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)

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas.

By M. D. Sterling.

(Seven boys and seven girls with good voices and some sprightliness of manner are required. Each carries a wand, to the upper end of which is fastened an evergreen wreath surrounding a large, gilt letter. Ranged in order the letters will spell the word "Merry Christmas." The verse for each is sung to the air, " Buy a Broom." The children enter only one at a time, using a polka step, boys and girls alternately. While singing they take steps and wave wand in time to music. At third line of each stanza the boys bow and the girls make a courtesy, right and left. The chorus at the end of each verse is sung by the entire school. The boy with letter M comes in first, sings, and takes position on platform. He is followed by the girl with E. So continue until the line of children is complete.)

First boy:
M stands for merry -- oh ' let us be merry ;
M stands for merry -- right merry am I.
(Bowing.) With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the
left, sir,
Come, now, and be merry, all sadness defy.

Chorus (by school, to the refrain of " Buy a Broom"). --
Christmas dear now draws near,
With song and with evergreen welcome it here.

First girl:
E stands for evergreen, beautiful evergreen,
E stands for evergreen, never to fade.
(Courtesying.) With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
Bring evergreen garlands for Christmas time made.--Cho.

Second boy:
R stands for rollicking -- come, then, be rollicking ;
R stands for rollicking -- fun's in the air!
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
In Christmas-day rollicking take now a share. -- Cho.

Second girl:
R stands for rally, a grand Christmas rally,
R stands for rally, where Christmas trees grow !
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
We rally where Santa is likely to go. -- Cho.

Third boy:
Y stands for youthful -- rejoice, now, all youthful ;
Y stands for youthful -- quite youthful am I.
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
The youthful make merry when Christmas is nigh. -- Cho.

(Leave a space in the line of children between the last letter of " Merry ' and the first of " Christmas.")

Third girl:
C stands for Christmas -- bright Christmas, merry Christmas;
C stands for Christmas -- the best of the year.
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
Make merry at Christmas with good Christmas cheer. -- Cho.

Fourth boy:
H stands for happy -- at Christmas be happy !
H stands for happy -- right happy am I.
With a bow to the right sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
If you would be happy some Christmas gifts buy -- Cho.

Fourth girl:
R stands for ready -- for Christmas be ready ;
R stands for ready -- are you ready yet?
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir.
To make ready for Christmas, oh ! uever forget. -- Cho.

Fifth boy:
I stands for icy -- for winter so icy ;
I stands for icy, when Kris drives along.
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir,
Though icy the weather we'll give him a song. -- Cho.

Fifth girl:
S stands for Santa -- the children's own Santa ;
S stands for Santa, the jolly old dear.
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
For Santy to fill we hang stockings each year. -- Cho.

Sixth boy:
T stands for thoughtful -- of all friends be thoughtful ;
T stands for thoughtful -- your presents prepare.
With a bow to the right, sir. and a bow to the left, sir,
And be thoughtful those poorer than you have a share. -- Cho.

Sixth girl:
M stands for magic -- for Christmas-night magic;
M stands for magic filling stockings and tree.
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
Who does this fine magic, can any agree? -- Cho.

Seventh boy:
A stands for all of us, old and young, all of us;
A stands for all of us looking for Kris.
With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir.
And all of us hope that not one will he miss. -- Cho.

Seventh girl:
S stands for -smiling -- on Christmas morn smiling ;
S stands for smiling -- all smiling I'll be.
With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir,
All smiling, yes, smiling, when presents I see. -- Cho.

(The following verses are to be sung by the school to the air, "Wait for the Wagon." During the singing of the first stanza and chorus, the fourteen boys and girls divide off into couples and march around, elevating and lowering the wands in time to music. During the second stanza they form two opposite lines, with wands crossed overhead, couples marching under the arches formed and back again to places. Third stanza, the opposite lines pass forward and back, cross to other side, partners passing each other, then back once more, and turn partners into place in a line forming " Merry Christmas" again.)

Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas!

Thy call we must obey,

And carry fadeless garlands

In honor of the day.

Chorus {to be sung after each verse). --

All hail, merry Christmas!

Hail, merry Christmas!

All hail, merry Christmas,

The evergreen day.

Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas !

With laughter, song, and play,

How gayly pass the hours

Of that dear, happy day. -- Chorus.

Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas!

Quite old, but never gray,

Like thy own joys, unfading,

The wreath we bring to-day. -- Chorus.

Charity

  

Charity.

By Jay Bee.

(Seven little girls daintily dressed carry a bell in the right hand, with the initial on it which begins her line. The bells are rung lightly during the speaking )

First child: Cheerily ring the Christmas bells !

Second child: How joyfully their jingling tells

Third child: All peace and kindness on the earth,

Fourth child: Ringing out, singing out, laughing with

mirth !

Fifth child: In every home is joy profound,

Sixth child: The echo of this merry sound.

Seventh child: Yet Charity must remembered be,

And that is why we have this tree.

Santa Claus

Santa Claus.

By W. S. C.

(A letter exercise for ten very small children. Let each child present a placard bearing the letter as he recites his line. At the close, all shut their eyes and screw them up very tight.)

S stands for stockings we hang up so high.

A is for all we get if we don't cry.

N is for nobody he will pass by.

T is for to-morrow, the day we eat pie.

A stands for at last old Santa is nigh.

C for the children who love him so well.

L for the little girl, his name she can spell.

A stands for apples so rosy and red.

U is for us as we wait for his sled.

S stands for Santa Claus, who comes in the night when we are tucked up in bed with our eyes closed so tight.

Christmas Children

Christmas Children.

By M. Nora Boylan

(An acrostic for the primary grade. Each child wears a large gilt star around his neck. As he begins to speak, he turns it over, showing his letter on the reverse side.)

All: Happy children here we stand.

Bringing words of love ;

For on this glad Christmas day

Christ came from above.

First child: C is for the Christ Who came

To this lowly earth. 

Second child: H is for the harps that rang

At our Savior's birth.

Third child: R is for the ringing bells,

Telling Christmas-tide.

Fourth child: I is for the crystal ice

Where we go to slide.

Fifth child: S is for the schoolboy's sled

When he coasting goes.

Sixth child: T is for poor Tommy Jones-

Jack Frost bit his nose. 

Seventh child: M is for the merry part

Of this Christmas day,

Eighth child: A is for the apple pies

Grandma put away.

Ninth child: S is for old Santa Clans,

Coming here to-night.

Hope he'll wait till nearly morn,

So it will be light.

All: Yes, we're happy children nine,

And to each we're .true,

Three cheers for jolly Santa Claus,

A happy day to you.

Christmas Stockings

Christmas Stockings.

By A. S. Webber.

      (Six small girls and boys are needed for speaking, and any even number of larger girls for singing. A boy leads each division of the march, immediately followed by those who speak.

      An equal number enter from opposite sides as far back as possible, pass in front to sides, back half-way, form two lines across front, having the six who speak in front (alternating boy and girl), and the larger pupils back of them sing as they enter and until they are placed the chorus of " Birdies' Ball," beginning " Tra la la la la." When in position all sing the following two verses, air, " Birdies' Ball." When chorus is reached, let them keep time by resting weight on right foot on first count, and at same time swinging left foot over right, touch toe to floor, dipping body slightly on third count, foot back in place on first count of next measure. Rest weight on left foot and swing right foot over left, touching right toe on third count, foot back in place on first count of next measure, etc.)

Santa Claus on Christmas eve,

Means to give a gift to all,

Each a stocking we will hang,

Stockings big and stockings small.

Chorus. -- Tra la la la, etc.

Santa Claus on Christmas eve

Comes with reindeer swift as air,

Early all must be in bed,

Leaving only stockings there.

Chorus. -- Tra la la la, etc.

(A girl comes one step forward, bows, and speaks.)

I mean to hang on Christmas eve

A stocking of this size (measures),

Because I want a doll so big,

That sleeps and shuts its eyes.

To crowd it in a stocking small

Would surely not be wise.

(Pupil steps back in place and all sing the chorus, keeping time as before.)

2d Pupil. --  My stocking is the one I'll hang,

I know 'twill hold quite well,

About a hundred marbles more

Than's owned by Tommy Bell.

Of course I want some candy, too,

But the marbles are what tell. 

(Steps back, and chorus is repeated as before.)

3d Pupil. --I mean to beg a stocking small

Of little sister Clare,

Because I want some things so small

They'll scarce be found e'en there.

I want a ring that has a stone,

And a pretty pin to wear.

(Chorus repeated as before.)

4th Pupil. -- I've measured all the stockings round,

And think I'll hang up two,

Because I want a pair of skates, --

One stocking will not do.

Of course I want some sweets and things

To last the whole week through.

Chorus, etc.

5th Pupil. -- My mamma's stocking I will hang,

'Twill so much better hold

A tea-set for my dolly dear,

All painted round with gold;

And dishes can't be squeezed, you know,

That's what I've oft been told.

Chorus, etc.

6th Pupil. -- And I don't know just what to do,

Because I want, you see,

A hobby-horse that is so high, --

Now tell me, can it be,

Are stockings ever made so big

That one can hold all of me?

Chorus, etc.

All sing. --All we children love to hang

Stockings o'er the fireplace,

Wondering how our gifts can come

Nice and clean from such a place.

Chorus. -- Tra la la la, etc.

Santa Claus is loved by all

Folks who are as big as we,

And for long before he comes

We can only sing for glee.

Chorus. -- Tra la la la, etc

(When the chorus is partly sung, the leaders of the march lead to opposite sides, others fall in line forward, pass in front to rear along sides, pass at rear end to seats. Continue to repeat the chorus till all are seated.)

The Snow Brigade

The Snow Brigade.

By Marian Loder.

(A winter drill for a dozen boys -- in overcoats, earcaps, bright-colored

mufflers, mittens, etc. Each carries a big snow-shovel. The stage

should be spread with sheets and loose cotton to represent snow. Boys

come marching in single file, shovels over shoulder, singing to the tune,

"See the Farmer in the Field.")

I.

We are the jolly Snow Brigade,

With our trusty shovels we make a raid,

And lustily we'll give you aid

On a frosty winter's morning.

Chorus. -- He ! he ! ha ! ha ! ha !

He ! he ! ha! ha! ha!

He ! he ! ha ! ha ! ha !

Ho ! ho ! ho !

II.

(Beginning to shovel cotton. )

We'll shovel your walk for fifteen cents,

We'll pile the snow against the fence,

We'll show you we are boys of sense

On a frosty winter's morning. -- Cho.

III.

(Rubbing noses.)

Jiminy crack ! our noses are cold !

Oh ! Jack Frost is bad and bold !

(Working harder than ever.)

But little care we for the winter cold,

On a clear and frosty morning. — Cho,

IV.

(Pointing to work.)

Look at that ; now what do you say?

(Holding out hands to audience.)

Now, if you please, we'll take our pay.

Our work is done, it's time for play,

On a frosty winter's morning. -- Cho.

(Begin snowballing with the cotton, throwing balls into

audience and at each other.)

A Christmas-bell Drill

A Christmas-bell Drill.

By Ella M. Powers.

(This drill may be given by eight little girls provided with wands. At

the top of each wand are tacked three streamers of red, white, and blue

ribbon or cambric. At the end of each streamer a little tinkling bell is

sewed. The children sing, and wave wands in time to the music. The

words may be sung to the tune of " Lightly Row.")

Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,

Happy bells of Christmas time ;

Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,

Christ the Lord is born.

Christ is born, our Savior dear,

Joyous words we love to hear ;

Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,

Christ the Lord is born.

(Between first and second verses, all march singing same tune to " Tra

la la.'' -- " Tra la la," wands waving, up, down, right, left, up, down, right ;

left, throughout. Resume places and sing second verse.)

Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,

Happy bells of Christmas time ;

Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,

Glory be to God.

Let us carol sweetly then,

Peace on earth, good will to men ;

Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,

Christ the Lord is born.

(All march out, singing, and waving wands.)

Old Santa Claus

Old Santa Claus.

By M. Nora Boylan.

(To be sung to the tune of "Yankee Doodle." The verses may be

given by a single voice, with the chorus by the school, or selected voices

on the platform.)

Old Santa Claus is a jolly man

Who brings us lots of toys, sir ;

And none are happier Christmas time

Than little girls and boys, sir.

Have you not seen our Santa Claus,

With hair so snowy white, sir ?

Just hang your stocking Christmas eve --

He'll come that very night, sir.

And if you watch, perhaps you'll see

This friend in furs hid deep, sir.

But I have never seen him once --

I'm always fast asleep, sir.

Chorus -- Santa Claus is jolly, sir ;

Santa Claus is kind, sir ;

Santa Claus on Christmas eve

Comes riding on the wind, sir.

Santa Claus is Coming

Santa Claus is Coming.

By Maud L. Betts.

(To be sung to the tune of " Marching- thro' Georgia.")

Santa Claus is coming -- we shall welcome him with glee;

He'll hang a gift for every one upon the Christmas-tree ;

He'll not forget a single child. How happy we shall be;

For Santa Claus is coming.

Chorus --

Hurrah ! hurrah ! for Christmas time is near ;

Hurrah ! hurrah ! the time to all so dear ;

We all shall hang our stockings up when Christmas eve is

here,

For Santa Claus is coming.

But we must remember all that we must do our part ;

Christmas is the time of times, to give with all our heart.

We must always share our joys with those who have no

part,

When Santa Claus is coming.

Time for Santa Claus

Time for Santa Claus.

By M. Nora Boylan.

(To be sung to the tune of " Ta-ra-ra, boom-de-ay.")

Now's the time for Santa Claus;

Christmas comes with loud huzzas.

Hark ! the bells ! Oh, hear them ring!

Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling.

Cho. -- Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling,

Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling,

Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling,

Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling.

See his prancing reindeer brave,

Hear him tell them to behave --

Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen,

Comet, Cupid, Donder, Blitzen. -- Chorus.

Yes, hurrah for Santa Claus )

Blow the trumpets, shout huzzas !

We'll be happy while we sing --

Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling. -- Chorus.