Well, you brought in cash and all fives and tens. If you'd held out anything bigger, he'd have got suspicious.

[Polly Baxter]

You know, Ralph, I'm awfully glad Diane's going to marry you.

[Ralph Bowen]

Well, thank you.

[Polly Baxter]

Now, let's see. Oh, dear, oh dear. I've got so many things to do today.

[Ralph Bowen]

Shopping?

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, yes, in a way. Well, I. I have to have the house painted and we need a new picket fence. And I think Midge and Flip should have a new television set.

[Ralph Bowen]

Oh, take it easy, Mrs. Baxter. You can't grow this kind of cabbage.

[Polly Baxter]

You know, I'm not so sure about that. Didn't Diane tell you? I have a good green thumb.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Four weeks later, I came home from Baltimore. It was all I could do to recognize my house. Freshly painted, a new fence. I couldn't understand it. I couldn't understand Polly either when I walked in.

[Polly Baxter]

Why, Phil, what are you doing here?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I live here, remember?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, I wasn't expecting you until tomorrow, dear.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Tomorrow? I was due home yesterday. Hi, darling.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, I'm so glad to see you. But if you were due home yesterday, where were you? I might have worried.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, you should have. I was in jail, Phil, along with 20 drunks.

[Polly Baxter]

You weren't drinking?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Drinking?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That's only a misdemeanor. I'm in the big time. I got jugged for passing counterfeit money.

[Polly Baxter]

But where could you have picked up counterfeit money?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, remember before I left, I gave you my expense check? I asked you to get it cashed for me.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, that.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

As long as I live, I'll never understand it. Anyway, the night before last, I took the client out for dinner. Drinks, steaks, brandy, the works. Fortunately, he had to leave early. So I had another brandy and then I asked for the check. Incidentally, what's been going on here?

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

The house.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I don't get it.

[Polly Baxter]

I'll tell you all about that later, dear. Just tell me about you.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, I pulled out my wallet. All fives and tens, remember? And then the darndest thing I ever saw.

[Polly Baxter]

What?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

One of the tins broke right in half. Another 10 was kind of curled around the edges. When I tried to straighten it out, it just crumbled to bits. And the five dollar bill, well, it just curled up and sort of granulated.

[Polly Baxter]

Granulated?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I looked in my wallet again and it. It was full of crumbly bits of stuff like dust and ashes.

[Polly Baxter]

No, no, no, it isn't possible.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That's what I told the cops when they came for me. The client had to spring me. Here, just look at my wallet. You see, I'm going to take it down to the bank in the morning, see if I can't get them to replace the money now. What about the kids? Are they all right?

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, just find her. They'll be home soon.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

And what about all this redecorating?

[Polly Baxter]

You must be awfully tired. Why don't you take a shower, Ton? Nice long nap.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, I am kind of bush.

[Polly Baxter]

Maybe I won't even call you for supper.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, you know what that stuff in my wallet reminds me of? Dead leaves.

[Polly Baxter]

Dead leaves.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Now, you tell me, how could that happen to money?

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, it's you, dear.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Hi.

[Polly Baxter]

I've just been out in the backyard cleaning up. Have a nice nap?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Oh, fine, fine.

[Polly Baxter]

I. I'll get you something to eat.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That can wait. I wouldn't digest it. Polly. I have here a stack of bills I found upstairs.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, but they're not bills, dear.

[Narrator/Commentator]

They.

[Polly Baxter]

They've all been paid. You just didn't look.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I looked. Washing machine, television set, painting, fence, draperies. All paid in full. But how? What with.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, well, not now, dear. There's something I want to see on the back porch.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

It'll keep.

[Polly Baxter]

I hope. So.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What I want to know is where.

[Polly Baxter]

Where I got the money for everything. Well, I. I just can't tell you. I got it honestly and legally. Only. Only you'd say it wasn't, and you'd want me to stop spending it or

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

give it back if you came by it honestly. Why should I object?

[Polly Baxter]

Because you're just too. Too ethical and righteous and. And wrong, wrong, wrong. Besides, things are happening which I didn't expect, and, well, you've got to give me time to work them out somehow. You sure you wouldn't like a little sardine sandwich? Or. Nice. Just go away and leave me alone. Diane. Diane. And Ralph.

[Ralph Bowen]

But, honey, I didn't say your mother was a thief.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Diane, come in, please.

[Polly Baxter]

Hello, Daddy. Oh, Mother. He did. He did say that you.

[Ralph Bowen]

He didn't.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I only said.

[Polly Baxter]

He said that you gave him some bad money, and that's why he's been demoted at the bank, and now he can't marry me. Oh, my poor, poor Mrs. Baxter.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

Please.

[Ralph Bowen]

All I said is that since I'm getting less salary again, we'll just have to wait.

[Polly Baxter]

What he's trying to do is break off our engagement, which is just simply fine with me. It's just the way I want it. Only he needn't call my mother a counterfeiter in order to do it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Now, let's be calm, Ralph. Let's take it easy. Now, boy. What's all this nonsense about my wife giving you money, Any kind of money, let alone dad?

[Ralph Bowen]

Well, sir.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, no. I'm not going to stand here and listen to him. Say it again, Diane. And don't try to shush me, Father. I'm too old to be bullied. And if you're going to let him stay in this house after the things he said about your. Your loving and devoted wife, well, if

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

you're no better than me, we'll try it again. Ralph.

[Ralph Bowen]

Mr. Baxter, I'm not trying to break our engagement. Believe me, I love Diane. It's just that Mr. Slamish, he's the bank manager. Well, he demoted me on account of the money. But I didn't say that you were what she said. I said, Mrs. Baxter, honestly. And I wouldn't tell him who you were.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, dear. Oh, dear.

[Ralph Bowen]

I only said the money you gave me to pay off the mortgage was. Well, it was sort of funny. Mrs. Baxter.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

You mean the installment on the Morgan son? Oh, no, sir.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

In full.

[Ralph Bowen]

Ate it off in full. Only it wasn't any good.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What was wrong with it?

[Ralph Bowen]

Well, sir, it crumbled. Mr. Slimish didn't like that at all.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Crumbled? Sort of granulated?

[Ralph Bowen]

Yes, sir. Never saw anything like that in my life.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Ralph. Ralph. Not five and ten dollar bills. How did you know? I have moments of clairvoyance.

[Ralph Bowen]

Well, I guess I started something, all right. I just don't know what to say. Believe me. But if anything happened to me and Diane, and if this wasn't gonna be my family, well, I. I just couldn't take it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, Polly, don't you think it's about time you told me where you got this unhappy money?

[Polly Baxter]

It grows on our trees.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I beg your pardon?

[Polly Baxter]

It does. On the trees I bought from Mr. Piney. Your expense check. I didn't cash it at the bank. I cashed it at the trees.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

And I suppose the chief teller there is a woodpecker.

[Polly Baxter]

You don't believe me. You just don't believe me.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We'll return to Act 3 of It Grows on Tree shortly.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

Make a friend and you make an ally. There's a thought for you to keep in mind, as many another American has. That's a thought which the 4H clubs of America had in mind when they began sponsoring the International Farm Youth Exchange. The main purpose of the IFYE is to select young farmers, or those who've majored in university agricultural courses, whom they send abroad for short periods to work with the people and promote understanding and friendship. Last summer, for example, three young California farmers were chosen to spend four to five months in Ecuador. While there, they visited farms, discussed agriculture with the people, and lent what assistance they could. The work of these grassroots ambassadors, as they are called, is voluntary. For although their trips are sponsored by the 4H clubs in their neighborhood, the major portion of their expenses is paid by the young farmers themselves. Their work can in no way be considered charity because they learn as much from People in other countries as those people learn from them. Yes. Members of the International Farm Youth Exchange have learned the secret of international understanding. That by helping others, you help your country. We pause now for station identification.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Curtain rises on act 3 of it grows on trees. Starring ginger rogers as polly. With marcia henderson as diane, greg palmer as ralph and ted decocia as phil.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly took me by the hand and led me out onto the back porch. She took a blanket off a washbath. It was full of money.

[Polly Baxter]

Just don't say a word until I've finished, all right? You see all this money? Well, something's happening to it. The bills are drying up. I suppose I could complain to Mr. Piney.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Please, Polly, don't.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, after all, it's only a plant. You yourself said it reminded you of dead leaves. Anyway, I don't think they're quite dead. I've been sprinkling them with a little cool spray every hour like they do lettuce at the market.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Oh, good, good.

[Polly Baxter]

I'll write the Treasury Department again that nice Mr. Murchison.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

You'll what again?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, of course I wrote them. That's how I found out it was legal. This time I'll ask if there isn't some preservative to keep them alive. After all, that's why we pay taxes, isn't it? Well, now. Now we'll walk out into the backyard.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Yes, dear.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, I know exactly how you feel, Wyman. When I found out that the trees had money growing on them, well, believe me, it was quite a shock. But you'll get used to the idea, just like I did. Now, now, prepare yourself, dear. You've never seen anything like this tree before. I'll just throw off the sheet. And there before your eyes is a genuine 100% Phil. My money tree. It's pear. There was not a bud, not a leaf. It's been stripped.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Better cover it up, Polly. It looks awfully naked to me, too. Now, what about the other one?

[Polly Baxter]

You do it.

[Narrator/Commentator]

You look.

[Polly Baxter]

I'm afraid to.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Of course, dear.

[Polly Baxter]

Both of them? Well, what could have happened? Well, Phil, they were just loaded with.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Darling, please. When will you tell me the truth?

[Polly Baxter]

So I'm crazy. I've lost my buttons. All right. Will you believe the United States government? The treasury department?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Yes, implicitly.

[Polly Baxter]

Mr. Murchison's letter is right there on the shelf in the kitchen cabinet. Go ahead and spend the money, he said. That's just what he said. He even asked me to send them some cuttings for the White House. And if you think a man like Mr. Merchant,

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I stood in the kitchen as Polly frantically searched for the letter. But of course, there was no letter.

[Polly Baxter]

It was here. It was, it was. And I'm not crazy. And I don't tell lies. Not big ones. And it does grow on trees.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Of course it does, sweetheart. Of course.

[Polly Baxter]

And if you think I'm making it up about the letter, too, well, you can just go next door and ask Mrs. Pryor. She saw me the day I got the letter. She even asked me. Mrs. Pryor? Phil, she's taken it. She's done something with it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Now, take it easy, honey. I know how Mrs. Pryor comes in here and helps us out, but she wouldn't take a letter, now, would she?

[Polly Baxter]

Who called her a thief? Did I? Oh, no, you did.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, please listen to me.

[Polly Baxter]

And she's taken some of the money, too. Oh, now I'm sure of it. At first I thought I hadn't counted it right. I even. Oh, you've got to talk to her, Phil. It really, it isn't the money I care about it. It's what you think of me. And it does grow on trees. It does. It does.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, it seems that at just about that time, our nimble fingered neighbor, Mrs. Pryor, dropped in at the bank. Ralph just happened to observe her. Naturally, he called his boss.

[Polly Baxter]

You give me back my money. Oh, you wait till I get a lawyer. You call this joint a bank? Why, it's nothing more than.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Oh, no, no, no, madam. Of course you can have your money. All we want to know is where these five and ten dollar bills came from.

[Polly Baxter]

None of your business, that's where. I suppose you're going to tell me they're not legal.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

All right, I will.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I do not consider this money legal.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, it just so happens that the United States government does. Here. Here's the letter to prove it.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Huh?

[Polly Baxter]

You see this? Well, what does it say?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

United States Treasury Department.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, you just wait.

[Ralph Bowen]

But this letter is addressed to. To Mrs. Philip Baxter.

[Polly Baxter]

But you just give me back that letter. I'll take my trade where it's appreciated.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Ralph.

[Ralph Bowen]

Yes, sir.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I'll thank you to step back in my office. I'm going to get to the bottom of this right now.

[Polly Baxter]

And Ralph wasn't joking. Mother, I'd just been down there. He's in jail. Ralph's in jail? What did he do? He kept his mouth shut, that's what. He won't say a word. He's protecting you. And that. That money you gave him for the mortgage. Oh, now, now, baby. They're not going to keep Ralph in jail. I just won't let them. What can you do? Well, I'm. I'm going down there and get him out right now. And don't you worry if I don't come back. Dear, explain it to Father, will you?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Yes, ma'.

[Commercial Narrator]

Am.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What can I do for you?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, I'm Mrs. Polly Baxter, and I've come here about Ralph Bowen. You've thrown him in that nasty little jail back there.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

We sure have, lady.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, you can just go back there and let him out at once. At once? He's not guilty. I am. I gave him that money, that phony Geetus. Now, listen to me. It is not phony. It just happens to be dying. You see, when I gave that money to Mr. Bowen, I'd quite forgotten that it was a growing thing than all things that grow.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Have you forgotten what was the growing thing, lady?

[Polly Baxter]

The money. It grows on my trees. Oh, I know, I know. My own husband doesn't believe me, but it's true.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Lady, you may be running a little temperature. You maybe don't feel so good.

[Polly Baxter]

I feel fine. And I demand that you release Ralph Bowen.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Madam?

[Narrator/Commentator]

Yes?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Get out of my police station. Well, that did it. That just busted it wide open, that's all. You see, a reporter just happened to be at the police station. By morning, you could have read about Polly and her money trees in any newspaper in any part of the world. The result? Shambles. Get your tree inspector badges, folks.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Get your tree inspector badges. Here you are.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Only two bits.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Who wants one? Who wants a tree burger? They're hot, folks. They're delicious. All right, who's next? They're hot, they're nourishing. They're delicious. Bob, where do you think you're going? Home. I happen to live here.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

Off. You her husband?

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Yes.

[Ralph Bowen]

Gee, that's a shame.

[Polly Baxter]

Here you are, ladies and gentlemen. Get your souvenirs. Get your branches from our tree. They're only 10 cents. Buy a branch from our tree.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Midge.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Flip.

[Polly Baxter]

Hiya, Pop. Who are we making? Money.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

These branches. You mean these came from Mama's trees?

[Polly Baxter]

Pop, not so loud. They're from the trees out front here.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

But that's not honest.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, there are trees too, ain't they? Get your souvenirs, Daniel.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

And bag.

[Polly Baxter]

My goodness, Phil, you've never seen anything like it. Why, the phone hasn't stopped ringing all morning. I finally had to take it off the hook.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, do you know that Flip and Midge are practicing petty larceny on our sidewalk? On your public. Now, where's Diane?

[Polly Baxter]

In jail, dear.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What's she done?

[Polly Baxter]

Nothing. She's waiting for Ralph. They're. They're going to let him out on bail.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Well, where do we go from here, Polly?

[Polly Baxter]

Now that you asked.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Never mind. I know where. I'll take Ralph's old cell, and you can Double up with Mrs. Pryor.

[Polly Baxter]

Phil. Phil, look. The window. There's a car turning into our driveway. And that license plate. Oh, my. United States Government.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

We met them in the backyard. Mr. Murchison from the Treasury Department. Mr. Leatherby from the Internal Revenue. And Dr. Burrows, Botanical Research.

[Polly Baxter]

And I'm Polly Baxter. Well, gentlemen, this is a great honor, I'm sure.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

At the risk of sounding rude, Mr. And Mrs. Baxter, it's my opinion that this whole thing is a hoax.

[Narrator/Commentator]

These.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

These two trees, why, they don't even look capable of growing leaves, let alone money.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

What's your opinion, Dr. Burrow?

[Narrator/Commentator]

Well, they're probably deciduous, Mr. Murchison, which means they lose their foliage this late in the season.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, no, no, no. It was all Mrs. Prior. She picked them there. Well, you must have read her confession. It was in all the newspapers.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, please.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Mrs. Baxter, do you actually believe these trees grow money?

[Polly Baxter]

Of course they do. Why else would I have written to you about them?

[Narrator/Commentator]

Very, very curious. In all my experience, I've never run across this particular species.

[Polly Baxter]

You see, the bud. Well, they're. They're just like tulips.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

Ah.

[Polly Baxter]

And. And when they open, inside each was. Was a lovely little green ten dollar bill. And on that one, five dollar bills.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Fascinating.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Oh, we've got to put a stop

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

to this, Mrs. Baxter. And you're the only one who can do it.

[Polly Baxter]

But. But how?

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

By issuing a statement that was all a deliberate hoax?

[Polly Baxter]

But I couldn't do that. It wouldn't be the truth.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Besides, Mr. Murchison, if she did. Well, there's the letter you signed. You not only condoned, you also encouraged, which makes you an accessory and equally culpable. I am not going to let you make Mrs. Baxter your escape car.

[Polly Baxter]

Thank you, dear. That was very nice of you.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Mr. Baxter, have you actually seen money on those trees? No, but my wife and I've had her nearly 20 years, and I should know her by now is an honest woman. And if she says her trees grow money, then her trees grow money. But, my dear sir, it sounds like a.

[Polly Baxter]

Like a wish come true. And that's exactly what it was. And that's what makes life so full of wonder.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Does anyone know what she's talking about?

[Polly Baxter]

I'm talking about wonder. Personally, I Wouldn't want to live in a world without it. And the world does have it, you know. It's just full of wonder. Except people forget. Or even when they grow up, they meet it and they call it phony and fake.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Gentlemen. Gentlemen, I have a wonderful news.

[Polly Baxter]

Well?

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Borrowed. What is funny?

[Narrator/Commentator]

I re examined the trees, and one of them, the ten dollar tree, is as expected. It has a bud on it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Money bud. Well, pick it up.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Open it. Oh, I should say not, Mr. Leatherby. Why, it's much too early. When? When? About five days, Mr. Murchison. Oh, my. If the weather will only stay nice and mild like this for a few days.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, it will. It just must.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

So what happened? It got wet and colder. Rain and frost. Dr. Burrows kept his patient as warm as he could, but on the fifth day, he staggered in with a bullet.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Well, Perot?

[Narrator/Commentator]

Oh, I'm afraid it's moribund, Mr. Murchison. An extremist. What's that mean in English? The bud is dying, Phil.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Pardon me, please. I think I'll make a phone for.

[Narrator/Commentator]

If anybody wants me, I'll be outside. I'm still trying, you know.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Mr. Murchison made several calls. An hour later, a delegation of reporters and photographers crowded into our living room.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

And now, gentlemen, I can give you the statement you waited for so patiently. The bud has proved to be a washout. This not only vindicates us, but it takes the case out of the realm of abracadabra and makes it instead the willful passing of illegal money. Now, I spoke to the Attorney General and I asked to take immediate action against Mrs. P. Attorney General?

[Polly Baxter]

Pick out our drape, Miss Baxter.

[Narrator/Commentator]

I am.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, sorry. Excuse me, please.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Pardon me.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, Valve, Isn't this wonderful? Oh, in the bedroom. It's going to be perfectly dreamy. Baby blue organdy. Oh, no. Oh, Phil, did you hear? Baby Blue Organ Day.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Mrs. Baxter, won't you please.

[Polly Baxter]

Come on, Ralph, we'd better hurry.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

See you later, huh?

[Polly Baxter]

Goodbye, mother. Goodbye, Daddy. Mr. Murchison, isn't young love just wonderful? Now, all you gentlemen stay right here. I'm sure you'd like some coffee. I'll have it made in no time. Oh, what a day. Oh, hello, Dr. Burrow.

[Narrator/Commentator]

It's a wonderful day, Mrs. Baxter. Simply wonderful.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

What's wonderful about it, Burrow?

[Narrator/Commentator]

Something quite miraculous has happened. I've never seen anything like it before.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Like what?

[Narrator/Commentator]

Well, as you know, the bud was in very bad shape this morning. Quite hopeless, in fact.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

You told us that an hour ago.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Ah, but what I didn't tell you Is that. It was also in a very critical condition last night. So I plucked it off and all night I kept it next to me. And the warmth of my body underneath the blanket. Well, that did it. It was revived. It brought it back to life. It's.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

It's not. It's not a money bun.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Well, I haven't looked yet, but I've got it right here.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Well, let's open it.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Well, stand back, everyone.

[Polly Baxter]

Stand back, please. Oh, Phil, I just can't bear to watch.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Steady, Polly. Steady, girl.

[Narrator/Commentator]

All right, here we go.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Slowly, carefully. Dr. Burrows over opened the bud and so help me, there inside was a tiny ten dollar bill. New York Stock Exchange closes. Wall street panics. Murchison admits three groves cash.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

Congress calls special session and money crisis.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That night, Mr. Murchison and company held another little session in our living room.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

And so it would seem that the matter of a capital gains tax Mrs. Baxter won't put off. No, indeed. I'm afraid that now you'll have to pay the regular income tax.

[Polly Baxter]

But don't worry, gentlemen. We should have a new crop by March 15. We'll pay in cash.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

This is absurd. All we have to do is appropriate the trees by due process of law. But according to the bill of rights, Mr. Leatherbee, no private property may be taken for public use without justice compensation.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Well, naturally we'll pay.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

How much? And with what? With money. We grow our own.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

It seems to me that it's your patriotic duty to give up those trees so we can destroy them. They're a menace to the economy of our country.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I never intended keeping them. And I've never approved of using the money. My wife will confirm them.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

We can have them then.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Just a minute. You've pushed my wife around and I don't like that You've called her names too.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

All right. We apologize, don't we?

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Yes.

[Polly Baxter]

Yes. Well, there's something else. What did you call it, Phil? Just compensation.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

What about just compensation?

[Polly Baxter]

Well, just that the money I spent will have to be replaced and we haven't got it.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

We'll take care of that, Mrs. Baxter.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Of course we will.

[Ralph Bowen]

How much?

[Polly Baxter]

2,000, 950.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I have a full account of everything right here. Gentlemen.

[Polly Baxter]

My husband is a certified public accountant in business for himself.

[Mr. Murchison (Treasury Department Official)]

Now, you'll have the money today. Now, where's Burrows? He'll have to prepare the trees for shipment to Washington.

[Narrator/Commentator]

I'm right here. Oh, this is terrible, Mrs. Baxter. Simply terrible.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

What now?

[Narrator/Commentator]

It's all my fault. I went to the hotel to write my report to the Institute. And I. I quite forgot what the weather was like outside.

[Polly Baxter]

And the trees, dad, they're dead. The frost.

[Narrator/Commentator]

I'm afraid so, Mrs. Baxter. Oh, this is the end, gentlemen. This is positively the end.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

The end? Well, not quite. Just as the gentleman left, a delivery boy arrived. A package for Polly.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, Phil, isn't it just darling? And you know what? All it cost me was $6.40.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Polly, what is that thing?

[Polly Baxter]

What is it? Well, it's a lamp. Of course.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

That piece of junk's a lamp.

[Polly Baxter]

It's a lovely little antique lamp.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

$6.40. Polly, honey, won't you ever understand? Just because something is cheap, that doesn't make sense.

[Polly Baxter]

Well, you just wait and see. Oh, I admit it's a little tarnished and battered maybe, but my goodness, once I clean it up. Oh, Phil, please don't scold me today.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

I'm not scolding you. I know how you feel about those trees. But really, Polly, wasn't it all for the best wonder and enchantment. Well, they just don't fit in with everyday life. No more than this. This crummy old lamb.

[Polly Baxter]

Yes, dear, but as long as I've got it.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Okay, clean it up. Have fun. See you later.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Sweetheart.

[Polly Baxter]

If that isn't just like a man. Just because it's a little messy. Just because it has a dent or two. Why, it's a beautiful little lamp. And it won't take a minute to clean it. I'll just take this little c. Cloth and I'll start rubbing it and shining it. Smoke. It's starting to smoke. A billowy cloud of a genie. Why, there's the genie in it. Phil. Phil, the most wonderful thing. You won't believe me with the lamp, I just.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

In a moment, Ginger Rogers will return. Up in Newfoundland, there's an air force base called Fort McAndrew. Two tech sergeants were out on the field one day and noticed a nine year old girl hobbling around on a pair of crutches. She was a polio victim and a cripple. Her father, whom they finally located after much questioning of the girl, was a civilian employee on the field. He had eight children and simply couldn't afford the costly treatments that would be necessary to help his little girl. Well, that was enough for the two sergeants. They got up entertainments, collected donations and well, soon every enlisted man, officer and civilian worker around the place was in on the project. They raised $4,300, enough to fly the little girl to the United States and provide treatments at Warm Springs, Georgia. Such acts by you and your friends today are shaping our world of tomorrow. Now, Mr. Cummings and our star.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And we welcome Ginger Rogers to our footlights for a justly deserved curtain call.

[Polly Baxter]

And I would like to add a word for Marcia and Greg. I think they were wonderful.

[Narrator/Commentator]

Wonderful.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We're always happy to give a boost to our young players and watch them rise to stardom.

[Polly Baxter]

Now, how about your play for next week, Irving?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Our play for next week was first a Broadway success, then made into an excellent picture by J. Arthur Rank in England and released here by Universal International. It's the Browning version. And as our stars, we have invited one of the most beloved couples in Hollywood, Ronald Coleman and Benita Yu. Appearing with the Colemans will be Hugh o' Brien from Universal International.

[Polly Baxter]

Oh, I wouldn't miss the combination like that. Good night, everybody.

[Philip (Phil) Baxter]

Good night. You had a wonderful time.

[Announcer/Producer (Irving Cummings)]

The Hollywood Radio Theater is produced by Mr. Irving Cumming. Our orchestra is under the direction of Rudy Schrager. This is Ken Carpenter inviting you to join us next week at this same time for another presentation of the Hollywood Radio Theater. Hollywood Radio Theater is a presentation of the United States Armed Forces Radio and Television Service.