ANNOUNCER:

Lux presents Hollywood!

MFX:

THEME ... THEN IN BG

ANNOUNCER:

Lever Brothers Company brings you "The Lux Radio Theatre," starring Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, and Tom Drake, in "Meet Me in St. Louis." Ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. William Keighley!

SFX:

APPLAUSE

MFX:

THEME ... UP AND OUT

KEIGHLEY:

Greetings from Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen! The theme song of tonight's play is the title of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's screen hit "Meet Me in St. Louis," based on the novel of the same name by Sally Benson, currently playing in theaters all over the country. The title refers, of course, to the World's Fair in St. Louis in Nineteen Hundred Four. Ten million people attended it -- but twice as many people in our listening audience will be going there tonight with three of Hollywood's most charming stars, Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, and Tom Drake. They take you back to an era of nostalgic charm in a warm and haunting story of romance.

And, in that same nostalgic spirit, comes a letter from a young girl who was married last September in a family heirloom dress of Maltese lace. "The lace," she says, "was very delicate and ninety-seven years old! Yet, when we washed it with Lux Flakes just before the wedding, it came out perfectly preserved in color, daintiness and texture. We were astonished that a lace so old and delicate could be so beautifully restored!" To Mrs. T. A. Gunderson, the bride, our heartiest thanks, and our sincere best wishes for a happy future -- with Lux Flakes.

On to Act One of "Meet Me in St. Louis," starring Judy Garland as Esther, Margaret O'Brien as Tootie, and Tom Drake as John; with Gale Gordon as Alonzo.

MFX:

"MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS" ... FOR AN INTRODUCTION ... THEN IN BG, OUT AT [X]

KEIGHLEY:

In the year Nineteen-Oh-Three, there lived in the city of St. Louis, a family named Smith. There were Mr. and Mrs. Alonzo Smith, and Grandpa Smith. There were also two daughters and a son -- Rose, Esther and Lonny. Oh yes, and another daughter -- Tootie, aged seven -- who, at this moment, perches next to Mr. Costello, on Mr. Costello's ice wagon. [X]

SFX:

HORSE WALKS DOWN A COBBLESTONE STREET PULLING WAGON

MR. COSTELLO:

My goodness, Tootie, after five o'clock. (TO HORSE) Giddyap, Beatrice! (TO TOOTIE) Oh, how's your doll feelin' now, Tootie? Any better?

TOOTIE:

(MELODRAMATICALLY SAD) Oh, no. Poor Margaretta. I've never seen her look so pale.

MR. COSTELLO:

Mm, probably the heat. Been awful hot today.

TOOTIE:

I doubt very much if Margaretta will live through the night! She has four fatal diseases.

MR. COSTELLO:

Mm, as a rule, it only takes one.

TOOTIE:

She's gonna have a beautiful funeral -- in a cigar box my papa gave me -- all wrapped up in silver paper!

MR. COSTELLO:

That's the way to go, if you gotta go.

TOOTIE:

(ENTHUSIASTIC) Oh, she's gotta go! How's Beatrice feeling?

MR. COSTELLO:

Oh, Beatrice don't mind the heat. Why, she's the strongest horse in St. Louis. (PRONOUNCED "LOO-ee")

TOOTIE:

Excuse me, Mr. Costello, but it's pronounced Saint Louis. (PRONOUNCED "LOO-iss")

MR. COSTELLO:

That's funny. Now, you take that there new song. (SINGS, A CAPELLA)
Meet me in St. Louis, Louis
Meet me at--

TOOTIE:

Oh, well, that's different! We sing that song all the time in our house! My sister Esther, and my sister Rose, and Grandpa, and everybody!

MR. COSTELLO:

Well, "Saint Loo-iss" or "Saint Loo-ee," it's still a grand old town.

TOOTIE:

It's not a town, Mr. Costello; it's a city! And it's the only city that's gonna have a World's Fair! Gosh! Wasn't I lucky to be born in my favorite city?

MR. COSTELLO: You sure were, honey. So was I, an' so was Beatrice! (TO HORSE) That right, Beatrice? Come on, gal! Giddy-up! (FADES OUT)

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE ... THEN FADE IN--

MFX:

"MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS" ... PIANO ACCOMPANIMENT

ESTHER:

(SINGS)
Meet me in St. Louis, Louis,
Meet me at the fair,
Don't tell me the lights are shining
Any place but there;
We will dance the Hoochie Kootchy,
You will be my tootsie-wootsie;
If you will meet me in St. Louis, Louis,
Meet me at the fair!

(SPEAKS) Come on, Rose, and sing.

ESTHER AND ROSE:

(SING)
Meet me in St. Louis, Louis,
Meet me at the fair,
Don't tell me the lights are shining
Any place but there--

SFX:

DOOR SLAMS

ALONZO:

(OFF) For heaven's sake, stop that screeching!

MFX:

OUT

ROSE:

Oh, hello, papa.

ESTHER:

Did you just come home, papa?

ALONZO:

(GRUMPY) The fair won't open for months, but that's all everybody talks about or sings about! Where's mama?

ANNA:

(APPROACHES) Here I am, dear! Well, did you have a nice day, Alonzo?

ALONZO:

I had a terrible day, Anna; I lost the case.

ANNA:

Oh, dear.

ESTHER:

Oh, well, Papa, if losing a case depresses you so, why don't you give up law and go into some other business?

ALONZO:

All right, Esther, I will! Beginning tomorrow, I intend to play first base for the Baltimore Orioles. Right now I'm going to soak in a cool bath for one solid hour.

ESTHER:

Oh, but that's impossible, Papa; Katie's serving dinner in five minutes.

ALONZO:

Five minutes?!

ANNA:

Alonzo, we - we planned on eating an hour earlier tonight.

ALONZO:

(DEFIANT, MOVING OFF) I'm taking a bath!

ESTHER:

(BEAT) Oh, Rose dear, I'm so sorry--

ROSE:

Oh, but it's nothing to upset the entire household about.

ESTHER:

Warren Sheffield -- a Yale man! -- is going to telephone you at six-thirty and you say it's nothing! Rose, the telephone's in the dining room; you certainly don't want the whole family sitting there, drinking in every word when a man proposes long distance!

ROSE:

I don't see why you assume Warren is going to propose to me.

ESTHER:

He's calling from New York. Do you know what that costs?!

ANNA:

Now, I think that's just about enough of this. Now, where's Tootie?

ESTHER:

Oh, she's delivering ice with Mr. Costello.

ROSE:

No, she came back a few minutes ago. She's in the backyard burying her doll.

ANNA:

Well, call her in and see that she gets washed. And Lonny-- (CALLS) Lonny?! (MOVING OFF) Now, don't you worry, Rose dear. Everything will work out all right.

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE

ESTHER:

Mama? It's six-thirty and Papa isn't down yet.

ANNA:

He will be. (CALLS) Tootie! Grandpa! Lonny! Come on! Dinner!

GRANDPA:

(APPROACHES) Has he telephoned yet, Rose?

ROSE:

Grandpa, I'm not in the least concerned whether Mr. Sheffield calls or not.

LONNY:

(APPROACHES) I suppose Warren's too young, huh? Every fella I introduce her to is too young!

ANNA:

(LOW) Now, listen, children, your father'll be right down. If we eat dinner quickly, we may be finished by the time--

SFX:

ALONZO SLIPS ON ROLLER SKATE, OFF

ALONZO:

(STARTLED CRY, FROM OFF)

SFX:

THUMP! AND CRASH! AS ALONZO FALLS DOWN STAIRS

ALONZO:

(GRUNTS AND GROANS DURING ABOVE, OFF)

BIZ:

FAMILY REACTS ... A BRIEF COMMOTION

TOOTIE:

(BRIGHTLY) Oh, now I remember! Now I remember where I left my other roller skate! On the staircase!

ALONZO:

(APPROACHES, DRYLY) I hope I haven't held you up; I was just taking a little ride before dinner. ... (BUSINESSLIKE) Tootie? Is this your roller skate?

TOOTIE:

(LOW, GUILTY) Yes, papa. And thank you.

ALONZO:

You're welcome. And remind me to spank you after dinner.

TOOTIE:

(LOW) Yes, papa.

ALONZO:

(SEES THE FOOD) Ah! Soup!

KATIE:

Don't blame me if it's cold, Mr. Smith.

ALONZO:

Oh, Katie--

KATIE:

So's the corned beef.

ALONZO:

No, no, no, it's fine! Delicious! (AWKWARD BEAT) Well, what's the matter with everybody? Eat your soup.

SFX:

1903-STYLE TELEPHONE BELL RINGS ... CONTINUES IN BG

BIZ:

FAMILY REACTS ... ANOTHER BRIEF COMMOTION

ESTHER:

Oh, Rose, let me get it.

TOOTIE:

(EXCITED) Telephone! Telephone!

ALONZO:

(BRUSQUE) What are you all jumping for?! Sit still! I'll answer it!

ROSE:

(EMOTIONAL, TO HERSELF) I'll die, I'll simply die.

SFX:

PHONE OFF HOOK

ALONZO:

(CURT, INTO PHONE) Hello? ... What? ... New York? No, I'm not calling New York! ... What? Hello?

SFX:

FINGER RATTLES PHONE CRADLE

ALONZO:

Hel--? Hello?

SFX:

HANGS UP PHONE

ALONZO:

Anna? I'm going to have that instrument of torture ripped out of this home.

ROSE:

(CRYING SOFTLY TO HERSELF)

ANNA:

Oh, Alonzo, every telephone call's not for you, dear.

TOOTIE:

Rose is crying.

ALONZO:

(LOW, TO ROSE) Well, what's the matter with you?

ROSE:

(BRIEFLY CRIES LOUDER, THEN OUT BEHIND--)

ESTHER:

Oh, it's nothing, Papa! You've just ruined Rose's chances to get married, that's all!

ALONZO:

What did you say?

ESTHER:

That was Warren Sheffield calling long distance to propose!

ALONZO:

Oh, I see. Tootie? Did you know there was a long distance call coming to this house?

TOOTIE:

(CHANGES THE SUBJECT) You know what, papa? The iceman saw a drunkard get shot yesterday! And blood spurted out three feet, and--!

ALONZO:

Answer "yes" or "no." ...

TOOTIE:

Yes.

ALONZO:

Lon? Grandpa? Anna? (BEAT, INDIGNANT) Well! And just when was I voted out of this family?

ANNA:

Oh, Alonzo, really now--

ALONZO:

My eldest daughter is practically on her honeymoon and everybody in St. Louis knows about it but me! Well, from now on I'll handle all telephone calls to this house!

ROSE:

But, papa--!

ALONZO:

Nobody answers the phone but me!

ESTHER:

(QUIET CORRECTION) "But I."

ALONZO:

Thank you.

SFX:

TELEPHONE BELL RINGS ... CONTINUES IN BG

ALONZO:

Rose? (BEAT) Answer the telephone. ...

ROSE:

(RELIEVED) Thank you, Papa!

SFX:

PHONE OFF HOOK

ROSE:

(INTO PHONE) Hello? ... Warren? ... How are you?

WARREN:

(FILTER, NERVOUS) Oh, I'm fine, Rose! How's St. Louis?

ROSE:

(LOUD) What did you say?!

WARREN:

(LOUDER) I said, "How's St. Louis?"

ROSE:

Oh, it's fine! (BEAT) Fine!

WARREN:

Uh, can you hear me?

ROSE:

Oh, yes! I can hear you fine!

ALONZO:

(DERISIVE) The whole neighborhood can hear you!

ESTHER:

(WHISPERS) Shh, papa!

WARREN:

Well, uh--

ROSE:

What did you say, Warren?

WARREN:

Nothing, uh, nothing. I was waiting for you to say something.

ROSE:

Oh.

WARREN:

Uh, Rose, I - I hope you won't misunderstand what I'm going to tell you.

ROSE:

Yes?

WARREN:

Well, I - I don't think you should mention this call to your family.

ROSE:

Why not?

WARREN:

Well, because there'd be "H" to pay if my family ever found out I called you long distance.

TOOTIE:

Uh-oh, he said there'd be "H"!

BIZ:

EVERYONE SHUSHES TOOTIE

ROSE:

(OFFENDED, INDIGNANT) My family's here and they don't think anything of it! Well, I'd better not waste any more of your time or money.

WARREN:

Rose, I've still got thirty-five seconds!

ROSE:

Never mind.

WARREN:

Well, Rose I'll - I'll write to you as soon as I hang up!

ROSE:

(SARCASTIC) Well, that'll be very nice. Goodbye, Warren!

SFX:

HANGS UP PHONE

ALONZO:

Well, that's the darnedest proposal I ever heard!

BIZ:

FAMILY REACTS ... YET ANOTHER BRIEF COMMOTION

ROSE:

(SOBS, IN BG)

ESTHER:

(HELPFUL) Well! I bet there isn't another girl in St. Louis who's had a Yale man call her long distance just to inquire about her health!

ROSE:

(MOVING OFF) If - if you don't mind, I'd - I'd like to be excused.

ALONZO:

A Yale man, eh, Lonny?

LONNY:

Yes, papa.

SFX:

ALONZO'S FIST POUNDS THE TABLE

ALONZO:

That settles it! You're going to Princeton!

MFX:

BRIDGE

SFX:

CRICKETS CHIRP ... CONTINUES IN BG

ESTHER:

(SIGHS) Oh, it's nice just sitting on the front porch, isn't it, Rose?

ROSE:

I just love a summer night. Esther, wasn't that silly of me, running away from the dinner table?

ESTHER:

Oh, Rose, I wish I had your - your savoir faire.

ROSE:

(LOW) Esther, look.

ESTHER:

Hmm?

ROSE:

Next door; our new neighbor.

ESTHER:

(INTENSE WHISPER) John Truett?!

ROSE:

He's on the lawn. Now, for goodness sakes, don't let on that we see him. Ready?

ESTHER:

Yes! Let's get a little closer to the railing.

ROSE:

(BEAT, LOUD FOR JOHN'S BENEFIT) Isn't it a gorgeous night, Esther dear?

ESTHER:

(ALSO LOUD) Heavenly, Rose! Just heavenly! (WHISPERS, TO ROSE) He smokes a pipe!

ROSE:

(LOUD) I understand they're having a fashion pavilion at the fair! Isn't that exciting?!

ESTHER:

(LOUD) I shan't be at all surprised if Joe insists on taking me to the fair every single night! Joe's so overpowering!

ROSE:

(LOW, AN EXPLETIVE) Oh, prunes!

ESTHER:

Huh?

ROSE:

Well, look. He just walked back into his house. ...

ESTHER:

(DISAPPOINTED) Oh. That's not very neighborly, I must say.

ROSE:

Well, he's only lived here two weeks. You can't expect him to fling himself at you!

ESTHER:

Well, how am I going to meet him?

ROSE:

I know! I'll get George Briggs to bring him over here to Lon's going-away party.

ESTHER:

Oh, Rose! Could you?

ROSE:

Of course! Let me get some stationary. (MOVING OFF) We can write the invitations right now -- tonight!

SFX:

SCREEN DOOR CLOSES ... CRICKETS OUT

MFX:

SNEAKS IN ... "THE BOY NEXT DOOR" ... ORCHESTRA

ESTHER:

(TO HERSELF) He didn't even notice me! What if he can't come to our party? What if he's got a girl?

(SINGS)
The moment I saw him smile
I knew he was just my style.
My only regret is we've never met;
Though I dream of him all the while.
But he doesn't know I exist,
No matter how I may persist.
So it's clear to see, there's no hope for me;
Though I live at Fifty-One Thirty-Five Kensington Avenue,
And he lives at Fifty-One Thirty-Three.

How can I ignore the boy next door?
I love him more than I can say.

Doesn't try to please me,
Doesn't even tease me,
And he never sees me glance his way.

And though I'm heart-sore, the boy next door
Affection for me won't display.

I just adore him,
So I can't ignore him,
The boy next door.

MFX:

TO A FINISH ... THEN IN BG

SFX:

PEN SCRATCHES ON PAPER

ROSE:

(READS) "My dear Mr. Truett. You are cordially invited to a party on Saturday next, in honor of our brother Alonzo Smith, Junior, who is leaving for Princeton. Cordially yours, Rose Smith." How's that, Est?

ESTHER:

Well, it's pretty formal. But I guess we better be pretty formal to start with.

MFX:

FILLS A PAUSE ... THEN FADES OUT

BIZ:

FADE IN ON -- THE BIG PARTY IN PROGRESS ... A CROWD OF GUESTS CONVERSE ... THEN IN BG

MFX:

PIANO PLAYS, IN BG

LONNY:

So you think Princeton's all right, John, huh?

JOHN:

Oh, Princeton's a peach of a school! A peach of a school!

LONNY:

Well, that's where I'm goin'! I-- (CALLS) Oh, Esther?!

ESTHER:

(APPROACHES, COMICALLY AFFECTED) Yes, Alonzo?

LONNY:

Uh, may I present our neighbor, John Truett?

ESTHER:

(PLAYS DUMB) I'm sorry. I didn't quite catch the name.

JOHN:

John Truett.

ESTHER:

Oh! (CHUCKLES) Well, welcome to our house, Mr. Truett.

JOHN:

Well, thank you. You know, this is the first party I've been invited to since we moved to St. Louis.

ESTHER:

Oh, do you live here?

LONNY:

Well, of course he lives here. Right next door.

ESTHER:

Oh, well, that's where I've seen you! I thought you looked familiar. (CHUCKLES)

JOHN:

If this dance isn't taken, Miss Smith, I'd be very honored.

ESTHER:

Oh I'm terribly sorry, but I-- Oh well, since you're our next-door neighbor.

JOHN:

Thank you!

MFX:

PIANO ... UP, FOR PUNCTUATION ... THEN FADE OUT WITH--

BIZ:

CROWD NOISE FADES OUT ... TRANSITIONAL PAUSE ... CROWD NOISE FADES BACK IN WITH--

ESTHER:

(FADES IN) Uh, if anyone would like some fruit punch, it's there in the dining room.

JOHN:

(APPROACHES) Oh, Miss Esther?

ESTHER:

Uh, yes, Mr. Truett?

JOHN:

(LIGHTLY) There's a mouse in the house.

ESTHER:

Hm?

JOHN:

Look. On the hall stairs.

ESTHER:

(INHALES) Why, Tootie Smith! Why aren't you asleep?

TOOTIE:

There was too much noise down here.

ESTHER:

Noise? We've just been dancing and singing.

TOOTIE:

I want to sing, too!

BIZ:

CROWD AD LIBS LAUGHTER AND ENCOURAGEMENT

ESTHER:

Well, all right, just one song. Now, what would you like to sing, darling? "Baby's Boat"? Or "Did You Ever See a Rabbit Climb a Tree"? Or--?

TOOTIE:

Oh, I hate those songs! I want to sing a new one!
(SINGS, A CAPELLA) I was "hmm" last night, dear mother!

BIZ:

CROWD LAUGHS AT TOOTIE'S CHOICE OF SONG

ESTHER:

Well, you can't sing that.

GIRL:

Oh, do let her! She's such a sweet little thing.

LONNY:

"Sweet"? She's a little hoodlum.

BIZ:

CROWD PROTESTS LONNY'S REMARK

ESTHER:

Oh, well, all right. Go ahead, Tootie.

TOOTIE:

(SINGS, A CAPELLA)
I was drunk last night, dear Mother,
I was drunk the night before!
But if you'll forgive me, Mother,
I'll never get drunk any more!

BIZ:

CROWD LAUGHS, APPLAUDS AND AD LIBS ("Very cute!")

ESTHER:

Tootie, you're a very bad little girl! (TO JOHN) It's really Lon's fault, Mr. Truett; he teaches her those things. Now, Tootie, you scoot right up to bed this instant! (CALLS) Uh, Rose? Oh, Rose, dear! Might we have some dance music, please?

BIZ:

CROWD AD LIBS ENCOURAGEMENT ... THEN FADES OUT WITH--

MFX:

PIANO PLAYS, IN BG ... THEN FADES OUT

BIZ:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE ... FADE IN CROWD EXCHANGING GOODBYES WITH ESTHER AS THEY LEAVE THE HOUSE ... FRONT DOOR SHUTS

JOHN:

Looks like I'm the last one leaving.

ESTHER:

(NERVOUS CHUCKLE)

JOHN:

Well, er, good night, Miss Esther.

ESTHER:

Er, good night.

ROSE:

(CALLS, FROM OFF, TEASINGLY) Oh, Est! Don't forget your beauty sleep!

ESTHER:

(FORCED DIGNITY) Presently, Rose dear!

JOHN:

(DOESN'T WANT TO LEAVE) Well, I guess I better get going.

ESTHER:

(DOESN'T WANT HIM TO LEAVE) Uh, well, uh-- We'll be seeing some more of you, won't we?

JOHN:

(OVEREAGER) Oh, you bet!

ESTHER:

You'll - you'll be joining our crowd Friday? We're all taking the trolley out to the fairgrounds just to see what progress they're making.

JOHN:

Oh, sure, sure. Well-- Good night!

ESTHER:

Good night.

JOHN:

Oh, uh-- That Welsh rabbit you served was ginger-peachy. (CHUCKLES)

ESTHER:

Oh, I'm - I'm so glad. (AN INSPIRATION) Oh! Uh, Mr. Truett?

JOHN:

Uh, yes, Miss Esther?

ESTHER:

(CAREFULLY) This is an untoward request, but-- Would you mind accompanying me through the house while I turn out the lights?

JOHN:

Well, I--

ESTHER:

It's just that I, er-- I'm afraid of mice.

JOHN:

Well, sure, sure. That's the least a man can do for his charming hostess. (FADES OUT)

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE

ESTHER:

(FADES IN) It's just those two lights in the hall and then we'll be finished. Oh, if you can't see, just take my hand, Mr. Truett.

JOHN:

Well, uh-- Thanks.

ESTHER:

This way.

JOHN:

Say, uh-- Mmm, that's nice perfume.

ESTHER:

Do you like it? It's "Essence of Violet."

JOHN:

(STARTS TO SIGH BUT CATCHES HIMSELF, THEN BRIGHTLY) Exactly the same kind my grandmother uses!

ESTHER:

Uh-- No, this is different. (NERVOUS CHUCKLE) Well, here's the hall.

JOHN:

Uh, hadn't we better save those lights for your folks?

ESTHER:

Well, I'll just turn them down dim. There. (A LITTLE TOO LOUD) My, it's certainly dark in here, with the lights off, isn't it?!

JOHN:

(EXHALES NERVOUSLY) Gosh, Miss Esther! I hope I'm not too presumptuous, but -- you don't need any beauty sleep.

ESTHER:

(TOUCHED) Ohh. What nice thing to say.

JOHN:

Oh, this has been a great evening! I'll never forget it!

MFX:

SNEAKS IN ... ROMANTIC

ESTHER:

Do you mean that?

JOHN:

Yes, yes I do.

ESTHER:

Do you always shake hands with a girl when you say goodnight?

JOHN:

Oh, no! No, sir! Only when I-- Well, when I think an awful lot of her.

ESTHER:

(PLEASED) Ohh.

JOHN:

(VERY SERIOUS) And you know something else, Esther?

ESTHER:

(BREATHLESS) What?

JOHN:

(SINCERELY) You've got a mighty strong grip for a girl. ... (BEAT) Good night, Esther.

SFX:

FRONT DOOR SHUTS

ESTHER:

(CALLS, HAPPILY) Good night -- neighbor!

MFX:

UP TO A FINISH

SFX:

APPLAUSE

ANNOUNCER:

Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien and Tom Drake will return for Act Two of "Meet Me in St. Louis" in a moment. (TO LIBBY COLLINS) Say, Libby, a boy wants to know whether his girl will like him better if he becomes a great dancer, like Fred Astaire, or a famous crooner, like Bing Crosby.

COLLINS:

Well, why not tell him to see Paramount's new picture "Blue Skies"? They're both in that, and they both love the same girl, Joan Caulfield. Frankly, if I'd been Joan in that picture, I never could have made up my mind.

ANNOUNCER:

Those wonderful, sentimental tunes Bing sings should sweep any girl off her feet.

COLLINS:

Mmm, just like an Astaire dance!

ANNOUNCER:

Isn't this Fred's farewell to pictures?

COLLINS:

Well, that's what he insists; but millions hope it isn't true! He's never been better, or his dances more original.

KENNEDY:

Being Astaire's partner is a real honor!

COLLINS:

Well, he has two in "Blue Skies" -- blonde Joan Caulfield and a little "Latin-from-Manhattan," Olga San Juan. Both are divine in Technicolor.

KENNEDY:

I'll bet I know another thing they had in common.

COLLINS:

What's that?

KENNEDY:

Lux Care for their stockings!

COLLINS:

Oh, you're absolutely right! Anybody who dances knows how much strain stockings get. So naturally the girls use Lux Flakes to cut down runs.

KENNEDY:

Not only girls who dance, Libby, but girls everywhere know how much longer Lux stockings last.

COLLINS:

And so do Paramount Studios. Stockings for the chorus got the same Lux Care as those of the stars. But, of course, Joan knew about Lux long before she went to Hollywood.

KENNEDY: Wasn't she a model in New York?

COLLINS:

That's right. And models soon learn to get more wear from stockings by Luxing them every night!

KENNEDY:

Well, actual strain tests proved how right they are. In these tests, stockings rubbed with cake soap went into runs very quickly. The Luxed ones lasted and lasted. Twice as long, in fact.

COLLINS:

Girls on a budget appreciate that.

KENNEDY:

Right, Libby! (SERIOUS) Now, a suggestion to the ladies of our audience. Because Lux is made of scarce materials, please don't waste it! (BRIGHTLY) Here's your producer, William Keighley.

KEIGHLEY:

Act Two of "Meet Me in St. Louis" starring Judy Garland as Esther, Margaret O'Brien as Tootie and Tom Drake as John.

MFX:

BUILD UP TO "THE TROLLEY SONG" ... FOR AN INTRODUCTION ... THEN IN BG

KEIGHLEY:

Well, Friday's come, and with it, the trolley ride to the fairgrounds! Now, take a trolley, fill it with boys and girls, and sooner or later, somebody's singing! In this instance, it's Miss Esther Smith, who finds ample reason to sing -- for sitting next to her, thoroughly smitten, is the boy next door, John Truett.

ESTHER:

(SINGS, ACCOMPANIED BY CHORUS)
With my high-starched collar and my high-topped shoes,
And my hair piled high upon my head,
I went to lose a jolly
Hour on the trolley,
And lost my heart instead!
With his light brown derby and his bright green tie,
He was quite the handsomest of men!
I started to yen,
So I counted to ten,
Then I counted to ten again!

Clang, clang, clang went the trolley!
Ding, ding, ding went the bell!
Zing, zing, zing went my heartstrings!
From the moment I saw him, I fell!

Chug, chug, chug went the motor!
Bump, bump, bump went the brake!
Thump, thump, thump went my heartstrings!
When he smiled, I could feel the car shake!

He tipped his hat and took a seat.
He said he hoped he hadn't stepped upon my feet.
He asked my name, I held my breath!
I couldn't speak because he scared me half to death!

Buzz, buzz, buzz went the buzzer!
Plop, plop, plop went the wheels!
Stop, stop, stop went my heartstrings!
As he started to go
Then I started to know how it feels --
When the universe reels!

CHORUS:

(SINGS)
The day was bright, the air was sweet.
The smell of honeysuckle charmed her off her feet.
She tried to sing, but couldn't squeak.
In fact, she loved him so, she couldn't even speak!

ESTHER:

(SINGS)
Buzz, buzz, buzz went the buzzer!
Plop, plop, plop went the wheels!
Stop, stop, stop went my heartstrings!
As he started to leave,
I took hold of his sleeve
With my hand!
And, as if it were planned,
He stayed on with me
And
It was grand
Just to stand
With his hand
Holding mine --
Till the end of the line!

MFX: TO A FINISH

SFX:

APPLAUSE

MFX:

FOR HALLOWEEN .. THEN IN BG, OUT AT [X]

KEIGHLEY:

It's a few weeks later now -- Halloween. And, at the Smith home, disguised in sagging pants, a long red nose, and bristling moustaches, Miss Tootie Smith is about to brave the thrills and terrors of this ghost-ridden night. [X]

TOOTIE:

(INTENSE) And wait'll you see what I do to Mr. Braukoff. Do you know what Mr. Braukoff does, Esther?

ESTHER:

Minds his own business, as far as I know.

TOOTIE:

He buys meat and poison! And then he puts it all together and kills cats -- thousands of cats! And when he's not killing cats, he beats his wife with a red-hot poker! ...

ESTHER:

Tsk, tsk, tsk. My goodness!

TOOTIE:

Glennie Travis told me.

ROSE:

Are you going out with Glennie and the rest of those ragamuffins?

TOOTIE:

They're all down at the corner! They got a big red bonfire. That's so the banshees will know where to come! I'm gonna go and--

ANNA:

(APPROACHES, FEIGNING TERROR FOR TOOTIE'S BENEFIT) Oh! Oh dear! Oh, my!

TOOTIE:

Oh, don't be afraid, mama! It's only me.

ANNA:

Oh! Oh, why, I thought some horrible ghost had come into the house.

TOOTIE:

Oh, I'm horrible all right! I was murdered last week in a den o' thieves.

BIZ:

LADIES REACT IN MOCK HORROR

GRANDPA:

(APPROACHES) And here it is, Tootie. Here's your [bag of] flour!

TOOTIE:

Thanks, Grandpa!

GRANDPA:

You wouldn't catch me out on a night like this for a million dollars!

TOOTIE:

Well, why not?

GRANDPA:

Too many terrible spirits roaming around.

TOOTIE:

Grandpa!

ESTHER:

Oh, go on, Tootie -- it's Halloween.

TOOTIE:

I just hope I get back to my bed and board all right.

GRANDPA:

(CONFIDENTIALLY, TO TOOTIE) If you wet the flour before you throw it, it's harder for the victims to get it off!

TOOTIE:

Well, goodbye! Goodbye, everybody! (FADES OUT)

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE

BIZ:

FADE IN CHATTER OF EXCITED CHILDREN

GLENNIE:

Well, all right, everybody, I guess we're all already to go!

BIZ:

CHILDREN AD LIB ("I'M READY!", "YEAH, LET'S GO!")

TOOTIE:

Mrs. Wilkins said she'd leave her hammock on the front porch. And would the children please bring it back after they're through stealing it?

GLENNIE:

Maybe we will and maybe we won't! Anyway, you ain't coming!

TOOTIE:

Why not?

1ST KID:

'Cause you're too little, Tootie.

2ND KID:

Hey, who's gonna take the Braukoffs' house?

3RD KID:

Not me!

1ST KID:

Mr. Braukoff's got a great big beard!

2ND KID:

And a great big bulldog!

TOOTIE:

And he poisons cats and beats his wife with--

GLENNIE:

Aw, Tootie, why don't you go home?

2ND KID:

Well, somebody's gotta take the Braukoffs.

TOOTIE:

I'll take 'em! I'll take the Braukoffs!

BIZ:

CHILDREN AD LIB, JEER AT TOOTIE

GLENNIE:

Why don't you go on home till ya grow up?

TOOTIE:

I won't go home! I won't! I'm gonna take the Braukoffs! I'll torture 'em good and pull their roof down!

1ST KID:

Well, ya got some flour?

TOOTIE:

(SUDDENLY NERVOUS) Y-yes.

3RD KID:

Just remember if ya don't hit Mr. Braukoff in the face with flour and say "I hate ya!", the banshees will haunt ya forever!

TOOTIE:

They - they will?

2ND KID:

Well, whaddya think?

TOOTIE:

Well, here I go.

GLENNIE:

And come back when your mission is over! We'll be meeting here around the fiery furnace. (FADES OUT)

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE ... THEN FADE IN TOOTIE'S FOOTSTEPS TRUDGING TOWARD THE BRAUKOFF HOUSE ... DOG BARKS, IN BG

TOOTIE:

(TO HERSELF) Oh, Lordy! I sure wish Esther was here!

SFX:

TOOTIE'S FOOTSTEPS ONTO THE BRAUKOFFS' PORCH ... SHE RINGS DOOR BELL AND STEPS BACK ... DOG BARKS FROM BEHIND FRONT DOOR

TOOTIE:

(TERRIFIED, TO HERSELF) I can't do it, I can't! I'm too scared!

SFX:

FRONT DOOR OPENS

MR. BRAUKOFF:

(DELIBERATELY GRUFF AND SCARY) Well, what do you want?! Don't try to run away!

TOOTIE:

(STAMMERS) Y-yes, Mr. Braukoff.

MR. BRAUKOFF:

Did you ring my doorbell, ghost?!

TOOTIE:

Y-yes, sir.

MR. BRAUKOFF:

Well, go on! Throw the flour on me!

TOOTIE:

A-a-all right.

MR. BRAUKOFF:

Some more! On my beard!

TOOTIE:

Y-yes, sir.

MR. BRAUKOFF:

Now say it! Say it!

TOOTIE:

I - I hate you, Mr. Braukoff.

MR. BRAUKOFF:

(SUDDENLY PLEASANT AND NORMAL) That's fine, Tootie. Good night, dear. ...

TOOTIE:

(HAPPILY, TO HERSELF) I'm the most horrible! I'm the most horrible of everybody!

MFX:

TYMPANI ROLL, FOR PUNCTUATION ... THEN OMINOUS, IN BG

SFX:

SMITHS' MECHANICAL DOOR BELL RINGS ... (VICTORIAN "TURN BELL")

ESTHER:

(APPROACHES) Is that you Tootie? I'm coming!

SFX:

SMITHS' FRONT DOOR OPENS

ESTHER:

Well, did you have a nice--? (SURPRISED) Why, Glennie!

GLENNIE:

(DISTRAUGHT) Esther, you better come quick! Somethin' happened to Tootie!

ESTHER:

What are you talking about?

GLENNIE:

Down by the trolley! She got hurt, Esther! She's bleedin' like anything!

ESTHER:

(GASPS) Oh!

MFX:

UP FOR A BRIEF BRIDGE ... THEN OUT BEHIND--

TOOTIE:

(WEEPS, CONTINUES IN BG)

ANNA:

Esther, did you get papa on the telephone?

ESTHER:

No, mama, they said he just left.

ROSE:

It's Tootie's lip, mama -- it's all cut.

ANNA:

Oh, good heavens.

GRANDPA:

And a tooth knocked out.

ESTHER:

Oh, Katie, another compress. (SOOTHING, TO TOOTIE) There, there darling, everything's going to be fine.

TOOTIE:

(THROUGH SOBS) He tried to kill me.

ANNA:

Why, Tootie!

ESTHER:

She must mean the streetcar. I think it hit her.

TOOTIE:

It wasn't the streetcar! It - it was John Truett.

BIZ:

THE FAMILY REACTS ("OH, NO!" "JOHN TRUETT?!")

ESTHER:

(DISBELIEF) John Truett?

TOOTIE:

He was going to kill me. That's how I got hurt. When I screamed, he ran away.

ESTHER:

(ADMONISHES) Why, Tootie Smith, that's a monstrous falsehood.

GRANDPA:

Now, wait a minute. Tootie, what's that in your hand?

ROSE:

Why - why, it's some strands of hair.

GRANDPA:

Yes, and I don't think it's Tootie's.

TOOTIE:

I yanked it out of his head. He tried to kill me!

ESTHER:

Brown hair?! (REALIZES) John Truett has brown hair. Excuse me. (FADES OUT)

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE

JOHN:

(FADES IN) Oh, is that you, Esther? Oh, hello, Esther.

ESTHER:

(MAD) John Truett!

JOHN:

Yes?

SFX:

ESTHER SLAPS JOHN IN THE FACE

JOHN:

Hey, wait a minute!

ESTHER:

(WITH EFFORT) I've come here to ask you something!

SFX:

ANOTHER SLAP

JOHN:

Hey! Cut it out, Esther!

SFX:

SLAP

ESTHER:

The next time you pick on somebody--!

SFX:

SLAP

JOHN:

Hey! Cut it out!

SFX:

SLAP

ESTHER:

--pick on somebody your own size! What do you mean hitting a seven-year old child?!

SFX:

SLAP

JOHN:

Esther!

SFX:

SLAP

ESTHER:

If there's anything I hate, loathe, despise and abominate, it's a BULLY!

SFX:

A FINAL PUNCH

MFX:

BRIEF BRIDGE

TOOTIE:

I want to sleep in Esther's bed, mama.

ANNA:

Of course, darling. Ohh, I hate to think what your father's going to say when he hears about this. He may even strike that Truett boy.

ESTHER:

(APPROACHES, BREATHLESS) He won't have to, mama; I just took care of him!

TOOTIE:

(SINGS, A CAPELLA)
I was drunk last night, dear Mother.
I was drunk the night before.

ROSE:

Esther, your dress!

ESTHER:

(STILL BREATHLESS) Oh, that must have happened when he was trying to hold me off. I bit him!

TOOTIE:

I bit him, too!

GRANDPA:

(APPROACHES) Did you, Tootie? That's not what Tommy Burkheimer says. I've just been talking to him.

TOOTIE:

(EXCITED) Did the trolley go off the tracks, Grandpa?

GRANDPA:

No, but the cable came off when the motorman put on the brakes so fast. At least, that's what Tommy tells me.

ESTHER:

What are you talking about?

GRANDPA:

It seems the kids had found an old suit of clothes so they stuffed it with straw and somebody put it on the trolley tracks.

TOOTIE:

We thought the car'd go off the tracks.

ROSE:

Tootie Smith! Why, you're nothing less than a murderess! You might have killed dozens of people!

TOOTIE:

(WITH DISDAIN) Oh, Rose, you're so stuck up! ...

ESTHER:

Tootie?! How did you get that lip? How?

TOOTIE:

Because John Truett butted in! He dragged me up an alley so the policeman wouldn't get me. (CONTEMPTUOUS) Huh! As though policemen ever pay attention to girls! But I yanked his hair out and got away! Then I fell down and cut my lip.

ESTHER:

Ohh, what I'm going to do to you--!

ROSE:

Oh, Est, leave her alone. (LAUGHS)

ESTHER:

(LAUGHS IN SPITE OF HERSELF) Well, what's so funny? Tootie, honestly, you're the most deceitful, sinful, little creature I've ever seen and for two cents, I'd-- (STOPS LAUGHING, REALIZES) Merciful heavens! John!

MFX:

BRIEF BRIDGE

SFX:

ESTHER'S FOOTSTEPS RUSH UP TO TRUETT'S DOOR ... MECHANICAL DOOR BELL RINGS ... DOOR OPENS

JOHN:

Oh, no, Esther, not again! Please!

SFX:

DOOR CLOSES BEHIND--

ESTHER:

(CONTRITE) Oh, John-- John there's been a terrible mistake!

JOHN:

There has?

ESTHER:

Oh, yes, you see, I-- (NOTICES HIS INJURIES) Ohhhh, did I do that?

JOHN:

(AFFIRMATIVE) Black eye. And this. And this. (CHUCKLE) And this.

ESTHER:

Oh, I'm terribly sorry.

JOHN:

Oh, that's all right. How's Tootie?

ESTHER:

(CHUCKLES) She'll live. Oh, John, it's - it's awfully nice of you to accept my apology.

JOHN:

Well, if you're not busy tomorrow night, could you beat me up again?

ESTHER:

(CHUCKLES) Yeah, well-- (CLEARS THROAT) ... I - I guess I better be getting home.

MFX:

SNEAKS IN ... ROMANTIC ... "THE BOY NEXT DOOR"

JOHN:

Oh, er, before you go. Would you mind helping me turn out the lights? I'm afraid of mice.

ESTHER:

(CHUCKLES) Looks like most of the lights are out.

JOHN:

Wouldn't take a minute to turn 'em on again.

ESTHER:

Well, wouldn't that be, kind of, wasting a minute?

JOHN:

Yeah. Yeah, I guess it would, Esther.

BIZ:

THEY KISS

ESTHER:

(BREATHLESS) You know, you've got a mighty strong grip for a boy.

MFX:

FILLS A PAUSE ... THEN FADES OUT

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE

ANNA:

(FADES IN) If I ever catch you fibbing again, Tootie, I'll give you something that you'll--

SFX:

DOOR SLAMS AS ESTHER ENTERS

ANNA:

Oh, Esther dear, I hope-- Why, Esther! Is there something wrong?

ESTHER:

(IN A DAZE) Yes, mama.

TOOTIE:

(IMPISHLY) Roses are red, and John's name is Truett.
Esther's in love and we always knew it!

ESTHER:

Oh, mama, can't you make Tootie stop?

ALONZO:

(APPROACHES, LIGHTLY) This where the Smith family lives?

GRANDPA:

Why, hello! Come on in!

ALONZO:

Hello.

TOOTIE:

(EXCITED) Oh, hello, papa! I almost got killed! We stopped the trolley! And I lost my tooth! And Esther beat John Truett! And--

ALONZO:

(CONCERNED) Anna?!

ANNA:

(CALMLY) Tootie fell, dear, and cut her lip. She's fine.

ALONZO:

Oh. That's a brave little girl, Tootie. Oh, er, Anna? For you.

ANNA:

Why, Alonzo! What a lovely box of candy! Is anything wrong? ...

ALONZO:

(SIGHS) Anna, the firm is sending me to New York.

ANNA:

Well, that's lovely, dear! Just as long as you'll be home for Thanksgiving.

ALONZO:

No, you don't understand. I'm to head the office there. We're moving to New York.

ROSE:

Moving?

ESTHER:

To New York?

ANNA:

Why, I don't believe it! Well, I simply don't believe it.

ALONZO:

Why, Anna, I thought you'd be overjoyed.

ANNA:

But New York is such a big city and-- Well, what'll the children do?!

ALONZO:

The same as they do here -- go to school, play, have their friends over.

ANNA:

What friends, Alonzo?

ESTHER:

Yes. What friends?

ALONZO:

The friends they'll meet in New York.

ANNA:

And Tootie just ready to be promoted, and Esther a senior--

ESTHER:

I've worked all my life to be a senior.

ANNA:

And Rose and the conservatory of music!

ROSE:

Yes! What about me and my life?

ALONZO:

(DRYLY) You can take that with you. (FIRM) It's settled! We're going!

ANNA:

Well, I must say, you're being very cold-blooded.

ALONZO:

Well, I've got our future to think about! I've got to worry about where the money's coming from! With Lon in Princeton and Rose in music school, and Tootie--

ESTHER:

Money! I hate, loathe, despise and abominate money!

ALONZO:

(WRY) You also spend it. ...

ANNA:

And what about Katie? And Grandpa? And the chickens? Not that we have many left.

ALONZO:

That's a minor detail we can discuss later.

GRANDPA:

So, I'm a minor detail, am I?

ALONZO:

You know very well, papa, I was talking about the chickens.

ANNA:

(TEARFUL, IRONIC) Oh, never mind what happens to your family -- as long as the chickens are provided for.

ALONZO:

(SOOTHING) Now, now, now. I guess we're all a little excited. We'll talk this over calmly tomorrow. (FORCIBLY CHANGES THE SUBJECT) Well, what's this? Hickory nut cake! As only Katie can make it!

ESTHER:

(QUIETLY ANGUISHED) I can't go to New York! I simply can't.

TOOTIE:

I'm taking my cat. Winona goes wherever I go.

KATIE:

(APPROACHES) Where'll you keep her, cooped up in a tenement?

ALONZO:

Oh, good evening, Katie.

KATIE:

Couldn't help overhearin'.

TOOTIE:

Don't they have houses in New York?

ESTHER:

Rich people have houses. People like us live in flats! Thousands of people in one building!

ROSE:

And what about the World's Fair?

ESTHER:

Yes! Just when St. Louis is going to be the center of attraction of the entire universe!

ALONZO:

(PLEASANTLY) Katie, this cake is as light as a feather.

KATIE:

You can bake anything in our stove! They got little box stoves in them tenements!

ALONZO:

(CLEARS THROAT) Pass your plates, everybody! Have some cake.

GRANDPA:

(SOUR, MOVING OFF) Thanks. I guess I got some things to do. Excuse me.

ROSE:

(COOL, MOVING OFF) Are you going up, too, Grandpa?

ESTHER:

(TEARFUL, MOVING OFF) I - I'll help Katie with the ice cream dishes, mama.

TOOTIE:

(MOVING OFF) Me, too. As long as we're moving, it won't matter if I break some!

ALONZO:

(SIGHS) Aren't you afraid, Anna? Alone in this room with a - a criminal?

ANNA:

Now, dear, if you think it's best to move to New York, why-- Why, that's what we'll do.

MFX:

ANNA PLAYS THE PIANO ... "YOU AND I" ... CONTINUES IN BG

ANNA:

Eat your cake, Alonzo.

ALONZO:

(MOVED) Ah, it's good to hear you play, Anna. My, that's a nice song. Remember when I used to sing it?

ANNA:

Yes.

ALONZO:

(CLEARS THROAT, SINGS)
[You and I,
Together forever,
You and I.

Through the years]
Of dark and fair weather,
You and I.

From my heart, a song of love beseeching.
Just for you, my longing arms are reaching.

Time goes by
But we'll be together
You and I.

MUSIC:

SONG ABOVE OVERLAPS WITH DIALOGUE BELOW

ESTHER:

(MOVED) Papa, that's - that's just lovely. Tootie and I-- Well, I - I guess we'll have some cake after all.

TOOTIE:

I want the piece with the rose petals.

GRANDPA:

Mighty nice song. Mighty nice. Rose and I-- Well, there's nothing like good music and a piece of hickory cake.

ROSE:

No, sir. (CHUCKLES)

MUSIC:

ALONZO FINISHES SONG ... PIANO OUT AS ORCHESTRA PICKS UP MELODY AND CONTINUES IN BG

ESTHER:

And, you know, I'll bet New York is - is going to be just - just fine!

MFX:

"YOU AND I" ... UP, TO A FINISH

SFX:

APPLAUSE

ANNOUNCER:

We pause now for station identification. This is CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System.

MFX:

FILLS THE PAUSE ... THEN OUT

KEIGHLEY:

Act Three of "Meet Me in St. Louis," starring Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien, and Tom Drake will follow in a moment. Our guest tonight -- blonde, blue-eyed Lola Deem -- came to Hollywood from Akron, Ohio, by way of Chicago. When M-G-M saw the screen test she made there, they lost no time in getting her to the coast. I understand you're studying hard, Lola.

LOLA:

I am, Mr. Keighley. But I'm having fun, too.

KEIGHLEY:

Such as?

LOLA:

Ohh, watching pictures being made. And seeing as many previews at the studio as is possible. That's where I saw "The Yearling," Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's new Technicolor picture, which people are talking about for the Academy Award.

KEIGHLEY:

Mm, a superb example of fine acting and photography.

LOLA:

And how I envy Jane Wyman in her role opposite Gregory Peck.

KEIGHLEY:

Oh ho, a Gregory Peck fan, eh?

LOLA:

(CHUCKLES) Mm, who isn't? And Claude Jarman, Jr. is so appealing as Jody, with his pet fawn.

KEIGHLEY:

Well, it's often the details that count in making a successful picture, Lola. For instance, the company spent months in Florida to make each sequence in "The Yearling" true-to-life. Tell me, Lola, do you have any special rule for success?

LOLA:

Yes, Mr. Keighley. To profit by experience. And I'm doing that right now.

KEIGHLEY:

How is that, Lola?

LOLA:

Well, when I was working as a radio receptionist back east, I found that good grooming was important. So, naturally, I used Lux Flakes. You see, I was on a budget, and I saved a lot by wearing blouses and sweaters I could Lux myself. They always looked wonderful.

ANNOUNCER:

Hollywood studios feel much the same way about Lux, Miss Deem. They've discovered, by actual experience, how safe it is for colors. So they make it a rule to use Lux Flakes for everything washable.

LOLA: Well, I do, too. But I wish I could find more Lux than the Hollywood stars.

ANNOUNCER:

Well, the materials they need to make Lux are scarce. But it's wise to keep on trying. Smart girls like yourself don't risk spoiling nice things with a strong soap because they know washing things the wrong way can fade colors easily. Tests on all sorts of fabrics prove that! There's no doubt about it -- Luxed things do stay smart longer! Thank you for coming tonight, Miss Lola Deem. We return you now to William Keighley.

KEIGHLEY:

Act Three of "Meet Me in St. Louis," starring Judy Garland as Esther, Margaret O'Brien as Tootie, and Tom Drake as John.

MFX:

FOR AN INTRODUCTION ... "MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS" ... THEN IN BG, OUT AT [X]

KEIGHLEY:

It's the day before Christmas, a week before the family moves to New York, and five hours before the annual Christmas ball at the women's club. And Alonzo Smith, Jr., home from Princeton for the holidays, has a problem. [X]

ESTHER:

(CHUCKLES) Oh, Lonny! You needn't be so grouchy just because Lucille Ballard doesn't think you're good enough to take her to the dance tonight.

LONNY:

(DEFENSIVE) A girl has a right to go to a dance with anyone she wants! I - I just didn't ask her soon enough.

ROSE:

(SNIDE) Everyone knows Miss Ballard is just an Eastern snob.

LONNY:

Well, you're in a fine mood! All because Warren Sheffield asked her instead of you.

ESTHER:

That's not true! Rose could've had any man she wanted!

LONNY:

Except Warren Sheffield.

ESTHER:

Everyone knows that Lucille Ballard is just throwing herself at Warren because of his father's money.

KATIE:

(APPROACHES) Now, that's what I call real Christmas spirit.

LONNY:

Now, just a minute, Katie--

KATIE:

Didn't it ever occur to you that you might take your sister to the dance?

ROSE:

My own brother? I'd be the laughing stock of St. Louis.

LONNY:

(DRYLY) Well, thank you.

ESTHER:

Oh, Katie's absolutely right! Oh, Lon, it's our last dance in St. Louis and it'd be tragic if either of you missed it.

ROSE:

It's all right for you to talk. You have a date -- a real one!

ESTHER:

Well, Rose, if I didn't have a date with John Truett -- which I have -- I'd be thrilled to go with my own brother.

LONNY:

Well, I'd be willing, Rose. I mean, I'd be glad to.

ROSE:

You would?

ESTHER:

Why, you two will have the best time of anybody! You won't even have to be polite to each other! ...

MFX:

BRIEF BRIDGE

ROSE:

Now, hurry, Est -- it's half-past seven!

ESTHER:

(GASPS FOR AIR, CONTINUES TO WHEEZE IN BG)

ROSE:

Oh, Est, you look grand -- simply grand! That corset makes your figure just elegant!

ESTHER:

(BREATHLESS) Ooh. I feel elegant. But I can't breathe!

ROSE:

But if we're going to wreck Lucille Ballard's evening we definitely need every ounce of allure.

ESTHER:

Rose, don't you think I could be alluring without a corset?

ROSE:

No, Esther, I don't. After all, you're competing with an Eastern girl. We'll have to monopolize all the worthwhile men.

ESTHER:

Well, there'll only be about twenty boys worth looking at. We could certainly handle twenty men.

ROSE:

But what about John Truett?

ESTHER:

(ARCH) Oh, I'll devote myself to John. But, in between times, I'm going to make my presence felt amongst the others.

SFX:

BEDROOM DOOR OPENS

TOOTIE:

(APPROACHES) Oh, Esther?

ESTHER:

What is it, Tootie?

TOOTIE:

Somebody at the back door to see you.

ESTHER:

Who?

TOOTIE:

(GIGGLES) Gosh, do you look funny!

ROSE:

(ADMONISHES) Tootie.

TOOTIE:

Rose, could I please wear a corset, too?

ROSE:

Now, Tootie--

ESTHER:

Who's at the back door?

TOOTIE:

Oh, somebody that looks like John Truett.

ROSE:

Oh! Oh, Rose, give me my kimono. (MOVING OFF) I wonder what he could want.

TOOTIE:

What're you giving me for Christmas, Rose?

ROSE:

You'll find out tomorrow.

TOOTIE:

I certainly hope it's a hunting knife! (MOVING OFF) Nothing I need worse than a good hunting knife!

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE

ESTHER:

(FADES IN) Why, John! Wha--? Come on in.

SFX:

BACK DOOR CLOSES

JOHN:

Est. I've got some bad news. My - my tuxedo.

ESTHER:

Well, what about it?

JOHN:

It's at the tailor's. You see, I was playing basketball and when I got there it was closed.

ESTHER:

But can't you borrow one?

JOHN:

I've tried, but everybody who's got one is going to the ball.

ESTHER:

What about your father's?

JOHN:

That was my father's.

ESTHER:

(DISTRESSED) Well, then, find the tailor and make him open the shop.

JOHN:

Well, I know his name is Johnson, but I don't know where he lives.

ESTHER:

Well, this is simply ghastly.

JOHN:

Aw, Est, I wouldn't blame you if you never spoke to me again.

ESTHER:

(REASSURING) Oh, you - you didn't do it on purpose.

JOHN:

I guess there's nothing else I can say. Unless you want to do something else tonight.

ESTHER:

No, I - I better just stay home and do some packing. (TEARFUL) You know, we're leaving St. Louis in a few days.

JOHN:

I know. And this is a fine going-away present I'm giving you. I'll bet you really hate me.

ESTHER:

Oh, no, John, I don't hate you. (CRYING) I just hate basketball! (FADES OUT)

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE ... FADE IN ON--

ESTHER:

(WEEPS)

ROSE:

Isn't it simply awful, Esther?

ESTHER:

I wish I were dead, that's all!

ROSE:

Well, there's only one thing to do. Lon will have to take both of us!

ESTHER:

You don't think I'm going to the smartest ball of the season with my own brother do you?! ...

ROSE:

Well, I like that. You wanted me to go with him.

ESTHER:

You didn't have a date!

ROSE:

But I can't handle twenty men alone -- I admit it.

ESTHER:

Did you ever stop to think of what people would say?

SFX:

KNOCK AT DOOR

GRANDPA:

(FROM BEHIND DOOR) May I come in?

ROSE:

(CALLS) Come in, Grandpa.

SFX:

BEDROOM DOOR OPENS

GRANDPA:

You know, the man that built this house cheated your father -- the walls are thin as paper.

ESTHER:

(SOBS) Ohh, Grandpa.

GRANDPA:

(SOOTHING) Now, now, now. Esther, it's a funny thing. I took my tuxedo out of the mothballs only yesterday. Looked pretty good, too. That suit of mine does the greatest one-step y'ever saw.

ESTHER:

(STOPS SOBBING) Grandpa--? Are you actually--?

ANNA:

(APPROACHES) Esther, what's this Tootie says about your not going to the dance?

ESTHER:

Who says I'm not going?! Of course I'm going. With the handsomest man in town!

GRANDPA:

(GALLANTLY) Madam, I'll pick you up at eight.

MFX:

BRIEF BRIDGE ... "THE BOY NEXT DOOR" PLAYED BY DANCE ORCHESTRA AT THE BALL ... CONTINUES IN BG

JOHN:

(APPROACHES) Esther! Esther! I'm here! I made it.

ESTHER:

(OVERJOYED) John!

JOHN:

Oh, gosh, Est! I didn't find Mr. Johnson until twenty minutes of ten. But he opened up the shop. And, well, here I am.

ESTHER:

(HAPPY TEARS) Oh, John, so much has happened and I'm so glad. If I'm crying, it's just because everything's turned out so simply divinely and it's Christmas almost and--

JOHN:

But what's happened?

ESTHER:

Don't - don't you see them dancing? Rose and Warren Sheffield! Miss Ballard's a simply charming girl, even if she is an Easterner. She said, "We're all grown up, aren't we? And since all Warren talks about is Rose -- my goodness -- why doesn't he fill her dance card?"

JOHN:

Who's Lucille dancin' with?

ESTHER:

Oh, Lonny, of course! Oh, she's terribly fond of him -- it's really so obvious. And now you're here. Oh, John, I've never been so happy in my life!

JOHN:

Esther--? Could we--? Could we go outside for a minute? I want to talk to you.

ESTHER:

Well, of course, John. If you'd like.

MFX:

UP, FOR A BRIDGE ... "THE BOY NEXT DOOR" ... THEN IN BG

ESTHER:

(SOBS SOFTLY, IN BG)

JOHN:

Oh, I wouldn't have said it, Esther, if I thought it would make you cry again. A-are you sure you're warm enough?

ESTHER:

(THROUGH SOBS) Uh-huh. Oh, I've imagined you saying it thousands of times and I always planned exactly how I'd act. I never planned to cry!

JOHN:

Well, at least you didn't laugh.

ESTHER:

(NEVER OCCURRED TO HER) Laugh?

JOHN:

I guess I never asked a girl to marry me before. I guess maybe I was kind of-- Well--

ESTHER:

Oh, John, no one could've done it more beautifully. I'm very proud.

JOHN:

Esther, will you? Oh, will you, Esther?

ESTHER:

Of course I will, John!

JOHN:

Oh, gosh! Do you realize I might have lost you? A few more days and you would've been gone.

ESTHER:

We might never have seen each other again.

JOHN:

And now we're engaged! Esther, let's go home and tell your folks right now.

ESTHER:

Oh, no, er-- Not tonight. I - I'd rather just the two of us knew about it tonight.

JOHN:

Now, we're not gonna let them talk us out of it! After all, we are of age! Well, practically.

ESTHER:

John, even if I did go to New York, we could still work something out -- somehow. Couldn't we, John?

SFX:

CLOCK BEGINS TO CHIME, IN BG

ESTHER:

Merry Christmas, John.

JOHN:

Merry Christmas, Esther.

SFX:

CLOCK CHIMES FADE OUT

MFX:

"THE BOY NEXT DOOR" ... UP, FOR PUNCTUATION ... THEN FADES OUT

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE

TOOTIE:

(FADES IN) Could I come into bed with you, Esther?

ESTHER:

Of course, darling. Come on now, cover up.

TOOTIE:

You weren't asleep either, were you?

ESTHER:

(NO) Mm-mm. I've just been lying here, thinking.

TOOTIE:

Was the dancing nice?

ESTHER:

Wonderful.

TOOTIE:

I've been watching -- the moon's so bright -- but I haven't seen anything. Did he come?

ESTHER:

Did who come?

TOOTIE:

Santa Claus!

ESTHER:

(CHUCKLES) Now, you know he's not going to come till you're fast asleep.

TOOTIE:

Then sing to me, Esther. Sing to me till I'm asleep.

MFX:

SNEAKS IN ... "HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS"

ESTHER:

All right. What kind of song, darling?

TOOTIE:

A Christmas song.

ESTHER:

(SINGS)
Have yourself a merry little Christmas, let your heart be light.
Next year all our troubles will be out of sight.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas, make the yuletide gay.
Next year all our troubles will be miles away.

Once again, as in olden days, happy golden days of yore,
Faithful friends who were dear to us will be near to us once more.

Someday soon, we all will be together, if the fates allow.
Until then, we'll have to muddle through somehow.
So have yourself a merry little Christmas now.

MFX:

TO A FINISH

ESTHER:

Tootie, you're still awake.

TOOTIE:

(UPSET) I can't go to sleep, I can't! Oh, Esther, how will Santa Claus know where to find us next year? We'll be in New York.

ESTHER:

Aw, you can't fool him! He can find anybody he wants to find.

TOOTIE:

If he brings me any toys, I'm taking them with me! I'm taking my dolls -- and the dead ones, too! ... I'm taking everything!

ESTHER:

Of course you are. You won't have to leave anything behind -- except your snowmen, of course.

TOOTIE:

My snowmen!

ESTHER:

We'd look pretty silly trying to get the snowmen on the train, now wouldn't we?

TOOTIE:

(DISTRESSED) Snowmen! My snowmen.

ESTHER:

Tootie, come back here.

TOOTIE:

My poor little snowmen! What's going to happen to them? (MOVING OFF, HYSTERICAL) Snowmen! Snowmen!

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE ... THEN FADE IN ON--

TOOTIE:

(CRYING, CONTINUES IN BG)

ESTHER:

(SOOTHING) Tootie darling, it's all right. It's all right.

ALONZO:

(QUIETLY WORRIED) But what on earth happened, Esther? What was Tootie doing in the backyard?

ESTHER:

She just ran out, papa, and started to smash all her snowmen.

TOOTIE:

(THROUGH SOBS) Nobody's gonna have my snowmen! Not if we're moving to New York!

ESTHER:

Oh, don't cry, darling! You can build other snowmen in New York.

TOOTIE:

No, you can't! You can't do anything in New York like you can in St. Louis! (CONTINUES TO SOB IN BG)

ALONZO:

You sure she'll be all right?

ESTHER:

Yes, papa, you go back to bed. I'll take care of her.

ALONZO:

Well -- good night, Esther.

ESTHER:

Good night.

MFX:

SNEAKS IN ... "HAVE YOURSELF A MERRY LITTLE CHRISTMAS"

ESTHER:

Oh, Tootie darling, New York's a wonderful place! Wait till you see the fine home we're going to have, and the friends we're going to make. (EMOTIONAL) But the main thing, Tootie, is -- we're all going to be together just like we've always been! That's what really counts. We could be happy anywhere -- as long as we're together!

TOOTIE:

(SOBS, THEN OUT BEHIND--)

MFX:

FADES OUT

ALONZO:

(CALLS LOUDLY) Anna?! Anna, wake up! Rose?! Grandpa, Lonny?! Everybody get up! Esther, Tootie! Come on, all of you! Come on downstairs!

BIZ:

THE FAMILY MURMURS IN BG ... AD-LIBS "WHAT'S THE MATTER, PAPA?" "WHAT'S GOING ON?" ET CETERA

ESTHER:

Papa? Papa, what's wrong?

ALONZO:

Everything's wrong! Anna, where are you?! Grandpa, come downstairs this minute! Now, everybody get in here and sit down!

ANNA:

There's nothing to sit on, Alonzo. Nothing but packing boxes.

ALONZO:

Then come into the dining room! I've got a few words to say to this family!

ANNA:

Well, what is it, for heaven's sake?

BIZ:

THE FAMILY QUIETS

ALONZO:

Well -- we are not moving to New York!

BIZ:

THE FAMILY AD LIBS RELIEF

ALONZO: And I don't want to hear a word about it! We're going to stay right here in St. Louis till we rot!

ANNA:

We haven't rotted yet, Alonzo.

ESTHER:

But what'll you say to the firm, papa? To Mr. Fenton?

ALONZO:

That I've changed my mind. I'm a junior partner -- not a puppet on a string!

ANNA:

But New York, Alonzo-- You - you did think it was a fine opportunity, didn't you?

ALONZO:

(QUIETLY) Well, I - I was looking forward to going, yes. But, after all these weeks, watching my family's hearts breaking and - and then Tootie a little while ago and--

TOOTIE:

(STARTS CRYING AGAIN BRIEFLY)

ALONZO:

(DEFENSIVE) Well, New York hasn't got a copyright on opportunity! The trouble with you people is you don't appreciate St. Louis because it's right here under your noses!

SFX:

PHONE RINGS

ALONZO:

(SHARPLY) I'll take that!

SFX:

PHONE PICKED UP

ALONZO:

(ANGRY) Hello?!

WARREN:

(FILTER) Is this you, Rose? Oh, I mean--

ALONZO:

(YELLS) Do I sound like Rose?!

WARREN:

(FILTER, ALSO YELLS) Well, then get her to the phone! Wake her up or something!

ALONZO:

(ROARS) Now just a minute, young man! Who do you think you're talking to?!

ROSE:

(PLEADS) Papa, papa, please let me take it. (BEAT, INTO PHONE) Hello?

WARREN:

(FILTER, PROCLAIMS) Rose Smith, I haven't slept a wink since I took you home from the dance and I won't go on like this any longer!

ROSE:

(TAKEN ABACK) Warren!

WARREN:

(INTENSE) We're going to get married and I don't want to hear any arguments! Now, that's final! (REMEMBERS TO ADD) Oh! I LOVE YOU!

ROSE:

Warren--?

SFX:

WARREN HANGS UP

GRANDPA:

What's he saying?

ROSE:

(ECSTATIC) Warren!

ALONZO:

(EXASPERATED) Anna, who is that boy?! Do you know?!

ANNA:

(CALMLY) Alonzo, he's a very fine young man. Now, we'll talk about it later.

ESTHER:

(DELIGHTED) Oh, Rose darling, you handled the whole thing magnificently! He's just putty in your hands! ...

ALONZO:

(CLEARS THROAT, DRYLY) Well, I hope you'll be very happy, Rose. And sometime, if you can arrange it, I'd like to meet that young fellow.

ROSE:

(HAPPY) Oh, papa! Mama!

TOOTIE:

If Rose is gonna get married, maybe we better open up her Christmas presents now!

BIZ:

THE FAMILY CHUCKLES

ESTHER:

You little faker! It's your presents you're after.

TOOTIE:

(EXCITED) He's been here -- Santa Claus!

ALONZO:

Well, of course -- in the living room! (CHUCKLES MERRILY)

ANNA:

Oh, good heavens! It's Christmas morning!

BIZ:

THE FAMILY AD-LIBS HAPPILY ... ("IT IS!" "MERRY CHRISTMAS!")

ESTHER:

You've given us the nicest Christmas anybody could ask for! We're staying in St. Louis!

MFX:

BRIEF HAPPY BRIDGE

SFX:

HORSE WALKS DOWN A COBBLESTONE STREET PULLING WAGON

TOOTIE:

Good morning, Mr. Costello.

MR. COSTELLO:

Morning, Tootie! Gonna help me deliver ice today?

TOOTIE:

Today? Do you know what today is?

MR. COSTELLO:

Sure do! First day of May, nineteen-aught-four!

TOOTIE:

It's Fair Day, Mr. Costello! Today's the day the World's Fair opens! My family's going! And papa says we're not coming home till they throw us out!

MR. COSTELLO:

Is that a fact? Well-- Giddyup, Beatrice!

TOOTIE:

But don't you worry! (MOVING OFF) I'll help you deliver ice tomorrow!

SFX:

TRANSITIONAL PAUSE ... THEN FADE IN ON WORLD'S FAIR BACKGROUND OF NOISY CROWD AND CALLIOPE MUSIC

ESTHER:

Oh, John, it's eight o'clock! We promised to meet the family for dinner at the French Pavilion.

JOHN:

Oh, we'll be there, Esther. I just didn't want you to miss this.

ESTHER:

Miss what, John?

JOHN:

The electric lights! Look, Est -- they're turning them on!

ESTHER:

Ohh!

JOHN:

Here they come.

ESTHER:

(GASPS, IN AWE) Ohh!

BIZ:

THE CROWD GASPS ("OOH!" "AHH!")

ESTHER:

John, it - it - it's just breathtaking! I never dreamed anything could be so beautiful! Imagine, there's never been anything like this in the whole world!

JOHN:

That's right, Est. There's nothing like this -- and no one like you. Just think of all the things we'll have to tell our kids some day.

ESTHER:

I wonder if they'll believe it, John. I can hardly believe it myself! You, and - and a World's Fair -- right here where we live! Right here in St. Louis!

MFX:

"MEET ME IN ST. LOUIS" ... FOR A FINISH

SFX:

APPLAUSE

ANNOUNCER:

Before our stars return to the microphone, I'd like to tell you about Mrs. Brown. The Browns had some friends in for dinner recently and, after they finished, Mrs. Green said--

MRS. GREEN:

Let's do the dishes now, Mary. I'll give you a hand.

MRS. BROWN:

Oh, thanks! It really won't take long.

MRS. GREEN:

Optimist! But I always say you can talk just as well in the kitchen as anywhere. Want me to wash?

MRS. BROWN:

Oh, no, that's the easiest part!

MRS. GREEN:

Who do you think you're kidding? Look at these dishpan hands of mine!

MRS. BROWN:

Oh, I have Lux.

MRS. GREEN:

You have? Where'd you get it?

MRS. BROWN:

Down at the corner. Some came in while I was there the other day.

MRS. GREEN:

Lucky! I haven't been able to get any lately.

MRS. BROWN:

I guess you've just struck it wrong. We're all so sick of those strong soaps that Lux goes like hot cakes.

MRS. GREEN:

Do strong soaps bother your hands, too?

MRS. BROWN:

Do they?! Why, mine looked worse than yours! But, soon as I switched to Lux, they started getting better.

ANNOUNCER:

Note that, Mrs. Green. Tests prove changing to Lux Flakes does just what Mrs. Brown says. It takes away that ugly dishpan redness. You'll begin to notice improvement in just a few days.

MRS. GREEN:

Another thing. You have to use so much of that strong soap to get suds.

MRS. BROWN:

I know! But you saw how little Lux Flakes I put in the dishpan -- and look what rich suds they make.

ANNOUNCER:

Those richer suds will actually go further, Mrs. Green. Do you know that, ounce for ounce, Lux does up to twice as many dishes as other leading soaps tested?

MRS. GREEN:

If I get my hands on a box of Lux Flakes, I'll go easy with it! I don't want to waste a spoonful!

ANNOUNCER:

(SOLEMN) Yes, Lux is precious, Mrs. Green. Too precious to be wasted. Of course, you're disappointed when you can't find Lux Flakes right off. We're making as much as we can, but there just isn't enough to satisfy all our customers, all the time. So please, be patient, and keep asking. When you do find Lux Flakes, you'll be delighted how soft and smooth they leave your hands -- in spite of dishwashing. Here's Mr. Keighley at the microphone.

KEIGHLEY:

Now that you've met them in St. Louis, we invite you to meet them as they are in real life. Tonight's delightful stars -- Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien and Tom Drake.

SFX:

APPLAUSE

KEIGHLEY:

Judy, we enjoyed both your singing and your acting!

GARLAND:

Well, Bill, tonight's play certainly puts one in the mood for Christmas.

O'BRIEN:

You know, Christmas is only twenty-three days away.

DRAKE:

Hey, that's pretty close figuring, Margaret!

KEIGHLEY:

And, Judy, this will be the first Christmas for the newest member of your family.

O'BRIEN:

Have you bought the baby any presents yet, Judy?

GARLAND:

Well, I haven't done much shopping yet, Margaret.

KEIGHLEY:

Judy's been pretty busy. It was just recently she finished her latest Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer Technicolor picture, "Till The Clouds Roll By"!

DRAKE:

And Margaret's been pretty busy, too. She's been appointed National Junior Chairman of the Infantile Paralysis Fund.

O'BRIEN:

Just three weeks and forty-eight hours until Christmas! ...

GARLAND:

(CHUCKLES) And during the Christmas holidays, Margaret, you'll have to see Tom Drake's new M-G-M picture, "Courage of Lassie."

DRAKE:

(CHUCKLES) As a matter of fact, Margaret has one of Lassie's puppies.

KEIGHLEY:

Is that right, Margaret?

O'BRIEN:

Yes, and I named him Laddie. But just think! Only eighteen shopping days until Christmas! ...

KEIGHLEY:

(CHUCKLES) That's right, Margaret! And we've been doing some shopping on a play for next week!

GARLAND:

(CHUCKLES) What are you presenting next week, Bill?

KEIGHLEY:

Two brilliant stars who rank among our greatest favorites -- Irene Dunne and Walter Pidgeon. They appear in one of the screen's most entertaining comedies, Columbia Pictures' recent hit "Together Again." It's the fresh, delightful story of a woman torn between love and her career as a small town mayor. A play, I am sure, our audience will love.

DRAKE:

Well, Irene Dunne and Walter Pidgeon really make a great team, Mr. Keighley.

O'BRIEN:

And remember only twenty-three days until Christmas! ...

BIZ:

EVERYONE LAUGHS

GARLAND:

Yeah, and remember, too, the days are getting shorter, Margaret.

O'BRIEN:

Gee, that makes things even better!

DRAKE:

Good night!

O'BRIEN:

Good night!

GARLAND:

Good night!

KEIGHLEY:

Good night, and best holiday wishes to you all!

SFX:

APPLAUSE

MFX:

LUX THEME ... CONTINUES IN BG

KEIGHLEY:

Lever Brothers Company, the makers of Lux Flakes, join me in inviting you to be with us again next Monday evening when the Lux Radio Theatre presents Irene Dunne and Walter Pidgeon in "Together Again." This is William Keighley saying good night to you from Hollywood.

SFX:

APPLAUSE

ANNOUNCER:

More than two million servicemen returning to civilian life are homeless. Help out by making your extra rooms available to rent and by listing your sales or rentals with the Veterans Housing Center.

Judy Garland, Margaret O'Brien and Tom Drake appeared by arrangement with Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, producers of "The Secret Heart."

Heard in our cast tonight were Gale Gordon as Alonzo, Colleen Gray as Rose, Regina Wallace as Mrs. Smith, Norman Field as Grandpa, and Billy Roy, Noreen Gammill, Dick Ryan, Clarke Gordon, Charles Seel, Truda Marson, Johnny McGovern, Joel Davis, Jerry Farber, Howard Jeffrey and Lois Kinnison. 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 "Together Again" with Irene Dunne and Walter Pidgeon.

SFX:

APPLAUSE, WHICH FADES OUT WITH--

MFX:

LUX THEME FADES OUT ... COMMERCIAL JINGLE

SINGER:

(SINGS) Rely on Spry! S-P-R-Y!

ANNOUNCER:

For wonderfully light, fine, delicious cakes--

SINGER:

(SINGS) Rely on Spry!

ANNOUNCER:

For tender, flaky pastry--

SINGER:

(SINGS) Rely on Spry!

ANNOUNCER:

For crisp, golden fried foods--

SINGER:

(SINGS) Rely on Spry!

ANNOUNCER:

For all you bake and fry -- it's Spry -- the pure, all-vegetable shortening!

SINGER:

(SINGS) Rely on Spry! S-P-R-Y!

MFX:

COMMERCIAL JINGLE OUT

ANNOUNCER:

Be sure to listen in next Monday night to the Lux Radio Theatre presentation of "Together Again" with Irene Dunne and Walter Pidgeon.