Some one, clearly, must vouch for the man's respectability.

This was not in the lesson that had been taught him, but he determined to branch out for himself.
'He is my father, signorina.' 'Really! He looks young to be your father--have you any brothers and sisters, Beppo ?' 'I have four brothers, signorina, and five sisters.' He fell back upon the truth with relief.
'_Davvero_!' The signorina smiled upon him, a smile of such heavenly sweetness that he instantly joined the already crowded ranks of her admirers.

She drew from her pocket a handful of coppers and dropped them into his grimy little palm.
'Here, Beppo, are some soldi for the brothers and sisters.

I hope that you will be good and obedient and _always_ tell me the truth.'.