The sympathy of the reader towards the peddler is earned through his sense of humor and innocent acceptance.

Introduction:
The peddler is a character in the story who is poor and homeless. He earns a living by selling rattraps made from old horseshoes. The author encounters him during his journey and engages in a conversation with him. Throughout the story, the peddler's sense of humor and innocent acceptance of his circumstances evoke sympathy from the reader.

His Sense of Humor:
The peddler's sense of humor is evident from the very beginning of the story. Despite his difficult life, he maintains a positive attitude and uses humor to cope with his situation. For example, when the author asks him if he has ever stolen anything, the peddler responds with a witty remark, saying that he himself has been stolen from by life. This humor adds a touch of humanity to the peddler's character, making him relatable and endearing to the reader.

Innocent Acceptance:
Another aspect that earns the sympathy of the reader is the peddler's innocent acceptance of his circumstances. He does not complain or become bitter about his poverty and homelessness. Instead, he accepts his fate with grace and contentment. When the author suggests that he is leading a miserable life, the peddler disagrees and says that life has been kind to him. This innocent acceptance of his situation makes the reader empathize with him and feel sorry for his plight.

Contrast with Others:
Furthermore, the peddler's character gains sympathy when compared to the other characters in the story. While the characters like the ironmaster and the crofter are suspicious and untrusting, the peddler remains honest and genuine. His stories and his sense of humor are a stark contrast to the selfishness and materialism of the other characters. This contrast highlights the peddler's positive qualities and makes the reader root for him.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, the peddler earns the sympathy of the reader through his sense of humor and innocent acceptance of his circumstances. His ability to maintain a positive attitude amidst adversity and his genuine character make him a likable and relatable character. The reader cannot help but feel sorry for the peddler and hope for a better future for him.