The body of a student at St. Anselm's Theological College is found on a deserted seashore. Rich dad insists on a thorough investigation into the circumstances of his death. Commander Adam Dalgliesh, who started this case, learns about new tragedies. The archdeacon, who intended to close the college, was brutally murdered, and the priest's sister was thrown from the stairs. But what are the motives of a criminal who does evil within the walls of one of the most respectable educational institutions in England? Dalgliesh soon realizes: both teachers and students have something to hide...