"As to the immaculate handmaid, she was ready to lend her hand, which was all that was required, to the pious work; and if a shy glance now and then might be believed, the ambassador began to find favor in her modest eyes."
An Occurrence at Owl Creek Bridge (1890) Ambrose Bierce
"Death is a dignitary who, when he comes announced, is to be received with formal manifestations of respect, even by those most familiar with him."
The Lottery (1949) Shirley Jackson
"We have done it for so long, must do some good."
What, of this Goldfish, Would You Wish? (2012) Etgar Keret
"If you found a talking goldfish that granted you three wishes, what would you wish for?"
