Ted. But, Santa Claus, I truly thought they would like it, and now it's just dreadful! What shall I do? If you'll only give them what they do want, you can take back all my things! I wish you would! Don't you think you could, just for this once? [Rose runs in.]
Rose. Oh, Santa Claus! Santa Claus! [Exit, calling.] Come, Papa, come, Mamma, here's Santa Claus! Robin! Marjorie! Kitty! [Enter all. The older children hang back, Rose runs to Santa Claus and stands by him.]
Father [shaking hands with Santa Claus]. How do you do, sir, how do you do?
Mother. We're very glad to see you again, Santa Claus. [Motions others to come, Nurse also urging them in pantomime.]
Santa Claus [patting Rose's head, and looking at other children]. I hear there are some children here who weren't pleased with what I brought them. How's this? [Children turn away, and hang their heads in embarrassment.]
Santa Claus [to Father]. What does this mean? Can you explain it, Mr. Bird?
Father. Well—a—you see, the stockings really weren't filled after your usual thoughtful manner.
Santa Claus [bursts into a loud laugh, at which the children turn in injured astonishment]. Well, well! That's a good joke!
Kitty [in an injured tone]. We didn't think it was a joke at all, Santa Claus.