Santa had half-risen to apologise to the person he startled (who scurried away in shock now, but found themselves humming the tune for the next three days). When he heard Patrick's voice, he looked around, and broke into a broad smile.
"Patrick! My fellow holiday man! How are you today? You must sit with me!" he exclaimed cheerily, holding out his arms for a bear hug. "It's been so long!" Patrick did look a little different since the last time they'd met, but Santa would know other holiday types anywhere.