Miss Davis , the pale , tired-looking little teacher , was evidently pleased , and we were given seats of honour next to the minister on the platform . Our decorations really looked very well , and were further enhanced by two large red geraniums in full bloom which , it appeared , Maggie had brought from home to adorn the teacher 's desk . The side benches were lined with Enderly Road parents , and all the pupils were in their best attire . Our friend Maggie was there , of course , and she smiled and nodded towards the wreaths when she caught our eyes . The examination was a decided success , and the program which followed was very creditable indeed . 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 XXXXX their partnership .
At amid down for from in of on to while