THE CULT OF THE CANDY CANE When the littler boy looked fairly into the frosty gray of that Christmas morning, the trailed banner of his faith was snatched once more aloft; and in the breast of his complacent brother there swelled the conviction that one does ill to flaunt one's skepticism, when the rewards of belief are substantial and imminent.

For before them was an array of gifts such as neither had ever looked upon before, save as forbidden treasure of the few persons whose immense wealth enables them to keep toy-shops.
The tale of the princely Saint was now authenticated delightfully.

That which had made him seem unreal in moments of spiritual laxity--the impenetrable secrecy of his private life--was now seen to enhance manyfold his wondrous givings.

Here was a charm which could never have sat the display before them had it been dryly bought in their presence from one of the millionaire toy-shop keepers.

For a wondering moment they looked from their beds, sputtering, gibbering, gasping, with cautious calls one to the other.