"The Enchanted Doll" is set in a struggling neighborhood in New York City's Lower East Side, yet it unfolds with elements reminiscent of a classic fairy tale. The narrative introduces a charismatic young doctor, a fragile yet alluring young woman, and a menacing older woman. Dr. Samuel Amony, the narrator, embarks on a quest that intertwines their lives, leading to an unexpected love story.

An Unusual Purchase

Dr. Amony's story begins with a simple task: finding a birthday gift for his niece in Cleveland. As a hurdy-gurdy plays "Some Enchanted Evening," he finds himself in Abe Sheftel's quaint shop, which sells stationery, cigars, and toys. Among the many items, a twelve-inch handmade rag doll catches his eye. Its painted face and lifelike appearance evoke a sense of connection, akin to meeting "a stranger in a crowded room." The doll's creator, as Sheftel recalls, is a red-haired amazon living nearby, though her name escapes him—he settles on "Calamity" as a close approximation.

Meeting the Creator

By chance, Dr. Amony encounters the elusive dollmaker when she summons him for a house call. Her true name is Rose Callamit, not "Calamity," yet the latter feels fitting. Amony is taken aback by Rose's garish appearance—her voice grates, her hair is unnaturally bright, her makeup excessive, and her perfume both overwhelming and cheap. It baffles him that such a coarse individual could craft the enchanting doll he purchased for his niece. Her living room is crowded with various dolls, each bearing the mark of creative brilliance.

The True Artisan

Dr. Amony is led to a small, back room by Rose, where he meets Essie Nolan. Sitting quietly, Essie suffers under Rose's cruel revelation of her as a cripple. The doctor discerns that her affliction is not her lame leg, but a mysterious, draining illness. Puzzled yet relieved, he discovers Essie is the true artist behind the dolls, surrounded by paints and fabrics essential for her craft. Amony finds himself captivated by the sorrowful depth in Essie's eyes.

Tension and Confrontation

On leaving Essie's room, Amony and Rose clash. When he asserts that Essie's condition is treatable, Rose reacts harshly, telling him to be quiet. The doctor suspects Rose's anger stems not from concern for false hope, but fear of losing income from Essie's creations. Though he apologizes to Rose to maintain access to Essie, the seed of suspicion remains.

A Struggle for Recovery

Essie's health begins to improve with rest and a tonic, but when Amony recommends further rest, Rose dismisses him. Barred from seeing Essie, Amony himself falls ill. He slowly realizes his ailment is love for Essie Nolan. This realization renews his vigor, and he resolves to free Essie from her oppressive environment. With help from Sheftel, who informs him when Rose leaves, Amony rushes to Essie's side.

A Bold Rescue

Arriving just as Essie is slipping into unconsciousness, Amony tells her that Rose has drained her of love and hope. Professing his feelings, he convinces Essie to accompany him to his home. She consents, and Amony tenderly wraps her in a blanket, carrying her through the sweltering August streets to his quarters behind his clinic.

A New Beginning

The narrative frames itself with Amony's reflection on an anniversary significant to him and Essie. They are now married with a son and another child on the way. Yet, the day Amony cherishes most is when he first saw the captivating doll in Sheftel's window. Essie no longer crafts dolls, as she now devotes herself to her family, suggesting a future filled with happiness for the couple.