"Meet Corliss Archer" is a sitcom originated from a popular radio show. After a few changes in networks, this episode from 1955 aired on CBS and was produced by ZIV Television Production.

In this episode, Corliss and Dexter mistakenly suspect Corliss' father (Harry) to be a kleptomaniac. It begins with Dexter's mother giving a box of birthday presents to Corliss' mother to hide until Dexter's surprise birthday party. Harry is sent out to buy more presents for Dexter, but he must be sneaky and not let Dexter see. Corliss and Dexter see Harry suspiciously placing the baseball bat gift in the closet. Soon after, they overhear a phone conversation with Harry's client that sounds like an admittance to thievery. Throughout the episode, Harry's attempt to keep the surprise party secret is perceived by Corliss and Dexter to be evidence of kleptomania. It is eventually resolved when Dexter is caught putting the items back, but thought to be shoplifting, and taken to the police station where Corliss' parents are checking stolen goods for the missing box of gifts. Dexter tells Harry that he was putting the goods back to save Harry from jail, and the miscommunication is resolved.


(acb/110)