Daily union and American. [volume] (Nashville, Tenn.) 1865-1866, 1865-12-23

TINS HoLIDAYs.-The time is near at handWhen
that mythical parsonage, Santa Claus-the tute-
larry patron ofour Holland ancestors expected
to make his accustomed yearly visits. The won
derful records We have Of his proceedings are ALL
Of course 10 be believed; and one Of these0arrates
that he has eye both to the merits and the short
cominGs Of all. 50 that his gifts are distributed
with discriminating hand.
As the proyder for numerous family. laden
with weighty cares one would naturally suppose
that his courage would often fail him but he new
criheess makes his arrangements with consum-
mate skill, and seldom oyerlooks those who are
deserving of his smiles. His thoughtful care
extends to every member Of the family. The
young wife. oppressed with new cares and respOn-
sbilities, receives some substantial token Of his
favor which lightens her labor and fills her heart
with grateful remembrance ofhis kindness. The
children arc especially noticed by the tutelary
saint and his praises arc ehanted in youthful
chorus by these happy recipients Of benefits from
his fatherly hand.
1t is we'll that in our land be makes his visits
so promptly on the return Of each Christmas eve;
for his appearance causes new JOY to spring up in
the youthful heart and even smoothes the wrinkles
worn by care on the brow Of age. The NOR
al effect Of this time-honored institution IL not to
be overlooked for the mind. as well as the body
needs occasional relaxation, that it may gain new
life and vigor. The holidays furnish fitting OPP
portunity for this unbending Of the energies; and
in the joyous festivities Of the occasion the youth
acquire new yigor, and the old almost seem 10 be-
como young again.
We notice that our citizens are not unmindful Of
these considerations in their cndeavors to secure
the favor Of Saint Nick. The different confec-
tonary establishments, toy stores and other pla-
ces in our city where suitable holiday gifts are to
be found, have been largely patronized Of late.
Eager female faces are thr0nging our streets, in
search Of some token Of regard to be given to the
father, mother, sister, brother. or friend; and the
infection has extended even to our scdate and
learned civil bodies. The Legislature has already
adjourned, several Of the courts will suspend
operations and the prospects that we shall all,
more or less. be imbued with the spirit of the
time If any are exempted from these enjoy
mcuts it will doubtless be those who furnish every
morning reading matter for the people; and yet,
even this class will probably find time to rest
awhile from their Iaborious tolls.
II sometimes happens that we wish to look for
thing and do not know where it can be found.
This is often the case with those who are engaged
in selecting appropriate Christmas gifts In our
paper tomorrow morning, there will, however,
be found classified list of the principal places at
which these articles may be procured. and by ref
ercnce to that column, our readers will doubtless
obtain all the information they desire. We hope
their efforts may be successful and that they and
theirs may have happy Christmas and New
Year.