Battered and bruised as we were, and hungry into the bargain, after our hard struggle over the mountain, it became a matter of vital importance that we should secure lodgings for the night, and, if possible, get something to eat. The place looked rather unpromising; but, after our experience in Lake Valley, we were not easily discouraged. Upon broaching the subject to Diogenes in the mildest possible manner, his brow darkened, as if a positive insult to his common sense had been attempted.
DIOGENES.
"Stay here all night!" he repeated, savagely. "What the h—ll do you want to stay here all night for?"
We hinted at a disposition to sleep, and thought he might possibly have room on the floor for our blankets.
At this he snapped his fingers contemptuously, and muttered, "Can't come that over me! I've been here too long for that!"
"But we are willing to pay you whatever is fair."
"Pay? Who said I wanted pay? Do I look like a man that wants money?"
We thought not.