Gasoline Rationing

Originally Aired: December 1, 1942 Fibber McGee & Molly #341, "Gasoline Rationing," Fibber is in an uproar over the new wartime mileage rationing program, convinced that his meager A-book allotment of four gallons a week is a gross injustice to a man of his standing in the community. Despite Molly's patient attempts to explain that the rationing is necessary to save rubber for the war effort, Fibber insists on his rights as a citizen and threatens to write his congressman—though he can't quite remember who that is. When neighbor Mr. Wilcox stops by with news that Mayor LaTrivia has joined the Coast Guard, he takes the opportunity to set Fibber straight about his selfish attitude, pointing out that England has virtually no civilian driving and that putting personal convenience above winning the war is simply unacceptable. Stung by Wilcox's rebuke but not quite ready to admit defeat, Fibber continues his tirade about needing more than forty-eight miles worth of driving per week. His attempts to call the ration board to complain result in a typical McGee mishap when he reaches Mert instead, leading to a confused conversation about black widows and pulled window shades that goes nowhere fast.