Hughes plays with expectations in this story by surprising the reader with Mrs. Jones’s reaction to Roger. At first, we expect her to be angry and call the police when Roger tries to steal her purse. Instead, she picks him up and brings him home. Another surprise is that she does not scold him the whole time, but shows him kindness and care. She even gives him food and money for the shoes he wanted. Readers expect punishment, but Mrs. Jones gives him trust and respect. This unexpected kindness teaches Roger a stronger lesson than anger would. Hughes shows us that people can change through compassion, not just punishment.