Vanity

by J.G. Brown

Vanity

larger view

Most users may highlight the words
by resting the mouse over each section as you read the story.


Not only did the boys work on the streets of New York, but so did the girls. These young girls are selling flowers that were probably raised by their father. Who would be able to resist when such a little one offered a posy for your lapel?

The young man wearing knickerbockers shows a lot of promise. He is a budding businessman and has an appreciation for the finer things in life. A boutonniere is just the thing to make him stand out among his fellow bootblacks.

It is very likely that he protects the girls from less courteous boys and helps them out in bad weather. He may steer some of his own "customers" in their direction, and may even give their father a complimentary "shine".

We look ahead to a time when this enterprising young man will become a successful businessman on the very street where he formerly shined shoes.


Look at the enlarged version.
Use your


How are their shoes different from the shoes you wear today?
What is the boy carrying on his back?








On Dress Parade Grandmother's Story

Back to Children of Long Ago