Man returns book He stole 40 years ago

A US bookstore staff was left surprised when a package arrived containing a book that had been stolen from the store nearly 40 years ago.

The package also included an apology letter and $100 in cash as compensation. The package was recently delivered to Bookleggers, a bookstore in Old Town Eureka, California. When the staff opened it, they found a copy of The Unstrung Harp.

The letter explained that the sender had stolen the book from the store about four decades ago.  He said he was a student at the time and was struggling with alcohol addiction and financial problems.

He also wrote that he found the book recently while cleaning out his garage. After discovering that the bookstore was still operating he decided to return the book and apologize for what he had done.

The man included $100 with the book and told the store owners they could contact him if they wanted to take any further action.

Bookstore owner Jennifer McPhaiden said she and her staff were deeply touched by the letter. She said it was surprising to see someone return after so many years to admit their mistake and try to make things right.