Bob. Not coming! not coming, on Christmas Day?
Mar. (Running into his arms.) Dear father! I could not see you disappointed, if it were only in joke.
Bob. (Embraces her.) You're a good girl, Martha, and a great comfort to us all. (Commences to mix a bowl of punch.)
Mrs. C. And how did little Tim behave?
Bob. As good as gold, and better. Somehow he gets thoughtful, sitting by himself so much, and thinks the strangest things you ever heard. He told me, coming home, that he hoped the people saw him in church, because he was a cripple, and it might be pleasant to them to remember upon Christmas Day, who made lame beggars walk and blind men see. Tiny Tim is growing strong and hearty.
Enter Little Cratchit and Peter Cratchit with the goose, followed by Tiny Tim.
Little C. Hurrah! Hurrah! Here's Peter with the big goose.
Tiny Tim. Hurrah!
(Children place chairs around the table; Bob puts Tiny Tim in a high chair beside him, and Peter on his left, facing front, Belinda and Little Cratchit opposite. Mrs. C. and Martha at the end of the table. Bob carves and serves the goose, Mrs. C. the gravy and mashed potatoes, and Martha the apple-sauce.)
Little C. Oh! oh! Look at the stuffing.