The Secret Riddle

Dumbledore shows Harry another memory: his own visit to the orphanage where Tom Riddle grew up. The young Tom Riddle is a handsome, intelligent, but cold and manipulative boy. He has already discovered his magical abilities and uses them to terrorize other children. Dumbledore tells him he is a wizard and offers him a place at Hogwarts. Riddle is excited but refuses Dumbledore's help, preferring to go to Diagon Alley alone. Dumbledore warns him against thievery. The memory reveals Riddle's early cruelty, his desire to be special, and his contempt for his Muggle father. Dumbledore notes Riddle's tendency to collect trophies from his victims.