"Nothin' to do but change presents for folks," prophesied Captain Shad.

"Give them somethin' they want and take back somethin' we don't want.

That kind of trade is like shovelin' fog up hill, more exercise than profit." Christmas was a happy day at the white house by the shore, a day of surprises.

To begin with, there were the presents which were beside the plates at breakfast.

Mary had brought gifts for all, Captain Shadrach, Zoeth, and Isaiah.