BrownStone 'Twas The Night Before...

'Twas the Night Before Christmas and all through the house,
The only creatures stirring were new kitty Jake chasing a mouse.

The tree was festive, the proch filled with cheer;
Everyone knew the special guest was near.

The stockings were hung on the chimney with care,
In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.

All were nestled snug in their beds,
While visions of chocolate and treats danced in their heads.

With no heat in the house, I in my cap
Had just settled down for a long winter's nap.
When out on the mantle there arose such a clatter,
I sprung from the bed to see what was the matter.

The moon on the freezing rain coated ground,
Gave the lustre of mid-day to objects all around.
What to my wondering eyes when I chanced looks,
But a miniature sleigh, and three tiny Chinooks.

With a little old driver, so lively and quick,
I knew in a moment it must be St. Nick.
More rapid than eagles his coursers they came,
And he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name;
"On Cedar, On Koyuk, On Trask!
We must complete our important winter's task!
To the top of the festive porch! To the top of the wall!
Now dash away! dash away! dash away all!"

And then, in a twinkling, I saw
The prancing and pawing of each little paw.
As I drew in my hand, and was turning around,
Down the chimney St. Nicholas came with a bound.

He spoke not a word, but went straight to his work,
And filled all the stocking; then turned with a jerk,
And laying his finger aside of his nose,
And giving a nod up the chimney he rose;

He sprang to his sleigh. The Chinooks gave a howl.
Kitty Jake with full stocking, now to prowl,
Over the Nook chorus I heard him exclaim, ere he drove out of sight,
Happy Christmas to all. And to all a Good-Night.