O. Henry

The true adventurer goes forth aimless and uncalculating to meet and greet unknown fate. A fine example was the Prodigal Son—when he started back home.

If man knew how women pass the time when they are alone, they'd never marry.

But in a last word to the wise of these days let it be said that of all who give gifts these two were the wisest. Of all who give and receive gifts, such as they are wisest. Everywhere they are wisest. They are the magi.

There was clearly nothing to do but flop down on the shabby little couch and howl. So Della did it. Which instigates the moral reflection that life is made up of sobs, sniffles, and smiles, with sniffles predominating.

One dollar and eighty-seven cents. And the next day would be Christmas.

Not very long ago some one invented the assertion that there were only "Four Hundred" people in New York City who were really worth noticing. But a wiser man has arisen — the census taker — and his larger estimate of human interest has …

Take it from me — he's got the goods.

A straw vote only shows which way the hot air blows.

A burglar who respects his art always takes his time before taking anything else.

Turn up the lights — I don't want to go home in the dark.

Perhaps there is no happiness in life so perfect as the martyr's.

What is the world at its best but a little round field of the moving pictures with two walking together in it?