This episode is properly titled since nearly everyone in the small community of Cliffside has some sort of skeleton in their closet they want hidden from the public eye.
Harry Collins is the writer of a book that is a tell-all of people in Cliffside. Some of the big wigs hire Perry Mason to force the publisher to change the concept of the book from true stories to fiction. This change is much to the dislike of Harry Collins. Mr Collins is so upset that he claims to have another manuscript that tells all and names people that he will publish himself.
Margaret Layton, who use to be married to Harry Collins, hears about the book. She has interest in the book since her two children's father was Harry Collins. She had their named changed and did not want them to know that they came from such a wicked man. Ms Layton goes over to see Harry and tries to pay him for not publishing the book. When Harry refuses Ms Layton pulls a gun out of a drawer and points at Harry. Harry grabs her wrist and the gun fires into a desk. Ms Layton then flees the house.
Later Harry Collins is found shot and the manuscript missing. All evidence point toward Ms Layton and Perry will defend her in court on charges of murder.
Since many people did not want to see the book published, there are many suspects to choose from in this story. Not too many people are sadden by Harry's death. But the missing manuscript may prove to be the key into getting Perry's client released of the charges.
Good script, good acting makes for a nice episode.