| 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 crownèd 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 wish! 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!" |
JULIA C.R. DORR.
| (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. |
J.A. ATKINSON.
By ALICE M. KELLOGG.