Originally published in 1898, this work contains a wealth of information on various aspects of the historic area of Soho. It is a fascinating work for anyone with an interest in the local history of the capital city of England. The following passage is from the preface:
'If, lastly, this book should succeed in opening the eyes of the inhabitants to the many sides of the life that goes on around them; if it makes them realize the associations of the past which cling to their stately streets; if it makes them more ready to take their share in the work that is going on in their midst; if it makes them feel more keenly than before the responsibility of man for man then this book will not have failed. I venture to prophesy that it will produce this effect, if only for the quiet, sober presentation of the facts, and the determination of all who have been concerned in the work to put down nothing in exaggeration.
More than one book has of late been written on Soho. Each has taken its own line. The book before me seems likely to prove the most useful of all, if only we take into account its reticence, as well as its revelations.