‘So you condone stealing? Your children can steal?’
‘They can take what is needed.’
‘And what if they get caught? What if a farmer comes out with a rifle?’
‘What farmer is going to shoot starving children taking food to eat?’
Bianca’s eyes widened. ‘Why, a hungry farmer whose crops can’t grow in the frozen ground!’
‘My children can run fast,’ Contessa said, shrugging. ‘At least it wasn’t the little ones. Martino and Gian weren’t with them. I agree they are too young for such activities.’
‘All children are too young for it.’
Tazia, overhearing the exchange, moved close to the women.
‘I have to agree with Bianca,’ she chimed in. ‘Our children were lucky this time, but it is too dangerous for them to be wandering around stealing food. I will be telling Monte never again.’
‘You do tha
