Cliff Hardy is at the party to look after the paintings and throw out the drunks - gently.
But there he meets Helen Broadway, who interests him; and Paul Guthrie, who wants Hardy to look for his stepson, Ray.
Hardy delves into the sleazy Kings Cross backstreets and lowdown pubs, following a twisting path laid by a hitman, a criminal with heavy political protection, and a seedy alcoholic member of his own profession. There's scarcely enough time for Helen Broadway, interesting though she still is.
Hardy pushes on to final confrontation. It's the guns are out, and the odds are no help...