Ragged Dick · Character

Henry Fosdick

A frail, well-spoken orphan reduced to bootblacking, he becomes Dick's roommate and tutor, trading book learning for a place to belong.

supporting

Also known as Fosdick

First appearance: Dick Secures a Tutor

As a supporting figure in Ragged Dick, Henry Fosdick is not background color—the story leans on what they do once the chapter opens.

A poor, educated boy who lost his father; accepts Dick's offer of lodging in exchange for teaching him to read and write.

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Fosdick has the education of a gentleman's son but the prospects of a street boy, and fifty failed job applications have worn his confidence thin. Dick's cheerfulness keeps him from despair, while his own grammar and…

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Character Web

1 connection

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Relationship types

Other

Character groups

Supporting cast and beneficiaries
Dick's social circle

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Narrative arc

Story tension across the book.

Setup
Escalation
Breaking point
Aftermath
Closing

This is the story’s dramatic climax because it marks the emotional and psychological peak where Dick’s interna…

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In the story

Henry Fosdick appears across 12 companion beats. Open any chapter in the free preview to see the notes beside the text.

Dick Secures a Tutor
A poor, educated boy who lost his father; accepts Dick's offer of lodging in exchange for teaching him to read and write.
XVI: The First Lesson
Acts as Dick's tutor, demonstrating patience and knowledge; also teaches Dick a prayer and encourages him to attend church.
Dick's First Appearance in Society
More at ease than Dick during the visit, shows better knowledge of religious subjects.
XVIII: Micky Maguire’s Second Defeat
Accepts Dick's offer of money for clothes after initial reluctance; continues as Dick's tutor, noting his rapid improvement.
XIX: Fosdick Changes His Business
Grows discouraged after fifty failed job applications, but finally secures a position at a hat and cap store with Mr. Greyson's recommendation.
Dick Loses His Bankbook
Offers practical advice to Dick about notifying the bank and lends money for Tom Wilkins; suspects Jim Travis.
XXII: Tracking the Thief
Fosdick correctly deduces Travis's guilt and helps Dick plan to catch him at the bank.
XXIII: Travis Is Arrested
Learns of Dick's success in recovering the money and agrees to keep his bankbook with him for safety.
Dick Receives a Letter
Brings home the newspaper with Dick's advertised letter, suggests Dick wear his old clothes to claim it, and continues to support Dick's education.
Dick Writes His First Letter
Encourages Dick to write the letter and offers to review it, but suggests sending it as is for authenticity.
An Exciting Adventure
Accompanies Dick on the ferry and is greatly alarmed by Dick's dangerous rescue attempt, urging him to accept Mr. Rockwell's hospitality.
Conclusion
Rejoices in Dick's success and shares that his own pay has been raised to six dollars a week; they plan to move to a nicer quarter.

Chapter companion notes

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