Santa Claus. Well, my dear, you will when I tell you about it. You see, I had a new helper, last night, and it wasn't to be expected that one so new to the business wouldn't make some mistakes. Well, this one made a good many,—— [to Ted] didn't he?
Ted [dolefully]. I should think he did! He didn't do anything else at all!
Santa Claus. But when he found out about it, he felt very badly, indeed,—— [to Ted] didn't he?
Ted. He never felt worse in his life!
Santa Claus. So he came to me and begged me to fix the matter for him, and I've agreed to do it. He never suspected that I knew about it before he told me, but I did know, all the time, and so I've come prepared to make it up to you for all the trouble Ted caused——
All. Ted!
Santa Claus. Yes, Ted. [With pretended fierceness.] He meddled with my business last night.
Children [shocked]. Oh, Santa Claus!
Santa Claus. But I'm going to forgive him, because I think he learned a good many things about Christmas while he was at it. And I never could bear to see anyone unhappy when I pay my yearly call, so come along, children, come, Father and Mother Bird, and we'll see if we can't find something to suit you all under the branches of my Tree![19]
[Unveiling of Christmas Tree follows. Children
mingle with audience, and general
distribution of presents takes place.