Such an odd little child. So quiet and solemn. Her gift was relegated to the end of the list and as the days flew by, her aunt was increasingly perplexed. A newlywed and little experienced with children, Evelyn wanted the gift to please her niece. It would be the little girl’s first Christmas with them and her first since the death of her parents. Evelyn was her only remaining kin and she knew they would both keenly feel the absence of her sister, Natalie’s mother. Then she saw it! The perfect gift. Evelyn ducked into the tiny shop and directed the proprietor to wrap the little gilt cage. The child had a pet songbird and this delicate cage would be far superior to the bedraggled basket which was currently housing the tiny creature. Evelyn was pleased. Her gift list was complete and she could now look forward to the peace and magic of Christmas Eve.

As the new little family stepped into the church, she tucked her hand into William’s warm one and glanced down at the child. The little wrapped bundle was a gift for the babe and was a secret. Evelyn had tried to coax the girl into revealing the nature of the gift, but she would not. Natalie remained in her seat while the other children approached the manger scene. “I want to give it to him afterwards Auntie. Please?” Evelyn looked at William for guidance. His soft, “What harm if she wishes to wait.” reassured her. What harm indeed. Evelyn noted the wealth of gifts placed upon the alter. Natalie had not asked for money to purchase her little gift. Perhaps she was ashamed it wasn’t as grand as those of the other children. Evelyn and William were among the last to file out of the church into the chill night. Evelyn watched Natalie place the bundle on the manger and she touched her husband’s arm as the little basket was revealed. Natalie lifted the lid and the little bird flew up into the rafters. Those who were near enough to hear gazed heavenward as the beautiful, heart wrenching song soared into the starry night. The gentle pastor sighed and grew misty. “Such a gift must surely be from the heart and none could please him more.” Evelyn breathed a small sob and opened her arms to the child as she flew up the aisle. “Will the babe like my gift, do you think?” Between laughter and tears, Evelyn lifted the child to rest between William and herself. “Oh yes, my darling.” As they walked into the churchyard, the first flakes of snow kissed their cheeks and danced on the clouds of their breath.

Evelyn suddenly remembered the gilded cage and she smiled.
Somehow she didn’t think the sleepy little girl, tucked warmly into their arms had, for a single moment, wondered what she might receive, on this most blessed of nights.

The Costume - is a rich blend of emerald green satin charmeuse and black velvet. The lined underskirt is topped by an satin over drape which is edged with artist created fringe and black velvet trim. The lined, satin bodice has matching black velvet trim and tiny black lace at the neckline and across the shoulders. Tiny green glass beads "button" up the back. Tiny green glass bead bows are tucked into the over drape folds.

The Accessories - Evelyn's "Bishop's Mantle" is of black velvet and beaded lace over black silk, lined with emerald green satin. The black velvet bonnet with red silk roses and black silk organza bows and matching muff are "just the "thing" for cold winter evenings. Her jewelry of black glass beads is accented with "emerald" crystals and "black pearl" drops. Black beads, drops and red silk roses adorn her upswept mahogany ringlets. Non-removable black gloves, ivory stockings, lace trimmed pantalettes and petticoat and matching black, period shoes with silk bows complete her costume.

Evelyn has been completely re-painted. She now has gray green eyes with soft sable shadows and dark brows. Her delicately shadowed lips are natural shades of peach. Paint has been sealed. She has a natural manicure, new wig and applied silk lashes.

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