December 24, 1843

Dear Diary, Today was a complete day of nonsense. My nephew came to my countinghouse and tried to lead me to believe Christmas was merry. What reason does he have to be merry? His family is just poor enough. He is a fool. Bah Humbug! After he accused me that I was being dismal I just said, ”good afternoon.” I had better things to do. Finally, when I was alone, a lunatic allowed two gentlemen to come and tell me to give a money donation to poor people so they could have a Merry Christmas. For all that I care they should be in prison if they want to survive. I enjoy to be left alone. Good afternoon.