If it was murder, who was responsible? The dead man's wife, Julie? The young cafe assistant, Clive?

Sergeant Cork, one of the pioneers of the newly formed C.I.D., applies his unique methods of detection to the case.

Lucy Beasley is certain that a crime is being committed in the Beasley household and she implores Cork to investigate. Is she a bitter, frustrated woman out to cause trouble, or are her fears justified?

In spite of opposition from the Melrose family, Cork is determined to discover the murderer of a laundry maid, whose body is found in their stable by a drunken coachman.