Chambers's Journal of Popular Literature, Science, and Art, No. 699: May 19, 1877

"Chambers's Journal of Popular Literature, Science, and Art, No. 699" by Various is a collection of articles and stories written in the late 19th century. The journal presents a variety of topics, including true crime, societal commentary, and literary reviews, showcasing the cultural interests and issues of its time. The opening portion focuses on the tragic story of Charley Ross, a young boy who was abducted in 1874, and the subsequent efforts of his father and the police to locate him and bring him home. The beginning of this edition recounts the harrowing events surrounding the abduction of Charley Ross by two men who coaxed him and his brother into their wagon with candy. It describes the growing panic of the family, particularly the father, as the authorities became involved, leading to a massive search effort that drew significant public attention. As the narrative unfolds, it illustrates the emotional turmoil experienced by the family, including the distressing realization that the incident may be part of a larger, terrifying trend of child abductions for ransom in the United States, which had been virtually unheard of at that time. This tragic tale sets the tone for the exploration of human experience in the journal, combining elements of crime and the broader societal implications surrounding it.