The long farewell

Driving through Italy, Sir John Appleby of Scotland Yard calls on his old acquaintance Lewis Packford. Their conversation over dinner ranges from Shakespeare to the psychology of forgery. Later, back in England, Packford unexpectedly commits suicide - or does he? His solicitor, the dour but arrogant Mr. Room, believes it was murder and persuades Appleby to investigate. The plot thickens ... A "Country House Mystery", with Innes' characteristic light touch on reality and plenty of odd characters. Not for those who require gritty authenticity and snappy dialogue.