The Nether Side of New York; or, the Vice, Crime and Poverty of the Great Metropolis
New York: Sheldon & Company 1872. First Edition. 185 pages. 8vo. Publisher's green cloth with gilt titles on spine. Corners lightly worn, bumped. Head/tail of spine panel worn. Nice and clean internally, a nice copy. Very Good. Cloth. [28060]
A collection of articles, some of which were published in individual issues of the Galaxy in 1871. "The accidents of my profession of journalism having brought me in personal contact with the Nether Side of New York, I determined to give the public the results of my observations, but I did not attempt the task until four years had been expended in acquiring the information necessary to its proper fulfilment." (from the preface)
With chapters titled Professional Criminals, 'Circular' Swindlers, 'Skinners', Faro Gamblers, Prostitution, Abortionists, Haunts of Vice, Private Detectives, and others no corner is left unlit. An interesting read, specific personages are discussed in some detail with the author's opinions either clearly or neatly intimated. Many funny stories too. Great reading for anyone interested in the underside of the city in the 1870s. This writer wishes that the book had been illustrated showing the characters depicted in word! Sadly not the case.
ITEM SOLD