With Philippa gone to England to tend to her ailing mother, Major Yeates's problems multiply. A shifty entrepreneur brings moving pictures into Skebawn, create havoc that the Major must subdue while fending off the unwanted advances of Miss Bobby Bennell.

The Major's sister, Babs, looks after him in Philippa's absence. Cousin Andrew also arrives to help and begins to fix everything in sight, including a crumbling chimney and a mysterious well. Cold water and strange spirits are unleashed as Andrew's enthusiasm goes a bit too far.

Babs fondly reminisces about her old friend, Julian Chichester, who is coming to stay at Shreelane. But no sooner does Chichester arrive than he begins to scorn the Major's household, including a beloved canine. Flurry decides to teach Chichester a lesson or two with the canine as an unwitting accomplice.

A stern official from Dublin Castle observes Yeates' court conduct; Yeates finds Sally's horse hidden in the loft.

An old friend's offer of a resident magistrate position in a more civilized location tempts Yeates.