The Old Man of the Sea Page #4

"The Old Man of the Sea" by W. W. Jacobs is a humorous short story that revolves around an old fisherman who recounts his misadventures with a giant fish. Set against the backdrop of the sea, the narrative explores themes of luck, human folly, and the struggle between man and nature. With Jacobs' characteristic wit and vivid storytelling, the tale highlights the quirks of seaside life and the eccentricities of its characters, culminating in a delightful and engaging read that captures the spirit of coastal folklore.

• Humour
• Short story

								

ever breathed."

The ladies looked down.

"And Charlie Hills; I don't know--I don't know when I've took such a
fancy to anybody as I have to 'im.  If I was a young gal--a single young
gal--he's--the other half," he said, slowly, as he paused--"just the one I
should fancy.  He's a good-'arted, good-looking----"

"Draw it mild," interrupted the blushing Mr. Hills as Mr. Wright bestowed
a ferocious glance upon the speaker.

"Clever, lively young fellow," concluded Mr. Kemp.  "George!"

"Yes," said Mr. Wright.

"I'm going now.  I've got to catch the train for Southampton, but I don't
want you to come with me.  I prefer to be alone.  You stay here and cheer
them up.  Oh, and before I forget it, lend me a couple o' pounds out o'
that fifty I gave you last night.  I've given all my small change away."

He looked up and met Mr. Wright's eye; the latter, too affected to speak,
took out the money and passed it over.

"We never know what may happen to us," said the old man, solemnly, as he
rose and buttoned his coat.  "I'm an old man and I like to have things
ship-shape.  I've spent nearly the whole day with my lawyer, and if
anything 'appens to my old carcass it won't make any difference.  I have
left half my money to George; half of all I have is to be his."

In the midst of an awed silence he went round and shook hands.

"The other half," with his hand on the door--"the other half and my best
gold watch and chain I have left to my dear young pal, Charlie Hills.
Good-bye, Georgie!"
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