Early in the novel, Robin's disability provokes some good-natured banter from a group of boys he encounters by the river. One of them dubs him "crookshanks" in reference to the crookedness of his legs. Misunderstanding the boy's attitude, Robin is angered by the perceived ridicule. Although the boy probably does not intend to ridicule Robin, the incident underscores the need for sensitivity and tact on the part of those who come into contact with the handicapped. It also indicates that handicapped people should not be unnecessarily thin-skinned. In Robin's case, fortunately, he comes to consider the epithet "Robin Crookshanks" a badge of honor, since he performs deeds beyond the abilities of most other young people despite his "crooked shanks."