Mother. Oh, Hans, don't say that. Think how happy we can be. Even if St. Nicholas doesn't come, to-morrow is still the bright, beautiful Christmas Day, when everyone in the world is happy, and we shall hear the chimes ringing, and see people going about wishing each other "Merry Christmas." And then we have each other. I have my little big daughter who helps me wipe the dishes and put the plates away and my big right-hand man who is going to work so hard for me pretty soon.
Hans. Yes, Mother, but I can help you now, right away. Let me do something for you right now!
Gretel. Me too, Mother, me too!
Mother. Very well! You shall hold this yarn for me, while Gretel winds it. [Puts the yarn on Hans' hands. Hans sits on box, Gretel on stool winding. Mother turns spinning wheel and sings "Bending O'er a Cradle Low."]
BENDING O’ER A CRADLE LOW[4]
(A CHRISTMAS SONG)
Lydia Avery Coonley. George F. Root.
