“And wouldn't turn your hand over to do a good turn for anybody?”
“I don't think so.”
“I'll tell you what I think I'll do—I'll detail four of my men to ride you out of this town on a rail.”
“I wouldn't call them off their jobs if I were you! I overheard you say that you are short of time and men. By the way, you offered me a job. I'll take it.”
The contractor blinked and hesitated.
“If after a half-day you find I'm not worth the money I'll pass on and you'll have a half-day's work free.”
“Get on to the job, then.”
Through the open door Farr could see the woman of the house wringing cloths at the sink.
He stepped to the door and addressed her. “Madame, will you take a boarder? I'm going to do your husband's work on the job yonder. I will pay liberally. In your present difficulties the money may help. I'll be small trouble.”
“We need the money terribly,” she said, after pondering. “Yes, I will take you. In the face you do not look like a tramp!”