At a country house party Cornelius Appin announces that he has discovered a method by which animals can be taught to speak. His latest pupil is none other than Tobermory, the ginger cat belonging to his hosts, Sir Wilfred and Lady Blemley. As the guests express astonishment and incredulity, Sir Wilfred goes off to find Tobermory, who is lounging in the smoking room waiting for his tea.

What Appin claims is true, and Tobermory demonstrates his remarkable talents with a number of embarrassing and revelatory comments which prove more than a little uncomfortable for the assembled guests.