Dictation 2: " Venice"

Imagine a city in the sea. Half floating, half sinking, its roofs and glittering towers rise misteriously from swirling mist.The magic place was Venice in the 17th century. Already 11 centuries old, the city had begun as a mudbank refuge from wars on Italy's mainland. Protected from attck by its shallow lagoon, Venice grew into a great world power. An exclusive club of noblemen led by the Dodge (duke) ruled Venice ruthlessly.