"Of course we will," said Dick, quickly; "but can't we give you a lift on your way? We're going close to Hazelton, and if it will be any accommodation to you we can just as well make that town."
"Oh, no, I wouldn't think of troubling you. I've delayed you enough at it is. I might go on to the garage with you, if you don't mind, and then I could tell the man just what the trouble is. He might even have a car I can hire, though, as I remember it, the nearest garage is a small, one-horse sort of a place. Still, they can mend the steering knuckle I should think."
"Come on then," urged Dick. "We'll take you as far as there, and if you can't hire a car you're welcome to ride to Hazelton with us."
"Oh, Mr.——"
"Hamilton—Dick Hamilton," supplied our hero.
"I couldn't think of it, Mr. Hamilton. I wouldn't put you to that trouble for the world."
"It's no trouble," Dick assured him. "I believe in being helpful whenever I can. I might be in the same boat myself some day."
"It doesn't look as though your car would ever break down," said the lame man. "It certainly is a beauty. What make is that?"
"It was built to order," said Dick, "and I got it in a deal when the owner couldn't take it. It just suits me."
"I should think it would suit anyone. It's a peach! Are you going far?"