Harper's Young People, December 21, 1880 / An Illustrated Weekly

( The action passes in the spacious old castle of the Baron. The time is about a.d. 1600.)
A portion of the grand upper hall in the Château de Beautemps. Large antique fire-place at back, in which burns a sleepy wood fire. Tapestried doors R. and L. Also R. and L., beyond either door, entrances to corridors that communicate with main hall. Large draped window R. of fire-place. Near R. door small cabinet, on which is a silver candelabrum with lighted candle. Near door at L. a similar candelabrum resting on heavy carved chair. As curtain rises, Henri and Lucienne are discovered beside chimney-place in act of hanging up stockings before it. Lucienne wears a costume of brocaded silken stuff reaching to the ground, and a small velvet hood, whence her hair flows in rich abundance. Henri wears doublet with large collar, and knee-breeches.
Lucienne ( going to window, drawing curtains, and looking out. She then comes to front of stage ).
How cold and still! With what an icy glow The stars are shining over the château! And yonder, where the chapel roofs rise dark, The crusted snow gives out a diamond spark. Eleven strokes the great hall clock has rung. Well, brother Henri, is your stocking hung?
Henri ( joining Lucienne at front of stage ).
All's ready, sister; see how slim and white Both stockings glimmer in the doubtful light. I can't help wondering, as I watch them thus, What gifts the Christinas Saint will bring to us.
Lucienne .
Oh, everything we've wanted for a year! To me a painted doll in bridal gear; To you a sword, a cup and ball, a top; To me, again—
Henri .