What is the main conflict in Ragged Dick and Mark, the Match Boy by Horatio Alger?

Ragged Dick and Mark the Match Boy, by Horatio Alger, is a book intended for young boys. The author, a late nineteenth century writer, is concerned with social values and steering boys into a healthy and good life. His books tell the typical rags to riches story of the poor boy who studies and works hard, lives a clean life and becomes successful. The message to boys is not to drink or smoke or waste their time and money on frivolous entertainment. Apply themselves to their studies and work, and they will be able to improve their lot in life. This is the story told in Ragged Dick and Mark the Match Boy.