Try as she might Mrs St Maugham is unable to grow flowers in her beloved garden because of the chalk and her lack of skill with plants. Her daughter has re-married and Mrs St Maugham has adopted her grand daughter Laurel. Laurel is somewhat wild and unruly and has had a number of paid companions. Miss Madrigal is the latest. She has arrived with no references and keeps quiet about her past. She not only is able to help Laurel but has a knack with gardens. One day Mrs St Maugham invites a prominent Judge to lunch. He recognises Miss Madrigal as someone he once sentenced to death.