He had never been much of a talker.

And speech here seemed more than ordinarily difficult.
MacNelly must have felt that.
He looked long and earnestly at Duane, and his quick, nervous manner changed to grave thoughtfulness.
"I've lots to say, but where to begin," he mused.

"Duane, you've had a hard life since you went on the dodge.

I never met you before, don't know what you looked like as a boy.

But I can see what--well, even ranger life isn't all roses." He rolled his cigar between his lips and puffed clouds of smoke.
"Ever hear from home since you left Wellston ?" he asked, abruptly.
"No." "Never a word ?" "Not one," replied Duane, sadly.
"That's tough.