The Artistic Mind of Fred C. Newmeyer: Decoding Seven Keys to Baldpate

William Magee, author, returns from Europe and declares that instead of writing while he was there he was buying presents for Mary Norton, daughter of his publisher, to whom he is engaged. Norton, who faces ruin if Magee does not produce another novel on short order, forbids his daughter's marriage until the book is written. Magee agrees to write, and Bentley offers him the use of Baldpate Inn, a summer resort closed for the season and therefore quiet. The caretakers tell Magee that the key they give him is the only one in existence that will open the inn. But while he is writing Bland unlocks the door, enters, and hides a large sum of money in the inn safe. Then in rapid succession the members of a gang of crooks looking for the money enter. Magee, thinking that the people are in a conspiracy to interrupt him, ignores the warning of Mary that he is in danger. The sheriff arrives to arrest all present at the inn, but Magee eludes him. The caretakers return and Magee tells them he has finished the book. Only then is it learned that all of the action is really in the book, and has not happened in reality. Mary arrives and is told by Magee that the novel is finished and they are to be married next day.