When Hannay meets the beautiful Sybil Verney at a race meeting, he cannot foresee the web of lies and tragedy in which he will quickly become ensnared.
As tension mounts in Europe, the British government prepares antidotes to possible germ warfare, and Hannay finds himself at the centre of a demonic plot to steal them.
When Hannay is entrusted with the safekeeping of a dozen diamonds, he underestimates the danger and distress they will bring.
The pleasures of travelling on the Trans-European Express from Venice are relished by celebrities, diplomats and vacationers alike, but for Hannay, the journey proves to be a nightmare.
On the death of his friend, Pelham Swinburne, Hannay inherits a walking-stick, field glasses and the lighthouse on a Fenland marsh .... but what is he to make of them all?
When an East-End gang demand protection money for Sal Alford's music-hall, she turns to Hannay for help.
When his goddaughter is jilted on her wedding day, Hannay finds himself searching for not just a missing bridegroom but also a shipment of gold.