The story in one page
When Jimmy Thesiger finds a corpse and a secret message at the country estate of Chimneys, he assumes it is a lark. His friend Bundle Brent, however, digs deeper into the mystery of the Seven Dials. What appears to be a trivial prank involving alarm clocks quickly spirals into an investigation of a dangerous, clandestine organization. As bodies pile up and the stakes rise, the friends navigate a maze of traps and international intrigue, finally enlisting the expertise of Superintendent Battle to expose the truth before the conspirators can escape justice.
Who's who
- Jimmy Thesiger
A cheerful youth who stumbles into a complex international crime.
- Bundle Brent
An energetic investigator who drives the pursuit of the truth.
- Superintendent Battle
The stoic, reliable lawman who manages the final investigation.
- Bill Eversleigh
A sturdy friend who assists in the investigation and eventual marriage.
- George Lomax
A pompous political figure who serves as a bureaucratic foil.
- Lord Caterham
Bundle's lethargic father who prefers his golf to criminal mysteries.
What it's really about
- The Dangers of Amateur Sleuthing
- Curiosity often leads to genuine mortal peril.
- The Facade of High Society
- Political status provides perfect cover for criminality.
Why it's memorable
- A butler maintains impeccable composure while delivering news of a death.
- Bundle faces the terrifying prospect of a dull lecture on political economy.
The ending, explained
Spoilers — show the ending
Bundle announces her engagement to Bill Eversleigh, to the delight of her golf-obsessed father.
For your book club
- The contrast between the lighthearted protagonists and the lethal criminal organization.
- The effectiveness of the unassuming police officer as the central authority.