Belle's Lost Love

The story of Belle, Scrooge's former fiancée, who left him because his love of gold replaced his love for her.

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The Breakup

A Golden Idol The Confrontation Belle, a fair young woman, releases Scrooge from their engagement. She tells him that a 'golden idol' has displaced her in his heart. Scrooge protests that the world is hard on poverty, but Belle sees through his excuses. The Loss of Nobility Belle notes that Scrooge's nobler aspirations have fallen away, replaced by the master passion of gain. She releases him with a full heart, hoping he will be happy in his chosen life. The scene is a poignant moment of lost love and regret.

Belle's Happy Marriage

A Different Life A Happy Family The Ghost of Christmas Past shows Scrooge an older Belle, now married with children. She is a comely matron, surrounded by a boisterous family. Her husband returns home with presents, and the scene is filled with joy and warmth. Scrooge's Pain Scrooge watches as Belle's husband mentions seeing him alone in his office. The contrast between Belle's happy family and Scrooge's isolation is devastating. Scrooge pleads to be removed from the scene, unable to bear the regret.

Years before the story, during Scrooge's young adulthood

Later years, as shown by the Ghost of Christmas Past