3
My father was not happy when I told him about Mr Snodgrass’s behaviour. I saw him draw himself up and reach to the thatch above, where he stored his pistols.
“No, Calum. Mother placed a hand on his arm. “That is not the answer.”
“I’ll kill him.” Father was never known for his tact and diplomacy.
“Maybe later,” Mother said. “But next quarter, Calum, you and I will go to pay the rent together. Fiona will remain here.”
Father grunted and withdrew his hand from the thatch as Mother looked at me with something like relief.
“Of course, Fiona may have different plans for the future. You are twenty years old now, Fiona. It’s high time you found yourself a nice young man and settled down.” Her smile was as cunning as any Highland fox. “Have you thought more about that young ensign with the
