1947 - 2, 3 and 4 Summary

Ida decides to have Useppe undergo the recommended EEG. Ida is afraid of the large doctor, who sends Useppe out to look at a hamster. Useppe wants to take him out of the cage and free him, but the doctor stops him. Useppe responds by kicking him. The EEG does not offer any specific diagnosis. The doctor asks Ida if Useppe is receiving proper nourishment, and prescribes medicine for the symptoms. Ida's fear of doctors is cemented and she decides that Bella and Useppe can freely be out together, since she wants Useppe to be like other little boys.

Bella keeps Useppe from getting lost in the Testaccio district, where he occasionally becomes afraid or confused. The two discover a place where the river is unbounded and Bella has memories of the sea. The two find a peaceful clearing in the...