My readers will learn with surprise, probably, of the hard life led by
these children, and the inhuman treatment which they receive from the
speculators who buy them from their parents in Italy. It is not without
reason that Mr. De Casale speaks of them as the "White Slaves" of New
York. I may add, in passing, that they are quite distinct from the
Italian bootblacks and newsboys who are to be found in Chatham Street
and the vicinity of the City Hall Park. These last are the children of
resident Italians of the poorer class, and are much better off than
the musicians. It is from their ranks that the Italian school, before
referred to, draws its pupils.

If the story of "Phil the Fiddler," in revealing for the first time to
the American public the hardships and ill treatment of these wandering
musicians shall excite an active sympathy in their behalf, the author
will feel abundantly repaid for his labors.

NEW YORK, APRIL 2, 1872.



CONTENTS

CHAPTER
I. PHIL THE FIDDLER
II. PHIL AND HIS PROTECTOR
III. GIACOMO
IV. AN INVITATION TO SUPPER
V. ON THE FERRY BOAT
VI. THE BARROOM