Part 2 — MY CHRISTMAS GIFT.

On the eve of Christmas Day, Ere the moon began to rise, I fell to dreaming. When a fairy did display, Spread before my wond'ring eyes, Bright jewels gleaming Like the stars at night. Then to me—"Choose which to send As a present to your friend, And thus your friendship plight." Ah! how rare the jewels seemed Ere those words were spoken. After, I no longer deemed Gems a fitting token. "Jewels may her garments grace: 'Tis not there that I would place Something to remind her thought Of the friendship of my heart. Not all gems that may be bought Would of that be counterpart." "Hoity, toity!" said the fairy, "This is extraordinary! Don't you know 'tis customary?" "Yes," said I; "but on this morn Could I but her heart adorn With some little gift of mine, Then 'twould have a fitting shrine." Gathering up her jewels rare, Said the fairy, "Don't despair. Send her what her heart can wear." Reaching out my eager hand— "Have you in all fairy-land Such a boon at my command?" Raising up her eyes to heaven— "Only there such gifts are given. Gifts that make the heart more fair God bestows. The price—a prayer."

God knows the prayer is said, my friend. I doubt not He the gift will send.