The first part of Cabbages and Kings by O. Henry introduces the fictional Central American town of Coralio, where expatriates, locals, and political intrigue intersect. The prologue, "The Proem by the Carpenter," sets the stage for a collection of interconnected stories exploring themes of greed, ambition, and betrayal. In "Fox-in-the-Morning" and "The Lotus and the Bottle," readers encounter colorful characters grappling with unexpected challenges and moral dilemmas. Stories like "Smith" and "Cupid’s Exile Number Two" delve into personal struggles, relationships, and the pursuit of redemption. The narrative gradually unveils the complex interplay of human desires and political chaos in a vibrant tropical setting.

THE PROEM BY THE CARPENTER
I. “FOX-IN-THE-MORNING”
II. THE LOTUS AND THE BOTTLE
III. SMITH
IV. CAUGHT
V. CUPID’S EXILE NUMBER TWO
VI. THE PHONOGRAPH AND THE GRAFT
VII. MONEY MAZE
VIII. THE ADMIRAL