The fiddle was not a valuable one--in fact, it was a shabby little instrument--but it was Phil's stock in trade.

Moreover, it belonged to the padrone, and however innocent Phil might be as regarded its destruction, his tyrannical master was sure to call him to heavy account for it.

He was certain to be severely punished, more so than the evening before, and this was not a pleasant prospect to look forward to.

The padrone was sure not to forgive an offense like this.
Thinking over these things, a bold suggestion came into Phil's mind.
Why need he go back at all?
Why should he not take this occasion for breaking his fetters, and starting out into life on his own account?
There was nothing alarming in that prospect.

He was not afraid but that he could earn his own living, and fare better than he did at present, when out of his earnings and those of his comrades the padrone was growing rich.