What they concluded was that "subjects who devoted conscious thought to the outcome seemed less inclined to exact revenge when presented with an opportunity to do so. " .
In other words, those who reacted immediately without thinking about the consequences of their actions were more likely to exact revenge upon their neighbors, while others, given the time to contemplate the repercussions, declined to act. .
This is not evident, however, in Montressor's actions. He has had to plan this at least a day or so in advance so as to make certain that the servants are away for a few days or more. Therefore, though he acts on his thoughts of revenge, he does not contemplate that there are any repercussions that will arise out of this action.
In the very back part of the wine cellars, Montressor guides the very inebriated Fortunato, looking for the cask of rare sherry called Amontillado. Montressor gives Fortunato many opportunities to leave. Fortunato seems weak against the nitre growing on the walls, and coughs repeatedly. When Fortunato leans against the wall to get his balance, Montressor chains Fortunato to the wall. As Fortunato stands there in a drunken stupor, Montressor begins to wall him in alive. As Fortunato begins to sober up and realize what is going on he begins to scream. .
At first Montressor is afraid that someone will hear Fortunato, but then realizes that they are too far below the house and street level for anyone to hear them. So, instead of granting Fortunato a quick death, he leaves him alive. Foreshadowing occurred with the following statement by Fortunato, "I will not die of a cough." Then, Montressor quickly states, "True, true." .
Other blatant hints, which only serve to increase our suspense, occur when Montressor speaks of being a mason, but not the kind that Fortunato refers to. Fortunato says, "Then you are not of the brotherhood?" "How?" "You are not of the masons?" "Yes.
