Chum, friend (3)
I believe the answer is:
pal
I believe this clue is a double definition.
'chum' is the first definition.
(both can mean a friend)
'friend' is the second definition.
(pal can mean a friend)
(Other definitions for pal that I've seen before include "Crony" , "Brother" , "Mate, buddy" , "Mate, informal friend" , "Bud" .)