Toddlekins

"Toddlekins" is a whimsical short story by O. Henry that explores themes of love, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. The narrative revolves around a young couple navigating the challenges of romance and societal expectations. With O. Henry’s signature wit and clever twists, the story invites readers into a charming world where misunderstandings and affection intertwine, ultimately leading to a heartwarming conclusion. Through his characteristic storytelling style, O. Henry captures the essence of youthful longing and the surprises that come with it.

• Short story

								
    Toddlekins climbed up the long, long stair;
    Chubby and fat and round was he;
    With rosy cheeks and curling hair,
    Jolly and fair and gay was he.
    Toddlekins knocked on the office door;
    Within at a desk a stern man sat;
    Wrote with a pen while a frown he wore,
    When he heard on the door a rat-tat-tat.
    Toddlekins cried, "Oh please let me in!
    I've come to see you, the door is fast!"
    Oh, voice so soft, it will surely win
    The heart of the stern, cold man at last!
    But he heeded not the pleading cry
    Of Toddlekins out on the lonely stair;
    And Toddlekins left with a sorrowful sigh,
    Toddlekins round, and chubby and fair,
    Oh, man so stem, when you stand and plead
    At the door of your Father's house on high;
    What if he, merciless, pay no heed;
    Pitiless, turns from your helpless cry!
    But the man wrote on with a stony stare;
    He was an editor, poor and ill;
    And Toddlekins, chubby and round and fair,
    Was a butcher that brought a big meat bill.
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