02 - Last of the Valerii by Henry James

In the heart of Rome, an unnamed American painter serves as the narrator of a captivating tale. He watches as his god-daughter, Martha, marries the enigmatic Prince Marco Valerio. Eager to invest her American fortune in archaeology at the Villa Valerio, her husbands aging Roman estate, Martha is thrilled at the prospect. However, her god-father cautions that archaeology can be a costly endeavor. To their astonishment, the dig uncovers a stunning marble statue of Juno, igniting Marthas excitement. Yet, as the discovery unfolds, it becomes evident that her husband is deeply affected by the find, leading to unsettling consequences. In this story, much like many of Henry Jamess works, the line between the supernatural and reality blurs, leaving the reader to ponder the true implications of their discovery. (Introduction by Nicholas Clifford)