August 2, 1848.
The fiery sun slowly rose from the hills in the East, casting its light and heat on every inch of the city of Rome. This was the hottest time of the year in Rome, and even in the early morning, the streets were scarcely populated. The city's less affluent residents flung open all their doors and windows, hoping for a bit of coolness, while the slightly wealthier residents shut their windows and brought out ice blocks stored in their cellars since the previous winter.
At 8 in the morning, in the shade at the entrance of an inn near the Ancient Roman Colosseum, Jerome Bonaparte, dressed in simple casual clothes, was lingering in place, waiting for the arrival of a carriage.
The glaring sunlight penetrated through the shade, striking Jerome Bonaparte's back and arms, and sweat drenched his back and sleeves.
