FATHER CHRISTMAS.

Auckland Star, Volume XXXIV, Issue 305, 23 December 1903, Page 3 (Supplement)

FATHER CHRISTMAS.

From the moon enamoured mountains, with his burden on his back. Comes Old Father Christmas slowly, for his great plethoric pack Fairly overflows with presents little lads and lasses lack. There are toys for tiny maidens, and a thousand things for boys: Automatic geese and donkeys which emit the self same noise; For deviate from Nature's the prerogative of toys. Through the chimneys of the houses Father Christmas quick descends, Though those apertures are narrow and there are some awkward bends, Making not the least disturbance to arouse his little friends. Rows of small suspended stockings on the bedsteads meet his view, Some of finest woven texture, others very far from new, Judging from the darns where often toes and heels have ventured through. When at length his task is finished, and Old Father Christmas goes, Comical Is the appearance of the children's pendant hose, As the sun will, when It rises, unmistakably disclose. Joy attend yon. Father Christmas, with your bulky, bursting bag! Bend your back beneath the burden, do not let your spirits flag; Though your aged In appearance of some vigour you can brag. When your journey is accomplished and the final visit made. With the smiles of nappy children you will amply be repaid, Thouel> s slump will doubtless follow In ci.c- Christmas present trade. F-.e yon well! Tour ruddy features with the flowing, snowy beard, Oft portrayed in pictured pages, have become to us endeared, | And our hearts will long retain them after yon have disappeared. j