These prosperous appearing people should be of use to him, God willing--he made a sweeping gesture.

"I have assumed the responsibility of his future--he is my care." Now Betty caught sight of Carrington and bowed.

Occupied with Hannibal and the judge, she had been unaware of his presence.

Carrington stepped forward.
"Have you met Mr.Norton, and my brother, Mr.Carrington ?" she asked.
The two young men shook hands, and Ware improved the opportunity to inspect the new-comer.

But as his glance wandered over him, it took in more than Carrington, for it included the fine figure and swarthy face of Captain Murrell, who, with his eyes fixed on Betty, was thrusting his eager way through the crowd.
Murrell had presented himself at Belle Plain the day before.