He continued to visit and to gossip on terms of the closest
intimacy, and began, moreover, to exercise a certain proprietary
right over Kirk, following him through the train to see that no
harm befell him, and seizing the slightest opportunity to engage
him in conversation.
Anthony explained time after time that there were probably
spotters on the run, and that this conduct was sure, sooner or
later, to get them both into trouble. To all of which Allan
listened attentively and agreed with all earnestness. But the next
morning invariably found him back again with some excuse.
"I can't h'explain it, chief," he acknowledged, on one occasion.
"Every day swear I to cease, but it is of no h'avail. Ever you
been in love with a female, sar?"
"What has that to do with it?"
"It is much the same. I can't h'allow you to leave me. I would die
and kill myself, but--"
"Rats!"
"Yes, sar. It is very h'annoying, is it not?"
"Do you want me to lose my job?"
"Oh, MON!"
"I'm going to speak to the boss, if you don't let up. I don't want
to get fired."
"Never mind you, for these h'engagements. I will work for you."
Becoming really concerned lest he should be accused of withholding
fares, Kirk did speak to Runnels, explaining fully, whereupon a
watch was set, with the result that on the very next morning Allan
was chased out of the railroad yards by an unfeeling man with a
club.
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