American law-enforcement pioneer GEORGE WASHINGTON MATSELL (1811-1877) modernized police procedures and became the first commissioner of the New York City Police Department after its formation in 1844. He also created this astonishing little book, first published in 1859, which may well be one of the most extraordinary guides to a subculture ever written.

Here, Matsell collects and defines the deceptive jargon of criminals, cutpurses, and other ne'er-do-well coves of mid-19th-century New York City.

Originally intended as an aide to those who followed the police news in the New York, this charming throwback will delight historians, armchair linguists, readers of crime fiction, and anyone who takes pleasure in the stunning diversity and adaptability of the English language.