Shilling For Luck 44xxxx Guest - Gene Kelly

Summary

Podcast Summary: "Shilling For Luck" Episode 44XXXX Featuring Gene Kelly

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Description: Showcasing radio performances from the Golden Age of Radio, capturing the essence of pre-television family entertainment with classic programs like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, Dragnet, and more.
• Episode: Shilling For Luck 44XXXX Guest - Gene Kelly
• Release Date: July 1, 2025

---

Introduction

"Shilling For Luck" is an engaging radio drama set against the backdrop of World War II, featuring a blend of romance, adventure, and wartime intrigue. The episode introduces listeners to the lives of American and British servicemen navigating the uncertainties of war, underscored by the symbolic presence of a lucky shilling.

---

Main Characters

• Bill Thorpe (Jeffrey Simon): An American seaman experiencing his first Atlantic voyage, grappling with naval procedures and personal courage.
• Simon (Herbert Simon): A British merchant seaman from Liverpool, offering camaraderie and wisdom to Bill.
• Herbert Simon: Simon's grandson, a RAF pilot serving in the war.
• Grace: Bill's wife, portrayed as supportive and intuitive, holding hope for Bill's safe return.
• Bart Simon: Herbert Simon's friend, adding a layer of humor and camaraderie.
• Ken Carpenter: The narrator and facilitator of events, guiding the story through various scenes.

---

Act 1: The Voyage and Shipwreck

The episode opens with Bill Thorpe and Simon discussing their enlistment and the challenges of serving as merchant seamen.

[00:02] Bill Thorpe: "Shilling for luck."

[02:16] Jeffrey Simon: "How long you been waiting?"

[03:22] Herbert Simon: "I'd like to meet your grandfather."

Their conversation establishes the camaraderie and cultural exchanges between American and British sailors. The pivotal moment occurs when their ship, Laird's Glen, encounters a catastrophic incident:

[09:57] Jeffrey Simon: "I don't know exactly what happened after that. And if I don't know, I guess nobody does. Sounded like somebody jammed his thumbs in my ears..."

Bill narrates his harrowing experience of the ship sinking, highlighting themes of survival and fate.

---

Act 2: The Lucky Shilling and Meeting Herbert Simon

After surviving the shipwreck, Bill is rescued and meets Herbert Simon at a dock in Southampton. They exchange stories and, crucially, a lucky shilling:

[14:16] Herbert Simon: "Oh. Did you ship with him last crossing?"

[15:35] Jeffrey Simon: "Well, this isn't much here, but this."

[15:40] Herbert Simon: "Is nothing but a shilling."

[15:42] Jeffrey Simon: "I think it's more than that, kid. Your granddad gave it to me for luck..."

The shilling serves as a symbol of luck and fate, intertwining their lives and setting the stage for future events.

---

Act 3: Romantic Developments

Herbert Simon and Rita Nelson are set up on a surprise date, orchestrated by Ken Carpenter, adding a light-hearted romantic subplot amidst the tension of war.

[22:27] Herbert Simon: "A pleasure."

[22:29] Rita Nelson: "The same."

Their interaction showcases the human desire for connection and normalcy during tumultuous times.

---

Act 4: The D-Day Broadcast and Assignments

A critical turning point occurs with the announcement of the D-Day landings:

[50:32] Bart Simon: "Began landing Allied armies this morning on the northern coast of France."

The news impacts the characters deeply, especially Bill Thorpe, who receives a special assignment shortly after:

[54:10] Bill Thorpe: "And did you include the message for my wife?"

[55:37] Herbert Simon: "Maybe you'd like to offer a toast, Colonel."

This moment heightens the drama, emphasizing the imminent dangers and separations caused by war.

---

Act 5: Climax and Emotional Resolution

As Bill prepares to depart, tensions rise at home with Grace expressing her concerns and love:

[47:54] Herbert Simon: "Do you realize that the Dodgers have never had a hitter to compare with DiMaggio..."

[48:00] Bill Thorpe: "This too shall."

Their heartfelt exchanges culminate in Grace receiving the shilling, reinforcing its significance:

[48:24] Bill Thorpe: "It's just a shilling."

[48:25] Grace: "Oh, it's not just a shilling. It has a hole pierced through it."

The shilling, adorned with a hole, epitomizes hope and the enduring human spirit amidst adversity.

---

Conclusion

"Shilling For Luck" masterfully intertwines personal stories with historical events, using the lucky shilling as a central motif symbolizing luck, fate, and the interconnectedness of lives during wartime. The episode concludes with Bill Thorpe's return, a toast to freedom, and reflections on survival and love.

[55:40] Bill Thorpe: "Yes, I would. To all free men."

The narrative leaves listeners with a poignant reminder of resilience and the unbreakable bonds forged in the crucible of war.

---

Notable Quotes

• Bill Thorpe on Mutual Camaraderie:

  [02:22] Simon: "That's generous of you unable bodied seamen."

• Herbert Simon on Sharing Luck:

  [08:05] Simon: "Here's your shilling. Keep it for luck."

• Bill Thorpe's Reflection on Survival:

  [09:57] Jeffrey Simon: "...I made up my mind if I ever got back, I was gonna be strictly a Lake Michigan boy."

• Grace's Intuition:

  [46:38] Grace: "It's not hope."

• Final Toast Emphasizing Freedom:

  [55:40] Bill Thorpe: "To all free men."

---

Themes and Insights

• Luck and Fate: The shilling symbolizes luck, playing a pivotal role in the characters' survival and relationships.
• Camaraderie Across Cultures: The interactions between American and British soldiers highlight the shared human experiences despite cultural differences.
• Love and Separation: The romantic elements underscore the emotional toll of war, with love serving as a beacon of hope.
• Resilience and Survival: Characters demonstrate resilience in the face of adversity, embodying the unyielding human spirit.

---

Conclusion

"Shilling For Luck" stands out as a compelling radio drama that not only entertains but also evokes deep emotional responses. Through its rich storytelling, memorable characters, and poignant themes, the episode offers listeners a heartfelt glimpse into the lives of those who endured the challenges of World War II, all while honoring the timeless tradition of Old Time Radio.

Transcript

[Bill Thorpe]

Shilling for luck.

[Ken Carpenter]

This is a broadcast about Englishmen and Americans. During the next 60 minutes you will hear Gene Kelly, Sir Aubrey Smith, Freddie Bartholomew, Lon McAllister, Shirley Temple, Ken Carpenter, Nigel Bruce, Ed Gardner, Edmund Gwen, Edna Best, Franchotone and Ronald Coleman. This is a presentation of Armed Forces Radio from the United States of America.

[Bill Thorpe]

Shilling for luck.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Sam.

[Simon]

Five oilers report to the dead.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Hey, buddy, what's the angle here?

[Simon]

You just wait your turn, that's all.

[Jeffrey Simon]

How long you been waiting?

[Simon]

A little over two hours. It don't take long. You'll probably be called right away. We older fellows sometimes have to wait around a bit.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I don't go for this sitting around. They want me old cans. I don't. The devil with them.

[Simon]

This is the first time you've signed on, eh?

[Jeffrey Simon]

Here? Yeah, I've been shipping all my life on the lakes. This is the first time I took a jab at the Atlantic.

[Simon]

How come?

[Jeffrey Simon]

Well, they keep yelling about how they need merchant seamen.

[Ken Carpenter]

Reese Stoker's needed.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Who cares about the black gang? Why don't they call out for some abs?

[Simon]

Just bide your time.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Say, we might as well get acquainted. My name's Bill Thorpe.

[Simon]

And I'm Simon. Jeffrey Simon.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Glad to know you.

[Simon]

My pleasure.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Where you from?

[Simon]

Liverpool.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Hey, are you kidding? So am I.

[Ken Carpenter]

Is that so?

[Simon]

You don't sound like an Englishman.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I'm not. I'm from Liverpool, Ohio. What street do you live on?

[Simon]

I come from Liverpool, England.

[Jeffrey Simon]

There's two of them. Hey, they can't do that. My old man's in the Chamber of Commerce. He'll sue.

[Simon]

Mr. Tharp, I suspect that the British Liverpool has a slight priority over the Ohio. Liverpool in a matter of age. And if there were any suit involved, I'll wager it a bit t' other way around.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Who cares? It's a big world. There's room for two Liverpools. I don't care.

[Simon]

That's generous of you unable bodied seamen.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Hey, that's me here.

[Simon]

Not wrong with that service.

[Jeffrey Simon]

They must have realized who I am. Nobody keeps Bill Thorpe waiting.

[Simon]

Oh, Bosch.

[Jeffrey Simon]

See you Liverpool. You call for an A B?

[Ken Carpenter]

Okay. Sign on here. You're shipping on the Laird's glen from Pier 24. Report on shipboard at 6 tonight.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Hey, what time is it, sailor?

[Ken Carpenter]

Huh?

[Jeffrey Simon]

What's the time?

[Herbert Simon]

It's about midnight.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I don't know exactly. Thanks, pal. Good night, sweetheart. Till we meet tomorrow.

[Simon]

Do you have one?

[Jeffrey Simon]

What?

[Simon]

Back there someplace. A sweetheart.

[Ken Carpenter]

Oh.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Oh, hiya, Liverpool. What are you doing here?

[Simon]

They needed another a B. Oh, Hope you don't mind my shipping on the same trip.

[Jeffrey Simon]

No, no. I'm glad to have you. Sure, sure. I got a gal, a couple of them. Half a dozen. Probably never bothered to count them up.

[Simon]

Big time operator.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Sure, sure.

[Simon]

Hey, I believe ya. I believe every word. Once I leaned on a ship's rail here in New York Harbour very much as we're doing now, and listened to a young American seaman tell me that he had as many girls at home as there are lights on Manhattan island with a small section of Jersey thrown in.

[Jeffrey Simon]

That's a lot of malarkey.

[Simon]

I believed him. You Yanks like to talk, but you ain't liars. You have a lot to be proud of here. And you just don't believe in hiding your light under a bushel, that's all.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Under a what?

[Simon]

A bushel. A basket.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Oh. Oh, no, no. We don't believe in hiding our lights under no bushels. We want them to shoot right up in the air. Look at that town spread out in front of you. What's your name?

[Simon]

Jeff.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Jeff. See all them lights and the skyscrapers and the docks and the superhighways. They shout at you. They shall look at us. Look at our lights. We're young. We're doing things, you know.

[Simon]

I know, I know. You've never been to England.

[Jeffrey Simon]

No. Our life sails are Great Lakes. And I know Canada.

[Simon]

Ah, that's not England. That's young country too, like New York. Now, you'll find some things on this voyage you never dreamed of in the four Great Lakes.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Hey, don't shortchange me. There's five Great Lakes.

[Simon]

Sorry, five. If we dock at night in Liverpool, you will be amazed. Why, you won't see a thing. Not a glimmer of light. The whole city dark in front of you. No proud lights, glaring blackout, huh? Yes, but it's more than that, actually. It's a difference in people. New York blaring lights and sound. Liverpool quiet in shadows.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I think I'm going to like Liverpool.

[Ken Carpenter]

Huh.

[Simon]

That's an odd chink in your armor. I shouldn't think you'd like anything outside the usa.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I like anything that's honest.

[Simon]

Ah, well, I hope we push off tonight.

[Jeffrey Simon]

So do I. This waiting around gets me down.

[Simon]

If we make decent time, I'll be able to have a few days in London with my grandson. He has a fortnight leave beginning Tuesday in a navy Rafael gunner in a de Havilland mosquito. He has three ME 109s to his credit and four more probables.

[Jeffrey Simon]

A regular Sergeant York well, let's see it.

[Simon]

See what?

[Jeffrey Simon]

The picture. You got a picture of him, haven't you?

[Simon]

Oh, yes, I do. Right here in my pocketbook. He's a fine lad.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Yeah. Yeah, he's a good looking kid.

[Simon]

His name's Herbert, but we call him. He'll be 20 next month. I do hope we get to London in time for me to see him.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Where's his station?

[Simon]

I don't hear at Rome. Up in the north somewhere. They keep him rather busy.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Say, what's England like?

[Simon]

Ah, that's a silly question. What's America like? You might as well ask a man to describe the Gulf Stream.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I mean, how's it different from the States?

[Simon]

Well, not greatly, when you come down to it. When you cross the Atlantic, gasoline becomes petrol and elevators become lifts. But they work the same. The money's different. Do you have a quarter?

[Jeffrey Simon]

Yeah.

[Simon]

Give it to me. And you take this.

[Jeffrey Simon]

What is it?

[Simon]

A shilling. We made almost an even trade. You may have lost a few cents. Depending on the exact rate of exchange.

[Jeffrey Simon]

These days it's worth about a quarter, huh?

[Simon]

That's right. The Englishman is simple. Two halfpennies make a penny. Next is a threepenny bit, then the sixpence. Two sixpence make a shilling or a bob. Half a crown is two bob and six. Then comes the ten shilling note. Then the pound note which is twenty shillings or a little over four dollars. No, you will. It's easy. Here's your quarter.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Here's your shilling.

[Simon]

Keep it for luck.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Okay, I will. Hey, sounds like it's good.

[Simon]

What time do you have?

[Jeffrey Simon]

I don't have. It's way after midnight, though. Hey.

[Simon]

Hey, we're moving in another hour. The Empire State Building will be hiding from us behind the bulge of the earth. Give my regards to Broadway. Remember me to Herald Square Tell all.

[Jeffrey Simon]

The gang on oh, what a night.

[Ken Carpenter]

What's the matter, Thorpe? You getting green again? You never had weather like this in the Great Lakes, did they, Billy boy?

[Jeffrey Simon]

You can't see 20ft in front of you. Hey, who's my relief?

[Ken Carpenter]

Let me see. Oh, Jeff Simon.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Oh, gee, I hate to see old Granddad have to stick out of watching this weather. He's a tough old baby. Yeah, I know. Well, only 20 minutes more. I gotta go back and top and count the submarines.

[Ken Carpenter]

Easy does it.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I don't know exactly what happened after that. And if I don't know, I guess nobody does. Sounded like somebody jammed his thumbs in my ears. The deck quivered underneath me. Then it buckled. I went Half a mile straight up. Then the saltwater slapped me in the back and I went under. Oh, it was really black down there. Then I came to the surface again and hunks of metal were raining all around me. The Laird's Glenn just wasn't there. Nothing was there but water. May have been a torpedo. Maybe some of the junk in the hole got loose and slid into something else. We weren't carrying duck eggs down there. Or maybe we rammed something in the dock. Anyway, there was an explosion that blew me out of my pants. And I was floating in a very large ocean hanging onto a very small stick of wood that probably got blown off one of the dav. After a long time, the sun come up. Not like thunder, but like Tony Galento rolling out of bed on the morning after he got his ears. Collie flowered at the garden. Oh, it seems like a big ocean when you're on the deck of a freighter. But when you're up to your neck in salt water, there's no word to describe how big it is. There was nobody else around. No floating junk or anything. Just salt water. Well, there was one thing. I made up my mind. Never, not under any circumstances, would I ship on the lousy ocean again. They could have their pretty colored posters and their vital jobs and their bridges, ships. I made up my mind if I ever got back, I was gonna be strictly a Lake Michigan boy. War unknown.

[Grace]

Boy.

[Simon]

What'S the matter with you?

[Bart Simon]

Jake, help him up. Yeah, come on, get.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Jeez, that guy, really look. No, brother. How long were you floating, mate? I don't know exactly. I lost.

[Herbert Simon]

Don't heckle him, you guys.

[Ken Carpenter]

Come on, sailor, you better get some food and see the document.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Feel better? Yeah. Yeah, a lot better.

[Ken Carpenter]

And that's the whole dope, huh? You don't know what hit you. You don't know what really happened.

[Jeffrey Simon]

No. Hey, wasn't anybody else picked up?

[Ken Carpenter]

Not by us. Radio hasn't heard anything. Looks like you're the sole survivor. It's a lucky thing we ran into you.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Yeah, I'm lucky, all right.

[Ken Carpenter]

You know what the chances were I find you in that pond? I'd hate the better than a horse with hearts like that, I'm telling you. You have any papers? Any identification, any valuables?

[Jeffrey Simon]

No, I keep that stuff in my pants pockets. And you can see what happened to them. Yeah. Hey, feels like there's something in this shirt pocket. Let's see.

[Ken Carpenter]

You English?

[Jeffrey Simon]

No. Never been to England. A guy gave that to me the night we sailed. For luck.

[Ken Carpenter]

That shilling brought you luck. All right.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Is that all you got? That's all. One shirt, One shilling.

[Ken Carpenter]

Hey, look. Gleason's digging you up some clothes. I'll loan you some dough till we hit port. Then the guys at the NMU will put you on your feet again. Doc says you'll be shipshape by the time we get into port.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Oh, brother, will it ever be good to see little old New York again.

[Ken Carpenter]

New York nothing. We dock in Southampton.

[Herbert Simon]

Herbert. Yes? Mrs. Fellowstone?

[Ken Carpenter]

There's a gentleman here to see you.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh, I'll be right down.

[Grace]

You'll be right down. Make yourself comfortable.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Thank you, ma' am.

[Herbert Simon]

Good afternoon, sir.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Hi. You're Herbert Simon.

[Herbert Simon]

Yes, I am.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Well, my name's Bill Thorpe. I have something to give you. It belonged to your grandfather.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh. Did you ship with him last crossing?

[Jeffrey Simon]

Yeah.

[Herbert Simon]

How did it happen?

[Jeffrey Simon]

Nobody knows. The ship blew high at a kite. I guess I was the only guy that got out of it. Your grandfather would have had the watch after mine. He was asleep below deck, so he probably never even woke up when the alarm went off.

[Herbert Simon]

That's good. Good.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Are you still stationed up north?

[Herbert Simon]

Yes, yes, still gunning. This is the end of my time in London. I'm training out at 4:30 this morning. Beastly hour.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Yeah.

[Herbert Simon]

When do you ship again?

[Jeffrey Simon]

Well, I. I don't know exactly.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh. How do you like London?

[Jeffrey Simon]

Pretty fair. It's my first trip. Only been here a couple of days. I'm sorry to see so much of your town got knocked around.

[Herbert Simon]

We'll build better next time.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Yeah. Well, I guess I'll be shoving off.

[Herbert Simon]

Well, I hope you have a quieter time on your next crossing.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Thanks. And good luck to you and the Messerschmitts.

[Herbert Simon]

Just wish me the luck. Never mind the Messerschmitts.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Oh, say, I almost forgot to give you this. It was your grandfather's. Really. He gave it to me just when we were leaving New York.

[Herbert Simon]

Well, that's very kind of you. I have almost nothing of Grandfather's. It would be good to have something that belonged to him.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Well, this isn't much here, but this.

[Herbert Simon]

Is nothing but a shilling.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I think it's more than that, kid. Your granddad gave it to me for luck in the way I figure it. Well, just saved my life, that's all.

[Herbert Simon]

That's strange at. It looks just like any other shilling.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Well, it ain't, believe me. Hang on to it.

[Herbert Simon]

I shall. Goodbye, Mr. Thorpe.

[Jeffrey Simon]

So long, kid. Heads up. Hey. What can I do for you, sir? Look, I don't want A lot of waiting around. See, I'm an ab. I want to sign on the next ship to New York. One way, no round trip.

[Herbert Simon]

Where the devil am I? Not even a street sign. Better douse that Lucifer. Yank. Huh? Out with the light, bud. Oh, sure. Guys, I think I'm lost. Which way is this Rainbow? Center Corner, whatever it is. Well, I'll walk you there. It's not far. Thanks. But don't go out of your way. Oh, I'm not going anyplace. I'm just walking. My name is Enderwood. Oh, I'm Simon. Glad to know you. Same. Raf Right. You air forces? No, engineers. We just got over here a month or so ago. Do you guys really live in the dark over here? Yes. It's quite tiresome, but you get accustomed to it. We'll probably all have to wear dark glasses when they switch the street lamps on again. I doubt it. What's this Rainbow Corner like? Well, I've never been inside. It's right on Piccadilly Circus. It's where all the Yanks. A big canteen, I presume. Entertainment. Well, I don't know much about it. You see, I'm not stationed here in London. I'm up in the north country most of the while. Oh, you're on furlough? Yes. My leave's up at 4:30 this morning. I've got to be on the train to get back to the old grind. You mean this is your last night in London and you're just wearing down shoe leather? That's right, Underwood. What's the matter? Black dog on my back, I'm afraid. Sorry. Oh, here's your stop. All out for Rainbow Corner. Come on in with me, Bart. Let's find out what this place is like. Oh, no, no. I shouldn't think of going in. That's for American servicemen. Oh, what difference does that make? Come on in. We might find something worthwhile. Oh, no, no, I can't. Hey, look, you're my guest. Then I'll just bring you in to case the joint. Do what? Come on. Well, I don't really.

[Bart Simon]

Hey, not bad.

[Herbert Simon]

Sort of reminds me of Service Club number three. Dear old Camp Crowder, Missouri. I say, this is rather nice, isn't it? Let's see what's cooking, huh?

[I]

Cider and donuts, soldier?

[Herbert Simon]

Sure. For two, please.

[Grace]

Here you are.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Hey, careful, Bart.

[Herbert Simon]

Right O. Down the hatch, Tommy. Here's to Yank. I say, this is delicious. Is it intoxicating? Not unless it stands around too long. Don't you like the donuts? Oh, frankly, old Boy, I've never been able to develop a taste for the American donut. Somehow it always tastes to me like sawdust wetted down and baked in a slow oven. Well, give them to me then. I'll eat them. Hey, get a load of that blonde. The one in the blue dress. You think she's attractive? Rather. You aren't just a wolf. I think she's a bit on the bright side. That's the way I like em. Bright and cute. I gotta meet that gal. But she's a complete stranger. How do you go about it? Through a mutual friend. Who wants a mutual friend? Here's the way we do it back home.

[I]

What are you laughing at?

[Herbert Simon]

I was just watching a friend of mine making the acquaintance of a young lady. He did it very adeptly.

[I]

What's so remarkable about it?

[Herbert Simon]

Well, 15 seconds ago he didn't even know the girl. And now they're talking together as if they'd known each other ever since school days.

[I]

I don't see anything strange about that. Look at us. Fifteen seconds ago we didn't know each other and now we're talking. Is there any magic about it?

[Herbert Simon]

Well, I really don't know. It's customary to be introduced, you know.

[I]

That's a little bit silly, I think. Especially nowadays we can't bother to be quite as warm as we please.

[Ken Carpenter]

Attention, everyone.

[Herbert Simon]

I wonder what the commotion is.

[I]

Let's go.

[Ken Carpenter]

Quiet, everybody. Quiet. We're going on the air in just a few seconds with a regular weekly broadcast of Surprise Date. All right, hold it down, gang.

[Herbert Simon]

Hold it down.

[Ken Carpenter]

Now, a lot of you are going to be asked to participate in this show. And we want you to enter right into the spirit of it and have fun.

[Herbert Simon]

Stand by, Ken.

[Ken Carpenter]

Coming up. All right, stand by, everybody.

[I]

This is exciting.

[Herbert Simon]

Isn't it, though?

[I]

I'm glad we're right here in front. Yes.

[Ken Carpenter]

Hello, Great Britain. This is Ken Carpenter speaking from the Rainbow Corner on Piccadilly Circus and bringing you another broadcast of surprise dates. There's a whole gang of American servicemen here, and we're going to fix them up with some surprise dates for a real tour of London after dark. You all set, gang? Let's have a volunteer from the audience who'll come up here on the platform.

[I]

Go ahead.

[Grace]

Go on.

[Herbert Simon]

No, no, no. Stop pushing me.

[Ken Carpenter]

Here we are. Here we are. Here we have a young man in the uniform of the raf. What's your name, flyer?

[Herbert Simon]

Bart Simon, sir. But really, I didn't intend to participate. If you'll excuse me.

[Ken Carpenter]

Oh, no, no. Wait a minute, Bart. We aren't going to embarrass you. We're going to fix you up with a surprise date, that's all. Now, all you have to do is just reach in your pocket and take out what you find there.

[Herbert Simon]

Very well.

[Ken Carpenter]

But now, what did you have in your pocket?

[Herbert Simon]

Well, now, let me see my billfold. A few smokes, a ring of keys, a few coins, some pennies, a shilling.

[Ken Carpenter]

Would you mind giving me that shilling for a moment?

[Herbert Simon]

Certainly not.

[Ken Carpenter]

Here you are, ladies and gentlemen. I have here a shilling of the United Kingdom. Is there any young lady in the house who thinks she can guess the date on this shilling? Call them out, gals.

[I]

1924.

[Ken Carpenter]

Sorry. 1893. Nope. 1940. Oh, no. Nobody's even warm. Any other guesses? Anybody else want to try to name the date on this shilling?

[I]

Yes, I do. 1900 and.

[Ken Carpenter]

1900 and what?

[I]

Nothing. Just 1900.

[Ken Carpenter]

Right. 1900 it is.

[I]

That's.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, come on up here on the platform, young lady. Right up here to the microphone. That's it. What's your name?

[I]

Rita Nelson.

[Ken Carpenter]

Where you from, Rita?

[I]

My home in Illinois. Carmi, Illinois.

[Ken Carpenter]

What are you doing over here?

[I]

Well, my father's connected with the owi.

[Ken Carpenter]

That's fair enough. How did you happen to guess the exact date on that shilling?

[I]

Well, I just thought terribly hard and it came to me.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, that fixes up the two of you with a surprise date. Rita, meet Bart. Bart, this is Rita.

[Herbert Simon]

A pleasure.

[I]

The same.

[Ken Carpenter]

And here's a five pound note to go along with that shilling.

[Bart Simon]

Bart.

[Ken Carpenter]

I hope you both have a great time on your surprise date. So long, kids.

[I]

Thank you.

[Herbert Simon]

Okay, help me. Don't. Out of here.

[I]

All right.

[Ken Carpenter]

Bart.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh, hello, Endwood. Say, you're doing all right, mister. That gal's really a smooth number. Yes. Yes, I. I found the mutual friend. I'll say it. Thanks. Same to you, Yank.

[I]

Hello.

[Herbert Simon]

Hello.

[I]

I'm sorry if I embarrassed you.

[Herbert Simon]

Well, you shouldn't have pushed me. I hate being made a fool of.

[I]

Don't feel that way. It was all for fun.

[Herbert Simon]

Well, it's no matter. Well, I. I suppose I should see you home.

[I]

Oh, not so soon. We've just met. And after all, I am your surprise date.

[Herbert Simon]

Yes, you certainly are.

[I]

Is there another girl? Someone you're engaged to or.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh, no, no, there's no one else. What about you? Do you have a steady back in the States?

[I]

Well, I used to, but we broke off.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh, that's a pity.

[I]

No, it isn't.

[Herbert Simon]

He didn't love me he must have been blind.

[I]

Thank you. That's the only nice thing you've said to me.

[Herbert Simon]

Well, after all, you're very pretty, you know that?

[I]

I'm not so sure. Always it's fun to hear it from other people.

[Herbert Simon]

Then I'll tell you definitely you're pretty. Even in a blackout, you're pretty.

[I]

Thank you, Bart.

[Herbert Simon]

I say, you. You American girls get me all confused.

[Ken Carpenter]

You're.

[Herbert Simon]

You're so frank about everything.

[I]

I don't mean to confuse you, but there's nothing wrong, Bart. Just in liking somebody and showing it a little. Oh, let's just be ourselves.

[Herbert Simon]

Right. You know, we don't have much time.

[I]

You aren't leaving, are you?

[Herbert Simon]

Yes. 4:30 this morning. My leave's up.

[I]

Oh, Bart, this is our only date then.

[Herbert Simon]

I'm afraid so. And for some while, anyway.

[I]

Oh, then we'll have to have fun. Lots of it. We'll have to spend the whole five quid that they gave us and really give ourselves a night to remember.

[Simon]

Old black magic has me in its.

[Grace]

Spell that old black magic that you.

[I]

Weaved oh, I'm full. I've never had so much to eat since I graduated from high school.

[Herbert Simon]

That's the way I feel. It's rather a rare sensation these days.

[I]

I suppose it's wrong of us. This is an occasion, isn't it?

[Herbert Simon]

Of course it is.

[Grace]

Elevator starts its ride and down and down I go.

[Herbert Simon]

I say, let's pay the tariff and be on our way. That contralto gives me the willy.

[I]

Me too. Let's go.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh, thank you. Why, save as precious little left of our fiver. We should have gone to Lions.

[I]

Oh, I don't care. It was fun. And we won't spend another penny all evening. Come down Kew in lilac time in lilac time in lilac time Come down.

[Herbert Simon]

To Kew in lilac time it isn't far from London.

[I]

Then what?

[Herbert Simon]

I've forgotten.

[I]

So have I.

[Herbert Simon]

Well, the general idea of the poem was to come to Kew in lilac time. And here we are. So I presume the poet is very happy.

[I]

I'm glad the moon came up.

[Herbert Simon]

A chunk's fallen out of.

[I]

Doesn't matter. They always patch it up again.

[Herbert Simon]

The gardens look strange in the moonlight. All the leaves are white instead of green.

[I]

This is the way the public square used to look back home in Illinois. After 2 o' clock when the street lamps went out. Then the moonlight shone on the grass and flowers just like this, only not so grand.

[Herbert Simon]

My grandfather used to take me here on Sunday afternoons when I was a young. He used to say. Now, on the left are the botanical garden. On the right the greenhouses containing tropical plants not indigenous to these clients.

[I]

I'd like to meet your grandfather.

[Herbert Simon]

He passed away last week.

[I]

I'm sorry.

[Herbert Simon]

It's all right. He was in the merchant fleet. Do you know something?

[I]

What?

[Herbert Simon]

Grandfather introduced us. Really? The shilling. It was his. A luck piece. And you guessed the date.

[I]

Oh, I love your grandfather dearly.

[Herbert Simon]

You know, I have a splendid idea. Come on, Rita. We have an errand to do. I'm glad you were still open.

[Ken Carpenter]

Now, it's good business to keep an eye on. Mongo's open all aisles and I sleep in the shop so it's no trouble.

[Herbert Simon]

I say that. That won't split open there at the top.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Well, I know what I'm doing. I hate to born old through one.

[Simon]

Of His Majesty's shillings, but Kipling says.

There'S not the reason why.

[I]

Oh, it's a wonderful idea, Bart. I'll put a cord through it like a good luck charm.

[Herbert Simon]

That's what I had in mind. You will wear it, won't you, Rita?

[I]

Yes, Bart.

[Ken Carpenter]

There you are. One old drill through one shilling.

[Simon]

That'll be sixpence.

[I]

But they could play baseball here, couldn't they?

[Herbert Simon]

Oh, I suppose so. The fields look to be about the same size.

[I]

And when the big cricket matches are on, I suppose these stands are full.

[Herbert Simon]

Of people jam packed. You can't buy a ticket for love nor money.

[I]

I like it this way. With just us it's much better.

[Herbert Simon]

Bright moon.

[I]

Is there a chance they'll be over tonight?

[Herbert Simon]

I doubt it. Too much light. Are you cold?

[I]

Not when we're like this.

[Herbert Simon]

This is crazy. And I've only known you a few hundred minutes and we come from opposite sides of the world and we may never see each other again. But I love you with all my heart. And I think I always shall.

[I]

You don't even know what I look like in the sunlight.

[Herbert Simon]

Yes, I do.

[I]

I have freckles.

[Herbert Simon]

I love freckles.

[I]

I think your grandfather was a very great man.

[Herbert Simon]

Do you know what I'm thinking?

[I]

Yes. Don't say it, Bart. There will be a war noonday. And a place for all the thoughts and all the words.

[Herbert Simon]

Good Lord.

[I]

What's the matter?

[Herbert Simon]

It's 4:10. My train leaves Waterloo at 4:30.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Train leaving on platform four.

[Ken Carpenter]

Train leaving.

[Herbert Simon]

I never thought we'd make it.

[Ken Carpenter]

What?

[Herbert Simon]

I never thought we'd make it.

[I]

We were lucky to get that cab.

[Bart Simon]

What?

[Ken Carpenter]

Never mind. You're sure you're on the right train.

[Herbert Simon]

Yes, quite. What time is it?

[I]

My watch says 4:35. I'm fast.

[Herbert Simon]

You'll pick up my duffel at the house and send it to me.

[I]

I'll take care of it.

[Herbert Simon]

We're pulling out. You have the addresses?

[I]

Yes.

[Herbert Simon]

And say goodbye to Mrs. Featherstone for me.

[I]

I will, I will.

[Herbert Simon]

And wear the shilling around your neck always.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Bart, what's wrong?

[I]

It's gone. I've lost a shilling.

[Herbert Simon]

It doesn't matter, darling. It brought us together. That's all that counts.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Bye.

[Ken Carpenter]

Goodbye.

[I]

Goodbye, darling.

[Bart Simon]

Here's some seats here, fellas. Come on down here.

[Ken Carpenter]

Hey, you can see the cricket feather from up there.

[Bart Simon]

Ah, nuts. Dears. Excuse me, mister. Hey, Moolah.

[Simon]

Just a moment, young man. I saw that shilling first. Belongs to me.

[Bart Simon]

Just a minute, bud. But I happened to grab it first, so it belongs to me.

[Simon]

I would have been here first, but I had to climb over to a number of spectators in order to reach the seat.

[Bart Simon]

What do you think, they brought me up in an escalator?

[Simon]

Finders are keepers, my good man.

[Bart Simon]

Right, And I'm the finder.

[Simon]

I beg to differ with you. I am the finder.

[Bart Simon]

Look, where I come from, Brooklyn Possession is 99/10 of the law. This yelling is mine, and I'm hanging onto it, you understand?

[Simon]

Now, let's not revert to the aboriginal, old fellow.

[Bart Simon]

Okay, then leave us not.

[Simon]

Here we are two civilized spectators at a civilized cricket match. Am I correct?

[Bart Simon]

Right.

[Simon]

From opposite aisles, we approach two vacant seats in the center of the stand.

[Bart Simon]

Sure, sure.

[Simon]

Almost simultaneously, we espy a shilling of the realm lying on one of the seats.

[Bart Simon]

Yes. Simultaneously, we do that.

[Simon]

However, by a slight fraction of time. I espied the coin before you espied the coin.

[Bart Simon]

Granted.

[Simon]

Therefore, the shilling belongs to me. Am I correct?

[Bart Simon]

That's where we come to a partner of the waves. I say that the shilling is mine.

[Simon]

I assure you, young man, the might of British law is on my side.

[Bart Simon]

Might be, but I got the shilling. But I'll tell you what I'll do you any kind of a gambler.

[Simon]

I have probably as much sporting blood in me as any man in the United Kingdom.

[Bart Simon]

All right, that's fine. Then we'll bet the shilling in a cricket match. Okay.

[Simon]

Very well. What bet do you suggest?

[Bart Simon]

Well, I'll bet on them guys out there with the green beanies.

[Simon]

Beanies?

[Bart Simon]

Yeah, them jockey hats. And you take the guys with the blue beanies. If the green beanies win, I get the shell and if the Blue Beanies win, you get the shell.

[Simon]

All right. Bet it is. Were you here yesterday?

[Bart Simon]

Was I? No, Rabbit, No.

[Simon]

Well, I think it's only fair to tell you that Australia only made 233.

[Bart Simon]

That's all, huh?

[Simon]

Which makes the odds approximately five to one against the. What you call the green beanies.

[Bart Simon]

Five to one. Okay, then you pay me five shillings if the green beanies win.

[Simon]

Four. In addition to the one that we discovered.

[Bart Simon]

Yeah, that's right. Quite a nonce. My name is Orville Smith, PFC Artillery. I'm from Brooklyn.

[Simon]

Oh, how do you do, Mr. Smith? I'm Major Townsend, Highland Light Infantry. Retired.

[Bart Simon]

Oh, it's mutual. Hey, hey, what a funny looking shilling.

[Simon]

But I say it's don't think so.

[Bart Simon]

It's good. But it's got a hole in it. And a string through the hole. Except the string is broke.

[Simon]

Well, perhaps it's some kind of good luck charm.

[Bart Simon]

Yeah, could be. Hey, what's cooking down there?

[Simon]

Play's about to begin.

[Bart Simon]

Them two blokes coming out of the opening batsman. Look, Major, why does. I'm sticking. But can't they afford to catch it?

[Simon]

Those are the wickets.

[Bart Simon]

Oh. Oh, yeah, look.

[Simon]

Nice. Nice drive to the boundary. Well played, sir. Well played. Very good shot.

[Bart Simon]

Hey. Yeah.

[Simon]

Yeah.

[Bart Simon]

Atta boy, sir. That's knocking it out of the lot, sir. Atta boy, Derosi.

[Simon]

I say, I say, contain yourself, old boy. It's very bad taste. It'll morrow straight, if you don't mind.

[Ken Carpenter]

Steady, old man, steady.

[Bart Simon]

What's the matter? That's the way we throw it and have its feel.

[Simon]

Well, it's not the way we do it over here.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Oh.

[Bart Simon]

Hey. Hey. What happened?

[Simon]

Well, that was interesting. The bowler bowled a googly and the batsman edges it into the slips.

[Bart Simon]

The bowler. Bowler. Googly, huh?

[Simon]

Yes. The wicket keeper missed it and first step jumped for it. He rolled over and caught it. Well caught. That's a great bit of cricket. A great bit of cricket.

[Bart Simon]

You know something, Colonel?

[Simon]

What?

[Bart Simon]

I'm going home.

[Simon]

What? The game's barely started. Stay here, old man. I'll explain everything. You'll get the hang of it in time.

[Bart Simon]

That much time I ain't got.

[Simon]

Well, what about the bet? Are you willing to concede the wager?

[Bart Simon]

I certainly am not.

[Simon]

Then you will have to stay. Excuse me asking, what's wrong with your jaw?

[Bart Simon]

Jaw? There's nothing wrong with jaw. Why?

[Simon]

Well, it's all swollen.

[Bart Simon]

Oh, that's chewing gum. Want a stick?

[Simon]

Certainly not. Bawling habit. Do you have a taste any of course not. Foreign substance tarrying out good British jaws. Oh, well played, sir. Well played. Nice job.

[Bart Simon]

Don't you have a huck? It won't hurt you.

[Simon]

I told you I thoroughly disapprove of chewing gum.

[Bart Simon]

That's too bad. It's good.

[Simon]

What? What does it taste like?

[Bart Simon]

Well, it depends. There's all kinds. This is tutti frutti.

[Simon]

Tutti frutti? Oh, really? Doesn't the flavor pass away after a certain period of time?

[Bart Simon]

Well, after a while, yeah, sure. But you'd be surprised how long it lasts. Go ahead, try some.

[Simon]

Don't be absurd.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh.

[Simon]

Oh, I say.

[Bart Simon]

What's the matter now?

[Simon]

The batsman just sent an easy catch to mid off.

[Bart Simon]

He sent an easy catch to minnow up this time, huh?

[Simon]

Doesn't it wear out?

[Bart Simon]

What?

[Simon]

The chewing gum.

[Bart Simon]

No, it can't wear out.

[Simon]

It's rather like glue, eh?

[Bart Simon]

Things like glue.

[Simon]

Something similar to rubber, perhaps?

[Bart Simon]

No, not like. Why don't you try some of it?

[Simon]

Certainly not. I wouldn't think of it.

[Bart Simon]

Well, that's your own panagative.

[Simon]

I say. I say, that was a cut, wasn't it? That's better. The batsmen are beginning to find the pace of the wicket, knocking the Australian bowling all over the place. Now, I'm afraid that shilling is practically mine, old boy. I can't understand it. England only had to make 233. There were 147 for one wicket. And then the entire side collapses. I just can't understand it.

[Bart Simon]

I could tell them guys in the green beanies look good. Besides, they're shilling us. Good luck.

[Simon]

Well, it's yours now, old boy. And here's four more to go along with it.

[Bart Simon]

Thanks. Maybe this will learn you not to tell an expert who's gonna win a cricket match, General.

[Ken Carpenter]

Here are your drinks, gentlemen. Double gins and tonics.

[Bart Simon]

Wait a minute, wait a minute. This round is on me. You took the last round.

[Ken Carpenter]

Never mind paying now, governor. You can settle that when you finish.

[Simon]

That's fair enough. Another round after this, old man. Yeah, another round after this, Barman.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Very good, sir.

[Simon]

I can't understand it. All out, 193. Entire side collapsed.

[Bart Simon]

Look, that was nothing compared with what happened at Ebbots Field.

[Simon]

Where?

[Bart Simon]

Abbotts Field, a little cricket ground in Brooklyn. It was one afternoon in a 1941 series with the Yanks and the Dodgers. You see, the Dodgers is up Moore, who is a very mean man with a curb.

[Simon]

Oh, really?

[Bart Simon]

Yeah, really. Moore is pitching for the Yanks, eh?

[Ken Carpenter]

Excuse me, Governor.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Is This American baseball you're speaking of, it ain't croquet.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, I'm very much interested in American baseball.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I'm quite a fan. Oh, a fan.

[Bart Simon]

Well, I'll pull up a chair and bend an earth. Well, it's the last of the night, see? And it's three to two against Brooklyn. Pete Reese has just fired out the center field. That's one out. Then Dolph Camilla goes down swinging. Then Ducky Medwick comes up to the plate and you know Ducky is one of the best hitters in the game.

[Ken Carpenter]

No, no, no, I disagree.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Joe Gordon of the Yankees is a.

[Ken Carpenter]

Much better hitter than Medwick of the Dodgers.

[Bart Simon]

You're out of your mind. Gordon can't bat 247.

[Simon]

I beg to differ.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Gordon can hit very nearly 300.

[Simon]

My good fellow, if my friend here says that Gordon. If Gordon can't bat 247, then Gordon can't bat 247.

[Jeffrey Simon]

It so happens that your friend here, sir, is very much prejudiced.

[Ken Carpenter]

On behalf of his own team, the.

[Simon]

Brooklyn Dodgers, no doubt one of the finest teams in America, I beg to.

[Ken Carpenter]

Point out that even natives of Brooklyn refer to their own team as dem bums.

[Simon]

What's your language, sir? I'm sure that only a native of Brooklyn is entitled to call dem bums dem bums.

[Bart Simon]

Look, fellas, if you don't mind.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Do you realize that the Dodgers have never had a hitter to compare with DiMaggio of the New York Yankees? Oh, the Yankees. Now there's a team for you.

[Simon]

Rubbish. The Dodgers can out bet outfield and out bowl the Yankees any day of the week, including Sunday.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, you don't know what you're talking about.

[Simon]

That finishes it. I shall never enter this public house again.

[Bart Simon]

Hey, look, fellas, after all, how much.

[Simon]

Do we owe you?

[Ken Carpenter]

My good man, the bill is exactly 11 shillings and sixpence.

[Simon]

A robbery, but worth it to get out of this polluted air. Oh, good Lord. I left my pocketbook and my other trousers up. Only got five shillings on me. How much have you got, old boy?

[Bart Simon]

Let's see here. I got six shillings and the one we found.

[Simon]

Sorry, barman, we could only pay you 11 shillings, which is ample considering the quality of the. Of the beverage served.

[Ken Carpenter]

The bill is exactly 11 shillings and sixpence.

[Jeffrey Simon]

If you can't pay, I shall be forced to summon higher authorities.

[Simon]

Sorry, old man, but you have to part with a lucky shilling, old boy.

[Bart Simon]

Okay? Yeah, mister, I thank you.

[Simon]

Look here, you owe my friend sixpence change.

[Ken Carpenter]

I beg Your pardon? There was a hole drilled through the.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Last shilling which you gave me. I'm deducting sixpence for the metal removed.

[Simon]

You raw heap. Come along, old man. Let's get out of here.

[Bart Simon]

Okay.

[Simon]

I say, I'll have some. I say, I'll. I'll have some.

[Bart Simon]

Some what?

[Simon]

A nibble. A segment.

[Bart Simon]

I don't get you a stick. Oh, it's your income. Oh, sure. Here, help yourself.

[Simon]

Oh, thanks. I say, it's. It's not bad. It's rather good. I like tutti frutti.

[Ken Carpenter]

So the bowler takes the old English.

[Herbert Simon]

And the batsman edges it into the scripture on the scene.

[Grace]

Hello.

[Ken Carpenter]

I'm very sorry, ma' am.

[Jeffrey Simon]

This is not the sort of public.

[Ken Carpenter]

House that serves intoxicant to unescorted ladies.

[Grace]

Oh, I. I don't want anything to drink. The chemist on the corner's been bombed out, and I wondered if perhaps I might trouble you for your telephone.

[Simon]

Oh.

[Ken Carpenter]

Oh, very well, ma' am. The phone booth is on the far wall.

[Grace]

Oh, thank you. Have you got change for half a crown?

[Ken Carpenter]

Yes, ma' am.

[Jeffrey Simon]

There you are.

[Ken Carpenter]

Two and six.

[Grace]

Oh, just a minute. This shilling's got a hole in it.

[Ken Carpenter]

The perforation is nothing to be concerned about, madam.

[Jeffrey Simon]

I assure you, it's legal tender.

[Grace]

Very well. Hello, operator? Westminster 7399. Thank you. Am I through? Hello. I'd like to speak with Colonel Jonathan Trent, please. Thank you. No answer there. Oh, well, connect me with Captain Jackson's office. Its meteorologist, Captain Samuel Jackson. Yes. Hello, Sam. This is Grace. Very good. Thank you. What's cooking with you? Oh, tell me, have you seen John about the place anywhere? Oh, splendid. Let me talk to him. Now, see here, Stonewall. You can't prevent me from speaking with my own husband on the telephone. Moreover, he outranks you. Oh, I'm calling from a pub somewhere in St. John's Wood. No, of course I've not been tiffling. I assure you I'm not drunk. Would you please stop being impudent and summon the Lord and master? Hello, darling. Of course I'm not. When will you be home for dinner? Oh, no, darling, not at all.

[Ken Carpenter]

What?

[Grace]

Not Sam either. Well, what's going on down there?

[Herbert Simon]

Oh.

[Grace]

Oh, it's all right. Dinner wasn't going to be very good anyhow. All right, John, I promise. Goodbye, darling.

[Ken Carpenter]

But don't mention it.

[Simon]

Good luck.

[Bill Thorpe]

I don't like the way this driver negotiates corners.

[Ken Carpenter]

Why? What difference does it make?

[Bill Thorpe]

Well, after all, Sam, there is a blackout, and that calls for some caution.

[Ken Carpenter]

I'm telling you, we got the only staff car in the British Isles equipped with a Seeing Eye driver. You want to get home, don't you?

[Bill Thorpe]

Naturally. It would even be nice to get an hour or so of sleep. What am I going to tell Grace?

[Ken Carpenter]

Don't tell her anything. You can't.

[Bill Thorpe]

Of course I can't. But she'll know. She'll know the minute I see her then. Damned intuition. I had the feeling on the telephone she knew.

[Ken Carpenter]

Quite a gal, your wife.

[Bill Thorpe]

I think so. So do I. Sam, I have some requests to make of you. I. I hope you won't think I'm imposing.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, I've been imposing on you and Grace for 10 months. If you hadn't taken me in, I'd be sleeping under a nightingale in Berkeley Square.

[Bill Thorpe]

How do your orders read?

[Ken Carpenter]

Sam Jackson stays right at his little old desk on Oxford Street. For me it'll be just another routine day.

[Bill Thorpe]

Well, I'm glad.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, I'm not.

[Bill Thorpe]

It'll be much easier for Grace with you here. If we were both going over, she'd be quite alone. You'll look after her, won't you?

[Ken Carpenter]

What are you talking about, John? You'll be back in three days?

[Bill Thorpe]

There's a chance, yes.

[Ken Carpenter]

What did they give you? A pretty rough deal?

[Bill Thorpe]

Well, it's quite a responsibility, but a great honor.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, don't worry. There's only one bullet that's got your name on it.

[Bill Thorpe]

But I can't help thinking of all those that say to whom it may concern.

[Ken Carpenter]

After you, Colonel.

[Bill Thorpe]

No, no, no. Go ahead, Sam.

[Ken Carpenter]

I'm sorry. I have to observe strict military protocol.

[Bill Thorpe]

Colonels before captains only in months with an hour. Good night, driver.

[Ken Carpenter]

Good night, sir. Three to one says Grace is still up.

[Bill Thorpe]

I don't doubt it.

[Ken Carpenter]

Your wife doesn't mind. Very well.

[Bill Thorpe]

I know I'll have to start beating her again.

[Grace]

Jonathan.

[Bill Thorpe]

Yes, darling? I've brought a friend.

[Ken Carpenter]

A three star general.

[Grace]

Good heavens, are you serious? Oh, John, why didn't you phone me? Or at least give me some?

[Bill Thorpe]

It's no one but Sam, the immortal Captain.

[Grace]

You know, someday you are going to come home with a three star general and I'm going to meet you at the door in a pinafore.

[Bill Thorpe]

It will be very charming.

[Ken Carpenter]

I'm sure he'll like it.

[Bill Thorpe]

What's wrong now, darling? I asked you to go to bed.

[Grace]

I did, but it was terribly dull. So I got up again to wait for you.

[Bill Thorpe]

You must get your sleep now.

[Grace]

But so must you, darling. Something has happened. Something's in the Air. What is it?

[Bill Thorpe]

What did I tell you, Sam?

[Ken Carpenter]

I know. She's psychic.

[Bill Thorpe]

Grace, I've been given a special assignment that will take me out of town for a few days.

[Grace]

John.

[Bill Thorpe]

Oh, it's nothing to worry about, really.

[Grace]

Is Sam going too?

[Ken Carpenter]

No, I'll be hanging around jumbling up weather communications.

[Grace]

When do you leave?

[Bill Thorpe]

Well, this will be my last night at home.

[Grace]

Darling.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, I guess I'll trundle off to bed. I gotta count my laundry. Good night, kid.

[Bill Thorpe]

Good night, Sam.

[Grace]

Good night.

[Bill Thorpe]

Dearest.

[Grace]

This is it.

[Bill Thorpe]

Now you sound like the heroine in a great B movie. Then I should come back with. Yes, my dearest, this is it, the hour we've been waiting for. No, no, darling. This is a routine assignment, an everyday thing. I'll see you Friday or Saturday.

[Grace]

You know, I'm glad Sam's going to be here. It would be terrible being all alone in the house.

[Bill Thorpe]

Sam will be here. He'll be busy, but he'll be here.

[Grace]

Oh, he's a good friend. I'll never forget how furious I was when you told me he was coming to live with us. I couldn't bear the thought of taking in boarders as if Sam is a boarder.

[Bill Thorpe]

He's in love with you, you know.

[Grace]

I know.

[Bill Thorpe]

Would you call it a triangle?

[Grace]

Oh, it's a very nice triangle with rounded corners and no sharp edges.

[Bill Thorpe]

Did you know that I'm in love with you.

[I]

Are you?

[Bill Thorpe]

Violently.

[Grace]

I have some news for you, Colonel.

[Bill Thorpe]

Yes?

[Grace]

I'm in love with you, John. I'll pray for you every hour of every day.

[Bill Thorpe]

That will help very much.

[Grace]

Oh, and. And I've got something for you. It's in my handbag. Here. I found this in my change today. I want you to have it.

[Bill Thorpe]

It's just a shilling.

[Grace]

Oh, it's not just a shilling. It has a hole pierced through it.

[Bill Thorpe]

Yes, so it has.

[Grace]

I think someone must have worn it for a luck charm. And it works.

[Bill Thorpe]

How do you know?

[Grace]

Well, as soon as I had that coin in my purse, I stepped onto the street and the cabbie said, taximum. Do you know that's the first time I found a cab when I wanted one since the war began.

[Bill Thorpe]

Well, there's no question about it. It's an enchanted shilling. I shall be safe as Achilles.

[Grace]

Keep it close to you.

[Bill Thorpe]

I'll wear it with my identification.

[Grace]

Be careful, John.

[Bill Thorpe]

Remember what the wise man said. This too shall.

[Ken Carpenter]

Hello, Race? This is Sam.

[Grace]

Yes.

[Ken Carpenter]

Turn on your wireless right away.

[Grace]

Why?

[Ken Carpenter]

Just turn it on and listen. I've got a dash Sam.

[Jeffrey Simon]

And we cannot speak definitely as yet. Thus far, all reports are of Nazi origin.

[Ken Carpenter]

There has been no confirmation of the.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Landings by Allied headquarters.

[Ken Carpenter]

However, as soon as there is confirmation, we shall advise the listening audience. Oh, I've just received word to switch over to a point of remote control.

[Grace]

Why can't they hurry?

[Bart Simon]

Under the command of General Eisenhower, Allied.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Naval forces, supported by strong air forces.

[Bart Simon]

Began landing Allied armies this morning on.

[Jeffrey Simon]

The northern coast of France.

[Bart Simon]

The communique will be repeated.

[Ken Carpenter]

Under the command of General Eisenhower, allied.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Naval forces, supported by strong air forces.

[Bart Simon]

Began landing Allied armies this morning on.

[Jeffrey Simon]

The northern coast of France. This ends the reading of communique number one from Supreme Headquarters, Allied Expeditionary Force.

[Grace]

775-473-8990.

[Ken Carpenter]

Get this report on the teletype right away to every station on list AD75 right up. And let me know as fast as they add new stations to the list. Will do. Captain Jackson speaking.

[Grace]

Sam, this is Grace.

[Herbert Simon]

Oh.

[Ken Carpenter]

You all right, honey?

[Grace]

Yes, yes. But I know I shouldn't have called. You're busy. But has there been any word?

[Ken Carpenter]

Not yet. It's only H11. Hey, look, I can't talk now, and I won't be able to get back to the house tonight. But we'll have some news to talk over soon.

[Grace]

But there should be some word by now, shouldn't there, Sam?

[Ken Carpenter]

I'll take a refill on the coffee if you got something.

[Grace]

Of course.

[Ken Carpenter]

Yeah, there should be some word by now. There should have been word in 48.

[Grace]

Hours, but it's been twice that long.

[Ken Carpenter]

Why the devil didn't they send me instead of John? But, no, I gotta slug it out on a teletype while he's.

[Grace]

What is he doing?

[Ken Carpenter]

I guess there's no harm in telling you now. John was assigned to lead a regiment of airborne troops who dropped inland quite a ways up the Seine Valley on the road to Paris. It was a faint trick move to make the. Jerry's thinking we were going to strike straight for the capital. There was almost no chance that his gang could hang on until the beachheads consolidated, you know. But John was to cut back fast with any information he could get about deployment of German troops.

[Grace]

There's been no word.

[Ken Carpenter]

Well, there was word they were in touch with him by radio for eight hours. Then, clunk, not a tinkle.

[Grace]

Are you sure?

[Ken Carpenter]

It looks bad, lady.

[Grace]

Oh, it's not.

[Ken Carpenter]

You're right. I used to say, all's fair in love and war. That's cockeyed. Nothing's fair in love and war. There's no reason at a God's blue heaven why John should lead off the show while I stay home and play soldier on the telephone. And there's nothing fair about one guy getting hit and another one sliding between the bullets without a scratch. There's no reason why London should be blitzed four years while Chicago and Kansas City have all the bright lights on. Nothing's fair. They got a crazy cashier. In this life, you either get shortchanged or you get too much.

[Grace]

I'm sure he's all right, Sam. I'm certain of it.

[Ken Carpenter]

Don't hope too hard.

[Grace]

It's not hope.

[Ken Carpenter]

I know, Grace. It's better if you think the other way. Then if the long shot comes in, you can throw your hat in the air.

[Grace]

It isn't a long shot. It's a sure thing. Sam, you know, I'm rather psychic about some things.

[Ken Carpenter]

Yeah, I know.

[Grace]

The night before John left, I gave him a coin. A shilling with a hole in it for luck. I'd prayed. I'd hoped I'd had faith and the shilling was somehow extra insurance. But now I'm certain it'll bring him through.

[Ken Carpenter]

That's asking an awful lot on one lame shilling, lady. I hope you're right. Your dispatches will be off to Shae in 10 minutes, Colonel.

[Bill Thorpe]

And did you include the message for my wife?

[Jeffrey Simon]

Yes, sir.

[Bill Thorpe]

I think they'll approve that too.

[Ken Carpenter]

It's remarkable that you were able to get back.

[Bill Thorpe]

I'm thoroughly as amazed as you are, sir. I had excellent assistance. Commendably done.

[Ken Carpenter]

We'd quite given you up.

[Bill Thorpe]

I'm not surprised. I have not been eating very well the past few days. Oh, very thoughtless of.

[Ken Carpenter]

I'll get you something right away, Monsieur. Besancon. Ouija, Il vous dejeuner. Dejeuner? Oui, du suite. And, Colonel, we've got some old French wine here that'll really set your ears back. Monsieur Povenous. Avoir du champagne. Du champagne? Mais certainment. We keep it concealed in the great.

[Bill Thorpe]

Valuable stuff, you know. Yes, I know. Monsieur Besancin.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Maybe you'd like to offer a toast, Colonel.

[Bill Thorpe]

Yes, I would. To all free men.

[Jeffrey Simon]

Yeah.

[Bill Thorpe]

Here, I'll buy that. Ah, delicious. Monsieur. Service.

[Ken Carpenter]

You've been listening to Shilling for Luck, an original play for radio prepared in the United States by Armed Forces Radio. The cast, in order of their appearance. Gene Kelly, Sir Aubrey Smith, Freddie Bartholomew, Lon McAllister, Shirley Temple, Ken Carpenter, Ed Gardner, Nigel Bruce, Ed Gwen, Edna Best, Franchoton and Ronald Coleman. This is the Armed Forces Radio Service Ra.