After humming to himself for a few moments, as they walked along the dark lane, Daniel slipped a hand through his brother's arm and spoke affectionately.
"You don't know how glad I am that we have met, old boy! Now don't let us lose sight of each other--By the bye, do you ever hear of Alec ?" Alexander, Jerome Otway's second son, had not communicated with his father for a good many years.

His reputation was that of a good-natured wastrel.

Piers replied that he knew nothing whatever of him.
"He is in London," pursued Daniel, "and he is rather anxious to meet _you_.

Now let me give you a word of warning.

Alec isn't at all a bad sort.