Produced by Leah Moser and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team.
CHRISTMAS ENTERTAINMENTS
BY ALICE M. KELLOGG
CONTAINING
FANCY DRILLS, ACROSTICS, MOTION SONGS, TABLEAUX, SHORT PLAYS, RECITATIONS IN COSTUME
FOR CHILDREN OF FIVE TO FIFTEEN YEARS
CONTENTS.
* * * * *
NEW SONGS TO OLD TUNES:
Time for Santa Claus M. Nora Boylan Santa Claus is Coming Maud L. Betts Old Santa Claus M. Nora Boylan
FANCY DRILLS:
A Christmas-bell Drill Ella M. Powers The Snow Brigade Marian Loder
Christmas Stockings A.S. Webber
ACROSTICS:
Christmas Children M. Nora Boylan Santa Claus W.S.C.
Charity Jay Bee
Merry Christmas M.D. Sterling
MOTION SONGS:
A Christmas Lullaby
Dance of the Snowflakes Alice E. Allen Little Snowflakes Ella M. Powers Christmas Stories Lettie Sterling
TABLEAUX:
Christmas Pictures
RECITATIONS IN COSTUME:
The Brownie Men M. Nora Boylan Winter’s Children J.D. Moore
Santa Claus Julia C.R. Dorr Father Christmas’ Message J.A. Atkinson
SHORT PLAYS:
Mr. St. Nicholas Alice M. Kellogg Christmas Offerings by
Children from Other Lands Ella M. Powers A Christmas Reunion M.D. Sterling Christmas Waits Katherine West A Christmas Party Lizzie M. Hadley
RECITATIONS FOR THE PRIMARY GRADE:
Santa’s Helpers M. Nora Boylan Christmas Eve Eugene Field
Santa Claus’ Visit Susie M. Best To Santa Claus Jennie D. Moore What I Should Like Jennie D. Moore A Gentle Reminder Alice W. Rollins Christmas Time M.N.B.
Christmas Wishes C. Phillips Christmas Morn M.N.B.
My Christmas Secrets S.C. Peabody Kriss Kringle Susie M. Best
A Message Ella M. Powers The Mousie M.N.B.
A Letter from Santa Claus William Howard The Christmas We Like Ella M. Powers Saint Nick M.N.B.
Merry, Merry Christmas Carine L. Rose Christmas Questions Wolstan Dixey A Catastrophe Susie M. Best
RECITATIONS FOR THE GRAMMAR GRADE:
A Christmas Gift Mabel L. Pray A Christmas Thought Lucy Larcom The Merry Christmas Eve Charles Kingsley The Christmas Stocking Charles H. Pearson Christmas Hymn Eugene Field
Bells Across the Snow F.R. Havergal Christmas Eve Frank E. Brown The Little Christmas Tree Susan Coolidge The Russian Santa Claus Lizzie M. Hadley A Christmas Garden
A Christmas Carol J.R. Lowell The Power of Christmas
Peace on Earth S.T. Coleridge The Christmas Tree
Old English Christmases
Holly and Ivy Eugene Field Holiday Chimes
Christmas Dolls Elizabeth J. Rook Red Pepper A. Constance Smedley A Game of Letters Elizabeth J. Rook Under the Christmas Tree Arthur Guiterman
NOTE.
A large proportion of the material in this collection was contributed to _The School Journal_. It is distinguished from other selections by the author’s name following directly after the title.
Christmas Entertainments.
* * * * *
=Time for Santa Claus.=
By M. NORA BOYLAN.
(To be sung to the tune of “Ta-ra-ra, boom-de-ay.”)
Now’s the time for Santa Claus;
Christmas comes with loud huzzas.
Hark! the bells! Oh, hear them ring! Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling.
_Cho_.–Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling, Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling,
Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling,
Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling.
See his prancing reindeer brave,
Hear him tell them to behave–
Dasher, Dancer, Prancer, Vixen,
Comet, Cupid, Donder, Blitzen.–_Chorus_.
Yes, hurrah for Santa Claus!
Blow the trumpets, shout huzzas!
We’ll be happy while we sing–
Ting-a-ling-ling ting-a-ling.–_Chorus_.
* * * * *
=Santa Claus is Coming.=
By MAUD L. BETTS.
(To be sung to the tune of “Marching thro Georgia.”)
Santa Claus is coming–we shall welcome him with glee; He’ll hang a gift for every one upon the Christmas-tree; He’ll not forget a single child. How happy we shall be; For Santa Claus is coming.
_Chorus_–
Hurrah! hurrah! for Christmas time is near; Hurrah! hurrah! the time to all so dear; We all shall hang our stockings up when Christmas eve is here. For Santa Claus is coming.
But we must remember all that we must do our part; Christmas is the time of times, to give with all our heart We must always share our joys with those who have no part, When Santa Claus is coming.
* * * * *
=Old Santa Claus.=
By M. NORA BOYLAN.
(To be sung to the tune of “Yankee Doodle.” The verses may be given by a single voice, with the chorus by the school, or selected voices on the platform.)
Old Santa Claus is a jolly man
Who brings us lots of toys, sir;
And none are happier Christmas time Than little girls and boys, sir.
Have you not seen our Santa Claus,
With hair so snowy white, sir?
Just hang your stocking Christmas eve,– He’ll come that very night, sir.
And if you watch, perhaps you’ll see This friend in furs hid deep, sir.
But I have never seen him once–
I’m always fast asleep, sir.
_Chorus_–Santa Claus is jolly, sir; Santa Claus is kind, sir;
Santa Claus on Christmas eve
Comes riding on the wind, sir.
* * * * *
=A Christmas-bell Drill.=
By ELLA M. POWERS.
(This drill may be given by eight little girls provided with wands. At the top of each wand are tacked three streamers of red, white, and blue ribbon or cambric. At the end of each streamer a little tinkling bell is sewed. The children sing, and wave wands in time to the music. The words may be sung to the tune of “Lightly Row.”)
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Happy bells of Christmas time;
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Christ the Lord is born.
Christ is born, our Saviour dear,
Joyous words we love to hear;
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Christ the Lord is born.
(Between first and second verses, all march singing same tune to “Tra la la.”–“Tra la la,” wands waving, up, down, right, left, up, down, right left, throughout. Resume places and sing second verse.)
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Happy bells of Christmas time;
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Glory be to God.
Let us carol sweetly then,
Peace on earth, good will to men;
Sweetly chime, sweetly chime,
Christ the Lord is born.
(All march out, singing, and waving wands.)
* * * * *
=The Snow Brigade.=
By MARIAN LODER.
(A winter drill for a dozen boys–in overcoats, earcaps, bright-colored mufflers, mittens, etc. Each carries a big snow-shovel. The stage should be spread with sheets and loose cotton to represent snow. Boys come marching in single file, shovels over shoulder, singing to the tune, “_See the Farmer in the Field_.”)
I.
We are the jolly Snow Brigade,
With our trusty shovels we make a raid. And lustily we’ll give you aid
On a frosty winter’s morning.
_Chorus_.–He! he! ha! ha! ha!
He! he! ha! ha! ha!
He! he! ha! ha! ha!
Ho! ho! ho!
II.
(_Beginning to shovel cotton_.)
We’ll shovel your walk for fifteen cents, We’ll pile the snow against the fence, We’ll show you we are boys of sense
On a frosty winter’s morning.–_Cho_.
III.
(_Rubbing noses_.)
Jiminy crack! our noses are cold!
Oh! Jack Frost is bad and bold!
(_Working harder than ever_.)
But little care we for the winter cold, On a clear and frosty morning.–_Cho_.
IV.
_(Pointing to work_.)
Look at that; now what do you say?
(_Holding out hands to audience_)
Now, if you please, we’ll take our pay. Our work is done, it’s time for play,
On a frosty winter’s morning.–_Cho_.
(_Begin snowballing with the cotton, throwing balls into audience and at each other_.)
* * * * *
=Christmas Stockings.=
By A.S. WEBBER.
(Six small girls and boys are needed for speaking, and any even number of larger girls for singing. A boy leads each division of the march, immediately followed by those who speak.
An equal number enter from opposite sides as far back as possible, pass in front to sides, back half-way, form two lines across front, having the six who speak in front (alternating boy and girl), and the larger pupils back of them sing as they enter and until they are placed the chorus of “Birdies’ Ball,” beginning “Tra la la la la.” When in position all sing the following two verses, air, “Birdies’ Ball.” When chorus is reached, let them keep time by resting weight on right foot on first count, and at same time swinging left foot over right, touch toe to floor, dipping body slightly on third count, foot back in place on first count of next measure. Rest weight on left foot and swing right foot over left, touching right toe on third count, foot back in place on first count of next measure, etc.)
Santa Claus on Christmas eve,
Means to give a gift to all,
Each a stocking we will hang,
Stockings big and stockings small.
_Chorus_.–Tra la la la, etc.
Santa Claus on Christmas eve
Comes with reindeer swift as air, Early all must be in bed,
Leaving only stockings there.
_Chorus_.–Tra la la la, etc.
(A girl comes one step forward, bows, and speaks.)
I mean to hang on Christmas eve
A stocking of this size _(measures),_ Because I want a doll so big,
That sleeps and shuts its eyes.
To crowd it in a stocking small
Would surely not be wise.
(Pupil steps back in place and all sing the chorus, keeping time as before.)
_2d Pupil_.–My stocking is the one I’ll hang, I know ’twill hold quite well,
About a hundred marbles more
Than’s owned by Tommy Bell.
Of course I want some candy, too,
But the marbles are what tell.
(Steps back, and chorus is repeated as before.)
_3d Pupil_.–I mean to beg a stocking small Of little sister Clare,
Because I want some things so small They’ll scarce be found e’en there.
I want a ring that has a stone,
And a pretty pin to wear.
(Chorus repeated as before.)
_4th Pupil_.–I’ve measured all the stockings round, And think I’ll hang up two,
Because I want a pair of skates,– One stocking will not do.
Of course I want some sweets and things To last the whole week through.
_Chorus, etc_.
_5th Pupil_.–My mamma’s stocking I will hang, ‘Twill so much better hold
A tea-set for my dolly dear,
All painted round with gold;
And dishes can’t be squeezed, you know, That’s what I’ve oft been told.
_Chorus, etc_.
_6th Pupil_.–And I don’t know just what to do, Because I want, you see,
A hobby-horse that is so high,–
Now tell me, can it be,
Are stockings ever made so big
That one can hold all of me?
_Chorus, etc_.
_All sing_.–All we children love to hang Stockings o’er the fireplace,
Wondering how our gifts can come
Nice and clean from such a place.
_Chorus_.–Tra la la la, etc.
Santa Claus is loved by all
Folks who are as big as we,
And for long before he comes
We can only sing for glee.
_Chorus_.–Tra la la la, etc
(When the chorus is partly sung, the leaders of the march lead to opposite sides, others fall in line forward, pass in front to rear along sides, pass at rear end to seats. Continue to repeat the chorus till all are seated.)
* * * * *
=Christmas Children.=
By M. NORA BOYLAN.
(An acrostic for the primary grade. Each child wears a large gilt star around his neck. As he begins to speak, he turns it over, showing his letter on the reverse side.)
_All_: Happy children here we stand. Bringing words of love;
For on this glad Christmas day
Christ came from above.
_First child_: C is for the Christ Who came To this lowly earth.
_Second child_: H is for the harps that rang At our Saviour’s birth.
_Third child_: R is for the ringing bells, Telling Christmas-tide.
_Fourth child_: I is for the crystal ice Where we go to slide.
_Fifth child_: S is for the schoolboy’s sled When he coasting goes.
_Sixth child_: T is for poor Tommy Jones– Jack Frost bit his nose.
_Seventh child_: M is for the merry part Of this Christmas day,
_Eighth child_: A is for the apple pies Grandma put away.
_Ninth child_: S is for old Santa Claus, Coming here to-night.
Hope he’ll wait till nearly morn,
So it will be light.
_All_: Yes, we’re happy children nine, And to each we’re true,
Three cheers for jolly Santa Claus, A happy day to you.
* * * * *
=Santa Claus.=
By W.S.C.
(A letter exercise for ten very small children. Let each child present placard bearing the letter as he recites his line. At the close, all shut their eyes and screw them up very tight.)
S stands for stockings we hang up so high. A is for all we get if we don’t cry.
N is for nobody he will pass by.
T is for to-morrow, the day we eat pie. A stands for at last old Santa is nigh.
C for the children who love him so well. L for the little girl, his name she can spell. A stands for apples so rosy and red.
U is for us as we wait for his sled. S stands for Santa Claus, who comes in the night when we are tucked up in bed with our eyes closed so tight
* * * * *
=Charity.=
By JAY BEE.
(Seven little girls daintily dressed carry a bell in the right hand, with the initial on it which begins her line. The bells are rung lightly during the speaking)
_First child_: Cheerily ring the Christmas bells! _Second child_: How joyfully their jingling tells _Third child_: All peace and kindness on the earth, _Fourth child_: Ringing out, singing out, laughing with mirth! _Fifth child_: In every home is joy profound, _Sixth child_: The echo of this merry sound. _Seventh child_: Yet Charity must remembered be, And that is why we have this tree.
* * * * *
=Merry Christmas.=
By M.D. STERLING.
(Seven boys and seven girls with good voices and some sprightliness of manner are required. Each carries a wand, to the upper end of which is fastened an evergreen wreath surrounding a large, gilt letter. Ranged in order the letters will spell the word “Merry Christmas.” The verse for each is sung to the air, “Buy a Broom.” The children enter only one at a time, using a polka step, boys and girls alternately. While singing they take steps and wave wand in time to music. At third line of each stanza the boys bow and the girls make a courtesy, right and left. The chorus at the end of each verse is sung by the entire school. The boy with letter M comes in first, sings, and takes position on platform. He is followed by the girl with E. So continue until the line of children is complete.)
_First boy_:
M stands for merry–oh’ let us be merry; M stands for merry–right merry am I.
_(Bowing.)_ With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir, Come, now, and be merry, all sadness defy.
_Chorus (by school, to the refrain of “Buy a Broom_”).–
Christmas dear now draws near,
With song and with evergreen welcome it here.
_First girl_:
E stands for evergreen, beautiful evergreen, E stands for evergreen, never to fade. (_Courtesying.)_ With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir, Bring evergreen garlands for Christmas time made.–_Cho_.
_Second boy_:
R stands for rollicking–come, then, be rollicking; R stands for rollicking–fun’s in the air! With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir, In Christmas-day rollicking take now a share.–_Cho_.
_Second girl_:
R stands for rally, a grand Christmas rally, R stands for rally, where Christmas trees grow! With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir, We rally where Santa is likely to go.–_Cho_.
_Third boy_:
Y stands for youthful–rejoice, now, all youthful; Y stands for youthful–quite youthful am I. With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir, The youthful make merry when Christmas is nigh.–_Cho_.
(Leave a space in the line of children between the last letter of “Merry” and the first of “Christmas.”)
_Third girl_:
C stands for Christmas–bright Christmas, merry Christmas; C stands for Christmas–the best of the year. With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir, Make merry at Christmas with good Christmas cheer.–_Cho_.
_Fourth boy_:
H stands for happy–at Christmas be happy! H stands for happy–right happy am I.
With a bow to the right sir, and a bow to the left, sir, If you would be happy some Christmas gifts buy–_Cho_.
_Fourth girl_:
R stands for ready–for Christmas be ready; R stands for ready–are _you_ ready yet? With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir. To make ready for Christmas, oh! never forget.–_Cho_.
_Fifth boy_:
I stands for icy–for winter so icy; I stands for icy, when Kris drives along. With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir, Though icy the weather we’ll give him a song.–_Cho_.
_Fifth girl_:
S stands for Santa–the children’s own Santa; S stands for Santa, the jolly old dear. With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir, For Santy to fill we hang stockings each year.–_Cho_.
_Sixth boy_:
T stands for thoughtful–of all friends be thoughtful; T stands for thoughtful–your presents prepare. With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir, And be thoughtful those poorer than you have a share.–_Cho_.
_Sixth girl_:
M stands for magic–for Christmas-night magic; M stands for magic filling stockings and tree. With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir, Who does this fine magic, can any agree?–_Cho_.
_Seventh boy_:
A stands for all of us, old and young, all of us; A stands for all of us looking for Kris. With a bow to the right, sir, and a bow to the left, sir. And all of us hope that not one will he miss.–_Cho_.
_Seventh girl_:
S stands for smiling–on Christmas morn smiling; S stands for smiling–all smiling I’ll be. With a courtesy to right, sir, and a courtesy to left, sir, All smiling, yes, smiling, when presents I see.–_Cho_.
(The following verses are to be sung by the school to the air, “Wait for the Wagon.” During the singing of the first stanza and chorus, the fourteen boys and girls divide off into couples and march around, elevating and lowering the wands in time to music. During the second stanza they form two opposite lines, with wands crossed overhead, couples marching under the arches formed and back again to places. Third stanza, the opposite lines pass forward and back, cross to other side, partners passing each other, then back once more, and turn partners into place in a line forming “Merry Christmas” again.)
Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas!
Thy call we must obey,
And carry fadeless garlands
In honor of the day.
_Chorus_ (_to be sung after each verse_).– All hail, merry Christmas!
Hail, merry Christmas!
All hail, merry Christmas,
The evergreen day.
Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas!
With laughter, song, and play,
How gayly pass the hours
Of that dear, happy day.–_Chorus_.
Oh, Christmas, merry Christmas!
Quite old, but never gray,
Like thy own joys, unfading,
The wreath we bring to-day.–_Chorus_.
* * * * *
=A Christmas Lullaby.=
(The children are seated in little rocking-chairs, each holding a doll dressed in a long white gown. They rock slowly in time to the music. At first 1. “hushaby” they raise forefinger of right hand, as if to insure silence.
2. Kiss dolls.
3. Very softly.
4. Lay dolls in small cradles, standing near.
5. At “hush” raise forefinger of right hand warningly.
6. Very softly.
7. Rock cradles slowly in time to music, children kneeling on floor.
8. Turn toward audience.
9. Very softly.
The words are adapted to the music of the familiar hymn. “Silent Night.”)
Hushaby, hushaby, (1)
Christmas stars are in the sky;
Sweet the bells of Christmas eve,– Babies, each a kiss receive,–(2)
Hushaby, good-night,
Hushaby, good-night! (3)
Lullaby, lullaby,
Babies in their cradles lie; (4)
Every one in white is gowned,
Hush, make not a single sound! (5) Lullaby, good-night,
Lullaby, good-night! (6)
Rockaby, rockaby,
Christmas-tide draweth nigh; (7)
Quiet now the tiny feet,
Babies sleep so still and sweet,– Sweetest dreams, good-night, (8)
Sweetest dreams, good-night! (9)
* * * * *
=Dance of the Snowflakes.=
By ALICE E. ALLEN.
(The words of this motion song are adapted to the chorus of “Dream Faces.” The children should be dressed in white gowns, white stockings and slippers, and wear caps made of white tissue paper, trimmed with silver stars.
1. Raise both hands, look up.
2. Move hand slowly back and forth, with floating motion.
3. Lower hands, and motion as if swaying cradle.
4. Drop head slowly to one side, close eyes as if sleeping.
5. While pianist plays last half of song slowly, children take hold of corners of skirts, and with waltz step dance from side to side, still with sleepy look and motion.
6. Stand erect, with eyes wide open.
7. Use forefinger of right hand as if enforcing command.
8. Raise both hands above head, and lower them slowly, with fluttering motion.
9. Drop heads, sing very slowly.
10. Shake heads sadly.
11. Look down as if searching for flowers.
12. While pianist plays as in 5 children repeat 5 very slowly, still looking down.
13. Music much faster and brighter. Children look up over right shoulder, as if afraid of being caught.
14. Whir round and round.
15. Bend to right, and then to left.
16. Fall lightly to floor.
17. Spring up with hands upraised.
18. Drop hands, smile.
19 All clasp hands, raise them high above heads, and dance lightly backward and forward.
20. Hold position 19; dance as in 5, only more rapidly.
21. Dejected position, head bent down. Music very slow and sad.
22. Raise and lower right hand slowly.
23. Repeat with left.
24. Music strong and faster. Children raise on tip-toe of right foot, reach forward with motion as looking in window above them on their right.
25. Motion with forefinger of right hand as if counting stockings.
26. With skirts distended dance as in 20, smiling.
27. Right hand raised to ear, as if listening.
28. Shade eyes with right hand and look expectant.
29. Step forward, both hands extended as if in greeting, smiling.
30. Throw kiss to audience.
31. Pianist repeats all of song; children dance as in 26, singing verse beginning “Bright stars are gleaming,” and at last “Merry Christmas” throw kiss to audience.)
We lived in cloudland, (1)
Floating here and there (2)
Over the mountains
And the valleys fair.
Winds swayed our cradles, (3)
Then we fell asleep, (4)
While far above us
Stars their watch did keep. (5)
“Wake,” cried the North Wind, (6)
“You to earth must go.” (7)
Down we fell fluttering (8)
Butterflies of snow.
Silently and slowly (9)
Through the winter hours,
Falling so sadly, (10)
Hiding grass and flowers, (11-12)
Then the wind caught us, (13)
Whirled us round and round, (14)
Dashed us and drove us, (15)
Piled us on the ground (16)
Flying up in frolic, (17)
Always glad and gay, (18)
Dancing and drifting (19)
All the stormy day. (20)
Now our play is over, (21)
Now the day is done,
Falling so sadly, (22)
Sadly one by one. (23)
Peeping in the windows (24)
Where the fires glow,
See the children’s stockings (25)
Hanging in a row. (26)
Hark, in the distance (27)
Hear the merry bells!
Santa Claus is coming, (28)
Sweet their music tells!
Go we now to greet him, (29)
Listen as we call,–
Glad merry Christmas,
Merry Christmas all! (30)
Bright stars are gleaming, (31)
Christmas cometh soon.
Joy bells are ringing,
All in merry tune.
We are Christmas snowflakes,
Singing as we fall,–
Glad, merry Christmas,
Merry Christmas all!
* * * * *
=Little Snowflakes.=
By ELLA M. POWERS.
(Six primary children may sing these words to the tune, “Tiny Little Snowflakes” in “Golden Robin,” with the following finger-play.
_a_. Hands waving up and down, fingers moving rapidly.
_b_. Imitate the waving with hands and heads to right and left.
_c_. Quickly shake head and hands.
_d_. One sweep of hand across the desk.
_e_. Right hand raised as high as head, fist closed.
_f_. Abruptly bring fist down on desk.
_g_. Similar to (a).
_h_. Hands clasped and eyes upturned as if gazing with admiration at the tree.)
We are little snowflakes, _(a)_
Falling gently down,
On the fields and mountains
In the busy town.
Now the waving _(b)_ spruce trees
Shaking _(c)_ gently say,
Brush away this light snow, _(d)_
It’s nearly Christmas day.
Then a man comes gayly
With his axe so bright, _(e)_
He chops down the spruce tree _(f)_ Early one fair night.
Then on Christmas morning
Children dance to see, _(g)_
Many lovely presents
On that stately tree. _(h)_
* * * * *
=Christmas Stories.=
By LETTIE STERLING.
(These stories may be said and done in concert, or each little child may give one verse by himself.
_a_. Hands held straight up so tips of fingers point toward ceiling.
_b_. Touch palm of hand with thumb, bring it back quickly.
_c, d, e, f_. Repeat _b_ with 1st, 2d, 3d, and 4th fingers.
_g_. Double the hand up.
_h_. Place the doubled-up hand on the back of the other.
_i_. Lift thumb and hold it up.
_j_. Lift 1st finger.
_k_. Lift 2d finger.
_l_. Lift 3d finger.
_m_. Lift 4th finger.
_n_. Hold hands in a listless way, with tips of fingers pointing toward floor for two first lines, and let the fingers gently swing. Near the close of the verse make the fingers still and rigid and hold them close together.
_o_. Have hands doubled up and held so that the child’s eyes can look down upon the palm or the hand and see the nails of the four fingers–thumb out of sight.
_p_. Let fingers fly up quickly
_q_. Hold left hand as in _a_. Use the index finger of the right hand as a match, scratching it on the palm of the left hand and lighting the tips of each finger as if the fingers were candles.
_r_. Make a circle of a thumb and index finger of the right hand and slip it on and off each finger on the left hand.
_s_. Bunch fingers of left hand together so they can all touch the tips of the thumb and form an opening for the window.
_t_. Bring the fingers of the right hand near and let them be boys and girls peeping in.
_u_. Double up hands, but instead of having thumb inside, let it stand straight up to be a tower.
_v_. Snap the fingers of one hand, then of the other.
_w_. Point far away with index finger.
_x_. Point toward an imaginary star.
_y_. Hold up the three middle fingers.)
Chimneys standing in a row, _(a)_
Down each one will Santa go.
He goes down one, comes back alive, _(b)_ And then tries two, _(c)_ three, _(d)_ four, _(e)_ and five. _(f)_
Santa has a wondrous pack, _(g)_
This he carries on his back; _(h)_ From it he takes candies, _(i)_ drums, _(j)_ Dolls, _(k)_ books, _(l)_ trumpets, _(m)_ when he comes.
Near the chimney stockings swing,
What to them will Santa bring?
All of them I’m sure he’ll fill,
Make them round and stiff and still. _(n)_
Morning kisses curly heads
Lying snugly in their beds, _(o)_
O how quickly they hop out, _(p)_
Seizing stockings with a shout!
On the hemlock and the pine,
Light the candles, make them shine; _(q)_ String the rows of corn so white _(r)_
‘Mong the gifts and tinsels bright.
Storemen’s windows all look gay,
‘Cause it’s near to Christmas day. _(s)_ Come and look in, girls and boys, _(t)_ Get a peep at Christmas joys.
In high towers out of sight
Great bells ring with all their might; _(u)_ Hear one, then another chime, _(v)_
Telling it is Christmas time.
In the distance, look afar, _(w)_
With their eyes upon the star, _(x)_ Come on camels wise men three, _(y)_
They the Christmas King shall see.
* * * * *
=Christmas Pictures.=
(This set of pictures is suggested by Mrs. Kate Douglas Wiggin’s story of “The Birds’ Christmas Carol,” published by Houghton, Mifflin & Company, Boston, Mass. Each picture should be preceded by descriptions from the book; these are indicated by the number of the page in the volume.
DIRECTIONS.–A good reader must be chosen, who can bring out the light and shade in the story–one who can make the listeners feel the pathos of Carol’s brief, helpful existence and the contrasting homely humor of “the Ruggleses in the rear.” A reading-desk and lamp must stand below the platform, and the audience-room be left in darkness. The reader will give the signal for the opening and closing of the curtains, pausing long enough for a full recognition of the scene. As a repetition of a tableau is often more successful than its initial effort, the performers should be on the alert, prepared to give a second view.
The characters in the story call for six young people to represent Mr. Bird, Mrs. Bird, the Grandmother, Physician, Mrs. Ruggles, and Uncle Jack, and fourteen children to take the parts of Donald, Hugh, Paul, Carol, Sarah Maud, Peoria, Cornelius, Elly, Kitty, Peter, Clem, Larry, Susan, and the boy singer.
The first hymn, “Carol, Brothers, Carol,” is to be sung behind the curtains, just before they are drawn for the second picture. A harp, violin, and triangle would assist the piano in making an orchestral effect. A solo voice supplies the closing air, “My Ain Countree.” The piano may be played very softly whenever the reader pauses and the tableaux are shown.
It is important that the arrangements for each scene be made in absolute quietness, with systematic forethought, else the attention of the listeners will be distracted from the reading.
If a Christmas tree for the entire school is to close the entertainment, it should be in readiness at the rear of the platform, concealed by a curtain. In the sixth picture the tree appears, to illustrate the story, and remains lighted through the evening.)
FIRST PICTURE.
“They were consulting about it in the nursery.” (Page 1 in “The Birds’ Christmas Carol.”)
In this scene the children’s belongings are scattered about: small chairs, a cradle, toys, and picture-books. Mr. Bird stands in the center of the platform holding a large doll dressed in infant’s robes. Grandma is seated near, and Uncle Jack, Donald, Paul, and Hugh are discussing a name for the baby. The Christmas hymn is heard after the curtains are drawn and before the
SECOND PICTURE.
“A famous physician had visited them.” (Page 12.)
Mr. and Mrs. Bird and the doctor are seated around a library-table in earnest conference.
THIRD PICTURE.
Carol’s “Circulating Library.” (Page 16.)
Carol is lying in an easy-chair beside a case filled with books. The description of her room should be carried out on the stage as far as practicable.
FOURTH PICTURE.
“The children took their places.” (Page 36.)
The nine Ruggles children are seated in a row facing the audience. Mrs. Ruggles stands before them, giving instructions about their behavior at Carol’s dinner party. The costumes must be fantastic, following the description in the story–green glass breastpin, the purple necktie, and much-braided hair.
FIFTH PICTURE.
“The feast being over,” etc. (Page 35.)
Carol’s room is shown again. The Ruggles children are seated around Carol, with Mr. Bird and Mrs. Bird and Uncle Jack in the background.
SIXTH PICTURE.
“There stood the brilliantly lighted tree.” (Page 55.)
The same characters that appeared in the preceding scene are shown in attitudes of delight and astonishment as the second curtain is drawn aside to show the Christmas tree.
SEVENTH PICTURE.
“Softly, Uncle Jack.” (Page 63.)
The library is shown again. Mr. and Mrs. Bird, Uncle Jack, Donald, Hugh, and Paul are grouped as if listening attentively. At the right of the platform a leaded-window effect is made with a slender wood frame covered with black gauze. Behind this stands a small boy in choir vestments, holding a music book and singing “My Ain Countree” to organ accompaniment.
* * * * *
=The Brownie Men.=
By M. NORA BOYLAN.
(An exercise for four little boys. They wear padded trousers of some cheap brown material and a loose shirt of same material in place of the school jacket. Skull-caps of same material, worn jauntily. Broad white rings about the eyes and charcoal lines upon face to produce resemblance to pictured Brownies. Jolly smiles and capers. Join hands and hop on one foot around tree or leader, before, between, and after verses.)
Merry, merry sprites are we,
Dancing round the Christmas tree.
We’ve a gift for every one
Though the last one is just done.
This has been a busy year,
And we hope we bring you cheer,
And when Christmas comes again,
Look for us–The Brownie men.
* * * * *
=Winter’s Children.=
By J.D. MOORE.
(The children should wear some indication of the several characters they impersonate. Most elaborate and beautiful costumes might be used, but the simple device of a placard upon each child’s breast bearing the name of his part will answer the purpose.)
_Wind_: I come from the cold and stormy North, With a rush and a roar I hurry forth, I toss from the trees the dead leaves down, The withered leaves all sere and brown, And sway the branches to and fro
As on my way I whirling go.
At crack and crevice I slip in, And make a lively sounding din.
Swift I come and swift away,
With you I can no longer stay, For I am wanted elsewhere now,
And so good-bye, I make my bow.
_Frost (taking Wind’s hand)_:
Hand in hand we ever go
Through the season to and fro. I breathe upon the streams. They cease Their murmurings and are at peace. Upon each window pane I trace
The finest filmy glistening lace. Each boy and girl, ’tis plain to see, Hath still a welcome kind for me.
For on the lake they whirl and wheel, You hear the click of polished steel As swift upon their skates they fly With joyous heart and flashing eye. My breath blows cold. Health, joy, delight, Follow my silvery sparkles bright. Now Snow, who is my guardian sweet, Will all my young friends fondly greet.
_Snow (a little girl)_:
Over the earth so bare and brown I spread a robe as soft as down.
Drifting, drifting down through space, Hiding each unsightly place,
Touched to shimmering radiance bright, In the moonbeam’s mellow light,
By my brother Frost, for we (_they join hands_) Both go hand in hand, you see.
North Wind goes gaily with us both, To help us he is nothing loath.
And he and Frost and Rain combine To give what in the clear sunshine Shimmers sparkling–pure and nice, Transparent, white, and glistening Ice.
_Ice_: I cling to lofty gables, I rustle ‘mid the snow, I weave a gleaming covering
For lakes and streams. They know That all must cease their murmuring When Frost and I appear,
For we will hold them firm and fast As long as we are here.
Gleaming, glistening, sparkling, Yet pure and clear and bright.
You’ll find me ‘neath a silver moon, Each crisp, fresh winter night.
(_Enter Old Winter_)
_Winter_: What, ho! my children, here I am, I’ve sought you everywhere.
And now to busy work away,
For you must all prepare
To do your duty while I hold
In check your enemy,
The great round sun, whose rays with you. My children, disagree.
Now up, away! Wind, to the west And come again in glee;
And join with Frost and Snow and Ice, In one grand jubilee.
And paint the cheeks with roses Of all these children who,
Right joyously will run and shout, _My_ children dear, with you.
Away! to work, you must not shirk Your duties, dears; and now,
To these, your firmest friends, make each Your most engaging bow.
(_All bow and retire Old Winter following_.)
* * * * *
=Santa Claus.=
(Let the first line be given by a small boy as a herald, carrying a trumpet, and dressed in tunic, tights, and velvet cap. The second line it taken up by Santa Claus, in costume of fur, with white beard and hair.)
A voice from out of the northern sky: “On the wings of the limitless winds I fly. Swifter than thought, over mountain and vale, City and moorland, desert and dale!
From the north to the south, from the east to the west I hasten regardless of slumber or rest; O, nothing you dream of can fly as fast As I on the wings of the windy blast!
“The wondering stars look out to see Who he that flieth so fast may be,
And their bright eyes follow my earthward track By the gleam of the jewels I bear in my pack. For I have treasures for high and for low: Rubies that burn like the sunset glow;
Diamond rays for the crowned queen; For the princess, pearls with their silver sheen.
“I enter the castle with noiseless feet– The air is silent and soft and sweet;
And I lavish my beautiful tokens there– Fairings to make the fair more fair!
I enter the cottage of want and woe– The candle is dim and the fire burns low; But the sleepers smile in a happy dream As I scatter my gifts by the moon’s pale beam.
“There’s never a home so low, no doubt. But I in my flight can find it out;
Not a hut so hidden but I can see
The shadow cast by the lone roof-tree! There’s never a home so proud and high
That I am constrained to pass it by, Nor a heart so happy it may not be
Happier still when blessed by me!
“What is my name? Ah, who can tell,
Though in every land ’tis a magic spell? Men call me that, and they call me this; Yet the different names are the same, I wish! Gift-bearer to all the world am I,
Joy-giver, light-bringer, where’er I fly; But the name I bear in the courts above, My truest and holiest name, is–LOVE!”
JULIA C.R. DORR.
* * * * *
=Father Christmas’s Message.=
(This speech may be given at the close of a Christmas entertainment. A white wig and beard, fur coat and gloves are worn, and sleigh-bells are sounded before Father Christmas appears on the platform.)
Here I am again. The close of the year Brings Old Father Christmas with his good cheer I’m cheery myself, and cheery I make
All folks who follow advice for my sake. My advice is the same to all my friends: Give and forgive, and quickly make amends For what you do wrong. Let love be the rule. Christians, be true at the season of Yule. Old Father Christmas every one welcomes; I bring peace and happiness to all homes. Away with the bad. Have nothing but good. Do what I tell you. If only you would,
You’d all live at one in true brotherhood. I always brighten up all hearts. The spell Of Christmas can all gloomy thoughts dispel. My friends, right pleased am I to see you here. How are you all? Pray come again next year. I hope you’ve liked the fun we’ve had to-night; If so, then now applaud with all your might.
J.A. ATKINSON.
* * * * *
=Mr. St. Nicholas.=
By ALICE M. KELLOGG.
(The characters are Old-fashioned Santa Claus, dressed in the traditional costume of fur, white beard, and a Christmas pack; Mr. St. Nicholas, in evening dress with silk hat; Dora, Katie, Maggie, and little Bess; Harry, Charlie, Tom, and John in ordinary school clothes.
The scene opens with a large fireplace arranged at the center of the platform, a dark curtain drawn before the opening to conceal Santa Claus. The accompaniment to “Nancy Lee” is heard, and the eight children march in, carrying their stockings.)
Oh, Christmas time has come again,
Tra la la la, tra la la la;
We welcome it with glad refrain,
Tra la la la la la.
Of all the happy holidays this year
There’s none so joyous, none so dear, Then sing we all our song of festive glee, Of Santa Claus and Christmas tree.
_Chorus_.–Oh, ring the bells, the merry Christmas bells, Their music all our pleasure tells. _(Repeat, singing tra la la whenever necessary to give the rhythm. They pause in groups in center, right, and left; some sit, others stand, and change their positions during the dialogue)_
_Harry_: Oh dear, the same old thing again this year, I suppose! “Hang up the baby’s stocking, be sure you don’t forget.”
_Charlie_: _This_ baby’s stocking is the biggest bicycle hose I could buy. (_Pins it at one side of the chimney_.) I don’t think old Santa could miss it if he tried.
_Dora_: I made mine to suit the occasion, for I hope Santa Claus will fit a zither into it. (_Displays a large, fantastically shaped stocking of striking color, and fastens it beside Charlie’s_.)
_Harry_: You ought to take a prize, Dora, for designing the most–ahem!–unexpected-looking stocking. Generous sized, too! Here goes my contribution to the chimney. (_Hangs up a sock_.) It’s big enough to hold a coin of gold that will buy me a new bicycle. I don’t care for any knick-knacks.
_Katie_: I must confess that I’m rather tired of this old custom of hanging up our stockings on Christmas eve and crawling out of bed in the cold dawn to see what is in them. I wish some one would invent a new way.
_Maggie_: Just what I thought, Katie, last winter, though I never spoke of it. But if you’ve hung your stocking up, I must have mine there too. (_Goes to chimney_.)
_John_: Well, I refuse to fall in line this year. I’m tired of the whole plan. It seems absurd for an old chap to come tumbling down the fireplace and load up our stockings.
_Tom_: I agree with you, John! What we want is a new-fashioned Christmas. A real, up-to-date Santa Claus, and no more of this children’s nonsense.
_Bess_: Not have Santa Claus any more? Isn’t he coming to-night? (_Cries_.)
_John_: Oh yes, he’ll remember you if you’re a good little girl and stop crying. Dora, help Bess to fasten up her stocking.
(_After the stocking is fixed, Bess faces the audience and recites_.)
_Bess_: I do hope dear old Santa
Will come this way to-night, And come here to my stocking,
To fill it nice and tight.
I’d like to watch and see him, But I know I must wait
Till shines the Christmas sunshine– I hope he won’t be late.
_Tom_: Let Bess have her old-fashioned Santa Claus, but the rest of us vote for something different.
_Harry_: I used to think Santa a pretty jolly old duffer, who made lots of sport for the infants, but I’m ready for a change myself.
_Dora_: Don’t count me in to help out your majority; Santa Claus seems to me the kindly spirit of Christmas appearing mysteriously to give us greater pleasure.
_Katie_: Well, I’ll side with the boys this time and see if there is any improvement in holiday matters.
_Charlie_: You’ll think me a baby to stick to the old style. I won’t venture an opinion at all.
_Tom_: Then we are agreed that of Santa Claus we have no need.
_John_: }
_Kate_: } Tis what we all concede. _Harry_: }
_Maggie_: }
_(All sing to the tune_ of “_Maryland, My Maryland_.”)
Old Santa Claus is such a bore,
Of him we’ve had too much and more; Now what we want is something new,
But what is there for us to do?
A new St. Nick would be the thing, Who would our Christmas presents bring.
(_Electric bell sounds, the door opens, and Mr. St. Nicholas comes on the stage. He bows and takes off his hat_.)
_Mr. St. N_.: Good evening, young people! I see you are at your old-time tricks of hanging up your stockings. This won’t do. Don’t you know it’s gone out of fashion? (_Goes toward fireplace; the boys rush to protect their property_.)
_John_: Who are you, sir? And how dare you interfere with our fun?
_Mr. St. N_.: I am the new, up-to-the-times Santa Claus. My proper name is Mr. St. Nicholas. I am on my rounds to take the names of all the young people who deserve a remembrance at Christmas time. I haven’t a moment to lose. My telephones are overburdened with messages, my men are distracted with the work to be done between now and daylight. _(Pulls out a book and pencil and prepares to write while he addresses Tom and speaks rapidly without waiting for a reply_.) Your name, young man? Your age, birthplace, parents’ names? Residence? Attendant at what school? What specific tastes? List of last year’s presents. Make haste, time is money.
_Katie_: But Santa–I mean Mr. St. Nicholas–here are our stockings.
_Mr. St. N_.: Christmas stockings! trash and nonsense. They belong to the dark ages.
_Harry_: Pray, how do you bestow your gifts?
_Mr. St. N_.: By district messenger service, of course! Next boy _(to Charlie_), give me your name, age, birthplace, parents’ names, residence, school, specific tastes, last year’s presents.
_Charlie_: How did you come here, Mr. St. Nicholas? I heard no sleigh-bells at the door.
_Mr. St. N. (scornfully)_: More nonsense to explain. I came down from the north pole in an air-ship of the latest pattern. Come, now, here are these girls waiting to be classified. _(To Dora.)_ Name, age–
_Dora_: I won’t be put in statistics, even if it is Christmas and you are the patron saint.
_Charlie_: Nor I. I didn’t vote for any improvements. Take them away.
_John:_ You seem a trifle ahead of the age, Mr. St. Nicholas, or else we made a great mistake in being discontented with our old-fashioned Christmas.
_Tom_: Allow me to call down your air-ship.
_(Mr. St. Nicholas is ushered to the door. The others turn back at the sound of sleigh-bells. Santa Claus appears at the fireplace_.)
_Children (greeting him with enthusiasm_): Jolly _old_ Saint Nicholas!
_Santa Claus_: Oh! ho! ha! ha! Are you really glad to see such an old-fashioned specimen as I am?
_John_: Indeed we are! We have just shown your usurper the door.
_Bess_ (_clasping S.C.’s hand_): You are the real Santa Claus.
_Santa Claus_: Yes, I am the real Santa Claus, and I cannot get to work until you children are fast asleep. So scurry away as fast as you can, and a merry, merry Christmas when you awake!
_Children_ (_singing to the tune of “Nancy Lee,” end at the end leaving the stage_):
Oh! Christmas time has come again,
Tra la la la, tra la la la.
We welcome it with glad refrain,
Tra la la la la la.
Of all the happy holidays this year, There’s none so joyous, none so dear,
Then sing we all our song of festive glee, Of Santa Claus and Christmas tree.
_Chorus_.–O ring the bells, the merry Christmas bells, Their music all out pleasure tells. (_Repeat._)
(_Santa Claus unpacks his goods, and as he fills the stockings he performs various antics, holds up the objects, and dances about. Any local expressions that will create amusement he can bring in with running commentaries. The piano is heard softly till he is through, and then bursts out loudly as the curtain is drawn._)
* * * * *
=Christmas Offerings by Children from Other Lands.=
By ELLA M. POWERS.
(DIRECTIONS.–This exercise may be given by six little girls. The platform may be decorated with evergreen trees or boughs, and flags should be used freely. The American girl should be dressed in an American flag and wear a cap of red, white, and blue. The costumes of the others may be as follows:
The Eskimo girl should procure a boy’s fur coat, or wrap a fur rug about her and wear a fur cap or hood and fur mittens.
The Indian girl can throw about her a gay-colored blanket, and wear strings of beads about her neck, arms, and head. Her straight dark hair should be parted in the middle, plaited in two braids in the back, and decorated with short pieces of bright ribbons. Moccasins and dark brown stockings may be worn on the feet. Bracelets, earrings, chains, beads, quills, and brooches may be used as ornaments. The hands, arms, and face should be stained. To color the skin get a stick of Hess Grease Paint No. 17. Rub a little vaseline into the skin to be tinted. Then rub a portion of the paint on the palm of the left hand and with the fingers of the right hand transfer it evenly to the skin surface until the required tint is obtained.
The Chinese girl should be dressed brightly with large, square, loose hanging sleeves, a broad sash tied on one side, her hair brushed flat, coiled in the back, with haircomb and pins thrust into the coil. She may have a Japanese parasol and carry a fan.
The African girl may be dressed in red and black, with black hair and red handkerchief over her head and large rings in her ears. Face and hands blackened with burnt cork.
The Arabian girl can wear a tunic or bright shawl draped about her, a turban of a bright silk handkerchief, and wear feathers in her hair. She should be very dark-complexioned
The American girl enters, takes her seat in the center of the platform, saying:)
_American girl_:
And this again is Christmas day;
My invitations all
Have gladly been accepted;
Let us see who first will call.
(Eskimo girl enters, bows, comes forward with a fur bag filled with presents, which she passes to the American girl as she mentions them.)
_Eskimo girl_:
I’m a little Eskimo girl,
I live in the land of ice,
We never saw a Christmas tree
Nor fruits and candies nice;
But we run races o’er the snow,
Beneath the big, bright moon,
And from this far away ice-land,
I’ve brought you a nice bone spoon. My father hunts all through the day
For reindeer, seal, and bear,
And sends away in ships so strong These furs so rich and rare,
And fish, and birds, and whales, you know, I’ve seen them many a time,
And here’s a pretty fur for you
That came from the arctic clime.
(Eskimo girl offers presents and steps to one side. American girl turns and places presents on the boughs beside her. Enter Indian girl.)
_Indian girl_:
I’m a little Indian girl,
I live in the far Northwest,
In the land of the Dakotas,
In the land I love the best.
I’ve brought a nice bead-basket,
I made it all. You see
I know about your Christmas
A happy day to thee.
And here’s an arrow-head for you, And a piece of pottery queer,
And here are herbs for medicine good, To make you strong, my dear.
We children shoot and fish and hunt Just as our fathers do,
The whole wide forest is our home: It feeds and clothes us, too.
(Steps aside. Enter Chinese girl.)
_Chinese girl_:
I’m a little Chinese girl,
They say I’ve almond eyes,
I live in a boat, on a river we float, And often eat rice and rat pies.
And here is a bamboo basket,
Filled with choicest tea,
I picked and dried it all myself
It comes from Ken See Lee. (_Bows low_.)
With us we have no Christmas,
No presents nor a tree;
But there in the boat, I made this toy, This, too, comes from Ken See Lee.
(Chinese girl bows low and takes a seat on low stool in front of American girl. Enter African girl.)
_African girl_:
I’m a dark little African girl,
I live in a forest land,
With kinky curls and jet black eyes, I watch the elephant band.
My father hunts these animals,
From one of them I bring
An elephant’s tusk to you, my friend, ‘Twill make you a pretty ring.
And here is ebony wood for you,
A cocoanut from the palm,
And dates to eat, so very sweet,
All from our African farm.
(Offers presents, which American girl hangs on the boughs. African girl steps to her left. Enter Arabian girl.)
_Arabian girl_:
I’m a little Arabian girl,
I live in a desert land,
In tents on the plain so hot and dry, And I play on the burning sand;
Here is a pretty pearl I’ve brought, And an ostrich’s egg so rare;
An Arab pony you should have
And a cloak of camel’s hair.
I never hear about Christmas,
And don’t know what you mean,
But hope you will accept these gifts, And this ostrich feather green.
(Offers gifts. American girl accepts them, rises, places them on tree; then turns and repeats.)
_American girl_:
And I’m a happy American girl,
How thankful I should be,
That Christmas is so bright a day And means so much to me.
I thank you, friends, for all these gifts, Of presents I’ve my share;
And _you_ show _your_ good-will to men With generous gifts so rare.
(All stand in line and repeat together)
_All_: Our countries all are glorious lands, So great, so rich, so rare;
Our people all are glorious bands; So true, so good, so fair.
Whatever country we are from,
Whatever life we lead,
We’ll do our best; be good and true. And do some noble deed.
* * * * *
=A Christmas Reunion.=
By M.D. STERLING.
(CHARACTERS REPRESENTED. _Father Christmas_, a large boy dressed in long belted robe; he carries a staff, and wears a white wig and beard. _Mother Goose_, a tall girl wearing a peaked soft hat tied over an old lady’s frilled cap; also neck-kerchief and apron, spectacles on nose, and a broom of twigs, such as street-cleaners use, complete her costume. _Mother Goose’s_ son _Jack_ and her _Children_ may be costumed according to the pictures in any good illustrated copy of “Mother Goose.” The _Children of the Nations_ are sufficiently represented by boys and girls each carrying one of the flags of all nations, but elaborate costumes in keeping with the national character may be used, if desired. _Thanksgiving_ and _Happy New Year_, large girls in white Grecian dresses, flowing sleeves; their children, _Peace_ and _Plenty_, _Good Resolutions_ and _Hope_ are represented by smaller girls in white, _Peace_ carrying an olive branch. _Plenty_ a cornucopia, _Good Resolutions_ a diary and pen, and _Hope_ wearing a wreath of golden stars and carrying a gilt anchor (cut from heavy cardboard); _Santa Claus_, a stout, roly-poly boy, if possible, wearing a long overcoat flaked with cotton (to represent snow) and a round fur cap and mittens; an empty pack should hang carelessly from one shoulder.)
(Enter _Father Christmas_ and _Mother Goose_, arm in arm. While conversing, they walk up and down the platform. At the end of Mother Goose’s second speech, they seat themselves in two large arm-chairs, which should be ready in middle of platform.)
_Mother Goose_:
Well, well, Father Christmas, I’ll do as you say, And put off my trip for the frolic to-day. Your thought of a Christmas reunion is fine For all of our relatives–yours, sir, and mine;– So, though greatly disposed at this season to wander Afloat in the air on my very fine gander, Instead of such exercise, wholesome and hearty, I’ve come with great pleasure to your Christmas party.
_Father Christmas (bowing):_
Thanks, thanks, Mother Goose, for the honor you pay To me your old friend now this many a day; Tho’ we may not, of course, on all questions agree, We’re alike in our love for the children, you see: To give them delight is our greatest of pleasures, And freely we share with them best of our treasures; Our energies each of us constantly bends To keep our loved title “The Children’s Two Friends.”
_Mother Goose_:
Ah, yes, Father Christmas, my jingles and rhymes, The boys and girls know in far separate climes, And sometimes I think that your son Santa Claus Earns me more than my share of the children’s applause; For wherever he goes with his wonderful pack Santa always has some of my books on his back; When from Christmas-eve dreams children’s eyelids unloose Oft they find in their stockings my book, “Mother Goose.”
_Father Christmas_:
Tis true, my dear madam, that I and my son Respect most profoundly the work you have done. The boys from our store-rooms in Christmas-tree Land, Get the bonbons we make on the Sugar-loaf Strand; The children enjoy them,–I cannot deny it,– But still need your writings as part of their diet; Your rhymes, wise and witty, their minds will retain When their toys and their candy are done,–that is plain.
(Enter Jack, the son of Mother Goose. He carries a large golden egg.)
_Jack_: Oh, there you are, Mother Goose, hobnobbing with Father Christmas! My goose must have known there was going to be a reunion of the Goose and Christmas families! She was so obliging as to lay another egg in honor of the occasion. You shall have it, Father Christmas, and may good luck go with it. (_Hands egg._)
_Father Christmas_: Thank you, Jack. That’s a present worth having! I wish my son Santa Claus had as fine a gift to put in every poor body’s stocking. He is out on his rounds now, but expects to be back, as he said, “before the fun begins.”
_Jack_: Santa’s always ready for fun!
_Mother Goose (taking Jack’s hand, as he stands beside her_):
“This, my son Jack,
Is a smart-looking lad;
He is not very good,
Nor yet very bad.”
_(Sound of voices outside_.)
_Jack_: Dear me, mother! I can’t stir without those young ones following me! _(Sound of voices and knocking.)_
_Children (outside):_ Jack! Jack!
_Jack (calling):_ All right. Come in. I’m here, and Mother Goose and Father Christmas, too. Surprise us all by being good, won’t you?
(Enter, two by two, Little Bo-Peep with a bundle of lamb’s wool suspended from a shepherdess crook; Little Jack Horner, carrying carefully a deep pan covered with paper pie crust; Little Miss Muffett, carrying a bowl and spoon; Peter Pumpkin Eater, with a pumpkin under his arm; Curly Locks, with a piece of needlework; Little Boy Blue, with a Christmas horn; Contrary Mary, with a string of bells for bracelets, and carrying shells; Little Tommy Tucker, with a sheet of music; Jack and Jill, carrying a pail; Simple Simon, finger in mouth, looking as idiotic as possible; Polly Flinders, in a torn dress, sprinkled with ashes. The children march and countermarch to music around Mother Goose and Father Christmas, bowing as they pass them. When Mother Goose claps her hands the children group themselves on her side of platform, not in a stiff row, but as naturally as possible. As one after another comes forward for his or her speech, the others appear to be conversing among themselves, making the by-play in keeping with their characters.)
_Mother Goose:_ Tell Father Christmas your names now, my pretty ones, and give him the presents you have brought in his honor.
_Little Bo-Peep (coming forward)_: I’m little Bo-Peep who lost her sheep. I bring you some fine lamb’s wool to keep you warm, Father Christmas.
_(Father Christmas receives with a gracious air this gift and those that follow, handing them afterward to Jack Goose, who puts them into a large box or basket previously provided for the purpose.)_
_Jack Horner:_ I’m little Jack Horner who sat in a corner, eating a Christmas pie. I’ve brought you one just like it, Father Christmas. This pie is full of plums, and I haven’t put in my thumb to pull out one! (_Goes back to place after handing pie_.)
_Miss Muffet_: I’m little Miss Muffet, sir. I sat on a tuffet, eating some curds and whey; but there came a big spider, and I was frightened away. Do you like curds and whey, Father Christmas? I hope so, for here are some in a bowl. (_Hands gift, and returns to place_.)
_Peter Pumpkin Eater_: Here come I, Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater. But I’ve saved a nice pumpkin for _you_, Father Christmas, and here it is. (_Returns to place_.)
_Curly Locks_: Just little Curly Locks who sits on a cushion and sews a fine seam, and feeds upon strawberries, sugar, and cream! Here’s some of my sewing, Father Christmas. (_Presents needlework, and returns to place_.)
_Little Boy Blue_ (_blowing several blasts on his horn as he comes forward_): Here’s Little Boy Blue! I blow my horn when sheep’s in the meadow and cow’s in the corn. I’ve brought you my very best horn for a present, Father Christmas. It’s a good one, I can tell you! (_Blows again, and hands to Father Christmas, who smilingly tries the horn before handing on to Jack_.)
_Contrary Mary_: “Mary, Mary, quite contrary,” they call me, Father Christmas. I’m not contrary at all. Don’t you believe it. Only I _don’t_ like to do just the same as other folks. That’s the reason I’m not going to give you one of my silver bells or my pretty shells. I’ll keep them myself for the present. Perhaps when it’s Fourth of July, or some other time when nobody else is thinking about giving you anything, you’ll hear from Contrary Mary. (_Flounces herself away to place_.)
_Mother Goose_: Fie, fie, my child! Give your presents to Father Christmas as you should. This contrariness grows upon you apace, and must be checked at once. _(Mary obeys Mother Goose reluctantly, pouting and muttering to herself.)_
_Little Tommy Tucker_: I am only little Tommy Tucker who sings for his supper. All I can give you is a song, Father Christmas.
TOMMY TUCKER’S SONG.
(Air: “Ben Bolt.”)
Oh, don’t you remember when children were old, And money grew up on the trees,
How we lived upon nothing but cake and ice-cream. And had none but our own selves to please? We went to bed late every night of our lives, And we played every day all day long;
And we never did sums, and could spell anyhow, And nobody said it was wrong!
Oh, don’t you remember the naughty child grew, The good one was good all in vain,
Till dear Father Christmas and Mother Goose, too, To children their duty made plain?
So now we can cipher and spell with a will, And at nine we are snug in our beds,
With good Father Christmas in all of our dreams, And Mother Goose songs in our heads!
_Father Christmas_: Bravo, Tom Tucker! Be sure you shall have the supper for which you have sung so well. Bless my eyes! Who comes here?
_Jack and Jill (together):_ We are Jack and Jill, Father Christmas. And here’s a pail for you. It is the one that we had when “Jack fell down and broke his crown, and Jill came tumbling after.” _(Hands a pail_.)
_Simple Simon (drawling):_ Simple Simon, I am. I met a pieman going to the fair. Says Simple Simon to the pieman, “Let me taste your fare.” Says the pieman to Simple Simon, “Show me first your penny.” Says Simple Simon to the pieman, “Indeed, I have not any.”
_Father Christmas_: So you did not get the pie? My boy, let it be a lesson to you that in this world nobody can have something for nothing.
_Polly Flinders (sobbing):_ I don’t look fit to come to a party, Father Christmas, for I burnt my best dress sitting among the cinders. Please excuse me this time, and let me stay, though I have no gift.
_Father Christmas_: Certainly, my dear, certainly.
_Mother Goose (severely}:_ You are entirely too indulgent, Father Christmas! Polly Flinders, who sat among the cinders, ought to have stayed at home. _(Polly begins to cry.)_
_Father Christmas_: Oh, we must overlook her appearance this time, Mother Goose. Christmas is no time for tears. Go back among your brothers and sisters. Polly. Mother Goose and I will let you stay, but don’t sit again among the cinders, Polly Flinders!
(Sound of singing outside. Children of All Nations enter, waving: flags. At the conclusion of their song they stand in a semi-circle behind Father Christmas and Mother Goose.)
SONG OF ALL NATIONS.
(Air–: “Upidee,” page 68, Franklin Sq. Coll No. 1.)
Dear Father Christmas, you we greet, Tra la la, tra la la,
And Mother Goose, his friend so meet, Tra la la, la la.
From every nation on the earth
We hail you both with Christmas mirth.