A light-hearted adventurer becomes drawn into a layered mystery when a body, secret papers, and anonymous threats surface at a grand country house. The narrative alternates comic social encounters, clandestine meetings, and investigative set pieces as competing factions pursue concealed political aims. Detection unfolds through the accumulation of small clues, misunderstandings, and cooperation between an official inquiry and resourceful amateurs. The resolution exposes hidden loyalties and motives while blending suspense, wit, and social observation.