His manner was grave, but not in any way threatening.
His companion stood behind him and remained silent.
"I have called myself Berners," he said, "because it is more convenient at times to do so.

I am Richard Berners, Duke of Westerham.

A recent guest of yours--Lord Ronald--is my younger brother." The silence which reigned in the room might almost have been felt.

The Duke, looking from one to the other, grew graver.
"I suppose," he continued, "I ought to apologize for coming here so late at night, but my solicitor has only just arrived from London, and reported to me the result of some inquiries he has been making.

Ronald is my favourite brother, although I have not seen much of him lately.