NBC Good News Of 1939 1938-12-22 - Christmas Show Robert Taylor and Rita Johnson

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: NBC Good News Of 1939 – 1938-12-22 – Christmas Show with Robert Taylor and Rita Johnson
Date: December 4, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Featured Stars: Robert Young, Robert Taylor, Rita Johnson, Fanny Brice (as Baby Snooks), Hanley Stafford, Frank Morgan, Tony Martin, Meredith Willson

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Overview of the Episode

This festive episode is a rebroadcast of the “NBC Good News Of 1939” Christmas show, originally aired on December 22, 1938. Broadcasting from the Metro Goldwyn Mayer Studios, the special features an all-star cast delivering Christmas cheer, music, comedy sketches, dramatic performances, and heartwarming moments—reflecting the classic radio era when families gathered around to enjoy live variety shows.

A highlight of the episode is the spirit of giving and kindness, captured both through the comedic and dramatic vignettes, and through the episode’s concluding message of goodwill for the holiday season.

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Key Segments & Discussion Points

Introduction and Musical Tribute

[00:35]–[04:30]

• The show opens with a musical tribute to MGM star Eleanor Powell, performed by Meredith Willson and the orchestra.
• Lighthearted banter among the hosts and performers sets the cheery, warm tone.
• Tony Martin is greeted and jokes are exchanged about Christmas gifts, with a running joke about shopping at the dime store.

“Christmas Night in Harlem” – Tony Martin

[05:18]–[07:57]

• Tony Martin sings a jazzy, evocative "Christmas Night in Harlem," painting a picture of holiday joy in Harlem, with lively musical backing and upbeat lyrics.
  • Quote (Tony Martin): “Come on now, every cold black Joe, greet your sweet neath the mistletoe with a kiss and a hidey-ho. It’s Christmas night in Harlem.” [06:13]

Baby Snooks Comedy Sketch: Department Store at Christmas

[09:04]–[16:11]

• Fanny Brice, as Baby Snooks, and Hanley Stafford as Daddy, perform a classic holiday sketch set in a bustling department store.
• Themes of childhood wishes, parental exasperation, and holiday generosity run through the scene.
  • Memorable Exchange:
    • Baby Snooks: “Buy me a drum.”
    • Daddy: “But if I get your drum, you’ll keep disturbing me while I’m working.”
    • Baby Snooks: “No, I won’t. I’ll only drum while you’re sleeping.” [10:07–10:14]
• The interaction with another, less fortunate child delivers a lesson in kindness, as Snooks gives away her own money (with Dad’s help) to help the boy get his mother a Christmas dinner.
  • Quote (Baby Snooks): “You don’t need no Christmas present, do you?” [14:55]

Meredith Willson’s Story: The Origin of “Silent Night”

[16:11]–[18:51]

• Meredith Willson tells the touching, true story of Franz Gruber, composer of “Silent Night,” and its origin on Christmas Eve, 1818.
  • Quote (Meredith Willson): “Let us be thankful not only for Christmas, but also a little for the obscure and modest Franz Gruber who wrote Silent Night.” [18:51]
• The cast performs a stirring rendition of “Silent Night.”

Comic Interlude: Frank Morgan’s Tyrolean Outfit Story

[22:56]–[29:47]

• Frank Morgan regales the crew with outlandish tales about his Tyrolean suit, his ancestors in Switzerland, and implausible mountain climbing exploits.
• The segment is packed with puns, banter, and gentle ribbing among the cast.
  • Quote (Bob Young): “Well, the $200 rooms had mousetraps.” [25:49]
  • Quote (Frank Morgan): “I won the speed skating, slow skating, figure skating and cheap skating.” [26:21]

Baby Snooks Recites “The Owl and the Pussycat”

[32:35]–[35:27]

• In a delightful and slightly chaotic moment, Baby Snooks recites Edward Lear’s “The Owl and the Pussycat,” adding comic interruptions and needing help from Daddy.
  • Quote (Baby Snooks): “I ain’t got no hanky, Jackie.” [33:02]
  • Quote (Snooks, finishing): “I forgot the rest.” [35:21]

Short Radio Play: “Rendezvous at Dawn” (Starring Robert Taylor & Rita Johnson)

[36:26]–[52:12]

• A dramatic highlight: a romantic and suspenseful playlet featuring two lovers and spies, Eric and Vilma, separated by war and political struggle.
  • The pair dream of a peaceful home in Switzerland.
  • Risk, loss, and heartbreak are central, culminating in a bittersweet reunion and a dance at dawn, under the threat of capture.
  • The denouement reveals that Eric’s last request before his execution is a waltz with Vilma.
  • Quote:
    • Eric (Robert Taylor): “Three little words so powerful that for the sound of them, men give up kingdoms, glory, honor. And I give you heartache, suspense, danger.” [37:54]
    • Vilma (Rita Johnson): “Not for myself, darling, to die is one thing. But to lose you and go on living, that’s another.” [39:53]

Classic Song: “Ol’ Man River” – Tony Martin

[52:38]–[55:36]

• Tony Martin delivers a heartfelt, if period-racially-tinged, rendition of “Ol’ Man River,” which the show presents as Jerome Kern’s favorite of his own compositions.
  • Quote (Tony Martin): “He just keeps rollin’, he just keeps rollin’ along.” [54:14]

Christmas Reflections & What Makes the World Go Round

[57:27]–[60:03]

• The cast muses on what “makes the world go round” in a musical and comic round-robin, each bringing their own answer, from coffee to love to kindness.
  • Quote (Baby Snooks): “Being kind at Christmas time and giving to poor, like I learned at Sunday school. Live by the golden rule. Love your mommy and daddy and be good to all your friends. Be honest, goodwill to men. You see? I know.” [59:41]

Closing: Wishes for a Merry Christmas

[60:04]–[60:38]

• The entire cast offers earnest Christmas wishes to listeners.
  • Quote (Eric/Robert Taylor): “I think we ought to take a hint from Snooks and wish all our friends a Merry Christmas.” [60:04]
• The whole company sings “Merry Christmas, Everyone.”

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Memorable Quotes & Moments (With Timestamps)

• Tony Martin, on “Christmas Night in Harlem”: “Come on now, every cold black Joe, greet your sweet neath the mistletoe with a kiss and a hidey-ho. It’s Christmas night in Harlem.” [06:13]
• Baby Snooks: “No, I won’t. I’ll only drum while you’re sleeping.” [10:14]
• Meredith Willson (on ‘Silent Night’): “Let us be thankful not only for Christmas, but also a little for the obscure and modest Franz Gruber who wrote Silent Night.” [18:51]
• Frank Morgan (on his adventures): “I won the speed skating, slow skating, figure skating and cheap skating.” [26:21]
• Baby Snooks: “I forgot the rest.” [35:21]
• Eric (Robert Taylor) in ‘Rendezvous at Dawn’: “Three little words so powerful that for the sound of them, men give up kingdoms, glory, honor. And I give you heartache, suspense, danger.” [37:54]
• Vilma (Rita Johnson): “Not for myself, darling, to die is one thing. But to lose you and go on living, that’s another.” [39:53]
• Tony Martin, singing: “He just keeps rollin’, he just keeps rollin’ along.” [54:14]
• Baby Snooks: “Being kind at Christmas time and giving to poor, like I learned at Sunday school.” [59:41]

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Timestamps of Key Segments

| Segment | Start | End | |------------------------------|----------|----------| | Opening and Musical Tribute | 00:35 | 04:30 | | Christmas Night in Harlem | 05:18 | 07:57 | | Baby Snooks: Santa Sketch | 09:04 | 16:11 | | “Silent Night” Origin & Song | 16:11 | 18:51 | | Frank Morgan Tyrolean Story | 22:56 | 29:47 | | Baby Snooks Recites Poem | 32:35 | 35:27 | | “Rendezvous at Dawn” Drama | 36:26 | 52:12 | | Ol’ Man River, Tony Martin | 52:38 | 55:36 | | “What Makes the World Go Round” | 57:27 | 60:03 | | Finale Wishes & Song | 60:04 | 60:38 |

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Overall Tone and Style

The tone is lively, wholesome, and warmhearted, steeped in the joyful tradition of old radio Christmas specials. Comedy, music, and drama are interwoven seamlessly, presenting both the playful innocence of childhood (Baby Snooks) and the poignant longings of adults, all unified by the message of seasonal goodwill.

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Final Thoughts

This classic radio holiday special encapsulates the spirit of the era: camaraderie among stars, comedic high jinks, touching dramatizations, and stirring songs. The message of generosity—embodied by Baby Snooks’ charity, the dramatization’s longing for peace, and the closing chorus of “Merry Christmas”—holds as much charm and sentiment now as it did for its original listeners.

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For listeners new and old, this episode is a joyful, varied, and sentimental journey into the Golden Age of radio – perfect for getting in the holiday mood.

Transcript

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[Narrator/Announcer]

Maxwell House Coffee presents good news of 1939.

The makers of Maxwell house coffees present 60 star studded minutes filled with Christmas cheer and holiday spirit from the Metro Goldwyn Mayor Studios in Hollywood. Tonight you will hear Robert Taylor, Rita Johnson, Fanny Bryce with Hanley Stafford, Frank Morgan, Tony Martin and Meredith Wilson.

[Bob Young]

Here is your host for this evening, Robert Young.

[Meredith Wilson]

Thank you, Warren. Meredith Wilson and the orchestra get our show underway with a musical tribute to one of the sweetest and best loved stars on the MGM lot, Eleanor Powell, he calls it. Here's to Eleanor. And in it you will find Rosalie, my lucky star. And from her newest picture, the title song, Honolulu.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Sam.

[Meredith Wilson]

I won't go wrong.

[Bob Young]

I know it's lonely and also unless.

[Meredith Wilson]

I find romance.

I know just how it looks.

[Vilma Duro]

Sam.

[Tony Martin]

See that?

[Vilma Duro]

That was.

[Tony Martin]

Well, Meredith.

[Meredith Wilson]

Well, Tony Martin. How do you do?

[Bob Young]

Hello, Bob.

[Meredith Wilson]

Hey, Bob, I just walked into my dressing room room and I saw all the swell presents you fellas got for me and. Gee, I don't know what to say.

[Bob Young]

Merry Christmas. How did you know that was just what I wanted? I'm psychic. A suit of long underwear fits me like a glove.

[Meredith Wilson]

Say, Tony, did you like the hot water bag I gave you?

[Bob Young]

Oh, Bob, just my color.

[Meredith Wilson]

Oh, fine. See, fellas, you know, I wanted to reciprocate and everything. Oh, no, Tony, don't think anything.

[Bob Young]

Fellas, I'm. I really mean it. I've been terribly busy, but I finally found time to do a little shopping after all and I just couldn't get a thing. Well, why not? The dime store was too crowded.

[Meredith Wilson]

All right, Santa Claus, I think you better sting. Ladies and gentlemen, Tony Martin sings a new arrangement of one of Raymond Scott's early compositions, Christmas Night in Harlem.

[Tony Martin]

I've spent my Christmas in Singapore drunk bells in Ecuador I've seen the gay.

[Meredith Wilson]

Streets and play streets of every shore.

[Bob Young]

Each town has some stay out laid.

[Tony Martin]

Wide way Some not so great wide way they're only thin types of tin types of Harlem way Under a sky of electric lights they sway there's where they dance all their hectic nights away Take London Strand and the Paris Rue de la Paix but give me Harlem, give me Harlem.

Where every cat's run with her bow through the streets come flightless snow Happy smiles everywhere you go It's Christmas night in Harlem Black and tan feeling mighty good in that old colored neighborhood Here and now be it understood It's Christmas night in Harlem Everyone is going to sit up until after 3 everyone will be all lit up like a Christmas tree Come on now, every cold black Joe Greet your sweet niece the mistletoe with a kiss and hidey ho. It's Christmas night in Harlem.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Hallelujah.

[Bob Young]

Everyone.

[Tony Martin]

Is going to sit up until after three.

Yes, everyone.

Will be all it up like a Christmas tree.

Come on now every cold black Joe reaches sweet neath the mistletoe with a gift and a hidey hole It's Christmas time in Harlem town.

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[Meredith Wilson]

And now, ladies and gentlemen, gentlemen, here is Fanny Brice as baby Snooks.

Daddy, played by Hanley Stafford, is taking Snooks down to a department store to see Santa Claus. As he leads her into the store, Daddy is full of happiness and the Christmas spirit.

[Bob Young]

Listen. Oh, Snooks, stop dragging along behind. You want to get lost?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Oh, look it.

[Bob Young]

Come on, let's get in this tour, talk to Santa and make it quick so we can go home. My feet hurt.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I won't look in the window, dad.

[Bob Young]

Oh, never mind the window. There's plenty of. Gee, look at that wonderful erector set. And that electric train. Hey, it whistles.

[Tony Martin]

Well, well.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Daddy.

[Bob Young]

What?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

There's Uncle Louie with a fur coat on.

[Bob Young]

Where's Uncle Louie?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

There he is, climbing up the ladder.

[Bob Young]

That's a mechanical monkey, Uncle Louie.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I want it.

[Bob Young]

Well, you can't have it.

[Meredith Wilson]

It's too big.

[Bob Young]

Now, what else do you want?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Buy me a drum.

[Bob Young]

Oh, Snokes, you don't want a drum.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Yes, I do.

[Bob Young]

But if I get your drum, you'll keep disturbing me while I'm working.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

No, I won't. I'll only drum while you're sleeping.

[Bob Young]

The drum is out. Now, get something sensible, like a dollhouse or that wonderful electricity train.

Boy, is that terrific.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

You want it, Daddy?

[Bob Young]

Do I, honey? What do I want with toys? Now, don't be silly. Now, hurry up. Make up your mind, and we'll go in and see Santa Claus.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Is he. Is he?

[Vilma Duro]

Yes.

[Bob Young]

Do you know what you're going to ask him for?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Huh?

[Bob Young]

Are you sure?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Uhhuh.

[Bob Young]

What?

Well, I'll tell you. Ask him to bring you a dollhouse.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Why?

[Bob Young]

Because I've already bought it. I. That's the best toy for you.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I don't want a dollhouse.

[Bob Young]

Well, what do you want?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I want a live pony.

[Bob Young]

Oh, you can't have a live pony. You've got to ask Santa for a dollhouse.

[Vilma Duro]

All right.

[Bob Young]

Now, don't make any trouble for me when we get in there.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I won't, Daddy.

[Bob Young]

We better have a little rehearsal. I want to make sure you'll ask him for the right thing. Now, I'll be Santa Claus, and you.

[Meredith Wilson]

Come up to me.

[Bob Young]

Ha ha. Merry Christmas, little girl.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Same to you, Daddy.

[Bob Young]

No, no. Say Merry Christmas to Santa Claus.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Where is he?

[Bob Young]

Inside the store.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Why should I say it out here?

[Bob Young]

Because I'm Santa Claus.

[Vilma Duro]

Wear your beard.

[Bob Young]

I haven't got a beard. I'm just pretending. Now, when you see Santa, I want you to ask him for a dollhouse. Now, let's try it again.

[Vilma Duro]

All right.

[Bob Young]

Now, here we go.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Where are we going?

[Tony Martin]

Nowhere.

[Bob Young]

Now, let's try it. Aha. Merry Christmas, little girl.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I want a live pony.

[Bob Young]

I told you to ask for a dollhouse.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I don't want a dollhouse.

[Bob Young]

Just the same, you've got to say, I want a dollhouse.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Why?

[Bob Young]

Say, I want a dollhouse.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Ah.

[Bob Young]

Merry Christmas, little girl. What do you want?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

How do you want your doll house?

What? But I want a life, Homie. Now, listen, sir.

[Bob Young]

If you don't ask him for a dollhouse, I won't take you in there. Are you going to behave?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Mm.

[Bob Young]

All right. Let's Go in. All right now, there's Santa now. Come on over and talk to us now.

[Eric Rapinar]

Go ahead, sister.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Hello, Santa boy.

[Meredith Wilson]

Well, well. Merry Christmas, little girl.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Merry Christmas.

[Bob Young]

You're just about the nicest, sweetest little girl I've ever seen. Come over close to Santa.

What are you crying about?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

He got it.

[Bob Young]

Ow. Look out. What have you done, Snooks? You give Santa Bat his beard. Come on, let's get out of here. What kind of a kid is that anyway?

[Meredith Wilson]

You ought to give her a south.

[Bob Young]

Well, now you've annoyed Santa Claus. I guess that'll fix you for Christmas.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Why?

[Bob Young]

Because he won't bring you any presents.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Mom. I'll buy some. I got 40 cents.

[Bob Young]

Oh, you have?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Uh huh. I saved it out to buy a.

[Bob Young]

Present for you and mommy.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

What?

[Eric Rapinar]

What?

[Bob Young]

Look there. That's. That's very sweet of you, dear.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I'm going to buy you a silk bath bow.

[Eric Rapinar]

Oh, yes.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

And I'm going to buy Mama great big diamond ring.

[Bob Young]

Well, listen, I think you'll need a little more money if you're going to buy all that.

[Eric Rapinar]

Give me the 40 cents.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Here, Daddy.

[Bob Young]

And here's a brand new $10 bill for you.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

What shall I buy you, Daddy?

[Bob Young]

I leave it entirely up to you. Let's walk around the counter.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Oh, look at all those nice things. Ain't it wonderful? I don't want a boy. Hello. What's your name? Tony. What's your name? Pudding Jane. Ask me J. I'll tell you this game.

[Bob Young]

Oh, no. Be polite and tell the little boy your name.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

My name is no. You got a big hole in your picture.

[Bob Young]

No.

[Vilma Duro]

Well, I know it.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

The patch ain't the same color.

[Vilma Duro]

That ain't a patch.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

That's me.

Where is it, Daddy? I ain't got no daddy. Why?

[Vilma Duro]

I don't know.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I took him away. Last turn in, Angela. Mother says he ain't coming back.

[Eric Rapinar]

Oh, you look cold, honey.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

No, I ain't cold. I'm going home soon. When?

[Vilma Duro]

Soon as I sell the rest of my papers.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Why? It's on paper. Well, I got 18 cents already. If I get another seven cents, I can buy something from her mother.

[Meredith Wilson]

What?

[Eric Rapinar]

What did you figure on buying something?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Well, I kind of wanted to get.

[Vilma Duro]

Her that nice soft fur coat, but.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Man said it cost too much. Really?

[Vilma Duro]

Gets awful cold most of the time.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I guess I can buy her a turkey, though.

[Eric Rapinar]

A turkey?

[Vilma Duro]

We ain't had turkey for. Well, for an awful long time.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Yeah, I bet she'd love a turkey. Daddy?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yes, dear?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I want to whisper something to you.

[Eric Rapinar]

Yes, dear, what is it?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

You don't need no Christmas present, do you?

[Eric Rapinar]

I hear. I think I can do without it this year.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

All right. Here, Tony, buy something for your mommy. $10. Auntie, I can't take this. Yes, you can. Can, dad?

[Bob Young]

Why, of course.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Is it all right, mister?

[Bob Young]

If my little girl wishes you to have it, that's fine with me.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Gee, thanks. Bye. Bye.

[Bob Young]

Merry Christmas.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I like her. Boy. Well, nuts.

[Eric Rapinar]

I. I don't know what to say. You really are a wonderful child.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

And you love me.

[Eric Rapinar]

Daddy, looks. I love you an awful lot when you're good.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Daddy.

[Eric Rapinar]

Yes.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I love you even when you're angry.

[Meredith Wilson]

Well, come on.

[Eric Rapinar]

Let's go home, baby. This is the happiest Christmas of my life.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Daddy, what is it? You know what.

[Meredith Wilson]

What?

[Eric Rapinar]

Snooks.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I bet that little boy thought I was missing.

[Vilma Duro]

Of course.

[Meredith Wilson]

In the MGM concert hall tonight, Meredith Wilson presents the true story of a melody that is better known than that of any Beethoven symphony. Or of any song in the hit.

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[Meredith Wilson]

Song that I can think of. But I'm sure there are very few of you who can tell the name of the man who composed it.

His name was Franz Gruber. He was born in a little town in Upper Austria, almost 150 years ago. His father was a poor linen weaver. So although Franz was interested in music almost from the time he was a baby, there was little money available for study. But Franz Grubert was a boy of 10, talent as well as determination. At home, beside his bed, he built into the wall a series of little blocks about the size of the keys of an organ. And there he practiced. One Sunday, the regular church organist having been taken suddenly ill, the boy, Franz, only 12 years old, leaped to the organ bench and played the entire service of High Mass from memory. It was just 10 years later, in the year 1818, when he was only 22 years old, that the young man made his deathless contribution to music. The parish priest, a man named Joseph Moore, burst into Gruber's house on Christmas Eve with a poem he had just completed. The priest read the verses to his friend and suggested that Franz supply a melody to accompany them for the Christmas services in the church the next day. Within an hour, Franz Grubert had conceived and finished his masterpiece. It was played and sung in the church at Oberndorf next day without altering in the note and made a profound impression on the Christmas worshipers. However, only 50 years after it was written, all record of the melody's authorship had been lost. A discussion of its origin, which accidentally took place in the presence of the composer's 12 year old son, led to the discovery that it was not a folk song, but the composition of Franz Gruber. And so let us enjoy it again as Meredith played it. And let us be thankful not only for Christmas, but also a little for the obscure and modest Franz Grubert who wrote Silent Night.

[Eric Rapinar]

Holy Night.

[Bob Young]

Holy night.

Holy.

Holy.

Mother and son.

[Tony Martin]

Holy.

[Meredith Wilson]

Warren, a couple of weeks ago you made the statement that women could easily win their husband's praise by changing to the new Maxwell House coffee. Well, at a dinner party last night, one fellow doubted it. He said a man wouldn't notice any difference in the coffee. And even if he did, he wouldn't thank his wife.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I hope you stood up for me.

[Meredith Wilson]

Certainly I did. After the argument settled down a little bit, our hostess took us in the kitchen and we made two cups of coffee. One out of Maxwell House and the other one out of another well known brand. Then the fellow who started all the trouble had to admit the difference. But he still wouldn't admit women are interested in trying new things to please their husband.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Bob, your friend must be a bachelor. He's too cynical. No smart wife would ever pass up the opportunity of giving her husband a better tasting cup of coffee. Anyway, thanks for defending my honor so nobly and so well. Now, as a matter of fact, folks, millions of wives have already earned their husband's thanks by serving the new Maxwell House coffee. We believe this is due to two important improvements. First, Joel Cheeks original blend, which made so many friends for Maxwell House, has been still further enriched today. This superb blend is smoother and far more mellow than any coffee you've probably ever tried before. Second, the new radiant roast process roasts each bean all the way through as evenly inside as out. It brings out more of the true flavor of the coffee. There's no weak coffee due to under roasting, no bitter coffee due to parching. So tomorrow, ask your grocer for a pound of the new Maxwell House coffee. It comes in the same blue super vacuum Can You've always known you'll delight in coffee that's richer and smoother with more downright satisfaction than ever. Now more than ever. This is coffee that's good to the last drop.

[Meredith Wilson]

What's all excitement about? Why, for heaven's sake.

[Bob Young]

My dear sir, I don't care what the Archduke told you. I don't like the suit and I won't pay for it. Good day.

[Meredith Wilson]

Well, what's the matter, Frank?

[Bob Young]

What's the matter? Look what my imbecilic tailor sold me for a Tyrolean suit.

[Meredith Wilson]

Oh, for the look.

Frank.

Where's the rest of it?

[Bob Young]

My boy, you're so provincial, it's refreshing. The whole Tyrolean costume is historic. The blouse in memory of the Swiss patriot William Tell. The cross leather braces. Part of the uniform of the ancient Swiss regiment. Les chasseurs. The green half hose, a relic from the Saxon peasants. And the green twill shorts, a remnant from Sax Harold Square.

[Meredith Wilson]

Well, the hat's no slouch either.

[Bob Young]

Well, of course, you understand it takes quite a fine figure of a man to wear such a revealing outfit.

[Meredith Wilson]

Yes, I was just thinking. Who pumps up your knees, Frank?

[Bob Young]

I. Young. You're just jealous. In Switzerland, bare knees are de rigueur.

[Meredith Wilson]

Yeah, all right, pretty pants. Why are you wearing this outfit?

[Bob Young]

Well, I'm wearing it in honor of my paternal great grandfather on my mother's side. A Swiss watchman.

[Meredith Wilson]

Your great grandfather made watches?

[Bob Young]

Just the cases.

[Eric Rapinar]

My.

[Bob Young]

My great grandmother gave him the word.

All of my ancestors came from the Tyrol. And of course, I spent my own boyhood conquering the peaks of Switzerland.

[Meredith Wilson]

Mountain climbing now?

[Bob Young]

Yes.

[Meredith Wilson]

You couldn't climb an ant hill, Mr.

[Bob Young]

Morgan Alpenstock Morgan, sir.

In Switzerland, I was known as the craftiest creeper that ever crawled into a cravat.

[Meredith Wilson]

Cranberry Young.

[Bob Young]

It might interest you to know that I have climbed every important peak, not only in Europe, but also in America. I'm the only man alive who ever scaled the front of Indian Head Bluff in Colorado.

[Meredith Wilson]

Never heard of it.

[Bob Young]

Only 80,000ft high, that's all. Just about 4 inches less than Mount Everest. But I climbed Indian Head Bluff in 27 minutes flat wearing only shorts and a tennis shoe.

[Meredith Wilson]

What a climb.

[Bob Young]

What a bluff.

But. But the real mountain climbing, Martin, is really Frank. Did I hear you say you'd been in Switzerland? You heard me. The real mountain climbing. I asked you. Go away.

Bob. How do you find Meredith these days?

[Meredith Wilson]

Oh, I just pushed back his hair and there he is.

[Bob Young]

You'll soon be ready for cafe work.

[Meredith Wilson]

Oh.

[Bob Young]

Where Was I?

[Meredith Wilson]

I've in Switzerland. Camembert.

[Bob Young]

Oh, yeah.

[Meredith Wilson]

Switzerland. Yeah.

[Bob Young]

Let me see.

Ah, those golden days and nights in samurais. I always stayed at the exclusive Hotel Bete Noir, Favorite resort of Continental super. Where the rooms are 100 and $200 a day.

[Meredith Wilson]

Well, what's the difference?

[Bob Young]

Well, the $200 rooms had mousetraps. When. When I last visited the hotel, my suite overlooked. Could I ask you.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Go away.

[Bob Young]

My suite overlooked the ice arena. The most beautiful rink in all Europe. 80ft in diameter, a perfect circle of crystal clear ice. I couldn't resist the temptation.

[Meredith Wilson]

What temptation was that, Frank?

[Bob Young]

Well, to revisit the scene of my triumph in the Olympics in 1912, when I was the idol of the crowds, the pet of the photographers. Frank.

[Meredith Wilson]

Yes? You were an Olympic champion.

[Bob Young]

A thousand times a champion, my boy. I won the speed skating, slow skating, figure skating and cheap skating.

In skiing, I won the downhill slalom and the uphill glide. But you should see me on a sled.

[Meredith Wilson]

Bob, Bob, sled.

[Bob Young]

You slay me.

I won the four man and two man bobs. Now listen here, Frank. I want to ask you a question. Darn it.

[Tony Martin]

Go away.

[Bob Young]

No, darn it. Why? You've been in Switzerland and you can tell me. All right. Anything from Switzerland. What is it, Meredith? Do I look like a Saint Bernard?

[Meredith Wilson]

Do you mind if I answer that question? Pray, do go away, Meredith.

[Tony Martin]

Darn it.

[Bob Young]

I won't go away. I know a mountain climbing joke. You want to hear an out calling to its mate? No. Hi, Cliff.

Darn it.

This is no place for me, Bob.

[Narrator/Announcer]

I'm going home.

[Bob Young]

I can't.

[Meredith Wilson]

Now, wait a minute. Skee ball. I want to hear some more of that mountain lion.

[Bob Young]

Oh.

There you go. Well, I'll never forget the first time I skated on the rink at the Bete Noir, my European debut. With studied carelessness, not appearing to notice the crowd, I described a series of sparkling glissandos. Then, pretending to flick an imaginary snow crystal from my skate, I pirouetted on one toe a flashing human gyroscope, till the crowd burst into spontaneous tears.

[Meredith Wilson]

That got him, huh, Bob?

[Bob Young]

I can hear it now. The ringing of their tears mingling with the notes of a church bell far across the valley where the peasants were celebrating the old Swiss festival of Kirschnesen. Sontag.

[Meredith Wilson]

What's that?

[Bob Young]

Walnut sundae.

[Meredith Wilson]

I'll have a cherry coat.

[Tony Martin]

Small or large?

[Meredith Wilson]

Large. No eyes. Coming up.

[Bob Young]

Returning to the rink for an encore, I threw caution to the winds. I skated faster and faster. Even the musicians were Infected by the mad gaiety of my whirling, dashing performance. I finished off with a series of precision and tickles that sent the audience into hysteria. The ladies waved their toques and shook their Astra cans.

I mean, those that had them.

[Meredith Wilson]

You must have been a sensation. Yes.

[Bob Young]

The next day they put ice in the rink. Well, I've got to be going.

Oh, here's my tailor again. I won't pay for this suit, my man. In the first place, you haven't caught the spirit of the Tyl. And in the second place, the pants don't fit.

[Meredith Wilson]

That's not the only place they don't fit.

[Bob Young]

Well, I'll make them any way you want, Mr. Morgan. I can make some smaller. L. Now we can. I haven't got time. Now, you've got. Look, I have my tools right with me. I can do it right now. Just take a minute. Oh, your tools.

[Meredith Wilson]

You got to be good. Yeah, just little hand tailoring on the air.

[Bob Young]

Yes. Well, now, just a minute. Come here, young.

[Meredith Wilson]

Hey, what are you going to do?

[Bob Young]

Well, I take. I think that these are. Oh, cut it out. As a matter of fact, somebody stop this madman. He's cutting my pants up.

[Meredith Wilson]

That's a fine thing.

[Bob Young]

Hey, they'll have to be at. At least. Couldn't you wait to get Horn to do this? It must be at least that. Well, that isn't bad.

[Vilma Duro]

Now.

[Bob Young]

That looks pretty fine. I'll bring it back to you Monday, then. Oh, well, that's all right, Frank.

[Meredith Wilson]

I. I'm awfully embarrassed. I don't know how to get off.

[Bob Young]

Oh, well, just follow me off, Bob.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Ladies and gentlemen, Bob Young has gone out to borrow another pair of pants. But I notice it's about time for our old Thursday evening custom. You know, at this happy season of the year, the holiday mood is everywhere. You can see it on the faces of the children and the actions of your neighbors. Everyone is thinking about the nice things they can do for others. How they can bring more pleasure to their friends. How they can make this holiday truly one of peace on earth's goodwill toward men. And at this joyous Christmas season, we, too are happy. For Maxwell House is bringing more pleasure to more firesides than ever before. And now, won't you join us in our moment of relaxation? A steaming, fragrant cup of Maxwell House coffee. Here's yours and yours.

[Meredith Wilson]

Sugar? Cream.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We pause briefly for station identification.

[Meredith Wilson]

This is kfi, los angeles.

[Narrator/Announcer]

This is warren hull again. And we continue our maxwell house good news.

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[Meredith Wilson]

This is Bob Young again with a new pair of pants. And now, ladies and gentlemen, as a special free Christmas treat, Maxwell House presents Baby Snooks reciting the Owl and the Pussycat by Edward Lear. Bring her on, Daddy.

[Eric Rapinar]

All right, go on. Don't be nervous.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Come on, Daddy.

[Meredith Wilson]

Wait a minute.

[Eric Rapinar]

Let me straighten your dress.

[Bob Young]

What's the matter?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I ain't got no hanky, Jackie.

[Bob Young]

Oh, wait, I'll blow your nose. Come on now, blow.

Are you all set?

[Eric Rapinar]

Well, go ahead.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

The Aluminum Pussycat by Edward Learn. Now, the owl on the pussycat went to sea In a beautiful pea green book they took some honey and plenty of money Wrapped up in a five pound note.

The owl looked up at the stars above and sang to a small guitar oh, yuppie pussy.

[Bob Young]

Oh, pull.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

What a beautiful pussy you are, you are, you are what a beautiful pussy. Pussy said to the owl oh, you elegant flower how charmingly sweet you sing.

Oh, let us be married too long we have carried but what shall we do for a ring? They sailed away for a year and a day to the land where the bone tree grows and there in a wood a piggy.

With a ring at the end of his nose his nose, his nose at the ring at the end of his nose. Dear pig, are you willing to sell for a shilling your ring? Said the piggy, I will. So they hurried away and were married next day by the turkey who lives on the hill they dined on mince and slices of quince which they ate with a one stable spoon and her in hand on the edge of the strand they dance by the light of the moon the moon, the moon they dance by the light of the moon.

I forgot the rest.

[Eric Rapinar]

Oh, that's all there is. There's no more.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

No more.

[Bob Young]

No.

It is indeed a pleasure to welcome.

[Meredith Wilson]

Back to our MGM Theater of the Air. Tonight a young man whom you Maxwell House listeners have voted your favorite dramatic actor on this program, my good friend, Robert Taylor.

Bob will appear with a young lady who played with him before in our theater, the charming and personable Ms. Rita Johnson.

Our stars appear Tonight in a fictitious playlet directed by MGM's producer, Edgar Selwyn and especially written for this program by Carlos del Prado and adapted by Don Milo. The title, Rendezvous at Dawn. Music Narrative.

It is spring, the time when eager proprietors of the many sidewalk cafes which characteristically dot the streets of all European cities begin to rub their hands enthusiastically. Well, with spring comes romance. And with romance, business. At the Cafe Royale. Occupying their favorite table are Eric Rapinar, played by Robert Taylor, and Vilma Duro, played by Rita Johnson. They are young and gay, yet strangely wise. Why? Perhaps because their very lives often depend upon their wits. For Eric and Vilma serve their beloved country in its most dangerous and sanquished capacity. They are five.

[Bob Young]

Everything was all right, Madame, Missy.

[Vilma Duro]

A lovely lunch, Philip.

[Bob Young]

Thank you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

It'll be awful about you.

[Tony Martin]

Thank you.

[Eric Rapinar]

You know, darling, Philip reminds me of that funny little waiter in Tries. That was where I met you, if you remember.

[Vilma Duro]

Of course I remember.

[Eric Rapinar]

He insisted we change our table because we couldn't see the moon.

[Vilma Duro]

It was a glorious moon.

[Eric Rapinar]

It was a glorious night. Our first together. I've often wondered what we ate. You know, when I'm with you, I never know what I eat or drink. Well, can you blame me? It's enough to confuse anyone. The fragrance of lilacs in the air. Bougainville on a trellis. The living, breathing angel so close I can feel her enchantment stealing through my heart.

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, you always say such beautiful things that I never know what to answer.

[Eric Rapinar]

Well, why don't you just say you love me?

[Vilma Duro]

I love you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

What could be more beautiful?

[Eric Rapinar]

I love you. Three little words so powerful that for the sound of them, men give up kingdoms, glory, honor. And.

I give you heartache, suspense, danger.

[Vilma Duro]

No, that isn't so. I ask for that. All of us. I'm proud of every moment, every sacrifice I've made for our country. But somehow I've often wondered if I'd have felt that way without you. Because now that the work is almost over, I find myself wanting something more than just a lot of excitement and intrigue. I want.

[Eric Rapinar]

You only want what every other woman wants. A home, protection, security.

[Vilma Duro]

Yes, darling, that's it. That's what I want. I know of a little place in Switzerland like Moto by the lake. It could only take a tiny car.

[Meredith Wilson]

Cottage.

[Vilma Duro]

There.

[Eric Rapinar]

A tiny cottage by the lake.

[Bob Young]

Yes, I'd like that too. In the evening.

[Eric Rapinar]

A log fire crackling merrily.

[Bob Young]

You and my arm watching the flames.

[Vilma Duro]

Dance until we both fall fast asleep. Oh, I've dreamt of that. Eric. Oh, how I've dreamt of it.

[Eric Rapinar]

I've thought of those things too, Velma. I want you to have them. And after tonight, if everything goes well, you can.

[Vilma Duro]

After tonight. Then you get the order. What do we do?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, you.

[Eric Rapinar]

You see, they've. They've decided not to wait.

[Vilma Duro]

Eric. You mean the capital?

[Meredith Wilson]

Yes.

[Eric Rapinar]

The trouble there last week brought on a crisis. Franz Buelig and I have been ordered.

[Meredith Wilson]

To make the final move.

[Vilma Duro]

Franz Buelig?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

But why not me?

[Eric Rapinar]

Those things we never know, dear.

[Vilma Duro]

That isn't so, Eric. We've always worked together. We saved each other's lives time and again. Why then, is it Franz instead of me?

[Eric Rapinar]

I told you, I don't know, Velma. I get my own.

[Vilma Duro]

You do know. You're just trying to protect me. You are France.

[Bob Young]

Didn't you? Didn't you.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

You're afraid, Eric.

[Vilma Duro]

You're afraid something will happen. Oh, darling, don't you know I wouldn't mind any danger so long as we're together?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Please.

[Vilma Duro]

Please let me go with you.

[Eric Rapinar]

Zilma, we've asked so much of fate, you and I. We've been awfully lucky. This time we might not be so lucky. Perhaps our just asking for me alone won't be too much.

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, Eric, I can't let you go. I.

[Eric Rapinar]

The girl. I know, love has courage. She doesn't know fear.

[Vilma Duro]

Not for myself, darling, to die is one thing. But to lose you and go on living, that's another. But I couldn't stand. I suppose you fail.

[Eric Rapinar]

I won't fail. I've too much to live for. A toast, then. A toast to tomorrow. And to Mr. And Mrs. Eric Rapinoff in the tiny cottage at montre.

[Vilma Duro]

Yes, darling. Mr. And Mrs. Eric Rapin.

Are you sure there are no messages? Yes, madame. I just asked again. No messages. Please, madame. You've had nothing all day. Try just a cup of tea.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

All right, Marina.

[Vilma Duro]

Just set it there. I'll drink it later. You were there? Yes, madame.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Quickly. Yes, quickly.

[Meredith Wilson]

Where's your mistress?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Come in. Me? You may go, Marina.

[Vilma Duro]

Miss, what's wrong? Oh, you're hurt.

[Meredith Wilson]

No, no, I'm all right. You must get away from here tomorrow.

[Vilma Duro]

Something's gone wrong. What is it?

[Meredith Wilson]

Well, after Eric and France left last night, we learned our plans were known. I tried to head them off, but I ran into a detachment of soldiers. I was wounded in escape.

[Vilma Duro]

What's happened to Eric? Don't you know?

[Eric Rapinar]

No.

[Meredith Wilson]

He was due back this morning and there's been no word.

[Vilma Duro]

But isn't there somewhere you find Out.

[Meredith Wilson]

I promised Eric I'd look after you if anything happened. That's why I came. You are suspected even now. The soldiers may be on their way here. We've got to leave at once.

[Vilma Duro]

Don't you understand? I can't go. I promised Eric I'd wait down there on the street.

[Bob Young]

They're watching the house now.

[Meredith Wilson]

Then, do you believe me?

[Eric Rapinar]

I'll have to take a chance for the back way.

[Meredith Wilson]

Hurry.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Every moment count.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Oh, no. I can't go.

[Bob Young]

We.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

We would have been married today.

[Meredith Wilson]

Vilma. I've risked my life to come here. Only because I promised Eric to see that you were taken care of.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Now, are you coming with me or will I have to carry you?

[Vilma Duro]

Leave me alone.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Can't you open the door? Please put me down. I won't go.

[Bob Young]

Open the door. Open the door.

[Meredith Wilson]

Five years have passed since the day Eric Rapinov failed to return. Return to Vilma Duro. Years which have weighed heavily on the imprisoned Eric. Or little news from the outside world has reached him. Once a new prisoner brought news that a general August Renar had married a woman thought to be Vilma. With this tormenting thought constantly in mind, Eric joins two fellow prisoners in a desperate plan for escape. After spending months working at the bars of their tiny cell window, an opportunity finally presents itself. It is night. Hopefully. Desperately, the prisoners lay their final plan.

[Eric Rapinar]

The new God takes over on the hour. You know what to do?

[Meredith Wilson]

Yes, yes.

[Bob Young]

Now remember, the guard's name is Bon.

[Eric Rapinar]

I remember. We mustn't fail. Fail? After five years in this hell, we can't fail. I wonder what a glass of wine will taste like. It's been so long I can't remember.

[Meredith Wilson]

Wine.

[Eric Rapinar]

Ah, and real food again.

[Narrator/Announcer]

And music.

[Meredith Wilson]

That's what I want.

[Eric Rapinar]

Want most to hear music. Why music? That's what you want, is it? Compared to what I want, there nothing. I hope you find her, Eric. To hear her voice again, to hold in my arms. That's more than wine and music. That's ecstasy. Here comes the guard. Remember.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Help.

[Bob Young]

Who is it?

[Vilma Duro]

What is wrong?

[Eric Rapinar]

Oh, I'm sick.

[Tony Martin]

What's the matter?

[Eric Rapinar]

Here are the keys. The door, quick.

[Bob Young]

Drag him inside.

[Eric Rapinar]

Good work, men. Help me with these boots.

[Bob Young]

Put on the tumor, Gary.

[Eric Rapinar]

Hurry.

[Bob Young]

And it's sword.

[Meredith Wilson]

No.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Follow me.

[Eric Rapinar]

Come on.

[Bob Young]

Listen. What's that?

[Eric Rapinar]

We must have found bank. Come on, we'll have to run for it.

[Tony Martin]

Hey there, guard. Any prisoners passing away?

[Eric Rapinar]

There's the border. I can see the lights from here. Thank God.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Can you make it, Max?

[Eric Rapinar]

Of course he can. We're Almost there? Yes, almost there.

[Meredith Wilson]

Let's hurry while it's still dark.

[Eric Rapinar]

Yes, it'll be easier to slip through. Wait a minute. What's that? There's. There's someone coming up the road.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Looks like a peasant with his cart.

[Eric Rapinar]

That's good. I'll question him.

[Bob Young]

Take no risk.

[Meredith Wilson]

Eric.

[Eric Rapinar]

Careful. Don't worry, honestly. Handle him.

[Bob Young]

Stay there.

[Eric Rapinar]

My good fellow, a word with you.

[Bob Young]

What is it I can do for you, monsieur?

[Eric Rapinar]

Well, we're strangers about. How's the road at the border? Difficult to get through.

[Bob Young]

Not tonight, Monsieur. The soldiers are mostly all at the old castle.

[Eric Rapinar]

And we're in luck. It's a fine way to neglect their duty. And what is it at the castle that interests them so?

[Bob Young]

I don't rightly know, Monsieur. Every year there's a big to do at this point. Time, he said. General August Reign celebrates his wedding anniversary.

[Eric Rapinar]

That was the name.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Thank you, my good man. That will be all.

[Bob Young]

Glad to be of service to you.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Come, Eric. We're losing time. Let's make the best of our good fortune.

[Meredith Wilson]

Oh, you.

[Eric Rapinar]

You and Max go ahead.

[Meredith Wilson]

I'll.

[Eric Rapinar]

I'll join you later.

[Meredith Wilson]

Why, Eric.

[Bob Young]

What is it?

[Eric Rapinar]

His name was Renard. It must be the same one.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Don't be a fool, Eric. You can't stop now. There's freedom within your very reach.

[Bob Young]

Quiet your heart.

[Eric Rapinar]

Eric. Perhaps this story wasn't true. Come on with us.

[Bob Young]

Give yourself time to think.

[Eric Rapinar]

No, no, I. I've got to see it.

[Meredith Wilson]

Oh, but you can wait until it's safer, Eric.

[Bob Young]

You wouldn't have a chance tonight with.

[Narrator/Announcer]

All those soldiers there.

[Eric Rapinar]

Said no, Johannes. Right, Eric, don't be too hasty. Hasty? Don't you realize I've waited five years for this? Now I must see you tonight.

[Meredith Wilson]

May I wish you another year of happiness.

[Vilma Duro]

Thank you. You're very kind.

You see that? Everything bores her. She is beautiful, though. No wonder the general married her.

[Eric Rapinar]

May I have the honor of this dance contest?

[Vilma Duro]

No, thank you.

[Eric Rapinar]

Not even one Walt.

[Vilma Duro]

I'm sorry. I don't know you.

[Eric Rapinar]

Are you sure?

[Vilma Duro]

Quite sure.

[Eric Rapinar]

Perhaps if I hold my hand over my beard.

[Bob Young]

Eric, shall we dance?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Oh, yes, yes.

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, Eric. I can't believe it. It can't be you.

[Bob Young]

Why not?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

But you've changed.

[Vilma Duro]

Or your face.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Even your voice.

[Bob Young]

Five years, Velma.

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, five years. Oh, Eric. You shouldn't have come here. It's dangerous.

[Eric Rapinar]

Keep me not another day, another moment. Hear your voice Feel the touch of your hand.

[Bob Young]

I had to come.

[Vilma Duro]

It's wild, it's crazy.

[Eric Rapinar]

It's everything I'VE thought about for five years.

[Bob Young]

Darling.

[Vilma Duro]

Hold me closer. Eric. Those officers.

[Eric Rapinar]

They're staring because you're so beautiful. They're looking at you because they're green with envy.

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, er.

[Eric Rapinar]

Nothing unusual. The handsomest couple on the.

[Vilma Duro]

If they recognize you.

[Eric Rapinar]

It's barely possible if you didn't.

[Vilma Duro]

Eric, you must go immediately.

[Eric Rapinar]

What if I finish this, Walt?

[Vilma Duro]

We'll dance over towards the entrance. You can slip out some way. I'll meet you tomorrow. I'll come to you anywhere, I promise. Only please go before they catch you.

[Eric Rapinar]

You really, really mean that, don't you?

[Vilma Duro]

Of course I do.

[Eric Rapinar]

I mean about tomorrow. You really would come to me, wouldn't you?

[Vilma Duro]

No, I would.

[Eric Rapinar]

No matter where I were.

[Vilma Duro]

Yes, dear. Now please go.

[Eric Rapinar]

No, no, not yet.

[Bob Young]

Mama.

[Vilma Duro]

Don't you realize the danger?

[Eric Rapinar]

I only realize how long I've waited for this moment.

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, darling, darling. You don't know what it's been like.

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[Vilma Duro]

Not even knowing if you were alive. Just waiting and praying and waiting. And the news of. Two spies had been shot. One was Franz Bulik. I knew he was working with you. With usual mystery about the other one.

[Eric Rapinar]

And you thought it was me? Thought I was dead?

[Vilma Duro]

Yes. What else could I think?

[Eric Rapinar]

I was dead all these years. I know that now. And now it's. It's like living again, darling.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Remember this, Walt?

[Vilma Duro]

Yes. Cafe Royale. A little table under a lilac tree.

[Eric Rapinar]

You do remember.

[Vilma Duro]

Two people very much in love. Planning their tomorrow.

[Eric Rapinar]

Their tomorrow that never came.

Funny, isn't it? How the music brings it all back.

[Vilma Duro]

Every word, every thought, every look. Darling, hold me closer. Tell me it isn't a dream. Tell me you'll really come back.

[Eric Rapinar]

Yes, I'd come back. Hi, Eric Rapinar.

[Vilma Duro]

They'll hear you. Everyone's looking this way.

[Eric Rapinar]

I can't see them. I don't even know they exist. All I know is I'm back and you're in my arms. And we're alive again.

[Vilma Duro]

Stands out in the terrace. The two of us together.

[Bob Young]

Just like the Royale.

[Meredith Wilson]

Yes.

[Vilma Duro]

There might even Be a lilac tree.

[Meredith Wilson]

What?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Out there?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Why not?

[Eric Rapinar]

I don't know. Well, here we are. Shall we go out?

[Vilma Duro]

Yes.

[Eric Rapinar]

It's almost sunrise.

[Vilma Duro]

Not a soul out here, but.

[Eric Rapinar]

No, not a soul.

[Vilma Duro]

What's the matter, dear?

[Meredith Wilson]

Nothing.

[Vilma Duro]

Eric. Eric. Those shadows in the courtyard. There, against the wall.

[Eric Rapinar]

Probably lion.

[Vilma Duro]

No. Look.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Look.

[Vilma Duro]

They're soldiers.

[Eric Rapinar]

Are they now? You just imagine.

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, Eric, you shouldn't have come here. We must be mad, both of us. You could be walking down those stairs and facing a firing square squad. As anyone knew.

[Eric Rapinar]

I think of that now because we're fools.

[Vilma Duro]

Risking your life for one waltz.

[Eric Rapinar]

The best gamble I ever made.

[Vilma Duro]

Well, mustn't anymore, darling. Why not?

[Eric Rapinar]

We always took chances, didn't we?

[Bob Young]

That's what made life so thrilling.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Paris, London, Budapest, Cairo.

[Eric Rapinar]

Wherever we were, we took chances. And we always knew that someday there'd be a blindfold, a cigarette and the firing squad.

[Vilma Duro]

Stop it, Eric. Don't say anymore.

[Eric Rapinar]

I'm sorry.

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, Eric, what are we doing? We're out of our heads. But, oh, it's so wonderful to be together. Everything's wonderful.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Look.

[Vilma Duro]

Even the sky is glorious. Even dawn is just beginning to break.

[Eric Rapinar]

Yes, we. We'd better go back.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Go back?

[Vilma Duro]

Where?

[Eric Rapinar]

You're your husband and I.

[Vilma Duro]

You know I can't do that. I married him because I thought you were dead. He knows that too.

[Eric Rapinar]

You told him?

[Vilma Duro]

I told him I'd been in love once. That I could never love anyone again. You wanted me anyway and. But why talk of what's past? It's tomorrow we must think about.

[Eric Rapinar]

Tomorrow?

[Vilma Duro]

Yes.

[Eric Rapinar]

It's almost sunrise now.

[Vilma Duro]

Well, today then. We'll go to Moltra by the lake. Remember, darling, that's the place I always wanted for our honeymoon. We won't let anyone keep us away from it now. There won't be any more secret missions, no last minute orders to keep us apart.

[Eric Rapinar]

No, darling.

[Vilma Duro]

Just you and I and the tiny.

[Eric Rapinar]

Clothes cottage for the lake.

[Bob Young]

Yes.

Oh, there you are, my dear.

[Eric Rapinar]

I've been looking for you.

[Vilma Duro]

I'm so sorry. I didn't realize. Oh, August, may I present Monsieur.

[Meredith Wilson]

I believe I know.

[Bob Young]

Eric Rapanar.

[Narrator/Announcer]

General.

[Bob Young]

Oh, Almost sunrise, Monsieur Rapanar.

[Eric Rapinar]

Yes, General, I know. Thank you, madame, for your kindness. Good night.

[Vilma Duro]

Au revoir.

[Eric Rapinar]

Good night, madam.

[Bob Young]

Now, my dear, shall we go in?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Yes.

[Bob Young]

Tell me, what did you think of Monsieur Rapidard?

[Vilma Duro]

Oh, a very good dancer.

[Bob Young]

What else?

[Vilma Duro]

He seemed a perfect gentleman. What else is there?

[Bob Young]

Aren't you curious?

[Vilma Duro]

I don't understand.

[Bob Young]

Didn't he tell you?

[Vilma Duro]

No. What are you trying to Say.

[Bob Young]

Well, my dear, Monsieur Rapinar has just.

[Meredith Wilson]

Paid us a very original compliment.

[Vilma Duro]

Really?

[Meredith Wilson]

Yes.

[Bob Young]

As you know, Eric Rapana, besides being.

[Eric Rapinar]

A gentleman, happens to be a very dangerous spy.

[Meredith Wilson]

He was to be shot this morning.

[Bob Young]

And as his last request, he asked for one waltz with the most beautiful.

[Meredith Wilson]

Woman in all Europe.

[Bob Young]

I could hardly refuse, could I?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Oh.

[Meredith Wilson]

Shall we?

[Bob Young]

Shall we dance, my dear?

[Meredith Wilson]

Of the innumerable glorious melodies that Jerome Kern has given to the world, Mr. Kern's own favorite is Old man river, which, like the lyrics of the song itself, seems destined to just keep rolling on forever. Tony Martin sings this old showboat favorite for you. Friends of Maxwell House.

[Tony Martin]

Darkies all work on the Mississippi. Darkies all work while the white folks play. Hauling those boats from the dawn to sunset. Getting no rest till the judgment day dark. Look up and don't look down. You don't just make the white boss frown. Bend your knee and bow your head and pull that rope until you're dead.

Let me go away from the Mississippi. Let me go away from the white man poor. Show me that stream called the river Jordan. That's the old stream that I long to cross.

Old man river. Dead old man river. He must know something. But he don't say nothing. He just keeps rolling. He just keeps rolling along.

[Bob Young]

Keep rolling along.

[Tony Martin]

He don't plant haters. He don't plant cotton. And them that plant is full forgotten. But old man man river. He just keeps rolling along.

You and me, we sweat and strain. Body all aching and rack with pain. Toe that bar, lift that veil. You get a little drunk, burn your land in.

I get weary and sick of crying. I'm tired of living and fear of dying. But only wherever. He just keeps rolling.

[Bob Young]

Bob.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Bob, how would you like me to help me make a test?

[Meredith Wilson]

I'd be glad to, Warren. What's the idea?

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, I want to demonstrate to every woman listening in how she can be sure of getting her money's worth when she buys coffee.

[Meredith Wilson]

Well, how are you going to do that?

[Narrator/Announcer]

First, smell this unopened can of Maxwell House coffee.

[Meredith Wilson]

Okay. Can't smell a thing.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Well, now smell this package of coffee.

[Meredith Wilson]

Smells great. Sure does.

[Narrator/Announcer]

But that's flavor you'll never get in the cup. You see, the reason coffee flavor escapes is because the container the coffee is packed in isn't airtight. Scientific tests reveal that coffee, whether ground or in the whole bean, starts to lose flavor the moment it's roasted. In fact, ground coffee packed in ordinary containers where air can get at it loses as much as 45% of its flavor nearly half in only nine days. But with Maxwell House, the coffee is taken fresh and fragrant from the roasting oven and packed in a super vacuum can from which all air is first removed. Then this famous Blue super vacuum can is sealed under vacuum to keep the air out. Thus, no air can get in, no flavor can get out. So Maxwell House comes to you not just days fresh, but roaster fresh. Try the new and improved Maxwell House. Not only has the blend now been further enriched, but due to the radiant roast process, which roasts each bean all the way through, you'll get ever so much more of the true flavor of the coffee. You'll find it far richer, smoother and more delicious than ever before. Ask your grocer for the new and improved Maxwell House in the familiar Blue super vacuum can. The one way known to science to keep coffee truly fresh.

[Meredith Wilson]

There's a form of parlor entertainment much in favor. During the holidays, anything to do with quiz or puzzles is a game that everybody plays if you're really in the mood for riddles Here's a question I would like to raise.

What makes the world go round? The breezes blow, the roses grow, the crickets crick and the dogs bow wow. The clocks tick tick and the cats.

[Bob Young]

Meow I know, Mick.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Meow. I know.

[Meredith Wilson]

Quiet, Snooks. I'm singing.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Oh, is that my.

[Bob Young]

What makes the world go round?

[Meredith Wilson]

The rivers flow, the roosters crow, the whistles blow and the cow bells ring. It may be snowing, but you think it spring.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I know, Misty. I know why.

[Tony Martin]

It's all because you won somebody's favor and life becomes the force of a different flame.

[Eric Rapinar]

Meredith.

[Meredith Wilson]

What makes the world go round?

[Bob Young]

Why, melodies, Bob, and fine harmonies A stirring march or a minor strain Some happy song or a love refrain Mr. Wilkins.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

I know.

[Meredith Wilson]

Quiet, Snooks, Frank. What makes the world go round?

[Bob Young]

Why, perhaps a good smoke or a little joke and of course, a lovely lady, a pretty face, a table for two in some quiet place.

[Meredith Wilson]

Wow.

How about you, Bob Taylor? Well, I'll take my ranch horse to.

[Eric Rapinar]

Ride My boots and my hunting gun A nice big campfire beneath the sky.

[Meredith Wilson]

That'S my idea of fun, Tony. What makes the world go round, Bob? A song to sing or a tune to swing A fine arrangement or maybe.

[Bob Young]

A good part to play Maxwell House coffee and Alice fay.

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

That isn't Mr. Martin. I know.

[Meredith Wilson]

Oh, Snooks, will you please be quiet?

Oh, what are you crying for?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

You won't let me say what I know and I know what makes the world go Round.

[Meredith Wilson]

All right, Snooks, what makes the world go round?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Well.

Being kind to Christmas time and giving to poor Like I learned at Sunday school Live by the golden rule Love your mommy and daddy and be good to all your friends. Be honest, goodwill to men. You see. I know.

[Bob Young]

Meredith.

[Eric Rapinar]

Excuse me a moment. I. I think we ought to take a hint from Snooks and wish all our friends a merry Christmas.

[Bob Young]

Well, I'd like to wish them all a Merry Christmas too.

[Meredith Wilson]

And so would I. Count me in on that. What about you, Rita?

[Vilma Duro]

I certainly would like to wish everybody a Merry Christmas.

[Bob Young]

Beg pardon, Bob, but right about here, don't you think it'd be a nice thing if everybody wished our friends a merry Christmas?

[Meredith Wilson]

Meredith, where have you been? That's what we've been talking about, but we don't know how to do it.

[Bob Young]

Well, why don't you sing it now?

[Meredith Wilson]

Why didn't I think of that? All right, everybody.

[Tony Martin]

Ready?

[Baby Snooks (Fanny Brice)]

Yeah.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Yeah.

[Meredith Wilson]

Here. Go.

Merry Christmas, everyone.

[Bob Young]

From love to you and you and you.

Ladies and gentlemen, be with us next.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Thursday and tell your friends about our big New Year's show. Wallace Beery and Robert Taylor and Mervyn leroy's UMGM thrilling and exciting Dr. Drama.

[Bob Young]

Stand up and fight.

[Narrator/Announcer]

We'll also have with us charming Florence Wright, Douglas McPhail, Fanny Bright, Hanley Stafford, Frank Morgan, Meredith Wilson and Robert Young. A special guest will be NBC's sports announcer and commentator of news of the day, Bill Stern. Take it, Bob Young.

[Meredith Wilson]

There's one Christmas treat you can give your family. Take them to see MGM's brand new picture, Charles Dickens, A Christmas Carol. They will never stop thanking you for taking. And now, speaking for the Metro Golden Mare Studios and our entire Good News staff, may I wish you all a very merry Christmas. Echoing the thoughts of every true American who participated in the celebration of Rededication Day. The very best we can wish for you is that this Christmas and every Christmas finds you happier and even more proud that you are an American living in America. Merry Christmas and good night.

[Narrator/Announcer]

Now this is Warren Hull saying good night and wishing each and everyone a very merry Christmas for Maxwell House.

[Meredith Wilson]

The coffee that's always good to the last drop.

[Narrator/Announcer]

This is a national broadcasting company.

[Meredith Wilson]

K.

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