Two can make a better appearance on a fixed income than three can, and her presence at home would have necessitated many small economies.

She was, too, a disturbing element; the others understood each other perfectly, and both felt that they in no way understood Isobel.

Altogether, it was much better that she should go.
As to the heirship, Captain Hannay had spoken freely as to his monetary affairs when he had been in England after his brother's death.
"My pay is amply sufficient for all my wants," he said; "but everything is expensive out there, and I have had no occasion to save.

I have a few hundred pounds laid by, so that if I break down, and am ordered to Europe at any time on sick leave, I can live comfortably for that time; but, beyond that, there has been no reason why I should lay by.

I am not likely ever to marry, and when I have served my full time my pension will be ample for my wants in England; but I shall do my best to help if help is necessary.