Ragged Dick

“‘Oh, I’m a rough customer!’ said Dick. ‘But I wouldn’t steal. It’s mean.’”

Horatio Alger establishes that Dick has moral standards despite his poverty and ragged appearance. Dick has an essential goodness that prevents him from stealing or cheating; therefore, he has the potential to improve his position in the world.

“Some of his companions were sly, and their faces inspired distrust; but Dick had a frank, straight-forward manner that made him a favorite.”

Alger notes that slyness in boys makes them distrusted by others, while Dick’s honesty wins favor. Alger seeks to teach the young readers of his novel that the virtue of truthfulness will be rewarded.

“All my money’s invested in the Erie Railroad.”

Dick replies to his customer’s question, “Have you got any change?” with this comical answer. Dick’s quick-witted humor entertains his customers, hints at his hopes and dreams, and cheers him.