Bishop Nicholas lived in the 4th century. Myra is an ancient city in what is modern day Turkey. He was known for his acts of kindness, particularly his giving of gifts, by night.
One tradition has him slipping money to a poor family in order that the daughters would have a diary, thus avoiding a life of forced servant hood.
If he wanted to leave coins for someone and wanted to make sure they would be somewhat hidden from others he would place them in the shoes of the intended recipient. Socks and stockings are a luxury seldom enjoyed by those in the greatest need.
Remember that a Bishop's clothing included a red cape. The instances in which persons actually saw Bishop Nicholas giving gifts were mostly reports of seeing the back side of such a red outfit.
I encourage you to become familiar with the story of St. Nicholas. Go to wiki and read how this Saint of the ancient church morphed into a lesser version so widely heralded in our culture.
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