The narrator describes a character referred to as a detective, but quickly clarifies that this is a misleading title. The character does not fit the traditional mold of a detective; instead, he is more of a limited or amateur sleuth. This distinction is made to highlight that the reader's expectations might not align with the reality of the character's skills and capabilities.

This acknowledgment of false pretenses serves as a commentary on storytelling and how characters can sometimes be presented in ways that may not capture their true essence. The setting of Stafford's International Investigation Bureau adds an amusing contrast, suggesting that even within a setting associated with serious investigations, the lead character may not possess the qualifications typically expected of a detective.