'The Californian's Tale,' by Mark Twain

curtain - n. a piece of cloth that hangs down from above a window and can be used to cover the window

whisper - v. to speak very softly or quietly

sigh - v. to take in and let out a long, loud breath in a way that shows you are bored, disappointed, relieved, etc.

sorrow - n. a feeling of sadness or grief caused especially by the loss of someone or something