What does Johnny do with all the silver from Mr. hancock? Why does Mr. Hancock give him all this money?

Mr. Hancock does not recognize Johnny from the silver shop, but he is impressed by the boy’s reading and math skills. However, he rejects him when he realizes Johnny cannot write because of his injury. On his way out, Johnny mutters that Hancock caused the injury himself. As Johnny is leaving, Jehu (Mr. Hancock’s slave boy) catches up with him and hands him a heavy purse full of silver.

Johnny uses some of the money to buy a big meal at the best restaurant he can find. Then he buys a pair of new shoes and some limes for Isannah.