was
constantly some trouble of a domestic character. Sir Robert and Lady
Bramble seemed to be not on the best of terms with each other, and the
servants wore a hang-dog look, as though they expected at any moment to
be called to account for some piece of rascality. There was, however,
one pleasant face in that household, though even that seemed tempered by
sadness; this was the youngest brother, Charles. He was, or rather would
have been, a cheerful, happy boy, but for the malign influence of his
brother Robert, who seemed his opposite in almost everything. Robert was
jealous, irritable and revengeful; Charles was open-hearted, mild and
forgiving. Robert was cruel to both servants and animals; Charles was
kind to all, and a favorite with all; even the dumb animals avoided one
and adhered to the other, instinctively knowing a friend.

Robert was the first born and the favorite with his mother, whom he
ruled literally in all things, while Sir Robert, looking upon him as the
legal heir and representative of his name, of course considered him in a
somewhat different light from that in which he regarded Charles. At
times it seemed as though an evil spirit had taken possession of
Robert's heart, and he delighted in oppressing, domineering over and
abusing his brother, who, though he did not lack for spirit, yet could
never bring it to bear against Robert. He meekly bore his reproaches and
abuse, and even at times had suffered personal chastisement at his hands
without complaint to his parents, rather than irritate both them and
himself by referring to so disagreeable a matter. With a naturally
patient disposition, he suffered much without complaint.

Sir Robert and Lady Bramble seemed blind to the fact that the unbounded
indulgence which they yielded to their eldest child was rendering still
worse a disposition and habit which were already an affliction in
themselves. But Robert was persevering, and would always carry his
point, let it be what it might, teasing and cajoling the mother until
she granted his wishes however absurd they might be. He domineered over
every one, mother, father, servant maids and servant men; he was the
terror of all.

Charles added to his light-heartedness and cheerfulness of spirit, great
agility, and for a boy of his age, remarkable strength, in which matters
Robert was deficient, and here his jealousy found ample scope. Charles,
too, was remarkably apt with his studies, whereas Robert generally