  This paper deals with the Physics Institute of via Panisperna in Rome,
getting ready for investigation on neutron physics before Fermi's discovery of
neutron-induced radioactivity. The importance of nuclear research had been
acknowledged in the Physics Institute in Rome since 1929. The Institute had
been directed towards nuclear physics since then, but from the experimental
point of view, still in 1933, it was not yet engaged in nuclear experiments on
account of the lack of adequate supplies. An adjustment of the equipment and
supplies was undertaken, so that strong radioactive sources, Geiger-Mueller
counters and Wilson chambers were finally available at the end of 1933, thanks
largely to Rasetti's efforts.
