a christmas story script 11-14-15

7/24/2019 A Christmas Story Script 11-14-15

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A CHARLES

DICKENS

CHRISTMAS

Book by ROBERT OWENS SCOTT

Lyrics by TOM TOCEMusic by DOUGLAS J. COHEN

Conceived and Originally Directed by BRUCE COLVILLECommissioned and Originally Produced by THEATREWORKS/USA

As of Nov 14, 2015

Copyright 1988 by Robert Owens Scott, Tom Toce and Douglas J. Cohen.


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CAST

Actor 1 Charles Dickens(Leading Man, young thirties) A driven

and successful writer, but an unhappy man.

Actor 2. John Dickens(Character Man) Also Peddler,

Mr. Trotwood, and orphan, Citizen ofLondon, a Present, Man at Party.

Actor 3.Tim Trotwood

(Juvenile) Also young Charles Dicken,Littlest Orphan, Signboard Boy, Citizen

of London, Barbers Assistant, Waiter.

Actor 4.Chapman(Character Man) Also Hargreaves, Prison

Guard, Peddler, Citizen of London, Man

at Party, Tailor, Barber, Maitre d, APresent.

Actress 1...Orphan Lady(Ingenue/Young Leading Woman) Also

Rachael, Young Woman (Charles muse),Flower Girl, Peddler, Citizen of London,

waitress.

Actress 2Mrs. Furnival(Character Woman) Also Mrs. Trotwood,

Mrs. Dickens, Citizen of London,Peddler, Woman at Party, A Present.

The Play may be performed with as few as six or as many as eleven actors.


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(Charles Dickens, 31 sits at his

writing desk, scribbling furiously.His jacket is off, sleeves rolled

up, hair disheveled. After amoment, his landlady, Mrs. Furnival

enters.)

Mrs. Furnival(offstage) Mr. Dickens! Mr. Dickens! (enters) Goodness, Mr. Dickens! Still

Writing? (he is too engrossed in his work to hear her) Mr. Dickens? (stillno response; she shakes her head resignedly, having seen this before and often)

Charles

(with a flourish of his pen) Ha! Finished! (bellows) Mrs. Furnival! I need you!

Mrs. FurnivalHere, sir.

CharlesPerfect. Ive just completed the next chapter of my latest novel.

Mrs. FurnivalOliver Twist! (picks it up and starts reading it)

Charles

Kindly take these manuscripts to my book publisher, Mr. Chapman.

Mrs. FurnivalOh, Im breathless to find out what happens this month.

Charles

Mrs. Furnival, please!

Mrs. FurnivalYou look awful, Mr. Dickens. Its been days since youve had a rest. Why dont you let me make

you a fresh cup of hot tea?

CharlesThat would be wonderful, dear lady, but we havent time. These manuscripts have got to be on

their way. Theyre already late.

Mrs. FurnivalWhat am I going to do with you? You sit in this room for days on end until your face is pale from

lack of sun and your fingers are black with ink. Go out. Take a walk if nothing else.

DICKENS PAGE 2


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Charles

Thats quite impossible. Why, this evening I must write (looks at his list) Let me see Theresnothing on this list, but I know theres something.

Mrs. Furnival

Whatever it is can wait. No more arguments, now. You are taking a nice walk. Youve a treat instore. While youve been in here toiling away, the shopkeepers have set out all their decorations for

the joyous season.

CharlesJoyous what?

Mrs. Furnival

Why, Christmas, Mr. Dickens.

CharlesOh, no. Has that silly holiday crept round again?

Mrs. FurnivalSilly? Ill wager that when you were a child you could hardly wait for Christmas day.

CharlesYou would lost that bet, dear lady. Christmas has never meant a thing to me.

Mrs. Furnival

Mr. Dickens! What have you got against Christmas?

CharlesFrankly, Mrs. Furnival..

(sings:)I HAVE NO TIME FOR CHRISTMAS

I HAVE NO TIME FOR CHRISTMAS

Mrs. FurnivalMR. DICKENS!

Charles

MRS. FURNIVAL, ITS TRUEA CHARMING NOTION, ACTUALLY

FOR SOME.

FOR THEM.FOR YOU.I HAVE NO TIME FOR CROWDED SHOPS,

NO TIME FOR SILENT NIGHT.I HAVE SCARCELY TIME TO WRITE

ONE HALF OF WHAT I HAVE TO WRITE.I HAVE NO TIME FOR CHRISTMAS.

DICKENS PAGE 3


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Mrs. Furnival

MR. DICKENS!

CharlesMRS. FURNIVAL, QUITE SO.

Mrs. Furnival

BUT, DONT YOU LOVE THE SPIRIT, SIR THE BELLS,

THE GIFTS,THE SNOW?

Charles

IF SPIRIT, MADAM, FED THE STARVING HORDES, ORENDED WAR,

MADE MY BEDOR PAID MY DEBTS,

I MIGHT AGREE.

Mrs. FurnivalBUT SPIRIT DOES WHAT SPIRIT CAN, MR. DICKENS.

Charles

A SPIRIT IS A BOGEYMAN.

Mrs. FurnivalMR. DICKENS!

Charles

I HAVE NO TIME FOR THINGS THAT HAVE NO MENAINGFOR ME.

I HAVE NO TIME TO PRETEND MY PROBLEMS

SIMPLY DONT EXIST.

Mrs. FurnivalI NEVER KNEW, SIR, THAT YOU, SIR, HAD PROBLEMS.

Charles

OF COURSE OH NO, WHY SHOULD I HAVE PROBLEMS?

MADAM, HERES A LIST:

MY PARENTS AND THEIR COUNTRY HOME

THAT COSTS A PRETTY POUND.MY FATHER LEAVES A TRAIL OF BILLS

WHENEVER HES AROUND.AND THEN THE GROCER

DICKENS PAGE 4


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Charles (Cont.)

AND THEN THE RENTAND THEN THE TAXES

FOR PARLIAMENT.

AND SO I MAKE THESE PROMISESI KNOW I CANNOT KEEP.

A STORY HERE, A NOVEL THERE.AND SLEEP? HA!

WHATS SLEEP?

I HAVE NO TIME FOR CHRISTMAS.

Mrs. FurnivalMR. DICKENS.

Charles

MRS. FURNIVAL, WHATS MORE,

UNLESS IVE SENT THIS MANUSCRIPT BY THREEAND THESE BY FOURTHEN DEBTORS PRISONS LIKELY WHERE ILL BE

ON CHRISTMAS DAY!IT IS URGENT THEY GO OUT WITHOUT DELAY.

Mrs. Furnival

I PROMISE I SHALL SEND THEM RIGHT OFF,MR. DICKENS.

IF YOULL AGREE TO TAKE THE NIGHT OFF,MR. DICKENS!

Charles

I HAVE NO TIME FOR NONSENSE

Mrs. FurnivalNOR DO I, SIR.

GOOD-BYE SIR.BE ON YOUR WAY!

(They both exit Furnivals inn and head in different

directions. Set pieces move, spin, etc. to change

the scene to a snowy London street.)PEDDLERS ON PARADE

Two Peddlers

STREETS TEEMING,

SHOPS BURSTING,EVERYWHERE ONE GOES.

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Peddlers (Cont.)

THEN AS IF OUR HEARDS HAD WILLED IT IT SNOWS.

(Charles enters, strolling.)

(The two peddlers stare at Charles.)

Apple PeddlerLook, my dear. That man!

Meat Pie Peddler

What? A thief?

ApplesNo, my pet. Its that author, Charles Dickens.

Meat Pies

(stares) Nah. That Dickens bloke looks a lot more literary.

ApplesOh, yes. Youre right.

Male Peddler

DELICIOUS CHESTNUTS PENNY A BAG

ApplesAPPLES RIPE AND LUSCIOUS

Female Peddler

MATCHES FOR SALE!KEEP YOUR FIRE LIT;

IT HELPS YOU STAY SO COZY.

Meat PiesMEAT PIES!

YOULL LOVE IT!MEAT PIES!

COME GET YOUR

(The peddlers cries repeat and mingle together.

The cry of the boy with a signboard finally emerges clearly.)

Boy With Signboard

BUY THE NEW CHRISTMAS STORY FROM CHARLES DICKENS.BUY THE NEW CHRISTMAS STORY FROM CHARLES DICKENS.

(spoken) A Christmas story form Charles Dickens. (His signboard reads: A CHRISMASSTORY BY CHARLES DICKENS)

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Charles

(stops dead in his tracks, eyes wide) The Christmas story! I knew there was something!

Signboard boy

At the booksellers this Friday. A Christmas story by Charles Dickens. (He exits, calling)

(A well-dressed man enters. He

walks with a determined stride.)

Chapman

Dickens! Charles Dickens!

Charles

Blast! My publisher. That man has the devils own timing.

Chapman

Dont take another step!

Charles

Mr. Chapman. How fortunate to encounter the very man I was on my way to see.

Chapman

As well you should be. Have you the faintest idea how long overdue you are on

Charles

Yes. Oliver Twist. This last chapter required several revisions which I fear did delay itscompletion, but Im happy to say its on its way to your office at this very moment. So Ill bid you

good day, Mr. Chapman. (He hastily attempts to exit)

Chapman

(stopping Charles) On the contrary, Charles, its a dark day indeed. Have you forgotten yourobligation to write a Christmas story?

Charles

Forgotten my Christmas story? You may as well ask if Ive forgotten Christmas!

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Chapman

Very well. Where is it?

Charles

Its er very much in need of recopying. I was just on my way home to do it.

Chapman

I could have sworn you said you were on your way to see me.

Charles

To, er tell you that Im on my way home to recopy the Christmas story.

Chapman

You are lying to me, arent you?

Charles

I, ahwell

Chapman

Mark me, Charles Dickens and mark me well. The Christmas season is already upon us and ifwe are to profit from it we must move quickly. If I dont set my printing presses rolling

immediately, I shall be humiliated. Now I want that story.

Charles

Yes, Mr. Chapman.

Chapman

And I expect it to be brilliant!

Charles

(squirming) Of course, Mr. Chapman.

ChapmanAnd Im certain it will be a jolly, happy story that people will love.

Charles

Naturally, sir.

ChapmanAnd another thing

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Charles

Yes, Mr. Chapman. (looks over Chapmans shoulder) Oh, Mrs. Chapman! Merry Christmas!

Chapman

What? Dorothea? (looks around) What are you

(As Mr. Chapman turns to look, Charles darts behind

a group of young children who have assembled to singChristmas carols under the leadership of a very

beautiful young woman.)

Chapman(turns back) My wife isnt Dickens! Where are you? I want that manuscript.

Young Woman

(Conducting the children) Ready, children?

ALLCHRISTMAS IN LONDON,

BELLS CLANGINGAn Orphan

DING DONG.

Another OrphanDING DONG.

A Third Orphan

DING DONG.

CharlesDING DONG.

(Chapman turns to look. Seeing

nothing, he exits.)Chapman

Blast!(The singing stops. The orphans and their

mistress turn to look at Charles.)

Young WomanWhy, Mr. Dickens. Arent you Charles Dickens, the writer?

Charles

I am. Do I know you?

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Young Woman

Oh, no, sir. But I read your stories to the children almost every night. Children. This is Mr.Dickens. Say hello.

Several ChildrenHello, Mr. Dickens.

The Smallest Boy

lo, Mr. Dickers.

CharlesYes, well, youve a lovely family. Good evening. (starts off)

Young WomanOh, sir. They arent mine. At least, theyre only mine to care for. Theyre orphans, you see. Mr.

Dickens, may I ask you something?

Charles

(notices that the smallest orphan is holding a hat) Ah, yes. (takes out a pocket full of change, dropsone coin in the hat, repockets the rest) There you go.

Young WomanThank you, Mr. Dickens. Children, say thank you.

Children

Thank you, Mr. Dickens.

Smallest BoyGod bless you, Mr. Dickers.

Young Woman

Thats very kind, but I was going to invite you to visit the Orphan House. Its right on the cornerover there. I was hoping that if you saw the terrible want these children suffer, you could write

about it.

CharlesWell, Im really very

Young Woman

I think that people would want to help, if they knew especially at Christmas.

Charles(that word again) Christmas!

Young Woman

Yes, Christmas.

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Charles

Because its Christmas you thought I could let my publishers stew while I ignore the work that putsclothes on my back and food on my table.

Young Woman

I only thought

CharlesBecause its Christmas you thought I could just sit down and write about your bedraggled little

ragamuffins.

Young WomanNever mind, Mr. Dickens. I see I shouldnt have asked.

Charles

My work requires attention every day of the year, Christmas or not.

Young WomanOf course, Mr. Dickens. So do they. Good evening. (She and the orphans exit.)

Charles

(calling after them) Wait, Miss, I (to himself sarcastically) Congratulations, Charles. Idbetter get home and write a jolly Christmas story.

(Charles exits. John Dickens enters and

crosses to a tailor, who measureshim for a coat.)

MY SON CHARLES

John

MY SON CHARLESIS A GENIUS, THEY SAY.

MY SON CHARLES,THE FAMOUS AUTHOR.

I HAVE COME INTO TOWN TO SEE THE LAD,AND IT JUST WASNT PROPER TO DRESS

IN THE RAGS I HAD.

TailorSilk, sir?

John

Of course.

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Tailor

Silver buttons?

JohnGold.

TailorVery good, sir. (hands him the bill) Sir? (tires again) Sir?

John

MY GOOD MAN,THOUGH MY ELEGANT TASTE EXCEEDS

MY ABILITY TO PAY YOUR BILL,MY SON CHARLES, MY SON CHARLES, MY SON CHARLES,

WILL.

(During a musical crossover, the tailor scurries

pall mall through the streets, colliding with ahapless citizen of London, sending her packages

flying. He locates Charles and delivers the bill

to him. Meanwhile, in another part of London,John enters a barber shop.)

John

MY SON CHARLES HAS HIS FATHERS GREAT FLAIR.

MY SON CHARLES THE NAME IS DICKENS.

WHEN WE GO OUT TO DINE THE FINE FOLKS WAVE,SO THE LEAST I CAN DO FOR THE BOY

IS TO TAKE A SHAVE.

And do be sure to use none but your most expensive colognes.

BarberYes, Mr. Dickens. (hands him the bill) Mr. Dickens? (tries again) Mr. Dickens?

John

MY DEAR GENTS,

I WOULD PAY EVEN TWICE THE PRICETO BE CLIPPED AND GROOMED WITH SUCH GREAT SKILLBUT ALAS,

I CANNOT,MY SON CHARLES

WILL.

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(As the barber repeats the tailors action,

John sits down in a caf.)

JohnMY SON CHARLES

OWES HIS TALENT TO ME.MY SON CHARLES

A BIT MORE PHEASANT.

ChorusWHEN YOU FIND YOU ARE SHORT A HUNDRED POUNDS,

YOU DEPEND ON HIS GRATITUDE.

JohnYES!

WHICH KNOWS NO BOUNDS.

Tonight, everyones dinner is on me, John Dickens!

MY GOOD MAN,LETS POUR EVERYONE MORE CHAMPAGNE,

BUT I WILL NOT PAY FOR WHAT YOU SPILL.

ChorusYOUR SON CHARLES,

John

GOOD OLD CHARLES,

ChorusYOUR SON CHARLES,

(The waiter runs as before anddelivers the bill to Charles.)

Charles

Father!

JohnWILL.

(Set pieces move, turn, etc. to reform

Furnivals Inn. Charles enters.Mrs. Furnival is dusting.)

Mrs. FurnivalBack already? Come join Mr. Furnival and me for a spot of eggnog.

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Charles

Impossible, Dear Lady. I must spend this night writing a story on the most absurd of subjects Christmas.

Mrs. Furnival

A Christmas story! How wonderful.

CharlesMrs. Furnival, please. Would you see that I am not disturbed?

Mrs. Furnival

Yes, of course. No one shall be admitted tonight. Oh! There is one thing, Mr. Dickens. Yourfather

Charles

(with a groan, reaching into his pocket) Oh, no. How much?

Mrs. Furnival

Nothing, sir, I assure you. I meant to say, your father is waiting to see you in your room.

Charles

He is, eh? Hes one person with whom I would like a few words.(Charles enters to see his father

Snoozing at Charles writing desk.)

Charles(in Johns ear; imitating a waiter) Is everything to your liking, Mr. Dickens?

John

(still asleep) Find, fine. Another pheasant, Innkeeper.

CharlesBut that will bring your bill to a million pounds, sir!

John

Piffle.

CharlesBut who will pay it, Mr. Dickens? Who?

JohnMy son will happily (drifting awake) My son is non other than My son is (awake)Charles! I was just dreaming about you.

Charles

You mustve been dreaming when you thought I would pay all these bills of yours.

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John

Tut, dear boy. I ran a bit short. Thats all. Have no fear, Ill make it up to you.

CharlesPlease dont. Youll only borrow the money to repay me and Ill be stuck settling that debt as well.

What am I to do with you?

JohnWell, you might start by wishing me a Merry Christmas. I came all this way just to celebrate the

season with you.

Charles(pointed) I shant be celebrating tonight. I shall be working, as always.

John

Remember, Charles: in a mans life work and pleasure must be balanced.

Charles

Oh, but they are. I do all the work; you take all the pleasure.

John

Charles!

CharlesIm sorry, but your extravagance keeps me one step ahead of poverty. Ever since I was a child

youve depended on me to do the work, and Im tired, Father, sick and tired.

JohnYou talk as if Ive never given you anything.

Charles

I cant think of a thing! Every Christmas when the other children got presents, I go nothing. Nowyou want to celebrate. Well, Im sorry, Father, but Ive no time for you.

John

What a way to speak to your father! (beat) Youve become a hard man, Charles. (beat)Goodnight. (exits)

Charles

Father, wait. Oh, good grief. (calling) Mrs. Furnival.

Mrs. Furnival(at door) Yes, Mr. Dickens?

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Charles

Dear Lady, please bring my father back and give him a room for the night. Tell him I shall pay forit.

Mrs. Furnival

But, Mr. Dickens he already told me that himself. Said you insisted he have the best room in thehouse.

Charles

Oh he did, did he? Then you can tell him You can tell him

Mrs. FurnivalYes?

Charles

Tell him to have a good night.

Mrs. Furnival

Dont you worry. Ill see to him.

Charles

Oh, what a night! (taking off his jacket, preparing to write) And its barely begun. (Charlestakes Johns bills and sticks them on a spindle, where they join many others) (muttering)

Christmas story. Jolly Christmas story. (he picks up his pen) Nothing. Minds a blank.(deliberately sounding out an idea:) Ill set the story in December (mocking himself) Oh,

brilliant, Charles. No wonder they call you the modern Shakespeare. (gets up and begins pacing,frustration mounting) This is ridiculous. Im the most prolific writer Ive ever heard of. Why cant

I think of a simple little Christmas story? Now, calm down.

WRITING SEQUENCE I (BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS)

BEGIN

AT THE BEGINNING.SEE IT THROUGH

UNTIL THE END.CLEAR YOUR MIND

OFF ALL DISTRACTION.LET THE ACTION

BEGIN

(As Charles creates his story, the charactersappear at various points on the stage.)

INVENT A BOYAND CALL HIM JOE -- NO -- JACK -- TOM --TIM.

AND MAKE THE BOYWORK THIRTEEN HOURS A DAY

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Charles (cond)

FOR DISMAL PAY.OH, CHARLES, HOW GRIM.

(spoken) Let it be Christmas Day -- no -- Christmas Eve, and our young Tim has just left the

factory, where his employer has distributed his annual Christmas bonus.

(Charles tosses the boy a coin.)

TimONE BRIGHT PENNY, OH, THE GIFTS ILL BUY.

ONE BRIGHT PENNY, SHALL I RUN OR FLY?

(Tim runs through the streets. He comes

upon a cluster of shop windows. As he

moves from window to window, the itemsin them come magically to life. As Tim holds

up his penny, each present spurns him in

succession. It becomes all too apparent thathe cannot afford any of them. Dejectedly,

he turns to a shopkeeper.)

TimPARDON ME, SIR, ITS CHRISTMAS EVE.

AND I HAVE NO GIFT TO BRING MY MOM AND DAD.

Charles(relishing his creation) THATS SAD, CHARLES, IRRESISTIBLY SAD.

Tim

AND I WONDERED, SIR,ABOUT YOUR WINDOW, SIR,

THAT IS HOW MUCH? HOW MUCH? I SEE.

HOW MUCH? HOW MUCH? HOW MUCH? AH, ME.

(A beautiful young woman enters carrying

a basket of flowers. The flowers vanish.)

Flower Girl

BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL FLOWERSBRIGHTEN UP YOUR DAY.

BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS!BUY A FINE BOUQUET.

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Flower Girl (cond)

WHAT COULD BE BETTER THAN YELLOWS AND REDSAND GREENS WITH SKIES ARE GREY?

BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS!AWFUL CHEERY

ON THIS DREARY DAY.

YES?WELL?

Tim

LISTEN, DEAR MISS, ITS CHRISTMAS EVE,AND I HAVE NO GIFT TO BRING MY MUM AND DAD.

Girl

HOW SAD --

TimTIM.

Flower GirlTIM. HOW UNSPEAKABLY SAD.

THEN TAKE THEM.

TimTAKE WHAT?

Flower Girl

TAKE THEM.

TimTAKE THEM?

Flower Girl

PLEASE!

Tim(spoken) But I cant afford

Flower Girl(spoken) Yes, you can. A gift is free.

(She gives him the flowers.)

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Tim

BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS!HOW CAN I REPAY?

BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS!HERES A KISS, MISS,

(As Tim turns to thank the Flower

Girl, she has vanished.)

TimMERRY CHRISTMAS

DAY!

(Tim runs through the street with his treasure.He arrives at a large door. He knocks.)

Guard

(through the door) Who has business at the Debtors Prison?

TimIts me, sir. Tim Trotwood. Ive come to see my parents.

Guard

Theres no visitor this late.

TimOh, please. Its Christmas Eve, and Ive brought them a present.

Guard

Rules is rules.

(Tim stands for a moment, notknowing what to do. He starts to

sniffle. The door swings open.)

GuardAnd Christmas is Christmas I suppose. Dont be long about it.

(Tim and the Guard exchange smiles.Tim enters, and the scene shifts to his

parents cell. In it sit Tims father and mother.)

Mr. Trotwood

(rising; he speaks as if he were a country squire welcoming a guest)Why, Tim. I hope this evening finds you well.

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Tim

Yes, sir.

FatherWhat a shame youve missed dinner.

Tim

Im not hungry, thank you.

Mr. Trotwood(hungrily eyeing Tims basket)

Perhaps youve brought your own supper, eh?

Mrs. TrotwoodAugustus! (Mr. Trotwood sits, cowed) Evening Tim. Come give your mother a kiss. (he does)

Whatve you got there?

Tim

(Barely able to contain his joy) This has been an awfully hard year for us (his mother starts toreact) and we all know that its been due to bad fortune and is nobodys fault. I want thisChristmas to remind us all of the hope of spring and happy days ahead. Thats why Ive brought

you this present. (takes the covering off the flowers, holds them up proudly; a moment of silence)

Mrs. TrotwoodWhat is this?

Tim

Theyre flowers.

Mrs. TrotwoodI know flowers when I see them. Dont insult your mother by telling her what flowers are. What

are they doing here?

TimWhytheyreyour Christmas present.

Mrs. Trotwood

You spent your money on these? Do you realize that whatever fancy price you paid could havegone to help erase our debts?

TimII didnt pay for them. They were a gift. A gift is free.

Mrs. TrotwoodThen why didnt you sell these things to raise some money?

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Mr. Trotwood

Tut, Florence. The boy meant well.

(Tims face brightens.)

Mrs. TrotwoodAugustus!

Mr. Trotwood

Er, as I was saying, he meant well, but he was thoughtless. And you are quite right to scold him.Perhaps he could still go out and sell them.

Mrs. Trotwood

No, its too late. He must go to bed so hell be ready for work in the morning.

TimItits Christmas tomorrow. The factorys shut down for the day.

Mrs. TrotwoodReally? Well, I hope youll work all the harder the next day. You know, Tim, we would like to be

able to leave this place. And we are depending on you.

TimYes, Mam. Good night.

Mrs. Trotwood

Good night, Tim.

Mr. TrotwoodGnight, lad.

Tim

(starts to go, turns back) Merry Christmas.

Mrs. TrotwoodWhat?

Tim

I said nothing. (he goes)

(Tim exits the cell and starts running, outof the prison and through the streets. He

throws the basket of flowers away andcollapses at the end of a dark street.)

DICKENS PAGE 21


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Tim

Dear God, I know its Christmas Even, and you must be very busy, but wont you please listen fora moment? I want to help my parents, but everything I do just makes thinks worse. Please, God,

dont make me spend the rest of my life in the blacking factory. If I can go to school, Ill dosomething wonderful with my life. I promise I will. Please, God, please

Tim, joined by Charles

BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL FLOWERSSOON WILL WILT AND DIE.

Charles

BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL, BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS

BothSO I FEAR SHALL I.

Charles

No. No! NO! (crumples the paper hes been writing on) Thats no story. Thats what happened

to me! Gad, some happy Christmas story that would make. (to Tim, whos still on stage) Poorlad. Just because I never had a happy Christmas is no reason you shouldnt. As your creator, Ishould do better by you. (an idea dawns) I know! (Charles changes Tims costume) Ill make

you a little older, and Ill invest a wonderful, happy place for you to be. Ill give you a joyfulChristmas, yet.

WRITING SEQUENCE II (FLATTERED)

Charles

RETURNTO YOUR BEGINNING.

THINK IT THROUGH;MAINTAIN CONTROL.

FREE YOUR MINDOFF ALL FRUSTRATION.

LET IMAGINATIONRETURN

INVEST A GAME.

SOME SORT OF SPORT -- NO. PAGEANT? CONTEST? AH, A DANCE!YES!

(Couples enter in masks and gownsfor a party.)

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Charles

BE SURE THE GAME INVOLVES ABIG TO-DO

AND TENSION, TOO,AND BETTER STILL --

Romance! (spoken)

(The couples waltz. After a moment, onecouple dances downstage, away from the others.)

Young Woman

Tim. The others.

TimWhat do we care for them? I live only for you, Rachael. Did you read the poem I sent you?

Rachael

Of course. It wassweet. And I was very flattered.

TimFLATTERED!

SHE SAYS SHES FLATTERED!

RachaelTim.

Tim

AS IF FLATTERY MATTERED.AS IF MY PASSIONS WERE THOSE OF SOME MERE BOY.

Rachael

Please, this is not the time.

TimFLATTERED!

SHE SAYS SHES FLATTERED!

Rachael

Tim.

Tim

MY WORLD, RACHAEL, IS SHATTERED.THE HOURS THOUGHTER I THOUGH WERE HOURS OF JOY!

DICKENS PAGE 23


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Rachael

The time we spent was very precious to me.

TimTHEN WHY, OH WHY ARE YOU ACTING SO ABSURD?

IF I TRULY HAVE YOUR LOVE --

RachaelYOU MUST NEVER SAY THAT WORD!

Tim

I SHALL! I MUST!OR ELSE DISGUST

WILL OVERTAKE MY SPIRIT.I WANT THE WORLD TO HEAR IT!

LOVE!

Rachael

HUSH!

Tim

LOVE!

RachaelPLEASE.

Tim

LOVE!

RachaelSTOP IT!

Tim

RACHAEL, SAY YOU LOVE ME,OR ELSE I SHALL GO MAD.

Rachael

I am fond of you.

Tim

What?

Rachael

I am very fond of you.

DICKENS PAGE 24


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Tim

FOND!SHE SAYS SHES FOND!

ONE IS FOND OF A KITTENOR FOND OF A HAT

OR FOND OF POTATOESOR SOMETHING LIKE THAT.

BUT DO NOT SAY YOURE FOND, MY DEAR, OF ME!

RachaelI CANNOT SPEAK OF LOVE FOR YOU, YOU SEE

Tim

I dont see

RachaelI cannot because

TimBecause?

RachaelBecause

Tim

Because?

(The others, who danced offduring this scene, come back.)

Man

There you are! Its time for the Christmas jig!

RachaelOh, yes, Tim. Lets do the Christmas jig!

Woman

Lets do the Partner Dance.

ManOh, yes, a capital idea. (others, except Tim, voice agreement) Now, remember, dont get caught

without a partner when the music stops.

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THE PARTNER DANCE

(The dance begins. Tim keeps trying

to partner with Rachael, who, in thecourse of the dance, keeps evading him.

The music stops with Tim partnerless.)

ManAh, Tim, you lose! Twice more and youre out! (everybody laughs, goodnaturedly, not realizing

Tim is getting upset)

(The dance continues, as before. Again,when the music stops, Tim is odd man out.)

Woman

(laughing and teasing) Oh, oh. Tims in trouble now!

(One more round. Again, Tim loses. The

party erupts into loud, mocking laughter.)

Charles

(at his desk) NO! (the stage freezes; Charles scratches out what hes written and writes:) Yourea good sport

Man

(finishing Charles line) Tim. Whos for Christmas punch!

(They head for the other room,Rachael included. Tim stops her.)

Tim

Rachael?

RachaelPlease. Let us speak no more of this.

Tim

I have my answer. You cannot love me because your father will not let you. He believes that I willnever make anything of myself -- that I have no prospects.

RachaelI am mistress of my own heart. I cannot love you because -- (she hesitates, then blurts out:)because you are just a boy! (Tim stares at her, aghast. Having said so much, she cant help but

add:) And you do not have any prospects!

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Charles

(his voice coming out of the darkness) No. No! NO! (lights up on Charles at his writing desk, outon Rachael and Tim) What is what Maria said to me. I refuse to immortalize her unkindness in

this story! (he crumples the sheets of paper hes been writing on) If I cant keep my own unhappymemories from intruding Ill never write a jolly Christmas story. (with a sigh) Ah, Maria. What

a time for me to think of you.

(Charles drops his head in his hands in despair.As a magical theme plays, Rachael slowly

turns to face Charles.)

Young WomanDid she hurt you very badly?

Charles

Oh, I was absolutely (looks up) Wha-?! (startled, he scatters his papers all over the floor)Where did you come from?

Young WomanI simply -- how shall I say it? --appeared.

CharlesWell, you can simply -- how shall I say it? --disappear. (calling) Mrs. Furnival!

Young Woman

Really, Charles. How rude! You brought me here.

CharlesI did no such thing.

Young Woman

In your story. I was Rachael. I dont know who I am now.

CharlesYou do look remarkably like No. Its impossible. What do you take me for a lunatic?

(Mrs. Furnival enters, out of breath.)

Mrs. Furnival

Mr. Dickens. Is everything all right?

CharlesIt may be and then again it may not. Do you see er, anything unusual over there?

Mrs. Furnival

(looking around) No, I (looking towards the Young Woman) Oh, yes. Oh, dear.

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Charles

You see it, too! Thank goodness!

Mrs. Furnival(crosses to des, walking right past Young Woman, and begins picking up papers)

This is quite a mess youve made here. However did you do it?

Young WomanYou see? You shouldnt have called her.

Charles

(to the Young Woman) I shall do as I like!

Mrs. FurnivalWell! You can clean up after yourself, then. (starts to go in a huff)

Charles

No, wait. I only meant That is (shes looking at him like hes crazy) I appreciate your help.

Mrs. Furnival(all is forgiven) Oh, well (goes back to gathering papers)

Young Woman

I can help you, too, Charles.

Charles(to the Young Woman) You can help by leaving this instant!

Mrs. Furnival

Mr. Dickens!

Charles(to Mrs. Furnival) I wasnt talking to you.

Mrs. Furnival

(sarcastic) Who were you talking to? A ghost?

Young WomanIs that what you think I am, Charles?

Charles(to the Young Woman) I think youre a horrifying apparition!

Mrs. FurnivalMr. Dickens!

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Charles

Not you, dear lady!

Young WomanMe, Charles?

Charles

Yes, you!

Mrs. FurnivalWhat?!

Charles

Not you!

Young WomanME?

CharlesYES, YOU!

Mrs. FurnivalWho?

Charles

You! (to Mrs. Furnival) No! (to the Young Woman) Yes! (to himself) No.

Mrs. Furnival(collecting herself) Mr. Dickens. I begged you to get rest. Now before you lose whats left of

your mind, please take my advice. Good night. (She exits.)

Young WomanNow do you believe me?

Charles

Shes right. Ive lost my mind.

Young Woman

Charles

Charles

No, dont speak to me. Ive got to clear my head -- got to make you go away.

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(Charles closes his eyes tightly for a

second. She moves to the other side ofhim. He opens his eyes and thinks shes

gone, then turns to see her and screams.)

Young WomanWhy wont you let me help you, Charles?

Charles

A character -- a figment of my imagination? Help? Ha!

Young WomanGive me a chance. At the rate youre going, what have you got to lose?

Charles

Very well -- tell me whats on your imaginary mind.

Young Woman

Your problem is with these unhappy memories that keep finding their way into your story -- yourpoverty as a child, that girl who rejected you. Am I right?

CharlesPrecisely.

Young Woman

So -- just let them in! Youve done that in the past. Your novels are chock full of unhappychildhood memories.

Charles

There. Thats why Im the author and you are only a character. This is a Christmas story. Thats atime when people want to forget pain and suffering and hear about happy things. You see? These

unhappy memories simply will not do.

Young WomanBut Charles

Charles

Please, my dear figment. Ive got a story to write. Kindly allow me to concentrate.

Young Woman

By all means.

(She exits.)

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Charles

Misguided as you are, you may have given me an idea. Perhaps I could start with poverty andpain, and then bring in one of those silly Christmas miracles everybodys so fond of, and make

everything turn out happily. That just might sell.

(He picks up the crumpled sheets fromthe Christmas Ball story, smooths them out.)

Ill take this pathetic little Tim fellow, and give him an equally pathetic family. Then Ill make the

ending happy if it kills me.

WRITING SEQUENCE III (THE HAPPIEST FAMILY IN LONDON)

CharlesWE TAKE THE BOY

AND LEAVE THE BALL. WHERE HOME? NO. (Spoken) Wandering aimlessly? Yes!WHILE BACK AT HOME

HIS WRETCHED MOTHER SITS

AND -- WHAT? -- AND KNITS.NO, SEWS A DRESS.

MotherWE ARE POOR, SO POOR,

AS POOR AS POOR CAN BE,AND FATHER HAS TO WORK SO HARD.

Charles

Right!WE NEED A FATHER, TOO.

WHAT SHALL HE DOTO WORK SO HARD?

(spoken) No! Better yet, lets have him lose his job. Perfect.

FatherMR. SKIMWORTHYS VERY WORTHY NEPHEW NEEDS A JOB,

SO ON CHRISTMAS EVE THEY HAD TO LET ME GO.AND BECAUSE WE OWE THE GROCER

AND THE LANDLORDAND THE DOCTOR

MotherAND IM STARVING.

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Father

AND YOURE STARING.AND THE TAXMAN

AND THE MILKMANAND THE BUTCHER

AND THE BAKERAND ITS EASIER

TO NAME THE INDIVIDULASWE HAPPEN NOT TO OWE.

I MUST ALSO SEWAND SEW

AND SEWAND SEW

Both

WE ARE POORSO POOR

AS POOR AS POOR CAN BE

AND POORER BY THE WRETCHEDHOUR ARE WE.

FatherAt least we have our Tim to gladden our hearts. Where is he, Mother?

Mother

Your son went to a fancy Christmas ball. That Rachael Pembroke will be there. I think he mayask her to marry him.

Father

OH, JOYOUS, JOYOUS WORLD THAT TREATS OUR TIM SO FAIR.IT MAKES OUR MISERABLE POVERTY EASIER TO BEAR.

(Tim enters.)

Tim

OH, WOE IS ME. OH, WOE IS ME. OH, WOE. OH WOE, IS ME.

TimRACHAEL, MY RACHAEL,

SHE SAID I HAVE NO PROSPECTS.

SHE SAID ID WORK IN A FACTORY TIL I DIE.RACHAEL, SWEET RACHAELSHE SAID THAT I WAS WORTHLESS

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Charles

(cutting Tim off) There. That ought to get the point across.

TimAND THEN SHE BID THIS WORTHLESS BOY

GOOD-BYE.

AllWE ARE POOR,

SO POOR,AS POOR AS POOR CAN

Charles

But -- just when things are at their bleakest, fortune smiles:

(A knock.)

Father

Whos there?

Man

Alfred Hargreaves, from the legal firm of Hargreaves, Churchill and Hall. Ive come to see a Mr.Augustus Trotwood. Would you be he?

Father

I be he. I mean, I am. He.

HargreavesI REPRESENT THE ESTATE OF THE LATE LORD SMEARDON. (sniffles)

PARDON ME.WHO UPON HIS DEATH LEFT A MOST ASTOUNDING WILL. (sniffles)

PARDON ME.BUT A NEPHEW AND THE NEWPHEWS MOTHER

SAID THEY FOUND ANOTHER.INTRIGUE! SCANDAL! MYSTERY! HIGH, HIGH DRAMA.

AND OF COURSE A LOT OF LEGAL MUMBO-JUMBO.BLAH-BA-DA, BLAH-BA-DA PROBATE

BLAH-BA-DA, BLAH-BA-DA MAGISTRATEBLAH-BA-DA, BLAH-BA-DA BARRISTER.

BLAH-BA-DA, BLAH-BA-DA JURY, SIR.

BLAH-BA-DA -- WILL! BLAH-BA-DA -- COURT.BLAH-BA-DA, BLAH-BA-DA,BLAH-BA-DA -- QUITE A FORTUNE!

(One last great sneeze. His wig blows

off. Gathering himself and recoveringhis decorum, he unrolls a very long scroll.)

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Hargreaves

Finally, there appeared a seventh will. Ill be brief:I, THE LATE LORD SMEARDON,

HAVING LIVED MY LIFE IN SCANDAL,IN DEATH MUST SOMEHOW TRY TO MAKE AMENDS.

MY SON -- MY ONLY SON IS ONE AUGUSTUS TROTWOOD

AND TO HIM MY FORTUNE PASSESAND MY TITLE DESCENDS.

Congratulations, sir. Youre rich!

RachaelTIM, TIM, I HEARD THE NEWS!

IM OH, SO ECSTATIC TIS ME YOU CHOOSE.THAT BOY HAS SUCH PROSPECTS, IVE ALWAYS SAID,

AND PAPA WILL SING ON THE DAY WERE WED.

All

NOW WERE THE HAPPIEST FAMILY IN LONDONHAPPIEST FAMILY IN LONDON.YOU CAN SEARCH EVRY CORNER OF THE CITY,

PRETTY SOON YOULL AGREE:NOWHERE CAN YOU FIND ANOTHER HAPPIER THAN WE.

HAPPY, OH, HAPPY AS CAN BE.

WERE THE HAPPIEST FAMILY IN LONDON.HAPPIEST FAMILY IN LONDON.

IF YOU DROP MENTION OF THE NAME OF TROTWOOD,WHAT YOU ANYONE SAY?

Charles

NOWHERE WILL YOU FIND A FAMILY HAPPIER THAN THEY.

AllHAPPY, AND HAPPY WE SHALL STAY.

HAT A VERY, VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS DAY!

CharlesThere! Thats it. Finished! Theres a truly joyous Christmas story. People will love it.

(As the story characters begin to exit,the Young Woman steps forward.)

Young WomanStop right there! (the others freeze) Charles, this story is not finished.

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Charles

It most certainly is. You are merely unhappy because your part is small.

Young WomanI am unhappy because the story is rubbish!

Charles

Oh, wonderful. Not only have I created a character, Ive given birth to a critic as well.

Young WomanHonestly, Charles! That story makes it appear that money is the answer to everything.

Charles

Im afraid, my dear figment, that you fail to understand how the real world works.

(He begins to neatly stack and fold the sheetsthat make up the story he just wrote.)

This is a jolly, happy Christmas story. People will love it. The story is finished and so are you!

(she exits.)

There. What a relief. Finished at last. I thought for a moment that I really was losing my mind.

Imagine, arguing with a figment of my own imagination. Rubbish, indeed. Its a very good story.I know it is. (beat) So. Finished. (beat) Perhaps I should read that last part over, just to check for

errors. Yes, a quick look over it, thats all.

(As Charles quickly runs his finger down the page,speed-reading, the lights come up on the characters

from the story, who run through the lines, songsand actions at breakneck speed.)

SEQUENCE III (SPEED READ REPRISE)

Charles

(reads a section, then) That part may be laying it on a bit thick, but after all, its a Christmasstory.

(Charles skips ahead in the story. Again, the

characters appear and race through another

section.)

Charles

(interrupting -- the characters freeze) Yes, yes, yes.

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(The music for the Young Womans entrance plays.

All the characters and Charles turn in anticipation. Shedoes not appear. Alarmed, Charles begins searching

furiously through his story. The characters turnas a group and stalk Charles.)

All

HA!HAPPIEST FAMILY IN LONDON.

HAPPIEST FAMILY IN LONDON.HAVE A MERRY

MERRYMERRY

CHRISTMAS --

(Charles crumples and tears the story. Thecharacters collapse and exit. Charles, dejected,

sinks to the floor, his story in shreds around him.)

Charles(finally) Rubbish.

(The Young Woman reappears.)

Young Woman

(gently) Im afraid I was a bit unkind.

Charles(quietly) No, you were right. In fact I think you were generous. Now I really am finished. I just

cant write a Christmas story.

Young WomanOf course you can.

Charles

I dont know how! I never had a Christmas, never got a gift. Ive had to work for everything Iveever gotten.

Young Woman

Everything?

CharlesWhat do you mean?

Young Woman

As a product of your imagination, Ive been inside your mind quite recently

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Charles

And?

(In the same manner as Charles has written

the previous scenes, the Young Woman summonshis memories.)

WRITING SEQUENCE IV (MUSES INCANTATION)

Young WomanCOME BACK

TO YOUR BEGINNINGS.THERE WERE GIFTS.

I KNOW YOU KNOW.WHAT YOU ARE

IS WHERE YOU CAME FROM.

LET WHERE YOU CAME FROMCOME BACK

INVENT A BOY.NO.

RECALL A BOY.WHOSE NAME IS TIM. NO. JACK. JOE? CHARLES.

AND GIVE THE BOYA JOB HE MORE THAN HATES.

HE WAITS AND WAITSAND WAITS AND WAITS

YOU HAD A MISERABLE CHILDHOOD, CHARLES.

AND YOU WANTED SO TO GO TO SCHOOL.

CharlesBUT THERE WASNT MUCH HOPE OF THAT,

AS MY FATHER NEVER SAVED ONE POUND.

Young WomanBUT YOUR FATHER DID RECEIVE SOME MONEY

FROM A RELATIVE WHO UP AND DIED.

CharlesAND HE USED IT ALL TO PAY HIS BILLS,

WHICH ALLOWED HIM TO COME HOME FROM JAIL.

Young WomanAND YOU SECRETLY HOPED

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Young Charles

AND I SECRETLY HOPE

Young Woman

IF HE FOUND A JOB

Charles and Young CharlesIF HE FIND A JOB,

I CAN START MY LIFE ANEW!

(Young Charles and John Dickens, playedby the actors who were Tim and his father

in the previous scene, are in the same livingroom setting. It is the Dickens household

twenty years earlier. Older Charles andYoung Woman watch them.)

JohnYou see, Charles, I just couldnt let him speak to me that way.

Older CharlesThats right! He got into an argument with my employer right off, and I was sacked.

Young Charles

Oh, Father, dont apologize. I dont mind losing that job a whit. In fact, Im glad. I was beginningto fear Id spend the rest of my life working there.

John

No, lad. Im home now, and things are going to be different.

(Charles mother comes bustlingin. Shes carrying packages.)

Elizabeth

Calm yourselves, all of you. You mustve been worried sick. Well have a roof over our headsthis Christmas, thanks to me. Every little thing is back to normal, and arent we glad for that?

Young Charles

Back to normal?

ElizabethOn the way home. I stopped into the butchers, and when I saw how much he expected us to pay

for a goose, I told him

Young CharlesMother, wait. What do you mean, every little thing is back to normal?

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Elizabeth

Why, I spoke with your employer, Mr. Guildfeather, as I promised.

Young Charles

You did?

ElizabethOh, yes. We had a little talk. He understands that your father has had a difficult time of late, so for

his Christmas present to our family, as he put it, hes giving you back your job. Just report at yourusual time in the morning.

Older and Young Charles

(aghast) No!

ElizabethNo?

Young CharlesI wont. I shant go back there.

ElizabethIndeed you shall. Your job is a godsend to this family, and you will take it back.

Older Charles

I absolutely refuse.

Young CharlesYou cant force me.

Elizabeth

No, Charles, I cant. If you wish to turn your back on us now, you may be so. Lord knows whenyour father will be able to obtain a suitable position. In the meantime, if we must return to debtors

prison, then I suppose that is what we must do. The decision is yours.

(Older Charles crosses over to YoungCharles as if to comfort him.)

Young Charles

(pained by the thought) No, I dont want that.

(At the moment Older Charles touchesYounger Charles shoulder, Young Charles

vanishes and the role is played by OlderCharles for the rest of the scene.)

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Elizabeth

Of course not. Now, we can just forget all about this little problem, cant we?

Older Charles(defeated) I suppose so.

Elizabeth

Good. (going back to her packages) What was I going to tell you? Oh, yes, the baker. While Iwas in his shop, I saw

John

(quietly) I dont think thats right.

ElizabethWhat? Did you say something?

John

No, its just not right.

ElizabethWhat are you talking about?

John

No son of mine is going to spend the rest of his life in a factory. I think the boy should go toschool.

Elizabeth

And just who do you think should pay his tuition?

JohnDont complicate matters, Elizabeth.

Elizabeth

Im simply pointing out that our bills must be paid.

JohnAnd Im simply saying

MY SON CHARLES (REPRISE)

MY SON CHARLESSHALL ENROLL AT THE FINEST SCHOOL.GRAB YOUR BOOKS, SON, SHARPEN UP A QUILL

Elizabeth

Who shall pay for it, John -- who?

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John

I SHALL TURN.THAT SHALL BE

BLAST IT ALLME.

ElizabethYou?

John

Yes, me. Forget looking for a suitable position. Ill take anything.HE HAS SUCH POTENTIAL TO FULFILL:

OUR SON CHARLES;BRIGHT YOUNG CHARLES;

MY SON CHARLESWILL.

Elizabeth

John!

JohnElizabeth, its decided!

(Defeated, Mrs. Dickens takes her package

and leaves. Charles continues to stare at hisfather. Neither knows what to say.)

Charles

I I

JohnYes, well, Id better go help your mother with her packages.

(John exits.)

Charles

That was a wonderful thing he did. It was It was

Young WomanA gift?

CharlesI suppose it was.

Young WomanCharles? (his body begins to quiver) Are you crying?

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Charles

(Bursts out laughing) Perhaps I should be, but Im not. Im laughing.

Young WomanAt what?

Charles

At me. At what a fool Ive been. What a ninny, a nitwit, a a

Young WomanNincompoop?

Charles

I beg your pardon?

Young WomanJust trying to help.

CharlesSo often I could swear my father was only put on this earth to make my life miserable. That schoolhe sent me to was barely worth a straw. But now that I look back, it seems that everything Ive

become was made possible by that one sacrifice he made. Whyever did he do it?

Young WomanPerhaps because he loved you.

Charles

Me? But I was such a a

Young WomanNincompoop?

Charles

Precisely. Do you know I never even thanked him? Ive been too angry at him to remember thegood things he did. Do you suppose thats what Christmas really is? A time to remember those

good things?

Young WomanWhat do you think, Charles?

CharlesI think Ive been wrong about Christmas all along.

Young WomanDo you think you can write that Christmas story now?

NO TIME FOR CHRISTMAS --REPRISE

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Charles

YES, YES, YES!I CAN WRITE THE STORY,

BUT WAIT -- THERE ARE THINGS TO TEND TO FIRST.CERTAIN OTHER THINGS I HAVE TO DO OR ELSE ILL BURST!

An I may burst anyway from happiness! (calling) Mrs. Furnival! Could you come here?

Young WomanARE THEY TRULY, TRULY, TRULY MORE IMPORTANT THAN THE STORY?

Charles

YES, THEY TRULY, TRULY, TRULY, TRULY ARE

Young WomanGOOD! WHOD HAVE THOUGHT THAT YOUD HAVE COME SO FAR?

YOU HAD NO TIME FOR CHRISTMAS.

Mrs. Furnival

(entering) Mr. Dickens?

Charles

(to the Young Woman)QUITE SO.

I HAVE A LOT TO THANK YOU FOR.

Mrs. FurnivalWHO ME?

Charles

WHATS THAT?

Young WomanI KNOW.

Mrs. Furnival

Why should you thank me, Mr. Dickens?

CharlesWhy, for being such an understanding landlady. And for always being willing to go out of your

way for me.

Mrs. FurnivalOh, I, er Im glad to, Mr. Dickens. No need to thank me for that.

DICKENS PAGE 43


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Charles

But I want to say thank you. To everybody. Especially at Christmas. In fact, Ill be having a sortof Christmas party here tonight. Of course

I HAVE NO TIME TO PREPARE FOR PARTIESBUT IVE MAKE A LIST --

Mrs. Furnival

WHAT CHANGED YOUR MOOD, SIR?THE FOOD, SIR!

HOW THRILLING!

CharlesNOW THEN, YOU KNOW HOW I HATE TO ASK, BUT --

Mrs. Furnival

HOW COULD I RESIST?

Charles

GOOD.CAN THESE BE ORDERED STRAIGHTAWAY?

Mrs. FurnivalSIR, THATS AS GOOD AS DONE.

Charles

AND THEN INVITE MY PUBLISHER.

Mrs. FurnivalGAD, HES A LOT OF FUN.

Charles

AND THEN MY FATHER,YOUR HUSBAND, TOO.

I MIGHT HAVE SWORN THEREWAS MORE TO DO

AND OH, OF COURSE, THE ORPHAN HOUSE.

Mrs. FurnivalTHE ONE ON BARROW LANE?

CharlesWhat an intelligent landlady!THE CHILDREN THERE,

PLEASE BRING THEM HERE.INSANE?

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Mrs. Furnival

All of them, sir?

CharlesHAH-HAH! INSANE!

And their Mistress, too!I HAD NO TIME FOR CHRISTMAS!

Mrs. Furnival

MR. DICKENS!

CharlesMRS. FURNIVAL, BUT NOW

ILL CELEBRATE AND CELEBRATEAS WELL AS I KNOW HOW.

IM HAPPY AS A BABY,IM SO GIDDY AND IM SO

Mrs. FurnivalSIR, ID LOVE TO STAY AND HEAR,BUT I SHOULD GO.

Charles

OH?

Mrs. FurnivalONE MAKES THE TIME FOR THINGS THAT MATTER,

MR. DICKENS.WHICH LEAVES NO TIME FOR IDLE CHATTER,

MR. DICKENS,WHICH MEANS THAT SINCE I HAVE SO MUCH TO DO, SIR,

FOR YOU, SIR,TOODLE-OO, SIR,

AND CHEERIO.

(She exits.)

Charles(turning back to the Young Woman) As I was saying I have to thank you for

(She is gone.)

Charles

Where did you ? (beat) Oh, of course. She was never there to begin with, was she? Just afigment of my imagination. Well, anyhow Thank you.

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(There is a knock at

the door. John peeks in.)

JohnYou wanted to see me, Charles?

Charles

Ah, yes. Come in.

(John enters like a schoolboy whosbeen sent to see the principal.)

John

I I thought youd be writing.

CharlesOh, I was, I was. (picks up a large stack of Johns bills and adopts a stern tone) But I got to

thinking about something. About a debt. A grievous debt, and whats more, one thats been owed

for a long, long time.

John

If its about that bill at the Bull and Peacock

CharlesBull and Peacock!? So theres a bill at the Bull and Peacock, is there? Thats not the debt Im

referring to, but Im very glad to know of it.

JohnBlast!

Charles

Now, listen to me. Ive been telling you for years that you must learn to live within your means.Ive told you how I feel about being asked to pay your bills. Now, I can see theres nothing left for

me to do except to say flat out (crosses directly to John) to say flat out I love you, Father.

JohnWhat?

Charles

I said I love you. I shouldve told you years ago. Thats the debt I was talking about. And the one

I mean to repay. (Charles tosses the bills into the air) A very merry Christmas to you, Father.(They embrace amidst bills fluttering to the ground) Would you do me the honor of staying tocelebrate with me this evening?

John

Oh, well. It would be a pleasure. Thank you.

DICKENS PAGE 46


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Charles

No. Thank you.

(Mr. Chapman appearsin the doorway.)

Chapman

Dickens!

JohnChapman.

Chapman

Good evening, John. Its Charles Ive come to see. I assume you have that story for me.

CharlesMerry Christmas, Mr. Chapman. Im afraid I havent got the story. In fact, its not even really

begun. And if I never write it, well, there are more important things in life than writing.

ChapmanHave you taken leave of your senses?

Charles

Quite the contrary. Ive come to my senses.

(Mrs. Furnival enters, pushing a cartladen with food, followed by the

smallest orphan.)

Mrs. FurnivalYour very special guests are downstairs washing up. This one tagged along with me. Heres the

food you ordered, Mr. Dickens. (confidentially) And heres the bill.

CharlesAh, yes. Mr. Chapman, stay and dine with us.

Chapman

Ive already had my dinner, thank you very much, and Im certainly not in the mood for a party.

Charles

What a shame. Especially since youre paying for it.

Chapman

What?

CharlesDont worry. Its only a loan until I finish my story and collect my fee.

DICKENS PAGE 47


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Chapman

Whatever would possess me to pay for one morsel of this?

Charles(brings orphan up to Mr. Chapman) I want you to meet a friend of mine. And there are many

more like him wholl be here, soon. Cant you spare a little, for their sakes?

ChapmanBlast it, Charles! Oh, my I didnt mean to (the orphan is staring at him, expectantly) Well,

since youve had it all delivered (gives Charles money, which he gives to Mrs. Furnival)

Mrs. FurnivalOh, Mr. Dickens. The Mistress from the Orphan House is here.

(The Mistress enters. She is the Young

Woman who was with the orphans earlier;she is also the figment of Charless imagination.)

Young WomanMerry Christmas, Mr. Dickens. The children are still washing up, but I couldnt wait to comethank you.

Charles

(dumbstruck) You!

Young WomanYes. Is anything the matter?

Charles

No, everything is quite well, indeed. (takes a glass from the table) May I propose a toast?

THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

HERES TO THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS!THE ONE THAT HAS ESCAPED ME ALL THESE YEARS.

SILLY ME,I ALWAYS THOUGHT THAT CHRISTMAS MEANT FORGETTING --

THE PAIN,THE INJUSTICE,

THE TEARS.

BUT HERES TO THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS!THE ONE THAT ALWAYS FELL ON MY DEAF EARS:

A GIFT GIVEN IN LOVEGIVES US THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS.

EACH DECEMBERWE REMEMBER

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Charles (Contd)

CHRISTMAS CHEERS.

And to you, Miss. You are the true spirit of Christmas. God bless you.

Young Woman(a little embarrassed) God bless us all.

Smallest Orphan

God bless us, every one.

(All except Charles freeze.)

Charles(repeating to himself) God bless us, every one?

All

Hear, hear.

Charles(to the others) Please, everyone, would you excuse me for a moment? Ive just had idea Id like

to jot er carry on!

(He ashes to his writing table, wherehe begins writing furiously.)

All Except Charles

HERES TO THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS!THE ONE THATS BEEN THERE RIGHT BEFORE YOUR EYES.

Charles

SILLY ME,I NEVER KNEW THAT CHRISTMAS MEANT REMEMBERING --

BUT NOW,WHAT A HAPPY SURPRISE.

All

INDEED IT IS AND SO LETSRISE TO THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS

THE ONE THAT IM DISCOVERING AT LAST.

A GIFT GIVEN IN LOVEGIVES US THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRISTMAS:CHRISTMAS FUTURE,

CHRISTMAS PRESENT,CHRISTMAS PAST.

DICKENS PAGE 49


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Charles

(writing) Bah! said Scrooge, Bah, humbug. (stops writing) Just might have something, here.

(Charles throws himself backinto his writing.)

All

CHRISTMAS IN LONDON.CHRISTMAS IN LONDON.

CHRISTMAS IN LONDON TOWN.

a christmas story script 11-14-15

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