Luke Fitzwilliam does not believe Miss Pinkertons wild allegation that a multiple murderer is at work in the quiet English village of Wychwood and that her local doctor is next in line.

But within hours, Miss Pinkerton has been killed in a hit-and-run car accident. Mere coincidence? Luke is inclined to think sountil he reads in the Times of the unexpected demise of Wychwoods Dr. Humbleby.