Character Analysis
Paul's Uncle Oscar is a somewhat sinister figure in the story, just not on the surface. He initially appears to be a wealthy gentleman who is open-minded enough to humor Paul's gambling, and decent enough to sense that maybe Paul's gambling isn't such a good idea—but he is not the surrogate father figure that Paul needs. With his wealth, Uncle Oscar represents the luxurious lifestyle that Hester aspires to, but this same desire is what creates so much misery in her family.
Uncle Oscar also doesn't seem to have Paul's best interests at heart. Even though he's aware that gambling may not be very healthy for Paul and his family, Uncle Oscar continues to let Paul have his way. He even banks on a tip that Paul gave with his dying breath. That's cold, right? It's not like he needed the money.