Crutchy didn't know who you were when you first showed up. You appeared one night at the Lodge, sneaking in the window and waking everyone up. He was confused as to why everyone was immediately giving you hugs and asking how you've been. It was like they had all known you forever, but Crutchy never once heard anything being said about you. He was extremely awkward around you for that, and he found you really cute. He was nervous when you shook his hand, and did not say anything about his crutch. You seemed really nice, but you left before he could ask you anything. So, naturally, he tried to find out everything the others knew about you. First was Jack, who said you were an old friend from Harlem, and that you were a natural at selling papes, then Race, who just talked about how fun it was to gamble with you. Mush told him a bit more, as he was the first of the Manhattan newsies you had met.

•••

"They're a real good friend, Crutchy. There ain't anyone I'd trust more. Saved me from the streets and showed me the Lodge. They live up in Harlem with them newsies, but they come down 'ere sometimes for a visit."