- Mother Barton: Have you ever stopped to consider the meaning of the word "reform"? Well, I'll define it for you. It means to change from bad to good. To make better morally!
- Mother Barton: I hope you've been able to locate that boy of your's.
- Mr. Gordon: We haven't laid eyes on him, since his boss fired him for having a reform school record.
- Mother Barton: Those narrow-minded businessmen with their high and mighty ways. They make me sick!
- Mother Barton: I would change the system in handling these youngsters. There is no reason why they should be treated like caged animals. They should be permitted to - to talk, play games, sing, dance, have regular recreation hours. In other words, they should live a life as nearly normal as possible. Educate the public and businessmen in this country to know that when reform school boys are released, they're not criminals! They're ready to take their place in society.
- Mr. Stone: Still carryin' the world on your back, kid?
- Freddie Gordon: What's it to you, pussyfoot?
- Mr. Stone: Haven't learned your lesson yet, huh?
- Freddie Gordon: No squealer can learn me anything.
- Mr. Stone: You'll sing a different tune before you get outta here.
- Freddie Gordon: I can take anything you got to give me, stooly, and come back for more.