Doctor Reynolds lives in an alcoholic mist since the accidental death of his wife a year earlier. A once eminent research scientist and accomplished professional at Harwell, Oxfordshire, he now lives as a reclusive apart from one colleague who remains his trusted friend. One night, a small meteorite crashes into his garden, evoking his curiosity. Upon closer inspection, he discovers the rock contains genetic material to create a living form... a messenger from another galaxy. He cultures the material in his bath tub, but strange incidents start to happen: episodes where he sees his dead wife again. Within a short time, an alien life form emerges from the bath tub. But he has failed to create the correct culture for it has no idea why it is here. Unceasing incidents occur ever more frequently where he is thrown backwards into time. Somehow they're connected with the arrival of the alien.