MORAL REBUKE
Scrooge is rebuked by the Ghost for his previous callous remarks about the poor and surplus population, indicating a moral failing. The Ghost quotes Scrooge's own words and criticizes his lack of compassion.
SCROOGE
Scrooge hung his head to hear his own words quoted by the Spirit, and was overcome with penitence and grief. 'Man,' said the Ghost, 'if man you be in heart, not adamant, forbear that wicked cant until you have discovered what the surplus is, and where it is. Will you decide what men shall live, what men shall die? It may be that, in the sight of Heaven, you are more worthless and less fit to live than millions like this poor man's child. O God! to hear the insect on the leaf pronouncing on the too much life among his hungry brothers in the dust!'