John Gail is an agent for Pleadon.
That is the name of a highly secret organization consisting of fifty-four of the wealthiest men in the world, dedicated to making the world a better place, no matter the cost. The concept of any such large group being able to be kept a secret is impressive on its own.
Into this world comes Gail, down on his luck and tired of selling encyclopedias door-to-door. Answering an oddly place advertisement for what seems like quick and easy money, Gail learns being an agent is hard work. It also requires doing things you would have sworn you'd never do. Gail took the job hoping it would be a one-shot deal to get him back on his feet. Had he known his future, he surely would have missed the first appointment.
Gail is described as "everyman" which is a good description. As a salesman, especially one that is not doing very good at job, his scruples are not the highest and his morals are even lower but he has the normal amount of doubt and fear to make his adventures interesting. As an agent he shows more than a respectable amount of discretion before heading into trouble. Still, his loyalty to his lady friends is real and often gets him into trouble. It is his cavalier attitude towards money that continually plagues him.
Also of considerable interest is the relationship that Gail has with his immediate supervisor, George. It was George who recruited him and it is George who finds ways to force Gail to take missions. It is George who is the face of all the danger and trouble that Gail must contend with. It is also George who provides the money that Gail is always in need of. Their frequent conversations are quite enjoyable.