Alfred is the second groom Mr. Barry hires to care for Black Beauty. He comes highly recommended and is a knowledgeable horseperson. He’s always kind and attentive to Black Beauty when Mr. Barry is watching—but Alfred’s behavior when he’s caring for Black Beauty on his own causes Black Beauty to conclude that he’s never met a more conceited man. Alfred never properly grooms Black Beauty or cleans his tack, never exercises Black Beauty, and refuses to thoroughly clean Black Beauty’s stall. Indeed, he insists that a deep clean would be a health hazard for Black Beauty. His neglect causes Black Beauty to develop a fungal infection in his hooves from standing in his own waste all day.