O'Henry (1862 —1910) was the pen-name of William Sidney Porter, American short story writer. He began to write short stories in prison where he had to spend three years for embezzelment (1896) though his guilt was not definitely established. He published the first of his many collections, 'Cabbages And Kings', in 1904. Many of his stories were humorous and amused the readers by funny situations and unexpected endings.

After his release from prison O.Henry arrived in New York which became his home. More than a third of the nearly 300 stories he wrote came out of his observation of New York life.

O.Henry’s ability to hold his readers’ interest made him a popular writer.