The First Underground (The Carbonari)

The NBC University of the Air presents We Came This Way, a new historical series for our listeners at home and overseas. But, but notly, as the narrator, we present Chapter 17, A Story of the Carbonery, in We Came This Way.

The Time, 1820. The thunderclap of the French Revolution still echoes throughout Europe. The vision of liberty and justice that evoked has not entirely faded in spite of a Corsican corporal who betrayed it and became an emperor, in spite of a prince, who in 1820 is the real power in Europe, Prince Matanich of Austria.

1820, the corporal's empire has collapsed and the victorious powers have met at the Congress of Vienna and redivided Europe, swearing at the same time at all costs to prevent the resumption and resurrection of all liberal movements on the continent.

Toward this end, we powers will strike. The clock of progress has been turned back. In Italy, for instance, many little kingdoms live in the shadow of the Colossus of the North, Austria. The little kings have their power, but for the people there is oppression, violence, and corruption.

Liberals are the hunted outcasts of dictatorships. Then was the seed better the carbonari in 1820 at least warms with them. Freedom and justice are their banners, especially in the kingdom of Naples where Ferdinand, a supporter of the Borgans, is changed.

Not for saying for heaven's sake. My pen needs sharpening, Shire. Where's sharpening? Sharpening? Let's get on with this letter. I already know, Shire. There you are. Then right. Two pints metanic in Vietnam. My dear prince.

Perhaps you will think me unduly alarmed here in Naples. Nonetheless, I wish assurance of Austria's pledge of 1815 regarding aid in the event of a popular uprising. I confess I have no particulars upon which to base this request, except that my kingdom is restless.