as-eve duties I'm loose.
Not a stocking from north pole to south but I've filled,
Books, candies, and toys by each mantlepiece spilled.
My pack is quite empty, my reindeer done out,
But on Christmas morning there'll be such a shout
From the east to the west, from the south to the north,
When their gifts from their stockings the children pull forth,
That it's worth all my trouble--that hearty good cheer,
"Hurrah! In the night Santa Claus has been here!"
But, folks, I am hungry, I freely confess,
So on to the dining-room now I will press.
Roast turkey and cranberry sauce and mince pie
Are there on the table, I saw passing by.

_Father Christmas_:

Now Santa has come, let the banquet be shared
That for our reunion I've ordered prepared.
To the dining-room we will adjourn, Mother Goose;
_(Takes her arm)_
Come, all the rest, follow--I'll take no excuse.
Santa Claus, lead Thanksgiving; Jack, Happy New Year;
Away now, my friends, to our good Christmas cheer!

(All go out, two by two, singing the following stanza to the
air of "Upidee.")

_All together_:

Come to the Christmas feast so gay,
Tra la la, tra la la;
Good Father Christmas leads the way,
Tra la la, la la.
Come, children, he'll "take no excuse;"
Come, follow him and Mother Goose.

Merry, merry Christmas, all!
Christmas gay, happy day!
Merry, merry Christmas, all,
Merry Christmas day.

* * * * *

=Christmas Waits.=

By KATHERINE WEST.

(Dress four boys, or six, in a quaint costume,--full
knee-breeches, low shoes with bright buckles, tunic or doublet
with white frills at the throat and wrist; a short full cape
hanging from the shoulders, and soft caps with plumes. Old
garments may be re-arranged to give a picturesque effect, or
some new, inexpensive material bought. Each boy should have
a voice of pleasing quality, and be taught the Christmas song
perfectly.

Arrange a frame like a window casement at the back of the
platform a little to one side. Behind this let a light burn
dimly until a signal is given for full illumination. If
practicable, leave the rest of the stage and audience-room in
darkness.

The boys begin to sing behind closed doors, and are heard
coming nearer singing the first verse of "On this Happy