Ballard Street by Jerry Van Amerongen for May 15, 2020

Mabel is no longer the frolicsome lass who won Jonathan’s heart.

Don’t worry, Mabel. That’s his ape costume.

Madam, an ape is not to be confused with a monkey!

You were supposed to be getting ready to go to the Higglepooder’s party. They were not sure if they should invite you back after last time. I expect you to dress properly and be on your best behavior tonight. This passive-aggressive approach will not fly with me again.

That’s no costume, there’s a full moon and he’s a were-gorilla half way though his transmogrification.

This is a formal party, you are not wearing plaid pants snd yellow shoes.

For crying out loud! You don’t leave bananas on the floor unless you want to attract monkeys.

But, you’re the girlilla of my dreams.

Does anybody besides me remember the 1966 film “Morgan!” starring David Warner?

This strip reminded me of it… only the movie is a bit more …um… let’s just say “madcap.”

(of course, it has a lot more time for plot development, doesn’t it.)

Anyway, an only slightly deranged young man tries to woo back his ex-fiance, partly by chasing and embarrassing her while wearing an ape suit…

Hilarity ensues, but I can’t seem to find a good video clip of his furry antics for you.

BTW… David Warner amazed the youthful me by playing a handsome, sympathetic romantic lead in Morgan!, when I only knew him as the horrid, ugly villain in Tom Jones.

He’s apparently now seen in Star Trek movies.

Hey lady! Got a banana for me tonight?

He’s gained weight….

800 pound gorilla in the room.

Mabel (?) has a headache and is definitely not in the mood.

“But Mabel, tonight’s our ‘King Kong/Fay Wray Night’…”

Apes just wanna have fun.

Jonathan says, “Monkey business? Ha! I’m going ape!”

Never send an ape to do a monkey’s business.

How about if I put on my doggy costume

You under-estimate me. I’m an ape, not a monkey.