`` We have no doubt his liberality is well represented by his surviving partner , '' said the gentleman , presenting his credentials . It certainly was ; for they had been two kindred spirits . At the ominous word `` liberality '' Scrooge frowned , and shook his head , and handed the credentials back . `` At this festive season of the year , Mr. Scrooge , '' said the gentleman , taking up a pen , `` it is more than usually desirable that we should make some slight provision for the poor and destitute , who suffer greatly at the present time . Many thousands are in want of common necessaries ; hundreds of thousands are in want of common comforts , sir . '' `` Are there no prisons ? '' asked Scrooge . `` Plenty of prisons , '' said the gentleman , laying down the pen again . `` And the Union workhouses ? '' demanded Scrooge . `` Are they still in operation ? '' `` They are . Still , '' returned the gentleman , `` I wish I could say they were not . '' `` The Treadmill and the Poor Law are in full vigour , then ? '' said Scrooge . `` Both very busy , sir . '' `` Oh ! 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 , XXXXX all others , when Want is keenly felt , and Abundance rejoices .
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