The narrative follows a naive country boy who becomes bewildered in a bustling city and falls into the orbit of resourceful street youths led by a ragged bootblack. After a series of encounters that include the loss of his belongings and confrontations with rougher boys, he becomes involved with a makeshift, self-governing band. Episodes portray urban hardship, tests of character, practical ingenuity, and the gradual formation of friendships and rules as the youngsters organize, defend one another, and try to carve out a community amid adult indifference.