Who is Dick Hunter from Ragged Dick and Mark, the Match Boy and what is their importance?

Dick Hunter is a young boy who says he lives with his guardian. Since the guardian doesn't give him money, he earns his spending money giving shoe shines. He is a hard working boy who earns enough to support himself. Dick is fourteen years of age at the opening of the novel. He earns his money during the day and spends it at night at the theater or club. Dick is always alert to business opportunities and when he overhears Mr. Whitney and his nephew Frank discussing the fact that Frank wants to see the sights of New York City, he promptly offers his services as a tour guide.