Scrooge. Bah! (Resumes his work.) Good afternoon.
Fred. I want nothing from you. I ask nothing from you. But why can't we be friends?
Scrooge. Good afternoon.
Fred. Uncle I won't part in anger. My dear mother was your only sister—your only relation. For her sake let us be friends.
Scrooge (savagely). Good afternoon.
Fred. I'll still keep the Christmas spirit, uncle. A merry Christmas to you.
Scrooge (busy at ledger). Bah!
Fred. And a happy New Year.
Scrooge. Good afternoon!
Fred (goes to Cratchit). And a merry Christmas to you, Bob Cratchit.