Jedrington Secret-Past has a successful business until a sinister lawyer tells him he owes a debt and throws his family into prison. What is behind the sinister plan? Will Jedrington rescue his family in time for Christmas? And is there more to the name of Secret-Past than meets the eye? All will be revealed in a tale of hidden wills, brave urchins, giant clocks, misery, joy and treacle.

Jedrington teams up with a charming new business partner, Harmswell Grimstone, but it seems he may have alternative motives.

Stricken with grief after the death of his wife, Jedrington begins to question the morality of his business.

Jedrington is at his lowest point and turns to addiction.