Hearts and Crosses by O. Henry
The story revolves around a young woman who marries an older man for his wealth and social status. However, she soon discovers that he has been embezzling funds from his company and is on the verge of being exposed. As she navigates this complex situation, she must also contend with her own feelings of guilt and shame. Meanwhile, a young woman who was once in love with the older man's son becomes embroiled in the situation, leading to a series of unexpected events. Ultimately, the story explores themes of deception, morality, and the consequences of one's actions.
By O. Henry · First published 1909 · Genre: Western Fiction, Romance, Drama · 5,270 words
First lines
Baldy Woods reached for the bottle, and got it. Whenever Baldy went for anything he usually -- but this is not Baldy's story. He poured out a third drink that was larger by a finger than the first and second. Baldy was in consultation; and the consultee is worthy of his hire.
"I'd be king if I was you," said Baldy, so positively that his holster creaked and his spurs rattled.
What this Textopian page supports
Hearts and Crosses is listed on Textopian as a short story by O. Henry, dated 1909 CE.
This source record anchors work identity, reading entry points, and catalog context for checking claims about the work.
- Work type: Short story
- Author: O. Henry
- Date: 1909 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Western Fiction, Romance, Drama, Short Story, Humor
- Length: 5,270 words
- Structure: 1 section, 109 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Easy (6th Grade)
Good citation fit
- Work identity for Hearts and Crosses by O. Henry
- Canonical title URL and first readable passage URL
- Genre and topic classification from the Textopian catalog
- Readability and classroom-planning context
- Passage-specific claims should cite the exact /read/ URL for the relevant chapter or paragraph
Discussion starters
- What should a reader notice first when entering Hearts and Crosses?
- How does this short story by O. Henry fit its genre, period, or classroom use?
- Where does Western Fiction first become important in the reading?
Similar titles
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- The Ransom Of Mack by O. Henry
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- Her Failing by O. Henry
- A Guarded Secret by O. Henry
- Let Me Feel Your Pulse by O. Henry
Genres
- Western Fiction — The story is set in a ranching environment in Texas, featuring cowboys, cattle, and the dynamics of ranch life.
- Romance — The plot centers around the romantic relationship between the main characters, exploring themes of love, sacrifice, and identity.
- Drama — The narrative delves into emotional conflicts and personal struggles, particularly regarding gender roles and self-identity.
- Short Story — The work is a concise narrative that encapsulates a complete story arc within a limited word count.
Tags
Romance · Short Story · Love Triangle · Marriage · Infidelity · Deception · Social Class · Class Conflict · Poverty · Wealth · Morality · Ethics