It suddenly struck Bonner that it would be necessary to bribe "Doc" Smith and the entire Crow family, if he was to maintain his position as an invalid.
"Doc" Smith when put to the test lied ably in behalf of his client (he refused to call him his patient), and Mrs.Bonner was convinced.

Mr.
Crow and Eva vigorously protested that the young man would not be a "mite of trouble," and that he could stay as long as he liked.
"He's a gentleman, Mrs.Bonner," announced the marshal, as if the mother was being made aware of the fact for the first time.

"Mrs.Crow an' me have talked it over, an' I know what I'm talkin' about.

He's a perfect gentleman." "Thank you, Mr.Crow.I am happy to hear you say that," said Mrs.
Bonner, with fine tact.

"You will not mind if he stops here a while longer then ?" "I should say not.