"Two Gentlemen of Verona" by A. J. Cronin

 

Two Gentlemen of Verona

A. J. Cronin

“Two Gentlemen of Verona” is written by A.J Cronin. The title of the short story is taken from an early play by Shakespeare. The story revolves around the two boys, Nicola and Jacopo, who do many things to earn money for their sister’s treatment, who suffers from tuberculosis of the spine. The story is narrated by a traveller who meets them during his visit to Verona in Italy.

The narrator and his friend are travelling through the beautiful foothills of the Alps. On the outskirts of Verona, they notice two small boys selling wild strawberries. The boys are Nicola, aged thirteen, and Jacopo, aged twelve. Though they look weak and poor, they appear hardworking and serious.

The narrator sees them again in different places in the city. They do many small jobs, such as selling newspapers, polishing shoes, and guiding tourists. They work from early morning till late at night. They never waste money on clothes or comfort and eat very simple food. Their behaviour makes the narrator curious. One night, he sees them sitting on a pavement waiting for the last bus to sell newspapers. He is surprised by their dedication. The next morning, he asks them about their life, but they do not clearly explain what they are saving money for.

Before leaving Verona, the narrator offers to help them. Jacopo asks him to take them to a village called Polenta. The narrator agrees. There, they stop at a large building, and the boys go inside while the narrator waits. Out of curiosity, the narrator enters the building and learns from a nurse that the building is a hospital. He discovers that the boys' sister, Lucia, is suffering from tuberculosis and is being treated there. The boys have been working hard for more than a year to pay for her treatment.

The nurse also explains their background. Their father was a famous singer at La Scala but was killed during the war. Their home was destroyed in a bombing, and they became orphans. Despite this tragedy, the boys supported each other and took care of their sister. During the war, they even helped the resistance group by spying on enemy movements. After the war, they focused only on saving Lucia’s life. The nurse says Lucia is recovering and may soon be able to sing again, like her father.

The narrator is deeply moved by their story. He understands that the boys are not working for themselves but for their sister’s future. He admires their courage, maturity, and selfless love. He does not tell them that he knows their secret, as he respects their dignity. He realises that true greatness is not about wealth or status, but about love, responsibility, and sacrifice.

He calls Nicola and Jacopo “Two Gentlemen of Verona” because, despite being poor children, they show noble qualities. Their dedication to their sister and their hardworking nature make them truly admirable. The story ends with a message that real honour comes from kindness, sacrifice, and strong family bonds.