Description

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When young Englishman Messer Francisco Hammond ventures across Europe to Venice, little can he imagine the adventure that awaits. The son of a London merchant, Francisco embarks on a career as a merchant working for the powerful Venetian businessman Signor Polani. Along with his friend Matteo, Francisco encounters the Genoese, Venice's mortal enemy, and Moorish pirates during their travels. In addition, the two must thwart the plans of the villainous Ruggiero Mocenigo, a nobleman who harbors evil intentions towards Matteo's cousins Maria and Giulia. When the Genoese bring war to the Venetian lagoons, Francisco must decide between leaving or fighting. Will Francisco survive the perils of merchant life on the Mediterranean? Will he and Matteo stop Ruggiero? Will Venice survive its war with Genoa? These and other questions will be answered in The Lion of Saint Mark: A Story of Venice in the Fourteenth Century by G. A. Henty. Set in late-fourteenth century Italy, Turkey and the Mediterranean, this book includes more than sixty geographical, historical, and explanatory footnotes to aid the modern reader.

About the Author

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G.A. Henty (1832-1902) was a prolific author and journalist in the 19th century. Drawing on his experience and knowledge as a war correspondent, Henty was a master of weaving history into his fictional stories about courageous young men living in difficult times marked by military conflict. His stories provide insight into some of the greatest conflicts of history while introducing the reader to characters that embodied the values of integrity, duty and virtue. While aimed at older children and teens, even adults will enjoy his writings.