The subject was one which I did not care to discuss.
Sir Henry and Captain Good looked at each other, and Captain Good nodded.
"Mr.Quatermain," went on the former, "I am going to tell you a story, and ask your advice, and perhaps your assistance.

The agent who forwarded me your letter told me that I might rely on it implicitly, as you were," he said, "well known and universally respected in Natal, and especially noted for your discretion." I bowed and drank some whisky and water to hide my confusion, for I am a modest man--and Sir Henry went on.
"Mr.Neville was my brother." "Oh," I said, starting, for now I knew of whom Sir Henry had reminded me when first I saw him.

His brother was a much smaller man and had a dark beard, but now that I thought of it, he possessed eyes of the same shade of grey and with the same keen look in them: the features too were not unlike.
"He was," went on Sir Henry, "my only and younger brother, and till five years ago I do not suppose that we were ever a month away from each other.

But just about five years ago a misfortune befell us, as sometimes does happen in families.

We quarrelled bitterly, and I behaved unjustly to my brother in my anger." Here Captain Good nodded his head vigorously to himself.