In this chapter of "A Retrieved Reformation" by O. Henry, the protagonist, Jimmy Valentine, has successfully turned his life around and built a new identity as Ralph D. Spencer. He has become respected in the community, opened a thriving shoe shop, and is engaged to be married to Annabel Adams, the daughter of the town's banker.
However, Jimmy's past catches up with him when Ben Price, a detective familiar with his criminal activities, arrives in town. Meanwhile, a distressing incident occurs at the bank where Annabel's sister accidentally locks her young daughter, Agatha, inside the newly installed vault. Desperate for a solution, Annabel turns to Jimmy for help.
Without hesitation, Jimmy reverts back to his former self and skillfully breaks into the vault using his burglar's tools. He rescues Agatha, and the relieved family embraces her. As Jimmy prepares to leave, he encounters Ben Price at the front door. Surprisingly, Ben fails to recognize him, allowing Jimmy to walk away without suspicion.
This chapter showcases Jimmy's ultimate transformation as he selflessly risks his freedom to save a child. It also highlights the internal struggle between his reformed persona as Ralph D. Spencer and his past identity as Jimmy Valentine. The chapter ends with Jimmy's departure, leaving readers wondering about the consequences of his actions and the potential future encounters with Ben Price.