They are known by the euphonious name of
"Waps" or "Jacks." These are young Italian-Americans who
allow themselves to be supported by one or two women, almost
never of their own race. These pimps affect a peculiar cut of
hair, and dress with half-turned-up velvet collar, not unlike
the old-time Camorrist, and have manners and customs of their
own. They frequent the lowest order of dance-halls, and are
easily known by their picturesque styles of dancing, of which
the most popular is yclept the "Nigger." They form one
variety of the many "gangs" that infest the city, are as quick
to flash a knife as the Apaches, and, as a cult by themselves,
form an interesting sociological study.
The majority of the followers of the Mala Vita--the Black
Handers--are not actually of Italian birth, but belong to the
second generation. As children they avoid school, later haunt
"pool" parlors and saloons, and soon become infected with a
desire for "easy money," which makes them glad to follow the
lead of some experienced capo maestra.
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