The action takes place in St. Petersburg in the last days of the 18th century. The Knight of Malta, who came to Russia, carries a great SECRET and because of this he finds himself in a web of mysterious events. The background of the novel is the preparation of the assassination attempt on Emperor Paul, the struggle of various forces and the intrigues of the Freemasons. But there is also some OTHER POWER, and only by recognizing it can one avoid certain death.