The Special Bell

knows we were lost?” “Who, Alice?” “Him.” Edi looked.

Standing partly hidden by the low branches was a tall, bulky figure. His coat was a deep,

velvety crimson, not like any costume Edi had ever seen. A long, snow-white beard

framed a kind face. He was holding a thick, old leather book. “That’s an amazing

Santa costume,” Edi whispered, though an odd, sincere feeling of wonder washed

over him. He felt, deep down, that this man was different.

The figure stood perfectly still, watching the entire market. Then,

as the wind blew, Edi heard the faint, sweet sound of a tiny, delicate bell.