This is the episode that started me on watching the series, and I still consider it the very best. I watched it again last weekend and it drew tears. FATHER KNOWS BEST meets beatnik existentialism - I love it! Very poignant performance from the great character actor John Qualen too. One of the best 30 minutes of vintage television ever filmed.

I agree, it's the best in the series. I've seen it at least once on Antenna TV, uncut, as well as on the second season DVD.

The ending with Betty and the old man, really makes the episode.

This scene, and "The Gold Turnip" (season 5) Jim speech to graduating Bud, bring a tear, to me.