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These the holly sprites;

And this Jack Frost—in teasing he delights!

[Jack and Elves bow.]

Betty. [With a little shiver.]

Mr. Jack Frost, we’ve often heard of you!

Dick.

You’re sharp—but still, we fellows like you, too,

When ice you give us, good and thick, for skating!

Jack. [Laughing and bowing.]

I’m glad of that!

Queen. But tell us, dears—we’re waiting—

Why have you strayed amid these lonely scenes?

Dick. [Shyly.]

Your Majesty, we came for Christmas greens,

But this is all we found [holds up branch].

Betty. [Plaintively.]

And holly—why,

We couldn’t reach a bit, it grew so high!

Queen.

Come, holly elves, and let them take their fill

Of your bright berries!

Elves. [Crowding about and offering branches.]

Yes, indeed we will!

Betty and Dick. [Taking some.]

Oh, thank you! Thank you!

Dick. But we mustn’t stay—

That is if we can only find our way;

I thought I knew; but snow makes such a change

In paths and trees, that everything looks strange!

Betty. [Sadly.]

And mother warned us not to stay too late!