This novel tells the story of Ralph Kingsmill. Ralph is a struggling author, with one or two minor successes to his credit. The owner of Abbey Close, a literary misanthrope bequeaths his wealth to Ralph Kingsmill. Barca, a man of an unknown origin is staying at Abbey Close. He is a link to the past, however, Ralph Kingsmill wonders why he is staying at Abbey Close. Who is Barca? What is his connection to Abbey Close?
