Who is Lonnie from Shaking the Nickel Bush and what is their importance?

Lonnie is a young drifter. Before meeting Ralph, he was honorably discharged from the military. He is described as a simple guy who is merely looking for a job. When Lonnie meets Ralph, the two hit if off and begin looking for work together. After Ralph collects his pay from the horse falls, he purchases a car and lets Lonnie to fix it up. Lonnie knows how to drive; Ralph does not. As a result, they partner in the car, and after while, Lonnie buys Ralph out. When Ralph mentions he should just sell the car.... Lonnie takes off running. In addition to saving his car from sale, Lonnie also accidently leaves with Ralph's overalls. Unfortunately, all of Ralph's money is in the overalls pocket.