"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.