The events
listed in the question about ' short story "" are in a different order than they
happen in the story. The fact that Roger wants the blue suede shoes
is what prompts him to try to steal Mrs. Luella Bates Washington Jones's
purse. When he tries to grab the large purse, the strap breaks and he falls
backward, thwarting his getaway plans. After scolding him, she begins to ask him questions. She
notices that he is not clean, and determines from his actions that he doesn't know right from
wrong.
" 'You ought to be my son. I would teach you
right from wrong. Least I can do right now is to wash your face. 'Are you hungry?' 'No'm,' said
the being-dragged boy."
Mrs. Jones
drags Roger back to her house in a half-nelson. She makes him wash his face and
asks if he is hungry. Even though her methods are unorthodox, readers can make a reasonable
inference that Mrs. Jones is showing kindness to the boy by caring for his needs. She shows him
respect by asking his name and offering to make him a meal. Because of this kindness, and the
trust that Mrs. Jones places in the boy by going behind the screen and leaving the purse beside
him, he doesn't want to violate her trust. While Mrs. Jones is cooking them lima beans and ham,
Roger sits as far away from the purse as he can. When Mrs. Jones is
finished cooking on her gas hot plate, the two share a meal. After
they are done eating and chatting, Mrs. Jones gives Roger ten dollars to buy the blue suede
shoes. All he can manage to say is "Thank you, m'am," and then Roger
goes home.
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