All. Ha, ha, ha! [Exeunt door in flat, old Joe lighting them out.]
Scro. Spirit! I see, I see. This is my own case, if nothing happens to change it. My life tends this way. Spirit, in leaving this. I shall not leave its lesson; trust me. If there is any person in the city who feels the least emotion for the death here announced, show that person to me. [Crosses to L., while scene closes in.]
SCENE IV.—Street. Exterior of Scrooge & Marley's Counting House.
Scro. Why, here is my place of business, and has been occupied by Scrooge & Marley for many years. I see the house, let me behold what I shall be in the days to come. Why, Spirit, the house is yonder. Why do you point away? (Goes to the window and looks in.) It is the old office still; the same furniture; but no one occupies my chair. Ah! some one comes.
Enter James Badger from Counting House, going off right, meets Mrs. Badger at right entrance.
Mrs. B. Ah! James. I have waited for you so long. What news? Is it good or bad?
James. Bad.
Mrs B. We are quite ruined?
James. No. There is hope yet, Caroline.
Mrs. B. If he relents, there is. Nothing is past hope, if such a miracle has happened.