The leader of the gang to whom John Canty brings Edward (who he thinks is his son Tom) when the Canty family flees their home. The Ruffler is somewhat flamboyant and likes to have a good time. He especially likes teasing Edward when the boy tries to convince the gang that he’s the real Prince of Wales: he gives Edward the title King Foo-Foo the First. The Ruffler doesn’t like the way John treats Edward, so he puts Hugo in charge of taking care of Edward. When he hears that Edward won’t pickpocket anyone or beg for money, the Ruffler tries (and fails) to make him a good thief. After Hugo frames Edward for theft and gets him arrested, Edward never sees The Ruffler or any of the rest of the gang again.