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72 THE ATHENAEUM A CHRISTMAS DINNER My heart is ever longing, longing While my hopes, my prayers are thronging, And I am made so far to roam; I pray while yet my heart is yearning To be where the fire is burning Brightly in my cabin home. I wish 'twas so I could be looking The kitchen in where mamma’s cooking Those cakes for Christmas by the piles— . Well, it ain’t no use a talking, 1 had as well be up and walking, Toward where apple cider smiles. It is a job hard and mighty For me to be e’er nice and tidy, When it is Merry Christmas time; Then let me be where ’tis my pleasure To fill with joy the daily measure It matters not what is the flavor; For every dish is just my favor, When it is fixed by mamma’s hand— Oh, well, it ain’t no use to worry Since I am in no great hurry To join those good saint’s mighty band. If eating makes me be a sinner, May I not die while on this dinner; Do, my soul will surely be lost. Good shepherd peep down through the crack While I eat this lil’ Christmas snack, Then, I will help to bear the cross. —Grady Farley, Ac. ’25