Something for Baby

"Something for Baby" is a charming short story by O. Henry that captures the whimsical interactions between a young couple and their infant child as they navigate the challenges of parenthood. Set against the backdrop of a bustling city, the narrative explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the bittersweet nature of life's simple pleasures. O. Henry's trademark wit and poignant storytelling shine through as the couple finds unexpected joy and connection in their everyday experiences, ultimately highlighting the deep bonds that form within a family.

• Short story

								
This is nothing but a slight jar in the happy holiday music; a minor
note struck by the finger of Fate, slipping upon the keys, as anthems
of rejoicing and Christmas carols make the Yuletide merry.

The Post man stood yesterday in one of the largest fancy and drygoods
stores on Main Street, watching the throng of well-dressed buyers,
mostly ladies, who were turning over the stock of Christmas notions
and holiday goods.

Presently a little, slim, white-faced girl crept timidly through the
crowd to the counter. She was dressed in thin calico, and her shoes
were patched and clumsy.

She looked about her with a manner half mournful, half scared.

A clerk saw her and came forward.

"Well, what is it?" he asked rather shortly.

"Please, sir," she answered in a weak voice, "Mamma gave me this dime
to get something for baby."

"Something for baby, for a dime? Want to buy baby a Christmas present,
eh? Well now, don't you think you had better run around to a toyshop?
We don't keep such things here. You want a tin horse, or a ball, or a
jumping jack, now don't you?"

"Please, sir, Mamma said I was to come here. Baby isn't with us now.
Mamma told me to get--ten--cents--worth--of--crape, sir, if you please."
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