William Tell
Santa. No, no. You are never too early to please us. We like to see your shining face at any time.
Jack. William Tell of Switzerland.
William Tell. [Tyrolese costume, an apple in hand, bow and arrow under arm.] Good evening, everybody, what pleasant weather! Thirteen degrees below zero. It reminds me of our Alps at home. [Stands next to The Man in the Moon.]
Jennie. How is your son, Mr. Tell? Is he just as brave as ever? Do you ever shoot apples off his head nowadays?
William Tell. Thank you, Jennie. Little Billy is well and happy. He is always a fearless child. He is tending a herd of chamois on Mt. Blanc this winter. Yes, we often practise a little sharpshooting.
Jack. [Aside.] Now that chamois herding is a job I’d like to hold down myself. [Aloud.] The Clerk of the Weather.
The Clerk of the Weather. [Carrying thermometer, weathercock, telescope, umbrella, weather bulletin.] Good evening, all. I am so glad to be here. I had a great time getting my work arranged so I could get off. I am afraid now [looking at bulletin] that there will be floods or blizzards or something. There are so many hitches in a business like mine. [Stands next to Tell.]
Jack. Robinson Crusoe and Friday.
[Robinson Crusoe and Friday are dressed in furs. Friday leads toy goat. Jack blows on Friday, who shivers.]