The Best Investment I ever made -A.J. Cronin

 The Best Investment I ever made

                                                                                                         — A.J. Cronin

 

“The Best Investment I ever made” is a story written by A.J. Cronin. This story narrates a touching episode from the author’s early life as a doctor in London.

 

The doctor (author) once happened to attend a misguided youth who attempted suicide.  With much effort, the doctor succeeded in bringing the youth back to life. The youth narrated his unfortunate story to the doctor. After the death of both his parents, he got employed in a Solicitor’s office.  Due to bad company, he lost all his money in horse bettings.  He stole some money from his office safe and lost that too. Fearing of punishment, he attempted suicide by turning on the gas. After hearing the sad story, the doctor gave the young man Seven pounds, ten shillings, to put back in the office safe and start a fresh life.

 

Interestingly, after 25 years of gap, the doctor met the youth Mr. John.S, a happily married man, along with his wife.  The couple had been actively involved in the rescue and rehabilitation of child offenders.  The doctor felt that the small amount he had given to the unfortunate youth turned out to be the best investment he had ever made in his life.  Though it did not yield him any monetary dividends, it gave him immense satisfaction.