The passage describes a moment of severe turmoil during the early days of Spain's first republic, highlighting the bravery of Republican deputies who initially vowed to defend the country. However, this resolve quickly crumbled at the sound of gunfire, leading to panic and chaos as they fled the scene, even jumping through windows to escape.

This dramatic scene emphasizes the fragility of political commitments in times of crisis. The author, Arturo Pérez-Reverte, suggests that the downfall of the republic was marked by cowardice and betrayal, painting a vivid portrait of the tumultuous period in Spanish history. Such a vivid depiction underlines the challenges faced by nascent governments amidst rising conflict.