"After Twenty Years" is a short story by O. Henry, first published in 1906. The story is set in New York City and tells the tale of two old friends, Jimmy and Bob, who made a pact to meet at a specific location after twenty years. The story begins with a police officer, Patrolman Wells, who sees a man standing under a street lamp and decides to investigate.
The man turns out to be Bob, who is waiting for his old friend Jimmy. Bob tells the police officer about the pact he made with Jimmy and how they planned to meet at that very spot after twenty years. Bob explains that he is a successful businessman and that Jimmy used to be a criminal, but Bob believes that Jimmy has reformed and become an honest man.
As they wait for Jimmy, Bob reminisces about their past adventures and how they used to be partners in crime. He admits that he feels guilty about leaving Jimmy behind when he decides to turn his life around and pursue a legitimate career.
Eventually, Jimmy arrives, but he is now a criminal on the run from the law. He tries to avoid being recognized by the police officer and his old friend, but Bob eventually realizes who he is. Jimmy tells Bob that he has one last job to do before he can retire from a life of crime, and he needs Bob's help.
Bob is torn between his loyalty to his old friend and his newfound respectability, but he ultimately decides to help Jimmy. However, as they are about to complete the job, the police officer arrives and arrests Jimmy.
The story ends with Bob feeling regretful and sad about what has happened. He realizes that he made the wrong choice and wishes that he had helped Jimmy turn his life around instead of getting involved in his criminal activities.
"After Twenty Years" is a clever and witty story that deals with issues of loyalty, regret, and the consequences of one's choices. O. Henry's use of irony and unexpected twists make this a memorable and thought-provoking tale.