Edgar Allan Poe

“ It seemed to have been constructed for no especial use within itself, but formed merely the interval Between two of the colossal supports of the roof of the catacombs, and was backed by one of their circumscribing walls of solid granite.
It was in vain that Fortunato, uplifting his dull torch, endeavoured to pry into the depth of the recess. Its termination the feeble light did not enable us to see.
“Proceed,” I said; “herein is the Amontillado. As for Luchresi———”
“He is an ignoramus.” interrupted my friend, as he stepped unsteadily forward, while I followed immediately at his heels. ”

“ In an instant he had reached the extremity of the niche, and, finding his progress arrested by the rock, stood stupidly bewildered. A moment more and I had fettered him to the granite. In its surface were two iron staples, distant from each other about two feet, horizontally. ”

“ I replied; “and I was silly enough to pay the full Amontillado price without consulting you in the matter. You were not to be found, and I was fearful of losing a bargain.”
“Amontillado!”
“I have my doubts.”
“Amontillado!”
“And I must satisfy them.”
“Amontillado!”
“As you are engaged, I am on my way to Luchresi. If any one has a critical turn it is he. He will tell me———“
“Luchresi cannot tell Amontillado from Sherry.” ”

“ It is equally unredressed when the avenger fails to make himself felt as such to him who has done the wrong. It must be understood that neither by word nor deed had I given Fortunato cause to doubt my good will. ”

“ He again took my arm, and we proceeded.
“These vaults," he said, “are extensive."
“The Montresors,” I replied, “were a great and numerous family.”
“I forget your arms.”
“A huge human foot d’ or, in a field azure; the foot crushes a serpent rampant whose fangs are imbedded in the heel.” ”

“ You are rich, respected, admired, beloved; you are happy, as once I was. You are a man to be missed. For me it is no matter. We will go back; you will be ill, and I cannot be responsible. Besides, there is Luchresi———”
“Enough,” he said; “the cough is a mere nothing ”