Inspector Ghote is ordered to go to England, attend the conference, take notes and produce a presentation on behalf of his superior.

He stays with them for the duration of the conference but quickly learns that they expect him to find their missing 17-year-old niece, Ranee, who is nicknamed "The Peacock" for her bright attitude and dress.

In between attending the conference Ghote investigates the girl's disappearance, has his high expectations of Great Britain dashed by a grey and grimy London and tries to acquire a gift to take home to his wife.

Inspector Ghote is tasked by his Superintendent to attend the London police conference and present a prepared speech.

On arrival at the airport, Ghote is met by his cousin, Vidur Datta, who runs with his wife a London restaurant.

Johnny, a self-confessed opium user, informs Ghote that the Peacock herself acquired drugs from a local public house known as the "Robin's Nest".

He learns of a protection racket being run by the Smith brothers and is surprised to find that the Peacock's uncle, Vidur Datta, is an opium user.

Finding no help from the British police and believing he is at a dead end to his enquiries, Ghote decides to drop the case.

At the recording studio, Ghote conceals himself and eavesdrops on Susan, realising that Johnny could not have kidnapped or murdered the Peacock.

Ghote accuses his cousin, Vidur Datta, of murdering the Peacock because she was blackmailing him with his secret opium habit.

No sooner has Ghote forced Mr Datta to confess than the police arrive, eager to congratulate him on the information he supplied about Johnny.

Johnny Bull: A fading pop music star who is now in his thirties, he is trying to change his look in the hope it will help him appeal to the younger generation.

Inspector Ghote deals with themes of culture clash, post-imperial relations between Britain and India, racism, crime, drugs and murder.