* Jerry Barker:
* Jerry's good nature can sometimes border on saintly, and some readers find his unyielding patience and optimism unrealistic or even annoying.
* While admired for his kindness, he can be seen as contributing to the problem by continuing to participate in the harsh cab trade, even though he is kind.
* He lacks a certain edge or complexity, which some readers find boring.
* Reuben Smith:
* Smith is a complex character. While initially kind and a good horseman, he succumbs to alcoholism.
* His drunken riding leads to a terrible accident that cripples Beauty, marking him as a character who does terrible damage due to his flaws.
* The tragedy associated with him and the pain he inflicts on Beauty make him memorable in a negative way.
* Nicholas Skinner
* A mean-spirited cab owner, Skinner exploits his horses and drivers.
* He embodies the cruelty and greed that Black Beauty critiques, putting profit above the well-being of living creatures.
Ultimately, who is the "worst" depends on what qualities you value or despise. Skinner is probably the most outright evil and representative of the systemic cruelty Beauty experiences, while Smith is a more nuanced character who makes a tragic mistake. Jerry is the least evil of the choices.