AMERICA’S MOST WANTED Professional criminals of america

4to. [x], 433 pp., including index. With frontispiece photograph and 34 plates, each containing 6 photographs. Original morocco, title in gilt on front cover and spine; marbled endpapers and paste-down. Bookplate of Paul S. Powers.
First edition. A gripping work reflective of the problems faced by late nineteenth-century American society. In the preface, the author expresses his opinion, perhaps not too unfamiliar to us today: "As crimes against property are of so frequent occurrence in the cities and towns of this country, it was suggested to my mind that the publication of a book describing thieves and their various ways of operating would be a great preventive against further depredations." Believing that the circulation of photographs of known criminals would work to slow down their exploits, Byrnes, over twenty years a detective with the New York City Police Department, provides photographs along with explanations of the methods of committing crimes used by the identified individuals. Highlights include exploits of bank robbers, forgers, house thieves, shoplifters and pickpockets, con men, and the all too familiar frauds in horse sales.
A completely fascinating work, one in which you might find a long-lost friend or relative. (Inventory #: 19606)