In all countries at all times the beggar has been a familiar figure--sometimes reverenced, sometimes despised, protected yet outlawed--but usually managing somehow to keep body and soul together. Gilmore begins his study of the beggar of modern times by outlining concisely the beggar's family tree. His discussion encompasses the whole life history of the various sorts of beggars--from what propels men toward beggardom through the many aspects of the beggar life.

Originally published in 1940.

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