Robert A. Heinlein The Man Who Traveled in Elephants
(has a description of story, so might be considered spoiler?)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Man...d_in_Elephants
a short story where the master evokes tears and laughter at almost the same time
I can only think of short stories Robbie by Asimov is kind of sad as it unfolds...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robbie_%28short_story%29