Tom is welcoming Soviet Editor Irena Kosnova (Carol Lawrence) to his office to study American methods of publication. Tina is against the idea, citing a 'what have the Russians ever done for us?' attitude. He is cordial, but cautious, to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republic communist. She is critical of American ways, their freedom, and lack of censorship. Tom tries to show her the goodness in the things she dismisses and asks her over for dinner. Tom cautions Mrs. Livingston to overlook any offensive comments she could make, as she is a guest. She tells Eddie that he shouldn't have Mrs. Livingston, who he cherishes, but the government should be the one caring for him. "All should share in all things...Everyone equal." Tom sagely points out how she, nor the other socialist communists who say such things actually do as they say. Nevertheless, her big ideas of a perfect society has swayed the impressionable young mind of Eddie. In every way she continues to put down American ways. Tom continues patiently finding ways to have the radical socialist acknowledge the good in things she refuses to see. Mrs. Livingston wisely gives Eddie a lesson on why socialist communist ideas can never work.
This episode continues a string where Eddie doesn't factor into the main storyline much. The story really doesn't set up or accomplish much. The plot is certainly a relevant conflict today, however, and Mrs. Livingston's wisdom can certainly be refreshing.
This episode continues a string where Eddie doesn't factor into the main storyline much. The story really doesn't set up or accomplish much. The plot is certainly a relevant conflict today, however, and Mrs. Livingston's wisdom can certainly be refreshing.