STAVE ONE.
SCENE I.—Christmas Eve. Counting house of Scrooge & Marley. Set fireplace with small grate fire L. Centre door in flat, thrown open, showing a small inner chamber and desk, at which Bob Cratchit is discovered seated, endeavoring to warm his hands over the candle. Small desk, L. C., at which Scrooge is discovered busy at figures.
Enter Bob Cratchit, from inner room, with coal shovel, going toward fireplace.
Scrooge. And six makes twenty-eight pounds, four shill——What do you want in here?
Bob. My fire is nearly out, sir, and I thought I would take one or two lumps of coal, and—
Scro. You think more of your personal comforts than you do of your business and my interest.
Bob. The room, sir, is very cold, and I—
Scro. Work sir, work! and I'll warrant that you'll keep warm. If you persist, in this wanton waste of coals, you and I will have to part. (Bob retires to his desk, puts on his white comforter, and again tries to warm his hands. Scrooge resuming). Four shillings and ninepence—
Enter Fred'k Merry, C. D., saluting Bob as he passes him.