VI. The Christmas Waits, in times of old,
Sang carols sweet, though the night was cold,
And wandered thus, from door to door,
Till morning dawned, in days of yore.
Tableau: The Christmas Waits. [The curtain does not rise until the verse is ended, then shows empty stage. The Waits begin their carol behind the scenes, marching single file till the first couple is opposite the opening, when they turn, join hands, and enter two by two. The march of the Waits may be as simple or as elaborate as desired, or as the size of the stage permits. Or they may walk to the footlights, and stand there during a part of their song. The smallest couple should, of course, lead. The stage, darkened for the earlier tableaux, should be made bright for this march. At the end of the march, the Waits pass out as they entered, and the back curtain is dropped.][18]
[The Brownie comes forward and stands by
Ted, tapping him with the wand.
Brownie. Merry Christmas, Ted! It has come at last! [Rushes away and vanishes in chimney.]
Ted [sits up, stretches, yawns, rubs his eyes, and looks around]. Why! I do believe I've slept here all night! [Sits on table.] And, my! maybe you think I haven't been dreaming! Guess I'll go see what time it is. [Goes to door, turns, and sees stockings.] Jiminy Christmas, just look at those stockings! [Exit.]
[Enter Nurse with duster. Sees stockings.
Nurse. Well, well! did I ever! Santa Claus has been pretty good to them this year.
Marjorie [without, calling]. Maggie! Maggie! Mamma says we may have our stockings right off now. Please bring them to us, quick!
Nurse. That I will, Miss Margie, fast as ever I can! [Lifts them down.] Crammed full, I declare! and heavy!—heavy as that good-for-nothing Bridget's cake!