1) The gentlemen called Oliver a hardened young rascal because of his defiant and rebellious behavior.
2) Oliver decided to run away from Mr. Sowerberry because he was unhappy with the way he was treated and wanted to seek a better life.
3) When Oliver reached the workhouse, there was nobody there because it was empty and abandoned.
4) Oliver was very glad to see Dick because he was a friendly face in an unfamiliar and lonely place.