t Dickey's face when he comes Monday morning," I
laughed, as we struck into the back lands.

"I'd like to see that midget of a Maggie's," said Frank. "See here,
Phil, let's attend the examination Monday afternoon. I'd like to see
our decorations in daylight."

We decided to do so, and also thought of something else. Snow fell all
day Sunday, so that, on Monday morning, sleighs had to be brought out.
Frank and I drove down to the store and invested a considerable share
of our spare cash in a varied assortment of knick-knacks. After dinner
we drove through to the Enderly Road schoolhouse, tied our horse in a
quiet spot, and went in. Our arrival created quite a sensation for, as
a rule, Blackburn Hillites did not patronize Enderly Road functions.
Miss Davis, the pale, tired-looking little teacher, was evidently
pleased, and we were given seats of honour next to the minister on the
platform.

Our decorations really looked very well, and were further enhanced by
two large red geraniums in full bloom which, it appeared, Maggie had
brought from home to adorn the teacher's desk. The side benches were
lined with Enderly Road parents, and all the pupils were in their best
attire. Our friend Maggie was there, of course, and she smiled and
nodded towards the wreaths when she caught our eyes.

The examination was a decided success, and the program which followed
was very creditable indeed. Maggie and Minnie, in particular, covered
themselves with glory, both in class and on the platform. At its
close, while the minister was making his speech, Frank slipped out;
when the minister sat down the door opened and Santa Claus himself,
with big fur coat, ruddy mask, and long white beard, strode into the
room with a huge basket on his arm, amid a chorus of surprised "Ohs"
from old and young.

Wonderful things came out of that basket. There was some little
present for every child there--tops, knives, and whistles for the
boys, dolls and ribbons for the girls, and a "prize" box of candy for
everybody, all of which Santa Claus presented with appropriate
remarks. It was an exciting time, and it would have been hard to
decide which were the most pleased, parents, pupils, or teacher.

In the confusion Santa Claus discreetly disappeared, and school was
dismissed. Frank, having tucked his toggery away in the sleigh, was
waiting for us outside, and we were promptly pounced upon by Maggie
and Minnie, whose long braids were already adorned with