Maggie and Minnie , in particular , covered themselves with glory , both in class and on the platform . At its close , while the minister was making his speech , Frank slipped out ; when the minister sat down the door opened and Santa Claus himself , with big fur coat , ruddy mask , and long white beard , strode into the room with a huge basket on his arm , amid a chorus of surprised `` Ohs '' from old and young . Wonderful things came out of that basket . There was some little present for every child there -- tops , knives , and whistles for the boys , dolls and ribbons for the girls , and a `` prize '' box of candy for everybody , all of which Santa Claus presented with appropriate remarks . It was an exciting time , and it would have been hard to decide which were the most pleased , parents , pupils , or teacher . In the confusion Santa Claus discreetly disappeared , and school was dismissed . Frank , having tucked his toggery away in the sleigh , was waiting for us outside , and we were promptly pounced upon by Maggie and Minnie , whose long braids were already adorned with the pink silk ribbons which had been their gifts . '' You decorated the school , '' cried Maggie excitedly . `` I know you did . I told Minnie it was you the minute I saw it . '' `` You 're dreaming , child , '' said Frank . `` Oh , no , I 'm not , '' retorted Maggie shrewdly , `` and was n't Matt Dickey mad this morning ! Oh , it was such fun . I think you are two real nice boys and so does Minnie -- do n't you Minnie ? '' Minnie nodded gravely . Evidently Maggie did the talking in their partnership . `` This has been a splendid examination , '' said Maggie , drawing a long breath . `` Real Christmassy , you know . We never had such a good time before . '' `` Well , it has paid , do n't you think ? ''
asked XXXXX , as we drove home .
Christmassy Claus Dickey Frank Maggie Minnie Ohs sleigh toggery whistles