When a wealthy bachelor dies before revealing the identity of his long-lost heir, two imposters emerge to claim the inheritance, triggering a lethal game of deception. Chief Superintendent Henry Tibbett of Scotland Yard must navigate a web of false identities and sudden violence to uncover the truth behind the missing Simon Warwick. As the investigation unfolds, Tibbett faces the dual challenge of identifying a killer hiding in plain sight and determining which claimant, if either, is the legitimate heir to the Charlton fortune. The narrative follows a traditional procedural structure, focusing on the methodical collection of clues and the interrogation of suspects within the rigid social hierarchies of post-war Britain.

This novel is widely regarded as a quintessential example of the traditional British mystery, noted for its adherence to the conventions of the genre established by authors like Agatha Christie. The work is frequently praised for its clever plotting and the reliable, understated competence of Henry Tibbett, who serves as a steady anchor amidst the chaos of the inheritance dispute. Readers often highlight the author's ability to balance the technicalities of legal claims with the high stakes of a murder investigation. The book remains a staple for those who appreciate puzzles that prioritize logical deduction over visceral action, reflecting a specific era of detective fiction that emphasizes social nuance and intellectual challenge.