"Well," smiled Mr. Blake, "I can't think of anything at this moment that they could do to make you any better or worse, but when women set out to do anything I've noticed that they generally get there."
"You're right about that," said Sam, wagging his head, "they are persistent critters."
"Perhaps if you were married you'd have more respect for women," added Mr. Blake.
"Maybe his weddin' ain't so very far off," said Alick Purbeck. "I've seen him in comp'ny with the same lady three times within a week."
"Jest happened so," retorted Sam.
"Gettin' married jest happens sometimes," replied Alick.
"When a woman ketches me," said Sam, boastfully, "she's got to be mighty fetchin' in more ways 'n one."
"If there's any catching to be done, I guess you'll have to do it," commented Mr. Blake.
Sam felt that he was getting the worst of the argument, and changed the subject.