The Mad Miss Manton

A stylish, quick-witted socialite who uses her smarts to solve the murder when the police won’t. She leads the investigation, defends her friends, and evolves from rival to fiancé with Peter. Her resourcefulness and humor keep the plan moving even when danger mounts.

A newspaper editor whose libel concerns spark the central conflict. He clashes with Melsa but soon finds himself drawn into the investigation and to Melsa. His practical mindset contrasts with the circle’s charm and chaos.

A wealthy young man whose flight from a house triggers the murder mystery. He is linked to the Lane affair, serving as the catalyst for the investigation and for the escalating danger.

A former convict connected to Sheila Lane’s ex-husband; his presence fuels suspicion and tension. He eventually confesses to the murders and is restrained by the end.

The girlfriend of the ex-husband Edward Norris, offering an alibi and complicating the investigation. Her alibi claims at the hockey game add to the web of deceit surrounding the case.

Wife of George Lane and central figure in the Lane mystery. She is part of the high-society circle that Melsa and her friends navigate as they sift through alibis and motives.

Melsa’s friend who flirts with Peter and offers support in the pursuit of the truth. Her presence adds tensions and comic relief as the group pursues leads.

The police lieutenant who initially dismisses Melsa’s concerns and suspects, reflecting the era’s skeptical law enforcement. He’s an obstacle the group must outsmart while chasing the truth.