Tomorrow at Seven

A refined, wealthy plantation owner whose estate becomes the center of a deadly game. He receives a Black Ace card and uses caution and charm to navigate rising danger. He confronts the implications of Winters’ confession and the ominous seven o'clock deadline. His death comes when Pompey uses a hidden spike in a walking stick, ending his role in the mystery.

An author intent on writing a book about the Black Ace killer. He travels with Drake’s party to uncover clues and uses his wits to connect seemingly disparate events. He notes jurisdictional issues when suspects are in another state and signals to an outside contact via a hidden car. His investigative instincts intertwine with others as the plot unfolds.

Winters is Drake’s secretary, involved in the unfolding schemes and present when the first victim dies. His death on the flight—without a mark—adds to the eerie, puzzle-like atmosphere of the narrative. His presence helps drive the motive and the stakes surrounding Winters’ confession.

Daughter of Austin Winters, encountered on the train and entangled in the evening’s intrigue. She hides critical papers and becomes a focal point of suspicion, while mysterious forces maneuver to capture or silence her. Her experiences on the estate and in the rooms heighten the sense of peril and movement.

One of two plainclothes cops assigned to the case; his incompetence provides occasional relief but also heightens danger as plans proceed. He is quick to blame others yet often misreads the clues, contributing to the escalating chaos.

Clancy’s partner, equally bumbling and prone to errors, adding a layer of levity to the tense atmosphere. His lack of sharper investigative acumen underscores the improvisational nature of the hunt.

The fake coroner who is involved in the deception surrounding Winters’ letter. He coordinates with others to mislead Drake and the investigators and plays a pivotal part in the plot’s turning points.

The gardener whose actions culminate in Drake’s death via a hidden spike in his walking stick. His presence is quiet and physically menacing, serving as the climactic instrument of murder.

One of the pilots who becomes a key element in the plane sequence, his role is tied to the timing and logistics of the killings. His whereabouts and actions influence the progression of events aboard the flight.

The housekeeper who moves within the estate’s social hierarchy and assists in maintaining the illusion of order. She appears to aid the fake coroner’s plot and manipulates situations to protect or reveal information.

The real coroner who becomes entangled in the mystery as the events reveal alternate identities and hidden agendas within the household.