Not to ruin your story but calling a common bum a "hobo" is a pet peeve of mine. A real hobo would be greatly offended at the thought of being mistaken for a common bum.
I understand the difference . One of my uncles ( mom's much-older brother ) was a Hobo during The Depression ; travelled by train across the country ( ostensibly in an illicit manner ) .
He consumed tooth paste .
I don't like the term "bum" , as it's a blanket statement . I especially don't like the term in light of the recent tragedy in Fullerton ( Ca. ) . That poor , mentally-ill fellow was called a "bum" .
( R.I.P. Kelly Thomas :angel7: ) .
Never-the-less , I do appreciate the fact that you've brought this to light :happy7: