Jonathan Wright a sixty-five years old English art dealer, is hired by Henry Dixon to attend a liquidation sale in France. There his meets Jim Thalon. Returning to America, Jonathan arrives at the Dixon's mansion to set a tapestry he has acquired. During his activity he notices Henry Dixon somewhat unusual behavior, arousing his curiosity. Following him down a corridor he hears voices coming from a room, the door not quite closed, he peers through the doorjamb, noting a gesticulating hand whose fingers seem to be longer than a human's. The sound of a door closing forces him to retreat.
Is what he is hearing real?
Attending to the display at the party that same evening, Jonathan tires from the tedious conversations, and finds a place to relax. He discovers a study with a comfortable chair, falls asleep and shortly awakened by two voices talking about a stellar trade agreement.