WAITING FOR SANTA CLAUS

Dominion, Volume 23, Issue 75, 21 December 1929, Page 30

WAITING FOR SANTA CLAUS

Outside the snow fell continuously, flake after flake, till the ground was covered with a soft, white carpet, and everything was draped in an icy garment; but inside the fire sparkled cheerily, lighting everything with n ruddy glow and shining on two little curly heads, whose owners were curled up on the hearthrug.

The twins, Billy and Betty, were waiting up for Santn Claus, although they were supposed to be in bed long before the clock struck nine. When nurse had peeped in both children were cuddled under the bedclothes, apparently asleep, but, as she shut the door, the rosy faces peeped above the blankets. and the twins giggled softly. . "She thought we were asleep.” said Billy, upon which both rolled out of bed. slipped on dressing-gowns and slippers and crept noiselessly to the Are. “When do you think he’ll be here?” asked Betty in a whisper. “About midnight, I think,” answered her brother, also in. a whisper. All was quiet for a while except for a low hum of voices that reached from downstairs, then Betty spoke again. “I say, Billy, let’s look at our picture books, that’ll keep us awake.” “ All right.” agreed Billy, “but don’t make a noise while you’re getting them.” Betty procured the books, and all was still but for the rustling of pages or the falling of cinders. Then, “Billy.” “Yes.” “Could you make up the fire? It’s getting a bit cold. The coal is in here.” Billy carried out his sister’s request, and they once more settled down. Later on, after the clock struck ten, Billly said sleepily: “I say. Bet., we’ll sit up in bed. It will Im? warmer.” Betty assented, and soon their heads began to nod am’ ’ >y slipped down on their pillows, and soon their quiet breathing told of dreamless sleep. By and by the door was cautiously opened and a jovial, bewhiskered. redcloaked man slipped in. “Bless the bairns ” he said softly, ns he stuffed their small ■ '-ks full of presents, “their stockings are not half bl enough,” and he , ced more toys on the bed. Then he withdrew. Impressing a kiss on each round, rosy cheek.—Doris Court, Woodville (aged 13 years).