He sends me out to play for money." "And must you give all the money you make to him ?" "Yes; if I do not bring much money, he will beat me." "Then he must be a bad man.

Why do you live with him ?" "He bought me from my father." "He bought you ?" repeated Jimmy, puzzled.
"He hires him for so much money," explained Paul.
"But why did your father let you go with a bad man ?" asked Jimmy.
"He wanted the money," said Phil.

"He cared more for money than for me." What wonder that the boys sold into such cruel slavery should be estranged from the fathers who for a few paltry ducats sell the liberty and happiness of their children.

Even where the contract is for a limited terms of years, the boys in five cases out of ten are not returned at the appointed time.

A part, unable to bear the hardships and privations of the life upon which they enter, are swept off by death, while of those that survive, a part are weaned from their homes, or are not permitted to go back.
"You must not ask too many questions, Jimmy." said Mrs.Hoffman, fearing that he might awaken sad thoughts in the little musician.
She was glad to see that Phil ate with a good appetite.