Fred. Because I fell in love.
Scro. Because you fell in love! The only one thing in the world more ridiculous than a merry Christmas. Good afternoon.
Fred. Nay, uncle, but you never came to see me before that happened. Why give it as a reason for not coming now?
Scro. Good afternoon.
Fred. I want nothing from you; I ask nothing of you; why cannot we be friends?
Scro. Good afternoon!
Fred. I am sorry, with all my heart, to find you so resolute. We have never had any quarrel, to which I have been a party. But I have made the trial in homage to Christmas, and I'll keep my Christmas humor to the last. So a Merry Christmas, uncle.
Scro. Good afternoon!
(As Fred goes out he exchanges greetings with Bob.)
Fred. A merry Christmas.