Lux Radio Theatre - Million Dollar Mermaid

Narrator/Announcer

Million dollar mermaid. Starring esther williams as annette kellerman and walter pigeon as alfred harper.

This is the story of Annette Kellerman. I met her when I was manager of the Hippodrome in New York City. But the real beginning of her story starts years before and thousands of miles away in a town in Australia. As a child, Annette was a cripple with heavy braces on her legs. One afternoon, she disappeared when her frantic father finally found her.

Annette Kellerman (young)

But, Daddy, I'm all right. All I did was go and swimming. Oh, the water's just wonderful. Daddy.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Annette, my baby. In heaven's name, whatever possessed you? You might have drowned.

Annette Kellerman (young)

Oh, but I can't drown, Daddy. I've learned to swim.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Darling, you know what the doctor said. That your legs would never be strong enough for what other children do.

Annette Kellerman (young)

My legs are strong. Look, I can even walk without my bracelet.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

No, no, no, you'll fall. Oh, sweetheart, you. You mustn't be envious of the others.

Annette Kellerman (young)

Oh, I'm not, Daddy. Not since I can swim. And how can anything hurt you when it makes you feel so good? Oh, please let me come back and swim again.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Do you really want to?

Annette Kellerman (young)

More than anything.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Then we'll come back here and swim. Every day.

Annette Kellerman (young)

All. Oh, thank you, Daddy. Thank you.

Narrator/Announcer

As the years hurried by, the iron braces were discarded and forgotten. Annette became an expert swimmer. And a gleaming array of silver loving cups stretched across the shelf in the study of her father's conservatory of music. And then, as a young woman, she won the most cherished award of all.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Amateur champion of New South Wales. Why, it's wonderful, darling. I'm very proud of you, Holly.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Why does it always have to be a cup? What we really need is a new tea service.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

And that. If you're wondering why I wasn't there to watch you this afternoon, I. Well, I've been going over some business matters.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, times are bad for everyone, Daddy. I.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

The few pupils we have left hardly pay expenses. I've decided to close the conservatory. No, no, no, no. We're not charity cases yet. I've heard from Mr. Crocker.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Mr. Crocker from London.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

He's offered me a post as his assistant. I think I should accept.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, dad, if it's just a question of money. Well, I could teach swimming or turn professional.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

No, forget it. My dear, swimming has given you back your health. And for that I'm eternally grateful. But as a career. No, your music comes first. Music and the ballet. And in London you can study with the very best.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, there's one thing I Know, dad, there's a lot of silver in those loving cups. So don't worry, darling. The Kellermans will always eat.

Narrator/Announcer

Among the passengers on the long voyage to England was a young fellow named Sydney Sidney. Sidney was a kangaroo.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

And I'm not going to warn you again, Mr. Sullivan, if you let that kangaroo out of the old just once more, I'll put him off at the next port and you with him.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I'm terribly sorry, Percy, but. Well, Sidney isn't just a kangaroo. He's a boxer, a prize fighter. Greatest left hook in the business.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

I don't question that. Just look at my jaw. Hey, Doc, take Sydney down to the hole.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

He'll have to forget his road work

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

and put on the gloves.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Don't give him some exercise.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Come on, champ, let's.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I. I hope we didn't scare you too much.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, no. We're very fond of kangaroos.

Narrator/Announcer

Good, good. You.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

You're bound for London too?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Yes, my daughter's going to study the ballet.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, you must be my guests at Sydney's opening. I'll be at the Greenwich Carnival.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, that's very kind of you.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Yeah, just ask for Jimmy Sullivan. Sullivan's Wonder Show.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

My name is Kellerman. My daughter Annette.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Annette Kellerman, a swimmer. Well, I've read about you in the newspaper.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Yes, my daughter just won the amateur freestyle championship of New South Wales. Set a new record too. Oh, yeah, but you did.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, swimming's very popular in Australia.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Yes, I can understand why.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Well, I hope Sydney's a big success. Mr. Sullivan. Come along here.

Narrator/Announcer

For the next day or two, the enthusiastic Mr. Sullivan was rarely out of Annette's sight. And then on a lovely tropical evening with the deck bathed in moonlight and the music of this ship's orchestra in the background,

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I. I can't figure it out. Annette. Haha. A girl as pretty as you are can break swimming records. And how a girl who breaks swimming records can insist on ballet dancing as a career.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, what's wrong with the ballet?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh, I don't know. I guess I've always associated it with underfed French girls and swans.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, and I'm more the plump duck type.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh, no, no, no, no. I mean, well, whatever type you are, it must be my type.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, delighted to hear that.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh, now, wait a minute.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Don't be angry.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

It's. Well, it's. It's just that I don't know how to say it. Two days ago I meet a girl for the first time and, well, I. I can't get her out of my mind. Annette, there's there's something I've got to ask you. I. I can't stand it any longer. Well, Annette, I want to manage you.

Annette Kellerman (young)

Manage?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Did you say manage?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, what's the matter?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, nothing. Nothing at all. I'm sorry.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Look, I know a great bet when I see you. When you're a wonderful swimmer. You're a beautiful girl. They'll come to see you in London by the tens of thousands. And they'll pay for the privilege.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Pay to see me swim?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

That's where I come in. Ideas, new effects, Zip. I can see you now. Annette Kellerman, the Australian mermaid. She's half woman, half fish.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

How nice. Shall we shake fins on her?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh, now you don't believe me? I'll build you a little tank, make you up to look like a real mermaid, scaly tail and all. You'll be a bigger draw than the Kangaroo.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

I doubt it, Mr. Sullivan.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh. Oh, good evening, Mr. Kellerman.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Mr. Sullivan, my daughter is not half woman, half fish. She is. I show you all woman.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, I. I couldn't agree with you more.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Nor is she interested in wearing a mermaid's tail.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Mr. Kellerman, I only.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

We don't wish to discuss it any further.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

But it's the greatest idea.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Yes, I know. Since Sydney the Kangaroo. Come along, dad. But you get an a for effort, Mr. Sullivan.

Narrator/Announcer

The Kellermans reached London, but they'd come halfway around the world only to learn the crushing news that they'd come for nothing. The Crocker Conservatory Music was closed.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

But surely there was some message for you, dad. Someone must have been there.

Narrator/Announcer

Just the caretaker.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Mr. Crocker's dead. Been dead almost a month. I don't know what to do, Annette. Our funds are all but gone.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, there's one thing we can do. We can move out of this hotel. We'll find a couple of rooms somewhere and, well, we'll go to work.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Right now I can't even think.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, that's good. Then you can't worry. Now just remember, dad, the Kellermans will always eat.

Narrator/Announcer

Yes, the Kellermans got by thanks to those silver loving cups. One by one, they disappeared at the pawnbroker's. And then early one evening, Annette had visitors. Young Mr. Sullivan and his friend Dawson.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

How in the world did you know where we were?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Simply by following the cab that brought your baggage over from the hotel.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

But that was two weeks ago.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Yes, yes, well, we've been kind of busy.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Dad's out right now, but sit down, won't you?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, thank you.

Narrator/Announcer

What smells so good?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, I'm making An Australian stew.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Australian stew?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

It's same as Irish, only the meat down under. Well, why don't you stay for dinner and find out for yourself?

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Oh, but we couldn't possibly stay.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I mean, just walking in like this. No, no, no, no, we couldn't.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, there's plenty. And I insist. Now, while I set the table, you can tell me all about the kangaroo. How is Sydney?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Sensationally. He's developed a one two punch.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Yeah, and I've got the nose to prove it. Look at this.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, dear.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

He's the greatest act ever to be put under a tent. There's only one thing wrong.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

No one knows about it, and that's where you come in.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Where I come in?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Annette, listen. Once we get enough people down to the carnival, the rest will take care of itself.

Narrator/Announcer

So?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, so we thought maybe you'd like to make a little money.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

But how?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, the idea I had in mind was to swim down the Thames river and maybe five or six miles, ending up at the carnival at Greenwich.

Narrator/Announcer

Oh, we'd follow you in a rowboat.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Of course, if Sydney could swim, we wouldn't bother you.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

We'll pay you five pounds and 50% of the first day's proceeds.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, if you're going to stage a swim, why don't you make it a real swim? Six miles won't impress anybody. 26 miles, Mike.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

26 miles. I can't even row that far.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Annette, you. You're not joking?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Of course not.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, if you mean that, why, I'll stay in this town on its ear. I'll notify the newspapers. We'll really ballyhoo it. Why, Sydney will have to fight off the customers.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

And you'll give me £5.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

You need the money badly, don't you?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, yes, we could use a little. Oh, I'll swim on just one condition, though. My father isn't to know about it until it's all over.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

You've got a deal.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, that's good. Now sit down and have some stew. Remember those cups I won that dad told you about?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, of course we remember.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, you may not be aware of this gentleman, that you were about to dine on the freestyle championship of New South Wales.

Narrator/Announcer

Annette started her swim at dawn the next morning. But the crowd James Sullivan had counted on somehow wasn't there. No one was there. It was a cold morning, thick with fog, but Annette needed that five pounds. So she kept swimming slowly. Gradually, the news got around. Clusters of people gathered on the bridges. Some joked, some cheered. But as the hours dragged by, Doc and Jimmy knew she'd never make it.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

What's the matter with you, Doc? Pull those oars.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

I'm doing the best I can.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

The tide.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

It's a mill race. It's like a war.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

The fog's getting worse, too. Oh, well, we'll still get publicity. Swing alongside of her, Doc. We'll pull her in.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

This is it, huh?

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Yeah, I know when we're licked.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I can let her kill herself for five pounds.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Hey, look, maybe.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I said if we're gonna pull her in.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

This is it, honey. Come on aboard.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

No, no, I'll.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Nathan, don't be foolish.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

There's always another time.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

No, Jimmy, please.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Look, you'll kill yourself fighting this tide.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Honey, I can't give up now. I just can't. How much farther do I have to go?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I wish I could tell you with a fog like this. I can't see the landmarks.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I think it's starting to lift.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

It doesn't matter. We'll get you shore.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

No, no, not yet.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Jimmy. Jimmy, look straight ahead.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

It's Greenwich.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

It's Greenwich.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

How far?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

About. About a mile away.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Can you hold out, honey?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Sure.

Annette Kellerman (young)

I'll make it, Jimmy.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I know I will.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

What do you think of a girl like that?

Narrator/Announcer

Annette's phenomenal swim brought Londoners by the droves down to Sullivan's Carnival. But it wasn't Sydney, the boxing kangaroo that they wanted to see.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Jimmy, we're selling tickets for the wrong attraction.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Yeah, poor Sydney. Looks like you slam him right out of his career.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

This just doesn't make sense. The whole idea was for Sydney.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Annette, you've made this swim without consulting me. Well, dad, I'm not complaining about that. I'm very proud of you. But if you think you've rested enough,

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I suggest we go home. Oh, just one thing for folks, and you might as well face it now. Your daughter is now a celebrity.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Yes, I've seen the newspapers.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

She's already at a dozen authors.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Authors? What kind?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Every kind. Personal appearances, swimming events, diving exhibitions. Why? The Crystal palace wants to know if you can sing. And there's a newspaper that wants to sponsor a series of swims at beach resorts. They offered £8 a week.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, you didn't let them get away, did you? You accepted?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

No.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, what offers did you accept?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

None.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

And what do you propose, Mr. Sullivan?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I propose to stage a show.

Narrator/Announcer

Our own show.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

A water carnival.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

A water carnival?

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Why not?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

It's something brand new. I'll even give you the ballet. A water ballet set to music.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Just a moment. Where could you stage such an event?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Where could you find a tank big

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

enough for all this?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

The tank's already built and waiting for us.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Did you ever hear the Hippodrome in New York?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Yeah, My dear boy, really? 3,000 miles of ocean.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

What of it? It's the biggest tank in the world. And the largest theater in the world.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

And the longest swim in the world to get there. Jimmy, dad and I couldn't pay for a trip to Liverpool, let alone.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Who said anything about that? Anyone who travels with Sullivan gets all expenses paid. Look, I happen to know Alfred Harper personally. He runs the Hippodrome and he's showman enough to go for this idea in a second.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Well, how can you afford the fares? I thought you were. Well, that is broke.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Perhaps. But I've got such confidence in this that I'm willing to sacrifice my entire asset.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

What asset?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Sydney, the kangaroo. Oh, Jimmy, no.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

There's a circus in town. I've already got an offer for him. You ready, old pal?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Hey. See?

Narrator/Announcer

Even Sydney approves.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Get his leash, Doc.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Oh, come on now, don't take it too hard, Sydney.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

It's. Well, it's just part of show business, that's all. One minute you're up, one minute you're.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Ooh. Flat on the floor. Not a boy, Sydney. That's shown.

Judge

Showing them.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Get him out of here. We'll meet you at the steamship office at 12 o'.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Clock.

Narrator/Announcer

As far as I was concerned, Annette Kellerman was just another pretty girl on the day when Jimmy Sullivan brought her into my office at the Hippodrome. As for Jimmy's great idea, well, I just couldn't take a chance.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

But what chance are you taking, Mr. Harper? You admit the idea is good?

Narrator/Announcer

A large part of our success is big names, Jimmy. You saw the billboards out there. Houdini, Marceline, the Crown, Pavlova. But you want me to star an unknown girl.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Mr. Harper's right, Jimmy. Nobody knows me here.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, they know you're in England. They know you're in Australia. Look at these press clippings, Mr. Harper. Headlines, Colin.

Narrator/Announcer

Yes, they're very impressive. But I can't build a show around a swimmer.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Annette isn't just a swimmer. And this water carnival idea is tailor made for the Hippodrome.

Narrator/Announcer

Look, Jimmy, we stayed spectacles here, of course, but everyone has a plot, a story. It isn't that I don't like the idea, but I. Ms. Kellerman, can you do anything besides swim? I might be needing some showgirls.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, I can dance.

Narrator/Announcer

Good. If you're interested, come back and see Me on Monday. I'm afraid that's the most I can offer right now.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Thank you, Mr. Hobbs.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

No, no, I won't let you. A showgirl when you could be the biggest attraction.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I can argue with you about that outside, Jimmy. Mr. Harper's pretty busy.

Narrator/Announcer

Thank you, Ms. Kellerman.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, you thank her again someday. You wait and see.

Narrator/Announcer

I wouldn't be surprised if you're right. Good luck, Jimmy. Well, that's that.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I guess we're back where we were,

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

out in the street.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

It isn't your fault, Jimmy. It was a good idea and I went into it with my eyes open.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, you better take that, John. There's lots worse than being a showgirl at the Hippodrome.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

And you and Doc, we can go

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

back to Boston where we came from. I can always find a concession or something at Revere Beach.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Jimmy, I have to make some money. It's dad I'm thinking about. He isn't well. I'm afraid to think what one more of these uncertainties will do to him. His whole life is music. Loving it and teaching it. If I could only help him start his conservatory again.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

You can.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

How?

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

No, no, no, forget it. I'm not going to sell you on something else and have it fizzle out.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Go to work for Harper. It's safe and expensive.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I need more than just expenses, Jimmy. How much can you make out of a concession?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

If it clicks, plenty. Look, all we have to do is scrape enough money together to buy a tank and then we.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

No, look, I told you to forget it.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

It's too much of a long shot and I've only got $6 left.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I still have three silver cups. That'd be enough to get us to Boston, wouldn't it?

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Maybe.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

What's on your mind?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, we swam down the Thames to get publicity, didn't we?

Narrator/Announcer

Keep talking.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Suppose we did the same thing here. A marathon. Swimming from somewhere. Anywhere.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

No, not anywhere. From Revere Beach. Oh, baby, I knew we were a team from the very first time I saw you. I'll get enough backing for 10 tanks, not just one.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Jimmy, do you think so?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Who's gonna stop us?

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Just tell me that. Who's gonna stop us?

Narrator/Announcer

Who's going to stop them? Well, they were stopped by nothing less than the stoppingest institution in the land. The law. Annette had planned a 20 mile swim starting at Revere beach.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

And.

Narrator/Announcer

But as she walked down to the water, the crowd on the beach stared, speechless and goggle eyed. Annette was wearing a one piece bathing suit. Well, they weren't speechless for Long.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I can hardly believe my aunt.

Annette Kellerman (young)

Mommy, Mommy. Look at you swearing. Come away.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, this is ridiculous. Jimmy, please, can I start now?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

There's a photographer I'm expecting as soon

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

as he gets here.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Now look, don't let them bother you, honey. These same people will be cheering when you come back.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Jimmy, let me start.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, all right, go ahead and don't worry about anything.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Just a minute. What do you think you're doing?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Officer, this is Annette Kellerman, the famous Australian swimmer. She's about to embark on a 20 mile swim. Not in that outfit. Why, this is disgraceful, Officer.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I'm going to try to swim 20 miles. How can I swim in what those women are wearing? I'd drown in an outfit like that.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Just cover yourself, miss, and hurry up about it.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Come on, Jimmy, let's get out of here.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Not on your life.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

You.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

You've done nothing wrong and I won't let anyone intimidate you. Well, just for that, you're under arrest.

Prosecutor

You're both under arrest.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Annette Calaman arrested for indecent exposure. Australian girl causes near riot at Revere Beach.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

One piece bathing suit Shocks Boston Seaside.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Indecent exposure, held for trial. Oh, those hypocrites. Those sanctimonious blue nosed hypocrites. Oh, dad, what are we gonna do?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

No, no, dear.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Hey, the lobby's full of reporters. They want to know, can they come up now?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, tell them to go away. Tell them I've left town.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, as far as I'm concerned, this is the greatest thing that ever happened.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

The greatest.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I'm booked and fingerprinted and arrested like a common criminal.

Annette Kellerman (young)

And you say.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Don't you realize who you are now? You're the standard bearer for all American womanhood. In your hands lies the power to break the shackles of pry and convention. But go ahead, run away if you want to. But I tell you, this is more than a trial. It's more than newspaper headlines. This is a crusade.

Narrator/Announcer

Bravo.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Huh?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

I said bravo. But it's up to you, Annette. You can pay the fine and leave Boston tonight, or you can accept the challenge and go to court.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Doc, you tell those reporters to come on up here. I'll give them a story, bathing suit and all.

Narrator/Announcer

I suppose the entire country knew about Annette Kellerman and her one piece bathing suit. By the time she appeared in that court in Boston, the prosecutor's job was fairly easy. After all, Annette admitted everything

Prosecutor

and has brazenly flaunted every statute of decency. Your Honor, her guilt is incontestable. She admits she Wore the garment in question?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I admit no such thing.

Narrator/Announcer

What's that?

Prosecutor

You deny you appeared before several hundred men, women, and children on Revere beach, clad in a flimsy piece of material that barely covered.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I admit I wore a one piece bathing suit. I do not admit it was indecent.

Prosecutor

Then what would you call it? Your arms and shoulders completely exposed. Not to mention your calves and legs.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Also my ankles, my toes, my knees and my fingers.

Prosecutor

Your honor, this flagrant disrespect is nothing.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I object, your honor.

Judge

Are you the attorney for the defense?

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

No.

Judge

Then sit down. Before I ask you to leave. Ms. Kellerman, is there anything more you wish to add?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Yes, your honor, there is. You see, I've been swimming in competition all my life, and the only way I've been able to compete successfully is by wearing a man's one piece racing suit. After all, sir, you can't deny me my right to swim, can you?

Judge

No, certainly not.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, then how is it possible to swim a race tied up in a corset and 10 yards of wet drapery?

Judge

Ms. Kellerman, please. I'm not the one on trial here.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I'm sorry, sir. Your honor, do the authorities object to the one piece bathing suit or to the fact that the limbs are not entirely covered?

Judge

I see no reason to base any decision on the number of pieces in an article of clothing.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, then perhaps I can suggest a compromise. Now, here in this box is the original racing suit. There you see.

Judge

The same suit?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Uh huh. Except that I've sewn some stockings on the bottom and a jersey on the top. And as you can see, this will cover the entire body except the forearms and the head.

Prosecutor

I consider this shocking, your honor.

Judge

I consider it rather ingenious. And this is the bathing suit you'll use in the future?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Yes, your honor, or others like it.

Judge

In that event, Ms. Kellerman, this case is dismissed.

Annette Kellerman (young)

Thank you.

Narrator/Announcer

Once again, Annette's name was all over the newspapers, and the crowds poured in to see her perform at Jimmy Sullivan's concession at Revere beach. Week after week, the money rolled in. And week after week, Jimmy became more and more certain that Annette meant a great deal more to him than just the source of his income. And one day, while doc was counting up the receipts.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Ah, you know something, Jimmy? Sometimes I wish we had that kangaroo again. We didn't make so much money, But I didn't have all this bookkeeping to worry about. Look here, take this item here.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Personal.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

$200?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

What's the idea?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Take a look, doc. Is this personal enough?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Diamond Ring. Well, did you ask her yet?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Today's the day, Doc. Season here closes real soon and I.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

And you want somebody to keep your feet nice and warm at night. Great. But what about me, Doc?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

I've got an idea for something brand new. A great idea. A swimmer and a flyer.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Liar.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

That Bud Williams act is dynamite. Do you know he can actually take that contraption 400ft off the ground?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Nah, I don't like it. It's against nature.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Can't you see that big new poster? Now, Sullivan's combined shows. King of the air, queen of the sea. Oh, don't get me wrong. Annette will still be our number one attraction. But.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Well, we can dream, can't we?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Well, here she comes. Dreamer.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Hi. I'm not late, am I?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

I'll go out and sell them tickets.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Whose carriage is that out there?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

A man named Aldrich. I had lunch with him in town.

Narrator/Announcer

Aldrich?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

He has a lecture bureau. He's offering me a great deal of money, Jimmy, just to do a series of lectures.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Oh, what kind of lectures?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, he says he sees me in a very dignified presentation, telling about the body beautiful and perhaps a ballet exhibition.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh, no.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, what's the joke? We close here in another week and I.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Darling, I'm sorry, but one of us must be nutty. Can you imagine yourself up on a platform with a pitcher of water and a ballet dancing around in some gauze window?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, for the kind of money he offered me, yes. I don't see anything funny about it at all.

Prosecutor

Oh, you will.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

So will the public.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

You mean. This is so much better, so much more dignified, so much more cultured. Swimming around in a. In a 2x4 tank like a trained seal in a cheap carnival with a fat lady on one side and a fire eater on the other.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, now, wait a minute.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, that's what Mr. Aldridge thinks about it.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Put on your suit, Annette.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

The show starts in 20 minutes.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Jimmy, come on in.

Narrator/Announcer

Well, you.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

You were great just now, as usual.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Bet we turned away 200 people.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Is that what you came to tell me?

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

No, I came to tell you I'm sorry. Big mouth of mine.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, Jimmy, we shouldn't quarrel. Not about this lecture business anyway.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

But it must be important to you.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Mock. We came here for one reason only. Money. Anything that offers us more money is more important. Darling, it's $500 a week for 10 weeks.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

I see.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

And it puts me that much closer to the Kellerman Conservatory.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

You're doing this for your father, isn't it?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, in a way, yes. And it isn't as though we were splitting up. I'll talk to Aldrich. I'm sure there'll be an important job for you.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Yeah, like filling the water pitcher, Jimmy, or penning up the drapes. Or maybe I could come out first and give a short talk on how high class we are. Look, baby, somewhere along the line we got our signals crossed. You got it in your head that you're Joan of Arc or something. Well, get it out fast. You're a swimmer doing a tank act in Sullivan's Water Carnival. And it's not a bad show either.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

And how long can it last, after all, all we're doing is capitalizing on a lot of cheap bathing suit publicity.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, what's Aldrich got in mind that's any different? He's cashing in on the same dodge a ballyhoo that I arranged.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

You arranged?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, who do you think got that cop to arrest you in the first place?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, no, Jimmy, you didn't.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Didn't I?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

How can you stand there? What about all the talk about a crusade and how I would bunk?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Who cares what a lot of females wear on the beach as long as I can keep you in a one piece bathing suit? Baby, you're a swimmer. You belong in the water. Wet, you're terrific. Dry, you're just a nice girl who ought to settle down and get married.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, thank you. I'm very grateful for the advice. But if and when I do get married, it will never be to a cheap, stubborn flea circus proprietor.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

This flea circus does all right for the fleas in it, except when they jump out of their cages. You want to be a toe dancer? Okay, honey, be a toe dancer and see what happens.

Narrator/Announcer

When the carnival closed, Annette went to all not to accept his offer, but to turn it down. It was then that I re entered her life. We changed our policy at the Hippodrome and I've sent her a telegram asking her to come to New York.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

What's the matter, dad? Aren't you excited about it? Alfred Harper, the New York Hippodrome.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Yes, it sounds wonderful, dear.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

This is just what Jimmy always said I should do any.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

What is it, Annette? What's wrong?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, dad, don't you know?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Yes, I. I think I do. Take that telegram to Jimmy. Let him read it for himself. There's nothing like good news to patch up a lover's quarrel. Now run along and find Jimmy and tell him.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

I just don't get it, honey. Jimmy's on his way to Florida. You mean he hasn't told you.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Florida? No. No, he didn't tell me, Doc.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Yeah, I'm leaving myself tomorrow.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, why Florida?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Oh, it's that new act he's working on. Flying machines. Jimmy and that. That Bud Williams guy.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, I see. Well, tell him. Tell him if he finds time, that he might drop me a postcard.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Yeah, that. That dumb Bostonian.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Tell him he can find me at the New York Hippodrome. Good luck.

Narrator/Announcer

Johnette Kellerman performing in the huge tank on the stage of the Hippodrome was a spectacular success. My one hope was that she'd stay with us.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I don't have to read the new contract, Alfred. If you think I should sign, just give me a pen. I'd work at the Hippodrome for almost nothing.

Narrator/Announcer

Well, I assure you, you won't be working for nothing in that. You know, you've been wonderful.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Thank you, Alfred.

Narrator/Announcer

I'm giving a little supper party for Pavlova Saturday night after the show. Can you come?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, may I let you know later?

Narrator/Announcer

That means no, doesn't it? Annette, don't you ever go out?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Never.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, hello, dad. I'll be ready in a moment.

Narrator/Announcer

I'm trying to persuade your elusive daughter to come to a party, Mr. Kellerman.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Of course you go. It'll do you good, darling. Besides, orders are orders. Mr. Harper is now my boss, too.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Your boss?

Narrator/Announcer

Well, I've. I've asked your father to work with our orchestra next season. We can use his kind of talent here, you know.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Dad, that's wonderful.

Narrator/Announcer

You see, we've got to keep the Hellermans happy. The man in the box office told me so.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, dad, the two of us working together. I couldn't be happier.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Couldn't you? I. I've got a report on Jimmy Sullivan. Do you? After Florida, he went to New Orleans with a wrestling bear, then to Chicago with some sort of concession that closed last month.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

And now. Where is he now?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

They don't know.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, dad. I've just got to find him. That argument we had was so stupid and silly. This whole thing, the Hippodrome. It was all Ginny's idea.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

Just don't confuse love and loyalty. You owe nothing to anyone, and Jimmy knows it.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Does he?

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

He wants to make good without Annette Kellerman. He knows you don't need him.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

But I do need him, dad.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

He'll come to you when he has something to offer, but not perform. The only thing you can be sure is that he'll be trying.

Narrator/Announcer

I came to know Annette as the months went by. It was so easy to fall in love with her. But I never knew for sure just where I really stood, if she'd forgotten Jimmy Sullivan or not. It was about at this time that a great sorrow came into Annette's life. The sudden death of her father.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

It's right here.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Jimmy here in the newspaper. Says he died while he was conducting the orchestra at the Hippodrome.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

He was a wonderful man.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Document? He never did get his conservatory.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Look, why don't you go and see him?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

No, no, and I don't want to talk about him. Okay, but come on, we've got to finish overhauling the engine.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Hey, Jimmy, look, about this airplane business. If you're not really serious about flying across the country now, are you?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

You bet your life I am. If I ever get this egg crate off the ground, we're gonna hit pay dirt.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

I hope that's all we hit.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Yeah, yeah, yeah. Now, hand me the wrench.

Narrator/Announcer

Annette.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I'll be with you in a moment, Alfred.

Narrator/Announcer

Nothing important. Fred just told me there's someone here to see you at the stage door.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, who is it?

Narrator/Announcer

Well, I really don't know.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

You seem very absorbed in that newspaper, Alfred. What's so interesting?

Narrator/Announcer

Oh, I'm sorry. Here, look at the headline.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

12 aviators to start coast to coast flight. That's quite a stunt.

Narrator/Announcer

$50,000 in prizes. Poor fellows. They'll all be killed. Well, shall I tell Fred you're busy?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, oh, the man at the stage door. No, no, I'll see you. It is.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Oh, boy, what a dressing room. Well, I can't say you don't deserve it, Annette.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Come on in, Doc. Tell me all about yourself. I was never so surprised to see anyone in my life.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Well, I. I hate to bother you, Annette, but. Well, somebody's got to talk Jimmy out of doing it.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Doing what?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

That bughouse air race. He's got his eye on that fifty thousand dollar pot and he.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

You. You mean Jimmy's going to fly to California?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Well, he's. He's going to try and you should see in what?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

But Doc, he's no flyer.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

That's what I've been telling him. But you know, Sullivan, I just thought maybe there was something you could figure out.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, well, when does he plan to start?

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Anytime now. Perhaps tomorrow if the weather's right. We're out there at Montauk Point, so maybe.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Doc, Doc, I've got a performance tonight.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Yes, I know.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, don't worry. I'll be out there. I'll think of something.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Thanks.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, and. And I'm so grateful you came to tell me.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Just don't let him know I'm in trouble. Enough now.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

All right, I won't, Doc. Thanks again.

Narrator/Announcer

Annette was at Montauk Point early the next morning. Jimmy was just about to take off.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

I'm sorry, Mr. Sullivan. She must have crawled under the ropes. You want me to get rid of her?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Get rid of her? Why, this is a very famous personality. Annette Kellerman, the well known lecturer, Jimmy Sullivan.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I don't care what happens to you, but Doc is a friend of mine and I forbid you to take him on this flight.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

You see what I mean? Greatest lecturer of her day.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

You heard me, Jimmy.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, that's sweet of you, baby, but you don't have to worry about Doc. He's not leaving the ground. He's driving the repair car.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

That's me, Annette.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Still the guy in the rowboat. You ready, Mr. Sullivan? Right.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Jimmy, please don't force me to take drastic action.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Drastic action? Why, I've never forced you to do anything, honey. Remember.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Okay, Doc, let's get her started.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Mr. Glover, please.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Yes, ma'.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Am.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

You James Sullivan? Well, here's a summons for you, Mr. Sullivan. Your flying machine has been attached.

Narrator/Announcer

Look, go away. Sorry, it's a court order.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Court order? For what?

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Non payment of monies owed to Annette Kellerman.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

That's right. And don't look so surprised. I had an accounting of all the books when you ran the concession at Revere Beach. There's a personal item marked $200 and you can explain it in court.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh.

Narrator/Announcer

Oh, that.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, I'm sorry, honey.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Here.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Here's the item in question. It's a diamond ring. You can sell it somewhere.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Okay, Doc, turn it over.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

Thanks for trying, honey.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Riverfield, la.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Yes, I.

Narrator/Announcer

You're on stage in five minutes, dear.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Yes, yes, I know.

Narrator/Announcer

Still reading the newspapers?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, 12 is nothing new. Alice.

Narrator/Announcer

I'll say one thing for this air race. It certainly captured the attention of the country. To say nothing of yours.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I'm sorry.

Narrator/Announcer

You want very much for him to win, don't you?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I? Well, of course. I mean, I.

Narrator/Announcer

You figure he'll have $50,000. He can come to you, carry you off in a white charger. All very simple. The American success story. Darling, I know how importantly this man looms in your life. But do allow me the privilege of criticizing my competition. Maybe he will win. I hope he does. But it still won't work. You're a big league. And Sullivan, he's a will o' the wisp looking for that fast dollar. The big ballyhoo. That'll make him a seven day wonder. It probably isn't news to you that I love you very much. What's important is that I think I can make you happy. Will you marry me, Annette?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Alfred, believe it or not, this is the very first marriage proposal I've ever had. It's. It's a little overpowering.

Narrator/Announcer

Too overpowering to give me a quick yes, huh?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, can I. Can I wait until after the show?

Narrator/Announcer

You can wait as long as you want to, darling. I'll be around when you're ready to tell me.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

All right then, dear. Tonight. Tonight.

Narrator/Announcer

But once again, Jimmy Sullivan crossed our paths. During the show, a telegram arrived for Annette from Doc. Jimmy had crashed. He wasn't badly hurt, but they'd taken him to a hospital. Annette put through a phone call immediately.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I didn't even talk to him, Alfred. He'd already left the hospital.

Narrator/Announcer

Really?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

They patched up his arm and he left.

Narrator/Announcer

Where did he go?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, they don't know. All they know is that, well, he's gone.

Narrator/Announcer

I suppose Annette forgot all about my proposal and the answer I was waiting for. In a way, I couldn't blame her. Some months later, shortly before Christmas, a friend of mine from Hollywood dropped by. A movie producer named Garvey the Great

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Challenge Harper and a wonderful new medium. If you could only persuade her to come out there.

Narrator/Announcer

Well, haven't you talked to Annette about it?

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Well, no. I thought you were handling her affairs.

Narrator/Announcer

Don't let that fly. I advise her. But she's a lady who makes up her own mind. Hollywood might be a good idea for her. Might even be a good change for me.

For you?

Oh, sorry. I'm just thinking out loud. Well, suppose I ask her now she's here?

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Yes.

Narrator/Announcer

She's giving a little Christmas party this morning. Kids from the Children's Hospital. Come on, we'll. We'll both ask her.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Well, I wish I could, but I'm supposed to meet my wife. Let me know what she says, will you?

Narrator/Announcer

I'll call your hotel. Looks like a wonderful party, Annette.

Annette Kellerman (young)

Oh, hello, Alfred.

Narrator/Announcer

Only I'm a little jealous. Everybody seems to get a Christmas present but me.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Poor, poor Alfred. What would you like most of all?

Narrator/Announcer

I'd like an answer to a question I asked you last June.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, well, it. It's. Yes, darling. The Andrews. Yes.

Narrator/Announcer

We left for Hollywood not long after. We had some wonderful plans. Annette would make a picture, then we'd be married and sail to Australia. On our honeymoon in New Mexico, a man came aboard the trouble train. We ran into him in the dining car.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

So good to see you, Jimmy. You got over your accident, I see.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh, yeah, long ago. Doc and I, we. We've been out west.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, and everything's all right, huh?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, naturally. Naturally. Everything's fine, fine. I. I read where you two are going to be married. Congratulations.

Narrator/Announcer

Thank you, Jimmy.

Judge

It's.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

It's a great idea. About time he started raising a family of little swimmers.

Narrator/Announcer

We. Well, we're about taking the big jump until Annette finishes her picture.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh, you're making a picture, huh? Well, as a matter of fact, I'm going to Hollywood, too.

Narrator/Announcer

Well, if we can be of any help.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Thanks, but I've got a few contacts myself.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Will they see my new star? Well, it's nice seeing you.

Narrator/Announcer

Lots of luck to you both.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Thank you, Jimmy.

Narrator/Announcer

Annette went right into her picture. There was no word from Jimmy, and I quite forgot about him one morning at the studio.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Well, Harper, with any luck, we'll finish the picture today. You know, Annette's been wonderful. Now, if I could only persuade you two to postpone getting married. There's another picture?

Narrator/Announcer

Oh, no, no. We're leaving here tonight.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

I can't say that I blame you. Annette in her dressing room.

Narrator/Announcer

You ready for her?

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Well, if you don't mind telling her we'll be all set in about 10 minutes.

Narrator/Announcer

This is the big woman, huh? The scene in the tank.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Oh, greatest scene in the whole picture.

Narrator/Announcer

I'll tell her. She'll be ready when you want.

Doc (Friend/Assistant)

All right.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Thank you.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

How about a Frank? Thanks, Paul. Mr. Garvey, everything's ready.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Just keep that water pouring in.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Holding 50,000 gallons.

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

Now, can't we raise the level?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, it's glass, you know. Pretty solid, but why take chances?

Garvey the Great (Movie Producer)

I guess you're right. Well, let's get those cameras set up.

Narrator/Announcer

Well, this is it, sweetheart. Garvey says you'll be finished right after this scene.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

You've been very patient, Alfred.

Narrator/Announcer

Just a pose. I've never been more impatient in my life. What are you looking for?

Gillou?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Something. Well, I must have dropped it on the floor. Here.

Narrator/Announcer

What is it?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, it's just sort of a good luck charm.

Narrator/Announcer

It's a ring that I. Oh, this ring?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh. Oh, yes. Thank you, darling.

Narrator/Announcer

Looks more like an engagement ring.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, I. I've been wearing it whenever I perform. It's silly, isn't it?

Narrator/Announcer

No, not if it makes you feel any better.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Ready, Ms. Kellerman?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

I'll be right there, Frank.

Narrator/Announcer

One take and we'll be on our way out of here.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Well, keep your fingers crossed. See you soon, dear.

Narrator/Announcer

This was a Big scene. An underwater ballet. Beautiful. Staged. Everything seemed to be going fine when suddenly Frank rushed up the tank.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

Mr. Garley. Huh?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

The glass is cracking. Get her out of there.

Doc (Doctor/Assistant)

It's going to split wide open. Get Ms. Kellerman out of that tank. Hurry.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Glasses break.

Narrator/Announcer

But they had no time to get her out. The water roared out of the shattered tank and Annette was catapulted through the broken glass.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

I. I've been here at the hospital every day, Mr. Harper. They. They won't let me see her.

Narrator/Announcer

Yes, the nurses have mentioned how attentive you've been.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, how is she?

Narrator/Announcer

Do they operate this morning? We'll know very shortly.

Now, Mr. Harper, before you go up, I'd like to talk to you.

Oh, this is Mr. Sullivan, Dr. Vance.

How do you do, Mr. Sullivan? She's resting comfortably.

That's all you can tell them?

We know Nothing for certain, Mr. Harper, except that Ms. Kellerman's spine suffered a severe blow, what we call a spinal cord hematoma. We relieved the pressure. Fortunately, there was no severance of the nerve tracts. But she'll have to face the fact that she may not have the use of her legs for quite some time.

Does she know about this?

She insisted on knowing before the operation. I. I'd rather she didn't have any visitors right now. Later, of course, Mr. Harper. Whatever is humanly possible to do for her will do. The rest of the is up to Ms. Kelman.

Yes, I. I know we're in very capable hands. Check with you later in the day.

Judge

Annette.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Annette.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Jimmy.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Well, maybe I. Maybe I shouldn't be here, honey.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

The nurse told me you were asleep.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, Jimmy, I'm so glad to see you.

Mr. Kellerman (Annette's father)

You.

Narrator/Announcer

You're.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

You're looking swell.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, I'll be up and around in no time at all.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Well, that's great.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

It's just a sprain or some such thing. How's your picture coming along?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Oh, it's all finished.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

They're taking a prince in New York tonight.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, I've been hearing about it. I hear it's just wonderful. Imagine, starring a dog. What's his name?

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

Rin Tin Tin.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

What a funny name. Is it Chinese?

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

French?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Oh, Jimmy.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Annette, darling, please. Oh, baby, don't let it catch you, please. A doctor, he. He may know medicine, but there are a lot of things about people he doesn't know. He doesn't know about a little girl with braces back there in Australia. They told her the same thing, too.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

He doesn't know how she hobbled every

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

day to the water, learning to swim before she could walk, how she became the greatest swimming star in the whole world. Oh, there are a lot of things that doctors don't know, honey. Including what I once told you. Wet, you're terrific. Dry, you ought to marry some guy and settle down.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Jimmy.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Well, I, I just wanted to tell you that you're. You're gonna beat this thing.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

You and Harper together. He's a terrific guy, honey.

Narrator/Announcer

Unlucky is a better word.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

Alfred.

Narrator/Announcer

Jimmy's right, darling. You'll beat this thing pure the way you've beaten everything else. And as for you, I know I

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

shouldn't be here, but I, I had to see her.

Narrator/Announcer

That's not what I was going to say. I, I, I don't know why you should get this kind of a break. You don't rate it. You struck gold once and, and you never had the sense to stake a claim. You're a crazy, vagabond Irishman with both feet firmly planted in midair. But you're what the doctor ordered. Just you see that you make her happy.

Annette Kellerman (adult)

That's all, Alfred.

Narrator/Announcer

Goodbye, darling. You'll be up and around soon and rehearsing a new act. And when you do, remember, I'm holding you to your contract with the Hippodrome. Oh, Jimmy, this, this ring. They were keeping it downstairs in the hospital safe.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

Thank you.

Narrator/Announcer

Well, I'll see you at the Hippodrome.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

How does he know about this ring?

Annette Kellerman (adult)

It belongs to me. It took a court order before I got it the first time, and I can do it again if I have to.

Alfred Harper (Hippodrome Manager)

I don't think you have to.

Narrator/Announcer

Here they are after a million dollars worth of entertainment. Esther Williams and Walter Pitcher.

A million dollars worth? That isn't how my contract for tonight read.

Jimmy Sullivan (Manager/Promoter)

How about James Sullivan?

Judge

William Johnstone as Mr. Kellerman. Eddie Mar as Doc. Joe Kearns as Garvey. Barney Phillips as the prosecutor, Will Wright as a judge. Herb Butterfield as the doctor and Fred Mackay, Robert Griffin, Issa Ashdown, James Nasser and Ken Christie. Our radio play was adapted by S.H. barnett and our music was composed and directed by Rudy Schrager.