CHRISTMAS.
Dainty little stockings
Hanging in a row,
Blue and gray and scarlet,
In the firelight's glow:
Curly-pated sleepers
Safely tucked in bed;
Dreams of wondrous toy-shops
Dancing through each head:
Mother, stepping lightly,
Plans with tender care,
How to give each dreamer
Just an equal share.
Funny little stockings
Hanging in a row,
Stuffed with sweet surprises,
Down from top to toe,—
Skates and balls and trumpets,
Dishes, tops, and drums,
Books and dolls and candies,
Nuts and sugar-plums.
Little sleepers waking:
Bless me, what a noise!
Wish you merry Christmas,
Happy girls and boys!
RUTH REVERE.
