The strangled body of actress Victoria Hart is found in Windsor Great Park in the early hours of Christmas Day. Hardcastle and Marriott are sent from Scotland Yard to investigate - much to the irritation of their respective wives.The trail leads to the Beaux Belles revue at the Windsor Empire, where a scantily clad Victoria Hart persuaded young men to enlist with the promise of a kiss. It seems the alluring actress had many admirers - some not quite as gentlemanly as others - and when the recruiting sergeant is also found dead, a link to the army can no longer be ignored . . .