in pulling the opposite ends of a gelatine
and paper cylinder is of the keenest, accompanied as the operation is by
a mixed anticipation--half fearful as to the explosion that is to
follow, and wholly delightful with regard to the bonbon or motto which
will thus be brought to light. Much amusement is afforded to the lads
and lassies by the fortune-telling verses which some of the crackers
contain. But the cracker of our early days was something far different
from what it is now. The sharp "crack" with which the article exploded,
and from which it took its name, was then its principal, and, in some
cases, its only feature; and the exclamation, "I know I shall scream,"
which John Leech, in one of his sketches, puts into the mouth of two
pretty girls engaged in cracker-pulling, indicated about the all of
delight which that occupation afforded. Since then, however, the cracker
has undergone a gradual development. Becoming by degrees a receptacle
for bon-bons, rhymed mottoes, little paper caps and aprons, and similar
toys, it has passed on to another and higher stage, and is even made a
vehicle for high art illustrations. Considerable artistic talent has
been introduced in the adornment of these novelties. For instance, the
"Silhouette" crackers are illustrated with black figures, comprising
portraits of well-known characters in the political, military, and
social world, exquisitely executed, while appropriate designs have been
adapted to other varieties, respectively designated "Cameos,"
"Bric-a-brac," "Musical Toys," &c.; and it is quite evident that the
education of the young in matters of good taste is not overlooked in the
provision of opportunities for merriment.

SANTA CLAUS AND THE STOCKING.

Hang up the baby's stocking! Be
sure you don't forget! The dear
little dimpled darling, she never
saw Christmas yet! But I've
told her all about it, and she opened
her big blue eyes; and I'm sure
she understood it--she looked so
funny and wise. * * * Dear, what
a tiny stocking! It doesn't take
much to hold such little pink toes
as baby's away from the frost and
cold. But then, for the baby's
Christmas, it will never do at all.
Why! Santa wouldn't be looking
for anything half so
small. * * * I know what
will do for the baby. I've
thought of the very best
plan. I'll borrow a
stocking of Grandma's,
th