For society, he may have a hired hand, and the loungers in the saloon of the nearest settlement, which is often a day's ride away; and they are not, as a rule, men of culture or pleasing manners.

For the strong in mind and body, it is nevertheless a healthful life; but Benson was not of sufficiently tough fiber.
"Now, see here," said Harding.

"I'm out for money, and this is a business trip; but Blake wants to take you, and I'm agreeable.

If you can stand for two or three months' hard work in the open, and very plain living, you'll feel yourself a match for Clarke when you get back.

Though there's no reason why you should tell a stranger like myself how you stand, if you'd rather not, I know something of business and might see a way out of your difficulties." Benson hesitated.