A Christmas Warning

I cannot imagine what Santa will do

     When he comes down the chimney this year;

For the sights he will see, between you and me,

     Will shock the old fellow, I fear.

There are Helen’s red-ribbed, and Dora’s gray pinks,

     And Claribel’s blue polka dots;

And Lillian’s grays, and Marjory’s bays,

     Illumined with sparkles and spots.

Now Santa is modest, and Santa is old,

     And has never seen stockings so gay;

So beware dainty miss what you leave out for “Kris”,

     For he’s apt to be frightened away.

July 29, 1900