reins that were fastened on the head of the Rocking Horse.

"I would rather belong to two, or even three, of these good, kind
boys, than to that one rude chap," said the White Rocking Horse to
himself, as he swayed backward and forward on the floor in the toy
department. He and the Lamb on Wheels were too large to be set on the
counter with the Calico Clown, the Monkey on a Stick, the Candy Rabbit
and the Bold Tin Soldier and other smaller toys.

Slowly the day passed, and night was again coming on. Lights began to
glow, for the days were short and evening came quickly--even before
the store was closed.

"I wonder if the Rocking Horse and the Elephant will finish their race
tonight?" thought the Bold Tin Soldier, as he felt himself being taken
out of his box to be looked at by a lady who was doing her Christmas
shopping.

It was almost closing time in the store when the White Rocking Horse,
who felt much better since his sides had been rubbed with oil, heard a
gentleman's voice speaking near him.

"This is about what I want for Dick's Christmas," said the man to the
young lady clerk. "Is this a good Rocking Horse?"

"The best in the store; yes, sir," was the answer. "The tail and mane
are real hair, and the saddle and bridle are real leather. The
rockers, too, are nice and smooth, so the Horse will go fast."

"Well, I don't want it to go too fast," said the man, smiling down at