" In ten years the judge
had received just one communication by mail--a bill which had
followed him through four states and seven counties. "I expect
my secretary--" boldly fixing Solomon Mahaffy's status, "is
already dipping into it; an excellent assistant, ma'am, but
literary rather than legal."
Little Steve reappeared bearing a silver tray on which was a
decanter and glass.
"Since you insist, ma'am," the judge poured himself a drink, "my
best respects--" he bowed profoundly.
"If you are quite willing, judge, I think I will keep Hannibal.
Miss Bowen, who has been here--since--" her voice broke suddenly.
"I understand, ma'am," said the judge soothingly. He gave her a
glance of great concern and turned to Hannibal. "Dear lad,
you'll be very quiet and obedient, and do exactly as Miss Malroy
says? When shall I come for him, ma'am?"
"I'll send him to you when he is ready to go home. I am thinking
of visiting my friends in North Carolina, and I should like to
have him spend as much time as possible with me before I start
for the East."
It had occurred to Betty that she had done little or nothing for
the child; probably this would be her last opportunity.
The state of the judge's feelings was such that with elaborate
absence of mind he poured himself a second drink of whisky; and
that there should be no doubt the act was one of inadvertence,
said again, "My best respects, ma'am," and bowed as before.
Putting down the glass he backed toward the door.
Pages:
284
285
286
287
288
289
290
291
292
293
294
295
296
297
298
299
300
301
302
303
304
305
306
307
308