Jean Casson is a French motion-picture producer who specializes in gangster films and who possesses no political views to speak of.

But that proves impossible; when the Germans arrest a few of his friends and associates Casson finds himself helping others to hide or escape.

Jean Casson starts the novel as a moderately successful film producer, with the creative and organizational skills such a career would demand.

The reader is led to doubt his self-evaluation because of his ability to win and keep the trust of a wide variety of people.

While she plays no important role in the plot, she personifies the happy, civilized old world that he finally decides is worth fighting for.