NBC The Jell-O Show Starring Jack Benny 1936-12-20 - An Old Fashioned Christmas

Summary

Podcast Summary: NBC The Jell-O Show Starring Jack Benny 1936-12-20 – An Old Fashioned Christmas

Podcast: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host: Harold’s Old Time Radio
Episode Date: December 3, 2025 (originally aired December 20, 1936)
Main Cast: Jack Benny, Mary Livingstone, Phil Harris, Kenny Baker, Don Wilson

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Overview

This episode is a festive edition of the classic Jack Benny Jell-O Program, first broadcast on December 20th, 1936. Set in the heart of the Golden Age of Radio, Jack Benny and his ensemble deliver an evening of holiday humor, heartwarming exchanges, musical performances, and comic sketches all themed around the joys and petty quarrels that come with Christmas. The episode captures both the warmth and irreverence of Benny’s legendary comedy, culminating with moments of genuine affection among the cast.

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Key Discussion Points and Insights

**Holiday Excitement and Jello Promotion

[00:31–02:03]**

• Don Wilson opens by harnessing the Christmas excitement, touting Jell-O as the perfect holiday dessert, emphasizing its flavors and festive appeal.
• Tone: Cheerful, enthusiastic, and reminiscent of the era's classic radio advertising.

**Jack Benny’s Dual Personality & Cast Banter

[02:03–05:56]**

• Don introduces Jack Benny as a man who stands for "good, wholesome entertainment—bright, sparkling humor. In fact, a man who stands for almost anything." [02:03]
• Jack teases about his easygoing persona, claiming he does have a temper:

  "There are really two Jack Bennys... the patient, amiable, fun loving fellow... and then there's that other me... Stark, savage, primitive. A throwback to the Stone Age." —Jack Benny [03:10–03:29]

• This sparks a running gag: each cast member claims to have a “dual personality,” culminating with Don Wilson’s quip referencing both his love for Jell-O and his girth:

  "You may not believe this, but there are really two Don Wilsons." —Don Wilson [05:41] "A little dieting will take care of that, you know." —Jack Benny [05:47]

**Comedy, Quarrels, and Reconciliation

[08:09–10:59]**

• Jack grouses about Phil Harris “two-timing” during musical numbers (waving to women instead of the band), bemoans the cast’s lack of support, and laments his annual holiday squabble.
• The playful insults escalate ("Horseless cowboy!"/"Brainless master of ceremonies!"), but Don and Mary try to broker a truce.
• Jack, feeling wronged, shares a melodramatic “poem” about betrayal and enduring slights during the holidays:

  "When your soul is torn asunder by some fellow's thoughtless blunder... Bear it with a grin." —Jack Benny [10:22–10:46]

• Mary's deadpan response highlights the continual ribbing among the group:

  "And say it with a groan." —Mary Livingstone [10:55]

**Kenny Baker’s Song: “Summer Night”

[11:26–13:36]**

• Kenny sings the romantic ballad “Summer Night,” impressing with tenderness despite earlier slapstick critique.
• Jack pokes fun post-song:

  "How can you say so many dumb things and yet sing so sweetly?" —Jack Benny [13:36]

**Gift Exchange & Gags

[14:02–18:23]**

• The cast exchanges tongue-in-cheek Christmas gifts:
  • Jack receives a gold buttonhook (with an attached toothpick in case "teeth ever come back" – a running joke about it being outdated). [14:21–15:00]
  • Jack regifts a “red silk necktie” Kenny believes he gave Jack last year. Mary chimes in:

    "Yeah, it's got spots on it now." —Mary Livingstone [16:33]

  • Don receives a box of Jell-O to pair with his wife's “sliced pineapple.” [16:49]
  • Mary is the recipient of a single earring (with the promise of getting the matching one “some other Christmas”).

    "Now I'll be lopsided." —Mary Livingstone [17:18]

  • Phil gets a curling iron for his already curly hair.

    "If it ever straightens out, you'll be all right." —Jack Benny [17:56]

• The scene is light-hearted, lampooning re-gifting and the often odd nature of group gift exchanges.

**Special Guests & Comic Interruptions

[20:23–22:13]**

• Pat C. Flick, a recurring comic character, drops by to “give” Jack a suit as a Christmas present—minus the coat, which will cost $75 extra.
• Physical comedy ensues as Pat critiques Jack’s current suit, “ripping” it apart on air.
• Jack’s exasperation and Mary’s quip:

  "If it's a rag doll, you're all set." —Mary Livingstone [22:30]

**Buck Benny Sketch Teased & Andy Devine Appearance

[22:51–24:32]**

• Sheriff Andy Devine arrives expecting to participate in the Buck Benny sketch. Jack explains it’s postponed, with Andy expressing disappointment.
• Andy shares his own Schmutz-style poem as consolation:

  "When you're just a buckaroo and Buck Benny you cannot do, don't feel bad... Just bear it with a grin." —Andy Devine [24:09–24:22]

• The segment ends on a humorous and warm note, with Andy having a crush on Mary and Jack teasing him about blushing.

**Sincere Friendship and Final Reconciliation

[25:07–27:32]**

• As Jack prepares to leave for a date, Phil stops him for a heart-to-heart:

  "I've been with you 12 weeks now, and I've enjoyed every minute of it... you’re a regular guy." —Phil Harris [25:29]

• Phil presents Jack with a luxurious platinum and diamond watch, demonstrating true holiday generosity and friendship.
• Jack is genuinely moved and apologizes for their spat.

  "Phil, all I can say is I'm terribly sorry for everything that happened... if you ever want to know what time it is, don't hesitate to ask me." —Jack Benny [27:03–27:19] "I don’t value anything, Jack, as much as I do your friendship." —Phil Harris [27:19]

**Epilogue and Christmas Wishes

[27:40–30:19]**

• Don Wilson, visibly touched, stumbles over his final Jell-O pitch as the whole cast is momentarily overwhelmed by the tender exchange.
• Short messages of “Merry Christmas” to all listeners are exchanged.
• Jack suggests he’d rather spend Christmas with his radio family than at a party, inspiring the group to head out together.

  "As long as I’m with you." —Jack Benny [30:19] "And Phil don't care as long as he's with a girl." —Mary Livingstone [30:22]

• Episode ends with musical tags and the traditional J-E-L-L-O chorus.

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• "There are really two Jack Bennys... and then there's that other me. Stark, savage, primitive." —Jack Benny [03:10]
• "If you're a false friend should forsake you... point at him and say, you snake, you." —Jack Benny's “poem” [10:46]
• "He doesn't know enough to come in out of the rain." —Mary Livingstone (about Kenny) [05:17]
• "Well, if teeth ever come back, you'll be all set." —Mary Livingstone (after Jack’s buttonhook gift) [14:52]
• "A curling iron? My hair is naturally curly." —Phil Harris [17:46]
• "If it's a rag doll, you're all set." —Mary Livingstone [22:30]
• "I don't value anything, Jack, as much as I do your friendship." —Phil Harris [27:19]
• "Ladies and gentlemen, I wish you could all be here to witness this touching display of friendship. In fact, I personally am so moved that I can hardly say...Jello is the most tempting..." —Don Wilson, breaking character [27:41]

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Timestamps for Key Segments

• 00:31 – Jell-O introduction and Christmas excitement
• 02:03 – Jack Benny’s dual personality & cast banter
• 11:26 – Kenny Baker sings “Summer Night”
• 14:21 – Gift exchange sequence
• 20:25 – Pat C. Flick’s comedic interruption
• 22:51 – Andy Devine guest appearance and poem
• 25:07 – Final reconciliation and Phil’s heartfelt gift to Jack
• 27:40 – Emotional denouement & Merry Christmas wishes

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Final Thoughts

This episode showcases the best of classic radio: quick-fire banter, affectionate teasing, and genuine warmth among the cast. Anchored by Jack Benny's wry self-deprecation, the show deftly blends holiday sentimentality with laugh-out-loud gags and musical interludes. The climactic moment between Jack and Phil Harris is particularly poignant, standing out in a show known more for its comedy than its sincerity. For fans of Old Time Radio or those seeking a snapshot of vintage holiday entertainment, this episode remains a heartwarming classic.

Transcript

[Jack Benny]

Limu Emu and Doug.

[Phil Harris]

Here we have the Limu Emu in.

[Don Wilson]

Its natural habitat, helping people customize their.

[Phil Harris]

Car insurance and save hundreds with Liberty Mutual. Fascinating. It's accompanied by his natural ally, Doug.

[Jack Benny]

Limu is that guy with the binoculars watching us?

[Don Wilson]

Cut the camera.

[Phil Harris]

They see us.

[Jack Benny]

Only pay for what you [e-mail] Liberty.

[Phil Harris]

Liberty. Liberty.

[Jack Benny]

Liberty Savings vary Underwritten by Liberty Mutual Insurance Company and affiliates. Excludes Massachusetts.

[Phil Harris]

J E L L O the Jello.

[Don Wilson]

Program, starring Jack Benny with Mary Livingston and Phil Harrison, his orchestra. The orchestra opens the program with. I Feel a Song coming on.

It's in the air around you. It's written in people's faces. It's anywhere and everywhere the wonderful excitement that comes with Christmas week. Now, when spirits are high and appetites are keen, Jello is the perfect dessert for you to serve. For Jello's festive shining colors, its delicious fresh fruit flavor are right in keeping with the gaiety of the season. So let Jell O help you celebrate your holidays. Serve it in any one of its six delicious flavors. Flavors unusually rich because they come from fresh, ripe fruit. But just remember that there is only one Jello, and only Jell O brings you that extra rich fruit flavor. So make no mistake. Insist on the real thing. Insist on genuine Jello.

And now we bring you a man who stands for good, wholesome entertainment. Who stands for bright, sparkling humor. In fact, a man who stands for almost anything, Jack Benny.

[Phil Harris]

Thank you. Thank you.

[Jack Benny]

Hello again. This is Standing Jack Benny talking. Listen, Don, I may be easy going and all that, but there's a limit to just how much I will stand. I think you found that out the past few weeks.

[Don Wilson]

But I've never really seen you blow up, Jack.

[Jack Benny]

Well, that's because I managed to keep myself under control. But if I ever lose my temper, well, I just hope I'm not around when it happens.

[Don Wilson]

Oh, Jack, you haven't such a temper. Why, I've heard you argue with Phil Harrison. You've been as gentle as a lamb.

[Jack Benny]

Yes, Don. But you'll never know the battle that goes on inside of me. How I have to fight to hold myself back.

[Don Wilson]

Well, that's generally a nice, safe quarrel, yes.

Jack, I don't want to interfere, but I do think that since Christmas is so near, that you and Phil ought to make up.

[Jack Benny]

No, Don. The wound is too deep.

You see, you only know me on the surface. But there are really two Jack Bennys. There's the patient, amiable, fun loving fellow you see around the studio. And then there's that other me. Stark, savage, primitive. A throwback to the Stone Age.

I tell you, Don, one minute I'm as meek as a mouse, and then all of a sudden I'm Vesuvius erupting.

[Don Wilson]

My, my.

[Jack Benny]

Well, anyway, I'm through coddling people around here. And that goes for Phil Harris or anybody else. You know, you can go just so far, and then the worm turns.

[Don Wilson]

You're right, Jack.

[Jack Benny]

I'll say I am.

[Mary Livingston]

Hello, worm.

[Jack Benny]

Well, I haven't turned yet. You better watch your step, too, Murray. What I just said about Phil goes for everybody on this program.

[Mary Livingston]

I'm not worried about you. I've got my own troubles. You know, I just had an awful fight with myself.

[Jack Benny]

You did?

[Mary Livingston]

You may not know it, Jack, but there are two Mary Livingstons.

[Jack Benny]

Oh, there are?

[Mary Livingston]

Yes. There's the quiet home loving me, who spends her time in the kitchen.

[Jack Benny]

I see.

[Mary Livingston]

And then there's the other me. Wild, reckless, with a yen for caviar and cheap jewelry.

[Jack Benny]

Oh, so you've got a dual personality, too.

[Mary Livingston]

Have I? I'm a regular Dr. Jekyll and Mrs. Hyde.

[Jack Benny]

Well. Say, Don, did Phil get here yet?

[Don Wilson]

Oh, yes, Jack. He's right on time tonight.

[Jack Benny]

He must have read my thoughts last week. Believe me, it's good to put your foot down once in a while.

[Phil Harris]

Hello, Mary.

[Don Wilson]

Hello, Jack.

[Jack Benny]

Hello, Kenny. Say, what kind of a hello was that?

[Don Wilson]

That was my other self talking.

[Jack Benny]

Hey, Don, look who's got another self.

[Phil Harris]

Oh, yeah. I've got two me's too.

[Jack Benny]

Oh, you have, huh?

[Don Wilson]

Sure, there's one me that you all know around the studio.

[Phil Harris]

Good natured, dumb and unconscious.

[Jack Benny]

Oh, and then there's the real me. Smart, bright and witty.

[Mary Livingston]

Why don't you bring him around sometime?

[Jack Benny]

Aw, Mary, leave him alone.

[Mary Livingston]

That guy don't know enough to come in out of the rain.

[Jack Benny]

He does too.

[Don Wilson]

Come in where?

[Jack Benny]

Forget it, Kenny. It doesn't rain in California anyway.

[Mary Livingston]

It doesn't?

[Jack Benny]

No.

[Mary Livingston]

Then what keeps falling out of the sky? Orange juice.

[Jack Benny]

Well, maybe the weather has a dual personality, too. You know, there are two sides to everything and everyone. Don't you think so, Don?

[Don Wilson]

Positively. And now that you brought it up. You know, Jack, you may not believe this, but there are really two Don Wilsons.

[Jack Benny]

Oh, I can see that, Don.

But a little dieting will take care of that, you know.

[Don Wilson]

Oh, you're laughing at my Expanse.

[Jack Benny]

No, no, no, no, no. I'm serious.

[Don Wilson]

But all kidding aside, I, too have another self. There's the quiet, retiring me who just says Jell O is the fastest Selling gelatin dessert in the world. And every day millions of people eat it.

[Jack Benny]

I see.

[Don Wilson]

And then there's that other me that says the jello has six delicious flavors. Strawberry, raspberry, cherry, orange, lemon and lime.

[Phil Harris]

Why, Don, you frighten me. Quick, playboy. Don, go back to your other sweet self.

[Jack Benny]

That was. You can tell she Comes from Dixie, conducted by Phil Harris, who also has a dual personality. By that I mean he's a two timer.

You know, during every number, he waves one hand at the orchestra and the other at the girls in the audience, and it's gotta stop. All right, I'll quit waving at the orchestra. Well, at least that'll help the music.

Or you've even poisoned the boys in the band against me. I have not. You haven't? Then why don't they laugh at my joke? Why don't you say something funny?

I don't want to establish a precedent around here, that's why.

That's awfully good. Laugh at him, boys.

Well, at least they were together. That's more than I can say about their music.

Zowie.

[Phil Harris]

Ha ha.

What happened?

[Mary Livingston]

Jack thought he said something funny.

[Jack Benny]

The fine bunch I'm associated with.

[Mary Livingston]

What's the matter with you, Jack? Every year you pick a fight with us.

[Jack Benny]

Well, what about it?

[Mary Livingston]

Last year it was just before Christmas, too.

[Jack Benny]

Well, I like to do my Christmas scrapping early.

[Don Wilson]

Jack, why don't you consider my suggestion and make up with Phil? How about it, Phil?

[Jack Benny]

Well, I'm willing if that horseless cowboy is.

Yeah, well, I'm not a horseless cowboy. No, you're a brainless master of ceremonies. Oh, yeah. That means fight in my country. I wish we were there.

[Mary Livingston]

Gee, a little geography saves Jack a lot of trouble.

[Jack Benny]

Yeah, there'd be a lot of trouble right now if it wasn't that Kenny has to sing his songs.

[Phil Harris]

I can wait.

[Jack Benny]

Jack, you'll sing when you're supposed to, not when you're ready.

[Don Wilson]

Oh, this thing's getting worse and worse. Come on, Jack. Now make up with Phil. What do you.

[Jack Benny]

No, Don. I realize this is the time of year when we must forgive and forget, but even this holiday spirit cannot erase the scar that has been etched into my heart.

[Don Wilson]

Aw, Jack, you're making a scar out of a molehill.

[Jack Benny]

No, I'm not. Did you ever hear that famous poem by Ludwig Schmutz?

Changed authors, called Barrett with a gr. No. Well, it goes something like this.

When your soul is torn asunder by some fellow's thoughtless blunder and your trouble deep down under Bear it with a Grin when he makes your life so dreary and your eyes with tears are bleary and you're oh so gosh darn weary.

[Phil Harris]

Ha, ha.

[Jack Benny]

Bear it with a grin, Manny.

So if your false friend should forsake you and a fool he tries to make you point at him and say, you snake, you.

[Mary Livingston]

And say it with a groan.

[Jack Benny]

Thank you. Well, I guess you know how I feel about it. Now, Don. Sing, Kenny.

[Mary Livingston]

And my poems are supposed to be.

[Phil Harris]

Why am I so jealous of the moon?

Jealous of a summer night in June?

Why can they remain beside my darling.

While I must live?

O sweet.

Summer night.

Starry sky.

[Don Wilson]

You.

[Phil Harris]

Can see my sweetheart with a thousand eyes.

Why have I.

[Don Wilson]

Only.

[Phil Harris]

To behold a thousand times my idol? Eyes to come in her window when the day is due.

And she tells you all her thoughts Won't you tell me whom she loves.

One.

Night.

Oh, how I wish.

I knew.

[Jack Benny]

That was. That was Summer Night sung by Kenny Baker. And tonight it seemed to have an extra touch of tenderness. But there's one thing that puzzles me, Kenny. How can you say so many dumb things and yet sing so sweetly? Well, I don't have to think when I sing.

[Mary Livingston]

Oh, I bet he's got a record in his mouth.

[Jack Benny]

I doubt it.

[Phil Harris]

Well, Jack, just.

[Don Wilson]

Don, I don't want to interrupt the program, but I may not get to see you again until after Christmas.

[Jack Benny]

That's right.

[Don Wilson]

Well, come to the point, Jack. Mary, Kenny and I got together and bought you a little Christmas present, which I hope you'll like.

[Jack Benny]

Well, thanks, Don and Mary. You too, Kenny.

[Don Wilson]

You're welcome. Here you are, Jack.

[Jack Benny]

Yeah, I imagine it's something awfully nice.

Well, well, Gee, this is a surprise.

[Phil Harris]

A gold button hook.

[Jack Benny]

Say, that'll come in handy. Of course, I haven't worn button shoes in a long time, but if they ever come back, boy, I'll be all set.

[Don Wilson]

Well, I'm glad you like it, Jack.

[Jack Benny]

It's a beautiful button. And gold, too.

[Phil Harris]

Yeah, and there's a toothpick on one end. Oh, there sure is.

[Mary Livingston]

Well, if teeth ever come back, you'll be all set.

[Jack Benny]

Well, thanks, kids. I. I sure appreciate this. See, you must have gone back 20 years to get it.

[Phil Harris]

Oh, it wasn't any trouble, Jack.

[Jack Benny]

I imagine it wasn't. Now.

[Mary Livingston]

Gather.

[Jack Benny]

Gather round, everybody. It's my turn to play. Thanks.

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[Jack Benny]

I got a little surprise for most all of you.

Here's a little gift for you, Kenny. A beautiful red silk necktie. Oh, thanks, Jack. Isn't it pretty? Indeed. You know, this looks like the same.

[Phil Harris]

Tie I gave you last year.

[Jack Benny]

Well, it isn't. It's different.

[Mary Livingston]

Yeah, it's got spots on it. Now.

[Jack Benny]

Quiet. You can have it clean. And Don, here's a present for you. It's something I know you love.

[Don Wilson]

What is it?

[Phil Harris]

A box of genuine jello. Oh, goody.

[Jack Benny]

I knew my wife's going to give.

[Don Wilson]

Me a sliced pineapple for Christmas. They'll go swell together.

[Jack Benny]

Oh, they sure will.

[Mary Livingston]

Oh, Jack.

[Jack Benny]

What?

[Mary Livingston]

Where's the present I'm going to exchange?

[Jack Benny]

Here. And don't be funny.

[Mary Livingston]

What is it?

[Jack Benny]

What is it? Can't you see? It's an earring.

[Mary Livingston]

An earring?

[Phil Harris]

Yeah, one earring.

[Mary Livingston]

Where's the other one?

[Jack Benny]

Well, there'll be other Christmases, won't there?

[Mary Livingston]

This is a fine present. Now I'll be lopsided.

[Jack Benny]

Put it on, Mary. That's a style now anyway. One earring.

[Don Wilson]

Jack, didn't you forget somebody?

[Jack Benny]

Not anybody that didn't forget me, but to show you the difference in characters. Come here, Mary. Here's a present for him.

You give it to him.

[Mary Livingston]

Okay. Here, Phil. Jack told me to give you this Christmas present.

[Jack Benny]

What is it? It's a curling iron.

A curling iron? Yes. Thanks. Only my hair is naturally curly. Well, if it ever straightens out, you'll be all.

[Phil Harris]

Right.

[Jack Benny]

And incidentally, it's time for your next number. So stop grinning at the girls in the audience and play. All right, Simon. Yeah. Now wait a minute. I may be exacting, but I'm no Simon Legree. I meant Simple Simon.

Now I'm stumped. Now go ahead and play a number, smarty pants.

Say, Mary, how do you like that earring? I gave you.

[Mary Livingston]

Fine. My ear's turning green already.

[Jack Benny]

Some Christmas spirit around here.

[Mary Livingston]

Some presents, too.

[Jack Benny]

Yeah.

[Phil Harris]

Sam.

[Jack Benny]

That was Mutiny in the brass section, played by Curly Harris, the kink of jazz.

And incidentally, folks, not that I care, but evidently Mr. Harris has never heard that it's better to give than to receive. Imagine a guy not reciprocating after you've given him a swell curling iron.

[Don Wilson]

Hmm? Swell?

[Jack Benny]

It isn't even electric. I told you. Like Benjamin Franklin to autograph it.

What a guy. And now, folks, this being our last program.

[Phil Harris]

Well, come in.

[Jack Benny]

Chick.

[Mary Livingston]

Bunny.

[Phil Harris]

Hello, Pat.

It's good to see you again.

[Jack Benny]

How'd you have to drop in?

[Phil Harris]

Well, it's the holiday season and I'm bringing you time.

[Jack Benny]

Greetings. Well, thanks. What are you doing these days, Patsy.

[Phil Harris]

Can you read Hangles?

[Jack Benny]

Of course I can read English.

[Phil Harris]

Then here's my cast.

[Jack Benny]

Pat C. Flick, suit, clothes, and Merry Christmas. Christmas.

So you're in the clothing business now, huh?

[Phil Harris]

Yes, sir. And Jake decided.

[Jack Benny]

Bow.

[Phil Harris]

Rolling. I brought you a Christmas present.

[Jack Benny]

Well, that's very nice of you, pappy, but you didn't have to do it.

[Phil Harris]

Don't mention it, cutie. I'm sentimental. Oh, look at this.

[Jack Benny]

A brand new suit. Is it really a present for me?

[Phil Harris]

It's not from Arlene Dietrich.

[Jack Benny]

Well, it sure is a nice job. Yes, sir. Hey, wait a minute. There's only the pants and vests here. Where's the coat?

[Phil Harris]

That'll cost you $75.

[Jack Benny]

I see. Well, I don't need a new suit.

[Phil Harris]

You don't need a suit? Look at that coat you're wearing.

[Jack Benny]

What's wrong with it?

[Phil Harris]

The faces I wouldn't put in that bag.

[Jack Benny]

No, you wouldn't, eh?

[Phil Harris]

And look at the cheap material. You call this a package? See?

[Jack Benny]

Hey, wait a minute.

[Don Wilson]

Hold on there. What are you doing to Jack?

[Phil Harris]

Don't interrupt the stairs.

[Jack Benny]

Say, you got a lot of nerve.

[Phil Harris]

And look at his fleece now. Is that a co taeisti?

[Jack Benny]

Not now it isn't. No.

[Phil Harris]

And look at those pins.

[Mary Livingston]

Shall I leave the room, Jack?

[Jack Benny]

No, this is going far enough. Here, take back your pants and vest and get out of here.

[Phil Harris]

You give a guy a present and you don't even reciprocate.

[Jack Benny]

Goodbye and happy New Year.

Wear my coat all ripped and torn. I got a date with a doll right after the program.

Now, what are you laughing at?

[Mary Livingston]

If it's a rag doll, you're all set.

[Jack Benny]

And now, ladies and gentlemen, as I said before, this being our last program before Christmas, tonight we are going. What'.

[Phil Harris]

Oh.

Well.

Hello, Buck. Well, Sheriff Andy Devine.

[Jack Benny]

Glad to see Andy.

[Phil Harris]

Oh, glad to see you, too. But.

What brings you here tonight?

Well, ain't you and me going out looking for Cactus Face Elmer the outlaw.

[Jack Benny]

Dog gone it, Andy. We got to arguing and talking up here tonight and giving out presentation. I'm afraid we won't be able to do Buck Benny rides again until next Sunday.

[Phil Harris]

Oh, shucks. And I'm all dressed up in my cowboy suit. Well, don't take it so hard.

[Jack Benny]

Come over next Sunday and you can play with us. Sorry you had to make this long trip, Andy.

[Phil Harris]

Well, I didn't mind coming over. I'm kind of stuck on Mary, you know.

[Jack Benny]

Stop blushing, Andy.

[Phil Harris]

I ain't blushing. I'm boiling him.

[Jack Benny]

Well, Andy, I'm sorry about Buck Benny. I really am.

[Phil Harris]

Well, I'm sure disappointed, too.

[Jack Benny]

I know how you feel.

[Phil Harris]

Well, doggone it. But you know, Buck, that reminds me of a poem by Ludwig Schmutz.

Good old Schmutzy.

[Jack Benny]

By Ludwig?

[Phil Harris]

Yes, sir.

[Don Wilson]

And it goes.

[Jack Benny]

Goes something like this.

[Phil Harris]

When you're just a buckaroo and Buck Benny, you cannot do. Don't feel bad and don't feel blue Just bear it with a grin.

[Jack Benny]

Ah, those are real sentiments, Andy. Ludwig sure went to town on that one, huh?

[Phil Harris]

Well, so long, Buck. See you next week. So long, Andy. So long.

Ah, he.

[Jack Benny]

He sure has a lot of fun, doesn't he? Yeah. Well, I gotta run along now, fellas. The program is nearly over anyway, I don't think you need me here any longer tonight. And besides, I've got a date, so I'm gonna go. Goodbye, Mary.

[Mary Livingston]

Goodbye, Jack. And a merry Christmas.

[Jack Benny]

Same to you. So long, Don. Goodbye, Kenny.

[Don Wilson]

Merry Christmas, Jack.

[Jack Benny]

Same to you. Well, so long. Hey, Jack. Yeah? Merry Christmas to you. Same to you, Phil.

Goodbye. Wait a minute, Jack. I want to talk to you. Well, hurry up. I've got a date. Listen, Jack, I think we've both been acting like a couple of kids, but I want to tell you one thing, and it comes right from my heart. I've been with you 12 weeks now, and I've enjoyed every minute of it. You wouldn't know it.

Of course. Sometimes you've tried to act hard, boy, but deep down underneath, you're a regular guy. No, I am. Am I? Well, I'm going. Wait a minute, Jack. Just to show you how I feel about you, here's a little Christmas present. Thanks.

[Mary Livingston]

Well, why don't you open it?

[Jack Benny]

Oh, you open. It's probably some trick.

Gee, I hope you like it, Jack. Oh, I already said thanks.

[Phil Harris]

J.

[Mary Livingston]

Look, fellas.

[Phil Harris]

Gosh ye. Where.

[Mary Livingston]

Oh, dash, look.

Why, it's the most beautiful watch I've ever seen.

[Jack Benny]

I've got a watch.

[Mary Livingston]

And look at that platinum case and diamonds all around it.

[Jack Benny]

I thought so. If I wear that, somebody will hold me up and hit me over the head.

[Mary Livingston]

Oh, gee, it's beautiful, Phil.

[Jack Benny]

Certainly is, Jack.

[Mary Livingston]

That's really something.

[Jack Benny]

See it. It is pretty, isn't it? Platinum and diamonds all around it. Thanks, Phil.

You're welcome, Jack. Oh, boy, that. That is gorgeous. Well, Phil, I hardly know what to say now. I feel so. Oh, I don't know. Forget about it, Jack. Yeah. I wish I'd have bought you an electric iron now.

Boy.

[Phil Harris]

Say, I'll bet this must have set.

[Jack Benny]

You back plenty, huh, Phil? Well, just don't fire me for about two years. Well, Phil, all I can say is I'm terribly sorry for everything that happened and see if I can ever do anything for you. And if you ever want to know what time it is, don't hesitate to ask me.

I don't value anything, Jack, as much as I do your friendship. Gee, I. I didn't know you felt that way. But. But all I can say is. Well, thanks, Bill.

[Phil Harris]

Oh, you're welcome, Jack. Merry Christmas.

Come on, fellas. Come on.

[Don Wilson]

Pull yourselves together. Ladies and gentlemen, I wish you could all be here to witness this touching display of friendship. In fact, I. I personally am so moved that I can hardly say that.

[Phil Harris]

Cello is the most tempting Jello to search the world. So just be sure to get the genuine Jello with a big red lettuce on the.

[Don Wilson]

Is there a Santa Claus? You bet your life there is. And you'll be more certain of it than ever once you taste Jell O chocolate pudding. It's the best that comes your way since the old days when your grandmother made chocolate pudding smoother, creamier, more chocolatey, with a grand homemade flavor. That's Jell O chocolate pudding. And it's amazingly easy and inexpensive to make. Here's all you do. Mix the contents of one package with some milk in the top of your cool. And this delicious pudding is all ready to be served in your sherbet glasses. And if you want to give it an extra special Christmas touch, add some raisins or toasted nuts or both. You'll get six luscious servings from each package of Jell O chocolate pudding, which sells for the same low price as Jello. Ask your grocer about it tomorrow. If he hasn't put it in stock yet. Be sure he orders it for you. Remember the name Jello Chocolate pudding.

[Jack Benny]

This is the last number of the 12th program in the new Jello series. And we'll be with you again next Sunday night at the same time when you will hear our next installment of Buck Benny Rides Again. Well, fellas, I was going out on a party tonight, but I'd much rather be with a gang. Come on, let's all go out and make work.

[Phil Harris]

Be how about you, Phil?

[Jack Benny]

Thanks, Jack, but I've already got a date tonight. Oh, bring her along. And if she's got a girlfriend, bring her along for me. She has, Jack, but her girlfriend isn't very pretty. Oh, I don't care, Phil. Z as long as I'm with you.

[Mary Livingston]

And Phil don't care as long as he's with a girl.

[Phil Harris]

Good night, folks, and Merry Christmas.

[Jack Benny]

J E L.

[Phil Harris]

The tune has love.

[Don Wilson]

In your eyes from the big broadcast of 1937. Summer night is from Sing Me a Love Song. The Jello program comes to you over the Red Network from the Hollywood studios of the National Broadcasting Company.

KFI, Los Angeles. Earl C. Anthony Incorporated. 15 seconds before nine.