# XIV: 2:01 a.m.—An Empty Sheath explained — Murder by the Clock

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

## What happens

Lieutenant Valcour visits Thomas Hollander's apartment to investigate, where he encounters Mr. Smith. Valcour questions Smith about Hollander's relationship with Mrs. Endicott and discovers a leather sheath for a stiletto, which is missing. During the search, Smith attacks Valcour with a lead slug, knocking him out.

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

Mr. Smith presents himself as a Southern gentleman, but Valcour knows his criminal past; the missing stiletto suggests hidden truths.

### Deception of the Senses

Valcour's search is interrupted by a sudden attack, and the sheath is empty, hinting at unseen dangers.

## Character check-ins

### Lieutenant Valcour

Investigates Hollander's apartment, questions Smith, and is attacked.

### Mr. Smith

Hollander's friend, reveals details about Hollander and attacks Valcour.

### Thomas Hollander

Absent but central to the investigation; his relationship with Mrs. Endicott is discussed.

### Mrs. Endicott

Mentioned as having tea with Hollander and threatening to kill her husband or commit suicide.

## Key lines

> I swear you have me wrong, Lieutenant. I had no more to do with that gilt-knuckles job than—a babe unborn.

Mr. Smith denies any involvement in the assault, claiming complete innocence.

_Smith's protestation contrasts with his known criminal record._

> That Mrs. Endicott told him she couldn’t stand it any longer: that she either was going to kill her husband or else commit suicide.

Valcour reveals that Mrs. Endicott threatened to kill her husband or herself.

_This statement adds tension and suggests possible motives._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters/xiv-2-01-a-m-an-empty-sheath
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_by_the_clock_se/chapters