Lady Chatterton asks for Poirot&#39s assistance when she comes to fear for the safety of her friend, Marguerite Clayton. Specifically, she is convinced that Marguerite&#39s husband Edward Clayton, known for his violent temper, will kill her. Poirot is invited to a party in order to meet Clayton, but he never shows up. The next day, Poirot finds himself being interviewed by Inspector Japp when Edward Clayton&#39s body is found hidden in an elaborate Spanish chest located in the same room as the party the previous evening. When Marguerite&#39s friend Major Rich is arrested for the murder, Poirot correctly deduces the true nature of the crime and the identity of the culprit.