The significance of Chapter 9 rests in Alfred’s change in his response to Aunt Pearl. When she questioned him Monday morning (Chapter 5), he avoided telling her where he has been. On Tuesday morning (Chapter 9), he tells her the truth. Alfred is now proud to be on the road to becoming a boxer. Still, he does not yet grasp Mr. Donatelli’s message. He thinks of himself as a would-be champion, not a contender. Alfred Brooks shows promise, but he has a long way to go.
