The murders start with the body of Robin. He is found with a arrow through the heart, but Vance deduces that the body was placed and not found where he was killed. The note found dealing with the murder was part of a nursery rhyme and signed by 'Bishop'. The only witness may have been Mrs. Drukker and Adolph, but they are not talking. As the murders progress, each one is accompanied by a nursery rhyme. It is up to Philo Vance to unravel the clues and unmask the identity of the murderer 'Bishop'.
| Actor | Role |
|---|---|
 Basil RathbonePhilo Vance | Philo Vance |
 Leila HyamsBelle Dillard | Belle Dillard |
 Roland YoungSigurd 'Erik' Arnesson | Sigurd 'Erik' Arnesson |
 Alec B. FrancisProfessor Bertrand Dillard | Professor Bertrand Dillard |
 George F. MarionAdolph Drukker | Adolph Drukker |
| ZZelda SearsMrs. Otto Drukker | Mrs. Otto Drukker |
 Bodil RosingGrete Menzel | Grete Menzel |
 Carroll NyeJohn E. Sprigg | John E. Sprigg |
| CCharles QuatermaineJohn Pardee (as Charles Quartermaine) | John Pardee (as Charles Quartermaine) |
 James DonlanErnest Heath | Ernest Heath |
 Sidney BraceyPyne (as Sydney Bracey) | Pyne (as Sydney Bracey) |
 Clarence GeldartJohn F.-X. Markham | John F.-X. Markham |
 Delmer DavesRaymond Sperling | Raymond Sperling |
 Nellie Bly BakerBeedle | Beedle |
 Marcia Mae JonesHungry Child in Park (uncredited) | Hungry Child in Park (uncredited) |