The Eternal City: Hall Caine

First published in 1901, this is by far the most popular of Hall Caine'’s novels with over a million copies sold in English editions alone. It was intended to show that the morality which is required of individual men; and that morality should also govern nations also. Mainly set in Rome, with the Pope as one of the leading characters. Roma is an orphan, the ward of Baron Bonelli who is set to become Prime Minister of Italy. David Rossi, a populist, is a member of parliament and in favor of the fair treatment of people. Bonelli loathes him and sets out to ruin him. Rossi has also spoken out against Roma - though not by name - as a person of great influence in the government. Romas is offended and vows to bring Rossi down - much to Bonelli's satisfaction. But she doesn’t realize that David Rossi is her long-lost almost-brother...