"My name is Joshua Crosscrab, and I'm from Newton, Vermont," replied the young man, still good-natured.
"Aw, I mean who be ye? Be youse a detective, er from some society what takes up kids fer sellin' papes on de street?"
"No, I'm not a detective. What makes you think so?"
"'Cause youse asks so many questions."
"I am interested. I never was in New York before, and I see so many things that are strange that I want to know about them. Up our way we believe in getting acquainted, so I thought I'd try it here. Every one I talked to, though, seemed to think I was a swindler, I guess."
"Dat's right. Youse has t' be careful who youse talk to in N'York," said Jimmy with a comical air of wisdom.
"But you haven't told me your name yet," persisted Mr. Crosscrab.
"Sure youse ain't none of them children sasiety detectives?" asked the newsboy.
"Sure. I'll give you my promise."
"Well, me name is Jimmy Small. Here ye are, sir! Paper! Wuxtry! All about de big fire! Thirteen killed!"