UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT LOS ANGELES OLLY PLAYS --- HOLIDAYS by 6aro\yn)fe\ls eaesas Jolly Plays for Holidays Jolly Plays for Holidays A Collection of Christmas Entertainments By CAROLYN WELLS BOSTON WALTER H. BAKER COMPANY PUBLISHERS Author's Note The little plays that make up this volume were all, save one, published originally in The Ladies' Home Journal of Philadelphia. «' A Substitute for Santa Claus " first appeared in The Associated Sunday Magazines. The author wishes to thank the publishers of these periodicals for their courtesy and cooperation in the present volume. Copyright, 1903, by The Curtis Publishing Co. Copyright, 1909, by The Curtis Publishing Co. Copyright, 191 1, by The Curtis Publishing Co. Copyright, 1912, by The Curtis Publishing Co. Copyright, 1913, by The Curtis Publishing Co. Copyright, 1904, by Associated Sunday Magazines. Copyright, 1914, by Carolyn Wells. n) •I C e* CONTENTS ■ The Greatest Gift Christmas Gifts of All Nations The Greatest Day in the Year Is Santa Claus a Fraud A Substitute for Santa Claus The Day Before Christmas . 7 3i 53 77 in 127 5 ^ V Music The music called for by these plays is so familiar and so apt to be found in every household that no difficulty should be had in securing it. The airs mentioned will live in the memory of most people, and if mislaid in that not always dependable receptacle, will doubtless be dis- coverable in the pile of song books and sheet music that stands on the end of the piano. If not there, by some miracle, the nearest music dealer should be able to supply at small cost or trouble. In the almost unimaginable case of exile and destitution where all these chances fail, it will be necessary to substitute other airs of similar rhythm. The publishers of this book cannot supply any of the required music for we stock and sell only play books or books relating to the stage and public platform. For the convenience of our friends we list herewith the names and addresses of reputable music dealers in central locations: Oliver Ditson Company 179 Tremont Street, Boston, Mass. Theodore Presser Company 1 7 12 Chestnut Street, Philadelphia, Pa. Charles H. Ditson & Co. New York City, New York. 1 Lyon & Healy, Inc. Chicago, Illinois. 1f*»i< The Greatest Gift A Christmas Play Copyright, 1913, by The Curtis Publishing Co. The Greatest Gift CHARACTERS The Goddess Bountiful wears a beautiful costume of thin white material, elaborately trimmed with pearls, and carries a green palm branch in her hand. The draperies hang from her shoulders and there are full " angel sleeves." She wears a crown and holds a sparkling scepter. Peace and Plenty, her attendants, are dressed in classic robes of white and gold, Peace holding a white dove, and Plenty a basket of fruit. If possible let each of these at- tendants hold up a huge Horn of Plenty, almost as tall as her- self, from which fruit and flowers are spilling out ; or they may hold banners. Queen Isabella wears a regal costume with court train and crown, which may be copied from pictures of her or of one of her contemporaries. She carries an open casket of jewels. Dame Fashion is clad in a most beautiful and fashionable costume — not extreme, but the highest type of good taste. She has two attendants who carry beautiful gowns and hats, or, if preferred, she may herself carry a light dainty gown and a handsome hat. Florence Nightingale wears the white garb of a hospital nurse. She carries a roll of bandages or any small emblem of her office. Betsy Ross wears a plain house dress with cap and apron, and carries an American flag without a pole. Dame Fortune wears a gorgeous costume of white draperies trimmed with gold fringe or gold lace. She carries a large 9 io CHARACTERS purse or bag filled with gold coins represented by brass sequins or disks cut from gilt cardboard. She must have plenty of these to scatter with lavish hand. She carries a gold wand and wears a crown of golden rays and many jewels. Night is a dark- haired girl dressed in robes of thin black material dotted with silver stars. She wears a long floating veil of black tulle, and a large star shines in her hair. She carries a bunch of scarlet poppies. Moonlight, a young girl with fair hair, dressed in a tissue robe of silvery gray. If convenient, cloth of silver may be used with good effect. j4 crescent moon is in her hair and she carries a long silver wand with a full moon on its tip. Christmas is a beautiful, rosy-cheeked girl, wearing an elaborate costume of red tarlatan, with red stockings and slippers. Her flying hair is wreathed with poinsettias and her frock is decorated with a few sprays of holly or evergreen and hung here and there with tiny bells. She carries a long golden trumpet and an enormous gilt basket of gifts. Columbus wears an Italian costume of the Fifteenth Cen- tury, which may be copied from pictures of the Columbus monu- ment. He carries a small globe. George Washington wears a Colonial costume, copied from his portrait. He carries an American eagle, or a picture of one. A Sailor wears any kind of a sailor suit or navy uniform, and he carries a toy steamship. A College Youth wears a cap and gown and carries a diploma. A Newsboy is dressed in ragged clothes, with tumbled hair, and a battered cap on the back of his head. A Cook. His costume is entirely of white, with a cap such as is often seen in pictures of French bakers. Labor is dressed as a workingman and carries a pickaxe or other implement. CHARACTERS u Cupid. This part should be taken by as small a child as can be found who can sing the part properly. The costume is a short white dress with low neck and short sleeves, a blue sash and white socks and slippers and a pair of small wings. He carries a gilt bow and arrow, and wears a silken bandage over his eyes, but peeps out from it. Two Heralds, in fanciful costume. The Greatest Gift SCENE.— The court room of the Palace of Gifts. The background is hung with red cheese-cloth festooned with ropes of evergreens, and wreaths of holly tied with red ribbons. Tall columns may appear at intervals wound spirally with evergreen rope. In the center is a throne on a raised platform elaborately decorated with large arti- ficial blossoms of poinsettias. These may be scattered with the spun-glass frosting used for Christmas trees, and the whole stage may be decorated in any Christmas effects of red and green. The throne should be approached by two or three steps, and on these the gifts brought in by the characters may be piled ; or tables may be arranged on each side of the throne to receive the gifts. Seats may be placed for the use of the characters, and some if them may stand in picturesque attitudes on each side of the throne. The Goddess Bountiful is seated on the throne. On each side stands one of her two attendants, Peace and Plenty. There are also two Heralds whose duty it is to usher in the various characters. The costumes of the characters are described elsewhere. The more beautiful and elaborate these are the more effective the presentation will be. The entrance of the characters is preluded by a few strains of music. Each enters ushered in by the Heralds, and, *3 i 4 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS marching to the throne, makes a deep obeisance to the Goddess Bountiful and her attendants, who return it with formality. Then follows the song or speech, and then each character takes his appointed place, marching to further strains of the music designated. As many instru- ments as possible should be used to give the music full ef- fect. In many instances the musical selections may be left to the discretion of the manager. If desired to introduce more performers such characters as Queen Isabella and Dame Fashion may be attended by pages or by little girls. It is important to select perform- ers of dramatic ability for such characters as Florence Nightingale and the Newsboy, for the more dramatic action that can be introduced the better will be the piece. If the performance is found to be too long any characters may be omitted without detriment to the whole. ( The curtain rises to some selection of Christmas music, per- haps from " The Messiah" or any noble number. The Goddess Bountiful, her two attendants and the two Her- alds are on the stagt. As the music ceases the Goddess Bountiful rises, bows to the audience, and then sings the opening song.) Opening solo by Goddess Bountiful {dir, " The Belle of the Mohawk Vale"). Oh, fair is the dawn of the blessed Christmas Day, And sweet are the carols we sing ; And merry the greetings our happy comrades say, And merry the bells as they ring. But sweeter, dearer, yes, dearer far above, A pleasure without alloy, Is the giving, giving gifts to those we love, With hearts full of peace and joy. THE GREATEST GIFT 15 ( The three sing in unison.} Oh, sweeter, dearer, yes, dearer far above, A pleasure without alloy, Is the giving, giving gifts to those we love, With hearts full of peace and joy. Goddess Bountiful. Aye, our hearts never know a joy more great Than that which loving giving can create; A joy that can our souls to Heaven uplift Crowns us when we bestow a worthy gift. Hark ye, my maidens ! Ponder, tell me true : What is the greatest gift e'er given, think you ? Peace. Dear Goddess Bountiful, we may not say, So long hath this old earth rolled on its way. Plenty. So many blessings hath this earth possessed It would be hard indeed to choose the best. Goddess Bountiful. All time hath seen great givers; aye, but still These gifts we may consider if we will. What ho ! my Heralds ! Heralds (appearing). Goddess, we have heard ! Fair Goddess Bountiful, we wait thy word. Goddess Bountiful. 'Tis this : I hereby bid unto my court Givers whom men account of good report. It pleasures me to talk with them to-day. Summon them, Heralds ! Heralds (bowing low). Goddess, we obey ! 16 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS {Goddess Bountiful seats herself on her throne. The orches- tra plays " Hail Columbia" and, after a few strains, Columbus enters.} Goddess Bountiful. Greetings, Good Sir ! Columbus. Fair Goddess, I greet thee. I am Columbus. List, I beg, to me. Long years ago I braved th' uncharted main ; My quest adventurous was not in vain. I found new land, my banner I unfurled j A glorious continent I gave the world ! Goddess Bountiful. A precious boon indeed ! Right strong thy claim To the best gift of all ! Undying fame Surrounds thy noble deed. Yet, fairly, we Must list to other claimants. We shall see. (Columbus puts his globe in place and then takes his seat as the orchestra finishes "Hail Columbia") (A Spanish air, or the " Coronation March," from " The Prophet," is begun, and the Heralds usher in Queen Isabella, of Spain. The Goddess Bountiful rises and bows and Queen Isabella returns a stately curtsy.) Solo by Queen Isabella (Air, "My Queen "). Goddess fair, I come here to greet thee ; I am the Queen of far-off Spain. With deep joy I am here to meet thee, Telling this tale of my ancient reign. When brave Columbus made petition To sail away o'er the unknown main, I gave my jewels to aid his mission, I, Isabella, the Queen of Spain. I, Isabella, the Queen — the Queen of Spain. THE GREATEST GIFT 17 Goddess Bountiful. Fair Queen, thy heart, was big, thy deed was grand ! By thy great gift this world achieved a land Of wide extent, of glory, power and might; To fame, dear Queen, thou hast indeed a right. (Jghteen Isabella lays her jewels upon the table and takes her seat while the orchestra continues to play " La Paloma" or some other Spanish air.) [The orchestra strikes up the music of" America" Enter George Washington^) Goddess Bountiful. Whom have we here ? George Washington ? George Washington. 'Tis he. Dear Goddess Bountiful, I bow to thee. My claim, I fear, is small; yet glad I gave All of my powers my country's life to save. Though long the tyrant's thralldom we endured At last my country's freedom I procured. Our country's freedom ! Oh, the blessed word ! Symboled by this, our proud and glorious bird ! Goddess Bountiful. George Washington, thou'rt truly good and great ; Honored by all, in home and school and state ! {George Washington places the eagle on the table and takes his place, while the music of '" America " is continued.) (Next comes the music of the " Star-Spangled Banner," and Betsy Ross enters.) Goddess Bountiful. Good-morrow, Madam, I know not thy name ; Tell me, art thou some celebrated dame ? 18 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Betsy Ross. Nay, nay, dear Goddess Bountiful, I come But from a simple and a lowly home. And yet, during the time that I did live, One chance I had a noble gift to give. And in my heart triumphant memories wake, To think that I my country's flag should make. Goddess Bountiful. Dear Betsy Ross, your name shall honored be, While the Red, White and Blue floats o'er the free. Proudly o'er rolling deep and rocky crag Old Glory waves — and you — you sewed the flag. [Betsy Ross lays the flag reverently on the table while the strains of the " Star-Spangled Banner" or of Sousa's " Stars and Stripes " continue, and takes her place among the others.} [Then to the music of ' " A Life on the Ocean Wave" a Sailor comes bounding in.) Goddess Bountiful. What ho ! A sailor boy ! a real Jack Tar ! Enter, good sir, here such right welcome are. Thou bringest — what ? Sailor. Goddess, I offer thee A wondrous gift, the freedom of the sea! Goddess Bountiful. Aye, 'tis a gift surpassing rich and fair. Travel and navigation, cargoes rare, Pleasure and profit both. Aye, truly we Owe much to those who offer us the sea. THE GREATEST GIFT 19 Solo by the Sailor {Air, w Nancy Lee "). I am a jolly sailor bold and free, Yeo ho, lads ho; yeo ho, yeo ho ! I give you every craft that sails the sea, Yeo ho, lads ho, yeo ho ! I give you means of traffic to each foreign land, To every arctic coast and every tropic sand ; Your splendid fleets of noble ships by me are manned, Yeo ho, lads ho, yeo ho ! The countries all join hands across the sea Quite easily, Because of me. I give the freedom of the trackless sea, The sea, the sea, the glorious sea ! {The Sailor takes bis seat to the music of any nautical air, ,) {An English bugle call is heard, or a feiv notes of" Rule Britannia," or any English martial air. Enter Flor- ence Nightingale.) Goddess Bountiful. Dear Florence Nightingale, we welcome thee j Thy blessed deeds have blessed memory. Hospital angel, thy kind hand and heart Soothed wounded soldiers with a gentle art. A glorious gift, indeed, after the strife, To nurse the suffering hero back to life ! Solo by Florence Nightingale {Air, "Old Black Joe "). Down in the wards where wounded soldiers lie, Where all alone they suffer and they die, There I went oft to comfort and to aid, I nursed and soothed the wounded, with the dying prayed 20 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS I'm coming, I'm coming, I hear their voices low ; (iSV;i? seems to listen to the call of the soldiers.} A fairer gift than soothing pain I do not know. (Repeat refrain.) (Florence Nightingale lays her gift on the table and goes to her place, while the music softly repeats the melody of the song she has just sung.) (To the music of any well-known college glee a College Touth rushes in waving a pennant and giving his class yell. He bows roguishly to Goddess Bountiful, and even dares to kiss her on the cheek, being full of pranks.) Solo by College Youth (Air, " In Days of Old, When Knights Were Bold"). In college days Of jolly ways, Our thoughts to knowledge turn. We study hard Of sage or bard, And this is what we learn — And this is what we learn : We learn to read and speak In Latin and in Greek, O'er modern lore we deeply pore, And history antique. And education is the gift We give to all the world ; See through the land on every hand Our banners fair, Our banners fair, Our banners fair, Our banners fair unfurled. THE GREATEST GIFT 21 (Waving his pennant the College Youth lays that and his diploma on the table, and takes his seat to the music of another college song.) (To a strain of modern dance music Dame Fashion walks in.) Goddess Bountiful. Stay, lovely lady ; truly thou art fine ! Ne'er have I seen such marvel robes as thine. Thy crown is a fair dream, thy gracious dress A vision of exquisite loveliness ! Dame Fashion. I am Dame Fashion. Frill and furbelow On lovely woman freely I bestow. Solo by Dame Fashion {Air, u l Cannot Sing the Old Songs "). You cannot wear the old clothes You wore last year, you know ; For styles are so uncertain, And fashion changes so. Those bygone frocks are out of date, Those hats and wraps are too; You cannot wear the old clothes, And so I bring you new. You cannot wear the old clothes, So every year I bring A lot of newly fashioned garb That's just the very thing. Now see this dainty, winsome gown; This hat with plumes a-row ; Oh, woman, lovely woman, You'll like my gift, I know ! 22 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Goddess Bountiful. Dame Fashion, thou art right, 'tis woman's way To deck herself in beautiful array. And every woman with a smile will greet These gifts of thine that make her fair and sweet. {To gay music Dame Fashion trips over to the table and lays the garments there, then takes her seat.) ( The music ceases, and a whistling is heard as a Newsboy enters, carelessly ivhistling any popular air. There is no instrumental music, but the boy whistles gayly and well as he runs in with his bundle of papers.) Newsboy. Wuxtry ! Poipers, sir ? All the latest news ! Gee, loidy ! 'scuse me, but dis is fer youse ! {Offers paper to Goddess Bountiful, and pulls off his cap.) Goddess Bountiful. What, boy ! Who art thou ? What dost thou in here ? Newsboy. Aw, loidy, say — I do feel sorta queer ! But say, yer know I'm in on this 'ere game ; An' though I ain't exackly known to fame, I pass the news around; and, don't yer see, How'd this 'ere woild get on 'thouten o' me ? Goddess Bountiful. Ah, boy, I see ! Thou sellest on the street, To those who would peruse, the printed sheet. Neivsboy. Yep. You're on, loidy ! That's the game, you bet! Say, ain't my gift about the limit yet ? THE GREATEST GIFT 23 Goddess Bountiful (musing). 'Tis hard to choose, all are so full of grace ; But wilt thou, lad, have patience for a space ? Newsboy. You bet I'll wait ! They ain't no other gink Can put it over me ! Nix, I don't think ! ( The Newsboy tosses his papers on the table, thrusts his hands in his pockets, and, whistling the same tune, goes to his place.) (The music now strikes up Gounod's " £hieen of Sheba," or any fine inarch, and Dame Fortune enters.) Goddess Bountiful. Hail, radiant creature, glorious and bright; Truly thou art a rare and dazzling sight ! Dame Fortune. I am Dame Fortune. Goddess, may I pour Here at thy feet my golden-minted store ? (Pours out some coins at the feet of Goddess Bountiful?) Thus do I dower the favorites I choose, Nor heed if well or ill my gift they use. I fling my largess freely here and there; I know not where it falls, nor do I care. Solo by Dame Fortune (Air, " The Magnet and the Churn, 1 ' from the opera of '" Patience 11 ). Oh, I'm Dame Fortune, glad and gay, I fling gold coins along the way, And some I've favored and some I've missed, Scattering wealth where'er I list. I have no method but my whim, I may choose her, or I may choose him ; I fling gifts here and there by chance, And I lead my devotees a dance. 24 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS An eager dance, A breathless dance ; My taunted, vaunted, very much wanted favors go by chance ; I may make present to king or peasant, But I give my gifts by chance. ( To the repeated strains of her song Dame Fortune flings her gold coins on the table and trips to her seat.) {The music stops and there is heard the sound of the striking of a Chinese dinner gong. Its notes continue to sound as a Cook enters carrying a dish containing an elab- orately garnished confection. This he shows to the Goddess Bountiful and she bows approval. The Cook then places the dish on the table and proceeds to sing his song.) Solo by the Cook {Air "Solomon Levi"). Oh, I'm a cook and a fancy cook, And a good plain cook as well; And all the dishes I can make I haven't time to tell. I can roast and broil and bake and boil, And smother and stew and steam; And the pies I make and the rolls and cake Are simply a perfect dream ! Oh, I am a cook, and the gift I gladly give Is well-cooked food so that every one may live. For I make such salads and sauce and soups That every one must agree They never have eaten a dish that has beaten The dishes prepared by me. And you must admit, here's the truth of it, THE GREATEST GIFT 25 No matter which way you look, You never can see another like me — There's nobody like the cook ! (The Cook takes his place as the music repeats a few strains of his song.) (The music changes to Schubert's "Serenade " and to its soft strains Night enters. She bows slowly to the Goddess Bountiful, who, as she returns the bow, softly falls asleep.) Solo by Night (Air, "Sweet and Low "). I am Night, I invite Sleep to the weary one ; Rest, rest, sleep and rest, After the day is done. Sleep is the gentle gift I bring, Soft as the touch of an angel's wing, Sleep is the boon I give to all. Sleep I bring to thee, Sleep I give to thee — Sleep ! (Slowly Night glides to her place, and the notes of the lullaby die away.) ( Then follow the stirring notes of " The Anvil Chorus" and the Goddess Bountiful awakes as Labor enters.) Solo by Labor (Air, " We Are All Noddin' "). We are all working, work, work, working, We are all working, And that's why we are glad. 'Tis a blessing to man, it brings all in its train ; If we work we'll be happy, no work is in vain. We are all working, work, work, working, We are all working, And that's why we're glad. 26 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Goddess Bountiful. Aye, Labor, work is blest to all, Whether in lowly cot or palace hall. Each one is better for some healthy work ; All should industrious be, and none should shirk. {Labor bows to the Goddess Bountiful, lays his pick on the table and takes his place while a few more strains of " The Anvil Chorus '' are played.) [Then follow the opening bars of'-'' The Moonlight Sonata" and Moonlight gently glides on the stage.) Goddess Bountiful. Hail, fairy being, who dost gently shine ! Moonlight. I am the Moonlight; witchery is mine. O'er youth and maiden, lovers fair and fond, I gently wave my mystic, magic wand ; Their hearts respond, they wander arm in arm, Lured by the subtle power of Moonlight's charm. Solo by Moonlight {Air, " Love's Old Sweet Song "), I am the Moonlight, gentle is my thrall j I bring the gift of fair romance to all. Over the world my glamour sweet I throw, I wield the mystic charm that lovers know. I bring romance to many a youth and maid Whose timid hearts accept the Moonlight's aid. Just a walk by moonlight, Just a drooping eye ; Just a fluttering heartbeat, Just a whispered sigh. Though the hours be lonely, THE GREATEST GIFT 27 Though the day be drear, Just a touch of moonlight — Romance is here ! Romance is here ! ( The orchestra again plays a few bars of the sonata and, laying her wand upon the table, Moonlight glides to her seat.) ( Then are heard the strains of u Love Me and the World is Mine" and Cupid dances in. He carries a gilt bow and arrow, and, as he enters, flies to the Goddess Bountiful and kisses her and her attendants^) Solo by Cupid {Air, " Titwillow Song," from the opera cf "The Mikado"). My sign is an arrow, my seal is a kiss — For I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid. And the gift that I bring is both torment and bliss — For I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid. I bring love to the hearts of the maiden and youth, And sometimes it's fable and sometimes it's truth ; For I aim where I will, without reason or ruth — For I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid. My gift to the world is the dearest of all — For I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid. The bravest and strongest must come at my call — For I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid. On high born and lowly I practice my arts, And no one is safe from my swift-flying darts; And though I am blind I can see in your hearts For I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid, I'm Cupid ! (Cupid playfully aims his arrow at one or another, and then, laying bow and arrow on the table, runs to his seat, which is on a little footstool near the throne of the Goddess Bountiful.) 28 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS (Now all are in place, and after a short pause a jingle of bells is beard outside, followed by the sounds of a sweet- toned trumpet. Then Christmas comes bounding in. She bows to the Goddess and the others, and blows a few clear notes on her trumpet. Then, jingling her little bells, she sings.) Solo by Christmas (Air, " f ingle Bells "). I'm Christmas, glad and gay, I'm Merry Christmas Day, I'm Christmas spirit, Christmas joy, and Christ- mas every way ; I'm Christmas love and cheer, The glory of the year ; Let all hearts sing and all bells ring, for Christmas now is here ! Christmas here, Christmas there, Christmas everywhere ! Christmas in our loving hearts, There's Christmas in the air ! (Repeat.) Now Christmas carols sing ! And Christmas presents bring ! The gift I give is love and peace and good will unto men ; The Holy Christmas Love Sent to us from above That shall abide in every heart till Christmas comes again. Christmas here, Christmas there, Christmas all around! Christmas in each happy heart Where Christ-love may be found ! (Repeat.) THE GREATEST GIFT 29 Goddess Bountiful. Christmas, the greatest number thou dost bless; Thy gifts are myriads — millions — numberless ! All others pale beside thee ! Far above All mortal gifts is thy great gift of love. Christmas, thou art thyself a blessed gift From the Great Giver. How our hearts uplift In joyful praise that thou to us art given, A token of the Blessed Love of Heaven. Dear Christmas spirit, ne'er from us depart; All 'round the year dwell thou in every heart. Thy gift of love is greatest, purest, best ; And it includes the gifts of all the rest. Gifts are small worth unless thy spirit move The giver's heart. Then are they gifts of love. Yea, Christmas, thine the palm we all declare; The Greatest Gift is Christmas Everywhere! (Goddess Bountiful bestows a palm branch upon Christmas.} Final Grand Chorus {Air, " f ingle Bells "). Christmas here, Christmas there, Christmas everywhere ! Christmas in our loving hearts; There's Christmas in the air ! {Repeat.) CURTAIN Christmas Gifts of All Nations A Children's Christmas Play Copyright, 1912, by The Curtis Publishing Co. Christmas Gifts of All Nations CHARACTERS Father Christmas. White robe of Canton flannel falling in voluminous folds. White wig and long white beard ; silver- paper crown, as elaborate as possible, sparkling with rhinestone buckles or diamond dust. Aurora Borealis. Young girl with ft 'owing golden hair. Gown of transparent white material ; long, narrow, pointed strips of gilt paper fall straight down from the waist-line all around ; the bodice decorated with similar rays. Gilt-paper head-dress of long, gilt, outstanding rays. A thin floating scarf of pale pink draped from the shoulders, and a large crystal bowl filled with finely cut paper or with silver tinsel represent- ing hoarfrost. Starlight. Little girl in short white tarlatan skirts, white stockings and slippers. Frock sprinkled with silver stars, a large silver star in her hair, and in her hand a silver wand with a star at the end. Sleighbells. Boy dressed all in white, trimmed with white fur or swan's-down, and wearing many white bands of very small silver sleighbells. White cap, like a jester's cap, with bells on the points. In his hands a hoop wound with white ribbon, and bells all the way round. Two American Children. Dressed in modern white garb, with white stockings and shoes. Children of All Nations. Wearing their native garbs as nearly as possible. 33 34 CHARACTERS The Gifts. Several children arranged to look like gifts wrapped up for Christmas. For a small child get a very large bandbox. Make a hole in the cover to stick his head through, and cut away nearly all of the bottom of the box to put his legs through. Thus he can walk about, showing only his head and feet, a peripatetic bandbox. This bandbox should be covered with holly paper and tied with a big bow of red ribbon. A large square or oblong box ?nay be similarly arranged. An- other small child may be wrapped in many sheets of white tissue paper, making a bundle which leaves exposed only his head and feet. Tie this " bundle " with crisscrossed holly ribbon. An- other child carries a great holly wreath with an enormous red bow, the whole nearly hiding the child, whose red stockings and slippers appear below the wreath and behind the bow. A large silver cornucopia may contain a walking child, and the shirred silk top of it may be drawn up around his neck ; and a child may bear two enormous "Christmas cards " worn like a " sand- wich man's " placards. If the Chorus of Gifts entails too much troublesome preparation it may be omitted. Christmas Gifts of All Nations b'CENE. — The Palace of Father Christmas at the North Pole. The whole scheme of decoration is white. Drape the rear and side walls of the stage with white cheese-cloth or sheets, on which stars cut from silver paper have been pasted at intervals. In the center, at the back of the stage, arrange the throne of Father Christmas. This should be on a raised platform and consist of a large arm- chair covered with white, with a canopy above it, also white. Over all dash bits of fleecy cotton batting, and sprinkle it sparingly with " diamond dust " or Christmas- tree tinsel The floor should be covered with white, and white fur rugs should be laid wherever possible. Place a white-covered chair at the right of the throne, and a double settee, also covered with white, at the left. Decor- ate the stage with any marble statues, vases or ornaments obtainable, using only zvhite or silver. A beautiful effect is added by garlands of flowers and leaves, all made of white tissue paper, and white crepe paper is exceedingly useful also. Tall cathedral candles, their stands draped in white, may be placed about, and white candles may be placed anyzvhere if precautions are taken against fire. A Christmas tree stands on one side of the stage. Decorate this with strings of white pop-corn and white or silver or- naments. Also sprinkle its branches plentifully with flour, 35 36 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS to look like snow. Small evergreens or box trees may be used to add to the scenic effect, all being powdered with flour. Have all the electric light possible, or candlelight ; and, if it can be arranged, throw calcium colored lights on the stage at intervals. Tinsel icicles may be bought, or silver tinsel frosting, to add to the North Pole effect. Ropes of evergreen may be draped from the ceiling, but well floured as if snowed on. Cotton snow, diamond- dusted, should be placed wherever it seems to be effective. If convenient, scenery painted to represent a landscape of snowbanks and icebergs may be used. {Curtain rises, disclosing Father Christmas on his throne, and his pages, Starlight and Sleighbells, one on each side of him. As he sings Sleighbells keeps up a faint jingle and Starlight waves her wand in time to the music.) Solo by Father Christmas (Jir^ " Sweet Evelina "). I am old Father Christmas, so hoary and white, To make children glad is my fondest delight. I fill all their stockings, I load all their trees, And listen to hear their carols and their glees. I'm Father Christmas, I'm Father Christmas, I lavish gifts on happy girls and boys; I'm Father Christmas, old Father Christmas, I find my joy bestowing Christmas joys. I am old Father Christmas, so merry and gay, I wish every one a Happy Christmas Day. May the glad Christmas Spirit abide in each heart, And to every one a joyous peace impart. CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF ALL NATIONS 37 I'm Father Christmas, I'm Father Christmas, I bring good cheer to every one on earth. I'm Father Christmas, I'm Father Christmas, I bring you gladness, happiness and mirth. {Aurora Bore a lis appears at side entrance.) Father Christmas. What, ho ! my lovely Maid of Honor's here ; Welcome, fair maiden ; join our Christmas cheer. Solo by Aurora Borealis {Air, "/» the Gloaming"). I'm Aurora Borealis, Shining o'er the ice and snow, Where old Father Christmas' palace Glitters 'neath my radiant glow; And I pour from crystal chalice Sparkling hoarfrost pure and white. {Tosses shredded paper or tinsel frost from vase.) I'm Aurora Borealis, I'm the glowing Northern Light. I'm Aurora Borealis, Father Christmas' handmaid, I ; I irradiate his palace, Shining from the polar sky. May all hearts be filled with gladness Bright and pure as Northern Light, May no trace of care or sadness Mar this happy Christmas night. {She takes her seat at Father Christinas' s right hand,) Father Christmas. Ay, ay, Aurora, Christmas is at hand, And I must scatter gifts o'er all the land. For Christmas is the day of gifts for all, Remembering Bethlehem's Babe in lowly stall. i ;*v. 38 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS By gifts we tell His story o'er again ; By gifts we show peace and good will to men. By gifts on earth we prove our grateful love For that Great Gift sent us from Heaven above. What, ho! my pages — Starlight, Sleighbells, say, Where are The Gifts that celebrate this Day ? Starlight and Sleighbells {going to the side entrance and drawing aside its white curtains). Enter, ye Gifts, bedecked with ribbons gay ; Enter, ye tokens of the Christmas Day ! (Enter The Gifts.) Chorus of The Gifts (Air, "Annie Laurie"). Oh, Christmas Gifts are bonny, And here you see a few; As we come on Christmas morning To bring good cheer to you. To bring good cheer to you, To make your Christmas gay; We are Christmas Gifts so bonny, To glad your Christmas Day. Father Christmas. Well, well, Aurora, here we surely see A fine array of gifts, it seems to me. Aurora Borealis. Av, Father Christmas, gifts for one and all, For aged grandsires and for children small. Gift Song (Air, "Good-Night, Ladies"). Chorus : Christmas presents, Christmas presents, Christmas presents, Tied up with ribbons gay. CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF ALL NATIONS 39 Solo by one of The Gifts {done up like a box of candy). I'm a present hard to beat ! Something sweet, Good to eat. Children think me quite a treat On the Christmas tree. Chorus (as before). Solo by a Gift {unmistakably a drum tied up with tissue paper and red ribbons). I'm the noisiest of toys ! All the boys Like my noise. Every one a drum enjoys On a Christmas Day. Chorus (as before). Solo by a Gift (a girl with flaxen hair, to resemble a doll ; her curly head and slippered feet show ; the rest of her is in a box, wrapped and tied ) I'm a fine gift, all agree; Dolls like me Fill with glee Hearts of girlies when they see Us on Christmas Day. Chorus (as before). (A jingle of sleigh be Us is heard outside, mingled with the toot- ing of horns and shouts of" Merry Christmas ! " Star- light and Sleighbells spring to draw the curtains apart, and the Two American Children come bounding in.) Song by Two American Children (Air " Ben Bolt "). / We come, Father Christmas, to greet you to-night, We're American children, you see; We come to your palace, so sparkling and bright, 40 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS To sing our glad songs round your tree. And the song that we sing may be heard far away, For the clear echoes ring it again ; 'Tis the song of the ages, the song of to-day, It is " Peace and good will unto men." 'Tis the song of the ages, the song of to-day, It is " Peace and good will unto men." Whether sung by the shepherds on far Eastern plain, Or sung by the children to-night, It brings the same message, it sounds the same strain, Of Christmas hearts happy and light; And the glad Christmas greetings forever and aye, Reecho from mountain and glen. 'Tis the song of the ages, the song of to-day, It is "Peace and good will unto men." 'Tis the song of the ages, the song of to-day, It is " Peace and good will unto men." Father Christmas, Welcome, my bonny lass and merry lad ! Many fair gifts shall make your Christmas glad. Far distant countries, cold and sunny lands Shall pour their treasures in your open hands. Dear small Americans, sit here by me, And presently we'll see what we shall see ! {The Two American Children scramble up on the white settee, and, with expectant faces, await the promised gift*-) ( Outside is heard the music of several instruments, as of a small band, playing "Watch on the Rhine." With a flourish of tuand and hoop Starlight and Sleighbells admit a German girl ,' and afteriuard they admit each country 's representative in similar fashion.) CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF ALL NATIONS 41 Germany' 's Solo (Air, '■'■Little Buttercup "). Oh, I am Katrina, dear little Katrina ! From Germany hither I came; Where girls are called Lena and Mina and Tina, But little Katrina's my name. I've brought you some playthings, some pretty and gay things, Some clever mechanical toys; I've small wooden wagons and carved wooden dragons, And trinkets for girls and for boys. I've bows and I've arrows and little wheelbar- rows, And jolly red carts with blue wheels; I've dolls that are dancers and dogs that are prancers, And cute little automobiles. I've lamb« that are furry and cats that are purry And jackknives that really will cut ! I've dolls with gay dresses and long flaxen tresses And eyes that will open and shut. For I am Katrina, dear little Katrina ' From Germany hither I came To bring you these presents and greetings most pleasant. I hail you in Germany's name ! (Katrina has her arms full of the gifts she has mentioned, and, with the help of Starlight aud Sleighbells, hangs them on the Christmas tree or lays them beneath it. The tree is on the side opposite the entrance. Then Katrina takes her appointed place and remains on the stage, as do all the other Nations after their songs are sung.) 42 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS {Outside is beard a Swiss air played on a music-box or sung by yodelers. Enter Switzerland, a boy in the costume of a Swiss peasant.) Switzerland' s Song {Air, "When the Swallows Home- ward Fly "). I am come from Switzerland, Bearing gifts in either hand; Humbly offering to thee Presents for thy Christmas tree. See, 1 bring a music-box And some carven cuckoo clocks ! Watches set with jewels fine — All these tokens now are thine, All these tokens now are thine. ( The gifts he brings are hung on the tree.) {Outside is heard " The Marseillaise" played on a French horn. Enter French Girl in costume of Parisian effects or garb of French peasant.) France's Song {Air, " Those Tassels on her Boots "). I'm a little maid from France, I have dimples and I've smiles; For your holiday adornment I have brought the latest styles. Here's a collar made of lace, Fastened by a satin rose ; Here's a frilly, fluffy fichu With some dainty little bows. Here's a fashionable bag, And a scarf of gauzy white ; And a pair of satin slippers With their buckles shining bright. CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF ALL NATIONS 43 Here's a lovely silken sash Wrought with flowers pink and blue ; And all these Christmas gifts, my dears, I gladly offer you. {France bangs her pretty gifts on the tree.) (Sounds outside of striking a set of 'Japanese musical gongs- Enter Japanese Boy in costume?) Japans Song (Air, "A Wandering Minstrel, I"). I come from far Japan, From Oriental city; I bring gifts rare and pretty, I give you all I can. I come from far Japan ; I bring this little lady A parasol so shady, A quaint and curious fan. (He hangs Japanese articles on the tree.) (Outside is heard a skirl of bagpipes playing any well-known Scottish air. Enter Scotch Girl in plaid costume.) Scotland's Song (Air, "Oh, Believe Me, if All Those Endearing Young Charms "). I'm a bonny Scotch lassie; from Scotland I come, The land of the heather and brae ; And I bring you these tokens in fondness and love To greet you this glad Christmas Day. Here's a gay Tarn o' Shanter, so bright and so warm, To wear when you walk in the cold ; And a bonny Scotch plaidie to shield you from storm As you nestle within its snug fold. (Hangs Tarn o f Shanter and plaid rug on the tree.) 44 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS [Sound of tom-toms or any Chinese music. Enter Chinese Boy.) China s Song {Air, " The Happy Farmer" or " The Happy Peasant"). I'm a Chinaman, Ching, ching, Chinaman, Come to makee Klismus Day ; I bling Melican, Nice, small Melican, Muchee gifts for her to play. I bling chelly bloom, Big, white chelly bloom, I bling lanterns gleen and white; All for Melican, Nice, small Melican, For to make her Klismus blite. Yes, I'm Chinaman, Ching, ching, Chinaman, And I blingee Chinese toy For the lady girl, Nice, small lady girl, And the nice, small Melican boy. I bling dishee set, Nice tea-dishee set, So she dlinkee cupee tea; I bling Chinee doll, Funny Chinee doll, For to hang on Klismus tlee. {The Chinese Boy has great sprays of artificial cherry blos- soms and several Chinese lanterns in white and pale green or pale colors, also dishes and dolls. All of these he arranges on or under the tree, assisted by the two pages.) CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF ALL NATIONS 45 (Outside is heard an air from an Italian opera played on a guitar or on a hand organ. Enter Italian Alaiden in Roman or Neapolitan garb, bearing large flat basket of fruits, some of which may be artificial. The basket tray is adorned with grape leaves.} Italy's Song (Air, " Juanita "). From far Italia, children dear, I come to thee; Bringing as token all these fruits you see. Grapes of purple glory, Luscious, golden nectarine j Ripest pears and peaches, Plums of satin sheen. Children, dear children, See these glorious fruits I sing; Children, dear children, All to thee I bring. From far Italia, also, now I bring to thee Bright gems and trinkets, fine and fair to see. Necklaces of coral, Amber beads in golden strings, Cameos fine carven, Brooches, too, and rings. Children, dear children, See these glittering gems I sing; Children, dear children, All to thee I bring. (Italy places a tray of fruits and a smaller tray of glit- tering jewelry under the tree or on a small table or pedestal near it.) 4 6 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS (Outside, sound of tambourines and castanets accompanying any gay Spanish air. Enter Spanish Girl in w Car- men " costume, with lace mantilla, and a red rose in her hair.} Spain's Song (Air, "Billy Boy"). I'm a little Spanish girl, As you see, as you see, I'm a little Spanish girl From Sevilla ; You would know me anywhere By the red rose in my hair And the graceful way I wear My mantilla. I have brought you gifts from Spain, Little boy, little girl, I have brought you gifts from Spain For your Christmas ; Laces very soft and fine, Silken sash of rare design, A mantilla just like mine, For your Christmas. (Spain hangs her gay silks and laces on the tree.) (Outside a bugle blows and a fife and drum corps plays "Rule Britannia." Enter an English Boy in an Eton suit.) England's Song (Air, " Tommy Atkins "). I'm a schoolboy from old England, and I'm here To tell you of our Christmas glad and gay, To tell you of our jollity and cheer And how we celebrate our Christmas Day. CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF ALL NATIONS 47 To tell you of our carols and our glees, To tell you of our Yule log with its blaze ; Our big plum puddings and our Christmas trees And all our wholesome, hearty Christmas ways. Yes, I came from dear Old England, With its feasting and its fun ; Where the Christmas Day traditions Were long years ago begun. Where the Spirit of the Christmas And the meaning of the Day Are every year repeated In the dear old English way. Oh, there we have the steaming wassail-bowl, Bedecked with wreaths of holly and of bay ; And there the noble boar's head, brought in whole, In memory of the old-time Christmas Day. The Yule log blazes with its glowing light, The table groans beneath its goodly store ; The children smile in merriest delight, And Christmas waits sing carols at the door. Oh, there's merriment in England And there's happiness untold When we celebrate our Christmas As our fathers did of old ; When we hear the chiming church bells Christmas hymns and carols play. Every year we keep our Christmas In the dear old English way. (England carries a plum pudding or a boar s head or a zuassail-bowl, as may be convenient, and places it on a stand prepared for it near the tree.} 48 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS {Outside is heard a clatter of wooden shoes. Enter Dutch Girl in Dutch costume.) Dutch Song (Air, " Won't You Tell Me Why, Robin P ' '). Oh, I'm a little Dutch maiden, And I come to you With loving Christmas presents laden, China white and blue. Delft-ware porringers and platters, Some with ancient dates; And some other little matters, Such as cups and plates. I bring these from the Netherlands, I bring them all to you ; Do you like my gifts, children, Of old Delft china blue ? Oh, do you like my gifts, children ? I brought them all for you. (The Dutch Girl sets down her burden of Delft ware on a table or hangs some light pieces on the tree.) (Strains of Eastern music are heard and an Indian Boy enters in poor native costume.) India's Song (Air, "Oh, Promise Me"). From far-off India's sunny clime am I ; I'm ignorant and poor and somewhat shy. No happiness is mine, no gladsome day; Oppressed and destitute I make my way. We know not, where I live, of Christmas cheer ; We have no Christmas in our whole sad year. And so I ask of you to share your joy With Indian Boy — with Indian Boy. For Indian Boy has not a happy life; It's only hunger, poverty and strife. CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF ALL NATIONS 49 No gospel light is shining on his path ; He fears a heathen idol's angry wrath. But still he brings to you a gift to-day, A curio wrought in skillful Indian way. Oh, children fair, accept this ivory toy From Indian Boy — from Indian Boy. (The Indian Boy bangs on the tree a beautiful ivory carv- ing or other Indian curio?) Father Christmas {speaking to the Two American Chil- dren). Behold these many gifts, oh, children dear, Behold these presents brought from far and near: Jewels and toys, trinkets of rare design, Of colors beautiful and fabrics fine ; Offerings of love, brought from far-distant lands. Your Christmas tree, with branches laden, stands A monument of gentle, kindly thought Of these strange children who these gifts have brought. And now, Americans, what can you give To these who in the far-off countries live? What can you offer these from foreign clime Who thus add pleasure to your Christmas time? American Boy and Girl. Alas, we know not. Tell us what to do ! Dear Father Christmas, we'd be taught by you. Father Christmas. Then, my dear children, give them of your mind, Gentle and loving thoughts, generous and kind. Let your hearts brim with comradeship to these Who look to you from far across the seas. Pray blessings on them, wheresoe'er they go, And thus the real Christmas Spirit show. 5o JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS American Boy and Girl. Dear Father Christmas, gladly we obey, And to these friends, upon this Christmas Day, We offer, in a spirit unafraid, Our Country's welcome and our Country's aid. {The Two American Children, Father Christmas, Aurora Borealis, Starlight, Sleigh be lis and The Gifts join in this chorus.} Chorus {Air, "Old Oaken Bucket"). How dear to our hearts is each fair Christmas present, As, hung on the tree, it rejoices our view; Each gift so delightful, each greeting so pleas- ant — The Nations unite in a harmony true. Dear children from France and from Switzer- land's mountains, From Netherlands, Germany, England and Spain ; From Scotland's bleak moorlands and Italy's fountains, From China's far cities and India's plain. Come, share in our presents, Our dear Christmas presents, Our fine Christmas presents That hang on the tree. How dear to our hearts is this glad Christmas season, For everywhere peace and good will we may see ; We all love each other, and that is the reason We welcome these presents that hang on the tree. CHRISTMAS GIFTS OF ALL NATIONS 51 The dear Christmas Spirit, that brings us a blessing, Is filling our hearts on this beautiful night ; And to all our friends this fond wish we're expressing, May your blessed Christmas be happy and bright. Come, join in our Christmas, Our glad, happy Christmas, Our bright, merry Christmas, And our Christmas tree. {All on the stage join hands and circle around the tree, singing the) Final Chorus (Jit; "Rally Round the Flag, Boys"). We are coming from the Old World and com- ing from the New, Singing to all a " Merry Christmas." We are merry, happy children, and bring good will to you, Singing to all a " Merry Christmas." Christmas forever, hurrah and hurrah ! We bring you greetings from near and from far; Then rally round the tree, boys, rally once again, Wishing to all a " Merry Christmas ! " CURTAIN The Greatest Day in the Year A Christmas Play for Children Copyright, iqii, by The Curtis Publishing Co. The Greatest Day in the Year CHARACTERS Father Time. Long white beard ; white, classic robe, scythe and hour-glass, the same as usually pictured. Day. A blond young girl dressed in white. If convenient a filmy scarf of pale pink and blue tints. A gold fillet or wreath in her hair. Night. A brunette girl wearing a gown of gauzy black material studded with silver stars. In her hair a crescent moon made of silver paper. Herald. The usual court costume of a herald : Satin knee- breeches, gold-trimmed jacket and lace ruffles. He carries a long brass trumpet from which hangs a satin banner bordered with gold fringe. Spring. Light green gown decorated with spring flowers and green leaves. The flowers may be artificial or made of paper. She wears a wreath of green leaves and carries a fancy basket of spring flowers. Summer. White gown decked with blue ribbons or draped with garlands of flowers. She wears roses in her hair and car- ries a lace parasol trimmed with roses. Autumn. A young girl, with dark hair, dressed in a gozvn of deep yellow, with decorations of autumn leaves and a wreath of autumn leaves and berries. She carries a sickle and a small sheaf of grain ; or she may carry a fancy basket of grapes. Winter. A rosy-cheeked young girl clad in a fur coat and hood. She carries a muff, and a pair of skates hung over her arm. 55 56 CHARACTERS Rain. A pretty child wearing a plaid or other attractive style of raincoat with a hood. She carries an umbrella. Sunshine. A very blond child, with light yellow frock of thin material made very full. Decorations of gilt paper repre- senting sun rays, and a head-dress of gilt paper shaped like a sunburst. Fog. Child dressed in gray chiffon, with gray stockings and slippers, and a voluminous gray veil fastened at the top of her head with silver pins. Snow. Merry-faced child dressed in a white frock to which drifts of cotton batting are sewed. She wears a white veil which falls on both sides of her face. The whole costume should be sprinkled with diamond dust. New Year's Day. Very small child dressed in white. He carries a tiny suitcase marked "ipi-." ( Use date of next Christmas.) Lincoln's Birthday. Young girl in classic white draperies. She wears a wreath of bay, and across her shoulder a purple sash with gilt fringe. In one hand she carries broken shackles or chains, a?id in the other a scroll which is plainly marked "Proc- lamation of Emancipation.'''' Valentine's Day. Child in a short white dress, made very fluffy and trimmed with a great deal of lace or lace paper. On the dress are pasted "scrap pictures " of flowers and Cupids, and red paper hearts pierced by gilt darts. On her head is a wreath of flowers, with fluttering ends of blue ribbon. She carries a gilded bow and arrow. Washington's Birthday. Young girl in classic robe of white. She wears a Liberty cap, and a tricolnred sash over her shoulder. She wears or carries a sword, and carries also a scroll which is lettered "Declaration of Independence." April Fool's Day. Three small boys with roguish faces. They wear ordinary school clothes. On the back of one's jacket is pinned a paper on which is printed "April Fool.'''' An- other has an old pocketbook with a string tied to it ; the third carries a cotton doughnut or a box of " April Fool candy." CHARACTERS 57 Memorial Day. A black- draped figure with a purple sash. She carries a wreath of immortelles, in the center of which are two crossed fags or a shield. Commencement Day. Young girl graduate in black cap and gown, showing white dress beneath. She carries a college diploma and a large bouquet of flowers. Independence Day. Girl in Goddess of Liberty costume. She carries an American flag and shield. Labor Day. A boy dressed in the garb of a workman, with a laborer's cap and blouse. He carries a hammer or other tools, and a dinner-pail. All Hallow Eve. A girl dressed as a witch. Black gown trimmed with red, long black cloak lined with red, and a tall peaked red hat. Hat and cloak may be covered with weird figures or cabalistic signs cut from gilt paper. She carries a black plush cat on her shoulder, and also has a broom made of twigs. Thanksgiving Day. A girl dressed in the garb of a Pur- itan maid. Plain gray gown, white fichu, apron and cap. On one arm she carries a large basket of fruits, and in the other arm a small pumpkin. Christmas Day. This is represented by the Spirit of Christmas. A young girl dressed like a Christmas angel, in flozving white robes, and with long, graceful wings made of fringed, white tissue paper. In her hair is a wreath of holly, and she carries a large gilt star in one hand and a small Christmas tree in the other. The Greatest Day in the Year SCENE. — The Palace of Time. A canopied background of blue muslin scattered with gilt-paper stars. High on one side is a sun, with long darting rays, cut from gilt paper. High on the other side hangs a moon cut from silver paper. The moon should be a crescent, with the features of a face indicated on the inner side. In the center of the back- ground, on a standing frame, is a large Calendar, three feet square or more. This has twelve leaves like an ordi- nary calendar, and the dates are plainly marked. The days that are characters in the play are printed in red figures, and the Calendar must be made so that its pages can be easily turned over backward by the attendants. At one side of the Calendar Father Time is seated in a large throne- like chair. On a table at his elbow are a scroll of written names, his hour-glass and various globes or as- tronomical instruments. His scythe leans against the back of his chair. Opposite Father Time is a draped portal through which the Days enter, and on each side of Father Time are seats for the four Seasons and their attendants. Seats may be arranged for the Days, or they may stand in groups, as the size of the stage permits. The Herald stands at 'he door and announces the Days as they appear. ( Curtain rises, showing a tableau with Father Time seated on his throne, the Herald holding back the curtain at the entrance doo, and Rain, Snow, Fog and Sunshine in graceful positions in the foreground. The Palace of Time 59 6o JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS may have as elaborate decorations as desired. Appropriate ones are century plants or tall palms, a sun-dial, a large clock, or any picturesque appurtenance that may be con- venient.) Father Time. Ho, Minions all, attend upon my word ! Rain, Snow, Fog, Sunshine ! •"^' We thy call have heard. What would'st thou now, O Time r Ttme - Anon I hold A contest of the Days. I have enrolled The names of all who've entered. Herald, ho ! Summon the Seasons; I would have them know That one Day shall of all be judged the best, One Day shall honored be above the rest. Rain, Snow, Fog, Sunshine. We are the Seasons' Satellites, we wait Their advent through Time's ever-open gate. Herald. What, ho ! the approach of Spring ! What, ho ! Spring's here ! Spring (bounding ifi). I come ! the petted darling of the year. Hail, Father Time ! Sunshine and smiles I bring. Time. Hail, happy Season ! Hail, sweet, gentle Spring ! Spring's Song (Air, " Nelly Bly "). Spring is here, Spring is here, Gone is Winter's gloom; Smiling daffodils appear THE GREATEST DAY IN THE YEAR 61 And laughing lilacs bloom. Blossoms spring, thrushes sing, Fields and woods are green ; All the earth is welcoming Nature's fairest scene. Springtime, Springtime, Blue and laughing skies; The Springtime comes with smiling face, And sunshine in her eyes. Time. Spring, fairest season of the fair round year, Come, lovely maiden, sit beside me here. [Spring sits near Time, and Rain, who is her satellite^ runs to her and sits at her feet.) Herald. What, ho ! the Summer's coming ! Summer's here ! Summer. I come ! the rose-crowned triumph of the year. Hail, Father Time ! Roses I gayly strew Along the year's path as I come to you. Time. Hail, beauteous Summer! Thou art fair indeed. Light is thy tread o'er flowery dell and mead. Swnmers Song {Air, "Here's to the Maiden of Bashful Fifteen "). Summertime comes with the buzzing of bees, Bringing the rose and the daisy; Radiant sunshine and light southern breeze, And hours that are happy and lazy. 62 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Green waving wheat, Soft fragrant heat, I am the Summertime idle and sweet. Green waving wheat, Soft fragrant heat, I am the Summertime idle and sweet. Time. Summer, thou art a fair and fragrant dream, Happily basking in the sun's gold beam. Summer, sit here, with Sunshine in thy train ; Perchance one of thy Days the crown shall gain. [Summer sits near Father Time, and Sunshine runs to her and stands by her side.) Herald. What, ho! Autumn's in sight ! Now Autumn's here ! Autumn. I come ! the golden season of the year. Hail, Father Time! The harvest I bestow. Time. Hail, golden Autumn, radiantly aglow ! Autumns Song (Air, "/ Dreamt I Divelt in Marble. Halls "). I am the Autumn crowned with gold, The ripened grain I bear; Rich burdens of ripe fruit I hold, A goodly harvest rare. I clothe the woods in red and brown, In gold and russet sheen ; The other Seasons' gift I crown, For Autumn is the Queen. THE GREATEST DAY IN THE YEAR 63 Time. Autumn, thou truly art a radiant Queen. Sit thou beside me here and watch the scene. {Autumn takes her place, and is followed by Fog^ who cud- dles to her side.) Herald. What, ho ! Winter approacheth ! Winter's here ! Winter. I come! the noblest season of the year. Hail, Father Time ! I bring the icy blast, Time. Hail, noble Winter ! Welcome here at last ! Winter s Song {Air, "A Life on the Ocean Wave "). Oh, the Winter cold am I, And I bring the frost and snow ; While the winds are fierce and high, And the icy breezes blow. The air is crisp and clear, And the snow is soft and white \ Oh, the best time of the year Is a glorious Winter night. Oh, the Winter cold am I, And the snow and ice are mine; In a black December sky The stars more glorious shine. Time. Winter, thou art a splendid season. Still, Sit not too near me lest I feel thy chill. 64 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS ( Winter laughs and takes a seat at a little distance from Time, who shivers as she passes. Snow comes run- ning to Winter s side and stands by her.) Time. Now, Seasons all, I bid you note the Days As passing in review we hear their praise. One must be crowned the best of all the year; Judge fairly then which we may hold most dear. Song by the Four Seasons {Air, " Some Day"). We know not which the Day shall be, We know not if in Spring or Fall ; Nor can we doubt that Time's decree Will justly crown the best of all. But this we know, when all are heard, When every one has stood the test, Old Father Time will give the word And we shall know which Day is best. Some day, some day, Some day shall have glory ; Though we know not which he'll say, Hallowe'en or Arbor Day. Only this, only this, Time will tell the story ; Father Time will crown the Day — Will crown the Day — Will crown the Day. Time. What, ho, my Herald ! Summon Night and Day! And bid them to my presence, that they may Turn the great pages of the mighty scroll Which doth record the Seasons as they roll. THE GREATEST DAY IN THE YEAR 65 {Enter Night and Day. They take their places at each side of the great Calendar?) Night and Day. Hail, Father Time! Thy faithful servants we. From the beginning have we stood by thee And ever shall, till Time shall be no more ; Untiringly we turn Time's pages o'er. Time. My noble servants, keepers of Time's scroll, Now to thy task. The passing year unroll. {The outside page of the Calendar has merely a marginal decoration and the date igi- in large figures. Night and Day turn this leaf back over the top and show the calendar for January. Only the first of 'Janu- ary is marked xvith a red figure, the others being black.) Time. The month of January ! Shall I own How many Januarys I have known ? Six thousand of them ! Maybe more. Alack, My mem'ry fails me as I would look back. But this same month forever and for aye Brings to the waiting earth a New Year's Day, The first contestant for our Crown of Fame. Herald, admit him, and announce his name. Herald {announcing, as New Year s Day enters). New Year's Day ! New Tears Day s Song {Air, " Tramp, Tramp, Tramp, the Boys are Marching "). I am Happy New Year's Day I am young and bright and gay. 66 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS I am first and best of all the glad New Year. Full of resolutions new, To be good and brave and true, And to firl the world with happiness and cheer. Tramp, tramp, tramp, the years are marching; One by one they pass away ; But of all the Days that dawn As the years go marching on, Don't you think the very best is New Year's Day ? Time. Hail, New Year's Day ! Thou'rt truly welcome here, Thou small forerunner of the long, bright year 5 Thou Day of Good Resolves throughout the land — For all improvement nobly thou dost stand ! Thy greetings are good wishes to mankind — Truly, in thee, much merit may we find, Here take thy place, fair child, the while we see What other worthy claimants there may be. {Night and Day turn Calendar to February^) Herald (announcing, as the Day enters). Lincoln's Birthday ! Lincoln's Birthday's Song (/fir, '■'■Battle Hymn of the Republic ''). I am the famous birthday of the President who gave His life to purchase freedom for the helpless, hopeless slave ; Who sleeps, an honored hero, in a loved and cherished grave ; His fame goes marching on. THE GREATEST DAY IN THE YEAR 67 Lincoln, noble, brave and daring, Lincoln, martyred by the erring, Lincoln, deathless laurels wearing, His fame goes marching on. Time. Birthday of Lincoln ! Memorable Day ! Well art thou crowned with laurel and with bay. Thou standest for devotion to the cause Of our fair Nation and its noble laws ! For bravery, for courage, for the might That comes by perseverance in the right ! (Lincoln's Birthday takes her appointed place, and as the next Day appears the Herald makes his announce- ment^) Herald. Valentine's Day ! Valentine's Day's Song {Air, "Vive I' Amour"). Oh, I am the best of all days of the year, I am Saint Valentine's Day. The lads and the lasses they all hold me dear, I am Saint Valentine's Dav. I smile on true lovers and lend them my aid, I send gentle missives coy hearts to persuade ; With roses and loves And posies and doves, I'm patron of gallant and maid. Yes, all the year round I'm the best day of all, I am Saint Valentine's Day. I bind loving hearts in affectionate thrall, I am Saint Valentine's Day. My messenger Cupid is skillful and fleet, He carries my missives sp tender and sweet ; 68 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS And shy maidens' eyes Grow bright with surprise As he lays his fair wares at their feet. Time. Valentine's Day, the lover's joy art thou ! Sacred to plighted troth and rapturous vow, The tender token and the fervent glance ; Valentine's Day, thou standest for romance. [Valentine s Day, smiling, takes her place with the others.} Herald. Washington's Birthday ! Washington's Birthday s Song [Air, "Gaily the Trouba- dour Touched His Guitar "). Noble George Washington, gallant and brave, Fighting the tyrant his country to save, Bringing the enemy sadly to grief: Washington, Washington, hail to the Chief! Honored George Washington, noble and great, Hero of battle field, hero of State, From the oppressor's yoke giving relief; Washington, Washington, hail to the Chief! Time. Washington's Birthday, great and strong thy claim ; Our hearts thrill at that loved and honored name ! The Nation's glory and the Nation's pride, Revered through our great Union, far and wide. P or glorious patriotism thou dost stand The noblest spirit of our noble land ! [Washington's Birthday glides softly to her seat among the others. Day and Night turn the Calendar to April.} THE GREATEST DAY IN THE YEAR 69 Herald (announcing). April Fool's Day ! (Enter the three little boys who represent All Fools'' Day.) April Fool's Day's Song (Air, "Three Little Maids From School "). Three little April Fools are we, Just as foolish as we can be, Playing tricks in merry glee, Three little April P'ools. One little fool is roguish Willie, One is Tom and one is Billie ; Full of fun and a little bit silly — Three little April Fools. Time. April Fool's Day, surely thou hast a place ! We love thy smiling, roguish, merry face ; Thou standest for good nature, mirth and fun, A day that should appeal to every one. All work and no play make a sad, dull boy ; April Fool's Day, thou addest to our joy ! (The three boys scamper to their places, laughing merrily as they go.) (Day and Night turn Calendar to May.) Herald. Memorial Day ! Memorial Day's Song (Air, "Marching Through Geor- Come and sing Memorial Day that honors our brave dead ; Come and sing the heroes who so nobly fought and bled; Come and lay the immortelles on every grassy bed, While we remember our soldiers. 70 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS We love, we love our heroes bold and brave; We love, we love each green and hallowed grave; We love our great and glorious flag, whose colors brightly wave Over the graves of our soldiers. Time, Memorial Day, thou'rt sad ; yet glorious too, Commemorating both the Gray and Blue. For Memory thou standest ! 'tis a claim That urges strongly thy fair right to fame. (Memorial Day glides sloivly to her place, and Day and Night turn the Calendar to June.) Herald. Commencement Day ! Commencement Day's Song (Air, "A Wandering Min- strel I"). Commencement Day am I, in cap and gown appareled, My college songs Fve caroled, My themes I have declaimed. Commencement Day am I, Fve my diplomas given, The college bonds Fve riven, Commencement Day am I. Time. Commencement Day, with outlook fair and bright, Toward a long future stretching out of sight, Ambition is thy standard ! To our youth Thou bringest glorious strivings toward the truth. (Commencement Day boius prettily and takes her place with the others. Night and Day turn the Calendar to THE GREATEST DAY IN THE YEAR 71 Herald {with a blare of his trumpet). Independence Day! Independence Day's Song. {This song is the " Star-Span- gled Banner ;" and may be sung as a solo and chorus, or as only a chorus, by all on the stage. The audience may rise and sing also.) Tune. Hail, Independence Day ! Our country's joy ! To man or woman or to girl or boy Thou bringest thrills of triumph, for we know Of our great liberty thou didst bestow ! May love of country ever hold us true To our dear flag, our own red, white and blue ! (Independence Day marches triumphantly into place, and Day and Night turn the Calendar to September.) Herald. Labor Day ! Labor Day's Song (Hymn tune, ^Work, for the Night is Coming "). Work, for the night is coming, Work through the sunny noon j Fill brightest hours with labor, Rest comes sure and soon. Give every flying minute Something to keep in store; Work, for the night is coming, When man works no more. Work, for the night is coming, Under the sunset skies, While their bright tints are glowing, Work, for daylight flies. 72 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Work till the last beam fadeth, Fadeth to shine no more; Work while the night is dark'ning, When man's work is o v er. Time, Grand Labor Day, thy claim is great indeed ! Work is a solace to our every need. Hail, Labor Day ! Symbol of noble work, May all obey thy law, and never shirk. {Labor Day sturdily marches to his place^ and the Calenday is turned to October. \ Herald. All Hallow Eve ! All Hallow Eve's Song {Air, "Then You'll Remember Me "). Though other Days to you have told Their tales of what befell, Their stories of brave deeds and bold. Of men who labored well; I tell to you of future fate That to your lot may fall ; For I am mystic Hallowe'en, And I can see it all ! Time. Weird Hallowe'en, beloved by all who peer Into the future. Thou'rt a mystic seer, And on thy bleak and cloudy Autumn date Thou standest for a dark, mysterious Fate. (All Halloiv Eve glides softly to her place and the Calendar is turned to November.) THE GREATEST DAY IN THE YEAR 73 Herald. Thanksgiving Day ! Thanksgiving Day's Song (Air, "Auld Lang Syne "). Thanksgiving Day, Thanksgiving Day, Is full of goodly cheer, And that is why we say it is The best day of the year. The best day of the year, my dear, The best day of the year; For all the family gathers 'round The board of festal cheer. Time, Thanksgiving Day, when thy dear name is told, Our thoughts fly backward to the days of old, When our forefathers for their harvest fair Showed forth the gratitude thou dost declare. {Thanksgiving Day goes smilingly to her place. The Cal- endar is turned to December, and a chime of bells is heard outside.} Herald (in triumphant accents, as the Spirit of Christ- mas enters). Christmas Day ! Christmas Days Song (Air, '■'•The Kerry Dancing"'). Oh, the dawning of Christmas morning ! Oh, the breaking of Christmas Day ! Oh, the greetings of loving voices, Full of happiness glad and gay ! "Merry Christmas, Merry Christmas! Peace on earth and good will to men ! " Thus the happy-hearted children Sing it o'er and o'er again ! Christmas happiness, Christmas blessedness Fill our hearts with joy ; Oh, the dawning of Christmas morning ! 74 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Oh, the breaking of Christmas Day ! Oh, the greetings of loving voices Full of happiness glad and gay ! Time. Hail, Christmas Day ! Spirit of Christmas, hail ! Well dost thou of the Days conclude the tale. What is the meaning of thy greetings gay ? We know they mean but love on Christmas Day. What means thy "Peace on earth, good will to men " ? 'Tis but a manifest of love again. And of the graces which our hearts may move, We know the greatest of all these is love ! Birthday of Love, incarnate and divine, Let all the other Days bow at thy shrine! Thee I award all honor, love and praise ; To thee I give the crown, O Day of Days. [The Herald brings the crown on a white satin cushion^ and, assisted by Day and Night, Father Time crowns Christmas Day.) Final Chorus {Air, "America"), Dear Christmas Day, to thee We gladly bow the knee In loving praise ; Spirit of love thou art, P^nshrined in every heart, To us thy joy impart, Greatest of Days. Birthday of love divine, All Christmas joys are thine, THE GREATEST DAY IN THE YEAR 75 Spirit of love; All joy to thee we owe, And may we ever know Peace and good will below Like that above. CURTAIN Is Santa Claus a Fraud A Christmas Play for School or Parlor Copyright, igog, by The Curtis Publishing Co. Is Santa Claus a Fraud CHARACTERS — Prisoner at the Bar — Santa Claus. Regulation Santa Claus garb of fur-trimmed tunic, long white beard, etc. Kind- ness and love are more marked in his face and demeanor than jollity and merriment. Judge — Young America. A boy of about fourteen, wearing a Judge's zvig and gown. Counsel for the Prosecution — A Bachelor. A tall man, of stern countenance, wearing ordinary citizen's dress. History. College cap and gown, with a long roll of parch- ment or a large volume. Father Time. White robe. Long white beard and fore- lock. Scythe and hour-glass. The Sandman. A brown robe and cowl like a monk's garb. He carries a bag of sand, and wears a poppy as a boutonniere. Pierrot. Conventional costume of white with black rosettes. Poetry. Young girl in filmy white. Wreath of laurel leaves on her head and gilt lyre in her hands. Tradition. Veiled figure clad in misty garb of thin, smoke- colored material. Much veiling drapery, and face only faintly discernible. Folk-Lore. Fantastic garb which combines hints of any or all nations, but not modern. Dame Rumor. Fantastic costume with " a thousand tongues " cut from red flannel and sewed all over her gown. Peaked hat and general witchlike effect. 79 80 CHARACTERS Usher. Picturesque costume, with cape slung from one shoulder, and scarf diagonally across breast. Mistletoe. A Herald in page's costume, carrying a trumpet with a banner hanging from it. He is dressed in white and gold, decorated with mistletoe. Doll. A pretty little girl dressed to represent a doll. A big shirred silk bonnet, socks, etc. She must walk stiffly like a jointed doll. One of the Chorus of Waits. He may be attired like a surpliced choir-boy or as one of the English Christmas waits. Saint Valentine. He is dressed in long, flowing robes which are decorated with red and gold hearts, darts, etc. He carries, suspended from his shoulder, a post-bag overflowing with valentines, and in one hand he has a stuffed dove. Holly. Like Mistletoe, except that he is in red and white decorated with holly. Chorus of Children. In nightgowns or little dressing gowns, with tumbled hair, and bare feet or bedroom slippers. Each carries a well-filled stocking. Counsel for the Defendant — a Father. A stout, jolly, kind-faced man, wearing ordinary citizen's dress, but of more informal type than the Bachelor's. Mother Goose. Quilted petticoat and pointed bodice. High-heeled red slippers. Peaked hat, many ribbons and orna- ments. Fairy. Usual spangled costume. Gilt crown and wand. Wings. Jack-o'-Lantern. Green " Robin Hood " costume, and large paper pumpkin made to fit over the head. Light of some kind inside it, if possible. May Queen. White frock garlanded with flowers. Crown of flowers and long scepter. Crier, Severe costume of black, with high, white collar. CHARACTERS 81 Goddess of Liberty. Regulation costume of Columbia* April Fool. Costume of court jester. He carries a " bauble" and wears a fool's cap and bells. Jack Frost. Red-cheeked boy in zuhtte, dotted with tufts of cotton wool and sprinkled with bits of silver tinsel. Is Santa Claus a Fraud SCENE. — A courtroom. The Judge's bench, with a canopy overhead, is at the back of the stage. On one side is the Jury box. On the other side the Counsel *s desks and the witness box. Seats may be arranged at convenience for the Choruses who enter, or they may sit in groups upon the floor, or stand. A prominent chair is placed for the Prisoner at the Bar, and his two Heralds, or Pages, stand, one at each side of him. ( Curtain rises, disclosing the Counsel writing at their desks, and the Usher and Crier standing about.') Crier (stalking up and doivn). Hear ye ! Hear ye ! One and all ! Gathered in this Justice Hall. Now the time and this the place For the trial of this case. Usker (pompously). And that there may be no mistake, I now will this announcement make : That Santa Claus, the Prisoner, Is accused of being a fake ! And so, in this great Justice Hall We'll settle the question once for all, Beyond all possible doubts and fears, By a Jury of his peers ! Crier. As everybody hears ! By a Jury of his peers ! 83 84 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Counsel for the Prosecution {as if soliloquizing). I am the Counsel for the Prosecution. I say this Santa Claus, as people call him, Is nothing but a fake and an impostor; A made-up name; a make-believe invention! And I shall prove this by a legal trial, And bring on him a well-deserved sentence. Counsel for the Defendant {in a happy, satisfied tone) I'm the Defendant's Counsel, And somehow, it seems to me, I'll prove that my learned opponent Is as wrong as he can be ! And Santa Claus, my client, From bonds shall soon be free ! Usher. The Prisoner shall now be tried, And by the verdict we'll abide. So bring the Judge and Jury in, And let the case begin. Crier. It is ten by all the clocks ! Jury ! Jury ! to your box ! {Enter Father Time.) Usher. What is your name ? Time. 'Tis Father Time. Usher. How old are you ? Time. I'm in my prime. Counsel for Prosecution. Can you unbiased judgment make As to whether Santa Claus is a fake? IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 85 Time. Ay, that I can ! My advancing years Make me the foremost of his peers. Counsel for Defendant. What mean you by that ? Tell us now, I pray, Who are the peers of Santa Claus to-day ? Time. We, the Jury, are the peers of Santa Claus because we are types or emblems, but we are not fakes ! Nor yet are we flesh-and-blood mortals. I, Father Time, represent the years as they roll, the centuries as they pass. I have the wisdom of the ages — past, pres- ent and future. I take my place. The Jury's Foreman, I. This case, I swear, we'll well and truly try. {Goes into Jury box and takes his place as Foreman.") Usher. Father Time, we welcome you ; Enter, enter, Number Two ! {Crier admits Mother Goose.) Mother Goose (courtesying to audience). Behold me, friends ! My name is Mother Goose. Am I a fake ? Not I ! You know me well. I am an emblem of the nursery ; Spirit of merry rhyme, of jingling verse, The laugh of children and the baby's prattle, Toot of a horn or shaking of a rattle. I have known Santa Claus for many years ; Well shall I grace the Jury of his peers ! {Goes proudly and with a triumphant air into the Jury box.) 86 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Usher. Merry Spirit of Nursery Lore, Hail to thee and thy precious store ! Crier. Next — upon the panel come ! 'Tis the Sandman — ho ! — ha ! — hum ! (Crier yawns prodigiously at sight of Sandman.) Usher (yawning also). The Sandman ! Sand/nan (mischievously scattering sand in eyes of both Counsel, who yawn and almost drop to sleep). I am the Sandman. Every night I come to the children with eyes so bright; And as they merrily romp or sing, Into their eyes my sand I fling. A handful here, and a handful there, As I see the children anywhere, Till their eyelids droop and their bright eyes blink, And they can't keep awake, though they wink and wink ! They yawn and stretch and nod their heads, And they're glad to tumble into their beds. Oh, the Sandman, Spirit of Sleep, am I, The soothing Spirit of Lullaby. (In a slow, drowsy manner he walks into the Jury box and almost falls asleep himself.) Usher (rubbing his eyes and waking up). Sweet Spirit of Sleep, right welcome be ; And take your place as Number Three. Prithee, now, let Number Four £iiter at our courtroom door. IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 87 Crier (announcing). Pierrot ! {Enter Pierrot, dancing gayly in. As he talks he pirouettes about the stage.) Pierrot. Hoop-la ! Tra-la-la ! Look at me ! The Spirit of Amusement see ! Ho, ho, ho ! and Tee-he-he ! Tra-la-la, la-la-la, tra-la-lee ! I am Pierrot, glad and gay, I dance a whirl and I trill a lay ! Around I go, On tippy-tiptoe ! Rollicking, frolicking Pierrot ! The Spirit of Laughter, Mirth and Fun, Who loves Pierrot ? {Pauses.) Every one ! (Claps his hands and then dances, still laughing, into the "Jury box.) Usher. Welcome to you and your smiling face, Pierrot, Pierrot, take your place ! Crier. Ah, who's this would enter now ? Maiden with the flower-decked brow, {Bowing low and announcing.) The Queen of May ' {Enter May ghteen, scattering flowers and waving her scepter.) May ghieen. I am the May Queen, Spirit of Spring ! Garlands of blossoms and buds I bring. 88 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Joy of the sunshine and balm of the showers, Song of the birds and scent of the flowers. I am the May Queen ! Queen of the year ! Surely of Santa Claus I am a peer. I'm not a mortal — nor am I a fake ! I am an emblem of spring for spring's sake. Spirit of Springtime, blithesome and gay; May I come in ? I am Queen o' the May ! Usher {bowing low before her). Queen of the May, your praises we sing, Honor the Jury box, Spirit of Spring ! {Queen of May goes to fury box ; then Usher, Crier and Counsel all shiver as ivith cold.) Crier. Br-r-rh ! but I feel a draught of cold air! Enter next Juryman. Well, I declare ! (Announcing ivith chattering teeth.) J-Jack F-Frost ! {Enter "Jack Frost.) "Jack Frost {capering about, and bloiving on his fingers^ OS if nearly frozen). I am Jack Frost, cold and crisp ! Elusive as a Will o' the Wisp. In my presence fingers tingle ! {Jury and all others blow on their tingling fingen 2nd rub their ears.) Snowballs fly, and sleighbells jingle, Children shout with voices merry, Cheeks grow red as rose or cherry. IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 89 Oh, the joys of Jack Frost's staying ! ' Snowballs, skating, coasting, sleighing ! I'm the Spirit of Winter, yes ! ' Peer of Santa Claus ? Well, I guess ! (As 'he goes to 'Jury box he throws snowballs made of cotton ■ wool at Usher and Counsel.) Usher. Right you are ! Jack Frost we greet ! In the Jury box take a seat. Crier. Ho ! My Gracious ! What is this ? Walk right in, my dainty Miss ! (Enter Doll, walking very stiffly and staring straight ahead.) Doll. I am the Spirit of Childhood Days, I am the Spirit of Childhood Ways. Whether I'm China or Bisque of the best j Whether I'm ragged or daintily dressed ; Whether of wax or of kid I am made ; Whether of worsted I'm knit or crocheted j Whether I open and shut my eyes; (Does this, doll-fashion.) Whether I'm tiny, or largest size ; Even of rubber or celluloid ; Even if broken and half destroyed ; Always the children take my part, Always I'm dear to the childish heart. Mine is the love, devotion and care Of affectionate children everywhere. The beautiful Spirit of Childhood am L May I be a Juryman ? Let me try ! 9o JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS {IValks stiffly to 'Jury box, and sits down after the manner of a jointed doll.} Usher. Walk in, Fair One with Golden Locks; Take your seat in. the Jury box. Crier. My goodness me ! I'm surely scared ! Who are you, sir ? How have you dared ? [Enter fack-o '-Lantern with a mad rush.} Jack-o'-Lantern. I'm Jack-o'-Lantern ! Sure, you've seen The mystic Spirit of Hallowe'en. Black Cats and Witches and big-eyed Owls Go with me on my midnight prowls! I bob for apples, and corn I pop, And melted lead into water drop. I roast the apples and chestnuts, too; Mad pranks are mine, ere I am through ! Hints of the Future from signs I glean, I'm the Mystic Spirit of Hallowe'en ! [lie goes to fury box with stealthy steps and uttering hol- low groans.) Usher. Welcome, good Jack-o'-Lantern. Pray Use well your mystic lore to-day. Crier {clasping his hands over hi; heart and looking senti- mental'). Ah, here comes Saint Valentine ! Lovers worship at his shrine. {Enter Saint Valentine.) IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 91 Saint Valentine. Aye, Saint Valentine am I ; As the years go flitting by, To fond lovers' vows I listen, Beating hearts and eyes that glisten; Roses red and love knots blye, Tender promises and true, Rings and posies, Rhymes and roses, Hearts and darts and loves and doves, Faded blossoms, cherished gloves — Those who love, and those alone These fair properties may own. Spirit of True Lovers' Vows, 'Tis their Patron Saint who bows. (Bows elaborately and then proceeds with stately step to the Jury box.} Usher. Welcome here, Saint Valentine ; To your place as Number Nine. Crier. Who's this being, small and bright? Come in, little, tricksy sprite. {Enter Fairy, waving star-tipped wand.) Fairy. A Fairy I — no mortal ; I hovered near your portal, And gayly flying round and round I heard a busy, buzzing sound, 1 A sort of humming chatter. To see what was the matter, 9? JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS I wafted downward to this place, And now, they say, I'm on this case ! I'm the Spirit of Fairyland, you see, So they say this Jury's the place for me \ (She hovers over to the "Jury box?) Usher, Indeed it is, dear Fairy, And we are glad — oh, very ! — To our Jury box to welcome you, One*of our Twelve, so good and true. Crier. Well, who is this merry chap ? Jingling bells and motley cap. {Enter April Fool, capering about, and springing c red balloon or other toy from an elastic cord.} : i April Fool. I'm April Fool ! You should have guessed Spirit of the Harmless Jest. Oh, the merry jokes I spring, Till I make my capbells ring 1 All the year my plans I make, And with silent laughter shake. First of April. Then's the fun ! Spirit of Jesting ? I'm the one ! (He frolicks to his seat in the Jury box, teasing the others as he goes.} Usher. April Fool, thou merry guest, A place for you among the. rest ! IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 93 Crier {thrilled with admiration). But who comes hefe ? A goddess great! Known and beloved in every state. Ho! ring the bells, and tune the pipes, We welcome now the Stars and Stripes ! {Enter Goddess of Liberty, to patriotic music if possible.) Goddess of Liberty { proudly). I am the Goddess of Liberty ! Yea, Spirit of Freedom, I'm living to-day In the hearts of all citizens loyal and true, Who honor and cherish the Red, White and Blue! A fake? V" o dare say it ? A mortal? Oh, no! But real an^ living in warm hearts that glow With the Patriot Spirit, with love of their land, 'Neath the Star-Spangled Banner united we stand ! ( Waving the fag she fnarches tc the fury box and sits down, draping the fag about her.) Usher. Hurrah for the Goddess of Liberty ! ' Then For the Spirit of Freedom, hurrah once again ! {All cheer.) Usher {after counting the fury). The Jury is assembled, 'Tis very well selected ; We now await our honored Judge, Well-loved and much respected. 94 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Crier {in stentorian tones). Silence in the Courthouse ! The Judge is drawing near! In all the dignity of state His Honor will appear ! All. Let him appear ! {Enter Judge.) Crier {announcing). His Honor, the Judge ! Young America ! All. Hail to the Judge ! Hail, Young America ! Judge {very pompous and dignified, but with a boyish twinkle in his eye). Hello yourself ' All. Hello ! {Judge walks with stately strides, and takes his scat on the bench.) Chorus {Air, "Auld Lang Syne "). Behold our Judge, in gown and wig, Our Young America; And though you are not very big, We do you homage, sir ! {All boiv to him. Judge gravely boius.) You are not very wise, my dear, You are not very old ; But you've a mind that's bright and clear, And you've a heart of gold. Soto by Judge {Air, "Ruler of the ghteens Navee," from "' r> inafore "). I'm Young America, and I'm the Judge, And from my bench I will not budge IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 95 Till we settle this question on the spot, If Santa Claus is a fake or not ! All. If Santa Claus is a fake or not ! Judge. We'll hear what the witnesses have to say, And reach a decision without delay. All. We'll hear what the witnesses have to say, And reach a decision without delay. Judge {second stanza). Now, Young America everywhere Is always just and always fair; So we'll hear all the evidence pro and con And all the observations that are made thereon. All. And all the observations that are made thereon. Judge. And thus the truth we can soon find out Beyond the slightest shadow of a doubt, doubt, doubt. All. And thus the truth we can soon find out Beyond the slightest shadow of a doubt, doubt, doubt. Judge. Now the trial will begin ; Let the Prisoner be brought in ! Usher. The Prisoner comes ! We wait him here ! Crier. Silence, . ! Prisoner, appear ! {Enter Procession escorting Santa Claus. First enter two Heralds. They advance to front of stage, and blow their trumpets, to herald the arrival of Santa Claus.) 96 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Duet by Holly and Mistletoe (Air, "Annie Rooney "). Together. We are Santa's Heralds, oh ! Holly (bowing). I am Holly ! Mistletoe (bowing). Mistletoe ! Together. 'Tis our duty trumpets to blow ! Santa Claus is coming ! What, ho! What, ho! (Heralds march to both ends of stage, in front, and remain there until Prisoner appears.) (Enter Chorus of Christmas Waits. They chant the fol- lowing Old English Carol, or any modern Christmas Carol that may be chosen.) God rest you, merry gentlemen, Let nothing you dismay, For Jesus Christ, our Savior, Was born upon this day To save us all from Satan's povv'r When we were gone astray. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy ! For Jesus Christ, our Savior, Was born on Christmas Day. In Bethlehem in Jewry, This blessed Babe was born, And laid within a manger Upon this blessed morn ; The which His mother, Mary, Nothing did take in s *orn. Oh, tidings of comfort and joy ! Por Jesus Christ, our Savior, Was born on Christmas Day. IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 97 {The Waits , after singings go to the places assigned them and remain on the staged) {Enter Children with Christmas stockings.') Chorus {Air, "For He's a Jolly Good Fellow "). Last night when we were sleeping Some one came, softly creeping, All sorts of goodies heaping Into our stockings here. See in our stockings here, All sorts of Christmas cheer ! Oh, get up, 'tis Christmas morning, Get up, 'tis Christmas morning, Get up, 'tis Christmas morning, And Santa Claus is here ! {The Children are half sleepy, but rouse each other to look. at their toys, etc. After singing the Children take the places assigned to them and remain on the stage.) {Sleighbells are heard outside, snowballs are thrown in at the door.) {Enter Santa Claus in a bustle of cheery welcome. His Heralds fly to meet him.) Chorus {by Christmas Waits and Children with stock- ings, as they gather around Santa Claus. Air, "Jingle Bells "). Waits and Children. Jingle Bells ! Jingle Bells ! Santa Claus is here ! Oh, what fun when Christmas comes, The best day of the year. 98 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS All on Stage. Jingle Bells ! Jingle Bells ! Jingle all the way. Santa Claus is sure to bring A merry Christmas Day. {Repeat ad lib. During the Chorus Santa Claus has stood in the center of the stage, smiling benignly.} Solo by Santa Claus {Air, " Captain Jinks "). I'm Santa Claus, and I've come to stay, I wish you Merry Christmas Day ; I'm not afraid of what " they say," For I'm Santa Claus, as ever. And if they say I am a fake, Me ! A fake ! {Laughing.) Ho ! A fake ! {Laughing.) They make a very big mistake ! For I'm Santa Claus, as ever. I'm Santa Claus, and I've come to stay, I bring you Merry Christmas Day, I'm not afraid of what "they say " ! For I'm Santa Claus, as ever ! {Santa Claus pats and caresses some of the children, then they return to their places and he takes his place at the bar.) Counsel for Prosecution {gravely). Prisoner, this accusation I must make; They say, oh, Santa Claus, you are a fake. Santa Claus {laughing). A fake ! I ? Santa Claus ? Ho ! ho ! But that must be a joke, I know ! Counsel for Defendant. No joke at all ! IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 99 Santa Claus. I have no fears, Tried by a Jury of my Peers. (Santa Claus bows smilingly to Jury.) Judge. What is your name ? Santa Claus. Santa Claus. Judge. And a jolly name, too ! It makes my heart feel all merry and Christmassy. How does it affect you, children ? Waits and Children. Oh, it makes us feel happy and jolly and Christmassy ! One Child. And good. Another. And kind. Another. And loving. Another. It makes me feel as if I wanted to give things to everybody. Judge. Yes, that's the way it makes me feel, just to hear the name of Santa Claus. Counsel for Prosecution. But this trial must proceed without further comment on the Prisoner's name. Judge (sighing). It's a very trying situation. Santa Claus. You're not half so much tried as I am. Judge. You see I'm so awf'ly fond of you, Santa Claus, that I hate to have the trial go on, for fear you'll be pronounced guilty. You see I love you. Children. We love him, too ! Jury. We love him, too ! Counsel for Prosecution (to Judge). Your Honor, do not be biased by undue affection. Remember that Love is blind. ioo JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Counsel for Defendant. Your Honor, do not be biased by undue legality. Remember that Justice is blind. fudge. I seem to be blind in both eyes. Prisoner at the Bar, the eye of Justice being blind I cannot see your guilt ; the eye of Love being blind I cannot see my way clear to exonerating you. Therefore I cannot pronounce sentence. Counsel for Prosecution. Your early education must have been neglected ! Sentence is not a hard word to pronounce; I'll pronounce it for you. fudge. Not much you won't ! You can't pronounce it right yourself ! But I can't make any more speeches. I pass the make over to the witnesses. Crier. Hear ye ! Hear ye ! One and all Gathered in this Justice Hall ! Let the witnesses appear. We their evidence will hear, Witness con and witness pro; Thus the truth we'll shortly know. All. Thus the truth we'll shortly know. Counsel for Prosecution. I am the Counsel for the Prosecution; I call, as witness for my cause, Dame Rumor. "Judge, Is the lady present ? Usher. Your Honor, she is always present. Crier. Dame Rumor, now I call ; Enter the Justice Hal). (Enter Dame Rumor.) IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 101 Dame Rumor {talking fast). Although my thousand tongues are all a-chatter, I have come here to witness in this matter. As sure as I stand here upon this roster, The Prisoner's a fake and an impostor. Children. No! No!! Dame Rumor. He is not real, he is not true ! Children. Neither are you ! Dame Rumor. He is not what he seems to be. yury. Neither are we ! Crier. Silence in Court ! Counsel for Prosecution (frowning at the Children, who are stirring about and whispering in their indignation). Those little ones annoy me, I must own ! I am a bachelor and live alone. I have no home, no fireside and no children, And so those little voices are bewilderin'. (Murmurs, '•'•Poor man ! Poor man I ") Crier. All children leave the courtroom ! fudge. No ! I forbid it ! Children, stay where you are. Solo and Chorus (Air, '•'•Laddie "). Solo by fudge. Oh, Santa's the friend of the children, As every one knows to-day ; He fills all our stockings on Christmas Eve, Then silently slips away He brings us our Christmas trees aiso, With presents for every child; And when Rumor accused him of being a fake Old Santa Claus only smiled. 102 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Chorus by Children. Oh, Santa, Santa, Santa, Oh, tell us it isn't true ! For years and years We have been your dears, And we've always believed In you ! And every year You bring Christmas cheer, And we've always believed in you ! Santa Claus {smiling kindly at the Children). Not guilty ! Dame Rumor {angrily). Believe him not ! There is no such person as Santa Claus ! Counsel for Prosecution. My witness has well spoken ! The voice of Rumor is everywhere heard and believed. Repeated by her thousand tongues, who can doubt the truth of her statements ? Your Honor will please sen- tence the Prisoner at once. Counsel for Defendant. Stay ! Not so fast ! These are but the beginnings ! And, if you please, I now will take my innings. I'm the Defendant's Counsel. By your leave, A hearing our side also must receive. I call my witnesses to testify, And on their honesty you may rely. Judge. Well, yes, I rather guess the other side Must have a hearing ere this case is tried. Call in the witnesses as quick as wink ! The Prisoner'll be convicted — I don't think ! IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 103 Usher. For the defense, first witness now appear ! Crier. History ! Come ! For you are summoned here ! {Enter History.) History {with scholarly effect, looking over roll or book). I am History. I record Kings that reigned and tribes that warred, Thrones that fell and States that rose, Victories over mighty foes, Heroes faithful to their trust, Traitors groveling in the dust. And upon my rolls, forsooth, Is recorded naught but truth. So, when on my trusty screed Tales of Santa Claus you read, 'Tis a proof, as you may see, Of his truth and verity. Not a fake, and not a man, But, since Christendom began, Type of Charity and Love Shown on earth, but born above, Manifest in kindly cheer At this season of the year. Loving heart and loving mind, Willing gifts and greetings kind; If these in your heart you see, You a Santa Claus may be. Judge. Jurymen, this sounds all right. Is the next one yet in sight ? (History takes seat and remains on stage.) < ( 104 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Crier. Ho ! Tradition, prithee come ! Add your witness to the sum. {Enter Tradition.) Tradition. I am Tradition. Look on me, Though my face you vaguely see ; Know, then, 'tis the truth it saith, Sworn to by the ages' faith. From long past my legends tell Santa Claus's story well: Not a man, nor yet a myth, Mortals' kin, nor fairies kith ; But the everlasting cheer In our hearts from year to year, Blossoming bright on Christmas Day, Spirit of the Glad and Gay. Judge. That is all right ! Tradition, you're a brick ! Call the next witness, Crier; call her quick! (Tradition goes and sits beside History.) Crier. Poetry, come ! His Honor summons you ; Let us now hear your testimony true. (Enter Poetry.) Poetry (touching her lyre as she speaks). I am Poetry, sweet and fair, Noble numbers are my share ; Tuneful harps by me are strung, Golden strains by me are sung. On my pages you may read Songs of Santa Claus. Indeed, IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 105 Many of my fairest lays Tell of him and sing his praise. Poetry thus can witness give, Ever Santa Claus shall live. Judge. Poetry, I'm fond of you at last ! I have misjudged you in the past. I didn't like you overmuch, But now— I think you beat the Dutch ! Your testimony is O. K. ! Bring the next witness, Crier, pray. {Poetry goes and sits with the others.) Crier. Folk-Lore, we wait your pleasure. Pray appear. Your testimony may be useful here. (Enter Folk-Lore.) Folk-Lore. Culled from many scenes and ages Folk-Lore shows delightful pages. Santa Claus ? Oh, yes, he's there; He's all over — everywhere ! In all nations 'tis the same, Santa Claus is but the name For the Christmas Spirit's cheer Found in every parent dear;. Every heart and every breast, North and South and East and West. Call it any name you will, 'Tis the Christmas Spirit still. {Folk-Lore goes and sits by the others.) 106 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Judge. Folk-Lore, that's good news you tell. I don't know you very well, But I think I'll study you Almost the next thing I do. Now the witnesses are heard ; Prisoner, speak the final word. Are you guilty, sir, or not ? Tell us that — 'twill help a lot ! Chorus (vfir, " Kathleen Mavourneen "). Jury. Santa Claus, Santa Claus, speak for yourself, sir ! The voice of Dame Rumor is heard in the land. They say you're a fraud, and they say you're a falsehood. Oh, Santa Claus, tell them they don't under- stand. Tell them, we pray you, the truth of the matter, Oh, tell them you're real, and honest and true; Explain to them fully the dear Christmas Spirit, And then they'll believe in you, Santa Claus, too ! Explain to them fully the dear Christmas Spirit, And then they'll believe in you, Santa, dear Santa ! Judge. That's the ticket ! Speak up, Santa Claus. It's your turn now. Tell us the straight of it. Sole (Jir, "My Lady Lou "). Santa Claus. In spite of all Dame Rumor would accuse me, I'm Santa Claus, I'm Santa Claus. In spite of all the people who abuse me, IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 107 I tell you I am Santa Claus. Although they say I am a false pretender, I'm Santa Claus, I'm Santa Claus. And I avow that I need no defender, For I'm truly Santa Claus. In the heart of girl or boy Who's willing to distribute Christmas joy, There I will always dwell, And this the truth I tell, That's the Christmas Spirit — Santa Claus ! Santa Claus, the name we give, To all the loving impulses that live In every kindly heart That's glad to do its part Toward the Spirit of the Christmastime. Judge. Hurray for you, Santa Claus ! I think we may now hand the case over to the Jury. Take your time, Jury, and pick out a verdict, although you haven't a large choice. You must say either " guilty" or " not guilty," you know. Chorus (Jir, " Thou Hast Learned to Love Another"}. Children. Don't you find the Prisoner guilty ! You'll be sorry if you do ! Who would fill our little stockings If you prove he isn't true? If you say there is no Santa All our little hearts will break ! We won't let you find him guilty, Santa Claus is not a fake ! (They stamp their feet and shake their fists at the Jury.) 108 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Crier. The Jury will now announce the verdict, Jury, announce ! Chorus {Air, "Marching Through Georgia "). 'Jury {rising to their feet). Hooray ! Hooray ! The Prisoner is free ! Hooray! Hooray! Our verdict this shall be; He is the Christmas Spirit — so he's not a fake, vou see. This is our verdict — Not Guilty ! {Chorus as above, repeated by all on stage \ Solo {Air, "Little Old Log Cabin in the Lane "). Judge. At last I understand it — cX last it's clear to me, And I think I should have known it from the start ! No pretender, no impostor, no fake or fraud is he, He's just the Christmas Spirit in your heart. And you may call him Kriss Kringle, You may call him Santa Claus, Saint Nicholas, or any other name. Or your father, or your mother, Or your uncle, or your aunt, But he's just the Christmas Spirit, all the same ! Chorus {Air, "Old Dog Tray "). All on Stage. Santa Claus, the Christmas Spirit, Rumor can't drive him away. He's loving and he's kind, And you'll never, never find A better friend on Christmas Day ! IS SANTA CLAUS A FRAUD 109 {Jll gather around Santa Claus, the Children clamber into his arms, and the older ones shake hands or clap him on the shoulder.') Final Chorus (Jir y " Tammany "). All. Santa Claus ! Santa Claus ! That's the name we love the best, That's what makes our Christmas blest ; Santa Claus ! Santa Claus ! Chustmas Spirit ! Christmas Spirit ) San-.a Claus ! ! CURTAIN A Substitute for Santa Claus A Christmas Play Copyright, igo4, by Associated Sunday Magazines A Substitute for Santa Claus CHARACTERS • Father Time. An old man dressed as he is often repre- sented in pictures. His hour-glass and scythe are in full view. y Santa Claus. A jolly old man, with white hair and beard, wearing a fur-trimmed dressing-gown and picturesque, tasseled nightcap. y St. Valentine. An old man dressed in flowing white robes, decorated with red-and-gold hearts and darts. He car- ries a bag of valentines and a huge quill-feather pen. •Jack Frost. A boy attired in white, glistening with dia- mond-dust or tinsel, and sprinkled with bits of cotton-wool which represent snow. ^Spring. A young girl dressed in pale green, with waving golden hair, wreathed with flowers. She carries a garland of blossoms. s Fourth of July. A jolly little boy dressed in red, white and blue, and carrying a drum, trumpet and flag. ( Or this character may be a young girl dressed as the " Goddess of Liberty .") < New Year. A small child, dressed in white, with the fig- ures of the date in gold conspicuously displayed. s April Fool. A boy or young man wearing the garb of a court jester ; doublet, cap and bells, etc. He carries a bauble. "3 A Substitute for Santa Claus SCENE. — Father Time's office. It is furnished with desks, tables, globes, astronomical instruments, etc. On the wall are maps and charts of earth and sky, clocks, barometers, calendars, etc. Time — Christmas Eve. Father Time ( yawning as he awakes from a nap). Well, I declare, it's growing late — It's twenty minutes after eight, And Santa Claus is not here yet ! I wonder if he could forget That he must go to earth to-night. 'Twould leave me in a sorry plight If he should fail the girls and boys Whose empty stockings wait for toys, (y/ knock is heard.) Ah, there he is ! Come in, I pray ; Explain the cause of your delay ! (Enter Santa Claus, pushed by an attendant in a wheeled chair. His foot is swathed in great bandages.) Santa Claus. Oh, Father Time, alack, alack ! I have a sudden, bad attack Of gout. And I can't make to night My trip to earth. Oh, what a plight ! I'm in such pain ! Oh, ouch ! Oh, ooh ! What shall we do ? What shall we do ? 1*5 n6 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Father Time. Dear Santa Claus, alas, alas ! I've feared that this might come to pass; For you and I are growing old, And cannot stand the frost and cold ; But one thing's certain : I must send Somebody in your place, my friend. Santa Claus. Yes, do send some one, saint or elf; But stay — why can't you go yourself? Father Time. Oh, I can't go ! This is, you see, The busiest time of year for me. I have to look up dates and days And start the seasons on their ways. But minutes fly ! 'Tis almost nine — I'll try to get St. Valentine. {Calls on telephone.} Hello, St. Valentine, hello ! I'm Father Time. Say, can't you go To earth to-night ? Stockings to fill In place of Santa Claus, who's ill With an acute attack of gout ; And, as you know, you're just about His size and shape ; so none will know The difference. Oh, please do go ! What ? You'll come over ? All right, fly ! Because it's getting late. Good-bye. {To Santa Claus.) ( Han S s "* receivtr ) St. Valentine will be just right To play your part on earth to-night. If you'll lend him your cap and coat No one the difference will note. A SUBSTITUTE FOR SANTA CLAUS 117 Santa Claus. Of course they won't ! They're not awake When I my round of visits make. And not a person ever sees Me decorate the Christmas trees. {Knock is heard.) Father Time. Come in, St. Valentine; we need Your services, we do, indeed ! {Enter St. Valentine.) St. Valentine. Good-evening, Father Time. I'm here. You called me. Santa Claus, what cheer? Santa Claus. Small cheer indeed ! Small cause for mirth. I cannot make my trip to earth ; I've such a bad attack of gout I cannot think of going out. Father Time. And so, if you will have the grace To go in Santa Claus's place — St. Valentine. Oh, dear, oh, dear ! I'd gladly go ; But really, Father Time, you know I am so busy writing lines And verses for my valentines, And it's so hard to make them rhyme, I simply cannot take the time To do a bit of outside work Unless my own I seem to shirk. n8 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Father Time. Yes, yes, St. Valentine, I know You are too busy now to go. Santa Claus. But something must be done ! Oh, dear! I was so well and strong last year ! 'Twas such a merry Christmas Eve ! In every home my gifts I'd leave — But come, come, Time ; don't sit there mute ! We'll have to find a substitute. Father Time. Ah, that's more easily said than done. I cannot think of any one. {The door bursts open and "Jack Frost comes running in.) Jack Frost. Heyday ! What ho ! My friends, good cheer ! You seem to be in trouble here. Father Time. We are. "Jack Frost. Well, can't I help you out ? What ails you, Santa Claus ? Santa Claus. The gout. And I can't go to earth to-night. Jack Frost. I'll go for you. Father Time. Nay, gentle sprite. You're willing, I've no doubt; but still I do not think you'd fill the bill. A SUBSTITUTE FOR SANTA CLAUS 119 'Jack Frost. Oh, yes, I can ! Pray let me go. This pure-white rohe of frost and snow Will look like Santa's furry coat — I'm sure the difference none will note. And while the children are asleep Down chimneys I will softly creep. Santa Claus. Perhaps it might do. Father Time. No-sir-ee ! It wouldn't do at all ! You see If down a chimney Jack should climb He'd melt away in just no time. St. Valentine. If through a window he made way The room he'd chill, till, I daresay, The little ones with cold would shake, And very likely they would wake. Jack Frost. But, Time, I want to go so much ! Father Time. I know it. But your frosty touch Would spoil the gifts. The fruits so nice Would turn to little lumps of ice. Santa Claus. Well, Father Time, it seems to me That Spring a substitute might be. She's young and clever, and I think The little ones she might hoodwink. 120 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS If they should waken from a nap, And see her in my coat and cap They'd think, of course, that it was I. St. Valentine. At any rate, I'd let her try. Father Time {calling). What, ho, without ! Come, Spring, I say ! We want you. Quickly come, I pray. {Enter Spring.) Spring (petulantly). Oh, leather Time, why did you call ? You spoiled a lovely game of ball ! I made a cowslip ball, you see. The May Queen brought the flowers to me, And we were just about to play. Why did you call me, anyway ? Father Time. Tut, tut, my child ! Don't be so cross. I'm sure you'll not regret your loss When you hear what we've planned for you. You're to be Santa Claus. Spring. Pooh-pooh ! I couldn't think of doing that ! I am not old, white-haired or fat. St. Valentine. But you can wear his cap and wig. Santa Claus. And make yourself 100k old and big. A SUBSTITUTE FOR SANTA CLAUS 121 'Jack Frost. Oh, Spring, it will be lots of fun. I wish I could have been the one ! Spring. I wish you could, for I won't go ! I love old Santa Claus, you know. Santa Claus. I'm sure you do, my gentle Spring. Spring. But I can't do that sort of thing. {Fourth of July comes bounding in blowing a trumpet!) Fourth of July. Hooray, hooray J I'll go ! Send me ! I'll decorate a Christmas tree ! I'll fill the stockings, and I'll blow A stirring blast where'er I go ! {Blows trumpet.) Father Time. Be quiet, boy! 'Twould never do To send out such a scamp as you. Fourth of July. Oh, Father Time, the girls and boys Will like my racket and my noise — The celebration I will make. Santa Claus. Fourth of July, for goodness sake, Be still a minute ! Let me think. Fourth of July. Dear Santa Claus, quick as a wink I'll fly to earth. Please let me go — I'm most as big as you, you know. 122 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS (Fourth of "July struts proudly about. Enter New-Tear. He climbs upon Santa Claus's knee.) New- Tear. P'ease, Master Santa, I'm your man. I want to help you if I tan. I am not very bid, I know ; But if you'll let me, I will do. Santa Claus. Why, Baby, you're too small, I fear. You couldn't drive eight big reindeer ! New- Tear. Oh, yes, I tould. " Do long ! " I'd say, An nen I dess dey'd trot away. Father Time. I guess they would. But Sir New- Year, You've got to go next week, my dear. Then horns will blow and bells will ring; But for the present take him, Spring. (Spring takes little New-Tear in her arms.) Father Time. I'm at my wits' end ! Hear me now — I'll make, and I will keep this vow : Whoever next here shows his face Shall go in Santa Claus's place ! Whoever next comes in that door Shall go at once ! I'll wait no more. Santa Claus. And I'll stand by you. Though it be One who ne'er saw a Christmas tree. (Jingling bells are heard, and April Fool comes dancing in.) A SUBSTITUTE FOR SANTA CLAUS 123 April Fool. Heyday ! Good luck, my masters all ! I've come to make a social call. Father Time. Have you indeed ? Well, you'll soon find That you will have to change your mind. April Fool. I don't mind that. My mind's so poor I'd change with any one, I'm sure. Santa Claus. Now, do be serious, Fool, dear. I can't go on my trip this year. Father Time. His foot's so swelled, he cannot budge. April Fool. Foot ? It's an acher, I should judge i St. Valentine. Be quiet, Fool ! So you must go To earth to-night. April Fool. Oh-ho ! Oh-ho ! I'll go. I'm glad to get the chance. I'll lead those little ones a dance ! Santa Claus. No, April Fool, you must be good, And do exactly as you should. You'll wear my funy cap and cloak, A long white beard — April Fool. Oh, what a joke ! 124 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Father Time. No, Fool, it is no joke at all. At every house you'll have to call, Fill up the stockings, trim the trees. Santa Glaus. And do it properly, Fool, please ! April Fool. My nature is a foolish one — I have to have my jokes and fun. Father Time. Come, come, get ready, April Fool ! It's no joke to be Lord of Yule. {Father Time and St. Valentine bring Santa Claus's furred coat and cap and put them on April Fool: also a long white beard, false face and other disguises.} April Fool {aside to Spring). Oh, Spring, what lots of fun 'twill be To have a Christmas ruled by me ' I'll mix up all the children's toys; Give drums to girls, and dolls to boys; I'll give the young men parasols; And to the old men black-lace shawls; The ladies shall have jumping-jacks; And babies packs of carpet-tacks ; And every candy, fruit or sweet Shall be the kind they cannot eat — A sugary outside, all filled full Of pepper, wood, or cotton-wool ! He-he ! Ho-ho ! What fun 'twill be! They'll think I'm Santa Claus, you see. Spring. Oh, April Fool, I think that's mean ! A SUBSTITUTE FOR SANTA CLAUS 125 April Fool. But you don't know, Spring; you're so green. Spring. Maybe I am. But those bad pranks Would get from Santa Claus no thanks. April Fool. Oh, I think Santa understands ; He's put the matter in my hands — And so, of course, he'll have to take The sort of Christmas that I make. (Meantime Santa Claus has risen from bis chair and is bus- tling about. He takes the coat and cap from April Fool.) Santa Claus. No use. No use ! I can't stay here. I must dispense that Christmas cheer. I must attend to it myself; I can't be laid upon the shelf. My foot is better, and I know 'Twill soon be well. I've got to go ! Father Time. Good for you, Santa ! Go, my friend. I really couldn't bear to send Another in your place. St. Falentine. Nor I ! Spring. I'll help you, Santa Claus. fack Frost. Now fly! It's getting late. [Exit Santa Claus. April Fool (appearing rather crestfallen). I want to go ! 126 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS "Jack Frost. I too, but then we can't, you know. April Fool. Perhaps they thought I'd play some jokes Upon the Merry Christmas folks. Jack Frost. They thought I was too young and cold ; Perhaps I'll go when I get old. Jack Frost and April Fool {together). Let's try to be real nice and good, And do exactly as we should. And then we may grow up to be Two Santa Clauses — you and me ! CLRTAIN The Day Before Christmas A Christmas Play Copyright, igoj, by The Curtis Publishing Co. The Day Before Christmas CHARACTERS Spirit of Christmas. Lovely girl, with long, light hair. White robe, crown of stars, and wings if possible. She should carry a gilt pasteboard harp, or a long, slender trumpet. Hygeia. Garb of a trained nurse. She carries bottles of physic, a hot-water bag, spoon and glass, etc. Aurora Borealis. Robe of rainbow colors, decked with gilt stars. Crescent moon in her hair. She carrier a chart or map of the polar regions. Diana. Short kilt costume of hunter's green, with deerskin draped over one shoulder. She carries bow and arrow. Flora, Goddess of Botany. White robe, trimmed with gar- lands of flowers. Miss Smith. Teacher. Ordinary dress. Man in Moon. Grotesque costume of white, with a mask made like a full moon. Jack of All Trades. Dress like a carpenter's, with apron and paper cap. He carries tools or implements of any sort, also a snow-shovel. Jack Frost. A chubby, red-cheeked boy, dressed in white and white fur, with frost represented by silver powder or tinsel and tufts of cotton wool to look like snow. Lord of Misrule. Dress like a Court Jester. He car- ries a jester's bauble, or any tinkling toys. He must frolic and romp about continually. 129 i 3 o CHARACTERS Euclid. College gown and mortar-board. He carries geometrical instruments and wears spectacles. Father Time. Classic robe. Long white beard and fore- lock. Scythe and hour-glass. Santa Claus. Furred robe, peaked cap. Tommy, Susie, Jennie, Willie and others, pupils. Ordi- nary school dress. The Day Before Christmas SCENE. — A schoolroom. Class in geography. Miss Smith. Children, behave ! You must be quiet ! You know that if you break the rule, And keep up such a noise and riot, I shall detain you after school. Tommy. Yes, but, Miss Smith, to-morrow's Christmas ! We're going to have plum pudding — and Miss Smith. That will do, Tommy ! What's an isthmus ? Tommy. A narrow neck of waterland. Miss Smith. Wrong ; go down foot ! Next child may answer. Willie (raising his band}. Please, teacher, may I get a drink ? Miss Smith. No! Do your problems if you can, sir. Susie (raising her hand). Miss Smith, Tom's gone and took my ink ! Miss Smith. Children, you should be sweet and loving, And treat each other courteously. 131 i 3 2 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS 'Jennie. Teacher, can't Willie Green stop shoving ? He's torn my apron ! Only see ! Miss Smith (exasperated}. I'll punish every single scholar ! Oh, dear, why do you act this way ? Tommy. Honest, Miss Smith, I've got to holler, Because to-morrow's Christmas Day ! All the Pupils (jumping around and pounding on their desks). Hooray, Hooray, For Christmas Day. Of course we have to act this way. (In the midst of the general pandemonium enter Santa Claus.) Santa Claus. Well, well, what's all this noise and rout ? What's all this hue and cry about ? I've just stopped in to make a call ; A Merry Christmas to you all ! Chorus of Children (Jir, "Maryland, My Maryland"). This is the man of whom we've heard, Santa Claus, our Santa Claus ; His name our dearest household word, Santa Claus, our Santa Claus. Behold his cap and coat befurred, Which he about him close did gird, As swift his reindeer on he spurred, Santa Claus, our Santa Claus. THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS 133 We welcome vou with joy sincere, Santa Claus, our Santa Claus ; We're very glad to see you here, Santa Claus, our Santa Claus. Because we know, when you appear At this best time of all the year, You bring all sorts of Christmas cheer, Santa Claus, our Santa Claus. Santa Claus. My children, dear, I thank you for your welcome hearty ; What have we here ? Is this, forsooth, a Christmas party ? Tommy. No, Santa Claus, alas, alas, 'Tis but our daily lesson class. Santa Claus {looking around). Oh, ho, I see, it ; s a school — Well, you've no wish to be a fool ? Susie. No, no; not that ; but just to-day, Instead of tasks we'd rather play. Miss Smith. But, Santa Claus, of course — you see — ~ Santa Claus. Of course I do — leave all to me, My dear Miss Smith. I think it best That you should just go home and rest. Pray take your bonnet from the shelf, To-day I'll teach this school myself! Pupils. Good-bye, Miss Smith ! Miss Smith. Good-bye ! 134 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Santa Claus. Good-bye To your seats, children ; come, be spry ! What lesson's next? H'm, let me see — Tommy. Please, sir, the class in botany. Santa Claus. Botany, eh ? Well, I'll admit I can't teach botany a bit. But I'll call some one to my aid ; Ho ! Goddess Flora ! Lovely maid ! {Enter Flora.) Flora. You called me. Ami wanted here ? Santa Claus. Well, yes, I think you are, my dear. Botany I don't understand, And if you'd kindly lend a hand Flora. And teach it for you ? Yes, indeed ! Attention, children ! pay good heed; You'll find it no unpleasant task To answer questions that / ask. What are our most important trees? Tommy. Elm. Susie. Maple. "Jennie. Walnut. Flora. None of these ; Santa Claus, you may answer, sir. Santa Claus. Well, I say hemlock, spruce and fir. THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS 135 Flora. That's right, for hemlock, fir and spruce As Christmas trees are put to use. Now, children, at this season merry, What is the most important berry ? Tommy. The holly, I am sure ! Susie {coyly). No, no, /think it is the mistletoe. Flora. Both are correct. On Christmas night We want the holly and mistletoe white. Now sing together, each lad and lass, What you have learned in the botany class. Chorus {Air, '-''Battle-Cry of Freedom "). Of all the trees that grow, boys, for ornament or use, The best are those that we can use for Christmas ; And these, as we have learned, are the hemlock, fir and spruce, Because they make Christmas trees for Christmas. Hurrah, then, for Christmas, Hurrah, boys, hurrah ! Up with the Christmas tree and up with the star. And we'll rally round the tree, boys, Rally once again, Shouting, Hurrah, Hurrah, for Christmas ! Santa Clans. Well, well ! that's fine ! It does my old heart good To hear you sing that song With voices loud and strong. Flora, we thank you. Now, my dears, let's see What the next lesson on the list may be. 136 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Tommy. The next is history. Susie. And how I hate To learn about a battle and its date ! 'Jennie. I think so, too. History is a bore. Tommy. Who cares what happened in the days of yore? Santa Claus. Wait, see who teaches you this afternoon, And then perhaps you'll sing a different tune. Appear, oh, wondrous man; appear, I say ! Maker of history from its earliest day, Maker of days and years; Old Father Time, Appear! while Christmas bells in gladness chime. (Peal of bells, and enter Father Time.) Father Time. Solo (Air, "Nelly Bly "). Ho, little ones, ho, little ones, Be merry, glad and gay, For Father Time is bringing you Another Christmas Day. Chorus. Oh, Father Time, oh, Father Time, We're merry, glad and gay, Because you now are bringing us Another Christmas Day. Santa Claus. But, Father Time, songs will not do, A history lesson we ask from you. THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS 137 Father Time. Oh, history only dullness brings, And dates are very stupid things ; The day before Christmas who would care What battle was fought, or when, or where ? Tommy. Not I ! Susie. Nor I ! Father Time. Ha, I spoke true ; Then here's all the lesson I'll teach to you. I'll give you just one date to remember, And that's — the twenty-fifth of December ! Pupils. Hurrah, hurrah, we'll only remember To-morrow's the twenty-fifth of December. Santa Claus. What class is next ? Tommy. Geography. Santa Claus. Well, just one region interests me, And that's my home. Do you know where I live ? Pupils. The North Pole ! Santa Claus. I declare The youngsters do know. Well, I'll call Some one to tell you of it all. Hither, Aurora Borealis, And tell these children of my palace. {Enter Aurora Borealis?) 138 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Aurora Borealis. Solo (Air, '•'•Believe Me, if All Those Endearing Young Charms "). Believe me, my children, the world cannot show A more wonderful, beautiful sight Than Santa Claus's palace of ice and of snow, With frost-crystals sparkling and bright. It is at the North Pole, where the icebergs abound, And where Polar bears merrily roam ; Where contentment and happiness always are found, For Santa Claus loves his old home. To reach the North Pole you must bravely set forth In a staunch and a seaworthy yacht, And sail up to latitude ninety, due north, And then you'll be right at the spot. The palace you'll know as soon as you see Its beautiful ice-covered dome ; Then walk boldly in, for you'll certainly be Right welcome to Santa Claus's home. Santa Claus. Aurora Borealis, you are right; I thank you for your song, my Northern Light. The hours fly fast, it seems to me. Next lesson, class ? Pupils. Astronomy. Santa Claus. Astronomy ? Well, this afternoon That shall be taught by "The Man in the Moon." (Enter The Man in the Moon.) THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS 139 The Man in the Moon. Solo {Air, " Tenting To-night on the Old Camp Ground "). Oh, I am the Man in the Moon, my dears j I'll tell you of a star That has shone through nineteen hundred years, From Eastern skies afar. It's shining to-day for each of you, Telling of the Savior's birth ; Telling this message, sweet and true, Peace and good will to earth. Chorus. Peace and good will, Peace and good will, Peace and good will to earth. {Repeat pp.) Santa Claus. Natural history next ? Let's see — Who could the teacher of that class be ? Oh, yes ; Diana, tall and straight, Will teach that class right up to date. What, ho! Diana! {Enter Diana.) Diana. Here I come ! Leave it to me; I'll make things hum. The natural history class. Just so. Now I'll find out, my children small, If you know anything at all. What birds are of the greatest use ? Tommy. The turkey ! Susie. And the duck ! Willie. And goose ! 140 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS Santa Claus. Well, I declare ! You children know Enough of natural history. So I'll give you now a harder task; Euclid, perplexing questions ask. {Enter Euclid.) Euclid. Oh, children, don't be scared at me; I'll show you that geometry Is just as easy as can be. One problem only I'll show you, It's such a simple one to do; You'll see that what I say is true. (Draws on blackboard.) Now, here's a circle ; it's a pie. The problem is, can you or I Inscribe triangles in it ? Try ! Tommy. I do not know — perhaps I can Euclid. Come up and try, my little man. {Tommy goes to blackboard and draws six triangles in the circle, making it like a pie cut into six pieces.) Euclid. Well done, my boy, go to your seat, Your demonstration is complete. Of Christmas pies, or even tarts, Triangles are component parts. Santa Claus. Natural science next. Ho ! ho ! Jack Frost ! pray tell us what you know. {Enter Jack Frost, blowing his fingers.) THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS 141 'Jack Frost. What I know Soon may be told ; Ice and snow Make people cold ! Santa Claus. My dear Jack Frost, you quite astound Us with your knowledge so profound. Now, for our physiology, Hygeia shall the teacher be. (Enter Hygeia.) Hygeia. Solo {Air, "Ob Promise Me "). Oh, promise me, my dears, that you will try Not to indulge in too much Christmas pie ; And promise, too — I ask it for your sakes — Not to devour too many Christmas cakes ; For these, with raisins, figs and nuts combined, Are very apt to make you ill, you'll find; And so I beg that you will careful be — Oh, promise me — oh, promise me. Santa Claus. Goddess of Health, we thank you ; children, pray Remember what you've heard Hygeia say. Tommy. We will ; but, Santa Claus, I do love pie ! Susie. And nuts ! Willie. And figs ! Jennie. And raisins ! Tommy. So do I ! Santa Claus. Now, let me see: school-time is nearly past; But there's one thing I've left until the last; t 4 2 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS I don't suppose you know, dear little hearts, Anything of what's called "industrial arts"? Pupils. We don't, indeed ! Santa Claus. Well, I'll make good that lack In just a moment. Hey ! come hither, Jack ! {Enter Jack of All Trades.) Jack of All Trades. You called me, Santa? Santa Claus. Yes, I did, my boy ; These children, I am sure, would well enjoy Hearing you tell them, now, before they leave, How to hang stockings up on Christmas Eve. Jack of All Trades. Well, first o f all, the stocking, children, mind, Must be the very largest you can find. If yours are small just try to borrow one From Auntie or from Grandmamma. This done, Fasten it firmly with a bit of string Where Santa Claus will see it the first thing! For when he enters in a darkened room It's hard to find a stocking in the gloom. So fasten it up strong and firm and tight, And where he'll find it easily to-night. Santa Claus. That's good advice, for oft I've looked around An hour, before the stockings I have found. Now, children, it is growing late, you know: I must dismiss you. Do you want to go ? THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS 143 Tommy. No, please, sir. Susie. Won't you teach us something more ? "Jennie. Mother said I need not get home till four. Santa Claus. Then one more gentle, loving friend I'll call To teach a Christmas lesson to you all. Spirit of Christmas, come ! These children tell How to keep Christmas happily and well. {Enter Spirit of Christmas.) Spirit of Christmas. Solo {Air, " Star-Spangled Ban- ner "). Oh, say, can you see, by the dawn's early light, The Spirit of Christmas exultingly glowing ? Sad cares disappear like the mists of the night, And a glad, shining face everybody is showing. Chorus. And the Christmas bells ring, And the carols we sing, And gifts to each other the loving ones bring. Oh, the spirit of Christmas shall linger and stay In the hearts of the children forever and aye. r. t a {-All re p ea t chorus.) Now, children, dear, no more time can I waste, For I have much to do. I must make haste. {Enter boisterously the Lord of Misrule.) Lord of Misrule. Nay, nay, I pray ye, stay a moment yet — For of the Christmas season I'm the pet. i 4 4 JOLLY PLAYS FOR HOLIDAYS And what would Christmas be without the one Who leads the merriment and rules the fun ? Santa Claus {trying to put him out). Yes, yes, I know — but in a school There's surely no place for the Lord of Misrule. Lord of Misrule. No place, indeed ? I'll make a place ! Behold each merry, laughing face ! Say, children, shall I stay or go ? Come, answer yes, or answer no. Pupils. Yes, yes ! do stay ! Tommy. Or, better still, Come play with us on yonder hill. Susie. We'll coast ! Willie. And slide ! Tommy. And snowball, too. Jennie. I'm sure it would be fun to you. Lord of Misrule. I'm sure it would ! Come on, my dears, Jack Frost and I will tweak your ears ; We'll send you spinning down the hill And draw you up again, until You're tired of that ; then, if you please, Jack of All Trades can build with ease A monstrous snow-man, ten feet high. Tommy. Oh, I'd like that ! Willie. And I ! Susie. And I ! THE DAY BEFORE CHRISTMAS 145 Santa Clam. Then, children, run along and play ; Lessons are over for to-day. But ere you vanish from my sight All. Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good- night ! CURTAIN' NOV 1 7 >932 3$\1§5» DEC to iwr JAN 3 193! f 14 |(§a\ PEC Q 1 938 Form L-9-i5m-7'31 .i-'fi ^ nUV DEO 6 - DEC X 2 **■ BEC9 1M)T DEC 2 « 1Q48 DEC 2 9 1948 DEC 1.-41949 J JAN 3 1950 DEC2 7?950> MC 3 1 1952 Wf ^3 195^ DEC 2 1911 JDCT fc 9 1958 NOV 1 51951 DEC 2 l 1Q5Q DEC 1 3 I960 mm DCTSOBW DEC 13 1311 5 1984 UCLA-Young Research Library PN6120.C5 W4 yr UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LIBRARY Los Angeles This book is DUE on the last date stamped below. It W RK'o ib y»t NOV 2 8 1984 158 ra 175 UCLA-Young Research Library PN6120.C5 W4 yr