Sincerely your friend,
W. S. P.

      [And here is the letter telling his “pard” that the article
      had been bought by Everybody’s Magazine.  This is dated
      Pittsburg, October 24th, obviously the same year:]

DEAR PARD.

You’re It.  I always told you you were a genius.  All you need is to succeed in order to make a success.

I enclose pubrs letter which explains itself.  When you see your baby in print don’t blame me if you find strange ear marks and brands on it.  I slashed it and cut it and added lots of stuff that never happened, but I followed your facts and ideas, and that is what made it valuable.  I’ll think up some other idea for an article and we’ll collaborate again some time—­eh?

I have all the work I can do, and am selling it right along.  Have averaged about $150 per month since August 1st.  And yet I don’t overwork—­don’t think I ever will.  I commence about 9 A. M. and generally knock off about 4 or 5 P. M.

As soon as check mentioned in letter comes I’ll send you your “sheer” of the boodle.

By the way, please keep my nom de plume strictly to yourself.  I don’t want any one to know, just yet.

Give my big regards to Billy.  Reason with him and try to convince him that we believe him to be pure merino and of more than average width.  With the kindest remembrances to yourself I remain,

Your friend,
W. S. P.

      [At this time O. Henry was unknown and thought himself lucky
      to sell a story at any price.]