What are Riis's main concerns regarding the boys, and what living conditions and systemic issues does he highlight?

Riis is concerned about the **neglect, poverty, and lack of opportunities** faced by the boys. He highlights their harsh living conditions, describing their homes as "pigeon-holes in a coop" and their environment as dirty and polluted. Riis worries that without proper guidance ("no steady hand to guide him"), the boys are prone to "idle ways," meaning they are likely to fall into unproductive or harmful behaviors due to their circumstances. Key concerns: 1. **Living Conditions**: Overcrowded and unsanitary homes. 2. **Lack of Guidance**: Absence of mentorship or support. 3. **Limited Exposure**: Restricted to polluted streets and rivers, with no access to parks or recreational spaces. Riis aims to draw attention to the systemic issues that trap these boys in a cycle of poverty and neglect.