Henry Beaumont keeps a renowned pack of foxhounds quick brave and ruthless at the kill. One December hunt the dogs uncover more than a fox in the woodlands - brushing aside dead leaves Beaumont finds the crushed body of Martin Reynard a former member of his own household. Enraged Henry though he has no experience in such matters swears to find the killer but his impetuosity and rudimentary investigative skills lead him to arrest a man of questionable guilt. Fortunately Ralph Delchard and Gervase Bret in the area to settle a land dispute are available to lend their expertise.

Part of the Domesday Series series.