"Ministers of Grace" Page #4

"Ministers of Grace" is a collection of short stories by Hector Hugh Munro, better known by his pen name, Saki. Published in 1914, the book features a series of witty and often darkly humorous tales that showcase Saki's sharp satire and keen observations of Edwardian society. The stories explore themes of social norms, human folly, and the absurdities of life, often with a twist ending. Saki's distinctive style combines playful language with biting commentary, making "Ministers of Grace" a compelling read for fans of clever storytelling and acerbic wit.

• Short story

								

was going on around him.  In spite of the political ferment which
reigned in the streets, quite a large crowd had gathered to watch the
unfolding of a tragedy that had taken place on the shore of the
ornamental water.  A large black swan, which had recently shown signs
of a savage and dangerous disposition, had suddenly attacked a young
gentleman who was walking by the water's edge, dragged him down under
the surface, and drowned him before anyone could come to his
assistance.  At the moment when Belturbet arrived on the spot several
park-keepers were engaged in lifting the corpse into a punt.  Belturbet
stooped to pick up a hat that lay near the scene of the struggle.  It
was a smart soft felt hat, faintly reminiscent of Houbigant.

More than a month elapsed before Belturbet had sufficiently recovered
from his attack of nervous prostration to take an interest once more in
what was going on in the world of politics. The Parliamentary Session
was still in full swing, and a General Election was looming in the near
future.  He called for a batch of morning papers and skimmed rapidly
through the speeches of the Chancellor, Quinston, and other Ministerial
leaders, as well as those of the principal Opposition champions, and
then sank back in his chair with a sigh of relief.  Evidently the spell
had ceased to act after the tragedy which had overtaken its invoker.
There was no trace of angel anywhere.
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