Skeleton in the Sope House is set in the early sixteenth century. The hero is William of Widford. At Westminster School, he finds a skeleton linked to gold stolen two centuries ago. He visits Italy and finds a clue and an amorous woman bandit. He returns to England to continue his search; he is assisted by Joan, the headmaster's daughter. Joan is abducted by a band of Knights of Saint John who wants the treasure. William rescues Joan, and they find the treasure. He goes up to Cambridge, where he is abducted by vengeful Knights of Saint John and taken to Rhodes. He escapes but is captured by Barbary pirates and enslaved. He escapes and returns to Cambridge to take his degree. He is employed in King Henry VII's intelligence service. He collects information at home and abroad.