“
The next day, dressed in his best clothes, Tad sat with his mother for Thanksgiving dinner in the White House.
“Before we enjoy this bountiful feast of ham, hen, and vegetables,” the president said, rising to speak to the guests, “we should take a moment to remember all those who are helping to hold this country together…including fruit-stand vendors.”
Tad grinned.
“I think it also fitting,” he continued, “being our first national Thanksgiving, that I read from my proclamation, the document that created this holiday.”
Tad groaned and wriggled his feet. His mother touched his hand to still him.
President Lincoln adjusted his glasses and began to read:
“I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November as a day of Thanksgiving.”
He put down the proclamation and looked around the room. “Even in times of darkness and despair,” he said, “there are still many things for which to give thanks.”
“There sure are!” Tad cried.
The president smiled and sat down. He glanced over at Tad. “Looks like we’ll have a fine Thanksgiving, doesn’t it, Tadpole?”
“Yes,” said Tad. “And Jack will, too!
”
”