"Mr. Scott, I am very much obliged to you for such a kind offer to a stranger."
"Mr. Scott? Oh, you mean me! I'd rather you'd call me Jim—it comes more natural."
"Then I say, thank you, Jim," said Paul, offering his hand.
"That's all right," said Mr. Scott, in a tone of satisfaction. "Now come round to the hotel, and I'll put you up to a wrinkle or two, and we'll talk over our trip to Custer City."
"Then you are going, too?"
"Yes, if you don't mind my company."
"I shall be glad to have the benefit of your experience."
Paul knew that it behooved him to avoid sudden acquaintanceships, but there was something in Mr. Scott's manner, rough as his appearance was, that inspired confidence.