The Hardy Family 19xx.xx.xx Hot Rod

Summary

Podcast Summary: The Hardy Family 19xx.xx.xx Hot Rod

Podcast Information:

• Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
• Host/Author: Harolds Old Time Radio
• Episode: The Hardy Family 19xx.xx.xx Hot Rod
• Release Date: May 3, 2025
• Description: This episode transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, showcasing the beloved Hardy Family as they navigate the thrills and tribulations of hot rod racing in mid-20th century America.

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Introduction

In the "The Hardy Family 19xx.xx.xx Hot Rod" episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are immersed in the classic dynamics of the Hardy household. Featuring iconic characters James Hardy, portrayed by Lewis Stone; Emily Hardy, played by Fay Holden; and their spirited son Andy Hardy, brought to life by Mickey Rooney, the episode delves into themes of responsibility, generational conflict, and the pursuit of dreams against societal expectations.

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Main Plot

The Family’s Concern Over Hot Rods

The episode begins with James Hardy (00:29) expressing his frustrations about the relentless workweek, only to find himself preoccupied with family matters:

• James Hardy: "I've been a professional man all my life and I've yet to experience a completely relaxed weekend at home." [00:29]

Emily Hardy (01:40), his wife, voices concerns about their son Andy's seemingly erratic behavior:

• Emily Hardy: "James, I'm worried about that boy. Yesterday he was just full of pit. And then last night shut himself in his room and read all the evening." [02:31]

James dismisses these worries initially, attributing Andy's solitude to romantic pursuits rather than deeper issues.

Andy’s Ambition to Race

The narrative shifts focus to Andy Hardy (04:42), who reveals his determination to enter a dangerous jalopy race:

• Andy Hardy: "I'm about to enter my hot rod in the big jalopy race tonight at the car." [04:46]

His girlfriend, Polly, expresses both concern and support, highlighting the risks involved:

• Polly: "Don't take it too hard, child. I know there are great risks involved." [05:06]

Andy’s ambition leads him to seek funding for the race. He approaches Mr. Mason, a local used car dealer, for a sponsorship:

• Andy Hardy: "I need $25 for the entrance fee and it has to be paid by 10 o'clock this morning." [06:24]

After a negotiation filled with humor and persistence, Mr. Mason agrees to sponsor Andy by purchasing James Hardy's car for $25, thus securing the necessary funds but inadvertently causing familial tension.

The Car’s Disappearance and Conflict

Upon returning home, James Hardy discovers his car is missing, leading to immediate suspicion towards Andy:

• James Hardy: "Well, I parked it right in the driveway before I left this morning." [11:30]
• Andy Hardy: "I may as well confess everything. I entered myself in that big jalopy race tonight..." [21:17]

Andy admits to selling James's car to fund his racing aspirations, hoping to gain his father's pride and approval through a potential win. This revelation sparks a heated exchange about responsibility and pride.

The Heart-Pounding Race

As the race unfolds, Andy's hot rod spectacularly falters mid-race. Despite the car falling apart, Andy manages to finish fourth:

• Andy Hardy: "It's a good thing there were only four left at the finish line. I might have come in fifth." [25:49]

This dramatic event serves as a turning point, illustrating the perilous nature of Andy's pursuits and the family's underlying support amidst chaos.

Resolution and Family Unity

In the aftermath of the race, the Hardys reconcile their differences. James acknowledges misjudging Andy's capabilities:

• James Hardy: "I'll have to admit I misjudged your car. I never thought it would hold together that long." [25:53]

The family comes together, recognizing the importance of balancing ambition with safety, and the enduring bonds that sustain them through trials.

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Key Themes and Insights

1. Generational Conflict: The episode vividly portrays the classic clash between traditional values and youthful rebellion. James Hardy's strict stance against reckless driving contrasts with Andy's desire for freedom and excitement.

2. Responsibility vs. Ambition: Andy's determination to race reflects the universal struggle between pursuing one's dreams and adhering to familial and societal responsibilities.

3. Safety and Recklessness: Through the portrayal of hot rod racing, the narrative underscores the dangers of reckless behavior, both for individuals and the community.

4. Family Dynamics: The Hardy family's interactions highlight the complexities of familial love, expectations, and the journey towards mutual understanding.

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Notable Quotes

• James Hardy on Professional Life:

  • "I've been a professional man all my life and I've yet to experience a completely relaxed weekend at home." [00:29]

• Emily Hardy on Andy’s Behavior:

  • "James, I'm worried about that boy. Yesterday he was just full of pit." [02:31]

• Andy Hardy on Racing:

  • "The most devil may care hot rod driver in the nation." [04:46]

• James Hardy on Hot Rods:

  • "There are no bad boys, only bad parents." [03:59]

• Andy Hardy’s Determination:

  • "It's a good thing there were only four left at the finish line." [25:49]

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Conclusion

"The Hardy Family 19xx.xx.xx Hot Rod" masterfully encapsulates the essence of mid-20th century American radio dramas, blending suspense, humor, and heartfelt family moments. Through Andy Hardy's daring escapade and the family's ensuing challenges, the episode offers timeless insights into the balance between youthful ambition and adult responsibility. Listeners are left reflecting on the importance of understanding and communication within families, as well as the enduring allure of chasing one's passions amidst adversity.

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Attribution: This episode features performances by Lewis Stone as James Hardy, Fay Holden as Emily Hardy, and Mickey Rooney as Andy Hardy. The story, written by Jack Rubin and Jamison Brewer, is based on characters created by Arania Ruberal and directed by Thomas A. McEvitty. The original music was composed and conducted by Jerry Fealty.

Transcript

[Narrator]

From Hollywood, here's Mickey Rooney, Lewis Stone and Fay Holden in the Hardy family. We're proud to present the Hardy Family, based on the famous Metro Goldwyn Mayer motion picture series which brought delight to millions and reflected the common joys and tribulations of the average American family. And now, here are the same great stars and the parts they created on the screen. Louis Stone, Mickey Rooney and Fay Holden.

[James Hardy]

The Hardy. Many a time I've heard people say they envy the professional man who works only five days a week and a Saturday and Sunday. Relax, enjoy his home. I've been a professional man all my life and I've yet to experience a completely relaxed weekend at home. When a man has a wife as energetic as Mrs. Hardy, he should rest for five days and be prepared to work the weekend.

[Emily Hardy]

James, I've been thinking. You work awfully hard in your court all week long.

[James Hardy]

Yes, Emily, I work pretty hard. That's why I'm always happy to see a beautiful Saturday morning like this.

[Emily Hardy]

But after you finish your breakfast, why don't you just settle down with a good book and just relax?

[James Hardy]

Can't do that. Bill Harding's coming by for me in a few minutes. Wants me to look at a piece of property of his.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, dear. You know, you should take it easy when you have a chance.

[James Hardy]

Well, just to please you, I'll take it easy all afternoon.

[Emily Hardy]

You can't do that, dear. No, I wanted you to take me down to the railroad station to meet Mrs. Teller. I promised we'd meet her and take her home.

[James Hardy]

Oh, I see. Well, I'll relax after that, and then.

[Emily Hardy]

Then you'll have to drive me to the market, and then I thought we might.

[James Hardy]

Well, Emily, I. I see what you meant when you said I should relax when I had the chance.

[Emily Hardy]

Well, I wouldn't ask you, dear, except that Andy's gone for the day and.

[James Hardy]

We'Re out of the house this hour in the morning. Why, don't you know it's Saturday?

[Emily Hardy]

James, I'm worried about that boy. Yesterday he was just full of pit. And then last night shut himself in his room and read all the evening. You know, Mrs. Jackson said her son had those high and low flashes of temperament just before he burst his appendix.

[James Hardy]

I wouldn't worry about Andrew. When a boy stays alone in his room all night, it's more likely due to a burst romance.

[Emily Hardy]

Well, if he doesn't slow down a little, he's going to push something.

[James Hardy]

Oh, by the way, I see that article I wrote here in the morning paper.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, did you write that? Article on canning peaches.

[James Hardy]

No, no, no, Emily. The only peach I ever canned was that young widow I sent to jail for reckless driving.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, James, that's terrible.

[James Hardy]

That's just a little joke, Emily. A little pun.

[Emily Hardy]

I know, dear. It was terrible.

[James Hardy]

Well, this article of mine on reckless driving, at the last meeting the city council decided that I should write it.

[Emily Hardy]

Well, that's nice. I hope everybody reads it and benefits by it.

[James Hardy]

Yes, it's intended primarily for those young fellows who drive hot rods around town at breakneck speed. I try to point out the dangers involved in these hopped up conveyances. And I issue a plea asking the parents to speak to their children.

[Emily Hardy]

Well, you know, James, Andy has a hot rod.

[James Hardy]

Well, Andrew used to have a hot rod, Emily. His hot rod is more of a lukewarm rod now. Besides, he never did drive recklessly.

[Emily Hardy]

No, he listened to your lectures, dear, and he was always a good boy.

[James Hardy]

Well, Emily, as a great man once said, there are no bad boys, only bad parents. That's why I'm asking the parents to do something about these hot rods. They've got to take the initiative, set the example.

[Emily Hardy]

I think you're exactly right, James.

[James Hardy]

And I don't intend to rest until I make every young driver in Carville safety minded. Hot rods are a menace to our peaceful way of life. Every reckless hot rod driver will be dealt with very severely.

[Polly]

Andy, what in the world are you doing over here this time of the morning?

[Andy Hardy]

Polly, you see standing before you, no brakes Hardy. The most devil may care hot rod driver in the nation.

[Polly]

What in the world are you talking about?

[Andy Hardy]

I'm about to enter my hot rod in the big jalopy race tonight at the car.

[Polly]

Really?

[Andy Hardy]

Don't take it too hard, child. I know there are great risks involved. But you've got to accept me as I am the type who likes to live dangerously.

[Polly]

Well, I think that's wonderful, Andy.

[Andy Hardy]

Ah, you bloodthirsty women. What we men go through to win your admiration. Cheer while you may, because this is the most dangerous of all games.

[Polly]

Oh, I've seen the jalopy races and they didn't seem so dangerous.

[Andy Hardy]

Just remember this, dear girl, when you kiss me for good luck and send me off onto that racetrack tonight. I might not come back in your car.

[Polly]

You might not even get going.

[Andy Hardy]

I'm glad to see you're not fighting this thing, Paul.

[Emily Hardy]

Not at all.

[Andy Hardy]

You've got to be modern about these things. You mustn't resist.

[Polly]

I'm not resisting.

[Andy Hardy]

For guy's sakes, do something. You act like you don't care if we only have this one last moment together.

[Polly]

Are your folks going to be at the races?

[Andy Hardy]

Gosh, no. I haven't even told him about this. You know how dad feels about those hot rods.

[Polly]

I certainly do.

[Andy Hardy]

Dad just doesn't understand hot rods. And so I think it's just as well not to. Not to worry, you know.

[Polly]

You mean you're afraid to tell him?

[Andy Hardy]

Don't be silly. Why, I just wait. Yes, I am. I'll wait until after the race when I. When I come in first and win that hundred and fifty bucks, the folks will be really proud of me.

[Polly]

And suppose you come in 20s?

[Andy Hardy]

That's impossible, Polly. There's only 15 cars in a race.

[Polly]

Well, I'll certainly be cheering for you to win tonight, Andy.

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah. There's just one little thing that may prevent me, though. I need $25 for the entrance fee and it has to be paid by 10 o'clock this morning. If I could only find someone to sponsor me.

[Polly]

Costs an awful lot to be a hero, doesn't it?

[Andy Hardy]

Well, I certainly don't want to be a cheap hero. Jim Miller offered to give me the 25, but he's out of town and won't be back until after dinner. I need the money right now. Besides, Jim drives a hard bargain. He wants three fourths of my winnings.

[Polly]

Well, why don't you borrow the money in your car so you can pay the entrance fee and then pay it back tonight when you get the money from Jim Miller?

[Andy Hardy]

Polly, you might have an idea there. Say, I'll try it. By the way, before I go. I mean, I give you one long.

[Polly]

Last lingering kiss at this time of the morning, right out here on the front porch.

[Andy Hardy]

We've got to live one last mad moment. Who knows? Tomorrow the sun may not rise for me.

[Polly]

Well, it will for me. And I've got to think of my reputation. No smooching on the porch.

[Andy Hardy]

You may regret this cold farewell. Tonight when you're at the track watching me slide recklessly around those turns.

[Polly]

I can just see it now.

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah.

[Polly]

For 50 laps you're in number four spot.

[Andy Hardy]

That's me.

[Polly]

Then you start to pull out. You pass one car.

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah, I'm in third place.

[Polly]

You pass another car, you're in second place.

[Andy Hardy]

Now I'm in second place.

[Polly]

The crowd is roaring. They're cheering neck and neck with first car.

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah, I'm trying to squeeze them off on the inside turn.

[Polly]

No, you're trying to pass him on the outside.

[Andy Hardy]

I'm on the outside.

[Polly]

Oh, how Dare you. Yeah, it looks like your wheels are going to lock.

[Andy Hardy]

No, no, no. Why? Why? Why didn't I pass him on the inside?

[Emily Hardy]

You.

[Andy Hardy]

Both wheels, huh?

[Polly]

You skid a little.

[Andy Hardy]

I'm skidding now.

[Polly]

You're slightly ahead and pulling away fast.

[Andy Hardy]

That's me.

[Polly]

But one of your wheels is wobbly.

[Andy Hardy]

It's what?

[Polly]

It might come off any minute.

[Andy Hardy]

Tighten it up. Tighten it up.

[James Hardy]

Polly.

[Andy Hardy]

Flames.

[Polly]

Flames from the front of your car.

[Andy Hardy]

Flames. I'm on fire. Polly, please. The crowd is hysterical.

[Polly]

Cross the finish line before your car explodes.

[Andy Hardy]

It comes off, Polly.

[Polly]

You do what? You cross the line the winner and jump out of your car just as it flies into a thousand pieces.

[James Hardy]

Wham.

[Polly]

And you're a hero. I love you, Polly. Yes.

[Andy Hardy]

Could you love me just as much if I were the hero of a nice chess tournament? Ah, good morning, Mr. Mason.

[Mr. Mason]

Morning, Andy. Say, I hear you're entered in the big Zoharbi race tonight.

[Andy Hardy]

Well, I plan to give the crowd a thrill, yes. Guess you've heard the boys talking about me, huh? No brakes, Hardy.

[Mr. Mason]

I'm betting on you in that race tonight, Mr. Mason.

[Andy Hardy]

You're a used car dealer. You know my car, right?

[James Hardy]

Sure.

[Mr. Mason]

It'll walk away from the others.

[Andy Hardy]

I was wondering if you'd like to sponsor me tonight in the race.

[Mr. Mason]

Well, now, that's quite none, or. I think I like it.

[Andy Hardy]

Well, you know, I'll paint your name in big letters on the side of the car, too.

[Mr. Mason]

Well, what does the sponsor do? I make a speech or something?

[Andy Hardy]

No, no, no, no. Very simple. You just put up $25 by 10:00 this morning, and you're my sponsor.

[Mr. Mason]

$25? That's right, Andy. I thought you wanted me to sponsor you, not Amos and Andy.

[Andy Hardy]

Well, I need the money this morning, Mr. Mason. I can pay you back by dinner time if you'll just loan it to me.

[Mr. Mason]

Well, Andy, we don't make loans on cars here. Try the bank.

[Andy Hardy]

I did. They're not making loans this morning either.

[Mr. Mason]

I'm sorry, Andy. We've got a deal with the bank. We don't make loans and they don't sell cars.

[Andy Hardy]

Well, then buy my car. Can you do that?

[Mr. Mason]

Yes, but are you gonna race it if I buy it?

[Andy Hardy]

Well, you buy it from me for $25. I'll get the money Jim Miller promised me at dinnertime tonight and buy it back from you for $25.

[Mr. Mason]

I'm operating on a pretty small margin of profit there, don't you think, Mr. Mason?

[Andy Hardy]

I. I need the money, Andy.

[Mr. Mason]

I've Known you for a long time, and I'd like to see you in that race. It's a deal.

[Andy Hardy]

You mean it? Oh, swell. Look, I'll bring my car right over.

[Mr. Mason]

Oh, you don't have to do that.

[Andy Hardy]

No, no, I. I insist on this thing being legal. After all, you bought the car. You're entitled to it until tonight.

[Mr. Mason]

All right, if that's the way you want to do it. But you don't have to bother to drive it over. We'll pick it up.

[Andy Hardy]

Good, Good. It's standing in the driveway at my house.

[Mr. Mason]

All right, andy, here's your 25.

[James Hardy]

That's it.

[Mr. Mason]

Get down and get your car entered. And good luck.

[Andy Hardy]

Thanks, Mr. Mason. Thanks a lot.

[Mr. Mason]

Hey, Joe, come here a minute.

[Emily Hardy]

Yeah?

[Mr. Mason]

Yeah, Mr. Mason, we just bought a car from Andy Hardy here. I want you to go over and pick it up. How you doing? What's the address?

[Andy Hardy]

342 Maple Street. The car is standing right in the driveway.

[Mr. Mason]

Okay, I'll get it.

[Andy Hardy]

Mr. Mason, you're going to see a real race tonight when no Brakes Hardy goes turning around that track, completing 150 breathtaking laps. Oh, you're going to be proud of me.

[Mr. Mason]

150 laps?

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah.

[Mr. Mason]

I thought the race was only 100 laps.

[Andy Hardy]

It takes me 50 laps to stop. No breaks.

[James Hardy]

Emily? Emily, you home?

[Emily Hardy]

He is right here, James. I just got in. I've been over at Mrs. Gordon's all morning.

[James Hardy]

Emily, our car's gone.

[Emily Hardy]

I know, James. Andy says it's real gone.

[James Hardy]

I mean, it's missing.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, on which cylinder?

[James Hardy]

No, no, no, Emily, the car's disappeared. I parked it right in the driveway before I left this morning.

[Emily Hardy]

Are you sure you didn't leave it in the garage?

[James Hardy]

No, no, no. I left it in the driveway. Well, I suppose Andrews borrowed it again without my permission. I've spoken to him about that a dozen times.

[Emily Hardy]

Now, don't get upset with Andy yet, James. You don't know that he took it.

[James Hardy]

Well, what else could have happened to it? Andrew's car still out there?

[Emily Hardy]

Well, I don't think he'd take it without permission.

[James Hardy]

Oh, Emmett, it's pretty obvious. I don't mind Andrew borrowing the car anytime, but I like to know when he's going to do it.

[Emily Hardy]

I think you're unnecessarily disturbed. It probably isn't anything bad like that at all.

[James Hardy]

Then what did happen to the car?

[Emily Hardy]

Why, James, probably someone's just stolen it.

[Narrator]

In a moment, the Harden family will return.

[James Hardy]

But first, a word from your announcement.

[Narrator]

And now back to the Hardy family, starring Mickey Rooney, Louis Stone and Faye Holden.

[James Hardy]

Well, one of the most frustrating experiences in the world is to go out and step into your car and find you have nothing to step into. I imagine this is an experience a good many men go through of young sons home. Andrew thinks his own car is the finest thing on four wheels until he wants to make a little impression. And suddenly my car is much more attractive. That's probably because mine has a top that's all in one piece. And even better, a tank full of gas.

[Emily Hardy]

James, aren't you going to call the police and report your car stolen?

[James Hardy]

No. Now Emily, I'm certain Andrew borrowed it. I'm going to have a man to man talk with him when he comes home.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, but seriously, somebody might have stolen it.

[James Hardy]

Why, who? Who would steal my car? Everyone in town knows I'm a judge. No, no, this is Andrew's work.

[Emily Hardy]

Well, if some thief did take it, will he come up to trial in your court?

[James Hardy]

I hope so. I sincerely hope so.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh my goodness. In the old days when we drove around a horse and buggy, we never had a car stolen.

[James Hardy]

Well, it was harder to steal a car then. There weren't any cars.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh dear. You know we've less than an hour to meet that train.

[James Hardy]

Well, I guess there's only one thing we can do. We'll have to take Andrew's car.

[Emily Hardy]

Don't you think we ought to ask Andy's permission, dear?

[James Hardy]

Permission? I phoned all over this town trying to locate him. I can't. No, we'll just borrow his car the same as you borrowed mine.

[Emily Hardy]

But you can't drive that car.

[James Hardy]

Why not?

[Emily Hardy]

It's a hot rod.

[James Hardy]

Well, I'm pretty well heated up myself at the moment.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, but James, how can you be seen driving a hot rod after all the things you said about them and that article of yours in the paper this morning.

[James Hardy]

Well, it's an emergency, Emily. It's an emergency. Besides, I'm not against the cars, just the way some of the owners drive them.

[Emily Hardy]

Well, Andy drove me to the market one day in that car and I didn't stop shaking for two days.

[James Hardy]

We will just putter along. Take it easy. Oh, Emily, by the way, do you think you could find my old duster and my goggles and gauntlets that I used to wear when you drove that Maxwell years ago?

[Emily Hardy]

James and his car isn't that old.

[James Hardy]

Well, when I drive that black and white striped monster down the street, I intend to be well disguised.

[Emily Hardy]

Do you want me to wait until you back Andy's car Out of the garage before I get in. James.

[James Hardy]

Oh, no, no. Get in. Now. Better get this thing started. I don't want to take unnecessary chances stopping it.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, gracious. It's hard to realize that this car was once an automobile, isn't it?

[James Hardy]

Certainly is. Here, I'll open the door for you. It seems to be stuck.

[Emily Hardy]

Well, I think Andy usually yells over the top and leaps in.

[James Hardy]

Emily, please, please, have a little respect for old age.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, James, you're not so old.

[James Hardy]

I'm speaking of the car. Only one thing I do, I guess, gives a little persuasion here. So you better stand back, mother. Stand back. Well, I did it. Success.

[Emily Hardy]

You know, the door is still shut. That was the hood that flew open.

[James Hardy]

Yeah, I know, I know.

[Emily Hardy]

We better hurry. We're going to be late getting to the station.

[James Hardy]

Yes, we'll just use this little step ladder here and climb over here. Take my hand. Well, here you go. Over the top.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, thank you, dear. I'm all settled.

[James Hardy]

Emily, where are you? I can't even see you.

[Emily Hardy]

I'm sitting down on the floorboard. There doesn't seem to be any seat.

[James Hardy]

Well, here I come. Well, there we are. Where's the steering wheel?

[Emily Hardy]

It's right there, dear, up above your head.

[James Hardy]

Well, hang on, Emily. Hang on. We may go ahead. We may go back. If I pull the wrong gadget, we might go straight up.

[Emily Hardy]

Why are you blowing the horn? There's nobody in our way.

[James Hardy]

Well, this may surprise you, my dear, but I'm stepping on the starter. How on earth do you start this contraption?

[Emily Hardy]

Andy drives his car every day and he never had a bit of trouble. Come on, start the car.

[James Hardy]

Start it. All right. How would you suggest I start it?

[Emily Hardy]

Well, why don't you just turn every knob and just see what happens?

[James Hardy]

All right. Hang on. Windshield wiper. Throttle. Heater. Headlights. Headlights. Why didn't I think of that? Well, here we go. We're actually going. I never thought I'd see this.

[Emily Hardy]

James, we've only got 15 minutes to get to the station. Don't kill the motor.

[James Hardy]

Kill it? Emily, if all the things Andrew has done to that motor hasn't killed it, he's just not ready to die.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, look, there's Mrs. Foyley walking down the street.

[James Hardy]

Oh, for heaven's sake. I mean, don't. Don't wave. Don't wave. You think we've gone crazy?

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, I guess you're right, dear.

[James Hardy]

Slide down the seat as far as you can until we pass her.

[Emily Hardy]

My knees are already higher than my head.

[James Hardy]

Just a second. Now we'll pass her. It's going to stop right beside her. Keep down. Keep down.

[Emily Hardy]

Emily, Judge Hardy and Mrs. Hardy.

[James Hardy]

Good afternoon, Mrs. Foley. Lovely day, isn't it?

[Emily Hardy]

Yes. Hello, Mrs. Foley. We didn't see you.

[Andy Hardy]

Well, I should think not, curled up on the floorboards like that.

[James Hardy]

Well, it is warmer down here.

[Emily Hardy]

It keeps the wind out of your eyes, Dutch Hardy. It seems to be.

[Andy Hardy]

I read quite an article by you.

[Emily Hardy]

In the paper this morning about people.

[Andy Hardy]

Driving dangerous hot rods on the streets.

[James Hardy]

Well, you see, this is an emergency, Ms. Foger. This is an emergency. Emily. What was I did to start the car?

[Emily Hardy]

I think you blew the horn. You asked the young people of Carl to please keep their hop rods off streets. But I must say, Judge Hardy, you are certainly not lighting the way for others.

[James Hardy]

Headlights. That's it. Thank you, Mr. Paul. And thank you. You have lighted the way for us.

[Andy Hardy]

Hello, Joe. Is Mr. Mason around?

[Mr. Mason]

Oh, hi. You Hardy?

[Andy Hardy]

No.

[Mr. Mason]

The boss is gone for the rest of the day.

[Andy Hardy]

I've got a little problem. Maybe you can help me.

[Mr. Mason]

I don't loan no dough to nobody.

[Andy Hardy]

That's not it. You see, Mr. Mason bought my car for $25 this morning.

[Mr. Mason]

Yeah, I went out and picked the heap up.

[Andy Hardy]

Well, I'd like to have it back. It just happens I'm going to win that big race with it tonight. Do you suppose you could let me have it? Huh?

[Mr. Mason]

How much you want to pay?

[Andy Hardy]

Well, that's just a hitch. You see, I. I can't pay anything, but if I could just take the car out for the race, I. I can win enough money to pay back.

[Mr. Mason]

Mr. Mason, I ain't got no authority to let no cars out, especially for no dough.

[Andy Hardy]

Joe, you know what I think? You ain't got no heart. And you ain't gonna get no good conduct medal at your next scout meeting. Goodbye. Huh? Hi, Mom, Dad. Nice day, isn't it?

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, goodness, you sound low, dear. What's wrong?

[Andy Hardy]

Everything. Everything's gone wrong.

[James Hardy]

Andrew, before we listen to your problems, I'd like to ask you a question about my car.

[Andy Hardy]

Car? That's my whole problem. I've been up to my ears in cars all day.

[James Hardy]

That's what I want to ask you. Why'd you get up your ears in my car without my permission?

[Andy Hardy]

Your car? Your car, Dad, I haven't had your car today.

[James Hardy]

I parked it in the driveway this morning and a few hours later was gone.

[Andy Hardy]

In the driveway?

[James Hardy]

Oh, my gosh, Andrew, I have a feeling you do know something about this.

[Andy Hardy]

I may as well confess everything. I entered myself in that big jalopy race tonight, and I thought. I know that I. I shouldn't have tried to put anything over on you. I know how you disapprove of those races.

[James Hardy]

Disapprove of them? I don't disapprove of the races. They're a fine thing, huh? Matter of fact, it's an excellent idea to hold those races. Keep the young fellows off the street at night. Lets them work their energy out on a racetrack under strict supervision.

[Andy Hardy]

Oh, my gosh. How droopy can I get? I should have told you in the first place. It's just that I thought you'd be so proud of me if I won first place tonight, and I. I was gonna surprise you.

[Emily Hardy]

Well, dear, you could surprise us now if you told us where your father's car is.

[Andy Hardy]

Oh. Oh, yeah, that. Well, I needed $25 for the entrance fee, see, in the race. So I sold it to Mr. Mason for 25 bucks and told him to pick my car up and hold it. Obviously, they took your car. It was out in the driveway.

[James Hardy]

You sold my car for $25?

[Andy Hardy]

I better go right down there and get it back for you, huh? Wait a minute.

[Polly]

Wait a.

[Andy Hardy]

If they pick your car up, then mine must still be here. I can race it tonight and pay Mr. Mason later on out of my winnings.

[James Hardy]

Yes, yes, yes. But what about my car, dad?

[Andy Hardy]

Would you mind awfully much leaving your car at Mason's Lot for security, huh? Just. Just for tonight.

[Emily Hardy]

Oh, I think that's the least we can do, Jen.

[James Hardy]

Maybe.

[Andy Hardy]

Well, thanks, dad. Thanks. Everything's great now. The minute I start to operate open and above board with you, all my difficulties vanish. Now. Now, tell me, where's my car?

[James Hardy]

Uh, well, I. I'm afraid that part of that has vanished too.

[Andy Hardy]

What do you mean?

[James Hardy]

I really wouldn't advise you to race your car tonight.

[Andy Hardy]

But why not?

[James Hardy]

Well, your car, when last seen, was sitting high up on a hydraulic jack down in Gordon's Garage.

[Andy Hardy]

Gordon's Garage? What happened to it?

[James Hardy]

Well, Andrew, that car of yours was really destined for the garage. I never saw so many things fall off one car.

[Andy Hardy]

But I. But I left at home. Don't tell me he just suddenly collapsed from old age.

[Emily Hardy]

James, I think you better tell him.

[James Hardy]

Yeah. Well, son, your mother wanted me to drive her down to the train station this afternoon.

[Emily Hardy]

But you did all the driving, James.

[James Hardy]

I know, I know. I'll assume full responsibility, Emily. Well, a lamp post came at us very fast. It was really on the wrong side of the street.

[Andy Hardy]

You. You hit a lamp post with it.

[James Hardy]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Andy Hardy]

What happened to the car, dad? Tell me.

[James Hardy]

Both front fenders came off.

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah.

[James Hardy]

The hood's broken off.

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah.

[James Hardy]

Headlights are missing.

[Andy Hardy]

Headlights would what? That's great.

[James Hardy]

That's great.

[Andy Hardy]

Why, sure. You saved me a lot of trouble. I. I would just have to strip all those things off anyway.

[Emily Hardy]

But, James, you're a racing driver and didn't know it.

[James Hardy]

Andrew, do you mean to tell me, did you take all those things off your car before you race it?

[Polly]

Yeah.

[Andy Hardy]

It cuts down the wind resistance. Why, I'll even take the doors and the windshield off.

[James Hardy]

Well, you won't. You won't have to. They came off, too. Just tell me one thing, son.

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah, what's that?

[James Hardy]

Which do you enter in the race? The part should take off or the part that's left over the moment the.

[Narrator]

Hardy family will return. Now, here again is the Hardy family.

[Polly]

Oh, gee, Andy, I don't know when I've been so excited. You were one of the leaders in the race all the way.

[Andy Hardy]

I told you, I'm the type who likes to live dangerously.

[Emily Hardy]

But couldn't you have push down on the gas just a little more at the last?

[Andy Hardy]

I don't like to live that dangerously.

[James Hardy]

Andrew, I'll have to admit I misjudged your car. I never thought it would hold together that long.

[Polly]

Why, some of the cars didn't even leave the starting line. Oh, I think it's wonderful that you were able to come in fourth.

[Andy Hardy]

Yeah, it's quite an honor. Cars were dropping off like flies all along the course. It's a good thing there were only four left at the finish line. I might have come in fifth.

[James Hardy]

I think it's a good thing the race wasn't a mile longer. Why, dad, there might not even have been a winner.

[Narrator]

The Hardy Family, starring Louis Doan, Mickey Rooney and Faye Holden, is presented by arrangement with Metro Goldwood Mayer, producers of Malaya, starring Spencer Tracy, James Stewart, Valentina Cortesa, Sydney Green street and John Hodier. The Hardy Family is written by Jack Rubin and Jamison Brewer based on characters created by Arania Ruberal. Direction is by Thomas A. McEvitty. Original music was composed and conducted by Jerry Fealty.

[Andy Hardy]

Jack McCoy speaks it's.