← Stars on Suspense (Old Time Radio)
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Now, let's see. Suspect. Suspect, suspend. Ah, here we are. Suspense. The condition of mental uncertainty, usually accompanied by apprehension or anxiety. Fear of something which is about to occur as do not keep me any longer in suspense. Hello and welcome to Stars on Suspense with more Hollywood legends and radio's outstanding theater of thrills. Today we wrap up our month long series of classic Christmas films with It's a Wonderful Life, maybe the king of the holiday movies. It's the story of George Bailey, who on a night where his faith is shattered, a friendly angel pays a visit to show George what the world would be like if he'd never been born. It's a movie about the importance of kindness and compassion and it shows how far a good deed goes in changing the lives of the people around you. You can rent or buy it digitally at your preferred retailer. There's also a nice 4K edition, plus DVDs and Blu Rays. The movie is streaming on Amazon prime in both the original black and white and slightly less beloved colorized versions, so keep an eye on which icon you click. Today we'll hear three of the film's stars in Stories from Suspense. We'll hear a radio recreation of the movie and as a bonus, a parody from the Jack Benny program, an episode that features a cameo from director Frank Capra. First up is Thomas Mitchell, who plays George Bailey's lovable but absent minded Uncle Billy. We'll hear him as a decidedly less avuncular figure in case history on Edgar Lowndes from June 8, 1944. He's a tycoon who seeks the help of a psychiatrist, played by Donald Crisp, to get to the source of his frequent headaches. Next is Sheldon Leonard, who had a small but memorable part as Nick the bartender who gives George and Clarence his angel the boot. We'll hear Leonard in the Feast of the Furies from July 11, 1946, where he plays a professional killer whose latest target is desperately trying to talk his way out of his fate. And finally, Jimmy Stewart. George Bailey himself plays another man who gets a glimpse of a world without him living in it. He stars in consequence from May 19, 1949. Then Stewart and his screen co star Donna Reed reunite for a Lux Radio Theater presentation of the film from March 10, 1947, and will close with Jack Benny getting his own visit from an angel in an episode of his show from February 2, 1947. Interestingly, in both the Lux Radio Theater version and the Jack Benny episode, the role of Clarence is played by Victor Moore, who we heard a few weeks ago, and it happened on Fifth Avenue. Henry Travers played the role in the film, but Moore is a good choice for a substitute. We'll find out what happens every time a bell rings. But first, three stories from suspense. We'll kick things off with Thomas Mitchell right after these messages. Hey, Hap. Hello, Santa. Why, it's Wilcox. Now. What are you doing in that costume, Harlow? Going to a Christmas party, Hap. Oh, what's in the sack? Why, a load of merry motoring. In this box I've got smoother performance, you see. Ignition Engineered Auto Light spark plug. Sure. And when you replace worn out spark plugs with these new Bantam Beauties, your car will perform smoother than Santa skidding down a slippery chimney. And what's in this box? Arlo? Fast starts, Hap. These are Ignition engineered Auto Light spark plugs too? You bet. They're unmatched for quick starts because they're designed by the same Autolite engineers who design the coil, distributor and all the other important parts of the complete ignition system for many leading makes of our finest cars. That's why Ignition engineered Auto Light spark plugs work as a team with your car's ignition system. And that's why they're world famous for quality and dependability. And I suppose you're giving gas savings in the third box, eh, Harlow? You guessed it, Hap. So, friends, have your Autolite spark plug dealer replace worn out spark plugs with Ignition engineered Auto Light spark plugs. Choose either the standard or resistor type. And remember, you're always right with Autolyte. This is the cold season. What do medical authorities say about the common cold? Doctors tell us there's no known drug which will cure a cold. There are effective medications for treating complications accompanying or following a cold. If you've been taking sensible precautions and still have one cold after another, it's best to see your doctor. And here's another important health tip. When you have a cold and need a laxative, that's the time to rely on gentle Ex Lax. Pleasant tasting Chocolated xlax helps you toward your normal regularity. Gently overnight. Ex Lax gets along with any cold remedies you may be taking. And Ex Lax works where nature wants in the lower tract, not the stomach. Taken at bedtime, Ex Lax won't disturb sleep gives you the closest thing to natural action. The next morning you're well on your way toward your normal regularity without upset or discomfort. So when you have a cold and need a laxative, take Ex Lax, the laxative you can use with complete confidence. Ex Lax helps you towards Your normal regularity gently overnight ex lax. And while I fix us both of you tired, Tolly? Suppose you'll tell our friends and listeners about a gift every man in our audience would welcome from Father Christmas. Or as you Americans call him, Santa claus. With pleasure, Dr. Watson. And not only from Santa Claus. A thrifty man can give himself a worthwhile gift anytime if he insists on Clipper craft. For Clipper Craft clothes keep on giving for a long, long time. First of all, you've never seen such truly fine clothes at such really low prices. That means you pocket the savings. That's the first gift to yourself. And they also give you superb styling, perfect fit and long wear. Clippercraft clothes give you so very much because of the unique Clippercraft plan concentrating the buying power of 924 of the nation's leading stores from coast to coast. That means tremendous savings in manufacturing and distribution costs. And yours are the savings this brilliant plan makes possible. Clippercraft suits are only $40 and $45. ClipperCraft topcoats and overcoats only $40. And sport jackets only $26.50. ClipperCraft values are so amazing, we urge you to compare them with clothes selling for many dollars more. And now a tale well calculated to keep you in suspense. In the event of any important news developments. The sponsor will interrupt this program. Roma Wines presents suspense. Roma Wines made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. Salut. Your health, senor. Roma Wines toast the world. The wine for your table is Roma wine made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. The Roma Wine Company of Fresno, California, welcomes you again to this weekly half hour of suspense. Tonight, from Hollywood, Roma Wines bring you as stars two of the screen's most distinguished actors. Mr. Thomas Mitchell and Mr. Donald Crisp. They appear this evening in a play written for suspense by Robert Tallman, in which psychiatry is called upon to deal with a sick man mind which has unknowingly been tempted thrice by murder. And so, at the performance of Thomas Mitchell as the millionaire tycoon Edgar Lounds, and of Donald Crisp as the psychiatrist Dr. Aronson, we again hope to keep you in suspense. Yes? There's Mr. Edgar Lowndes here to see you. Dr. Aronson. Lowndes. Lowndes. Edgar Lowndes. When did we get him for a patient? I. I think you'd better talk to him, Doctor. I think he'd have to go through the usual routine. I don't go through usual routines. I'm Edgar Lowndes. I dare say you've heard the Name before, doctor, and who hasn't? Edgar Lowndes, the railroad magnate. Sit down, sir. Thank you. Well, I'm a man of a few words, doctor. Frankly, I'm at my wit's end. Why, if my business associates had any idea I was consulting a psychoanalyst, I'd be lapped off the floor of the stock exchange. But we'll never mind that. It's these headaches, doctor, I've been having. And aspirin, codeine, Nothing seems to help. How long has this been going on? Little over a month. Since the death of my wife, in fact. We were very attached, you know. Very attached. Her death was a shock to you? No, I wouldn't say a shock precisely. She's been an invalid for years. Bad heart. It wasn't so much what happened the night she died, but the way it happened. Oh, but why shoot off my mouth to you about it? I've told the story a thousand times till everybody's sick of hearing it. Well, perhaps you haven't told all the story even yet. Well, as a matter of fact, that's the truth, doctor. There's one little thing I left out. But the funny part of that is I didn't know it myself till yesterday. And what was that? Well, I was dressing for dinner. I was getting ready to go out when in comes my wife's servant. You know, her nurse. She's all aflutter about something. Mr. Lowndes. Mr. Lowndes, I hope you'll forgive me for bursting in like this, but Mrs. Lowndes. Yes, yes, speak. Well, she's resting quite well, Mr. Lowndes. But she did have that little attack this afternoon and I can't be here this evening. And what with the servants night out being tonight, I thought. Yes, you thought I'd better stay with her, and I certainly will. Now, you just go along about your business. I look after Mrs. Lowndes personally. I knew you'd see it that way. You're a good, considerate man, Mr. Lowndes. Edgar. Feeling a little rocky, darling? Well, old Edgar's not going to let you down. Not even if it means losing that war contract? Oh, I'm going to sit right here with you, sweetheart. And Lowndes Reed and Company can go hang. Oh, no, Edgar, there's no reason for you to stay. Really, there isn't. Just the same, I'm going to stay right here with my little wife this evening. Really, Edgar, it's not necessary. If you'll just get the brown bottle out of the medicine chest, the digitalis, and leave it Here by my bed with a glass of water. And leave you here alone in this big house feeling the way you do? Not much. Not for 100 war contracts. Now, Edgar, do as I say. Just leave the medicine here by my bed, and everything will be all right. Now, go on, darling, and do as I say. Please. It's the Brown. Now, Dr. Aronson, what would you have done under the circumstances? After all, I'd left her alone before and nothing had happened. And this dinner was important in a business way. That night was my big chance. Your big chance? Yes, I suppose it was. Well, to make a long story short, she died while I was out. Now, if only I'd stayed with her. That's what I kept telling myself. And people I told the story to kept telling me that I shouldn't reproach myself. After all, it could have happened to anyone. And then yesterday. Yesterday I was packing up her things and I came across this bottle in the medicine cabinet. It was the digitalis. I'd left the wrong bottle by her bedside. That was what drove me nearly crazy, Doctor, finding that bottle. It was bad enough leaving her alone. But making a blunder like that on the medicine, why, it made me feel almost like I, you know, I murdered her. But as you say, it was your big chance, huh? What do you mean? What are you trying to tell me? You mean you think I wanted to get rid of her? You say that, Mr. Lowndes. I didn't. But I see our time is up. I can't talk to you anymore today. Oh, but you've got to. You can't leave me up in the air like this. Why, you practically accused me of wanting to murder my wife. Perhaps we'll understand your feelings towards your wife better, Mr. Lowndes, when we've discussed the others. What others? Hey, what are you trying to give me? Relief, Mr. Lowndes, for those headaches of yours. Tonight, for suspense, Roma Wines are bringing you as stars Mr. Thomas Mitchell and Mr. Donald Crisp, whom you have heard in the first act of case history on Edgar Lowndes. Tonight's tale of suspense. Far from the scene we have just left, far to the south, across the equator, is another scene I ask you to visit with me. It's just before the dinner hour on the beautiful roof terrace cafe of the Hotel Metropolitano of Guayaquil, Ecuador. We're finishing our appetizers, an excellent sherry, and lifting your glass, you remark to our host that you envy him such wine. He laughs. You're very kind, he says, but I'm afraid the compliment is misdirected. It is your own California you must praise for this splendid wine. And then he holds the bottle up and looking at the label, you see Roma California Sherry. This could easily happen in many far countries where discerning tastes have found Roma wines a luxury imported and treasured. For these are in every sense fine wines, excellent in flavor and character from the rich vineyard country of California. Products of age old skills in winemaking aided by modern scientific quality controls and tests. And here in the United States, Roma wines cost astonishingly little, mere pennies a glassful. Because here there is no import duty to pay, no overseas shipping costs. Such enjoyable flavor and quality, such low cost, such high wine value have won tremendous popularity for Roma wines. They are by far America's largest selling wines, enjoyed by millions with meals when entertaining anytime to enjoy these delights yourself, ask for R O M a Roma wine made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. And now it is with pleasure that we bring back to our soundstage Donald Crisp as Dr. Aronson and Thomas Mitchell in the title role of case history on Edgar Lowndes, a tale well calculated to keep you in suspense. He's outside now, Doctor. Here are your notes on the case. Oh, good. Just leave them here on the desk. And. Oh, Miss Finchley. Yes, Doctor. From now on, when Mr. Lowndes is in the consultation room, I want you to keep an eye on my private office. Make sure that the recording equipment is in operation at all times. I want a record of every word he says in his own voice. Is this a criminal case, Dr. Aaronson? I don't know yet. But hadn't you ought to. I'm sorry, doctor. You can let him come now if you will, Miss Finchley. Yes, Dr. Anson. The doctor will see you now, Mr. Lowndes. Thank you. Well, well, here I am again. Surprised to see me? How are the headaches, Mr. Lowndes? Well, sir, they evaporated just like that. I slept like a top. Don't know how you did it, but you sold me on this psychiatry deal. So I thought while we were at a doctor, I might as well straighten out a couple of other little things that have been worrying me. I rather thought there were others. Now, listen, Doctor, don't start talking of riddles again. Maybe you were right. Maybe I did want my wife to die. Unconsciously, of course. Well, why not? She'd been an invalid for years, always complaining, never really getting anything out of life. Yes, sir. After I left your office yesterday, I thought the whole thing over and I said to myself, edgar Lowndes you look at this thing squarely. Maybe you killed her. Maybe leaving the wrong medicine by her bed that night was not so much of an accident as you think it was. So what? You did her a favor. You did yourself a favor. She never really loved you anyway. If Jim Bascom. Who's Jim Bascom? Why, he died in a railroad accident. We were brakemen together on the old nickel plate road. Jim and me were like twins. Roomed together, worked together, liked the same thing. Even fell in love with the same girl. Why, I remember the night it happened. We believe you're on the crystal, Megan. We better climb on top, Ed. It's our signal. Hey, wait a minute, Jim. There's Virginia. Ah, bless her aunt. I knew she'd come to see us. Hurry up, sweetheart. Oh, gee, I'm glad. I was afraid I'd be too late. There's not a trail in the whole nigga plate line you wouldn't haul up for us, Virginia. Oh, Jim, baby. Hey, what about a kiss for me, too? Why, Edgar, you're jealous, I do believe. Well, why not? There. How's that? Like my own sister. Oh, come on, Ed. They're getting impatient up there. You've got to tell him this time. You hear me, Jim? Yeah. Yeah, I'll tell him. I promise. Virginia. Hey, come on, Jim. Come in, Ed. Come in. One more kiss, baby. Oh, darling, my darling. Take care of yourself, Jim. I will, baby. Don't forget to send out the invitations. I knew when I saw him kiss her like that it was all up for me with Virginia. Jim told me when we were crossing the divide he and Virginia were going to be married the minute they got back to Milwaukee. We were carrying an extra heavy load, that hall. And when we started down the pass, and for the Lord's sake, watch me close. Don't turn your wheel till you see me turn mine. Run jolt the way this train's rolling down the grade and we'll all land in the ravine. Sure, Jim. Don't worry. I gotta be in good shape for that weapon, remember? Yeah. Yeah, I remember. I watched him walk back along the cars. It was pretty dark and I had a cinder in my eyes since we left Salida. I thought I saw him reach the brake wheel on the other car and signal to me. I grabbed the wheel in front of me and braked my car with all the strength of my body. We rolled free of the car behind the coupling on Jim's car had broken. The light changed as we forced the switch and the runaway cars freezed out at a dead end. Spur. I saw Jim's body jolt free of the splintering car and hurtle out over the gorge. Just then we plunged into a tunnel. I never found Jim's body. Well, so you can see why I think of trains in connection with death, can't you, doctor? Yes, yes, the association is quite clear. Uh huh. Now you're thinking I killed Jim too, aren't you? Isn't that what you're thinking? Is that what you're thinking, Mr. Lowndes? I don't know what to think. Say, what are you trying to do to me anyway? I came here to get professional advice. You're trying to drive me crazy. If that's the way you feel, perhaps you'd better try another doctor. I will. By George, I will. That's just what I'll do. Well, good luck, Mr. Lowndes, huh? No hard feelings? No, of course not. And you won't tell anybody about. About. Why, what is it? Mr. Lowndes? You're trembling. Here it is again. It's happening again, doctor. Say, doctor, you've got to help me. You've got to forget what I said about getting another doctor. I need help, Mr. Lowndes. Calm yourself. What is it? What's happening again? I'm hearing it again. The train, like in the dream. Make it go away, doctor. But I hear it too, Mr. Lowndes. It's just a commuting train that passes over the bridge out there. Look out of the window. You can see it. Oh, of course. Thank heaven. I thought the dream had. You never told me about a dream before. No, and I'm not going to. You know too much already. Yes, Mr. Lowndes. I'm afraid you're right. I know too much already. And I have kept a complete record of each interview with this patient by means of a recording machine concealed in my private office. There is no doubt that the patient has twice committed murder unconsciously. And on the day the patient stopped the analysis, he exhibited hysterical symptoms which were brought on by the sound of a railroad train. Yes, Go on from there, Ms. Finchley. New paragraph. The train is a death symbol for this man and appears to be the subject of a recurrent dream. The danger of the present situation lies in the fact that the patient's unconscious impulses have been brought to the surface without being rationalized. There is, in my opinion, a positive danger that the patient, in his present condition may commit one or even more conscious murders, particularly should he take it into his head to board a railroad train. Yes, sir. Pardon me, but I. I noticed you were Traveling alone too. And I wondered if you'd like to join me in a little game. Cards. Oh, well, that's a great idea. Come on in. Thank you. Thank you. Railroads of my Line. Edgar LS not EJ Law? Oh, this is in the nature of an honor. You're something of a tycoon, Mr. Longs. Thanks. My name's Ellis. Neckwear is my line, Mr. Ellis. Say, I could use a couple of neckties. Got any samples with you? Oh, sure thing. Ms. Delon's right here in this case. There you are, sir. Take your pick. Compliments of the Swollen Cravat Company. Ah, now, this one strikes my fancy. Well, go ahead, take it. See any others you like? Well, let me think. There's another tray under there. Say, hey, look out the window. There. See it? I don't see anything. What are you doing? Come on. So his line was neckwear, was it? Pardon me, but I noticed you were traveling alone, sir, and I wondered if you'd like to join me in a little. Little game of cards. Oh, that's a good idea. Come in. Come in, come in. My name is Jenkins. Cutlery is my line. Knives, scissors and surgical instruments. What's your line? Police of five Midwestern states are on the lookout tonight for the homicidal maniac who stalk the corners of the Lightning Express transcant at luxury train, claiming the total of three victims murdered in cold blood. Edgar J. Lowndes, an executive of the railroad who was aboard the train on the fatal night, has posted a personal reward of $50,000 to anyone giving information leading to the arrest of the murderer. Well, it happened. There was nothing you could have done to prevent it, Doctor. Even if you'd sent your report to the police, there wasn't enough evidence. And there still isn't enough evidence. Well, you run along. I'm going to stay here and finish these reports in longhand. You can type them in the morning. You sure you don't need me? Absolutely. I think I'll take your advice. Good night, doctor. Good night. Oh, Ms. Finchley, I almost forgot to tell you. She's gone. What a nuisance. Talking to yourself, Dr. Lowndes? How did you get in here? The door was unlocked. Would you rather I'd come back during office hours? Why. Why, yes. Yes, I'd rather you did, Mr. Lowndes. Was it very urgent? It's their headaches, doctor. They've come back. It started again about a week ago. Well. Well, that's after what happened on the train. Doctor, tell me the truth. Did I commit those murders? Or didn't I? You're the only one who knows the answer to that. Something to do with the dream, I think. Oh, yes, the dream. We were getting around to that when you left here the last time. Now tell me about it. Well, I hear the sound of the train and I'm sitting there beside someone. A stranger, I think. He's wearing a checked waistcoat. And there's a. There's a heavy gold watch chain with a nox tooth suspended from it, like. Like the one my father used to wear when I was a child in Wisconsin. Tell me something about your father. He died when I was quite young. He'd been an invalid doctor ever since I could remember. He used to sit in an armchair in a wheelchair. It was really in front of the parlor window. He looked out into the street hour after hour. Sometimes when I came running into the house, he'd put out his cane and trip me. And I hated him for that. At one time, Doctor, I. I think I was about 8 or 9 years old at the time. Edgar. Edgar, come in here this instant. Your father wants to talk to you. Oh, heck, Mother. I was gonna get up a ball game. Now, the ball game can wait. You come along with me. Can I ever have any fun? Hush up. Here he is. Jonathan. Come closer, boy. Won't have a look at you. Yes, Father. Just as I thought. Grass stains all over the new suit I bought for you, huh? Where? There, there, there, there, there, there. I won't have him get the idea just because his father's an invalid. He can roll in the dirt like a gutter sniper, get away with it. Stop blubbering. Now go wash your face. I'm driving into town today. Want you to go along, run errands. The car my father drove was an all electric a battery job. His legs were completely paralyzed and my mother had to practically lift him into it. But the car itself was entirely controlled by hand driving. It gave him a sense of power he needed. I used to dread those trips into town with him. The horrible spectacle of mother helping him in and out of the car while the neighbors stared. And then riding along with him alone, without anyone, nothing to intervene. For me, that was the worst. Mom. Speak up, boy. Why don't you say something? Cat got your tongue? No, sir. I don't know why I had to raise a boy like you. You don't even keep me company on these trips into town. Poor helpless invalid. Your own father. I'm sorry, sir. Sorry. I think I'll give you another Canaan when we get home. Just to make good and sure you're sorry. Huh? What'd you say to that? Oh, bother. Now look what's happened. Stalled batteries run down again. Get out and open the hood in the back, boy. You see a switch there? Turn it to the left where it says Reserve battery. Hurry up. We stopped right on the railroad track. Turn the switch to the left where it says Reserve battery. Yes. Hurry up. There's a train along here any minute. Oh, yes, Father. Don't just stand there looking stupid. Go and turn the switch as I told you. What's the matter with you? Have you gone crazy? Don't you hear the train coming? Edgar. Edgar, you want your father to be killed? I can't get out of here by myself. Edgar, please do as I say. No. The train can kill you for all I care. I'm going back home. Son, don't you understand what you're doing? You. You're murdering your own father. Now, this is murder. Murder, I tell you. Murder. Murder. I walked home with those words of his ringing in my ears. I can hear him nearly yet. Son, don't you understand what you're doing? You're murdering your own father. Murder. It's murder, I tell you. It's murder. Murder. But I never felt a qualm. Those words were like sweet music to me, Doctor. Well, that's the end of the story. But it's only the beginning. When I walked into this office for the first time, I was a man suffering from headaches seemingly brought on by grief over the death of a loved one. Now I see myself as a man who murdered his father, his best friend and his wife, who must kill and kill again. Because every time I kill, I'm killing him. My father, whom I hated beyond all comprehension and for whom one death agony was not enough. Now that you know all about these things, my dear Doctor, I'm afraid that you'll have to be the next on my list. Put that gun away, Edgar. You don't really want to kill me. I'd be a fool if I didn't. Well, the headaches will come back, Edgar. There'll be no one here to cure them. They won't come back. You showed me what caused them, didn't you, Doctor? You'll have worse things than headaches. You'll begin to hear things. You'll have delusions. You'll think you can hear a train passing outside at this very moment, don't you? But if you look out of the window, you'll see there's no train there at all. You won't Trick me into turning my back. Come out from behind that desk. Keep your hands up high. That's it. Now then. What was that? Don't you understand what you're doing? Where's that voice coming from? You're murdering your own father. There it is again. It's murder, I tell you. Murder. Stop it. Murder. Stop it. Stop it. I hear your voice. Stop the murder. I can't stand it. I'll kill myself. Then give me the gun, Edgar. Please, Doctor, make it stop. Take it away. Only here. Make it stop. That's enough, Ms. Finchley. Shut it off. Are you all right, Dr. Aronson? Yes, thank you. You almost had me thinking I was hearing voices. Well, I did hear voices. And that's why I came back. And I remembered about your wanting Mr. Lowndes. Interviews recorded. So I went in the other room and started the machine. When he became violent, I played back the last part of the record, thinking it might divert his attention. Good girl. We've got all the evidence we need now to put Mr. Lowndes where he can't do any more harm. You may have evidence, but you haven't got me. And you won't get me alive. Doctor. Eggs in the window. Stop him. Sorry, Doctor, I can't wait. I've got to catch a train. Hey, Jim, wait for me. 21 floors to the street. Or is it 20? Do they skip 13 in this building, it doesn't matter to land. He's back with his friend Jim Bascom on the old nickel plate line. Listen. It's just crossing the divide. And so closes case history on Edgar Lowndes. Starring Thomas Mitchell and Donald Crisp. Tonight's tale of suspense. Suspense is produced and directed by William Speer. To every woman listening tonight, I want to say a special word about making every dinner or supper you serve taste better. I want to urge you to start serving Roma wine with your meals. It's simple, the cost is very, very little, and it works magic in making food more enjoyable. You can serve Roma wine with any meal or any time in any kind of glass you wish. Serve it chilled. Try different kinds of Roma wine until you find those you enjoy most of all. Try hearty red Roma California Burgundy or the delicately delicious Roma California Sauterne. The cost is mere pennies a glassful, but you'll find even a pickup supper tastes like a banquet. Get Roma wines today, and if your dealer is temporarily out of them, please try again soon. Just ask for R O M A Roma Wines, America's largest selling wines made in California for enjoyment throughout the World. This is Donald Crisp. I'm sure I speak for both Mr. Mitchell and myself. In saying how much we have enjoyed appearing this evening as the guests of Suspense. Which I'm sure must be one of your favorite programs, as it is one of ours. Next week's stars of suspense will be Geraldine Fitzgerald and Richard Wharf. Who appear in one of the most extraordinary stories. By that most extraordinary writer, James Ferver. Thomas Mitchell will next be seen in the 20th Century Fox production of Wilson. Donald Crisp will be seen in the coming Metro Goldwyn Mayer production. National Velvet. Next Monday, same time, you will hear Geraldine Fitzgerald and Richard Wharf in suspense. Presented by Roma Wines. R O M a made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. The following message from our United States Treasury. Is brought to you by Roma Wines. The invasion is on, the biggest in history. And it needs backing that is equally big. So back the attack. Buy war bonds. Buy more than before, Sam. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Now Roma Wines. R O M a made in California. For enjoyment throughout the world. Roma Wines present suspense. Tonight, Roma wines bring you Mr. Sheldon Leonard and Mr. Elliot Reed. In Feast of the Furies. A suspense play produced, edited and directed for Roma Wines by William Spears. Suspense Radio's outstanding theater of thrills. Is presented for your enjoyment by Roma Wines. That's R O M a Roma Wines, those excellent California wines that can add so much pleasantness to the way you live. To your happiness in entertaining guests. To your enjoyment of everyday meals. Yes, right now a glassful would be very pleasant. As Roma Wines bring you Sheldon Leonard and Elliot Reid. In a remarkable tale of suspense. I just followed the old. I did just like I was told. After all, when your boss tells you we. I didn't exactly want to do it. But it's good pay. And I like good pay. Huh, boss? Money's not everything, they say. Well, what happens if there ain't any? And then he ain't got no clothes and no food or nothing? I did just like I was told. I took the man where I was supposed to. And I watched him a little while. And then I walked away and left him. He sure was a little fella. I felt kind of sorry for him in a way. He looked harmless to me. Kind of sad, too. I wanted to be his friend, but. Well, I had to cock him once over the back of the head. Made a funny sound. Guess it didn't hurt him much, though. After I tied him up and sat him up in the car beside me. He came to in a little while. Well, hello. How you feeling? Better. My head. It hurts. Yeah, I guess it will for a while. There's a lump. Well, I guess there would be. I'm sorry, little fella. My hands. They're tied. My feet are too. Yeah, they sure are. I tied them. But why? Well, I didn't want to get rough again. You're such a little guy. I don't even know you. Well, I don't know you. Who are you? Oh, just call me Casey. My. My last name. Well, it don't matter. Casey. I don't know anybody by that name. I don't. Oh, my head. Now look, we could have a nice trip out of this. This is a beautiful drive. Can you see out there? See? We're driving right along next to the ocean. Where are you taking me? Oh, it's not fun. Oh, don't start acting up. I want this to be a pleasant trip. I like company. Sure, but my hands, they hurt. Couldn't you just loosen the rope a little? I don't think I should. Now, you might try something and then. Well, I don't think I better. I don't have any money, you know. You don't think I'm a thief, do you? I can't figure it out. That's. Now never you mind. You just lean back and enjoy yourself. Hey, gee, that ocean is big. Hey, just look at it. Look at those waves. They never stop. They just keep flapping. Haha. Casey? Yeah? Got a cigarette? Yeah, sure thing. Sure, I'll even light it for you. Hey, thanks. Oh, that's all right. I want to be your friend. Well, that is, if you let me. Sure, we'll be friends. Just no rough stuff. Oh, no, no rough stuff. Gee, the cigarette tastes good. Yeah. Hey, your name is Sam, ain't it? Yeah, why? Well, I just wanted to make sure. What do you mean? Well, I gotta be sure I got the right guy, just like he told me. Who told you? Oh, never mind, never mind. Are we going far? Not much for that. Hey, you can even help me look for the place. What place? They fished there in a summer. Summer's gone now. Won't be anyone there. There'll be a sign. It'll be on your side of the road. It'll say Cook's Place. Live bait. A big sign. Hey, I smell some butter. I don't smell anything. Oh, now look at you. See what you done? You're trying to bind that rope. Oh, guess I gotta stop the. But my hands, they're numb. I'm disappointed in you, Sam. Well, you only point the ends of the rope. There's no harm done. You can't trust no one these days. I'm sorry, Casey. I won't do it again. Sun's going down fast. I guess I better step out. Gotta be on time. Meeting someone? No. Not just me and you. There'll be no one else. It's getting cold. Wish I had some coffee. Yeah, I sure would like some too. Couldn't we stop at the next stand we see? I wouldn't try anything. Well, I'll think about it. Look, we're coming to a place. How about it? I don't think I better. No, there's. There's too many people. I'll get some on my way back. You'll get some. But me? What about me? She. Sam, I'm sorry. You ain't ever coming back. Horses. Suspense. Roma Wines are bringing you Sheldon Leonard and Elliot Reed in Feast of the Furies, a radio play by David R. Gillespie. Roma Wines presentation tonight in radio's outstanding theater of Thrills. Suspense. Between the acts of suspense. This is Truman Bradley with a cooling suggestion. For you men who've had more than your share of hot weather lately, it's simply this. Loosen your collar, settle back and enjoy America's smartest, coolest summer drink. Roma Wine and Soda. Iced. So cool to come home to. Yes. No matter how hot the day, Roma Wine and Soda offers you quick, delicious thirst quenching refreshment. A cool, tempting treat for the whole family. And when friends drop by these sultry summer evenings, nothing could be more delightful to serve than tasty to sip. Easy to prepare. Roma Wine and Soda. Now, here's all you do. Just half fill a glass with Roma, California Burgundy or Sauterne or any other Roma wine type you prefer. Then add ice, fill with sparkling water and stir. For a sweeter taste, simply add sugar. And remember, because Roma wines are selected from the world's greatest reserves of fine wines, a cooler made with Roma is better tasting every time. So when the occasion or the weather calls for cool, satisfying refreshment, try Roma Wine and Soda. Iced Incest on Roma R O M A Roma Wine Discover for yourself why more Americans enjoy Roma than any other wine. And now, Roma Wine brings back to our Hollywood soundstage. Sheldon Leonard as Casey and Elliot Reid as Sam in Feast of the Furies. A tale well calculated to keep you in suspense. So the little fella kept me company all the way to the place. He didn't try anything. And we got along swell. I. I turned left off the highway and I drove for about a mile over that old dirt road. And then I saw the sign, Cook's Place, Live Bait. And there was the wharf, just like you said. There wasn't anyone around and so I stopped the car right near the beach. The wind was coming up across the beach and I wished I'd have brought an overcoat for Sam because he was actually shaking when I untied his legs. And then we started to walk toward the wharf. Well, don't fall down. My legs, they've been tied so long. Gee, it's cold. Hey, I'm sorry, Sam. I'd let you have my overcoat, but. Well, then I wouldn't have any. That's right. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10. What, are you counting the poles on the. The war poles. Hey, come on, we gotta walk over there under the water. Might not be so windy. Dad? Yeah? What time is it? It's a quarter after seven. Yeah, I'm just on time. Look, Casey, I don't understand all this. Oh, don't think about it, Sam. We just got a job to do and let's get it over with. Out here. There's no one. The wharf's deserted. Hey, look, I just do what I'm told. I get paid for it and I don't ask questions. I know that, Casey, but don't you see? I don't know you. I've never done anything. You're all mixed up. Come over here and sit down by this pole. The tenth pole from the end of the wharf, he said. Sure, Casey, sure. The sand's wet. I can't help it. It, little fella. You're gonna untie my hands now? Yeah, I'm going to untie them, but remember. Okay, Casey. I know, fool. You're twice as big as I am. Well, just remember that then. Gee, you get skinny wrists like a woman's. Tied this pretty good, then I. Much better. What a relief. Thanks. You better rub them good. Yeah. Going back to circulation. Yeah. See, I gotta tie them again. Only back of the pole. No, Casey, no. But I got them's orders. Whose orders, Casey? Whose orders? My bosses. Everyone's got a boss. Boss? Yeah. How about me being your boss, Casey? How about it? Are you already got a good boss? What's he pay you, Casey? Well, that depends. You could work for me. I'd pay you much more. You ain't got no money, Sam. Yes, I have. You think I'm dumb, don't you? No, I don't. You're smart, plenty smart, believe me. Well, I'm not dumb. I get by. Look, Casey, work for me. Forget about your other boss. I'll give you anything you ask for. I know. You're kind, little fella. You're crooked. You better just forget it. Come on. Come on now. Back with your hands. Yeah, that's it. And now. Good and tight. Oh, please, Casey, it hurts. It ain't going to hike long. Sin, no. Why not, Casey? Why not? You'll see. Look, I'm awfully cold. Couldn't you build a fire? Well, I never thought of that. I guess I could, but. No, no, no. We gotta be alone. We're alone. There's no one here. It's getting dark. The people will see and they'll wonder. There's no one around. You said so yourself. Smoke travels and the people see it. I was a bum once and smoke got me in trouble. Please, Casey. No. I'm smart, see. Not from books, mind you. Just from living. Casey, I'm starting to get wet. Yeah. You know, now that's something I don't know about. Them waves out there, they don't ever stop. They come in and they go on in and out, in and out. Why? Look, Casey. Will you be my friend? Now, ain't that a silly question? I am your friend. I like you, Sam. Then tell me why. Why we're here, you and me. All I know is that I had to bring you here. I was to be here at a quarter after seven, which I was. I was to tie you under this wharf. To tie you to the 10th from the end of the wharf. Well, you're tired. And now I gotta go up and sit on a pier for exactly three hours. Three hours. It's a long time. Oh, I don't mind it. Only you're cold, huh? Say, what's your boss's name? Casey? Jake. Jake? Jake Larkin. Yeah, that's it. You know. Yeah, I know him. He's a fine boss. Look at those waves. They keep creeping up. They're getting closer. Just never stop. Casey, can I tell you something? Will you listen? Really listen? Sure, anything. I do know Jake Larkin. He's my brother in law. I married his sister. Her name was Clara. Clara Larkin, my wife. We had good times together. Good times. She wanted me to be somebody. And I tried. Tried awfully hard. But I just couldn't make it. Yeah, sure, I know. That's like me, you know. I never could get any place either. Yeah, Casey, like you. Well, anyway, she kept after me. Night school, correspondence courses. Work all day and study all night. But it just wasn't in me. I'd come home nights, dog tired. It was hard to face her. We just weren't getting anyplace. Oh, that's too bad. Then you do understand. Why, sure I do. Well, then one day she was taken sick. Before I knew it, she couldn't walk anymore. Paralyzed from the waist down. My beautiful wife. Aw, gee, that's too bad. Hey, how did you ever figure that? In three hours, it'll be high time. Casey, you said you were my friend, didn't you? Yeah. Then you've got to listen to me. My whole story, all of it. Will you do that? I guess so. Well, I kept on working and coming home nights and sitting with my wife and listening to her. And there she was, cooped up in one room, staring at four walls, waiting for the night, watching for the day. It wasn't a very shiny world for her. This was our life for five years, and I want you to hear it. Will you listen? Go ahead, Sam. I'll listen. Well, one night I came home tired, discouraged. I could hardly get up the steps, and I. Sam. You're early tonight, Jane. Yeah, I got a ride part way. Tired? No, not very. And you? No, dear. How could I be lying in bed all day? Don't, dear. I'm sorry. Doctor was here today. Good news? No. He said there wasn't any Euthneys coming anymore, darling. Just as well, Sam. There'll be no more doctor bills. I don't care about the bills. I want you to walk. I know you do, dear. But if I can't, we must make the best of it. That's easy to say. Sam, Come and sit here beside me. Hold my hand like you used to. My poor darling Sam. Do you love me? Why do you ask that? Because you never tell me anymore. Don't you know I want to hear it? I love you, Claire. Oh, Sam. I'm sorry if I've nagged you. I wanted you to be something you couldn't be. I was wrong. Don't, Clara. You'll lie here all day imagining things. Wouldn't it be wonderful if I could live my life over again? Maybe this pain is a punishment. Stop it, will you, Clara? All right. All right. Then why don't you go for a walk or to a movie maybe? I've been away all day. Can't we just sit and talk without getting morose? My brother dropped in today. Jake? What did he want? Nothing. He usually has a reason for coming around. Oh, well, he only. How is Jake? I suppose he was bulging with money as usual, Dressed fit to kill. He did look nice. I don't want his kind of Dough. He just wanted to help me, Sam. How? Get another doctor. Well, it wouldn't do any good. I've had other doctors. They all say the same thing. That's not the reason you turned him down. Yes, it was. No. You turned him down because you have a husband who's too proud to accept charity. No. A husband who'd much rather see his wife suffer. Oh, you're not fooling me, Clara. He wanted something else, too. No, Sam. He wanted to take you away, didn't he? Didn't he? Yes. Why didn't you go? He's no good. You know that. He's your brother. Plenty of easy money might make you walk again. You should have. Now, please, Sam. I don't want to talk about it. Read to me. What do I read? Here. Here, read this. Poetry. Oh, it's beautiful. I can't read poetry. Come on. Now. Here. Start here. Well, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach when feeling out of sight for the ends of being and ideal grace. I love thee to the level of every day's most quiet need. By sun and candlelight. I love thee freely as men strive for right. I love thee purely as they turn from praise. I love thee with a passion put to use in my old griefs and with my childhood's faith. I love thee with a love I seem to lose with my lost saints. I love thee with a breath, smiles, tears of all my life and if God choose, I shall but love the better after death. Isn't that wonderful? Yes, it is. Who wrote it? Elizabeth Browning. She must have been lovely. Yes. Look, Sam. What is it? There's smoke coming from under the door. Here, put your robot. Sam. Hurry. Clara. When? Here, I'll help you. Here. Now, put your robe on. I'll open the door. The stairs are on fire, Clara. No, Sam, you can't carry me. It's four flights down. Yes, I can. Don't struggle, Clara. Here, put this over your head. Sam, let me stay here. What? Don't you see? It's better this way? Let me stay here. Are you mad? Here, put your arm around my neck. You can't carry me. Yes, I can. Hold on to me. Don't you understand, darling? I want to stay here. I'll always be helpless like this. If I stay, you'll be free. You'll have a chance to be something. You're coming with me. No. We'll go down the stairs. Jim, let me stay. You think I'm a murderer. It wouldn't be murder. No one would know. I'm giving you a chance for a new life. Take it. No. Get down the stairs together soon. If you go alone. Hold this over your head. Do you understand? Goodbye, Clara. Stop struggling. Clara, stop. Clara. Clara. She did that, Casey. She did that for me. She deliberately broke away from me and threw herself into the fire. What about you? Oh, they were able to get me out all right, but she. Oh, gee, that was bad, little fella. Then you do believe me? You do believe that it wasn't my fault? Sure. She wanted to die, didn't she? Yes. I think about such things, too. If you believe me, then untie me. Let me go. I can't. Jake could be mad and he's my boss. No. He'll never know. It's funny, ain't it? I mean, the way she died. And now you're going to drown. No. I'm Tiny Casey. Don't you understand? Jake wants me to die because he thinks I left his sister to burn to death. But you know the truth. Now. You can save me. Well, it wasn't your fault. No. Untie me. But I got my orders. I can't go back on them. But this is really murder, Casey. Do you understand that? No, little fella. I'm only doing what I'm told. I gotta keep my job, don't I? They'll find out, Casey, and you'll be punished. Well, Jake told me not to worry. Worry? He'd take care of me. Let me go to Jake. Let me tell him my story. You can do that for me, can't you? No. Jake don't want to talk to you. Casey, be reasonable. Hey, if you keep yelling like that, I'm going to have to hit you. You idiot. Don't you understand? You're blind, stupid. What did you call me, little fella? I didn't mean it, Casey. I didn't mean it. I don't like what you called me. I heard that one before. I thought you were my friend. I am your friend. Untie me. I gotta be going. I done everything just like Jake told me. And now I gotta be going. Casey. So long, Sam. Casey, take me a dog. Take me. So I walked off, Jake, just like you told me. Well, where's my $50? Hey. Hey, boss, can I have my $50? Do you know what you've done? Well, what did I do? I. I did just like you told me. Murdered an innocent man. Why? Because you told me to. After he told you what happened to my sister. Didn't you realize he was innocent. Well, I did just like you told me. Don't be sore, James. Oh, you idiot. You stupid, stupid idiot. What did you call me? Wait a minute. Don't pull any of that on me. Stay where you are. You called me that name too. I don't like that. Casey. Hey, Casey, remember, I'm your boss. I thought she was my boss friend too. Casey A. Don't pull a gun on me, boss. Oh, stay away from me. Stay away from me. Casey. Casey. Casey. That's right, Jake. No, my name's Casey. Not what you said. Hey, jake. Hey, jake. No, no, no. I. I ain't got no boss. No. No. I ain't got. Suspense Presented by Roma Wines R O M a made in California for enjoyment throughout the world. This is Truman Bradley for Roma Wines. Here's America's choice for what to serve guests these hot, sultry summer evenings. It's Roma Wine Lemonade. A tall, tempting treat of thirst quenching frostiness that lowers your temperature and raises your spirits with a first few thrilling sips. Delight your family or friends with a praise winning Roma Wine Lemonade. You simply place ice and the juice of half a lemon in a tall glass. Pour 3/4 full with Roma, California Burgundy or any other Roma wine type you prefer. Then fill with water and sweeten to taste. You can prepare Roma Wine Lemonade in a few seconds and enjoy its cool refreshment for hours. Remember, Roma, America's favorite wine. Costs no more than ordinary wines. Though insist on Roma, America's first choice. That's R O M a Roma Wines for a delicious Roma wine lemonade. Sheldon Leonard will soon be seen in the Frank Capra production It's a Wonderful Life. Elliot Reid appeared through the courtesy of Paramount Pictures producers of to each His Own. Next Thursday, same time, Roma Wines will bring you Mr. Michael O' Shea as star of suspense Radio's outstanding theater of thrills. Produced by William Spring Spear for the Roma Wine Company of Fresno, California. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Now Auto light and its 60,000 dealers and service stations present suspense. Tonight, Autolight brings you James Stewart. In consequence, a suspense play produced and directed by Anton M. Lieder. Friends, while the wife is spring cleaning the house, how about spring cleaning your car? Give your motor new spring pep by replacing those worn out narrow gap spark plugs with a set of revolutionary new wide gap auto light resistor spark plugs. Your motor will idle smoother. Yep. And give better performance on leaner gas mixtures. Yes, siri, actually save gas. What's more, Auto light resistor spark plugs with the exclusive, exclusive Auto Light Resistor cut down on radio and television interference. So, folks, see your Autolite dealer and have him replace old, worn out, narrow gap spark plugs with a set of the sensational new Autolite Resistor spark plugs. Remember, you're always right with Autolight. And now, Autolite presents James Stewart in a tale well calculated to keep you in suspend. Maybe the costume was the decisive factor, or maybe it would have happened anyway. In any event, the occasion was the 10th reunion and the class of 29, as such occasions demand. They were all dressed identically in cowboy suits. And there was Ted Wolf, whom I hadn't seen in 10 years, although in college he'd been by far my closest friend. And so, of course, I brought him home to dinner. And Gwen managed to be quite charming. Even though it was the maid's night out. She didn't even kick about the oven. And that's how it started out. Just like that. Just like any pleasant, casual little evening. Oh, Gwen, that was a wonderful meal. Last one I'll get like that for a while. Thank you, Sid. Have you really gotta go tonight, Ted? Can't you take a day or so? No, not very well. I got my plane reservations and everything. Anyway, I told him I'd be back this week and tonight's just about the deadline if I'm gonna make it. Well, what time's your plane? 3:00am say, that reminds me, I can't go aboard in this thing. Oh, you probably will. I think you're both kind of stuck on yourselves in those cowboy outfits. Worse than a couple of kids. I'm gonna wear mine to the hospital tomorrow. Oh, fine, fine. No kidding, though. People will think I'm nuts. All right, all right. Spoiled, spoiled. Now, we'll call the hotel later, have them bring your bags over and you can change here. Although I would think a cowboy suit would be a sensation in Ecuador. Ted, are you really going to Ecuador? First I thought it must be a joke. No, You've heard me talk about the work Ted's doing there. I know, but Ecuador? No. Got to have medical care out on those plantations some way, and I like it. I don't see how you stand it. Living like a hermit, cut off from civilization, not making well. I mean, they can't possibly pay you. What? No, no, no. Gwen, what time? Oh, my goodness, I've got to run. Are you leaving us, Gwen? I promised Mother I'd come out to the country tonight. Anyway, I know you two would much rather talk over old times by yourselves. I'm sorry, well, in case I don't see you again, thanks for everything. It's been swell. Well, you're coming back sometime, aren't you? Maybe five years, maybe ten. Maybe never, silly. You come back next year and plan to stay for a while. Oh, thank you. I am sorry I have to go. But you two have a nice evening. There are eggs in the icebox, Phil. Okay. Did he always have to have fried eggs at night when he was in college? Yeah, that's Phil, all right. Good night, darling. Don't bother coming to the door now. I'll phone you tomorrow night. Bye, Gwen. Have a good trip, Ted. Bye. Goodbye. You're a lucky man, Phil. Am I? Well, I suppose you know that the main reason I came to this shindig at all was to see you. So why me? It's been a long time since you and I had the same dreams, Ted. You haven't lost them, though. You're still in there pitching. Oh, sure. Yes, yes. Private practice. Two cars in the garage, two chickens in the pot. That's the kind of ball I've been pitching for the last 10 years. And it's the kind I'll keep on pitching until some other doc says coronary thrombosis and they carry me out. You can't kid me, Phil. You're happy. I'd just about given up the idea that there was such a thing as a happy man. And now you think you've found one. Oh, I know I have. I knew it the minute I came into this room. I knew it the minute I saw her. Gwen? Yeah, Gwen. I hate Gwen, Phil. And what's more, she hates me. Oh, it's nothing that shows on the surface. We get along because we have to. Because my reputation would suffer if we didn't. Phil, you can't be serious. No. Why do you think I've given up every dream I've ever had? Why do you think I spend my life treating the imaginary ills of a lot of wealthy hypochondriacs? So Gwen can have this and Gwen can do that. So Gwen can satisfy every greedy instinct and every petty, rotten ambition that any woman ever had. Good Lord, I never realized. Well, that's it. You gotta do something about it, Phil. You. You gotta get out. Gotta go to another city, go to another country. Yeah, yeah, yeah. She'd be after me like a hawk. She'd have me up before the Medical Association. Oh, there are a thousand things she could do and would do. I've thought of it every way there is. It's no use. So it's off my chest now, you know. And I'm sorry I disillusioned you. Excuse me, Dr. Martin. Oh, well. Well, now. Right. I'll be right down. You're not going out now? I want to talk to you. No. Well, I'm still a doctor. Even Gwen can't stop that. And I'll be back before you leave, though, if you want to stick around, I'd sort of like to ride out the airport. Was the call really important, Phil? Yeah. Now make yourself at home. Fix yourself anything you want in the kitchen. Only look out for the oven. It leaks when you turn it off. Just right. And I won't be long. Okay. I'll wait, Doctor. Thanks, Doctor. I kind of hoped you would, Ted. That was the second thing. Ted's deciding to stay. But I didn't know it then. All I knew was that Jo had called me from the office and she was upset. Still, I decided to walk. I was upset too. When I got there, she was going over the accounts. Hello, darling. Hello. It was nice. Isn't it always? Always terribly. Well, what are you doing now? There isn't all that rush to get the bills out. There is, though. For me. For you? Uh huh. Well, what? What is it, Joe? What's the matter? Phil? I had a talk with father this evening. Well, something about. Something about us. All about us. Well, he doesn't know anything. He couldn't. Nobody. Unless you told him. You know I wouldn't do that. I'm sorry, darling. I know. Anyway, it isn't what he knows, it's what he thinks. We had an awful row. He said he'd go to the trustees at the hospital. He said he'd go to Gwen. He said that. That's why I'm getting the bills out for you now. Because I'm going away. But you're going where? How long? No, darling, it's not going to be like that. It's for good, Jo. It's for good. Phil. Oh, Joe, I can't let you go. I know it hasn't been perfect, but I know it's been infinitely worse for you than for me. But at least we've had something. At least I've always known where you. Where you are. That you're here on the other side of the door and I could see you and talk to you. I can't live with a door between us anymore. Or maybe you just don't love me enough to. No, darling, darling, I don't mean that. Phil, I. I'm not playing noble. This had to happen someday. And it has, and that's all. I could go with you. You couldn't do that, Phil. Why not? I could. I could change my name. I. We could go to another city, even another country. I. I could get back to research. I. I could. Oh, darling, it's no go, Phil. I I. I asked her for a divorce again this morning. You don't have to tell me the answer. There is no answer for us, Phil. Not one that we can take. And. And there we are. Yeah. Yeah, there we are. You'd better go now. I've got all this to do. Well, let me help you. No. Why not? I could weaken, and then where would we be? Oh, Joe. No, Phil. Please go. Joe, please. Please. Please. All right, I'll go. I don't know how long I walked that night. Or where perhaps most men are weak and never know it. But when you're losing the woman you think you love, that's when you find out. That's when you'll see yourself at last in the pitiless glare of all your poor, frightened, childish helplessness. And I walked along. And I was sick to the depths of my soul. And I walked some more. I don't know. Somebody. Somewhere in the distance, I heard a siren. There was a glow against the sky. A fire. And then I realized I was near my home. And then it wasn't just a glow against the sky of any fire. It was my own house. It burned almost to the ground. This is terrible. How'd it happen? Somebody said they think it was the gas stove. Stunned and confused, I began edging through the crowd. And then there was a sudden stillness, and a few men took off their hats. And then I saw a stretcher, the blanket thrown over the shapeless form and the blackened, shriveled cowboy boot. And I remembered Ted. Ted had been in that house. They just got him out now. Yeah, what's left of him. They say you wouldn't hardly know. It was a man. Frantically, I started forward. And then I stopped because I thought somebody had spoken to me. But they hadn't. They weren't looking at me. They were looking at the ground and the street stretcher and that thing that lay there on it. Dr. Philip Martin. Yeah, I knew him. He was a good man. Oh, poor Dr. Martin. What an awful way to die. Suddenly I was shaking with excitement. I pulled my hat down over my eyes. I turned up my collar, and I moved carefully back through the crowd, out into the street. And I turned the corner. And then I ran. Joe. Joe. Joe. Joe. I'm going with you. Phil, you haven't. Joe, it's all right. It's all right, Joe. I'll tell you later. But we're free, Joe. We're free. I'm dead. I. I mean. I mean, Dr. Philip Martin. He's dead. Or suspense. Or. Autolight is bringing you James Stewart in radio's outstanding theater of thrills. Suspense. Hello, Harlow. Heard you caught a burglar at your house last night. I sure did, Hap. There was this man sneaking around my garage. I said, look here, mister. You want to replace your old narrow gap spark plugs with the sensational new Wide gap auto light resistor spark plugs. Why, those Wide gap auto light resistor spark plugs will make your engine idle smoother, give you better performance on leaner gas mixtures. Actually save gas. What did he say? Well, holding him firmly with my thumb between his teeth, I said, the newly developed exclusive 10,000 ohm auto light resistor found in no other automotive type spark plug increases electrode life 200% and more. You said all that to a burglar? And then throwing him heavily to the ground on top of me, I said, try it yourself. See your Autolite dealer and replace those old narrow gap spark plugs with wide gap auto light resistor spark plugs. Your motor will idle smoother, give you better performance on leaner gas mixtures. Actually save you gas. Then what? Oh, he said he'd stood all he could and he started yelling for the cops. And I think I'll start yelling for suspense. And now Autolight brings back to our Hollywood sound stage James Stewart as Phil. In consequence, a tale well calculated to keep you in suspend. There must be something of the criminal in every man. Because it seemed that I knew automatically everything I would have to do and how I was going to do it. Hotel Wilton. Dr. Wolf, please. Dr. Theodore Wolf. Thank you. I'm sorry, sir. Dr. Wolf doesn't answer. Oh, well. Say, what's the number of his room again? I want to drop him a note. Dr. Wolf is in 502. 502. Thank you very much. I knew in a big hotel like that the chances of anyone remembering exactly what Ted had looked like were pretty slim. And I figured they'd give me the key all right. As long as I didn't have to stumble around asking for the number. I let myself into 502 and snapped on the light. I found the plane tickets on the bureau. Then I pried open his luggage and changed into one of his suits. Put on his head and overcoat, just in case. Packed my own things away. There Was a pair of dark glasses on the bureau, too. I put them on. Then I went downstairs, checked out, paying cash. I knew he bought the plane tickets to the airport and that the travel clerk in the hotel wouldn't know Ted Wolf from. Adam. Yes, sir? I'm Dr. Wolf. I've been staying here at the hotel. Oh, yes, Doctor. I have a through plane ticket here to Ecuador. A Pan American for tonight. I want to turn it in now. One moment, sir. That's Doctor. Dr. Theodore Wolf, Pan American, Wilton Hotel. Got a through ticket to Ecuador, Dr. Wolf. Will you take it? Thank you. All right. That will be quite all right, Dr. Wolf. And while we're at it, you might as well give me a couple of train tickets. Yes, sir. Where to? Huh? I said, where to, sir? Oh, Los Angeles. We'd taken care of everything. A note to my bank, supposedly from Ted, enclosing Philip Martin's check for $5,000, and a letter in my own handwriting explaining that I'd agreed to lend him that amount and asking the bank to forward the money to my account in Los Angeles. My account as Ted Wolf. And we drafted a letter to the people in Ecuador. And we. And in Los angeles, Joe became Mrs. Ted Wolf. And at first, everything clicked. I got the kind of a job a doctor dreams about, where I could write my own ticket and spend at least half my time entirely on research. And Jo. Jo started taking courses for a medical degree. After all, she was only 24. And. And then. And then, right there, right in broad daylight in the hospital, it happened. Hello, Joe? Joe, pack a bag as quick as you can. Just enough for two or three days in the mountains. Now, just as fast as you can. Phil, it's Gwen. I saw her just now upstairs in the reception room. Gwen? Are you sure? Absolutely sure? Couldn't it be just a coincidence, Phil? I mean, couldn't Gwen maybe just have happened? Maybe. Maybe. Listen, Joe, I've been thinking. He mustn't know where we go. That's what I was thinking. Maybe it would be better if she did know where we were going. If she did know. I don't know. I don't know. It may just be a coincidence, but if it is a showdown, the mountains is a better place than most. All right, I'll phone the landlady. Is that. Is that safe? Gwen won't talk, not until she's sure. Carlton apartment. Mrs. Burton. Hello, Ms. Burton, this is Dr. Wolf. I wonder if you'd do me a favor. Well, I'd be glad to, Dr. Wolfe. We're going out of Town for a couple of days and I just remembered some friends said they might stop by and I thought they might like to join us, so I wanted them to know where we were. All right, sir. Now, maybe you could just stick a note in our door where they'll see it. We're going to Caribou Lake and we'll be in the cottage at the very top of the mountain. It's right straight up a dirt road from the lake. They can miss it. Caribou Lake? The cottage at the top of the mountain, up the dirt road from the lake. Is that old? Yes. Thank you, Ms. Burton. That's all. Thank you. Caribou Lake is nothing more than a general store where you can buy bait and hire boats and cottages. That time of year, there's hardly anybody there except the people who own the store. And the cottage we had was a good three miles away up a twisting dirt road running above the lake. But you could see it very plain, even at night when the lights are on. We stopped in the store. We both went in to buy what we needed. Food, kerosene, matches, things like that. Then we went on up the mountain. By that time it was almost dark and Joe fixed something to eat, but neither of us could touch it. We were watching the road for lights of a car. It was about half past eight when we saw them. They went on past the store without stopping and came on up the mountain. It couldn't have been anyone else but Gwen. Well, she didn't waste any time. What if the car is rented? Oh, she'd bring her own. She loves to drive. Phil, you're not afraid, are you? No. No, not anymore. I'll go. Well, this is a surprise. Hello, Gwen. Dr. Martin. Always poised. Nothing surprises you, does it? I suppose it was the check. Partly. Then I happened to Notice that a Dr. Theodore Wolf had married a Ms. Josephine Reynolds in Los Angeles. Did occur to me that your idealistic friend must have been an awfully fast worker. Well, aren't you and your bride going to ask me in? Come in, Mrs. Martin. Thank you. Quite cozy, aren't you? We have been. Well, I'm sorry to break up your little. All right, cut it out, Gwen. What do you want? Dear man? What do you think I want? The way things are now, you've got $200,000 worth of life insurance coming to you. Why don't you let us alone? Philip, I don't know whether you realize how much we and anguish you've caused me. Sure, I know, I know. I know just exactly how much and perhaps you also know exactly how you stand with the law in this matter. I don't know about all this impersonation business, except it would permanently ruin your career. But I do know that the laws covering bigamy are quite drastic. Yeah, I used to think that money meant everything to you, Gwen, but I guess it doesn't, does it? I certainly don't feel called upon to accept rebukes from you, Philip, for anything. Not after what you've done. I feel that I'm being most generous to both of you. All right, now, just what exactly do you want, Gwen? Either you come back and we'll explain the whole thing as amnesia or something, or you both go to jail. How could you? Shut up. Now listen, listen. Just a minute. Listen, Gwen, does anybody else know about this? Of course not. Nobody knows you came out here or why. After all, Philip, I do have some pride left. Just that I was taking a little trip to New York to forget. New York? Uh huh. All right, Gwen, just give us a couple of minutes to talk this thing over, will you? Alone? Very well. Although I don't see there's very much to talk about. Well, will you go outside or shall we? I'll go. I'll wait in the car. Oh, Phil. It's all right, Joe. I don't mind now. Neither do I. Do you think you can do it? Me? I'll have to have an alibi. Have you thought? I've thought about it. I've thought about it all day. And it's all right. It's good she'll disappear the same way I did a fire. Yeah, Only I'll have to be down at the store when it happens. This place will go up like kindling. And when they pull her out, they'll think it's you. Nobody knows she's up here, and I'll be there to say it is you. How are you going? I've got it all fixed in the cellar. All you have to do is. Is. Here, use this hatchet. Can you? Yes, I will. Then go out to the car and get on the floor of the back seat under the blanket, lock it from the inside. I'll probably get away right afterwards. All right, Phil, I'll see you in the car. And the whole thing shouldn't take more than a couple of hours. Phil, you're not afraid, are you? No. I'm glad. Gwen. Yes? Come on in. Have you decided? Yes. Yes. Well, you might as well eat with us. There'll be quite a few details to talk over. I'm not sure I feel much like Eating in this house. Philip as well. I don't know about you, but I'm not going to start back hungry. Give me the keys to your car, will you? It's blocking mine. And I'll go down the hill and got a few things for dinner. Really few of you. Please stop griping. You've won. Now give me the keys. Very well. But I wouldn't try any mad dashes if I were you. Don't be a fool, Gwen. No, I don't suppose you would. Alone. She went in. I took the keys. But first I went around back down the cellar. I put a lot of old newspapers around the wood pile and doused the whole thing with carrots. And then I cut a stub of plumber's candle and set it on the papers and lit it. I knew just about how long it'd take the candle to burn down. About 45 minutes. Then I went out and I got in Gwen's car and I started on the mountain without lights. At the drop above the lake, I put it in low and I cramped the wheels and I jumped out. About 40ft of water. Unless somebody told them where to look, they'd never find the car. Now, all that hadn't taken more than 15 minutes. The walk down to the store took about 20 more. Well, forget something, Dr. Wolf? Yeah, yeah. Like a fool, I forgot my tobacco. I can't get through the night without a pipe. Know just how it is. Walk down. Yeah. Working up an appetite, you know. There you are. You folks have callers tonight? No, no. Why? I thought I saw a car go up your way a while back. Oh. Oh, I saw the lights, but they didn't come up. Somebody must have made the wrong turn. Didn't they come back? I don't know. I was out for spell. You see that car come back by Daisy? Oh, you must have seen it, all right. It was about an hour ago. Seems like I did hear a car about that. Sure. Sure that was it. Yep. Pretty sure I did. Mrs. Dooley don't always see so good, but she hears plenty. Hey, Ma and Todd, looky here. Look it. Look it up there. Looks like a fire. Say, it is. It is a fire. Golly, Doc, that looks like your place. Well, it couldn't be, but it must be big, too. We better get up there, too. Do you have your. Do you have your car? We'll go in the truck. It's right outside. The boys can bring Ma along in the car. You hear that, Ma? Yeah. L. Come on, Doc. I sure hope everything's all Right. And so do I. The cottage was all wood and dry and it was completely gone by the time we got there. It was the boys who dragged her out of the embers. I wouldn't look if I was you, Doctor. Must have been quick. Anyway, she's burnt almost to nothing. You better go on, Doc. We'll take charge of everything. All right. Do you want one of the boys to go with you? No, no, no. I'll get in touch with you from town. I'll make the arrangements down there and I'll send down for sure. Sure, sure. You go on. We'll see to everything. All right. I'm awful sorry, Dr. Wolf. I climbed into the car and I started down the mountain. When I was around the first bend, I pulled up and stopped. I reached over with one hand and touched the blanket on the floor behind me. Are you all right, Joe? Yes, Philip, I'm quite all right. Gwen. Gwen has never told me how it happened. But of course she killed Jo. We both killed her. And now I know that I'm trapped. I'm hopelessly, irrevocably trapped by the terrible burden of guilt we share between us as she is. I know now that two people held together by such a frightful bond cannot both go on living. For that bond can be broken in only one way. One of the two must die. And so I write this and place it in the hands of my attorney for safekeeping. In order that the true facts be brought to light in the event of such a death. For no matter how innocent it may appear, no matter how natural the cause, how plausible the accident, it will be no accident. It will be murder. Cold blooded, calculated, deliberate. And now the local news. Dr. Philip Martin, who has been in poor health for the past three months while recovering from an attack of amnesia, died today in his home from an overdose of sleeping sedative. He is survived by his widow, Mrs. Gwen Martin. Thank you, James Stewart, for a splendid performance. What a performance, Harlow. Yes, Hap. It's like the performance you get when you replace old narrow gap spark plugs with wide gap auto light resistor spark plugs. They make an engine idle smoother, give better performance on leaner gas mixtures. Actually save on gas because Autolite resistor spark plugs are ignition engineered. That's right, by Autolite, the makers of over 400 products for cars, trucks, airplanes, boats in 28 auto light plants from coast to coast. Yes, siree. And Autolight also makes complete electrical systems for many makes of America's finest cars, batteries, spark plugs, generators, starting Motors, coils, distributors, all engineered to fit together perfectly, work together perfectly because they're a perfect team. The lifeline of your car. So folks, don't accept electrical parts that are supposed to be as good. Ask for and insist on Autolite original factory parts at your neighborhood service station, car dealer, garage or repair shop. Remember, you're always right with Auto Light. And now here again is Mr. James Stewart. Well, I want to thank Tony Litter and his great cast of actors for making my suspense visit so pleasant. I'm a great suspense fan and like all of you, I'm looking forward to next week's show. When Frederick March appears in Cornell Woolrich story the Night reveals another gripping study in suspense. James Stewart can currently be seen starred in the Metro Goldwyn Mayer production the Stratton Story. Tonight's suspense play was adapted for radio by Robert Richards from an original story by Vladimir Posner and George Sklar with music composed by Lucian Morowek and conducted by Leith Stevens. The entire production was under the direction of Anton M. Leeder. Next Thursday, same time, hear Frederic March in the Night reveals you can buy Auto Light resistor, spark plugs, Auto Light staple batteries, Auto Light electrical parts at your neighborhood Autolite dealers. Switch to Autolite. Good night. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Lux presents Hollywood. Lieber Brothers Company. The makers of Luxe toilet soap bring you the Lux Radio Theater. Starring James Stewart, Donna Reed and Victor Moore in It's a Wonderful Life. Ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. William Keeley. Greetings from from Hollywood. Ladies and gentlemen, tonight we bring you one of the season's most inspiring hits. A Liberty Films production that's been nominated for the highest screen award. Yes, It's a Wonderful Life. And we present it now with its original fine stars, Jimmy Stewart and Donna Reed. Jimmy in the role which won him a nomination for the best performance of the year. Also in our cast is starred that fine comedian, Victor Moore. It's a Wonderful Life is the drama of a typical American. Might be you, it might be me. He dreams of glory. He lives in hope. He loves and doubts. And only providence puts a final value on his service to humanity. Our story starts before the war when life was normal. Shortages were generally unknown and simple luxuries like Luxo were abundant. I won't say that's the only reason people said It's a Wonderful Life. But I do know from the thousands of letters in our files that most of them said It's a wonderful soap. And they keep right on saying it day after day. In fact, the popularity of Luxoap is what makes it possible to present such entertainment as Frank Capra's great production, It's a Wonderful Life. Starring Jimmy Stewart as George, Donna Reed as Mary Hatch, and Victor Moore as Clarence, This is the story of George Bailey, citizen of Bedford Falls, New York. George Bailey, who, more than anything under the sun, wanted to see the world, the wonderful, exciting world that lay somewhere beyond the limits of his hometown. Oddly enough, this story does not begin in Bedford Falls. In fact, it doesn't begin anywhere in the world. It begins in heaven, where the Superintendent of Angels has just summoned an apprentice angel named Clarence. Oh, I'm really going down to Earth, sir. Oh, how splendid. Yes, there's a very discouraged man down there, Clarence. George bailey. At exactly 10:45pm Earth time, he'll be thinking seriously of ending his life. Oh, dear, dear. His life. Now, I want you to stop him if you can. Now, sit down. Sit down. I'll give you Bailey's case history. Sir, if. If I should accomplish my mission, may I perhaps get my wings? I've been waiting over 200 years now, and, well, people are beginning to talk. Clarence, what's that book? The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, sir. I was reading it when you sent for me. Oh, fine book. Excellent. Well, you do a good job on George Bailey, and we'll see about your wing. Oh, thank you, sir. Now, listen. When George Bailey was a boy, two events occurred that you should keep in mind. One was when his young brother, Harry, fell through the ice and almost drowned. George saved him. Brother fell through the ice. George saved him. Ever since, George has had a bad ear. All that icy water. You understand? Yeah. Bad ear. Yes, sir. The other event came a few months later. George used to work after school in Mr. Gower's drugstore. One day, Mr. Gower's only son died of influenza. It was a terrible blow. And poor Mr. Gower tried to lose his grief in whistling. Where you been, George? Mrs. Blaine's called twice. What happened to a prescription? You lost it, didn't you? No, Mr. Gower. Here it is. Are you good for nothing? Don't you know that Blaine girl's very sick? Mr. Gower. My ear. You're hurting my sore ear. Teach you to loaf, you lazy brat. Mr. Gower, you don't know what you're doing. You put something wrong in those capsules. Shut up. Oh, I know you feel bad, but look, Mr. Gower. Look. This bottle. You used this bottle to make up the capsules. It's poison. Poison. Don't hurt my sword again, Mr. Gower. Oh, George, that's why you deliver, Mr. Gower. All I wanted was to make George, George, George. Well, Clarence, that was George Bailey as a boy. When he grew up, he wanted to go to college, but there just wasn't the money. So he worked four years in the Building and Loan Association. Building and Loan Association? Oh, I forgot to tell you. George's father was in the Building and Loan business. He and George's Uncle Billy. High ideals and low bank account. Anyway, George worked for his father and saved enough to see him through the university. That summer, though, he was going to Europe. Got a job on a cattle boat. Do a little traveling before cop. Boy, oh, boy, oh, boy. It's hard to realize it, my last night in the Bailey boarding house. We're sure gonna miss you, George. I'm gonna miss you too, Pop. Hey, what's the matter? You look tired, boy. Had another tussle with old Henry Potter today. I thought when you put him on the board of directors, he'd ease up. So did I. I just can't understand a man like Mr. Potter. He can't begin to spend all the money. I guess Potter owns about everything he wants in Bedford Falls. Except Bill. That's why he hates us. Hey, George, can I borrow your tuxedo studs? Yeah, help yourself, Harry. Well, where are they? In your suitcase. I'm not taking a tuxedo on a cattle boat, you know. Say, where'd you get that suitcase anyway? Mr. Gower going away present. And one of these days, you're gonna see that bag all covered with travel labels. Italy, Baghdad, Samarkand. Could have a pretty full summary. I'm gonna have a pretty full life. Hey, why don't you come to the dance tonight? Why? Don't be bored to death. Well, you couldn't want a better death. Lots of pretty girls. Hey, hey, I gotta hurry. I wish we could send Harry to Cullens with you, George. Oh, we've got that all figured out now, Pop. He'll take over my job at the Building and Loan and work four years like I did, and then he'll go. He's pretty young for that job. Well, a little younger than I was. Maybe you were born older, George. Huh? George, when you get out of college, I don't suppose you'd come back to the Building and Loan. Oh. Oh, now, Pop, I, I, I just couldn't. I, I couldn't face being cooped up the rest of my life in a shabby little office. I, I'm sorry, Pop. Now, I, I didn't mean that. But it's just this business of nickels and dimes. I'd go crazy. I want to do something big, something important, in a small way. We are doing something important, George. In that shabby little office, we help people figure out how they can own their own home. I know. I know, Pop. I. I just wish I felt that I. But I just feel like if I didn't get away, I'd bust. You're right. Boy, you get yourself an education, then get out of here. Oh, Pop, you want a shark. I think you're a pretty great guy. Well, thanks, George. I'm glad to hear it. Look, why don't you go on over to Harry's dance? You'd have a good time. Well, I don't know. Maybe it will drop in. Maybe. Well, at that. So George Bailey went to a dance. Is that important, Joseph? Why, it was at the dance he met Mary Hatch and three hours later, he was walking her home. George and Mary were feeling pretty good, Clarence, as a matter of fact. Wonderful old girl. Can't you come out tonight? Can't you come out tonight? Can't you come out tonight? Buffalo girl? Can't you come up tonight and dance by the light of the moon? Hot dog. Oh, boy. Just like an organ. Hey, you know. You know something? If it wasn't me talking, I'd say you were the prettiest girl in town. Well, why don't you say it? Well, no, no. Maybe I will. How old are you, anyway? 18. 18? Too young or too old? No, no, no. It's just right. It sort of fits you. Hey, look where we are. Oh, the old Granville house. Yeah. I gotta throw a rock. Oh, no, daughter, I love that old house. Well, no. Don't you know about deserted houses? You make a wish and then throw a rock. George. But it's such a lovely old place. I wish I lived there. In there? I wouldn't live in it as a ghost. Now, watch. Watch this. Here we go. How about it, huh? Pretty good shot, huh? Broke a window, huh? What'd you wish, George? Oh, I don't know. Not just one wish. A whole hatful. Mary, I'm shaking the dust of this crummy little town off my feet and I'm gonna see the world. Italy, Greece, the Parthenon, the Coliseum. And then I'm coming back here and go to college and see what they know. And then I'm gonna build things. I'm gonna build airfields and skyscrapers 100 stories high and bridges a mile long. And then I'm gonna. Hey, hey, Mary. What is it you want what do you want, huh? You want the moon? All you gotta do, just say the word now. Okay, the moon. I'll take it. Then what? Then what? Well. Well, then you could swallow it and it'd dissolve like an aspirin, you know? And the moonbeams that shoot out of your fingers and the ends of your hair and the. The. You. You think I'm talking too much? Yes. Why don't you kiss her instead of talking her death. How's that? Ah, youth is wasted on the wrong people. Why? Hey, hey, just a minute, mister. Hey, you come back here. I'll show you some kissing if you want to. George. Hey, Uncle Billy, look here, I'm gonna kiss Mary. Watch. George, get in the car, quick. Your father's had a stroke. What? What? George, get in. Well, George's father died that night, Clarence. So of course George couldn't go to Europe. But that fall, just as he was ready to leave for college, the directors of the Building in Loan had a meeting. They were going to appoint a successor to Mystery. What was that you said, Mr. Potter? I said, as long as Peter Bailey's dead, let's dissolve the building alone. We don't need it. Now, wait a minute. Are you. Wait a minute. Peter Bailey was not a businessman. Ideals without common sense can ruin a town. What do we get? A discontented lazy rabble instead of a thrifty working class? I meant no disrespect, George, but. Oh, wait a minute here. Why my father ever started this cheap Penny Annie building alone, I'll never know. But just remember this, Mr. Potter, this rabble you're talking about, they do most of the working and the paying and living and dying in this community. Well, is it too much to have them work and pay and live and die in a couple of decent rooms and a bath? Anyway, my father didn't think so. People were human beings to him, but to you, a warped, frustrated old man, they're cattle. Well, in my book, Mr. Potter, he died a much richer man than you'll ever be. I am not interested in your book, George. I'm talking about the building alone. You're talking about something you can't get your fingers on. That's galling. That's what you're talking about. Well, this town needs this measly one horse institution, if only to have some place where people can can borrow a few dollars without crawling to you. Now, come on, Uncle Billy. What happened, George? Yeah, all we heard was a lot of yelling. Boy, oh, boy, you should have heard, George. Yeah, they're in There voting us out of business. Who cares? I can get another job. I'm only 41. 45. Will you get out of here? George, you missed your boat trip. Do you want to miss college too? George, we've just voted Potter down. We're still in business. Whoopee. We're still in business. We're still in business. But there's one condition, George. They've appointed you to take your father's place. Appoint me? But I'm going to college. Look, this is my last chance. Uncle Billy's your man. George, you've got to take it. They'll vote with Potter otherwise. They said so. They even. I know George Bailey didn't go to college. That's right, Terence. He gave his his college money to Harry. Harry went instead. But what happened to that good looking girl? You know, Mary? Old George saw her now and then. Not very often though, because Mary went away to school, too. Anyway, George waited four years more for Harry to come back and take over the building in Rome. He could still see the world. He planned to work in the oil fields. Venezuela. Except when Harry came home, he wasn't alone. There was a girl with him. His wife. George? Yeah. I'm out here on the porch, Mother. I just thought I'd get some air. Well, how. How do you like your new sister in law? Oh, she's swelling. Looks like she can keep Harry on his toes. Yeah, and keep him out of Bedford Falls anyway. What do you mean? Well, Ruth's father, she's got a wonderful job for Harry up in Buffalo. Buffalo? Well, that means you. You can't. George, did you know Mary Hatch is back from school? Yeah, yeah, nice girl. Mary. Oh, stop grunting. Give me one good reason why you shouldn't call on Mary. Well, Sam Wainwright. Sam's crazy about Mary. Well, she's not crazy about him. Well, now, how do you know that? Did she discuss it with you? Besides, Sam's away in New York. Oh, and all's fair in love and war. I see. Okay, Mother, I think I'll go out and find that girl and do a little passionate neck in. Oh, George. Bye, Ms. Bailey. By the way, do you want any books at the library? Library? George. George, you go and see Mary, do you hear? George, is that you out there? Oh. Oh, hello, Mary. Well, are you coming in? I just happened to be passing by here. Oh, I thought you were picketing. Have you made up your mind? How's that? Have you made up your mind? About what? About coming in. Your mother just phoned. She said you were coming over My mother just found it. What does she mean, cut out? I just happened to be passing by, that's all. I didn't. Well, all right. I come in for a minute, but I didn't tell anybody I was coming here. You feel I can't go out for a walk nowadays without you? When did you get back? Tuesday. Where'd you get that dress? Do you like it? It's all right. Well, no point standing here on the porch. Come on in. I still can't understand it. I didn't tell anybody I was coming here, you know. Would you rather leave? Well, no. I don't want to be rude. Sit down for a while. It's nice about your brother and Ruth, isn't it? Yeah, yeah, yeah. That's all right. Don't you like her? Well, of course I like her. She's a peach. Oh, just marriage in general you're not enthusiastic about? No, no, marriage is all right for a lot of people. All right for Harry, Sam Wainwright and you for Sam. It's George Bailey, Mother. What's he want? I don't know. What do you want? Me? Not a thing. Not a thing. And I. I just came in to get warm. He's making violent love to me, Mother. You just tell him to go right back home. Sam said he'd call you tonight from New York, didn't he? I guess so. How about some music? You know your mother N. You know I didn't come here to. What did you come here for, then? I don't know. You're supposed to be the one with all the answers. You tell me. Oh, why don't you go home? I don't know why I came here in the first place. Good night. Good night. Okay. The way you're shouting, you think that you'd. Think what? All right, I'll get it. George, on your way out, would you mind turning off the phonograph? I've be very happy to. Doggone crazy song. Hello, Sam. Mary. Gee, it's good to hear your voice. How are you, Sam? I forgot my hat. Hee haw. What? Oh, I. I was just talking to an old friend of yours, George Bailey. Oh, Mossback George. Old mossback George. Well, put him on. I'll talk to him, too. Wait a second, George. He doesn't want to speak to George. He does so. He asked for him. Why'd you call me? Because if you are, I'm in a hurry. I got. Sam wants to talk to you. Oh. Oh, hiya, Sam. Hey, fine pal, you are trying to steal my girl. What do you mean Nobody's trying to steal anybody's girl. Here, Mary, take the. No, no, no. Wait, wait. George, I want to speak to you both. Tell Mary to get in the extension upstairs. He says for you to get on the extension upstairs. I can't. Mother's on the extension. I. We can both. Here, George, just put your head a little closer. What? There, That's. That's better. We're. We're listening, Sam. Well, I have a big deal coming up that's going to make us all rich. George, remember that time you told me about making plastics out of soybeans? Soybeans? Yeah, yeah, soybeans. Yeah, well, my father's checked into it, George, see, and now he's going to put up a factory. How do you like that? A factory, huh? And here's the point, George. I may have a job for you, unless you're still married to that broken down Building and Loan. Mary, I'm here. You tell that guy I'm giving him a chance of a lifetime, do you. You hear? He says it's the chance of a lifetime. Give me that phone. Here's George again. Sam. George. Now, you listen to me, Mary. I don't want any plastics, and I don't want any job, and I don't want to get married ever, to anyone. You understand that? I want to do what I want to do. And you're not going to trick me, and you're. Mary. Mary. Oh, Mary, darling. I love you, Mary. Well, well. So George Bailey and Mary Hatch were. Yes, George and Mary were married, and they started off on their honeymoon in Ernie Bishop's taxicab. Hey, where are you two going on this here now honeymoon? We're gonna shoot the works, Ernie. A whole week in New York. A whole week in Bermuda. The highest hope, the oldest champagne, the hottest music, and the prettiest wife. So you're finally getting out of Bedford Falls, huh? Then what? Then what, honey? After that, who cares? That does it. Hey, you know, Mrs. Bailey, I haven't kissed you. Hey, George, there's something funny going on over there. Look. Look over there at the plank. It looks like I run. All right, Pull over a matter, will you, Ernie? George, let's not stop, please. Let's go straight to this. Now, wait a minute. I better see what it is. I'll be right back. George, please, George. In a few moments, we'll return with the second act of It's a Wonderful Life, starring James Stewart, Donna Reed and Victor Moore. Meanwhile, here's our Hollywood reporter, Libby Collins. Looking very smart, too. May I say well, thank you, Mr. Keeley. You know, after seeing Paul at Goddard's wardrobe for Paramount's new comedy Suddenly at Spring, I just had to rush out and buy something new. Looking at all those lovely clothes was just too much for my self control. Well, you look stunning, Libby. Thank you again, Mr. Keeley. Now tell me about the picture. I understand that Paulette's portrayal of an ex wack is truly delightful. Oh, yes, it is. And Fred McMurray gives a perfect characterization of her wayward husband. Between the two of them, Suddenly at Spring is a high spirited comedy with emphasis on the romantic side. Well, naturally. But really, Mr. Keeley, that wardrobe of Ms. Goddard certainly will make close conscious girls sit up and take notice. I'll bet you think so too, Mr. Kennedy. Well, Libby, men seldom know much about styles. What I notice about a dress is the general effect when a woman wears it. Some girls always seem to have that right on the beam look. You know what I mean? Well, I think what you have in mind, Mr. Kennedy, is good grooming. Screen star certainly put great emphasis on it. A perfect hairdo, fresh, beautifully cared for skin. Those are essentials. That must be the reason luxe toilet soap continues to be a studio standby no matter how often other styles change. Well, that's what Ms. Goddard told me. She says her beauty facials are so quick and easy and work so well, she's never without a supply of luxe toilet soap. I can depend on it for daily complexion care. She says. I wish you'd tell the ladies in our audience how easy these lux soap facials are, Libby. Well, here's what Paulette Goddard does. She says I cover my face with the fragrant luxe oak lather and work it well in. I rinse with warm water, then cold and use a soft towel to pat my skin dry. Give skin quick new beauty. She says daily luxe soap facials do make skin lovelier. Recent tests by skin specialists proved it. In 3 out of 4 cases. Complexions became softer and smoother in just a short time. A lovely luxe complexion makes a woman so attractive. I wish every girl who hasn't tried luxe toilet soap would begin using it tomorrow. That sounds Advice, Libby. When 9 out of 10 screen stars recommend a beauty soap, you know it has to be good. So why not try Lux toilet soap? Hollywood's own complexion soap. We pause now for station identification. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Act two of it's a wonderful life starting. Jimmy stewart as george, donna reed as mary and victor moore as clarence. Well, we're Back in heaven again, where the superintendent of angels is reviewing the case history of a mortal named George Bailey. Clarence, the apprentice angel, is very eager to depart on his men to the earth. Poor George Bailey. Oh, he's certainly in desperate trouble, Joseph. I'll go to him at once. Now, you sit down, Clarence. Sit down. We're nowhere near the point where George Bailey's thinking of taking his life. We're not? Now, where were we? Oh, yes, yes. George and Mary had just started out on their honeymoon when they ran smack into the financial panic of 1932. In the waiting room of the building alone, a hundred frantic people were clamoring for their safety. Hey, what's going on? Uncle Billy, what's happened? All those people out there. This is a pickle, George. All I know is the bank called our loan an hour ago. I had to hand over all our cash. Holy mackerel. Whole town's gone crazy. Banks in the same spot we are. Our charter. What about our charter? Our charter says we have to stay open until 6pm the state can take away our license if we don't. How can we stay open till 6 without any money? George, where you going? I have to talk to those people. Come on. Where's my money? Now, please. Please, folks. Now, just a minute. Just a minute. Now, please. How about our money, George? Where's our money? Come on. Now, please. Wait a minute. Wait a minute. Now, listen to me. Now, you're thinking of this place all wrong. Your money's not here. Wait a minute. Now, let me tell you. Let me tell you. Your money's in people's houses. In the Kennedy house and the McLaren house and in your house and a hundred others. Now, what are you going to do? Foreclose on them? I got $240 in shares. Now, let me have it. All right. All right, Charlie. Now, you'll get your money in 60 days. 60 days? Well, now, look. That's what you. That's what you agreed on when you bought your shares. I got my money. Old man Potter's taking over the bank. He'll pay you 50 cents on every dollar. Then let's take our shares to Potter. Half is better than nothing. Now, wait a minute. Wait a minute. Please, folks. I beg of you not to do this. If Potter gets hold of your shares, he'll be owning this Building and Loan. He's got the bank. He's got the bus line. He's got the department stores. And now he's after us because he wants to keep you living in his shacks and paying the kind of rent he decides to do. Charge. Now, we can get through this thing all right, but we've got to stick together. We've got to have faith in each other. My husband's out of work. We need money. I've got doctor bills to pay. I can't feed my kids on things. We still got some money. Hey, Mary, here it is. George, you told me to hold on to it. Would have made a nice honeymoon. Furniture, too. Hey, now, wait a minute, folks. Listen, I've got $2,000. All right, Charlie, how much do you need? $240. Now, Charlie, now listen. Just enough to tide you over. I said 200. Okay. Okay, Uncle Billy, give Charlie $240. All right, Ed. Now, how much just to get by? $20, I suppose. Now you're talking. Now you, Mrs. Thompson, how about you? $20 will do me good. Good. $20, Uncle Billy. Pay it back when you can. Now. Pay it back when you can. All right. All right, who's next? Look at the clock. Look. Five seconds. Four seconds. Three, two, one. Six o'. Clock. We made it. Lock that door, Eustace. Quick, boy. We're still in business. Uncle Billy, we even got two bucks left. George, there's a call for you. Okay, and then call my wife, will you? She's probably over at Mother's. Mrs. Bailey's on the line. I don't want Ms. Bailey. I want my wife. Mrs. Bailey. Ms. Bailey. That's my wife. That's my. Give me the phone, will you? Hey, Mary. Listen, Mary, I'm sorry. I. I come home or What? Home? Well. 323 Sycamore. Well, whose home is that? What? Well, Mary, how can I. Well, sure. All right. Sure, I'll be there. Clarence, guess what? 323Sycamore was his mother in law's house. Huh? Oh, no. Number 323Sycamore was the old Granville house. The one George threw rocks at and made wishes. Yes, sir. That's where they spent their honeymoon. That's where they started housekeeping. They were still living there two years later when old man Potter asked George to stop over at his office. Sit down, George. Sit down. Do have a cigar. Wow. Thank you, sir. George, you're a young man, married, making, say, $40 a week at the Building and Loan. 45. 45. Now, if you were some ordinary yokel, I'd say you were doing fine. But George Bailey is intelligent, ambitious. He hates the Building and Loan almost as much as I do. He's been dying to get out of town ever since he was born, but he's trapped. Trapped into frittering his life away playing nursemaid to a lot of garlic eaters. Do I paint a correct picture, George, or do I exaggerate? Well, what's your point, Mr. Potter? My point is that you're the only man in town who has licked me. George, I want to hire you, manage my affairs. I'll start you off at $20,000 a year. 20. $20,000 a year? Are you sure you're talking to me? I'm George Bailey. Don't you remember me? The Building and Loan. Remember? Yes, George Bailey, whose ship has just come in. Providing he has sense enough to climb aboard. Well, but. But what about the building in lo. Confounded man. I'm offering you a three year contract at $20,000 a year. Is it a deal or isn't it? No. No. The answer is no. Doggone it. If you offer me a million dollars, stay around this town and play stooge to you, the answer would still be known. I'd. Leave me alone. Don't bother, George. What did Mr. Potter want? Oh, nothing. He just talk. Talk? Nothing. Oh, gee, Mary Hatch. Mary, why in the world you ever marry a guy like me anyway? To keep from being an old maid. I was gonna see the world. I was gonna build things. I was gonna give you the moon. What have I given you? What have I given you? Not even a new dress? Not for months, honey. Gee whiz, I feel awful. So do I. Mornings especially. I could have married Sam Wainwright, anybody else in town. I didn't want to marry anybody else. I want my baby to look like you. No. You didn't even have a honeymoon, and I promised you that. You. You. You. You. You. You. You. You. What? My baby. You're you. Hey, Mary. Mary? You mean you're on the nest? Well, Mary had her baby, turns a boy. You don't say. Then she had another one, a girl. Well, what do you know? Night after night, George had come home late from the office. Things weren't good with the building in loan. Potter was really bearing down on him. Then came the war. Mary had another baby by then. Oh, but she still had time to help out in uso. Uncle Billy sold war bonds. And George's brother Harry became a real hero. Shot down 15 planes. But George. What about George? Well, George was 4F his bad ear. He was an air raid warden. On VE Day, he wept and prayed. On VJ Day, he wept and prayed again. We're. We're getting pretty close to today, aren't we, sir? Yes, Clarence, you now know almost everything you have to know about George Bailey. Except what happened that finds him down there at this moment, wanting to die. Well, sir. Well, well, today's the day before Christmas. Earth time. George is pretty excited. Hey, Tilly. Useless. Hey, look at the newspaper. Commander Harry Bailey, decorated by the President. That's my kid brother. The Congressional Medal of Honor. Gosh, George, Gosh. What do you think about the 15 Jap planes in? The last one he got was just about to dive into a transport loaded with soldiers. You know what that means? He saved lives, hundreds of lives. Gee, where's Uncle Billy going? To the bank, George. He's depositing that $8,000. Good, good, good. Who's that in his office there? It's that man again, the bank examiner. Uh. Oh. Oh, yeah. Well, good afternoon, Mr. Carter. Hey, Tilly, get the books from Mr. Carter. You know, that's my brother's picture there, Mr. Carter. He shot down 15 planes, and one of them was just about. Well, well, Mr. Henry F. Potter. Come to the bank to deposit some more loot, eh, Cha. You old fool. How do you like the news in the paper, Mr. Potter? Just can't keep those Bailey boys down, now, can you? Let me see that newspaper. Here. Sorry, I can't chat. You old thief. Gotta make a deposit. Here you are, Horace. Deposit slip, bank book. And a very merry Christmas to you. You too, Mr. Bailey. Say, you've forgotten something, haven't you, Horace? I've forgotten things all my life. Get a wiggle on, boy. But, Mr. Bailey, where's the money? What's that? You want to make a deposit? Well, certainly I want. It's customary to bring the money with you. It's gone. Where'd I put it? Where did I put that money? A terrible thing, Clarence, terrible. Uncle Billy couldn't find the money because the envelope with the $8,000 was folded up in that newspaper he gave to old man. I just don't know what happened to it, George. I just don't know. $8,000. Uncle Billy, the bank examiner's here. And it's not our money. It belongs to the depositors, George. But what are we going to do? We've paced every step I took. We can't stand here in the street. Are you sure you didn't put that envelope in your coat pocket? I think so. Maybe. Maybe. I'm no good to you, George. I'm no good. Now listen to me. Now listen to me. Think. Think, will you? Now try and think. I can't think anymore. I. I can't. Where's that money, you silly old fool. You know what this means? It means bankruptcy and scandal and prison. One of us is going to jail. Well, it's not going to be me. Now, get out of my way. I'm going home. George, dear, what's wrong? You haven't said a word since you came home. Well, that. Banging on that. Does she have to just keep playing that same piece over and over and over and over again? I have to practice the Christmas party. Daddy. What is it, dear? Another hectic day? Yeah. Yeah, another red letter day for the baby. Murphy's got a brand new car. You shouldn't see it. What's the matter with our car? Isn't it good enough for you? I'm sorry, Dad. I only run upstairs, Petey, see if Zeus is all right. Okay, Mom. What do you mean? What do. See if Zuzu's all right? What do you mean? Oh, she called a little cold coming home from school. She didn't button up her coat. Well, what is it? What is it? What do you mean? Just a cold, George. The doctor said it was nothing serious. The doctor was a doctor here? Well, I thought he'd better look at her. This is old drafty house. No wonder we don't all have pneumonia. Might as well be living in a refrigerator. Why'd we have to live here in the first place and stay around this measly, crummy old town? George, what's happened? Everything's happened. You call this a happy family? Why do we have to have all these kids? Daddy, how do you spell? I don't know how. You ask your mother. Where are you going? Upstairs, to see Zuzu. Hello? Oh, thank you, Mrs. Welch. I'm sure she'll be all right. Who's that? Zuzu. School teacher. What? Oh, yes. The doctor says she'll be fine tomorrow. Here, give me that phone. George, please. Mrs. Welsh. Well, this is Mr. Bailey. Say, what kind of a teacher are you anyway? What do you mean sending Zuzu home like that, half naked? You realize you probably end up with pneumonia just because of your stupidity. You know, maybe my kids aren't the best dressed kids in town, but at least. Hello? Hello? Janie, will you stop playing that lousy piano? Cut it off. Stop it. George, for heaven's sake, what's wrong with you? I'm sorry. I'm Janie. I'm sorry, Mary. I've just got to get out of here. So that's it, George. You're short $8,000 in your account. Sam, please, Mr. Potter, I'll pay any sort Of a bonus if you still want the Building and Loan. You say it was lost. Have you notified the police? No, sir, I haven't done that yet. Harry's home. Why come to me? What about your good friend Sam Wainwright? I can't get a hold of him. He's in Europe. What kind of security would I have, George? What collateral? Yes, sir, I have some life insurance here. $15,000 policy. What's your equity in it? $500. And you want 8,000? You once called me a warped, frustrated old man. Well, what are you but a warped, frustrated young man, crawling on your hands and knees for help. Why don't you go to the riff raff you love so well? Ask them for help. I'll do anything, Mr. Potter. Please, please help me. My wife and kids. I'm calling the district attorney. $500. You know something, George? You're worth more dead than you are alive. Now get out of here. Get out. And all the time Potter had the $8,000 in his desk drawer. It's still there, Clarence. But where's George, sir? Where? Well, he went over to Martini's Cafe. He's had a couple of drinks. Clarence? He's just standing there, sort of in a day. Oh, God. Oh, God. Dear Father in Heaven, I'm not a praying man, but if you're up there and you can hear me, please show me the way. I'm at the end of my rope. Show me the way to God. Mr. Bailey, you all right? Don't drink anymore, Mr. Bailey. Please. You don't feel good. Bailey, you say Bailey. Which Bailey? This gentleman is Mr. Bailey. George Bailey. George Bailey, huh? And the next time you talk to my wife like that, she'll get worse. It isn't enough she slaves teaching your stupid kids how to read and write. You gotta ball out. Get out of here. Mr. Way, I'm sure you. He's my best friend. Get out. All right, Mr. Bailey. You. You okay? Who's that? Mr. Wells. But don't worry, he don't come in this place anymore. I'll get something for your face. It's bleeding. I'm all right. Please don't go away, Mr. Billy. Please, please, don't go away. Well, George left Martini's Cafe five minutes ago, Clarence. He's at the river now, on the bridge, looking at the water. Are you ready, Clarence? Already, sir. Very well. Save George Bailey's life and you'll get your wings. My wings are. Thank you. You. Joseph. George. George Bailey. Get away from that bridge. You hear me, George? In just a moment, we'll bring you act three of It's a Wonderful Life, starring Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed and Victor Moore. The popular theory about beautiful blondes is that they are content to be merely decorative. Our Lovely guest tonight, Ms. Susan Blanchard, completely disproves that idea. Besides being a hard working fox starlet, Susan, I understand you're a wonderful cook. I really love housekeeping, Mr. Keeley. But most of all, I enjoy the training I get at the studio. It's work, but it's fun too. You're an Easonard, aren't you, Susan? Yes. A native New Yorker. I thought so. It was the Broadway theater that inspired me to think of show business as a career. Well, that's interesting. I used to save my allowance and go to every play I could. One of my favorite actresses was Jane Wyatt. Imagine, Mr. Kelly, what a thrill it was for me to meet her right here in Hollywood. Jane Wyatt's latest picture, Boomerang, was made in the East, I understand. Mm, yes, but she and Dana Andrews, who stars in Boomerang with her. We're in Hollywood to see a studio showing of the picture. Oh, I see. Jane Wyatt is my ideal of a stage and screen star. So talented and so lovely to look at. Just as lovely in real life too. She is indeed. It wasn't long before I discovered that she's as keen about luxe toilet soap for beauty care as I am. You know, I'm a luxe girl too. We're glad to hear you say that, Ms. Blanchard, because that's a very beautiful luxe complexion I see before me. Just right for blue eyes and ash blonde hair. Thank you, Mr. Kennedy. Any girl in pictures is delighted to find out about luxe toilet soap as a beauty care active lather. Facials are so quick and easy and they really make a difference in your skin. Thousands of busy, attractive women have discovered that, Ms. Blanchard. Daily Luxe soap. Complexion care does make skin lovelier. Otherwise it wouldn't be the choice of 9 out of 10 screen stars. Luxe toilet soap is all around beauty care for me. I use it as a bath soap too. It has such delightful perfume. Leaves a lovely fragrance on the skin. Thank you, Ms. Susan Blanchard. I hope our audience will be seeing that lovely luxe complexion of yours in a screen close up one of these days. Now back to our producer, William Keeley. Act three of It's a Wonderful Life starring Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed and Victor Moore. Numb with despair, convinced, as Mr. Potter said, that he's worth more dead than alive. George Bailey stands on a bridge staring at the Dark and frigid waters below. Suddenly there's a splash Pup. I'm driving home. Run. No, that's not George. It's Clarence, the apprentice angel. And there goes Georgian after him. Hmm. It's a few minutes later now. And in the bridge keeper shack, George and Clarence are drying off. You both sure you're all right? You want a doctor? No, I'm all right. Oh, I'm fine. It's underwear. I didn't have time to get anything more stylish. My wife gave me this on my last birthday. I passed away. And you. You what? Mister? I see Tom Sawyer is drying out, too. Who? My book. I left in such a hurry, I brought Tom Sawyer with me. Hey, how'd you happen to fall in? Oh, I jumped in. I jumped in to save you. Jumped in to save me? Well, I. I did, didn't I? You didn't go through with it, did you? Go through with what? Suicide. Hey, it's against the law to commit suicide around here. Yeah, it's against the law where I come from, too. Where do you come from? Heaven. Oh, that's very funny. Your. Your lip's bleeding. Yeah. Yeah, I got a bust in the jaw in answer to a prayer. Oh, no, George. I'm the answer to your prayer. How'd you know my name? Oh, I know all about you. Well, who are you supposed to be anyway? Clarence Odd Body. AS2. Clarence OddBody. What's the AS2 for? Angel Second Class. Hey, I'm getting out of here. You may not need a doctor, but I do. Here we are, my good man. Look here. Why. Why'd you want to save me? Because I'm your guardian angel. Yours. Oh, I see. Well, you look like about the kind of an angel I'd get. What. What. What happened to your wings? Well, I haven't won my wings yet. That's why I'm an angel second class. Oh, I see. But you can help me earn them, George, by letting me help you. Oh. Don't happen to have 8,000 bucks on you, do you? No, no, no. We. We don't use money in heaven. Oh, that's right. Yeah, I keep forgetting. Comes in pretty handy down here, bub. Oh, chat, chat, ch. As. I found it out a little late. You know. I'm worth more dead than alive. You mustn't talk like that. Joseph will never give me my wings. If you keep feeling that way, you just don't realize what you've done for your folks. Why, if it hadn't been for you. Yes, if it hadn't Been for me. Everybody would be better off. My wife and my kids and my friends. Oh, this is not going to be easy. I'd all be better off if I hadn't been born. What did you say? I said, I wish I'd never been born. George, that's wonderful. Wonderful What? The idea you just gave me. Well, you got your wish. You've never been born. I've never been born. Exactly. No worries. No $8,000 to get nothing. You simply don't exist. All right. All right. Okay. All right, George. I can do things, strange things. I can show you the world, George, the way it would be if you hadn't been born. Hey, wait. Hey, wait a minute. This ear of mine. Hey, say something else in that. Bad ear. You don't have a bad ear anymore. Oh, I don't think you're concentrating. Don't you see? You're not the George Bailey you think you are. You're. Well, you're nobody. That's a doggonest thing I ever saw that. That ear. Lips, stop bleeding. Turn. Yeah, yeah. Hey, what's. What's happening around here? What is this, anyway? I need a drink, that's what I need. What about you, angel? You want a drink? Well, I. I don't quite know. Come on, come on. We'll go as soon as our clothes are dry. Clothes are dry, George? Hey, that's. So they are. That's funny. Well, look, let's get dressed and we'll stroll over to Martini's, and then. Oh, excuse me. I mean, I'll. You show. Stroll. You fly. No, I don't have. You don't have your wings yet? That's right. I forgot that I can. Couple of drinks and we'll both fly, huh? What do you have, fellas? Hey, where's the boss? Where's Martini? Luckwise guy, I'm the boss, see? Okay, well, double scotch, quick. Will you watch yours? You know what? I just love some mulled wine, huh? Heavy on the cinnamon and light on the cloves. Off with you, my lad, and lively. Now, now, cut it out. Oh, come on. Here. Just give him the same as I order. He's okay. Two double. Scott, what about this place? It's all changed. All of Bedford Falls has changed. You're having your wish, George. You've never been born. Oh, there'll be lots of things you've never seen before. Oh, good. Somebody just made it. Made what? Every time a bell rings, it means some angel's got his wings. What'd you say? Look, Clarence, I don't think you better talk about angels around here. Don't they believe in angels? Oh, yeah, they believe in them, but, you know, it's just a little. Then why should people be surprised when they see one? Don't mind him, bartender. He's just a little fella. He just never grew up. How old are you, anyway, Clarence? Well, next may I'll be. 293. That does it. A couple of pixies, huh? Go on, get. You hear me? Get. Where's Martini? Will you stop asking about Martini? He ain't hear any. Hey. Yo, Rummy. Didn't I tell you never to come panhandling around here? George, Look. Hey, it's Mr. Gower. Mr. Gower. Listen, Mr. Gower. Don't you know me? This is George Bailey. You. You. Buy me a drink, mister? Just one drink, will you, Mr. Pinky. Yeah. Nick, throw the rummy out. Oh, no, no, please. Hey, bartender, that's Mr. Gar, the druggist. That rumhead spent 20 years in jail for poisoning some kid. If you knew him, you must be a jailbait yourself, Binky. Here's two more. Get him out of here. Get up, George. Good thing he threw us in a snow bank, huh? Where's Mr. Gowar? Mr. Gower doesn't know you, George. You see, you weren't there to stop him from putting poison into that prescription. What do you mean, I wasn't there? Look. Tell me, what are you? Are you a hypnotist? George, look, why am I seeing all these strange things here? Don't you understand? It's because you were not born. Well, if I wasn't born, then who am I? Nobody. You have no identity. What do you mean, I have no identity? No papers, no driver's license, no 4F card, no. No insurance policy. Zuzu's bell. What? Zuzu's bell. I bought my little girl a bell to hang on the Christmas tree and I forgot to give it to her. I've got it in my. I. It's gone. It's gone, too. Everything's gone. But you been given a great gift, George. A chance to see what the world would be like if you'd never been born. You're crazy. You're crazy as a bed bug. And you're driving me crazy, too. Look, I'm going home to my wife and family. Do you understand that? And I'm going home alone. Better not leave him alone. Keep following him, Joseph. Oh, I'll stay near him, sir. Poor George. He's seeing Main street now. The way it'd be if he hadn't lived. The thing that's really shocked him, sir, is the Building and Loan office. Know what's there now? Pawn shop. What's he doing? Can you see? He's talking to Ernie Bishop, the taxi driver. He wants to go home. You better tag along, Karen. Oh, I will, sir. I will. Come on, Stephan. On, will you? Ernie, get me home. I'm off my nut. Where do you live, buddy? Oh, now, doggone it, Ernie, don't you start pulling that stuff on me. 323 Sycamore. 323 Sycamore. Yeah. Hurry up on Azuzu sick. Okay, buddy. Hey, look, Ernie, I don't know what's happening. I'm going crazy or something. I got some bad liquor. Now, look, tell me this now. You're Ernie Bishop, right? And you live with your wife and kid. You seen my wife? What do you mean? I've seen your wife. I've been in your house a hundred times. What do you. We built it for you, didn't we? My wife took the kid and ran away five years ago, and I ain't never seen you before in my life. See? Okay, Ernie. Okay, okay. Just step on it. Get me home. Mary. Mary, where are you? Janie? Petey? Zuzu? Zuzu, where are you? This is just an old abandoned house, George. You have no wife, no children. Where are they? What have you done with them? Hey, I'll beat that thing. See, I told you. All right, up with your hands. Oh, Bert. Bert the cop. Thank heaven you're here. Now, look, why don't you be a good fella, and I'll take you to a doctor. Bert. Now, Bert, listen to me. What's the matter with you guys? Now, listen, it's that fellow there. He says he's an angel. He tried to hypnotize me. I hate to use my nightstick, but I guess I. Ow. Run, George, run. He can't hit you while I'm biting him. George, run. My teeth aren't what they used to be. Joseph. Help. Joseph. Joseph. Where'd they go? Ernie? Where'd they go? I. I don't know. They just disappear. Clarence. Oh, Joseph, I hope you don't mind my calling on you like I did. It was very irregular. Clarence, you're by yourself again. Where's George? He's at his mother's house, sir. Well, if George hasn't been born, he has no mother. Oh, he's being very stubborn, sir. He'll just have to find these things out for himself. But his mother. That's a terribly bitter blow to a Man. His old mother not knowing him. You mean I shouldn't have let him. I mean you better find him right away. Oh, and stop fighting policemen. Clarence. I'm here again, George. My mother, my own mother didn't know me. If only Harry were here. My brother were only back from Washington. Your brother fell through the ice and was drowned at the age of nine. That's a lie. He got the Congressional Medal of Honor. He saved the lives of every man on that transport. Every man on that transport died. Strange, isn't it? Each man's life touches so many other lives. Harry wasn't there to save them because you weren't there to save Harry. Don't you see, George? You really had a wonderful life. Don't you see what a mistake it would be to throw it away? Claret? Yes. Where's Mary? Please, where's my wife? I. I'm not supposed to tell. Tell me where she is. You're not going to like it, George. Where is she? I'll choke it out up you if I have to. Where's my wife? The library. She works there. She's just about to lock up for the night, so I. George. George, come back. Oh, there must be some easier way for me to get my w. Mary. Mary, I'm sorry. The library's closed. Mary, it's George. Don't you know me? No, I don't know you. Let me go. Mary, please don't do this to me. Mary, Please. Help me. Help me. Where. Where are kids? Mary, I need you. Mary. Get away from me. Help. Help. Help me. Mary. I'm George. Clarence. Oh, where is he? Joseph? Where's George? I'm afraid I've lost him, sir. You knew you shouldn't have let him try to see Mary. Now they're after him. A mob. They think he was trying to hurt her. Joseph. I won't even get one wing, will I? You have one more chance, Clarence. Get over to the bridge by the river. I think George has seen just about enough. But. But the mob. Don't worry. They've lost him too. Now, hurry up. Oh, thank you, Joseph. Thank you. Clarence. Clarence. Clarence, where are you? I'm here, George. Help me, Clarence. Get me back. I don't care what happens to me, only get me back to my wife and kids. Please. I want to live again. Oh, thank you, George. Thank you, boy. I want to live again. Please. Oh, God, please let me live again. George, Is that you down there? George. Now get out of here. Bert. Get out here, you come in any closer. I want. I'll Let you have it. What the hell are you yelling for, George? Come on, George. George. Bert. Bert, do you know me? No. Yeah, I've been looking all over town for you. Where you been? Hey, Bert, I'm alive again. Bert, you sure you're all right? Hey, your mouth's bleeding. It is. Hey, my mouth's bleeding. Bert, Look. Look at the blood come out of there. What you Zuzu's Christmas bell? Bert. I had it right in my pocket. Here it is. Hey, it's in my pocket. What do you know about. Hey, Merry Christmas, Bert. Well, merry Christmas. Get in the car. I'll drive you home. You will? Burt, we'll do that. And turn the siren wide open, huh? Merry Christmas, Bedford Falls. Hey, Merry Christmas, Old building. Alone. Merry Christmas, Mr. Potter. Yippee. Come on. Hey, Bert, come on. Come on in with me, huh? What? These people, these reporters. Hey. Oh. Merry Christmas, reporters. Hey, Mr. Bank Examiner. Merry Christmas. Mr. Bailey. There's a deficit. I know. $8,000, I'll bet, huh? George, I've got a little paper here. I'm sorry. I bet it's a warrant for my arrest. Isn't that wonderful? Merry Christmas. Hey, where's Mary? You know, look at this wonderful old drafty house. Have you seen my wife? Where's Mary? Mary. Daddy. Mary. Kid. Hey, kid. Janie. Petey. Hey. Oh, I could eat you up. Where's your mother? She went looking for you, Daddy, With Uncle Billy. Daddy. Zo Zhu, my little ginger snap. How do you feel, huh? Fine, Daddy. Not a snitch of tempered. Not a snitch of tempered. Hallelujah. George. George, darling, it's Mommy. Mommy's home. Mary. George. Where have you been? Mary. Oh, Mary, just let me touch you, or you're real. Mary. Oh, you've no idea what happened to me. You have no idea what's happened. Either. They're on their way here. Oh, who's on their way? Oh, the police department. I don't. The FBI, the National Guard. I'm alive again. Listen, Mary. I'm alive again. Oh, yes, darling, yes. Now. Now close your eyes and. And come on downstairs. What is it? Can't I open my eyes yet? Mary, what's going on here? Now, keep your eyes closed. Now, I'll just walk you over here by the Christmas tree. And people, I hear, for lots of people. What is it? Lots of people. Just one minute down. We're all ready, Uncle Billy. Come in, everybody. George, look. Just look. Uncle Billy. Money, George. A laundry basket filled with money. Money for you. Mary did it, George. Mary, I don't understand what? Money. People heard you were in trouble. Darling, these people, your friends, they've collected this money for you. The $8,000. Charlie. Hey, there's Mary, there's Martini. Mr. Gower. Hey, how are you? Mr. Gower. Mrs. Thompson, Ed, Tom, everybody. None of us would have a roof over our heads if it wasn't for you, George. Gosh, this is wonderful. Hey, Mary, look. Look who's coming in. Mother. Hi, Mother. Hey, and Harry. Got Mary's telegram. George. I flew in as fast as I could. Everybody, a picture toast. How about a toast? Oh, good idea. Ernie. A toast to my big brother, George, the richest man in town. Here, honey, here's your b. Daddy. Darling, what's this on the table here? The. The Adventure of Tom Sawyer. There's something written in it. Dear George, remember, no man is a failure who has friends. Thanks for the wing. Love, Clarence. Clarence? Yeah, he's a very dear friend of mine. Daddy, Mrs. Welch says every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wing. That's right, juju. That's right. That's right. Atta boy, Clarence. Attaboy, Clarence. Happy landing. It's a Wonderful Life. So long as we can have such fine performances as we enjoyed tonight from Jimmy Stewart, Donna Reed and Victor Moore. Jimmy, I'd like to thank whatever guardian angel whisked you back from Texas for our show this evening. Well, that guardian angel was an airline. Wings. Bill, you were in Texas for the premiere of this picture, weren't you, Jimmy? Yeah, Frank Capper and I went down for five openings as many nights. Pretty good down there. Yeah, every one of them. There are five premieres over Tex. You know, it's a pretty big state. Takes that many. Jimmy, I'm sure your fans were proud to read that you received an honorary degree from Princeton just the other week. Yes. How about that, Jimmy? Do we call you professor now? No, no, no, no. You're just an M.A. oh, master of Arts. Well, I. It might have been. I don't know, it might be for murdering Architecture. That's what I studied. Well, you know, Donna has an honorary degree to her credit too. Llc. What's that, Bill? LLC well, you can see for yourself a lovely luxe complexion. Well, thank you, Bill. Or rather thank luxe Toilet soap. It's a wonderful complexion. Care. I use it safely with wonderful results. I see what's happening Next Monday night on Locks Bell. Next week we have another of the season's most successful films. It's 20th Century Fox's thrilling screen hit, Leave her to Heaven with lovely Gene Tierney and A star who appears in answer to literally hundreds of requests. Cornell Wilde. Best. Based on the best selling novel of the same name, Leave her to Heaven is the strange dramatic story of a woman whose twisted mind and fiendish jealousy drive her to any lengths to hold the man she loves. That ought to make great listening, Bill. I wouldn't miss it for anything. Good night. Good night and thanks a million. Lelever Brothers Company, the makers of luxe pointed soap. Join me in inviting you to be with us again next Monday evening when the Lux Radio Theatre presents Gene Tierney and Cornell Wilde in Leave her to Heaven. This is William Keeley saying good night to you from Hollywood. Here's a sure way to save on your meat and grocery bills. Turn in used fetch kitchen, fetch to your butcher and receive a generous price for every pound. The worldwide supply of fats is still desperately short and every drop you save helps in the making of soap, refrigerators and other needed items. So save and turn in your used kitchen fats. Donna Reed appeared through the courtesy of Metro Goldwyn Mayer producers of the Beginning or the End, starring Brian Donlevy and Robert Walker. James Stewart will soon be seen in the Robert Riskin production for RKO Magic Town. Victor Moore will soon be seen in Roy Delruth's production It Happened on Fifth Avenue. Our music was directed by Louis Silvers. This program is broadcast to our men and women overseas through cooperation with the Armed Forces Radio Service. And this is your announcer, John Milton Kennedy reminding you to tune in again next Monday night to hear Leave her to Heaven with Gene Tierney and Cornell Wild. Can you bake and fry for your cake and pie? Get your shortening by Reliance Fry. Want fried foods, crisp, golden, better tasting? Try Spry, the pure vegetable shortening that gives you delicious, better tasting fried foods, so digestible too. The spry way. Rely on spry s P R y Rely on spry s P R Y. Be sure to listen in again next Monday night to hear the Lux Radio Theater presentation of Libra to Heaven. This is cbs, the Columbia Broadcasting System, The Jack Benny program. Fine tobacco is what counts in a cigarette. And lsmft Lucky Strike means fine tobacco. Yes, lsmft Lucky Strike means fine tobacco. And in a cigarette it's the tobacco that counts. Year after year at auction after auction, independent tobacco experts, men who spend their lives buying, selling and handling tobacco, can see the makers of Lucky Strike consistently select and buy that fine, that light, that not naturally mild tobacco. Fine light, naturally mild tobacco. Real Lucky Strike tobacco. Fine tobacco that means real deep down smoking enjoyment for you. So smoke that smoke of fine tobacco. Lucky Strike. So round, so firm, so fully packed, so free and easy on the draw. The lucky strike program, starring jack benny. With barry livingston, phil harris, rochester, dennis day, yours truly, don wilson. And our guest stars, victor moore, peter lind hayes and frank capra. Well, if it isn't yours truly, Don Wilson. Hello, Rochester. Is Mr. Benny Ann? No. Mr. Benny took Ms. Livingston to the movies. Oh, well, when he comes back, will you tell him that. Say, Rochester, did you bake a cake or something? I. I smell melted butter. Oh, that. Well, you see, every time Mr. Benny goes to the movies, I make him a bag of popcorn. That's ridiculous. What? Why doesn't he buy it? It's a theater with butter and everything. It must cost more to make your popcorn at home. Theoretically, yes, but actually, no. What do you mean? Well, I make two bags and he sells one of them to Ms. Livingston. Oh, I see. Well, in that way you break even. Break even? Since the OPA went off, we're showing a profit. But Rochester, don't you take a loss on the kernels that don't pop? Mr. Benny will pop him if he has to take them to a blast furnace. Well, as long as Jack isn't home. I think I'll run along. If you care to wait. He ought to be back any minute now. They went to the neighborhood theater. Gosh, Jack, I'm sure glad you took me to see It's a Wonderful Life. I think it's a marvelous picture. Yeah? Yeah, I thought the direction was great. Jimmy Stewart was sensational. Yeah, sensational. Sensational. Jimmy gave that part just what it needed. I thought his acting was superb. All right, so his acting was superb. He's supposed to be a great actor. That's what he got paid for. Well, Jack, I saw your last picture. I returned the money. Don't be so smart. Anyway, Mary, don't get me wrong. I like the picture It's a Wonderful Life. But it's awfully hard to believe that part where Jimmy Stewart's angel comes down and shows him what would have happened if he hadn't been born. I don't know. It's too fantastic. Oh, you've been mad at pictures ever since they put out bank nights. I have not. It's just that I don't. Oh, Jack, let's stop and look in this jewelry window. Okay. Gee, what gorgeous jewelry they have here. Uh huh. Oh, Jack, why, look at that beautiful engagement ring. Mary, are you hinting? Uh huh. Well, it won't do you any good. I'll never Wear it. Come on, Mary, let's go. No, I want to look at all these things in the window. Okay, okay. Oh, Martha. What is it, Emily? Isn't that Jack Benny standing over there? Well, I declare. My, but he's handsome. Every time I see him, I get weak and wobbly all over. Oh, Martha. It's the truth, Emily. He really sends me. And if I was 20 years younger, I'd go. Emily, who's that girl with Mr. Denny? Why, that's Mary Livingston. Look how tight she's holding onto his arm. I'd like to go over and pull her hair out. Oh, stop being so irritable. You've been acting like this ever since Van Johnson got married. You should talk, Emily. You broke your baseball bat when Lippy married Lorraine. Anyway, I think Jack Benny is. Quiet, Here they come. Hello, Mr. Benny. Well, well, hello there. Isn't it rather late for you girls to be out? Girls. Girls. Come on, Mary. Let's go. Gee, Mary, Wilshire Boulevard looks beautiful at night, doesn't it? Yeah, all the light and. Say, Jack, isn't that Frank Capra? Who? Frank Capra. The man who directs the picture we just saw? It's a wonderful light. Yes, it is. Hello. Hello, Frank. Hello, Jack. Mary. Well, well, this is a coincidence, Frank. We just came from seeing your picture. Really? I go to that theater every day. You. You go to see your picture every day? No, I just go for the news reel. I love to hear the governors of Georg. Oh. Oh, Mr. Capra, I want to congratulate you on your direction of It's a Wonderful Life. I thought it was great. Thank you, Mary. How'd you like it, Jack? Oh, I thought it was fine, Frank. But that part about the guardian angel was just a little too unbelievable. Well, Jack, in the picture, I didn't try to show what did happen. I tried to show what could happen if someone had never been born. I know. For example, what do you think would have happened if you'd never been born? Well, there'd be a lot more money in circulation. Mary stopped. But all in all, Frank, I did think it was a very entertaining picture. I'm glad you enjoyed it, Jack. Well, I had to run along now. Oh, just a minute, Frank. I'm glad we ran into each other because I've been wanting to talk to you about a picture. For me? For you? Yes. The. You see, the studios have all been after me. But I thought that you, with your great insight into human nature, might better capture my personality. Jack, I'm late already. I think of it, Frank. Think of it. Frank Cap represents Jack Benny and King Lear. Then there's a tremendous blast of trumpets, and the scene opens with me in royal robes walking majestically toward a. Can't you just see it, Frank? Can't you? Can't you? Jack, let go of his collar. His face is turning blue. Oh. Oh, I'm sorry. Wow. Well, smog or no smog, it's good to be breathing again. What? Well, so long, king lear. See you later. Goodbye, barry. Goodbye. Goodbye, frank. Come on, Mary. I'll walk you home. Yes, Your majesty. Oh, quiet. Rochester. Oh, Rochester. Is that you, boss? Yes. Mr. Wilson dropped by, but I told him you were at the movies and he wouldn't wait. Oh. Well, I'll see you tomorrow. Come here a minute. And Rochester, what's that penny on the table? Huh? Oh. While Mr. Wilson was here, he stepped into the bathroom and weighed himself. Good, good. How much? How much does Mr. Wilson weigh now? I don't know, but you got a lot of broken tile in the bathroom. Hmm. Say, boss, how'd you like the picture? It's a Wonderful Life? Oh, very much, Rochester, but a little too fantastic. You know, the angel and everything. I don't know. Say, Rochester, I'm a little sick to my stomach. I'm going to the medicine cabinet and take something. There it is. A couple of swallows of this and I'll feel much better. This ought to fix me up. Oh, darn it. I dropped the glass. Well, I'll just drink a little out of the bottle and. Oh, my goodness, look at that label. This is iodine. I almost poisoned myself. Oh, boy, am I glad I dropped the glass. What a lucky accident. That was no accident, Jack. Huh? I knocked the glass out of your hand. You. You're not the. Wait a minute. How did you get in here? Who are you? I'm your guardian angel. What? My guardian angel? Yes. I've been watching over you all of your life. I've guided you and I've protected you. Guided me? Protected me? Yes. I've governed every move you ever made. Oh, you mean it's you who kept me from spending my money? Though you've done pretty well with that yourself. Thank you. But you saved my life, and you don't even know me. Oh, you're wrong, Jack. I know everything about you. Remember when you were seven years old, you broke a window and you blamed it on your sister Florence? Yeah. Yes, that's right. And remember when you were 10 years old, how proud you were when you put on your first coupe? That was for a school play. Well, the play is over. Take it all. Say, you do know a lot of things about me. Well, angel, it. It was nice of you to save my life and come again sometime. Oh, I can't go yet. Because, you see, I was sent down here to prove something to you. Prove what? I'm going to show you what would have happened if you had never been born. You mean like. Like what I saw in the picture tonight? Yes. Come with me. No, no, no, no. I'm not coming with you, huzzer. I'm afraid. Oh, you're nothing to fear. Come on now. Come on. I'm not coming. Let go of my arm. Let go of my arm. Rochester. Rochester. Isn't that funny? Rochester. You have no Rochester? What do you mean I have no Rochester? He's been my butler for 10 years. No, he hasn't. You've never been born. You mean. You mean there's no Jack Benning? That's right. Now come. Come with me. Hey, where are we? What are we doing in this department store? This is the May Company. Oh, yes, and there's Mary. Behind the stocking counter like she used to be years ago. What is she doing back here? She never left here. You see, you were never born. You take her away. She. She. She looks good. Of course, she's been eating regularly. Oh, this whole thing is crazy. I'm going over to Mary and ask her myself. Oh, Mary. Mary. Yes, sir, what can I do for you? What are you doing behind the stocking calendar? Why aren't you on the radio? Well, that's a new approach. They generally ask me why I'm not in picnic. But. Mary, please. Don't you recognize me? Don't you know me? Have you forgotten all about our radio work? What radio work? What work? Are you crazy? What do you do every Sunday afternoon at 4 o'? Clock? I take a bath. Do you mind? Mary. Mary, please listen to me. Oh, thank you. Not to be so familiar, please call me by my last name. Okay, okay. Now listen, Ms. Livingston. It's Mrs. Cling. And please, Mrs. Herman Clingentill. Mrs. You're married? I can't believe just a little while ago you tried to buy me an engagement ring. You can't be married. Well, ask my husband. He's a floor walker. What? Here he comes now. Oh, yes. Mr. Mister. Yes. Is this true? Are you two mad? Well, if we're not, we certainly gyp the bride and groom program out of a two weeks honeymoon. Oh, stop, Mary. This is all a terrible mistake. Angel. Angel, where are you? Just a minute. I'm opening a charge account. What's taking you so long? They don't believe my address. Never mind. Mind that. Now. Take me out of here. Take me to Dennis Day. He'll know me. All right, Jack, hold on. Here we go. Angel, what are we doing here in New York City? Don't you recognize this place? This is Studio H in NBC. Oh, yeah. And there's Dennis Day walking up to the microphone. Oh, Dennis. Dennis. Sorry, Pop, no autographs. I don't want your autograph. Dennis, don't you recognize me? I'm Jack Benny. Who? Benny. Jack Benny. Listen, can it be the trees that fill the breeze with rare and magic perfume? I don't know about the perfume, but your singing stinks. Angel. Angel, he doesn't even know me. Of course he doesn't know you. Jack Benny doesn't exist. Doesn't mean I'm still waiting to be born. Waiting to be born? That's ridiculous. Look at my hair. It's gray. Yeah, you've been waiting a long time. Dennis. Dennis, think a minute. I'm Jack Benny, the man you worked for. Oh, no, mister, you're wrong. I worked for that man over there. The one with the baggy eyes. Well, thank you. Thank you and welcome to. Hey, what's going on here? I've got a program to do, and I don't need any outside help. Why was for what? Well, you're Fred Allen. You were expecting maybe Uncle Remus. Now, wait a minute, Fred. Wait a minute. Don't you pretend you never met me either. I'm sorry. I don't believe I ever had the pleasure. Pleasure? Fred, look at me. I'm Jack Benning, the man you hate. Me? Me hate anybody? Why, everyone knows Fred Allen loves the whole world. I love my writers. I love the NBC vice presidents and the censors too. I love the little lads and lassies who ask me for my autograph as they wipe their little noses on my sleeve. And believe me, sir, I love you too. Angel. Angel, there must be something wrong. Fred Allen doesn't hate anybody. Certainly, you weren't born yet. Wait a minute, Fred. You and Dennis are just pretending. You don't owe me. But the rest of your cast will. The rest of my cast? There are no other performers on my program. Just Dennis and myself. Oh, yeah? What about Senator Clark and Titus Moody and Ajax Cassidy? Why, I thought everybody knew. Dennis plays all those parts. You mean Dennis is Senator Claghorn? I'm from the south, son. I just got back from a party and I'm in my cup. Dixie, that Is. Wait a minute, wait a minute. And he's Titus Moody. Howdy, Bubble Dennis. And you play Ajax Cassidy too. How do you feel playing all those parts? Oh, terrible, terrible, terrible, terrible. And I'm not long for this world. Now, cut that out. Angel. Angel, there must be someone who knows me. I know. Take me to see Don Wilson. He's worked for me for 14 years. He'll remember me. John's been with me through thick and thick. I mean thin. All right, Jack. I'll take you to see Mr. Wilson. Gee, you're such an obliging angel. Don't you mind taking me from one person to another? No. I get mortal to mortal pay. Oh, good, good. Well, come on, John. Let's go. Well, here we are in Lexington, Kentucky. Lexington, Kentucky? Yes. And there's Mr. Wilson sitting on the porch. He owns this big tobacco plantation. Hey, Don. Don. Don Wilson. Colonel Wilson to you, sir. Joaquin in Illinois named Benny. Nice people always wish they had a son. They had a son. It's me. Well, I don't know anything about that, but if you'll excuse me, I gotta talk to my tobacco pickers. Here they come. The tobacco pickers. Yes. Hello, fellas. You all. You all done? Colonel wilson. Hemo boy. That's my quartet, the Sportsman. I don't know anything about a quartet, sir. But these boys are happy in their work. Picking that fine, that light, that naturally mild Lucky Strike tobacco. And they keep singing all the time, always singing. Way down upon the Suwanee River Far, far away LSMF there's where the Harmon turning ever there's where the auctioneers play where every boon and speedy rig Learn to sing and chant and let them be O day there's where my heart is turning ever there's where the old folks stand. Every boon that be distilled On Party old plan. Fellas, look, fellas. Fellas, don't walk away. They're gone. Jack. Jack, are you convinced now? Yeah, I'm convinced. Angel, take me back home, please. No, not yet, Jack. There's one more place I'd like to show you. Come. Where are we? What town is this? Nashville. Nashville, Tennessee. Why, that's where Phil Harris comes from. Yeah. And this is the nightclub where he works. Phil Harris works in this awful dump? Yes. You see, you weren't born, so you never took him away from here. Well, I'm glad this is where he belongs. Let's go in and see him. All right. Follow me. Right down these stairs. Gosh, what a crummy nightclub. Look at the name of it. The Ruis club. What about it? Ruis fell backward to sewer. That makes very little difference to Mr. Harris. He can't even spell frontwards. Come on, Jack, follow me down these stairs. Way down. All right, watch your. Let's rest. If I go down any farther, I'll get the bend. I don't like this any more than you do. I'm an angel. And the further down I go, the nearer I get to enemy territory. Well, I guess it's just a few more steps down. Here. Here we are. Won't come with me to Alabami? Let's go see my dear old mammy she's frying eggs and Frank broil and Hammy and that's what I like about the spout There you can make no mistakey where those nerves are never shaky Hot tastes are lay or cakey and that's what I like about the spout. Angel. Angel. Isn't that awful? Yes. That's why we sent you so much thunder. We're trying to drown him out. Thanks. Well, folks, here I am again. Your favorite master of ceremonies, Phil Harris. Funny thing happened to me today, folks. Guy walked up to me and said, Mr. Harris, where'd you get that black eye? So I told him it was a birthmark, and he said, a birthmark? And I said, yeah, I got the wrong birth. Don't explain it to him, lady. If you don't get it, just let him suffer. Let him lay there. Don't tell him nothing. Phil. Phil Harris. Pardon me, folks. There's an old heckler down here in the front row. Yeah, what do you want? Bob? Phil, look at me. Look at me, Phil. Don't you recognize me? I never saw you before in my life, buster. But I'm Jack Benny. I'm your boy. What do you mean, boy? I own this joint myself. Lock, stock and demijohn. That barrel don't tell me what to keep my bourbon in. All right, so, you know, work for me. But what does Alice think about you being here? Who? Alice Faye, your wife. Alice Fay, the movie. Picture star. Married to me? Yes. Hey, waiter. What's the idea of selling this old gentleman more than one zombie? Look, I'm not drunk. Aren't you married to Alice Lee? Of course I ain't. That's my little wife right over there. Hey, baby, come here. I'd like you to meet someone. Any friend of yours is a friend of mind, talent, boy. Well, wait a minute. You. You should know me. You're my girlfriend. You're Gladys Abisco. Gladys Abisco Harris. If you please. And I never went out with you in my life. Look, honey, maybe you went out with a guy on a blind date. I'd never get that blind. But you must. You must remember me. Look at me. Look. Come on, Jack. I think we better be going again. Well, all right, angel, but I'm not licked yet. I'll prove to you that I was born. Well, I'll give you one last chance. Where do you want me to take you? Now? Let's see. I know. Take me to Warner Brothers studio. They'll know me there. Well, Jet, here we are at the studio. Yeah, and there's the executive officer. Let's go in and see the Warner Brothers. Listen to him laugh. Listen to him. Listen to him. Why are the Warner Brothers so happy? Because you were never born. So you didn't make the horn blows at midnight. Oh, I. Senior. Listen to me, Mr. Warner. Listen to me. Stop laughing. Stop laughing. Quiet. Quiet. Quiet. Where do they go? Where do they. Oh, Angel. Angel. Angel, where are you? Here I am, boss. Huh? Oh, hello, Rochester. I rushed in here when I heard a glass crash. Oh, yes, yes. I. I just dropped my medicine. Your medicine? Boy, up. That bottle in your hand is iodine. I know, I know. I was just putting it back. Thanks, Rochester. Ladies and gentlemen, the part of the angel was played by Victor Moore, who will soon be seen in that wonderful picture, It Happened on Fifth Avenue. Fred Allen was impersonated by Peter Lynn Hayes while Frank Capra appeared through the courtesy of Mr. The bottle of iodine came from the corner drugstore. Jack will be back in just a minute. But first, here is my good friend Basil Risdale. As you listen to the chant of the tobacco auctioneer, remember lsmft. 59American Lucky Strike means fine tobacco. And in a cigarette, it's the tobacco that counts. The deployed green clay of Brazil's Kentucky has been an independent tobacco warehouseman for 26 years. He said, I've seen American buy tobacco that's ripe and mild tobacco with real flavor and mellowness. I know you can't beat that fine tobacco. For top smoking enjoyment. I've smoked luckies myself for 17 years. Remember, at auction after auction, year after year, independent tobacco experts like Mr. Clay can see the makers of Lucky Strike consistently select and buy that fine. That light, that naturally mild tobacco. Fine light, naturally mild tobacco. No doubt about it. LSMFT Lucky Strike means fine tobacco. Yes. LS MFT Lucky Strike means fine tobacco. And fine tobacco means real deep down smoking enjoyment for you. So smoke that smoke of fine tobacco. Lucky Strike So round, so firm, so fully packed, so free and easy on the draw. The righteous. Rochester. Rochester. Have you ever had a feeling that there's somebody watching everything you do? Somebody who knows every move you make, Knows everywhere you go, even when you think he doesn't? Yes, boy. You know who it is. Yes. Now, we should cut it out. I don't mean. This is NBC, the National Broadcasting Company. We just heard Thomas Mitchell, Sheldon Leonard and Jimmy Stewart, some of the stars of It's a Wonderful Life that will do it for this week's show coming to you a day early ahead of Christmas. Wherever you are and however you're celebrating, I hope the holidays are safe, restful and happy for you and your family. I'll be back next week on New Year's Eve to wrap up 2025. And in honor of the holiday, we'll hear a movie set on New Year's Eve, Til We Meet again. It's a 1940 romantic drama and we'll hear some of its stars in episodes of suspense, including Merle Oberon and Pat o'. Brien. In the meantime, you can check out down these Mean Streets, my old Time Radio Detective podcast. New episodes of that show are out on Sundays. If you like what you're hearing, don't be a stranger. You can rate it. Review the show on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen. And if you'd like to lend support to the show, you can visit buymeacoffee.com Meansts OTR now, good night until next week when I'll be back with the stars of Til We Meet Again, Each of them starring in a tale well calculated to keep you in susburn that, Ladies and gentlemen, the chief hope of our enemies is to divide the United States along racial and religious lines and thereby conquer us. Let's not spread prejudice. A divided America is a weak America. Through our behavior, we encourage the respect of our children and make them better neighbors to all races and religions. Remind them that being good neighbors has helped make our country great and kept her free. Thank you.