Book excerpt: A fateful encounter in a Montecarlo casino sees an English widow mesmerised by a young Polish artistocrat. A frenzied twenty-four hours ensue, as both struggle in the grip of irresistible obsessions that drive them to defy the conventions of society, and to risk everything they possess. This is one of the best-loved novellas by Stefan Zweig, a renowned master of the form - its frenetic pace, sparkling prose and acute psychological insight have made this unforgettable story a classic.