# X: 12:06 a.m.—The Stillness of a Grave explained — Murder by the Clock

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

## What happens

Lieutenant Valcour stations Officers Hansen and Cassidy in Endicott's room to guard him, instructing them to watch everyone who enters, including Thomas Hollander, whom he plans to summon. Dr. Worth remains skeptical of the precautions. Nurse Murrow, alone with the patient, feels a sense of sinister stillness.

## Themes in this chapter

### Obsession and Control

Valcour's meticulous instructions and the guarded room reflect a need to control every variable in the face of potential danger.

### Deception of the Senses

The stillness and apparent calm of the house contrast with the underlying threat, and the characters' perceptions are unreliable.

## Character check-ins

### Lieutenant Valcour

Gives detailed instructions to Hansen and Cassidy for guarding Endicott, emphasizing vigilance and the possibility of an attack.

### Officer Hansen

Receives orders from Valcour, questions whether to shoot a woman, and takes up position in the bathroom.

### Cassidy

Assigned to guard Endicott with Hansen, instructed to watch everyone and avoid accepting food or drink.

### Dr. Worth

Has arranged the sickroom, remains skeptical of Valcour's precautions, and mentions Endicott's reticence.

### Miss Murrow

Nurse on duty, feels a sense of excitement and sinister atmosphere, and notes the stillness of the house.

## Key lines

> There are no such things as sex or chivalry in murder.

Murder is gender-neutral; no special consideration should be given to women when it comes to lethal threats.

_Valcour's response to Hansen's question about shooting a woman._

> Watch him, my good young men, as two harmonious cats might watch a promenading and nearsighted mouse.

Keep a close and coordinated eye on Hollander, as cats would watch a vulnerable mouse.

_Valcour's instruction to Hansen and Cassidy regarding Thomas Hollander._

## Links

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