In which the crafty and ambitious Gilbert Glossin endeavours to investigate an assault on young Charles Hazlewood, seeking to turn the event to his own social and political advantage despite the cool reception he faces among the county's gentry and common folk. Through wary consultations with local retainers and a shrewd examination of the evidence left behind by a mysterious guest, Glossin cautiously sets his designs to win favour and influence in a society not yet inclined to forgive his past.