The Romance of a Busy Broker

Harvey Maxwell is a frenzied, work-obsessed New York broker, completely consumed by the chaos of his fast-paced office. His quiet, modest stenographer, Miss Leslie, arrives one morning with an uncharacteristically radiant glow. Pitcher, Maxwell’s clerk, notes her change in demeanor. As Maxwell dives into a whirlwind of telegrams, phone calls, and stock orders, he’s oblivious to everything but business. Amid the chaos, a faint scent of lilacs—Miss Leslie’s perfume—drifts through the window, snapping Maxwell out of his trance. Suddenly reminded of his feelings for her, he rushes into her office and impulsively proposes marriage. In classic O. Henry fashion, the story's plot twist is then revealed...