This was one of two novels and two books of short stories the author published in 1909, and it is very much of its time.
The murder of a much-liked baronet in his country house library sets off an investigation by the able but impetuous Inspector Skarratt of Scotland Yard.
Dastardly deeds abound, and once the baronet's brother is safely in custody, a secret marriage,theft and a conspiracy must be unravelled before the dramatic denouement reveals the guilty.
The investigation has historical interest, but there are loads of unresolved loose ends and it is quite obvious that Fletcher had different possibilities in mind for the ending, which is, as ever, somewhat rushed after the exceedingly leisurely pace of much of the proceedings.
It was however, an easy and speedy read for the start of the year.
3.25 stars.