Discussing Detective Methods

Originally Aired: September 23, 1935

In Lum & Abner #201, "Discussing Detective Methods," Lum faces a desperate situation after learning that paying back all the silver mine stockholders has only made him look more guilty of violating the Blue Sky Law. His only hope for acquittal lies in tracking down Squire Skimp, the man who actually promoted the fraudulent mining company, and bringing him back to Pine Ridge before the trial. When Abner stops by after his morning route on the rolling grocery store, he brings along his old constable manual on detective work, convinced he has found the perfect solution to Lum's problems.

Abner enthusiastically suggests that Lum disguise himself to catch the Squire, peppering his friend with increasingly absurd ideas pulled from the detective book. He proposes everything from dressing up as an Indian or Santa Claus to borrowing Uncle Henry Lunsford's bear costume from a masquerade party. Lum grows increasingly exasperated with each ridiculous suggestion, pointing out the obvious flaws in Abner's logic, but his well-meaning friend remains undeterred, flipping through the manual to find inspiration for the perfect disguise to help catch Squire Skimp.