Twas the night before Christmas when all through house Not a creature was stirring not even mouse. The stockings were hung by chimney with care In hopes that St Nicholas soon would be there. children nestled snug in their beds While visions of sugar-plums danced heads. And mamma her 'kerchief and I my cap Had just settled our brains for long winter's nap. When out on lawn there arose such clatter sprang from bed to see what matter. Away window flew like flash Tore open shutters threw up sash. moon breast new-fallen snow Gave lustre mid-day objects below. When wondering eyes should appear But miniature sleigh eight tinny reindeer. With little old driver so lively quick knew moment it must Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came he whistled shouted called them name! "Now Dasher! now Dancer! Prancer Vixen! On Comet! Cupid! on Donner Blitzen! To top porch! wall! Now dash away! Dash away all!"