The story in one page
Anthony Cade, a man of many aliases and limited means, accepts two errands for a friend: delivering the scandalous memoirs of a late Balkan king and returning blackmail letters to Virginia Revel. A corpse turns up in his hotel room, prompting an investigation by Superintendent Battle. The action converges on Chimneys, a country estate hosting high-stakes talks on the future of Herzoslovakia. Amidst hidden panels and international intrigue, Anthony finds himself a prime suspect in a second murder. He must navigate a thicket of secret societies, foreign agents, and political schemers to clear his name and uncover the truth behind a missing royal treasure hidden somewhere on the manor grounds.
Who's who
- Anthony Cade
An adventurous wanderer who assumes the identity of Jimmy McGrath.
- Superintendent Battle
A stoic Scotland Yard detective who specializes in sensitive political cases.
- Virginia Revel
A high-society widow targeted for blackmail who becomes Anthony's ally.
- George Lomax
A pompous, long-winded Foreign Office official nicknamed 'Codders'.
- Lord Caterham
The reluctant, easily bored owner of the Chimneys estate.
- King Victor
A notorious master of disguise and international jewel thief.
What it's really about
- Hidden Identities
- Characters frequently mask their royalty or criminal history under aliases.
- International Diplomacy
- Secret oil contracts and royal restorations drive the plot's violence.
Why it's memorable
- A body discovered behind a secret panel in the library at Chimneys.
- The comedic sight of George Lomax delivering a long speech to a hole in the ground.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
Anthony Cade is revealed as Prince Nicholas of Herzoslovakia; he wins the affection of Virginia Revel and discovers the missing royal jewel buried on the estate.
For your book club
- The contrast between high-stakes international espionage and the mundane irritations of English country life.
- The trope of the competent adventurer outwitting both the police and professional assassins.