For soapy , the signs of winter were :
In "Soapy's Choice" from "The Cop and the Anthem" by O. Henry, the signs of winter for Soapy were:
1. Chill in the air – The arrival of cold weather indicated that winter was approaching, and Soapy knew he needed to find shelter.
2. Frosty mornings – The crisp, frosty mornings further confirmed the changing season.
3. People wearing warm clothing – Observing people beginning to wear warmer clothes like coats, hats, and gloves was a sign for Soapy that the winter cold was upon him.
4. Leaves falling – The falling leaves from the trees symbolized the onset of the colder months.
For Soapy, these signs meant he had to plan his annual strategy of getting arrested to secure a warm place to stay for the winter in the city jail.