"
He rapped on the ground with his staff and a small page appeared,
wearing a pointed cap and carrying a tin horn. Bowing low before
Father Time, he was instructed to call the Holidays together. He
withdrew and was heard blowing his horn in the distance. Presently
music sounded, and the eight Holidays came marching in, with banners,
singing:
"Joyous Holidays,
Full of gayety,
Bringing happy hours,
Merry days are we.
"Children love us well,
Surely they have reason.
Happiness and mirth
Bring we every season.
"Father Time, we've come,
Answering to your call,
Glad to do your will
Are we one and all."
After marching twice around the stage they took their stand in a
semicircle before Father Time and the children.
Father Time: "These children have come to me in deep distress, because
their teacher (a most singular person) says there are too many
Holidays, and one of them must be given up. I have sent for you to
reassure them; speak for yourselves."
The Holidays looked at each other in dismay, and exclaimed:
"Holidays are we,
And we've come to stay,
Caring not a whit
What such people say."
Boy and girl (clapping their hands): "Oh, dear Holidays, we are so
glad! But are you _sure_ she can't send any of you away?"
New Year's day now stepped forward.
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