The Inspector's housekeeper, Mrs. Hephzibah Jeffries, in collaboration with her household staff, has solved more than 20 murders with which the Inspector has been credited. He is quite oblivious of the fact that he has been helped. He just believes that he has been in the right place at the right time. His constable, Barnes, is aware of what has been occurring, but keeps silent. Mrs. Jeffries and her staff agree to take on the task even though it will be difficult since the case has already been solved, the trail is cold, and they will have no access to the case file since the case belongs to Inspector Nivens, Witherspoon's nemesis. Their investigations uncover hidden jealousies, old family tragedy and unexpected revivals.

This is an enjoyable read about a household determined to protect its employer and his position. The characters continue to develop with the series. The characters are all pleasant and competent people you would like to know. The story is well plotted and is moved along by the efficiency of Mrs. Jeffries. It astounds me that any work was done in the Witherspoon household since all the staff is involved in the investigations. And the number of buns and seed cakes consumed and the amount of tea that was drunk during the many conferences of the staff!!! The atmosphere of the Victorian household and Victorian society is well presented.