One of the most famous humorists in world literature, O. Henry created a unique panorama of American life at the turn of the XIX-XX centuries, in grotesque situations, he conveyed the contrasts and paradoxes of his era, which opened up space for people with business acumen, whom the game of chance raises to the top of success, then throws to the very bottom of life. “The night spread its dark wings over the gorge of the Lost River, and I gave spurs to my horse and quickly rushed towards the ranch of the Hungry Horse, because everything foreshadowed a blizzard. I knew Ross Curtis, the rancher, and I knew I would be welcome, first because he was always a hospitable host, and second because he liked to talk.