No Great Mischief

The next day, Alex and his sister eat breakfast, still unaware of what has happened. Members of clann Chalum Ruaidh come from far and wide for Colin’s wake. The death of Alex’s parents is attributed to an act of God; his paternal grandfather offers to look after the lighthouse until a replacement is found. With his violin, he plays laments that carry across the water to the town.

The dog returns to the shore again and again, looking for her missing owners. When the new lightkeeper arrives, she becomes defensive and snarls. The new man shoots her dead and throws the body into the sea. The dog was a descendant of Calum Ruadh’s own.

Months later, Alex’s grandfather finds his daughter’s purse on the shore. There is not much of interest inside. It is the only item ever found. Many years later, the purse is given to Alex’s sister before her wedding. Although Alex does not remember the death of his parents that well, the story has passed down through his family, just like all his other stories.