# X: The Third Attack in the Maze explained — Murder in the Maze

> Chapter companion for Murder in the Maze by J. J. Connington.

## What happens

Sir Clinton and Wendover discuss the burglary at Whistlefield and the lack of clues. Wendover speculates that the burglar was in Hackleton's pay, seeking Neville Shandon's notes. Sir Clinton later receives a call about an attempted murder of Ernest Shandon, who is found in a state of nervous collapse. Sir Clinton advises Ernest to reveal his knowledge to ensure safety, and questions him about Stenness's whereabouts during the incident.

## Themes in this chapter

### Fear and Cowardice

Ernest Shandon's extreme fear and cowardice are highlighted; he is described as 'blue with funk' and in a state of nervous collapse, fleeing from an attack.

### Deception and Appearance

The burglary involves disguised footprints with cardboard under shoes, and the burglar's motives remain hidden, reflecting themes of deception.

### The Nature of Evidence

The lack of clear clues from the burglary, such as no footprints or suspicious persons, underscores the difficulty of interpreting evidence.

## Character check-ins

### Sir Clinton Driffield

Investigates the burglary and advises Ernest Shandon on safety; shows contempt for Ernest's cowardice.

### Wendover

Speculates about the burglar's motives and discusses the case with Sir Clinton.

### Ernest Shandon

Reports an attempted murder on himself; is in a state of nervous collapse and seeks reassurance.

### The Squire

Lends his car to Sir Clinton and engages in conjecture about the burglary.

### Mr. Stenness

Mentioned as being absent during Ernest's visit to the Maze; his whereabouts are unknown.

### Dr. Ardsley

Sir Clinton visits him and mentions having a use for him, despite Wendover's dislike.

## Key lines

> What song the Syrens sang, or what name Achilles assumed when he hid himself among women, though puzzling questions are not beyond all conjecture.

Sir Clinton quotes Sir Thomas Browne to suggest that even the most puzzling questions, like the burglar's motive, can be guessed at.

_Used to highlight the speculative nature of the investigation._

> I think I'd leave it at that, Mr. Shandon. We'd better not run any risk of your memory getting confused.

Sir Clinton advises Ernest to stop drinking to avoid impairing his recollection of events.

_Shows Sir Clinton's pragmatic approach to gathering information._

## Links

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- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/murder_in_the_maze_se/chapters