Partly it was Joseph's way to be spiteful and venomous whenever chance afforded him the opportunity.

Partly he had been particularly soured at present by his recent discomforts, suffered in a cause wherewith he had no, sympathy--that of the union Gregory desired 'twixt Cynthia and Kenneth.
There was an evil smile on his thin lips, and his crooked eyes rested tormentingly upon the young man.

A fresh taunt trembled on his viperish tongue, when Gregory plucked at the skirts of his coat, and drew him aside.

They entered the chamber where they had held their last interview before Joseph had set out for news of Kenneth.

With an air of mystery Gregory closed the door, then turned to face his brother.