Lady on a Train

Nicki Collins is a San Francisco debutante visiting New York who becomes obsessed with solving a murder she witnessed. She is resourceful, persistent, and fearless, willing to risk danger to uncover the truth. To move through the social circles surrounding the case, she adopts the role of Margo Martin, the nightclub singer, using wit and nerve to outmaneuver the suspects.

Wayne Morgan is a mystery novelist and Nicki’s ally, initially skeptical but inexorably drawn into the case. He brings analytical thinking and a calm, measured presence to the investigation, helping Nicki interpret clues and navigate dangerous confrontations. As events unfold, their partnership strengthens into a romantic bond.

Mr. Haskell is Nicki’s father’s employee who facilitates her stay in New York and becomes entwined in the Waring plot. He is willing to manipulate circumstances to protect interests and remains a central figure in the web of conspirators. His later appearance at the jail hints at deeper involvement in the scheme.

Arnold Waring is one of Josiah Waring’s nephews who appears eager to secure his inheritance. He has motive and participates in the conspiracy, pursuing wealth through the family’s fortune and strategic manipulation of events. His charm hides a calculating side that contributes to the danger Nicki faces.

Jonathan Waring is the other Waring nephew, equally ambitious and cunning. He is secretly involved in the plot to murder and to frame others, and his demeanor gradually reveals a dangerous willingness to eliminate rivals. His ultimate confession exposes the depth of the family’s criminal scheme.

Mr. Saunders is the Circus Club Manager, who turns out to be a conspirator and another heir in the Waring fortune. He uses his position to influence events and keep the truth at bay, orchestrating a portion of the plot from behind the scenes. His involvement is a key turning point in the investigation.

Danny is the Waring family “inside man,” the chauffeur who helps move pieces and who directly attacks or interferes as the plot demands. He embodies the dangerous loyalty of conspirators, escalating the risk to Nicki and Morgan. His actions culminate in violent confrontations that reveal the depth of the conspiracy.

Josiah Waring is the shipping magnate whose death triggers the entire mystery. His will splits the family wealth among his heirs, creating a battleground of greed, legitimacy, and revenge. The investigation uncovers how his fortune shapes the motives and alliances of those around him.

Mr. Wiggam is Waring’s lawyer who reads the will and navigates the legal complexities of the inheritance. His involvement reflects the legal dimensions of wealth and loyalty, and he becomes a focal point for the suspects who seek to control the fortune. His role adds a formal layer to the tension between truth and appearance.