The King of Mulberry Street

Content Warning: This section of the guide contains discussion of child abuse and religious discrimination.

After waking early to wash his clothes, get his shoes, and work for Grandinetti, Dom tells Gaetano how he lost their money. Instead of being angry, the older boy gives thanks that they still have a quarter. This optimism reminds Dom of his Uncle Aurelio. They shake hands and declare their trust in one another. 

With their first sandwich in hand, they find Tin Pan Alley and quickly sell everything. They have enough money to buy a roll of paper from the mill. Dom spots the thieves from yesterday, and Gaetano waves to them, claiming that they fear his fictional older brother. With the remaining $0.75, Dom buys three more sandwiches. When they slice the sandwiches at Grandinetti’s, they realize that they cannot carry everything, so they borrow a basket and a towel from Grandinetti. Seeing the thieves outside, Gaetano asks Grandinetti to shake his knife at them to scare the thieves away. It works, but the shop owner demands that Gaetano always speak straight with him, and the boy agrees.

Back with Tin Pan Alley, they take turns eating, and Dom learns enough English to call out to passersby.