This was a warning well heeded as after events proved.
One of the greatest benefits gained by the newsboys in belonging to the association is the securing of suitable positions; for boys, as they grow older, naturally leave the street work.
Wholesale as well as retail men, frequently ask for good, honest boys. During the twelve years existence of Boyville it has been the delight of the president to secure some two hundred places for newsboys. With all this great number it is a pleasure to state that not one in fifty proved unworthy of the positions, or unfitted for the kind of work. The majority of boys for whom positions were secured were from very poor parents, mostly widowed mothers, needing their assistance.
Unless a person is familiar with street boys, no conception can be formed of their energy and determination in following up anything they want.
A young man, who had outgrown newsboy’s work called upon the president and wanted a position as brakeman on one of the railroads.
He was kindly informed by the president that he knew the superintendent of the road he wished to work for had already over five hundred applications from young men wanting to be brakemen. Instead of asking the president to see the superintendent, as is generally done, he said:
“Please give me the name of the man who does the employing of brakemen. I want to see him. I think I can show him he wants me.”
“I am afraid it won’t be of any use, but I like your pluck. Here is a note to him.”
This note simply said the bearer was an honest young man.