The narrative begins with the discovery of a cabinet minister murdered in his country house, triggering a Fleet Street scramble to publish a special edition. An energetic editor and his capable assistant marshal reporters while Scotland Yard deploys experienced officers. The investigation focuses on the limited circle of guests and household staff, where conflicting accounts, concealed ties, and subtle physical clues emerge. Reporters and detectives pursue leads, reconcile discrepancies, and reconstruct motive and opportunity until methodical inquiry reveals the identity of the killer and the circumstances surrounding the death.