The Admiral sat with his head in his hands over the study fire. He had caught a slight chill, and a bout of toothache completed his discomfort and depression. He had had words with his brother at luncheon, a most unusual occurrence, and Major Urquhart had sworn and flung out of the room, leaving his food unfinished upon his plate. It was over a trifle: the Admiral did not want some trees cut down in the garden, the Major did, and the altercation was sharp and bitter. Sidney was astonished at the Major's virulence, and when he got up from the table, he shouted: "By —, we'll see who's master here!" She puzzled over his words. Major Urquhart had been proverbial for his good nature and easy temper. He had never, since Sidney could remember, asserted his wishes above those of his brother's, but lately he had become irritable and restless, and much more argumentative than of old. They had always been a very peaceful household, so that it was bewildering to Sidney now. She had gone after her uncle to try to make peace, but he shut himself up in his workshop, and told her he did not wish to be disturbed. Then she came into her father's study and softly touched him on the shoulder. "Dad dear!" The Admiral looked up. It was not only pain that had brought such a shadow across his face, but he tried to smile. "I shan't be good company this afternoon," he said, with an effort to speak cheerfully. "I don't know what possesses Uncle Ted! He is quite unlike himself." Sidney spoke resentfully. "I think there's something going on down at the Cottage," said the Admiral a little wearily. "But it would be too ridiculous if he were in love with Mrs. Norman," said Sidney; "and I think she aspires higher than poor Uncle Ted. She is making a fool of him, and he knows it, and that makes him angry. Why, Austin would be a much better match for her, for he will come into a big property!" "If she wants a comfortable home, Ted could give it to her." "By bringing her here? Oh, don't suggest such a thing! It would be too awful! I am sure she would not agree to it. She must be mistress wherever she is." "But she would be!" said the Admiral. "Do you think this house belongs to me?" Sidney stared at him. She thought for a minute that her father had taken leave of his senses. And then the Admiral put his arm round her.