Short Fiction · Chapters

Chapters explained

Chapter companions for Short Fiction by O. Henry.

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Chapter 1
Lord Oakhurst’s Curse
The chapter introduces Lord Oakhurst's curse, a mysterious and ominous force that affects the characters and events in the story, setting the stage for themes of deception and consequence.
Chapter 2
I
The narrator recounts a train journey to Pittsburgh where he unexpectedly reunites with an old acquaintance, John A. Pescud, a traveling salesman for a plate-glass company. The chapter introduces Pescud's character and sets the stage for a deeper conversation about his views on life and romance.
Chapter 3
II
John Pescud critiques popular bestselling novels that feature American heroes romancing European princesses, arguing that such stories are unrealistic and inconsistent with real-life social classes and behavior. He insists that people marry within their own station and that fiction should reflect this truth.
Chapter 4
III: The Curse
Sir Everhard FitzArmond is attacked by Lord Oakhurst's pack of curs as he leaves Oakhurst Castle, prompting him to utter a terrible curse before fleeing in his carriage.
Chapter 5
Bexar Scrip No. 2692
The chapter describes the General Land Office in Austin, Texas, and the history of Bexar Scrip No. 2692, a missing land file. It follows the land agent Sharp, who discovers a fatal defect in the title of a widow's land and files a new claim. He later finds the missing certificate that would invalidate his claim, but is caught by the widow's son, Edward Harris. In a violent struggle, Sharp kills Harris and hides the body, then later returns to remove evidence.

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Lord Oakhurst’s Curse

I

II

III: The Curse

Bexar Scrip No. 2692