A Horsey Name

In "A Horsey Name" by Anton Chekhov, Major-General Buldeeff is plagued by toothache, trying various remedies to no avail. His steward, Ivan, suggests a toothache conjuror named Jacob. However, Ivan struggles to remember Jacob's surname, which is crucial for sending a telegram to him. In the midst of comedic chaos, everyone in the household attempts to guess the elusive name with horsey associations, leading to a frenzy of ideas. Despite the frantic search, the name remains elusive, causing the general's agony to persist. Eventually, the dentist removes the tooth, ending the pain. Ironically, Ivan suddenly remembers the name "Hayes," realizing it too late. The story humorously portrays the absurdity of the situation, the quirks of human memory, and the lengths people go to find solutions in times of distress.