The story begins with a description of the setting: "Swamp's End was a little place, a mere dot of life on the edge of the vast, lonely forest, at the head of a long, narrow bay." The inhabitants of Swamp's End are a hardy and self-sufficient people, living off the land and sea.On Christmas Eve, the snow is falling and the wind is howling. The people of Swamp's End are huddled in their homes, trying to keep warm. The children are excited about Christmas, but the adults are worried about the weather.Suddenly, there is a knock at the door. It is Old Man Nick, a mysterious stranger who has come to Swamp's End every Christmas Eve for as long as anyone can remember. Old Man Nick is a kind and generous man, and he always brings presents for the children.This year, Old Man Nick has a special gift for the children of Swamp's End. He tells them the story of the North Star, and how it guides lost travelers to safety. The children are fascinated by the story, and they are grateful to Old Man Nick for his gift.As the night goes on, the snow continues to fall and the wind continues to howl. But the people of Swamp's End are not afraid. They know that Old Man Nick is watching over them, and they are confident that they will be safe."Christmas Eve at Swamp's End" is a heartwarming story about the power of hope and the kindness of strangers. It is a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is always light to be found.