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by
A. E. N.
Ed was a beggar who roamed the streets of Harlem. He was a harmless old man, and no one really found him offensive. Quite a few of the neighborhood people would offer him a dollar or two when they saw him around. It got to the point where knowing old Ed was out there, hanging about in the streets, made them feel safer and more secure, like an angel was watching over the neighborhood.
One night, Ed didn't show up for his usual handouts. At first, no one thought much about it, figuring maybe he was sleeping off a drunk. A week went by and still there was no sign of Ed. Two weeks, then three went by; and the people began to ask among themselves, "I wonder whatever happened to old Ed."
Some of the neighbors asked around, but no one seemed to have any information on the old begger's whereabouts. Five or six families really did miss seeing him around; they were the ones who had been kind to him, giving him warm clothes and a buck here and there.
One day, each of these families received a letter from an important New York law firm, requesting their presence at the reading of the Last Will and Testament of Mr. Edward Graham. At first some of the people thought it was a practical joke. After all, Ed was a beggar. How could he pay for his funeral, let alone have an estate?
Then there were those who thought Ed night have been a secret millionaire, and had left them something in his will. They decided to go along and see what the whole thing was all about.
The day arrived when the will was to be read, and all the families were there. If it was a practical joke, fine; nothing was lost. And if it was for real, who knew what they might inherit?
When they were assembled, the attorney in charge began. "This is the Last Will and Testament of Edward Graham. Ed saved up just enough money, seventy-five dollars, to have this one page will drawn up, and it was very important to him everyone he named be present here today."
The Will was short, simple and straightforward, and as the attorney read, each person had his own reaction.
"I, Edward P. Graham, declare the only thing I can leave behind to the following people is to give them all my love, and a heartfelt 'Thank you', for every kindness they ever bestowed upon me.'
Every time we say "thank you", it just might be reaching the ears of an angel!
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