"Well, it beats all," grunted Mr. Shanks. "I thought you must have heard of me. Since my wife died I've kinder gone to rack and ruin. I ain't the man I used to be in my young days, oh no!" with a long-drawn sigh.
"I should judge not."
"Call your ma, August. I know she'll recognize the man that married her sister Lucretia."
"Mother isn't at home."
"Bad again. When will she return?"
"Not soon."
"Visitin'?"
"Yes."
"Would you mind lettin' me stop over night with ye? Hotel bills is powerful large, and for the sake of relationship, I think you will let me bunk one night. My team won't eat much, and as for me, a crust of bread and cup o' tea will set the inner man in good shape."
"I am sorry, but—"