The Serpent of Venice

Venice, a really long time ago. Three prominent Venetians await their most loathsome and foul dinner guest, the erstwhile envoy from Britain who also happens to be a favorite of the Doge: the rascal fool Pocket. This trio of cunning plotters - the merchant, Antonio; the senator, Montressor Brabantio; and the naval officer, Iago - have lured Pocket to a dark dungeon, promising a spirited evening with a rare Amontillado sherry and a fetching young noblewoman. Their invitation is, of course, bogus. The wine is drugged; the girl is nowhere in sight. These scoundrels have something far less amusing planned for the man who has consistently foiled their quest for power and wealth. (adapted from the publisher's text accompanying the first edition)