After his discovery on the banks of the Thames, Inspector Marlott visits the house of artist and printmaker William Blake, who is on his deathbed. Later, Marlott confers with Nightingale, a local policeman who has been keeping watch on The Fortune of War, a public house where body snatchers are known to gather. The pair create a plan to capture a person of interest who may be able to aid them with their investigation.

Having escaped the clutches of Billy Oates, Flora throws herself on Marlott's mercy. Believing her to be a key witness to Alice's disappearance, he brings her to his lodgings for safety.

As the investigation continues, Marlott travels to Kentish Town to interrogate Mary Shelley. The connectionbetween her monster and the child corpse cannot be a mere coincidence…

John Marlott adopts a new identity and gains employment. He believes someone is lying about the recent murders of local clergymen and he is determined to uncover the truth in his search for justice.

Marlott is convinced that Billy Oates and the origin of the fever killing local families will lead him to Lord Daniel Hervey.