Then Granny, Florence, Joe, and Hal sat in profound thought until the old high clock in the corner struck nine.
"Well," said Joe, "what are we waiting for?"
Hal laughed and answered,—
"For some one to go to bed."
"What is to be done about it?"
Florence looked wise, and said presently,—
"We'll all have to go in the other room except the one who is to put something in the stockings."
"That's it. Who will begin?"
"Not I," rejoined Joe. "I don't want to be poked down into the toe."
"And I can't have my gifts crushed," declared Florence.