Ern nodded significantly at Ruth's back.
"Why that little bit o tiddley you done for me afore the beaks," he whispered.
"That's nowt," answered Joe sturdily. "What was it Saul said to Jonathan—If a feller can't tiddle it a liddel bit for his pal, what the hell use is he?—Book o Judges."
Ruth in the background watched the two men. It was as though she were weighing them in the balance. There was a touch of masterful tenderness about Ern's handling of his damaged friend that surprised and pleased her.
Joe made an effort to get up.
"A'd best be shiftin," he said.
"Never!" cried Ern, authoritatively. "You'll bide the night along o us. She'll make you a bed on the couch here."
"Nay," said Ruth. "You'll sleep in the bed along o Ernie."
Joe eyed her.
"Where'll you sleep then?" he asked.