As he advanced the guests bowed to him in respect, as to a man of great and assured position who may become greater still.

Yes, even Benoni showed him this respect, stepping forward to greet him.

All these greetings Caleb acknowledged lightly, even haughtily, till of a sudden he saw Miriam standing somewhat in the shadow, and heedless of the other guests pushed his way towards her.
"Thus we meet again, Miriam," he said, his proud face softening as he spoke and his eyes gazing on her with a sort of rapture.

"Are you pleased to see me ?" "Surely, Caleb," she answered.

"Who would not be well pleased to meet the playfellow of her childhood ?" He frowned, for childhood and its play were not in his thoughts.