The Black Pope
Written by
Allen Upward
Copyright 1904
First published as Part 12 of Underground History in Pearson's (UK), Sep 1904. Story 12 of 12 contained in the collection
The death of Pope Leo XIII in 1902 presented a challenge for the new king of Italy. To resolve that problem, he contacted Andrea V with a job offer. He hires V, who had in the past worked a mission or two for the Vatican, to be his secret agent in the Conclave to elect the new Pope, and in so doing help make sure the Cardinal of the King's choosing is elected.