In September 1920, an unidentified man is found in a London street after apparently being struck by a motorcar. A valuable watch suggests a connection to a long-established wine-importing firm, yet one partner is missing and the other is abroad. Rutledge must identify the victim before he can determine whether the death was accident, murder or part of a plan to transfer blame.
The case moves through a commercial world rebuilt after wartime disruption, where international travel, damaged records and absent heirs make identity unusually fluid. Material objects seem to offer proof, but each can be planted or misunderstood. Rutledge’s task is to establish a chain of guilt stronger than the assumptions encouraged by wealth and family reputation.