Egypt, 1908. George Dillman and Genevieve Masefield, used to the grand opulence of the Cunard cruise line, are at first disappointed with the Marmora, a small, unimpressive ship owned by the P&O shipping line.

Employed by P&O to be the ship's detectives, Dillman and Masefield expect to encounter petty thefts and confidence tricksters and they soon settle into their routine. But the cruise is certain to be unique as the Duke and Duchess of Fife and their children are aboard and the detectives will provide security for the royals.

How ever when a dead body turns up, Dillman and Masefield know they've got their work cut out for them. Suspects abound, and on such a small ship keeping the demise of the poor victim a secret proves incredibly tough.

Previously published under pseudonym Conrad Allen.