Grounds for Uneasiness

"Grounds for Uneasiness" is a short story by O. Henry that explores themes of irony, human nature, and the complexities of relationships. Set in a bustling urban environment, the narrative revolves around a chance encounter between two characters who find themselves in an unexpected situation. O. Henry’s trademark wit and clever twists come to life as the characters navigate their emotions, revealing deeper truths about longing, connection, and the unpredictability of life. The story captures the essence of O. Henry's style, combining humor with poignant insights into the human experience.

• Short story

								
When Sousa's Band was in Houston a week or so ago, Professor Sousa was
invited to dine with a prominent citizen who had met him while on a
visit to the North.

This gentleman, while a man of high standing and reputation, has made
quite a fortune by the closest kind of dealing. His economies in the
smallest matters are a fruitful subject of discussion in his
neighborhood, and one or two of his acquaintances have gone so far as
to call him stingy.

After dinner Professor Sousa was asked to play upon the piano, of
which instrument he is a master, and he did so, performing some lovely
Beethoven sonatas, and compositions by the best masters.

While playing a beautiful adagio movement in a minor key, the
Professor caught sight of his host casting uneasy glances out of the
window and appearing very restless and worried. Presently the Houston
gentleman came over to the piano and touched Professor Sousa on the
shoulder.

"Say," he said, "please play something livelier. Give us a jig or a
quickstep--something fast and jolly."

"Ah," said the Professor, "this sad music affects your spirits then?"

"No," said the host, "I've got a man in the back yard sawing wood by
the day, and he's been keeping time to your music for the last half
hour."
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