mantel-piece. Don't you remember that, Father?

Yes, I believe I do, now that you speak of it, _says_ FATHER.

_Then the children put the two letters on the mantel-piece, standing
them against the clock, so that they can be easily seen. While they are
doing this, some one passes the window, walking along the street, and
there comes a knock at the door_.

Come in, _says_ FATHER; _and in comes a little woman, rather old,
and rather bent, and rather lame_.

Why, if it isn't little Nurse Mary, _cries_ FATHER, _and they all
rise up to greet her. She kisses both the children, and shakes hands
with Father and Mother._

Here's a chair for you, Nurse Mary, _says_ JACK.

Let me take your cloak and hood, Nurse Mary, _says_ POLLY.

_When they were all seated again_, FATHER _says_, I am afraid
I shall have to give you a little scolding, Mary, for coming out on such
a cold night. It really don't do, you know.

Now, Doctor John, NURSE MARY _answers_, What do you expect?
Haven't I seen you every Christmas Eve since you were half the size of
Master Jack here, and didn't I knit with my own hands the first little
stocking you ever hung up for Santa Claus, and don't I remember how
frightened you were that time when we heard the reindeers on the roof,
and when the handful of walnuts came tumbling down the chimney? And do