“I found it necessary,” said Watson, laughing. “Now, Joe, if you will open the door, this gentleman will pass out.”
Rafferty turned to Joe, as he was about to leave the restaurant.
“Boy,” said he, “I won’t forget this. I ain’t much of a friend to boast of, but I’m your friend. You’ve saved me from prison, and worse, it’s likely; and, if you need help any time, send for me. If I had that money I took from you I’d pay it back.”
“I don’t need it,” said Joe. “I’ve been lucky, and am doing well. I hope you’ll make up your mind to turn over a new leaf. If you do, and are ever hard up for a meal, come to me, and you shall have it without money and without price.”
“Thank you, boy,” said Rafferty. “I’ll remember it.”
He strode out of the restaurant, and disappeared in the darkness.
“Human nature’s a curious thing, Joe,” said Watson. “Who would have expected to find any redeeming quality in such a man as that?”
“I would sooner trust him than Hogan.”
“So would I. Hogan is a mean scoundrel, who is not so much of a ruffian as this man only because he is too much of a coward to be.”
“I am glad we let him go,” said Joe.