Explain how Rab can and does influence Johnny.

Although Johnny's proud attitude does not go away overnight (he turns down several job offers because he thinks they are beneath him), he eventually learns humility by following the example of Rab, a reserved older boy who shows Johnny the benefits of being modest. Part of the reason Johnny has so much trouble finding a job after his injury is that he is impulsive and loses his temper easily. Rab eventually influences him to count to ten before reacting when something bothers him. This strategy works well, and Johnny starts reaping the benefits immediately, getting a slice of apple pie and a job offer from a girl he almost yelled at.