The Romance of a Busy Broker, O Henry, Summary & Analysis
'The Romance of a Busy Broker' by O. Henry, also known as William Sydney Porter (1862-1910), is a short story characterized by sentimentality and surprise twist endings, which have become signature features of the author's works. This story encapsulates both of these qualities. Plot Summary The story revolves around Harvey Maxwell, a stockbroker who leads a hectic life. At the beginning of the narrative, he energetically arrives at the office with his stenographer, Miss Leslie, who possesses the ability to write shorthand. Without delay, Maxwell immerses himself in his work, while his observant confidential clerk, Pitcher, watches. The third-person narrator describes Miss Leslie as naturally beautiful, despite her modest and unadorned appearance. She wears a grey and discreet dress but accessorizes with a black hat adorned with the gold-green wing of a macaw bird. Pitcher notices a change in Miss Leslie's behavior that day—instead of heading straight to her desk, she linge…