Susan that was not how the remark fitted into the context into which he said it. He said it to Farm secretary Barbara Wilson. She stated that "Nevil sagged into his seat and smoked a ciggarette, I highlighted the fact that it was unusual for him to smoke he said " I seldom do, I must not burden you with my problems, but I must never turn my back on that young man"
Anyone who tried to make out that Nevil was joking or it was some kind of 'dry humour' has completely missed the point of this conversation or they are in some kind of denial. Barbara Wilson in no uncertain terms said that Jeremy obviously getting to Nevil. Let us not forget that she was a witness to many of the events happening in WHF at that crucial time. Not merely unconnected commentators like we are.
Where is the above quote from? It doesn't sound like a statement but if you have the source, it would be helpful to post it? It's sounds remarkably like another quote from Barbara Wilson which is from Rodger Wilkes's book Blood Relations. However, it's slightly different although neither quote actually mention Jeremy Bamber by name so you are assuming he is referring to Jeremy!! Please also refer to the document below which is also attributed to M's Wilson. It is also interesting to note that Barbara Wilson didn't mention any of this information until years after the trial
This is the Wilkes version ...
After Barbara Wilson promises to look after the farm (in the event anything happens to him), she asks if he is seriously ill and he (allegedly) said;
"No, but I don't think I've got long"
"What do you mean? If you're not ill, what's wrong?"
Neville Bamber drew on his cigarette, swallowed deeply and blew a cloud of smoke above his head. "There is so much to tell Barbara," he murmured. "But I can't bother you with all that. It's not your burden. But id anything were to happen to me, you will promise me you'll do that?" (Look after the farm).
"Yes, of course I will."
"Of course" he adds, "the shooting season's coming up." Neville Bamber just sat and looked at her. Then he said, "Living on a farm is a dangerous place and one never knows what's going to happen ..."
His voice trailed off and he looked away.
"Do you have a premonition?" asked Barbara Wilson.
"Well, perhaps. But one never knows. I could go out one day shooting and you never know do you? These things do happen. You never can tell.
No mention of turning his back on anyone? However, she also said the following .....