"He hires him for so much money," explained Paul.

"But why did your father let you go with a bad man?" asked Jimmy.

"He wanted the money," said Phil. "He cared more for money than for me."

What wonder that the boys sold into such cruel slavery should be
estranged from the fathers who for a few paltry ducats sell the liberty
and happiness of their children. Even where the contract is for a
limited terms of years, the boys in five cases out of ten are not
returned at the appointed time. A part, unable to bear the hardships and
privations of the life upon which they enter, are swept off by death,
while of those that survive, a part are weaned from their homes, or are
not permitted to go back.

"You must not ask too many questions, Jimmy." said Mrs. Hoffman, fearing
that he might awaken sad thoughts in the little musician.

She was glad to see that Phil ate with a good appetite. In truth he
relished the supper, which was the best he remembered to have tasted for
many a long day.

"Is Italy like America?" asked Jimmy, whose curiosity was excited to
learn something of Phil's birthplace.

"It is much nicer," said Phil, with a natural love of country. "There
are olive trees and orange trees, and grapes--very many."

"Are there really orange trees? Have you seen them grow?"