Related Clues:

• Trusted chum
• Gal __
• Hang together (with "around")
• One likely to lend a needed hand
• "Aw, c'mon, be a ___!"
• Very close friend
• Alter ego
• "___ Joey" (Sinatra film)
• Pen ___ (letter-writing friend)
• Paisano
• Homey, e.g.
• One close
• Rodgers & Hart's "--- Joey"
• An informal friend
• Mate, informal friend