The Donkey Boy Waiting For A Hire On Clapham Common 1877
the donkey-boy, who also derives special benefit from the close proximity of Clapham Common. He lives in a slum hard by, and belongs to that peculiar and distinct race known under the generic term of costermongers.
The photograph, however, portrays Mr. Laurence's son, leaning affectionately over his dumb companion, and a labourer, temporarily out of work, who has volunteered to assist him in his charge, and is evidently enjoying the sport.
From 'Street Life in London', 1877, by John Thomson and Adolphe Smith