"the young outlaw" is the sixth volume of the tattered tom series, and the twelfth of the stories which are wholly or mainly devoted to street-life in new york. the story carries its moral with it, and the writer has little fear that the young outlaw will be selected as a model by the boys who may read his adventures, and be amused by the scrapes into which he manages to fall. in previous volumes he has endeavored to show that even a street-boy, by enterprise, industry and integrity, may hope to become a useful and respected citizen. in the present narration he aims to exhibit the opposite side of the picture, and point out the natural consequences of the lack of these qualities.

this may be a proper occasion to express gratitude for the very remarkable favor with which these stories of humble life have been received throughout the country. the writer is glad to believe that they have done something to draw attention to a neglected class of children, whom it is important to elevate and redeem.

new york, march 25, 1875.