In this second Sherlock Holmes novel, the indomitable sleuth is visited by a woman in distress. Each year for the past six years, on the anniversary of her father's mysterious disappearance ten years ago, Miss Mary Morstan has been receiving pearls, she knows not why or from whom. This time, her anonymous benefactor wants to meet. In the letter, he promises to reveal the mystery and to "right the wrongs" against her. "If you distrust me," he writes, "bring two friends." And so she approaches Holmes and Watson. Naturally the great detective cannot pass up such a singular puzzle, so he and Watson agree to accompany her to the mysterious meeting. The ensuing investigation turns up a wronged woman, a stolen hoard of Indian treasure, a wooden-legged ruffian, a helpful dog, and a love affair.

From London to India and back again, this case once more reveals the incomparable talents of the world's only consulting detective.