In which the sombre toll of a passing-bell casts a heavy shadow over Redcastle as the sudden death of Stephen Trenchard disrupts the anticipated wedding day of Sibyl Faunthorpe, prompting a mix of curiosity, sorrow, and unease among those left behind. Amidst growing concern for Sibyl’s unexplained absence, Dr. Mitsand’s grave doubts about the cause of death lead to an inquest and a thorough post-mortem, setting an air of mystery within the stately Lancaster Lodge.