Ragged Dick · Chapter
Dick Writes His First Letter explained
Dick writes his first letter to Frank Whitney, describing his improved circumstances, his studies with Fosdick, and his savings.
What happens
Dick writes his first letter to Frank Whitney, describing his improved circumstances, his studies with Fosdick, and his savings. Fosdick encourages him and suggests sending the letter as is. Dick mails it and meets Johnny Nolan, who is amazed that Dick can write, highlighting the contrast between Dick's ambition and Johnny's lack of drive.
Themes in this chapter
Self-Improvement and Education
Dick's first letter demonstrates his literacy progress and commitment to learning, with Fosdick's tutoring.
Friendship and Mentorship
Fosdick encourages Dick to write the letter, and Frank Whitney's friendship motivates Dick's self-improvement.
Individual Agency and Ambition
Dick takes the initiative to write his first letter, reflecting his drive to improve and maintain connections.
Characters to notice
- Ragged Dick
Writes his first letter to Frank Whitney, showing pride in his progress and humor about his past.
- Henry Fosdick
Encourages Dick to write the letter and offers to review it, but suggests sending it as is for authenticity.
- Frank Whitney
Recipient of Dick's letter; mentioned as a friend and 'trump' by Dick.
- Micky Maguire
Mentioned in Dick's letter as having congratulated him on his improved appearance.
- Johnny Nolan
Meets Dick at the post-office and expresses amazement that Dick can write, revealing his own lack of ambition.
Key passages
“I never writ a letter.”
Dick admits he has never written a letter before.
Highlights Dick's inexperience with written communication.
“I've give up sleepin' in boxes, and old wagons, findin' it didn't agree with my constitution.”
Dick humorously states he no longer sleeps in boxes or wagons because it was unhealthy.
Shows Dick's improved living conditions and his characteristic humor.
“I've got a hundred dollars towards it, which I've saved up from my earnin's.”
Dick has saved one hundred dollars from his earnings toward his future mansion.
Demonstrates Dick's financial prudence and ambition.
“I can tell a noun from a conjunction as far away as I can see 'em.”
Dick boasts he can now identify parts of speech easily.
Reflects his progress in grammar studies with Fosdick.
“I ain't much used to writin' letters. As this is the first one I ever wrote, I hope you'll excuse the mistakes.”
Dick apologizes for any errors in his first letter.
Shows Dick's humility and awareness of his limitations.