# XIX: 3:15 a.m.—The Properties of Horror explained — Murder by the Clock

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

## What happens

Lieutenant Valcour and Dr. Worth discuss the recent shooting of Endicott, narrowing suspects to those in Mrs. Endicott's room. Valcour questions Nurse Vickers, who reveals she was in the kitchen during the shooting, leaving Roberts with Mrs. Endicott. Vickers describes Roberts's hysterical state, including shaking her fist at Mrs. Endicott and muttering about 'ice and human hearts' and 'searing flames.' Valcour notes the room was cooler upon Vickers's return, suggesting a window was opened. He then examines Endicott's body and waits to question Roberts.

## Themes in this chapter

### The Psychology of Murder

Valcour discusses the mindset of a murderer, driven by fear of discovery and the potential to kill again.

### Deception of the Senses

The cooler room temperature and the absence of a heard shot highlight how sensory details can mislead or provide crucial clues.

### Guilt and Innocence

Valcour's questioning of Vickers and Roberts explores who might be guilty, with Roberts's hysterical behavior suggesting possible guilt or trauma.

## Character check-ins

### Lieutenant Valcour

Interviews Nurse Vickers, deduces the shooter must have come from Mrs. Endicott's room, and notes the cooler room temperature as a clue.

### Dr. Worth

Discusses the case with Valcour, suggests the possibility of a rope ladder, and vouches for Nurse Vickers's professional reputation.

### Miss Vickers

Nurse who was in the kitchen during the shooting; reports Roberts's hysterical behavior and the cooler room temperature.

### Roberts

Maid who was with Mrs. Endicott during the shooting; described as hysterical, shaking her fist at Mrs. Endicott, and muttering about 'ice and human hearts.'

### Herbert Endicott

The victim, whose body lies covered on the bed; Valcour uncovers his face while waiting for Roberts.

## Key lines

> They've tasted blood. They are in a state of abnormal acuteness, and are driven by a new fear: that of discovery and capture.

Once someone commits murder, they become hyper-alert and are motivated by the fear of being caught, which might drive them to kill again.

_Valcour explains the psychological state of a murderer to Dr. Worth._

> I just wanted to know if you could help me check up on the number of shots that were fired.

Valcour asks Vickers if she can provide information about how many gunshots were heard.

_Valcour probes Vickers for details about the shooting._

> The poor creature actually seemed to blame Mrs. Endicott in some fashion for what had happened.

Vickers describes Roberts as appearing to hold Mrs. Endicott responsible for the shooting.

_Vickers reports Roberts's unusual behavior to Valcour._

## Links

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