`` It is n't that , '' said Scrooge , heated by the remark , and speaking unconsciously like his former , not his latter self . `` It is n't that , Spirit . He has the power to render us happy or unhappy ; to make our service light or burdensome ; a pleasure or a toil . Say that his power lies in words and looks ; in things so slight and insignificant that it is impossible to add and count 'em up : what then ? The happiness he gives is quite as great as if it cost a fortune . '' He felt the Spirit 's glance , and stopped . `` What is the matter ? '' asked the Ghost . `` Nothing particular , '' said Scrooge . `` Something , I think ? '' the Ghost insisted . `` No , '' said Scrooge , `` no . I should like to be able to say a word or two to my clerk just now . That 's all . '' His former self turned down the lamps as he gave utterance to the wish ; and Scrooge and the Ghost again stood side by side in the open air . `` My time grows short , '' observed the Spirit . `` Quick ! '' This was not addressed to Scrooge , or to any one whom he could see , but it produced an immediate effect . For again Scrooge saw himself . He was older now ; a man in the prime of life .
His face had not the harsh and rigid lines of later years ; but it had begun to wear the signs XXXXX care and avarice .
For Scrooge Spirit as by in like of that to