Summary

The short story “The Open Window” by Saki tells of a visit that has unexpected consequences. Framton Nuttel arrives in the countryside at the doctor’s recommendation, to settle his nerves. His sister is worried about him being alone, so she writes letters of introduction to local households, urging him to visit them. Framton arrives at Mrs. Sappleton’s residence to be welcomed by Vera, her 15-year-old niece. While they are waiting for Mrs. Sappleton, Vera tells him about a family tragedy. 

Vera says that Mrs. Sappleton’s husband and her two brothers went hunting three years ago on this very day together with their dog and never returned. They were swallowed by a bog, and their bodies were never recovered. She adds that Mrs. Sappleton still be...