The Open Window – Saki Summary

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The Open Window – Summary

Framton Nuttel, a nervous man, visits the countryside for rest. He carries letters of introduction to meet people, one of whom is Mrs. Sappleton. When he arrives at her house, her 15-year-old niece, Vera, receives him.

While waiting, Vera tells him a tragic story. She says that three years ago, Mrs. Sappleton’s husband and two brothers went out hunting through the fields and never returned, as they were swallowed by a dog. Since then, Mrs. Sappleton has kept the window in the room wide open, hoping that they might come back one day.

When Mrs. Sappleton enters, she casually talks about expecting her husband and brothers to return through the window soon. Framton feels uncomfortable, thinking she is mentally disturbed because she still hopes for the impossible.

Suddenly, he sees three men and a dog walking toward the open window—exactly as Vera had described. Believing they are ghosts, Framton panics and runs away without a word.

In the end, the men walk into the house normally. Puzzled by Framton’s sudden exit, Mrs. Sappleton wonders what frightened him. Vera, quick-witted, makes up another story, saying Framton is afraid of dogs.