First Spirit (gazes steadily at Scrooge, who becomes uneasy under the look). What's the matter now?
Scrooge (trying to appear unconcerned, but failing). Oh, nothing!
First Spirit (gazing at him). Something, I think.
Scrooge. No, nothing; only this, I wish I could say a word or two to my clerk just now. That's all. Poor fellow. I'm afraid I've been a little hard on him. Poor Bob Cratchit!
First Spirit. My work is thriving, but my time grows short. Quick, I have another picture for you.
Soft music. The curtains part, showing the scene as before, but only Ebenezer and Bella are discovered. Soft music plays all through this scene.
Bella. It matters little to you, very little. Another idol has displaced me, that's all. If it can comfort you and cheer you in time to come, as I would have tried to do, I have no just cause to grieve.
Ebenezer (irritated). What idol has displaced you in my heart?
Bella. An idol of gold.
Ebenezer. Well, I must make money. You know that. Poverty is the hardest thing in the world.