genious toys, the gifts of friends
and kindred. We liked the toys very much indeed. We were, however, too
happy to endure quiet pleasure very long, and all prepared to assemble
around the Christmas tree. After a delightful dance around the tree,
and around our dear parents, our presents were again examined; for the
variety of offerings made on these occasions would much exceed the
belief of a stranger to our customs. Every article for children's
clothing was here to be found, both for ornament and use; nor were
books forgotten. It was then I received my first Bible and
Prayer-book; and at the moment the precious gift was placed in my
hand, I resolved to accompany my parents to church the following
morning at five o'clock. (This early attendance at public worship on
Christmas morning is a custom observed in Central Germany, and is
called Christ-Kirche.)

The ceremony of withdrawing, in order to attire ourselves in some of
our new dresses, having been performed, we re-entered the apartment,
upon which the great folding-doors being thrown open, a second
Christmas tree appeared, laden with hundreds of lights. This effect
was produced by the tree being placed opposite some large
looking-glasses, which reflected the lights and redoubled their
brilliancy.

Here hung the gifts prepared by the hands of the children for their
beloved parents.

My eldest sister, Charlotte, had knitted for her mother a beautiful
evening cap, and a long purse for her father.

Emily presented each one of the family with a pair of mittens; and the
little Adolphine made similar offerings of open-worked stockings, her
first attempt.

Our parents were also surprised and delighted to receive some
drawings, exceedingly well executed, by my brothers, accompanied by a
letter of thanks from those dear boys, for the kind permission to take
lessons which had been granted to them during the last half-year.

The great bell had called us together at five o'clock in the
afternoon, to receive our Christmas gifts; and though at eleven our
eyes and hearts were still wide awake, yet were we obliged to retire,
and leave all these objects of delight behind us. All remembered that,
at least, the elder branches of the family must rise betimes the next
morning to attend the Christ-Kirche, and to hear a sermon on the birth
of the Saviour of Mankind.

The great excitement of the previous evening, and the vision of
delight that still hovered around my fancy, prevente