Disney Christmas Storybook Collection (2 page)

“I have,” Scrooge replied. “The last payment on your cottage was late.” Then he told her he was taking the cottage away.

Isabelle began to cry.

As Scrooge watched, he shook his head.

“Remember, Scrooge,” the ghost said. “You made these memories.”

Scrooge found himself back in his bed again. Then he heard a loud voice say, “I am the Ghost of Christmas Present.”

Scrooge looked up and saw a giant. The giant lifted him up and carried him out into the night. He brought Scrooge to a shabby little house. Through the window, Scrooge saw Bob Cratchit with his family. They were having Christmas dinner.

On the table sat the smallest bird Scrooge had ever seen. “Surely they have more food than that,” he whispered.

Then a smaller boy hobbled into the room on a crutch. His name was Tiny Tim.

Tiny Tim looked at the meal on the table. “We must thank Mr. Scrooge!” he exclaimed.

Scrooge turned around to ask about Tiny Tim, but the ghost was gone. He was all alone in a graveyard. Suddenly, he saw a dark figure.

“Are you the Ghost of Christmas Future?” Scrooge asked.

The ghost was silent. He pointed to a gravestone.

Scrooge saw the Cratchit family without Tiny Tim. They were near his grave, crying.

The spirit pointed to an empty pit.

“Whose lonely grave is this?” Scrooge asked. Then he realized it was his.

“I can change!” Scrooge cried. “Let me change!”

Suddenly, Scrooge was in his bed again. He ran to the window and looked outside. The sun was shining. The streets were covered with snow. Christmas bells were ringing.

“It's Christmas morning!” he cried. “The spirits have given me another chance!”

He pulled on his hat and coat and ran outside. “Merry Christmas!” he called to everyone he passed. He saw his nephew, Fred, on the street. “I'm looking forward to that wonderful meal of yours!” he called as he ran by.

Bob Cratchit heard a loud knock on his front door. He opened it to find Mr. Scrooge on the step, holding a large bag.

Scrooge dumped the sack on the floor. Dozens of toys fell out. Scrooge smiled as the children rushed forward happily.

“Bob Cratchit,” Scrooge said, “I'm giving you a raise and making you my partner!”

Then he handed a large turkey to Mrs. Cratchit.

“Merry Christmas!” he said happily.

“Merry Christmas to us all,” said Tiny Tim.