The Coup De Grace

Ambrose Gwinnett Bierce was an American short story writer of the 19th century. Ambrose Bierce's literary reputation is based primarily on his short stories about the Civil War and the supernatural—a body of work that makes up a relatively small part of his total output.His style often embraces an abrupt beginning, dark imagery, vague references to time, limited descriptions, impossible events and the theme of war.  


It is a story about two friends who are in the the same military unit. They cannot remain close because one is an officer and the other is not. Suddenly one of them receives a severe wound, the officer cannot help him. There is no possibility to alleviate the suffering of seriously wounded another.  It is agonizing for the him to observe how his best friend racks with pain. There is only one way  how to relieve him from pain...