Introduction to the plot: The action takes place in the early 20th century in England. The main character is private detective Arthur Havelock, a former Scotland Yard employee who left the service after an unsuccessful investigation. One day, he receives a letter asking him to urgently come to the Livingstons' country mansion on the coast to solve the mysterious murder of the owner, Lord Edmund Livingston. At this time, a strong storm blocks the roads and makes it impossible to call the police. The detective is forced to solve the crime himself, surrounded by suspects, each of whom may have a motive for the murder.