Page:Our American Holidays - Christmas.djvu/343

Rh To make him think things were all coming out right, For he didn't get one wink of slumber that night! The telephone wire was kept sizzling hot By children disgusted with presents they'd got, And when the bright sun showed its face in the sky The Santa-Claus family were ready to cry! Just then something happened—a way of escape, Though it came in the funniest possible shape— An aeronaut, sorely in need of a meal, Descended for breakfast—it seemed quite ideal! For the end of it was, he invited his host Out to try the balloon, of whose speed he could boast. St. Nick, who was nothing if not a good sport, Was delighted to go, and as quick as a thought Climbed into the car for a flight in the air— "No telephone bells can disturb me up there! And, wife, if it suits me I'll count it no crime To stay up till ready for next Christmas time!" Thus saying—he sailed in the giant balloon, And I fear that he will not return very soon. Now, when you ask "Central" for Santa-Claus land She'll say, "discontinued"—and you'll understand.