Guessed Everything Else

"Guessed Everything Else" is a short story by O. Henry, known for its wit and unexpected twists. The narrative revolves around a humorous and poignant scenario where two central characters engage in a playful yet revealing exchange, leading to unforeseen revelations about their relationship and feelings. O. Henry's trademark style shines through in his keen observations of human nature and intricately crafted dialogue, ultimately delivering a heartfelt message about love and understanding amidst the complexities of life.

• Short story

								
A man with a long, sharp nose and a big bundle which he carried by a
strap went up the steps of the gloomy-looking brick house, set his
bundle down, rang the bell, and took off his hat and wiped his brow.

A woman opened the door and he said: "Madam, I have a number of not
only useful but necessary articles here that I would like to show you.
First, I want you to look at these elegant illustrated books of travel
and biography, written by the best authors. They are sold only by
subscription. They are bound in--"

"I don't care to see them. We have sm--"

"Small children only, eh? Well, Madam, here are some building blocks
that are very instructive and amusing. No? Well, let me show you some
beautiful lace window curtains for your sitting room, handmade and a
great bargain. I can--"

"I don't want them. We have sm--"

"Smoking in the house? It won't injure them in the least. Just shake
them out in the morning and I guarantee not a vestige of tobacco smoke
will remain. Here also I have a very ingenious bell for awakening lazy
servants in the morning. You simply touch a button and--"

"I tell you we have sm--"

"Have smart servants, have you? Well, that is a blessing. Now, here is
a clothes line that is one of the wonders of the age. It needs no pins
and can be fastened to anything--fence, side of the house, or tree. It
can be raised or lowered in an instant, and for a large washing is the
most convenient and laborsaving invention that--"

"I say we have small--"

"Oh, you have a small family. Let's see, then I have here a--"

"I'm trying to tell you," said the woman, "that we have smallpox in
the family, and--"

The long-nosed man made a convulsive grab at his goods and rolled down
the steps in about two seconds, while the woman softly closed the door
just as a man got out of a buggy and nailed a yellow flag on the
house.
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