The Stingy Receiver

"The Stingy Receiver" by Eleanor Hallowell Abbott is a delightful story set in the early 1900s that tells about the odd friendship between the sharp-witted, wealthy Mrs. Gallien, now sick and recovering, and Sam Kendrue, her young doctor. Their lively talks explore thankfulness, giving, and the weird ways people relate, all kicked off when Mrs. Gallien wishes not for health, but for a flood of presents to brighten her days, and she is troubled by those that are stingy in their receiving. Irony and humor fill their interactions, and the story turns playful when Mrs. Gallien decides to spice up her doctor's life, resulting in big surprises that get to the bottom of what it means to give and take.