FAMILY PRESENCE
Martha is noted for arriving home late due to work, and her presence is celebrated by her family, indicating her importance in the family dynamic.
MARTHA
'Here's Martha, mother!' said a girl, appearing as she spoke. ... 'Why, bless your heart alive, my dear, how late you are!' said Mrs. Cratchit, kissing her a dozen times, and taking off her shawl and bonnet for her with officious zeal. ... 'We'd a deal of work to finish up last night,' replied the girl, 'and had to clear away this morning, mother!' ... 'Well! never mind so long as you are come,' said Mrs. Cratchit. 'Sit ye down before the fire, my dear, and have a warm, Lord bless ye!' ... So Martha hid herself, and in came little Bob, the father, ... Martha didn't like to see him disappointed, if it were only in joke; so she came out prematurely from behind the closet door, and ran into his arms, ...