Twin City Star

The Best Gift of All THE BOOK Bobby's Christmas Gift by Winifred Barton "I "M GOLNG to write Santa Claus a letter asking him to bring me the things for Christmas I want," said Bobby Sawyer. "Mamma says that because papa won't ever come home any more we can't have any Christmas gift. I don't see why, because papa was lost at sea, Santa Claus won't come as he used to. I hear of children writing to Santa for what they want and I'm going to write to him, too." So Bobby sat down and wrote his letter. He spelled bugle, bugel, and Christmas, Crismus, and some of the words were so bungled that the old fellow must have had a hard time deciphering them; but all the things Bob wanted were named in the letter and he did not doubt for a moment that Santa Claus would respond generously. One morning shortly before Christmas, Peter the postman left a letter at the door addressed to Robert Sawyer. Peter who had long delivered the letters of the Sawyer family would not give it to anybody but Bobby, saying that Santa Claus required him to give any letters marked "from Kris Krin- gle" to the child to whom it was addressed and to no one else. Bobby opened it and read: "Dear Bobby: "I have received your letter and will bring you the finest Christmas present you ever received in your life. "SANTA CLAUS." THE TWIN CITY STAR. Bob of course was delighted with this, and he noticed that from the time of its receipt everything about the house seemed to take on a certain cheerfulness. Bobby laid in wait for Peter when he came again and asked him a lot of questions as to how and where Santa Claus gave him the letter, Peter said that he was not permitted to tell children anything about Santa Claus. They must hang up their stockings and wait for him to fill them. This was three days before Christmas. Bobby who was very watchful detected his mother smuggling in certain packages. This puzzled him, for his mamma had told him there would be no gifts this year and he did not expect any except what Santa Claus would bring. Bobby asked his mother if what she brought in was intended for Christmas, but she gave him no satisfaction, though she took him in her arms and gave him a bear hug and a dozen kisses. She seemed as happy as if she expected Santa Claus to bring everything she wanted for Christmas. The day before Christmas a messenger boy came with a telegram for Mrs. Sawyer. She tore off the envelope and read it, and looked very happy, giving the messenger a half dollar. Bobby asked what the telegram was about. She told him it was about a Christmas gift she and all the rest of the family were to receive, and when Bobby kept asking again and again "What is it mamma?" she gave him another bear hug and smothered him with kisses. Bobby had a sister, Edith, twelve years old, and a brother Jim, ten. Both of them were too old to sympathize with Bobby in his faith in Santa Claus bringing him the gift he had promised him in his letter. Indeed they didn't believe Santa Claus really wrote letters to children. Bobby tried his best to get out of Edith or Jim what made their mother so happy, but they would not tell. Indeed they seemed almost as happy as she. Having failed with them Bobby tried Peter the postman. Peter said he suspected Santa Claus had something to do with the family happiness, but he was not sure. So poor Bobby was obliged to swallow his curiosity and wait for Christmas morning. Bobby went to bed on Christmas eve determined to resist the sandman and keep his eyes open all night, so that he might get a glimpse of Santa Claus and see what his remarkable gift was. But the sandman soon began to drop sand in Bobby's lids, and he was asleep in ten minutes after his head struck the pillow. When Bobby awoke the sun was quite high in the heavens. He heard the word "Bobby!" shouted in his ears and at the same time felt himself gently shaken. He did not awaken by degrees, but all at once. And there standing before him and looking down upon him, smiling, was his papa. "Why, papa!" he exclaimed, "I thought you were never going to come home any more." "Santa Claus told me that he was to bring me home to my little boy for a Christmas gift." Bobby threw his arms around his father's neck and hugged and hugged, and it seemed that he would never let go. Mamma, and Edith and Jim came in and so great was the excitement that Bobby forgot to look for what was in his stocking. That was certainly the happiest Christmas the Sawyer family ever spent or ever would spend. Bobby was too young to have it all explained to him, but when he is older his mother intends to tell him that his father was on a vessel that was torpedoed and sunk. Mr. Sawyer was reported missing, but he was picked up out of the water by an American cruiser and in time managed to get home. After word came that he was saved the letter was written to Bobby by his sister as from Santa Claus, and afterwards a telegram came saying that his father would be home on Christmas morning. ```markdown ``` MINNEAPOLIS, MINN., DECEMBER 21, 1918. My Christmas Tree by George L. Louis OH looket here! My, wasn't Santa good! He gave me all the presents that he could. That's 'cause I always kept so neat and clean— On Sundays dresst just like a fairy Queen. I minded darling Muzzer ev'ry day; Was careful of my dresses when at play, And held my Gran'ma's yarn when she did knit, For that's the way I did my little bit. And when my Dad came home from work each night I tried to please him with my tiny might; Always brought his pipe and paper, too, So he could smoke and read it thru and thru. Dear Santa Claus, in Toyland, heard 'bout me, 'Cause my Muzzer said he said, said he, "I'll just give that sweet and 'bedient chile The very things she's wanted all the while." So see this pretty, sparkling Christmas Tree And the toys and things he gave to me; When you're good like me and try to please Santa Claus will give you toys like these. Be this, good friends, our carol still, Be peace on earth, be peace on earth To men of gentle will. —Thackeray. HOLIDAY SEASON IN ITALY Dr. Grenfell of Labrador Fame Explains Christmas Observances in the Sunny Land. Travelers visiting Rome while it was still the center of a land of peace, found Christmas there a day of joyousness; and the merry bells of many churches, ushering in the day, spoke the familiar language of home. Just before the war, Dr. Grenfell, of Labrador fame, indulged in the unusual luxury of a brief holiday in Europe, after years of tireless service among the fishermen. His journey brought him and Mrs. Grenfell to Rome just as the many religious and civil observances of the Christmas season were about to take place. The decorations, the greetings, and the crowds flocking in and out of churches, emphasized the spirit o' the season. "All the places of worship into which we peeped," he says, "were ablaze with lights, while processions of priests in glittering robes, with sonorous choruses and ascending incense, appealed to the various senses." At one church they viewed the five boards believed to have formed a part of the cradle of our Lord. The American Episcopal Church of St. Paul, where they worshiped on Christmas morning, was crowded with the Protestant population of the Holy City. A feature of the service was the dedicating of a beautiful new mosaic, covering one entire wall of the church. Of the Collseum, says Dr. Grenfell, "we could think of no place better to suggest to our minds the communion of the saints; and as we walked round the tiers of seats we could see again the 'men of like passions with ourselves,' giving their lives for the same Master we claim to serve." When darkness had fellen the travellers were attracted by numbers of bright lights over by the Porta San Giovanni. These proved to announce "all the fun of a fair"—there in Italy just as one finds them in this country at a "county fair." Christmas Gifts. Have you the one glad hope Within your heart this morn? It is a precious gift from Him Who on this day was born. Have you the wondrous peace Which Jesus gives His own? O, priceless gift to know we trust His finished work alone! Have you a strong, deep love For lost sheep wandering wide? It is the tender shepherd gift Of Him who for them died. Have you access by faith To all the gifts of grace? Your glory-gift will be to see The risen Saviour's face. —Mrs. Merrill E. Gates. By Charlen Birkena I have been looking on this evening at a merry company of children assembled round that pretty French toy, a Christmas tree. The tree was planted on the middle of a great round table and flowered high above their heads. It was brilliantly lighted by a multitude of little tapes and everywhere sparkled and glittered with bright objects. There were rosy-checked dolls hiding behind the green leaves, and there were real watches (with movable hands, at least, and an endless capacity for being wound up) dangling from innumerable twigs. There were French polished tables, chairs, bedsteads, wardrobes, eight-day clocks and various other articles of domestic furniture (wonderfully made in tin at Wolverhampton) perched among the boughs, as if in preparation for some fairy housekeeping. There were jolly, broad-faced little men, much more agreeable in appearance than many real men, and no wonder, for their heads took off and showed them to be full of sugar plums. There were fiddles and drums. There were tambourines, books, workboxes, paint boxes, peep show boxes, sweetment boxes and all kinds of boxes. There were trinkets for the older girls, far brighter than any grownup gold and jewels. There were baskets and pincushions in all devices. There were guns, swords and banners, real fruit, made artificially dazzling with gold leaf; imitation apples, pears and walnuts, crammed with surprises. In short, as a pretty child before me delightedly whispered to another pretty child, her bosom friend, "There was everything, and more." The Man of the Hour December O month far famed! For festive days and nights renowned. Joy festivals with hallowed benedictions crowned: Life's annual clearing house for retrospective thought, Where pensive memory recalls the smiles, the tears, The hopes and joys of youth, the loves of vanished years, And sighs to see the havoc, sad, that Time has wrought. O hoary month! In regions of the north and east. The song of bird and rippling of the brook have ceased. And Nature's thousand charms of summer days have fled. There Boreans reigns, fierce god of wind and storms; And winter all of verdure into brown and white transforms And leaves no trace of life and beauty sped. O happy month! When keen anticipation, sweet, Files swift on wings of ardent love to greet With gifts the friend, the lover or the kindred near. And speeds its largest to the ones most dear. Illustrious months of most illustrious birth! No other birth such mighty portent bore. This is Peace whom heaven and soul adore. How thrills the heart at thought of Christmas morn! —J. C. Oliver in Los Angeles Times. Religious Corn Bread. An Indiana mother had baked corn bread for dinner. Her six-year-old son complained that he did not like corn bread. "Oh, yet you do," the mother said. "It's delicious." When they were seated at the table the little son who did not understand the meaning of many words, said: "Well, give me some of your religious corn bread then." A Happy Thought. Only deeds give strength to life, only moderation gives it charm.—Jean Paul Richter. NO. 40. Polignant Pangs Come Instead of Peace, as Season Causes Thoughts of the Past. Christmas, singularly enough for a festival that is supposed to celebrate joy, is characterized by sadness. The time of year, which is supposed to be fraught with good cheer, is laden with pain. Instead of peace, there are experienced polignant pangs. Nor is it cynicism which says so; the average man in the street will-tell you the same. Neither is crabbed age sponsor for the crotchets of the time; unless, indeed, crabbed age begins in this hurried era when a man passes his majority. Nor is the tragic contrast between the cloud, which now for the fifth Christmas darkens Europe and the world, and the bright star of Bethlehem the reason for the somber tone that sounds beneath the gay notes of the season, as the deep diapason of the organ rolls beneath the rippling melody. No; it is none of these things which imparts to Christmas the somberness which is apparent to everybody who has passed into years of maturity. It's memory that does it. Memory plays tricks with us on these days. Perhaps more than on any other holiday our minds revert to Christmasmas that used to be. We like to think about it; we like to read the Christmas Carol, because it puts in everlasting words the emotion of gladness which used to dominate that day. No matter how humble the home, memory paints it in wonderful colors on this one day, from the time we jumped from the warm bed long before dawn and scampered across the cold floor to get the stocking which somehow had been stuffed during the night, to the end of the plethoric home festival, when, candy-smeared and filled to the point of repletion we were rescued from the wreck of toys and packed wearily off to sleep, more or less troubled with painful suggestions of turkey and mince pie. There is only one thing that can make Christmas real to a grown-up, and that is to do something for somebody who cannot pay it back. That otherism is, we begin to suspect, the thing which dominated the Christmas that used to be and made them so real that they remain warm in memory. Unless you would have memory become a dry specter, you yourself must make real for little children of the now the pictures which memory conjures up for you of the Christmasmas that used to be—Saturday Globe. --- A 200 And butcher,coman,and kreest. ft “fHE TWIN CITY STAR PUBLSHED EVERY FRIDAY BY .). CHARLES SUMNER SMITH, d@inneapolis, Minnesota. Matered in the Post Office at Min- aeapolis as second class matter. [ MEMBER | NATIONAL NEGRO PRESS ery LASSOCIATION tnx Subscription by Mal, Postpaid. ONE YEAR vo..cccceee dere ees9$200 SIX MONTHS $125 THREE MONTHS .........+-. 65 ADVERTISING RATES. One Inch—1 Insertion—One Dollar, Liberal discount given on 3, 6, 9 Months, or 1 year contracts We do not rn free ads, or over-run the time contracted for by our a+: vertisers We respect their right te advertise at intervals, and rather have them do so, than to run continuously an “adv.” and an increasing account. Write all Checks payable to THE TWIN CITY STAR 1817 North Sixth Ave. MINNEAPOLIS - - MINNESOTA Call at 1317 6th Ave. N. on Wednes- day to insure matter for publication. The Stare Phone, Hyland 1208. Send your subscription. Our prices have not changed because of the war. Let your dollar do its duty and The Star will reach a higher standard of service and better circulation. —S—— Let us not draw the color line, Reciprocity between the races will be the salvation of the Negro. , We are all Americans now. Join in the celebrations! Serving intoxicants to persons in the uniform of the U. 8. Army is a crime. ‘The boys who accept are subject to court martial. Any civilian should re port the improper conduct of a soldier to the military authorities. A warning should be sufficient. SIMMON'S GREATEST ORATION. Col. Roscoe Conkling Simmons, who stands today unsurpassed by any ora tor in the Nnited States, delivered his greatest oration before an immense ‘audience in the Eighth Reg’t. Armory in Chicago, on Nov. 15, 1918. He ana- lysed the Causes of the War, paid tribute to America’s -place and part in the Victory, and demanded justice for all men. The Monitor, edited. by Rey. John Albert Williams of Omaha, Neb, published the oration in serial form, /The speeches of Col. Simmons should be published im book form. He is eloqient, logical amd forceful. His matserpieces of eloquence would be a valuable contribution to the leading Ubraries, and if placed within easy touch of everyone, would do much to bring about. better relationship be- tween the races. ‘The Star wishes its readers a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. ‘THAT PEACE TABLE GRAFT. ‘There are many schemes put forth by various organizations to finance ways and means for so-called dele- gates to France. These robberies are promoted by some socalled leaders. It a Negro does not carry credentials from elther the National Negro Bust- ness League, the N. A. A. C. P., or the Equal Rights League, he will not see the peace table, even as a waiter. Any ¢itizen who has the fare may go, s0 let these personal profit promoters pay « We do not expect that a Negro will sit at the peace table. He could not, unless delegated such a privilege by President Wilson, and that 1s ‘mprob- able. However, a good lobby of intel Higent Negroes would do much by way of mediation by their presence and work. ‘ Mayor-elect Meyers showed his de sire to rid our race of its criminal ele ment, and said it was the duty of the good citizen to help him. He is right. And may we say that all lawbreakers should be included. ‘There,are other oriminals than the social club ele ment. He can find them among the church element, éven among the Preachers. WE ARE PROUD OF You. ‘The boys who have come from war service, whether in camp or overseas, are a manly set. They show the re- sult of discipline and are so proud of their position that they carry them- selves with becoming dignity. They Tealize that the eyes of the world are ‘on the Negro soldier and are willing to measure up to the highest standard. ‘These men have nothing to- regret. ‘They frankly state that they have been teatly benefited, and our special in- terviews have not found one offering Trae criticism of the serv- They are heroes, every one. Let ‘us honor our ‘soldiers. They have made a glorious record. We are proud ‘of you, because you have done your duty, and you deserve our praise. ‘May we never forget you, and Uncle Bam will not. \ “Why is it that many of the persons ‘who want their news in & paper, never gubscribe for it? te red e Te be ek oe +: a Pe + as | oe Oke ees £5 Se ve =) ey |. ee “ek “PROFESSOR W. BB. DUBOIS. Prof. W. E. B. DuBois sailed tor France pn the same ship with Dr. Moton. He will meet the representa- tives of “The Darker Races,” several of whom were present at the Univer- sal Races Congress in Londom in 1910. Dr. DuBois should contro! a great lob- by and wield a great influence among those at the peace table. The Twin City Star stands tor | ‘Why not give him “their c equal rights for all American citizens. He is qualified. f THE SUNDAY FORUM. OR. BURTON CLOSES TWO SUCCESSFUL TERMS. A PATRIOTIC PROGRAM. AN APPRECIATIVE AUDIE The Minneapolis Sunday Forum completed its fiscal year on last Sunday, which will mark an epoch in its history. As a civic body, it has stood for activities towards the economic life of Negroes in this city. Its Sdclal Service committve, headed by that experienced, willing and efficient worker, Mrs. Susie Bogie, has brought cheer and comfort to many of our unfortunates, She is ably assisted by Mrs. W. R. Donovan, Mrs, W. A. Graves and Mrs. Clarence W. Bell. The good done by these women cannot be too highly commended. Second in activity has been the Public Affairs committee, headed by W. M. Smith. This unit has been valuable in bringing before this body sug- gestions pertaining to a more personal nature, but nevertheless of import in advancement. e From time to time speakers have been brought before the Forum to im- part information and knowledge. A classic, in the nature of @ musical recital, was given under the auspices of this committee, which was an achievement in ftaelf, worthy of much praise. The Sunday Program. On December 15 @ most fitting program was presented, which reflected the work of the Forum and present administration as a whole, ‘The day being beautiful and the spirit at highest ebb, there appeared at Bethesda Baptist ghurch a spectacle of which all the people of Minneapolis should be proud. After the seating of the two Home Guard companies C and D and several men returned from service, exercises were opened by the president. “America” was the opening song, followed by ati invocation by Rev. D. B. Beasley. Atter the opening remarks a reading was rendered by Mrs. Martha Lee, extolling the heroism of our black soldiers, She received tremendous applause. The next speaker was Chairman J. F. Ells, of the local draft board. - His remarks were qincere and to the point, expressing his pleasure by his contact with our race and his confidence in us. Mr. Ells has been true blue’and a yard wide in his dealings with our race, and too much cannot be said of his spirit of fairness. Rev. Beasley introduced Mayor-lect J. E. Meyers, he being his personal friend and advisor, Mr. Meyers is fair, encguraging and sympathetic. He displayed a certain knowledge about our conditions, but was somewhat want to detract from our staunch friend, the present Mayor Van Lear. Mr. Meyers was tendered a vote of thanks. Capt. Chas. Sumner Smith was next in a response that was most fitting. His remarks, necessarily impromptu, were brief amd pointed, correcting. the statement that “we were unacquainted with our history and achievements” that we expected as citizens and taxpayers our quota of representation in civic affairs, and were willing to place our confidence in him as an executive, who believed in fairness amd square dealing, also paying a tribute of respect to bis predecessor for his manly stand against race predjudice and discrim- nation, A more fair, diplomatic and appropriate respunse could not have ‘been given, which lying’ aside the political situation, placsd our next Mayor on his merits. The approval of the Forum was evidenced by interrupted ap- plause. 5 ‘The presentation of the Service Flag by Mr. Will. C. Jeffrey, representing 250 colored men from this city, was the patriotic part of the program, Mr. Jeffrey's remarks were very appropriate. After the acceptance by the prest- dent, the Marseillaise was played by a juvenile member, Miss Grace Franklin. Major J. H. Sherwood, of the 16th Bn. M. H. G., spoke on “Our Military Service” and as usual was well received. A musical selection of extraordinary merit was the rendition by Mrs, 8. E. Hall of St. Paul, who is specildizing in Negro Folk songs and Negro composers, Her offering by our own Harry Burleigh was a touch of nature. Mrs. Hall explained the circumstances which produced these songs and their comparative value among the musical classics. Lieut. A. L, Hatchett, of 372 Int, A. E. F., was royally received. His story ot the conditions of our boys here in camp and “over there” held his audience in full coramand by his’ masterful personality and eloquence and officerly bearing. His address was especially instructive and interesting. Lt. Hatchett was given a reception, worthy of a reurned hero. A medley of National airs was played by Mrs. Melvina Chandler Glenn, as only an artist can play them. ‘The audience joined in the chorus. Mrs. S. G. Franklin, supervisor of Alpha Red Cross Chapter, made a splendid appeal including an appropriate reading. ‘The Star Spangled Banner, led by Mr. John H. Allison and benediction by Rey. T. B. Stovall closed the exercises. FORUM'S NEWLY ELECTED OFFICERS. : President, Dr. R. 8, Brown; Vice president, Mrs. W. R. Donovan; Secre tary. Miss Mattie McMahon; Treasurer, Mrs, Clarence W. Bell; Journalist, ‘Mrs, Victoria Graham; Critic, Mrs. Jas. Tooley; Organist, Miss Edith Stone; Chaplain, Rev. D. E. Beasley. a ee ‘Next Meeting at St, Peter A. M. E. Churel‘on Jan. 4, 1919. PRESIDENT. BURTON EXTENDS THANKS. ‘As president of the Minneapolis Sunday Forum, I want to express my eepest gratitude to its members and friends. As we look back on a year‘o activities, it should be with no small degree of pride, As in all. things, the nth degree has not been expressed, but good has come forth-as is always the tesult from endeavor. . 1 wish, to especially thank those who have been responsible, by actior ‘and spirit in making my administration a success; to render my appreciatioy to Mrs. Nora Graves and Mrs. W. R. Donovan for our program last Sunday All credit is due to thelr efforts, also to commend Messer W. M. Smith, Will ©. Jaffery and Chas, Sumner Smith for their ever ready suggestions an¢ efforts. No organization is greater than the spirit that leads its members It 1s with greatest confidence that we now place the reigns of leadership ‘ir the hands of that efficient leader, Dr. R. D. Brown. ( PRES, DR. W, ELLIS BURTON. Secretaries of Lodges may send 10 tices of their newly elected officers ‘or tree publication and office infor mation. % te lee Ak inated Ts ah Noy Buy Baby Bond's. ee 8 ar” a ere moe ms date ee ee So ee Oe be MAJ. MOTON GONE TO FRANCE. Maj. R. R. Moton, successor to Dr. Booker T. Washington, has gone to France by appointment of President Wilson. He will speak to the Negro troops over there. Whether he will be present as the race representative at the peace table has not been de- clded. ‘There is a feeling that Maj. Moton cannot represent the Negroes of America without their consent. (i ee | Why not give him “their consent”? He is ‘qualified. Printing at Popular Prices. Let us do your printing. Good work at popular prices, All kinds of job work. Call Hyland 1206, THE TWIN CITY STAR, MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. e S 0 irella | PRINT mem | : ORSETS will give you lithe, uncorseted grace ¥] and constant comfort, yet mould | your figure to the present fashion. = They are fitted to your measure in = your own home by a trained corset- ae iere—the Spirella way. A telephone = call or post-card will bring an expert sf avn to your home te explain the Spirella =| Sse service and- boning in detail. en Spirella Corset Shop Gotan SRY CORA &. CARR a 205, Aurora Ave. Gn St Paul, Minn, CPOE) N, W. Phone Hyland 3606 Hour 9 to 2 a. m. and 1 to 6 p. ae Sundays and Eveninnge by Appointments. Dentist Surgeon 715 6th ie No. Minneapolis Minn. Room No. 2 ; He is strictly first class and uptodate in his business. Give him a call and yeu will make no mistake. BEN MARIENHOFF For 28 Years at 318 Hennepin Avenue. Tailor to Men IMPORTED AND DOMESTIC WOOLENS ‘ AT POPULAR PRICES Your Patronage Desired. : A WRONG INTERPRETATION. T regret that many of the supposed intelligent persons of my race have misinterpreted my remarks in re- sponse to the address of Mayor-elect Meyers at the Sunday Forum on last Sunday. It was my privilege and duty to inform our honored guest of some of the contending forces that hinder the progress of our race in this city; also to make a response in keeping with his remarks. No promises were requested, no challenges were issued, no demands made, or apologies given, and Mr. Meyers suffered no embar- rassment. Vengeance and predjudice should not mould our opinions. 1 am for tunate to be able to: express myself courteously and intelligently, and hav- ing a fair knowledge of the necessary facts, I try to present my point of view, from study and conviction, rath- er than by any appeals to popular passions. . We are not proud of many congra- tulations, because of the reasons of. fered with them. I have no political axes to grind or fences to build. My only desire is to do what I can to assist in the great propaganda of race adjustment, A young attorney, not present at the meeting, called me over the phone to “congratulate you on. giv- ing Meyers the devil.” This shows the spirit of revenge. On hearing the name of the person who called, I hung up the receiver without a word in reply.’ Let us not revive the cannibalistic ‘customs of our ancestors, or adopt the methods of Southern outlaws. Times ‘are changed and the Negro is chang ing in conformity with them. Prin: ciples, not personaltties, shall contro] our deliberations, opinions and actions, Let us safeguard our expressions by careful analyses and honest convic ‘tions. May we do nothing in malice or ill-temper.—Editor. NEGROES WANT WILSON TO ADD 15TH PRINCIPLE Boston, Dec. 3—An appeal to the United States peace delegation to add a fifteenth principle to the fourteen enunciated by President Wilson was made by the National Equal Rights league, a Negro organization, today, speaking it says for “15,000,000 Amer feans notoriously suffering fagrant deprivation of dembcracy,” calls on the peace delegates to insist upon the principle .of “elimination of civil, po Htical and judicial disabilities and dis tinetions based on race and color in all nations for the new era of freedom everywhere.” A SPECIAL NOTICE. ‘We need every cent due us to keep up this publication. The Star asks no charity. If you want to help a paper for your race, get us a \sub- seriber. Do: not waste your time making promises to our agents. Send your money by Express or Post Office Or- der or in cash or postage stamps. / "OUR HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENTS Christmas Eve Ball, December 24th New Year’s Eve Ball, December 3ist at UNION TEMPLE HALL, 28 WASHINGTON AVE. 80. i Luncheon prepared by the celebrated caterer, Mr. George Jones. A special program of singing and entertainment, in addition to a jazzband ‘orchestra. You are cordially invited to attend both dances. Bere COMMITTEE. , Grant Smith, Chas. Williams, H. B. Rowe— . The Twin City Entertainers. . ADMISSION, 50 CENTS. AS Co Xmas Sy | | Gifts“Leather \¥ ‘AT LAST YEAR'S PRIOES | ete Se Flas Sowel Gast, | EeSphe tie he | WN. W. Trunk Co. | \ ‘Manufacturers I N RETAIL STORE Bb A248 Nicollet Ave RS ed The Purpose of an Advertisement - is to serve your needs. It will help sell your a ae me ae ea reference guide to those whose wants are worth supplying. ! SUBSCRIBERS WANTED — Make ‘the Twin City Star a live and depend- able weekly Negro newspaper by sending your subscription, iil adie fe ‘American Red Cross Presents Twelve-Star Service Pin to Colored Minister. ES al 7 a x ee a 2 | ofS oe [. eek ee Eee RR a ity NP oy 7 VY ! Ps ] eRe OSS \ Pe, eo Pee ere. wee See We Gree nie toe re La, and the Twelve-Star Service Pin Presented to Him by the American Red. Cross.” | Having the right to and needing a itwelve-star service pin, the Rev. R. H. 'Windsor of Rayville, La, a zealous ‘Red Cross worker, has been presented ‘with a unique decoration by the Amer- itean Red Cross, The father of nine- 'teen sons, twelve of whom are with ‘the colors, this genfal colored minister jot the Baptist church probably holds me record for sons in the military service of the United States. If there Fes any others with similar or better status, they are yet to be heard from. In the accompanying illustration of the twelve-star pin, topped with the Bed Cross insignia, it will be noted ‘that the first bar Bears five stars. These represent five individual sons— Bennle, Robhin, Jeff, Johnnie and Archie. The next bar bears two stars representing twins, George and Lafa- yette; “the next “bar ts similarly ecorated, representing William and James, also twins; and the bottom bar, with its three stars, represents the triplets, Matthew Mark and Luke. Eight of the boys are volunteers, and the other four were called in the dratt. Upon hearing of the remarkable | record of the Windsor family, Presi ‘dent Wilson, who is also president of | the American Red Cross, wrote to the | Rev, Mr, Windsor as follows: “I am writing to say with what in- terest and admiration I have learned of the fact that twelve of your sons are in the service of our country, and the thirteenth impatiently waiting to follow them in, This is a splendid record, and I congratulate you from the bottom of my heart. ‘The colored troops have proved themselves fine soldiers.” ey There is an urgent need of social centers for our young men and.young women. Efforts should be made to establish a desirable place for the s0- cial accommodations of our young People. _ SOMETHING NEW. , A judge in Jacksonville, Miss, a short time ago, in a case where a white, man was pitted against a col ored man, ruled that he had no ground for believing the white man's word any more than he did the col- ored man’s.—Ex. ADVERTISE IN THE STAR IMPORTANT NOTICE Unless notes are written plainly and properly arranged they will not be inserted. Many people send in notes regardless of names, initials or composition. Arrangement by the publisher will be charged for. Free notices must be correctly written. OUR NEW AGENT. Miss Mattie McMahan is an authorized correspondent and agent of the Twin City Star. She is one of our intelligent and energetic women, interested in race welfare, and an active church worker. Miss Mahan is from Khoxville, Tenn. The management of this publication will appreciate any courtesies extended her. Mr. Geo. W. Clawson is an agent for The Twin City Star, and one of our new advertising and subscription solicitors. The Star office, 1317 Sixth avenue north, Minneapolis, is where you should call for interviews and bring your advertisements, complaints, news, etc. The editor will not take notice of business transacted over phone. Call at the Star office every Tuesday. Richard Morris, son of Atty, and Mrs. W. R. Morris, returned Sunday eve from Seattle, Wash., where he served as acting master-at-arms on the U. S. S. Princeton, during the war. A SPECIAL MEETING. The Minneapolis branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People will be held on Sunday afternoon at 3 p. m., at Bethesda Baptist Church, Minneapolis, to elect officers for the ensuing term. Important business will be discussed, including a set plan of action to be followed in furthering the aims and objects of the Association. You cannot fail to be interested in this worthy cause. Be present and lend your assistance. Brown S. Smith, President. R. Augustine Skinner, Sec'y Miss M. B. Anderson of 363 Aurora Ave, St. Paul, has returned form Winnepeg. She visited her sister Mrs. E. H. Robinson, who is much improved in health. MRS. FRANKLIN WANTS A DIVORCE. The divorce case of Mrs. Augusta Franklin against her husband, Atty. W. H. Franklin, who attempted to end his life a few years ago in Winnipeg, was heard in the district court this week. Mrs. Franklin was formerly the wife of the well known carnival king, John A. Dickerson. Attorney Franklin is now in a state institution. TWO HOLIDAY ENTERTAINMENTS. The Twin City Entertainers will givet their. Two Annual Holiday Entertainments at Union Temple Hall, 28 Washington Ave. So., Minneapolis, Minn. Everybody Invited. Good Music. Special Lunch served by the famous Chef George Jones. Remember the Dates. December 24 and December 31. Admission 50 cents. MISS LYNETT CHAPLIN JACKSON. Young Woman Dies at the City Hospital Dec. 14th, After a Short Illness. Miss Lynett Chaplin Jackson, daughter of Mrs. Alice R. Bray, and a cousin of the late J. P. Jackson, who came to Minneapolis one year ago with her mother, to make their home with Mrs. Jennie Johnson, 401 5th Ave. So., died at the City Hospital Dec. 14th, after a short illness. Miss Lynett would have reached 22 years of age Dec. 17th. She was a young woman of pleasing manner, much like her late uncle, "Sandwich Jack." She leaves a loving mother, a fond cousin, and many friends to mourn her loss. A CARD OF THANKS We kindly thank the friends who assisted us during the illness and at the death of our daughter and cousin, Miss Lynett Chaplin Jackson, and for the many beautiful floral tributes. Alice R. Bray, Mother. Jennie Johnson, Cousin. Mrs. Eugene Schucks of Bemidji, Minn., has returned from a lengthy visit to relatives in Louisville, Ky. She spent a while in Chicago, and left for home after a stay with Mrs. Jennie Johnson, 401 5th Ave. So., in this city. Mrs. George Johnson, 3861 Snelling Ave., is improving after an operation at the Asbury Hospital. Mr. Beverly Keeese, one of our oldest residents and a retired railroad employee, has secured a position at The Leamington. Atty. R. A. Skinner and Gale P. Hilyer are candidates for assistant in the county attorney's office. EVERY DAY is BARGAIN DAY at the ROOT & HAGEMAN STORE, 407 Nicollet Ave. SMOKE THE RELIABLE RIGHT DRAFT CIGAR THAT'S ALLI CONFUSING THE SITUATION. The immortal Bard in his "Macbeth" writes: "Away and mock the time with fairst show, False face must hide what the false heart doth know." For some time past, I have heard the expression "Confusing the Situation" used whenever a Negro attempts to do, or obtain anything that might be elevating. That was clearly demonstrated not long since. One is prepared to forgive the ignorant or uninformed for an act that is repulsive to good taste, but in those who lay claim to high intellectual attainments, a similar act should be denounced and made public. Strange, how as if by the use of the magic word, "presto," there can spring into being organizations, some long are this extinct, an relegated to the hunghill of oblivion, like their sponsors; others of mushroom growth, of an over-night existence, deceptive and suspicious like their champions; while others exist only in the diseased imaginations of those who really should be under the knife of a skilled surgeon. I say, strange that these organizations should now, at this particular time, be resuscitated and become permanent. For the benefit of those who advocated or held briefs for certain gentlemen of this city in the matter of a public office that, with the exception of the fraternal societies there is only one living, tangible recognized organization in our city, viz. the Minneapolis branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, with actual and recognized membership. These gentlemen subordinated their intelligence to individuals, by becoming their willing dupes and tools, to create opposition, thereby confusing the situation for the "powers that be," who generally find refuge in the stereotyped phrase: "You all have got to get together." When shall we learn the lesson of unselfishness? When shall we learn to avoid these acts of duplicity? When shall we learn to distinguisht between a principle and a motive? Well may I exclaim: "O tempora! O mores! R. Augustine Skinner. NEGRO WHO RECALLED VISIT OF WASHINGTON AND LAFAYETTE DIES Detroit, Dec. 18.—Henry Banks, born a slave on a Virginia plantation in 1789, is dead at his cabin at Paw, where he lived as a hermit. He remembered a visit by President Washington to his master's home, and Lafayette's tour of the United States in 1824 was fresh in his memory. He was cared for in his last years by a granddaughter, now 70 years old. LOCAL DEMOCRACY The local draft board's held their last meeting on Monday night. The affair was a dinner at the Elk's club. The program included draft officials and prominent persons. The Negro draftees were not represented by the presence of a member of their race. They had a dinner before entrainment for Negroes draftees only, at a leading hotel which was attended by the draft officials and prominent citizens of both races. Now that the boys have served their country, they are almost forgotten. We are grateful for the food and felicitations given our boys before leaving. They were more anxious to make a public showing of their loyalty and willing patriotism, which was done by the permission and not the arrangement of the draft officials, than to receive such a separate and exclusive send-off. They were drafted under the condition, "if of African descent tear off this corner." They have been relegated without recognition under similar orders. Future seekers for office (and Negro votes) may make political capital out of their great service in behalf of "Our Boys." If this is the beginning of democracy, where will it end? Where they least expect. Many things will happen not dreamt of in their phylosophy. The Negro is thinking and will act wisely. He can forgive, but cannot forget. After giving most of his time and energy, without financial compensation, towards winning the war, the editor of this publication feels that his sacrifice has not been in vain. Like McAdoo, he must devote his efforts "to recoup his private fortune," which is mostly in the pockets of unpaid subscribers. Send it in! GOVERNMENT, OFFICIAL EXPECT ED TO VISIT MINNESOTA. Prof. Geo. E. Haynes, director of negro economics of the U. S. Department of Labor, will visit western cities next month. He is expected to visit Minnesota to make a survey of labor conditions among Negroes and to organize a state branch of his department. Prof. Haynes will be given a hearty welcome here. There is a great need of an adjustment of industrial conditions between the races and his presence as a government official, also as an authority on economics, will be beneficial to all concerned. ST. PAUL HOME GUARDS. Companies A and B of the 16th Battalion, M. H. G., will hereafter meet every Wednesday night in the old Capitol on Wabasha street. Boutell Bros. have in their employ a colored lady as elevator operator, who has given very satisfactory service. Read the Negro Papers. THE TWIN CITY STAR. MINNEAPOLIS. MINN. MRS. HALEY MAKES APPEAL FOR WAR WORK CAMPAIGN. In our delirium of joy that the war is ended, let us not feel that our work is ended. Much remains to be done and many problems solved before our country is again back to normal care-free conditions. Let every woman remain steadfastly at her task quite as willing to give loyal service to her country during this trying period of reconstruction and readjustment as during this struggle for world democracy. Readjustments must come gradually and Uncle Sam will need every loyal citizen to help him over this task. Do not feel that the armistice signs our release from work any more than it does our fighting soldiers across the sea. Let us stand ready and willing for any orders we are given, to make this period of readjustment as speedy and orderly a one as possible, and as proud a record for America as she has made in other war activities. VICTORIA CLAY HALEY. St. Louis, Mo. ELK'S ANNIVERSARY LT. A. L. HATCHETT, OF.373RD INFANTRY, A GUEST OF HONOR Splendid Program of Speakers. Ames Lodge No. 106 of Minneapolis, I. B. P. O. of Elks of the World, celebrated their twelfth anniversary at their lodge hall on Dec. 17th, with appropriate exercises. There were over 100 members present. The speakers of the evening were P. E. R. Geo. W. Stewart of Gopher No. 105, of St. Paul, Rev. T. B. Stovall, Grand Esquire P. H. Southall, Past Grand E. L. K. Geo. W. Holbert, State Deputy Chas. Sumner Smith, and Lt. A. L. Hatchett, 372nd Inf. from overseas service, who was the guest of honor. Each address was received with attention and enthusiastic applause. The part to be taken by the Elks' fraternity in this era of reconstruction was the important topic. Lt. Hatchett told of the service of the "Boys Over There," and their efforts to merit better treatment of the Negro over here. He was tendered a vote of thanks. The festive board was laden with food and refreshments. A toast was drank to the absent Brothers. The menu consisted of roast turkey with oyster dressing, cranberry sauce, celery, olives, chicken and potato salad, pickles, cheese, crackers, pies, cake, ice cream, cigars and appropriate beverages. Several donations were made by members. A delegation from Gopher Lodge from St. Paul, headed by Editor J. Q. Adams, Than Travis, Geo. Moore, Attorneys J. Louis Ervin and Hammond Turner, and Lt. Arthur G. Todd were among the guests. The Ames Quartet rendered selections. Other entertainers were present. The affair was a great event, enjoyed by all. Past Grand Attorney W. R. Morris presided. Hon. B. S. Smith made an earnest plea for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People. His remarks were received with much enthusiasm. NEWLY ELECTED OFFICERS. Ames Lodge, No. 106, I. B. P. O. E. of W., elected the following officers on Dec. 10: Jos. Sizer, Exalted Ruler; Eugene Pratt, Esteemed Leading Knight; S. G. Franklin, Esteemed Loyal Knight; George Davis, Esteemed Lecturing Knight; W. R. Morris, Secretary; Wm. Stirman, Treasurer. Elected and appointed officers will be installed at a public reception in January. ELKS' CHRISTMAS TREE. The annual Christmas tree exercises of Ames lodge will be held this year. A splendid program for those who attend and a present for the children. Brothers Geo. W. Holbert, Archer Watkins, Edw. Stewart and Fred Thomas are working for a splendid entertainment. VAN HOOK'S DINING ROOM SPECIAL SERVICE FOR LADIES Mr. A. B. Van Hook, the well known chef, has taken over the management of the dining room of Stewart's Hotel, 246 Fourth ave. S. He has arranged for the evenings for entertainment of his lady patrons. The Ladies' Entertainment nights are Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday evenings. Breakfast will be ready at 7 a.m. Special 25c noon lunch and a la carte dinner. Chop Suey served. The patronage of the public is cordially solicited. The management guarantees excellent service and a respectable entertainment, which will meet the approval of the most particular patrons. REV. LAWRENCE RECEIVES COMMISSION Rev. O. A. Lawrence arrived home Tuesday from Camp Taylor, Louisville, Ky., where he attended the Army Training School for Chaplains. He graduated with honor and received a commission as Chaplain with the rank of First Lieutenant, and was placed on the reserve list. Rev. Lawrence is the oldest undertaker of our race in this city. Mr. Geo. E. Jones, the famous chef, has charge of the culinary department at the Waiters and Porters' Club. He has a reputation for his sanitary service. Manager Lee Wheeler has renovated the kitchen and opened a new dining room. A Cash Deposit Required on All Advertisements. Notices of Entertainments, etc. Must Be Accompanied by Cash. CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS SEE McDFW! for real estate. MEXICAN CHILLI PARLOR AND SOFT DRINK CABARET FOR LADIES AND GENTLEMEN 715 South Washington Ave., Minneapolis. One of the finest Chili Parlors this side of Chicago. The only place in the Twin Cities where you can get the genuine Mexican Chili and have music while you eat. Open Till 1 A. M. BOB WILLIS, Proprietor. N. W. Nicollet 1534 JOSEPH YOUNG Loans on Real Estate 818 Metropolitan Life Bldg. Minneapolis, Minn. Nothing Changed But the Price Sight Drafta Still the Same Fine Old Cigar You've Always Liked When your dealer asks you six cents apice for your old friend Sight Draft, don't get the idea that he is trying to put something over on you. The plain truth of the matter is that our labor and other manufacturing costs have increased so much that we had the choice of cutting down the size of the Sight Draft cigar, using inferior tobacco, or raising the price one cent. We believed you would rather have the same old Sight Draft quality, the same old size, even if it cost you a penny more. So, from now on Sight Drafts will be six cents. Try a Sight Draft today. It's worth six cents, and you experienced smokers KNOW it is. W. K. Gresh & Song, maker. W. S. Conrad Co., St. Paul, wholesale distributors. — Advertisement CHOICE CITY AND SUBUR- BAN PROPERTY FOR SALE ON SMALL MONTHLY PAY- MENTS. Houses and Flats for Rent. B. M. McDew 802 Sykes Block. N. W. Nic. 621 Minneapolis Office Hours: Sundays: 2 to 6 p. m. 10 to 1 p. m. 9:30 a. m. to 12:30 p. m. R. S. BROWN, M. D. Office 408-9 Tribune Annex 67 Fourth Street Soutr. N. W. Main 2040. T. S. 38191 Res. 608 E. 14th St. N. W. Main 2388 Minneapolis WORKING-MEN'S SOCIAL CLUB FOR MEN ONLY 244 3RD AVE. S. MINNEAPOLIS SYLVESTER W. OLIVER & BENJAMIN JONES Managers THE KEYSTONE BUFFET (Formerly "Kid" Mitchell's) Now under new management of JIMMY SMITH 1313 Washington Ave So. Main 2259 Minneapolis Peterson, The Druggist 1501 Washington Ave. So. TOILET ARTICLES, DRUGS PRESCRIPTIONS. He Solicits Your Paironage. T. S. Center 4639. WALFRID WESTMAN Photographer 1425 Washington Ave. So. Minn WANTED. Reliable and intelligent agents always wanted to solicit business for THE TWIN CITY STAR; also correspondents in principal cities. A chance to earn a good living. Write The Twin City Star, Minnesota. 16TH BATTALION Company C—Regular drill nights every Monday and Friday. Assemble at 8 p. m. in Room 30, Courthouse. CAPT. GALE C. HILYER. Let Your Dollar Do Its Duty! SUBSCRIBE NOW. OVERCOATS AT HALF PRICE We have a few unclaimed tailor made Overcoats which we are willing to offer at one-half price. Come in and see them. It may save you money. Brown Bros. Merc. Co. TAILORS AND FURRIERS 21 South Sixth Street ```markdown ``` Formerly of Pence Auto Co. N. W. Main 2869 Auto. 36774 Union Clothing Co. GENTS' FURNISHINGS, HATS, SHOES, TRUNKS AND VALISES 1101-1108 Washington Ave. So. Phone: Tri-State 32978 MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. South Side Barber Shop EXPERT BARBERS; UP TO THE MINUTE. CIGARS, POOL AND BILLIARD TABLES IN CONNECTION. RACE PAPERS—SHOES SHINED. THOMPSON & CARVER. Props. J. & H. Wet Wash Laundry 3753-55-57 Cedar Avenue High Grade Specialists in Wet Wash Dry Wash and Family Laundering OUR WORK IS OUR BEST ADVERTISEMENT HARRY LEVITON MEN'S SUITS AND OVERCOATS MADE TO ORDER. Dry Cleaning and Fancy Dyeing of Ladies' and Gent's Garments. Phone N. W. Hyland 2875 1317 No. 6th Ave., Minneapolis. GLOVER SHULL, PRES. 311 HENNEPIN AVE. MINNEAPOLIS EDDIE BOYD, BECV LEE WHEELER, MANAGER Office Phones—Main 2869; Auto 36774. Dining Room—Main 2831. Twenty Elegant Steam-Heated and Electric Lighted Rooms. A la Carte Meals at All Hours—Popular Prices. 246-250 FOURTH AVE. S., MINNEAPOLIS, MINN. Private Dining and Reception Room for Ladies. Special Temperance Beverages. Men's Buffet and Grill; Billiards; Barber Shop in Connection. Automatic 61809 Laundry que Wet Wash undering ENSEMENT ```markdown ``` JOSEPH DAHL, Prop. TON r TO ORDER. Client's Garments. Ave., Minneapolis. Room-Main 2831. Lighted Rooms. Prices. A star shines in the sky above a snowy village. A tree stands on the left, its branches bare. A storm rolls in the background. I HE festivals of a country seem to reflect the heart of a people. Christmas among Italian peasants has quite a different quality from the Christmas of the land of the former kaiser; so the songs and carols which spring from these festivals carry with them a distinct flavor of the different nationalities which inspire them. Even two countries so closely akin as England and America infuse a certain national atmosphere into the literature of Christmas. In England one may trace the Christmas carol from the quaintest of old folk songs— "As Joseph was a-waukin". He heard an angel sing. "This night shall be the birth night Of Christ, our heavenly king"— down through a sort of procession of Christmas ideals in successive centuries to our own time, when "Hark, the herald angels sing" seems to embody Christmas joy in English-speaking lands the world over. Christmas in America has to adjust itself to a different environment from the old world setting. The heroic struggles of our pioneer ancestors tuned the lyre of one of our ballad writers to tell of "The First Christmas in New England." His picture of the forbidding New England coast presents a pitable contrast to the warmth and cheer which memories of Christmas suggest. "They thought they had come to their port that day, But not yet was their journey done; And they drifted away from Provincetown Bay In the fireless light of the sun, With rain and sleet were the tall masts iced And gloomy and chill was the air; But they looked from the crystal sails to Christ, And they came to a harbor fair. The white hills silent lay,— For there were no ancient bells to ring No priest to chant, no choirs to sing, No chapel of baron, or lord or king, That gray, cold winter day." Then the voyagers remembered the bells of old England which were ringing for Christmas worship and they forbore to devote the day to labor. "Shall our axes swing on this day of days When the Lord of life was born?" The tragedy of the Civil war trailed its shadow over Longfellow's Christmas verse and even his courageous spirit faltered: "I heard the bells on Christmas day Their old familiar carols play, And wild and sweet The words repeat Of peace on earth, good will to men! And thought how, as the day had come, The belfries of all Christendom Had rolled along, The unbroken song Of peace on earth, good will to men!" Then echoes of the accursed cannon thundering far away in the southland DRESSING CHRISTMAS DOLLS "Be Sure the Clothes Come On and Off," is Advice of Woman Who Has Had Much Experience. "Be sure the clothes come on and off." This is the injunction that one woman has to make every year when she gets to work at her usual Christmas task of getting 50 dolls dressed for 50 little orphans who live in an institution in which she is interested. She buys the dolls at wholesale prices and then gets good folk she knows to dress them, but always with the request goes this injunction—"be sure and don't sew the clothes on." The r for this is the fact that these 50 girls are like all other little girls like dolls that can be dressed an undressed, and the first thing they do on receiving their Christmas doll is to see how readily it may be dressed and put to bed and then dressed again. In dressing dolls it is possible to buy paper patterns for doll clothes. One set, sold by a leading pattern concern, contains a cape with a hood, a jumper dress and gulps, a bathrobe and a petticoat and drawers—all for ten cents. The only trouble with this sort of pattern is that it doesn't always fit the doll you choose; in fact, it is by the merest accident that the paper pattern would fit the doll. Although the BRIEF INFORMATION England's prison population before the war was 18,000; it is now 9,500. Portable electric machinery has been invented to screen coal and load it in wagons. Of the 3,000 or more islands comprising the Philippines only about 400 are inhabited. Adding an ounce of camphor to each five gallons of gasoline he uses, an English automobilist claims to effect a fuel saving of 20 per cent. seemed to drown the music of the bells. 'It was as if an earthquake rent The heartstones of a continent. And in despair I bowed my head 'There is no peace on earth,' I said, 'For hate is strong Then pealed the bells more loud and deep: Snow and Christmas winds seem to be so closely mingled with Christmas in the minds of English-speaking people that many of us are scarcely aware that new traditions of Christmas climate are being built up in parts of our wide country. The poet Sill, with his exquisite art, paints for us a picture of "Christmas in California:" "Can this be Christmas—sweet as May, With drowsy sun and dreamy air, The new grass pointing out the way For flowers to follow, everywhere? Has time grown sleepy at his post, And let the exiled summer back, Or is it her regretful ghost Or witchcraft of the almanac? I am his creature, and his air I breathe, where'er my feet may stand; The angels' song rings everywhere, And all the earth is Holy Land." Besides the religious spirit of Christmas poetry, a great deal of verse has been written in honor of St. Nicholas, Kris Kringle or Santa Claus, as he is called, and the children. Perhaps one of the best known of these poems is "The Night Before Christmas" by Dr. Clement C. Moore, which begins: "Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house. Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse; The stockings were hung by the chimney with care. In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there; The children were nestled all snug in their beds, their beds, While visions of sugar plums danced in their heads," etc. Another favorite with the children is "Christmas Day," by Ruth Ray- mond. "Now, chile, go hang yo' stockin's high Dyar by de chimply place. An' brings dem gif's each Christmas day Across de miles of snow. "I'm mended dem from top to toe, Dey'l hole de t'ings yo' need, One lile garden rake and hoe, De book yo' lougs to read. Wid life and drum fo' yo' to play; Dat Santa Clause boun' know De t'ings yo's prayed fo' ebery day And make yo' happy so. "Hang up you' stockin' den an' rest pattern is cut in various sizes for dolls ranging from 14 to 30 inches in length, the proportions of your doll may be quite different from the doll used in cutting the original pattern. If the clothes do not fit it is not a very difficult matter to make alterations in the patterns. You never need to allow any outlay for materials for dolls' clothes, for there are always enough pieces in your work box, or a friend's work box, to make all sorts of dainty garments. There are sure to be odds and ends of lace and insertion to use on the little underwear and pieces of ribbon with which the dresses can be trimmed. FOR SOLDIERS OF BELGIUM Americans to Bring Christmas Cheer to Every Man in Valiant Army. Mr. and Mrs. Ralph C. Norton, who last year distributed 25,000 Christmas boxes to the Belgian soldiers, with the co-operation of the Belgian government, have perfected plans for extending the Christmas cheer this year to every soldier in the Belgian army of 120,000. The gift will consist of chocolate, toilet soap and candies, furnished at a total cost of $40,000. A Christmas greeting card will be inclosed, bearing the following inscription, printed in The inventor of a pulley with depressions in its surface contends that belts will not slip when it is used. With a view to meeting eventually the national demand for wool, the Japanese government will establish three sheep farms early in the new year. A few Japanese women have been put on the cars of the Mino Electric company because of the shortage of men laborers, who have entered the manufacturing activities. If these women conductors prove satisfactory more will be similarly employed. THE TWIN CITY STAR, MINNEAPOLIS, MINN He 'in yo' little bed Jes lalk de birdies in de nest De mammary bird hab fed. Till jingle, jingle in de mawn, When all de bells will say: "De Holy Chile ob Gawd am bawa, An' dis am Christmas day." James Whitcomb Riley, in his Rhymes of Childhood, says: "After a thoughtful, almost painful pause. Bub sighed, 'Tm sorry fer old Santa Claus. They wuz no Santy Claus, ner couldn't be. When he wus ist a little boy like, me.'" His "Who Santy Claus Wuz" is well known: "Jes' a little bit o' feller; I remember still. Ust to almost cry for Christmas, like a youngster will. Fourth o' July's nothing to it! New Year's ain't a smell! Easter Sunday--circus day--jes' all dead in the shell! Lawse, though! at night, you know, to set around and hear The old folks work the story off about the sledge and deer. An "Santy" skootin' round the roof, all wrapt in fur and fuzz. Long afore. I knowed who "Santy Claus" wuz." In his more serious strain he says: In his more serious strain he says: "They's a kind o' feel in the air to me, When the Christmas times sets in, That's about as much of a mystery As ever I've run agin' Because our house I gain in weight And general health I swear They's a goneness somers, I can't quite state— A kind o' feel in the air, Is it the racket the children raise? Wy, no!-God bles 'em-no!- Is it the eyes and cheeks abase Is it any more awake than now? Is it the bleat o' the whistle and beat O' the little toy drum and blare O' the horn? No! no! It is jest the sweet The sad, sweet feel in the air." Paul Laurence Dunbar, in his characteristic dialect, says of Christmas: An' dey' houahs to dance fo' de break o' de day. What if de win' is talkin' an' whistlin'? Look at dat fah how hits spittin' an' bristlin'! Heat in de ashes an' heat in de clandah, Ol' Mistah Fros' kin look thoo de windah." To return to the real spirit of Christmas, as it commemorates the birth of Christ, Margaret E. Sangster says: "We love to think of Bethlehem, That little mountain town, To which on earth's first Christmas day Our blessed Lord came down; A lowly manger for his bed, The cottage in stall There, cradled close in Mary's arms, He slept, the Lord of all. Now breaks the latest Christmas morni! Again the angels sing, And far and near the children throng Their happy hymns to bring. The earth is gladi For down the shining way The Lord who came to Bethlehem Comes yet on Christmas day." Flemish on one side and French on the other: "Belgian soldier, our beloved friend and brother, we, your American friends, greet you this Christmas day, 1918. How bravely you have endured and how courageously you have fought during four years of indescribable hardship! But be of good cheer. Your day of deliverance is drawing near. Listen to the angels' song, 'Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.' Jesus Christ was born for you, dear friend, and if today you will open to him the door of your heart, he will enter in and impart to you eternal life." Mr. and Mrs. Norton, graduate students of the Moody Bible institute of Chicago, have labored so successfully in the interest of the Belgian soldiers since the summer of 1915 that the queen of the Belgians has given repeated recognition to their work, and the Belgian army authorities allowed them access to the front line trenches. Over 12,000 of the Belgian soldiers have joined their "League of the Holy Scriptures," and their names are among the most popular in the ranks. Of the gifts distributed last year, 6,000 boxes went to Belgian soldiers in German prison camps. A reply card was inclosed, and within a few months the entire number of 6,000 had been received, asking that copies of the Gospels be forwarded. GATHERED FACTS The Emergency Fleet corporation has a girls' chorus, all employees, with Miss Beatrice Eaton as leader. With walls but two inches thick, a concrete motion picture theater, 80 by 45 feet and 18 feet high, has been built in England. The discovery in Sweden of a loaf of bread made from pea flour in the time of the Vikings has disclosed the fact that peas were cultivated in Europe more than 1,000 years ago. IN THE LIMELIGHT WIRELESS GETS RID OF "STATIC" An invention which has taken the "static" out of wireless telegraphy, removing thereby the greatest obstacle to the clear transmission of radio messages, has been perfected by Roy A. Wengant, chief engineer of the Marconi Wireless Telegraph Company of America. The invention not only makes possible the sending of clear radio messages regardless of atmospheric conditions, but eliminates "interference," thereby making possible the operation of innumerable radio stations without "crossing" messages. The invention also does away with the necessity of constructing huge wireless towers. Perfect service can be obtained with the use of antennae extending only a few feet from the ground. The invention is said to mark a new era in world communication and to be second in importance in the field of radio telegraphy only to Marconi's invention. Mr. Weagant, who is only thirty-seven, has been working on the problem of static for 15 years and took out patent papers on his invention shortly before the United States entered the war. The government kept the invention secret, disclosing it only to the allied nations. It is thought best to withhold all information concerning it until the actual signing of a peace treaty. invention. Mr. Weagant, who is only problem of static for 15 years and to shortly before the United States enter invention secret, disclosing it only to to withhold all information concerning the treaty. FRAULEIN BAUMER'S DIARY FRAULEIN BAUMER'S DIARY A. M. common sense—assuredly not before "Wednesday, Oct. 9.—Wilson's and less we expected it thus. Yet it hits blow. "Tuesday, Oct. 15.—The evening one follows this schoolmaster's arrogate suggestions must whip up to the last and self-respect in the German people. 'common sense-assuredly not before other men as our 'betters.' "Wednesday, Oct. 9.—Wilson's answer came out this afternoon. Doubtless we expected it thus. Yet it hits us now like a stunning and blinding blow. "Tuesday, Oct. 15.—The evening papers contain Wilson's answer. As one follows this schoolmaster's arrogance one feels that this tone and these suggestions must whip up to the last determination every instinct of pride and self-respect in the German people. TALKING WITH THE BIRDMEN TALKING WITH THE BIRDMEN Col. Clarence C. Culver of Washington is given chief credit by the war department for the development of the new wireless telephone which enabled allied airmen to give information and receive instructions from the ground while flying at considerable distances from their bases. A headpiece like that worn by all telephone operators is worn beneath the airman's helmet. A movable speaking tube is constantly near his mouth. Wires from these pieces connect with a battery which gets its power from the airplane motor. "It was in August, 1910, that I first became interested in the possibility of sending messages from airplanes." Colonel Culver said, "and commenced a series of experiments which were so far successful that in August, 1916, I was enabled to send a radio telegraph message from a plane over Chatsworth, Cal., to San Diego, a distance of 40 miles. In February, 1917, after we had enlisted the assistance of the foremost American telephone companies and their expert acoustical men, we succeeded in transmitting vocal messages from a plane to the ground. In October, 1917, I took the first sets to France and made demonstrations there. By August 200 complete sets had been sent to our forces in France." of 40 miles. In February, 1917, after foremost American telephone company succeeded in transmitting vocal messes October, 1917, I took the first sets to E By August 200 complete sets had been Colonel Culver says nobody invent telephone to military airplanes. Who adjustment of previously discovered la CAPTAIN MOFFETT Colonel Culver says nobody invented anything new in applying the radio telephone to military airplanes. What was done was the adaptation and adjustment of previously discovered laws to a new field. CAPTAIN MOFFETT OF GREAT LAKES U.S. NAVY in the war. The capacity of the station 75,000 under his administration, but he fighting men of the sea. Captain Moffett has been more the and friend. No bluejacket, however of kindness and temperate judgment; and service but has felt the security of clea in the war. The capacity of the station was not only increased from 2,000 to 75,000 under his administration, but he sent into active service 91,000 trained fighting men of the sea. Captain Moffett has been more than commandant. He has been a guide and friend. No bluejacket, however obscure, but has sensed the influence of kindness and temperate judgment; and no family whose son has gone into service but has felt the security of clean surroundings for its boy. C thirty-seven, has been working on the book out patent papers on his invention red the war. The government kept the allied nations. It is thought best to it until the actual signing of a peace Entries from the diary of Fraulein Gertrud Baumer of Berlin during the month of October are of interest to Americans. In 'them President Wilson is referred to as an "arrogant schoolmaster" and the rage of the German people at being forced to accept the terms communicated to them by this government is freely and bitterly expressed. Five weeks later Fraulein Baumer, with Alice Salomon, signed the appeal addressed to Mrs. Woodrow Wilson on behalf of the national council of women of Germany in the hope of obtaining a modification of the armistice terms. Extracts follow: "Tuesday, Oct. 8.—We are to 'repeat.' In so far as there is need of repentance about the mad battle of destruction of these four years, let the whole world repent of it before the God to whom it feels itself responsible. We can repent only in this great other men as our 'betters.' answer came out this afternoon. Doubt us now like a stunning and blinding papers contain Wilson's answer. As once one feels that this tone and these determination every instinct of pride C NAREHS & EWING we had enlisted the assistance of the les and their expert acoustical men, weages from a plane to the ground. In France and made demonstrations there, sent to our forces in France," added new in applying the radio that was done was the adaptation and laws to a new field. T OF GREAT LAKES Capt. William A. Moffett, commandant at Great Lakes Naval Training station, has been assigned to the command of the new superdreadnaught Mississippi, said to be the finest battleship in the United States navy. After the necessary six months of sea service he will be made a rear admiral. Captain Moffett came to Great Lakes as commandant four years ago. From a small naval training station with a maximum capacity of 2,000 men the station became the greatest naval training station in the world. On the day that Captain Moffett goes to sea he will leave behind him a training camp fitted to accommodate 75,000 men. His work in transforming into efficient sailors the recruits who came to him from the farms and cities of the middle West made Captain Moffett one of the prominent American figures on was not only increased from 2,000 to be sent into active service 91,000 trained can commandant. He has been a guide obscure, but has sensed the influence of and no family whose son has gone into an surroundings for its boy. IMPROVED UNIFORM INTERNATIONAL SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON (By REV. B. P. FITZWATER, D. D.) Teacher of English Bible in the Moody Bible Institute of Chicago. (Copyright, 1912, Eastern Newspaper Union.) LESSON FOR DECEMBER 22 THE BIRTH OF JESUS. LESSON TEXT-Luke 21:8-20. GOLDEN TEXT-For unto you is born this day-in the city of David a Savior who is Christ the Lord.-Luke 21:11. Note: Since the lesson committee has suggested the birth of Jesus, a Christmas lesson, as an alternative for this day, doubtless for most classes it will be desirable to use the Christmas lesson and substitute the alternative lesson for the review on December 29. The birth of the Saviour occurred at a most propitious time. The need was great, for the systems of morals and religion were tottering upon their foundations. It was also a time of great opportunity, for the whole world was under one rule, making it possible for evangelists to go from city to city and country to country without fear or molestation. The place of his birth was Bethlehem, as the prophet had foretold some seven hundred years before (Micah 5:2). God permitted the emperor to enforce a decree of taxation just at the time to cause Mary to be at Bethlehem when she gave birth to the Saviour. That which the Word of God has announced shall most surely come to pass, though its fulfillment seem most unlikely and unreasonable. The surroundings of his birth were the most humble sort. The Almighty Creator condescended to take upon himself humanity—to be born in a manger, becoming the poorest of the poor, that none might be hindered from coming to him. 1. The Saviour's Birth Announced (2:8-14). 1. To Whom—Shepherds (v. 8). In the first Christmas service the audience was composed of humble shepherds. The glorious gospel message was first sounded forth, to these humble men while watching over their flocks by night. Poverty is no barrier to the reception of the gospel message. God does not reveal himself mainly to the princes and great men of the earth. "Hath not God chosen the poor of this world, rich in faith and heirs of the kingdom?" (James 2:5). Neither did their devotion to their calling exclude them from this greatest favor of God. Moses, Glideon, Amos and Elijah were called by the Lord from the busy activities of life. He never calls the idle. The Lord has no use for a lazy man. The working man is God's peculiar interest. 2. By Whom—The Angel of the Lord (v. 9). The first gospel sermon was delivered by the angel of the Lord. Angels, the exalted ministers of God are interested in men (Hebrews 1:14), and this one announced unto men God's plan of salvation. These beings no doubt sincerely sympathized with poor, sin-cursed, fallen men. 3. The Message—Good Tidings (v. 10). (1) A Saviour is born. Surely this was a gladsome message. Heathen darkness which had so long cursed the earth was beginning to vanish. The casting out of Satan, the prince of the world, was about to take place (John 12:31). Liberty was about to be proclaimed to those in bondage to sin. The way of salvation was about to be opened to all. So glorious was this news that a multitude of the heavenly host accompanied this announcement with their song of praise. It is through Jesus Christ that God's kindness and good will are made known to man. (2) Peace (v. 14). Peace with God—peace of heart—peace with man. How incongruous this message with our time! The world war was the result of not receiving this blessed message. (3) Joy (v. 10). The gospel message is a joyful message because it frees from sin and removes all the burdens of this world. II. The Shepherds Make Investigation (2:15, 18). Though these things seemed passing strange to them they did not stop to question .or argue; they went straight to Bethlehem and found everything just as the angels had said. They had the glorious privilege of gazing upon the world's Saviour—the very Lord of glory. III. The Shepherds Witnessing (2:17). When they saw the Lord they could not remain silent. They were impelled to make known abroad the good news. Those who have heard the good news of salvation through Christ and have verified it by personal investigation must tell it to others. The angels said that the good tidings of great joy should be to all people (v. 10). The gospel of Christ is for all people regardless of nationality or condition. It is just as really good news to the king as to the peasant. It fills the hearts of all with joy. IV. The Shepherds Praising God (2:18-20). The testimony of the shepherds had a varying effect—some wondered, and others kept the sayings and pondered them, but the shepherds went back glorifying and praising God for all they had seen and heard. Those who have believed the gospel message and proclaimed it abroad have a peculiar joy which must express itself in praises to God. Prefer diligence before idleness, unless you esteem rust before brightness. —Plato