"Rupert's Ambition" by Horatio Alger, Jr. is a novel written in the late 19th century. The story follows a young boy named Rupert Rollins, who faces hardship after losing his job at a dry goods house during a time of economic downturn. Struggling to support his mother and invalid sister, Rupert's journey is one of resilience and determination as he navigates his way through various challenges in search of employment and stability. At the start of the narrative, Rupert experiences the shock of being discharged from his job, which is a primary source of income for his family. He is deeply concerned about their future, particularly as his sister's health adds to the family's challenges. Despite the grim prospect of unemployment, Rupert displays a commendable spirit of optimism and resourcefulness. The opening sections introduce themes of kindness, the effects of economic hardship, and the strength of familial bonds, setting a poignant tone for Rupert's pursuit of a better life. (This is an automatically generated summary.)