"I reckon I could."
"How old are you?"
"Thirty-five," said Murk.
"Old enough to have some sense. I am three years older. I'm almost as lonesome as you are. Why not join forces, Murk?"
"Sir?"
"If I showed you a corner where you would fit in, would you be loyal? Would you stand by me, help me fight if it was necessary, and all that?"
"You just try me—that's all."
"Very well, Murk, I'm going to trust you. I told you the truth when I said I had a million dollars. I have but one friend I can depend upon, and I have enemies. I like to fight, Murk, but I like to have a good pal at my back when I do."
"That's me, too, sir; but I ain't ever had the pal."
"You've got one now, Murk. You'd be dead now, but for me. So you must be my man, understand?"