As has been said, the boys are continually suggesting by their acts and
words, something new, something whereby the officers can build upon
their ideas.
The membership cards were given first, to show the boys some of the
written rules; and, second, that the boys might have something official
to show in case they lost their badges; but a new idea suggested
itself to one of the graduating sellers, who was about to engage in
business other than selling papers. A prominent churchman advertised,
“a boy wanted in his manufacturing concern.” This young man saw the
advertisement and became an applicant for the position. He was received
very kindly and naturally so because he had an honest face, and was a
willing worker. The gentleman asked if the boy could give any reference.
The newsboy took from his pocket a membership card of the Boyville
Newsboys’ Association.
“Do you know any thing about the association of newsboys?” asked the
seller.
“Yes, sir, I know all about them.”
“This is my reference,” the boy replied handing him the card on which
the man read—“He does not approve of swearing, stealing, lying etc.”
To the boy’s surprise and disgust, the gentleman took the card crumpled
it in his hand, and threw it upon the floor, remarking: “that’s no
reference—that’s no good in business.”
The boy picked it up, and, to use his own language, said:
“I waited until my temper cooled down and I asked him, ‘can you say
you never swore, never stole any thing, never gambled, never cheated
any one? I can, sir, and that’s what that card means. I wouldn’t work
for you.’ Oh, I hit him hard. As I was leaving he called me back, but
I said, ‘if you would give me five thousand dollars a year I wouldn’t
work for you. You have not only insulted me but the association.’”