The books of Frances and Richard Lockridge, are those classic mysteries featuring Mr. & Mrs. North. Otherwise known to the world as Pam and Jerry, he of the book publishing business and she--well, Pam is not so easily captured. On occasion she's the ditzy character, and at others she's so sharp it's amazing she doesn't cut herself.This amiable, leisurely book is the perfect example of the Lockridge's art. All the stock characters are here: New York Police Lieutenant William Weigand, `Loot' to his sometimes bumble-footed Sergeant Mullins; `Bill' to his adoring wife, Dorian, and `Lieutenant' to his frequently irate superior, Inspector Artemus J. O'Malley. Of course, both Norths, and their feline menage--Martini, Gin and Sherry, a trio of variously-hued Siamese cats are also present throughout. Their city of New York is also almost a major player, so lovingly is it presented.This story deals with the murder of `Tony' Mott, a womanizer and -financier who has bought into the famous Maison Maillaux, upsetting the careful and long-lived balance of the pricey French restaurant. He's tired of his newest younger wife, Peggy and takes up with another woman, Elaine Britton, but not before pulling his backing from a young playwright, Weldon Carey, whose play had been scheduled for an off-Broadway house, and just coincidentally featured his abandoned wife in a leading role.
