On a home-made tree the opportunities
for a candle's enjoyment of this, its most diverting of
accomplishments, are increased remarkably. The day was cold, but the
men perspired from every pore, and even then the night came on before
the work was completed.
When at length they ceased their labors for the day, there was still
before them the appalling task of preparing the Christmas banquet.
In the general worry incident to all such preparations throughout the
world, Parky, the gambler, fired an unexpected shot. He announced his
intention of giving the camp a grand celebration of his own. The
"Palace" saloon would be thrown wide open for the holiday, and food,
drink, music, and dancing would be the order of the memorable occasion.
"It's a game to knock our tree and banquet into a cocked hat," said the
blacksmith, grimly. "Well--he may get some to come, but none of old
Jim's friends or the fellers which likes little Skeezucks is goin' to
desert our own little festival."
Nevertheless, the glitter of the home-made tree in the dingy shop was
dimmed.
CHAPTER XIII
THEIR CHRISTMAS-DAY
The day before Christmas should, by right of delights about to blossom,
be nearly as happy as the sweet old carnival itself, but up at the
cabin on the hill it was far from being joyous.
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