He stands by what he believes in.When his father explains to him why the Schemers are not one of them,he tries to reason with his father by saying that they pay their taxes like other Americans.His father also reminds Richard that Ike Lewis came to help him three years ago when he broke his leg.His father believes that Richard should not side with the Schemers because the family of Ike Lewis who have been in Turtle Lake generations. He politely disagrees with Pa.He becomes a better person because he realises the challenges he faces and grows from his decisions.