MRS. HUBBARD. Of course. How silly of me!
(They sit down and put them on.)
MR. HUBBARD. Really this is a very handsome watch-chain.
MRS. HUBBARD. It becomes you admirably, Henry.
MR. HUBBARD. Thank you, dear. There's just one little point. Father Christmas is sometimes rather shy about acknowledging the presents he gives. He hates being thanked. If, therefore, he makes any comment on your magnificent necklace or my handsome watch-chain, we must say that they have been in the family for some years.
MRS. HUBBARD. Of course, dear. (They get up.)
MR. HUBBARD. Well, now we're ready.
MRS. HUBBARD. Darling one, don't you think we might bring the children?
MR. HUBBARD. Of course, dear! How forgetful of me! . . . Children—'shun! (Listen! Their heels click as they come to attention) Number! (Their voices—alternate boy and girl, one to nine—are heard) Right turn!
MRS. HUBBARD. Darling one, I almost seem to hear them!