A cynical assistant accountant finds his modest plans for a quiet second marriage upended when his employer forces a change of scenery to the high-stakes environment of Monte Carlo. Bertram, a man who prides himself on his lack of belief in luck, must navigate the sudden intrusion of his director, Dreuther, into his personal affairs. The narrative follows Bertram as he attempts to maintain his composure while his life is redirected by the whims of his superior. The story unfolds through a sharp, observational lens that highlights the absurdity of Bertram's sudden financial success and the subsequent complications it introduces to his life.

Discussion often centers on the novella's lighthearted tone, which contrasts with the author's more somber works. Readers frequently highlight the effectiveness of the satire regarding the relationship between an employee and a powerful director. Critics often point to the economy of the writing, noting how much character development is achieved in a relatively short page count. The balance between the protagonist's internal monologue and the external chaos of the casino environment remains a frequent topic of analysis for those interested in mid-century British literature.