A week later same guy starts to tell me the same story. I said, "You already told me this story.", and I kept walking.
I was pretty pissed when I realized I'd been had, and this is what I did: I went up to the guy and asked him what was up. He didn't recognize me; I heard his story again, and said, "Hey, I understand. I've been in that situation before. I'd give you money, but I've got no cash. Walk with me to the bus station, where my wife is waiting, and I'll give you what you need." He followed along, and I walked until I saw some cops, and filled them in. They said they couldn't do anything, but I could make a citizen's arrest, which I did. Don't know what finally happened. But it was somewhat satisfying to scam a scammer.