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The story begins with Huck living a rather carefree life, sleeping in the streets or woods as he pleases. However, the widow Douglas takes him in, attempting to civilize him. She is a kind - hearted woman, but her strict rules and the need for Huck to always be on his best behavior and wear new clothes make life difficult for the young boy. For instance, he has to follow a set schedule for meals and is prohibited from smoking, which goes against his free - spirited nature. Enter Huck's father, Pap, an abusive and alcoholic man. Pap is envious of Huck's newly acquired fortune and wants to get his hands on it. When he fails to legally claim the money, he kidnaps Huck and imprisons him in a remote cabin. Pap's actions are not only a threat to Huck's freedom but also a source of physical and emotional abuse.