PREFACE TO THIS EDITION. THE Publishers have decided to array Benny in new and more expensive attire. For at least ten years he has worn the same suit of clothes. A suit which has become him very well, and in which he has received a hearty welcome in myriads of English homes, and in homes beyond the sea. Now that he appears in finer dress I hope his welcome will be none the less hearty, and that he will continue to play some humble part in winning sympathy and help for the waifs and strays of our streets. SOUTHPORT, April, 1890. SILAS K. HOCKING. PREFACE TO THE ORIGINAL EDITION. My pastoral work, during a three years' residence in Liverpool, called me frequently into some of the poorest neighbourhoods of that city, where I became acquainted with most of the originals of this story. It was not until I had seen the little Arabs of the streets in their homes -if such haunts of wretchedness be worthy the namethat I felt that interest in, and sympathy for them, which I have experienced ever since. Getting to know them in their homes, I was glad to stop and speak to them in the streets, and give them a word of sympathy and encouragement. They are not all bad, as many people seem to think. Many of them try hard to earn an honest living, though they find it a difficult matter, especially when at home they receive no encouragement, while in the streets temptation is being continually put in their way by those of whom "Perks" so justly complained. The grouping of the characters that figure in the story is purely fictitious, but not the characters themselves. Benny and little Nell, Perks and Joe Wrag, Granny and Eva Lawrence, are drawn from life. I knew them well. Some of them are alive to-day, others have gone to their rest. For the interest my little story has awakened in both old and young, in its serial form, I am rejoiced and thankful; and if, in the more permanent and attractive style it now assumes, it shall awaken any sympathy for the poor little waifs of our streets, I shall have my reward. SILAS K. HOCKING. October 21st, 1879. |