When estate agent Trevor Mountjoy (George Cole) arrives home from the office to be offered a drink by his wife, Mary (Rosalind Ayres), he immediately suspects something's wrong. He's right, Mary's black sheep brother Howard (Peter Bowles) is out of prison after serving two years for embezzlement and Mary wants him to stay with them. Trevor is horrified, he can't stand Howard because he always manages to make him feel inferior

Howard plays host at the local night spot. It's popular and very expensive. Unfortunately Howard has neither booked nor has the money. With his rich tastes, this can only spell disaster.

Whilst serving a term of imprisonment Howard studied creative writing. Unfortunately his imagination runs away with him and he confuses his amorous advances towards a young and wealthy widow with the writings of a famous author.

To his brother-in-law's horror, Howard announces that he has an appointment with the local bank manager. However, he needs security if he is to get a loan, and if you are penniless, security is hard to find - but not for Howard.

Howard is smitten by the next door neighbour, a young, wealthy and attractive widow. He decides that a very costly gift will not only impress but also improve his chances. Unfortunately he is financially embarrassed, but this does not prevent him visiting the local jeweller.

On a visit to the local store he meets his ex cell mate indulging in a little shoplifting. Howard needs all his wits to escape discovery and talk himself out of a compromising situation.

Howard's attraction to the rich, young widow next door is heightened when he discovers that there is a rival for her attractions. Howard decides to take measures, unfortunately with disastrous results.