It was to Italy we travelled next, to stay with the Signor, who had lived in England once, and was a patient of Father’s.
It was fearfully hot when we arrived, and most English people had gone away; but Father and I could bear a lot of sunshine, and we did not go out in the middle of the day.
In the early mornings I went off to explore while Father was still asleep. Sometimes I made for the hills, but often I chose the city, for I liked to wander through the streets and make friends with the chattering children. They were jolly little beggars, with bare brown feet and thick dark hair that fell over their faces. My favourites were Giovanni and Mariannina; their mother worked for a grand Contessa who lived not far from the Signor. Giovanni was thin as a reed, but Mariannina, whose curly head did not reach her brother’s shoulders, was as plump as a partridge, and her cheeks were red instead of brown. Adelina, the Signor’s housekeeper, told me their names, and that Mariannina was the pride and torment of Giovanni’s life.
“He adores her,” she said, “but she is surely bewitched. She runs from him like a squirrel, and is an imp for mischief. Ah, the poor Giovanni—he has his hands full!”
After this I often met them, and if Mariannina were in a good humour she would smile at me through her lashes, while if she were cross she would frown like a Witch, and even shake her tiny fist. At this, Giovanni would look quite shocked, and would beg me in broken English not to be hurt at ‘la sorellina’s’ unkindness.
“She so ver’ small!” he pleaded wistfully, and this was always his excuse for her.