human
D'you know to-morrow's Christmas Day? and, without waiting for a reply, she babbled on:
gpt
I'm going to have such boo'ful things--a dolly that sends kisses, a pamberlator for her to ride in, a gold watch with real ticks, and a titten with real scratches. Guess who'll bring them.
human
Her ladyship?
gpt
No, not Mummy,
human
I can't guess, Miss,
gpt
It's Santa Claus! Santa Claus always brings me just what I want. Isn't it clever?
human
Who's Santa Claus? Is it your aunt, Miss?
gpt
I'm 'peaking to you about Santa Claus--a gen'lman. I've not seen him--never been able to catch him yet.
human
Catch him! But who tells him what you want?
gpt
The little bird.
human
What toys are _you_ going to get?
gpt
Oh, no _toys_. I live in the cottage in the forest. Dad is always so busy, and I help him look out for poachers--so I have useful presents, I don't have toys. Granny gave me this warm cloak last year; and then, Dad's pockets get so full of sweets that they last for months.
human
Sweets and useful things aren't p'esents, said Iris, surprised.
gpt
Poor little girl! Wouldn't you like toys?
human
I think so, Miss--at least, I've not seen many. Cousin Janey has a skipping-rope and a workbox, but she won't let me touch them.
gpt
Ah! you've been here long enough, Iris darling. I hear Nurse calling you,