In Saki's short story "The Open Window," Framton Nuttel, a nervous man seeking a peaceful retreat from his ailments, arrives at the Sappleton residence. He is greeted by Vera, her young aunt, who informs him that her aunt is expecting him. Vera, a mischievous girl, senses Framton's nervousness and decides to play a prank on him.

Vera engages Framton in conversation, casually mentioning that her aunt has kept the window open every day for three years, waiting for the return of her husband and two brothers, who supposedly perished in a shooting accident. Framton, already on edge due to his nerves, is further unsettled by this tale.

As the sun starts to set, casting long shadows across the room, Vera spots three figures approaching the house. She tells Framton that it must be her aunt's husband and brothers, returning from their hunting trip. Framton, believing himself to be witnessing a tragedy, panics and flees the room, rushing out the garden door.

Vera, amused by Framton's reaction, continues her story, telling her aunt that her guest was very peculiar and suddenly bolted away. Mrs. Sappleton, unaware of her niece's prank, assumes Framton was startled by the sight of her deceased husband, who had just arrived home.

The story concludes with Framton, still shaken and confused, walking down the road. He encounters a man walking towards him, whom he recognizes as Mrs. Sappleton's husband. Framton, realizing the truth and the elaborate prank played on him, lets out a sigh of relief, mixed with a sense of embarrassment.