Bedridden, impoverished and almost forgotten, Mas Gifford is at the end of his career as painter. In artistics terms, hos achievement has been considerable, yet recognition and reputation elude him still. Only the loving care of his wife - a woman young enough tobe his daughter - prevents him sinking into cynical despair. But the owner of a smart London gallery proposes a major exhibition of his work, a suggestion to which Max and his wife readily agree. Here at last is their passaport to fame and fortune - until a brutal murder puts an end to their dreams. For as Detective Chief Inspetor Finch will discover, buried deep in the artist's Bohemian past, amid the lingering bitterness of old, unhappy, far-off relationships, is the reason that has driven a person or persons unknown TO MAKE A KILLING.

