The holiday scene was hectic that last weekend before Christmas. Bumper to

bumper traffic stringed the length of streets, like toy cars on Santa’s assembly line,

while sidewalks overflowed with shoppers dressed as colorfully as sprinkles on

Christmas cookies.

People passed one another with friendly, but harried expressions, as they

darted in and out of stores. Some with children in tow, while others had stolen

away alone to buy that special someone a gift. Meanwhile, it seemed the entire city

was out racing hurry-scurry, like mice in a cheese shop, to fill their Christmas lists

before closing time.

Throughout the day, as the temperature dropped and clouds turned a chalky

gray, people huddled at street corners, or in coffee shops, wherever there might be

an opportunity to speculate about a White Christmas. The change in weather had

brought a change of mood in Richmonders. It was as if the Northwind, now gusting

through the streets, had blown in a spirit of good cheer. 

There was an excitement of that peculiar kind found only in the South, when

snow is in the air, and adults transform into children, as they anticipate shutting

down their normal routines to go traipsing through the snow. Or just to curl up

next to a crackling fire with a book and cup of their favorite cheer.

With the forecast of a White Christmas, a charm had settled over the city,

where the everyday Scrooges were now a bit nicer, and the usual cacophony of city

noises more harmonious, as if a symphony were playing. Even the honking horn of

an impatient driver no longer irritated, so much as added the metaphor of a well-

timed clashing cymbal, to the Christmas music pealing from shops, and shoppers'

hearts. And so, while the day was as hectic as a houseful of grandchildren on

Christmas morning, it was a day heartily embraced by all.

Meanwhile, amid all the bustle, a lone figure moved along, oblivious to the

crowd. Crossing a busy street, he made his way down a sidewalk lined with shops.

Stopping at a storefront, he gazed at a Christmas bell hanging in the window. A

reminder of why he had come. Slipping a pocket watch from his vest, he checked

the time. All was going according to schedule.

Looking around for a place to settle and wait, he spied an outdoor café. With

a nod, he headed that way. He had traveled a great distance to arrive at his

destination. And now, his assignment for this Christmas was about to begin…