Summary: John Dortmunder proves he has what it takes to be an habitual offender. Dortmunder steals the same jewel not just once, not twice, but again, and again, and again. Dortmunder didn't want to steal the Balabomo Emerald, but when one of two competing African countries--the nation of Talabwo--finances the scheme, he can be persuaded. Talabwo has purchased a fiasco. As Dortmunder's gang strikes by car, helicopter, and train, one heist after another goes wrong. The gem keeps slipping away, fast becoming an emerald with a sense of humor.