Lum’s English Frame of Mind

Originally Aired: June 8, 1938 Lum #44, "Lum's English Frame of Mind," Lum has received an exciting letter informing him that he may be the descendant of Samuel Edwards, who came to America from England in 1778, making him eligible for a share of a large estate the English government plans to divide. Convinced beyond doubt that he is one of the rightful heirs, Lum has already begun planning his move to England. When Abner arrives at the Jot 'Em Down Store, he finds his partner composing a real estate advertisement to sell his property, describing his modest forty acres as a "palatial home in picturesque setting" with beautiful gardens. As Lum grows increasingly convinced of his English heritage, he begins to feel like a foreigner in America. He worries about learning to speak "the English language" and insists that he and Abner now think differently because they're from different nationalities. Abner tries to reason with his partner, suggesting that Lum wait until he has proof before making such drastic plans, but Lum remains undeterred, certain that his name proves his connection to the Edwards family and ready to embrace his newfound English identity.