Friday 2nd September 1811

Dear Diary,
My happy return has been somewhat overshadowed by the unexpected appearance of my brother Cain Austen.
By all accounts it would appear that his arrival was not that unexpected and indeed my family knew of his intentions even before I left for Queensland but declined, nay, decided against informing me. As I recall Mother did mention receiving an epistle shortly before my departure but Father quietened her. I do not blame him for surely it would have ruined my sojourn away.
He is returned from India after quelling some rebellion there. How lucky are those Indians to be free of him at last!
It is no secret that my brother and I are somewhat estranged and I confess the ill feelings I have toward him are grounded in his poor and spiteful treatment of me in our youth. 
I am ill at ease with his return.
Consequently I have avoided visiting the Grange today and thus my parents and Fanny were bound to call upon me at Knob End. 
We are invited to lunch after Chapel on Sunday. I dread it.
I mounted Python and rode upon the Knob until the threat of perspiration forced me to dismount and take in the view.
"Magnificent, isn't it?" It was the last voice I wanted to intrude upon my solitude.
I turned to face him.
"Wayne," he continued, "I sincerely desire and hope that we can start anew and you can find it in your good and decent heart to forgive the folly of my youth."
He took a step closer and began to idly toss and catch the dark rock he was holding in his hand.
"It is time to repair our fraternal relationship, don't you think?" He pocketed the rock and held out his hand.
It was dirty.
"You know I am right on this matter, come brother, shake upon it."
He saw me looking at his outstretched hand. He glanced at it himself and withdrew it, wiping it upon his breeches before offering it once more.
After a further moment of hesitation I took it. 
His grip was firm and I squeezed back as hard as I could.
There is nothing worse than a feeble handshake and in this instance I was determined not to be found guilty of such a transgression.
He smiled with satisfaction and moving to my side we both turned to the view once again.
"So...," he began, "...this is where Cousin Evelyn died?"