# I: 8:37 p.m.—Spring 3100 explained — Murder by the Clock

> Chapter companion for Murder by the Clock by Rufus King.

## What happens

Mrs. Endicott, worried about her husband Herbert's safety, calls the police and requests a detective. Lieutenant Valcour arrives at her home. She explains that Herbert has gone to visit Marge Myles, a woman she fears might harm him. Valcour initially declines to help, but Mrs. Endicott insists, showing him a cryptic note in her husband's room. The chapter establishes the tense atmosphere and introduces key characters and the central conflict.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

Mrs. Endicott's outward composure masks her inner turmoil, and the luxurious setting contrasts with the underlying tension.

### Obsession and Control

Mrs. Endicott's intense focus on her husband's whereabouts and her fear of Marge Myles suggest a need for control over the situation.

### Marriage and Deception

The chapter hints at marital discord, with Herbert's affair and Mrs. Endicott's hidden concerns about their relationship.

## Character check-ins

### Mrs. Endicott

Anxious and worried about her husband's safety, she calls the police and presents her fears to Lieutenant Valcour.

### Lieutenant Valcour

A mild-mannered detective who responds to Mrs. Endicott's call and listens to her concerns.

### Herbert Endicott

Mentioned as having left to visit Marge Myles; his room and belongings are examined.

### Marge Myles

The woman Herbert is visiting; Mrs. Endicott fears she might harm him.

### Jane

A maid who announces Lieutenant Valcour's arrival.

## Key lines

> He left here at seven o’clock this evening,” Mrs. Endicott said, “to go to the apartment of a woman with whom he thinks he is in love. Her name is Marge Myles, and her apartment is on the Drive.

Mrs. Endicott tells Valcour that her husband left at 7 PM to visit Marge Myles, a woman he believes he loves.

_Establishes the central conflict and Mrs. Endicott's concern._

> I’m afraid there isn’t very much we can do for you,” he said. “It’s always private inquiry agents who handle work of that⁠—well, of that rather delicate character.

Valcour initially declines to help, suggesting that private investigators are better suited for such delicate matters.

_Shows Valcour's initial reluctance and the nature of the case._

> You see, I’ve seen her.” “With him?” “Yes. They were lunching at the St. Regis. Herbert always was a fool about those things. She’s foreign-looking⁠—the Latin type.

Mrs. Endicott reveals she has seen Marge with Herbert at the St. Regis, describing her as foreign-looking with a Latin appearance.

_Provides insight into Mrs. Endicott's jealousy and fear._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/i-8-37-p-m-spring-3100
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters