In recognition of his great service to his party, Belton was appointed stamping clerk in the Post Office at a salary of sixty dollars per month.
As a rule, the most prominent and lucrative places went to those who were most influential with the voters.

Measured by this standard and by the standard of real ability, Belton was entitled to the best place in the district in the gift of the government; but the color of his skin was against him, and he had to content himself with a clerkship.
At the expiration of one year, Belton proudly led the charming Antoinette Nermal to the marriage altar, where they became man and wife.

Their marriage was the most notable social event that had ever been known among the colored people of Richmond.

All of the colored people and many of the white people of prominence were at the wedding reception, and costly presents poured in upon them.

This brilliant couple were predicted to have a glorious future before them.