Argosy (UK), January 1955 — page 47: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

ee en ee Ee ee ee eae ee , - 4 r ” . rT ! : 45 the top of the tree we hang the golden ball of the sun, the silver ball of the moon, and the myriad starry host. On the widespread- ing starry branches we place little figures of animals, all the friend- ly beasts that serve man; and the flowers and fruits that reward his labours and make his heart rejoice. According to ancient custom there are four great reindeer on our tree, and as they feed on the branches the four seasons pass. Twelve lesser reindeer nibble away at the little green twigs, and as they eat the twelve months pass. The chattering squirrel who ran up and down the old World Tree, creating discord in the home of the gods and in the lair of the dragon, is in our tree, a reformed, delightful Christian squirrel. Certain other creatures find an honoured place because they belong especially to the Christmas story. ‘The camels that brought the Mag: to the new- born King; the ox and the ass; the shepherd boy’s dog; the cock and the raven and the lamb; and the fish, first symbol of Christ’s name. No Christmas tree is really complete without | maese . . | GERALDINE GORDON, The Christmas Tree ; Silver Tinsel Little fir tree of the forest, Standing proudly in the room, Why are you so glad and happy? Where is now your prickly gloom? Is that silver on your fingers? - Are those presents round your feet? ; Do you hear the children’s voices Singing carols, shrill and sweet ? ErLunep Lewis, The Fir Tree Christmas Crib “Now,” she said, and Lady Matlock turned the lights off again. As the flame took strength and burgeoned on the wicks of ten tiny candles, the Nativity of Christ, as reconstructed by Neenie with farmyard toys and old bits of stuff, emerged there, where the light was concentrated and utterly still. All the heads of cattle, all eyes of models, all tinsel stars, and one bronze ter (“ why not, darling? ”’) directed inflexible attention at a manger where lay a celluloid doll taken from the children’s old toy cupboard. Murmurs, little cries, compliments. ‘ Neenie, it’s too lovely.” Huco Cuarteris, A Share of the World comicloooks.comnn)