2. by Edgar Allen Poe

3. Amontillado is a pale, dry sherry wine. It is named for the Montilla region of Spain, where the wine originated in the 18th century. A cask is a large barrel used for holding liquids.

4. Vocabulary

5. ventured

6. v. dare to do something or go somewhere that may be dangerous or unpleasant

7. impunity

8. n. freedom from being caught or punished

9. immolation n. a sacrifice; atonement

10. motley n. the multi-colored garment of a jester

11. vault n. an arched structure made of concrete or stones usually in an underground chamber

12. roquelaire ( roquelaure) n. a cloak reaching to the knees worn by men in the 18 th century

13. absconded v. to depart in a sudden or secretive manner

14. sconce n. the hole or socket of a candlestick, for holding the candle

15. flambeaux n. a torch used at night for illumination

16. catacombs n. an underground cemetery consisting of tunnels and recesses dug out for coffins

17. mason n. a person whose trade is working with bricks or cement and mortar

18. flagon n. a container for holding wine at the table

19. trowel n. a tool having a flat blade used for working with mortar

20. fettered v. to restrain with a chain or shackles

21. aperture n. an opening, as a hole, slit or crack