I wish there was an option to invite him to join you as a companion - us fighting each other is stupid when he can die a good death helping the Dragonborn. Maybe he's less cautious than other companions, so dies easier (doesn't go into "yield mode" to save himself).

Havn't met the poor fellor, but I'd be happy to smash his skull.

I always accept and do as they ask, I loot his gold, garnet and lockpics though.