Curly heads, so softly pillowed;
Chubby arms outspread;
Thousand fancies swiftly flying
Through each little head.
Clasping treasures newly garnered,
Dolly, book, and ball,
Still they dream of coming pleasures
Greater than them all.
Christmas-trees of gorgeous beauty,
Filled with presents rare;
Toys unheard of, joys unnumbered,
All delights are there.
Angel forms, with smiling faces,
Hover round the bed;
Angel feet make echoing music
As they lightly tread.
Angel voices, softly thrilling,
Chant a lullaby:
"Darlings, dream, and sweetly slumber,
We are watching by."
Who from dreams like these would waken
To a world of pain?
"Hush, then, dear ones! Have we roused you?
Turn and dream again."
[Illustration: Baby waking up nearly caught Santa Claus.]
[Page 78--Santa Claus Land]
[Illustration: Annie and Willie Praying.]