Cc Script Final

8/13/2019 Cc Script Final

1/44

1

Scene 1: A street in London, December 24, 1843, late afternoon

(Curtain closed, lights down. The "Carol ofthe Bells" is heard. As the curtain opens to awinter street scene, softly lit with flickering lanterns, voices are added cumulatively, untila quartet is singing the carol. Behind alarge sign - "Scrooge and Marley". A figure

centre stage (the narrator) collects donations from citizens in the street. The song endsto applause, donations etc., until Scrooge enters.)

SCROOGEBe off with you!

(They scatter, save the narrator. Scrooge crosses the stage, looking about to ensure allare gone.)

MARLEY (offstage, haunting)

Scrooge!

SCROOGEJacob Marley?

NARRATOR (looking over to Scrooge)Marleys dead.

(They stare at one another for a moment, before Scrooge stalks off stage, mutteringBah, humbug. The narrator sits on a bench to address the audience.)

NARRATORYes, Marley was dead. There is no doubt whatever about that. The register of his burialwas signed by the clergyman, the clerk and the undertaker. (She thumbs in the directionof Scrooges exit.) Scrooge signed it. And Scrooge's name was good upon theExchange for anything he chose to put his hand to. Scrooge and Marley were partnersfor I don't know how many years. Scrooge was his sole executor, his sole administrator,his sole friend, and sole mourner. (She gestures over her shoulder to the sign.) Scroogenever painted out old Marley's name. There it stood, years afterwards, above thewarehouse door: Scrooge and Marley.

(Scrooge now enters centre balcony, putting on his gloves and hat and surveying thestreet with a glare. Townspeople re-enter slowly over the next speech. The narratorrises and moves downstage.)

Ah, but he was a tight-fisted hand at the grindstone, Scrooge! Hard and sharp as flint;secret, and self-contained, and solitary as an oyster. The cold within him froze his oldfeatures, nipped his pointed nose, shrivelled his cheek, stiffened his gait; made his eyesred, his thin lips blue and spoke out shrewdly in his grating voice. A frosty rime was onhis head, and on his eyebrows, and his wiry chin. He carried his own low temperature


2/44

2

always about with him; he iced his office in the dog days, and didn't thaw it one degreeat Christmas.

Nobody ever stopped him in the street to say, 'My dear Scrooge, how are you? Whenwill you come to see me?' No beggars implored him to bestow a trifle, no children asked

him what it was o'clock, no man or woman ever once in all his life inquired the way tosuch and such a place, of Scrooge. But what did Scrooge care! It was the very thing heliked. Until one day -- of all the good days in the year, on Christmas Eve

(The narrator exits, as does Scrooge. The stage is now full of citizens and well-dressedbusinessmen. Music is heard, softly, violin, playing "Silent Night." A soloist begins tosing the carol, centre stage, then is joined by a second, third, fourth and fifth. Theycome forward, holding candles, singing until the song is done. Applause from the crowd.Coins etc. are given. Scrooge re-enters the main stage, then barks at all with hostility.)

SCROOGE

I said be off with you!

(The square clears. Scrooge takes out his key and turns to his office doors.)

MARLEY (in follow spot from audience)

Scrooge!

(Now Scrooge turns and moves downstage, a little nervously this time. He scans theaudience as the light goes out, seeing nothing.)

SCROOGE (muttering, hesitantly)Jacob..Marley?

(Silence, except for a low, whistling wind. He shakes his head as if to clear it, and entershis office. Music, low and sinister, as Marley's ghost gains the stage and sits by thecurtain.)


3/44

3

Scene 2: The offices of Scrooge and Marley

(Marleys ghost sits unseen, staring blankly at the audience, downstage left. Scroogesoffice is dimly lit and poorly furnished with two desks, one small and one larger, twochairs, and acoal fireplace. It is cold, marked by Bob Cratchit sitting bundled up at one

desk; asScrooge enters, he scrambles to get his coat and hat and hang them up.Scrooge ignores him completely, and goes to sit at his desk with his ledger. The clockstrikes five. Cratchit checks his pocket watch, then hides it quickly. He rises to put somemore coal on the fire.)

SCROOGE (barking, without looking up)

Cratchit!

CRATCHIT(freezing in place, and timidly)Yes, sir?

SCROOGEAre you wasting my coal, Cratchit?

CRATCHITNo, sir.

SCROOGE (looking up)

I see. Then it has become your habit to walk about the room with my coal scuttle inhand?

CRATCHIT(hesitantly)No, sir. Its just that its rather cold, sir. And I thought

SCROOGE (interrupting him)I dont pay you to think, Cratchit. And every moment you stand there idle is a moment oflost labourand therefore lost wages. Am I clear, Cratchit?

CRATCHITYes, sir.

(He returns glumly to his desk. Silence. Scrooge's nephew Fred bursts in.)

FRED (cheerfully)

A merry Christmas, uncle! God save you!

SCROOGEBah! Humbug!

FREDChristmas a humbug, uncle? You don't mean that, Im sure!


4/44

4

SCROOGEI do. Merry Christmas! What reason have you to be merry? You're poor enough.

FRED

What reason have you to be morose? You're rich enough. (Scrooge rises, indignant.)Don't be cross, uncle!

SCROOGEWhat else can I be, when I live in such a world of fools? Merry Christmas! Out uponMerry Christmas! What's Christmas time to you but a time for paying bills withoutmoney; a time for finding yourself a year older, but not an hour richer; a time forbalancing your books and having every item in them presented dead against you? If Icould work my will, every idiot who goes about with "Merry Christmas" on his lips shouldbe boiled with his own pudding, and buried with a stake of holly through his heart!

FRED (pleading)Uncle!

SCROOGE (sternly)Nephew! Keep Christmas in your own way, and let me keep it in mine.

FREDKeep it!? But you don't keep it.

SCROOGELet me leave it alone, then. Much good may it do you! Much good it has ever done you!

FREDThere are many things by which I have not profited, Christmas among the rest. But I amsure I have always thought of Christmas time as a good time; a kind, forgiving,charitable, pleasant time: the only time I know of, when men and women seem to opentheir shut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really werefellow-passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound on other

journeys. And therefore, uncle, though it has never put a scrap of gold or silver in mypocket, I believe that it has done me good, and will do me good; and I say, God bless it!

(Cratchit applauds. Scrooge glares at him, and he quickly stuffs his hands in hispockets.)

SCROOGE (to Cratchit)Another sound from you, and you'll keep your Christmas by losing your job! (turning tohis nephew) You're quite a powerful speaker, sir. I wonder you don't go into Parliament.

FREDDon't be angry, uncle. Come! Dine with us tomorrow.


5/44

5

SCROOGEI thank you, no.

FRED

But why?

SCROOGEWhy did you get married against my will?

FREDBecause I fell in love.

SCROOGE (growling)Because you fell in love! Good afternoon!

FREDYou never came to see me before that happened. Why give it as a reason for notcoming now? I want nothing from you; I ask nothing of you; why can't we be friends?

SCROOGE (coldly)Good afternoon.

FREDI am sorry, with all my heart, to find you so resolute. We have never had any quarrel towhich I have been a party. But I have made the trial in homage to Christmas, and I'llkeep my Christmas humour to the last. So a Merry Christmas, uncle!

(He turns to leave.)

SCROOGE (shouting after him)Good afternoon!

FRED (turning to him again)And a Happy New Year!

SCROOGE

It's all humbug!

(He plunks himself back into his books as Fred addresses Cratchit,)

FRED

How is Mrs. Cratchit, and all the little Cratchits?

BOB CRACHIT

All very well, thank you, sir.


6/44

6

FRED

All excited for Christmas to begin?

BOB CRACHIT

Oh, yes, sir, all very eager.

FRED

And the little lame boy - Tim - how is he?

BOB CRACHIT

We're in high hopes he's getting better, sir.

FRED

Good! A merry Christmas to you!

BOB CRACHIT

Thank you, sir, and a Merry Christmas to you, sir, I'm sure.

FRED

Thank you.

(Fred makes a little bow and exits the office, as two gentlemen enter. Cratchit nervouslypoints in the direction of Scrooge.)

SCROOGE (without looking up)

Hah! You, a clerk, with fifteen shillings a week, and a wife and family, talking about amerry Christmas.

(Scrooge sits at this desk. Cratchit sinks into his seat. The gentlemen step forward,smiling.)

GENTLEMAN #1Scrooge and Marley's, I believe. Have I the pleasure of addressing Mr. Scrooge, or Mr.Marley?

(Scrooge does not look up.)

SCROOGEMr. Marley has been dead these seven years. He died seven years ago, this very night.

GENTLEMAN #2We have no doubt his liberality is well represented by his surviving partner.

(At the word liberality Scrooge looks up, frowns, and shakes his head.)


7/44

7

GENTLEMAN #1 (enthusiastically)

At this festive season of the year, Mr. Scrooge, it is more than usually desirable that weshould make some slight provision for the poor and destitute, who suffer greatly at thepresent time. Many thousands are in want of common necessaries; hundreds ofthousands are in want of common comforts, sir.

SCROOGEAre there no prisons?

GENTLEMAN #1 (confused)Plenty of prisons.

SCROOGEAnd the Union workhouses? Are they still in operation?

GENTLEMAN #2 (darkly)

They are. I wish I could say they were not.

SCROOGEThe Treadmill and the Poor Law are in full vigour, then?

GENTLEMAN #1 (a little offended now)

Both very busy, sir.

SCROOGEOh! I was afraid, from what you said at first, that something had occurred to stop themin their useful course. I'm very glad to hear it.

(Taken aback, the two gentlemen exchange looks of disbelief.)

GENTLEMAN #2 (patiently)Sir, I do not think you understand. A few of us are endeavouring to raise a fund to buythe poor some meat and drink and means of warmth. We choose this time, because it isa time, of all others, when want is keenly felt, and abundance rejoices. What shall I putyou down for?

SCROOGENothing!

GENTLEMAN #1You wish to be anonymous?

SCROOGEI wish to be left alone. Since you ask me what I wish, gentlemen, that is my answer. Idon't make merry myself at Christmas and I can't afford to make idle people merry. I


8/44

8

help to support the establishments I have mentioned. They cost enough, and those whoare badly off must go there.

GENTLEMAN #2Many can't go there; and many would rather die.

SCROOGEIf they would rather die, they had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.GENTLEMAN #1 (protesting)But, sir, you must know that --

SCROOGE (sharply)It's not my business! It's enough for a man to understand his own business, and not tointerfere with other people's. Mine occupies me constantly. Good afternoon, gentlemen!

(The gentlemen glare at Scrooge, then exit. Scrooge checks his pocket watch, sighs indespair, then readies to leave the office, as Cratchit goes for his coat and hat.)

SCROOGE (with contempt)You'll want all day tomorrow, I suppose?

BOB CRACHITIf quite convenient, sir.

SCROOGEIt's not convenient, and it's not fair. If I was to stop you half-a-crown for it, you'd thinkyourself ill-used, wouldn't you? And yet, you don't think me ill-used, when I pay a day'swages for no work.

BOB CRACHIT (meekly)It's only once a year, sir.

SCROOGEThat's a poor excuse for picking a man's pocket every twenty-fifth of December!(reluctantly) But I suppose you must have the whole day. Be here all the earlier the nextmorning.

BOB CRACHITOh, yes sir, by all means, sir. And a Mer-

SCROOGE(abruptly cutting him off)Will you stand there until I change my mind, Cratchit? Or will you take your good fortuneand leave me in peace?


9/44

9

(Cratchit grabs his coat, hat and scarf and exits hastily. Scrooge finishes closing up. Heturns down the lights and moves towards the door. Marleys music is heard.)

MARLEY (haunting, over audience)

Scrooge!

SCROOGE (whirling around and coming downstage to audience)Jacob Marley! I swear it's you! (pause) I must be losing my mind.

(Music up. He turns to leave, nervously glancing over his shoulder.As he closes theoffice doors and exits, Marley exits as well, unseen.)


10/44

10

Scene 3: Scrooge's Apartment

(The apartment is dominated by a four-poster bed, with a fireplace on one side, a smalldesk and chair, and a wing chair. Scrooge enters. He seems nervous. He picks up acandle, and surveys the apartment, checking for something. Satisfied when he finds

nothing, he sits in the wing chair with some relief. After a moment, the sound of aChristmas carol- "O Come All Ye Faithful" -- is heard from the street. Scrooge rises,goes to the doors and shuts them, drowning out the sound.)

SCROOGEChristmas! It's humbug, I say!

(He returns to his chair and settles, opening a newspaper. A low, whistling sound isheard, followed by a louder scraping, clanking and thumping noise. Scrooge grabs ablanket and throws it over his head.)

SCROOGEIt's humbug still! I won't believe it.

(The noise reaches its crescendo as the Ghost of Jacob Marley bursts through thedoors stage right. Scrooge lets out a gasp and cowers in his chair. Marley seems to lookright through him. Marley drags a long chain, wound around his middle, and made ofcashboxes, keys, padlocks, ledgers, deeds, heavy purses etc.)

SCROOGE (cold, but fearful)

How now! What do you want with me?

MARLEYMuch!

SCROOGEWho are you?

MARLEYAsk me who I was.

SCROOGEWho were you then?

MARLEYIn life I was your partner, Jacob Marley.

SCROOGE (disbelieving)

Can you -- can you sit down?


11/44

11

MARLEYI can.

SCROOGEDo it, then.

MARLEY (after apause)You don't believe in me.

SCROOGEI don't.

MARLEYWhy do you doubt your senses?

SCROOGE

Because a little thing affects them. A slight disorder of the stomach makes them cheat.You may be an undigested bit of beef, a blot of mustard, a crumb of cheese, a fragmentof underdone potato. There's more of gravy than of grave about you, whatever you are!(He laughs at his own joke, and picks up a toothpick.) You see this toothpick?

MARLEYI do.

SCROOGE (waving it in front of Marleys face)

Youre not looking at it!

MARLEYBut I see it, notwithstanding.

SCROOGEWell -- I have but to swallow this, and be for the rest of my days persecuted by a legionof goblins, all of my own creation. Its humbug, I tell you. Humbug!

(Here Marley risesin a frightful howling, shaking his chain, asScrooge clutches hischair in horror, then falls upon his knees, and clasps his hands before his face.)

SCROOGEMercy! Dreadful apparition, why do you trouble me?

MARLEYMan of the worldly mind! Do you believe in me or not?

SCROOGEI do. I must. But why do spirits walk the earth, and why do they come to me?


12/44

12

MARLEYIt is required of every man that the spirit within him should walk abroad among hisfellowmen; and if that spirit goes not forth in life, it is condemned to do so after death. Itis doomed to wander through the world -- oh, woe is me! -- and witness what it cannot

share, but might have shared on earth, and turned to happiness!

SCROOGE (trembling, and noticing his chains)

You are fettered. Tell me why?

MARLEYI wear the chain I forged in life, I made it link by link, and yard by yard; I girded it on ofmy own free will, and of my own free will I wore it. Is its pattern strange to you? Orwould you know the weight and length of the strong coil you bear yourself? It was asheavy and as long as this, seven Christmas Eves ago, and you have laboured on it,since. It is a ponderous chain!

SCROOGEJacob, old Jacob Marley, tell me more. Speak comfort to me, Jacob!

MARLEYI have none to give. It comes from other regions, Ebenezer Scrooge, and is conveyedby other ministers, to other kinds of men. Nor can I tell you what I would. A very littlemore is all that is permitted to me. I cannot rest, I cannot stay, I cannot linger anywhere.In life my spirit never walked beyond the narrow limits of our money-changing hole; andweary journeys lie before me!

SCROOGESeven years dead. And travelling all the time!

MARLEYThe whole time. No rest, no peace. Incessant torture of remorse. Oh, captive, bound,and double-ironed! Not to know that no space of regret can make amends for one life'sopportunity misused! Yet such was I! Oh, such was I!

SCROOGEBut you were always a good man of business, Jacob.

MARLEY (shouting)

Business! Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business; charity,mercy, forbearance, and benevolence were all my business. And at this time of theyear, I suffer most. Why did I walk through crowds of fellow beings with my eyes turneddown, and never raise them to that blessed Star which led the Wise Men to a poorabode! Were there no poor homes to which its light would have conducted me?


13/44

13

SCROOGEBut, Jacob-

MARLEY (interrupting him)

Hear me, Ebenezer Scrooge! My time is nearly gone. How it is that I appear before you

in a shape that you can see, I may not tell. I have sat invisible beside you many andmany a day. (Scrooge cringes at this thought.) That is no light part of my penance. I amhere tonight to warn you, that you have yet a chance and hope of escaping my fate. Achance and hope of my procuring.

SCROOGEYou were always a good friend to me, Jacob. I thank you.

MARLEYYou will be haunted by three Spirits.

SCROOGE (hesitantly)Is that the chance and hope you mentioned, Jacob?

MARLEYIt is.

SCROOGE (slinking away)

Then I -- I think I'd rather not.

MARLEYWithout their visits, you cannot hope to shun the path I tread. Expect the first tonight,when the bell tolls one.

SCROOGECouldn't I take them all at once, and have it over, Jacob?

MARLEY (ignoring him, and rising)

Look to see me no more; and look that, for your own sake, you remember what haspassed between us!

SCROOGEBut Jacob-

MARLEYAsk of me no more. But see the world with other eyes, Ebenezer Scrooge - behold!

(Music up, as Marley gestures to the balconies, where two other ghosts appear. Theywear chains, and are wailing, pleading, seeking to help those in need beneath them - a

poor woman with an infant, below balcony left, and a crippled old man, right.)


14/44

14

SCROOGE (terrified)

Why do they wail, Jacob?

MARLEYThey seek to interfere for good in human matters, but have lost their power forever.

(Scrooge moves towards each, as they in turn exit. Meanwhile, Marley exits, unseen.Scrooge turns to find him gone. Panicking, he bolts all the doors, scrambles into bed,and draws his curtains. Lights out.)


15/44

15

Scene 4: The Ghost of Christmas Past

(Lights up dimly on Scrooge in his bed. It is quiet. The sound ofwind grows slowly, withlow, sinister violin music. The volume increases as the clock strikes one. Suddenly thedoors stage right swing open, the lights flicker and then intensify, and the Ghost of

Christmas Past enters, dressed in a white robe. All is silent again. The Ghost raps herstaff three times. Only then does Scrooge peer through his curtains, cowering.)

SCROOGE(hesitantly)Are you the Spirit whose coming was foretold to me?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST (softly)

I am.

SCROOGEWho and what are you?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTI am the Ghost of Christmas Past.

SCROOGELong past?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTNo. Your past.

SCROOGEAnd what interest do you have in me?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTYour welfare.

SCROOGEI thank you. But if that is the case, I would as soon prefer a full night's sleep.

(He starts to draw his curtains.)

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTCall it your reclamation, then. (More firmly) Take heed, Ebenezer Scrooge. (He climbsout of bed. She holds out ahand.) Rise and walk with me.

(They move toward the doors stage right; Scrooge hesitates.)

SCROOGEThe balcony? But I am mortal, and liable to fall.


16/44

16

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTBear but a touch of my hand, and you shall be upheld in more than this.

(She takes Scrooge's hand and they exit through the doors. Music up. Set changes asthey re-enter to the apron on the right, to a school room. Stage left a lonely boy sits

forlornly at adesk.)

SCROOGEGood Heavens! My old school. I was a boy here. Are these things real, Spirit?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTThese are but shadows of the things that have been. They have no consciousness ofus. The school is not quite deserted, Ebenezer Scrooge. A solitary child, neglected byhis friends, is left there still.

SCROOGE (bitterly)

I know. I know. I was ever alone at this time of year.

(Fan enters, rushing to the young Scrooge and embracing him.)

FAN (excitedly)

Dear, dear brother! I have come to bring you home!

YOUNG SCROOGE (doubtful)Home. little Fan?

FANYes. Home, forever and ever. Father is so much kinder than he used to be, that home'slike Heaven. He spoke so gently to me one night when I was going to bed, that I wasnot afraid to ask him once more if you might come home; and he said yes, you should;and sent me in a coach to bring you. And you're never to come back here; but first,we're to be together all the Christmas long, and have the merriest time in all the world.

YOUNG SCROOGE (noticing her as if for the first time)You are quite a woman, little Fan.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST (turning to audience as scene changes on stage)

Your sister was always a delicate creature, whom a breath might have withered. Butshe had a large heart.

SCROOGE (sady, turning to audience, head down)So she had.

GHOST OF CHRISTMASPASTShe died a married woman, and had, I think, children.


17/44

17

SCROOGE (uneasily)

One child.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTTrue, your nephew.

SCROOGEShe died giving him life.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTAs your own mother died giving you life, for which your father never forgave you, as ifyou were to blame.

(The scene behind them has changed into something resembling Scrooge's office, butwith another sign visible, "Fezziwig and co."A young Marley and a young Scrooge sitworking at their desks. The Ghost points in their direction.)

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTDo you know this place?

SCROOGE (happily surprised by the change of scene)Know it? I apprenticed here. (Fezziwig enters with a flourish.) Why, it's old Fezziwig!Bless his heart; it's Fezziwig alive again!

FEZZIWIG (with energy)

Ebenezer! Jacob!

SCROOGEJacob Marley ... bless my soul

FEZZIWIG (with a sharp clap of his hands)Well my boys! No more work tonight. Christmas Eve, Jacob! Christmas, Ebenezer! Timefor celebration and good cheer!

(Mrs. Fezziwig and Belle enter, bringing in glasses and punch for a toast. They arefollowed by carol singers, who sing God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen, to applause, andtoasts all around. Fezziwig hands a coin to each caroler, and they exit.)

YOUNG SCROOGE AND MARLEYTo Mr. Fezziwig!

(After the toast, young Scrooge moves to sit with Belle, and Marley chats with Mr. andMrs. Fezziwig.)

SCROOGE (appreciatively)Oh, was there ever a kinder man?


18/44

18

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTAnd yet, what has this party cost him in your mortal money? Three or four pounds atmost. Is that so much that he deserves your praise?

SCROOGEIt isn't that. .. (enthusiastically) It's the happiness he gave to us his clerks andapprentices and all who knew him. It was as great as if it cost a ... fortune.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTWhat is the matter?

SCROOGENothing in particular.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PAST

Something, I think.

SCROOGENo ... No. I should like to be able to say a word or two to my own clerk, Bob Cratchit,

just now. That's all.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTTurn and see yourself in love, Ebenezer Scrooge.

BELLEIt's a beautiful ring. But I mustn't accept it.

YOUNG SCROOGEWhy not? Is it because its not good enough for you?

BELLE

Of course not! But you're still so young, you may have a change of heart one day.

YOUNG SCROOGENever! Unless my heart ceases to beat.

BELLE

And it makes no difference that I'm poor?

YOUNG SCROOGEI love you because you're poor, not proud and foolish.

BELLE

Then ... I accept your ring. (They embrace.)


19/44

19

SCROOGE (turning away in despair)

I've seen enough!


Yet more awaits you.

SCROOGE

I won't look!


You shall.

(The scene changes to a room where Fan lies dying, a younger Scrooge by her side.)

SCROOGENo, Spirit, not here!

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTYes, here.

FANEbenezer. .. they sent for you ... promise me ...

YOUNG SCROOGEPromise you what, Fan? I'll promise you anything, but there isn't going to be any need.You're going to get well again, Fan.

FANNo ...

YOUNG SCROOGEYou are! Dear God, you must! You mustn't die, Fan! You're going to get well again!

(Fan slips into sleep, and Young Scrooge turns and exits in anger.)

SCROOGE (in horror to the Ghost)

How could you have brought me here? Have you no mercy, no pity?

FANEbenezer. .. brother. .. promise me you'll take care of my boy. Promise me you'll takecare of my ... (She dies.)

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTYou heard her.


20/44

20

SCROOGEForgive me Fan. Forgive me. Oh, forgive me Fan ....

(He puts his face in his hands and weeps, as the scene changes once more, to revealYoung Scrooge with Belle. The Ghost touches Scrooge on the shoulder, so he looks.)

SCROOGE (looking up, slowly)Belle ... ?


The same Belle you swore to love to all eternity, Ebenezer. She has not changed by theharshness of the world. But you are.

YOUNG SCROOGEThen you no longer love me.

BELLE

You no longer love me.

YOUNG SCROOGEWhen have I ever said that?

BELLE

In words, never.

YOUNG SCROOGEWell in what then?

BELLE

In the way you have changed.

YOUNG SCROOGEBut how have I changed towards you?

BELLE

By changing towards the world.

YOUNG SCROOGEIs it such a terrible thing for a man to struggle to be something better than he is?

BELLE

Another idol has displaced me in your heart -- a golden idol.

YOUNG SCROOGEIt's singular that the world that can be so brutally cruel to the poor can condemn thepursuit of wealth in the same breath.


21/44

21

BELLE

You fear the world too much.

YOUNG SCROOGE

With reason! But I am not changed towards you.

BELLEAren't you? (She pauses to remove her ring.) Our contract is an old one. It was madewhen we were both poor and content to be so. If you had never made that promise, tellme, would you seek me out and try to win me now?

YOUNG SCROOGE (hesitating)Of course I would.

BELLE (firmly)

No. If you were free today, would you choose a dowerless girl, with neither wealth norsocial standing, you, who now weigh everything by gain? It would bring you nothing butrepentance and regret. That is why I release you. (She hands back his ring.) You knowI'm right then.

YOUNG SCROOGEI can hear by your conviction that you are.

BELLEMay you be happy in the life you have chosen.

YOUNG SCROOGE (angry)

Thank you. I shall be.

(Young Scrooge pockets the ring and storms out. Belle holds her face in her hands indespair. Scrooge moves to the Ghost as the scene changes once more.)

SCROOGESpirit... show me no more. Conduct me home. Why do you delight to torture me?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTYou have left more shadows, Ebenezer Scrooge.

SCROOGENo more. No more, I don't wish to see them. Show me no more.

(The Ghost and Scrooge move to the apron in spotlight as the scene quickly changes toseven yearsago, at the offices ofScrooge and Marley, where Scrooge and Cratchit sithard at work. Mrs. Dilber enters.)


22/44

22

MRS. DILBER (to Cratchit)

Pardon me. I've just come to say that Mister Marley ain't expected to make it throughthe night, and that if Mister Scrooge wishes to take his leave of him, he'd best nip alongsharply, or there won't be no Mister Marley to take leave of, as we know the use of theword. He's breathing very poorly - when he does breathe at all.

BOB CRATCHIT (timidly approaching Scrooge)Mr. Scrooge?

PAST SCROOGE(not looking up)I'm busy.

BOB CRATCHITIt's about Mr. Marley, sir. He's dying.

PAST SCROOGE

Well, what do you want me to do about it? If he's dying, he's dying.

BOB CRATCHITThe message was for you to go at once, sir.

PAST SCROOGE (looking at his pocket watch)

Its now a quarter to five. The business of the office is not yet done. Ill go when theoffice is closed. At seven o'clock.

BOB CRATCHITYes, sir. (He returns to Mrs. Dilber.) He'll come at seven.

MRS. DILBER (appalled)

I'll try and get Mr. Marley to hold out 'till then, I'm sure. Much obliged. Good night to you.Oh, and a Merry Christmas, if it ain't out of keeping with the situation.

BOB CRATCHITThank you, and the same to you.

(The lights dim. Some time passes to somber music. Scrooge at last checks his pocketwatch, shakes his head, then rises to leave the office. Cratchit helps him with his coat.)

BOB CRATCHITI hope you'll find Mr. Marley well, sir.

PAST SCROOGEI should think that's highly unlikely.

BOB CRATCHITI suppose so, sir. It seems odd to think of the place without him, sir.


23/44

23

PAST SCROOGEWhy should it be any more odd than it was with him? We all have to die, Cratchit.(pause) I suppose you'll be wanting the whole day off, tomorrow, as usual?

BOB CRATCHITIf quite convenient, sir.

PAST SCROOGEEvery Christmas you say the same thing. And every Christmas it's just as inconvenientas it was the Christmas before. Good night.

BOB CRATCHITGood night, sir.

(Scrooge exits, leaving a chastened Bob Cratchit. The scene changes to Scrooges

apartment. He enters to Mrs. Dilber and a gentleman dressed all in black.)

PAST SCROOGEWho is that? The doctor?

MRS. DILBERNo, the undertaker.

PAST SCROOGE (with a dry chuckle)

You don't believe in letting the grass grow under your feet, do you?

UNDERTAKEROurs is a very competitive business, sir.

PAST SCROOGEWell, Jacob! They've seen to you properly, have they? Last rites and such? There'snothing I can do, hmm? (Marley gestures) Oh? What, particularly?

MARLEY (rasping)

While ... there's still time...

PAST SCROOGETime? Time for what, Jacob?

MARLEY (rasping)We were wrong

PAST SCROOGEWell, we can't be right all the time now, can we? Nobody's perfect. You mustn't berateyourself, Jacob. You've been no worse than the next man. Or better, if it comes to that.


24/44

24

MARLEYSave ... yourself.

PAST SCROOGE

Save myself? Save myself from what?

(Marley dies.)

PAST SCROOGESpeak u

(He pauses as he realizes Marley is dead. The Undertaker and Mrs. Dilber enterunbidden.)

MRS. DILBER

Is he dead?

PAST SCROOGEYes.

MRS. DILBER (To the Undertaker)

It's just as you said!

UNDERTAKERI always know.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTOne shadow more.

SCROOGENo, no. I cannot bear it.

(The Undertaker steps forward with a large ledger, which Past Scrooge signs in thepresence of Mrs. Dilber.)

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PASTJacob Marley worked at your side for eighteen years. He was the only friend you everhad. But what did you feel when you signed the register of his burial and took hismoney, his house, and is few mean sticks of furniture? Did you feel a little pity for him?Look at your face, Ebenezer Scrooge, the face of a wretched, scraping, grasping,covetous old sinner.

SCROOGENo, no, leave me, haunt me no longer


25/44

25

(Scrooge staggers to the centre apron, dropping to his knees with his face in his hands.The Spirit exits as the lights darken and then brighten again.Scrooge, suddenly awarehe is back to his own room in the present, scrambles into bed muttering his last words,then there is silence, fade to black.)


26/44

26

Scene 5: The Ghost of Christmas Present

(The clock strikes one on the dark stage. Lights up dimly on the bed, but there is nomovement. The followspot reveals a robed figure in the audience. Silence.)

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT (powerfully)Arise, Ebenezer Scrooge. Look up, and know me better, man.

(Scrooge peeks out from the curtained bed, and hastily pulls the curtains back again,recoiling in fear.)

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT(entering from the audience -- followspot)I am the Ghost of Christmas Present. Look upon me. You have never seen the like ofme before, have you?

SCROOGE (parting the curtains to reveal just his head)

Never. And I wish the pleasure had been indefinitely postponed.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT(gaining the stage)So? Is your heart still unmoved towards us then?

SCROOGE(reluctantly stepping out of bed)I am too old. I am beyond hope. Go and redeem some younger, more promisingcreature and leave me to keep Christmas in my own way.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT(sharply)Mortalthe spirit of Christmas does not live in men's hearts only one day of the year,but all the days of the year. You have chosen not to seek it in your heart, and thereforeyou will come with me to find it in the hearts of men of goodwill. (She extends a hand.)Come, touch my robe.

(Scrooge does so, as she leads him to the apron, and the scene changes to a darkplace where a few shadowy figures converge on a small fire. Music in background.)

SCROOGEWhat is this place?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTA place where Miners live, who labour in the bowels of the earth. But they know me.

(The notes of "O,Holy Night" are heard, followed by a chorus of miners singing. At theclose of the song, they disperse, leaving Scrooge alone with the ghost. The lightschange and the set reveals Bob Cratchit's small dining room. It is Christmas Day, anddinner preparations are underway.)


27/44

27

SCROOGEWhy, this is Bob Cratchit's house.

(Belinda Cratchit sees something out the window, and runs to her mother, Peter andMartha.)

BELINDAHe's coming Mother, Father's here with Tiny Tim!

MRS. CRATCHITMartha - you hide, and we'll pretend you've been held up and who knows when you'll behere!

PETERYes! Go on, hide Martha!

MARTHABut where shall I hide?

PETERBehind the scullery door, quickly, Martha! (She hides.)

BOB CRATCHIT (to Mrs. Cratchit)A Merry Christmas, my dear! (Looking around) Why, where's our Martha?

MRS. CRATCHITOh - she's not coming..BOB CRATCHITNot coming? (with surprise and disappointment) Not coming on Christmas Day?

MARTHA CRATCHIT (after apause)Here I am, father! (They embrace.) I couldn't bear to let them tease you.

BOB CRATCHITIt would hardly be Christmas if they'd kept you late.

TINY TIMIs the pudding still singing in the copper, Peter?

PETERYes, come and here it. You come too, Belinda.

(They exit.)


28/44

28

MRS. CRATCHIT (to Bob)

Sit yourself down and warm by the fire. How did little Tim behave in church?

BOB CRATCHITAs 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 hehoped the people saw him in the church, because he was a cripple, and it might bepleasant to them to remember upon Christmas Day, who made lame beggars walk, andblind men see. He's growing strong and hardy, Martha, isn't he, my dear?

(Mrs. Cratchit doesnt answer, but looks away.)

SCROOGESpirit, tell me if Tiny Tim will live?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENT

I see a vacant seat, in the poor chimney-corner, and a crutch without an owner,carefully preserved. If these shadows remain unaltered by the future, the child will die.

SCROOGENo, no. Oh, no, kind Spirit. Say he will be spared.

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTWhy? If he be like to die, he had better do it, and decrease the surplus population.

(Scrooge recognizes his own words and hangs his head. The Cratchits havereassembled around the table. They say Grace, then begin their Christmas meal.)

BOB CRATCHITBefore I give the toast, I have a piece of momentous information for all, and masterPeter in particular!

TINY TIMMaster Peter? Why that's you, Peter!

CRATCHITSWhat is it? Tell us what it is!

BOB CRATCHITI have my eye on a situation for him which, if it be obtained, will bring in full five andsixpence weekly!

MARTHAYou'll be quite the independent gentleman now, Peter!


29/44

29

MRS. CRATCHITWhat next, I wonder?

BOB CRATCHIT (rising)

A toast, my dear! To our Merry Christmas! God bless us!

CRATCHITSGod bless us!

TINY TIMGod bless us, every one.

BOB CRATCHIT (clearing his throat a little hesitantly)I give you Mr. Scrooge, the Founder of the Feast.

MRS. CRATCHIT (sharply)

The Founder of the Feast indeed! I wish I had him here. I'd give him a piece of my mindto feast upon, and I hope he'd have a good appetite for it.

BOB CRATCHIT (patiently)My dear, the children. Christmas Day.

MRS. CRATCHITIt should be Christmas Day, I am sure, on which one drinks the health of such anodious, stingy, hard, unfeeling man as Mr. Scrooge. You know he is, Robert. Nobodyknows it better than you do, poor fellow.

BOB CRATCHIT (gently pleading)

My dear -- Christmas Day.

MRS. CRATCHITI'll drink his health for your sake and the Day's, not for his. Long life to him. A MerryChristmas and a happy new year. He'll be very merry and very happy, I have no doubt.

SCROOGEEnough, Spirit. I know where my presence is not welcome. Take me away.

(She holds out her hand, they cross the stage, and the scene changes to his nephewFred's house. Lively music as Fred and his wife are holding a small Christmas party.)

FRED(laughing)Ha, ha, ha! He said that Christmas was a humbug, as I live. He believed it too.

FRED'S WIFE (indignantly)More shame for him, Fred.


30/44

30

FREDHe's a comical old fellow, that's the truth: and not so pleasant as he might be. However,his offences carry their own punishment, and I have nothing to say against him.

FRED'S WIFE

I have no patience with him.

FREDOh, I have. Im sorry for him; I couldn't be angry with him if I tried. Who suffers most byhis ill whims? Himself, always. He takes it into his head to dislike us, and he won't comeand dine with us. What's the consequence? (Lightly, to his wife.) He's only cheatedhimself out of a highly indigestible dinner.

FRED'S GUESTS(protesting)Oh, no, it was a wonderful dinner

FRED (lightly)Well, I'm very glad to hear it, because I haven't great faith in these younghousekeepers. What do you say, Topper?

TOPPERAlas, as a wretched bachelor, I have no right to express an opinion on the subject (heturns to a female guest, taking her hand) .. have I, my dear, immovable Miss Flora?

FLORA (coyly)

Mr. Topper, really!

FRED'S WIFEHonestly, Fred, I think you're being awfully charitable.

FREDIf that's so, it may be because my mother, God rest her saintly soul, was very fondof him. She loved him. (Apause, as Scrooge looks sadly on.)At any rate, he has givenus plenty of merriment, and it would be ungrateful not to drink his health. So I say,"Uncle Scrooge!"

FRED'S GUESTSUncle Scrooge!

FREDA Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to the old man, whatever he is. He wouldn'ttake it from me, but may he have it, nevertheless.

SCROOGE(appreciatively)Fred ... my dear Fan's child ...


31/44

31

(He turns away to find the Ghost has moved to the apron, as the stage clears behindthem.)

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTMy time with you Ebenezer is almost done. Will you profit from the good I've shown you

in most men's hearts?

SCROOGEI don't know, how can I promise?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTIf it be too hard a lesson to learn, then learn this lesson.

(She points to the apron area stage left and right, where two ragged children sit.)

SCROOGE

Spirit -- are these yours?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTThey are Man's. They cling to me for protection from their fetters. This boy is Ignorance.This girl is Want. Beware them both, but most of all beware this boy, for on his brow Isee that written which is Doom, unless the writing be erased.

SCROOGEHave they no refuge or resource?

GHOST OF CHRISTMAS PRESENTAre there no prisons? Are there no workhouses?

(The ghost exits repeating his last words, as do the children, leaving Scrooge alone anddefeated on stage. The clock tolls again. Scrooge tries to flee but runs into the Ghost ofChristmas Yet to Come.)


32/44

32

Scene 6: The Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come

(The Ghost ofChristmas Yet to Come stands centre stage in a spotlight. Scroogetrembles and scrambles away from the hooded figure, who stands motionless, one armoutstretched and pointing an accusing finger athim.)

SCROOGEI am in the presence of the Spirit of Christmas Yet To Come. (pause; the figure stops)You are about to show me shadows of the things that have not happened, but willhappen? (pause and silence) Spirit of the Future. I fear you more than any spectre Ihave seen. But even in my fear I must tell you I am too old, I cannot change. It is notthat I am impenitent, it's just. .. wouldn't it be better if I just went home, to bed? No?Lead me then.

(The two gentlemen from scene two enter chatting.)

GENTLEMAN #1No, I don't know much about it, either way. I only know he's dead.

GENTLEMAN #2When did he die?

GENTLEMAN #1Last night, I believe.

GENTLEMAN #2Why, what was the matter with him? I thought he'd never die.

GENTLEMAN #1God knows.

GENTLEMAN #2What has he done with his money?

GENTLEMAN #1I haven't heard. Left it to his company, perhaps. He hasn't left it to me. That's all I know.

GENTLEMAN #2It's likely to be a very cheap funeral; for upon my life I don't know of anybody to go to it.

GENTLEMAN #1I don't mind going if a lunch is provided. But I must be fed, or I stay home.

SCROOGESpirit, I know those men. Of whose death can they speak so coldly?


33/44

33

(The Spirit stays silent, and moves slowly across the stage, Scrooge following, asanother scene emerges, this set in a run-down, dingy section of the city. It's a tenementmore than a business, a third-rate pawn shop. An old man sits among the junk, as firstone woman, then another enter, both carrying bundles. They are closely followed by a

man in faded black. They stop, recognize each other, then burst into creepy laughter.)

MRS. DILBERLook here, old Joe, here's a chance. If we haven't all three met here without meaning it.Let the charwoman alone to be the first. Let the laundress alone to be the second; andlet the undertaker's man alone to be the third.

OLD JOE (removing his pipe from his mouth)You couldn't have met in a better place. Come into the parlour. You were made free of itlong ago, you know; and the other two ain't strangers. (He laughs a hoarse laugh.)We're all suitable to our calling, we're well matched.

MRS. DILBERWhat odds then. What odds? Every person has a right to take care of themselves. Healways did.

LAUNDRESSThat's true, indeed. No man more so.

MRS. DILBERWhy then, don't stand staring as if you was afraid, woman; who's the wiser? We're notgoing to pick holes in each other's coats, I suppose.

LAUNDRESSNo, indeed.

UNDERTAKERI should hope not.

MRS. DILBERVery well, then. That's enough. Who's the worse for the loss of a few things like these?Not a dead man, I suppose.

LAUNDRESSNo, indeed.

MRS. DILBERIf he wanted to keep them after he was dead, the wicked old screw, why wasn't henatural in his lifetime? If he had been, he'd have had somebody to look after him whenhe was struck with Death, instead of lying gasping out his last there, alone by himself.


34/44

34

UNDERTAKERIt's the truest word that ever was spoke. It's a judgment on him.

MRS. DILBERI wish it was a little heavier judgment. And it should have been, you may depend upon

it, if I could have laid my hands on anything else. Open that bundle, old Joe, and let meknow the value of it. Speak out plain. I'm not afraid to be the first, nor afraid for them tosee it. We know pretty well that we were helping ourselves, before we met here, Ibelieve. It's no sin. Open the bundle, Joe.

UNDERTAKERI'll go first. Just to show we've all got trust in one another. (He reads from a notebook asJoe looks into his bag, producing objects.) Watch, fob, seal, pencil-case, sleeve buttons,and brooch.

OLD JOE

Eight shillings, that's your account, and I wouldn't give you another sixpence, if I was tobe boiled for not doing it. Who's next?

LAUNDRESSI'll go. Sheets and towels, two old-fashioned silver teaspoons, a pair of sugar-tongs, anda pair of boots.

OLD JOESeventeen and six. I always give too much to ladies. It's a weakness of mine, and that'sthe way I ruin myself. That's your account. If you ask me for another penny, and made itan open question, I'd repent of being so liberal and knock off half-a-crown.

MRS. DILBERAnd now undo my bundle, Joe.

OLD JOE (holding up some fabric)

What do you call this?

MRS.DILBER (laughing)

Ah! Bed-curtains.

OLDJOEYou don't mean to say you took them down, rings and all, with him lying there?


35/44

35

MRS. DILBERYes I do. Why not?

OLD JOE

You were born to make your fortune and you'll certainly do it.

(He continues to pull items from her bag.)

MRS. DILBERI certainly shan't hold my hand, when I can get anything in it by reaching it out, for thesake of such a man as he was, I promise you, Joe. Mind those blankets, now.

OLD JOEHis blankets?

MRS. DILBERWhose else's do you think? He isn't likely to take cold without them, I dare say.

OLD JOE (suddenly fearful)I hope he didn't die of anything catching.

MRS. DILBERDon't you be afraid of that. I ain't so fond of his company that I'd loiter about him forsuch things, if he did. Ah. You may look through that shirt till your eyes ache; but youwon't find a hole in it, nor a threadbare place. It's the best he had, and a fine one too.They'd have wasted it, if it hadn't been for me.

OLD JOEWasted it?

MRS. DILBER (with a laugh)Putting it on him to be buried in, to be sure. Somebody was fool enough to do it, but Itook it off again. If calico ain't good enough for such a purpose, it isn't good enough foranything. It's quite as becoming to the body. He can't look uglier than he did in that one.

UNDERTAKERThis is the end of it, you see. He frightened every one away from him when he wasalive, to profit us when he was dead.

(They all cackle.)

SCROOGE(turning away in horror and despair, but not recognizing they speak of him)Spirit. I see, I see. The case of this unhappy man might be my own. My life tends thatway, now. Spirit, this is a fearful place. In leaving it, I shall not leave its lesson, trust me.Let us go. If there is any person in the town who feels emotion caused by this man's


36/44

36

death, show that person to me, Spirit, I beseech you. (Silence still.) Then let me seesome tenderness connected with a death, or that dark chamber, Spirit, which we left justnow, will be forever present to me.

(Behind them the scene has revealed the Cratchit house.)

PETER CRATCHIT(reading from the Bible)'And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them. And when he had taken him in hisarms, he said unto them, Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name,receiveth me(he stops reading as Mrs. Cratchit puts ahand to her eyes.) Shall I stopnow, mother?

MRS. CRATCHITNo, it's only that this colour hurts my eyes. They're better now again. It makes themweak by candle-light; and I wouldn't show weak eyes to your father when he comeshome, for the world. (Pause.) It must be near his time.

PETER CRATCHITPast it rather; But I think he has walked a little slower these few last evenings, mother.

MRS. CRATCHITI have known him walk with Tiny Tim upon his shoulder, very fast indeed.

PETER CRATCHITAnd so have I. Often.

BELINDA CRATCHITAnd so have I.

MRS. CRATCHIT (intent upon her work)But he was very light to carry, and his father loved him so, that it was no trouble: notrouble.

(Bob Cratchit enters wearily.)BOB CRATCHITI am a little late, my dear, please forgive me.

MRS. CRATCHITYou must be cold and tired - sit near the fire.

BOB CRATCHIT(reflective)No, no my dear, I'm quite content. I went to see the place where he will rest. It'ssurrounded by green trees, my dear, and very quiet and still. It was strange, but as Istood there I felt his hand slip in mine as if he was standing beside me and comfortingme. I felt very peaceful, my dear. He was telling me, you see, in his own little way, that


37/44

37

he's happy. Truly happy now, and that we must cease to grieve for him and try to behappy too. (He cannot hold back.) Oh, Tim, my tiny Tim!

(Scrooge moves forward asif to console Bob, but hesitates, and turns to see the Spiritmoving away.)

SCROOGESpirit, is thereno pity in you? Must these things be as they are shown to me? What ismy role in this spectacle? Speak to me!

(The Spirit waves a hand slowly asthe scene dissolves to a graveyard, shrouded ingloomy mist. The Spirit moves slowly to one grave, and points to it.)

SCROOGEBefore I draw nearer to that stone to which you point, answer me one question. Arethese the shadows of the things that must be, or are they only shadows of things that

might be? (Pause) Men's courses will foreshadow certain ends, to which, if perseveredin, they must lead. But if the courses be departed from, the ends will change. Say it isso with what you show me!

(The Spirit is silent, and Scrooge approaches the grave, dusts it off, and reads his ownname, aloud.)

SCROOGE (upon his knees, reading the stone)'Ebenezer Scrooge!' No, Spirit. Oh no, no. (Apause; clutching at its robe) Spirit, hear

me. Tell me I'm not already dead! I am not the man I was. Why show me this, if I ampast all hope? (Pause.) Oh, tell me I may sponge away the writing on this stone if Irepent, and I do repent, please, Spirit. .. Illmake good the wrongs I've done, I'll change...I am not the man I was ... I am not the man I was ...

(The Spirit pulls away, leaving Scrooge sobbing. Lights close on Scrooge, music fades.Silence.)


38/44

38

Scene 7: Christmas Day

(Scrooge lies centre stage, muttering "I'm not the man I was ... " etc. as lights come upon his bedroom, revealing him clinging to the bedpost. He slowly realizes he is back,

with rising joy at his discovery. He rises and staggers left and right, unsure of himself.Mrs. Dilber enters with tea and breakfast.)

MRS. DILBER (sourly)Good morning, sir..SCROOGEGood morning ... yes ... good morning. What's today?

MRS. DILBER(incredulous)Today? Why it's Christmas day, of course, sir.

SCROOGEIt's Christmas Day! It's Christmas Day! I haven't missed it! The Spirits have done it all inone night. And why not? They can do anything they like. Of course they can. Of coursethey can!

MRS. DILBER (stunned)

Are you quite yourself, sir?

SCROOGEWhat? NoI don't know ... I hope not! (He runs past her towards the bed.) The curtainsare still here! You didn't tear them down and sell them. They're still here, everything'sstill here! I'm here! And the shadows of things that could be may still be dispelled. Andthey will be! I know they will be! (laughing and crying in the same breath) I don't knowwhat to do. I am as light as a feather, I am as happy as an angel, I am as merry as aschoolboy. I am as giddy as a drunken man. A merry Christmas to everybody! A happyNew Year to all the world!

(He tries to hug her but she escapes, screaming and running away to the far side of thestage in shock. Scrooge ignores her.)

SCROOGEThere's the door, where the Ghost of Jacob Marley entered. There's where the Ghost ofChristmas Present stood. There's the window where I saw the wandering Spirits. It's allright, it's all true, it all happened. (He laughs.) I don't know what day of the month it is. Idon't know how long I've been among the Spirits. I don't know anything. I never didknow anything.

(He raises his nightshirt over his head. Mrs.Dilber screams and tries to run away. Hecatches her before she leaves, and tries to calm her down.)


39/44

39

SCROOGEMy dear Mrs. Dilber! I am not mad ... even if I look it!

(He reaches into his pocket and puts a coin in her hand.)

MRS.DILBERA guinea? For me? What for?

SCROOGEI'll give you a guess!

MRS.DILBER (pause)To keep my mouth shut?

SCROOGE(laughing at her joke)

No, no, no Mrs. Dilber. It's for a Christmas present.

MRS. DILBER (shocked and touched)

A Christmas present? For me?

SCROOGEOf course for you. A merry, merry Christmas, my dear Mrs. Dilber. Oh - how much do Ipay you?

MRS. DILBERTwo shillings a week.

SCROOGETwo shillings a week? I must raise it to ten.

MRS. DILBERTen shillings a week? You're sure you don't want to see a doctor?

SCROOGEA doctor? Certainly not. Nor the undertaker. Now off you go and enjoy yourself!

MRS. DILBERBob's your uncle! Merry Christmas Mr. Scrooge! In keeping with the situation!

(Sfx: Christmas bells ringing. Scrooge runs to the apron overlooking the audience.)

SCROOGEChristmas bells! Those glorious bells! It's a beautiful morning! (He spots a boy in thestreet, followspot.) Hello there! You, yes, you my boy!


40/44

40

FINE LADWho, me?

SCROOGE

Do you know the Poulterer's, in the next street at the corner?

FINE LADI should hope I did.

SCROOGEAn intelligent boy. A remarkable boy. Do you know whether they've sold the prizeTurkey that was hanging up there? The big one?

FINE LADWhat, the one as big as me?

SCROOGEWhat a delightful boy. It's a pleasure to talk to him. Yes, my boy!

FINE LADIt's hanging there now.

SCROOGEIs it? Go and buy it.

FINE LAD (thinking he's crazy)Both-er!

SCROOGENo, no, I am in earnest. Go and buy it, and tell them to bring it here, that I may givethem direction where to take it. Come back with the man, and I'll give you a shilling.Come back with him in less than five minutes and I'll give you half-a-crown!

SCROOGEI'll send it to Bob Cratchit's. He shan't know who sends it. It's twice the size of Tiny Tim.(noticing his night clothes) But I must dress. (He grabs his cane, pauses, then sets itdown again.) I have so much to do, and without delay!

(Scrooge exits laughing; the scene changes to Bob Cratchit's, where all the Cratchitsstare at the huge turkey.)

BOB CRATCHIT(reading the label in disbelief)'Mr. Robert Cratchit, Two Porter Street, Camden Town.'


41/44

41

MRS. CRATCHIT(peering at the label)It's addressed to you all right, Robert. But there's no sender on the label. Who in theworld could have done such a thing?

TINY TIMI know.

CRATCHIT CHILDRENWho?

TINY TIMMr. Scrooge!

MRS. CRATCHITOh, my dear child ... whatever made you think it might be him?

TINY TIMI don't know, I just think it.

BOB CRATCHITMr. Scrooge! Whatever could have made him take leave of his senses suddenly?

TINY TIMChristmas!

(The scene changes back to the street. Scrooge enters hastily, well dressed now, andwishing all in the street a Merry Christmas as he passes, to their amazement. He spotsand catches up with the two charity gentlemen.)

SCROOGEMy dear sirs! How do you do? I hope you succeeded yesterday. It was very kind of you.

A merry Christmas to you both!

GENTLEMAN #1 & #2 (amazed)

Mr. Scrooge!

SCROOGEYes. That is my name, and I fear it may not be pleasant to you. Allow me to ask yourpardon. And will you have the goodness ...

(Here Scrooge whispers in the ear of Gentleman #1).

GENTLEMAN #1 (astounded)Lord bless me!


42/44

42

(He in turn whispers to Gentleman #2)

GENTLEMAN #2My dear Mr. Scrooge, are you serious?

SCROOGEIf you please. Not a farthing less. A great many back-payments are included in it, Iassure you. Will you do me that favour?

GENTLEMAN #2My dear sir. I don't know what to say to such generosity.

SCROOGEDon't say anything please. Come and see me. Will you come and see me?

GENTLEMAN #1

We will.

SCROOGEThank you. I am much obliged to you. I thank you fifty times. Bless you!

(Scrooge continues on his way, stopping before the doors of Freds house. Hehesitates, then knocks abruptly. Freds maid answers the door.)

SCROOGE(politely)Is your master at home, my dear?

FREDS MAIDYes, sir. I'll show you up-stairs, if you please.

SCROOGEI thank you, my dear, but Ill just go in here, he knows me.

(Music. Scrooge exits. The stage reveals Freds living room, where Fred and his guestssit. They dont notice his entrance. When Fred's wife sees him, she gasps.)

SCROOGE(hesitantly)Fred?

FRED'S WIFEOh my, Fred, its

SCROOGEIt is I. Your uncle Scrooge. I have come to dinner. Will you let me in, Fred?


43/44

43

FREDLet you in? Why, uncle, how good of you to join us at long last! A Merry Christmas toyou! (To his wife.) My dear, look who it is!

SCROOGE(going to her)Can you forgive an old fool, for having no eyes to see with, no ears to hear with, allthese years?

FRED'S WIFEBless you, dear uncle! You've made Fred so very happy! Merry Christmas!

FREDSome music to celebrate!

(The guests begin singing "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." Applause and well wishes

and the lights fade at close, to reveal Scrooge and Marley's office, the next morning,Scrooge hurrying to be first in. He sits impatiently, playing happily with his cane,humming at his desk, until Cratchit tries to sneak in late. Then hes abruptly allbusiness.)

SCROOGE(faking contempt)Cratchit! What do you mean by coming here at this time of day?

BOB CRATCHITI am very sorry, sir. I am behind my time.

SCROOGEYou are. Yes. I think you are. Step this way, sir, if you please.

BOB CRATCHITIt's only once a year, sir. It shall not be repeated. I was making rather merry yesterday,sir.

SCROOGE(advancing on Cratchit)Im sure you were. Now, I'll tell you what, my friend, I am not going to stand this sort ofthing any longer. Which leaves me no alternative (a dreadful pause) but to raise yoursalary.

(Cratchit looks confused as Scrooge bursts into laughter, falling back into his chair.When he notices Cratchit gaping, he invites him to sit by him.)

SCROOGEI haven't taken leave of my senses, Bob, I've come to them. From now on, I want tohelp you raise that family of yours -- if you'll let me? (pause) Well, we'll talk it over later,Bob, over a bowl of hot punch. Meanwhile, you just put some more coal on that fire, and


44/44

44

you go straight out and buy another coal-scuttle. And you do that before you dot anotheri, Bob Cratchit!

(Cratchit exits happily.)

SCROOGEI don't deserve to be so happy. (pause) But I can't help it. (laughing) I just can't help it!

(Lights dim. Scrooge moves downstage. Music in background. The narrator is revealedcentre balcony.)

NARRATORScrooge was better than his word. He became as good a friend, as good a master, andas good a man, as the good old city knew, or any other good old city, town, or borough,in the good old world.

(Cratchit re-enters, with a stronger Tiny Tim who goes to greet Scrooge.)

And to Tiny Tim, who lived and got well again, he became a second father. And it wasalways said of him, that he knew how to keep Christmas well, if any man alivepossessed the knowledge. May that be truly said of all of us! And so, as Tiny Timobserved

TINY TIMGod bless us, every one!

(Curtain, and curtain call to Joy to the World.)

Cc Script Final

Documents

Transcript of Cc Script Final