Elementary, My Dear: O. Henry’s Short Story, ‘The Sleuths’

The simplest approach to finding something is often the best and most effective.

When searching for his sister, O. Henry's character Mr. Meeks discovers that the simplest approach works best. New Africa/Shutterstock

Sometimes the most enjoyable moments are offered by a plain cup of coffee or a walk through a park with a friend. Uncomplicated activities often bring the most comfort and joy.

In his short story, “The Sleuths,” O. Henry comically emphasizes the need for a simple approach to a problem. When a brother goes looking for his sister in New York City, he discovers that complexity confuses his search.

Missing in the City

Meeks, a middle aged man from the West, arrives in New York City to find his sister, Mary Snyder. Having obtained a substantial amount of money from a lead mine, Meeks wishes to share it with his widowed sister.