Tuesday, June 22, 1943

Dear Diary,

The first Tuesday night sans Hope didn’t come off so badly. Johnny Mercer started the show with Bob’s usual routine, “This is John ‘Taking Bob Hope’s Spot for the Summer’ Mercer telling you that a cheery smile is no good if it’s at home in a glass.” A little later things weren’t going so smoothly, so Johnny said, “Hope might at least send a wire,” Just then a boy said, “Telegram for Mr. Mercer. That’ll be $2.50, collect.” Johnny said, “I knew I’d hear from Hope.” (Off the record, the boy was Dix Davis, who had a starring role in Bob’s summer show last year). The telegram said, “Just heard show. Think you misunderstood. I said fill my time for summer, not till it. Hope.” 12 weeks.