dn't do no better maself," she declared. "Bymeby Dinah will be cut
out of a job--wid Miss Nan a-doin' ob de bakin'."

"No, Dinah, you shall stay even if I do do the baking," answered Nan;
and went to bed feeling very happy.

CHAPTER XIV

CHRISTMAS

As the time for Christmas drew shorter all of the Bobbsey children
wondered what Santa Claus would bring them and what they would receive
from their relatives at a distance.

Freddie and Flossie had made out long lists of the things they hoped to
get. Freddie wished a fireman's suit with a real trumpet, a railroad
track with a locomotive that could go, and some building blocks and
picture books. Flossie craved more dolls and dolls' dresses, a real
trunk with a lock, fancy slippers, a pair of rubber boots, and some big
card games.

"All I want is a set of furs," said Nan, not once but many times. "A
beautiful brown set, just like mamma's."

"And all I want is some good story books, some games, a new
pocket-knife, a big wagon, and some money," said Bert.

"Mercy, you don't want much, Bert," cried Nan. "How much money--a
thousand dollars?"

"I want money, too," piped in Freddie. "Want to start a bank account
just like papa's."

By dint of hard saving Bert and Nan had accumulated two dollars and ten
cents between them, while Freddie and Flossie had each thirty-five
cents. There was a wonderful lot of planning between the twins, and all
put their money together, to buy papa and mamma and Dinah and Sam some
Christmas presents. Freddie and Flossie had not yet purchased the
cologne and handkerchief before mentioned, and now it was decided to get
Mr. Bobbsey a new cravat, Mrs. Bobbsey a flower in a pot, Dinah a fancy
apron, and Sam a pair of gloves. Nan and Bert made the purchases which,
after being duly inspected by all, were hidden away in the garret
storeroom.

As the time for Christmas came on Flossie and Freddie grew very anxious,
wanting to know if Santa Claus would be sure to come. Flossie inspected
the chimney several times.

"It's a dreadfully small place and very dirty," said she. "I am afraid
Santa Claus won't be able to get down with a very big load. And some of
his things will get all mussed up."

"Santa Claus can spirit himself wherever he wants to, dear," said Mrs.
Bobbsey, with a quiet smile.

"What do you mean by _spirit_ himself, mamma?"

"Never mind now, Flossie; you'll understand that when you grow older."

"Does mamma mean a ghost?" a