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diff --git a/old/68843-0.txt b/old/68843-0.txt deleted file mode 100644 index aa7c290..0000000 --- a/old/68843-0.txt +++ /dev/null @@ -1,1443 +0,0 @@ -The Project Gutenberg eBook of The quest for Santa Claus, by Frank -Atkinson - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and -most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions -whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms -of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at -www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you -will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before -using this eBook. - -Title: The quest for Santa Claus - -Author: Frank Atkinson - -Release Date: August 26, 2022 [eBook #68843] - -Language: English - -Produced by: Charlene Taylor and the Online Distributed Proofreading - Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from - images generously made available by The Internet Archive) - -*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE QUEST FOR SANTA -CLAUS *** - - - - TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE - - Text in italics is surrounded by underscores: _italics_. - Text in bold is surrounded by equal signs: =bold=. - Text in Small Caps has been rendered in ALL CAPS. - Some minor changes to the text are noted at the end of the book. - - - - - The - Quest for Santa Claus - - BY - - FRANK ATKINSON - - [Illustration] - - _PRICE 50 CENTS_ - _____ - - Copyright 1923 - _____ - - ARTHUR H. STROUSE PUBLISHING CO. - BERWYN, ILL. - - - - - The Quest for Santa Claus - - - A CHRISTMAS PLAY IN - FOUR ACTS AND A PROLOGUE - DEPICTING FAMILIAR SCENES ON CHRISTMAS EVE - IN MERRY ENGLAND - _______ - - Prologue - Act I A Street in Sandbach - Act II Brereton Hall - Act III Room in Santa Claus House - Act IV Santa Claus Workshop - _______ - - CAST OF CHARACTERS - - ROSALIND, The Original 2 in 1 - CAPTAIN OF THE CONGO S. S. - FIRST MATE OF THE CONGO S. S. - MAGGIE } - CRISPIN } A brace of street urchins - MR. S. CLAUS, Toymaker--by special appointment to Her Majesty, the Queen - MRS. S. CLAUS, Frugal housewife - J. D. ROCKY FELLOW, Lamplighter - WILLIAM KNIGHT HAWK, Watchman - HAROLD } - ETHEL } Two souls with but a single thought - MATTHEW RINGLING, Town Crier - MR. ALLCOCK } - MR. CLEWS } Lovers of darkness rather than light - M’LLE BEATYSAX OPHONIA - M’LLE VIOLA FIDDEL STRINGS - M’LLE SKYLARK LINNETTE NIGHTENGALE - MONSIEUR WOOD WYNDE - M’LLE FLUFFY - M’LLE TABITHA, Playful as a Kitten - SANTA CLAUS, Fountain of Eternal Youth - LUCIFER MATCH, King of Imps - Citizens, Waits, Retinue of Imps - - -NOTE: Before the curtain rises upon Act I, as soon as the company -has assembled, the Superintendent ostensibly begins a short -address of welcome. While thus engaged, “Beggar Maid” enters at -the rear of the room and immediately starts in with her lines -and by the time the First Mate, who up until that point has -been serving as an Usher, has made reply the whole audience is -conscious of the conversation taking place, and the dialogue goes -on uninterrupted until the end. - -The transformation accomplished by the erstwhile Beggar Maid, but -now a Fairy Princess, is the sudden illumination of the evergreen -trees flanking both sides of the stage by colored electric -lights, and is very effective. - - - - -PROLOGUE - - -BEGGAR MAID: Please, sir, and wot’s a’goin’ on ’ere, is it the -movies or somethin’? - -(USHER) First Mate: No, this is a Christmas Party for the boys -and girls of the ....................... Sunday School. - -BEGGAR MAID: Oh, I’m sorry--not for them, but for myself--I -thought, if it was a movie you might let me in for this -ha’penny--it’s all the money I’ve got--But this is no place for -me--nobody wants a beggar around when they’re ’avin’ parties. - - (Beggar Maid turns to leave, but before doing so the usher - takes her by the hand.) - -(USHER) First Mate: No, don’t go away--I assure you we shall be -glad to have you as our guest--Come with me. - -BEGGAR MAID: No, thank ’ee, I can’t come here wi’ on’y these rags. - - (As she speaks she is struggling to get away.) - -(SUPT.) Captain (Addressing the Usher): What is it, Mr. ----? - -(USHER) First Mate: We have with us, Mr. Superintendent, an -unexpected guest--a stranger in town, who came here thinking it -was a movie show--I’ve been telling our young friend that she -will be welcome--but she is reluctant to accept my invitation. - -(SUPT.) Captain: You are quite right, Mr. ----, we are indeed -happy to have anyone come and share our joy--let me assure you, -dear, you are welcome--come right along, see here we have a -vacant chair where you will be able to see the players, and, I -dare say, you will find them quite as fine as any you would see -at the movies. - - (By this time, with reluctant steps, led by the (USHER) - First Mate, the Beggar Maid has come to the front of the - room and the center of the stage.) - - (But instead of taking the proffered seat, turning to the - (Superintendent) Captain, and rising to her full stature, - she speaks.) - -BEGGAR MAID: Mr. Superintendent, I am much pleased to find here -the Spirit of the Master, and to vouchsafe to you and to all of -these dear people gathered here, a royal, happy good time in all -your merrymaking, and in the homage I trust each and all are now -bringing in honor of the infant Christ, who, two thousand years -ago was born in a lowly stable amid the hills of Bethlehem, in -old Judea. No less true is it in our day than it was of old that -oftentimes we entertain angels unaware. Doubtless, you think I -am only a beggar, and for that I am very thankful, for thus it -is possible for me to reward the kindly spirit you have shown -to those less fortunate than yourselves. But you see I am not a -beggar. - - (Here the Beggar Maid drops off her outer garment.) but a - fairy princess, whose magic wand can make beauty spring up - everywhere. - - (Turning to the right hand she waves her wand over the - trees, which instantly flash into beauty, (colored lights), - and then to the left hand--and, while the people are - rejoicing over the illumination, she rapidly runs down - the center aisle to rear of room, and makes her escape, - stopping only once to wish them - -“A Merry Christmas.”) - - -END OF PROLOGUE - - - - -ACT I. - -STREET IN SANDBACH - - -NOTE: When the curtain rises Santa Claus is busy arranging toys -in shop window, lighting candles and doing such other stage work -as will enliven the scene. - -No lines are spoken until Crispin and Maggie come upon the scene, -the idea being to portray the various types of folk one would -expect to find upon the street--the types can be many or few, -fishmongers, washwomen, laborers, children, musicians, teamsters -returning from work, street arabs, etc. Some of these enter the -shop and buy, others, like Crispin and Maggie, must be content -with looking in. These characters should enter alternately from -right and left stage. - - (Enter Crispin.) Note: Boy enters right stage. - - (Enter Maggie. After one-half minute girl follows, enters - left stage. They both walk slowly up stage to window of the - toy shop, keeping as far apart as is possible. Both are - interested only in the window display, and for some time - neither of them speak.) - -MAGGIE: Hello! - -CRISPIN: (After pause) ’lo! - - (Another silence) - -MAGGIE: D’jer live ’ere? - -CRISPIN: Naw. - -MAGGIE: Neither do I. (Pause). Wot’s yer name? - -CRISPIN: Der gang calls me Cris, but in ’igh sasiety dey calls me -Crispin. - - (After pause) - -Wot’s yore name? - -MAGGIE: W’en I call on the queen my name is Maggie, but the folk -in our alley call me Mag. - -CRISPIN: Wot yer hidin’ under yer apron? - -MAGGIE: A apple. - -CRISPIN: We’re d’jer swipe it? - -MAGGIE: I didn’t swipe it, smarty, an old guv’ner gave it to me -for running an errand for ’im. - -CRISPIN: Is that all ’e guv yer? - -MAGGIE: Isn’t that enough--wot yer want a guy to guv yer--a -sixpence fer doin’ nuthin’--an’ besides, he wor a nice ol’ -gentleman. - -CRISPIN: How d’jer know--was ’e a friend of yer feyther? - -MAGGIE: Naw, smarty, ’e was no friend of my fambly, I never seen -’im before tonight--but I know ’e is a nice man--he said such -nice things to me. - -CRISPIN: Wot d’jer mean by nice things--I never seed any on ’em -knockin’ around our alley. - -MAGGIE: Well--w’en I got back to ’im he smiled and said, “Thank -yer, mi dear, and ’eres a apple fer yer, and I wish yer a Merry -Christmas.” - -CRISPIN: (H)excuse me, Mag, fer takin’ liberties with yer name -on such a short acquaintance, but I ’ave to laff w’en I ’ear of -these rich guys wishin’ the likes of us a ’appy Christmas, and -doin’ nuthin’ to ’elp make their wish come true.--Now if yer -kind benefactor ’ad said, “Here’s a ten-pound note--go and get -yerself some warm clothes to cover yer ’arf-naked body, and some -food to fill yer empty stomach, and get fer yerself one o’ them -golden-’aired dollys wot shut their eyes, and say, ‘Mamma’ when -yer punch ’em in their breadbasket,” I could feel he were sincere -in his good wishes for yer. - -MAGGIE: Now, Cris, yer mustn’t run on like that, it isn’t -fair--some of these rich folk never had the chances you and me -’ave ’ad--and so I say, clothes, or no clothes, food, or no -food, blue-eyed sleepin’, squawkin’ dollies, or no dollies, -I’m glad fer the progress some on ’em ’ave made. Perhaps some -day they will learn that true Christmas ’appiness _begins_ in -_well wishing_ and _ends_ in _well doing_. Until then we must be -content in _lookin’_ at the things which belong to others, just -as we ’ave been doin’ before this winder fer the last ’arf ’our. - - (At this point the clock in the steeple strikes five.) - -CRISPIN: Gee, I must be going. - -MAGGIE: So must I, Cris--but before we part I want to wish yer a -Merry Christmas. - - (Both start to walk away in opposite directions, but before - leaving the stage Maggie stops.) - -MAGGIE: Say, Cris, just a minute--’ave yer a jack knife in yer -pocket? - - (Cris searches his pockets--fishes out a rather dilapidated - knife--opens it, and hands it to Maggie, who cuts apple in - half--returns knife to Cris.) - -MAGGIE: And ter make my wish come true, Cris--’er’s the ’alf of -my apple. - - (Both leave the stage, joyfully eating the apple and - grinning from ear to ear.) - - (Exit Maggie, Right.) - - (Exit Crispin, Left.) - - (Lamplighter. Enter right, lights street lamp and exit - left.) - - (Washerwoman. Enter left, carrying basket of wash.) - - (Fishmonger. Enter right--Fresh herrin’, all alive, all - alive, all alive. Herrin’, fresh herrin’, twelve fer a - shillin’. Note: As she passes the shop of Santa Claus, Mrs. - Claus opens shop door.) - -MRS. CLAUS: Are you sure yer herrin’ are fresh? - -FISHMONGER: Mi lady, so ’elp me, they were swimmin’ in the sea -this very mornin’. - -MRS. CLAUS: Wot are yer askin’ fer ’em? - -FISHMONGER: O’ny a shillin’ a dozen, lady. - -MRS. CLAUS: That’s wot I call dear for herrin’. Make it -nine-pence and I’ll take a dozen. - -FISHMONGER: No, ma’am, not if I never sell ’em (walks away.) -Fresh herrin’, herrin’, herrin’, herrin’, all alive, all alive, -(suddenly turns again.) Well, missus, seeing as I on’y have a few -left, ’ere yer are, tak ’em at yer own price. Counts out herring -and exit. - - (At this point Santa Claus locks up his shop for the night, - puts up shutters in front of windows and returns into shop.) - - (Musician. Enter right, carrying bass viol.) - - (Night Watchman: Enter left, eight o’clock and all’s well. - Exit right. Note by this time the village streets are - nearly deserted.) - - (Enter Ethel. Enter Harold. Immediately following exit of - Watchman after his 8 o’clock round, Harold and Ethel enter - from left stage--Harold is leading Ethel by the hand. They - look around from one side of the street to the other, which - at this time is deserted.) - -ETHEL: I don’t believe Santa lives here. - -HAROLD: Neither do I--I expect he lives in a big house, like the -Earl of Crewe. - -ETHEL: I am beginning to think we shall not find Santa at all. - -HAROLD: Oh, yes, sis, we will find him--don’t get discouraged. - -ETHEL: But you are forgetting it is nearly time for him to start -out on his long journey. - -HAROLD: I have not forgotten that, but I am thinking that it -takes a big factory to hold all the toys Santa has made since -last year. - -ETHEL: Yes, but I don’t see any big factory here, do you? - -HAROLD: Look! Look! Ethel, I believe we have found it--see that -sign over the shop window, it says S. CLAUS, TOYMAKER. - -ETHEL: Yes, and the shutters are up--that’s because Santa doesn’t -want anyone to see him at work. - -HAROLD: Let us go and knock on the door and see if Santa will -answer. - -ETHEL: No, I am a little bit afraid. You go. - - (While the children are hesitating about what ought to be - done, Mr. S. Claus leaves the place and starts to walk away - rapidly. Just then, the children turn and catch sight of - him.) - -HAROLD: See, Ethel, there he goes--Come, let us follow him. - - (Both children leave the stage, shouting, “Santa, Santa, - wait a minute, please, Santa, wait.”) - - (_Exit_ Harold and Ethel.) - - (Enter Towncrier from right stage.) - - (First time off stage--Second time on stage--Crier takes - center stage, rings bell vigorously, takes position with - bell reposing in left arm, with right hand clutching tongue - of bell.) - -TOWN CRIER: Lost, strayed or stolen, a ten-year-old boy and his -young sister--the children of our fellow townsman, Mr. Alphonso -Cruickshank, Ironmonger and Tinker, of Number 12, High Street, -Sandbach. When last seen, the children were walking in the -direction of Congleton Road, but beyond this their whereabouts -are unknown. A reward of 50 guineas in gold will be paid to any -person, or persons, who, finding the children, shall safely -return them to their bereaved parents. - - (Exit Crier.) - - (Watchman in distance is heard calling, “Nine o’clock and - all’s well.” The village clock strikes the hour and the - chimes sweetly play.) - - (Enter Clews, right, who saunters across stage and returns, - taking position under lamp, when chimes are ended.) - - (Enter Allcock, left, carrying bundle.) - -CLEWS: Good evenin’, mate, w’ere ’as thi bin, I’ve been waitin’ -on thi fur the last ’our. - -ALLCOCK: I dunna wonder at thi askin’ w’ere I’ve been. This’ll be -the first toime in the last twel’ yer that I’ve missed bein’ at -the Black Bear on Christmas eve. But that is ner the on’y thing -I’ve missed, so I must ’asten ’ome and get a bite o’ summat to -eat. - -CLEWS: Does ta mean to tell me thi ’asn’t ’ad thi supper yet? - -ALLCOCK: I conna speak no plainer than w’at I sed a minit ago. - -CLEWS: But w’at kept thi away from ’ome so long--Surely not the -love of thi work? - -ALLCOCK: No, ’ardly that, but thi knows ’ow it is hup at the -’all--an’ ’ow they fixes hup everythin’ fur the big party they’re -’avin come ter-morrer--I dunno wat they would a dun if I’d a quit -on ’em. - -CLEWS: I ’no wat thi means, mate, I’ve thought miself wot a -’elpless lot some folk are. - -ALLCOCK: Aye, all I ’eard ter-day was, “Willyum, ’ave yer killed -an’ dressed the sucking pigs--Willyum, ’ave yer finished plucking -the geese--Willyum, will yer be sure there are yule logs on ’and -fer the party--Willyum, go down to the butchers and bring the -roast of beef I ordered--William, this, and Willyum that,” until -I’m sick and tired o’ mi own name. - -But they’re not a bad lot at that for the mester gave me a -Christmas box o’ ten shilling’ an’ I ’ave in this bundle some -clothes wot belonged to the little gel w’at died a year ago come -Michaelmas, an’ a bran new dress w’ich the missus sent to mi owd -woman. - -CLEWS: Mite it be yer ’ad a goose in yer bundle fer yer Christmas -dinner, as well as the fine feathers fer the missus? - -ALLCOCK: No, Jack, but you ’no and I ’no w’ere there is as fine a -dinner waitin’ fer them as knows, as ever come out o’ a pot--and -yer ’ave ’eard tell as ’ow the first thing to be dun in makin’ -rabbit pie is to first catch the rabbit. - -CLEWS: I understand, Willyum--Make it ten by the clock--at the -old place back of the ’all. - -ALLCOCK: So long, mate. - -CLEWS: So long. - - (Exit Poachers.) - - (Enter Carolers.) - - 1. What Child is This? - 2. Good King Wenceslas. - 3. Christians Awake, Salute the Happy Morn. - - (Exit Carolers.) - -CURTAIN - -NOTE: It is very effective when the carolers can conveniently -sing for the first time off stage, as if in the distance. The -carolers should be appropriately dressed for cold weather, carry -lanterns and the stage should be darkened. - - - - -ACT II. - - -NOTE: Harold and Ethel in their pursuit of Santa Claus, the -village Toymaker and Shop Keeper, find themselves far from home -and in the grounds immediately surrounding Brereton Hall. The -stage setting should consist of a hedge row built up of small -evergreen trees at the rear of the stage and on both ends, with a -wooden stile set in the hedge on right stage. Evergreen branches -are strewn around, left there by the hedger, who had been -trimming the hedges about the grounds. - -The children enter from left and the Poachers, for such are Clews -and Allcock, who later appear, enter from the right, climb over -the stile and soon get busy at the task which brought them there, -namely, the bagging of a brace of rabbits for their Christmas -dinner. - - (As the curtain rises, Harold and Ethel are wearily - dragging themselves across stage--when center is reached, - Ethel stops, and in tears she refuses to go any further.) - -ETHEL (tearfully): Harold, I just can’t go another step, I want -to go home to mamma. - -HAROLD: Don’t cry, Sis, you know I believe we’re almost there--if -you only think of the fun we will have when we find Santa, you -will forget all about being tired. - -ETHEL: I know it will be lots of fun to see Santa, and, if -we ever do find him, I’m going to ask him to show me all his -wonderful toys. But I think I’d rather wait until next year. I -want mamma. - - (No longer able to restrain herself, she bursts out crying, - much to the undoing of Harold.) - -HAROLD: See here, Sis, please don’t cry. When we get home I’ll -give you my new cricket bat and ball. Perhaps if we sit down -for a little while we will get rested. I’ll just gather a few -of these branches--that will be better than sitting on the cold -ground. - - (Harold arranges the branches as a little bed down stage, - and places Ethel upon it.) - -ETHEL: How lonely it is here at night. Can you see any houses -near? - -HAROLD: (Climbing up on stile so as to look over the hedge): -Yes, I see a big house not far away. I’m sure that must be -where Santa is. Let us rest here awhile. - - (Harold seats himself beside Ethel--puts his arms around - her, draws her near to him.) - -And then we will surely find Santa. - - (After pause) - -I’m jolly glad the moon is shining, aren’t you, Ethel? - - (Ethel does not answer, for she has fallen asleep. Gently - Harold lays her down upon the boughs and with a yawn - says----) - -I think I’ll just rest awhile myself. - - (And in a minute he, too, is fast asleep.) - - (Soon after the children fall asleep, two Poachers arrive - on the scene, and, entirely oblivious to the fact that - there are human beings near them, they proceed to the work - of the evening, just as the bell in the village clock - strikes the hour of ten. All through the work of the - Poachers the children remain fast asleep.) - - (Just as the Poachers make ready to leave, the children are - discovered.) - -CLEWS: Well. I’ll be blow’ed, if ’ere aint the babes in the wood. - -ALLCOCK (rushing to cover): Wo’t, yer don’t mean the Game-keeper -and his gang? W’y don’t yer duck? - -CLEWS: (laughing heartily): ’Oo said onythin’ about game-keepers. -Come an’ luk fer thy sel’--’ere are two as fine babbys as yer -hever sot h’eyes on. - -ALLCOCK (drawing near to sleeping children): Blime me, if they -haint. I wonder wot they’re doin’ ’ere at this time o’ noight? - -CLEWS: I conna tell thi that, mon, w’y doesn’t thi ask ’em thi -sel’? - -ALLCOCK (gently shaking Harold): Wake h’up, little mon, does -ta want to catch thi death o’ cold lying out ’ere this cold -night--and what about the little gel, wake ’er h’up tew. - - (After some time and much rubbing of eyes, the children - awaken.) - -HAROLD: Please, Mr., can you tell us who lives in yonder -house--Sis and I hope that is where Santa lives. If so, we must -be going, or else Santa will have left. - -ETHEL: Yes, you know he will go just as soon as the clock strikes -twelve, and we want to see his wonderful toys before he leaves. - -CLEWS: ’Earken to that, will yer, these kids want to see Santa -Claus--Ha! Ha! Ha! Say, Kiddie, there haint no Santa. - -HAROLD: You are mistaken, sir, for sis and I saw him tonight, -with our own eyes, but he walked so fast we couldn’t catch up to -him. - -ALLCOCK: An’ w’ere might it be that yer saw the idol of yer -dreams? - -HAROLD: We saw him come from his shop in the square near the -Black Bear. - -CLEWS (aside): Say, mate, it’s the owd codjer, S. Claus, the -kiddies are thinkin’ on. Wot der yer say if we giv ’em a lift. -It’s not much the likes of uz can do to make anny body ’appy, but -’eres a little job we con do as well as anny on ’em. - -ALLCOCK: Yer rite, mate. - - (Turning to children) - -Come along, we’ll ’ave yer in front of ’is r’yal ’ighness in less -nor a jiff’ey. - - (Exit Poachers with the now happy children upon their - shoulders, and their Christmas dinner safely bagged.) - - (Enter King of the Imps--At blast of whistle the imps - spring up behind the hedge.) - -IMPS (all): What ho, your majesty! - -LUCIFER MATCH: Assemble ye here for a council of war. - -IMPS (all): Your Majesty’s commands shall be obeyed. - - (Imps gather down stage and seat themselves Indian fashion - in a circle--the King remains standing.) - -LUCIFER MATCH (addressing Imps): My mind is ill at ease--Go where -I will, I fail not to observe how men, in city, town, and hamlet -throughout the land, in fealty to Him they call the Christ, are -moved to deeds of mercy and of love. - -IMP NO. 1: If such be true, Your Majesty, it bodes ill of thee -and thy kingdom of darkness. - -LUCIFER MATCH: Yea, such is true, and not content with that, they -move from street to street, and house to house, and, like the -angels on Bethlehem hills, two thousand years ago, they proclaim -the Messiah’s birth, and sing of _Peace_ and _Goodwill to Men_. -Thus do they assail and threaten my right to reign and rule. - -IMP NO. 1: It must not be, Your Majesty. - -LUCIFER MATCH: It shall not be--some way must be found to stop -these inroads upon my kingdom and domain--but what to do, and -how, and when, I know not. - -IMP NO. 1: Has not Your Majesty thought of persecution? - -LUCIFER MATCH: Persecution, in that ye counsel without knowledge. -To stop this tide of Christmas cheer by persecution is as foolish -as to attempt to dam a river at its mouth. - -IMP NO. 1: Has not Your Majesty discovered any arch conspirator -in this plot? - -LUCIFER MATCH: Aye, that I have and by cunning ways have I sought -to turn him from his course, but neither threat, money, or -persuasion have any effect upon him to check the rising of good -will, which, like water gushing from a fountain, overflows and -fills the hearts of the children of men everywhere with his own -genial spirit and warm friendliness. - -IMP NO. 1: Where does he abide, Your Majesty? - -LUCIFER MATCH: He lives hard by an Inn, the Black Bear, where -incessantly he toils throughout the year in fashioning toys and -other gifts, which he lavishly bestows upon the people in his -journey around the world on Christmas night--but I fear his real -abode is in the hearts of men, and particularly in the hearts of -little children. - -IMP NO. 1 (rising and bowing): Pardon me, Sire for venturing to -suggest that thou commission us to wreak destruction upon the -toys, or otherwise prevent this arch enemy of thine from carrying -out his plan. - -LUCIFER MATCH: Thou speakest words of wisdom, and it is my will -that thou perform in my name, and in behalf of my kingdom this -work of destruction. Here, then, is thy commission--Look well to -the task. - - (King hands document to Imp No. 1, who reads it aloud to - the other Imps.) - -“Whereas, one Santa Claus, by cunning devices and by his -unfailing good humor and goodwill, is stealing the hearts and -fealty of my hitherto loyal subjects--now, therefore, do I, -Lucifer Match, declare that from this hour I will give him no -peace or rest-- - -And, in order that his work may be brought to nought, I do -commission my loyal band of Imps to sally forth and utterly -destroy not only this arch conspirator, but all his handiwork--To -him who shall accomplish the downfall of this personification of -Christmas Peace and Good Will, I give the half of my kingdom, and -the hand of my daughter in marriage. - - (Signed) LUCIFER MATCH, - King of the Imps.” - LARGE - RED - SEAL - - (After reading of commission, exit Lucifer Match. _Then - Imps disappear behind the hedge._) - -END OF ACT II. CURTAIN. - - - - -ACT III. - - -SCENE--ROOM IN SANTA CLAUS’ HOUSE - -(When the curtain rises, Santa is doing some simple task around -the room with his back to the audience--then, turning around as -the clock strikes eleven, he speaks--) - -SANTA: Ah, the time is drawing nigh when I must sally forth--An -hour yet remains, and so I’ll improve it by taking a little -nap--How good it is after the day’s toil is ended to sweetly -rest--perchance to dream of the fruit of one’s labor. Here’s -a cushion for my head, and what matters if my feet hang o’er -the end like culprits from the gallows. ’Tis good--And now to -sleep---- - - (Santa sinks into deep slumber.) - - (Enter Imps stealthily--3 from right, and 3 from left--They - look around the room and presently discover Santa. They - look first toward Santa’s picture on the wall and then at - Santa.) - -IMP 5: This is the place. - -IMP 2 (pointing to Santa): And there’s the man. - -IMP 3: Methinks already half of my lord’s kingdom is mine. - -IMP 4: Strike then the blow. - -IMP 3 (approaches Santa, then returns): My heart fails me--Strike -thou the blow. - -IMP 5 (approaches Santa, then returns): Only a traitor could -strike so kindly a face as his. - -IMP 1: Cowards, make way--I’ll lay him low. - - (Advances to Santa with hand uplifted as if to strike.) - -His must be a charmed life--I can no ill do unto him. - - (Turning to Imps) - -Is there no one willing to obey our king? - -IMPS (all): No, not one--Would that our king were Santa--and here -and now we pledge to him our allegiance. - - (Each approaches Santa in turn making a profound bow, and - then leaves the room--excepting Imp 1.) - - -SANTA CLAUS’ ROOM - -IMP 1: I know what power is this which makes me traitor to my -king--Would I could warn him of his danger. - - (Walks to and fro in deep thought.) - -This will I do--With my dagger will I pinion to yon wall this -commission of my king, so shall he learn of the king’s purpose to -do him harm. - - (Walks to back of stage--takes dagger from belt, and - thrusts it through the Royal Commission to the wall.) - - (Then, after making bow to Santa, he retires off stage.) - - (Exit Imp No. 1. After exit of Imp No. 1, Santa awakens, - stretches, and after rising makes discovery of the Imp’s - Commission, which he removes from the wall, examines - dagger, reads commission, laughs heartily, and to show his - disdain tears commission to bits.) - - (A loud knock upon the door announces the arrival of Harold - and Ethel whom the poachers have safely landed at the home - of Santa Claus. Santa goes to door, left stage, and there - finds the two children whom he invites to enter.) - -SANTA: Well! Well! Well! In all my life I have never before had -the pleasure of a visit in my home from two such interesting -children. But what brought you here at this time of night? - -HAROLD: We came on the shoulders of two of the nicest men we ever -met, didn’t we, Ethel? - -ETHEL: Yes, and I am afraid we should never have found you, -Santa, if they hadn’t helped us. - -SANTA: Now, that you have found me what is it you want? - -HAROLD: Sis wants awfully to see your wonderful toys, but I -believe I’d like a nice soft bed to sleep in. (Yawns.) I’m so -tired. - -ETHEL: You mustn’t mind what Harold says, Santa; of course, we -both want to see the toys, even though we are tired. (Ethel -yawns.) You see, Santa, we have been searching everywhere for you. - -SANTA: This is perplexing, but I think I am beginning to -understand. Let us go into the next room. Mrs. Santa will know -what to do for tired and hungry children, and then I will show -you a few of my animated toys which I assure you is a rare -privilege. Come along. - - (Santa takes them by the hand.) - - (Exit right.) - -CURTAIN. - - - - -ACT IV. - -SANTA’S WORKSHOP - - -When the curtain rises, the toys are standing rigidly at back of -stage. Santa enters with children, whom he seats back to audience -at front and center of stage. Santa then proceeds to exhibit the -toys, winding them up, marching them to front stage, then to -position at front of stage right and left. - - M’lle Beatysax Ophonia, Saxophone Solo - - M’lle Viola Fiddel Strings, Violin Solo - - M’lle Skylark Linnette Nightengale, Vocal Solo - - Monsieur Wood Wynde, Flute Solo - - M’lle Tabitha, Playful as a Kitten, who makes merriment - whenever the dolls are not actually doing their stunt. - - M’lle Fluffy, a dancing doll - -No dialogue need be prepared for Santa, as it is better to let -Santa make his own fun in his own way. After the last number the -carolers and other members of the cast slip quietly upon the -stage and end the play by singing one verse of “O Come, All Ye -Faithful.” - -CURTAIN. - - - - -Ideas for Children’s Parties - -[Illustration] - -By Arthur H. Strouse - -Just What You Have Been Looking For - -Complete plans for each month of the year with suggestions for -refreshments and simple homemade decorations. Will provide a -thoroughly enjoyable series of entertainments at least expense. -All outlines in this book have been the outgrowth of many -original parties by the author and others. An acceptable gift for -Teacher or parent. - -Neatly bound in Art Craft Cover. - - Price per copy, limp cover.................$0.60 - - - - -Stunts for In and Out-of-Doors - -[Illustration] - -By Arthur Howard Strouse - -For Young and Old - -140 pages of “Mixer,” Active, Quiet, Magic, Stunts, Contests, -School-room and play-ground games, Athletic Feats, Parties for -entertaining large or small groups in home, church or school, -and many suggestions for every occasion in the year. Meets -recreational requirements for young and old. - - Price per copy, Heavy Bristol Cover........$0.60 - - - - -[Illustration] - -Outdoor Stunts - -By Arthur H. Strouse - -The contents of this book were inspired by many outings with -boys and girls. The object in producing it was to supply the -increasing demand for good recreational plans. Wouldn’t you like -to give an out-door party where “Wieners” could be roasted over -the bon-fire, and later engage in games that bring the glow to -your cheeks and a happy light in your eyes? - -There are war games, games of skill, Indian and African games; -Campfire and Community Suggestions and real “Stunts” that boys -and girls love to play. Size 6×9 inches. - - Price per copy.............................$0.50 - - - - -[Illustration] - -The Palace of Dreams - -By Katherine J. Postle - -An Entire Christmas Eve Entertainment - -A religious play that beautifully illustrates the Christmas -story. Will hold the intense interest of all from beginning to -end. Includes tableau, dialog and music. The setting may be -simple or elaborate as desired. Children delight in appearing -in costume. Once given will long be remembered. Thirty or more -characters. - - Price per copy.............................$0.25 - - - - -[Illustration] - -The Children’s Christmas Dream - -By Mary E. Telford - -A Christmas play in one act, easily staged, teaching the spirit -of giving. Has a splendid missionary climax. Sixteen characters -(children). The scene is laid out in Grandfather’s house where -the children are spending their Christmas. While waiting for -Santa, the children fall asleep. A fairy summons children from -foreign lands who make their appeal to learn more of the Christ -Child. - - Price per copy.............................$0.25 - - - - -[Illustration] - -Behold, I Bring You Good Tidings - -By F. Lester Price - -and - -A Christmas Carol - -By W. A. Bartlett - -A Special Christmas Folder for the Children’s Service. Contains -two songs of Exceptional Merit. - - Price per copy 10 cents, per dozen...........$1.00 - - - - -Christmas Budget of Recitations and Plans - -By Arthur H. Strouse - -140 pages of new suggestions for the Christmas program, home or -school. Many selections of recognized merit. 140 pages. - - Price per copy, paper cover.............................$0.75 - -☛ Ready for distribution September 1, 1923 - - - - -[Illustration] - -The Awakening of Mr. Smith - -A Missionary Play - -By Bertha J. Clemans - -Mr. Wealthy Smith is converted to believing and contributes -liberally--through a dream--portrayed in view of the audience. -Natives of different countries appearing and presenting their -great needs. A very impressive play in three acts easily staged, -6 or more characters. - - Price per copy...............................$0.25 - - - - -[Illustration] - -The Soul of a Flower - -By Katherine J. Postle - -A New Idea for Children’s Day - -A delightful plan of Dialog and Song in which the children -personify flowers and trees in the world of “Makebelieve.” -Pronounced most unique and instructive. Children’s Day was once -called “Flower Day” and the custom was to present the children -with flowers or potted plants. Why not revive this worthy custom? -Combine it with the Soul of a Flower and have a service that will -be a delight to all. Twenty or more characters. - - Price per copy....................................$0.50 - - - - -[Illustration] - -Alice Forber, Missionary - -By Gertrude Martin Strawick - -A dramatic Chinese play written by Miss Strawick while Missionary -in China. The plot is true to life and intensely interesting. - -The setting may be made simple or elaborate as desired. In 3 -acts, 30 characters. Time, 2 hours. - - Price per copy......................$0.50 - - - - - TRANSCRIBER'S NOTE - - - The following changes have been made to the text: - - page 1: “LINNETTE NIGHTENGAL” changed to “LINNETTE NIGHTENGALE” - page 6: “this very morning’” changed to “this very mornin’” - page 6: “Musician” line turned to stage directions - page 8: “Enter Carolers.” line turned to stage directions - page 9: “Dont’ cry” changed to “Don’t cry” - page 9: “she burst out” changed to “she bursts out” - page 11: “kindgdom of darkness” changed to “kingdom of darkness” - page 15: “they hadnt’ helped” changed to “they hadn’t helped” - -*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE QUEST FOR SANTA CLAUS *** - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will -be renamed. - -Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright -law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, -so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the -United States without permission and without paying copyright -royalties. 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