Skittery hoisted himself onto the base of the Horace Greeley statue near the circulation office of the New York World. He had had a horrible selling day, and still had many papers. The still frigid March wind whipped his body, and he pulled his ragged coat tighter around himself. Skittery rested his head on his hands as he thought about the events of the last couple days.
The other Newsies were always teasing Skittery for being in a bad mood. At first he had denied it, but as he thought about it, he had felt depressed lately. The strike had long been over, and everything had gone back to usual for the Newsies. Well, almost.
In the past seven months, all of the Newsies had been meeting girls from all over the city who had heard about the strike. Jack, Blink, and Spot, especially, had been out with girls almost every night. [Jack and Sarah's relationship didn't last very long, for Jack soon realized that really couldn't stand her wimpy, helpless attitude.] Even the shier Newsies, like Mush, Specs, Dutchy and Bumlets were going out frequently. None of the girls seemed interested in Skittery. It was probably because he was too shy, but more probably because he had been so depressed since the strike. He doubted if he had smiled genuinely since the day the strike ended.
So Skittery was left to Snipeshooter, Boots, and the other younger Newsies most nights. Not that Skittery minded watching them. He enjoyed himself a lot, and the younger boys reminded him of his younger brother and sister.
His family, including his younger brother and sister, had left to go out west seven years ago. Even though he was devastated, Skittery resolved to stay strong and support himself. He became a Newsie that very day, and had quite a talent for it, which Jack helped him uncover.
Jack and the Newsies quickly became his family. Of the group of Newsies at the time of the strike, only Racetrack, Specs and Jack were Newsies when Skittery joined. Those four were some of the youngest at the time, but now Skittery was 18, Jack had just turned 18, Racetrack was 17, and Specs was almost 19. They were pretty much the oldest Newsies now.
Over his eight years as a Newsie, he had welcomed eagerly a new friend and brother in each newsboy. Some of them were orphans who had escaped after years in orphanages and some were runaways. But all of the boys were alone in the world, so their bonds were tight and loyal. They all would put their own lives in danger to protect the others'.
Skittery, unlike the other older Newsies, took special care of the youngest Newsies, who were all a little more fragile when it came to getting over their pasts and who needed the support of someone older. He really didn't mind having to take care of them when his friends went out. The only problem was that Skittery couldn't have a real conversation with the younger boys. He played cards with them, watched them sword-fight, and kept them from wandering the streets alone at night, but still felt lonely.
Skittery had been off in his own little world pondering all of these things, but he was quickly brought back to reality when he heard a thud at the foot of the statue. He saw a small boy at his feet and jumped down quickly. Skittery picked him up gently and tried to comfort him. He looked at most 5 or 6 years old, and Skittery wondered why he had been running, and from whom. He had his answer soon enough, for the cops were coming toward them.
Skittery swiftly ran across the street and hid behind the Circulation Office's gate, and he watched the bulls run by him. After they were gone, he sat on a bench nearby, and tried to find out more about this little boy.
"Hey, it's okay. They're gone. What's your name?"
"Um, Peter."
"Hi, Peter. I'm Skittery. Why were ya just runnin'?"
"Uh... there was a fire at my house, and mama and papa were caught in it. I got out in time, and just started running 'cause I didn't know what else to do." Peter said softly, looking at Skittery.
Skittery studied the young boy. He was very small, but he spoke very well. He had short, messy, dark brown hair, and big brown eyes. The cops must have been trying to get him to one of the orphanages.
"Peter, do you have any sistas or brothas?"
"Yes."
"What're their names?"
"Well, Miranda is my big sister, and my baby sister is Maria."
"Where are Miranda and Maria, Peter?"
"Miranda's still at the fact-ry, but Maria was in the fire with mama and papa," Peter said, abruptly beginning to cry again, at the thought of his lost family. Skittery hugged him tightly. He had to try to find this Miranda, and find out how to help little Peter. No one deserved to be alone, not like he had been.
*******
Skittery and Peter found the factory where Miranda worked quickly. It was getting dark, so Skittery decided to wait for the hours to be finished, rather than cause a stir.
After about an hour, the girls began to filter out of the front doors. Peter found Miranda quickly, and ran up to his older sister, leaving Skittery on the bench where they had been sitting. Skittery looked at the girl with Peter in amazement. Peter had told him that she was 17, making her a year younger than Skittery. Miranda's hair was long and shiny, the same dark brown color of Peter's. Miranda held herself differently than other girls he had seen; she seemed confident and had an alluring charm about her. Skittery could tell that there was a real brain inside her. Skittery realized he had been staring, but luckily, the two hadn't noticed.
Peter led Miranda by the hand over to Skittery. Miranda looked over to where her little brother was taking her, and saw a boy about her age. He stood up, and he was several inches taller than her. He wore the attire of a newsboy, an old, very used coat, a light gray shirt with pink long johns peeking out, brown pants, and a brown vest, all topped off with a dusty, worn hat. Miranda had been crying, but she wiped away her tears, embarrassed that this boy had seen her crying.
Skittery smiled gently at Miranda and Peter and patted Peter's shoulder to comfort him, for Peter was still visibly upset. He introduced himself to Miranda.
"Hello, miss," he said, taking her hand and kissing it gently, "my name's Skittery. I guess Peter told ya what happened. I'm terribly sorry."
Miranda blushed when he kissed her hand. No one had ever called her "miss" before. She studied his face. He seemed genuine, and had been so caring with Peter. He had slightly ruffled chestnut brown hair, some of which was sticking out of the hat he wore. The feature she noticed most were his eyes. They were so kind, and the most lovely velvet brown color.
Miranda replied nervously, "Hi. I'm Miranda, but I think Peter told you that. Thank you so much for helping Peter. I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't found him when you did."
"Oh, I'd neva have hesitated a bit. I'd neva want someone to be alone in the streets of New Yawk." he said sincerely. "Is there anythin' I can do ta help?" Skittery inquired hesitantly.
Miranda thought for a moment, unsure if she could trust Skittery. "Well," Miranda paused. Skittery smiled gently as if to assure her that he was on her side.
"Oh, I just don't know what to do. We have no home, no family, no money..." Miranda got quieter and quieter as she went along, and silent tears ran down her cheeks. Skittery gathered Miranda in his arms. She welcomed his embrace, nestling her face on his shoulder and letting her tears flow freely. She felt very safe in his strong arms, and was calmed by his comforting words. Remembering poor Peter at their sides, Skittery reluctantly released Miranda and picked up the boy, who held onto Skittery tightly.
Skittery decided that they would have to go to the other Newsies for help. He took Miranda's hand with his free hand and led her to the Lodging House, where he gently placed the now sleeping Peter on the nearest bunk. The other Newsies weren't back from Tibby's yet. Skittery left Miranda in a chair next to his bunk, and went down to talk to Kloppman.
When he came back, he found Miranda standing by the window, looking up at the stars. He cleared his throat, and she quickly turned around, drying her eyes with the edge of her sleeve.
"Kloppman says you two can stay heya, with the Newsies, for a while. Ya'll have ta pay eventually, but da foist couple a nights 're free. There's an extra room you can stay in, so's to avoid sharin' rooms with da guys," Skittery grinned at the thought of the guys in close proximity to a girl for an extended period of time.
Miranda smiled as she said, "Thank you so much, Skittery. I owe so much to you."
"Oh, Andy, it's nuttin'. Ya don't owe me anything. Oh, listen! Da guys are back. You can meet 'em now." Skittery said.
Miranda smiled at Skittery's nickname for her, but her smile quickly faded when she heard the pounding footsteps coming up the stairs. Noticing, Skittery patted her shoulder gently and assured her, "Don't worry a bit. I'll protect ya...but really, da guys are okay."
Just then, the Newsies burst into the room, but stopped abruptly when they say Skittery with a girl. Cat calls and whistles came from the doorway, causing Miranda to blush furiously.
Skittery shot a look at the Newsies, who quickly quieted down, seeing immediately that he was about to tell them something important. "Okay, guys, listen up. Miranda heya is gonna stay wid us for a little while. And over there is her little brotha, Peter. They're gonna stay in da extra room."
The Newsies took Skittery seriously, and soon most of the older ones left for their dates. Peter woke up, and Snipeshooter, Boots, and the other younger Newsies left behind introduced themselves to him. The boys hit it off immediately.
Skittery sat on his bunk next to Miranda. They sat in silence for several minutes, both smiling as they watched the younger boys playing.
Skittery was very glad to have someone around his own age for a change. Miranda was pretty, but he didn't have a second thought in that direction, for he was just grateful to have someone to talk to.
Skittery warily brought a more serious topic to their conversation. "Andy, I been thinkin', are you gonna go back to da factory tomorra? Ya've got a place ta stay heya, but if ya stay home even just tomorra, ya'll get fired."
"Well," Miranda thought for a moment. Her face grew solemn. "Oh, Skittery, I have no idea!" Tears trickled down her face, but she wiped them away hastily.
Skittery put his arm around Miranda. "Well, from me poispective, ya's got two options. Ya can either go back ta da factory, or come wid me an learn how ta be a Newsie."
Miranda thought about her options. "What if I'm no good at being a Newsie? Don't you have to have talent or something to sell enough papers to live?"
Skittery smirked. "Well, it can't hoit, but if ya learn from me, ya's got a head start!"
Miranda laughed. Returning to the more serious topic at hand, she said, "The factory was hard work, and the foremen weren't very nice to us. And I didn't get paid very much. But I have to support Petey, too, and since when are there any girl Newsies?"
Skittery frowned. He was disappointed at her confusion. He wanted her to become a Newsie more than anything. He felt so at home around her. "Andy, I's got a proposition for ya. Try it bein' a Newsie for a week, an if ya don't like it, I'll find ya a job at anudder factory."
"Well, let me think about it a little." Miranda looked at Skittery. He gave her a puppy dog face, pouting a little and batting his eyes. He looked so cute. She couldn't turn him down, even if she tried. Still, she kept up her act a little longer, mostly just to watch him try to persuade her. "Okay. I'll give it a try," She said finally. Skittery's face lit up at her last statement. Surprising even himself, Skittery enveloped Miranda into a warm hug.
**************
The next morning, Kloppman woke Miranda up before the other Newsies so she could wash up with a little privacy. Skittery had given her some of his old clothes to wear. The brown pants were too long, but she cuffed them, and she definitely made good use of the suspenders he gave her. The cream-colored shirt was also a little big. She had to roll the sleeves up so the cuffs weren't hanging over her hands. Miranda felt a little funny wearing a boy's clothes, because she had always worn skirts and dresses. As she walked back to her room to wake up Peter, she mused at how free and comfortable she felt.
After waking Peter up and sending him in the direction of the bathroom, Miranda leaned on the doorframe of the boys' room, grinning as she watched Kloppman try to wake up the sleeping boys. They moaned and groaned loudly, but they all eventually rolled out of bed and stumbled into the washroom. Skittery was the last of the bunch, and smiled sleepily as he noticed Miranda by the door.
"How'd ya sleep, Andy?" Skittery asked, rubbing the last remnants of sleep out of his eyes.
"Very well, thanks." Miranda replied cheerfully, still chuckling about the scene she had just witnessed.
"Ya find dis all amusin', I see." Skittery teased, playfully punching Miranda's arm.
"You bet!" Miranda returned, swatting at Skittery's hands. Miranda pointed out, "You'd better get in there before I miss my first day selling newspapers!"
Skittery raised an eyebrow. "Yes, mudda. I'll go wash up now, mudda."
Miranda hit him again as he saluted her like she were an army drill sergeant. They both laughed, and Skittery entered the washroom.
Specs, Jack and Racetrack had witnessed the entire incident from the bathroom, and smiled to themselves. Specs noted quietly to his two friends, "Ya know, Skit hasn't smiled like dat in foreva."
"So I'm not da only one who's noticed it." Jack said, smiling.
"Dis is definitely a good ting. 5 ta 1, dey end up sweethearts, eh? Who's bettin?" Race added, patting Specs's cheek.
Just then, Skittery walked by to get a towel, so the conversation ended abruptly. After his back was turned, the three Newsies grinned before going back to getting ready for a day of selling newspapers.
*******
After Skittery bought his papers, he handed about 15 to Miranda. She took them, and studied the headline on the front page. Skittery led Miranda and Peter to a place to sit down, where he began to skim through the paper, searching for a headline to hawk. Miranda followed his example, and read through the World quickly.
Miranda quickly because discouraged, because the headlines were fairly boring, certainly nothing that would ever make anyone want to buy a paper. "There really isn't anything good in here. How are you going to sell 60 papers?"
Just then, Blink, Mush and Race walked by, and hearing her statement, they began laughing.
"What? What's so funny?" Miranda asked, confused.
Race smiled and told her, "Oh, nuttin'. Just somethin' we's all loined through da years."
"Well? How about sharing your pearls of wisdom?" Miranda said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
All four Newsies looked at each other, smiling, and said, in unison, "Headlines don't sell papes, Newsies sell papes!"
Miranda had no idea why this was so funny, but Skittery quickly explained, "We just rememba Davey's foist day, and he asked da same question. Jack told him dat, and showed him how ta hawk da headlines. He was one a da best Newsies around. He goes ta school now, but ya'll meet him at lunch."
Blink, Mush and Race said their good-byes, and set off in different directions, yelling headlines as they went. Miranda listened closely to what they were yelling, and flipped through a paper in search of the headlines they were yelling. "Skittery, where did they get those headlines? I can't find them anywhere!"
Skittery laughed. "Dat's cause ta sell papes, ya gotta take da headline ya get in da papa, and change it a little so's people will buy it."
"But isn't that lying?"
"No, Jack calls it 'improvin' da truth.' It's da only way ta sell papes some days. Today's one a dose days." Skittery replied.
Skittery, Miranda and Peter left the circulation office soon thereafter. Skittery sold quite a few papers himself, and stopped frequently to aid Miranda in creating a headline to hawk. All three were enjoying themselves immensely, but gladly took the break that lunch at Tibby's offered.
Once at Tibby's, Peter strayed to the table of younger Newsies he had befriended the previous evening. Even though he was 3 years younger than the youngest Newsie, he had been around Miranda so long that he was used to talking with "big kids."
Miranda smiled warmly, watching her brother. She found it very amusing that Peter had gotten these older boys to accept him so quickly. Miranda sat next to Skittery in a booth with the older Newsies, most of whom she had met in passing, but she didn't know any of their names yet. Skittery took it upon himself to introduce her to his best friends.
Miranda found it easy to remember who was who, because their "Newsie names," nicknames created to avert the cops or anyone else searching for them, made it fairly easy. Miranda marveled at how different they were, yet how well they got along. It was like a little family. She was itching to be a part of such a tight group of people. After a couple of minutes, it was as if they had known her forever.
**************
Six days later, Skittery, Miranda and Peter walked to Tibby's for dinner. Miranda had tried her hardest to be a good Newsie. Skittery was an extremely good teacher, but Miranda simply didn't have the natural talent that he had. She thoroughly enjoyed the lifestyle, though. He was free to do as he pleased every day. Miranda had longed for such freedom ever since she had been forced to work at the factory to support her family. She loved being around Skittery. They talked about anything and everything.
The only thing Skittery would not talk about was his family. Miranda could tell it was a tender spot in his memory, and did not pressure him to talk about it at all. But she was still curious.
Miranda loved being around the other Newsies, too. For a couple hours each day, she had tagged along with a different Newsie, to get his input on the skills she needed. They were all like brothers to her.
Miranda was snapped back to reality when Skittery gently touched her arm. "Andy, I was thinkin'. We's gotta talk. The week's almost up." He led her and Peter to the nearest bench and they sat down to talk.
"I'm really trying, Skittery!" Miranda said urgently.
"I know, Andy, I know."
Skittery and Miranda sat in silence for a couple of minutes, pondering the situation before them. Finally, Miranda broke the tense silence. "I need you to do me a favor, Skit. It's important." Miranda looked eagerly into his velvety brown eyes as she spoke.
Skittery's eyebrows wrinkled with his confusion, but he could tell how serious she was. "Okay. What do ya need?"
"Well, What I need is for you to tell me the truth. Do you think I'm a good Newsie, or should I give up? I need to know." Miranda said bluntly.
Skittery was blown away by how forward she was being. He certainly hadn't expected this when he had initiated the conversation. He thought for a moment, looking at his shoes. He turned his head to look into Miranda's clear blue eyes. He immediately knew that he could never lie to her. He couldn't say exactly why, but he just felt that he had to tell the truth.
"Um, I can tell ya really like bein' a Newsie. But a good Newsie has ta be able ta improve da truth a little, as Jack told me when I started. The skills come in when a Newsie can make the bad headline sound great. That's what sells the papes. Once ya get a good headline, ya do fine. But your problem ain't dat. It's the actual comin' up wid da headlines dat's da problem. I'm sorry. It's important." Skittery sighed sadly. He wanted Miranda to be a Newsie anyway. He didn't care if she wasn't the best at it.
Miranda took a deep breath. "Then I guess we should start looking for a job for me at a factory." Miranda felt tears come to her eyes as she said this, but she struggled to blink them back, and turned her face so Skittery wouldn't see her so emotional again.
Skittery studied Miranda's profile as she looked away. He could tell she was close to tears, but she tried to hide them from him. He knew then that she wanted to be a Newsie as much as he wanted her to. "No, Andy. I think ya should be a Newsie anyway," Skittery said honestly.
Miranda glanced at Skittery before turning to pull Peter into her lap. She smoothed his unruly hair with her hands. Miranda realized that there was no way she could ever earn enough money to feed Peter as well as herself, plus pay for their boarding at the Lodging House. She had to work at a factory to earn enough.
Miranda's face hardened as she prepared herself to inform Skittery of her decision. She glanced at him, but looked down at the ground, quickly realizing that if she looked Skittery in the eye, he would know her true feelings. She spoke softly, "No, I'm going to need a job at a factory."
Skittery was shocked. Before he could say anything, Miranda stood up, still holding Peter, and ran off. Skittery watched her go. She never once looked back. He didn't know what to do. He sat there for a couple minutes, feeling depressed and uncertain of his next actions. But then something hit him. Something that, if he had realized several months earlier, would have stopped things from getting so bad for him.
He was thinking of Peter, and how this whole thing would affect the boy. Skittery's mind then wandered to his own brother and sister. He missed Margaret and James so much. He then thought of the day he had woken up, alone in the world. Skittery remembered what he had decided that day: that he would not sit and mope while the world passed him by. He had become a Newsie that day, more determined than ever before to make a life for himself and not wallow in self pity.
iWhy didn't I realize dis before? I ain't gonna let Andy make a bad decision! I want her ta stay and be a newsie. I know she wants ta be a newsie, too. Wallowin' here in my pity ain't no fun, an it's gettin' me nowheres fast. I ain't gonna let her go and not be a Newsie./i
With that, Skittery got up off his rear and ran after Miranda, hoping that she had gone the only place he could figure: The Lodging House.
**************
Miranda left Peter with Kloppman, who eagerly accepted a new boy to teach to play poker. She slowly climbed the steps and went to her room. On second thought, she went to the boys' room, climbed out the window on to the fire escape, and ascended to the roof. Even though the March evening air was chilly, she stayed outside, because it was sunset, her favorite time of day. So she sat gazing at the beautiful colors in the sky for a while. Tears sprung to her eyes as she sat there. She always used to watch the sun set with her parents. Especially when there was a problem before them, Miranda's parents had watched the sunset. It always helped them think things through. She knew that they would have been able to help her figure out what was best. She definitely didn't want to do leave the Newsies, but there was no way she could ever support herself and her little brother on the meager sums that carrying the banner brought in. Happiness would just have to take a backseat. A few tears trickled down her face, but Miranda wiped them away hastily. She sighed sadly, and pulled her knees into her chest, and rested her head on her knees.
She didn't notice the sound of footsteps coming up the fire escape. She didn't see the form who stood at the edge of the roof, watching her sadly. She didn't hear him slowly walking over to her. In fact, she only noticed when he put a comforting hand on her shoulder. Not only did she notice then, but she gasped and jumped to her feet in surprise.
"Oh, Skittery. It's just you." Miranda sighed in relief.
"Gee, thanks. I love you too." Skittery smiled and playfully punched Miranda's arm as he spoke.
Miranda smiled weakly, and sank back down to the ground. Skittery sat down next to her, putting his arm around her. "Andy, can you really tell me dat you want ta go back to da factory?"
Miranda stared at the ground. "No," She said softly after a pause.
Skittery sighed. "Den why are ya doin' it?" He asked gently.
"I don't know." Miranda didn't have the strength to stop the tears that began to fall down her cheeks. Skittery's arm tightened around her shoulders. "No, that's not true. I do know." Miranda stood up and walked to the edge of the roof, looking out over the city.
"Can ya tell me?"
Miranda kept her back turned but began to speak quietly. "It's because I have to earn money. Being a Newsie is fun. More fun than I've had in a long time. And I love being around you, Skittery, and the other Newsies too. You guys are like my brothers. And I felt so free and independent as a Newsie, like I could actually choose how I live my own life," Miranda paused.
Skittery put his hand on her shoulder and turned her around to face him, forcing her to look into his eyes. "I love bein' around ya, too, Andy . But I don't understand. If ya love bein' a Newsie so much, why are ya leavin'?"
Miranda gazed into Skittery's eyes. "I'm no good at it. You said so yourself. And if I'm no good at it, I'll never make enough money for me and Petey to live at the Lodging House, let alone have enough left over to eat! I'm all Petey has now. I have to support him." Miranda had been holding in her emotions for so long, she just couldn't do it any longer. Sobs racked her body.
Skittery pulled her into his arms and held her tightly, whispering soothingly, "It's okay. It's okay. It'll all work out. I promise."
Miranda welcomed his embrace. She buried her face in his shirt, letting out all of her pent-up frustration and sadness. He rubbed her back gently, and Miranda calmed at his touch. He made her feel so comfortable and safe. After a long time, Miranda's crying lessened, and when it was down to sniffling, Skittery released her, but didn't move far away. Miranda immediately missed the warmth of his body next to hers in the cool air.
"Wha- what am... I gonna do, Sk-Skittery?" Miranda sputtered.
"Well, I gots anudda proposition for ya, Andy." Skittery said, smiling.
Miranda smiled a little. "Okay. What is it?" She asked quietly.
Skittery began slowly. "Well, I can still teach ya da tricks of bein' a good Newsie. And wid time, ya'll improve, I think. An about da money situation, well, I can help ya a liddle, or Petey can sell papes like Les and Boots. As Jack always says, 'Younger sells more papes,' so he might sell some just cause he's little. An we can see how dat woiks. Maybe, if we ask Kloppman, he'd let ya help around the Lodgin' House for a little money, too."
"Well, I'm still not sure."
"Okay then. What about doin' something ya love? An bein' wid da people ya like? An freedom is coitenly a concoin for ya, you already said dat. A poisson don't have ta be da best at something ta have fun. An besides, me and da guys don't care dat you ain't da best Newsie ta walk da streets of Manhattan. We like ya just how ya are. How bout dat, hmm? Does dat convince ya?"
Miranda looked at Skittery. He had put on his puppy dog face for her again, sticking his lower lip out and batting his eyelashes. She smiled and said slowly, "Okay. I'll stay." Skittery's face lit up with a broad smile and he enveloped her in a big hug. When he let go, they looked at each other for a while.
"I think ya've made a good choice, Andy. It wouldn't be da same widout ya." Skittery said, grinning.
"I think you're right. And how could I say no to this face, huh?" Miranda said, pinching his cheeks playfully.
Skittery smiled. "Come on, let's go talk to Kloppman," he said, taking Miranda's hand and leading her back to the fire escape.
Miranda smiled to herself as she followed her friend down the fire escape and back in the window of the Lodging House.
The other Newsies were always teasing Skittery for being in a bad mood. At first he had denied it, but as he thought about it, he had felt depressed lately. The strike had long been over, and everything had gone back to usual for the Newsies. Well, almost.
In the past seven months, all of the Newsies had been meeting girls from all over the city who had heard about the strike. Jack, Blink, and Spot, especially, had been out with girls almost every night. [Jack and Sarah's relationship didn't last very long, for Jack soon realized that really couldn't stand her wimpy, helpless attitude.] Even the shier Newsies, like Mush, Specs, Dutchy and Bumlets were going out frequently. None of the girls seemed interested in Skittery. It was probably because he was too shy, but more probably because he had been so depressed since the strike. He doubted if he had smiled genuinely since the day the strike ended.
So Skittery was left to Snipeshooter, Boots, and the other younger Newsies most nights. Not that Skittery minded watching them. He enjoyed himself a lot, and the younger boys reminded him of his younger brother and sister.
His family, including his younger brother and sister, had left to go out west seven years ago. Even though he was devastated, Skittery resolved to stay strong and support himself. He became a Newsie that very day, and had quite a talent for it, which Jack helped him uncover.
Jack and the Newsies quickly became his family. Of the group of Newsies at the time of the strike, only Racetrack, Specs and Jack were Newsies when Skittery joined. Those four were some of the youngest at the time, but now Skittery was 18, Jack had just turned 18, Racetrack was 17, and Specs was almost 19. They were pretty much the oldest Newsies now.
Over his eight years as a Newsie, he had welcomed eagerly a new friend and brother in each newsboy. Some of them were orphans who had escaped after years in orphanages and some were runaways. But all of the boys were alone in the world, so their bonds were tight and loyal. They all would put their own lives in danger to protect the others'.
Skittery, unlike the other older Newsies, took special care of the youngest Newsies, who were all a little more fragile when it came to getting over their pasts and who needed the support of someone older. He really didn't mind having to take care of them when his friends went out. The only problem was that Skittery couldn't have a real conversation with the younger boys. He played cards with them, watched them sword-fight, and kept them from wandering the streets alone at night, but still felt lonely.
Skittery had been off in his own little world pondering all of these things, but he was quickly brought back to reality when he heard a thud at the foot of the statue. He saw a small boy at his feet and jumped down quickly. Skittery picked him up gently and tried to comfort him. He looked at most 5 or 6 years old, and Skittery wondered why he had been running, and from whom. He had his answer soon enough, for the cops were coming toward them.
Skittery swiftly ran across the street and hid behind the Circulation Office's gate, and he watched the bulls run by him. After they were gone, he sat on a bench nearby, and tried to find out more about this little boy.
"Hey, it's okay. They're gone. What's your name?"
"Um, Peter."
"Hi, Peter. I'm Skittery. Why were ya just runnin'?"
"Uh... there was a fire at my house, and mama and papa were caught in it. I got out in time, and just started running 'cause I didn't know what else to do." Peter said softly, looking at Skittery.
Skittery studied the young boy. He was very small, but he spoke very well. He had short, messy, dark brown hair, and big brown eyes. The cops must have been trying to get him to one of the orphanages.
"Peter, do you have any sistas or brothas?"
"Yes."
"What're their names?"
"Well, Miranda is my big sister, and my baby sister is Maria."
"Where are Miranda and Maria, Peter?"
"Miranda's still at the fact-ry, but Maria was in the fire with mama and papa," Peter said, abruptly beginning to cry again, at the thought of his lost family. Skittery hugged him tightly. He had to try to find this Miranda, and find out how to help little Peter. No one deserved to be alone, not like he had been.
*******
Skittery and Peter found the factory where Miranda worked quickly. It was getting dark, so Skittery decided to wait for the hours to be finished, rather than cause a stir.
After about an hour, the girls began to filter out of the front doors. Peter found Miranda quickly, and ran up to his older sister, leaving Skittery on the bench where they had been sitting. Skittery looked at the girl with Peter in amazement. Peter had told him that she was 17, making her a year younger than Skittery. Miranda's hair was long and shiny, the same dark brown color of Peter's. Miranda held herself differently than other girls he had seen; she seemed confident and had an alluring charm about her. Skittery could tell that there was a real brain inside her. Skittery realized he had been staring, but luckily, the two hadn't noticed.
Peter led Miranda by the hand over to Skittery. Miranda looked over to where her little brother was taking her, and saw a boy about her age. He stood up, and he was several inches taller than her. He wore the attire of a newsboy, an old, very used coat, a light gray shirt with pink long johns peeking out, brown pants, and a brown vest, all topped off with a dusty, worn hat. Miranda had been crying, but she wiped away her tears, embarrassed that this boy had seen her crying.
Skittery smiled gently at Miranda and Peter and patted Peter's shoulder to comfort him, for Peter was still visibly upset. He introduced himself to Miranda.
"Hello, miss," he said, taking her hand and kissing it gently, "my name's Skittery. I guess Peter told ya what happened. I'm terribly sorry."
Miranda blushed when he kissed her hand. No one had ever called her "miss" before. She studied his face. He seemed genuine, and had been so caring with Peter. He had slightly ruffled chestnut brown hair, some of which was sticking out of the hat he wore. The feature she noticed most were his eyes. They were so kind, and the most lovely velvet brown color.
Miranda replied nervously, "Hi. I'm Miranda, but I think Peter told you that. Thank you so much for helping Peter. I don't know what I would have done if you hadn't found him when you did."
"Oh, I'd neva have hesitated a bit. I'd neva want someone to be alone in the streets of New Yawk." he said sincerely. "Is there anythin' I can do ta help?" Skittery inquired hesitantly.
Miranda thought for a moment, unsure if she could trust Skittery. "Well," Miranda paused. Skittery smiled gently as if to assure her that he was on her side.
"Oh, I just don't know what to do. We have no home, no family, no money..." Miranda got quieter and quieter as she went along, and silent tears ran down her cheeks. Skittery gathered Miranda in his arms. She welcomed his embrace, nestling her face on his shoulder and letting her tears flow freely. She felt very safe in his strong arms, and was calmed by his comforting words. Remembering poor Peter at their sides, Skittery reluctantly released Miranda and picked up the boy, who held onto Skittery tightly.
Skittery decided that they would have to go to the other Newsies for help. He took Miranda's hand with his free hand and led her to the Lodging House, where he gently placed the now sleeping Peter on the nearest bunk. The other Newsies weren't back from Tibby's yet. Skittery left Miranda in a chair next to his bunk, and went down to talk to Kloppman.
When he came back, he found Miranda standing by the window, looking up at the stars. He cleared his throat, and she quickly turned around, drying her eyes with the edge of her sleeve.
"Kloppman says you two can stay heya, with the Newsies, for a while. Ya'll have ta pay eventually, but da foist couple a nights 're free. There's an extra room you can stay in, so's to avoid sharin' rooms with da guys," Skittery grinned at the thought of the guys in close proximity to a girl for an extended period of time.
Miranda smiled as she said, "Thank you so much, Skittery. I owe so much to you."
"Oh, Andy, it's nuttin'. Ya don't owe me anything. Oh, listen! Da guys are back. You can meet 'em now." Skittery said.
Miranda smiled at Skittery's nickname for her, but her smile quickly faded when she heard the pounding footsteps coming up the stairs. Noticing, Skittery patted her shoulder gently and assured her, "Don't worry a bit. I'll protect ya...but really, da guys are okay."
Just then, the Newsies burst into the room, but stopped abruptly when they say Skittery with a girl. Cat calls and whistles came from the doorway, causing Miranda to blush furiously.
Skittery shot a look at the Newsies, who quickly quieted down, seeing immediately that he was about to tell them something important. "Okay, guys, listen up. Miranda heya is gonna stay wid us for a little while. And over there is her little brotha, Peter. They're gonna stay in da extra room."
The Newsies took Skittery seriously, and soon most of the older ones left for their dates. Peter woke up, and Snipeshooter, Boots, and the other younger Newsies left behind introduced themselves to him. The boys hit it off immediately.
Skittery sat on his bunk next to Miranda. They sat in silence for several minutes, both smiling as they watched the younger boys playing.
Skittery was very glad to have someone around his own age for a change. Miranda was pretty, but he didn't have a second thought in that direction, for he was just grateful to have someone to talk to.
Skittery warily brought a more serious topic to their conversation. "Andy, I been thinkin', are you gonna go back to da factory tomorra? Ya've got a place ta stay heya, but if ya stay home even just tomorra, ya'll get fired."
"Well," Miranda thought for a moment. Her face grew solemn. "Oh, Skittery, I have no idea!" Tears trickled down her face, but she wiped them away hastily.
Skittery put his arm around Miranda. "Well, from me poispective, ya's got two options. Ya can either go back ta da factory, or come wid me an learn how ta be a Newsie."
Miranda thought about her options. "What if I'm no good at being a Newsie? Don't you have to have talent or something to sell enough papers to live?"
Skittery smirked. "Well, it can't hoit, but if ya learn from me, ya's got a head start!"
Miranda laughed. Returning to the more serious topic at hand, she said, "The factory was hard work, and the foremen weren't very nice to us. And I didn't get paid very much. But I have to support Petey, too, and since when are there any girl Newsies?"
Skittery frowned. He was disappointed at her confusion. He wanted her to become a Newsie more than anything. He felt so at home around her. "Andy, I's got a proposition for ya. Try it bein' a Newsie for a week, an if ya don't like it, I'll find ya a job at anudder factory."
"Well, let me think about it a little." Miranda looked at Skittery. He gave her a puppy dog face, pouting a little and batting his eyes. He looked so cute. She couldn't turn him down, even if she tried. Still, she kept up her act a little longer, mostly just to watch him try to persuade her. "Okay. I'll give it a try," She said finally. Skittery's face lit up at her last statement. Surprising even himself, Skittery enveloped Miranda into a warm hug.
**************
The next morning, Kloppman woke Miranda up before the other Newsies so she could wash up with a little privacy. Skittery had given her some of his old clothes to wear. The brown pants were too long, but she cuffed them, and she definitely made good use of the suspenders he gave her. The cream-colored shirt was also a little big. She had to roll the sleeves up so the cuffs weren't hanging over her hands. Miranda felt a little funny wearing a boy's clothes, because she had always worn skirts and dresses. As she walked back to her room to wake up Peter, she mused at how free and comfortable she felt.
After waking Peter up and sending him in the direction of the bathroom, Miranda leaned on the doorframe of the boys' room, grinning as she watched Kloppman try to wake up the sleeping boys. They moaned and groaned loudly, but they all eventually rolled out of bed and stumbled into the washroom. Skittery was the last of the bunch, and smiled sleepily as he noticed Miranda by the door.
"How'd ya sleep, Andy?" Skittery asked, rubbing the last remnants of sleep out of his eyes.
"Very well, thanks." Miranda replied cheerfully, still chuckling about the scene she had just witnessed.
"Ya find dis all amusin', I see." Skittery teased, playfully punching Miranda's arm.
"You bet!" Miranda returned, swatting at Skittery's hands. Miranda pointed out, "You'd better get in there before I miss my first day selling newspapers!"
Skittery raised an eyebrow. "Yes, mudda. I'll go wash up now, mudda."
Miranda hit him again as he saluted her like she were an army drill sergeant. They both laughed, and Skittery entered the washroom.
Specs, Jack and Racetrack had witnessed the entire incident from the bathroom, and smiled to themselves. Specs noted quietly to his two friends, "Ya know, Skit hasn't smiled like dat in foreva."
"So I'm not da only one who's noticed it." Jack said, smiling.
"Dis is definitely a good ting. 5 ta 1, dey end up sweethearts, eh? Who's bettin?" Race added, patting Specs's cheek.
Just then, Skittery walked by to get a towel, so the conversation ended abruptly. After his back was turned, the three Newsies grinned before going back to getting ready for a day of selling newspapers.
*******
After Skittery bought his papers, he handed about 15 to Miranda. She took them, and studied the headline on the front page. Skittery led Miranda and Peter to a place to sit down, where he began to skim through the paper, searching for a headline to hawk. Miranda followed his example, and read through the World quickly.
Miranda quickly because discouraged, because the headlines were fairly boring, certainly nothing that would ever make anyone want to buy a paper. "There really isn't anything good in here. How are you going to sell 60 papers?"
Just then, Blink, Mush and Race walked by, and hearing her statement, they began laughing.
"What? What's so funny?" Miranda asked, confused.
Race smiled and told her, "Oh, nuttin'. Just somethin' we's all loined through da years."
"Well? How about sharing your pearls of wisdom?" Miranda said, her voice dripping with sarcasm.
All four Newsies looked at each other, smiling, and said, in unison, "Headlines don't sell papes, Newsies sell papes!"
Miranda had no idea why this was so funny, but Skittery quickly explained, "We just rememba Davey's foist day, and he asked da same question. Jack told him dat, and showed him how ta hawk da headlines. He was one a da best Newsies around. He goes ta school now, but ya'll meet him at lunch."
Blink, Mush and Race said their good-byes, and set off in different directions, yelling headlines as they went. Miranda listened closely to what they were yelling, and flipped through a paper in search of the headlines they were yelling. "Skittery, where did they get those headlines? I can't find them anywhere!"
Skittery laughed. "Dat's cause ta sell papes, ya gotta take da headline ya get in da papa, and change it a little so's people will buy it."
"But isn't that lying?"
"No, Jack calls it 'improvin' da truth.' It's da only way ta sell papes some days. Today's one a dose days." Skittery replied.
Skittery, Miranda and Peter left the circulation office soon thereafter. Skittery sold quite a few papers himself, and stopped frequently to aid Miranda in creating a headline to hawk. All three were enjoying themselves immensely, but gladly took the break that lunch at Tibby's offered.
Once at Tibby's, Peter strayed to the table of younger Newsies he had befriended the previous evening. Even though he was 3 years younger than the youngest Newsie, he had been around Miranda so long that he was used to talking with "big kids."
Miranda smiled warmly, watching her brother. She found it very amusing that Peter had gotten these older boys to accept him so quickly. Miranda sat next to Skittery in a booth with the older Newsies, most of whom she had met in passing, but she didn't know any of their names yet. Skittery took it upon himself to introduce her to his best friends.
Miranda found it easy to remember who was who, because their "Newsie names," nicknames created to avert the cops or anyone else searching for them, made it fairly easy. Miranda marveled at how different they were, yet how well they got along. It was like a little family. She was itching to be a part of such a tight group of people. After a couple of minutes, it was as if they had known her forever.
**************
Six days later, Skittery, Miranda and Peter walked to Tibby's for dinner. Miranda had tried her hardest to be a good Newsie. Skittery was an extremely good teacher, but Miranda simply didn't have the natural talent that he had. She thoroughly enjoyed the lifestyle, though. He was free to do as he pleased every day. Miranda had longed for such freedom ever since she had been forced to work at the factory to support her family. She loved being around Skittery. They talked about anything and everything.
The only thing Skittery would not talk about was his family. Miranda could tell it was a tender spot in his memory, and did not pressure him to talk about it at all. But she was still curious.
Miranda loved being around the other Newsies, too. For a couple hours each day, she had tagged along with a different Newsie, to get his input on the skills she needed. They were all like brothers to her.
Miranda was snapped back to reality when Skittery gently touched her arm. "Andy, I was thinkin'. We's gotta talk. The week's almost up." He led her and Peter to the nearest bench and they sat down to talk.
"I'm really trying, Skittery!" Miranda said urgently.
"I know, Andy, I know."
Skittery and Miranda sat in silence for a couple of minutes, pondering the situation before them. Finally, Miranda broke the tense silence. "I need you to do me a favor, Skit. It's important." Miranda looked eagerly into his velvety brown eyes as she spoke.
Skittery's eyebrows wrinkled with his confusion, but he could tell how serious she was. "Okay. What do ya need?"
"Well, What I need is for you to tell me the truth. Do you think I'm a good Newsie, or should I give up? I need to know." Miranda said bluntly.
Skittery was blown away by how forward she was being. He certainly hadn't expected this when he had initiated the conversation. He thought for a moment, looking at his shoes. He turned his head to look into Miranda's clear blue eyes. He immediately knew that he could never lie to her. He couldn't say exactly why, but he just felt that he had to tell the truth.
"Um, I can tell ya really like bein' a Newsie. But a good Newsie has ta be able ta improve da truth a little, as Jack told me when I started. The skills come in when a Newsie can make the bad headline sound great. That's what sells the papes. Once ya get a good headline, ya do fine. But your problem ain't dat. It's the actual comin' up wid da headlines dat's da problem. I'm sorry. It's important." Skittery sighed sadly. He wanted Miranda to be a Newsie anyway. He didn't care if she wasn't the best at it.
Miranda took a deep breath. "Then I guess we should start looking for a job for me at a factory." Miranda felt tears come to her eyes as she said this, but she struggled to blink them back, and turned her face so Skittery wouldn't see her so emotional again.
Skittery studied Miranda's profile as she looked away. He could tell she was close to tears, but she tried to hide them from him. He knew then that she wanted to be a Newsie as much as he wanted her to. "No, Andy. I think ya should be a Newsie anyway," Skittery said honestly.
Miranda glanced at Skittery before turning to pull Peter into her lap. She smoothed his unruly hair with her hands. Miranda realized that there was no way she could ever earn enough money to feed Peter as well as herself, plus pay for their boarding at the Lodging House. She had to work at a factory to earn enough.
Miranda's face hardened as she prepared herself to inform Skittery of her decision. She glanced at him, but looked down at the ground, quickly realizing that if she looked Skittery in the eye, he would know her true feelings. She spoke softly, "No, I'm going to need a job at a factory."
Skittery was shocked. Before he could say anything, Miranda stood up, still holding Peter, and ran off. Skittery watched her go. She never once looked back. He didn't know what to do. He sat there for a couple minutes, feeling depressed and uncertain of his next actions. But then something hit him. Something that, if he had realized several months earlier, would have stopped things from getting so bad for him.
He was thinking of Peter, and how this whole thing would affect the boy. Skittery's mind then wandered to his own brother and sister. He missed Margaret and James so much. He then thought of the day he had woken up, alone in the world. Skittery remembered what he had decided that day: that he would not sit and mope while the world passed him by. He had become a Newsie that day, more determined than ever before to make a life for himself and not wallow in self pity.
iWhy didn't I realize dis before? I ain't gonna let Andy make a bad decision! I want her ta stay and be a newsie. I know she wants ta be a newsie, too. Wallowin' here in my pity ain't no fun, an it's gettin' me nowheres fast. I ain't gonna let her go and not be a Newsie./i
With that, Skittery got up off his rear and ran after Miranda, hoping that she had gone the only place he could figure: The Lodging House.
**************
Miranda left Peter with Kloppman, who eagerly accepted a new boy to teach to play poker. She slowly climbed the steps and went to her room. On second thought, she went to the boys' room, climbed out the window on to the fire escape, and ascended to the roof. Even though the March evening air was chilly, she stayed outside, because it was sunset, her favorite time of day. So she sat gazing at the beautiful colors in the sky for a while. Tears sprung to her eyes as she sat there. She always used to watch the sun set with her parents. Especially when there was a problem before them, Miranda's parents had watched the sunset. It always helped them think things through. She knew that they would have been able to help her figure out what was best. She definitely didn't want to do leave the Newsies, but there was no way she could ever support herself and her little brother on the meager sums that carrying the banner brought in. Happiness would just have to take a backseat. A few tears trickled down her face, but Miranda wiped them away hastily. She sighed sadly, and pulled her knees into her chest, and rested her head on her knees.
She didn't notice the sound of footsteps coming up the fire escape. She didn't see the form who stood at the edge of the roof, watching her sadly. She didn't hear him slowly walking over to her. In fact, she only noticed when he put a comforting hand on her shoulder. Not only did she notice then, but she gasped and jumped to her feet in surprise.
"Oh, Skittery. It's just you." Miranda sighed in relief.
"Gee, thanks. I love you too." Skittery smiled and playfully punched Miranda's arm as he spoke.
Miranda smiled weakly, and sank back down to the ground. Skittery sat down next to her, putting his arm around her. "Andy, can you really tell me dat you want ta go back to da factory?"
Miranda stared at the ground. "No," She said softly after a pause.
Skittery sighed. "Den why are ya doin' it?" He asked gently.
"I don't know." Miranda didn't have the strength to stop the tears that began to fall down her cheeks. Skittery's arm tightened around her shoulders. "No, that's not true. I do know." Miranda stood up and walked to the edge of the roof, looking out over the city.
"Can ya tell me?"
Miranda kept her back turned but began to speak quietly. "It's because I have to earn money. Being a Newsie is fun. More fun than I've had in a long time. And I love being around you, Skittery, and the other Newsies too. You guys are like my brothers. And I felt so free and independent as a Newsie, like I could actually choose how I live my own life," Miranda paused.
Skittery put his hand on her shoulder and turned her around to face him, forcing her to look into his eyes. "I love bein' around ya, too, Andy . But I don't understand. If ya love bein' a Newsie so much, why are ya leavin'?"
Miranda gazed into Skittery's eyes. "I'm no good at it. You said so yourself. And if I'm no good at it, I'll never make enough money for me and Petey to live at the Lodging House, let alone have enough left over to eat! I'm all Petey has now. I have to support him." Miranda had been holding in her emotions for so long, she just couldn't do it any longer. Sobs racked her body.
Skittery pulled her into his arms and held her tightly, whispering soothingly, "It's okay. It's okay. It'll all work out. I promise."
Miranda welcomed his embrace. She buried her face in his shirt, letting out all of her pent-up frustration and sadness. He rubbed her back gently, and Miranda calmed at his touch. He made her feel so comfortable and safe. After a long time, Miranda's crying lessened, and when it was down to sniffling, Skittery released her, but didn't move far away. Miranda immediately missed the warmth of his body next to hers in the cool air.
"Wha- what am... I gonna do, Sk-Skittery?" Miranda sputtered.
"Well, I gots anudda proposition for ya, Andy." Skittery said, smiling.
Miranda smiled a little. "Okay. What is it?" She asked quietly.
Skittery began slowly. "Well, I can still teach ya da tricks of bein' a good Newsie. And wid time, ya'll improve, I think. An about da money situation, well, I can help ya a liddle, or Petey can sell papes like Les and Boots. As Jack always says, 'Younger sells more papes,' so he might sell some just cause he's little. An we can see how dat woiks. Maybe, if we ask Kloppman, he'd let ya help around the Lodgin' House for a little money, too."
"Well, I'm still not sure."
"Okay then. What about doin' something ya love? An bein' wid da people ya like? An freedom is coitenly a concoin for ya, you already said dat. A poisson don't have ta be da best at something ta have fun. An besides, me and da guys don't care dat you ain't da best Newsie ta walk da streets of Manhattan. We like ya just how ya are. How bout dat, hmm? Does dat convince ya?"
Miranda looked at Skittery. He had put on his puppy dog face for her again, sticking his lower lip out and batting his eyelashes. She smiled and said slowly, "Okay. I'll stay." Skittery's face lit up with a broad smile and he enveloped her in a big hug. When he let go, they looked at each other for a while.
"I think ya've made a good choice, Andy. It wouldn't be da same widout ya." Skittery said, grinning.
"I think you're right. And how could I say no to this face, huh?" Miranda said, pinching his cheeks playfully.
Skittery smiled. "Come on, let's go talk to Kloppman," he said, taking Miranda's hand and leading her back to the fire escape.
Miranda smiled to herself as she followed her friend down the fire escape and back in the window of the Lodging House.