 Lux presents Hollywood. Lever Brothers Company, the makers of Lux Flakes, bring you the Lux Radio Theatre, starring Maureen O'Hara, John Payne, and Edmund Gwynn in Miracle on 34th Street. Ladies and gentlemen, your producer, Mr. William Keely. Greetings from Hollywood, ladies and gentlemen. Our Christmas present to you is the new Christmas classic of our time, Miracle on 34th Street. It's wrapped in a gay covering of laughter, tied with a bright ribbon of good humor, and decorated with the three sparkling stars of the 20th Century Fox picture, Maureen O'Hara, John Payne, and Edmund Gwynn. This is a wonderful story for the whole family, and perhaps some families may be gathered around a Christmas tree as they listen. Others will be putting up this happy sign of the season in a few days with lights and ornaments, and the shining snow that can be made with Lux Flakes. Later, we'll tell you how to do this trick with Lux. But right now, it's curtain time for the play that proves there's a Santa Claus, Miracle on 34th Street, starring Maureen O'Hara as Doris, John Payne as Fred, and Edmund Gwynn in his Academy Award winning performance as Chris Kingo. It's Thanksgiving Day in New York City. On a broad avenue adjoining Central Park, an annual event is being joyfully awaited. The spectacular parade presented by Macy's department store to herald in the Christmas season. Away from the crowd are two of Macy's public relations experts. He's simply wonderful, Mrs. Wacka. Just look at him on that float. The most realistic Santa Claus we've ever had. He didn't even need any padding, did he? Padding? Why, didn't you notice his tummy? So round, so firm, so fully packed. Well, now that everything's under control, where on earth did you find it? I don't know. I just turned around and there he was. And to think that the man whose place he took was intoxicated. With a breath that would knock over a reindeer. Oh, just think if Mr. Macy had seen him. What if Mr. Gimble had seen him? Competition between our stores is tough enough. Well, the parade's starting. Let's stand at the curb. Not I, Mr. Schellhammer. I'm going home to relax. Anyway, I can see it from there. I live just around the corner. Oh, so you do. Well, I'll see you tomorrow, Mrs. Wacka. And congratulations on finding the best Santa Claus in Macy's history. Certainly is a wonderful parade, Susan. Just look at that cloud. Gosh, what a giant. Giant, Mr. Galey? There are no such things as giants. Well, not now, maybe. But in olden days, there's some. Really, Mr. Galey? And you're a liar. Well, what about the giant that Jack killed? You know, Jack and the Beanstalk? Everybody knows that's a fairy tale. And I agree with my mother. Fairy tales are silly. Come in. This is Mother by Macy. Oh, hello, Mother. I'm watching the parade, Mr. Galey invited me. Hello, darling. Susie's told me quite a lot about you, Mrs. Walker. She's told me quite a lot about you, too, the man in the front apartment. Well, this is all part of a plot, Mrs. Walker. I'm very fond of Susie, but I also wanted to meet you. At least you're frank. Don't even mention the name. Why not, Mother? Well, that Santa Claus you see is a last-minute substitute. But why? Remember the way the janitor was last New Year's? Oh, why? I, um, I see Susan doesn't believe in Santa Claus, either. That's right. She never has. Bye, Mr. Galey. Well, I... Oh, uh, please don't bother. I'll just have a sandwich or something. But we have such a big tourist. Well, well, I... Did I ask her all right, Mr. Galey? Susie, shh! You asked fine, Susan. Dinner's at three, Mr. Galey. Yes, Mr. Schelhammer? You may have said you were thanksgiving dinner, but I just had to tell you, your Santa Claus was stupendous. Well, thank you. Mr. Macy himself wants him to be our toy department, Santa Claus. Oh, fine. Can you hire him? Oh, oh, oh, feel it. Good. We'll talk about it in the morning. Thanks for calling, Mr. Schelhammer. Oh, Hammer, here's Santa Claus. Oh, thank you, Alfred. Thank you. Good morning, Santa Claus. Good morning. Now, before you go to the toy department, here's a list of toys that we have to push. You know, things we're overstocked on. Now, you'll find that great many children will be undecided as to what they want for Christmas. And when that happens, you immediately suggest one of these items. Do you understand? I certainly do. Fine, that's fine. Now, take the list, and Alfred here will show you to your throne in the toy department. And don't you forget, you're working for Macy's. Why, of course I am. What do you want for Christmas, little boy? I want a fire engine with a real hose that squirts real wet water. And I want to do it in the house and only do it in the backyard, I promise. And I promise you'll get your fire engine. You see, Mama, I told you. Andy, you'll wait here, Mortimer. Mama wants to thank Santa Claus, too. Yes, madam? So what's the matter with you? No, no, no. What's the trouble? I told you before, didn't I? The kid wants a fire engine, but there isn't one to be had anywhere in town. Macy's ain't got any, Gimbal's ain't got any, nobody's got any. My feet are killing me, and you say, okay, he gets the fire engine. But you can get those fire engines at Schoenfeld's, Lexington Avenue. Only 450, a wonderful bargain. Schoenfeld? Yes. Hey, I don't get it. Oh, I follow the 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 the toy doesn't matter. Don't you feel that way? Who, me? Yes. Oh, yes, sure. Only I didn't know Macy's did. I don't get it. I just don't get it. Who's next, please? Right this way to see Santa Claus. All right, little girl. You're next. Of course, little girl. You want some roller skates? Well, you shall have them, too. Mama, mama, he's going to bring me some roller skates. And he has some fine skates here at Macy's, haven't you, Santa Claus? Oh, they're good skates, all right, but not quite good enough. Now, I left some really wonderful roller skates at Gimbles. I'm sure Gimbles have just what this good little girl wants. Mr. Shellhammer. Eh, Gimbles? Gimbles? That's just what he did say. Gimbles. The sales lady said I should speak to you. Gimbles. I just wanted to congratulate you and Macy's on this wonderful new stancher coin. Gimbles. Imagine a big outfit like Macy's, putting the spirit of Christmas ahead of the commercial. Gimbles. From now on, I'm going to be a regular Macy customer. All right, Mortimer, we're going. Gimbles! Apartment over there, Mr. Galey. You certainly know all about Macy's store, don't you, Susan? Well, that's because my mother works here. But I still think it's silly bringing me here to see Santa Claus. I just feel it when you talk to him. Okay, Mr. Galey. I'm certainly willing to try. Fine young lady, eh? What's your name, little girl? Susan Walker. What's yours? Mine? Chris Kringle. I'm Santa Claus. Mm. Oh-ho, you don't believe that, eh? Uh-uh. You see, my mother's Mrs. Walker. Oh-ho-ho-ho-ho-ho. But I must say you're the best-looking Santa Claus I've ever seen. Really? Your beard, for instance. It doesn't have one of those things that goes over your ears. That's because it's real. Just like I'm really Santa Claus. Now go ahead, pull it. Real? Yes, yeah. And now what would you like me to bring you for Christmas? Nothing, thank you. Whatever I want my mother will get. If it's sensible and doesn't cost too much. That's quite right, Susan. Oh, hello, mother. Hello, Mr. Galey. Galey's mother sprained her ankle. She had to go home, so she asked me to bring Susie down to you. And as long as we were here, I figured we might as well say hello to Santa Claus. He has real whiskers, mother. Susan, would you mind standing over there a minute? If you want me to. I, um... I shouldn't have brought Susie to see Santa, is that it? Now you're making me feel completely heartless. I'm sorry. Don't you see, I tell Susan that Santa Claus is a myth. And you sure are a very convincing old man with real whiskers. Whom is she to believe? Yeah, that's right, isn't it? When Susan was a baby, her father and I were divorced. And ever since then I've protected my child by teaching her realities. If you don't believe in fairy tales and fantasy, you can never be hurt or disillusioned. We were talking about Susie, Mrs. Walker. And I must ask you to let me raise her as I see fit. All right, dear. The store's going to close soon. We'll run along to my office. Alfred said you wanted to see me, Mrs. Walker. Oh, um, oh yes, come in. I, um... I'd be grateful if you would please tell Susan that you're not really Santa Claus, that there actually is no such person. But Mrs. Walker, not only is there such a person, but here I am to prove it. No, no, no, no, you misunderstand. I want you to tell her the truth. Now, um, what's your real name? Chris Gringle. And I always tell the truth. Susan, I'll bet you're in the first grade. Second grade. I mean your real name. Well, that is my real name. My goodness, the second grade? Very well. I have your employment card right here. I'll look it up on that. That's a very cute dress you have on Susan. It's from Macy's. We get 10% off. Oh. So... You always tell the truth, do you? Look at your employment card. Name, Chris Gringle, address, Brooks Memorial Home, Great Neck, Long Island. You may call the home if you would care to confirm that, Mrs. Walker. It's a home for elderly gentlemen. Would you also like me to confirm this? What's that? Date of birth. As old as my tongue and a little bit older than my teeth. Place of birth. North Pearl. Now, really. Why, I believe you doubt me, Mrs. Walker. And this tops everything. Next of kin. Oh, that. Dasher, dancer, prancer and vixen. I'm sorry to have to do this, Mr... Gringle. But the Santa Claus that we had two years ago is back in town, and I feel that we owe it to him to... What? Have I done something wrong? No, no, no. It's just that we feel... Oh, excuse me. Hello? This is Mr. Shelham and Mrs. Walker. Drop whatever you're doing. Mr. Macy wants to see us immediately. Oh, I'll be right up. I'm afraid I'll have to be very abrupt with you. I have to see Mr. Macy. I'll give you the full week, Mr. Gringle, and I'll send you a check to that address. Right in, Mrs. Walker. Mr. Shelhamer. Thank you, Mr. Macy. Now, about this new policy you two initiated. Oh. Macy's Santa Claus sending customers to Gimbal's. Well, I can explain everything, Mr. Macy. You don't have to explain a thing. Just look at my desk. 42 telegrams and over 500 phone calls. Grateful parents expressing undying gratitude to Macy's department store. Why, you don't say. From now on, not only will our Santa Claus continue in this manner, but every salesperson in the entire store. You mean that if we haven't got what the customer asks for? We're to send him where he can get it. No high pressuring and forcing a customer to take something he doesn't really want. I think that's wonderful, Mr. Macy. Well, I will be known as the helpful store, the friendly store, the store that places public service ahead of profits. And consequently, we will make more profits than ever. As for you, Mrs. Walker and Mr. Shelhammer, you find a more practical expression of my gratitude in your Christmas envelope. Oh, thank you. And tell that wonderful Santa Claus I won't forget him either. As a matter of fact, I'll tell him myself in the morning. Yes, indeed, Mr. Macy. Good night. Good night. Good night, Mr. Macy. And thank you again, sir. Oh, imagine a bonus. Yes. What's the matter with you? Mr. Shelhammer, I just fired him. Who? Santa Claus. Oh, no, no, no, no, no. You couldn't have. But I did. He's crazy, Mr. Shelhammer. He really thinks he is Santa Claus. I don't care if he thinks he's the Easter Bunny. Find him. Act two of Miracle on 34th Street will continue in a moment. Well, Libby, have you given Santa your Christmas list? Yes, indeed, John. And number one on my list is a pair of Chinese pajamas with a three-quarter coat and little upstanding collar, just like the ones Marta Toren wears in Rogue's Regiment. Perhaps you'd better have the wardrobe, Mistress of Universal International, show Santa, what you mean? Well, I'm sure Dick Powell or Stephen McNally could give him a good description. They found Marta very glamorous in this modern story of the French foreign legion. And what a villain Vincent Price is in Rogue's Regiment. I was on the edge of my seat through the whole picture. Can you talk about a pair of pajamas? Well, they were very special. Marta liked them so well she had four pairs made for her personal wardrobe. And she was delighted when they told her she could luxe them. That's about the easiest care in the world, especially now with the new tiny diamonds of luxe. Another triumph of the famous Lever Laboratories. These tiny diamonds are so much faster, they burst into suds the instant water touches them and make wonderfully rich suds that last and last. Don't colors look marvelous when they're luxed. So fresh and new. No wonder smart girls say they won't risk wrong washing methods. Tests prove that with gentle care with luxe flakes really makes a difference. Luxe slips in 90s stayed new looking three times as long. And that's just like getting three pretty slips for the price of one. A really thoughtful Santa would put a box of luxe flakes in every lingerie gift next Friday night. Here's our producer, Mr. William Keely. Act two of Miracle on 34th Street, starring Marina Harrah as Doris, John Payne as Fred, and Edmund Gwynn as Chris Kringle. It was a frantic few hours that Doris spent last night brushing out to the Brooks Memorial home in Long Island and assuring Chris Kringle that Macy's wanted him back as Santa Claus. Now Chris is again presiding over the crowded toy department, while in her office Doris and Mr. Shelhammer. Don't you understand Mr. Shelhammer? That old man with the nice white whiskers insists that he is Santa Claus. He's out of his mind. What if he should have a fit or something? Oh no, I've got to tell Mr. Macy. But maybe he's only a little crazy. Anyway, you can't be sure until he's examined. We'll send him to Mr. Sawyer. Sawyer? In personnel. He's paid to examine employees, isn't he? And now, by the way, what do you think of this? What is it? A full-page ad. Macy's is running in tomorrow's newspapers. Macy's is running it. But it's all about the other stores. Gimbal's and Sawexon. I know, I know. Mr. Macy's idea to help our customers find what they want. It's revolting, isn't it? That Santa Claus certainly has started something. Oh, well. I'll get a hold of him in his lunch hour and send him up to Mr. Sawyer. He came right up. Oh. Well, then that's your own beard, huh? Oh, yes. Interesting complex and bag of that. Why do you carry a cane? Paul must carry a cane, Mr. Sawyer. Well, that is when I wear street clothes. I carved this cane out of a runner from one of my old slays. What's that? What's that? That was a fine, solid, silver top. Who was the first President of the United States? Oh. Oh, give me a difficult one. Like, who was Vice President under James Monroe? I'm conducting this examination. The answer is Daniel D. Tomkins. Oh. Yes. You're a rather nervous man, aren't you, Mr. Sawyer? Hmm? Tell me, do you, um, do you get enough sleep? My personal habits are no concern of yours. Now, what hand am I holding up? Right hand. How many fingers do you see? Three. Oh, dear, oh, dear. You bite your nails, too. Oh. Stand up now. Feet together. Arms extended. Muscular coordination tests? I've taken dozens of these tests. Mr. Sawyer, are you happy at home? What? That will be all, Mr. Kringle. The examination is over. Thank you. Yeah, and it may interest you to know that I've been happily married for 22 years, very happily married. Delighted to hear it. Goodbye, Mr. Sawyer. Miss Prawn. Yes, sir. Get Mrs. Walker on the phone. Yes, sir. But your wife, Mr. Sawyer, she's called four times already. May you tell my big fat wife to shut up on my own business. Here's Mrs. Walker, sir. All right. Hello. Oh, I was just going to call you, Mr. Sawyer. No. There's a Dr. Pierce stopping by this afternoon at three. Who's Dr. Pierce? He's the physician at the Brooks Home. I thought we might discuss Mr. Kringle's case with him. Oh, there's hardly any point in discussing it, Mrs. Walker. Obviously, the old man should be discharged. Yes, Kringle should be dismissed immediately and sent to a mental institution. Oh, now, just a minute, Mr. Sawyer. He's deluded saying that he's Santa Claus. It's a delusion for good. I found he only wants to be friendly and helpful. His old man has suggest aggressiveness. Look at the way he carries that cane. Mrs. Walker, naturally, I can't discharge that loonie, so when he exhibits his maniacal tendencies, please realize the responsibility is completely off. Well, I'm right back where I started. Mrs. Walker, I assure you Chris Kringle has no maniacal tendencies. But if there's the slightest possibility of us causing any trouble... What trouble? All that needs happen is a policeman ask his name. Chris Kringle, clang-clang, and Macy's Santa Claus lands up in the psychopathic ward. Well, you can prevent that very simply. There must be someone here at the store who could rent him a room. Then they could both come to work together. I just as soon he avoided that long train ride to Long Island anyway. You mean sort of take custody of him? Mm-hmm. Do you think that Mr. Kringle would agree to that? Oh, I'm sure he'll agree. Well, in that case... Now, let me see. Who do I know who could rent him a room? We're going to have dinner with us, Mr. Kringle. Oh, thank you, Susan. I'm also very glad you're going to live next door with Mr. Galey. Oh, why? Because you're nice to talk to. Oh, I say, what a fine young man that Mr. Galey is, eh? Just think, allowing me to share his apartment, a mere stranger. He did it because Mother hinted to him. Oh, well, anyway, I'm very grateful. Shall I tell you what I did in school today? By all means, any games? Yes, and a very silly game, too. They played zoo, and each child was supposed to be an animal. Oh, but, Susan, they were just pretending. But that's what makes the game so silly. Oh, well, of course, in order to play games, you need imagination. Oh, uh, that's when you see things, but they're not really there, huh? Oh, yes. Yes, but, you know, to me, imagination is a place all by itself. Now, you've heard of the French nation. And the British nation. Well, this is the imagination. A very interesting place, too. Now, how would you like to be able to make snowballs in summertime, eh? What? Or be the Statue of Liberty in the morning, and in the afternoon, fly south with a flock of geese. Well, I'm quite sure I'd like it, but... Oh, 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? Oh, I'll show you. Now, first, you bend over a little, like this, eh? Now, let your arms hang loose, see? Like this? Yes, that's fine. Fine. Now, put your hand over here and start scratching, see? That's it. That's it. That's excellent, Susan. That's as fine a bit of 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 chatter, see? That's fine, Susan. Fine. You're doing beautifully. Beautifully, yes. Just coming to say goodnight, Susan, that's all. Now, look here. About Christmas. There must be something you'd like for Christmas. Well, I've certainly thought about something, Mr. Crangle. You have? Well, what is it, eh? Tell me. It's right here on the night table, see? I tore this page out of a magazine. It's a picture of a house. Oh, that's what you want. Is it a doll's house? Colonial architecture. Oh, not a doll's house. A real house. A real house? Yes. And if you are really Santa Claus, you can get it for me. Now, now, now. Wait a minute, Susie. What could you possibly do with a big house? Live in it with my mother. And a backyard with a big tree to put a swing on and a garden and a... Oh, well, I even discuss it. Susie. Susie, could I, uh... could I keep this picture? Just, uh, just in case? I guess so. Thank you, dear. Thank you. Well, Mr. Gayley's waiting for me. Good night, monkey. Good night, Mr. Crangle. Take whichever bird you want, Mr. Crangle. You're very kind, really. Tell me, Mr. Gayley, what is it you just do for a living, eh? Oh, I'm a lawyer. Haslip, Haslip, Sherman and Mackenzie. Oh. Hmm. And you, uh, you like living here in the city? Well, it's convenient. But someday I'd like to get a place on Long Island. Not a big house, just one of those junior partner deals around Manhasset. Oh, one of those little colonial houses, eh? Yeah. Yeah. A little colonial house would be swell. Good. Good, yes. You're quite fond of Mrs. Walker, aren't you? A lot of good it does me. She lives in a cast iron shell that's just a little difficult to penetrate. Oh. Well, you must try a little harder, Mr. Gayley. You know, Mrs. Walker and that child are a couple of lost souls. And it's up to us to help them. No. Yeah, she... Oh, well, shall I turn out the light? No, no, no. I'm not gonna be cheated out of this. You know, all my life I've wondered about it and now I'm going to find out. Tell me, does Santa Claus sleep with his whiskers outside or inside the covers? Outside, of course. Outside, by all means. The cold air makes them grow. Oh, thank you very much. Come in, Mrs. Walker. Come in. Thank you, Mr. Macy. I've just heard something very exciting. You have? Well, let me tell you something very exciting. Our policy of being kind to customers has tripled our sales. Now, what do you think of that? That's wonderful, Mr. Macy. Gimbles thinks it's wonderful, too. Gimbles? Gimbles are adopting the same policy. Well, is that so? And it gives me an idea. As long as Gimbles are doing the same thing, why not some pictures for the newspapers? Pictures? Yes. You and Mr. Gimbles shaking hands. Shaking hands? R. H. Macy and... and Gimbles? Well... well, yes. Yes. Yes, why not? With Santa Claus. It's a great idea, Mrs. Walker. Macy and Gimbles shaking hands. Oh, that's enough pictures, gentlemen. Thank you. Thank you very much. Well, Mr. Gimbles? Come on, R. H., now we'll go over to my store and get some really good pictures. Oh, just a minute. I have something here for Santa Claus. Here you are, Mr. Kringle. A check and appreciation of all you've done. Mr. 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 going to do with it, Mr. Kringle? Well, I have a friend, a Dr. Pierce. He needs a new X-ray machine. You buy the machine through the store. Ten percent discount. Nonsense. Come over to Gimbles. We'll finish it at cost. Oh, keep it up, gentlemen. Keep it up. At this rate, my friend will have a whole new hospital. Out of the pictures, turn out, Mr. Kringle. Oh, fine, Alfred. Fine. How about a game of checkers during lunch, eh? Oh, not today, Chris. I... I don't feel so good. Oh, what's the matter, Alfred? Oh, nothing much. You remember I was telling you how I like to play Santa Claus over at the Y and give out packages to the kids? Yeah. Well, I was telling Mr. Sawyer about it, and he says that's very bad. That psychologically, it's all wrong. Wrong? To be nice to children? Well, he says guys who play Santa Claus do it because when they was young, now they do something they think is good to make up for it. See? It's what he calls a guilt complex. Alfred, what else has he found wrong with you? Oh, nothing much. Just that I hate my father. I didn't know it, but he says I do. Excuse me. Hey, ain't you gonna have lunch? Later. Right now, I have an appointment with Mr. Sawyer. My office like this. Are you a licensed psychiatrist? What is it of yours? I have great respect for psychiatry and great contempt for meddling amateurs who go around practicing it. Oh, shut up. You ought to be whole-swipped. Taking a boy like Alfred and filling him up with complexes and phobias... I think I'm better equipped to judge that than you. Just because Alfred wants to be kind to children, you tell him he has a guilt complex. Having the same delusion, you couldn't possibly understand. And don't you wave that cane at me. Either you stop analyzing Alfred and get it out of here before I have you thrown out. There's only one way to handle a man like you. Maybe this will knock some sense into you. Oh! Oh, help! Oh, my head! My head! Good day, Mr. Sawyer. Miss Pron, get me the police! Get me Mrs. Walker! Get me the psychopathic ward in Bellevue Hospital! See Mr. Kringle now, Mr. Gailey. Thank you, nurse. Hello, Chris. Hello, Fred. Chris, I've been speaking to the doctors. They've given you some tests. Oh, yes. Same old tests. Except this time you failed to pass them. Chris, you deliberately failed. Why? Why... Well... Because I had great hopes, Fred. I had a feeling Mrs. Walker was beginning to believe in me. And now... Well, now I discover she was only humoring me all the time. But this wasn't Doris' idea at all. Mr. Sawyer had you sent up here before she even knew about it. But why... Why didn't she come to me and explain things? Because she didn't want to hurt you. Oh, well, it's not just Mrs. Walker. It's... Well, now take Mr. Sawyer. He's contemptible, dishonest, deceitful. Yet he's out there and I'm in here. Well, if that's normal, I don't want it. But you can't just think of yourself, Chris. What happens to you matters to a lot of other people. People like me who believe in what you stand for and people like... People like Susie who are just beginning to. Chris, you're letting us down. I... Well, Fred, maybe you're right. I... Of course you're right. I ought to be ashamed of myself. Let's get out of here. Now, wait a minute. You flunked your mental examination, but good. Oh, yes. So I did. Well, well, anyway, you're a lawyer. You fix it. Hey, look, I can't just... Now, I won't let you down and you won't let me down. Chris, now take it easy. I'll have to be a hearing. If you're going to be committed, it has to be before a judge. Well... Well, if I can do anything at all, it'll have to be in courtroom. And sit tight, Chris. I'll get an idea. I have to get an idea. Sent for me, Mr. Macy. I certainly did, Mr. Sawyer. I brought my family to the toy department to see our Santa Claus. And our Santa Claus isn't there. He's in Bellevue. Yes, Mr. Macy. Because he's a lunatic. Yes, sir. A lunatic. A lunatic, my foot. Now, you listen to me, Sawyer. You get that case dropped right away. Or you'll have another lump to match the one he gave you. But it's out of my hands. Mr. Kringle goes to court in the morning. Well, just see that he's back in the toy department by afternoon. Now, get out of here! Mr. Gayley. Yes? I've been looking all over for you. I'm Mr. Sawyer. Oh. So you're Sawyer. Yes. I was just speaking to the court clerk and he said you represent Mr. Kringle. Well, I represent Mr. Macy. Well, then I'll see you in court. That's what I wanted to speak to you about. Now, Mr. Macy would like to drop the whole case right now. You see, we're most anxious to avoid any publicity. No publicity, huh? Well, that's very interesting. Oh, then you'll cooperate. You know something, Sawyer? You've just given me the idea I've been searching for. Oh, good, good. If I'm going to win this case, I'm going to have to have public opinion and plenty of it. And publicity's just the way to do it. Thanks. So long, Mr. Sawyer. Mr. Galey. But Mr. Galey! Look at these newspapers, Chris, here. Evening dispatch. Doctors doubt sanity of Santa who launched Goodwill Campaign. Oh, my. Daily bulletin. Macy's Santa Claus to have lunacy hearing. What's this one? The New York Express. Is Chris Kringle crazy? Court case coming. Kiddies cry calamity. You've driven the United Nations clear back to page five. Well, get a good night's sleep, Chris. We go before Judge Harper at ten tomorrow morning. Here's now for station identification. This is CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System. Our stars will return with Act III of Miracle on 34th Street in a moment. When a new player signs a contract with 20th Century Fox, she soon gets well acquainted with Miss Helena Sorrell, head dramatic coach. Helena, do you like to watch your pupils perform in the picture? Oh, of course, John, because I take a personal interest in them. I'm especially proud of Betty Grable in her new picture when my baby smiles at me. Betty's become a really fine dramatic actress. She certainly has. She and Dan Dahlier, magnificent, as a couple of vaudeville hoofers. And 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 Lux Flakes. It reminded me of my theatrical days when I was on the road and lived in a couple of trunks. A box of Lux Flakes in each? That's absolutely true, John. I was never without it in my hotel or at the theater. Well, then you've probably discovered that the new tiny diamonds 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 suds can't. Leave things cleaner, fresher. And Lux Flakes keep colors lovely. You're right there. That's why it's foolish to risk wrongwashing methods that may fade colors. Actual tests show that with gentle Lux Flakes care colors stay lovely up to three times as long. That's a good tip for girls who get nice blouses and sweaters for Christmas. Right, you are. And thank you for coming tonight, Helena Sirel. We return you now to William Keely. The curtain rises on the third act of Miracle on 34th Street, starring Marina Harrah as Doris, John Payne as Fred, and Edmund Gwen as Chris. For a few weeks, a jolly elderly gentleman named Chris Cringle has been working minor miracles as Macy's Santa Claus. But now his sanity has been seriously questioned. And in a crowded courtroom, Judge Harper listens patiently as the Assistant District Attorney summons Chris to the witness stand. Now, this is not a trial, Mr. Cringle. It's just a hearing. So you don't have to answer any questions. Now then, where do you live, please? Well, it seems to me that's what this hearing will decide, wouldn't it? Mr. Cringle, do you believe that you are Santa Claus? Of course I do. That's all, Your Honor. The state rests this case. Well, Mr. Keely, Your Honor, Mr. Mara contends my client is not sane because he believes he is Santa Claus. An entirely logical conclusion? Anyone who thinks he's Santa Claus is crazy. Your Honor, you believe yourself to be Judge Harper, yet no one questions your sanity because you are Judge Harper, do they? Mr. Cringle is the subject of this sanity hearing, not I. Well, Your Honor, I intend to prove that Mr. Cringle is Santa Claus. Mr. Mara, I thought you said this was a cut-and-dried sanity hearing. I thought it was, Your Honor. In view of Mr. Gehle's statement, I'll have to review the entire background of this case. Court's adjourned till tomorrow morning. Hello, Doris. I'm sorry I'm late, but get ready. We're really going to celebrate tonight. What are we celebrating? I'll injuree the papers. Santa's mouthpiece throws bombshell on New York Supreme Court. Oh, Fred, you're not really serious about this. You can't possibly prove that Chris Cringle is Santa Claus. Well, you saw Mr. Macy and Mr. Gimble shake hands. That wasn't possible either. What does your firm have to say about it? Hayslip and Mackenzie and the rest of them? That I've jeopardized their prestige and either I drop this impossible case or they'll drop me. You see? So I beat them to it. I quit. Fred, you threw away a career because of a sentimental whim. I'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. Darius, look, don't you have any faith in me at all? No, it's not a question of faith. It's just common sense. But faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to. It's not just Chris that's on trial. It's everything he stands for. Human kindness and love and dignity. Oh, Fred, listen. We've seen a lot of each other the last couple of weeks. I... Well, I've become fond of you. We've talked about some wonderful plans, haven't we? And then you do this. Go on an idealistic binge. Throw away your security and expect me to be happy about it. And I expect too much. Is that it? Well, that's then I guess. Good night, Darius. Yes, Miss Marum. Well, can't it wait till tomorrow? I'm eating din... Who's been subpoenaed? Well, how do you think I feel about it? I'll see you tomorrow. Who's that, dear? R.H. Macy's been subpoenaed. Oh, my. Those reporters, they make me look like a sadistic monster who likes nothing better than to drown pussycats and tear wings off butterflies. Hiya, dear. Tommy's still awake. Oh, oh, yeah. Did it... Did it just break his heart if he knew what his daddy is doing? I'm doing my job as assistant district attorney. Well, I'm not so sure but I... but that I agree with them. Mr. Kringle looks like a very nice old man and I don't see why you have to keep persecuting him. I'm not persecuting him. I'm prosecuting him. I like the old man too but there's nothing I can do about it. You know something, Thomas? Sometimes I wish I'd married a butcher or a plumber. Well, if I lose this case, it's very possible you'll get your wish. R.H. Macy, I... I wonder what he's gonna pull tomorrow. Proceed to the witness, Mr. Geely. Now then, Mr. Macy, if you recognize the defendant, please tell us who he is. Hi, Chris Kringle, of course. Do you believe him to be of sound mind? Sound mind. I wish I had a dozen like him. Mr. Macy, you are under oath. Do you believe that man is Santa Claus? Well, now that's rather a delicate... You keep out of this, Gimble. What did you say? Nothing, Mr. Barra. Nothing. Well, I wish you would. Is that man Santa Claus? Yes. In my opinion, he most certainly is. Your Honor, there is no such person as Santa Claus who knows it. Can you prove there isn't any? I won't even try. I'll not waste the court's time with such childish nonsense. Your Honor, the prosecution requests an immediate ruling from this court. Is there or is there not a Santa Claus? Well, now, I... The court will take a short recess to consider the question. Why, Charlie, what are you doing here? Got an old friend visiting you in your chambers. And if you ask me, you never needed a friend like you do now. This Kringle case? Well, I certainly don't see what they're making such a fuss about. Henry, that's Santa Claus you've got out there. On trial for lunacy. This case is dynamite. And you're coming up for re-election soon. Charlie, you know what happened last night? Martha brought the grandchildren over. They wouldn't kiss Grandpa. They wouldn't even talk to me. See what I mean? If you rule, there is no Santa Claus. You better start looking for that chicken farm right now. I'm a responsible judge. How can I seriously rule that there is a Santa Claus? Because of what happens if you don't. The kids read about it and they don't hang up their stockings. Now what happens to all 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 got the A.F.Avelin, the C.I.O. against you. Yes, and they're going to say it with votes, see? Oh, and the department stores are going to love you, too. Yes, sir, Henry. And what about the Salvation Army? They've got a Santa Claus in every street corner. They've taken a lot of money to help the poor. But go ahead, Henry. You go in there and rule. There isn't any Santa Claus. But if you do, you can count on getting just two votes, your own, and that district attorney's out there. One vote, Charlie. He's a Republican. Let's get this over with. The question of Santa Claus seems to be largely a matter of opinion. The tradition of American justice demands a broad and unprejudiced view of such a controversial matter. But, Your Honor, this court therefore intends to keep its mind open. We shall ask for evidence on either side. But the burden of proof clearly rests with my opponent. Can he produce any evidence to support his views? If Your Honor, please, I can. Will Thomas Mara please take the stand? Who, me? No, Thomas Mara Jr. I believe he and his mother are both in court today. Hi, Papa. Hi. Tommy, do you believe in Santa Claus? I sure do. Gosh, he gave me a brand new sled last year. Now, what does Santa Claus look like, Tommy? Well, there he is, sitting right over there. Your Honor, I protest. Your Honor, tell me, Tommy, why are you so sure there's a Santa Claus? Because my Papa told me so, didn't you? Thank you, Tommy. You can go back to your mother now. See you later, Papa. You certainly will. Mr. Kringle, if you don't mind. I'm sorry, sir. Your Honor, the state of New York concedes the existence of a Santa Claus. But in so conceding, we demand that Mr. Gailey stop representing personal opinion as evidence. I insist he submit authority to prove that Mr. Kringle here is the one and only Santa Claus. Well, Mr. Gailey, are you prepared to show that Mr. Kringle is Santa Claus on the basis of unpregidious authority? Well, sir, no, not now. I need a little time. Why not now? Tomorrow, Your Honor. Very well. Court's adjourned till tomorrow morning. Oh, brother. Well, Susan, dear, finish your supper. But I can't, Mother. All those things they're saying in the newspapers about Mr. Kringle and Mr. Gailey. They're having this trial because he says he's Santa Claus. He's so kind and nice and jolly. Like anyone else I know. He must be Santa. You know something I think perhaps you're right. Is Mr. Kringle sad now, Mother? I'm afraid he must be. Then I'll write him a letter. Maybe that'll make him feel better. I'll cheer him up when postman. Yeah, lady. Would you mind taking this letter? Oh, sure, lady. We're going straight down to the post office now. OK, Louis, take it away. Better for Santa Claus. Hey, here's a new one. Instead of the North Pole, this kid's got to address the Chris Kringle New York County Courthouse. Well, the kid's right. Oh, yeah, sure. They got him on trial down there. He claims he's Santa Claus and the DA claims he's nuts. Hey, I got an idea. How many Santa Claus letters we got down there in a dead letter office? Oh, who knows? Must be 50,000 bags and bags all over the joint. Hey, you mean? What flaky? Why not? Wouldn't it be nice to get rid of them all? Wouldn't it? Look, Louis, as soon as we get to the post office we go and see the supervisor. You know something? I bet we both get promoted. This has been unable to submit one shred of proof that Chris Kringle is the one and only Santa Claus, and since tonight is Christmas Eve, I ask Your Honor that this hearing be terminated without further delaying. I protest I do have evidence. Five minutes ago you said you didn't. During Mr. Mara's oration, the bailiff handed my client the evidence I referred to. What evidence? This letter, Your Honor. Yes, Mr. Kringle, it's from Susan Walker. She believes in me. This letter means more to me than anything in the world. That letter, Your Honor, was delivered 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 the world. Last year did a gross volume of over $1 billion, and this year... Your Honor, I'm sure we're all gratified that the Post Office is getting along so well. But what bearing has it on the sanity of that man? My point is that the Post Office Department is a model of efficiency. Furthermore, the laws of this country make it a criminal offense to willfully misdirect mail or intentionally deliver it to the wrong party. The State of New York is second to none in his admiration of the Post Office Department. We're very happy to concede, Mr. Gales. For the record, Mr. Mara. For the record. Anything to get on with this case. Thank you. Your Honor, that letter just received by Mr. Kringle is positive proof that a competent... One letter is hardly positive proof. I have further exhibits, Your Honor, but I hesitate to produce them. Come, come, Mr. Galey, put them here on my desk. But, Your Honor, I don't... I said, put them on my desk. All right, boys, bring them in. Your... Your Honor, what... What is this? Empty those mail sacks on Judge Harper's desk. Well, but bring them all in or be fined for contempt of court. No, no, just a second here. We'll do it, Your Honor, through rain, through sleet, through drums, anything. We deliver. Mr. Galey. Your Honor, every one of those letters and every one of those mail sacks is addressed to Santa Claus. The post office is to deliver them. Therefore, the post office department recognizes Chris Kringle to be the one and only Santa Claus. Since the United States government declares this man to be Santa Claus, this court will not dispute it. Case dismissed. And for heaven's sake, get this mail out of my court. I came straight to Macy's to see you, Doris. Oh, Chris, I'm so glad you won. Well, we're having a big Christmas party at the Brooks Home tomorrow morning. I'd like so much to see you and Susan there. We'll be there, Chris. Oh, Chris, couldn't you... Couldn't you come home now and have dinner with us? No. Tonight? Me? My goodness, Doris, it's... It's Christmas Eve. Alfred! Alfred! Look! Look who came all the way out here to the home just for our Christmas party. Chris, it's Mr. Macy. Mr. Gimbal, too. Excuse me, Alfred. Mrs. Walker and Susan have to leave now. I want to see them before they go. But, Susie, darling, you've got so many presents. Not the one I wanted. Not the one Mr. Kringle was going to get for me. Well, what was it? Doesn't matter. 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're an outset? Oh, Claude, Susan... Just a nice old man like Mother said. But I was wrong when I told you that. You must believe in Mr. Kringle and keep right on doing it. You must have faith in him. But that doesn't make sense, Mother. Faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to. What? I mean, just because things don't turn out the way you want them to the first time, you've still got to believe in people. I found that. Hello, Doris. Fred. Mr. Galey, Mr. Galey! Merry Christmas, Susie. Gosh. You'll just get here and we're ready to 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've made for you. You'll miss a lot of traffic. About four miles south, you 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 to you, Susie. I believe, Mr. Kringle, I do. Silly, I suppose, but I do. I don't understand it, Fred. The map Chris gave definitely says Ashley Avenue. We've been on Ashley Avenue now for... Stop the car! Oh, stop the car, please! Susie, what is it, darling? What's the matter? There is... Susie! What in the world? She's running into that house. Well, at least there's no one home. It's brand new. It's just been built. Yeah, for sale, it says. For sale. What on earth is that child up to? Susie! Come right down. You know you shouldn't run around in other people's houses. Strange. I'll say. No, no. I mean this house. I've seen this house somewhere. I know I have. Maybe in a magazine. Mother! For Mr. Kringle. Mr. Kringle. I know it is. Oh, you were right, Mommy. You were right. Susie. I told me that if things didn't turn out just the way you wanted them at first, you've still got to believe. And I kept believing. And you were right, Mommy. Mr. Kringle is Santa Claus. Now where are you going? You told her that? About believing? Well, you told me, Fred. A sign outside. For sale, huh? Well, we can't let her down, can we? I never really doubted you. It was just my silly common sense. It doesn't even make sense to believe in me now. I must be a pretty good lawyer. I take a little old man and legally prove to the world that he's Santa Claus. Now you know that couldn't be. Fred! What's the matter? There. In the corner. By the fireplace. Oh, no. No. Can't be. It couldn't. A cane. Chris's cane. There couldn't be two canes like this anywhere in the world. You're handling all. Hey. You know something? Maybe I didn't do such a wonderful thing after all. For our stars returning for their curtain calls, Libby Collins wants to tell you about the wonderful way to decorate your Christmas tree as we promised at the opening of the show. You can give your tree that fresh from the woods look by covering 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 we gave last week. We'll repeat it tonight. Listen carefully. Take a large box of lux flakes. Gradually add two cups of lukewarm water and beat with an egg beater until it has the consistency of thick whipped cream. Then with your fingers, spread the mixture over the branches of your tree. And that's all. This snowy covering dries quickly. It won't melt and lasts as long as the tree. Ask your dealer for a copy of this Christmas snow recipe. I don't know of any other decoration that costs so little, yet does so much for your tree. It looks lovely used just with tree lights or you can add your usual ornaments if you prefer. Try it on your mantel decorations and table arrangements too. It gives them a very professional look. And makes the whole house look more Christmassy. Now I'll repeat that recipe. Take a large box of lux flakes. Gradually add about two cups of lukewarm water and beat with an egg beater. While moist, spread the mixture along the branches. If you want extra glitter, shake on some shiny artificial snow before the mixture dries. Let the children help. They'll love doing it and love the snowy tree. Back now to our producer, William Keeling. Mr. Kringle's reindeer are waiting on the roof. But we've asked him to pause a moment before he leaves and come back to the footlights with Marina O'Hara and John Payne. Ladies and gentlemen, it was a real thrill to everyone in Hollywood when Edmund Gwynn topped his entire 53 years as an actor with his great performance as Chris Kringle. Thank you. Thank you very much, Bill. Everyone connected with Miracle on 34th Street from George Seaton, the author-director to the prop man helped me. They all believed in Santa Claus. How could we help it? I suppose you've got a strenuous time ahead, Chris. Covering the entire world in one night. John, if everyone believed in Santa Claus, peace would break out all over the world in 30 seconds. I hope you won't be too busy to stop at my house. I'll have my stockings hung up. Oh, well, I'll stop in, Marine, but seems rather futile. Why, Chris? Well, I couldn't possibly fill her stockings as well as she does. I see what you mean. Bill, after that I think you'd better tell us all about next week's play. Next week, Marine, a play straight from your native land. It's the 20th Century Fox picture, the luck of the Irish, and the stars, well, we have a superb cast. There's Dana Andrews, Anne Baxter, and Cecil Calloway. This is a delightful romance presided over by a most mysterious leprechaun in the person of Cecil Calloway. 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 anybody a lift in my sleigh? Good night and a merry, merry Christmas. Before we meet again in this theatre, the most joyful day of the year will have come and gone. There are in our time, as in every time, a few foolish men who derive the spirit of Christmas. But in every country and in every time, they are overwhelmed by those who find in it the hope and happiness of the future, by those of us who believe in our hearts that there can be peace on this earth and goodwill among all men. On behalf of Lever Brothers Company and of us in the Lucked Radio Theatre, may I wish all of you the happiest of holidays. We invite you all to join us again next Monday evening when the Lucked Radio Theatre presents Dana Andrews and Baxter and Cecil Calloway in the Luck of the Irish. This is William Keeley saying good night and Merry Christmas. Moreno-Hara appeared through the courtesy of 20th Century Fox, producers of the Snake Pit, starring Olivia de Havilland and Mark Stevens. Edmund Gwynne appeared by arrangement with Metro Golden Mayor, producers of the all-star technicolor musical, Words and Music, based on the lives and music of Rogers and Hart. John Payne will soon be seen in the Paramount picture El Paso. Be sure to listen next Monday night to the Lucked Radio Theatre presentation of the Luck of the Irish, starring Dana Andrews and Baxter and Cecil Calloway. Stay tuned for my friend Irma, which follows over these same stations. This is CBS, the Columbia Broadcasting System.