"Joseph has been naughty, Uncle David," said Elena. "He is crying for the clothes Donna Roma gave him, and he says he must go out because it is his birthday."
"Does a man cry when he is seven?" said Uncle David.
Thereupon Joseph, keeping his eyes upon his mother, whispered something in Uncle David's ear, and straightway the gorgeous garments were produced.
"Joseph will promise not to go out to-day; won't you, Joseph?"
And Joseph rolled his fists into his eyes and was understood to say "Yes."
At four o'clock Bruno came home, looking grim and resolute.
"I was pretty drunk last night, sir," he said, "but if there's shooting to be done this evening I'm going to be there."
The time came for the two men to go, and everybody saw them to the door.
"Adieu!" said Rossi. "Thank you for all you've done for me, and may God bless you! Take care of my little Roman boy. Kiss me, Joseph! Again! For the last time! Adieu!"
"Ah, God is a good old saint. He'll take care of you, my son," said the old woman.