What information about the monkey's paw is given in the exposition?

In the exposition of "The Monkey's Paw" by W.W. Jacobs, the story introduces the White family—Mr. White, Mrs. White, and their son Herbert—who live in a remote part of England. They are visited by Sergeant-Major Morris, who has returned from India and brings with him a mysterious monkey's paw that is said to grant three wishes. The paw is described as having a sinister history, as it is cursed and has led to tragic consequences for its previous owners. This sets the stage for the central conflict and themes of desire and the unforeseen repercussions of wishing.