The Christmas Stocking

The Christmas Stocking.

Clarence H. Pearson

In the ghostly light I'm sitting, musing of long dead

Decembers,

While the fire-clad shapes are flitting in and out among

the embers

On my hearthstone in mad races, and I marvel, for in

seeming

I can dimly see the faces and the scenes of which I'm

dreaming.

O golden Christmas days of yore !

In sweet anticipation

I lived their joys for days before

Their glorious realization;

And on the dawn

Of Christmas morn

My childish heart was knocking

A wild tattoo,

As 'twould break through,

As I unhung my stocking. 

Each simple gift that came to hand,

How marvelous I thought it !

A treasure straight from wonderland,

For Santa Claus had brought it.

And at my cries

Of glad surprise

The others all came flocking

To share my glee

And view with me

The contents of the stocking

Years sped -- I left each well-loved scene

In Northern wilds to roam,

And there, 'mid tossing pine-trees green,

I made myself a home.

We numbered three

And blithe were we,

At adverse fortune mocking,

And Christmas-tide

By our fireside

Found hung the baby's stocking.

Alas! within our home to-night

No sweet young voice is ringing,

. And through its silent rooms no light,

Free, childish step is springing.

The wild winds rave

O'er baby's grave

Where plumy pines are rocking

And crossed at rest

On marble breast

The hands that filled my stocking

With misty eyes but steady hand

I raise my Christmas chalice;

Here's to the children of the land

In cabin or in palace;

May each one hold

The key of gold,

The gates of glee unlocking,

And hands be found

The whole world round

To fill the Christmas stocking

Christmas Hymn

Christmas Hymn.
by Eugene Field

(During this recitation let the piano be played very softly in running chords that resolve into the key of a Christmas carol which is taken up and sung by the entire school at the end of the poem.)

Sing, Christmas bells!

Say to the earth this is the morn

Whereon our Savior-King is born;

Sing to all men -- the bond, the free,

The rich, the poor, the high, the low,

The little child that sports in glee,

The aged folk that tottering go,--

Proclaim the morn

That Christ is born,

That saveth them and saveth me!

Sing angel host !

Sing of the stars that God has placed

Above the manger in the east.

Sing of the glories of the night,

The Virgin's sweet humility,

The Babe with kingly robes bedight, ‚--

Sing to all men where'er they be

This Christmas morn

For Christ is born,

That saveth them and saveth me !

Bells Across the Snow

Bells Across the Snow. 

by F. R. Havergal

(This poem may be recited by one pupil, or divided as follows :)

First pupil: Christmas, merry Christmas !

Is it really come again ?

With its memories and greetings,

With its joys and with its pain ;

There s a minor in the carol,

And a shadow in the light,

And a spray of cypress twining

With the holly wreath to-night.

And the hush is never broken

By laughter, light and low,

As we listen in the starlight

To the " bells across the snow."

Second pupil: Christmas, merry Christmas !

'Tis not so very long

Since other voices blended

With the carol and the song !

If we could but hear them singing

As they are singing now,

If we could but see the radiance

Of the crown on each dear brow ;

There would be no sigh to smother,

No hidden tear to flow,

As we listen in the starlight

To the '" bells across the snow." 

Third pupil: O Christmas, merry Christmas!

This never more can be;

We cannot bring again the days

Of our unshadowed glee.

But Christmas, happy Christmas,

Sweet herald of good will,

With holy songs of glory,

Brings holy gladness still.

For peace and hope may brighten,

And patient love may glow,

As we listen in the starlight

To the "bells across the snow."

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve. 

by Frank E. Broun

Outside my window whirls the icy storm,

And beats upon its panes with fingers white;

Within, my open fire burns bright and warm,

And sends throughout the room its ruddy light.

Low on the hearth my good grimalkin lies,

His supple, glossy limbs outstretched along;

Now gently sleeps with softly closed eyes,

Now, half awakened, purrs his even-song.

Near to the fire, touched by its gentle heat,

A silent, welcome friend, my armchair stands.

Its cushioned depths invite me to its seat,

And promise rest for weary head and hands.

Within its depths mine eyes unheeded close,

And comes to me a vision wondrous sweet.

Such sights and sounds no wakeful hours disclose

As then my resting, dreaming senses greet.

I am where gentle shepherds on the plain

Keep sleepless, faithful watch o'er resting sheep;

I hear them chant the Psalmist's sweet refrain,

That Israel's God will sure his promise keep.

Then quick the air is full of heav'nly song,

And radiant light illumines all the ground,

While angel voices sweet the strain prolong,

And angel faces shine in glory round.

I see the shepherds' faces pale with fear,

Then glow with joy and glad surprise, for then

" Glory to God ! " from angel lips they hear,

Ana " Peace on earth good will to men."

And then the light marks out a shining way,

And swift the shepherds are the path to take.

I long to go O laggard feet, why stay?

Alas ! the vision fades, and I awake.

Within, the smold'ring fire is burning dim;

Without, the whirl and beat of storm have ceased.

I still can hear the angels' peaceful hymn,

And know the vision hath my peace increased.

The Little Christmas Tree

The Little Christmas Tree

by Susan Coolidge

The Christmas day was coming, the Christmas eve drew 

near,

The fir-trees they were talking low at midnight cold and

clear

And this is what the fir-trees said, all in the pale moon-

light,

"Now which of us shall chosen be to grace the holy

night?

The tall trees and the goodly trees raised each a lofty 

head.

In glad and secret confidence, though not a word they 

said

But one, the baby of the band, could not restrain a sigh--

"You all will be approved," he said, "but oh! what

chance have I?"

Then axe on shoulder, to the grove a woodman took his

way.

One baby-girl he had at home, and he went forth to find

A little tree as small as she, just suited to his mind.

Oh, glad and proud the baby-fir, amid its brethren tall,

To be thus chosen and singled out, the first among them

all !

He stretched his fragrant branches, his little heart beat

fast,

He was a real Christmas tree ; he had his wish at last.

One large and shining apple with cheeks of ruddy gold,

Six tapers, and a tiny doll were all that he could hold.

" I am so small, so very small, no one will mark or know

How thick and green my needles are, how true my

branches grow ;

Few toys and candles could I hold, but heart and will

are free,

And in my heart of hearts I know I am a Christmas

tree."

The Christmas angel hovered near; he caught the

grieving word,

And, laughing low, he hurried forth, with love and pity

stirred.

He sought and found St Nicholas, the dear old Christ-

mas saint,

And in his fatherly kind ear rehearsed the fir-tree's

plaint.

Saints are all-powerful, we know, so it befell that day,

The baby laughed, the baby crowed, to see the tapers

bright;

The forest baby felt the joy, and shared in the delight.

And when at last the tapers died, and when the baby

slept,

The little fir in silent night a patient vigil kept;

Though scorched and brown its needles were, it had no

heart to grieve.

"I have not lived in vain," he said ; "thank God for

Christmas eve!"

The Russian Santa Claus

The Russian Santa Claus.

By Lizzie M. Hadley.

Over the Russian snows one day,

Upon the eve of a Christmas day,

While still in the heavens shone afar,

Like a spark of fire, that wondrous star,

Three kings with jewels and gold bedight

Came journeying on through the wintry night.

Out of the East they rode amain,

With servants and camels in their train.

Laden with spices, myrrh, and gold,

Gems and jewels of worth untold,

Presents such as to-day men bring,

To lay at the feet of some Eastern king.

Wrinkled and feeble, old and gray,

Dame Babousca, that Christmas day,

Looked from her hut beside the moor,

Where the four roads crossed by her cottage door,

And saw the kings on their camels white,

A shadowy train in the wintry night.

They knocked at her cabin door to tell

That wonderful story we know so well,

Of the star that was guiding them all the way

To the place where the little Christ-Child lay,

And they begged that she, through the sleet and snow,

To the nearest village with them would go.

But naught cared she for that unknown Child,

And winds about her blew fierce and wild,

For the night was stormy, dark, and cold,

And poor Babousca was weak and old,

And in place of the pitiless winter's night,

Her lowly hut seemed a palace bright.

So to their pleadings she answered " Nay,"

And watched them all as they rode away

But when they had gone and the night was still,

Her hut seemed lonely, and dark, and chill,

And she almost wished she had followed them

In search of the Babe of Bethlehem.

And then as the longing stronger grew,

She said, "I will find Him," but no one knew,

Where was the cradle in which He lay

When He came to earth upon Christmas day,

For the kings and their trains were long since gone,

And none could tell of the Babe, new born.

Then filling a basket with toys, she said,

As over the wintry moor she sped,

"I will go to the busy haunts of men,

There I shall find the kings, and then,

Together we'll go that Child to meet,

And jewels and toys we'll lay at His feet.

The kings with their trains have long been clay,

The hut on the moor has mouldered away,

But old and feeble, worn and gray,

Every year upon Christmas day,

It matters not though the winds blow chill,

Old Babousca is seeking still.

And every year when the joy-bells chime,

To tell of the blessed Christmas time,

When in Holland they tell to the girls and boys,

Of good Saint Nicholas and his toys,

In Russia, the little children say,

" Old Babousca has passed this way."

A Christmas Garden

A Christmas Garden.

(A prose recitation, or suggestion for composition.)

       There is a story told of a magician who conjured up a garden in the winter time. The wand of the wizard, however, is not necessary to dislose even in a northern climate in the cold months the beautiful contents of Nature's world. The varieties of evergreen, pine, hemlock, fir, cedar, and larch provide a variety of green foliage through the dreary-weather. The rich, clustering berries, besides their ornamental character, furnish food for the snowbirds. The Christmas rose, wax-like in its white purity, will bloom out of doors long after frost if a glass is turned over the plant on cold nights. The ivy remains glossy, its green berry another addition to our winter bouquet.

       Farther south, but still within our United States, the scarlet holly grows in luxuriance. So full of holiday association is this tree that its branches are carefully transported a thousand miles for use during Christmas week. Its crisp leaves, lively color, and happy sentiment make the holly, pre-eminent as a winter ornament, prince in our Christmas garden.

       A contrast is furnished by the delicate sprays of the mistletoe growing upon the limbs of the oak,

elm, and apple trees. The white berry attaches itself, curiously enough, without roots of any kind, and becomes an enduring plant.

A Christmas Carol

A Christmas Carol.

by J. R. Lowell

"What means this glory round our feet?"

The Magi mused, "more bright than morn?"

And voices chanted clear and sweet,

" To-day the Prince of Peace is born!"

"What means that star?" the shepherd said,

"That brightens through the rocky glen ?"

And angels answering overhead,

Sang, "Peace on earth, good will to men!"

'Tis eighteen hundred years and more

Since those sweet oracles were dumb;

We wait for Him, like them of yore;

Alas, He seems so slow to come!

But it was said, in words of gold,

No time or sorrow e'er shall dim,

That little children might be bold

In perfect trust to come to Him.

All round about our feet shall shine

A light like that the wise men saw,

If we our loving wills incline

To that sweet Life which is the Law.

So shall we learn to understand

The simple faith of shepherds then,

And clasping kindly hand in hand,

Sing, "Peace on earth, good will to men!"

And they who do their souls no wrong,

But keep at eve the faith of morn,

Shall daily hear the angel-song,

"To-day the Prince of Peace is born!"

Old English Christmases

Old English Christmases.

       The court celebrations of Christmas were observed with great splendor during the reign of King Charles the First. The royal family, with the lords and ladies, often took part themselves in the performances, and the cost to prepare costumes and sceneries for one occasion often amounted to ten thousand dollars. During Charles's reign, and preceding his, Ben Jonson wrote the plays, or masques, for Christmas. The court doings were, of course, copied outside by the people, and up to the twelfth night after Christmas, sports and feastings held high carnival.

       So important were these Christmas court celebrations held by our ancestors, and of such moment were the preparations, that a special officer was appointed to take them in charge. To him were accorded large privileges, very considerable appointments, and a retinue equal to a prince's, counting in a chancellor, treasurer, comptroller, vice-chamberlain, divine, philosopher, astronomer, poet, physician, master of requests, clown, civilian, ushers, pages, footmen, messengers, jugglers, herald, orator, hunters, tumblers, friar, and fools. Over this mock court the mock monarch presided during the holidays with a reign as absolute as the actual monarch.

The Power of Christmas

The Power of Christmas.

       Even under the pressure of battle the influence of the Christmas season has exerted a powerful effect. In 1428, during the war of the roses, while Orleans was under siege, the English lords, history tells us, requested the French commanders to suspend hostilities, and let the usual celebration of Christmas eye take their place. This was agreed to, and the air was filled with the song of the minstrels and the music of trumpets, instead of the discordant sounds of battle.

The Christmas Tree

The Christmas Tree.

(Recitation for a boy to give before a Christmas tree is dismantled.)

Of all the trees in the woods and fields

There's none like the Christmas tree;

Tho' rich and rare is the fruit he yields,

The strangest of trees is he.

Some drink their fill from the shower or rill;

No cooling draught needs he;

Some bend and break when the storms awake,

But they reach not the Christmas tree.

When wintry winds thro' the forests sweep,

And snow robes the leafless limb;

When cold and still is the ice-bound deep,

O this is the time for him.

Beneath the dome of the sunny home,

He stands with all his charms;

'Mid laugh and song from the youthful throng,

As they gaze on his fruitful arms.

There's golden fruit on the Christmas tree,

And gems for the fair and gay;

The lettered page for the mind bears he,

And robes for the wintry day.

And there are toys for the girls and boys;

And eyes that years bedim

Grow strangely bright, with a youthful light,

As they pluck from the pendant limb.

Peace on Earth

Peace on Earth.

by S. T. Coleridge

(Recitation for a high-school pupil.)

The shepherds went their hasty way,

And found the lowly stable shed

Where the Virgin-Mother lay;

And now they checked their eager tread,

For to the Babe that at her bosom clung

A mother's song the Virgin-Mother sung.

They told her how a glorious light,

Streaming from a heavenly throng,

Around them shone suspending night,

While, sweeter than a mother's song,

Blest angels heralded the Savior's birth,

Glory to God on high and Peace on Earth.

She listened to the tale divine,

And closer still the Babe she prest;

And while she cried, The Babe is mine!

The milk rushed faster to her breast;

Joy rose within her like a summer's morn;

Peace, Peace on Earth ! the Prince of Peace is born

Thou Mother of the. Prince of Peace,

Poor, simple, and of low estate !

That strife should vanish, battle cease,

O why should this thy soul elate?

Sweet music's loudest note, the poet' story --

Didst thou ne'er love to hear of fame and glory?

And is not War a youthful king,

A stately hero clad in mail?

Beneath his footsteps laurels spring;

Him Earth's majestic monarch's hail

Their friend, their playmate! and his bold bright eye

Compels the maiden's love-confessing sigh.

" Tell this in some more courtly scene,

To maids and youths in robes of state!

I am a woman poor and mean,

And therefore is my soul elate.

War is a ruffian, all with guilt denied,

That from the aged father tears his child!

"A murderous fiend, by fiends adored,

He kills the sire and starves the son;

The husband kills, and from her hoard

Steals all his widow's toil had won;

Plunders God's world of beauty ; rends away

All safety from the night, all comfort from the day.

"Then wisely is my soul elate,

That strife should vanish, battle cease;

I'm poor and of a low estate,

The Mother of the Prince of Peace.

Joy rises in me like a summer's morn;

Peace, Peace on Earth ! the Prince of Peace is born."

A Letter from Santa Claus

A Letter from Santa Claus.

By William Howard.

(A little girl is seated with her notebook and pencil. A postman's whistle is heard, and she exclaims, " There is the postman!" She runs to the door and returns with a large envelope, made of white wrapping-paper sealed with red wax, which she tears open, announces it is written by Santa Claus to the pupils of the school, and then reads it aloud. In the last verse the names of the children present are to be substituted for the printed ones.)

Merry Christmas! little children,

From my home so far away

Send I loving Christmas greetings

To you on your holiday.

You may watch and wait till midnight,

Looking at the falling snow,

But be sure you won't discover

When I come or when I go.

For I come when all is silent,

Not a breath will then be heard,

And I softly through the chimney

Enter, saying not a word.

Quickly to the stockings step I,

And I place in every one

Something for the Christmas frolic,

Something for the Christmas fun.

Hark ! my reindeer out the window,

Prance and shake a warning note;

Santa Claus will speed away then,

Wrapping close his cap and coat.

Your surprise, when comes the morning,

Gladness which your bright eyes tell,

Grateful, merry, happy children,

Pleases Santa Claus full well.

Willie, Alice, Harry, Mary,

Christmas greetings now I send.

Cora, Freddie, Sadie, Johnnie,

Don't forget Santa Claus, your friend.

The Mousie

The Mousie.

By M. N. B.

(A very small primary boy may recite these lines.)

A mousie got into a great Christmas pie,

Two little boys heard him, and then they did cry,

" O mousie ! O mousie ! come quickly away!

That pie is not for you, 'tis for our Christmas day. 

 

A Message

A Message.

By Ella M. Powers.

(For three primary children to recite.)

First pupil: One true thing I have to say,

Clap your hands now, for you may,

It's very happy, very dear,

This Christmas day will soon be here

But children learn to understand,

That loyal heart and loving hand,

Can pray, " Oh, Saviour, so divine,

Make our lives so much like thine.'

Second pupil: Yes, far away that Christmas night,

A star above the Christ shone bright,

And led the shepherds from afar

To seek that bright and glorious star.

Third pupil: The shepherds came with presents rare

And knelt with tender love and care,

Before that child so sweet and true,

And loved Him as we all should do;

And that grand song we hear again,

"Peace on earth -- good will to men."

Kriss Kringle

Kriss Kringle.

By Susie M. Best.

If there's any one here who ever has seen

The face of Kriss Kringle, I'll think he is mean

If he is not willing at once to arise

And tell the real color and shape of his eyes!

Somehow I much doubt if the gentleman looks

Like the pictures we see in the shops and the books.

I've a sort of a notion we'd all be surprised

If we suddenly saw him, by day, undisguised!

Is he big, is he little, is he young, is he old?

There are some things, I know, that can't always be told.

But I'd much like to know why it is he must keep

Himself hidden securely till we are asleep 

I've made up my mind that I'm going to watch,

And see if I cannot by any means catch

One glimpse of his face as he comes down the flue,

And if I succeed I'll describe him to you!

My Christmas Secrets

My Christmas Secrets.

By S. C. Peabody.

Hurry Christmas ! How you creep !

I've some presents I can't keep,

Just this morning I forgot,

And told baby what I'd bought.

All he answered was, "Goo goo!"

So I don't think that he knew,

I told mamma hers was white,

And she'd wear it every night.

That she'd need it getting tea.

Then my mamma smiled at me,

And she whispered, "Isn't May

Letting secrets fly away"

Christmas Morn

Christmas Morn.

By M. N. B.

(Recitation and chorus. A semi-circle of primary children is formed on he stage. They sing first verse of the familiar church tune, "Joy to the world.")

Chorus. -- Joy to the world, the Lord has come,

Let earth receive her King,

Let every heart prepare him room,

And heaven and nature sing.

Recitation (one child steps forward). --

In Bethlehem, the story goes,

A little Child was born,

Low in a manger He was laid

The first glad Christmas morn.

That Child is now our Savior King,

Of Him we sing to-day;

And may glad bells o'er all the earth

Ring out a gladsome lay.

Chorus. -- Joy to the world, a Savior reigns,

Let men their tongues employ,

While fields and floods, rocks, hills, and vales

Repeat the sounding joy.

Christmas Wishes

Christmas Wishes.

By C. Phillips.

(These couplets may be given by three primary children to open a Christmas program.)

First child:

Dear teachers and friends, allow me to say

That we wish you a very glad Christmas day.

Second child:

That our darling old " Santa," as sly as a fox,

May leave at your door both bundle and box.

Third child:

And that beautiful gifts for one and for all

From the evergreen boughs may happily fall!

Christmas Time

Christmas Time.

By M. N. B.

(An introductory recitation for a Christmas program.)

Christmas time for boys and girls,

Is a happy day,

For we go to grandmamma's

And eat and sing and play.

Grandma does not say to us —

" Stop that horrid noise,"

'Cause she understands we can't,

When we're " only boys."

And she lets the girls play house,

In the garret old,

And when they strew things around,

Grandma doesn't scold.

But we ought to pick them up,

Even on Christmas day,

For we shouldn't make kind friends

Trouble with our play.

Yes, we love the Christmas time

Best of all the year,

We have waited for it long,

Now, at last, it's here.

What I Should Like

What I Should Like.

By Jennie D. Moore.

(Recitation for a little girl.)

On Christmas eve I'd like to lie

Awake, when stars are in the sky,

And listen to the sound that swells

From Santa Claus's jingling Dells.

I'd like to hear upon the roof

The patter of each tiny hoof

Of Santa's reindeer overhead,

When I am snug and warm in bed.

But mamma says I must not lie

Awake, or he will pass me by ;

He does not like the girls or boys

To watch him when he brings the toys.

I think I'd better go to sleep.

I guess the presents all will keep,

Then in the morning I shall be -

Glad to think I did not see.

A Gentle Reminder

A Gentle Reminder. 

Alice W. Rollins

Something new about Christmas?
Why, what were half so sweet
As the old, old way of keeping
The day our glad hearts greet?

The old, old chimes are dearest;
The old, old songs are best;
It's the old, old gladness welling
Within each joyous breast.

Then my little lad said slyly,

" Remember, if that's true,

That your old, old way, mamma dear,

Was to give vie something new.''

To Santa Claus

To Santa Claus.

By Jennie D. Moore.

(Recitation for a little boy.)

Dear Santa Claus, I'll let you know

The few things that I need,

And if you'll bring them to me

I'll be much obliged indeed.

I want a horse and wagon,

And a boat that's painted red,

An elephant, a jumping-jack --

You need not bring a sled,

For I have one very pretty;

But I want a trotting-horse,

A man who wheels a wheel-barrow,

And candy, too, of course.

Now, Santa dear, you'll not forget.

I wish you'd write them down,

And leave them all at my house

When you journey through the town.

Santa Claus's Visit

Santa Claus's Visit.

By Susie M. Best.

With a click and a clack

And a great big pack,

Down through the chimney,

Pretty nimbly

Somebody comes on Christmas eve!

If we are real nice

And as still as mice,

If we never peep,

And are sound asleep,

He'll fill our stockings, I do believe!

And when we arise

Next day our eyes

Will grow big to see

How perfectly

He knew what we all wished to receive!

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve. 

by Eugene Field

(This must be spoken as if singing; a lullaby to a baby, with motions indicating the sleeping child near.)

Oh, hush thee, little dear, my soul,

The evening shades are falling ;

Hush thee, my dear, dost thou not hear

The voice of the Master calling ?

Deep lies the snow upon the earth,

But all the sky is ringing

With joyous song, and all night long

The stars shall dance with singing.

Oh, hush thee, little dear, my soul,

And close thine eyes in dreaming,

And angels fair shall lead thee where

The singing stars are beaming.

A shepherd calls his little lambs,

And he longeth to caress them ;

He bids them rest upon his breast,

That his tender love may bless them.

So, hush thee, little dear, my soul,

Whilst evening shades are falling,

And above the song of the heavenly throng

Thou shalt hear the Master calling.

Santa's Helpers

Santa's Helpers.

By M. Nora Boylan.

The fairies and brownies on last Christmas-tide

Decided to open their hearts very wide,

And spend extra time, throughout the whole year,

In helping their grandfather -- Santa Claus dear.

" Our fingers are nimble. We'll quickly make toys

Enough to supply all the girls and the boys,

And Santa may watch us to see if it's right,

So all will be ready before Christmas night."

Then bravely they all went to work with a will,

And soon all was quiet in workshop and mill;

For .old Santa said, " Enough, and well done,

We've toys enough now to make all kinds of fun."

We thank you, old Santa, and your helpers, too,

For all of the many kind things that you do;

And should you need more help in making your toy,

Just call on your small friends, the girls and the boys.

Christmas Waits

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 Birthday." They enter and approach the center of the platform. The casement is thrown open and half a dozen children's heads appear. There is a clapping of hands till the second verse is begun by the waits. At the last line the children throw out pennies and candies wrapped in paper. The singers scramble for them, and then give the third verse of the carol. The fourth verse may be sung as the boys move away and disappear in the distance. As a preliminary to this little performance a few words may be said about the old English custom of the waits coming to sing under the windows on Christmas eve.

On This Happy Birthday by Mrs. Charlotte B. Merritt and Mrs. Sarah L. Warner sheet music.

Mr. St. Nicholas

Mr. St. Nicholas.

By Alice M. Kellogg.
edited and updated version

(The characters are Old-fashioned Santa Claus, dressed in the traditional costume of fur, white beard, and a Christmas pack ; Mr. St. Nicholas, in evening dress with silk hat ; Dora, Katie, Maggie, and little Bess; Harry, Charlie, Tom, and John in ordinary school clothes. The scene opens with a large fireplace arranged at the center of the platform, a dark curtain drawn before the opening to conceal Santa Claus. The accompaniment to "Nancy Lee" is heard, and the eight children march in, carrying their stockings.)

Oh, Christmas time has come again,
Tra la la la, tra la la la;
We welcome it with glad refrain,
Tra la la la la la.

Of all the happy holidays this year
There's none so joyous, none so dear,
Then sing we all our song of festive glee,
Of Santa Claus and Christmas tree.

Chorus. -- Oh, ring the bells, the merry Christmas bells,
Their music all our pleasure tells.

(Repeat, singing tra la la whenever necessary to give the rhythm. They pause in groups in center --

right, and left ; some sit, others stand, and change their positions during the dialogue)

Harry: Oh dear, the same old thing again this year, I suppose ! " Hang up the baby's stocking, be sure you don't forget."

Charlie: This baby's stocking is the biggest bicycle hose I could buy. (Pins it at one side of the chimney.) I don't think old Santa could miss it if he tried.

Dora: I made mine to suit the occasion, for I hope Santa Claus will fit a zither into it. (Displays a large, fantastically shaped stocking of striking color, and fastens it beside Charlie 's.)

Harry: You ought to take a prize, Dora, for designing the most -- ahem! -- unexpected-looking

stocking. Generous sized, too! Here goes my contribution to the chimney.    (Hangs up a sock.)

It's big enough to hold a coin of gold that will buy me a new bicycle. I don't care for any knick-knacks.

Katie: I must confess that I'm rather tired of this old custom of hanging up our stockings on Christmas eve and crawling out of bed in the cold dawn to see what is in them. I wish some one

would invent a new way.

Maggie: Just what I thought, Katie, last winter, though I never spoke of it. But if you've hung your stocking up, I must have mine there too. (Goes to chimney.)

John: Well, I refuse to fall in line this year. I'm tired of the whole plan. It seems absurd for an old chap to come tumbling down the fireplace and load up our stockings.

Tom: I agree with you, John! What we want is a new-fashioned Christmas. A real, up-to-date Santa Claus, and no more of this children's nonsense.

Bess: Not have Santa Claus any more ? Isn't he coming to-night ? (Cries.)

John: Oh yes, he'll remember you if you're a good little girl and stop crying. Dora, help Bess to fasten up her stocking.

(After the stocking is fixed, Bess faces the audience and recites.)

Bess: I do hope dear old Santa

Will come this way to-night,

And come here to my stocking,

To fill it nice and tight.

I'd like to watch and see him,

But I know I must wait

Till shines the Christmas sunshine --

I hope he won't be late.

Tom: Let Bess have her old-fashioned Santa Claus, but the rest of us vote for something different.

Harry: I used to think Santa a pretty jolly old duffer, who made lots of sport for the infants, but I'm ready for a change myself.

Dora: Don't count me in to help out your majority; Santa Claus seems to me the kindly spirit of Christmas appearing mysteriously to give us greater pleasure.

Katie: Well, I'll side with the boys this time, and see if there is any improvement in holiday matters.

Charlie: You'll think me a baby to stick to the old style. I won't venture an opinion at all.

Tom: Then we are agreed that of Santa Claus we have no need.

John, Katie, Harry and Maggie: "Tis what we all concede." 
(All sing to the tune of ' ' Maryland, My Maryland.")

Old Santa Claus is such a bore,

Of him we've had too much and more ;

Now what we want is something new,

But what is there for us to do ?

A new St. Nick would be the thing,

Who would our Christmas presents bring.

(Electric bell sounds, the door opens, and Mr. St. Nicholas comes on the stage. He bows and takes

off his hat. He's wearing modern clothing)

Mr. St. N.: Good evening, young people! I see you are at your old-time tricks of hanging up your

stockings. This won't do. Don't you know it's gone out of fashion? (Goes toward fireplace; the boys

rush to protect their property.)

John: Who are you, sir? And how dare you interfere with our fun?

Mr. St. N.: I am the new, up-to-the-times Santa Claus. My proper name is Mr. St. Nicholas. I am on my rounds to take the names of all the young people who deserve a remembrance at Christmas time. I haven't a moment to lose. My e-mail is overburdened with messages, my men are distracted with the work to be done between now and daylight. (Pulls out a cell phone and appears to text while he speaks rapidly without waiting for a reply to Tom) Your name, young man? Your age, birthplace, parents' names? Residence? Attendant at what school? What specific tastes? List of last year's presents. Make haste, time is money.

Katie: But Santa -- I mean Mr. St. Nicholas --here are our stockings.

Mr. St. N.: Christmas stockings! trash and nonsense. They belong to the dark ages.

Harry: Pray, how do you bestow your gifts?

Mr. St. N.: By district messenger service, of course! Next boy (to Charlie), give me your name,

age, birthplace, parents' names, residence, school, specific tastes, last year's presents.

Charlie: How did you come here, Mr. St. Nicholas? I heard no sleigh-bells at the door.

Mr. St. N. (scornfully): More nonsense to explain. I came down from the north pole in an airplane. Come, now, here are these girls waiting to be classified. (To Dora.) Name, age

Dora: I won't be put in statistics, even if it is Christmas and you are the patron saint.

Charlie: Nor I. I didn't vote for any improvements. Take them away.

John: You seem a trifle ahead of the age, Mr. St. Nicholas, or else we made a great mistake in

being discontented with our old-fashioned Christmas.

Tom: Allow me to book you another flight.

(Mr. St. Nicholas is ushered to the door. The others turn back at the sound of sleigh-bells. Santa

Claus appears at the fireplace. He is dressed in the traditional red suit, trimmed with white fur.)

Children: (greeting him with enthusiasm): Jolly old Saint Nicholas!

Santa Claus: Oh ! ho ! ha ! ha ! Are you really glad to see such an old-fashioned specimen as I am?

John: Indeed we are! We have just shown your usurper the door.

Bess (clasping S. C.'s hand): You are the real Santa Claus.

Santa Clans: Yes, I am the real Santa Claus, and I cannot get to work until you children are fast

asleep. So scurry away as fast as you can, and a merry, merry Christmas when you awake!

(Santa Claus unpacks his goods, and as he fills the stockings he performs various antics, holds up the objects, and dances about, Any local expressions that will create amusement he can bring in with running commentaries. The piano is heard softly till he is through, and then bursts out loudly as the curtain is drawn.)

Father Christmas's Message

Father Christmas's Message. 

By J. A. Atkinson

(This speech may be given at the close of a Christmas entertainment. A white wig and beard, fur coat and gloves are worn, and sleigh-bells are sounded before Father Christmas appears on the platform.)

Here I am again. The close of the year

Brings Old Father Christmas with his good cheer.

I'm cheery myself, and cheery I make

All folks who follow advice for my sake.

My advice is the same to all my friends :

Give and forgive, and quickly make amends

For what you do wrong. Let love be the rule.

Christians, be true at the season of Yule.

Old Father Christmas every one welcomes ;

I bring peace and happiness to all homes.

Away with the bad. Have nothing but good.

Do what I tell you. If only you would,

You'd all live at one in true brotherhood.

I always brighten up all hearts. The spell

Of Christmas can all gloomy thoughts dispel.

My friends, right pleased am I to see you here.

How are you all ? Pray come again next year.

I hope you've liked the fun we've had to-night ;

If so, then now applaud with all your might.

Santa Claus

Santa Claus.

By Julia C. R. Dorr.

 

(Let the first line be given by a small boy as a herald, carrying a trumpet, and dressed in tunic, tights, and velvet cap. The second line is taken up by Santa Claus, in costume of fur, with white beard and hair.)

A voice from out of the northern sky :

" On the wings of the limitless winds I fly,

Swifter than thought, over mountain and vale,

City and moorland, desert and dale !

From the north to the south, from the east to the west,

I hasten regardless of slumber or rest ;

O, nothing you dream of can fly as fast

As I on the wings of the windy blast !

" The wondering stars look out to see

Who he that flieth so fast may be,

And their bright eyes follow my earthward track

By the gleam of the jewels I bear in my pack.

For I have treasures for high and for low :

Rubies that burn like the sunset glow ;

Diamond rays for the crowned queen ;

For the princess, pearls with their silver sheen.

" I enter the castle with noiseless feet --

The air is silent and soft and sweet ;

And I lavish my beautiful tokens there --

Fairings to make the fair more fair !

I enter the cottage of want and woe --

The candle is dim and the fire burns low ;

But the sleepers smile in a happy dream

As I scatter my gifts by the moon's pale beam.

" There's never a home so low, no doubt,

But I in my flight can find it out ;

Not a hut so hidden but I can see

The shadow cast by the lone roof-tree !

There's never a home so proud and high

That I am constrained to pass it by,

Nor a heart so happy it may not be

Happier still when blessed by me !

" What is my name ? Ah, who can tell,

Though in every land 'tis a magic spell ?

Men call me that, and they call me this ;

Yet the different names are the same, I wis !

Gift-bearer to all the world am I,

Joy-giver, light-bringer, where'er I fly ;

But the name I bear in the courts above,

My truest and holiest name, is -- Love ! "

Winter's Children

Winter's Children.

By j. D. Moore.

(The children should wear some indication of the several characters they impersonate. Most elaborate and beautiful costumes might be used, but the simple device of a placard upon each child's breast bearing the name of his part will answer the purpose.)

Wind: I come from the cold and stormy North,

With a rush and a roar I hurry forth,

I toss from the trees the dead leaves down,

The withered leaves all sere and brown,

And sway the branches to and fro

As on my way I whirling go.

At crack and crevice I slip in,

And make a lively sounding din.

Swift I come and swift away,

With you I can no longer stay,

For I am wanted elsewhere now,

And so good-bye, I make my bow,

Frost [taking Wind's hand):

Hand in hand we ever go

Through the season to and fro.

I breathe upon the streams. They cease

Their murmurings and are at peace.

Upon each window pane I trace

The finest filmy glistening lace.

Each boy and girl, 'tis plain to see,

Hath still a welcome kind for me.

For on the lake they whirl and wheel,

You hear the click of polished steel

As swift upon their skates they fly

With joyous heart and flashing eye.

My breath blows cold. Health, joy, delight,

Follow my silvery sparkles bright.

Now Snow, who is my guardian sweet,

Will all my young friends fondly greet.

Snow (a little girl):

Over the earth so bare and brown

I spread a robe as soft as down.

Drifting, drifting down through space,

Hiding each unsightly place,

Touched to shimmering radiance bright,

In the moonbeam's mellow light,

By my brother Frost, for we (they join hands)

Both go hand in hand, you see.

North Wind goes gaily with us both,

To help us he is nothing loath.

And he and Frost and Rain combine

To give what in the clear sunshine

Shimmers sparkling -- pure and nice,

Transparent, white, and glistening Ice.

Ice: I cling to lofty gables, I rustle 'mid the snow,

I weave a gleaming covering

For lakes and streams. They know

That all must cease their murmuring

When Frost and I appear,

For we will hold them firm and fast

As long as we are here.,

Gleaming, glistening, sparkling,

Yet pure and clear and bright.

You'll find me 'neath a silver moon,

Each crisp, fresh winter night.

(Enter Old Winter)

Winter: What, ho ! my children, here I am,

I've sought you everywhere.

And now to busy work away,

For you must all prepare

To do your duty while I hold

In check your enemy,

The great round sun, whose rays with you,

My children, disagree.

Now up, away ! Wind, to the west

And come again in glee ;

And join with Frost and Snow and Ice,

In one grand jubilee.

And paint the cheeks with roses

Of all these children who,

Right joyously will run and shout,

My children dear, with you.

Away ! to work, you must not shirk

Your duties, dears ; and now,

To these, your firmest friends, make each

Your most engaging bow.

(All bow and retire Old Winter following.)

The Brownie Men

The Brownie Men.

By M. Nora Boylan.

(An exercise tor four little boys. They wear padded trousers of some cheap brown material and a loose shirt of same material in place of the school jacket. Skull-caps of same material, worn jauntity. Broad white rings about the eyes and charcoal lines upon face to produce resemblance to pictured Brownies.(elves or fairies) Jolly smiles and capers. Join hands and hop on one foot around tree or 'eader, before, between, and after verses.)

Merry, merry sprites are we,

Dancing round the Christmas tree.

We've a gift for every one

Though the last one is just done.

This has been a busy year,

And we hope we bring you cheer,

And when Christmas comes again,

Look for us -- The Brownie men.

Christmas Stories

Christmas Stories.

By Lettie Sterling.

(These stories may be said and done in concert, or each little child may give one verse by himself.

1. Hands held straight up so tips of fingers point toward ceiling.
2. Touch palm of hand with thumb, bring it back quickly.
3. Repeat b with 1st, 2d, 3d, and 4th fingers.
4. Double the hand up.
5. Place the doubled-up hand on the back of the other.
6. Lift thumb and hold it up.
7. Lift 1st finger.
8. Lift 2d finger.
9. Lift 3d finger.
10. Lift 4th finger.
11. Hold hands in a listless way, with tips of fingers pointing toward floor for two first lines, and let the fingers gently swing. Near the close of the verse make the fingers still and rigid and hold them close together.
12. Have hands doubled up and held so that the child's eyes can look down upon the palm of the hand and see the nails of the four fingers-thumb out of sight.
13. Let fingers fly up quickly
14. Hold left hand as in a. Use the index finger of the right hand as a match, scratching it on the palm of the left hand and lighting the tips of each finger as if the fingers were candles.
15. Make a circle of a thumb and index finger of the right hand and slip it on and off each finger on the left hand.
16. Bunch fingers of left hand together so they can all touch the tips o! the thumb and form an opening for the window.
17. Bring the fingers of the right hand near and let them be boys and girls peeping in.
18. Double up hands, but instead of having thumb inside, let it stand straight up to be a tower.
19. Snap the fingers of one hand, then of the other.
20. Point far away with index finger.
21. Point toward an imaginary star.
22. Hold up the three middle fingers.

Chimneys standing in a row, (1)

Down each one will Santa go.

He goes down one, comes back alive, (2)

And then tries two, (3) three, (4) four, (5) and five. (6)

Santa has a wondrous pack, (7)

This he carries on his back ; (8)

From it he takes candies, (9) drums, (10)

Dolls, (8) books, (9) trumpets, (10) when he comes.

Near the -chimney stockings swing,

What to them will Santa bring?

All of them I'm sure he'll fill,

Make them round and stiff and still, (11)

Morning kisses curly heads

Lying snugly in their beds, (12)

O how quickly they hop out, (13)

Seizing stockings with a shout!

On the hemlock and the pine,

Light the candles, make them shine; (14)

String the rows of corn so white (15)

'Mong the gifts and tinsels bright.

Storemen's windows all look gay,

'Cause it's near to Christmas day. (16)

Come and look in, girls and boys, (17)

Get a peep at Christmas joys.

In high towers out of sight

Great bells ring with all their might ; (18)

Hear one, then another chime, (19)

Telling it is Christmas time.

In the distance, look afar, (20)

With their eyes upon the star, (21)

Come on camels wise men three, (22)

They the Christmas King shall see.

Little Snowflakes

Little Snowflakes.

By Ella M. Powers.

(Six primary children may sing these words to the tune, " Tiny Little Snowflakes'' in " Golden Robin," with the following finger-play.)

1. Hands waving up and down, fingers moving rapidly
2. Imitate the waving with hands and heads to right and left.
3. Quickly shake head and hands.
4. One sweep of hand across the desk.
5. Right hand raised as high as head, fist closed.
6. Abruptly bring fist down on desk.
7. Similar to (a).
8. Hands clasping and eyes upturned as if gazing with admiration at the tree

We are little snowflakes, (a)

Falling gently down,

On the fields and mountains

In the busy town.

Now the waving (b) spruce trees

Shaking (c) gently say,

Brush away this light snow, (d)

It's nearly Christmas day.

Then a man comes gayly

With his axe so bright, (e)

He chops down the spruce tree (/)

Early one fair night.

Then on Christmas morning

Children dance to see, (g)

Many lovely presents

On that stately tree, (h)

Dance of The Snowflakes

Dance of the Snowflakes.

By Alice E. Allen.

(The words of this motion song are adapted to the chorus of "Dream Faces." The children should be dressed in white gowns, white stockings and slippers, and wear caps made of white tissue paper, trimmed with silver stars.)

1.  Raise both hands, look up.
2. Move hand slowly back and forth, with floating motion.
3. Lower hands, and motion as if swaying cradle.
4. Drop head slowly to one side, close eyes as if sleeping.
5. While pianist plays last half of song slowly, children take hold of corners of skirts, and with waltz step dance from side to side, still with sleepy look and motion.
6. Stand erect, with eyes wide open.
7. Use forefinger of right hand as if enforcing command.
8. Raise both hands above head, and lower them slowly, with fluttering motion.
9. Drop heads, sing very slowly.
10. Shake heads sadly.
11. Look down as if searching for flowers.
12. While pianist plays as in 5 children repeat 5 very slowly, still looking down.
13. Music much faster and brighter. Children look up over right shoulder, as if afraid of being caught.
14. Whir round and round.
15. Bend to right, and then to left.
16. Fall lightly to floor.
17. Spring up with hands upraised.
18. Drop hands, smile.
19. All clasp hands, raise them high above heads, and dance lightly-backward and forward
20. Hold position 19; dance as in 5, only more rapidly.
21. Dejected position, heads bent down. Music very slow and sad.
22. Raise and lower right hand slowly.
23. Repeat with left.
24. Music strong and faster. Children raise on tip-toe of right foot, reach forward with motion as looking in window above them on their right.
25. Motion with forefinger of right hand as if counting stockings.
26. With skirts distended dance as in 20, smiling.
27. Right hand raised to ear, as if listening.
28. Shade eyes with right hand and look expectant.
29. Step forward, both hands extended as if in greeting, smiling.
30. Throw kiss to audience.
31. Pianist repeats all of song ; children dance as in 26, singing verse beginning " Bright stars are gleaming," and at last " Merry Christmas " throw kiss to audience.

We lived in cloudland, (1)

Floating here and there (2)

Over the mountains

And the valleys fair.

Winds swayed our cradles, (3)

Then we fell asleep, (4)

While far above us

Stars their watch did keep. (5)

"Wake," cried the North Wind, (6)

"You to earth must go." (7)

Down we fell fluttering (8)

Butterflies of snow.

Silently and slowly (9)

Through the winter hours,

Falling so sadly, (10)

Hiding grass and flowers. (11-12)

Then the wind caught us, (13)

Whirled us round and round, (14)

Dashed us and drove us, (15)

Piled us on the ground (16)

Flying up in frolic, (17)

Always glad and gay, (18)

Dancing and drifting (19)

All the stormy day. (20)

Now our play is over, (21)

Now the day is done,

Falling so sadly, (22)

Sadly one by one. (23)

Peeping in the windows (24)

Where the fires glow,

See the children's stockings (25)

Hanging in a row. (26)

Hark, in the distance (27)

Hear the merry bells!

Santa Claus is coming, (28)

Sweet their music tells!

Go we now to greet him, (29)

Listen as we call, --

Glad merry Christmas,

Merry Christmas all ! (30)

Bright stars are gleaming, (31)

Christmas cometh soon.

Joy bells are ringing,

All in merry tune.

We are Christmas snowflakes,

Singing as we fall, --

Glad, merry Christmas,

Merry Christmas all!

A Christmas Lullaby

A Christmas Lullaby.

(The children are seated in little rocking-chairs, each holding a doll dressed in a long white gown. They rock slowly in time to the music. At first I "hushaby" they raise forefinger of right hand, as if to insure silence)

2. Kiss dolls.
3. Very softly.
4. Lay dolls in small cradles, standing near.
5. At " hush " raise forefinger of right hand warningly.
6. Very softly.
7. Rock cradles slowly in time to music, children kneeling on floor.
8. Turn toward audience.
9. Very softly.

(The words are adapted to the music of the familiar hymn, "Silent Night.")

Hushaby, hushaby, (1)

Christmas stars are in the sky;

Sweet the bells of Christmas eve --

Babies, each a kiss receive, -- (2)

Hushaby, good-night,

Hushaby, good-night ! (3)

Lullaby, lullaby,

Babies in their cradles lie; (4)

Every one in white is gowned,

Hush, make not a single sound ! (5)

Lullaby, good-night,

Lullaby, good-night ! (6)

Rockaby, rockaby,

Christmas-tide draweth nigh ; (7)

Quiet now the tiny feet,

Babies sleep so still and sweet, --

Sweetest dreams, good-night, (8)

Sweetest dreams, good-night ! (9)