But it's well worth the while for the dear children's sake.

I'd bruise every bone in my body to see

The darlings' delight in a gift-laden tree!"

Just then came a sound like a telephone bell—

Though why they should have such a thing I can't tell—

St. Nick gave a snort and exclaimed in a rage,

"Bad luck to inventions of this modern age!"

He grabbed the receiver—his face wore a frown

As he roared in the mouth-piece, "I will not come down

To exchange any toys like an up-to-date store,