The Cone

In H.G. Wells' gripping tale "The Cone," a visceral story of revenge unfolds within the industrial setting of an ironworks. The narrative follows Horrocks, the ironworks manager, as he guides his friend Raut through the smoky, infernal landscape of his domain. Unbeknownst to Raut, Horrocks is aware of an affair between Raut and his wife. The tour takes a dark turn as Horrocks, fueled by betrayal and rage, leads Raut to the mouth of a gigantic smelting furnace—the cone. Wells masterfully builds tension, culminating in a shocking, tragic climax that explores themes of passion, jealousy, and the destructive power of human emotions.