midday
`` It 's hard to judge the young , my dear , but -- '' he broke off as Betty had done , and added after a pause , `` I wonder where he is now ? '' Betty raised her eyes and met his look . `` I do not know , '' she answered , `` but I do know that he will come back ; '' and the Governor , being wise in his generation , said nothing more . That afternoon he went down into the country to inspect a decayed plantation which had come into his hands , and returning two days later , he rode into Leicesterburg and up to the steps of the little post-office , where , as usual , the neighbouring farmers lounged while they waited for an expected despatch , or discussed the midday mail with each newcomer . It was April weather , and the afternoon sunshine , having scattered the loose clouds in the west , slanted brightly down upon the dusty street , the little whitewashed building , and the locust tree in full bloom before the porch . When he had dismounted , the Governor tied his horse to the long white pole , raised for that purpose along the sidewalk , and went slowly up the steps , shaking a dozen outstretched hands before he reached the door . `` What news , gentlemen ? ''