Charles E. Burchfield (1893-1967)

for there were so many things; everyone got a book I think: I got the Bronze Bell: Jim the “weavers” Frances “the Man in Lower Ten” and many others.  To my delight, I received a Kabal cushion exactly like the one I had given Bill; Joe got a Kabal pennant and some cushions.  Fred’s were nearly all electrical doing: and engine, a moter, a couple switches, and electric bell.
        When this was over, we all fell to admiring our presents – at least I did, and I’m sure the others did.  A pretty silk handkerchief I liked especially and a stick-pin.  Then I tried to read a little, but it was useless. People kept coming and going to see the tree; I guess everyone in town knew about our tree.  Joe and I elected ourselves the initiation committee – namely of luring lady visitors under the mistletoe.  All day long, as soon as anyone came in, Frances or Louise would get them unsuspectingly under the mistletoe and then Joe and I would rush for them.  Aunt Maggie, Edith and Cordelia Dunlap and others fell victims to this plot.  When the girls and Mother went to kiss Uncle Dave, he wouldn’t stand for it, and raised a great rumpus.
        In the evening the fellows came over, wanting us to go to an entertainment at the Presbyterian Church.  Aunt Em and Mary