The man who owns the castle has been away for many years. He has left the castle, and his family, in the care of his eldest son. The eldest son is a strict but good manager of the castle and the family, but the younger members of the family long for more freedom. They plan a ball and invite the townspeople. When the eldest son opposes the plan, they lock him in the dungeon.
During the ball there is a terrible storm and an earthquake. The earthquake opens the dungeon and the eldest son goes upstairs and opens the doors to the ball. Everyone is afraid because of the storm and because of the appearance of the older brother, and all the people go home.
Afterward, the younger members of the family are ashamed of their behavior and learn to obey their brother. They find that in obeying him, they have a different kind of freedom.
Everyone enjoys the parable, though the Colonel confesses he does not understand the meaning of it. As the group gets ready to leave, Adela and Harry are left alone for a moment. When the group returns for them, it is only to find that they are about to kiss! Harry apologizes to the Colonel and asks to speak with him the next day.
