Page:Over the river, and other poems.djvu/82

76 But up in their own little chamber, Bright, eager eyes, I know, Watch for the sledge by reindeers drawn Over the crispy snow. Sweet, simple faith of childhood! Why should I break the spell? Why should I tell them that only a myth Is the "saint" they love so well? Let them cherish a little longer Their simple nursery lore: There is time to learn worldly wisdom In the future that lies before. But what shall I put in the stockings? For with morning's earliest light I shall hear on the stairs the patter Of tiny feet, bare and white;