A Special Request

Reading Comprehension for December 10

Santa sat at his desk and read a letter from a young boy. He made a few notes and then sat back in his chair with a sigh.

"That was a deep sigh," said Mrs. Claus as she set down a cup of steaming hot cocoa on Santa's desk.

Santa smiled. "It was a sigh of joy." He reached over and picked up the letter. "Listen to this," he said turning in his chair to face Mrs. Claus. "Dear Santa, I want many things for Christmas. But you don't have to bring me anything this year. Instead, can you bring some gifts to the animals in shelters? They sure could use something to play with while they wait for new homes. Thanks. From Zachary."

"What a great idea!" said Mrs. Claus. "Do you think you have time to add that to your Christmas Eve schedule?"

"I think so," said Santa. "I need to talk to the elves and have them gather up the things we need."

"It's such a busy time of year. They will have to work overtime," Mrs. Claus said with concern in her voice.

Santa picked up his cup of cocoa and took a sip. "It's for a good cause," said Santa with a twinkle in his eye. "I'm sure they'll want to help." Santa paused for a moment. "We'll call it 'Operation Santa Paws'."

Mrs. Claus laughed. "How clever!" she said. "I guess you should go to the workshop and let them know."

"No better time than now." Santa finished his cocoa and rose from his chair. He handed the empty cup to Mrs. Claus. "Thank you, dear. That was delicious."

Mrs. Claus smiled. "Let me know how it goes with the elves," said Mrs. Claus as her husband walked out of his office.

"I will," Santa said with a wave.