"I know that, because 'annus' means a year in Latin." "Si, signor, a year," said Phil.
"And where do you come from ?" "Da Napoli." "That means from Naples, I suppose." "Si, signor." Most of the little Italian musicians to be found in our streets are brought from Calabria, the southern portion of Italy, where they are purchased from their parents, for a fixed sum, or rate of annual payment.

But it is usual for them when questioned, to say that they come from Naples, that being the principal city in that portion of Italy, or indeed in the entire kingdom.
"Who do you live with," continued Henry.
"With the padrone." "And who is the padrone ?" "He take care of me--he bring me from Italy." "Is he kind to you ?" Phil shrugged his shoulders.
"He beat me sometimes," he answered.
"Beats you?
What for ?" "If I bring little money." "Does he beat you hard ?" "Si, signor, with a stick." "He must be a bad man," said Henry, indignantly.
"How much money must you carry home ?" "Two dollars." "But it isn't your fault, if people will not give you money." "Non importa.

He beat me." "He ought to be beaten himself." Phil shrugged his shoulders.

Like most boys of his class, to him the padrone seemed all-powerful.

The idea that his oppressive taskmaster should be punished for his cruelty had never dawned upon him.