I + 

In spite of many doubts and contradictory statements, of party politics for and against, Italy came into the war. Then it was that from the windows near Coldbath Square, and from Aunt Ottavia’s windows in the square itself, there appeared as though by magic, strips of green, white and red; little flags, like humble hands stretched out towards the mother country from the poverty and squalor of her namesake. In Old Compton Street, however, might be seen two, splendid banners, one on Rocca’s shop, the other on Nerone’s; while the Casa Boselli, that displayed the Allied emblems, now added yet another to the group above the door. Teresa’s heart leapt with a sudden, fierce pride, then sank with a dreadful sense of fear; for how could she hope to obtain provisions⁠—all those strange, delicious things that had made her shop so famous⁠—if the country that provided the bulk of her stock might itself be faced with starvation? + 

She was careful to hide these fears from Fabio, but Fabio had fears of his own; he knew quite as well as Teresa could know what this might mean to their business. But although his hands shook as he put up the flag, and his old cheeks were paler than usual, he lifted a fold of the flag and kissed it, for nature is stronger than naturalization. + 

Mario and Rosa looked at their son, and Mario said: “It is hard to be a father⁠—now if I were your brother we could fight together, we could share the hardship, the honor and the glory. If only I were not too old, Geppe!” + 

Nerone was like a creature possessed; Rosa became almost anxious about him. + 

“Guarda!” he exclaimed; “my very matches march!” + 

He stumped around the shop and up and down the street, talking volubly and loudly to any who would listen, giving packets of Italian cigarettes to passing Tommies⁠—yes, actually giving away his tobacco. + 

“Now you are safe, we are all safe,” he told them; “Italy will win the war!” + 

“Papa, you are wearing yourself out,” protested Rosa; “a man of your age to behave so⁠—it is foolish!” + 

“Today I am not an old man,” said Nerone; “today I am Italy, the eternal.” + 

Only Geppe, of them all, was strangely pale and silent, moving as though in a dream. His loose-lipped mouth sagged a little at the corners; sagged as it had done when he was a baby, and Rosa had taken away her hand. + 

“Eat, tesoro, my pretty,” urged his mother at dinner noticing his untouched food; “those who are going to protect us must eat, so that they may become strong.” + 

“I think that my stomach is upset,” muttered Geppe; “I do not feel very hungry.” + 

Rosa was constantly forcing back her tears, trying to be Spartan and splendid; trying to rejoice that she had a son to give to her country in its need. Whenever his eyes were upon her she smiled, but her smile was not reassuring; it got on Geppe’s nerves; as soon as he could he made an excuse and went out. He did not return until late that night, and when he came in at past twelve o’clock, Rosa, who was waiting up anxiously for him, knew that her son had been drinking. + 