Those of you who used to listen to the Monkees (admit it, some of you used to listen to the Monkees) probably remember a talking round that they did on one of their records. It was called Zilch, and the words were:

Mister Dobolina, Mister Bob Dobolina. (x2)
China Clipper calling Alameida. (x2)
It isn't our opinion that the people are intending (x2)
Never mind the furthermore, the plea is self defense (x2)

The word Zilch was said on the upbeat, just before each part came in for the first time.

My question is this: where did these lines come from? I ask because I've figured out where one of them comes from. In the last act of the musical Oklahoma, after Jud Fry dies, there is a quick trial of Curly, and in it someone says the line, "Never mind the 'furthermore'. The plea is self defense!"

But what about the other three lines? Who is Bob Dobolina? Why was China Clipper calling Alameida? What were the people intending?

And who wrote the talking round? Can someone look up the name on the album jacket? Is anyone willing to admit to still owning a Monkees album?