【明報專訊】Bill believes he will receive gifts not only at Christmas, but also on Saint Nicholas Day. Anyone kind enough to send him a gift?

“ MoMo: Isn't it too early to hang your Christmas sock? ”

“ Bill: It's a shoe. It's for Saint Nicholas Day. ”

“ Eason: Saint Eason is delivering you lovely gifts. Hahaha... ”

“ Eason: Hey! Got any gifts on Saint Nicholas Day? ”

“ Bill: Yes! I'm thrilled to receive my favourite box of cookies! ”

“ MoMo: You have hung so many dirty socks Bill. I've done the laundry for you. ”

“ Bill: What? I didn't hang any socks. I told you it's a shoe... ”

■Culture tips

Saint Nicholas Day

Before there was Santa Claus, there was Saint Nicholas, known as the "bearer of gifts". Secretly giving gifts and placing coins in the shoes of the needy, Saint Nicholas was admired for being kind and generous. Many Europeans celebrate Saint Nicholas Day on 6 December, and many Christmas traditions were originally a part of this holiday. Family and friends gather for meals on this day, and children find gifts in their shoes.

■English highway﹕do the laundry

The phrase means "wash the clothes". Note that the word "laundry" here is an uncountable noun.

e.g. The housekeeper did the laundry and hung it out to dry.

■Glossary

thrilled (adj) 非常興奮的

bearer (n) 遞送人

needy (n) 貧困的人

originally (adv) 起初

[Smarties' Power English 第200期]