Gossip

The conveyance of gossip requires at least 2 parties. An enemy whom concocts the story and a friend whom informs you of said story.

Mark Twain said something similar to this, however, I have been unable to find the quote. I would offer one small correction though.

Jenny set me straight. A very nice girl and a fine bloggy friend!

"It takes your enemy and your friend, working together, to hurt you to the heart: the one to slander you and the other to get the news to you." - Mark Twain

When the enemy and the friend are the same person, this of course has to be your own brother.