Murder by the Clock · Chapter
XXX: 7:11 a.m.—The Criminal and Weapon of the Crime explained
Lieutenant Valcour, having arrested Mrs.
What happens
Lieutenant Valcour, having arrested Mrs. Endicott, returns to Endicott's room and reads a letter from Marge Myles that reveals her animosity toward Endicott. While contemplating the case, he senses a presence and discovers Marge Myles hiding in a chest, armed with a gun. She threatens to kill him, but Officer Hansen, who has climbed onto the balcony, distracts her, allowing Valcour to subdue her. The chapter ends with Marge Myles as the criminal and the weapon recovered.
Themes in this chapter
Appearance vs. Reality
Marge Myles appears as a flamboyant woman but is actually the murderer, hiding in a chest, and the gun is concealed in a paper bag.
Obsession and Control
Marge Myles's desire for power and control is evident as she relishes the sense of power over Valcour's life.
The Psychology of Murder
Marge Myles's calm and calculated demeanor, her enjoyment of power, and her willingness to kill for escape highlight the psychological aspects of murder.
Characters to notice
- Lieutenant Valcour
Investigates the crime scene, reads Marge's letter, and confronts Marge Myles, who threatens him with a gun.
- Marge Myles
Revealed as the criminal hiding in the chest, armed with a gun, and threatening to kill Valcour.
- Mrs. Endicott
Arrested by Valcour and taken to the entrance hall in custody.
- Officer Hansen
Climbs onto the balcony and distracts Marge Myles, allowing Valcour to subdue her.
- Cassidy
Found asleep on the chest by Valcour, then ordered to take Mrs. Endicott to the entrance hall.
Key passages
“You have put yourself in my way, Lieutenant—and I am going to kill you and escape.”
Marge Myles threatens to kill Valcour and flee.
Shows her determination and criminal intent.
“I wear it for a better disguise. I have the dust on my face—there is the hat—it fits well over my cloche. The effect is astonishing.”
Marge explains that she wears Endicott's hat as a disguise, covering her own hat and face with dust.
Reveals her cunning and planning.