Final answer:
The author likely used the underlined phrase to convey the man's perception of the old men as foolish and weak.
Step-by-step explanation:
The author likely used the underlined phrase to convey that the man perceived the old men as foolish and weak. By stating that the old timers were 'rather womanish' and that 'any man who was a man could travel alone,' the man is expressing his belief that the old men were not real men and appeared feminine. Through this language, the author emphasizes the man's view of the old men as weak and foolish.
Learn more about Author's use of language to convey character's beliefs