A Conditional Pardon
Read the complete short story “A Conditional Pardon” by O. Henry.
The runaway couple had just returned, and she knelt at the old man’s feet and begged forgiveness.
“Yes, forgive us,” cried the newly wedded husband. “Forgive me for taking her away from you, but see, I have brought her back.”
“Yes,” said the old man, his voice trembling with emotion, “you have brought her back. You have brought her back. Bat that is not all, lad; you have brought her back, but you have also brought the part of her that eats provisions. I will forgive you for fifty dollars per month, lights and washing extra.”
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It is but justice to the Pension Bureau at Washington to state that they have not yet granted the pension claimed by a man who was wounded in the late unpleasantness by the accidental discharge of his duty.
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A careful inquiry has revealed the fact that Samson was the first man who rushed the growler.
Better blow your own horn than one you haven’t paid for.
If your rye offend you, buy a better quality.
Complete classic story. English source: Standard Ebooks. The source edition identifies the text as public domain in the United States; copyright rules vary by country.
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