Ted [aside, dismally]. Those were for Robin and me to make lanterns of!
Father. I'm sure I don't know who wants those!
Mother. And a roll of the muslin I make sails of for the boys' boats, in my stocking! With some old rags!
Ted [aside again]. Kite-tails!
Father. Well, Santa Claus has certainly lost his mind!
Mother. Well, he'll be here very soon, and perhaps we shall find out what these queer presents mean. [Looks at her watch.] Come, children, you must get your faces washed, and look as bright as you can for him.
Father. Perhaps, after all, it's just some joke of his.
[Exeunt all but Ted.
Ted [jumping up]. I know! I'll see Santa Claus first, and beg him to take back these things—— [Runs to fireplace, calling softly.] Oh, Santa Claus! Santa Claus! do hurry! [Sleigh bells in distance.] Oh, Santa Claus!