_While the curtain is closed_, MOTHER GOOSE _comes out, and this
is what she says:_
Children, did you see Jack and Polly go up that chimney? Well, as soon
as they got to the top, Polly took fast hold of Jack's hand and wished
to be at the North Pole, and away they went flying through the air. They
have gotten there already, I think. Hark! Yes, they are just going in
at the gate that leads up to Santa Claus's house, and soon they will be
knocking at his door. Then you will see them come in, for you will be
there before they are; and when the curtain opens, as it will in just a
moment, you will see the inside of the house where Santa Claus lives.
You must be very quiet for Santa Claus is sick, remember, and a noise
might make his head ache. Hush! It is going to begin.
* * * * *