The people of Dovebury were proud of their ancient church and, when its tower was damaged in a gale and funds were needed for its restoration, they inevitably decided to hold a bazaar. And who should act as Treasurer? In many ways they would have preferred Mr. Tilworth, a retired accountant who had recently come to live there; but then Mr. Headcorn had discharged that function for so many years....

The bazaar was a success, but Mr. Tilworth had some doubts about the accounts and mentioned this to Mr. Headcorn who invited him to come round that evening and discuss the matter over a drink. Mr. Headcorn drank his usual light ale but for his guest he opened a bottle of wine - and two glasses silenced Mr. Tidworth for ever....

It seemed a very simple case to the local police; but for Sootland Yard's Jimmy Waghorn, aided by the Sage of Westbourne Terrace, the investigation produced some curious and starting results....