The narrative follows Lord Peter Wimsey as he becomes embroiled in the mystery surrounding the will of Uncle Meleager Finch, a wealthy and eccentric relative of a young woman named Hannah Marryat. After Uncle Meleager's death, it is discovered that he left two wills: one favoring the Primrose League, which Hannah despises, and another intended for her, but its whereabouts are unknown. The story begins with Lord Peter's leisurely morning, interrupted by a visit from his sister, Mary, who informs him of Hannah's plight. Mary explains that Hannah's mother is ill and that the inheritance is crucial for their financial stability. The will's existence is confirmed by a letter from Uncle Meleager, which hints at the location of the new will but is cryptic in nature. Lord Peter, intrigued by the challenge, agrees to help Hannah find the will, leading to a series of investigations at Uncle Meleager's home. Upon arriving at the house, they discover that extensive searches have yielded no results. Lord Peter theorizes that Uncle Meleager's clues are intentionally frivolous, reflecting his character. The group begins to sift through old newspapers and manuscripts, uncovering a collection of crosswords created by Uncle Meleager. They realize that the solution to the crossword may lead them to the hidden will. As they work through the clues, the atmosphere shifts from despair to excitement, particularly for Hannah, who gradually becomes more engaged in the search. The group faces various challenges, including deciphering the crossword clues and dealing with the physical space of the house, which includes an impluvium that becomes a focal point of their investigation. After much effort, they discover a hidden compartment in the staircase, where the last will is concealed. The revelation brings joy and relief to Hannah, who is now set to inherit her uncle's fortune. The story concludes with a sense of triumph and camaraderie among the characters, highlighting themes of family, legacy, and the interplay of seriousness and frivolity in life.
By Dorothy L Sayers · First published 1939 · Genre: Mystery, Detective Fiction, Humor