Enjoying a meal at his favorite seafood place, Gregory shares the beginnings of his latest tale with announcer, Harry Bartell. The tame table ttalk turns to trouble. The suave man about town meets with Tim Brady. An eccentric religious relic carries the curse that its owner will face death.

Mr. Markham joins the merry throng with a promise of yet another deadly relic. The collection of grisly artifacts is turning out to be a regular black museum. The murderous conversation produces a dame, Mrs. Markham.

Where are the contrasts of life and death, love and murder all heading? A warning, a close call with death, and an unfolding melodrama that makes Gregory suddenly think he’s unpopular with someone. Does a twist of plot mean the end of Gregory Hood? Not this soon in the series, but Gregory has the answer. All he needs is to find a certain Spanish dancer.