And he whispered to the boys:--

"He says he's very well, "--then into the 'phone:--

"That's fine--we're very glad to hear it."

There was a pause, and Father's voice exclaimed,--

"What! You're not actually coming here?
Well, I should say that's the best news I've heard in a long time!"

And, smiling, he told this good news to the folks in the room.

"Doesn't it beat all!" he said, "Santa Claus is coming here to pay us
a visit."

He spoke into the 'phone again.

"How soon can you make it?--Fifteen minutes?"

He looked at his watch.

"Of course--we'll wait for you."

Then he hung up the receiver.

"As long as Santy will be here so soon, we'd better wait till he
comes, and let him distribute the presents, don't you think?"