The narrative follows a private investigator, who becomes embroiled in the complex and tragic life of Terry Lennox, a man with a troubled past and a scarred face. The story begins with the protagonist encountering Lennox, who is drunk and in a Rolls-Royce, accompanied by a beautiful woman. After helping Lennox, the investigator learns that he is a former soldier who has struggled with alcoholism and a tumultuous marriage to Sylvia, a wealthy woman from a prominent family. As the plot unfolds, Lennox's life spirals further out of control, culminating in the murder of Sylvia. The investigator is drawn into the investigation, facing pressure from law enforcement and the media, particularly as the case involves the influential Potter family. The narrative explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the moral complexities of friendship, as the investigator grapples with his feelings for Lennox and the implications of his actions. Lennox is eventually found dead in Mexico, having left a confession behind. The investigator reflects on the nature of truth and justice, questioning the motivations of those involved in the case, including the police and the media. The story concludes with the investigator contemplating the impact of Lennox's life and death on his own understanding of morality and the human condition, leaving readers with a sense of ambiguity about the nature of guilt and innocence.
By Raymond Chandler · First published 1953 · Genre: Mystery, Noir, Crime · 14 chapters