This is a novel of mystery, romance, human relationships and an ancient society threatened by unwelcome progress When the Steward of the island of La Roque shoots himself, Angus Logan is sent to investigate by his magazine, but he also has personal reasons for going the dead man was an old friend The society in this small independent state, though still feudal, has undergone many changes and Angus finds he has to face unpleasant facts about those whom he loved and trusted and finally finds that his own life is in danger