Stands like a shivering giant in
Its glistening cloak of white.

There's Roy, to take the sledge in hand
And pilot through the snow.
"The girls don't understand," he says.
(Just like a boy, you know!)

Then back they bring the loaded sledge,
With fingers pricked and sore.
But what care they? They'll go again
To-morrow for some more.

For children love the Christmas-time,
When everything is jolly;
And all must help to deck the house
In mistletoe and holly!

And then comes good St. Nicholas,
With loads of books and toys.
Yes, Christmas is the _dearest_ time
For happy girls and boys.

_Ellyn Hall._

[Illustration: BRINGING HOME THE HOLLY.]