Had he startled him? Malachi kicked himself for not having set down the knives before he'd answered the door, but he hadn't wanted to make him wait either. So he held the blades down at a safe distance, offered the makings of a pleasant smile, and waited for the man to get through... whatever he was going through right now.

"Ah," Malachi nodded then, eyebrows raised. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Constable. I'm Father Malachi Brennan."

He'd only heard good things about Constable Crane, but he'd not had a chance to meet him yet. Malachi's dark gaze strayed to the basket he held.

"That is very considerate of you. I'll make sure that he gets it."

Malachi stepped away for a quick moment, setting the knives down on the closest surface. He returned just as soon, extending a hand towards the basket -- though from the way he held it out, it wasn't clear if he meant to shake the Constable's hand or relieve him of his gift.

"Did you want to come in, Constable? I'm sure Father Richards is around here somewhere, if you had wanted to see him?"