Sherlock Holmes and John Watson investigate a sequence of mysterious crimes in the nation’s capital. A young woman is kidnapped and ransom is demanded, but the real motive is unclear. Heinous crimes are committed right under Sherlock’s nose. Can it be mere coincidence? London’s newspapers are full of their exploits, but can even these be trusted?

In the meantime, any number of potential clients are coming forward to engage the services of the England’s leading detectives, and they must sift the time wasters from the genuine cases, and solve the puzzle before one of them pays the ultimate sacrifice.