Miracle on 34T an episode of Lux Radio Theater

Please enjoy Miracle on 34T a great episode of the legendary Lux Radio Theater - A Classic Old Time radio Show.

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Episode Transcript

(00:00):
Lux Presents Hollywood Laber Brothers Company,the makers of Lux Flakes, bring you
the Lux Radio Theater starring Marin O'Hara, John Payne, and Edmund Gwen in

(00:23):
Miracle on thirty fourth Street. Ladiesand gentlemen, your producer mister William Keeley,
reading from Hollywood. Ladies and gentlemen, our Christmas present to you is
the new Christmas classic of our time, Miracle on thirty fourth Street. It's

(00:45):
wrapped in the gay covering of laughter, tied with a bright ribbon of good
humor, and decorated with the threesparkling stars of the twentieth century Fox Picture
Reen O'Hara, John Payne, andEdmund Gwen. This is a wonderful story
for the whole family, and perhapssome families may be gathered around a Christmas

(01:07):
tree as they listen. Others willbe putting up this happy sign of a
season in a few days, withlights and ornaments and the shining snow that
can be made with Lux Lakes.Later we'll tell you how to do this
trick with Lux. But right nowit's curtain time for the play that proves
there's a Santa Claus. Miracle onthirty four Street, starring Marin o'harrah as

(01:32):
Dolls, John Payne as Fred,and Edmund Gwen in his Academy Award winning
performance as Chris Kingko. It's ThanksgivingDay in New York City on a broad

(01:52):
avenue adjoining Central Park. An annualevent is being joyfully awaited, the spectacular
parade presented by Mason's, the partnerstore to Herald in the Christmas season.
Away from the crowd, or twoof Macy's public relations experts, He's simply
wonderful, missus Walker. Just lookat him on that float, the most

(02:14):
realistic Santa Claus we've ever had.Oh he didn't even need any padding,
did he padding? Why didn't younotice his tummy so round, so firm,
so fully packed. Well, nowthat everything's under control, where on
earth did you find it? Idon't know. I just turned around and
there he was. And to thinkthat the man whose place he took was

(02:37):
intoxicated with a breadth that would knockover a range. Just think if mister
Macy had seen it, What ifmister Gimble had seen him? Competition between
our stores is tough enough. Well, the plain starting, let's stand at
the curb, not I'm mister shellhammer. I'm going home to relax anyway.
I can see it from there.I've lived just around the corner.
Oh so you do well, Isee him on, missus Walker and congratulates.

(03:00):
I'm finding the best sati class inMacy's history. Certainly is a wonderful
parade, Susan. Just look atthat clown. Gosh, what a giant

(03:22):
giant, mister Gaily. There areno such things as giants, well not
now maybe, but in all themdays they're really, mister Gailey, and
you're a liar. Well what aboutthe giant that Jack kill? You know,
Jack and the bean starf everybody knowsthat's a fairy tale, And I
agree with my mother's dairy tales?Are Stellis? Come in? Oh hello,

(03:49):
mother, I'm watching the prey.Mister Gailey invited. Hello Johnny.
Susie's told me quite a lot aboutyou, missus Walker, told me quite
a lot about you too, theman in the front apartment. This is
all part of a plot, MissusWalker. I'm very fond of Susie,
but I also wanted to meet you. Please pray, don't even mention the

(04:10):
name. Why not? Mother?Well that's Santa Claus, you see is
the last minute substitute. But whyremember the way the janitor was last New
Year's Oh? Why hi of anowl? I I see Susan doesn't believe
in Santa Claus either. That's right, she never has. Well, that's
the end of praying. But I'vebeen thinking it's Thanksgiving and there are only

(04:35):
two of us. Couldn't invite misterGaily? Well, I, oh,
please don't bother. I'll I'll justhave a sandwich or something. But we
have such a big turkey, pleasemother, please? Well, well,
I did Susie you asked? Fine, Susan, dinner's a three, mister

(04:55):
Gaily, Hello, missus Walker.Yes, mister shell Hammer, you made
Thanksgiving dinner. But I just hadto tell you your Sandy Claus was stupendous.
Well, thank you. Mister Masonhimself wanted to be our toy department
Santy Cloud. Oh fine, canyou hire him? Oh? I already?

(05:16):
Hell. Oh he's a born salesman. I just feel it good.
We talk about it in the morning. Thanks for calling, mister shell Hammer.
Here he is, mister shell Hammer. Here's Santa Claus. Oh,
thank you, I've heard. Thankyou. Good morning, Santa Claus,

(05:39):
Good morning, now before you goto the toy department, here's a list
of toys that we have to push. You know, things were overstocked on
Now you'll find that a great manychildren will be undecided as to what they
want for Christmas. And when thathappens, you immediately suggest one of these
items. Do you understand, Icertainly do. Fine, that's fine.

(06:00):
I take the list in Alfred herewill show you to your throne in the
toy department. And don't you forgetyou're working for Mason's. Are you really
Santa Claus? Why? Of courseI am. What do you want for
Christmas? Little boy? I wanta fire engine with a real horses squirts

(06:20):
real real water, and I wantto do it in the house. We're
only doing the backyard. I promise, and I promise you'll get your fire
engine. You see my might lollyou get me work. That's fine,
that's just dandy. You'll wait hereMortemer. Mama wants to thank Santa Claus
too, Yes, madam, Sowhat's the matter with you? No?

(06:40):
No, no, what's the troubleI told you before, didn't I The
kid wants a fire engine, butthere isn't one to be had. Anywhere
in town. Macy's aint got any. Gimbals ain't got and he nobody's got
any. My feet are killing me. And you say, okay, he
gets the fire engine, but youcan get those fire engines folks. Lexington
Avenue only four fifty A wonderful bargainsshown that. Yes, hey, I

(07:05):
don't get it. Oh I followthe toy market very closely. Macy's sending
people to other stores. Yes,are you kidding? The one important thing
is to make the children happy.Whether Macy's or somebody else sells them,
the toy doesn't matter. Don't youfeel that way? Oh me? Oh
yeah, sure, Only I didn'tknow Macy's good. I don't get it.

(07:28):
I just don't get it. Who'sright? Just wait to see Sata
Claus a little girl? He atof course, little girl, you want
some roller skates, well you shallhave them too, summer Fama. He's
gonna bring me some roller skates,and he has some fine skates here at
Macy's. Much Santa cl They're goodskates all right, but not quite good
enough. Now I left some reallywonderful roller skates and gimbals. I'm sure

(07:53):
gimbals have just what this good littlegirl wants missus shell Hammer, Are you
mister shell hammer them news? That'sjust what he did say, Gimbos.
The sales lady said I should speakto you, Gimbles. I just wanted
to congratulate you when Macy found thiswonderful news, Tancha Colling, Gimbo.
Imagine a big outfit like Macy's,putting the spirit of Christmas ahead of the

(08:16):
commercial Gimbles. From now on,I'm going to be a regular Macy customer,
all like more of a web goblingimbals. And there's the toy department
over there. Mister Gaily, youcertainly know all about Macy's starr, don't

(08:37):
you. Susan, Well, that'sbecause my mother works here. But I
still think it's silly bringing me hereto see Santa Claus. I just feel
it. When you've talked to misterGaily, I'm certainly willing to try.
Well. Well, what a fineyoung lady. Eh, what's your name,

(08:58):
little girl, Susan Walker, It'syours mine, Chris Kringle, I'm
Santa Claus. M Oh, youdon't believe that, eh, huh uh?
You see my mother's Missus Walker.Oh, but I must say you're
the best looking Santa Claus out ofthe scene. Really, you're bid.
For instance, he doesn't have oneof those things that goes over your ears.

(09:20):
That's because it's real, just likeI'm really Santa Claus. I go
ahead and pull it. Oh mymy goodness, it is real. It
is yeah. And now what wouldyou like me to bring you for Christmas?
Nothing? Thank you? Whatever Iwant my mother will get if it's
sensible and doesn't cost une much.That's quite right, Susan. Oh hello,

(09:41):
mother, Hello, he hello.The explanation for all this is very
simple. Your maid's mother sprained herankle. She had to go home,
so she asked me to bring Susiedown to you, and as long as
we were here, I figured youmight as well say hello to Santa Claus.
He has real whiskers. Mother,Susan, would you mind standing over
there a minute if you want meto. I I shouldn't have brought Susie

(10:03):
to see Santa. Is that it? Now? You're making me feel completely
heartless? I'm sorry, don't yousee? I tell Susan that Santa Claus
is a myth, and you surea very convincing old man with real whiskers.
Whom is she to believe? Yeah? That's right, isn't it.
When Susan was a baby, herfather and I were divorced. Ever since
then, I've protected my child byteaching her realities. If you don't believe

(10:28):
in fairy tales and fantasy, youcan never be hurt or disillusioned. We
were talking about Susie, missus Walker, and I must ask you to let
me raise her as icye fit.All right, dear, the Star's going
to close soon, and we'll runalong to my office. Alfred said,

(10:52):
you wanted to see me, missusWalker. Oh, oh, yes,
come in. I uh, I'dbe grateful if you will. Please tell
Susan that you're not really Santa Claus, that there actually is no such person,
and missus Walker, not only isthere such a person, but here
I am to prove it. No, no, no, no, you
misunderstand. I want you to tellher the truth. Now, what's your

(11:16):
real name? Chris Kringle? AndI always tell the truth, Susan.
I'll bet you're in the first grade, second grade, I mean your real
name. It is my real name, my goodness, the second grade.
Very well. I have your employmentcard right here. I look it up
on that that's a very cute dressyou have on, Susan. It's from
Mazys. We get ten percent off. Oh so you always tell the truth.

(11:39):
Do you look at your employment card? Name Chris Kringle, her dress
Brooks Memorial Home, Great neck LongIsland. You McAll the home if you'd
care to confirm name, missus Walker. It's a home for elderly gentlemen.
Would you also like me to confirmthis? What's that date of birth?
As old as my tongue and alittle bit older than my tea place of

(12:01):
birth North Prowl. Now really,why I believe you doubt me? Missus
Walker? And this tops everything?Next of tim Oh that dasher, dancer,
prancer and vixen. I'm sorry tohave to do this, mister Kringle,
but the the Santa Claus that wehad two years ago is back in

(12:24):
town and I feel that we oweit to him too. Well. Have
I done something wrong? No,no, no, it's it's just appreciate
or excuse me? Hello, missusdrop whatever you're doing. Mister Macy wants
to see this immediately. Oh,I'll be right up. I'm afraid I'll
have to be very abrupt with you. I have to see mister Macy.
You will be paid for the fullweek, mister Kringle, and I'll send

(12:46):
your check to that address. Oh, come right in, missus Walkers Hammer.
Thank you, mister Macy, aboutthis new policy you two initiated,
Macy's Santa Claus sending customers to giveWell, I can explain everything, mister
Mason. You don't have to explainthe thing. Just look at my desk.
Forty two telegrams and over five hundredphone calls grateful parents expressing undying gratitude

(13:11):
to Macy's Department store. Why youdon't say from now on, not only
will our Santa Clause continue in thismanner, but every salesperson in the entire
store. You mean that if wehaven't gosh what the customer asks for which
we're to send him where he canget it. No high pressuring and forcing
a customer to take something he doesn'treally want. I think that's wonderful,

(13:33):
mister Mason. We'll be known asas the helpful store, the friendly store,
the store that places public service aheadof profits, and consequent we will
make more profits than ever. Asfor you, missus Walker and mister shelle
Hammer, you find a more practicalexpression of my gratitude in your Christmas envelope.
Oh, thank you, and tellthat wonderful Santa Clause. I won't

(13:56):
forget him either. As a matterof fact, I'll tell him myself in
the morning. Yes, indeed,mister Macy, good night, good night,
Good night, mister Macon. Andthank you again, sir. Imagine
a bonus. Yes, what's thematter with you, mister shell Hammer?

(14:16):
I just fired him? Who SantaClaus? No no, no, no,
no, no. You couldn't havebut I did. He's crazy,
mister shell Hammer. He really thinkshe is Santa Claus. I don't care
if he thinks he's the Easter Bunny. Find him back too. A miracle

(14:41):
on thirty fourth Street will continue ina moment. Well, Libby, have
you given Santa you're a Christmas list? Yes, indeed, John, and
number one on my list is apair of Chinese pajamas with a three quarter
coat and little upstanding car, justlike the ones Monitorn wears in Rogue's regiment.
Perhaps you'd better have the wardrobe mistressof Universal International show Sander what you

(15:01):
mean? Well, I'm sure DickPowell or Stephen McNally could give him a
good description. They found mott Avery glamorous in this modern story of the
French foreign Legion and what a villainvincent price is in Rogue Graduate. I
was on the edge of my seatthrough the whole picture. And you talk
about a pair of pajamas, well, they were very special. Marta liked

(15:22):
them so well she had four pairsmade for her personal wardrobe, and she
was delighted when they told her shecould lux them. That's about the easiest
care in the world, especially nowwith the new tiny diamonds of Lucks another
triumph of the famous Lever laboratories.These tiny diamonds are so much faster they
burst into SuDS. The instant watertouches them and make wonderfully rich SuDS that

(15:46):
last and last. Don't colors lookmarvelous when they're luxed so fresh and new?
No wonder smart girls say they won'trisk wrong washing methods. Tests prove
that with mental care with lux flakesreally makes a difference. Lux slips and
nineties stayed new looking three times aslong. And that's just like getting three

(16:08):
pretty slips for the price of one. A really thoughtful Santa would put a
box of locks Flakes in every Lauriegift. Next Friday night, here's our
producer. Mister William Keeley hacked twoof Miracle on thirty fourth Street, starting
Marine O'Hara as Doris, John Payneas Fred, and Edmund Gwen as Chris

(16:29):
Kringle. It was a frantic fewhours that Doris spent last night rushing out
for the Brooks Memorial Home in LongIsland and assuring Chris Kringle that Macy's wanted
him back to Santa Claus. NowChris is again presiding over the crowded toy

(16:51):
department. While in her office,Doris and mister shell Hanner. Don't you
understand, mister shell Hammer, thatold man with the nice white whiskers insist
that he is Santa Claus. Whyhe's out of his mind? What if
he should have a fit or something. Oh no, I've got to tell
mister macis. But maybe he's onlya little crazy. Anyway, you can't

(17:12):
be sure until he's examined. Willsend me to mister Sawyer. Sawyer in
personnel. He's paid to examine employees, isn't he. And now, by
the way, what do you thinkof this what is it? A full
page ad Macy's is running in tomorrow'snewspapers. Macy's is running it, but
it's all about the other stores,Gimbals and side. I know, I
know, mister Macy's idea to helpour customers find what they want. It's

(17:37):
revolting, isn't it. That SantaClaus certainly has started something. Oh well,
I'll get a hold of him inhis lunch hour and send him up
to mister Sawyer. Oh so Ichanged my clothes, mister Sawyer, and
came right up. Oh then that'sy'all own beard. Oh yes, interesting

(18:03):
complex and bag of there. Whydo you carry a cane? Always carry
a kne mister Sawyer? Well thatis when I wear street clothes. I
carved this cane out of a runnerfrom one of my old slaves. What's
that? What's that with a finesolid silver top? Who was the first
president of the United States? Oh, give me a difficult one, like

(18:23):
who was who was vice president underJames Monroe? I'm conducting this examination.
The answer is Daniel D. Tompkins. Yeah, you're a You're a rather
nervous man, aren't you, MisterSayer? Tell me, do you do
you get enough sleep? My personalhabits and no concern of yours. Now?

(18:44):
What hand am I holding up?Right hand? How many fingers you
see? Three? Oh? Dear, oh dear, you bite your nails
too? Stand up now? Feettogether, arms extended, muscular coordination test.
I've taken dozens of these tests,mister Sawyer. Are you happy at
home? What that will be all? Mister Kringle, The examination is over?

(19:08):
Thank you. Yeah. And itmay interest you to know I've been
happily married for twenty two years,very happily married. Lighted to hear it?
Who died, mister Sawyer, MissPaul, Yes, sir, get
missus Walker on the phone. Yes, sir, but your wife, mister
Sawyer, she's called four times already. You tell my big fat wife the
sun up on mind own business.Here's missus Walker, sir, all right,

(19:30):
Evan, Hello, Oh, Iwas just going to call you,
mister Sawyer. There's a doctor Piercestopping by this afternoon at three. Who's
doctor Pierce? He's the physician atthe Brooks Home. I thought we might
discuss mister Kringle's case with him.Oh, that's hardly any point in discussing
it, missus Walker. Obviously theold man should be to start, So

(19:57):
Doctor Pierce Kringle should be disisster immediatelysent to a mental institution. Now just
a minute, mister Sawyer, he'sdeluded saying that he's Santa Cross. It's
a delusion for good. I foundhe only wants to be friendly and helpful.
His whole manner sugges aggressiveness. Lookat the way he carries that cane,
Missus Walker. Naturally, I can'tdischarge that looney. So when he

(20:18):
exhibits his maniacal tendencies, please realizethe responsibility is completely off. Well,
I'm right back where I started,Missus Walker. I assure you Chris Kringle
has no maniacal tendons. But ifthere's the slightest possibility of his causing any
trouble, what trouble. All thatneeds happen is a policeman. Ask his
name, Chris Kringle, Clang clang, and Macy's Santa Claus lands up in

(20:41):
the psychopathic ward. Well, youcan prevent that very simply. Now,
there must be someone here at thestore who could runt him a room.
Then they could both come to worktogether. I just as soon he avoided
that a long train ride along island. Anyway, you mean sort of take
custody of him. Do you thinkthat mister Kringle would agree to that.
I'm sure he'll agree. Well inthat case, now let me see who

(21:04):
do I know who could rent toa room. I'm glad you're going to
have dinner with us, mister Gringer, Thank you, Susan. I'm also
very glad you're going to live nextdoor with mister Gailey. Oh why because
you're nice to talk to. Oh, I say, what a fine young

(21:27):
man that mister Gayley is. Eh, just think allowing me to share his
apartment a mere stranger. He didit because mother hinted to him. Oh
well, anyway, I'm very grateful. Shall I tell you what I did
in school today? By all meansany games? Yes, and a very
silly game too. They played Zooand each child was supposed to be an

(21:51):
animal. Oh but Susan, theywere just pretending. But that's what makes
the game so silly. Oh.Of course, in order to play games,
you need him imagination. Oh that'swhen you see things but they're not
really there. Huh. Oh yes, but you know, to me,
imagination is a place all myself.Now you've heard of the French nation and

(22:15):
the British nation. Well, thisis the imagination a very interesting place too.
Now, how would you like tobe able to make snowballs in summertime?
Eh? Will be the statue ofLiberty in the morning and in the
afternoon fly south with the flock ofgeese. Well, I'm quite sure i'd

(22:36):
like it. It's very simple.Very well. Anyway, look here,
the next time they play zoo,you can be a monkey. But I
don't know how to be a monkey, don't you. I'll show you.
Now. First you bend over alittle like like this. See. Now,
let your arms hang loose, seelike, Yeah, that's fine.
Fine. Now put your hand overhere and start scratching. See that's it,

(23:02):
that's it. That's excellent, Susan. That's as fine a bit as
scratching as I've ever seen. Yeah. Now, now you start chattering,
chattering, yes, now listen,see and keep scratching. Now. Then
look here we'll do it together.See chatter and scratch and scratch and checker
see, let's find Susan. Fine, you're doing beautifully beautifully, yes,

(23:34):
Susan, Susan, you still awake? Uh huh I ll just coming to
say good night. That's all.Now look here about Christmas. There must
be something you'd like for Christmas.Well, I've certainly thought about something,
mister Cringle have or what is it? Tell me? It's right here on

(23:56):
the night table. See I thisseach out of a magazine. It's a
picture of a house. Oh that'swhat you want. Is it a doll's
house colonial architecture? Oh, nota doll's house, a real house,
a real house. Yes, andif you're really Santa Claus, you can
get it for me. No,no, Now, wait a minute,

(24:18):
susie. What could you possibly dowith a big house? Live in it
with my mother and a backyard witha big tree to put a swing on,
and a garden and a well?Or even discuss it, Susie,
Susie, could I uh could Ikeep this picture just uh just in case?

(24:44):
I guess so, Thank you,thank you, But mister Gayli is
waiting for me. Good night,my kid, Good night, mister Tringle.
Take whichever bed you want. MisterKringle, you're very kind. Really

(25:04):
tell you, mister Gailey, whatdoes it you just do for living it?
Oh? I'm a lawyer, haslipHaslip Sherman and Mackenzie. Oh,
and you were you liked living herein the city. You know, it's
convenient, But someday I'd like toget a place on Long Island. Huh.
Not a big house, just oneof those junior partner deals around Manhasset.

(25:25):
Oh, one of those little colonialhouses they are. Yeah, a
little colonial house will be swelled goodgood. Yeah, you're a m You're
quite fond of missus Walker, aren'tyou? A lot of good? It
does me. She lives in acast iron shell. That's just a little
difficult to penetrate. Oh, well, you must try a little harder,

(25:47):
mister Gailey. You know, MissusWalker in that charter are a couple of
lost souls, and it's up tous to help them, you know,
yeah, she Oh, well,should I turn out the light? No?
No, no, no, I'mnot gonna be cheated out of this.
You know all my life I've wonderedabout it. Now I'm going to
find out. Tell me, doesSanta Claus sleep with these whiskers outside or

(26:07):
inside the cover? Oh? Outside, of course, outside, by all
means the cold air makes them grow? Thank you. Oh, come in,

(26:29):
Missus Walker, come in, thankyou, mister Macy, I've just
heard something very exciting. You have. Well, let me tell you something
very exciting. Our policy of beingkind to customers has tripled ourselves. Now
what do you think of that.That's wonderful, mister Macy. And Gimbals
thinks it's wonderful too, Gimbals.Gimbals are adopting the same policy. Well

(26:51):
is that so? And it givesme an idea. As long as Gimbals
are doing the same thing, whynot some pictures for the newspapers. Pictures?
Yes, you and mister Gimble shakinghands, shaking hands r H.
Macy and Gimble, Well, well, yes, yes, yes, why
not with Santa Claus. It's agreat idea, missus Walker, Macy and

(27:18):
Gimble shaking hand. That was anice picture. Gentlemen, thank you,
thank you very much. Well,mister Gimble, come on, RH now,
Wena go over to my store andget some really good pictures. In

(27:41):
just a minute, I have somethinghere for Santy Clause. Here you are,
mister Kringle, a check and appreciationof all you've done. Mister Macy,
Why that's most kind of you.I didn't think you were that generous.
R H. That's quite a check. What are you gonna do with
it, mister Kringle. Well,I have a friend, a doctor Pierce.
He needs it's a new X raymachine. You'll buy the machine through

(28:02):
the store, then present discoun nonsense. Come over to Gimbals. We'll furnish
it at costs. Keep it up, gentlemen, keep it up. At
this rate, my friend will havea whole new hospital. How did the
pictures turn out, mister Kringle?Fine? Fine? How about a game

(28:22):
of checkers during lunch? Oh?Not today, Chris, I don't feel
so good. Oh what's the matter, Elfred? Oh nothing much. You
remember I was telling you how Ilike to play Santa Claus over at the
y and give out packages to thekids. Yeah. Well I was telling
mister Sawyer about it, and hesays that's very bad, that psychologically it's
all wrong, wrong to be niceto children. Well, he says,

(28:45):
guys who play Santa Claus do itbecause when they was young they must have
done something bad. Now they dosomething they think is good to make up
for it. See, it's whathe calls a guilt complex. Alfred.
What else has he found wrong withyou? Nothing much? Just that I
hate my father I didn't know it, but he says, I do.

(29:07):
Excuse me. Hey, ain't yougonna have lunch later? Right now?
I have an appointment with mister Sawyer. What do you mean breaking into my
office like this? Are you alicensed psychiatrist? What business is it of
your? I have great respect forpschiatry and great contempt for meddling amateurs who
go around practicing it. Oh shutup. You want to be hostshipped,

(29:30):
taking a boy like Alfred and fillinghim up with complexes and phobia. I
think I'm better equipped to judge thatthan you. Just because Alfred wants to
be kinder children, you tell himhe has a good complexers having the same
delusion you couldn't possibly understand. Anddon't you wave that pane at me.
Either you stop analyzing Alfred or Igo straight to mister Macion, tell him
what a contemptible fraud you are.Get out of here. Get out of

(29:51):
here before I have you thrown out. There's only one way to handle a
man like you. Maybe this willknock some sense into you. Oh oh
help, oh my head, Ihad a good day, mister miss Prawn.
Give me the police, give memissus Walker, give me the psychopathic
one W Hospital. You can seemister Kringle now, mister Gaily, thank

(30:15):
you, nurse. Hello Chris,Hello Fred, Chris. I've been speaking
to the doctors. They said they'vegiven you some tests. Oh yes,
same old tests, except this timeyou failed to pass them. Chris,
you deliberately failed. Why why?Well, because I had great hopes,

(30:38):
Fred, I had a feeling missusWalker was beginning to believe in me.
And now well now I discovered shewas only humoring me all the time.
But this wasn't Dora Society at all, mister Sawyer had you set up here
before she even knew about it?But why why didn't you come to me
and explain things? Because she didn'twant to hurt you. Oh well,

(31:00):
well it's not just missus Walker's.But now take mister Sawyer. He's contemptible,
dishonest, deceitful. Yet he's outthere and I'm in here. Well,
if that's normal, I don't wantit. But you can't just think
of yourself, Chris. What happensto you matters to a lot of other
people, people like me who believein what you stand for, and people
like well like Susie who are justbeginning to Chris, you're letting us down.

(31:26):
I, oh, Fred, maybe all right. I of course
you're right. I ought to beashamed of myself. Let's get out of
here. Now Wait a minute.You flunk your mental examination? But good?
Oh, yes, so I didwell. Then anyway, you're a
lawyer, you fix Hey, Look, I can't just now. I won't
let you down and you won't letme down. Chris, Now take it

(31:48):
easy. Look, they'll have tobe a hearing. If you're going to
be committed, it has to bebefore a judge. Well, I don't
know if I can do anything atall. It'll have to be in court
room and said tight, Chris,I'll get an I have to get an
idea. Hey, you sent forme, mister Mazey. I certainly did,

(32:12):
mister Sawyer. I brought my familyto the toy department to see our
Santa Claus. And our Santa Clausisn't there. He's in Bellevue, yes,
mister Macy, because he's a lunatic. Yes, sir, lunatic lunatic
my foot. Now you listen tome, Sawyer. You get that case
drop right away, or you'll haveanother lump to match the one he gave
you. But he's out of myhands. Mister Klinger goes to court in

(32:35):
the morning, you will just seethat he's back in the toy department by
afternoon. Now get out of here, oh, mister gay mister Gaily,
yes, I've been looking all overfor you. I'm mister Sawyer. Oh
so you're a sawyer. Yes.I was just speaking to the court clerk
and he said, you represent missKringle. Well, I represent mister MACI

(32:59):
old, I'll that's what I wantedto speak to you about. Now,
mister Mason would like to drop thewhole case right now. You see,
we're most anxious to avoid any publicity. No publicity. Well, that's very
interesting. Then you'll cooperate. Youknow something, sire, You've just given
me the idea I've been searching for. Oh good good. If I'm gonna
win this case, I'm going tohave to have public opinion and plenty of

(33:22):
it, and publicity is just theway to do it. Thanks and so
long, mister Gailey. But misterGayley, look at these newspapers. Chris
here, even dispatch doctors doubt sanityof Santa who launched good will campaign daily

(33:44):
bulletin Macy's Santa Claus to have lunacyhearing what's this one? The New York
Express is Chris Kringle Crazy court casecoming, kiddies, cry, Calamity,
You've driven the United Nations clear backto page five. Well, get a
good night's sleep, Chris. Wego before Judge Harper at ten tomorrow morning.

(34:16):
We pause now for station identification.This is CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting
System. Our stars will return withAct three of Miracle on thirty fourth Street.

(34:45):
In the moment when a new playersigns a contract with twentieth Century Fox,
she soon gets well acquainted with MissHelena Sorell, headramatic coach. Helena,
do you like to watch your pupilsperform in the picture? Oh?
Of course, because I take apersonal interest in them. I'm especially proud
of Betty Grable and her new pictureWhen my baby smiles at me, Betty's

(35:07):
become a really fine romantic actress.She certainly has. She and Dan Daley
are magnificent as a couple of vaudevillehoofers. Betty's costumes and when my baby
smiles at me gave me a thrill, and I was amazed how many things
the wardrobe department washed with Luck's Flakes. It reminded me of my theatrical days
when I was on the road andlived in a couple of trunks a box

(35:29):
of Lux Flakes in each ship.That's absolutely true, John, I was
never without it in my hotel orat the theater. Well, then you
you've probably discovered that the new tinydiamonds of Lux are more wonderful than ever.
They're so much faster and richer,do more for you too. They
remove soil which other types of SuDScan't, leave things cleaner, fresher,

(35:50):
and Luck's Flakes keep colors lovely.You're right there. That's why it's foolish
to risk wrong washing methods that mayfade colors. Actual tests show that with
gentle Lux Flake's care, colors staylovely up to three times as long.
That's a good tip for girls whoget nice blouses and sweaters for Christmas.
Right you are, and thank youfor coming tonight, Helena Serrell. We

(36:14):
return you now to William Keeby.The curtain rises on the third act of
Miracle on thirty four Street, starringMarin O'Hara as Doris, John Payne as
Fred and Edmund Gwen as Chris.For a few weeks, a jolly,
elderly gentleman named Chris Kringle has beenworking minor miracles as Mason Santa Claus.

(36:37):
But now his sanity has been seriouslyquestioned, and in a crowded courtroom,
Judge Harper listens patiently as the AssistantDistrict Attorney summons Chris to the witness.
Town. Now, this is nota trial, mister Kringle, It's just
a hearing, so you don't haveto answer any questions. Now. Then

(36:58):
then where do you live? Please? Well, it seems to me that's
what this hearing will decide it.Mister Kringle. Do you believe that you
are Santa Claus? Of course Ido. That's all your honor. The
state rests his case. Well,mister Gayley, yourana, mister Mara contains,
my client is not sane because hebelieves he is Santa Claus, an

(37:20):
entirely logical conclusion. Anyone who thinksthe Santa Claus is crazy iranor you believe
yourself to be Judge Harper. Yetno one questions your sanity because you are
Judge Harper, do they? MisterKringle, is the subject of this sanity
hearing, not I while your honor, I intend to prove that mister Kringle
is Santa Claus. Mister man,I thought you said this was a cut

(37:43):
and dry sanity hearing. I thoughtit was your honor. In view of
mister Gaily's statement, I'll have toreview the entire background of this case.
Courtajourn till tomorrow mornings. I'm sorry, I'm late, but get ready.
We're really going to celebrate tonight.What are we celebrating? Welln't you read

(38:05):
the papers? Santa's mouthpiece throws bombshellon New York's Supreme Court. Oh,
Fred, you're not really serious aboutthis. You can't possibly prove that Chris
Kringle is Santa Claus. Well,you saw mister Macy and mister Gimble shake
hands. That wasn't possible either.What does your firm have to say about
it? Hayslip and Mackenzie and therest of them that I've jeopardized their prestige

(38:27):
and neither I dropped this impossible caseso they'll drop me, you see,
So I beat them to it.I quit, Fred, you threw away
a career because of a sentimental whimI'll open my own office. And what
kind of clients will you get?Oh, probably a lot of people like
Chris who are being pushed around.That's the only fun in law anyway.
All nice. Look, don't youhave any faith in me at all?

(38:51):
Oh, it's not a question offaith, it's just common sense. But
faith is believing in things when commonsense tells you not to. It's not
just Chris that's on file, it'severything he stands for human kindness and love
and read. Listen, we've seena lot of each other the last couple
of weeks. I well, I'vebecome fond of you. We've talked about

(39:12):
some wonderful plans, haven't we.And then you do this, go on
an idealistic binge, throw away yoursecurity and expect me to be happy about
it. And I expect too much? Is that it? Well, that's
then I guess good night. Hello, Yes, there's miss Marram. Well,

(39:40):
can't it wait till tomorrow? I'mmeeting to who's been subpoena? Well,
how do you think I feel aboutit? I'll see you tomorrow.
Our h Macy's been subpoena. Ohmy, those reporters, they make me
look like a sadistic monster who likesnothing better than the drowned pussy cats and
tear things off. Butterfly Tommy's stilla weak Oh yeah, it just break

(40:07):
his heart if he knew what hisdaddy is doing. I'm doing my job
as assistant district attorney. Well,I'm not so sure, but that I
agree with them. Mister Kringle lookslike a very nice old man, and
I don't see why you have tokeep persecuting him. I'm not persecuting him.
I'm prosecuting him. I like theold man too, but there's nothing
I can do about it. Youknow something, Thomas, Sometimes I wish

(40:29):
I'd married a butcher or a plumber. Well, if I lose this case
is very possible you'll get your wish. Ah, Macy, Hi, I
wonder what he's gonna pull tomorrow.Proceed to the witness, mister Gaily.
Now, then, mister Macy,if you recognize the defendant, please tell

(40:50):
us who he is. Hi,Chris Kringle, of course, do you
believe him to be of sound mind? Sound mine? I wish I had
a dozen like him. Mister Macy, you are under oath. Do you
believe that man is Santa Claus.Well, now that's rather a delicate to
just think of those headlines tomorrow.May See admits his Santa Clause is frau

(41:12):
you keep part of this gimble.What did you saying? Yo? Nothing,
mister bar nothing, and I wishyou would Is that man Santa Claus?
Yes, in my opinion, hemost certainly is, your Honor.
There is no such person as SantaClaus, and everybody knows it. Can
you prove there isn't any? Now? I won't even try. I'll not

(41:34):
waste the court's time with such childishnonsense, Your honor. The prosecution request
an immediate ruling from this court.Is there or is there not? A
Santa Claus? Well? No,I uh. The court will take a
short recess to consider the question.Hello, Henry, why Charlie? What

(41:58):
are you doing here? You gotan old friend visits you in your chambers,
and if you ask me, younever needed a friend like you do
now in this Kringle case. Well, I certainly don't see what they're making
such a fuss about. Erry.That's Santa Claus. You've got out there
on trial for lunacy. This caseis dynamite, and you're coming up for
reelection soon. Charlie, you knowwhat happened last night? Martha brought the

(42:23):
grandchildren over. They wouldn't kiss Grandpa. They wouldn't even talk to me.
See what I mean? If yourule there is no Santa Claus, you
better start looking for that chicken farmright now. I'm a responsible judge.
How can I seriously rule that thereis a Santa Claus? Because of what

(42:45):
happens if you don't the kids readabout it and they don't hang up their
stockings. Now, what happens toall the toys that are supposed to be
in those stockings? Nobody buys them. The toy manufacturers have to lay off
employees. By now, you've gotthe aff L and the CIO against you.
Yes, and they're gonna say itwith votes. See all in the

(43:06):
department stares. They're gonna love youtoo, Yes, sir, Henry.
And what about the Salvation Army?They got a Santa Claus in every street
corner. They're taking a lot ofmoney to help the poor. But go
ahead, Henry, you go inthere and rule there isn't any Santa Claus.
But if you do, you cancount on getting just two votes your

(43:27):
own, and that district Attorney's outthere. One vote, Charlie, he's
a Republican. Oh well, let'sget this over with. The question of
Santa Claus seems to be largely amatter of opinion. The tradition of American

(43:52):
justice demands a broad and unprejudiced viewof such a controversial matter. What your
arness Court therefore intends to keep itsmind open. We shall ask for evidence
on either side, but the burdenof proof clearly rests with my opponent.
Can he produce any evidence to supporthis views? If your honor pleas I
can? Will Thomas Mara please takethe stand? Oh me, No,

(44:15):
Thomas Mara Junior. I believe heand his mother are both in court today.
Hi, Tommy, do you believein Santa Claus? I'm sure you,
CAUs you gave me a brand newsmall last year. Now what does
Santa Claus look like? Tommy?Oh? There are you sitting right over

(44:36):
there, your honor right protee overall? Tell me, Tommy, why are
you so sure there's a Santa Claus? Because my brother told me so.
Again. Thank you, Tommy.You can go back to your mother now,
see you certainly, will your honoryes, Sena Claus this year,

(44:59):
I la good law. Don't wantto tell me. You will get it,
mister Kringle, if you don't mindsorrison, your honor, the State
of New York concedes the existence ofa Santa Claus. But in so conceding,
we demand that mister Gaily stop representingand presenting personal opinion as evidence.
I insist he submit authority to proofthat mister Kringle here is the one and

(45:22):
only Santa Claus. Well, misterGaily, are you prepared to show that
mister Kringle is Santa Claus on thebasis of unprejudiced authority? Well, sir,
no not. Now I need alittle time. Why not now tomorrow,
your honor very well, courts adjournedtill tomorrow morning. Oh brother,

(45:50):
now come, Susan dear, finishyour supper. But I can't mother all
those things they're saying in the newspapersabout mister Kringle and mister Daily. They're
having this trial because he says he'sSanta Claus. He's so he's so kind
and nice and jolly. He's notlike anyone else I know. He must

(46:12):
be said. You know something.I think perhaps you're right, he's mister
Kringle said, Now I'm afraid hemust be, and I'll write him a
letter. Maybe doesn't me can yell? I'm sure? Well postman, postman,

(46:36):
lady, would you mind taking thisletter? Oh sure, lady,
We're going straight down in the postoffice now, okay, Loie take it
away? Ah, Lenny, Youknow, louis another letter for Santa Claus.
Hey, it's a new one.Instead of the North Paul. This
kid's gonna address the Chris Springle,New York County Courthouse. Well, the

(46:59):
kids write hm hm, oh yeah, sure. They got him on trial.
Damn. He claims he's Santa Clausand the DA claims he's nuts.
Hey, hey, I got anidea. How many sent a close letters
we got down him in the deadletter office? Who knows must be fifty
thousand bags and bags all over thejoint. He You mean, what flaky?

(47:22):
Why not? Wouldn't it be niceto get rid of them all?
Would it? Boy? Oh?Boy? Look, Louie. As soon
as we get to the post office, we go and see the supervisor.
You know something, I bet weboth get pouted. And since the defense

(47:46):
has been unable to submit one shredof proof that Chris Kringle is the one
and only Santa Claus. And sincetonight is Christmas Eve, I ask your
honor that this hearing be terminated withoutfurther delay. I protest I do have
evidence. Five minutes ago you saidyou didn't during mister Marra's oration, that
bailiff handed my client the evidence.I refer to what evidence? This letter,

(48:06):
your honor, Yes, mister Kringle, It's from Susan Walker. She
believes in me. This letter meansmore to me given anything in the world.
That letter, your honor, wasdelivered by the United States Post Office,
an official agency of the federal government. The Post Office Department was one
of the largest business concerns in theworld. Last year, did a gross

(48:27):
volume of over one billion dollars inhonor. I'm sure we're all gratified that
the Post Office is getting along sowell, but what bearing has it on
the sanity of that man. Mypoint is that the Post Office Department is
a model of efficiency. Furthermore,the laws of this country make it a
criminal offense to wilfully misdirect mail orintentionally delivered to the wrong party. The
state of New York is second tonone in his admiration of the Post Office

(48:50):
Department. We're very happy to cansee mister Gaillies. Uh for the record,
mister Marra, for the record.Anything to get on with this case.
Thank you. That letter just receivedby mister Kringle is positive proof that
a common letter is hardly positive proof. I have further exhibits, your honor,
but I hesitate to produce dom Come, mister Gailey, put them here
on my desk, But your honor, I said, put them on my

(49:14):
desk. All right, boys,bring them in, your honor. What
is this empty? Those mail sackson Judge Harper's desk? Good will you
well? But bring them all inor be fine for contempt to put no
no, just a second here,I will know yourana through reign, to
sleep through cot rooms anything, Waita level, mister k your honor.

(49:36):
Every one of those letters, andevery one of those mail sacks is addressed
to Santa Claus. The Post Officeis delivered them. Therefore, the Post
Office Department recognizes Chris Kringle to bethe one and only Santa Claus. Since
the United States Government declares this meantto be Santa Claus, this clock will
not dispute that tax dismissed, andfor Heaven's sake, get this play out

(49:58):
of my clock. So as soonas I got out of caught, I
came straight to Macy's to see you, Donis. Oh, Chris, I'm
so glad you won. Well,we're having a big Christmas party at the
Books Home tomorrow morning. I'd likeso much to see you and Susan there.
We'll be there, Chris. Oh, Chris, couldn't you? Couldn't

(50:22):
you come home now and have dinnerwith us? No tonight? Me?
My goodness, Donnis, it's it'sChristmas Eve, Alfred, Alfred. Look,

(50:42):
look who came all the way outhere to the home just for our
Christmas party. It's mister Mason,mister Gimble too. Excuse me, Alfred,
missus Walker and Susan have to leavenow, and I want to see
them before they go. GiB Will, it's Susie, Donna. You've got
so many presents. Not the oneI wanted. He's not the one mister
Kringle was going to get for me. But what was? It doesn't matter.

(51:06):
I knew I wouldn't get him,but I thought he'd at least tell
me why, Susie. I'm sorry, Susie. I tried my best,
but you couldn't get it because you'renot so close. Susan, just a
nice old man like mother said.But I was wrong when I told you
that you must believe in mister Kringleand keep right on doing it. You

(51:27):
must have faith in him. Butthat doesn't make sense, mother. Faith
is believing in things when common sensetells you not to. What I mean,
just because things don't turn out theway you want them to the first
time, you've still got to believein people. I found that, Oh,
Fred, mister Gaily, mister Gailey, Merry Christmas. Susey gosh,

(51:50):
you'll just get here and we're readyto leave. Oh, I've been here,
and if you're ready to leave,I'll drive you home. Before you
go here, here's a map I'vemade for you. You'll miss a lot
of traffic. About four miles southyou will see Ashley Avenue. Now that's
the street you want, Ashley Avenue. Thanks Chris, and Merry Christmas.
Merry Christmas to you, Fred,and to you, my dear, and

(52:14):
to you Susan. I believe,mister Green, I do. Silly,
I suppose, but I do.I don't understand if Fred the map Chris

(52:35):
gave. Definitely, says Ashley Avenue. We've been on Ashley Avenue now for
play, Lucy. What is it, darling? What's the matter? Suse?
What in the world she's running intothat house? But at least there's
no one home. It's it's brandnew, it's it's just been built.
Yeah, for sale, it saysfor sale. What on earth is that
child, Susie. Ye, yeah, I'll come right down. You know,

(53:04):
you shouldn't run around in other people'shouses. That's strange. I'll say,
no, No, I mean thishouse. I've seen this house somewhere.
I know I have, maybe ina magazine, A mother, it's
our house. It's the one Iasked him for, mister Cringer, mister
Cringle, No, it is.Oh you were right, mommy, you

(53:24):
were right, Susanie. Money toldme lot of things didn't turn out just
the way you wanted them at first. You've still gotta believe, and I
kept believing. Then you were right, mommy. Mister Kringle is nowhere are
you going it back to say there'sa swing there is one of the one

(53:45):
you told her that about believing?Well, you told me Fred Hm the
sign outside to say, huh,so we can't let her down, can
we. I never really doubted you, It was just my silly common sense.
Even makes sense to believe in me. Now I must be a pretty

(54:05):
good lawyer. I take a littleold man and legally prove to the world
that he's Santa Claus. Now youknow that couldn't be bread. What's the
matter there in the corner by thefireplace. Oh no, no, it
can't be it. It couldn't Aking. Chris is king. There couldn't

(54:30):
be too keen to like this anywherein the world. Silver handling All.
Hey, you know something, MaybeI didn't do such a wonderful thing after
all. Before our ties were turningfor that curtain calls, literally, Collins

(54:53):
wanted to tell you about the wonderfulway to decorate your Christmas tree. Is
we promised at the opening of theshow. You can give your tree that
it's fresh from the wood's look bycovering it with real looking snow you make
yourself from a box of lux flakes. So many people have asked for the
lux recipe for Christmas snow that wegave last week. We'll repeat it tonight.
Listen carefully Take a large box oflux flakes, gradually add two cups

(55:15):
of lukewarm water, and beat withan egg beater until it has the consistency
of thick whipped cream. Then withyour fingers, spread the mixture over the
branches of your tree. And that'sall. This snowy covering dries quickly,
it won't melt and lasts as longas the tree. Ask your dealer for
a copy of this Christmas snow recipe. I don't know of any other decoration

(55:37):
that costs so little yet does somuch for your tree. It looks lovely
used just with tree lights, oryou can add your usual ornaments if you
prefer, try it on your mantledecorations and table arrangements too. It gives
them a very professional look and makesthe whole house look more Christmasy. Now
I'll repeat that recipe. Take alarge box of lux flakes, gradually add

(56:00):
about two cups of lukewarm water andbeat with an egg beater. Raul moist
spread the mixture along the branches.If you want extra glitter, shake on
some shiny artificial snow before the mixturedries. Let the children help. They'll
love doing it and love the snowytree. Back now to our producer,
William Killing. Mister Kringle's reindeer arewaiting on the roof, but we've asked

(56:24):
him to pause a moment before heleaves and come back to the footlights with
Marin O'Hara and John Payne, Ladiesand gentlemen. It was a real thrill
to everyone in Hollywood when Edmund gwentopped his entire fifty three years as an
actor with his great performance as ChrisKringle. Thank you, thank you very

(56:47):
much. Bill. Everyone connected withMiracle on thirty fourth Street, from George
Seaton, the author director, tothe prompt man, help me. They
all believed in Santa Claus. Howcould we have? I suppose you've got
a strenuous time ahead, Chris,covering the entire world and one night,
John, If everyone believed in SantaClaus, peace would break out all over

(57:12):
the world in thirty seconds. Ihope you won't be too busy to stop
at my house. I'll have mystockings hung up. Oh well, I'll
stop in marine. But seems ratherfutile. Why Chris, Well, I
couldn't possibly feel her stocking as wellas she does. I see what you
remain. Bill. After that,I think you'd better tell us all about

(57:32):
next week's play. Next week Marine, a play straight from your native land.
It's the twentieth century Fox picture TheLuck of the Irish and the Stars.
Well, we have a superb cast. There's Dana Andrews and Baxter and
Cecil Kellaway. This is a delightfulromance presided over by a most mysterious leprechun

(57:57):
in the person of Cecil Kellaway.I know you'll all enjoy it. We'll
be looking forward to it, Bill, And good night, good night,
good night. Can I give anybodya lift in my slave good night to
find out very very existing Before wemeet again in this theater, the most

(58:22):
joyful day on the year will havecome and gone. And there are in
our time, as in every time, a few foolish men who deride the
spirit of Christmas. But in everycountry and in every time, they are
overwhelmed by those who find in itthe hope and happiness of the future,
by those of us who believe inour hearts that there can be peace on

(58:45):
this earth and goodwill among all menon behalf of lever Brothers Company and of
us in the lux Radio Theater.May I wish all of you the happy
is the politics, and we inviteyou all to join us again next Monday

(59:12):
evening, when the Luck Radio Theaterpresents Dana Andrews and Baxter and Cecil Kellaway
in the Luck of the Irish.This is William Keeley saying goodnight and Merry
Christmas. Maureen O'Harra appeared through thecourtesy of twentieth Century Fox, producers of

(59:37):
The Snake Pit starring Olivia the Haplandand Mark Stevens. Edmund Gwen appeared by
arrangement with Metro Golden Mayer, producersof the All Star Technicolor Musical Words and
Music based on the lives and musicof Rogers and Hart. John Payne will
soon be seen in the paramount pictureEl Paso, The Shirt of Listen next
Monday night to the Lux Radio Theaterpresentation of the Luck of the Irish starring
Dana Andrews and Baxter and Cecil Kellaway. Stay tuned for My Friend Irma,

(01:00:00):
which follows over these same stations.This is CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System