“If you’ll take my arm, sir, I think I can pilot you safe.”
“But it will be a great deal of trouble for you, won’t it?”
“Oh, don’t think of that, sir; I shall be very glad to be of any service to you.”
“Thank you. I am tired of sitting, and will accept your offer; but when you are tired, tell me so.”
“All right, sir.”
Supported by Tom, the old man was able to resume his walk and keep it up with ease. Our hero was stout and strong, and adapted himself to the slow gait of his elder companion.
“Are you traveling alone?” asked the old man.
“Yes, sir.”
“Perhaps you meet friends in California?”
“No, sir; I don’t know anybody there.”