“In time there were many trees bearing the rosy fruit. All through one little boy having such a fine birthday party.
“A tree is the dearest of treasures. I mean any kind of tree. It does so many things. It gives fruit and shade. It gives the birds a place to build their homes, and in return you have their beautiful music all through the summer. It gives the squirrels a place to hide their nuts. From the trunk many insects find their food.
“If it were not for the trees there would be no mince pies. From the trees are built the ships which bring from foreign countries these many goodies. How could we have any houses, or any furniture to put in them, if there were no trees? See that splendid back log. It has kept us warm all the long night. It came from a grand old tree that furnished fuel for many a winter fire.
“And now I must stop, for I fear my tale has been too long. If it has, please excuse me.”
“How splendid!” chorused the audience. And little Allspice begged for another.
THE TALE OF THE STOLEN DOLL CLOTHES
Nutmeg cried: “I know a grand one! It happened right in a forest near where I grew.
“You know those woods are full of monkeys, and they have great times. One of their traits is to mimic. They usually do what they see others do, and a good thing it was for the boy I’m going to tell you about.
“The boy’s name was Enrico. He lived with his widowed mother at the edge of the forest. They were very poor and had tried in many ways to earn money without success.