And, in order that his work may be brought to nought, I do commission my loyal band of Imps to sally forth and utterly destroy not only this arch conspirator, but all his handiwork—To him who shall accomplish the downfall of this personification of Christmas Peace and Good Will, I give the half of my kingdom, and the hand of my daughter in marriage.
LARGE
RED
SEAL
(Signed) Lucifer Match,
King of the Imps.”
(After reading of commission, exit Lucifer Match. Then Imps disappear behind the hedge.)
End of Act II. Curtain.
ACT III.
Scene—Room in Santa Claus’ House
(When the curtain rises, Santa is doing some simple task around the room with his back to the audience—then, turning around as the clock strikes eleven, he speaks—)
Santa: Ah, the time is drawing nigh when I must sally forth—An hour yet remains, and so I’ll improve it by taking a little nap—How good it is after the day’s toil is ended to sweetly rest—perchance to dream of the fruit of one’s labor. Here’s a cushion for my head, and what matters if my feet hang o’er the end like culprits from the gallows. ’Tis good—And now to sleep——
(Santa sinks into deep slumber.)