As early as 1939, the British Secret Intelligent Service was looking for recruits with linguistic talents and other qualities suitable to work for the Service in anticipation of a war in Europe. Andrew joined the Service and after undergoing training at various establishments, and with war now under way, he was chosen to participate in two missions, the second of which severely tested his ability to think on his feet and alter plans due to the changing circumstances. He and his fellow agent carried out a daring raid well inside enemy territory after which they were pursued by the Gestapo as they fled for France. They narrowly escaped their clutches as they entered France but needed the assistance of a young lady - already well known to Andrew - to complete their escape, this time from the French police. The novel is a compelling and fast-paced story of a British agent in the early part of WWII.