Because he was handsome and dashing and enjoyed life to the full, it was understandable that Sir Richard invariably lived beyond his means.
When he had married for love the beautiful daughter of a neighbouring Squire, who unfortunately had two sons to provide for, the Rockbourne relations had shaken their heads.
They had added somewhat acidly that the only chance that Sir Richard had of saving The Castle was to seek a wife with a large dowry.
He had, however, as he had done since the cradle, pleased himself and was blissfully happy with his wife to the point where they seldom went to London but were quite content to live in the country.
There they rode their well-bred horses, Sir Richard shot over his broad acres and they entertained a wide circle of friends without troubling themselve
