# VI: 10:32 p.m.—Pictures in Dust explained — Murder by the Clock

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

## What happens

Lieutenant Valcour and Cassidy discuss the possibility that Endicott may not be dead, with Dr. Worth planning to inject adrenaline into his cardiac muscles. Chief Andrews leaves the case to Valcour, who then examines the cupboard where Endicott was found. Valcour discovers dust streaks on a shelf, suggesting someone wiped their hands in it, and theorizes the attacker used dust as a disguise. He also notes that the suits in the cupboard were searched, supporting his theory of a robbery interrupted by Endicott. Valcour leaves to check the entrance hall cupboard for a hat, leaving a nervous Cassidy alone with the 'living corpse.'

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

The central question of whether Endicott is truly dead or in a cataleptic state blurs the line between appearance and reality.

### Deception of the Senses

Valcour's discovery of dust streaks suggests the attacker used dust to disguise their identity, deceiving the senses.

### The Psychology of Murder

Valcour's deduction about the attacker's actions and use of dust reveals a calculated and psychological approach to the crime.

## Character check-ins

### Lieutenant Valcour

Investigates the cupboard, discovers dust streaks, and theorizes about the attacker's use of dust as a disguise. He takes charge of the case.

### Cassidy

Superstitious and fearful of the 'living corpse,' Cassidy reluctantly stays in the room while Valcour investigates.

### Andrews

Chief Andrews leaves the case to Valcour, mentioning the possibility of an operation and the lack of evidence for forced entry.

### Dr. Worth

Plans to inject adrenaline into Endicott's cardiac muscles in an attempt to revive him.

### Herbert Endicott

Lying on the bed, appearing dead but with a chance of being revived. His body was found in the cupboard.

## Key lines

> No one, Cassidy, can bring back the dead.

It is impossible to resurrect someone who has truly died.

_Valcour clarifies that Endicott may have been in a cataleptic state, not actually dead._

> It will make things pretty simple for us if it works with Endicott. He can make a statement and prefer charges himself.

If the adrenaline works and Endicott revives, he can identify his attacker and press charges, simplifying the investigation.

_Valcour considers the practical benefits of Endicott's revival._

> He stared at the dust and began to see pictures in it: a crouching person tormented by hate or fear, or both, who knows that Endicott is going to open the cupboard door.

Valcour imagines the attacker hiding in the cupboard, using dust to disguise their face, and waiting for Endicott.

_Valcour's deduction about the attacker's actions and motive._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/vi-10-32-p-m-pictures-in-dust
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters