Murder by the Clock · Chapter
VIII: 11:28 p.m.—Mrs. Endicott Screams explained
As Dr.
What happens
As Dr. Worth prepares to operate on Endicott, Lieutenant Valcour observes the tense atmosphere. Dr. Worth successfully revives Endicott with an adrenaline injection, but Mrs. Endicott, who has appeared unseen in the doorway, screams and faints at the sight. Dr. Worth sedates her and insists she not be disturbed. He and Valcour discuss the implications of Endicott's revival, the possibility that he may not regain consciousness, and the need to protect him from further shock. Valcour plans to station men in the bathroom to guard Endicott, fearing the attacker may try again. The chapter also touches on Valcour's suspicions about Roberts and her apparent hatred for Mrs. Endicott.
Themes in this chapter
Death and the Afterlife
The chapter deals with the brink of death, revival, and the uncertainty of Endicott's recovery, highlighting the fragility of life.
Guilt and Innocence
Valcour's investigation into who caused Endicott's shock and Roberts's suspicious behavior point to questions of guilt and hidden knowledge.
Characters to notice
- Lieutenant Valcour
Observes the operation, feels sickened, and plans to guard Endicott. He also probes Roberts about her hatred for Mrs. Endicott.
- Dr. Worth
Performs the successful revival of Endicott, insists Mrs. Endicott not be disturbed, and discusses the case with Valcour.
- Mrs. Endicott
Screams and faints upon seeing her husband revived, is given a narcotic by Dr. Worth.
- Herbert Endicott
Revived by Dr. Worth, but his condition is serious and he may not regain consciousness.
- Roberts
Valcour questions her about her hatred for Mrs. Endicott, but she remains evasive.
- Cassidy
Stiffly occupies a chair near the doorway, inspecting the ceiling.
Key passages
“The tangents and the bypaths were beginning to increase.”
The investigation was becoming more complex with many different leads.
Valcour's internal observation about the growing complexity of the case.
“Endicott lives.”
Endicott is alive.
Dr. Worth's announcement after successfully reviving Endicott.
“It was outrageous—her being here. That guard at the door should have seen to it that it was kept closed.”
It was unacceptable that Mrs. Endicott was present; the guard should have kept the door shut.
Dr. Worth's criticism of the guard for allowing Mrs. Endicott to witness the operation.
“Fold my tents, Doctor, and fade away.”
I would give up and leave quietly.
Valcour's response to the hypothetical of Endicott not making a statement.