"Mammon and the Archer" is a short story by American writer O. Henry, first published in 1905. The story is a humorous take on the classic theme of love versus money.
The story follows the young and wealthy businessman, Jonathon Appleton, who is in love with a young woman named Evelina, who comes from a more humble background. Jonathon has planned an elaborate proposal to Evelina, involving a new apartment and a lavish diamond necklace, all with the aim of impressing her and proving his love.
However, Jonathon's plans go awry when he realizes that the necklace he bought is a fake. Faced with the dilemma of how to propose without revealing the truth, Jonathon comes up with an ingenious plan that involves pretending to be a burglar and stealing the necklace back from Evelina's father's safe.
The story is told with O. Henry's trademark wit and clever wordplay, and the twist at the end is both surprising and satisfying. "Mammon and the Archer" is a classic example of O. Henry's style, which often combined humor, irony, and unexpected plot twists.
Overall, the story is a commentary on the power of love and the lengths that people will go to in order to prove their affection. It also touches on themes of class, wealth, and the idea that money can't buy happiness.
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