Some would say I am lucky. Others would say I’m doomed.
-- Samuel Collier (Chapter 2 paragraph 1)

Importance: Samuel is chosen by Reverend Hunt to accompany him to the New World and become Captain John Smith's servant. He is chosen for adventure, and perhaps to find riches in James Town. This makes him lucky. However, the other orphan boys have been clear that they think he will be killed in James Town. This is a real risk, and he therefore might be doomed. In fact, he nearly dies of fever on the boat. He encounters many violent attacks in which he could be killed. Throughout the novel, it left to be seen whether he is lucky or doomed.

But I know there is no peace inside Master Wingfield. I know it is only a matter of time before he strikes. It will not be with his fists, as we commoners do. It will be with his...
-- Samuel (Chapter 3 paragraph 20)