Chapter 3 – The Second of the Three Spirits
When Scrooge woke up, it was very dark. He heard the church bell strike one. He remembered Marley’s warning: the second spirit would visit at this time.
Scrooge saw a bright light coming from the next room. He got out of bed and followed it. Inside, he found a giant sitting on a throne made of food—turkeys, geese, pies, puddings, fruit, and vegetables. The giant wore a green robe with white fur, and a wreath of holly on his head. His eyes sparkled, and he had a cheerful smile.
“I am the Ghost of Christmas Present,” said the spirit. “Come with me.”
The spirit took Scrooge through the streets of London. It was Christmas morning, and the shops were full of food. People were busy, happy, and greeting each other with kindness.
They visited Bob Cratchit’s small home. The Cratchits were poor, but they were preparing a special Christmas dinner. Bob’s wife, Mrs. Cratchit, cooked a goose while her children set the table. Then Bob came home with his youngest son, Tiny Tim, who walked with a small crutch.
Scrooge noticed that Tiny Tim looked weak and ill. The family sat down to eat, and Bob made a toast: “A Merry Christmas to us all, and God bless us!”
“God bless us, everyone!” said Tiny Tim.
Scrooge whispered to the spirit, “Will Tiny Tim live?”
The spirit’s smile faded. “If things do not change, the child will die.” Scrooge felt very sorry.
Next, the spirit took Scrooge to many different places—mines, lighthouses, and ships at sea. Everywhere, people were celebrating Christmas with joy.
Finally, they visited Scrooge’s nephew’s home. Fred and his friends were playing games and laughing. Fred spoke kindly about his uncle, saying he wished Scrooge would accept his invitations.
As the night grew older, the spirit began to change. He looked tired and older. From beneath his robe, two small, dirty children appeared. They were thin and hungry.
“Who are they?” asked Scrooge.
“They are Want and Ignorance,” said the spirit. “Beware of them both, but especially Ignorance, for it brings great danger.”
The church bell struck twelve. The spirit disappeared, and Scrooge saw a dark, hooded figure coming towards him—the final spirit.