I was afraid , from what you said at first , that something had occurred to stop them in their useful course , '' said Scrooge . `` I am very glad to hear it . '' `` Under the impression that they scarcely furnish Christian cheer of mind or body to the multitude , '' returned the gentleman , `` a few of us are endeavouring to raise a fund to buy the Poor some meat and drink , and means of warmth . We choose this time , because it is a time , of all others , when Want is keenly felt , and Abundance rejoices . What shall I put you down for ? '' `` Nothing ! '' Scrooge replied . `` You wish to be anonymous ? '' `` I wish to be left alone , '' said Scrooge . `` Since you ask me what I wish , gentlemen , that is my answer . I do n't make merry myself at Christmas , and I ca n't afford to make idle people merry . I help to support the establishments I have mentioned -- they cost enough ; and those who are badly off must go there . '' `` Many ca n't go there ; and many would rather die . '' `` If they would rather die , '' said Scrooge , `` they had better do it , and decrease the surplus population . Besides -- excuse me -- I do n't know that . '' `` But you might know it , '' observed the gentleman . `` It 's not my business , '' Scrooge returned . `` It 's enough for a man to understand his own business , and not to interfere with other people 's . Mine occupies me constantly . Good afternoon , gentlemen ! ''
Seeing clearly XXXXX it would be useless to pursue their point , the gentlemen withdrew .
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