SCENE II.--_A Street. Night.

_The SPIRIT advances slowly. SCROOGE kneels on beholding it._

SCR. This Spirit's mysterious presence fills me with a solemn dread! I am in the presence of the Ghost of Christmas yet to come! (_The SPIRIT points onward._) You are about to show me shadows of things that have not happened, but will happen in the time before us? (_The SPIRIT slightly inclines its head._) Though well used to ghostly company by this time. I fear this silent shape more than I did all the rest. Ghost of the future, will you not speak to me? (_The SPIRIT'S hand is still pointing onward._) Lead on, Spirit! (_The SPIRIT moves a few steps on, then pauses. SCROOGE follows. The Stage becomes light._)

_Enter CHEERLY and HEARTLY._

HEART. He's dead, you say? When did he die?

CHEER. Last night, I believe.

HEART. What has he done with his money?

CHEER. I haven't heard, he hasn't left it to me. It's likely to be a very cheap funeral, for I don't know of any one likely to go to it.

HEART. Well, I don't mind going to it if lunch is provided. I'm not at all sure I was not one of his most particular friends.

CHEER. Yes--you used to stop, and say "How d'ye do?" whenever you met. But, come--we must to 'Change.

(_Exit R. H._

SCR. A moral in their words, too! Quiet and dark beside me stands yet the phantom, with its outstretched hand. It still points onward and I must follow it! (_The SPIRIT exits slowly followed by SCROOGE._)