G. A. Henty's latest historical adventure story for boys is set in ancient times during the Punic wars between Carthage and Rome, who are vying for world dominance. It follows the adventures of young Malchus, an officer in Hannibal's army, as the army makes its incredible journey across the Alps, bringing cannons and elephants to overpower the great Roman Empire. Malchus has an unsullied energy that allows him to escape attacks from lions and wolves and maneuver through Carthage's subterranean reservoir on a raft. Even though Carthage is eventually defeated, the thrilling clashes and vexing dilemmas gain the listener's undivided attention, while the fascinating detail of the story provides an absorbing lesson in ancient history.