The novel follows the murder of a well-loved member of his community, Sydney Vane. His death was thought to be caused at the hands of the deeply disliked poacher, Andrew Westwood, who is known for his aggressive and violent tendencies. However, Westwood denies he was responsible for the murder and so the story revolves around the trial and the attempt to prosecute him for the murder.
The basis for the accusation was understood to be the poor relationship between the two men – Westwood had previously been imprisoned for poaching rabbits, and it was Vane who had reported this to the authorities. Westwood had publicly vowed vengeance against him, so this was evidence against him used during the trial. Though no one had witnessed Westwood firing the gun, shots had been heard by passers-by and Vane’s dead body held fragments of material from Westwood’s coat. Witnessed came forward stating that they had seen rips in Westwood’s jacket and his haggard appearance, not long after the body had been found. A gun was also found in Westwood’s home which further proved his guilt.
From the start of the book, it was irrefutable that Westwood was responsible for the murder of the much respected and loved Vane, whose community rallied to bring his death justice.
