Page:The London Guide and Stranger's Safeguard.djvu/42

26 while the judge as invariably apportions to him, the lesser punishment.

For the accomplishment of his purpose, he walks the crowded streets, and tries the pockets of various passers by; till at length he finds the situation of the pocket-book,—which has been the favourite aim ever since the extensive circulation of bank-notes. If it occupies the outer coat pocket, the task is easy: he dips his hand into the pocket, spreading his fingers to keep open the top, and with the forefinger and thumb draws it forth. Sometimes out it comes, easily, which will be the case if not near so large as the pocket; but should it stick, or hang by something else, the rogue stands no repairs, but pulls away by main force.

During the first part of the operation, and previously, he has walked a step or two cheek-by-jowl with the person to be robbed; he looks about smiling, (to take off the attention of those who may be near behind,) as if they were acquaintance, and the thing a mere matter of course and familiarity. A thin worn-out great coat, flowing open, is an excellent screen.

If the thing to be drawn is heavy, and its weight might be instantly missed, he presses equally hard upon the edge of the pocket, or