Mister Carrington's question just hung pregnant in the air as Joe thought how to answer it.  Joe couldn't very well blurt out his young feelings for Pearl in front of her father with so much going on, but if he didn't say something true what would she say?

"Mister Carrington, sir." Joe began "I have only recently met Pearl, but I swear I have no ill intentions, sir. I would like to think of her as a friend, sir, as she needs a friend in town.  Everyone needs friends."

Joe drained the remainder his brandy

"Pearl is a remarkable young lady. She does you credit, sir and I would like to continue to know her in the future. Whatever it may hold."