In this short story, the New York Times–bestselling author delves into the private lives and personal histories of her “extremely congenial characters” (The Philadelphia Inquirer).

It is 1912, and Peter Naylor calls at the home of Lady Vespasia Cumming-Gould, longtime friend of Thomas Pitt and his wife, Charlotte. Clouds are gathering in Europe, and the prime minister is considering Thomas to head up the country’s intelligence services—the king is not as enthusiastic about the idea.

Thus it is Naylor’s responsibility to investigate the investigator—not only his career as a renowned police detective, but his humble family origins, his relationship with his wellborn wife, his likes, dislikes, strengths, and weaknesses. And the highly observant and mischievously candid Lady Vespasia is the ideal woman to ask . . .

“Pitt’s compassion and Charlotte’s cleverness make them compatible sleuths.” —The Philadelphia Inquirer