Gilbert, M: Smallbone Deceased: A London Mystery (British Library Crime Classics)

Horniman, Birley and Craine is a highly respected legal firm with clients reaching the highest levels of society. When a deed box in the office is opened to reveal a corpse, the threat of scandal threatens to wreak havoc on the firm's reputation, especially as the murder appears to be an inside job. The partners and staff of the firm keep a watchful and suspicious eye on their colleagues, as Inspector Hazlerigg sets out to solve the mystery of who Mr. Smallbone was and why he had to die. Written with style, pace, and wit, this is a masterpiece by one of the finest writers of traditional British crime novels since the Second World War.