# Wilful Murder explained — The Amateur Cracksman

> Chapter companion for The Amateur Cracksman by E. W. Hornung.

## What happens

Raffles and Bunny discuss the morality of their crimes, with Raffles revealing his intent to murder the moneylender Baird, who has been blackmailing him. Despite Bunny's reluctance, they set out to Willesden to confront Baird, with Raffles determined to kill him.

## Themes in this chapter

### Crime and Morality

Raffles justifies murder as a more honest course than half-measures, challenging conventional morality.

### Wealth and Greed

Baird's greed and extortion drive the plot, highlighting the corrupting influence of money.

### Friendship and Loyalty

Bunny's loyalty to Raffles is tested as he reluctantly accompanies him on the murder mission.

## Character check-ins

### A. J. Raffles

Reveals his plan to murder Baird, showing a cold and determined side.

### Bunny

Narrates the chapter, expressing fear and moral conflict over Raffles' plan.

### Old Baird

The moneylender who has been blackmailing Raffles and is the target of the planned murder.

### Jack Rutter

Mentioned as a poor devil ruined by Baird, contrasting with Raffles and Bunny.

## Key lines

> Obviously ours is the more honest course. Yet I'm not sure, Bunny, but we're doing the thing by halves ourselves!

Raffles argues that outright theft is more honest than borrowing or begging, but suggests they are still not going far enough.

_Raffles rationalizes escalation to murder as a logical extension of their criminal philosophy._

> I know very well I'm going to commit one tonight!

Raffles declares his intention to kill Baird that very night.

_This marks a turning point where Raffles openly commits to murder._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_amateur_cracksman_se/chapters/wilful-murder
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_amateur_cracksman_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_amateur_cracksman_se/chapters