No casual observer would have taken them for brothers that morning.

They were employer and secretary.
Only when the last letter had been discussed and laid aside did the elder abruptly abandon his aloof attitude to ask a question upon a more intimate matter.
"Did Isabel go without a sleeping-draught last night ?" Scott shook his head.
Eustace's frown became even more pronounced.

"Did Biddy administer it on her own ?" "No.

I authorized it." Scott's voice was low.

He met his brother's look with level directness.
Eustace leaned towards him across the table.