EPISODE

19. Mr. Dingle, the Strong

A hapless vacuum cleaner salesman is given super-strength by a Martian as a means of testing humanity.

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Plot summary

In an experiment, a two-headed Martian scientist, who is invisible to Earthlings, gives vacuum-cleaner salesman and perennial loser Luther Dingle superhuman strength. After discovering his inexplicable powers, Dingle begins performing various feats of strength, from lifting statues to splitting boulders, and gains a great deal of publicity.

The two-headed Martian returns and is disappointed to see that Dingle is using his strength only for show. The Martian takes his strength away just as Dingle attempts to lift a building before a live television audience. Unable to make good on his claims or repeat any of his previous feats, Dingle becomes a laughingstock.

As the two-headed Martian scientist leaves, he meets two Venusians, who are also searching for a suitable Earthling for an experiment. The two-headed Martian scientist recommends Dingle and the Venusians gives Dingle super intelligence. Discovering his new powers, Dingle starts thinking aloud at an alarming rate and demonstrates incredible powers of prediction.

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Adapted from Wikipedia contributors, Mr. Dingle, the Strong. Paragraphs and formatting adjusted; illustrations, reference markers, block quotations and non-story material omitted.

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