Written by Paul Lichtman & Howard Storm
Produced by Mel Swope
Directed by Herb Wallerstein
Original Air Date: November 3, 1973
Shirley receives an unexpected invitation to dinner, from Howard Lipton, the
presidential ambassador and well-known ladies man. It seems he's visiting San
Pueblo, on his way to talks in China, and he remembers her from a previous
short meeting. On the big night, Lipton shows up two hours late for the date
and then spends more than half the evening on the phone with world
dignitaries.
When Shirley gets a second request for a date, she turns him down, explaining
that she really didn't have a very good time. Lipton's ego is crushed.
The diplomat showers Shirley with gifts from around the world, trying to make
her reconsider her decision. Shirley is being hounded by newspapermen and
ostracized by her neighbors, but she refuses to give in unless Lipton visits
her in person to ask for a date. When Lipton finally agrees, Shirley sets up
the terms for a date -- the ambassador must come and spend a quiet dinner in
the Partridge home, with no interrupting phone calls.
During the evening, Lipton completely enjoys himself, being away from work
pressures for a while. He even attends the family's concert the next evening
and afterwards, takes Shirley out alone, to Muldoon's Point for a little
sightseeing.
Songs:
"How Long Is Too Long," music and lyrics by John Bahler and Tony
Asher (on Bulletin Board)
"What Kind of Noise Do You Make?," music and lyrics by Rick Segall
(on Ricky Segall and the Segalls)
Guest Cast:
Howard Lipton ---------------------------------------------------- Richard
Mulligan
Roger Harper ------------------------------------------------------ Pat
Harrington, Jr.
Mrs. Hendleman --------------------------------------------------- Florida
Friebus
Newsman ----------------------------------------------------------- Ray
Buktenica
