The next day, Scrooge came earlier to the office on purpose and waited for Cratchit, working as if nothing had happened. Later, Cratchit arrived short of breath, one minute late. It should be said that the surprise turkey gift from a mysterious kind soul had allowed them to celebrate Christmas like never before. Scrooge pretended to be angry with his usual cold and cruel look and reproached him his lateness and his lack of serious, while the poor employee was trying to apologize. "I am left with no option but to... give you a pay rise." Seeing the man's deep confusion, Scrooge started to laugh and took back his friendly traits, apologized for this tastless prank and and explained his details in more details. He had been very faithful for years and had a family to care for. It was about time he would earn much more than one monthly shilling! Cratchit didn't know how to react immediately, troubled and unsure if he could trust his ears. But needless to say he exploded with joy at home!

A Christmas Carol, Ebenezer Scrooge and Bob Cratchit © Charles Dickens
Drawing © me