
Certain of Lombard's death, Cannon proclaims himself the host.

Returning to the castle, she finds the presumably slain jurist awaiting her. Although they have fallen in love, the secretary shoots the American. Guests and servants are slain in rapid succession, until only Ann and Lombard remain. In his message their host discloses that each is a murderer and will be executed over the weekend. Armstrong, retired General Mandrake, secretary Ann Clyde, and the American Hugh Lombard. Among them are singer Mike Raven, Judge Cannon, private investigator William Blore, actress Ilona Bergen, alcoholic Dr. As the holiday commences the guests assemble to hear the host's recorded welcome.

At the chateau, accessible only by cable car, they are received by the Grohmanns, a servant couple who have never seen their employer. Eight strangers are invited to spend the weekend at an Austrian castle in the Alps.
