However, on reaching Belle Plain he and Hannibal were shown into the cool parlor by little Steve.

It was more years than the judge cared to remember since he had put his foot inside such a house, but with true grandeur of soul he rose to the occasion; a sublimated dignity shone from every battered feature, while he fixed little Steve with so fierce a glance that the grin froze on his lips.
"You are to say that judge Slocum Price presents his compliments and condolences to Miss Malroy--have you got that straight, you pinch of soot ?" he concluded affably.

Little Steve, impressed alike by the judge's air of condescension and his easy flow of words, signified that he had.

"You may also say that judge Price's ward, young Master Hazard, presents his compliments and condolences--" What more the judge might have said was interrupted by the entrance of Betty, herself.
"My dear young lady--" the judge bowed, then he advanced toward her with the solemnity of carriage and countenance he deemed suitable to the occasion, and her extended hand was engulfed between his two plump palms.

He rolled his eyes heavenward.