Penguin Modern Classics

In the second part of John le Carré''s Karla Trilogy, the battle of wits between spymaster George Smiley and his Russian adversary takes on an even more dangerous dimension.

George Smiley, now acting head of the Circus, must rebuild its shattered reputation after one of the biggest betrayals in its history. Using the talents of journalist and occasional spy Jerry Westerby, Smiley launches a risky operation uncovering a Russian money-laundering scheme in the Far East. His aim: revenge on Karla, head of Moscow Centre and the architect of all his troubles.

''Energy, compassion, rich and overwhelming sweep of character and action'' The Times

''A remarkable sequel ... the achievement is in the characters, major and minor ... all burned on the brain of the reader'' The New York Times

THE SIXTH GEORGE SMILEY NOVEL