In which a policeman named Strickland, known for his unconventional immersion into native Indian life, finds himself compelled to adopt the guise of a sais to remain close to Miss Youghal, for whom he has fallen deeply in love despite parental opposition. Through this humble disguise, he gains a singular insight into the lives of saises and the peculiarities of Simla society, navigating both its idiosyncrasies and his own stern sense of duty.