# III: 9:45 p.m.—Guards Are Stationed at the Doors explained — Murder by the Clock

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

## What happens

Lieutenant Valcour stations police guards at the doors of the Endicott residence, instructing them on handling reporters and visitors. Dr. Worth arrives and examines the body, confirming Endicott's death from a heart attack, though Valcour suspects murder. The homicide chief and medical examiner arrive, and Valcour begins his investigation, planning to interview Mrs. Endicott.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

Dr. Worth's polished exterior contrasts with the underlying tension and suspicion surrounding Endicott's death.

### Death and the Afterlife

The chapter deals with the immediate aftermath of death, with characters confronting mortality and the mystery of the cause.

## Character check-ins

### Lieutenant Valcour

Directs the placement of guards and begins investigating the death, suspecting murder despite the doctor's initial assessment.

### Dr. Worth

Arrives to examine the body, confirms death by heart attack, and expresses that he had anticipated something like this.

### Herbert Endicott

The deceased, found slumped in a cupboard; his death is the focus of the investigation.

### Andrews

Homicide chief who discusses the case with Valcour, expressing doubts about securing an indictment without a confession.

### Cassidy

Young officer assigned to stay in the room with Valcour; makes light-hearted comments about the case.

### O'Brian

Stationed at the front door with Hansen; comments on Valcour's instructions.

## Key lines

> I have been afraid of something like this for quite a while, Lieutenant.

Dr. Worth admits he had long feared that Endicott might meet a violent end.

_Dr. Worth's comment hints at prior knowledge or suspicion._

> It begins to seem, Doctor, as if everybody except Mr. Endicott himself anticipated his murder.

Valcour observes that many people expected Endicott to be murdered, unlike Endicott himself.

_Valcour's remark underscores the theme of appearance vs. reality._

> Cuckoo as a fox.

Hansen suggests that Valcour's odd behavior is actually clever and strategic.

_This exchange highlights Valcour's reputation for cunning._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/iii-9-45-p-m-guards-are-stationed-at-the-doors
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters