Character Analysis
The peddler is a mysterious figure who shows up to give Harry the book on the Steppenwolf the night he sees the entrance to the Magic Theater. He later tells Harry to go to the Black Eagle if he wants entertainment, which is where he first meets Hermine.
Even though he seems to be a random occurrence, someone that Harry just happens to bump into, his interactions are always specifically directed to Harry, like someone had planned for them to see each other so that Harry can find the Magic Theater.