The Spectator., 1914-12-18

\
 The spirit of Yuletide filled the air, and since you could not help breathing it, the joyous song of Peace and goodwill" flooded the inner being as well.
 In the dormer window of an attic chamber overlooking the city stood little child. She was thin and pale, but even these ravagers of beauty could not rob her features of their loveliness. Great blue eyes and gold en curls enhanced the fairy-like deli cacy of her face, and though i'll clad she possessed the bearing of prin- cess. Now and again she left her post at the window and. opening the door, listened as if expecting to hear familiar footsteps ascending the stairs.
 When 1t was almost dark and lights began to appear here and there over the housetops. like will-o-the-wisps in Q marshy bog. she drew a chair be- meath the hook driven in the closet door from which an exceedingly shabby coat and weather-beaten hat were suspended. By this means she was able to reach the garments and was soon attired for the street. Run- ming back to the window she scanned the city and the heavens. Just above the horizon gleamed a single star of wondrous brilliancy, and the child, en- raptured by its beauty, forgot that she intended to go out and remained motionless watching the resplendent glory of heavens jewel. The room was flooded with a soft shimmering light, and the child gave a sob of joy as she suddenly realized that the star moved. As far as she could see the same silvery radiance flooded the sky. The great soul within that tiny body sang with happiness and she softly whispered: 'It is the star of Bethle- hem. must follow 1t, like the three wise men!"
 She hastened from the room and down the flights of steps to the street. The star moved on and on, unfalter- ingly. and the tiny figure trembled in every limb as 1t followed the won- drous light.
 Beyond the boundary of the city, over frozen roads and frost-whitened fields. the tireless lettle feet, i'll pro- tected by their worn shoes, hastened after the star.
 At last she came to a tiny house nestled among group of fir trees. From the windows came paths of vel low light, whose warmth and cheeri- ness drew her on to the door.
 She did not pause to knock. but lifted the latch and entered. The room was scantily furnished. but a glowing log fire bathed the homely surroundings with glorifled beauty
 Seated in front of the fireplace was a woman who bent lovingly over an infant. Grouped about her were three children. while the father of this hap py family stood somewhat back of the mother hanging a branch of ever green above the mantel.
 As the little stranger entered and hesitated. tho children rushed forward to greet her.
 Come in. child" said the mother.
 The tired little girl moved eagerly forward. Have I found the king?" she asked.
 "The king?" questioned the proud mother. Yes. We think baby is @ king" And she placed the soft, pink face of the infant close to that of the child. who reverently kissed its cheek.
 T have brought him a gift" she whispered. shyly. offering little bead purse. The mother stopped and i'm printed a warm kiss on the lips of the tiny gift bearer.
 He will love it. and would thank you If he could See. he reaches for 1t now" The chubby fingers. at tracted by the brightly colored beads. tried their best to grasp the purse
 You have given him his first Christmas gift" said the father. Draw near the fire-you are cold while get bowl of bread and milk" !"
 The child removed her hat and coat. seated herself on the hearth stool and was soon enjoying the simple fare.
 How did you find us?" the woman asked.
 T followed the star" she replied. - ~